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What a Christmas delight!
The Christian Manifesto named NIGHTSHADE among their Lime Awards 2010, which is their top ten fiction picks. I'm so honored and surprised they chose NIGHTSHADE!! It's listed as #10, so I think I made it by the skin on my teeth. ha!
Other authors who made the list also happen to be a couple of my writing heroes: Robert Liparulo (FRENZY) and Steven James (The Bishop)!! Amazing, amazing writers. I'm honored to see NIGHTSHADE listed among them!
A hundred-thousand thank yous to Misty Taggart at Trailer to the Stars Productions for once again capturing the heart of the Discarded Heroes series, and in particularly this time, DIGITALIS, with her fantastic trailers. Check it out! What do you think?
What do you think? Pretty awesome, isn't it?
Here's the official blurb for Colton "Cowboy" Neeley's story:
Step into the boots of a former Marine in this heart-pounding adventure in life and love. Colton “Cowboy” Neeley is a Marine trying to find his footing as he battles flashbacks now that he’s back home. Piper Blum is a woman in hiding—from life and the assassins bent on destroying her family. When their hearts collide, more than their lives are at stake. Will Colton find a way to forgive Piper’s lies? Can Piper find a way to rescue her father, trapped in Israel? Is there any way their love, founded on her lies, can survive?
Here's what people are saying about Digitalis:
Balancing a story of high action and deep emotions isn’t easy, but with Digitalis, author Ronie Kendig pulls it off with the casual grace of a truly talented storyteller. I don’t know what kept me on the edge of my seat more, the fast-paced military intrigue or the powerful tugs on my heart. Doesn’t matter: This is one pulse-pounding adventure you don’t want to miss.
--Robert Liparulo, author of Comes a Horseman, Germ, and the Dreamhouse Kings
An action-packed thrill ride from start to finish...if you liked CBS's long 
running hit series THE UNIT you're going to love Ronie Kendig's DIGITALIS. Enjoy the ride and the read. I only have one question...where do I sign up for Nightshade?
--Bob Hamer, veteran FBI undercover agent and the author of Enemies Among Us
In Digitalis, Ronie Kendig again displays her superb ability to reach from the page and pull the reader into the world of heart thumping espionage and richly flawed characters. Her heroes are some of the best I've ever read, and they are so unforgettable!
--Dineen Miller, author of Winning Him Without Words: 10 Keys to Thriving in Your Spiritually Mismatched Marriage
Digitalis is a story of skill and purpose woven with love and spine-tingling danger...that will live long past the last page. None of us fully realize the dedication of those who keep our world safe.
Fast paced and deliciously intriguing, DIGITALIS delivers military high-octane with just the right amount of romance and suspense. Kendig knows how to keep readers flipping pages until the wee hours of the night. Don't miss this one!"
--Robin Caroll, author of Fear No Evil and In the Shadow of Evil
Reading a Ronie Kendig novel is like watching a movie—a nail-biting, intense action movie. The words [in Digitalis] seem to jump off the page and leave you breathless as Colton takes you from one heart-pounding scene to another. Novel Journey and I give it our highest recommendation.
--Ane Mulligan Novel Journey
--Lara Van Hulzen Radiant Lit
ORDER Digitalis, Discarded Heroes #2
NOW!! Books will hit stores very soon! :-DCHRISTIANBOOK.COM
Barnes & Noble
Borders
And get this...if you don't have NIGHTSHADE, Discarded Heroes #1, you can purchase it along with DIGITALIS for a two-in-one price through Christianbook.com!!
Leave a Comment for a chance to win an autographed copy of DIGITALIS!!
75 Christian Authors * One Amazing Online Event
The Christian Review of Books in conjunction with CrossPurposes Bookstore
is excited to announce the first annual Christmas Book Signing Bash.
Beginning on the day after Thanksgiving and lasting ten days (26 November
- 7 December), this book signing will be an unprecedented online event. 75
of today’s favorite Christian Authors have come together to answer
questions, chat with their readers, and offer signed copies of their
books—all without leaving the comforts of home and hearth!
Readers can search by author, title, or genre at the Christian Review of
Books (www.ChristianReviewofBooks.com) and then follow the purchase links
to CrossPurposes Bookstore (www.CrossPurposesBooks.com) and buy autographed
copies of each book featured. The authors will sign the books and ship them
to the customers.
For a full list of participating authors, visit the CRoB.
Note from Ronie: Both Dead Reckoning and Nightshade are available for this promotion. Drop by and check it out!
Hey, everyone! I used a random number generator to choose the winner of the AMERICAN HEROES in SPECIAL OPERATIONS book by Oliver North and Chuck Holton. The generator chose "K" (who signed the entry "Kim") as the winner! I'll email you, Kim, then it'll be up to you to reply with your snail mail address so I can get this amazing book to you!
Okay, moving on...
WIN a copy of Nightshade AND Digitalis!!!
In honor of VETERAN'S DAY and the January 1st release of DIGITALIS, Discarded Heroes #2, I am doing a give away. One winner will receive an autographed copy of Nightshade AND Digitalis, which releases January 1st (winner will receive this book when I get my author's copies that usually arrive a couple of weeks before the books hit stores).
All you have to do is tell me about one American veteran you knew or know.
I'll start by mentioning that my husband, Brian, served in the Army. His career was cut terribly short by a massive knee injury that required reconstruction. He was so devastated, but God used that blown knee and big black brace to introduce Brian to his future wife--me! :-D I tease him that he used the "Wounded Knee" routine very well to ensnare my sympathies and heart.
Also, Brian's father served in the Army, winning many awards, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Order of Saint Michael. He flew Hueys in Nam and led a long, distinguished career. He's a man I highly respect and count it such an honor to be a part of his family. He's truly an American Hero, even though he'd probably argue that being the quiet, humble man that he is--but isn't THAT as much of what a "hero" is in the first place? I dedicated DIGITALIS to him. :-D
So, there you go--leave a comment and share. I will pick a winner next Friday!
American Heroes in Special Operations by Oliver North
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
American Heroes in Special Operations gives an in-depth look into the hearts, minds, and operations of our elite heroes. It's easy as a observer to idolize these heroes who sacrifice everything, but this book gave me a deeper perspective and appreciation of those sacrifices. With North and Holton embedded with these elite warriors, readers are able to see the intricacies and frustrations these men face on a daily basis. What we see on the news is often slanted and a mere sliver of the truth, and that's why I love this American Heroes series because, in essence, it humanizes these warriors--it peels away the armor, the weapons, the deadly missions--and allows me to "see" a man behind all that gear and action. A man with a family, a dream. It's an absolutely fascinating, informative, realistic, and engaging read!
View all my reviews
*******************************************************
GIVE AWAY!! I inadvertently ended up with TWO copies of AMERICAN HEROES IN SPECIAL OPERATIONS by Oliver North and Chuck Holton (thanks to a screwy ordering system which told me it shipped, then told me the order was canceled, then requested my "immediate attention" and then it was supposed to be canceled (again), so I bought my own copy at a store, THEN got a notice 8 hours later that the book shipped. Sigh...).
So, it's a GREAT DELIGHT for me to offer a copy of this book FREE. Here's what you have to do: Tell me about an American Hero you know/admire--and why.
More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW website.
1. A Daughter for Christmas (Helping Hands Homeschooling, Book 3)
2. A Suitor for Jenny (A Rocky Creek Romance)
3. Behind the Scenes (Tabor Heights, Ohio)
4. Betrayal in the Badlands (Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense)
5. In All Things
6. Lassoed in Texas Trilogy
7. Long Time Coming
8. Mail Order Cowboy (Love Inspired Historical)
9. Masquerade Marriage
10. Soaring Home (Love Inspired Historical)
11. Tales of the Dim Knight by Adam Graham and Andrea Graham -- A Sci-fi/Fantasy/Futuristic from Splashdown Books. Mild-mannered janitor and superhero fanboy Dave Johnson gets all his wishes at once when an alien symbiot gives him supernatural powers.
12. The Blacksmith's Bravery (Ladies' Shooting Club)
13. The Silent Order
DIGITALIS, Discarded Heroes #2, which releases this January is now available on NetGalley, a site designed for publishers to find reviewers they might not otherwise find.
If you have a blog and can review/promote DIGITALIS, please take a moment to check out this site. I love NetGalley! In fact, I've gotten several books from publishers through that in order to review. What I love is that your only obligation is to post a review. You don't have to commit to every book coming out of a publisher's spring/summer/fall line-up, which means if you don't like reading women's fiction (just an example), they you don't review women's fiction. It's all up to you.
But if you don't like digital copies, then you can PRE-ORDER Digitalis (Discarded Heroes, Book 2)
******************************************************************
On a totally unrelated note...yesterday, me and the kiddos were attending our local homeschool co-op. For lunch, we headed to McD's. Earlier in the morning, I'd stopped by Starbucks for an iced mocha (yeah...I know...not good for me and loads of sugar but I wanted the caffeine LOL). By lunch, I still had half of it left, so I was going to take it into McDs. So, I lifted it up out of the cup holder in the truck...and the slick sides made it slippery....and it tumbled...and flipped...
Right onto my AUTOGRAPHED HARDCOVER copy of Stephen Lawhead's The Skin Map.
I am so upset. Stuff like this ruins my whole day. I love my books, and if I spend twenty bucks or more on a hardcover, I certainly don't want an ice mocha flavor added to the reading experience. :-( While the drink only "stained" the top of the book, I'm just sick over that. Some might see me as obsessive, but I try very hard to take care of my books.
Yes, I'm one of those people who freaks if my kids borrow my books and they "flatten" (thereby breaking) the spine of a book. *scream* And the only time I dogear pages is when it's an ARC (Advance Reader Copy).
So, yeah, having iced mocha flavor added to The Skin Map...notsogood. :-(
What about you? Are you a book-protecting freak too? :-D
It's been a crazy week. As y'all know, DEAD RECKONING was free on Kindle from the 22nd-29th, and with it came several 2-star reviews that broke the TWENTY-EIGHT 4- and 5-star review streak. These reviews were very harsh, angry that it was a Christian book and free, called the story a mess, said they don't have "interstates" in India (um, explain that to India's national transportation system with more than 900K miles of paved highways that stretch ACROSS India's states (INTER-STATE highways), with 8 lanes in some areas).
Anyway...it was tough to see those when I was sitting here in my cave trying to peck out the last 1/4 of WOLFSBANE, Discarded Heroes #3. But I kept giving the whole writing thing to God, praying and spending quiet time with Him, reminding myself that I write for Him and when I use the gift He gave me, that's all the approval I need. :-D God loved on me a lot this past week. It was so beautiful!
But this morning--a wonderful email arrived in my inbox.
DEAD RECKONING made the short list for the 2010 INSPY Awards in the Thriller/Suspense category!! In case you haven't heard, this is a contest run by bloggers. Their motto is: "The Bloggers' Award for Excellence in Faith-Driven Literature."
I have to say--I love this. It's organized by bloggers/readers and judged by bloggers/readers. How kewl is that?!? It's a brilliant idea, and I'm so glad to see this type of contest.
Here is the full list--amazing authors and reads!!
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE FINALISTS!!!!
Announcing the INSPY Shortlists
October 1, 2010
The INSPY Advisory Board is pleased to announce the shortlists for the 2010 INSPY Awards. We thank you for your enthusiastic nominations of books and acknowledge the difficulties in narrowing the field with so many quality nominations.
General & Literary Fiction
The Christmas Glass by Marci Alborghetti, Guideposts, 1st October, 2009
Life in Defiance by Mary DeMuth, Zondervan, 1st May, 2010
Lost Mission by Athol Dickson, Howard Books, 1st September, 2009
Lucky Baby by Meredith Efken, Howard Books, 13th April, 2010
Crossing Oceans by Gina Holmes, Tyndale House, 1st May, 2010
Creative Non-Fiction
Evolving in Monkey Town by Rachel Held Evans, Zondervan, 15th June, 2010
A Million Miles in a Thousand Years by Donald Miller, Thomas Nelson, 29th September, 2009
Halfway to Each Other by Susan Pohlman, Guideposts, 1st September, 2009
God Hides in Plain Sight by Dean Nelson, Brazos Press, 1st October, 2009
Hear No Evil by Matthew Paul Turner, Waterbrook Press, 16th February, 2010
Historical Fiction
The Frontiersman’s Daughter by Laura Frantz, Revell Books, 1st August, 2009
The Silent Governess by Julie Klassen, Bethany House, 1st January, 2010
The Fiddler’s Gun by AS Peterson, Rabbit Room Press, 1st December, 2009
She Walks in Beauty by Siri Mitchell, Bethany House, 1st April, 2010
Her Mother’s Hope by Francine Rivers, Tyndale House, 1st March, 2010
Thriller/Suspense/Crime
Priceless by Tom Davis, David C Cook, 1st June, 2010
The Bride Collector by Ted Dekker, Hodder & Stoughton, 27th May, 2010
The Clouds Roll Away by Sibella Giorello, Thomas Nelson, 16th March, 2010
The Knight by Steven James, Revell Books, 1st August, 2009
Dead Reckoning by Ronie Kendig, Abingdon Press, 1st March, 2010
Speculative Fiction
Green by Ted Dekker, Thomas Nelson, 1st September, 2009
The Last Christian by David Gregory, Waterbrook Press, 4th May, 2010
A Star Curiously Singing by Kerry Nietz, Marcher Lord Press, 1st October, 2009
Eternity Falls by Kirk Outerbridge, Marcher Lord Press, 1st October, 2009
Rooms by James L. Rubart, B&H Publishing, 1st April, 2010
Amish Fiction
Love Finds You in Charm, Ohio by Annalisa Daughety, Summerside Press, 1st September, 2009
An Honest Love by Kathleen Fuller, Thomas Nelson, 16th March, 2010
Winter’s Awakening by Shelley Shepard Gray, Avon Inspire, 1st February, 2010
Anna’s Return by Marta Perry, Berkley, 1st June, 2010
Plain Paradise by Beth Wiseman, Thomas Nelson, 30th March, 2010
Romance/Romantic Suspense
A Lady Like Sarah by Margaret Brownley, Thomas Nelson, 29th December, 2009
Blood Ransom by Lisa Harris, Zondervan, 1st April, 2010
Seaside Letters by Denise Hunter, Thomas Nelson, 6th October, 2009
Mr. Darcy Broke My Heart by Beth Patillo, Guideposts, 1st February, 2010
Sons of Thunder by Susan May Warren, Summerside Press, 1st February, 2010
Young Adult Fiction
A Little Help From My Friends by Anne Dayton & May Vanderbilt, FaithWords, 15th October, 2009
This Gorgeous Game by Donna Freitas, Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 25th May, 2010
So Over My Head by Jenny B Jones, Thomas Nelson, 4th May, 2010
Beautiful by Cindy Martinusen Coloma, Thomas Nelson, 3rd November, 2009
Once Was Lost by Sara Zarr, Little Brown, 1st October, 2009
Note: Dates from the publishers’ sites were used to determine eligibility
EDITED [by INSPY] TO ADD:
Correction: We just became aware that one of the books initially listed on the INSPYs shortlists was ineligible because of the date it was published. We’ve updated the list above. The INSPY Advisory Board sincerely apologizes for this mistake.
Okay, I'm particularly excited to share this endorsement for DIGITALIS, Discarded Heroes #2, with you because it's from...ROBERT LIPARULO.
If you haven't guessed by the frequent mentions of his writing by me on my blog, Facebook, and other social media sites, Robert Liparulo is one of my writing heroes. I've yet to read a book by him that I didn't love and sail through. His stories are exactly what I love to read--and he "gets away" with a plot device that I have long wanted to include in my stories (and in fact, *did* include in Dead Reckoning but was asked during the content edit to remove): implanting a tool, weapon, or device that's not "real" (yet!) but so close to reality it's absolutely plausible and/or is in the process of being created.
To me, that's an artful touch that few authors attempt and succeed at implementing with plausibility. But Liparulo does it--and with style! I learn a lot every time I read a Liparulo story, and to me, that's the mark of a great author. There are "places" I'd like to go with my writing, and he is a source of inspiration.
Anyway, here is Robert's endorsement for Digitalis (Discarded Heroes)
Balancing a story of high action and deep emotions isn’t easy, but with Digitalis, author Ronie Kendig pulls it off with the casual grace of a truly talented storyteller. I don’t know what kept me on the edge of my seat more, the fast-paced military intrigue or the powerful tugs on my heart. Doesn’t matter: This is one pulse-pounding adventure you don’t want to miss.
--Robert Liparulo, author of Comes a Horseman, Germ, and the Dreamhouse Kings
And just in case that whet your appetite, here is the blurb for Digitalis (Discarded Heroes)
(releases January 2011, Barbour Publishing):
An Intriguing Woman Draws an former Marine into a deadly game.
Colton Neeley left his military career to take care of his four-year old daughter. Although he’s firm in his faith now, 
the repercussions of his former life are still evident—namely his daughter and debilitating flashbacks from combat-related trauma. Can he muster the courage to step out of his self-imposed isolation and embrace the new woman in his life?
Piper Blum is hiding—from life and the assassins bent on destroying her family. Although smitten by Colton, she fears the day he discovers her secrets. Does their relationship, built on a foundation of lies, have a chance?
When an attempt on Piper’s life leads to a death, the black ops group Nightshade steps into the line of fire. Will Colton and Piper survive the mission with their love—and lives—intact? Will love cover their multitude of sins?And by the way, if you have teens or preteens (or adults like me) who love action/adventure with a smattering of fantasy, the Dreamhouse Kings is a FABULOUS series! Besides those, my favorite LIPARULO books are the DEADFALL/DEADLOCK books. Excellent reads!
DEAD RECKONING
for a
for one week (till 9/29).
So, if you haven't had the chance to read
my spy thriller
and really wanted to--here is your chance!
Barnes & Noble:
http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Dead-Reckoning/Ronie-Kendig/e/9781426713439/?itm=1&USRI=ronie+kendig
I am thrilled to share the WOLFSBANE cover with you. Barbour and I went back and forth on many things on the cover, and I so appreciate their willingness to do their best to "get it right."
Here is the blurb from the proposal for this story that is very near & dear to my heart:
Wolfsbane - July 2011 - Former Green Beret Captain Canyon Metcalfe is unnerved when Nightshade is sent to a South American jungle that holds an eerie similarity to a dark tragedy from his past. Addicted to painkillers, Canyon struggles to hide his secret. Escorting Danielle Roark, a demolitions expert who knows the location of a secret nuclear weapons silo, proves treacherous when they’re ambushed and captured. Rescued, Canyon is furious to discover Dani was left behind, intentionally—because she’d unearthed blame that lies at the feet of many on the Hill, including her own father. Armed with truth, they must fight their way back to the States and freedom.
I am soooo excited to make this announcement:
We’re thrilled to announce that TV/movie rights to Ronie Kendig’s NIGHTSHADE of the Discarded Heroes series have been optioned by Brad Keller's production company. Steve Laube, agent for Ronie Kendig, negotiated the deal. In cooperation with Lori Twichell of Beyond the Buzz Marketing, they are looking at production options and putting together a pitch for a television series about the Discarded Heroes as a military drama.
In July, I had the distinct pleasure of visiting Brad and discussing what direction he'd like to take the Discarded Heroes concept. Of course, our biggest obstacle (and the killer for nearly every TV/movie option deal) is funding. So, if you happen to have a couple of million lying around that you'd like to invest in a pro-military TV drama, CONTACT US!! LOL
Regardless of that, I am so blessed to have NIGHTSHADE picked up like this, for a producer to be interested and share the Nightshade team story with sponsors, investors, etc.
And I'm so HUGELY blessed to get to work with Lori Twichell of Beyond the Buzz Marketing in writing the initial episode ideas--of course, she'll be teaching me how to do this. LOL
More information to follow as it happens...
Hey, everyone! I have a treat this week for you--I'm giving away a copy of Havah: The Story of Eve by the amazing Tosca Lee. If you love beautiful and masterful literary-flared fiction, you'll love Tosca's writing.
About HAVAH:
She knew this earth when it was perfect—like her, for a time. Made by God in a manner like no other, she lived in utter peace without flaw in paradise until one fateful decision changed everything. Now, all humanity suffers for her mistake. But what did it feel like then to first sin and be exiled, to see all innocence crumble so vividly, and a strange new world take its place? Experience the epic dawn of mankind through the eyes and heart of Eve—the woman first known as Havah.
Reviews for HAVAH as listed on the B&H site:
"A passionate and riveting story of the Bible's first woman. Lee's superior storytelling will have readers weeping for all that Havah forfeited by a single damning choice."
~~Publishers Weekly, starred review
"Once every few years, I come across a book of such scope, such beauty, that it defies description. Havah is a novel with boundless imagination."
~~Eric Wilson, New York Times best-selling author
"Tosca Lee has breathed new life into the story we thought we all knew so well."
~~FictionAddict.com
The Trailer:
About TOSCA:
Tosca Lee is the author of the critically acclaimed Demon: A Memoir, a ForeWord Magazine Book of the Year silver award winner and 2008 Christy award finalist. She earned her degree in English from Smith College, is an international consultant, and was first runner-up to Mrs. United States.
LEAVE A COMMENT to win a copy of HAVAH! Winner will be drawn on my daughter's birthday, August 23rd! Be sure to leave an email address!
PURCHASE HAVAH:
Many thanks to Julie Gwinn and B&H Publishing Group for providing a review copy of HAVAH.
((Dineen Miller & Sara Mills--two UH-MAY-ZING friends!!))
Each year in September, the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) holds its annual conference. And each year, the location is different, which is one thing I'm really enjoying since it enables me to visit cities I've never been to before. I joined ACFW just after the annual conference in 2004, and quickly grew jealous of the colorful discussions among the various writers on the main e-loop. I determined in my heart I wouldn't miss the next one.
First first conference was in September of 2005, and ACFW held it in Nashville. What I loved is that my first editor appointment was with WestBow/WaterBrook editor, Amanda Bostic. Ironically, it was her very first appointment as well. We were both a jumble of nerves and laughed through the whole thing. I made a friend that day, and that experience eased me through the rest of my editor/agent appointments. Funny enough, the following year, my first editor appointment was with an editor who was open to speculative fiction...and it was his first appointment too. I thought God was so kind to do that to me twice. :-D
I've attended ACFW's conference every year since, and I have ample fond memories. So, I thought it'd be fun to ask around and see what were the favorite memories or thing about attending an ACFW Conference. Here are some of the responses.
From Cara Putman, author of Stars in the Night:
I’ll never forget the ACFW conference in 2006 because it was the year I received my first contract from Heartsong Presents. There is something so humbling about receiving such a gift in front of a room of people who understand what that first contract means. It also created a bit of a roller coaster experience for me the rest of the conference, as I kept waiting for JoAnne Simmons, my editor, to come up to me and tell me they’d made a mistake. Fortunately, I’ve been blessed to write six books for her now.
((Photo of me and dear friend John Olson--he's all mischief!!))From Colleen Coble, author of Lonestar Homecoming and The Lightkeeper's Bride:
My favorite memory is hanging out in the lobby to squeal and hug people as they come in. :-)
From Kimberley Woodhouse, author of and Welcome Home: Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy and No Safe Haven (March 2011):
My favorite thing? Getting a hug from and being able to sit down and have a quiet conversation... with you. :)Lisa Jordan, My Book Therapy Ezine editor and writer extraordinaire, writes:
My favorite part of ACFW is meeting up with my writing friends again. Online communication is great, but nothing beats those real time hugs and late night chats. My favorite memory was meeting Susan May Warren in 2005, and then placing second in my category in the 2009 Genesis contest.
((Photo of Jim Rubart & Chip MacGRRegor during the gala dinner))Funny girl Jenny B. Jones, author of So Over My Head, shares her favorite memory:
My favorite memory of the ACFW conference will always be the first one I attended. I came with nothing and God opened a door wide. Six months later I had my first contract. Without a doubt, I owe my career to this organization and yearly gathering. ACFW is also so special to me because it's a chance to see the sweet writing friends I've made--people who get me and speak my language. And by that I mean Klingon.Kaye Dacus, author of Menu for Romance and the Ransome Trilogy:
Lynette Sowell, author of Seaside Romance and her novella in A Riverwalk Christmas shares her favorite memory:I'd have to say my most fun memory of an ACFW conference was being kissed by a total stranger while hanging out at a table full of romance authors at the very first national conference (and sitting directly across the table from Brandilyn Collins). The laughter and fellowship and friendship of those authors have not only stayed with me through the nine years since then, but is also why I have gone back year after year.Here's a link to the full story, if you'd like to include it: http://kayedacus.com/2008/08/07/the-tale-of-the-kissing- bandit/
The infamous ACRW "hand." It was a running joke about flying body parts, and then one year, a fake hand circulated around the country along with a photo album of the hand's "adventures." What fun at conference to see all the places it had been! I wonder where it is now...
((Photo after gala of me and Agent-Man, Steve Laube))Steeple Hill author Cheryl Wyatt, author of Steadfast Soldier, shares a few of her favorite memories:
So, as you can see...ACFW isn't all about writing. It's friends, mischief, and adventure! You game?I have so MANY! LOL. Among my favorites are:
Causing an airline pilot to flee an elevator over a disagreement between myself and another author as to the best place to hide a decomposing body.
Accidentally handing a male editor my room key instead of my business card after a pitch. Hint: don't keep both of those items next to each other in your neck badge.
Seeing Mary Connealy receive her first contract at conference.
If you have a favorite memory or aspect of the conference, please feel free to share it! That's what ACFW is all about!
Okay, I can't resist posting this. If you've followed the blog, you know I reviewed Bob Hamer's Enemies Among Us: A Novel.
Bob and I have gotten to know each other a bit--and in fact, his wife read and posted a review of Dead Reckoning on Amazon. BLEW. MY. MIND! :-D So as we were looking for suspense/thriller endorsers for DIGITALIS, I immediately thought of him and another as-yet-unnamed-person.
Tonight, Bob emailed me with this blurb endorsement for DIGITALIS, which released January 2011. HUGE THANKS to Bob! You made my week!
An action-packed thrill ride from start to finish...if you liked CBS's long running hit series THE UNIT you're going to love Ronie Kendig's DIGITALIS. Enjoy the ride and the read. I only have one question...where do I sign up for Nightshade?
~~Bob Hamer, veteran FBI undercover agent and author of ENEMIES AMONG US
FREE!!! Don't you love that word? I certainly do! And here's your chance to get a FREE copy of NIGHTSHADE, Discarded Heroes #1!
The Christian Manifesto will interview me next week, and in preparation for that interview, they are giving away FIVE COPIES of NIGHTSHADE! All you have to do is enter to win by providing them with one question you'd like to ask me. Check it out and enter to win a copy!
http://www.thechristianmanifesto.com/index.php/2010/08/02/nightshade-giveaway/
Here's the blurb for NIGHTSHADE:
Soldiers all across the globe are returning home to their families after brutal tours of duty. They are discharged from the service. . .and on their own. Meet Max Jacobs, one of these discarded heroes, as he faces a wall of failure—in his career, his friendships, and his marriage. Failing again—this time to end his life—he is offered a thread of hope. Are covert government operations the answer for him, or will they only bring more danger and dissension upon his broken family?
Last week, I was up to my eyeballs in edits for DIGITALIS (Discarded Heroes #2, January 2011). After twenty-eight hours of editing, I was still itching to get back to the read I've been looking forward to for months--DANGER CLOSE by William Boykin by FIDELIS Books.
Blurb for DANGER CLOSE:
Barely into his twenties and already a highly decorated military hero, Army Special Forces veteran Blake Kershaw is now going to college, studying while recuperating from wounds received in Afghanistan, and planning to re-enter the Army as an officer after graduation.
But life tosses Blake a curve when his country approaches him about using his special skills to avert a terrorist plot to detonate a nuclear device in a major eastern U.S. city. To do that, he would need to become an operative deep within Al-Qaeda’s innermost circles—changing his entire identity, even his face. A true patriot, Blake makes the journey into a shadow world that leaves friends, family and, seemingly, even God far behind. But when things go terribly wrong, and his country looks set to destroy him, it is God and God’s people who intervene.
Video:
About the Author:
LTG (Ret.) William G. "Jerry" Boykin, author of Danger Close, spent thirty-six years in the United States Army, some of them as an original member of Delta Force, the worldÕs premier Special Operations unit. His life reads like an action-adventure film; Boykin helped capture Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega, hunted notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar, served in Vietnam, Iran, Mogadishu, Iraq, and Afghanistan, and worked with the CIA.
Ronie's Rating: FIVE STARS
Premise - I adored the premise of DANGER CLOSE. As a writer of military and espionage stories, this was the perfect blend of military and covert operations. Brilliant concept and development. I'm not one of those readers who enjoys figuring out stories--I like to read and enjoy the stage the author has set, and I completely enjoyed what Boykin/Morrisey developed in DANGER CLOSE. Faith and family were carefully--and realistically--woven in. Very well done!
Pacing: For me, an action junkie, there was a solid dose of action and adventure in this story of incredible sacrifice for a war-time hero. There were times I felt the story was told rather than experienced during important elements, but detracted very little from the story itself. There was so much involved, several layers, my mind stayed busy regardless--and happy!
Particulars: As mentioned earlier, the faith thread was wholly organic and very well done, not contrived or over done. There's always someone out there who wants to make our soldiers (airmen, sailors, etc.) into bloodthirsty monsters, but DANGER CLOSE even has the character consider and weigh his actions--but gets the job done. It's a delicate balance but handle with grace and skill in this book.
Placement: This book takes a top shelf in my bookcase--a definite keeper. Again, I absolutely adored the concept, and the execution kept me reading!
My husband has already snatched up this book from my shelf--and that says alot!!
So, I've been thinking lately that due to childhood abuses, I've pretty much been the type of person who just tucks their head and forges onward in the storm. I feel deeply, but I also bury deeply. As a child, the gift to forget hurts and painful experiences kept me sane and mentally intact. LOL But now...as a mom...a wife...a child of God...want to FEEL.
In the last few months, I've come to embrace my sensitive side. It's a gift. I can easily identify and imagine what others think/feel. Empathetic. Taht's me. But sometimes, the depth of feelings overwhelms me, and I shut down. Get to where I can't take it anymore. So, I again...duck/cover and keep moving.
But that's just it. I'm rushing...rushing through life, trying to get to the next goal. My eldest daughter is seventeen. HOW ON EARTH DID THAT HAPPEN?!?!? I've been there. I remember her elated expression and near-bursting expression when she met Cinderella at DisneyWorld when she was three years old. I remember ... many years of wonderfulness.
Yet, where have the years gone? Did I blink and it got ripped out from under me?
In CRAZY LOVE (still in chapter one), Chan urges us to STOP and THINK! Think about this amazing world around us. About creation. How it worships Him. I love the verse related on page 28:
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the end of the world. ~~Psalm 19:1-4Wow! Incredible. Think about the Creator God. Think about Him sending His Son to die for us. Chan put it in an example that caught me by the throat: imagine your child, or the person you love the most--stretched out on the cross.
Can you imagine that without falling on your knees? Sacrificing a child/person you love. I'd never really allowed myself to go to that dark place of thinking through what God allowed, sending His Son to redeem us.
All I can say is...I need to STOP and THINK more often.
Well, I've really been itching to get back to the REAL reason I started this blog--the whole "more of God, less of me" saying. In the last few months, I've really been aching for more of Him in my life because things have been pretty rough on me. After the release of my first book and many things that happened along the journey, I wanted to walk away. I was hurt--no, crushed. Disillusioned. Felt abandoned. And I knew--KNEW I could not continue on like that.
And in that time, God has been teaching me to rely on Him for my affirmation. To stop looking to family, friends, "fans," or even my dogs (fuzzy and cute as they may be). So when I was in a local Christian bookstore recently, I spotted a little red book on the Bestseller wall. I'd seen it online and remembered it talking about being in love with God, about His passionate love and pursuit of us.
So, I picked it up. Fanned through the pages. It stopped on a chapter titled "Profile of the Lukewarm." When I felt a thump in my chest, I knew I had to buy it. I don't want to be lukewarm, I told my daughters on the way home after buying it. I don't want Jesus to spew me from his mouth.
Today, I read through the preface and chapter one. And BAWLED!! You have to go here and watch this video: CRAZY LOVE: AWE FACTOR After I watched it, I couldn't move. In fact, I closed the door to my office, got on my knees, and bawled.
"Who am I, God, that you love me?"
I hope the video touches you. I've determined that I'm going to blog this journey with you. As Chan says in the preface, "We need to stop giving people excuses not to believe in God." I want a passionate love and pursuit to consume me--to compel me to search for God with all that I am.
* * *
About the book:
Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God
Author: Francis Chan
Buy at Christianbook.com
But at Amazon: Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God
Buy at: BarnesAndNoble
Hey, everyone--today is the DAY!! NIGHTSHADE has officially released!
Find out what some reviewers are saying:
International Thriller Writers' BIG THRILL ezine interview:
RELZ REVIEWZ Rel Mollet is doing a give away that ends July 4th. She said: Ronie's ability to capture the male perspective is mind blowing as Max struggles to assimilate after his tours of duty in Afghanistan, finding safety and acceptance only in returning to high risk black ops missions.
STEELERGIRL Renee Chaw posted a wonderful review! From the very first chapter you want to know what happens next. Not only are Max and Sydney wonderful characters but the team members of the black ops group, Nightshade are awesome! Fearless, handsome and yet troubled I'm sure they will all have some interesting stories and I can't wait to read how everything plays out for them, especially Colton "Cowboy" Neeley (hubba hubba). :-P
For Immediate Release
Thursday, June 17, 2010
AUTHOR AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEW!
Find this title on NetGalley.com!
Review copies available upon request.
Contact: Angie Brillhart
740.922.6045 X 171
abrillhart@barbourbooks.com
Book One in Discarded Heroes Series by Ronie Kendig to Hit Stores July 2010
Uhrichsville, OH — Members of our armed services have championed freedom, survived the cruelties of war, and now these same heroes return home…wounded and discarded.
Nightshade, book one in the new military-themed Discarded Heroes series by debut author Ronie Kendig, mixes thrilling action, drama, romance, and a unique look at the effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The novel is scheduled for release in July 2010.
In Nightshade, former Navy SEAL Max Jacobs is fighting a new war—a war for his family. Suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Max is unable to control his anger and alienates himself from his wife, who files a protective order against him. Their lives are about to collide when Sydney Jacobs hunts down the source of a human interest story at her local newspaper. Will she uncover Nightshade, the elite team Max is covertly working with, and bring danger to both Max and herself?
Ronie Kendig grew up an Army brat, married a veteran, and they now have four children and a Golden Retriever. She has a BS in Psychology, speaks to various groups, volunteers with the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), and mentors new writers. Ronie can be found at www.roniekendig.com.
Find this title online at www.netgalley.com at this link: http://bit.ly/b3q0m8 .
Nightshade by Ronie Kendig. July 2010. $12.99. ISBN 978-1-60260-777-4. To schedule an author interview, contact Angie Brillhart at abrillhart@barbourbooks.com or call 740.922.6045, ext. 171.
Author Q&A:
Q: Describe your research on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and why you felt compelled to write about it?
A: Research is both complicated and ongoing, just as the clinical research regarding combat-related PTSD is ongoing. I'm always reading a book regarding our military and PTSD. These books can be fiction, clinically-based, or self-help nonfiction written by those who have "been there, done that." I've talked to professional counselors and chaplains, and to vets who serve our country and suffer from the disorder. I pray I never stop reading because by staying active in research, my heart and mind remain open and concerned. The more I dug into the research, the more convinced--and convicted--I became. We want our heroes to fight for us, to fight for freedom, but what about when they return home? They're "different" or "not the same as when they left." Many don't understand, so they ignore our heroes....leaving them abandoned.
Q: How did you get your idea for the Discarded Heroes series?
A: The idea for this series came from Sunday school. One Sunday, a woman made a prayer request. Her husband was a Navy SEAL and his anger and PTSD were destroying their marriage. It was a moment of stunning clarity for me. I knew it would be a grave injustice to ever again pen a story that romanticized our heroes without showing the heart-wrenching toll their careers—what they see and do—take on their lives and families. Don't get me wrong. They are heroes, but they're also people with hurts/needs, and I think that is often forgotten. On the way to the airport with John Olson, we began brainstorming a new series, and out of that intense 40-minute drive, the Discarded Heroes series was born.
Q: Was there a scripture that inspired Nightshade, book one in the series?
A: Scripture did indeed inspire large portions of Nightshade, but it wasn't one scripture alone—it was the life story of King David. Like Max, my hero is a warrior, called to war, designed by God to accomplish tasks most men and women aren't able to face.
Q: What do you hope your readers learn from reading Nightshade?
A: The intention of this series is to open dialogue and discussion, both among our soldiers/vets, and among the civilian community. I hope readers will come to the series with an open mind, that they'd find hope and healing and perhaps a desire to support our men and women in the armed forces with more compassion, more prayer, and more understanding. Above all, I pray that the wounded of heart and soul will find hope in God.
Q: How did you get your start in writing?
A: I’ve always loved making up stories, and when my husband, suggested that I try to get published sometime shortly after we married, I rebuffed him. I did not want to jeopardize my love of writing with going through the pains of seeking publication. But eventually, he convinced me, and in 2002, I started the journey toward publication. In February of 2007, I signed with my agent.
Q: Where can your readers find you online?
Website: www.roniekendig.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ronie.kendig
Twitter: @roniekendig
Shoutlife: www.shoutlife.com/roniekendig
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ACFW Announces Genesis Finalists
ACFW is pleased to publicize the names of the 2010 Genesis finalists. Since its inception in 2002, the Genesis contest (originally named the Noble Theme) has been the leading fiction contest for unpublished Christian writers.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRLog (Press Release) – Jun 15, 2010 – “The Genesis is the premier contest in the Christian Booksellers Association for the unpublished. It's THE place to get noticed by a publisher.” – Colleen Coble, CEO of ACFW.
• CONTEMPORARY FICTION:
- Cindy Hays
- Lynnette P. Horner
- Chris Kraft
- Mark Lundgren
- Christina S. Nelson
- Jeannie Campbell
- Sarah Forgrave
- Janice LaQuiere
- Rebecca Syme
- Linda Yezak
- Lori Benton
- Brenda Jackson
- Robert Kaku
- Lisa Karon Richardson
- Katie-Marie Stout
- Susanne Dietze
- Anne Greene
- Pam Hillman
- Lisa Karon Richardson
- Ruth Trippy
- Rich Bullock
- Barbara Early (double finalist with two entries)
- Lynda Schab
- Chawna Schroeder
- Valerie Goree
- Mindy Obenhaus
- Leslie Pfeil
- Dianna Shuford
- Teri Dawn Smith
- Terri Weldon
- Ben Erlichman
- Suzanne Krein
- Shelley Ledfors
- Andra Marquardt
- Holly Smit
- Lisa Buffaloe
- Jennifer Fromke
- Terri Haynes
- Fay Lamb
- Christina S. Nelson
- Melissa Tagg
- Michelle Ule
- Angela Bell
- Lin Harris
- Kasey Heinly
- LoraLee Kodzo
- Stefanie Morris
From airport newsstands to Newsweek, Christian fiction continues to grow in popularity, resonating with readers looking for both faith and fiction. The growth of the genre has birthed many new writers, as evidenced by the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). ACFW has over 2000 members worldwide, consisting of authors, editors, agents, publicists and aspiring writers. The Genesis contest is the only contest with ONLY inspirational categories.
Winners of the Genesis contest will be announced on September 19, 2010 during the awards event at the ACFW Annual Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Wow! I'm so excited. Today is June 1st--that means two very awesome things are happening in my life. First...
My TWENTIETH anniversary! No kidding. On June 1, 1990 I married the man of my dreams. I knew I had to snag him fast before he figured out the truth (hehe). Brian is a real hero. God has closed many doors to Brian's dreams (army, architecture, FBI) but he has pressed on. Now, he's able to speak/read/understand Arabic (not fluently yet). We aren't sure what God has on the horizon for us, but I am really honored and excited to journey with my amazing man.
And...now...second...today means there's ONE MONTH left until Nightshade releases. YAY! In honor of that, I'd like to share some of the early reviews that are coming in.
While I do not normally read novels featuring war stories, I read this one because I have a son-in-law who not only has deployed and served, but who is preparing to return to the war zone. It is books like this that will be able to reach those who are holding in the pain and who can identify with Max. ~~"kansaspastor" at http://kansaspastor.blogspot.com/
Nightshade is brilliant! Gripping characters, incredible pacing, and the most compelling plot I've read in a LONG time made this a book I could NOT put down. The author had me so entrenched, I felt like I was in the midst of the most amazing military-action-suspense-romance movie on the big screen. I'm hooked, and cannot wait for the rest of the series. Ronie Kendig is my new favorite author. ~~Kimberley Woodhouse, author of Welcome Home Woodhouse Family: Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy and No Safe Haven (B&H, January 2011).
This intense story full of action, is also full of emotion and life. Men dealing with issues they hadn’t planned on. Surprise after surprise and bomb after bomb set this adventurous trail with the reader racing to the end. I found myself crying and smiling and hated it when it ended. But I have it on good authority that there are more Discarded Heroes stories coming. Ronie, I can’t wait! ~~Jan Crow, Katy Budget Books, Buyer
PRE-ORDER NIGHTSHADE for $8.76 at Amazon:
