UNSTUCK: STEP INTO THE NEW by author Amy Robnik Joob the Podcast Interviewer for SUPPORT SOMEONE SATURDAY

This 40-day prayer journal did something amazing in my heart! These encouraging true stories are opening me where I’ve felt a bit narrower. I’m working my way through this more than a journal on prayer—which is awesome all by itself. Each day has a call to trust or believe or share community and so much more. Each day ends with a brief journal and prayer section for the reader to stop. Breathe and seize the moment of inspiration and invitation to know Him better. Allowing ourselves to be still and know that He is Lord over us if we pause and let Him lead.

As I read through these remarkable and specific days, there is a beautiful lifting and settling of my heart. Amy poured out her heart about her experiences as she encountered challenges and listened to Him in the middle of very different circumstances. So like our own lives, and always inspiring us to step higher and catch the view from these daily mountain tops! As I just wrote that last sentence, I glanced at Amy’s cover and noticed the mountains! How about that!  And yes, I smiled!

Splendid encouragement from a lovely-hearted young woman of God. I was given a copy of this book for an honest review, and there you have it. Looks like I’ve opened my heart to you, dear reader! If you are searching to know the Lord and deepen your prayer perspective, then this is the book for you! I highly recommend this prayer journey of a journal!

Questions for Amy:

Right now, which chapter in your prayer journal speaks to you and why?
Chapter 1, Believe In Miracles speaks to me right now. In my family right now we are believing for God to bring healing, restoration, new doors of opportunity and to do the impossible in our lives! ​

What do you like to drink or snack on when your write?
When I’m writing I try to focus more on drinks...like water, coffee, hot herbal tea, sparkling water (LaCroix Limoncello my favorite). For snacks, I grab fruit or chips & salsa. Very challenging to eat those while typing!   :)

Where do you like to write and dream with the Lord?
Lately, I’ve been getting up in the wee hours of the morning I’m going in the basement. Thankfully it is finished so it’s very cozy. It’s a great space to pray and hear from God and I’m not waking anyone up. During the day I like to go out on my patio and dream, journal, pray, and hear from Him. 
 
Do you journal a lot? When did you start that?
​I do journal quite a bit. I actually journal out a lot of my prayers or write to God about challenges I’m facing. Sometimes, I write prayers of gratitude & record answered prayers. I also write out scriptures that speak to me about what me and my family are going through. I often insert our names into the Scriptures and pray them over my family & situation. 

I started journaling years ago when I first became a Christian - almost 30 years ago! Yikes!  :0
 
Do you have another book in the works? What can you tell us about it?
I have not started writing another book yet. I have thought about writing a book for special needs families. I want to write about our son Ashton’s Noonan Syndrome
and include the various areas he is affected. I also have a couple of other ideas in the works that I am praying over. 

What ministry for the Lord grips your heart right now?
Lately, the biggest things on my heart as far as ministry go are families and youth. I just see how modern-day society and all of its challenges are weighing heavy on families and on our young people. I am seeking God about ways I can be a part of the solution & help encourage & inspire Moms, Dads & their children living at home. 
 
Do you think your reader's voice matters when they leave a review on Amazon and other social media? Why?
I really think every voice matters. Whether you are leaving a review on Amazon, another platform or sharing your story in any capacity, I think your voice matters and your story should be told. I think we should all find freedom & boldness to speak and share our faith openly too. This world needs the hope found in Jesus!
 
How do you want your readers to find you?
My readers can find me on my website at www.amyjoob.com, on Facebook at https://www.Facebook.com/AmyRobnikJoob, Instagram at @amyjoob1, or YouTube (Amy Joob). 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyhv00G4l8bFgmBK7Y0OA6w/
https://www.instagram.com/amyjoob1/
email  amyjoob@yahoo.com  

 Another excellent book by Amy. . .

 

 

 

Art by Aria

PENS OF PRAISE

CHRISTIAN WRITERS GROUP

October 19, 2021

  Tuesday 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

 

Jitsi Meeting

From the comfort of your own home! 

Discussion time for writers. One topic we will look at is launching a book. There are so many layers and styles to a book launch. This is a discussion, and I’ve not prepared a message. Still, there is much we can share with one another and use to plan our own book launches!

PROMPT: October Bliss! Write a page worth of poetry, devotion, short story, or essay in your genre, and we will be blissfully attentive!

susanmarlenewrites@gmail.com

Inspired readers given excellent take-away = return readers!

We are a safe place to share, and Pens Meetings are free.

 

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact Becky McLafferty @ rebeccamclafferty@gmail.com or

Susan Marlene@ susanmarlenewrites@gmail.com

 

 

 

 

 

A VIEW MOST GLORIOUS, Book 3 of AMERICAN WONDERS COLLECTION by Award Winning Author, Regina Scott

 

Beautiful. That is my one-word description of this third book of the AMERICAN WONDERS COLLECTION. I have so much to say about A VIEW MOST GLORIOUS! The characters are fresh and stunning. They are vibrant and well rounded and quite different from one another. They are challenged emotionally, mentally, and physically by Mount Rainier and each other’s goals. Honestly, the way that Regina described the ascent and decent on Mount Rainier was so perfect—just as though she walked in Coraline Baxter’s boots.

The descriptions mesh wonderfully with the challenges and emotional changes of the characters while moving the story along. This is a page turner that you don’t want to miss. The experience of these written words has my stamp of excellence on every level.

I’ve longed to read VIEW MOST GLORIOUS, the third book of AMERICAN WONDERS COLLECTION from Revell. The covers are lovely and they are a delightful way to see some of America’s fabulous park areas though the delightful tales of characters that are relatable and inspiring.

VIEW MOST GLORIOUS is a satisfying and beautifully written and insightful novel that I was sent a free copy of for an honest review. This is my favorite series by Regina and that is saying a lot. This is a writer that I respect, admire, and enjoy. I’m honored to share her new published novel and this novel was an experience for me. I’m too cowardly to climb such a mountain, but to experience this challenge through the eyes of Regina’s characters was absolutely rewarding, refreshing, and satisfying! Hint, hint- this series or this novel would make a wonderful Christmas, birthday, or just because gift to those you love!  

The stories in this AMERICAN WONDERS COLLECTION are stand-alone novels as well as being part of a series. How did you come up with the hero, Nathan Hardee’s background?

I knew who Coraline, my heroine, was—a strong young lady who is determined to make her own way in the world. She was going to need a guide to climb the mountain, so the hero had to be skilled in living in the wilderness. But I also wanted someone who could appreciate the lifestyle she lives. It’s easy to look at someone who is born into wealth and think they have it made. Cora has always been at the mercy of others. He understands that. 

How did you come up with Coraline Baxter’s Achilles heel, her mother?

Because Cora has chosen to walk a path few ladies trod in those days (although there were some!), I wanted someone close to her to be a contrast. Her mother is what many women aspired to be in the late 1800s. She wields her power quietly, in Society and through her husband. She’s buried two husbands before this one, so she knows how to keep that power too. But it’s not the kind of power Cora wants.

Have you climbed Mount Rainier? Your descriptions of the characters’ ascent and descent, their reactions and the views were so specific. I loved this!

While I have hiked all over that mountain, I have never reached the summit. I considered trying it in the leadup to the book’s publication, but the amount of preparation would have been too much with family and writing, especially with the coronavirus. I’m afraid I’m not in Cora’s shape, LOL. However, there is a marvelous book by Aubrey Haines, a former park ranger, called “Mountain Fever.” He has gathered first-hand accounts of those who climbed Rainier in the early days. The details, combined with my own experiences on the mountain, helped me imagine what it might have been like for Cora.

Will you write any additional AMERICAN WONDERS COLLECTION novels? If not, what is your next novel to be published?  

At the moment, this book is the last one planned in the American Wonders Collection. In January, I will be returning to my beloved Regency period with the release of Never Pursue a Prince, a follow-on to my bestselling Fortune’s Brides series. Can the daughter of a duke give her heart to a prince in disguise when she and her sisters vow to be wed by harvest time?

 

BEYOND the MASK a Burns Family Studios Production

 

BEYOND THE MASK is a go-to movie for me! The Burns Family Studios formed an excellent fiction film from actual historical happenings. I love the storyline, characters, and Ben Franklin’s inventions! This is a clean, family-friendly adventure that I find so pleasing! The film also includes exciting scenes with the East Indian Company! If you watch this movie, I’d love to hear what you enjoyed most about this film.

I hope that THE BURNS FAMILY STUDIO will create more adventure films in the future! Thanks to all those who made this film possible! 

PREPARE HIM ROOM, A DAILY ADVENT DEVOTION by Susie Larson

 

http://www.susanmarlene.com/book-review--author-interview

 

This advent devotional is like none I’ve read. Susie Larson inspires hope as she refers to Chapters in Luke except for the last devotion, which uses the book of John. Other scriptures are mentioned as well as excellent quotes. 

This book has touched my heart in a deep and abiding way. The prayers Susie places at the end of each devotion and the “Look Up” section, which inspires a decision from the reader to fast from negative attitudes, is powerful. I actually bought several for Christmas gifts because I believe in how inspiring and encouraging this devotional is. 

This is written to be an advent devotional, and on that point, I disagree. Yes, it is very inspiring at advent, but oh, this is one to read and reread for the depth and joy of relationship with our Lord are firmly secured within its pages!

Thank you, Susie Larson for your heart for Jesus and the truth and healing that oneness with Him brings!

I was honored to be asked to review this advent devotional, PREPARE HIM ROOM. I was so blessed to have spent time here. I'm giving an honest recommendation for this book and I must say that the cover and design of this devotional is pleasing and inviting.  

 

I've been given this book for an honest review! This is a wonderful advent devotional and I'm so happy to spend the time reading it. This is a book that points you to the real reason for Christmas and a closer walk with God! This will be actually published on September 14, 2021!

LADY JAYNE DISAPPEARS by Joanna Davidson Politano

 1861 London, England

This debut novel has the yawning emotional pull and suspenseful secrets one finds in the classics, even of Charles Dickens. And may I say that I believe that even Dickens would have to approve of Joanna Davidson Politano’s storytelling!

Aurelie Harcourt’s father passes, which spins his daughter into a world of secrets, mystery, and danger. He left Aurelie an emotionally distant family and his famous pen name, Nathaniel Droll, which has kept his identity hidden from avid readers and fans.  He raised his daughter in the strangest of situations and left her—not his fault—to fend for herself in a suspicious family of means. I love the main character; she is intelligent, strong, and resourceful. Believe me—she has to be so to be in this situation. She captured my admiration immediately, and Aurelie’s story drew my attention with exacting meticulousness.

May I quote Aurelie to you, “Fiction was not always a lie, but a truth told in parallel to real life.” How I’ve always believed that myself! Well stated, Aurelie. The generations of her family and the other characters of interest were excellently represented and kept my full attention and appreciation for their crafty, mind-boggling fabulous uniqueness.

The beauty of the writing and the uniqueness of this tale kept me turning pages and loving every millisecond of well-spent time of pursuing these pages. This hauntingly wonderful story is a reread and favorite. I’ll keep it close on my well-visited shelves. If you like to think through the story, enjoy the cadence of the language, and hold on through twists and turns—well, this is a story for you that I’m excited to point out to you. 

Thank you, Joanna, for writing with excellence and clever challenges your character had to scale.  

You may find Joanna Davidson Politano at:

http://jdpstories.com/
https://www.pinterest.com/sunshine39n/

 

 

Liar

 

Liar

 

Pants on Fire

 

  

PENS OF PRAISE

CHRISTIAN WRITERS GROUP

July 20, 2021

  Tuesday 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

 

Jitsi Meeting

I’ll send the link to our Pens of Praise email list. All we have to do is click on the link in the Pens of Praise email. You will be asked your name.

 

Scenes & Pacing & Liar Liar Pants on Fire is this our topic for July! Susan Marlene will facilitate the lesson, and all are encouraged to share their knowledge and experience for this class! I look forward to seeing you there! We are building on the previous month’s topic. 😊 We are going to shake things up, so hold on!

PROMPT: The Lie That Backfired -- No matter how old you are, no matter if you caused a situation or didn’t, write a piece that you could turn into a devotion, short story, or article!

An inspired reader given excellent take-away = return readers!

We are a safe place to share, and Pens Meetings are free.

 

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact Becky McLafferty @ rebeccamclafferty@gmail.com or

Susan Marlene@ susanmarlenewrites@gmail.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

PENS OF PRAISE

CHRISTIAN WRITERS GROUP

June 15, 2021

  Tuesday 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

 

Jitsi Meeting

I’ll send the link to our Pens of Praise email list. All we have to do is click on the link in the Pens of Praise email. You will be asked your name.

 

Scenes & Pacing/Pacing & Scenes is this our topic for June! Susan Marlene will facilitate the lesson and all are encouraged to share their knowledge and experience for this class! I look forward to seeing you there! We are revisiting an older prompt!

PROMPT: Discouragement Turned Blessing

No matter what age you were, no matter if you caused the situation or didn’t, write a piece that you could turn into a devotion, short story, or article! Focus on how you were encouraged in your discouragement!

An inspired reader given excellent take-away = return readers!

We are a safe place to share and Pens Meetings are free.

 

As always, if you have any questions or concerns don’t hesitate to contact Becky McLafferty @ rebeccamclafferty@gmail.com or

Susan Marlene@ susanmarlenewrites@gmail.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FRESH BEGINNINGS by Susan Marlene

 

Fresh Beginnings

by Susan Marlene

“Sir, we remember, while He was still alive, how that deceiver said, ‘After three days I will rise.’

Pilate said to them, “You have a guard; go your way, make it as secure as you know how.” So they went and made the tomb secure, sealing the stone and setting the guard.

Matthew 27:63 & 65 – 66

 

The sun had already risen that early morn at the beginning of the week on the third day.  Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome¹ made their way to the tomb to bring spices that they might anoint their precious Jesus. Who would roll away the rock for them? Surprise shook awake any lingering slumber and shoved aside grief with a fresh desire to run. The guards were not there. The huge rock—rolled aside, allowing free entrance. Astonishment compelled their feet inside the tomb.

“Do not be amazed; you are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who has been crucified. He has risen!”² The young man clothed in a long white robe—sitting on the right side—seemed to be waiting for their arrival to offer a message bursting with fresh beginnings. A message and welcome they’d not expected.

How so like our Lord, to show His power when the world expects weakness. To create wondrous blessings out of our deepest griefs. To bring hope and joy when the world is shrouded in darkness and despair.

His Word is alive and active, rich and robust—creative. Relationship with Him dissolves religious trappings and allows the new life—the real-life—to burst forth in our thoughts, attitudes, and spirit. Like springtime beauty, we can be His garden of delight as we worship and bask in His presence through it all.

Let’s pray… Lord, I ask that I will become more and more a fragrant garden of worship and gratitude for Your sweet grace and un-measurable love. You are with me every moment of every day. I’m not alone because You—wonderful Father—are in my heart to stay. Amen

 

¹ Mark 16:1

² Mark 16:6

Rachel Hauck is a born storyteller! There is just that something special about the next-door-neighbor feel to her characters and the wispy supernatural flair streaming through the plot that makes my heart tingle!

Rachel pens tension—good and bad, perfectly for this story To Love A Prince! Somehow, she snuck in a mysterious character, and shoosh—I figure I know who he is—though I’ve not been exactly told. Oh, her endearing heroes and heroines! I love sinking deep down into Rachel’s tales, for they always cause me to dream a little, smile, and cheer! They are ever memorable!

Daffy Caron and Thomas are planning to get married. And as they wait to pick a date and make big plans, Daffy gets a job preparing exquisite royal dresses for a very special event. Her dream job. Right next to the royal Blue family. Life and the unexpected do collide in our lives, and so it is in the lives of these fictional characters. I turned the pages and read every chance I could—stealing time to watch the characters unfold their imperfect selves on the pages before me. I will reread To Love a Prince again and again!

I do wonder if the King Titus royal chair is real. That would be so cool if it was, but fine if it isn’t. The Famous Royal Grounds and The Hideaway just seem to be fantastic places to go and visit. Prince Gus—former Pudgy Prince and the reporter Leslie Ann add spark and spice to this story!

Rachel Hauck is an award-winning author and shares her outstanding knowledge with others at conferences. Her novel Once Upon A Prince was filmed for an Original Hallmark movie!

 

PENS OF PRAISE CHRISTIAN WRITERS GROUP-- TUESDAY, MAY 18

PENS OF PRAISE

CHRISTIAN WRITERS GROUP

Tuesday, MAY 18, 2021

6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

 

JITSI MEET

 

Jitsi Meeting:

 

I’ll send the link to our Pens of Praise email list. All we have to do is click on the link in the Pens of Praise email. You will be asked your name.

 

Meeting Held at Your Home - USA

 

Your couch or chair. Your choice of refreshments from your fridge—no running to Kathy’s house for treats! 😊

 

“CHARACTERS – WHAT’S YOUR FLAVOR?” is the topic this month. Rebecca McLafferty and Susan Marlene will facilitate discussion and share interesting facts about characterization. What characters have inspired you to accomplish or become stronger and which ones remained memorable—most importantly why!  

PROMPT: A favorite character of mine is ___________________________________ (Words you can use if you want them: intelligent, larger than life, crafty, surprising, courageous, wise, brave, totally evil, etc.)

susanmarlenewrites@gmail.com

Inspired readers given excellent take-away = return readers!

We are a safe place to share and Pens Meetings are free.

 

As always, if you have any questions or concerns don’t hesitate to contact Becky McLafferty @ rebeccamclafferty@gmail.com or

Susan Marlene@ susanmarlenewrites@gmail.com

 

 

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