Craving the Supernatural

Alienation, A CHAOS Novel by Jon S. Lewis

2012-01-27T03:56:00.000-08:00

High-tech gear, shape-shifting aliens, simulated reality, and hoverboards...Colt must step into his true destiny before our world falls in chaos!

Today I'm featuring a fun YA novel, Alienation (A C.H.A.O.S. Novel) by Jon S. Lewis. This is the second CHAOS novel, and I found it to be a fun read. I am sure my 12.5 year old twin boys will love it. I found it to be adventurous! If you have a pre-teen or teen who loves novels with supernatural elements, action, adventure and heroes--this is the book for them!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Earth's last line of defense against the coming alien invasion is 16-year-old surfer Colt McAlister.

But before he can save the world, he has to survive the day.

All Colt wants to do is return to his old life . . . where aliens don't exist . . . where mankind hasn't been targeted for destruction . . . and where his parents are still alive. Unfortunately life doesn't work that way.

The United States government believes Colt holds the key to our survival, so they're sending him to the CHAOS Military Academy along with his best friends Oz and Danielle. There they'll be trained to defend Earth against a swarm of alien shapeshifters known as the Thule. But someone is trying to eliminate Colt before he can lead that charge. Shocked to learn about key events in his past and unsure who he can trust, Colt is alienated and on the run.

You can check out more about the CHAOS novels at http://www.chaosnovels.com/

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jon S. Lewis is the coauthor of the Grey Griffins trilogy and the upcoming Grey Griffins Clockwork Chronicles. He also writes for the DC COMICS family of publishers. He resides with his family in Arizona.

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THE FUN BEGINS:

Win an iPad from @JonSLewis and @NelsonFiction in the Alienation iPad2 Giveaway!

The invasion was only the beginning! Jon Lewis is celebrating the next adventure in his fast-paced C.H.A.O.S. series with an explosive giveaway!

One thrill-seeker will receive:

iPad2 with Wi-Fi

Copies of the C.H.A.O.S. novels, Invasion and Alienation

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on February 7th. Winner will be announced at the Alienation Facebook Party on 2/7. Jon will be hosting an Author Chat, giving away copies of the books and gift certificates to iTunes and Amazon.com! Don't miss a second of the intrigue!

Grab your copy of Alienation and join Jon on the evening of February 7th for an author chat, spy training (How much do you know about alien invaders?) and lots of giveaways.

Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 31st!

Firethorn Giveaways!!

2012-01-15T19:31:00.000-08:00

Hey, y'all! This is Firethorn's launch month, so I wanted to share a few giveaway opportunities with you!

Edgy Inspirational Author Michelle Sutton is offering a copy on her blog:
http://edgyinspirationalauthor.blogspot.com/2012/01/now-im-giving-away-firethorn-by-ronie.html

Friend and Reviewer Anne Payne is offering a copy on her blog:
http://duhpaynes.com/2012/01/11/firethorn-giveaway/

Reviewer and friend, Katie McCurdy loved Wolfsbane so much, she's hosting Dani and Canyon (the hero/heroine from the story) and doing a giveaway--this one, you can win Wolfsbane, or your choice of the Discarded Heroes books! WOW!!
http://katie-mccurdy.blogspot.com/2012/01/whats-party-without-nightshade-team-day.html

Ronie's Top Ten Fiction Picks for 2011

2012-01-04T10:08:00.001-08:00

Okay, so I hesitate to do this because some of the best books I read last year did not hold 2011 copyrights, like Markus Zusak's The Book Thief--which now sits comfy-cozy at the top of my favorites pile--and Steven James' THE ROOK and THE KNIGHT, or Laura Hillenbrand's Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption, or Orson Scott Card's Pathfinder.

Then there are books I wanted to read, but didn't get to or didn't finish reading that would probably end up on my favorites list like J. Mark Bertrand's PATTERN OF WOUNDS, or Camy Tang's PROTECTION FOR HIRE, or Lis Wiehl's HEART OF ICE, or Sandra Byrd's TO DIE FOR, or Jeanette Windle's FREEDOM'S STAND.

And of course, I never want to hurt anyone by NOT mentioning their book. Anywhoooo...without further ado, here are my 2011 Favorites (NOT in any particular order!):

Kathy Tyers's Wind and Shadow - The desolate world of Mikuhr is home to a proud people now on the verge of distinction. Conflict explodes when apprentice priest Kiel Caldwell arrives to investigate rumors of new spiritual revelation, but he is kidnapped by a demon-possessed telepath who thinks he might be a predicted messiah. And when Kiel's loose-cannon military brother Kinnor arrives to investigate, a local leader with revenge on her mind threatens to bring ruin on them all. It's up to returning Mikuhran diplomat Wind Haworth to head off a confl ict that could have spiritual, political, and military repercussions-but no one has foreseen the consequences of introducing the Mikuhran Wind Haworth to the Federate military Sentinel Kinnor Caldwell.

Bob Hamer's Targets Down: A Novel - Targets Down is the follow-up to retired FBI agent Bob Hamer's Enemies Among Us, which Publishers Weekly hailed as "a page-turning roller coaster that feels like Jack Bauer’s 24 without sailing over the top."

When an FBI wife is critically wounded and two people are found dead on a mountain pass, special agent Matt Hogan is tasked with identifying those responsible. The undercover assignment takes him into the shadow world of Russian organized crime, neo-Nazis, and the sex-slave industry. Matt's cover is almost blown twice—once by accident, once by incompetence within the FBI ranks—making violence appear to be his only solution. As he confronts evil, Hogan relies not only on the strength of his wife's faith but his own quest to find God. He also finds terror and terrorism on this heart-pounding journey.

William Boykin & Tom Morrissey's Kiloton Threat: A Novel - Taken from what could be tomorrow's headlines, Kiloton Threat is a novel that explores the frightening potential of nuclear weapons in the Middle East today. Out of the house churches of rural Iran, a Christian masquerading as a Muslim gains the confidence of a high-ranking leader in the Iranian nuclear program and opens his eyes to Christianity. The man’s newfound faith stirs his desire to flee to the West, taking with him intelligence that would allow Coalition forces to neutralize his nation's devastating capabilities. But no one in such a position could ever escape unnoticed.

Enter Blake Kershaw, a highly trained U.S. Special Forces officer who has already made extraordinary sacrifices for his country that include faking death and losing his true identity. His mission to infiltrate Iran and extract the high-value defector strains the relationship with the woman he loves— one of the few people on earth who knows his real story. With even more intensity, it shows the price that must sometimes be paid when political correctness fails and a man has to stand up for what is right.

James L. Rubart's The Chair: A Novel - If you were given an ancient-looking chair and told Jesus Christ made it, would you believe it?

When an elderly lady shows up in Corin Roscoe’s antiques store and gives him a chair she claims was built by Christ he scoffs. But when a young boy is miraculously healed after sitting in the chair, he stops laughing and starts to wonder: Could this chair heal the person whose life I destroyed twelve years ago?

As word spreads of the boy’s healing, a mega-church pastor is determined to manipulate Corin into turning over the chair. But the mysterious woman who gave him the piece insinuates it is Corin’s destiny to guard the chair above everything else. But why? Desperate, he turns to the one person he can trust, a college history professor who knows more about the legend of the chair than he reveals.

Searching for truth about the artifact and the unexplained phenomena surrounding it, Corin soon realizes he isn’t the only one willing to do almost anything to possess the power that seems to surround to the chair.

Ted Dekker & Tosca Lee's Forbidden (The Books of Mortals)(Yay! Ted went back to his fantasy roots!) - New York Times bestselling author Ted Dekker teams with Tosca Lee to create this gripping thriller set in a desolate future.

Many years have passed since civilization's brush with apocalypse. The world's greatest threats have all been silenced. There is no anger, no hatred, no war. There is only perfect peace... and fear. But a terrible secret has been closely guarded for centuries: Every single soul walking the earth, though in appearance totally normal, is actually dead, long ago genetically stripped of true humanity.

Tracy Higley's Pompeii: City on Fire: A Novel-

Pompeii, a city that's many things to many people. For Cato, it's the perfect escape from a failed political career in Rome. A place to start again, become a winemaker. But when a corrupt politician wrongfully jails Cato's sister, he must oust the man from power to save her.

For Ariella, Pompeii is a means to an end. As a young Jew, she escaped the fall of Jerusalem only to endure slavery to a cruel Roman general. She ends up in Pompeii, disguised as a young man and sold into a gladiator troupe. Her anger fuels her to fight well, hoping to win the arena crowds and reveal her gender at the perfect time. Perhaps then she will win true freedom.

But evil creeps through the streets of Pompeii. Political corruption, religious persecution, and family peril threaten to destroy Ariella and Cato, who are thrown together in the battle to survive. As Vesuvius churns with deadly intent, the two must bridge their differences to save the lives of those they love, before the fiery ash buries Pompeii, leaving the city lost to the world.

Marie Lu's Legend - What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem.

From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.

Joel Rosenberg's The Tehran Initiative - The world is on the brink of disaster and the clock is ticking. Iran has just conducted its first atomic weapons test. Millions of Muslims around the world are convinced their messiah—known as “the Twelfth Imam”—has just arrived on earth. Israeli leaders fear Tehran, under the Twelfth Imam’s spell, will soon launch a nuclear attack that could bring about a second holocaust and the annihilation of Israel. The White House fears Jerusalem will strike first, launching a preemptive attack against Iran’s nuclear facilities that could cause the entire Middle East to go up in flames, oil prices to skyrocket, and the global economy to collapse. With the stakes high and few viable options left, the president of the United States orders CIA operative David Shirazi and his team to track down and sabotage Iran’s nuclear warheads before Iran or Israel can launch a devastating first strike.

Lisa T. Bergren's Torrent: A Novel (River of Time Series)-

When Gabi and Lia finally learn to surf the river of time, they realize they must make hard choices about life and love in Torrent, the third and final book in the River of Time series.

Gabi and Lia Betarrini have learned to control their time travel, and they return from medieval Italy to save their father from his tragic death in modern times.

But love calls across the centuries, and the girls are determined to return forever—even though they know the Black Plague is advancing across Europe, claiming the lives of one-third of the population. In the suspenseful conclusion of the River of Time series, every decision is about life … and death.

Lis Wiehl's Waking Hours (The East Salem Trilogy)(*with a side note...if I didn't know this was the first on a series, it probably would not make my top ten list...the ending felt lacking and did not tie up much) -

All towns have secrets. Some have demons.

Welcome to East Salem. A deceptively sleepy town where ancient supernatural forces are being awakened.

A local high-school girl is found murdered in a park amid horse farms and wealthy homes of northern Westchester County, New York. The shocking manner of her death confounds the town and intrigues forensic psychiatrist Dani Harris, who is determined to unravel the mystery. All the suspects are teenagers who were at a party with the girl-yet none remembers what happened. Could one of them be a vicious killer? Or is something more sinister afoot-something tied to an ancient evil?

Virtual Care Package

2011-10-13T07:55:00.000-07:00

Hey, y'all! I just had to share this "Virtual Care Package" that the amazing Erynn Newman sent me while I was buried getting TRINITY: Military War Dog finished and writing one proposal and cleaning up another to send to my agent.

I was so touched by Erynn's thoughtfulness and was laughing so hard, that I actually burst into tears. Check this out. I think Erynn is brilliant!!

First, a basket of assorted coffees for that extra caffeine boost when you're burning the midnight oil. This should be enough to keep your cup full at all times.

Second, unlimited iTunes downloads so you can keep your inspiration flowing.

Third, a team of people to cook and clean for you so you don't have to worry about that.

Fourth, a never ending stash of chocolate to get you through the bleak moments. Can be substituted for the junk food of your choice.

Fifth, a fruity tropical drink to enjoy when you finally get to take that much needed break.

Sixth, an AMAZING place to CRASSSSSSHHHHH! With the waves lulling you to sleep.

Seventh, Chris Evans as your personal assistant to bring you whatever else you need and look good while doing it.

And eighth, the YOU DID IT! IT'S DONE! IT'S DONE! Congratulatory bouquet. You can have Chris present it to you while singing a handwritten song about how amazing you are.

When I thanked Erynn for her genius and thoughtfulness, she told that she wanted to send the real stuff, but Chris's assistant fees were crazy expensive. Then when I mentioned I cried, she told me, "Don't cry! I forgot the virtual tissues!"

THANK YOU, ERYNN, FOR BEING SO AMAZING!

I'm glad God brought you into my life!

Sigh. What an amazing young woman. Watch for her--I know it won't be long before you can find her books on the shelves in your nearest bookstores!

DIGITALIS - 2011 INSPYs Short List Finalist!

2011-10-01T10:05:00.001-07:00

I am so tickled to see Digitalis, Discarded Heroes #2, make the 2011 INSPY Short List in Suspense/Thriller!!! OORAH!! Thank you to all readers who nominated Digitalis, and to the judges who have done an incredible amount of reading to determine the short list. WOOT!!

Here is the full 2011 INSPY Short List straight from INSPYs.com:

The INSPY Advisory Board is pleased to announce the shortlists for the 2011 INSPY Awards. We thank you for your enthusiastic nominations of books and again acknowledge the difficulties in narrowing the field with so many quality nominations.

Creative Nonfiction

Little Princes by Conor Grennan, (William Morrow, Jan 2011)

One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp, (Zondervan, Jan 2011)

Passport Through Darkness by Kimberly L. Smith (David C Cook, Jan 2011)

The Waiting Place by Eileen Button (Thomas Nelson, June 2011)

The World is Bigger Now by Euna Lee & Lisa Dickey (Broadway, Sept 2010)

General

City of Tranquil Light by Bo Caldwell, (Henry Holt & Co, Sept 2010)

The Blackberry Bush by David Housholder (Summerside Press, June 2011)

The Reluctant Prophet by Nancy Rue (David C Cook, Oct 2010)

Wolves Among Us by Ginger Garrett (David C Cook, April 2011)

Words by Ginny Yttrup (B&H Publishing, Feb 2011)

Mystery/Thriller

Back on Murder by J. Mark Bertrand (Bethany House, July 2010)

Darkness Follows by Mark Dellosso (Realms, May 2011)

Digitalis by Ronie Kendig (Barbour, Jan 2011)

Over the Edge by Brandilyn Collins (B&H Publishing, May 2011)

The Bishop by Steven James, (Revell, Aug 2010)

Romance

A Heart Most Worthy by Siri Mitchell (Bethany House, March 2011)

A Hope Undaunted by Julie Lessman (Revell, Sept 2010)

The Preacher’s Bride by Jody Hedlund (Bethany House, Oct 2010)

Within My Heart by Tamera Alexander (Bethany House, Sept 2010)

Yesterday’s Tomorrow by Catherine West (Oak Tara, March 2011)

Speculative Fiction

Heartless by Anne Elisabeth Stengl, (Bethany House, July 2010)

The Charlatan’s Boy by Jonathan Rogers (Waterbrook Press, Oct 2010)

The Falling Away by T. L. Hines (Thomas Nelson, Sept 2010)

The Resurrection by Mike Duran (Realms, Feb 2011)

The Skin Map by Stephen Lawhead, (Thomas Nelson, Aug 2010)

Young Adult

A Girl Named Mister by Nikki Grimes (Zondervan, Aug 2010)

Losing Faith by Denise Jaden (Simon Pulse, Sept 2010)

Saint Training by Elizabeth Fixmer (Zondervan, Aug 2010)

The Fences Between Us by Kirby Larson (Scholastic, Sept 2010)

The Truth of the Matter by Andrew Klavan (Thomas Nelson, Sept 2010)

Hosting SUSAN SLEEMAN & Behind the Badge!

2011-06-20T16:15:00.000-07:00

Enter to win a copy of Susan Sleeman's Behind the Badge and a $50 Amazon gift card!

Susan Sleeman here. Behind the Badge, my second romantic suspense book for Love Inspired Suspense will release on June 6th and in honor of all of you, the readers, I am hosting a special contest on my website for the month of June.

Let’s face it. Without you, the wonderful readers, books would not exist and I wouldn’t be able to wake up looking forward to a job that is fresh and exciting each and every day. Praise God for this incredible opportunity!

Now back to the contest. All you have to do is read the excerpt below then go to my WEBSITE and answer the following question. That's it. You're entered to win.

If you'd like to sign up for my mailing list to learn of other contests in the future you can do that at the same time, too. Full contest rules are on the entry page. Remember only one entry per person.

QUESTION: What item let Russ know the bike was street legal?

SUSAN SLEEMAN is a best-selling author of romantic suspense and mystery novels. She grew up in a small Wisconsin town where she spent her summers reading Nancy Drew and developing a love of mystery and suspense books. Today, she channels this enthusiasm into writing romantic suspense and mystery novels and hosting the popular internet website TheSuspenseZone.com.

Her books include Nipped in the Bud, High-Stakes Inheritance, Behind the Badge, and The Christmas Witness. Also watch for the first two romantic suspense books in her Justice Agency series coming from Love Inspired Suspense in 2012 and featuring a private investigations firm specializing in helping those who traditional law enforcement has failed.

Susan currently lives in Florida, but has had the pleasure of living in nine states. Her husband is a church music director and they have two beautiful daughters, a very special son-in-law and an adorable grandson.

To learn more about Susan visit her website, Facebook , or Twitter.

"YOUR SISTER IS NEXT!"

A killer is threatening the life of rookie cop Sydney Tucker's sister-unless Sydney turns over evidence from a drug bust. But she doesn't have the evidence. Not that the thug believes her. Now she and the sibling in her care are under the watchful eye of Logan Lake police chief Russ Morgan…but will his protection be enough?

The killer is closing in, picking off the people and places that mean the most to Sydney. A list that now includes Russ. To protect her loved ones, will she pay the ultimate price-her life?

The Morgan Brothers - Bk 2

Love Inspired Suspense June 6, 2011

ISBN-10: 0373444478

ISBN-13: 978-0373444472

READ AN EXCERPT:

Chapter One

Gunshots split the inky darkness.

Deputy Sydney Tucker hit the cold ground, a jagged rock slashing into her forehead on the way down. She reached for her service weapon. Came up empty handed. She'd stopped after work to check on the construction of her townhouse and left her gun and cell phone in the car.

Dumb, Sydney. Really dumb. Now what're you gonna do?

Inching her head above knee-high grass, she listened. The keening whistle of the wind died, leaving the air damp and heavy with tension but silence reigned.

Had she overreacted? Could be target practice. But at night? Maybe. Hunters did crazy things sometimes.

Footfalls pounded from below like someone charging through the brush. No. Two people. Maybe a chase. One person after another. A loud crash, branches snapping.

"What're you doin', man," a panicked male voice traveled through the night. "No! Don't shoot! We can work this out."

Three more gunshots rang out. A moan drifted up the hill.

Not target practice. Someone had been shot.

Sydney lurched to her feet, dizziness swirling around her. Blood dripped into her eyes. She wiped it away, blinked hard and steadied herself on a large rock while peering into the wall of darkness for the best escape route.

Heavy footfalls crunched up the gravel path.

"I know you're here, Deputy Tucker," a male voice, disguised with a high nasally pitch, called out. "We need to talk about this. C'mon out."

Yeah, right. Come out and die. Not hardly.

Praying, pleading for safety, she scrambled deeper into the scrub. Over rocks. Through grass tangling her feet. Her heart pounded in her head, drowning the prayers with fear.

"I'm losing patience, Deputy," he called again in that strange voice. "You're not like Dixon. He had it coming. You don't."

Dixon? Did he mean the man she arrested for providing alcohol to her teenage sister and for selling drugs? Was that what this was about?

Rocks skittered down the incline. The shooter was on the move again. No time to think. She had to go. Now!

Blindly she felt her way past shrubs, over uneven ground. Dried leaves crunched underfoot. Branches slapped her face and clawed at her arms, but she stifled her cries of pain.

"I hear you, Deputy."

She wrenched around to determine his location. A protruding rock caught her foot, catapulting her forward. She somersaulted through the air. Her knee slammed into the packed earth and she crashed down the hill. Wrapping arms around her head for protection, she came to a stop, breath knocked out of her chest, lying flat on her back in a thick stand of weeds.

"So you want to play it that way, do you Deputy? Fine. Just remember, you can run, but you can't hide. I will find you. This will be resolved one way or another." His disembodied laugh swirled into the night.

The darkness pressed closer. Blinding. Overwhelming. Terrifying.

She was easy prey. Even with her bulletproof vest, a few rounds fired in her direction would take her out. She had to get up.

She rose to her knees, but pain knifed into her knee, keeping her anchored to the ground.

Lord, please don't let me die like this. Give me the strength to move. I need to live for Nikki. She's only seventeen. She has no one.

Sydney uncurled and came to a standing position. Taking a few halting steps, she tested the pain. Nearly unbearable. But she could-no she had to do this for her sister.

Thinking of Nikki, she gritted her teeth and set off, moving slowly, taking care not to make a sound.

Out of the darkness, a hand shot out. Clamped over her mouth.

Screams tore from her throat, but died behind fingers pressed hard against her lips.

A muscled arm jerked her against a solid chest and dragged her deep into the brush.

God, please, no.

She twisted, arched her back, pushing against arms like iron bands.

She dug her heels into the ground, but he was too strong. He kept going deeper into the brush before settling them both on the ground behind a large boulder.

"Relax Sydney, it's Russ Morgan," Logan Lake's Police Chief whispered, his lips close to her ear.

Russ Morgan? What was he doing here?

"Sorry about the hand." His tone said she was nothing more than a stranger instead of someone she'd known for years. "I didn't want you to alert the shooter with a scream. I'm gonna remove my hand now. Nod if you understand me."

She let all of her relief escape in a sharp jerk of her head. His fingers dropped away.

"Once the shooter rounded that curve, you would've been a goner," he whispered while still firmly holding her. "Good thing a neighbor reported gunshots."

Sydney started to shiver and breathed deep to steady her galloping pulse. Air rushed into her lungs. She was alive, but barely. No thanks to her own skills.

"You okay?" he asked, his breath stirring her hair.

"Yes." She willed her body to stop shaking and eased out a hiss of disappointment in her performance as a deputy. "How long have you been here?"

"Long enough to hear the shooter claim he's hit Dixon and is coming after you next," he whispered again, but urgency lit his voice and rekindled her fear. "This have to do with your arrest of Carl Dixon the other day?"

"I don't know," she whispered back. "I just stopped to check on the construction of my townhouse on my way home from work."

"Off duty, huh? Explains why you don't have your weapon drawn."

"I left my duty belt in my car." She waited for his reaction to not carrying, but he simply gave a quick nod as footfalls grated against gravel.

"Shh, he's about to pass us." Russ leaned forward and drew his gun with his free hand, but didn't release his hold on her.

Crunching steps came within a few feet of their location. Halted.

"Can you feel me breathing down your neck, Deputy? I'm inches from finding you." He didn't know the accuracy of his words.

She felt Russ's breathing speed up, upping her concern and washing away the brief blanket of security his arms provided. Adrenaline urged her to move. To keep from panicking, she focused on Russ's unwavering weapon.

The shooter took a few steps closer. Her heart thumped, threatening to leave her chest. Russ tightened his hold as if he knew she wanted to bolt.

The shooter spun sending gravel flying then headed up the path.

As his footsteps receded, she tried to relax taut muscles. The warmth from Russ's body helped chase out her fear and the chill of the night. Thank God Russ was here. If he hadn't come.

She refused to go there. God had watched over her. Provided rescue, just not in the form she'd have chosen.

Not only was Russ an officer from the city police force-a team often in competition with the county sheriff's department where she worked-but a man she'd had a crazy crush on in high school. A man whose rugged good looks still turned women's heads.

She let out a long sigh.

"I know this's awkward," he whispered, "but hang tight for a few more minutes. We need to wait for him to head back down the hill."

She wanted to protest and suggest they flee now, but not Russ. He thought clearly. Taking off now gave the killer the advantage of higher ground, making them moving targets. They'd have to sit like this until he passed them again.

If they made it out of here, which the approaching footfalls told her wasn't at all certain.

They pounded closer. The shooter moved at a quick clip this time as if he thought she'd gotten away and he was fleeing. Or maybe he was heading to her car to lay in wait for her.

As the footsteps receded again, she felt Russ's arm slacken.

"Time to roll," he whispered. "Stay here."

"But I-"

"You have a backup?" He referred to a back up gun officers often carry.

She shook her head.

"Then wait here." He gave her the hard stare that'd made him famous around town and crept toward the path.

She leaned against the boulder and wrapped her arms around the warm circle on her waist where he'd held her. Without his warmth, she couldn't quit shaking. The reality of the night froze her inner core.

She should listen to Russ. Lay low. Wait until he apprehended the killer.

That was the safe thing to do.

The easy thing to do.

The wrong thing to do.

Not for everyone, but for an officer of the law, letting a shooter escape without trying to stop him wasn't an option. Even if that shooter had her in his sights, she'd make her way to her car for her gun and help Russ stop this maniac before he hurt anyone else.

*****

Near the ditch, Russ came to a stop and fought to catch his breath. Taillights on a mud splattered dirt bike roared up the trail. He'd warned the suspect to stop, but short of shooting him in the back, Russ couldn't stop him from fleeing into the dark.

At least he'd accomplished his primary objective. To protect Sydney and keep her alive. Now he needed to alert his men and the sheriff's office to the suspect's whereabouts.

He lifted his shoulder mic and ordered a unit from his office to stake out the end of the trail for the motorcycle and an ambulance in case Dixon survived. Then he asked dispatch to patch him through to the county sheriff's department to make sure they knew he'd taken charge of the scene so none of their hotshot deputies arrived with the hope of usurping control.

He turned on his Maglight and headed up the hill. The beam of light skipped over gravel and lush plants lining the winding path. Midway up, rustling brush stopped him cold. He'd left Sydney higher up. Nearer the lake.

Was a second shooter hoping to ambush him?

He flipped off his light and sought protection behind a tree. His breath came in little pulses in the unusually cold air for a typical Oregon fall. Adrenaline with little time to ebb away came roaring back, but even as the noise grew louder, he resisted the urge to take action.

Maybe it was Sydney. The Sydney he used to know wouldn't have listened to his directive and stayed put. She'd trounce down the hill, her chin tilted at the same insolent angle as when he told her he didn't return her crazy crush her freshman year of high school. Not that he'd wanted to send a beautiful, lively girl like her away. He could easily have dated her, but he was four years older, in college. With their age difference, it wouldn't have been right.

Bushes at the path's edge shook then parted. Slowly, like a sleek panther, Sydney slipped out. He watched until she stood tall on those incredibly long legs he'd admired since she was sixteen before lowering his gun and aiming his flashlight at her.

She jumped. Peered up at him, an impudent look planted on her face. This was the Sydney he'd known as a teen and heaven help him, in less than thirty minutes, she'd sparked his interest again.

"Care to shine that somewhere other than my face." She perched her hand over her eyes, warding off the glare.

He moved the light but not before he caught a good look at a gaping wound running from her hairline to eyebrow, covered in congealed blood. He lifted his hand to check out her injury, but stopped. He wouldn't probe a wound on one of his men's faces. As a fellow LEO-law enforcement officer-he wouldn't treat Sydney any differently.

"I told you to stay put." He infused his words with authority.

"I wanted to help. Wish I'd listened. I tripped over the body." She held out blood-covered hands. Her eyes watered as if she might cry.

Man. Don't do that. Don't fall apart. He couldn't remain detached if she started crying. He'd have to empathize, maybe give her a reassuring pat on the arm. Maybe feel her pain and resurrect all the reasons he'd left his homicide job in Portland.

He changed his focus. Nodded at the brush. "Show me the body."

As a faint whine of sirens spiraled in the distance, she limped into tall grass, a grimace of pain marring her beautiful face. He followed, illuminating the area ahead of her. About ten feet in, she suddenly stopped. He shone his light a few feet ahead of her.

Diffused rays slid over a young male lying on his back. Russ swung the beam to the man's face landing on open eyes staring into the blackness above.

Sydney gasped and swung around him. She rushed toward the main path. Even though Russ knew it was a lost cause, he bent down to check for a pulse. No question, this man hadn't made it and no question about his identity. Carl Dixon, a man every LEO in the area knew from his frequent blips onto the police radar and the most recent arrest for selling drugs.

All that ended with three gunshots to the chest at close range from what Russ could see with his flashlight. Once they thoroughly processed the scene, he'd know better. But first, they needed to vacate the area before further contaminating the scene.

He found Sydney near the path, gaze fixed in the distance, hands clasped on her hips and exhaling long breaths as if trying to expel what she'd just seen.

Haunted eyes peered at him. "He's dead, right?"

"Yeah."

"And what about the killer?"

"Couldn't catch him. He took off on a dirt bike."

Disappointment crowded out the fear on her face. "Did you at least see him?"

"From the back. He was my height or a little taller, but lean. Wore a black stocking cap. The bike has a plate so it must be street legal. I caught the first few digits."

"That's something, then."

Russ didn't want to tell her it would do little for them in terms of searching DMV records as three digits would return thousands of bikes, but he didn't think she could take any more bad news so he kept quiet. "Let's head down to the parking lot."

He gave her the flashlight and urged her to take the lead down the steep hill. Once on solid concrete, she handed it back to him. Holding it overhead, he watched her closely for dizziness or other impairments from her fall. He saw nothing out of the ordinary, but a head injury could mean a concussion. He'd have the EMT's check her out when they got here.

He pointed at a rough-hewn bench. "Maybe you should sit down."

"I'm fine " Her voice cracked and she seemed embarrassed over reacting to the murder.

"It's okay to be upset, Syd. A horrible thing happened tonight."

"I'm fine really. I'll be back to a hundred percent by morning."

Permission to reproduce text granted by Harlequin Books S.A.

Win a Romantic Night on the Town from Miss Foolish Heart!

2011-06-13T05:08:00.000-07:00

Susan May Warren is thrilled to announce the release of her latest Deep Haven book, My Foolish Heart!

About the book: My Foolish heart

Unknown to her tiny town of Deep Haven, Isadora Presley spends her nights as Miss Foolish Heart, the star host of a syndicated talk radio show. Millions tune in to hear her advice on dating and falling in love, unaware that she’s never really done either. Issy’s ratings soar when it seems she’s falling in love on-air with a caller. A caller she doesn’t realize lives right next door.

Caleb Knight served a tour of duty in Iraq and paid a steep price. The last thing he wants is pity, so he hides his disability and moves to Deep Haven to land his dream job as the high school football coach. When his beautiful neighbor catches his eye, in a moment of desperation he seeks advice from My Foolish Heart, the show that airs before his favorite sports broadcast.

Before he knows it, Caleb finds himself drawn to the host—and more confused than ever. Is his perfect love the woman on the radio . . . or the one next door?

About Susan: Susan May Warren is an award-winning, best-selling author of over twenty-five novels, many of which have won the Inspirational Readers Choice Award, the ACFW Book of the Year award, the Rita Award, and have been Christy finalists. After serving as a missionary for eight years in Russia, Susan returned home to a small town on Minnesota’s beautiful Lake Superior shore where she, her four children, and her husband are active in their local church.

Susan's larger than life characters and layered plots have won her acclaim with readers and reviewers alike. A seasoned women’s events and retreats speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: From the Inside-Out: discover, create and publish the novel in you!. She is also the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com, a story-crafting service that helps authors discover their voice.

Susan makes her home in northern Minnesota, where she is busy cheering on her two sons in football, and her daughter in local theater productions (and desperately missing her college-age son!)

A full listing of her titles, reviews and awards can be found at: www.susanmaywarren.com.

RONIE HERE:
I can say three things about SMW without compunction: 1.) She's simply brilliant when it comes to writing. 2.) She's an amazing teacher--she can bring it down to simple elements that makes the most complicated element easy to understand, and 3.) she's a really beautiful person, inside and out. So, it was with GREAT PLEASURE that I jumped into this blog tour when given the chance.

Ronie's review of MY FOOLISH HEART:

There’s nothing foolish about My Foolish Heart! Susan May Warren is a masterful storyteller, and her skill with words and characters shines in her latest release. As a writer of military-theme fiction, I greatly appreciated the compelling story of her hero, Caleb Knight.

The plight and struggles of Isadora Presley really tugged at my heart but also made me cheer for her. I absolutely loved the thread about Issy’s father, but that’s all I’ll say about that (no spoilers here!). There was also a familiar flavor in this story that reminded me of the Noble Legacy series. Maybe it was the to-die for heroes (because, yes, there are two heroes in this story…and ya know…I sort of wish the “other guy” had his own story because he had some mettle!). Or the strong-hearted heroines. Or maybe it’s just that Susie knows how to tell a doggone good story. Yeah, that’s true regardless. Quite simply, My Foolish Heart is a lovely story of courage and healing.

Read what the reviewers are saying here.

To celebrate this charming novel about a dating expert who's never had a date, Susan has put together a romantic night on the town for one lucky couple. One grand prize winner will receive a Miss Foolish Heart prize package worth over $200!

The winner of the Romantic Night on the Town Prize Pack will receive:

* A $100 Visa Gift Card (For Dinner)

* A $100 Gift Certificate to a Hyatt/Marriott Hotel

* The entire Deep Haven series

To enter just click one of the icons below. But, hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on June 16th. The winner will be announced that evening during Susan’s Miss Foolish Heart Party on Facebook! Susan will be chatting with guests, hosting a book club chat about My Foolish Heart, testing your Deep Haven trivia skills, and giving away tons of great stuff! (Gift certificates, books, donuts, and more!) Don't miss the fun and BRING YOUR FRIENDS!

Meet "Kazi" from Firethorn

2011-06-06T08:21:00.000-07:00

Today at NovelJourney, you can meet "Kazi" from Firethorn. Or literally, the model who posed as Kazi. Recently, I got to meet her in person, and I think you'll love her story. Check it out!

The Annotated Firebird Giveaway-WINNER!

2011-05-27T16:17:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Phyllis Wheeler on winning The Annotated Firebird!

If I do not hear from Phyllis within one week, I will choose another winner.

Wolfsbane - 4 stars from Romantic Times

2011-05-25T05:15:00.000-07:00

WOLFSBANE

by Ronie Kendig

Genre: Romantic Suspense, Inspirational

RT Rating

The author’s military background shines through in vivid detail, but the rugged first names (Canyon, Stone, Range) are distracting at first. Then Kendig pulls out all the stops with page-turning action, adventure and danger. Book three in the Discarded Heroes series can pretty much stand alone.

Having escaped a brutal Venezuelan general, demolitions expert Danielle Roark fights her way back to the States, only to be charged with espionage. When she’s forced to return to the jungle to prove her innocence, she is intentionally left behind. What secret does she have that’s worth fighting for? Haunted, former Green Beret Canyon Metcalf is fighting off nightmares of an operation gone bad. When he’s thrown back into the jungle on a Nightshade mission, he must push the memories aside to rescue Dani. Will he lose another woman to the cruelty of war? (BARBOUR, Jul., 320 pp., $12.99)

Reviewed By: Chandra McNeil

Publisher: BARBOUR

Published: July 2011

NIGHTSHADE FINALS AGAIN!!!

2011-05-24T09:15:00.000-07:00

I am so stoked to share with you--last night, I got a call from the coordinator for the Faith, Hope, & Love chapter of RWA. Admittedly, I missed the chance to scream in her ear because I didn't recognize the number, so I let it go to voice mail. O.ops!

NIGHTSHADE is a finalist in the Faith, Hope, & Love 2011 Inspirational Reader's Choice Awards in the Romantic Suspense category!!

Also, congrats to my beautiful friend GINA HOLMES and CROSSING OCEANS for finaling in the Long Contemporary category!! YAY!!!

Winners will be announced at RWA National in New York. Here is the full list:

2011 Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award Finalists

Women’s Fiction

The House on Sugar Plum Lane by Judy Duarte (Kensington)

Chasing Lilacs by Carla Stewart (FaithWords)

Plain Paradise by Beth Wiseman (Thomas Nelson)

Long Contemporary

Crossing Oceans by Gina Holmes (Tyndale)

The Six-Liter Club by Harry Kraus (Howard)

Long Finds You in Sugarcreek, Ohio by Serena Miller (Summerside)

Short Contemporary

Tender Mercies by Mary Manners (White Rose)

White Roses by Shannon Taylor Vannatter (Barbour)

Rodeo Redemption by Teri Wilson (White Rose)

Long Historical

The Preacher’s Bride by Jody Hedlund (Bethany House)

Abbie Ann by Sharlene MacLaren (Whitaker House)

A Memory Between Us by Sarah Sundin (Revell)

Short Historical

Walker’s Wedding by Lori Copeland (Harvest)

The Substitute Bride by Janet Dean (Steeple Hill)

A Matter of Character by Robin Lee Hatcher (Zondervan)

Romantic Suspense

Too Close to Home by Lynette Eason (Revell)

Forget Me Not by Vicki Hinze (Waterbrook)

Nightshade by Ronie Kendig (Barbour)

Novella

The Snowflake by Jamie Carrie (Broadman and Holman)

Once Upon a Christmas Eve by Anita Higman (Summerside)

A Bodine Family Christmas by Marta Perry (Steeple Hill)

The Annotated Firebird Giveaway!

2011-05-21T18:12:00.000-07:00

This is a very special giveaway for me. Due to a mix-up, I ended up with two copies of The Annotated Firebird by Kathy Tyers (Marcher Lord Press, $26.99) that just released. So, I am giving away one of the copies, completely free!!

Just leave a comment and tell me why you want this book, what makes it special to you?

For me, I first heard about Firebird on my first-ever encounter with new agent STEVE LAUBE when I pitched my near-futuristic story, LIBERTY'S SON, to him in 2004. I hadn't read much speculative fiction beyond Stephen Lawhead, due to some well-intentioned restrictions by my mother, who wanted to be sure we were honoring God in our lives. Steve told me to read Firebird. So, I did...and it absolutely revolutionized my thinking and writing.

When Marcher Lord Press announced they had secured the rights to re-publish this amazing series and would actually print the remaining books, buying The Annotated Firebird was a no-brainer.

In a war she doesn't believe in, she must forge a bold new destiny.

Firebird: Lady Firebird Angelo departs her home world expecting death in space combat. Captured instead, she finds a startling destiny among an ancient telepathic family-and a new kind of battle against implacable enemies.

Fusion Fire: Firebird discovers both evil and uncontrollable power at the depths of her own spirit, and when her sister commits unspeakable treachery, she must draw on that power to save the man she loves from certain death.

Crown of Fire: Firebird returns to her home world, where some consider her a hero-but those in power have labeled her a traitor. Facing death once again, she discovers the cost of pride and the true meaning of sacrifice.

In a single volume with newly created maps and annotations, here are the first three volumes of the beloved Firebird series, freshly edited for Marcher Lord Press by bestselling author Kathy Tyers.

So, there you go! AMAZING!!! Leave a comment WITH A CONTACT ADDRESS to enter to win!

Sizzling Summer Reading

2011-05-12T09:28:00.000-07:00

Hey, y'all. I just wanted to take a minute to share some thriller titles with you that I'm really looking froward to over the next four months or so. I've read a couple of them already, but I haven't read them all so I have no idea if they will uphold my expectations (hehe).

Don't forget--Wolfsbane (Discarded Heroes #3)releases July 1st. So...after you've bought that, feel free to buy any of these other novels. ::grins::

I hope you'll snatch up these great titles and help save an author (hehe).

JUNE

TARGETS DOWN by Bob Hamer - Targets Down is the follow-up to retired FBI agent Bob Hamer's Enemies Among Us, which Publishers Weekly hailed as "a page-turning roller coaster that feels like Jack Bauer’s 24 without sailing over the top."

When an FBI wife is critically wounded and two people are found dead on a mountain pass, special agent Matt Hogan is tasked with identifying those responsible. The undercover assignment takes him into the shadow world of Russian organized crime, neo-Nazis, and the sex-slave industry. Matt's cover is almost blown twice—once by accident, once by incompetence within the FBI ranks—making violence appear to be his only solution. As he confronts evil, Hogan relies not only on the strength of his wife's faith but his own quest to find God. He also finds terror and terrorism on this heart-pounding journey.

TARGETS DOWN IS ALREADY IN STOCK AT CBD.COM!! BUY IT NOW!!!

JULY

THUNDER IN THE MORNING CALM (Pacific Rim Series) by Don Brown - Lieutenant Commander 'Gunner' McCormick is assigned as an intelligence officer to Carrier Strike Force 10, being deployed to the Yellow Sea at the invitation of South Korea for joint exercises with the US Navy. During his pre-deployment briefing, he discovers a TOP-SECRET MEMO revealing rumors that the North Koreans may still be holding a handful of elderly Americans from the Korean War in secret prison camps. As it happens, Gunner's grandfather, who was a young marine officer in the Korean War, disappeared at Chosin Reservoir over 60 years ago and is still listed as MIA in North Korea. Sworn to silence about what he has read, the top-secret memo eats at him. Gunner decides to spend all his inheritance and break every military regulation in the book to finance his own three-man commando squad on a suicide mission north of the DMZ to search for clues about the fate of his grandfather. Risking his career, his fortune, and his life, Gunner will get his answers, or he will die trying. Don Brown is building a loyal fan base by writing what he knows best: thrillers with heart. A former Navy JAG officer and action officer in the Pentagon, Brown pens action-packed plots and finely-drawn characters that are credible and compelling. Thunder in the Morning Calm is a novel of bravery, duty, and family love that will keep readers of all ages reading straight through to the last page.

PATTERN OF WOUNDS by J. Mark Bertrand - For Detective Roland March, his latest case has become personal. March doesn't know the young female who was stabbed to death, but he thinks he recognizes the crime scene. Nearly ten years ago, March gained national fame as the subject of a true-crime book. But now this crime scene bears eerie similarities to that one. And whispers begin to emerge that March may have put the wrong man behind bars. Worse, Houston may now have a serial killer on the loose. As more cases emerge that seem connected, and threats against March and those closest to him build, he must solve the case--rescuing not only the city but his own reputation as a homicide cop.

Ronie here - I love J Mark Bertrand's writing--it has a very classic noir feel to it that is both charming and riveting (if it's possible to combine those in a murder mystery!).

INSIDE THREAT (A Riley Covington Thriller #4) by Jason Elam and Steve Yohn - Military and NFL veteran Riley Covington can't sit on the sidelines when danger looms! When homegrown terrorists overrun the National Cathedral, taking senators, congressmen, and their aides---including Khadi Faroughi---hostage, Riley races to the rescue. Can he secure the captives' freedom before the beheading begins? 384 pages, softcover from Tyndale.

Ronie here - I confess that I have not read any of the Riley Covington novels, but this cover grabbed my attention. I guess I need to check out this series. :-D

AUGUST

KILOTON THREAT by William Boykin and Tom Morrisey - When a high-ranking leader in the Iranian nuclear program converts to Christianity, he seeks refuge in the West---but escape is impossible. Even so, U.S. Special Forces officer Blake Kershaw is assigned to infiltrate Iran and extract the high-value defector. Will he risk his life---and love---to save the world from war?

Ronie here: This book continues Blake Kershaw's adventures, and I have to say--I thought this one was better than the first. It's a definite must read!! And can I just say--I am so glad to see Tom Morrisey's name taking equal billing in this novel. I have massive respect for General Wm. Boykin, but it's a combined effort--and Tom deserves that!

SEPTEMBER

FORBIDDEN by Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee - New York Times bestselling author Ted Dekker teams with Tosca Lee to create this gripping thriller set in a desolate future.

A terrible truth has been revealed to one man: the entire human race has been drained of every emotion except one-- fear. To bring life back to the world, Rom must embark on a journey that will end either in his own demise or a reawkening of humanity. But to bring love and passion back into existence will also threaten the powers of the world with the revolution and anarchy that had nearly destroyed them previously.

After happening upon a journal through strange circumstance, Rom's world is shattered. He learns that humanity long ago ceased to "live," that it exists today in a living death of emotions. In a terrible risk, Rom exposes himself to the vial of blood folded into the old leather of the journal. His change is fearful and fraught with mind-bending emotion. A once-pious observer of the Order's passionless statues, he is filled with uncontrollable impulses. He is filled with love.

He is undone, terrified, and alone in the desolate world

OCTOBER

TEHRAN INITIATIVE by Joel Rosenberg - The world is on the brink of disaster and the clock is ticking. Iran has just conducted its first atomic weapons test. Millions of Muslims around the world are convinced their messiah-known as "the Twelfth Imam"-has just arrived on earth. Israeli leaders fear Tehran, under the Twelfth Imam's spell, will soon launch a nuclear attack that could bring about a second holocaust and the annihilation of Israel. The White House fears Jerusalem will strike first, launching a preemptive attack against Iran's nuclear facilities that could cause the entire Middle East to go up in flames, oil prices to skyrocket, and the global economy to collapse. With the stakes high and few viable options left, the president of the United States orders CIA operative David Shirazi and his team to track down and sabotage Iran's nuclear warheads before Iran or Israel can launch a devastating first strike.

WAKING HOURS by Lis Wiehl (with Pete Nelson) - All towns have secrets. Some have demons. Welcome to East Salem, a sleepy town with a history older than America where things are just a bit off; where the supernatural bleeds into the everyday. And where a tragic murder mystery is underway. A high school girl is found dead in the town park; and where forensic psychiatrist Dani Harris wants answers. All the suspects were teenagers who were at the party with her the night before--who he last spoke with on their last high school date forever ago. Yet his celebrity status opens doors barred to Dani--so they form an awkward alliance. They soon realize that there's more to the mystery than murder. And more to the evil they are facing than a mere human killer.

Ronie here: Well, it appears Lis has teamed up with another writer, this time for a speculative series. You might remember Lis's name from the Triple Threat Novels (Face of Deceit, Hand of Fate, and Heart of Ice). I really enjoyed the stories ("ripped from the headlines" type of novels), but I am a sucker for a really well-done supernatural (since I'm writing that in my closet, so to speak). It will be interesting to see if Pete keeps our interest with his writing/style. I'm curious and anxious for this release!

To Win Her Heart by Karen Witemeyer

2011-05-12T09:19:00.000-07:00

Hey, folks. Well, I thought we'd take a brief diversion from the intensity you're used to finding here at Supernatural Craving so you can have a chance to breathe (we all need to that at least once in our lives, right?), and share a historical novel with you.

Shocking, huh? Well, I got to meet Karen Witemeyer at a writer's retreat and I was so touched by her gentle nature and smile, that when she asked for influencers for To Win Her Heart, I jumped at the chance. (A small confession-normally, when I'm not reading thrillers or spec fic, I'm reading historicals--go figure!). So, here is my official review of Karen's newest release.

Charming and delightful! Karen Witemeyer’s TO WIN HER HEART will steal yours! The characters are unique and so very endearing. I found the backstory of hero Levi Grant to be original and compelling. Truly a great plot concept. The heroine was a bit more typical, but also unique in her own right.

The spiritual elements were done well, and I was pleased to see even the less-than-holy characters in the story turning the upright characters toward the Lord with a few well-placed chides about character and Scripture.

And the ending was perfect! Really made the entire story complete. And can I just say—way to go Ornery!

You'll have to read the novel to get the last line, but hey--I'm just trying too hook you, right?

Wolfsbane Press Release

2011-05-04T06:34:00.000-07:00

WOLFSBANE - Betrayal Begins With Trust

CONTACT: Elizabeth Shrider
eshrider@barbourbooks.com

Find this title on Netgalley.com

Author Available for Interview

Ronie Kendig Delivers Action-Packed Drama
In Book 3 of the Discarded Heroes Series

Uhrichsville, OH – From up-and-coming suspense writer Ronie Kendig is the latest in her four-part Discarded Heroes series. Wolfsbane is scheduled for release in July 2011. The third novel embarks upon a perilous mission with demolitions expert Danielle Roark and ex-Green Beret Canyon Metcalfe. Holding a secret worth killing for, the two are trapped in the jungle and forced to fight their way out of the nightmare of captivity.

Dani Roark thought escaping from a brutal Venezuelan general was a challenge. Now she’s charged with espionage and returned to the jungle where a new nightmare begins. Will Dani survive or become just another political pawn destined to be lost forever?
Canyon is disgusted with the suits on Capitol Hill. Still wrestling with the memories of a mission gone bad, he and Nightshade launch a mission to find Dani. Can Canyon rescue Dani, armed with nothing but raw courage?

Find Wolfsbane and its press materials online at www.netgalley.com or follow this
link: http://bit.ly/kICq9e.

Publication Data:

Wolfsbane by Ronie Kendig / July 2011 / $12.99 / 352 Pages / Paperback
ISBN: 978-1-60260-784-2

Also Available in Series:
Nightshade - 978-1-60260-777-4
Digitalis - 978-1-60260-783-5

Praise for the Book:

“Wolfsbane is rapid-fire fast-paced and will leave you breathless. An incredible story with intense characters who face timeless struggles. Another favorite for our shelf from Kendig!”
– Kimberley and Kayla R. Woodhouse, authors of No Safe Haven and Race Against Time

“Non-stop, fast-paced, machinegun-type action that will leave you exhausted—and yearning for more. . .A definite keeper for your read-again shelf.” – Lynette Eason –bestselling author of Too Close to Home and Don’t Look Back

“Ronie Kendig’s smooth writing style, realistic scenes, and vivid characters blend beautifully for a must-read experience. A definite keeper!” – Robin Caroll, author of Deliver Us From Evil and In The Shadow of Evil

“Ronie Kendig serves up a mix of machinegun-fast action, touching romance, and more twists than a coil of detonator wire. Get a good grip on the edge of your seat before you start reading!”
– Rick Acker, author of When the Devil Whistles and Dead Man’s Rule

Meet The Author:

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.

Author Q & A

Q: Each book in your Discarded Heroes series takes a very real look into the lives of former military men. Where did the idea for this series come from?

The series came out of a brainstorming session with my mentor, John Olson. We had a great bare bones structure, but we were searching for the “heart” of that story, which came to me via a real-life story of a young woman in a Sunday school class. Hearing her testimony, her request for prayer (her husband was spec ops), revolutionized my thinking and heart. I knew I could not pen another military-based story without showing the ramifications of what these heroes do and the toll it takes on them and their families.

Q: Throughout the Discarded Heroes series, readers get to know the members of the Nightshade team. How did you develop the entire team, creating each character independently yet keeping them fluid as a unit?

The members of the Nightshade team just sort of came alive on their own. Max burst onto the page with fire and vengeance. He was very hard to write because of his intensity, but if it weren’t for the calming influence of Cowboy, I think Max and I might have parted ways.

Then there was the silent giant, Griffin “Legend” Riddell, who was like steel poured over the backbone of Nightshade. His dedication to the team, to the mission, helped me stay focused.

Then there’s Marshall “the Kid” Vaughn. . .and I have to say, I’ve gotten some e-mails lately telling me they love the Kid, and that’s been really nice because he provides some much-needed comic relief, especially when paired with Canyon “Midas” Metcalfe, the brooding medic. Azzan “Aladdin” Yasir has brought in some more strength to the team, and John “Squirt” Dighton brought some adventure—and both of these men brought some foreign flavor (Aladdin is half Palestinian, half Jewish, and Dighton is Australian-American).

I made each man independent with their own strengths and flaws, but also made them each absolutely invaluable to the team. Colton, the sniper. Midas, the medic. Max the leader. Griffin, the “sergeant” that keeps everyone in line. The Kid with his wit and humor eases tension. And so on. They are all unique yet a single unit. It’s been amazing even for me to watch how it all came together. I just wrote Firethorn and bawled my eyes out realizing it was the last book. These men are almost as real to me as you are.

Q: The Discarded Heroes series contains several elements: romance, suspense, and action. Which element of the plot do you enjoy creating the most?

Action. Action. We want Action!
A-C-T! I-O-N!

Sorry, the cheer just sort of leapt out of me. Yes, absolutely the action is what I love writing and will probably always write. Although I love suspense and romance (what’s a hero without his heroine and a bit of suspense to keep them apart?), the action is where I seem to hit my stride in each story.

Q: What sort of research did you do in order to keep your Discarded Heroes series militarily accurate?

My “research” started by being a military brat, I suppose. I grew up in a military family, so I had an almost innate respect for our heroes in uniform—in fact, I even married a soldier. He was medically discharged right before our wedding, but his father remained enlisted at the time and retired about 12 years ago. I spoke with Chaplain Carlton D. Hall, who served as a great resource. He works at a VA hospital in central Texas, counseling veterans with post-traumatic disorder (PTSD). He was a great help. I was also was put in touch with a former Army Ranger, who helped me maintain accuracy (as much as possible in a secret black ops group like Nightshade that isn’t technically connected to our military). And last but not least, I spent countless hours poring over articles and books; thesis; independent studies; and medical journal articles about PTSD, combat-related PTSD, and traumatic brain injury (TBI). I also interviewed several veterans and talked with countless others who have a relative with PTSD or TBI. Since research in our country is really just taking off now, I am continuously reading/researching.

New Fiction Releases for May!

2011-05-01T16:26:00.000-07:00

Woot! Here are new fiction releases for the month of May, as posted on the ACFW e-loop. There are many books I'm looking forward to reading! More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW FictionFinder website.Personally, I am looking forward to reading Lynette Eason's books--and there are two this month!! Annnnd...I am reading Karen Witemeyer's TO WIN HER HEART right now--it's a delightful read. Make sure you grab a copy!

A Great Catch by Lorna Seilstad -- General Fiction from Revell. She wants to change the world. He wants to change her mind.

A Killer Among Us by Lynette Eason -- A Thriller/Suspense from Revell. Kit Kenyon is a first-rate hostage negotiator. Noah Lambert is a good detective with excellent instincts. The new partners have hardly had time to get used to each other when they are thrown into a grisly murder case.

Deep Trouble by Mary Connealy -- A Romance from Barbour. Gabe Lasley finds Shannon Dysart stranded in a mountaintop cave and saves her. She is on a quest to prove her father’s research isn’t the work of a madman, that he really did find a treasure in the wild west.

Died in the Wool by Elizabeth Ludwig -- A Mystery from Barbour. Can Monah and proven sleuth Casey Alexander find the real killer before this librarian is booked for murder?

Fade to Blue by Julie Ca robini -- A Romance from B&H Publishing. When confronted with her most painful, past decisions, will Suz Mitchell second guess herself? Or will she learn to let God restore all that once seemed lost?

Journey's End by Dora Hiers -- A Romance from White Rose. When Chelsea Hammond is snatched from her home, can she put aside her fear, and trust Trey Colten with her life? Can she forgive him for destroying her past and let him help to rebuild her future?

Montana Marriages Trilogy by Mary Connealy -- Romance from Barbour. The complete Montana Marriages series all under one cover. One volume encases three acclaimed novels by Mary Connealy.

Over The Edge by Brandilyn Collins -- Thriller/Suspense from B&H Publishing. Torn from the front lines of medical debate and the author's own experience with Lyme Disease, Over the Edge is riveting fiction, full of twists and turns—and powerful truths about today's medical field.

Promise of Time by S. Dionne Moore -- A Romance from Barbour/Heartsong. Time promises to heal all wounds, but will Ellie and Theo allow God to work His timing in their lives and bring a new promise of love?

Revealing Fire by Connie Stevens -- A Romance from Barbour/Heartsong. Two people in their September years are blessed with a second chance at happiness, but unexpected arrivals of a long-estranged son and a long-forgotten former admirer threaten to unravel the cords that bind two hearts.

Secrets of the Heart; Ravensmoore Chronicles, Book One by Jillian Kent -- A Romance from Rhelms. When Lady Madeline Whittington rescues a runaway from a nearby lunatic asylum her life will be forever changed.

The Art of Romance by Kaye Dacus -- A Romance from Barbour. Two artists are drawn together by matchmaking matriarchs.

The Unexpected Bride by Debra Ullrick -- A Romance from Love Inspired. Haydon Bowen has no intention of marrying. Unfortunately, his brother has other plans. Even when beautiful, cultured Rainelle Devonwood learns she's a mistakenly ordered bride, she won't let Haydon drive her away.

Threat of Exposure by Lynette Eason -- A Thriller/Suspense from Love Inspired. In book 5 of the Texas Ranger Justice series, DEA Brock Martin and Texas Ranger Gisella Hernandez must work together to decipher codes, uncover clues and protect themselves from a killer who doesn't want his secrets known.

To Win Her Heart by Karen Witemeyer -- A Romance from Bethany House. A blacksmith with a criminal past. A librarian with pacifist ideals. Do they have a fighting chance at finding love?

Undercurrent by Michelle Griep -- A Science Fiction/Time Travel from Risen Books. People go missing every day--many meet with foul play, some leave the social grid by choice, but others are never accounted for...where do they go?

When Sparrows Fall by Meg Moseley -- A Romance from Waterbrook/Multnomah. When an isolated home-schooling widow makes a stealthy bid to escape a cultic group, an outspoken professor encourages her to stand up to her abuser but brings his own set of complications.

Wyoming Weddings by Vickie McDonough, Susan Page Davis, and Diana Brandmeyer -- Romance from Barbour. Three modern Wyoming women face mountains on the road to love.

Wolfsbane Trailer

2011-04-26T08:38:00.000-07:00

This is one of my all-time favorite parts of the writing process--the trailer. It's so amazing to see a book brought to life through media like this. It's also hard to believe that Wolfsbane releases in a mere two months! WOW!! Time sure does fly when you're having fun, eh?

While I have you here, I thought I'd share some more endorsements that have come in for Wolfsbane. Here they are:

Ronie Kendig serves up a mix of machinegun-fast action, touching romance, and more twists than a coil of detonator wire. Get a good grip on the edge of your seat before you start reading! --Rick Acker, author of When the Devil Whistles and Dead Man’s Rule
Wolfsbane is a fast-paced, military suspense with just the right amount of romance to keep readers flipping pages. Ronie Kendig's smooth writing style, realistic scenes, and vivid characters blend beautifully for a must-read experience. A definite keeper!~Robin Caroll, author of Deliver Us From Evil and In The Shadow of Evil

Gripping. Compelling. Gritty. Intense. And that's just the first few pages. You're in for a wild but fulfilling ride. ~Lenora Worth, author of Body of Evidence

Just in case you haven't seen it, here's the blurb for this third installment in the Discarded Heroes series:

Demolitions expert Danielle Roark has been left behind in hostile territory during a mission with Nightshade. Former Green Beret and medic Canyon Metcalfe, beset with memories of another mission gone bad, vows to rescue her, sacrificing everything. As secrets unravel, will Canyon and Dani find healing, closure, and each other? Or will rescue come too late?

Also, Amazon now has a sample preview of the first chapters available. If you haven't already, rush on over there and drop into the chaos that is Canyon "Midas" Metcalfe's life!

PRE-ORDER WolfsbaneNOW!!!

And without further ado, here's the trailer. Give a peek and tell me what you think!

FOUR-BOOK WINNER!

2011-04-22T21:03:00.000-07:00

Okay, I waited as long as I could today to give y'all extra time to enter--and thank goodness, since two more participants joined today.

Annnnnd because there was such a great response and your enthusiasm touched me so much, I made the choice to pick TWO grand prize winners, as well as two winners who will receive a copy of either Nightshade or Digitalis.

So, without further ado, the TWO GRAND PRIZE WINNERS--who will receive ALL FOUR NIGHTSHADE BOOKS (Nightshade & Digitalis will be mailed this week, then the winners will be placed on my priority list as soon as I get my copies):

AMANDA -- Thank you for posting about the giveaway on Twitter!
SARA B. - Thank you for posting about the giveaway on Twitter!

And the two winners who will receive their choice of NIGHTSHADE or DIGITALIS:

Kimberlyj503
Deb Piccurelli - Thank you for posting about the giveaway on Twitter!

So, ladies...please take a moment and send me your snail mail address. Since it's Easter weekend, I will give you until Monday to claim your prize. If any winner does not respond by that time, I will draw new winners!

THANK YOU FOR RECRUITING MORE BOOTS ON THE GROUND!
YOU WERE AMAZING!!!

FIRETHORN cover!

2011-04-15T05:00:00.000-07:00

In this post: cover reveal and a GIVEAWAY!!

I am super excited to share this cover with you for FIRETHORN, Discarded Heroes #4! The design team really captured Griffin and even Kazi on this one. They are the closest to the actual characters in the book of all the covers. I will be sending Firethorn in to my editor soon, and it's been one of the hardest stories I've ever written. And I'm a little blown away that this is the fifth book that I've written for a publisher (my twenty-somethingth all together).

So, there's a giveaway...but ya gotta read all the "fine print" first--that is, read the full post! :-D

Explosive Conclusion to the Discarded Heroes!

ISBN: 978-1-60260-785-9

Dismantled and blown,
Nightshade is ready to repay the favor.

Rawkin', don't you think? Do you like the cover--please tell me you do!! It's one of my favorites among all my books now.

Here's a short blurb for this final installment:

Former Marine and current Nightshade team member Griffin Riddell is comfortable. So comfortable he never sees the set up that lands him in a maximum security prison, charged with murder. How will he ever prove his innocence stuck behind iron bars?
Covert operative Kazi Faron is tasked with reassembling Nightshade—the black ops team someone dissected. Breaking Griffin out of a federal penitentiary amid explosive confusion may turn out to be her last assignment. What will it take to convince the fugitive that whoever set him up has also dissected the Nightshade team?
As Kazi and Griffin race to rescue the others and discover the traitor, love begins to awaken in their hearts. Can a covert operative and the felon she’s freed overcome their mutual distrust long enough to save Nightshade? Will anything prepare them for who—or what is coming?

Sound interesting? Great, I knew I could count on you! So, here's the deal on the giveaway: Help me recruit more boots on ground for this mission. All you have to do is Tweet about the cover on Twitter or share a post on Facebook. Be sure to tag me in the post (ronie.kendig on Facebook) and roniekendig on Twitter) so I know you're trying to recruit more boots (readers) for the team!

A drawing will be held next Friday (4/22) and one lucky winner will receive: Nightshade , Digitalis, Wolfsbane, and FIRETHORN. Yep, you read that right--all four books. And you're asking me, But how, Ronie? The last two haven't even been released? Well, that lucky winner will be placed on my list to receive copy as soon as I get my copies. BE SURE TO COMMENT HERE AND LEAVE AN EMAIL ADDRESS so I can contact you if you win!!!

Grab your gear and join the mission to save Nightshade.
Will anyone make it out alive?

Meet Griffin

2011-04-11T09:01:00.000-07:00

So, I thought that before I do the reveal on Firethorn's cover, I'd "introduce" you to the model Mullerhaus used for Griffin. I am really happy with this guy; he really fits the persona/character of Griffin "Legend" Riddell.

Another interesting thing is that the sister-in-law of this model contacted me a while back--she's a homeschooling mom as well. She also has a writing blog for her homeschoolers and wanted to interview me. That really was one of the coolest emails I have ever received!

What do you think? Does he fit what you imagined as Griffin? He's perfect to me!

And be sure to stay in touch--I'll be doing a giveaway when I debut the cover for Firethorn!!

Retailer's Choice Award -- Nightshade finalist!

2011-04-06T21:20:00.000-07:00

I am absolutely delighted to share that NIGHTSHADE, Discarded Heroes #1, has been nominated for Christian Retailing's 2011 Retailer's Choice Award!! I am really tickled that someone in the retailing field--the men/women on the "front lines" of bookstores (online and brick-and-mortar stores) thought of my book when it came to this contest. It's a real honor.

Here is a full list of fiction titles that were nominated:

Fiction: Contemporary Romance

Lydia's Charm, Wanda E. Brunstetter (Barbour Publishing)
Nightshade, Ronie Kendig (Barbour Publishing)
Seek Me With All Your Heart, Beth Wiseman (Thomas Nelson)
Tender Vow, Sharlene MacLaren (Whitaker House)
The Bridge of Peace, Cindy Woodsmall (WaterBrook Multnomah)
They Almost Always Come Home, Cynthia Ruchti (Abingdon Press)
Two Tickets to the Christmas Ball, Donita K. Paul (WaterBrook Multnomah)

Fiction: General

Greater Love, Robert Whitlow (Thomas Nelson)
Her Mother's Hope, Francine Rivers (Tyndale House Publishers)
Unlocked, Karen Kingsbury (Zondervan)

Fiction: Historical Romance

Embers of Love, Tracie Peterson (Baker Publishing Group)
Here Burns My Candle, Liz Curtis Higgs (WaterBrook Multnomah)
The Gathering Storm, Bodie & Brock Thoene (Summerside Press)

Fiction: Mystery and Suspense

Immanuel's Veins, Ted Dekker (Thomas Nelson)
The Bishop, Steven James (Baker Publishing Group)
The Twelfth Imam, Joel C. Rosenberg (Tyndale House Publishers)

First-Time Authors

Crossing Oceans, Gina Holmes (Tyndale House Publishers)
Life Without Limits, Nick Vujicic (Doubleday Religion)
The Devil in Pew Number 7, Rebecca Alonzo (Tyndale House Publishers)

Here's a bit from the RCA website about this contest and how the finalists were chosen:

Products nominated in the competition were judged on the impact they have had on staff and customers, including their ability to speak to hearts and evoke emotion, open minds to new ways of thinking and encourage and affirm Christlike living.

Winners will be announced later this month. Congratulations to all the finalists!

Meet Kazi Faron

2011-04-04T08:52:00.000-07:00

My amazing friend Rel Mollet from DownUnder has an interview up at her blog with Kazi FAron, the heroine of Firethorn, Discarded Heroes #4.

Here's the image of Kazi that I used while writing the story. I'm giving you a sneak peek because--soon, I hope--I'll let you see who ended up on the cover. Oh how I wish the designers could've used this image. I think Elisha Cuthbert just glows!! What do you think?

Don't forget to stop by check out Kazi's interview at RelzReviewz!!

Catching Up

2011-04-03T19:22:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm under a pretty heavy deadline at the moment and working to get Firethorn, Discarded Heroes #4 finished (hope to share the cover with y'all very soon--waiting to hear from the art director!), so I've been snowed under with that and sickness (three weeks now--oy!).

I wanted to share some photos with you. As some of you may (or may not) know, my mom was from Ireland (actually born in Sussex, England, but was raised in Dublin Ireland (her father who was born/raised in Ireland)). She died 15 years ago March 12, and this year my cousin Graham Keane got married, so my entire family traveled to Ireland for his wedding.

It really was a fantastic trip, despite some really awful things happening--like my jewelry getting stolen (including a beloved 10-year anniversary ring). I was able to get to know my side of the family and see where I belong, identify with them. One glorious moment for me was when Graham mentioned he and his father having the "stubborn, emotional Keane" trait. I laughed--nooooo, I didn't know anything about that trait. Just massively infected with it. :-D

On another note, I will be participating in a multi-author event on April 23 with three fabulous fiction authors: Elizabeth Goddard, Lena Nelson Dooley, and Dr. Richard Mabry. It's in Frisco at the Mardel on Preston Road. Come out, buy a book, save an author!!

BOUND BY GUILT by CJ Darlington

2011-03-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

TitleTrakk.com Blog Tours Presents:

Bound by Guilt
by C.J. Darlington
Published by Tyndale House

Shuttled between foster homes, Roxi Gold will do anything to fit in. Soon she’s traveling the country stealing rare books from unsuspecting bookstores. Police officer Abby Dawson has seen the worst of society—and not just at work. One fateful night, both their lives are changed forever. One searches for justice, the other finds herself on the run. Will the power of forgiveness set them free?

***INSERT YOUR REVIEW HERE?***

Great job! You kept me turning the pages.
--Francine Rivers, Internationally best selling author

C.J. is a wonderful, talented writer . . . extraordinary . . .
--Bodie Thoene, best-selling author of the A.D. Chronicles

This one engages your senses and reaches your heart.
--Jerry B. Jenkins, NY Times best-selling author & owner of The Christian Writers Guild

Watch the book trailer:

About the Author:
C. J. Darlington won the 2008 Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild Operation First Novel contest with her first novel, Thicker Than Blood. She has been in the antiquarian bookselling business for over twelve years, scouting for stores similar to the ones described in her novels before cofounding her own online bookstore. In 2006 C. J. started the Christian entertainment Web site www.TitleTrakk.com with her sister, Tracy, and has been actively promoting Christian fiction through book reviews and author interviews. A homeschool graduate, she makes her home in Pennsylvania with her family and their menagerie of dogs and cats. Visit her website www.cjdarlington.com

QUICK LINKS:

LEAVE A COMMENT NOW to win a copy of BOUND BY GUILT!!

Celebrate with my "Twin" Dineen--her first book!!

2011-03-07T05:00:00.000-08:00

Week after week, they sit in church . . . alone. They are the spiritually mismatched, those who are committed to a spouse who does not share their faith. Feeling abandoned by their spouse and forgotten by their church, they live out their faith in survival mode, guarding the spiritual flame yet never feeling free to share it. But God wants them to thrive—not just survive.

Winning Him Without Words by Lynn Donovan and Dineen Miller presents 10 Christ-centered keys to thriving in a spiritual mismatch. Readers are encouraged to commit to Christian community, to release their spouse to God’s capable hands, to believe their marriage is blessed, to pick and choose their battles, and to continue their pursuit of a growing faith and to love their spouse with fresh enthusiasm.

“It matters not how we came to be in our crazy, mixed-up and unexpected marriage situations. What matters is that God desires that we honor our marriage commitment and fulfill our marriage vows through His power and His strength,” says Miller. “There were many years of confusion, sadness and unfulfilled expectations, but I discovered it’s possible to love, live and thrive in an unequally yoked marriage.”

Both Lynn and Dineen are Christian women in spiritually unequally yoked marriages, but believe that God wants every marriage to exude peace and love. Chapters include:

• Know You’re Not Alone: (Lynn) Recognizing that we aren’t the only person living in an unequally yoked marriage is a key aspect to restoring hope. Having Christ in our lives enables us to view our husbands as the wonderful man God created, regardless of your different beliefs.
• Don’t Save Your Husband – Save Yourself: (Lynn) The best thing I ever did was to get out of the way so that Jesus could be Jesus. I relinquished control and turned my man completely over to Christ and an unexpected, peaceful freedom emerged in our marriage.
• Trade Perfection for Authenticity: (Dineen) I came to understand that many of my disappointments had come from expectations I’d placed upon him to fulfill needs he wasn’t even aware of. In the end, all I really accomplished was a heart full of resentment.
• Keep Your Armor On-You’re at War! (Dineen) Instead of putting on the label of martyr in a spiritually mismatched marriage, we need to put on the label of missionaries. We need to think of ourselves as soldiers on the front lines of our marriages.

Other chapters include parenting children in an unequally yoked marriage, praying into the life of your spouse and scriptures to encourage and strengthen you. Winning Him Without Words empowers readers to create that environment in their homes and thrive as God works. The official website is www.winninghimwithoutwords.com

About Winning Him Without Words:
Winning Him Without Words: 10 Keys to Thriving in Your Spiritually Mismatched Marriage by Lynn Donovan and Dineen Miller. Published by Regal Books. February 2011. Trade Paper, 224 pages. $14.99. ISBN: 978-08307-5605

LYNN DONOVAN writes for the online ministry she founded in 2006, Spiritually Unequal Marriage. Lynn is a popular Bible study leader and national speaker who dispels the myths women believe about love and marriage and points them to the freedom that is theirs through a living relationship with Christ. She lives in Temecula, California, with her husband, Mike.

DINEEN MILLER has won several prestigious awards for her fiction, and her devotional writing has been featured in Our Journey and Christian Women Online Magazine. In addition to writing for Spiritually Unequal Marriage, Dineen writes for Laced with Grace and various other fiction online magazines and newsletters. Married for more than 23 years, she shares her life with a great guy who adores disc golf and their two daughters, who never stops surprising her with their own creativity.

Wolfsbane Endorsements

2011-02-26T20:12:00.000-08:00

Okay, I am really tickled to share the first endorsements with you for Wolfsbane, Discarded Heroes #3, which releases July 1st. Yes, that's four months away. Can you stand it?

The first endorsement came from Dineen Miller, author of Winning Him Without Words and The Soul Saver (Barbour, 2012):

Steeped in conflict and characters searching for redemption, Ronie Kendig writes her best story yet. Intense action, integrity, honor, sacrifice—these are the attributes displayed richly in Wolfsbane. Even after the last page, Dani and Canyon continue to live my heart. —Dineen Miller, author of Winning Him Without Words: 10 Keys to Thriving in Your Spiritually Mismatched Marriage and The Soul Saver

The second one is from the amazing LYNETTE EASON (you have read her romantic suspense, right???):

"Wow. Just finished Kendig's Wolfsbane and I've...yet...to...catch...my...breath. Non-stop, fast-paced, machine gun type action that will leave you exhausted--and yearning for more. Don't even try to put the book down because you'll find yourself drawn right back, unable to do or think about anything else until you reach the end. Kendig has created realistic, imperfect characters to cheer for and cry with as they struggle to find God and do the right thing. A definite keeper for your read-again shelf." --Lynette Eason - best-selling author of Too Close to Home and Don't Look Back

So, there ya go. The first teaser of what's to come. Stay tuned! I'll start posting more teasing tidbits to lure you into Canyon's world in the days ahead! But surely you want to PREORDER this book now, right? Well, here ya go--a handy-dandy point, click and shoot, er, order button:

Military War Dog Book covers

2011-01-26T12:44:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I have been browsing book covers on Amazon relating to dogs because I know that my publisher will soon send me the art fact sheet to fill out for the military war dog series. I've got a few that I like, that have dogs on them but aren't cutesy (can't go "cute" because my books are still military thrillers with intense action to fit my RAPID-FIRE FICTION brand.

What is your favorite dog book cover? Please help me prepare my list!

So, the cover for FREEDOM IN THE AIR is by far my favorite. I'm still not a fan of having a person's face so prominent on the cover, but this shows you that this isn't just a fun romp through life with a dog. The military element is clearly portrayed.

Okay, so I'm cheating with this one. It's not a cover, but I absolutely love how the dog is sniffing the camera. But...this has a bit of a "goofy" feel to it, so I'm not sure it'd be a good and accurate reflection.

And this one is another picture found on a military site. I love this image because the dog is the primary focus of the image, and while there is someone in ACUs, their face is not easily focused on. I also love this because the dog is wearing his vest, which portrays his role as a military war dog rather than a pet.

And this final one I like because it's not your normal dog book cover. It shows a companionship between the dog and his owner. Regardless of how much I like this, I don't think it's a good fit for a war dog series.

So, tell me: do you have a favorite dog book cover? If so, please provide the title of the book and the author's name--and tell me why you like it.

A Breed Apart: Military War Dog Series

2011-01-19T17:09:00.000-08:00

It is my extreme pleasure to announce that my agent Steve Laub e has negotiated and I have signed a 3-book contract with my publisher, BARBOUR PUBLISHING, for a series about retired military war dogs and their handlers entitled A Breed Apart. I have been very pleased working with the Barbour Fiction team, and I'm so grateful to my editor, Rebecca Germany, for believing in me and these stories enough to let them see the ink of publication!

Without further ado, here is a bit more about the stories:

Trinity: Military War Dog (June 2012)- After Green Beret Heath Daniels survives an IED attack—thanks to his military war dog, Trinity, a Belgian Malinois—he battles blackouts from traumatic brain injury (TBI) and is discharged. Feeling weak and lost, he finds hope through A Breed Apart, an organization training dogs like Trinity to aid independent contractors. Military Intelligence officer Darci Kintz is secretly embedded with a geological survey team in Afghanistan. A deadly discovery leaves her team dead and her a captive. Heath and Trinity join the search for the military intelligence officer.

Talon: Combat Tracking Team (November 2012)– Former Marine Aspen Courtland adopts Talon, a Combat Tracking Team German Shepherd declared “excess.” But Talon is afraid of his own shadow after an attack that left his second handler—and Aspen’s brother—missing. Former Marine Special Operations commander Dane Markoski is tasked with tracking down a rogue Marine selling military secrets in Africa—and he needs Talon to do it because the rogue was Talon’s first handler. But Talon won’t cooperate without Aspen, who has rehabilitated the canine. In Africa, the team quickly realizes they’ve been set up. But can they untangle the maze of lies? Can Talon overcome his fear, or will he shut down and put everyone in danger?

Beowulf: Specialized Search Dog (June 2013)– Handler Timbrel Hogan and her highly trained specialized search dog, Beowulf, a Mastiff mix who is as ugly as he is smart, must enter a roiling war zone to retrieve a high-value target from a prison. But once on their own with the spy who provided the Intel, Timbrel is no longer certain the story is legit. In fact, she suspects they’ve been set up. Nikol Tselekova has more to hide that his nationality but he can’t let Timbrel Hogan, whose bite is worse than her dog’s, interfere with his mission to save his own sister from a deadly alliance.

So, there you have it. Celebrate with me!! I am really excited to begin the A Breed Apart series with Barbour!! I hope you'll enjoy these books when they hit the shelves next year.

(images found/property of DVIDS)

CENTRAL PARK RENDEZVOUS Novella Collection

2011-01-14T12:25:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to announce that I signed a contract with Barbour Publishing to write one of four novellas in a collection entitled CENTRAL PARK RENDEZVOUS and will be set in (as if you couldn't figure this out already) Central Park, NY. I will be writing with some very amazing ladies: Dineen Miller, MaryLu Tyndall, and Kim Vogel Sawyer! The collection is set to release April 2012.

Here is the blurb for the collection:

Through the timelessness of the love never fails verses from I Corinthians 13, characters from four generations of one family endure hard and cruel circumstances in life, yet bring love full circle to its completion. In Ronie Kendig’s Dream A Little Dream the characters learn “love always perseveres,” even when combat-related repercussions block the path to dreams and love. Dineen Miller explores “love always hopes” in her story, A Love Meant to Be, in which a lingering hope leads to a love fulfilled after Vietnam. In To Sing Another Day, Kim Vogel Sawyer reveals that “love is kind. . .not self-seeking” against a backdrop of poverty in a era of severe economic depression and World War II. With an expert touch MaryLu Tyndall shows how “Love Never Fails,” despite unimaginable odds and disfiguring pride connected with the Civil War.

Celebrate with us, please!! YAYAYAYAY!!!

OPEN GIVEAWAY

2011-01-12T19:45:00.000-08:00

Hey, Everyone. I left out a hugely important giveaway by my beautiful and amazing friend, Rel Mollet at Relz Reviewz!! She is doing an "open" giveaway on her fabulous blog. Please, please, take a moment to stop by her blog and visit. Also, she has interviews with the Nightshade team members.

http://relzreviewz.blogspot.com/2010/12/open-giveaway-ronie-kendigs-digitalis.html

Stuff & More GIVEAWAYS

2011-01-11T21:38:00.000-08:00

Hey, everyone!! With this being the release month for DIGITALIS, things are a-flurry! :-D I'm working on edits for Wolfsbane--WOOFTA (as the beautiful & amazing Kim Vogel Sawyer says), they're kicking my BEE-HIND! But we're almost done, and I am going to owe a ton to the fabulous Julee Schwarzburg for making Wolfsbane RAWK!!

Lots of things are happening behind the scenes, and I will be bringing some really great news your way very soon. How's that for a teaser? ::grins::

Below you'll find links to this weeks' sites that have interviews and are doing giveaways. Be sure to stop by and say howdy, let the folks know we appreciate their help!

THE CHRISTIAN MANIFESTO and Barbour are giving away FIVE COPIES of DIGITALIS!! Check it out!! They also did an incredible and fair review of DIGITALIS previously. Thanks, Melissa!

STEPHANIE MORRILL posted a review and is also giving away a copy of DIGITALIS! Enter right here!

And finally...I'll take a moment to share some reviews that have really touched me. Pardon me while I toot my own horn here, but praise can be so sparse that I want to savor each one. LOL

Deena Ward Peterson said: I'm giving "Digitalis" the Golden Bookmark for Excellence in Writing and in Purpose, as well as voting it "Best Military Suspense of 2011." Considering we are still in JANUARY of 2011, I am sooo humbled and honored by this!! THANK YOU, Deena!

Fiction Addict Reviewer Elizabeth Olmedo said, "Kendig is the Karen Kingsbury of Christian Suspense!" WHOA. That's one I'm still digesting. :-D

So...there ya have the news for now. But be sure to stop by later as I am anxiously awaiting the signal from Agent-Man Steve Laube that allows me to share some very exciting news!

January Releases!

2011-01-03T18:42:00.000-08:00

There is a fantastic line-up of books available this month. Please take a moment to browse and select one that piques your interest! More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW FictionFinder website.

1. Alaska Weddings by Susan Page Davis -- A Romance from Barbour. In this three-novel collection, love has come looking for the Holland family of Alaska. But new challenges to their faith lie around every bend.

2. Banda Mission: Kidnapped in Ghana by Ruben Schwieger -- A Thriller from Warner Press. Coup leaders unexpectedly kidnap a missionary who, like the Apostle Paul, is able to share his faith with his jailors and others in unusual and dangerous situations.

3. Book of Days: A Novel by Jim Rubart -- A Thriller/Suspense from B and H Publishing. God’s Book of Days. A record of the past, present, and future of every soul. Some say it’s fable. Others are sure it’s real, hidden somewhere on Earth...If Cameron Vaux can’t find it, he will lose everything..

4. Caroline's Choice; Haynes Famiiy Series, Book 3 by Martha Rogers -- A Historical from Realms (Strang Book Group). When God sends forgiveness to the hearts of His children, they learn the true meaning of love.

5. Courting Miss Amsel by Kim Vogel Sawyer -- A Historical from Bethany House. Edythe Amsel is ready for her first teaching assignment, but is Walnut Hill ready for her?

6. Digitalis (Discarded Heroes #2) by Ronie Kendig -- A Thriller/Suspense from Barbour. Deep in heart of the Holy Land for a snatch-n-grab to save her father, Colton Neeley and Piper Blum must make the treacherous trek out of hostile territory before they’re caught.

7. Faith's Reward by Tammy Barley -- A Historical from Whitaker House. The year 1865 starts out as a nightmare come true for Jessica Bennett. The cattle she and her husband, Jake, fought to save from drought the summer before now face the threat of freezing to death. Her fears worsen when Jake contracts pneumonia.

8. Found in Translation by Roger Bruner and Kristi Rae Bruner -- A Young Adult from Barbour. God can do the humanly impossible through a thoughtless teen once she learns to be faithful, obedient, and forgiving.

9. Jewel of Persia by Roseanna White -- A Historical from White Fire Publishing. How can she love the king of kings without forsaking her Lord of lords?

10. Lily of the Field by Rose Zediker -- A Romance from Barbour Heartsong Presents. Marriage isn't on Caroline’s or Rodney’s minds...but their minds are not God's and He is busy taking care of the lilies of the field-and His children.

11. Missing by Lynette Eason -- A Suspense from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. Her daughter is the most important person in Lacey Gibson's world. So when the girl disappears, Lacey will do anything to find her. Even track down a man she hasn't seen in sixteen years.

12. Night Prey by Sharon Dunn -- A Romance from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Romantic Suspense. Injured birds of prey, late night trespassers, and threatening note lead Jenna and her childhood friend Keith into more danger than could have imagined in the ranch country of Montana.

13. Rocky Mountain Hero by Audra Harders -- A Romance from Steeple Hill Love Inspired. Can a single mother desperate to make ends meet find love with a rancher too busy to fall in love?

14. Sharp Shooters in Petticoats by Mary Connealy -- A Romance from Barbour. You didn't think Sophie McClellen's daughter would grow up to be a quiet little thing, did you?

15. Softly and Tenderly; Songbird Series by Sara Evans with Rachel Hauck -- A Romance from Thomas Nelson. Emily and David each come to terms with a past that follows them, testing their faith and resolve.

16. Tennessee Brides by Diane Ashley & Aaron McCarver -- A Romance from Barbour. Romance, adventures, and dangers--including the war with Britain, discrimination against the Cherokee, and organization of the Underground Railroad--lurk at the fringes of three Tennessee women's lives.

17. The Baby Promise by Carolyn Aarsen -- A Romance from Steeple Hill Love Inspired. A soldier determined to fulfill a promise and a woman determined to forget.

18. The Rhythm of Secrets by Patti Lacy -- General Fiction from Kregel. Inspired by a true story, The Rhythm of Secrets intermingles jazz, classical, and sacred music in a symphony trumpeting God’s grace.

19. Touched by Mercy by Tina Pinson -- A Historical from Desert Breeze. The west seems to hold all the answers to Samantha Northam's dreams, but is it far enough away to protect her from her nightmares?

20. Unexpected Love; Seasons of Redemption, Book 3 by Andrea Boeshaar -- A Historical from Realms (Strang Book Group). Nurse Lorenna Fields is drawn to a blind patient searching for his past. But as his memories return, will there be a place for her in his future?

Nightshade - Lime Award 2010 Recipient!!

2010-12-21T10:22:00.000-08:00

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!

DIGITALIS Trailer!!

2010-12-15T05:32:00.000-08:00

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.

--DiAnn Mills, Christy Award Winning author of Pursuit of Justice

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

In Digitalis, the second book of the [Discarded Heroes] series, Ronie Kendig has done it again. Passion, intrigue, and heart stopping action make this story impossible to put down. Action, great character, romance, and faith weave together to make this story a must read.
--Lara Van Hulzen Radiant Lit

ORDER Digitalis, Discarded Heroes #2 NOW!! Books will hit stores very soon! :-D
CHRISTIANBOOK.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!

2010-11-26T12:03:00.000-08:00

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!

Winner & Veteran's Day Giveaway

2010-11-11T07:35:00.000-08:00

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

2010-11-05T05:27:00.000-07:00

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.

November Releases

2010-10-31T10:57:00.000-07:00

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW website.

1. A Daughter for Christmas (Helping Hands Homeschooling, Book 3) by Margaret Daley -- A Romance from Steeple Hill. Can Dr. Max Connors make his dream of a family come true when he must tell the widowed mother of the daughter he never knew he had who he really is?

2. A Suitor for Jenny (A Rocky Creek Romance) #2 by Margaret Brownley -- A Historical from Thomas Nelson. Jenny Higgins is determined to find husband for her two younger sisters and nothing, not even a handsome marshal, will stand in her way.

3. Behind the Scenes (Tabor Heights, Ohio) by Michelle Levigne -- A Romance from Desert Breeze. Surrounded by crises, best friends transition to life partners, to their own surprise and the amusement of those who love them most.

4. Betrayal in the Badlands (Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense) by Dana Mentink -- A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Steeple Hill. Isabel Ling and Logan Price must battle an enemy more deadly than the mighty Badlands.

5. In All Things, Sequel to “No Other” by Shawna K. Williams -- A Historical from Desert Breeze. Jakob and Meri never imagined that the tragedies of their past would one day be transformed into something wondrous and beautiful.

6. Lassoed in Texas Trilogy by Mary Connealy -- A Romance from Barbour. A three-in-one of romantic comedy with cowboys.

7. Long Time Coming by Vanessa Miller -- Women's Fiction from Abingdon. Two women from different worlds find hope together in this heart gripping story of faith, forgiveness and reconciliation.

8. Mail Order Cowboy (Love Inspired Historical); Simpson Creek Brides by Laurie Kingery -- A Historical from Steeple Hill. A small-town Texas spinster finds love with an unlikely mail order groom.

9. Masquerade Marriage by Anne Greene -- A Historical from White Rose. When Lady Megan MacMurry chooses a husband from a secret list, she opens her broken heart to a Highland warrior's fight for life.

10. Soaring Home (Love Inspired Historical) by Christine Johnson -- A Romance from Steeple Hill. A small-town girl plans to be the first woman to fly across the Atlantic.

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) #3 by Susan Page Davis -- A Historical from Barbour. A former saloon girl proves she can drive a six-horse hitch--and drive her boss crazy.

13. The Silent Order by Melanie Dobson -- A Historical from Summerside Press. A Cleveland detective pursues the Mafia family responsible for murdering the woman he loved until he meets an Amish woman with a secret that changes his life.

DIGITALIS on NetGalley & Iced Mocha Flavor

2010-10-19T08:46:00.000-07:00

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) ! In a little more than two months, the second installment in the Discarded Heroes series will be shipping.

******************************************************************

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

DEAD RECKONING - INSPY Short List Finalist!

2010-10-01T08:08:00.000-07:00

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.

Robert Liparulo endorses DIGITALIS

2010-09-28T11:36:00.000-07:00

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 FREE download!

2010-09-22T10:10:00.000-07:00

Hey, Everyone! Guess what?! Abingdon Press is offering
DEAD RECKONING
for a

FREE! FREE! FREE!!

download from Amazon, Barnes&Noble.com, and Borders.com
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

WOLFSBANE cover revealed!

2010-09-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

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.

NIGHTSHADE TV/movie rights optioned

2010-08-26T12:17:00.001-07:00

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...

Havah: The Story of Eve by Tosca Lee

2010-08-17T12:01:00.000-07:00

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.

ACFW Conference Favorites and Memories

2010-08-13T05:00:00.000-07:00

((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:

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/

Lynette Sowell, author of Seaside Romance and her novella in A Riverwalk Christmas shares her favorite memory:

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:

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.

So, as you can see...ACFW isn't all about writing. It's friends, mischief, and adventure! You game?

If you have a favorite memory or aspect of the conference, please feel free to share it! That's what ACFW is all about!

BOB HAMER endorses DIGITALIS!!

2010-08-11T16:45:00.000-07:00

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. His style and voice are very unique and laden with the experience that comes from being a veteran FBI undercover agent.

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

NIGHTSHADE Giveaway

2010-08-09T07:56:00.001-07:00

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?

DANGER CLOSE by William Boykin

2010-07-19T08:30:00.000-07:00

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!!

STOP and THINK! Crazy Love (Chan) cont.

2010-07-12T10:55:00.001-07:00

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 19:1-4

Wow! 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.

CRAZY LOVE by Francis Chan

2010-07-09T09:47:00.000-07:00

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

NIGHTSHADE releases!!

2010-07-01T07:24:00.001-07:00

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

Barbour Press Release About Nightshade!

2010-06-17T10:09:00.000-07:00

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

Barbour to Release Unique Military-Themed Fiction Series
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

###

Press Release: ACFW Announces Genesis Finalists

2010-06-15T17:54:00.000-07:00

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

• CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE:

Jeannie Campbell
Sarah Forgrave
Janice LaQuiere
Rebecca Syme
Linda Yezak

• HISTORICAL FICTION:

Lori Benton
Brenda Jackson
Robert Kaku
Lisa Karon Richardson
Katie-Marie Stout

• HISTORICAL ROMANCE:

Susanne Dietze
Anne Greene
Pam Hillman
Lisa Karon Richardson
Ruth Trippy

• MYSTERY/SUSPENSE/THRILLER:

Rich Bullock
Barbara Early (double finalist with two entries)
Lynda Schab
Chawna Schroeder

• ROMANTIC SUSPENSE (two-way tie for the fifth finalist slot):

Valerie Goree
Mindy Obenhaus
Leslie Pfeil
Dianna Shuford
Teri Dawn Smith
Terri Weldon

• SPECULATIVE FICTION:

Ben Erlichman
Suzanne Krein
Shelley Ledfors
Andra Marquardt
Holly Smit

• WOMEN'S FICTION (three-way tie for the fifth finalist slot):

Lisa Buffaloe
Jennifer Fromke
Terri Haynes
Fay Lamb
Christina S. Nelson
Melissa Tagg
Michelle Ule

• YOUNG ADULT:

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.

JUNE 1 - 20th Anniversary & 1 month till NIGHTSHADE

2010-06-01T09:44:00.000-07:00

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:

NIGHTSHADE Trailer!!

2010-05-24T16:06:00.000-07:00

YOU READY FOR THIS? *GRINS* In one month, Nightshade will release to the unsuspecting public. Until then...you have this to help you prepare.

I just received the trailer for NIGHTSHADE. Misty Taggart and her team at TRAILER TO THE STARS did a fabulous job with it, don't you think?

A review:

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. ~~Jan Crow, Katy Budget Books, Book Buyer

Have you pre-ordered your copy yet?

Linda Clare & The Fence My Father Built

2010-05-17T05:40:00.000-07:00

Hey, y'all! Today, I want to introduce you to a really awesome lady--LINDA CLARE--and her Abingdon Fiction title, THE FENCE MY FATHER BUILT. Through Abingdon, I've gotten to know Linda, and I have to tell you she's one of the sweetest, most encouraging ladies I've met. I'm so honored to feature her book and share with you a gem!

THE FENCE MY FATHER BUILT

When legally separated Muri Pond, a librarian, hauls her kids, teenager Nova and eleven year-old Truman, out to the tiny town of Murkee, Oregon, where her father, Joe Pond lived and died, she's confronted by a neighbor's harassment over water rights and Joe's legacy: a fence made from old oven doors.

The fence and accompanying house trailer horrify rebellious Nova, who runs away to the drug-infested streets of Seattle. Muri searches for her daughter and for something to believe in, all the while trying to save her inheritance from the conniving neighbor who calls her dad Chief Joseph. Along with Joe's sister, Aunt Lutie, and the Red Rock Tabernacle Ladies, Muri must rediscover the faith her alcoholic dad never abandoned in order to reclaim her own spiritual path.

Think I'm just touting another of my amazing friends? Nope. WAit. Okay, yes--maybe I am. But read this and see what Jane Kirkpatrick had to say about Linda's THE FENCE MY FATHER BUILT:

"With vivid descriptions and a fine sense of place, Linda Clare introduces us to a little known landscape of the high desert west. Her distinctive characters soon populate the small sagebrush dotted town, the seemingly isolated homesteads, a ranching community's ways, and our hearts. Self-discovery is not left to Muri Pond, the single mom seeking meaning in her life; each character makes a change a so do readers as the mystery of the fence is unveiled and we discover how voices from our past can transform and lead us home." ~ Jane Kirpatrick, Award-winning author of Flickering Light and All Together in One Place

Ha! See, it's not just me. You've got to read this book. And if you'll leave a comment, I'll draw a winner for a FREE COPY of this book.

BIOGRAPHY: Linda S. Clare grew up in Phoenix, Arizona and taught art as well as elementary school in public and private schools. She has published four books, including her debut novel The Fence My Father Built (Abingdon Press 2099). She has won several fiction awards, teaches college writing classes and works as a mentor and editor. Her husband of thirty-two years and their four adult children, including a set of twins, live in Eugene, Oregon, along with five wayward cats, Oliver, Xena Warrior Kitty Paladine, Melchior and Mamma Mia!

REMEMBER: LEAVE A COMMENT (WITH EMAIL ADDRESS) FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A COPY OF THE FENCE MY FATHER BUILT!

The Gospel for Muslims

2010-05-03T11:08:00.000-07:00

We live a world that is ever-changing, and with it, we are seeing a stronger and larger presence of Muslims. Rather than run in fear or hide in our homes, Christians should be prepared. Armed with knowledge, not only of our own faith, but of the basic doctrines of the Muslim faith.

Recently, I downloaded a copy of The Gospel for Muslims by Thabiti Anyabwile. I have to say this is one of the simplest yet information-packed books I've read recently. It's not a long book (144 pages) but it is a treasure trove of information. As a matter of fact, I enjoyed this book so much that I went and bought my own copy so I can mark it up and share it with my husband.

This book is HIGHLY recommended to every Christian. It provides a foundation of the Christian faith elements, then compares/contrasts those beliefs with what is written in the Qu'ran.

Title:

The Gospel for Muslims

SubTitle:

An Encouragement to Share Christ with Confidence

Publisher:

Moody Publishers


ISBN:		9780802471116

I received a free download of this book from the publisher but was not required to say anything positive or encouraging.

May New Book Releases!!

2010-05-01T14:06:00.000-07:00

1. A Quiet Place; A Tabor Heights Novel by Michelle Levigne -- A Romance from Desert Breeze. Tabor Heights -- A friendly little town on Ohio's North Coast, where the members of one church help each other in their journeys of faith, learning, and love.

2. Almost Forever by Deborah Raney –– A Hanover Falls Novel. The survivors of five fallen firefighters band together to heal and try to understand the tragedy that took the lives of their loved ones.

3. Betsy's Return; Book 2 in the Brides of Lehigh Canal series by Wanda E. Brunstetter -- An Historical from Barbour. After being left once at the altar, Pastor William vowed to serve the Lord alone. But that was before Betsy's Return.

4. Black Hills Blessing; A 3-in-1 Collection by Mary Connealy -- Three Contemporary Romances from from Barbour. Buffalo owner butts heads with an ornery cattleman; a lady rancher has a cantankerous neighbor; A doormat wife stands up to her tyrant husband. Who will survive when worlds collide?

5. Clara and the Cowboy by Erica Vetsch -- A Romance from Heartsong Presents. Alec takes on robbers, rustlers, and kidnappers, but his greatest challenge will be taking on Clara, his boss's daughter.

6. Crossing Oceans by Gina Holmes - - Jenny Lucas swore she’d never go home again. But being told you’re dying has a way of changing things. Years after she left, she and her five-year-old daughter, Isabella, must return to her sleepy North Carolina town to face the ghosts she left behind. They welcome her in the form of her oxygen tank–toting grandmother, her stoic and distant father, and David, Isabella’s dad . . . who doesn’t yet know he has a daughter. As Jenny navigates the rough and unknown waters of her new reality, the unforgettable story that unfolds is a testament to the power of love and its ability to change everything—to heal old hurts, bring new beginnings . . . even overcome the impossible. A stunning debut about love and loss from a talented new voice.

5. Finding Jeena; Book 2, Homecoming Series by Miral ee Ferrell -- Women's Fiction from Kregel. Shaken to the core at the threat of losing everything, Jeena is confronted with her prejudices and with a God she had long forgotten.

6. In Harm's Way; Heroes of Quantico, Book 3 by Irene Hannon -- A Romance from Revell. An abducted infant, a tattered Raggedy Ann doll, a terrified woman and a skeptical FBI agent come together in what Publishers Weekly calls "an ever-climactic mystery."

7. It Had to Be You; the third and final novel in the "Weddings by Bella" series by Janice Thompson -- General Fiction from Barbour. Bella couldn't be happier that her long-feuding Aunt Rosa and Uncle Lazarro have finally admitted their love for one another and are getting married. Their forties-style wedding is sure to be a night to remember.

8. Kate's Philadelphia Frenzy; Camp Club Girls Series, Book 5 by Janice Hanna -- General Fiction from Barbour. The Camp Club Girls series introduces young readers to six friends who meet at church camp and solve mysteries together.

9. Legendary Space Pilgrims by Grace Bridges -- A Sci-fi/Fantasy/Futuristic from Splashdown. If Pilgrim's Progress were a space opera, it might look something like this: two young seekers on a journey of discovery, searching for freedom and a planet to call home.

10. Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico by Lena Nelson Dooley -- An Historical Romance from Summerside Press. Heroine in peril becomes a mail-order bride. . .gone awry

11. Love is Monumental; Book 2, A Walk in the Park by Annalisa Daughety -- A Contemporary Romance from Barbour. Finding love has become a feat of monumental proportions for a shy park ranger.

12. Morning for Dove; Book 2, Winds Across the Prairie by Martha Rogers -- An Historical from Realms, a Division of Strang Communications. Luke and Dove struggle against prejudice and a deadly natural disaster for their love.

13. No Other; Protecting the Witnesses LIS continuity series--book #3 by Shawna K. Williams -- An Historical from Desert Breeze. Jakob Wilheimer longs for healing after his family's internment during WWII, but will freeing Meri from the captivity of her upbringing heal them both, or tear them apart?

14. Nowhere Carolina; Book 2, Southern Discomfort Series by Tamara Leigh -- A Romance from Waterbrook. When Maggie Pickwick's teenaged daughter decides it's time she knew the identity of her father, Maggie's carefully balanced world begins to teeter.

15. Seeds of Summer; Book 2, Seasons of the Tall Grass by Deborah Vogts -- A Romance from Zondervan. When a former Miss Rodeo Kansas queen returns home after her father's death to care for the family ranch and her two younger siblings, what follows is a summer full of change, life-lessons and an unexpected romance with the new minister in Diamond Falls.

16. So Over My Head; Book 3, Charmed Life Series by Jenny B. Jones -- General Fiction from Thomas Nelson. Newly single, stalked by a killer, and in desperate need of some chic clown shoes,˜ Bella is one mocha frapp away from a total meltdown.

17. The Heiress; New Jersey Historical Series Book 2 by Laurie Alice Eakes -- An Historical from Barbour. Desperate for money, Daire Grassick sells a family heirloom to a lady he doesn't know, only to discover it holds a secret formula for glass without which his family will be ruined.

18. The Narrow Path by Gail Sattler -- A Romance from Abingdon. When they must combine efforts for the most important event in Ted's church's history, can modern Mennonite Miranda Klassen and Old Order Mennointe Ted Wiebe find peace somewhere in the middle?

19. The Wedding Garden; Book 3, Redemption River by Linda Goodnight -- A Romance from Love Inspired. Join RITA and ACFW Award-winning author, Linda Goodnight, in "Redemption River", where healing flows.

20. The Weight of Shadows by Alison Strobel -- Women's Fiction from Zondervan. Kim has found a way to suffer for her sins and ease her guilt--but is her relief more important than her innocent daughter's safety?

21. They Almost Always Come Home by Cynthia Ruchti -- Women's Fiction from Abingdon. He was supposed to go fishing, not missing.

22. To Be a Mother by Ruth Axtell Morren and Cheryl St. John -- Romance from Steeple Hill. Two heartwarming stories of non-traditional families becoming families in a very traditional sense.

23. White Roses by Shannon Taylor Vannatter -- A Romance from Heartsong Presents. Can a heart-broken florist and a widowed pastor reclaim romance after their lives collide among the thorns?

24. Wildflower Bride; Book 2, Montana Marriages by Mary Connealy -- A Romance from Barbour. Glowing Sun, a white woman raised by the Flathead tribe, has never met a man she didn't want to pull a knife on, including the man determined to marry her.

Crossing Oceans by Gina Holmes

2010-04-30T08:49:00.000-07:00

The amazing Gina Holmes has done it--her debut novel CROSSING OCEANS is receiving critical acclaim across the nation (see below). Gina, if you aren't aware, is the founder of NovelJourney--a site that has featured thousands of authors over the years. It's so awesome to see a woman who has given so much to the writing community to RECEIVE back those blessings--and then some! Gina more than deserves it!

Please, take a moment to check out the book--to BUY Crossing Oceans right now!!

About the Book:

Jenny Lucas swore she’d never go home again. But being told you’re dying has a way of changing things. Years after she left, she and her five-year-old daughter, Isabella, must return to her sleepy North Carolina town to face the ghosts she left behind. They welcome her in the form of her oxygen tank–toting grandmother, her stoic and distant father, and David, Isabella’s dad . . . who doesn’t yet know he has a daughter. As Jenny navigates the rough and unknown waters of her new reality, the unforgettable story that unfolds is a testament to the power of love and its ability to change everything—to heal old hurts, bring new beginnings . . . even overcome the impossible. A stunning debut about love and loss from a talented new voice.

From Publishers Weekly

Jenny Lucas has returned to her childhood home, a refuge of picket fences and lace-covered tabletops. But with an intensity likely garnered from years of unpublished suspense writing, debut novelist and blogger Holmes slowly unveils the hidden angst in this homecoming. A single mother, Jenny must find caregivers who will raise her five-year-old daughter when she's gone. She's forced to mend relations with two possible custodians: the baby's father, who doesn't know he has a child, and her own cold-hearted father. As Jenny comes to face her future as well as her past, dramatic emotions yield to an appreciation of life and an enjoyment of the grace of fleeting moments. There can be no happy ending, but Holmes ties a neat bow of acceptance around this haunting tale that packs an emotional wallop. Keep tissues near. (May)

“Beautiful and heartfelt.”
Charles Martin, NYT bestselling author of Where the River Ends

“Poignant and unforgettable, CROSSING OCEANS will break your heart — and then put the pieces back together again. This is an uplifting and inspiring tale that reminds us to live every day as if it’s our last.”
Tess Gerritsen, NYT Best-selling author

“Moving, heart-rending and poignant, a stunning debut. Holmes returns us to what matters in a too-short life—what it really is to come home.”
Tosca Lee, Author of Havah & Demon: A Memoir

“Gina Holmes explores the beauty, tenderness and tenacity of mother-love in Crossing Oceans with marvelous skill and insight. An outstanding debut from a gifted storyteller. Bravo!
Susan Meissner, Author of The Shape of Mercy

LOOK INSIDE Nightshade @ Amazon

2010-04-28T19:05:00.000-07:00

Just had to share with everyone that Amazon now has the "Look Inside!" feature for Nightshade, Book #1 of the Discarded Heroes releasing July 1st from Barbour Publishing. I was thrilled to find this available today--because along with it came a huge surprise--my back cover! I hadn't seen it till it was posted there. It's GORGEOUS!! Barbour has done such an amazing job, and they have constantly impressed me time and again. Also, I was absolutely tickled to find the endorsements on the front and back, as well as the Nightshade symbol so big and crisp.

Anyway, take a peek and enjoy the prologue and first chapter: AMAZON Look Inside! Then come back and tell me what you think. With only two months before the release, you know I'm working on some great launch ideas.

First signing & Model Awareness

2010-04-26T18:45:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, Dr. Richard L. Mabry (author of Code Blue) and I had a signing at Katy Budget Books in Houston. It was the neatest bookstore with amazing staff. I had a wonderful time, although I'm not keen on driving 10 hours in one day again. LOL

Right now, I'm working on Wolfsbane, Book #3 in the Discarded Heroes series. It's coming along nicely--I'm already at roughly 36K. Soon, I'll dig into the subplot of the book and get that hashed out. it's been simmering in my noggin for a few days now. I'm also stirring up another series, but I'm not sharing that just yet. I'm really excited about it, but it's been an adventure (to say the least) getting the concept to reveal itself to me. LOL It's ...different (for me), and I'm not sure if this will survive the birth process. :-P We'll see.

OH!! A really kewl thing happened last Friday. I stumbled onto a website that featured the model from Digitalis. It was surreal reading her thread about the photo shoot for Digitalis. It really added a new dimension to my cover and made me see my cover in a new light.

I added a widget-thingy to the side to show you what books I'm reading. I thought that was a fun addition to the blog, but know that I'll only be posting books there that I'd recommend. It's not all the books cluttering the TBR (to be read) piles around my office.

I'll leave you with one more positive note for now. First--let me share that this publication journey turned out to be more...brutal than I expected. I've learned a lot about myself and a TON about trusting God no matter what the circumstances try to dictate. So, when I started feeling like a failure, a falling star...I found this blog post by Christianbook.com (you have shopped at their site, haven't you? They're AWESOME!!). It really blessed me to have someone I don't know (LOL) say they liked my writing. See what they said about me, then if you haven't bought Dead Reckoning, or pre-0rdered Nightshade, click over to their site and do it now! :-D

http://blogs.christianbook.com/blogs/fiction/2010/04/26/ronie-kendig-a-rising-author/

Signing at Katy Budget Books in Houston

2010-04-22T13:21:00.001-07:00

This weekend, I team up with Dr. Richard L. Mabry, author of CODE BLUE, for a signing at Katy Budget Books in Houston from 1:30-3:30pm. I'll be signing my espionage thirller Dead Reckoning and Doc will be signing his medical suspense, CODE BLUE.

We hope you'll stop by, buy an autographed copy, and save us from the homeless shelters of our careers. LOL

2450 Fry Road
Houston, TX 77084-5831
(281) 578-7770

This & That - Nightshade!!

2010-04-12T11:49:00.000-07:00

In an attempt to catch everyone up (there are gobs of you reading this blog, right?!?!) on what's happening, I decided to do a quick post. So, here goes.

First - The galley of Nightshade is now available through NetGalley. If you are a professional reviewer or a librarian, you can apply to receive a digital copy of the galley. I'm so tickled--I downloaded it onto my Kindle, and it brought me to tears reading Nightshade like a real book (as if it's fake or something, right?). Hehe.

Second - Nightshade can now be preordered through many online retailers. It's amazing to see this book coming to life and gaining some recognition. My hope for this series is to open discussion, to open a door that perhaps wasn't previously open for our soldiers/Marines/airmen/sailors and vets.

ChristianBook.com
B&N.com
Borders

Third - Nightshade is now listed on Barbour's website and on FictionFinder.com (ACFW's online Christian Fiction search engine). Sure makes this all feel "real" to see it listed on the publisher's website. ::grins::

Reviews - If you've read Nightshade and enjoyed the read, you can help me promote this book by posting a review on any of the online retail sites.

Other books - I have turned in the first draft of Digitalis, Discarded Heroes #2, to my amazing editor, Becky Germany. I'm on pins & needles waiting for her response. This is the first book I've turned in that was bought on spec from the proposal. That's definitely an interesting way to write. She's been so supportive and encouraging of this series that the last thing I want is to let her down. I don't know if I should be worried that even my agent hasn't responded to let me know his thoughts. Eek. Pray for me, will ya? LOL

By the way--doncha love the cover of Digitalis? I'm in heaven. Hehe. I had a skin made for my laptop with the covers of Nightshade and Digitalis. Not vanity but promotion for those nights I'm sitting at Starbucks or Panera, writing and immersed in these stories. I've already seen people staring (and yeah, that's a bit creepy). :-D

I am about 1/3 of the way into Wolfsbane, Discarded Heroes #3. This is going to be one tough story. Lots of heartache and drama--and of course, action! OORAH!

So, there ya have it. A bit of me is sad that I'm already halfway through this series. These guys have embedded in my heart...and so has the mission of these books. Praying they will accomplish that mission, and bring glory to God!

Mission Julia Winner!!

2010-03-31T08:16:00.000-07:00

Well, it's the end of March, and I promised to announce the winner of the Mission:Julia launch promotion for Dead Reckoning. The winner will receive an autographed copy of Dead Reckoning, an iPod Nano, and trinkets from India!!

The winner is....LYNN DEAN!!! Congratulations, Lynn! THANK YOU for participating in the mission to save Julia Jaxon, Reece's older sister.

And thank you for saving me. I really like being here, having friends, and breathing--that's a good thing. LOL

Digitalis Cover

2010-03-29T14:21:00.001-07:00

Here is the cover for Digitalis, Discarded Heroes #2, which releases January 2011 from Barbour Publishing! I am sooo excited about this one. What do you think?

SNEAK PEEK!

2010-03-28T20:19:00.000-07:00

I am so excited. Within the next couple of days, I hope to be able to reveal the cover of Discarded Heroes book #2, Digitalis. I got to see it last week and nearly exploded (*kersplat*). Barbour has done a fabulous job, and it's sooooo amazing to see the series unfold and come to life.

For now...my awesome friend Rel Mollet has a small feature on Nightshade (releases July 1st!) for your viewing pleasure on her blog, RelzReviewz. I'll hope you'll peak at it and leave a comment, just a small way of showing appreciation to Rel for featuring them--and she's the first, so how kewl is that!?!?

Blessings, y'all!!

Blood Ransom - Lisa Harris

2010-03-19T03:00:00.000-07:00

Hey, everyone! I am absolutely delighted to share with you the release of a very dear friend, Lisa Harris. She and her husband serve as missionaries in Mozambique, and Lisa is multi-published and extremely talented. I am so happy for her with this release--a dream and passion of her heart!

Be sure to leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Blood Ransom. (US & Canada only, please)

1. Why did you start writing?

I started writing because there was always a story in my head. It’s funny, because for the longest time, I assumed everyone’s mind was full of scenes and characters and stories. Then one day my mother-in-law asked me how I came up with my stories, and that no, she did not have characters and story lines running through her mind. I honestly was shocked. Because that why I started writing, to put to paper all the stories begging to be written down.

2. You are a multi-published author, with novellas and novels published through Barbour, Tyndale, and Steeple Hill. You also have titles with Summerside and now with Zondervan. Can you tell us how you juggle the writing life with all of your missionary responsibilities?

It’s not easy. When my kids were in the school system in South Africa, I had regular time to write and was more involved in ministry. Now that we are living in Mozambique and I home school, I’ve had to change how I do things. I don’t have a set time to write. During this phase of our lives, school has become a priority, which means I also support my husband in ministry, by going out to the villages, hosting guests, etc. but I don’t have regular, daily commitments. Writing is done in spurts during school when the kids don’t need me, an hour or two between school and fixing dinner, and after the kids are in bed.

3. Blood Ransom is very special to you. Would you please share that with the readers?

We’ve lived in Africa a total of almost ten years now, and it was always my desire to draw from these experiences and show the beauty of this continent. To me, Africa is the perfect setting for adventure with its diversity of terrain and people. To be able to write one of the stories of my heart, set in such a fascinating setting truly is a dream come true.

4. Why do you write?

For the most part for the same reasons of why I started writing. Every now and then I’m convinced I need to quit due to the business of life, but then I realize that writing is and always will be a part of me. So for now, I feel strongly that God is still calling me to write and will continue until He says stop. I’m also finding that a story can convey deep truths that I want to share with my readers. Words that will challenge, change lives, and bring hope

5. What would you be doing with your free time if you weren’t writing?

I’d probably be lost. I would read more, spend more time at the beach (we live near the Indian Ocean) and definitely sleep more. LOL

6. What are you working on right now?

I’ve just started a book set in Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia, Africa) and New York in the early 1920’s. This is for Summerside Press’s new romantic suspense line. It’s a change in pace from my Mission Hope series, but the strong suspense—and the romance—is still there which I love.

7. Tell us about the book you have out right now.

Blood Ransom:

Deep in the heart of Africa, two American lives are about to change forever.

Natalie Sinclair is working to eradicate the diseases decimating whole villages in the Republic of Dhambizao, when she meets Dr. Chad Talcott, a surgeon on sabbatical from a lucrative medical practice now volunteering at a small clinic.

Meanwhile, things are unraveling in Dhambizao. Joseph Komboli returns to his village to discover rebel soldiers abducting his family and friends. Those that were too old or weak to work lay motionless in the African soil. When Chad and Natalie decide to help Joseph expose this modern-day slave trade—and a high-ranking political figure involved in it—disaster nips at their heels.

Where is God in the chaos? Will Chad, Natalie and Joseph win their race against time?

Romance and adventure drive this powerful thriller about the modern-day slave trade and those who dare challenge it.

8. How important is faith in your books?

Very. I really believe that everything I do should be for His glory, so while I try to never “preach” in my stories, the spiritual themes run deep.

9. What is your favorite book you’ve written and why?

That’s simply not a fair question!  As of this moment? I just finished book two in my Mission Hope Series (with Blood Ransom being the first). Blood Covenant comes out next spring and as with every book, you want your next one to be even better. I worked hard to up the stakes and the characterization to where parts of it were extremely emotional to write. No spoilers here, but it was a tough story I loved writing.

Thanks so much for having me on your blog, Ronie!! I love to hear from my readers so please visit my blog and website for more information on my books and life in the heart of Africa.

www.lisaharriswrites.com
http://myblogintheheartofafrica.blogspot.com/

CFBA Feature

2010-03-15T07:10:00.000-07:00

Today through Wednesday, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance, founded by the amazingly brilliant Bonnie Calhoun, will be featuring Dead Reckoning for a blog tour. Take a minute to read a chapter, watch a video, and on a site or two, they're giving away a copy of Dead Reckoning!

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance