Reading: The War of Art

I recently read The War of Art by Steven Pressfield. I didn't realize when I picked up this book that it was by the same author of The Legend of Bagger Vance. I've been reading several "legend" style stories lately (including a great play by the name This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing).

I mention this because one of my main goals in the summer is to put a dent in my enormous "to be read" pile. In this particular book, Pressfield shows the reader how we are our own worst enemy when it comes to creating (this does not mean publication, pay, etc. - just the act of creating). However, the book is not just aimed at writers, he shows how these same ideas apply to business and Pressfield tries to inspire his audience to seize their full potential.

This text is divided into three parts: 1) Resistance: Defining the Enemy, 2) Combating Resistance: Turning Pro, and 3) Beyond Resistance: The Higher Realm.

While this manual is not my favorite read about craft, it certainly offers some worthy insights, advice, and general wisdom for anyone in search of personal or professional fulfillment. This book is more about motivation than earning a specific skill. Pressfield begins with thoughts such as, “There's a secret that real writers know that wannabe writers don't, and the secret is this: It's not the writing part that's hard.  What's hard is sitting down to write.” Each of the three sections is full of stories of his experiences and thoughts meant to prompt you not to give up, "Creative work is not a selfish act of a bid for attention on the part of the actor. It's a gift to the world and every being in it.  Don't cheat us of your contribution. Give us what you've got."

Overall, this book is a good read that can be completed in a single day or spread out over months. Some "chapters" are only a paragraph long while others are multiple pages. Go at your own pace, digest, then continue.

How about you? Have you read this book? Have your read anything else by this author? What are your thoughts?

IWSG: Book Reviews

It’s time for another group posting of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group! founded by Alex J. Cavanaugh. Time to release our fears to the world – or offer encouragement to those who are feeling neurotic. If you’d like to join us, click on the tab above and sign up. We post the first Wednesday of every month. Your words might be the encouragement someone needs. You can also join us on twitter using the hashtag #IWSG, or on the Facebook page.

Now, IWSG hosts have changed up the format in an effort to make it more fun and interactive. Every month, they will announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG Day post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say. 

Don’t forget to visit others that day to see their answers. Want to join, or learn more? Visit our - Sign-up List.

DECEMBER 6 QUESTION - Book reviews are for the readers. When you leave book reviews do you review for the Reader or the Author? Is it about what you liked and enjoyed about your reading experience, or do you critique the author?

MY ANSWER - I've done both - left a review for the book itself and as a favor to author friends. I believe in supporting authors and works you like.

How about you? When you leave book reviews do you review for the Reader or the Author? Is it about what you liked and enjoyed about your reading experience, or do you critique the author?

First Love Tour Dates

It's almost time! The official release date for the First Love anthology is September 6, 2022. My short story "Paper Faces" is included in this sweet YA romance collection. If you are interested in learning more, or supporting the authors, here is the official tour schedule:

TOUR DATES:

 

9/1 – IWSG Anthologies Blog, http://iwsganthologies.blogspot.com/

Book blurbs

 

9/5 - Kelly F Barr, https://kellyfbarr.com/blog/

Interview

 

9/6 - Kelly F Barr, https://kellyfbarr.com/blog/

Review

 

9/7 – Diane Burton, http://dianeburton.blogspot.com

Interview

 

9/7 - Cathrina Constantine, http://cathrinaconstantine.blogspot.com/

Book feature

 

9/9 - Sandra Cox, https://sandracox.blogspot.com/2022/09/your-weekend-read-first-love-anthology.html

Book feature

 

9/12 - Elizabeth s. Craig, https://elizabethspanncraig.com/blog-3/

Article - Working on an Anthology

 

9/14 – C. Lee McKenzie, https://www.cleemckenziebooks.com/blog/

Interview

 

9/16 - Louise M. Barbour, https://selkiegrey4.blogspot.com/

Review

 

9/19 - Susan Gourley, https://susangourley.blogspot.com/2022/09/first-love-art-of-making-doughnuts.html

Interview

Please stop by to say hi! If you're interested in helping to spread the word, please contact one of us and let us know how you would like to help. We'll send you a media kit.

What is your favorite part of a Book Tour?

Big Magic and Book Clubs

I've fallen so far behind on my TBR pile. Luckily, this read was definitely worth my time. The "Insecure Writers Support Group" Book Club recommended this one months ago, but the Spring was unbearably hectic for me and I just got to it this summer. I highly recommend it to anyone practicing, thinking about, or struggling with their craft.

From the worldwide bestselling author of Eat Pray Love and City of Girls: the path to the vibrant, fulfilling life you’ve dreamed of. 
 
Readers of all ages and walks of life have drawn inspiration and empowerment from Elizabeth Gilbert’s books for years. Now this beloved author digs deep into her own generative process to share her wisdom and unique perspective about creativity. With profound empathy and radiant generosity, she offers potent insights into the mysterious nature of inspiration. She asks us to embrace our curiosity and let go of needless suffering. She shows us how to tackle what we most love, and how to face down what we most fear. She discusses the attitudes, approaches, and habits we need in order to live our most creative lives. Balancing between soulful spirituality and cheerful pragmatism, Gilbert encourages us to uncover the “strange jewels” that are hidden within each of us. Whether we are looking to write a book, make art, find new ways to address challenges in our work,  embark on a dream long deferred, or simply infuse our everyday lives with more mindfulness and passion, Big Magic cracks open a world of wonder and joy.

"A must read for anyone hoping to live a creative life... I dare you not to be inspired to be brave, to be free, and to be curious.” —PopSugar

I'm so thankful to the IWSG Book Club for recommending this one. To learn more about them, or to join this amazing and supportive book club, see here.

Are you a fan of Gilbert? Have you read this one? Are you a member of a book club?

December Reads

We enjoyed a wonderfully loving and relaxing holiday, and I hope you were able to do the same. I always take some extra time during the holidays to enjoy some reading. I wanted to suggest a few I just enjoyed.

Over a year ago, I enjoyed Devoted: A Girl’s 31-Day Guide to Good Living with a Great God which was written by a then nineteen year-old. You can read my review of it here. I recently received a copy of her The Devoted Life: a creative devotional journal. This might very well be the BEST creative journal I have enjoyed in years. It's a combination of devotions, prayers, free thought and response sections, as well as creative coloring pages. While it's target audience is teen girls, I found it quite enjoyable and would gift it to almost anyone.

Come Experience It for Yourself. . . Life Is Good with a God Who Is Great!

This topically guided creative journal offers inspiration and encouragement for those who desire to live their lives fully devoted to Christ. Amidst the loud, confusing voices of the world, trying to tell them which way is the right way to go, we need to stop, rest, refuel, and reflect in the presence of our truest Friend and most loyal heavenly Father. Whether it’s through creativity, meditating on scripture, prayer, or writing, readers will join young author and artist, Marjorie Jackson, for a time of life-giving fun, faith-strengthening encouragement, and God-glorifying growth. As we connect with our first love, Jesus, we will begin to understand that life is truly good with a God who is absolutely great! 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

As a reviewer for Barbour Publishing, I've had the blessing of discovering some truly amazing authors. One I have fallen in love with has been Michelle Griep. I have reviewed several of her books over the past year and she only improves with each tale. As such, I couldn't wait to purchase my copy of this year's Once Upon a Dickens Christmas. This is a sequel to last year's first (you can read my review of it here.), but revolves around all new characters, and a third installment is already planned for next Christmas. 

Book 2 in Reader Favorite Michelle Griep’s Charming Once Upon a Dickens Christmas Series

London, 1853: Innkeeper’s daughter Mina Scott will do anything to escape the drudgery of her life, for there’s nothing more mundane than serving customers day after day. Every minute she can, she reads and dreams of someday becoming a real lady—and catch the eye of William Barlow, a frequent guest at the inn.

William is a gentleman’s son, a charming but penniless rogue. However, his bachelor uncle will soon name an heir—either him or his scheming cousin. In an effort to secure the inheritance, William gives his uncle the impression he’s married, which works until he’s invited to bring his wife for a visit.

William asks Mina to be his pretend bride, only until his uncle names an heir on Christmas Day. Mina is flattered and frustrated by the offer, for she wants a true relationship with William. Yet, she agrees... then wishes she hadn’t. So does William. Deceiving the old man breaks both their hearts. When the truth is finally discovered, more than just money is lost. Can two hearts survive such deception?

What about you? Did you have a great Christmas? Have you ready any great books lately?

July Reads

This month has been so uncontrollably busy for me. I've been attending some rigorous training to become an adjunct professor for the University of Texas. Career changes, schedule changes, lifestyle changes...it's all been fairly overwhelming.

However, I refused to give up my reading time. I was lucky enough to collect some great reads this month and wanted to share a few.

First, un-afraid by Carey Scott - I absolutely loved her previous book - un-common - and couldn't wait to devour this one.

As women, we struggle to feel like we’re good enough because we are bombarded daily with messages that whisper, “Who you are is not okay.”
We live in a world that tells us we have to look a certain way, live a certain lifestyle, have husbands who fit a certain mold, and have children that excel in every area of their lives. And rather than thrive in the life we have, we strive to create an existence that impresses others. This impossible treadmill leaves us with deep discontentment and a joyless existence.

God doesn’t apologize for how He created us. And while we’re always being molded by our Creator, it’s only to shape us for the calling on our life—not so we can fit into a world we were never meant to: “Do not allow this world to mold you in its own image. Instead, be transformed from the inside out by renewing your mind. As a result, you will be able to discern what God wills and whatever God finds good, pleasing, and complete. Love others well, and don’t hide behind a mask; love authentically” (Romans 12:2, 9).

What if we had the confidence to shed our fears and be who God created us to be—stumbles, fumbles, and all—relishing who we are rather than conforming to the world? Using an acrostic for the word AUTHENTIC, author Carey Scott unpacks 9 ways we can find the confidence we need to shine with fearless authenticity:

1. Accept Your Awesomeness
2. Unearth the Untruths
3. Try Loving Everyone
4. Hold on to Hope
5. Extend Forgiveness
6. Never Shrink Back
7. Trample the Negatives
8. Invest in Community
9. Camp in the Word of God

Let’s link arms and commit to living authentic lives. . .together. Are you ready?



Secondly, I previously enjoyed another book in the "My Heart Belongs" series and since this one is set so near to my current home, I was highly intrigued by it's description.

Journey now to Galveston, Texas, of 1880...
Where is Mrs. Smith’s granddaughter?  Who is the mysterious Mrs. Smith?
 
Pinkerton agent Jonah Cahill is hired by the mysterious widow to find her lost granddaughter, rumored to be living in Galveston, Texas. Though Jonah prefers to travel alone, Mrs. Smith insists that she and her companion accompany him. Madeline Latour, investigative reporter, has been acting as Mrs. Smith’s assistant for several months, and Madeline will not allow anyone—even a Pinkerton agent—to ruin the story of a lifetime. The pair forges an uneasy truce as the investigation grows dangerous.

Is there a bigger story beyond a missing girl to be revealed?

When the third and fourth books of the "Daughters of the Mayflower" series came out, I scooped them up. I enjoyed the second installment by Y'Barbo, and I've also liked two of Michelle Griep's previous books. So I knew I had to try this third book in the series.

Mercy Lytton, a scout with keen eyesight raised among the Mohawks, and Elias Dubois, a condemned traitor working both sides of the conflict, must join together to get a shipment of gold safely into British hands.

A War-Torn Countryside Is No Place for a Lady
Mercy Lytton is a lady like none other. Raised amongst the Mohawks, she straddles two cultures, yet each are united in one cause. . .to defeat the French. Born with a rare gift of unusually keen eyesight, she is chosen as a scout to accompany a team of men on a dangerous mission. Yet it is not her life that is threatened. It is her heart.  Condemned as a traitor, Elias Dubois faces the gallows. At the last minute, he is offered his freedom if he consents to accompany a stolen shipment of French gold to a nearby fort—but he is the one they stole it from in the first place. It turns out that the real thief is the beguiling woman, Mercy Lytton, for she steals his every waking thought.   Can love survive divided loyalties in a backcountry wilderness?



And the fourth in the series is written by Kimberley Woodhouse. I was extremely excited about this one as I have a soft spot for patriotic plots.

Faith Jackson and Matthew Weber are both working covertly to aid the Patriot cause. But will they be willing to sacrifice all for their fledgling country?
A brand new series for fans of all things related to history, romance, adventure, faith, and family trees.

Spies Work Together for the Patriot Cause
Faith Jackson is a wealthy widow, friend of George Washington, and staunch supporter of the Patriot cause. Matthew Weber is friends with both Ben Franklin and his son William, who increasingly differ in their political views; and Matthew finds himself privy to information on both sides of the conflict. When a message needs to get to a spy among the Loyalists, Faith bravely steps up and in turn meets Matthew Weber. Suddenly she believes she could love again. But someone else has his eye on the Faith she portrays in elite social circles. What will Matthew and Faith have to sacrifice for the sake of their fledgling country?

I received a complimentary copy of each of these books from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Have you read any of these books, or others, by these authors? What did you think of them? Do you have any great reading recommendations?

The Prayer Map for Women

This is the first journal I have received in the “Prayer Map” series so I don’t know how it compares to others.

LIKES – this journal is roughly 5x8 inches making it small enough to carry with you either by hand, or in a bag. The spiral binding makes it incredibly easy to flip through. There is guided prayer prompts and daily verses offering you a chance at a relationship with the Lord.

DISLIKES – the small size limits the amount of space in which you can write your thoughts. There are only enough pages for roughly 90 days. EVERY single page spread is exactly the same with no differences other than any you add with the exception of a different verse mentioned each day. Since the title declares this to be a “creative journal”, I expected room to “create”, “draw, or doodle”, or maybe even a few coloring pages. None of that is included, nor is there room to add any of those things. The only thing you are creating is a fill in the blank prayer.

Overall, this is a decent publication for anyone new to praying, or looking for help in guided prayer. However, I do not see myself getting any more of these.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

The Pirate Bride

Can a former privateer and a determined heiress find lost treasure in 1725? A brand new series for fans of all things related to history, romance, adventure, faith, and family trees. Pasts Collide in New Orleans when a Treasure Goes Missing The last time New Orleans attorney Jean-Luc Valmont saw Maribel Cordoba, a Spanish nobleman’s daughter, she was an eleven-year-old orphan perched in the riggings of his privateering vessel proving herself as the best lookout on his crew. Until the day his infamy caught up with them all and innocent lives were lost. Unsure why he survived but vowing to make something of the chance he was given, Jean-Luc has buried his past life so deep that no living person will ever find it—until a very much alive and very grown up Maribel Cordoba arrives on his doorstep and threatens all he now holds dear. 

I was so very disappointed in this book. Don’t get me wrong – Y’Barbo is a talented author, but the description for this book is misleading and the pacing of much of the tale is all wrong.

First, the title and description are misleading as no marriage ever takes place in the book.

Second, the heroine is a preteen for more than half of the novel, and doesn’t meet the hero again until near the end when an awkward and rushed romance ensues.

Third, many of the actions of other characters take place “off stage” only to be awkwardly and unrealistically summed up by others.

Fourth, I didn’t like or relate to ANY of the characters from Maribel’s family (real, or adopted).

Fifth, while I did enjoy the first half to two-thirds of the book (I loved Maribel and Jean-Luc’s characters as well as their interactions) I was disappointed this is advertised as a romance, but the heroine isn’t even an adult until near the end when she finally reconnects with the hero.

Sixth, I found the pacing, plot, and characters for the very beginning of the book and that last third of the book completely unbelievable.

Overall, this story had so much potential, but feels like an early draft rushed to publication.

This is the second book in “The Daughters of the Mayflower” series, but can easily be read as a stand-alone tale.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

The Innkeeper's Daughter

Dover, England, 1808: Officer Alexander Moore goes undercover as a gambling gentleman to expose a high-stakes plot against the king—and he’s a master of disguise, for Johanna Langley believes him to be quite the rogue... until she can no longer fight against his unrelenting charm.
 
All Johanna wants is to keep the family inn afloat, but when the rent and the hearth payment are due at the same time, where will she find the extra funds? If she doesn’t come up with the money, there will be nowhere to go other than the workhouse—where she’ll be separated from her ailing mother and ten-year-old brother.
 
Alex desperately wants to help Johanna, especially when she confides in him, but his mission—finding and bringing to justice a traitor to the crown—must come first, or they could all end up dead.

This is the second book I have read by Michelle Griep, and just like the last, she has come so close to an excellent story. I enjoyed the premise, liked most of the characters, and could “see” the settings. Part romance, part adventure, and part espionage formed an interesting and driving creation.

Unfortunately, some of the character motivations and reactions either came across as unbelievable, or cliché. And several events, sayings, or reactions became repetitive in their nature.

Overall, this is an enjoyable tale by a promising author. Poignant moments and beautiful sentiments relayed by main characters on their journey of bravery and self-sacrifice make this a recommendable Christian read. I look forward to Griep’s next release.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Bible Heroes Devotional

Valentine's is fast approaching, and I'd like to recommend a great book as a gift for your little ones.

My Big Book of Bible Heroes Devotional - I believe this book has been directed at children ages 7 to 10. However, depending on your child's reading interest and abilities, I can see this book being appropriate for both a few years younger as well as a few years older.

Easy to read with colorful and high-quality illustrations, this book can encourage young readers to spend time in the Word. 50 different heroes are mentioned each with full-color illustrations, accompanying bible verses, prayer starters, and life application questions for guided discussion with friends and parents.

While your child can certainly enjoy this on their own, and will receive a very basic introduction and outline of the Bible, this book can also be used as a family guided devotional for deeper involvement as well
.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to leave a review.

Weaver's Needle

I just finished a truly enjoyable tale...

Weaver’s Needle is an enjoyable Christian Mystery book that begins in New Orleans, Louisiana and continues in the Superstitious Mountains of Arizona. I’ve visited both locations and enjoyed the author’s depiction of setting, her use of characterization, and the overall plot worked well. If you’ve ever enjoyed a good treasure hunt, then this is the book for you.

Landry Parker, former army MP, is a recovery specialist. Retired NOLA police officer Nickolai Baptiste is now a recovery specialist as well. These competitors are hired to track down a stolen map. Stakes are increased along the way as danger becomes increasingly real for both of them. The development of the story was believable and enjoyable with a very satisfying ending.

This is the first Robin Caroll book I’ve read and now I’m anxious to check out her others.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Stories of Faith for Superheroes and Baseball Fans

I've had the privilege of enjoying two very wonderful books of faith this week.

First, for more than 75 years of comic book history and dozens of gigantic cinematic releases (and more to come), superheroes have found a place in our hearts and minds. Fans of this good vs. evil world will love The Superheroes Devotional—featuring 60 interesting, challenging, and encouraging readings.

This book was a surprising and delightful find. When I first chose this one, I thought it was targeted to middle school boys. I’m not sure why. Maybe the description, or cover, gave me that idea. However, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who has ever enjoyed Marvel or DC comic books, movies, cartoons.

Jammed packed with the history of some of our favorite comics, how they’ve evolved, and how they relate to so many biblical teachings earned this book a permanent spot on my bookshelf.

                   

Secondly, Baseball Faith will inspire and encourage readers in their faith journey, as 52 MLB players--past and present--share their stories and how they are chasing the success that only comes from being God's man and following His plan. Featuring personal stories from Hall of Famer John Smoltz, three-time Cy Young Award winner Clayton Kershaw, former MVP Albert Pujols, perennial All-Star Mariano Rivera, and many more.

The cover and photos inside are absolutely beautiful and of high quality. The one disappointment for me was that I was expecting more information on each player. Instead there are only a few paragraphs about each ones walk with God. However, descriptions of each players faith as well as highlights and stats from their career still make this an enjoyable book for any baseball fan.

I received a complimentary copy of each of these books from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. 

When God Says WAIT

I really needed this book. I am NOT a patient person!

Elizabeth Laing Thompson weaves beautiful descriptions of stories shared in the bible, and combines them with real-life experiences as well as suggested lessons or practices we might apply in our own lives. Her sense of humor and humble examples from her own periods of waiting made this an enjoyable and easily relatable guide. Each chapter closes with additional suggested readings, journal prompts, and prayers specific to each type of waiting we may experience.

This book offers true comfort and wisdom making it a wonderful addition for both individual and group study!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

If I Had a Parenting Do Over

I just finished reading this book and I can't recommend it enough! 

It takes an honest look at the power, privilege, pain, and panic of being a parent. The author offers a look at 7 changes he learned to make and included examples from his own parenting failures and successes. He also shares experiences from teaching seminars to both parents and teenagers. A truly wonderful set of lessons on raising kids, I wish this guide was handed out to every parent before they left the hospital with their newborn. No matter what age your kids are, this publication offers a glimpse at true-life applications on building a meaningful relationship with an individual you can not only love, but like and respect.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review. 

Available now as an e-boo, official release day for the paperback is set for February 1st so order your copy now!