The Dandelion Field
Author Kathryn Springer

Kathryn Springer’s contemporary, fiction novel, The Dandelion Field, is a top notch read! Newly released in January 2015, this story offers more than entertainment.

Personally, I’d experienced a demanding week at work. One day in particular I decided to stop and read The Dandelion Field after arriving home. My stress melted away as I perused the pages of this delightful, well written story. I’ve never experienced such a refreshing after reading fiction as I did that day!

Ginevieve and Ranie Lightly are two very important characters in this story and their stop off in Banister Falls, Wisconsin may just anchor this mother and daughter to one location….Or will it? Reasons arise for them to stay or go, which fuels this story with conflict. Kathryn Springer has captured the concerns and issues from two generations. I found myself wondering what was going to happen and concerned for how these character’s situations would finally turn out. I felt as though I knew Genevieve and Ranie and I like them. I’ve known people with similar personalities and situations and felt that this story rang true in comparison.

Kathryn uses such beautiful language and description. Her characters are varied in personality and their station in society, yet I feel that she knew how to convey their differences very well.

This novel will appeal to teens and their parents, because Kathryn has woven in the concerns that are important for both age groups. I know this for a fact because I’ve shown this novel to both age groups and the spark that lit their eyes—shone with interest! Let me tell you, people are standing in line for this wonderful read! I highly recommend The Dandelion Field as your next novel experience! Because this book includes discussion questions, this would make a wonderful book club choice. 

Questions for Kathryn!

How long did it take you to write The Dandelion Field? Also, have you desired to write this story for a long time or was this a recent inspiration?

I finished The Dandelion Field in about six months, but the story had been brewing in my mind for about six years! Initially, it seemed like it would fall into the category of women’s fiction, with the emphasis on the friendship between Evie and Gin. But when the editors at Zondervan read the proposal, they encouraged me to focus on the romance between Gin and Dan. I loved the idea of bringing those two characters “front and center”, so it wasn’t difficult to do at all!

The discussion questions that you include at the back of the novel were insightful and many readers can relate to them. What question would you particularly like to hear what the readers answered? Could you explain why without telling on the plot of your novel?

I think I’d choose number fiveJ

“From the time Gin was a child, no one really looked out for her best interests. Who are some of the people in your life who cared about you? Protected you? What are some of the barriers people use to protect themselves from being hurt?

I wouldn’t be the woman I am today without the influence of some strong, godly (and extremely patient!) women who looked past my mistakes, prayed for me and literally loved me to the Lord.

Gin found out that even when she thought she was alone, she wasn’t. God loved her and He placed people in her life who would not only spoke truth, they lived it. I experienced the same thing, and it makes me want to be that person for others!

Will there be a sequel to this story?

I’m writing Evie’s story right now! It doesn’t have a title yet, but it will be released in March 2016. Readers didn’t really get an opportunity to know Evie well, other than through Dan and Gin’s point-of-view, so I’m excited to be able to reveal more of her character! I’ll give you a hint about the hero, Jack Vale.

He made a brief appearance in The Dandelion Field but he didn’t make a very good impression on Evie! (Mmm. . .possibly because he was holding a baseball bat?)

How do you wish your readers to contact you?

I love to hear from my readers! You can contact me through my website at kathrynspringer.com or on Facebook at kathrynspringerauthor. If you’d like to subscribe to my free newsletter, you can also visit my website. It will keep you posted on upcoming releases!

Debut Author – How Do I Get To Be One?

Pens of Praise

CHRISTIAN WRITER’S GROUP

Next meeting…

Monday, mARCH 16 at 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

at

Faith Church

2201  42^nd Street, Manitowoc, WI  54220

   Faith Church is located next to Festival Foods

Not far from the Manitowoc exit off Interstate 43

March’s teaching is called Debut Author – How Do I Get To Be One? This teaching deals with turning our musings and big ideas into more than a hobby to pursue publication and touch the hearts of readers.  

The prompt, named “The Big Thaw” can be written in any genre of your choice. You may also bring a five-minute reading of your work in progress that you would like listening ears for. We are a safe place and encouraging group who love to learn and grow in the craft of writing.

Disclaimer: Warning you may end up loving to write!

Visit a local shop and bring your coffee or cappuccino with you.

Let us know if you’re attending so that we can save a seat just for you.

If you have questions or concerns call Becky McLafferty at (920)758-9196 or e-mail her atmclafferty@lakefield.net or call Susan Kinney at (920)242-3631 or e-mail her atsusanmarlenekinney@gmail.com.

God’s blessings upon you as you write for His glory!

PENS OF PRAISE

CHRISTIAN WRITERS GROUP

Next meeting…

Monday, February, 16 at 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

at

Faith Church

2201  42^nd Street, Manitowoc, WI  54220

§   Faith Church is located next to Festival Foods

§   Not far from the Manitowoc exit off Interstate 43

February’s teaching is called PLOTTING PLOTTING PLOTTING and is taught by Susan Kinney. Susan will compare “The Christmas Candle” movie and novella’s structure and share plotting tips to help you begin the story of your heart…I thank those of you who took my advice to purchase the book and movie or visited the library to experience this story first hand.

The prompt was inspired by a first time visitor! Thank you Jean. I invite you to use the photo of Aria – my granddaughter, above to write to the prompt—Describe what the child is thinking or seeing or what someone is thinking or seeing in this child. Use your creativity in any genre you desire! Poets be poetic, storytellers stir up a telling, but definitely have some fun!

As always you may bring a short five minute sample of your writing to share and receive feedback from our group.

Disclaimer: Warning you may end up loving to write!

Visit a local shop and bring your coffee or cappuccino with you.

Let us know if you’re attending so that we can save a seat just for you.

If you have questions or concerns call Becky McLafferty at (920)758-9196 or e-mail her at mclafferty@lakefield.net or call Susan Kinney at (920)242-3631 or e-mail her at susanmarlenekinney@gmail.com.

God’s blessings upon you as you write for His glory!

Truths Resemble Trees

A Matter of Devotion

By Susan Marlene Kinney

“Truths resemble trees — some ripen in a short time, while others require half century or more to bring to perfection. But the seeds of the latter must be planted, as well as the former, by somebody…”¹ Dr. Benjamin Rush from a letter to James Madison.

Remember a time when you were mistaken…about an event in history, mishearing a discussion, the local news, or about the character of an individual. Now, put yourself in the spot of the person who has been misrepresented. Ouch, right? Misinformation can snowball over time by starting small and then rolling down the pathway of conversations and opinions until a huge lie crouches at the bottom of the valley… of decision possibly?

Research matters and truth can most often be uncovered by the persistent and very unyielding attitude we writers must have while laying the foundation for the setting and historic events we paint with words. For in reality, we are representing Him and our words effect the populous—that don’t need to have another reason/excuse to miss Him.

Recently, I admit to wondering about the character of George Washington. I judged him in my mind. Why would a Christian be involved with another religion, which is deistic? Then I discovered the historic truth about Freemasonry. Early American Freemasonry was exclusively Christian in its nature and practice...², until 1813 when it became corrupted. “Speculative Masonry,” grew, which demoted Jesus to “making no mention of Him³.” George Washington was an inactive member, only attending one or two meetings in thirty years.  He passed away in 1799—need I say more? My heart thrilled in the discovery that the 16% of the founders, who were Freemasons, were not attached to the teaching of Gnostics, Druids, Essenes, Kaballah and other long-dead cult beliefs when they devoted themselves to fighting for our liberty.

Truth and liberty—we cannot have the latter without the former. This world says, “You’re not important. No one wants to hear what you have to say. Life holds no meaning. Everyone has their own truth. Don’t mention Jesus.” Are you willing and inspired to shoulder a lie out of the way for someone else’s liberty? No one can tell the story that you can. Take courage and pick up the pen…of truth. Move cautiously, with tenacity and not just verisimilitude. Dig deep for then the fruit of your labors will be sweet indeed.

The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. Revelations 22:21 ^{(The last verse in the Bible!)}

¹David Barton, Benjamin Rush: Signer of the Declaration of Independence pg. 192 1999

²David Barton, The Founder’s Bible: The Origin of the Dream of Freedom pg. 2079

³Tom McKenney, Please Tell Me 1994 pg. 164 Mentioned by David Barton, The Founder’s Bible: The Origin of the Dream of Freedom pg. 2080

Verisimilitude – The appearance of being true or real. Not supported by evidence. 

SISTERHOOD OF THE WORLD BLOGGERS AWARD

Whoo Hoo! The holidays are behind us and maybe we can slip into our regular lives for a while. I'm glad to be back here with you to share a moment or two. My friend Beth Ziarnik tagged me with these questions! How may of you knew me this well? I do hope I surprised a few of you!

Beth’s TEN QUESTIONS:

1.    Of all the pets you've had, which was your favorite and why?

I’ve enjoyed the company and love of so many pets. Dogs, cats, birds, and a  flying squirrel- who happened to pick our home for his/her residence. My favorite one, oh that is a toss-up for sure. My Scooby-Doo was a Chow/Sheltie mix and he’d spent ten wonderful years with us. He was so full of personality and loyalty and I have many favorite memories of him. He was my cuddly wonder and always showed such spirit!  Presently, Porschea, our Leonberger holds center stage. She is 150 pounds of ever-be-a-puppy dog. Porschea is intelligent and we enjoy her quirky personality. So, you can see why that choice is challenging indeed…Can I pick both of these treasured friends for favorites? J Oops, I believe I did just that!

2.    Would you say your life now is good? Why?

Yes, my life is quite good…excellent really. God has blessed me with many loving family members and great friendships—yours is among those Beth! I find humor and adventure all around me, which mingles well with my purpose for this side of heaven!

3.    Of all the places you've lived, which did you like the most?

Hum, I associate the places I’ve lived with the people I’ve been so fortunate to befriend. I treasure my family and friends from all places that we called home. Most of all as far as climate and location goes—I enjoyed the warm weather and big, sunshiny skies in Texas, even though it was only for a few months.

4.    What's the best job you've ever had?

Being a teacher’s aide for at-risk students has become my most rewarding profession. The students teach me so much and test me…my patience and imagination! They offer so many surprises and inspire me each day.

5.    What's your favorite memory of growing up?

Visiting my grandma for a weekend sleepover is a prized memory for me. I got to know my grandma on a more personal level. I helped her bake biscuits, discovered dry ice for the very first—ouch—time! I witnessed her wisdom, kindness and respect toward a family that was experiencing troubled times. My heart warms each time I pause to remember….

6.    What event in your life has had the greatest impact on who you are today?

I would say that accepting Jesus as my Lord and Savior—more than thirty years ago—has impacted me more than anything else ever could. I do have a blog post on my inkyquilbysuzie.blogspot.com describing that memorable night. Yep…I’ve never been the same after that!

7.    What's the funniest thing that's ever happened to you?

I’d have to say that my sister, Pat, and I’ve gotten into a couple laughing jags where we almost never caught our breath again. We just started laughing over silly things and the momentum of our laughter took on a life of its own! Thank you Pat for our special times of laughter and joy! You make my life sparkle!

8.    What one word or phrase would you use to describe yourself right at this moment?

Persistent.

9.    What's your favorite book and why?

I’m so very glad you asked this question Beth. The Founder’s Bible” New American Standard  version with Signature Historian David Barton is my favorite book. This Bible has both the old and new testament, but also includes quotes and relevant history of our great nation. Information showing that God’s Word influenced and inspired our founding fathers as they wrestled with ideas when creating our constitution and other important documents gives me hope for our future. What a rich history our United States of America has, so influenced by the Word of God. This precious book shares the treasure of God’s Word, while including gems of history about these United States—wonderful combination.

10. Who is your hero or heroine and why?

Jesus is the ultimate hero for sure for reasons you all can imagine and understand. On earth I’d have to say Joseph from the book of Genesis. His ability to hang on through all circumstances, though he didn’t know how or when or if his circumstances would change intrigues me. Joseph’s loyalty to the Lord though thick and thin and his forgiveness toward his brothers and others who did him wrong was stellar.

My 10 questions to Becky McLafferty are:

1.      What is the name of your favorite Alpaca? Why?

2.      What is your favorite hobby or activity? Why?

3.      What is your “word” or “scripture” for 2015?

4.      What is your favorite dessert?

5.      What novel has impacted your life more than any other?

(Yes, that is a mean, mean, mean question,

because there are soooo

many GREAT writers! Let’s see if you can name just one!

Ha ha!)

6.      Where is your favorite vacation spot?

7.      What is your favorite genre to write?

8.      What advice do you give to those who write or journal?

9.      What is your favorite ice cream?

10.  What character trait do you most appreciate

in a friend?

Silver Bells by Deborah Raney

Deborah Raney’s wholesome Summerside Press novel takes the reader back to winter in the early 1970s.  A young woman, Michelle Penn, has decided to take a job and an apartment to become independent. She has moved on from a past heartbreak or has she?

Robert Merrick III was a popular student when he and Michelle attended high school together. Their paths had never really crossed…before now. Will Rob find the courage to pursue his deepest desires?

Deborah Raney has authored more than twenty-five books! She has won the RITA Award, ACFW Carol Award, HOLT Medallion, National Reader’s Choice Award, Silver Angel, and has twice been a Christy award finalist. She also wrote a book, which became a movie called A Vow to Cherish.  I’ve not had the pleasure to see it yet, but I’ve heard that it is a must-see!

Hush now…don’t tell a soul, but I’m sort of a child from the ‘70s. A little later in the ‘70s of course, but I remember the songs and the small town coziness that most of us may long for and which Deb has captured in this novel. I loved the diverse characters and the roles they play in this sweet novel. I enjoyed this read so much that I laughed aloud several times! Silver Bells is a fun, enjoyable read that touches on some very serious issues. If you are old enough to have lived through the ‘70s this is a nice stroll down memory lane. I suggest that Silver Bells rings with promise and would make a wonderful Christmas present for someone on your gift list.

Questions:

1.     Deb, how did you come up with this story?

Parts of it are MY story. Simply because, as you mentioned, it’s set in the ‘70s when I grew up. But also, I share some of Michelle’s history: I grew up on a farm, attended Kansas State University, worked in a small-town newspaper office, and in more recent years, have worked with homeless or struggling young moms and their families through volunteering in a homeless shelter.

2.    These characters are very different from one another making their interactions fun. Did you model them from any people that you know?

In my first two or three books, most of my characters looked the same—they were ME! But I quickly realized that if I was going to be writing for more than a few books, I would need to learn how to create unique characters for each book. So for the last eighteen years or so, my characters are created “from scratch.” I can’t really explain how that happens. I’m a seat-of-the-pants writer, and my characters seem to just develop as I write the story.

3.    Do you use Briggs and Meyers for your character’s development?

I have played with those kind of character development tools in the past, along with filling out character trait sheets, or using real people I know. But my seat-of-the-pants tendencies make it more natural for my characters to simply form and grow as the story does.

4.    Is Bristol, Kansas a real place or did you make it up?

I rarely write about real towns, simply because if I have my characters eating at the Hitchin’ Post Cafe, by the time my book releases, the Hitchin’ Post may have closed down. Also, in small towns like those I set my  novels in, there is only one mayor, one principal, one postmaster, one bank president, so writing about those characters in your novel, could get you in trouble with the real life counterparts. I do usually set my fictional small towns near a real larger city. My characters might travel to Wichita or Salina, or Cape Girardeau, etc. to give readers some context, but my small towns are always fictional.

5.    I could imagine another romance coming from this Christian Romance story and these characters…but the readers will have to read your novel to see if they can figure out whom I mean! Do you have a sequel in mind?

Ha! I almost always have MORE to the story than the reader will ever see. I have several novels I’d love to write sequels to, but a sequel is largely determined by my other contracts (ie., by the time I fulfill my contracts, it might be too late for a sequel), by who owns the rights to the book and whether they are willing to publish a sequel, and of course, by how well the first book sold. In the case of Silver Bells, the publisher, Summerside Press, was bought by Guideposts shortly after my book came out.

6.    What ways do you wish for your readers to contact you?

http://www.deborahraney.com 

https://www.facebook.com/deborah.raney

https://twitter.com/authordebraney

http://novelgarden.blogspot.com

http://amazon.com/author/deborahraney

http://instagram.com/deborahraney

     http://www.pinterest.com/deborahraney/

    

I very much enjoyed learning about Deb’s involvement with struggling young mothers  and volunteering in a homeless shelter. Her struggling character rang true as I read about this lady and her situation. Deb is offering a give away! You only have to leave an email in a post so that you may be considered. I will not sell your email or address information to marketing agencies. This offer only applies to United States addresses.Thank you Deb for a very positive interview and for a lovely and entertaining story…one that matters. 

The winner will be announced on Monday, December 29! Let the posting begin! 

The Christmas Story in 40 Days - Author interview and book give away!

Devotions by Chris Loehmer Kincaid

Greetings all,

I have in my hand Chris Loehmer Kincaid’s—Life Sentence Publishing LLC devotional, The Christmas Story in 40 Days. This devotional provides some unique qualities for the reader. First off, have you ever considered the early life of Jesus before—especially in devotion style? Well Chris has in an enjoyable, easy to read fashion. The Bible quotes are from the The Message:The Bible in Contemporary Language by NavPress.

In addition to Chris’s down to earth—sitting across from you with a cup of coffee approach—she provides a place for the reader to share their thoughts, If they want to! The lines of space after the devotion are roomy and easy to write in, so that the reader can capture their first reaction to the scripture and Chris’s comments. Yes, this is a delightful addition to the usual devotional set-up.

The Christmas Story in 40 Days would make a nice gift for Christmas or birthdays. It definitely shares a warmth and glow that can only come from someone who truly and devoutly loves the Lord with her whole heart. Thank you, Chris, for sharing these wonderful thoughts and kingdom building glimpses. 

Questions:

1. Chris when did you start working on this devotion? 

 I love answering this question! Back in the fall of 2008 both of my children were away at college and I wanted to send them something to help them prepare for the Christmas season. I started looking for a book that would tell the Christmas story in language that they would understand and learn from. I thought, there must be a devotional out there that would fit the bill. When I found no such book, I decided, why don't I write a daily devotion and email it to them. I counted the days on the calendar; 41 days until Christmas. Perfect! I would write a Bible verse and add my thoughts to it each day and then email it to my children and a few friends. That was the start of The Christmas Story in 40 Days. It went through many revisions since then and many of the passages are not recognizable from those first ones I emailed out years ago. Even though it is a short book, I have not been able to pull off writing a book in 40 days since then. But when I am really stumped as to what to write, God guides my fingers across the keyboard until I have written what he intends me to.

2. Your blogs(The Dino Chronicles and writing what i can when i can ) are so refreshing and I see you maintain that friendly conversational expression in this devotion collection.  Where do you come up with the time to work on all of these?

 I listen to my co-workers talk about what happened on The Bachelor the night before or who they think should win Dancing with Stars or how bad the Monday night football game was, and I ask myself, is that all you have to do with your evenings? There are so many other things to do with one's time. And I spend my spare time in my home office, writing, blogging, researching and quite often just plain surfing the internet. In addition to my writing and working full-time in a medical clinic, I mentor a local kinship girl, sponsor a Compassion child, write to my church's college students, and am the vice chairman for my daughter's nonprofit organization, Tumaini Volunteers. Earlier this fall I wrote my church's children's Christmas program and for the month of December am working on pulling that all together. I don't share all this to brag, I share it so that others will realize that, yes, there are enough hours in the day, you just need to prioritize. And for me, that is doing what helps others the most. 

3. Do you have plans for more devotions in the future?

  I'm glad you asked. My publisher, Life Sentence Publishing, released the e-book version of my second devotional on December 9 and the paperback version should be available after December 15. "The Early Life of Jesus in 40 Days" is the second book in the 40 day devotional series. This new book shares the life of Jesus from just after he is born until he is a 12-year-old. You may have guessed that more books are the horizon. I have the verses chosen for the third book; I hope to start writing on it in earnest after the first of the year. 

4. What are your other publications and plans for publications?

My first book, "A Time for Every Purpose Under Heaven", is a memoir of my first trip to Africa in 2006. It was also published by Life Sentence Publishing. This fall I finished writing a novel which was inspired by experiences in Kenya and the love I have for the people there. 

5. How can your readers connect with you?  Or purchase your books?

You can purchase my books through Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble or Life Sentence Publishing. You can also send me a personal email and I can mail you a signed copy. My email address is chrisloehmer@gmail.com. You can also connect with me via my Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/ChrisLoehmerKincaid ; my website, http://www.chrisloehmerkincaid.com/home.html, ; or my blog, http://chrisloehmer.blogspot.com/.

The good news is that this is also a book give away! 

What we need is for the readers to post their contact info (email) so that Chris or I can inform them that they have won a book and get their address so that it can be sent to them. The winner's email and address will not be sold to marketing agencies. Now Chris, which book do you wish to give away to the person who is fortunate enough to win one?

I will offer a copy of either book, "The Christmas Story in 40 Days" or the newest book, "The Early Life of Jesus in 40 Days", which ever the lucky winner would like.

Excellent! Now you all have the information you need. I always look forward to finding out who the lucky winner will be! Monday December 29^th we will announce the winner! Let the comments begin!