{Note to followers: if you want an email when a new post goes up, go the right column and subscribe for emails. Thanks.}
Sometimes we have to punt--to use a football term. That's what I find myself doing right now. I need a few months for health issues, so I'm taking the blog on hiatus.
Know that I'll be reading and the #BookDoctor will be back.
Take care, y'all! I wish you all the happiest holidays possible!
Wednesday, October 31, 2018
Tuesday, October 23, 2018
The Book Pusher: October 2018
{Note to followers: if you want an email when a new post goes up, go the right column and subscribe for emails. Thanks.}
BEAUTY LIKE THE NIGHT Joanna Bourne: Historical Romance
With another fabulous romance, Joanna Bourne finds Severine de Cabrillac an interesting romantic option--a jewel thief and wine maker. But can they find who killed his wife and is after Severine in time? You'll turn the pages as fast as you can read because Bourne has created a wonderful plot--a always.
THE HOUSE GIRL Tara Conklin Historical/dual timeline
Conklin creates a fabulous tale that will fascinate and horrify you, but hope will win in the end. Be sure to read this one now!
INTO THE WILDERNESS Sara Donati: Historical Romance
Donati takes a page from J. F. Cooper and stirs in a few Easter eggs from D. Gabaldon to create a vivid story of upstate New York. You'll enjoy Nathanial and Elizabeth's story. But I dare you to stop at just one. This is the first in a series. ;-)
THE ROYAL NANNY Karen Harper: Historical
The story of Charlotte Bill will charm you. Late Victorian, Edwardian, and early 1900's England comes to life in this novel. You'll laugh and cry, but you will never forget Lala.
HEAVEN ADJACENT Catherine Ryan Hyde: Contemporary
With deep insight and true love, Hyde creates a gem of a story about the truth of life, love, and happiness. This one will make you smile--and hug your loved ones. Read it now!
ONCE BELOVED Amara Royce: Historical Romance
Another member of the Needlework for the Needy has found a chance for love--but only if she faces her anxieties and returns to her hometown.
Next Post: IWSG!
With another fabulous romance, Joanna Bourne finds Severine de Cabrillac an interesting romantic option--a jewel thief and wine maker. But can they find who killed his wife and is after Severine in time? You'll turn the pages as fast as you can read because Bourne has created a wonderful plot--a always.
Conklin creates a fabulous tale that will fascinate and horrify you, but hope will win in the end. Be sure to read this one now!
Donati takes a page from J. F. Cooper and stirs in a few Easter eggs from D. Gabaldon to create a vivid story of upstate New York. You'll enjoy Nathanial and Elizabeth's story. But I dare you to stop at just one. This is the first in a series. ;-)
The story of Charlotte Bill will charm you. Late Victorian, Edwardian, and early 1900's England comes to life in this novel. You'll laugh and cry, but you will never forget Lala.
With deep insight and true love, Hyde creates a gem of a story about the truth of life, love, and happiness. This one will make you smile--and hug your loved ones. Read it now!
Another member of the Needlework for the Needy has found a chance for love--but only if she faces her anxieties and returns to her hometown.
Next Post: IWSG!
Wednesday, October 3, 2018
IWSG: October 2018
{Note to followers: if you want an email when a new post goes up, go the right column and subscribe for emails. Thanks.}
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds! Co-Hosts: Dolorah @ Book Lover, Christopher D. Votey, Tanya Miranda, andChemist Ken!
Question: How do major life events affect your writing? Has writing ever helped you through something?
Answer: Sure! When story creation takes hold, it isn't created from thin air. Even if you writing SF or Fantasy, the experiences of your life and research are folded into your story--sometimes unconsciously, sometimes with your full participation.
Early on in the writing of my Women's Fiction contemporary, I realized that the main character--a retired, childless teacher--was a stand-in for my long journey through infertility and the grief it caused myself and my husband. We both taught and loved kids. We both wanted to be parents in the worst way. But it wasn't to be.
In one very important way, my character was different from me. She was a widow. Thankfully, I am not. With her widowhood, I found her an outlet for her frustrated need for children in her life. Throughout her marriage, her impervious mother-in-law had kept her thumb on the marriage of her son, his wife, and any idea of adoption. While my story was different, adoption wasn't a path for us either. The death of connection allowed my character to get involved with foster children, and a connection was made that led to adoption. A beautiful outcome for my long hunger told through the life of my character.
Not all stories are one-to-one analogies, but I do believe our experiences influence the choices we make as we tell our stories.
Happy Writing, y'all!
Next post: October's Book Pusher!
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Question: How do major life events affect your writing? Has writing ever helped you through something?
Answer: Sure! When story creation takes hold, it isn't created from thin air. Even if you writing SF or Fantasy, the experiences of your life and research are folded into your story--sometimes unconsciously, sometimes with your full participation.
Early on in the writing of my Women's Fiction contemporary, I realized that the main character--a retired, childless teacher--was a stand-in for my long journey through infertility and the grief it caused myself and my husband. We both taught and loved kids. We both wanted to be parents in the worst way. But it wasn't to be.
In one very important way, my character was different from me. She was a widow. Thankfully, I am not. With her widowhood, I found her an outlet for her frustrated need for children in her life. Throughout her marriage, her impervious mother-in-law had kept her thumb on the marriage of her son, his wife, and any idea of adoption. While my story was different, adoption wasn't a path for us either. The death of connection allowed my character to get involved with foster children, and a connection was made that led to adoption. A beautiful outcome for my long hunger told through the life of my character.
Not all stories are one-to-one analogies, but I do believe our experiences influence the choices we make as we tell our stories.
Happy Writing, y'all!
Next post: October's Book Pusher!
Tuesday, September 18, 2018
The Book Pusher: September 2018
{Note to followers: if you want an email when a new post goes up, go the right column and subscribe for emails. Thanks.}
Many ask me why I don't label my mini reviews with a ranking of 1-5. The answer is very simple. I never review books I can't give either a 4 or 5. Believe me, I read far more than eight or ten books a month. Some I don't review because they are a reread, but others I don't review because I can't give then a high rating. Rather than shame a writer who poured their heart into the story, I choose to not review. So, enjoy the books! I know you will. ;-)
NOBLE HOUSE James Clavell: historical fiction (classed as anything before 1970)
This is another of Clavell's excellent historical fictions about Asia. This time it's Hong Kong in 1963. As always there are a lot of characters, but they are skillfully woven into the tapestry of a riveting story. The backstory of the Straun's and their company is wonderful. As always, Clavell gives a good read.
THE LIGHT OF HIDDEN FLOWERS Jennifer Hanford: Women's Fiction
Missy Fletcher grinds along in the shadow of her confident, extroverted father. But something's missing. Something she must learn. Lovely Story and Good Read.
WHERE WE BELONG Catherine Ryan Hyde: Coming of Age
A lovely coming of age story that shows what love, trust, and responsibility truly looks like.
BELLEWETHER Susanna Kearsley: historical Fiction
Kearsley's done it again! You'll get caught up in the dual timeline, root for the characters, and learn what love does to protect and survive. A brilliantly plotted, inspired story you can't miss. Read it Now!
MORGAN'S RUN Colleen McCullough: Historical Fiction
Taking a figure from history and telling his story can be fraught with many potholes, but McCulough is a master at this type of story. In MORGAN'S RUN, she takes a man who many wrote off, but who is a founder of Australia. Great Read!
DIGGING IN Loretta Nyan: Women's Fiction
Grief and life can be challenging, but allowing yourself to breathe, grow, and live is the message of Nyan's lovely story. Let Paige Moresco teach you how.
THE ART OF INHERITING SECRETS Barbara O'Neal: Women's Fiction
With an intricately detailed story worthy of long contemplation, O'Neal has created mystery, love, intrigue, and a fully realized old home--a character as much as the people. Enjoy!
UNSTRUNG Laura Spinella: Women's Fiction
This is one of the most amazing books I've read lately. Olivia Klein's life is both haunting and uplifting. I'm amazing and transported as only singing choral music has in my life. Her main character is a symphony violinist and Spinella describes the feeling of providing the door knob into Heaven that I've experienced singing in a choir. An amazing read. Get this one! Read it now! You'll never forget it.
Next Post: IWSG, of course!
Many ask me why I don't label my mini reviews with a ranking of 1-5. The answer is very simple. I never review books I can't give either a 4 or 5. Believe me, I read far more than eight or ten books a month. Some I don't review because they are a reread, but others I don't review because I can't give then a high rating. Rather than shame a writer who poured their heart into the story, I choose to not review. So, enjoy the books! I know you will. ;-)
This is another of Clavell's excellent historical fictions about Asia. This time it's Hong Kong in 1963. As always there are a lot of characters, but they are skillfully woven into the tapestry of a riveting story. The backstory of the Straun's and their company is wonderful. As always, Clavell gives a good read.
Missy Fletcher grinds along in the shadow of her confident, extroverted father. But something's missing. Something she must learn. Lovely Story and Good Read.
A lovely coming of age story that shows what love, trust, and responsibility truly looks like.
Kearsley's done it again! You'll get caught up in the dual timeline, root for the characters, and learn what love does to protect and survive. A brilliantly plotted, inspired story you can't miss. Read it Now!
Taking a figure from history and telling his story can be fraught with many potholes, but McCulough is a master at this type of story. In MORGAN'S RUN, she takes a man who many wrote off, but who is a founder of Australia. Great Read!
Grief and life can be challenging, but allowing yourself to breathe, grow, and live is the message of Nyan's lovely story. Let Paige Moresco teach you how.
With an intricately detailed story worthy of long contemplation, O'Neal has created mystery, love, intrigue, and a fully realized old home--a character as much as the people. Enjoy!
This is one of the most amazing books I've read lately. Olivia Klein's life is both haunting and uplifting. I'm amazing and transported as only singing choral music has in my life. Her main character is a symphony violinist and Spinella describes the feeling of providing the door knob into Heaven that I've experienced singing in a choir. An amazing read. Get this one! Read it now! You'll never forget it.
Next Post: IWSG, of course!
Wednesday, September 5, 2018
IWSG: September 2018
{Note to followers: if you want an email when a new post goes up, go the right column and subscribe for emails. Thanks.}
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds! Co-Hosts: Toi Thomas, T. Powell Coltrin, M.J. Fifield, and Tara Tyler!
Question: What publishing path are you considering/did you take, and why?
Answer: I self-published my two devotionals. One was nominated for the Georgia Author of the Year Award in 2009 in Creative Non-Fiction.
Now, I'm blogging. The fiction is on hold for the moment. And that's okay. We have to be good to ourselves, too.
Whatever your path, however you are published, make sure you treat yourself well. That's job one.
Next Post: The Book Pusher has books for you...of course!
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Question: What publishing path are you considering/did you take, and why?
Answer: I self-published my two devotionals. One was nominated for the Georgia Author of the Year Award in 2009 in Creative Non-Fiction.
Now, I'm blogging. The fiction is on hold for the moment. And that's okay. We have to be good to ourselves, too.
Whatever your path, however you are published, make sure you treat yourself well. That's job one.
Next Post: The Book Pusher has books for you...of course!
Wednesday, August 22, 2018
The Book Pusher: August 2018
{Note to followers: if you want an email when a new post goes up, go the right column and subscribe for emails. Thanks.}
THREE DAYS MISSING Kimberly Belle: Women's Fiction
With a tautly plotted, tightly written story of a mother's worst nightmare, two mothers become connected even though they couldn't be more different. This is a page turner of a story!
SHOGUN James Clavell: Historical with elements of Romance
Clavell's Asian Saga is a periodic reread for me. Here's the book that caused such a stir with it's debut in 1975 and it became a hit mini series as well. The book tells the story of old Japan, replete with samurai, ninja, geisha, and characters who will live forever--Toda Mariko, Yoshi Toranaga, and the English pilot who turns their live upside down-John Blackthorne.
THE WAY OF BEAUTY Camille Di Maio: Women's Fiction
Centered on New York's Penn Station, Di Maio crafts a story of three generations of women who challenge and cooperate with the ways of life and family. Good Read!
LAST CHRISTMAS IN PARIS Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb: Historical Fiction
Told through evocative letters from the home front and the trenches of WWI, the authors enchant, intrigue, and best of all, honor our ancestors for their steadfast honor and love. Good read!
AT HOME IN MITFORD Jan Karon: Christian Ficiton
In the first of her Mitford novels, Karon tells a story of decency, caring, and love. All of us can learn at lot from Father Tim and his neighbors.
MADAME TUSSAUD Michelle Moran: Historical Ficiton
There's more to the story of this artist than we know. A survivor and business woman who must thread her way through the French Revolution, she will be remembered for her artistry. This is a story that is by turns fascinating and horrifying. You can't look away from one riveting page to the next. Amazing fictionalized biography!
With a tautly plotted, tightly written story of a mother's worst nightmare, two mothers become connected even though they couldn't be more different. This is a page turner of a story!
Clavell's Asian Saga is a periodic reread for me. Here's the book that caused such a stir with it's debut in 1975 and it became a hit mini series as well. The book tells the story of old Japan, replete with samurai, ninja, geisha, and characters who will live forever--Toda Mariko, Yoshi Toranaga, and the English pilot who turns their live upside down-John Blackthorne.
Centered on New York's Penn Station, Di Maio crafts a story of three generations of women who challenge and cooperate with the ways of life and family. Good Read!
Told through evocative letters from the home front and the trenches of WWI, the authors enchant, intrigue, and best of all, honor our ancestors for their steadfast honor and love. Good read!
In the first of her Mitford novels, Karon tells a story of decency, caring, and love. All of us can learn at lot from Father Tim and his neighbors.
There's more to the story of this artist than we know. A survivor and business woman who must thread her way through the French Revolution, she will be remembered for her artistry. This is a story that is by turns fascinating and horrifying. You can't look away from one riveting page to the next. Amazing fictionalized biography!
Wednesday, August 1, 2018
IWSG: August 2018
{Note to followers: if you want an email when a new post goes up, go the right column and subscribe for emails. Thanks.}
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds! Co-Hosts: Erika Beebe, Sandra Hoover, Susan Gourley, and Lee Lowery!
Question: What pitfalls would you warn other writers to avoid on their publication journey?
Answer: Don't get so wrapped up in the "win"--the agent, the contract, the publication (of any variety) that you ignore the real world--family, health--theirs and yours. Be realistic about your needs--emotional, relationship, economic. Don't put all your eggs into one basket--that one pitch, that one query, that one top agent--that you miss the good things--baby kisses, elderly parents and their stories, good time with significant others, and siblings and friends. In a word, cultivate balance. Learn to live and create at the same time.
Speaking of balance, I'm learning that lesson as I go. One of my chronic illnesses has decided to add symptoms that are worrisome and potentially something else entirely. By the time this goes live, I might know which. Either way, writing has had to take a backseat for many reasons, starting with my mother's health in the last year. Wish me luck. Say a prayer. Whatever your tradition, I'd love the wishes.
Update: I've developed persistent nausea. After normal CT scans of my abdomen and pelvic regions, we think the cause is my Fibro. Up to 70% of Fibro sufferers have this and it's characterized as morning sickness. At least I have meds and crackers. It could be far worse.
Next Post: The Book Pusher has a winning list for you!
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Question: What pitfalls would you warn other writers to avoid on their publication journey?
Answer: Don't get so wrapped up in the "win"--the agent, the contract, the publication (of any variety) that you ignore the real world--family, health--theirs and yours. Be realistic about your needs--emotional, relationship, economic. Don't put all your eggs into one basket--that one pitch, that one query, that one top agent--that you miss the good things--baby kisses, elderly parents and their stories, good time with significant others, and siblings and friends. In a word, cultivate balance. Learn to live and create at the same time.
Speaking of balance, I'm learning that lesson as I go. One of my chronic illnesses has decided to add symptoms that are worrisome and potentially something else entirely. By the time this goes live, I might know which. Either way, writing has had to take a backseat for many reasons, starting with my mother's health in the last year. Wish me luck. Say a prayer. Whatever your tradition, I'd love the wishes.
Update: I've developed persistent nausea. After normal CT scans of my abdomen and pelvic regions, we think the cause is my Fibro. Up to 70% of Fibro sufferers have this and it's characterized as morning sickness. At least I have meds and crackers. It could be far worse.
Next Post: The Book Pusher has a winning list for you!
Tuesday, July 17, 2018
The Book Pusher: July 2018
{Note to followers: if you want an email when a new post goes up, go the right column and subscribe for emails. Thanks.}
You need some books, right? I know it, so here you go! ;-)
THE SOMETIMES SISTERS Carolyn Brown: Women's Fiction
With her trademark reality and a touch of humor, Brown shows the Clancy sisters at their lowest and shows their grit and grace. Excellent Read!
THE PLASTIC MAGICIAN Charlie Holmberg: Fantasy
Holmberg does it again! Her latest enchanting story in the Paper Magician series is full of adventure, daring, and love. Fun Read! But start with book one--The Paper Magician
CAROUSEL BEACH Orly Konig: Women's Fiction
Maya Brice is hunting the magic of her childhood while grieving her present. You'll love this hauntingly beautiful story--and belive in magic again.
EVERYTHING WE GIVE Kerry Lonsdale: Women's Fiction
With an emotional and fulfilling conclusion to her "Everything" series, Lonsdale probes the depth of love and lies, family and connection. Bu tying up her stirring story, the author provides closure for her characters--and her readers.
LONG WAY GONE Charles Martin: Contemporary Fiction
With a radical retelling of the Prodigal Son, Martin will rip open your heart and sing you home. This is one of the finest books ever.
HUSBANDS AND OTHER SHARP OBJECTS Marilyn Simon Rothstein: Women's Fiction
Rothstein has done it again! You'll laugh. You'll cry--And enjoy every page. Be sure to read Lift and Separate first. Great Read!
NEVER TOO LATE Amara Royce: Historical Romance
Never Too Late is a rousing romance with a big heart for the social ills of Victorian England. Add a wonderful flip of the usual older hero/younger heroine and it moves into welcome new territory for romances.
THE TIGER IN THE HOUSE Jacqueline Sheehan: Women's Fiction
You'll never guess the plot twists but you'll love the ride. Delia Lamott is one of the best characters ever. This is a must read now!
THE LAST TELEGRAM Liz Trenow: Historical Women's Fiction
With an intriguing story set in the WWII silk industry, Trenow invites us into Lily Verner's life and times, and her amazing ability to "keep her chin up" and carry one. A Must Read
Next Post: IWSG, of course!
You need some books, right? I know it, so here you go! ;-)
With her trademark reality and a touch of humor, Brown shows the Clancy sisters at their lowest and shows their grit and grace. Excellent Read!
Holmberg does it again! Her latest enchanting story in the Paper Magician series is full of adventure, daring, and love. Fun Read! But start with book one--The Paper Magician
Maya Brice is hunting the magic of her childhood while grieving her present. You'll love this hauntingly beautiful story--and belive in magic again.
With an emotional and fulfilling conclusion to her "Everything" series, Lonsdale probes the depth of love and lies, family and connection. Bu tying up her stirring story, the author provides closure for her characters--and her readers.
With a radical retelling of the Prodigal Son, Martin will rip open your heart and sing you home. This is one of the finest books ever.
Rothstein has done it again! You'll laugh. You'll cry--And enjoy every page. Be sure to read Lift and Separate first. Great Read!
Never Too Late is a rousing romance with a big heart for the social ills of Victorian England. Add a wonderful flip of the usual older hero/younger heroine and it moves into welcome new territory for romances.
You'll never guess the plot twists but you'll love the ride. Delia Lamott is one of the best characters ever. This is a must read now!
With an intriguing story set in the WWII silk industry, Trenow invites us into Lily Verner's life and times, and her amazing ability to "keep her chin up" and carry one. A Must Read
Next Post: IWSG, of course!
Tuesday, July 3, 2018
IWSG: July 2018
{Note to followers: if you want an email when a new post goes up, go the right column and subscribe for emails. Thanks.}
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds! Co-Hosts: Nicki Elson, Juneta Key, Tamara Narayan, and Patricia Lynne!
Questions: What are your ultimate writing goals, and how have they changed over time (if at all)?
Answer:
Ah! The question everyone asks and really doesn't understand if they don't write. ;-)
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Questions: What are your ultimate writing goals, and how have they changed over time (if at all)?
Answer:
Ah! The question everyone asks and really doesn't understand if they don't write. ;-)
I do hope to finish my Women's Fiction MOTHER'S DAY and possibly its sequel--FRIENDLY FIRE--but at the moment I'm dealing with many family and personal issues. If they are finished, I'll self-publish. I know in the past I hunted an agent and a contract, but personal issues make that dream a bit daunting. I know my needs have changed. I have no deadlines, no conferences, no queries, and no pitches lined up and don't expect to.
My needs have changed based on my health. It's a good feeling to take the stress off and just enjoy writing again.
Here's to us all! Writers through thick and thin.
Next post: Why the July Book Pusher post, of course!
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