HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!!!!
I'm going to work, but only because I have Friday off.
Enjoy your picnic, pool time, family time......and don't forget those who have served, continue to serve and the families of those who have defended our country.
Happy Memorial Day
HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!!!!
I'm going to work, but only because I have Friday off.
Enjoy your picnic, pool time, family time......and don't forget those who have served, continue to serve and the families of those who have defended our country.
Rich In Love and Other New Releases
Squee!! My book, Rich In Love, will be out soon.
Very soon!
Here's the verse I used for the book and a blurb.
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."
When Ann Thomas is summoned to Florida for the reading of the will of the father she never knew, her life is forever changed. She learns she has a half-sister, she has the chance to inherit millions, and her name is really Angelina. Brett Hamilton, CPA, is assigned to help Ann spend a lot of money in a short period of time. As soon as his ‘assignment’ with her is over, he’s headed to Peru to be a missionary, something he’s felt called to do his whole life. Ann still lives with the pain of having a mother who chose world missions over her. Can Ann risk giving her love to someone who might give it back, or should she ignore her growing feelings towards Brett to keep her heart safe?
So, my gal Ann, has to spend a lot of money in a short period of time--and she has to spend it on herself. Sounds like fun! Especially if you are a shoe lover. Add in a cute accountant, half-sister, teenage couple and a prom, and you have Ann's new life. Is she loving it?
This book was so much fun to write.
And I love to celebrate book releases-- mine and others.
Rachel Van Dyken released Shatter. Book 3 in her Seaside Novel Series. Check it out!
My friend and awesome author Meg Moseley just released Gone South.
Two great books to start your summer reading.
Winners of the Rachel Blog Hop
Whoo--I love announcing winners--especially winners of books. :)
Janice and Shadow--you are the two winners of a copy of one of Rachel's newest releases, The Bet or Elite. Let me know which one you want, and I'll get the Kindle copy to you right away.
Thanks for visiting my blog and reading Rachel's books. Her Seaside books are great, too.
Janice and Shadow--you are the two winners of a copy of one of Rachel's newest releases, The Bet or Elite. Let me know which one you want, and I'll get the Kindle copy to you right away.
Thanks for visiting my blog and reading Rachel's books. Her Seaside books are great, too.
The Rachel Van Dyken Got The Contract Blog Hop
Well, here it is. A blog hop. And one of the very good kind.
Celebrating a contract!
Way to go Rachel!
And I admit I'm such a Rachel fan. I've read her historicals, and recently featured her on a Did I Notice Your Book Blog Hop.
Her covers are beautiful, her stories are amazing, and I'm glad New York saw all these amazing things as well.
Here is her cover I featured on the DINYB Blog Hop.
(If you are reading this text, blogger is being a bear and wouldn't let me add the photo. Will do so as soon as blogger straightens up. :) )
Meanwhile, Rachel said to mention our books as well, so here is a blurb of my upcoming release, Rich In Love:
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."
When Ann Thomas is summoned to Florida for the reading of the will of the father she never knew, her life is forever changed. She learns she has a half-sister, she has the chance to inherit millions, and her name is really Angelina. Brett Hamilton, CPA, is assigned to help Ann spend a lot of money in a short period of time. As soon as his ‘assignment’ with her is over, he’s headed to Peru to be a missionary, something he’s felt called to do his whole life. Ann still lives with the pain of having a mother who chose world missions over her. Can Ann risk giving her love to someone who might give it back, or should she ignore her growing feelings towards Brett to keep her heart safe?
Now, time for the contest!! I'm giving away 1 copy each of Elite and The Bet--Kindle version. Just comment between now through midnight May 19th. I'll post the winners on the 20th.
Go Rachel!! We're all celebrating with you.
Here's how you get back to the links!!
Celebrating a contract!
Way to go Rachel!
And I admit I'm such a Rachel fan. I've read her historicals, and recently featured her on a Did I Notice Your Book Blog Hop.
Her covers are beautiful, her stories are amazing, and I'm glad New York saw all these amazing things as well.
Here is her cover I featured on the DINYB Blog Hop.
(If you are reading this text, blogger is being a bear and wouldn't let me add the photo. Will do so as soon as blogger straightens up. :) )
Meanwhile, Rachel said to mention our books as well, so here is a blurb of my upcoming release, Rich In Love:
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."
When Ann Thomas is summoned to Florida for the reading of the will of the father she never knew, her life is forever changed. She learns she has a half-sister, she has the chance to inherit millions, and her name is really Angelina. Brett Hamilton, CPA, is assigned to help Ann spend a lot of money in a short period of time. As soon as his ‘assignment’ with her is over, he’s headed to Peru to be a missionary, something he’s felt called to do his whole life. Ann still lives with the pain of having a mother who chose world missions over her. Can Ann risk giving her love to someone who might give it back, or should she ignore her growing feelings towards Brett to keep her heart safe?
Now, time for the contest!! I'm giving away 1 copy each of Elite and The Bet--Kindle version. Just comment between now through midnight May 19th. I'll post the winners on the 20th.
Go Rachel!! We're all celebrating with you.
Here's how you get back to the links!!
End It Movement!
Click Here At End It Movement to read what we can do to end slavery. There are more slaves in the world today than at any time in history. Trafficking, labor camps, it happens everywhere. Yes, even in your area!
Today is the day the world becomes aware of what is going on and commits to taking a stand to stop this injustice.
Put a red X on your hand, on your shirt, on your car---help spread the awareness and join the fight to free the 27 million people held in slavery today!
Summer's Song--Amazon sale 1.99
Summer's Song is on sale for $1.99--Tell your friends!!
Inspired by the David Crowder song Trying To Make You Sing, Summer's Song is about believing truth, living truth, and unconditional love.
Coffee and Conversation--Tomorrow!!
Tomorrow, in Marietta, Georgia, 4 authors are hanging out at The Daily Grind at 4 o'clock.. We'll be reading excerpts from our books and giving away prizes. And we have food! Yes we do. If you are in the area, come and join us.
Us, being Hildie McQueen, Ciara Knight, Susan Carlisle, and me.
Hope to see you there.
Question: If you were hanging out at a coffee shop and 4 authors descended on your territory, would you join in or would you leave? #justcurious
Escapement Release Week--Day 2-Ciara Knight
Weighted--Free!!!
Ciara Knight is bursting on the scene this week with the debut of her new series, The Neumarian Chronicles!
Right now you can download the prequel, Weighted, for free! Yes--free!
.jpg)
First, let's talk covers. How amazing is this? If this doesn't draw you in, I don't know what would. And once inside the pages, you won't be disappointed.
Excerpt:
Subject: Raeth Arteres
Date: March 8, 2185
Species: Neumarian
Status: Captured
Ciara Knight is bursting on the scene this week with the debut of her new series, The Neumarian Chronicles!
Right now you can download the prequel, Weighted, for free! Yes--free!
First, let's talk covers. How amazing is this? If this doesn't draw you in, I don't know what would. And once inside the pages, you won't be disappointed.
Excerpt:
Subject: Raeth Arteres
Date: March 8, 2185
Species: Neumarian
Status: Captured
Tick-tock…tick-tock…I clutch the sides of the steel bed in my cell and push
up on my elbows. The clock, with its bronze rim, hangs high on the wall,
taunting me. The long black arm of the second hand struggles up the side of the
enormous disc, ticking away the last few moments of my life.
Tap…tap. Footsteps, two by two, march to the
cell door. Sucking in a long breath, I embrace the rhythmic sounds of the
airship, with the occasional interruption of an engine sputtering.
Tap…thump.
The Queen’s unmistakable gait
interrupts my dream-like state. It matches the sounds of the ship, as if she is
an extension of the heap of metal propelling us across the desert wasteland.
“Open the door.” Her voice echoes down
the narrow hall.
Tick…
The hand struggles to reach the
twelve. If it doesn’t make it, maybe the door won’t open. It teeters and
shakes, then slides straight up in unison with the door.
…Tock.
“Be quick, before the parasite uses
her curse on us.” Her raspy, artificial voice sends a quiver to my core.
A guard races in with a handheld
device and points it at my neck. I’ve been collared like a dog. I clutch the
slick metal ring around my neck, pulling it from my skin, but current zaps
through my shoulders and my arm juts out to my side, shaking. Searing pain runs
along my veins.
After all these years of my brother
hiding me, it was inevitable I’d get caught.
Darkness swirls deep inside, brewing a
storm. I can’t remember what it will do if I release it. Is it a gift, as my
brother told me, or a curse, as the Queen believes? All I know is that if I
unleash it, the Queen will have what she wants, so I push it down deep, keeping
it hidden from her.
A man in a grey coat approaches with a
syringe in his shaking hand. His left eye has been replaced by a bronze implant
that clicks as it grows wide. I concentrate on remaining calm. “I-I see you
s-still need me.” It is a struggle to speak against the rising will of the gift
trapped inside me.
“Need you? I only need your wretched,
cursed body. We must ensure your kind never threatens the world again. When I’m
finished, you will serve me, and only me.”
Acid boils up in my throat but I force
it down. The beast caged inside me longs for release.
“Make her cease that ridiculous
tapping,” the Queen orders.
The guard grabs my hand and pulls me
down on the bed. I hadn’t noticed my fingers rapping against the metal. My body
sometimes has a mind of its own. A way of keeping me focused when my brain no
longer can.
Princess Semara edges into the room.
“Mother, must we—”
“Silence!” The queen whirls on her.
“Do you question me, Semara?”
“No, Mother. I only wish to discover
the truth about the Neumarians. It will help us in our fight to—”
“The truth? The truth is they are
parasites that suck the life out of people, and no one on Earth is safe as long
as they live.”
The long needle penetrates my arm and icy liquid shoots up my veins. The
room spins. Focus. I must concentrate if I am to keep my secret.
“Take her to the Alteration Room.” The
Queen smirks, her flaming-red hair dancing above her head and her mechanical
eye widening to a pool of pleasure.
“N-no. I w-won’t—”
The Queen’s skirt billows with her
movements. A cold metal hand brushes my cheek, sending a tremor down my arms to
my fingers. “Tell us what we want to know, and you will be returned to your
people unharmed.”
Princess Semara dances from foot to
foot. Yards of red and black material sway with each step. Her eyes plead with
me to tell what I should know, but can’t remember.
Or maybe I do, but am not allowing
myself to.
“I know n-nothing.”
The edge of the Queen’s knuckles
catches my cheek. A trickle runs down my face, the odor of my blood matching
the smell of the ship.
“Take her.” The Queen stalks to her
daughter. “And no lasers. Do it the old-fashioned way. No anesthetic.”
Tears well up in Princess Semara’s
eyes, but she blinks them back.
“Take my daughter with you as a
witness,” the Queen says to the man with the needle. “You’ll serve your Queen
Mother, won’t you, darling?”
“Yes, Mother,” Princess Semara
whispers. Her pale arms wrap around her black corset as if to hug her fear
inside.
My stomach flops and the dark swirl
inside me means to escape. I rock back and forth, trying to subdue it. “N-no,
p-please. You must not—”
Thump…tap.
The Queen’s metal leg beats against
the floor with every other step. Soon, I will be the same.
“Please, don’t l-let her,” I plead.
The Princess remains still, the
corners of her lips arched down, marking her smooth face.
“Bring the gurney,” the grey coat
yells out the door.
Squeak…squeak.
The screech of the wheels makes the
hair on my arms stand at attention. Will my robotic leg mimic the high-pitched
noise each time I take a step? Does it matter? Even if I escape the ship, my
people will see me as a Slag now. Never again will they look at me as one of
them.
Arms snake beneath me. My body lifts
and lands on a coarse, white-sheeted surface. The gurney under me bounces.
“Raeth, please, you must tell my
mother what your people are plotting.”
“They plan n-nothing.”
The grey coat pushes me down the hall.
“Lies, that is all they do, tell lies and torment our people. They should all
be exterminated.” His face hangs over mine with a derisive smile. Glaring
lights fly past overhead until we turn into a room.
Doors swish, sealing shut behind us.
Massive silver devices hang from the ceiling and walls. This is the Alteration
Room, with all the tools of torture pointing in every direction. Why do they
alter themselves, shove techno-implants into their bodies? Terror ripples
through every muscle and my hand taps in a soothing rhythm.
They lift me from the gurney and strap
me down to a cold, solid surface. Silver bands snap around my wrists, ankles,
and head. Salty tears flow down my face and over my lips. Princess Semara wipes
them away.
“Why do you fuss over her? You are a
princess. If your mother saw you—”
“I only clean off what could interfere
with the lasers.”
“You heard your mother. There will be
no lasers.” The grey coat spins on his heels and stalks behind a wall.
“Besides, I’m taking her leg, not her eyes.” A deep chuckle echoes in the room.
“Not this time, anyway.”
My heart races so fast I wonder if one
of the machines is pulling it from my body. I try to lift my wrists to clutch
my chest, but my hands remain bound by my sides.
“There isn’t much time.” Princess
Semara holds up another syringe. “This will keep you from suffering while
he—he—”
“Removes my l-leg?”
“Yes.” Semara wipes a tear from her
own face. “I’m sorry. I don’t want to see you suffer. Why won’t your people let
us live in peace? Why do you want to harm us?” Her voice shakes and her lower
lip trembles. Does she not believe her own words?
The deep revving of an engine brings
the blackness close to the surface. I clutch my fists and scrunch my eyes shut,
trying to free my mind from the squealing sound I know to be a saw.
My body shakes and rattles the metal
binds.
The pinch of a needle causes my eyes
to shoot open.
Princess Semara stumbles back from the
table.
My insides feel gushy and my head
floats despite the restraint.
I taste something sour and click my
tongue. The saw quiets for a moment and the grey coat stands over me.
He grins, revealing crooked teeth.
“Last chance to tell us of the plans to overthrow the Queen.”
My eyelids grow heavy. He slams his
fist down on a large orange button, and the blades rotate at a rapid speed.
He lowers the saw and I hear screams.
My screams.
Then darkness.
Escapement--Release!!
Here is a brief explanation of her telling of our uprising:
Ten years after the great war of 2185 the queen’s reign is threatened by uprisings and fear. In celebration of my sixteenth birthday it is my duty as princess to sacrifice a slave to be initiated into the ruling council, solidifying my mother’s empire. When my own erratic powers surface I’m captured and tried for treason. Slaves hate me, my mother wants me executed, and my only chance of survival rests in the hands of a young man, Ryder Arteres, whose sister I sentenced to death.
What people are saying about Escapement:
“A heady mix of action adventure and steampunk -- leavened with a dash of romance -- ESCAPEMENT offers up its fair share of thrills, horrors and heart-pounding moments. A strong start to a captivating new series.”
-- Jana Oliver, author of The Demon Trapper's Daughter
“A riveting tale of justice, mercy, honor and love. Take a deep breath and hold on, because you'll be turning the pages of Escapement quickly. Three unlikely comrades, Princess Semara, Ryder, and his sister Raeth, embark on a journey that will alter their lives forever. The beautiful love story nestled into these action-packed scenes will make you sigh and remember why you love to love. After reading the prequel Weighted, I knew this story would be amazing, and it was. Ciara Knight truly has a gift for creating awesome worlds and characters you won't forget.”
--Lindi Peterson--Award winning author of Summer's Song.
“Betrayal, secrets, and a rebellion send readers on a grand adventure, caught in the plight to discover Semara’s gifts and purpose.”
--Alex J Cavanaugh, author of Amazon best sellers CassaStar and CassaFire
“The most unmissable series ever! I couldn't stop reading, the action and romance too breathtaking to break the spell!”
--ARC review by Sudah on Goodreads
"A courageous heart-stopping journey by young people to save their kind."
--Hildie McQueen, bestselling author of Where the Four Winds Collide
If you’d like to see a peak into our world, please view this short clip on You Tube.
If you are now ready to join our fight, please add Escapement to your TBR shelf on Goodreads here!!
Be Bold.
Be Brave.
Be Free.
In the name of the rebellion,
Ryder Arteres
Rafflecopter giveaway:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Escapement can be found at Amazon.
Crazy Dream
Confession--I can't sing! At all. My kids used to say 'turn up the radio' when I was singing in the car. I even had a boyfriend turn that knob up. (yes, this was a while back--now we push the volume up with buttons.)
Okay, so now that we've established that fact, I had a dream that I was going to sing at my church. Passion City church, which has the #1 worship leaders in the country as worship leaders.
Seriously.
So, in my dream, which has so many more aspects that we won't even get into here right now, I was surprised that they asked me to sing, (really?) and I was told I was going to sing by Kim Walker, the amazing and talented gal from Jesus Culture.
my granddaughter singing!
So, I wound my way to the special access singer section and had just met the pastor, when the band came filing backstage saying they were done. The band had been told by somebody that there was a change of plans.
I was devastated, disappointed and let down.
But the Lord knew what He was doing. Even in my dreams He couldn't subject anyone to my crazy voice.
I know this dream had NOTHING to do with the fact that I watched American Idol right before I went to sleep.
Nothing.
Any crazy dreams you'd like to share?
Okay, so now that we've established that fact, I had a dream that I was going to sing at my church. Passion City church, which has the #1 worship leaders in the country as worship leaders.
Seriously.
So, in my dream, which has so many more aspects that we won't even get into here right now, I was surprised that they asked me to sing, (really?) and I was told I was going to sing by Kim Walker, the amazing and talented gal from Jesus Culture.
So, I wound my way to the special access singer section and had just met the pastor, when the band came filing backstage saying they were done. The band had been told by somebody that there was a change of plans.
I was devastated, disappointed and let down.
But the Lord knew what He was doing. Even in my dreams He couldn't subject anyone to my crazy voice.
I know this dream had NOTHING to do with the fact that I watched American Idol right before I went to sleep.
Nothing.
Any crazy dreams you'd like to share?
Just Another Crowder Post
I recently had the opportunity to hear him at the Passion 2013 conference. He's taken a bluegrass turn, much like a lot of the music on the David Crowder Band's last Cd-Give Us Rest, and it works perfectly for him. I think it's just in the natural rhythm of who he is. He had amazing musicians accompanying him. All in all a great sound.
Does is surprise anyone who knows me that I give Crowder a thumbs up?
Finding My Niche
For a gal who changed the whole look of her blog and posted a title that says "There's So Much More," said gal hasn't said much of anything at all in over two weeks.
I've come to the conclusion that when blogging, you have to come 'into' your blog. You have to find your little 'niche' so to say, and figure out what it is that you would have to say to the world. I've come across some bloggers who are very intentional in their blogging. At least that's how I see them.
Ciara Knight
Alex Cavanaugh
Kristin Billerbeck
Seekerville
What I mean by intentional, is this. When I go to these blogs, I know what I"m going to get. Not that they say the 'same thing' all the time. No. But these bloggers, in my opinion, have found their 'niche.'
These are some of my favorite blogs to visit. They make me smile, they make me laugh, they give my great recaps, (Kristin--the Bachelor and such--LOVE!), they give me information. I could go on, but I think you get what I'm saying.
So, hang with me for a couple of months as I settle into my 'niche' of the blogging world. I wanna find one, truly I do!
I've come to the conclusion that when blogging, you have to come 'into' your blog. You have to find your little 'niche' so to say, and figure out what it is that you would have to say to the world. I've come across some bloggers who are very intentional in their blogging. At least that's how I see them.
Ciara Knight
Alex Cavanaugh
Kristin Billerbeck
Seekerville
What I mean by intentional, is this. When I go to these blogs, I know what I"m going to get. Not that they say the 'same thing' all the time. No. But these bloggers, in my opinion, have found their 'niche.'
These are some of my favorite blogs to visit. They make me smile, they make me laugh, they give my great recaps, (Kristin--the Bachelor and such--LOVE!), they give me information. I could go on, but I think you get what I'm saying.
So, hang with me for a couple of months as I settle into my 'niche' of the blogging world. I wanna find one, truly I do!
Rescuing Hope
A new blog look! A new year!
I'm so humbled and honored to finish out 2012 and start 2013 with an amazing post about an amazing author, speaker and friend.
Actually, the post is not about her, but rather about a book she wrote.
A book she wrote to bring awareness to the fact that girls can be trafficked in any city, from any family, at any time.
Marietta, GA December 31, 2012 — As New Years Eve approached 150 years ago, America stood waiting in line to celebrate the promise of freedom, proclaimed for all people. This New Years Eve, 2012, many still wait to experience that freedom. According to a 2010 congressional hearing, 100,000 American children are trafficked for sexual exploitation in America each year. With annual revenues from this
crime continuing to climb, it’s now second only to illegal drug sales.
When suburban mom, Susan Norris, learned of this “crime hidden in plain sight,” she
determined to do everything she could to bring about an end to it. Her response, Rescuing
Hope, A Story of Sex Trafficking in America, releases New Years Eve, 2012. In it she
dares to dive into the grit of child sex trafficking taking place across our nation. Her story
of Hope, an innocent 14-year-old, weaves together all the stories of all the girls and all
the families, the pimp and the police detectives she interviewed.
It’s real life fiction for young adults, written to be a catalyst for conversation among
young girls and those who love them. It’s meant to raise awareness and call to action.
Why?
Because before you take another breath, the next victim will be tricked
and taken from her family by a profit-hungry criminal. She could be a
neighbor. A friend. Your sister. Your daughter. You.
At fourteen, Hope Ellis is the all-American girl with a good life—until the
day she tries to help her mom with their cross-town move by supervising
the movers. When they finish, one of the men returns to the house and
rapes her. Held silent by his threats, darkness begins to engulf her. But the
rape proves to be the least of Hope’s troubles. In a gasping attempt at
normalcy, she succumbs to the attention of a smooth-talking man on the
subway. He promises acceptance. He declares his love. He lures her out
from under the shelter of her suburban life.
Hope’s disappearance sets a community in motion. She’s one of their own.
They determine to find Hope, whatever the cost, before she’s lost forever.
Early reviews include this from Annie Downs, author of Perfectly Unique
(Zondervan, 21012).
Susan Norris captured my attention and my heart from the very first pages
of Rescuing Hope. I was immediately drawn so deeply into the story, I
couldn’t put it down! Full of heartbreak and redemption, this eye-opening,
true-to-life novel will not only hold your attention but it will educate you
and motivate you to action in the process.
I met Susan three years ago at a women's retreat. I've had the privilege of reading Rescuing Hope. It's an amazing book of a truthful hurt that attacks many families all over the world.
Please help in promoting the awareness of trafficking.
Join Susan and all the voices gathering for Hope across the nation. Tune into the live
simulcast event on New Years Eve at www.ctvn.org when Susan joins Matthew West,
Britt Nicole and others at Stage AE in Pittsburgh, PA to release Rescuing Hope and
launch Resolution Hope’s National A13 Campaign to end child sex trafficking in the U.S.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT RESCUING HOPE
Rescuing Hope brings the reality of human traffi cking to a tangible
place where your heart will understand and be compelled to action.
Hope, the main character, has become the face of the girls I pray
for in Atlanta and around the United States. Th e prostituted girl no
one wants to talk about became my daughter, her cousins, the kids
down the street. You’ll remember Hope too, long after you put the
book down. Don’t turn away. Let her move you. Together, we can
look evil in the eye and say, “No more!”
PATTIE HARRELSON,
Not for Sale Campaign,
State Director for Georgia
Author Susan Norris superbly captures the essence of child sex
traffi cking in America. Her compelling story will open your eyes
and heart to the horrifi c truth of what happens on the streets of our
country. On behalf of the thousands of voiceless children caught in
the net of commercial sexual exploitation, thank you, Susan, for your
endurance, perseverance and insight.
BRIAN L. SHIVLER,
CEO, Resolution Hope
A powerful voice for hope, international speaker Susan Norris helps teens
and women find freedom in the areas of purity and spiritual identity.
With a master’s of education from UNC-Greensboro, this former teacher
now networks for organizations such as Resolution Hope and Not for
Sale and raises her voice for victims of sex trafficking across the nation.
Susan serves as a catalyst for action among her peers and walks alongside
rescued girls as they piece together their shattered lives.
To learn more about Susan Norris or Rescuing Hope, visit Susan's Website. To request
review copies or for interviews, contact Susan directly at susan@susannorris.org.
I'm so humbled and honored to finish out 2012 and start 2013 with an amazing post about an amazing author, speaker and friend.
Actually, the post is not about her, but rather about a book she wrote.
A book she wrote to bring awareness to the fact that girls can be trafficked in any city, from any family, at any time.
Marietta, GA December 31, 2012 — As New Years Eve approached 150 years ago, America stood waiting in line to celebrate the promise of freedom, proclaimed for all people. This New Years Eve, 2012, many still wait to experience that freedom. According to a 2010 congressional hearing, 100,000 American children are trafficked for sexual exploitation in America each year. With annual revenues from this
crime continuing to climb, it’s now second only to illegal drug sales.
When suburban mom, Susan Norris, learned of this “crime hidden in plain sight,” she
determined to do everything she could to bring about an end to it. Her response, Rescuing
Hope, A Story of Sex Trafficking in America, releases New Years Eve, 2012. In it she
dares to dive into the grit of child sex trafficking taking place across our nation. Her story
of Hope, an innocent 14-year-old, weaves together all the stories of all the girls and all
the families, the pimp and the police detectives she interviewed.
It’s real life fiction for young adults, written to be a catalyst for conversation among
young girls and those who love them. It’s meant to raise awareness and call to action.
Why?
Because before you take another breath, the next victim will be tricked
and taken from her family by a profit-hungry criminal. She could be a
neighbor. A friend. Your sister. Your daughter. You.
At fourteen, Hope Ellis is the all-American girl with a good life—until the
day she tries to help her mom with their cross-town move by supervising
the movers. When they finish, one of the men returns to the house and
rapes her. Held silent by his threats, darkness begins to engulf her. But the
rape proves to be the least of Hope’s troubles. In a gasping attempt at
normalcy, she succumbs to the attention of a smooth-talking man on the
subway. He promises acceptance. He declares his love. He lures her out
from under the shelter of her suburban life.
Hope’s disappearance sets a community in motion. She’s one of their own.
They determine to find Hope, whatever the cost, before she’s lost forever.
Early reviews include this from Annie Downs, author of Perfectly Unique
(Zondervan, 21012).
Susan Norris captured my attention and my heart from the very first pages
of Rescuing Hope. I was immediately drawn so deeply into the story, I
couldn’t put it down! Full of heartbreak and redemption, this eye-opening,
true-to-life novel will not only hold your attention but it will educate you
and motivate you to action in the process.
I met Susan three years ago at a women's retreat. I've had the privilege of reading Rescuing Hope. It's an amazing book of a truthful hurt that attacks many families all over the world.
Please help in promoting the awareness of trafficking.
Join Susan and all the voices gathering for Hope across the nation. Tune into the live
simulcast event on New Years Eve at www.ctvn.org when Susan joins Matthew West,
Britt Nicole and others at Stage AE in Pittsburgh, PA to release Rescuing Hope and
launch Resolution Hope’s National A13 Campaign to end child sex trafficking in the U.S.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT RESCUING HOPE
Rescuing Hope brings the reality of human traffi cking to a tangible
place where your heart will understand and be compelled to action.
Hope, the main character, has become the face of the girls I pray
for in Atlanta and around the United States. Th e prostituted girl no
one wants to talk about became my daughter, her cousins, the kids
down the street. You’ll remember Hope too, long after you put the
book down. Don’t turn away. Let her move you. Together, we can
look evil in the eye and say, “No more!”
PATTIE HARRELSON,
Not for Sale Campaign,
State Director for Georgia
Author Susan Norris superbly captures the essence of child sex
traffi cking in America. Her compelling story will open your eyes
and heart to the horrifi c truth of what happens on the streets of our
country. On behalf of the thousands of voiceless children caught in
the net of commercial sexual exploitation, thank you, Susan, for your
endurance, perseverance and insight.
BRIAN L. SHIVLER,
CEO, Resolution Hope
A powerful voice for hope, international speaker Susan Norris helps teens
and women find freedom in the areas of purity and spiritual identity.
With a master’s of education from UNC-Greensboro, this former teacher
now networks for organizations such as Resolution Hope and Not for
Sale and raises her voice for victims of sex trafficking across the nation.
Susan serves as a catalyst for action among her peers and walks alongside
rescued girls as they piece together their shattered lives.
To learn more about Susan Norris or Rescuing Hope, visit Susan's Website. To request
review copies or for interviews, contact Susan directly at susan@susannorris.org.
Still Working on the Make-Over
As you can see, it's nothing fancy by any means. Right now I'm into simple. Clean lines, soft colors, nothing jarring. I've had this background before, but I believe I've 'fixed' it down a little this time, if that makes any sense.
Will continue to work this out this weekend. But I'm liking it so far--how about you? Suggestions?
Will continue to work this out this weekend. But I'm liking it so far--how about you? Suggestions?
Shortest Day of the Year=Do You Mind The Dark?
Okay-this post may be random and short, but it's somewhat appropriate. I always look forward to December 21. It's the shortest day of the year. From this day, until June 21--the days will be staying lighter a little longer everyday.
The strange part is, I don't mind the dark nights. Really, I'm okay with them. And I'm okay with the cold weather we get here in Georgia. Cold weather, not cold, cold, windy, rainy, cold weather. I don't mind some 30 & 40 degree days now and then.
What about you? Do you mind the dark?
The strange part is, I don't mind the dark nights. Really, I'm okay with them. And I'm okay with the cold weather we get here in Georgia. Cold weather, not cold, cold, windy, rainy, cold weather. I don't mind some 30 & 40 degree days now and then.
What about you? Do you mind the dark?
The Seduction Of Sebastian St. James Winners Announced
We had such a great time last week with the DINYB bloghop hosted by Ciara Knight and Alex C. aka Captain Ninja.
My author, (that sounds cool, doesn't it?) Rachel Van Dyken not only found her book, BUT she offered to give-away 2 copies. How awesome!
So I picked 2 names from those who commented and here are the 2 winners.
Congratulations to:
Sia Mckey and
Susan Gourley/Kelley!
If you ladies will email me at lindipeterson at tds (dot) net then I will get the books to you.
Thank you everyone for being a part of the DINYB blog hop! I can't wait for the next one.
Still love this cover!
My author, (that sounds cool, doesn't it?) Rachel Van Dyken not only found her book, BUT she offered to give-away 2 copies. How awesome!
So I picked 2 names from those who commented and here are the 2 winners.
Congratulations to:
Sia Mckey and
Susan Gourley/Kelley!
If you ladies will email me at lindipeterson at tds (dot) net then I will get the books to you.
Thank you everyone for being a part of the DINYB blog hop! I can't wait for the next one.
Still love this cover!
Savvy Authors Workshop
Just wanted to give a shout out--I'm teaching an online workshop starting Monday titled The Cinder-Bella Theory. It runs for two weeks. Click HERE for more info.
There's still a couple of days to sign up if you'd like to!
Did I Notice Your Book Blogfest
Fun blog day! It's the DINYB blogfest--The book I noticed is---
The Seduction of Sebastian St James by Rachel Van Dyken
When the angelic Duke of Tempest, Sebastian St. James, appeared unexpectedly at his boyhood friend’s home, he had but one goal: Find a suitable wife as soon as possible. However, his impeccable reputation made him a prime target for ambitious mothers of debutante daughters. He needed a plan.
Reasons I noticed this book.
1. The cover--how beautiful is that cover? Amazing.
2. The blurb--if this book doesn't sound like a great read, I don't know what does.
3. It's an Astraea Press book. I REALLY like Astraea Press--they put out an amazing array of sweet fiction. Click HERE to check them out.
If you liked the sound of Rachel's book as much as I did you can order HERE!
Please join me in the FB, Twitter and whatever other kind of social media you can to see if Rachel notices I noticed HER book!
Help came in the form of an unlikely alliance with Miss Emma Gates, the beautiful daughter of a wealthy viscount, who has deemed herself on the shelf, and only wants to marry in order to appease her parents. Together they could sort through the mire of would-be mates to find their perfect matches. That is, if they could keep their hands off each other long enough to pursue likely candidates.
When a man from Emma’s past makes a play for her hand, the truth about her life threatens to destroy Sebastian’s reputation, a reputation he has carefully guarded since his youth. In the end, the Angel Duke has to make a choice that will end up changing his reputation forever.
Reasons I noticed this book.
1. The cover--how beautiful is that cover? Amazing.
2. The blurb--if this book doesn't sound like a great read, I don't know what does.
3. It's an Astraea Press book. I REALLY like Astraea Press--they put out an amazing array of sweet fiction. Click HERE to check them out.
If you liked the sound of Rachel's book as much as I did you can order HERE!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
New Book Now Available-Their Surprise Second Chance!
Look! Their Surprise Second Chance is available! This is my first novel with Love Inspired and I'm so excited! After her adult son su...
-
Titan I work at a Nissan dealership and we had a mama cat hanging around. She had babies and they were living under a car. One of the ladies... -
Well, I went on vacay and I'm back and finally into the swing of things. I'm still not unpacked mind you. Seriously, I have issues t...
-
So glad to be a part of the 'What's Your Chocolate?' Blogfest. Confession time. I didn't used to be a chocolate pe...