Merry Christmas and welcome to the last day of our Christmas in July Blog Party! To celebrate an amazing month of giveaways, freebees and fun posts, I'm joining Amanda Tero in announcing that her newest short story, Finding Christmas Joy, is releasing today!

About the Book
Melonie Brown just wants to get away from all of the pain and heartache that this year has brought upon her, and Starlight Lodge seems like the perfect place to do so. With no plans beyond a Christmas escape, she drives out to the lodge. Can she bottle up the peace and joy that she finds in this special place to help her face the challenges she may have in the upcoming year?
 
Available on Amazon (paperback and Kindle): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DGKSWS5
Add to your Goodreads shelf: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40309103-finding-christmas-joy
 

Anyone love a good Christmas read or an occasional Christmas movie? I do! The problem is, there aren't many good ones out there. Most are bogged down in cheesy romance and cliched, worn-out plot lines and "The Magic of the Holiday" that fixes all their problems.

Oh Please!

Amanda Tero did not disappoint me with this story. I must admit, I was a little hesitant when I read that the story was about a girl jilted right before her wedding. In case you don't know me, I can't stand romance books :) So many of them focus on the physical aspects of relationships and create unhealthy thoughts in young ladies. Miss Tero didn't do that at all! It was not a romance, but rather, a story about how God can take all that is broken in our lives and weave it into His plan for our ultimate good!

Here's what I wrote right after I read it.

I got goosebumps! It was so simple, but so good. The scripture, décor descriptions, the Christmassy feel of everything was so charming and engaging and may I say…enchanting. It was simply wonderful. Where is Starlight Lodge? I want to go!

Even though he’s not in the story, I wanted to let Josh have it a few times, but I was glad that a sweet girl like Melonie didn’t get mixed up with him.

This story was different…a girl jilted right before her wedding day, and yet there was no romance. I mean, sure there were couples (married couples!) in the story, but this was nothing that would give it a PG rating 😊

A couple of things I didn’t really care for were the references to a divorce and the Christian role model in the story wearing pants. I know there are Christian women who do and that is between them and God. But I personally felt uncomfortable with that. Aside from that, I have no complaints!

I love this quaint little Christmas story! It felt like a classic Christmas film, only way more substance! The Gospel message was very present, to the point and easy to understand. Sometimes it’s hard to write Gospel scenes without pulling you totally out of the rest of the story, but Ms. Tero’s flowed so well! Job well done!

I received a complementary e-copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review, but I had no problem doing so! Read ALL of her books, people! She's one of my favorites!

Congratulations, Amanda, on another fabulous read! Thank you for providing wholesome reading for our generation! We need more of it!

Until next time,
Ryana Lynn
Jude 22

If you’ve read my newest book, The Rivers of Sorrow, then you know that a major part of the story is centered around the Battle of Gettysburg. July 1-3 is the 155th Anniversary of that horrific fight. In memory of those who lost their lives there, I present to you 10 totally random facts about this small, Pennsylvania town. (I actually used to live about 20 minutes from there!)

1. The roads leading into Gettysburg form the shape of wagon wheel spokes. With the town at the very center, it is very easy to spot the fun shape of the landscape. This feature attributed to the armies meeting and fighting at Gettysburg.

2. Col. Rufus Dawes, a Union soldier commanding one of the Iron Brigade regiments, was a descendant of William Dawes. In case this name does not ring a bell, William Dawes is one of our Patriot forefathers who rode the midnight ride with Paul Revere 😊 One can’t help but wonder what William would have thought about Rufus fighting his fellow countrymen…

3. John Wesley Culp died on his relative’s land. John was a member of the 2nd Virginia Regiment, Stonewall Brigade, and was killed on Culp’s Hill on July 3rd, 1863. It is believed that the hill was named after an uncle of John’s.

4. At Gettysburg, the Wheatfield proved dangerous for a Sickle. Union General Daniel Sickle, after disobeying orders and moving his men into the field, was shot in the Wheatfield and lost his leg as a result. He survived to become the military dictator of North Carolina following the war.

5. Prior to the battle, when the Confederate troops marched through town for the first time, some girls met them with flowers and pieces of cake. If circumstances were reversed, I don’t think I could have done that 😊

6.  At least one black Confederate was at the Battle of Gettysburg! According to the book, The South Was Right! by Walter and James Kennedy, a black soldier marched a yankee prisoner down the streets of Gettysburg, much to the surprise of the population. Seems this man didn’t buy into the Emancipation Proclamation propaganda 😊

7. Pickett’s Charge took place on Cemetery Ridge. What a chillingly accurate name for the location of such a brutal fight. Nearly 7,000 men on both sides were killed, wounded or captured during this fight alone. Between 46,000-51,000 men made up the casualties of the three-day battle at Gettysburg.

8. Pickett’s Charge might deserve a different name. While Pickett did send in a large force of fresh troops (three brigades) the other two divisions were led by men serving under A.P. Hill. The attack was coordinated by Gen. Longstreet. So, rightfully the battle should be called Hill’s Charge or Longstreet’s Charge. Perhaps it is named for Pickett because he is the one who conveyed the order to commence the attack.

9. C.S. Gen. Garnett was killed in Picket’s Charge. His body was never recovered, but he was last seen riding towards a cannon right before it went off. Many believe he was trying to restore his honor following his causing Stonewall to lose the battle of Kernstown in 1862. Even though Stonewall wanted him court-martialed, Garnett respected Stonewall to his death.

10. Following Pickett’s Charge, Lee declared it was all his fault that the attack had failed. The men declared that it wasn’t and begged him to send them back. While he appreciated their loyalty and drive, Lee wisely refused and began organizing the withdrawal of the army.

Well, that’s all for now. Know some interesting facts about the Battle of Gettysburg? Why not share them with a friend and take a moment to appreciate the heroes of the past?
 
Have a Blessed Day!
Ryana Lynn
Jude 22

That's right! I'm not only posting three posts in one week (click here and here to read them :)) but I'm also doing two posts in one day! Let me explain why...

For the last few posts, I've been scheduling them to go up ahead of time, just in case I can't make it to WiFi...this is not one such post :) Yesterday, I got a phone call from my local printer and they told me...

"The Rivers of Sorrow is ready for pick up! Here is your total..."

That's right! As of right now, The Rivers of Sorrow is available for purchase! For $14.00+ $3.00 s/h, the 3rd installment of The Battle for Heritage Series could be yours! I can hardly believe it! I've literally been working on this book for five years! Five! And to finally be able to hold it in my hands...unless you've published a book, you've know idea what that feels like :)

To celebrate the release, I've got a few goodies for you! An excerpt from the story, and some of my favorite quotes from the book! Enjoy!

January 4th, 1863
Fredericksburg, Va.
 
“Now, march right over to that tree, Yank. Keep them hands where I can see them!”
Confederate Lieutenant Richard Mason rubbed his eyes. “What now?” he mumbled as the shouting continued. He glanced at his pocket watch: 3:46 A.M. January 4th, 1863, was already upon them.

Groaning, Richard kicked off his blanket and stepped out into the cold Virginia night. “What’s going on out here?” he demanded, not at all happy to be losing sleep because of a troublesome federal prisoner.

Sgt. Tyler Nace turned and saluted his lieutenant and friend. “Sorry to disturb you, Lt. Mason. This yank tried to escape. Cpl. Calling sounded the alarm and we cornered him here. Calling had to shoot before he would surrender, sir.”

Richard frowned as blood dripped from the federal soldier’s left arm. “Sgt. Mason is on duty. Have him see to the fed’s arm. I want the prisoner secured for the night. Double the guard.”

“Yes, sir,” Tyler and Cpl. Jeremiah Calling said in unison, saluting. They led the prisoner to the infirmary. Sgt. Seth Mason moved from tent to tent, treating the wounded as needed. He too was aggravated with the escapee.

Richard’s younger brother checked over the wound. “Clean through. Jeremy, you saved his arm.”

The prisoner remained silent. Tyler studied him, noting the flash in the middle-aged man’s eyes. He’s probably pretty upset about being held prisoner by boys, Tyler thought. He’s old enough to be our father!

Seth finished tying off the bandage. “There, that’ll do it.” Seth winced and held his head. “Do I ever have a headache!”

“You need to get some sleep,” Jeremy stated in his to-the-point way. “You work too hard and too late. Go get some sleep.”

“Later. I’ve still got two tents to check. And after that I need to get these shoes to Eddie,” he said, jerking his thumb towards a pair of used brogans sitting on the desk.

“He could sure use them,” Tyler remarked. “He hasn’t complained, but I know his feet are about froze. He’s been walking around in his socks the last few days.”

Jeremy shook his head and pushed the prisoner toward the tent opening. Tyler joined them outside and the trio made their way back to the prisoners’ hold. Tyler nodded to the guards as they climbed the steps and opened the door.

“I tried,” the prisoner told his groaning comrades. Tyler pushed him past the group and led him to a separate room. They couldn’t risk the prisoner causing an uprising.

Titus Mallory, a Confederate sergeant, arrived to help guard. He walked among the soldiers keeping a sharp eye on them. There wouldn’t be trouble on his watch.

Morning light found the soldiers no warmer than the night before. Winter camp had been made around Moss Neck at Camp Winder following bloody fighting at Fredericksburg on December 13th, 1862.

Richard put on his hat and mounted his horse, Champion. He urged the handsome stallion into a run as they headed for his commander’s headquarters.

Major Alexander “Sandie” Pendleton looked up as Richard entered. “Morning, Lt. Mason. Gen. Jackson’s been waiting for you.”

Richard doffed his hat and nodded as Pendleton checked to see if the General was ready for him. “You may go on in, Lieutenant,” Pendleton said.

Richard saluted Lt. Gen. Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson as he entered the room. Jackson returned his salute. “Do have a seat, Lieutenant.” Richard fought the desire to rake his fingers through his dark auburn hair. When Stonewall stared at him like he was now, Richard imagined the general could see right through him.

Stonewall sifted through his papers. “I hear you and your command had a bit of excitement during the late fighting.”

Richard took a deep breath and replied, “Yes, sir. Two brigades were divided, but God pieced us all back together.”

Something of a smile hinted at the older man’s lips. “Indeed, He did. Our ever-kind Heavenly Father smiled on us during this campaign.” He shuffled through the papers and laid them aside. “Your Capt. Baines is up for a promotion to Major, Lt. Mason.”

He watched Richard’s expression. Noticing a slight change of his countenance, he asked, “Are you disappointed? Perhaps you believe your captain unworthy of the honor to be bestowed upon him.”

“Oh, no, sir!” Richard assured him. “I only feel sorry for our company. Capt. Baines is an inspiring leader, and I wish he could remain in its command. But I do not begrudge him the honor. I suppose to wish him back is selfishness on my part.”

Jackson nodded slowly. “It is. But hardly to be unexpected.” Silence stole over them. Jackson leaned forward and clasped his hands. “Have you a suggestion for company commander?”

Richard thought a moment. “Lt. Tucker would do well, sir…the campaigns of last year were unkind to our officers, sir. There were many wounded or killed, and others had to take spots in other companies.”

“Is Tucker a trustworthy man?” the general inquired.

“To the utmost, sir. By seniority it belongs to him.”

The general nodded again. “The men have elected you.”

Curious yet? Hop on over to my contacts page to place your order today!

And now for some quotes...

Well, that's all for now! Hope you have a fantastic weekend and please, tell your friends about The Rivers of Sorrow!

Writing for Him,
Ryana Lynn
Jude 22

Hello everyone and welcome back to my corner of the blogosphere! Today I have a bushel of goodies for you so let’s hop right in, shall we?
A friend of mine, Amanda Tero, who I met through her books and blog, has graciously allowed me to take part in the release of her newest short story, Quest for Leviathan, a biblical fiction. Let me first say, I am not a fan of most biblical fiction, because most authors, I feel, take too much license. But not Ms. Tero! This story was amazing!

(Stay tuned for another WIP snippet at the end of the post!)

And before I forget, let me give you the links to the other bloggers participating in the book tour. (Please note, I don't know all of these people, so I can necessarily recommend them or un-recommend them {Whew! I'm inventing words!| I'm sure there tour posts are just fine, I just haven't had the chance to check them all out :))

June 8 – With a Joyful Noise (Release Day Post)
               Resting Life (Spotlight, Review)
              The World of the Writer (Review)
              Authoring Arrowheads (Review)
              Purely by Faith Review (Review, Interview)
June 9 – Victoria’s Book Nook (Spotlight, Review, Giveaway)
              Bekah’s Books (Spotlight, Review, Interview)
June 11 – Clothed with Scarlet (Spotlight, Review, Giveaway)
              Reveries Reviews (Review)
June 12 – Chosen Vessels (Spotlight, Review)
              My Purple Pen (Review)
              Read Another Page (Review)
June 13 – Once Upon an Ordinary (Review)
              Maidens for Modesty (Review)
              Yahweh Sisters (Review)
June 14 – Honey Rock Hills (Review)
              Life of Heritage Corner (Spotlight, Review, Interview, Giveaway)
              Kaylee’s Kind of Writes (Review, Interview)
June 15 – The Red-Hooded Writer (Review)
              Blossoms and Blessings (Spotlight, Review, Interview, Giveaway)
              Lit Aflame (Review, Interview)
June 16 – The Left-Handed Typist (Review)
              Encouraging Words from the Tea Queen (Review, Interview, Giveaway)
June 18 – Great Books for God’s Girls (Review, Interview)
              Peculiar Miss Darcy (Character Interview)
June 19 – Done in Love (Spotlight, Review, Interview, Giveaway)
              Creating Romance (Spotlight, Review, Giveaway)
June 20 – Keturah’s Korner (Review, Interview)
              Rock and Minerals 4 Him (Spotlight, Review, Giveaway)
June 21 – A Baker’s Perspective (Review, Giveaway, Character Spotlight)
              Christian Author: A.M. Heath (Review, Interview)
June 22 – Writings, Ramblings, and Reflections (Review)
              Views from the Window Friend (Review)
              Hunting for Truth (Spotlight, Review, Giveaway)
June 23 – Reading on the Edge (Spotlight)
              Summer Snowflakes (Review, Giveaway)
June 25 – With a Joyful Noise (Giveaway Winner Announced)

Are sea monsters a real thing? What about fire-breathing dragons? According to the Bible, there is a fire-breathing sea creature who really existed: the Leviathan. Amanda Tero brings this dragon to life in her newest short story, "Quest for Leviathan." Join Anath and his crew of ninety-nine rowers as they face the waves of the Mediterranean Sea and the power of Leviathan.
Anath has spent three years preparing for the voyage that will end the threat of Leviathan. Yet as the Valor launches into the depths of the Mediterranean, an inward quest also begins, taking Anath to depths he is not willing to face.

Purchase an e-copy on Amazon or order a paperback.
Add to your Goodreads shelf.

About the Author
Amanda Tero began her love for words at a young age—reading anything she could get her hands on and penning short stories as young as age eight. Since graduation, she has honed her writing skills by dedicated practice and study of the writing craft. She began her journey of publication with a few short stories that she had written for her sisters and continued to add to her collection with other short stories, novellas, and novels. It is her utmost desire to write that which not only pleases her Lord and Savior, but also draws the reader into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. 

Connect with Amanda
Email: amandaterobooks@gmail.com
Website: http://amandatero.com/
Blog: www.withajoyfulnoise.blogspot.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/AmandaTero
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/author/amandatero

Book Review:
This story is short, but well worth the read. I read it in one sitting and there certainly wasn’t a dull moment. It didn’t take biblical liberty, but very vividly described the Bible dragon of Job, Leviathan, in a biblical setting. This creature is truly fierce and Ms. Tero showed it’s magnitude well. I’m afraid to tell more for fear of spoiling the story 😊 Also, she weaves a convincing tale of a young man’s struggle with his own desires of revenge and the desires of God. Well crafted and engaging! And the artwork! It’s very well done and stunning in my opinion. Well done, Ms. Natalie Nelson!

Interview with Ms. Amanda Tero:

What inspired you to write Quest for Leviathan?
I was actually reading through the book of Job, not even searching for a story, when the thought crossed my mind, “A boy whose father was killed by Leviathan. He is angry at L, and he is angry at God—yet just like Job needed to realize the power of God, so does he.”
 
What was the hardest part about writing QFL?
The hardest part was probably just writing it. I thought it would be an easy idea that I could churn out in one sitting. A full year later, I’m finally publishing it. I can’t exactly say why it was hard to write… it just took a long time to get the flow of the era and the exact words I wanted on paper. But, I can see many blessings that God has hidden in it taking so long to write. :) So I’m not complaining here.
 
Since this is biblical fiction, were you nervous about taking too much historical license?
Oh yes! I love historical fiction, but what I love most about it is being accurate in my portrayal of the era. Since there are limited resources for researching this far back I had to use my imagination a lot, and that definitely made me nervous. As for the Biblical-fiction side, because I don’t actually portray any Bible characters, I wasn’t nervous about that (actually, that was the reason I didn’t portray Biblical characters; I would be too nervous there!).
 
Do you see yourself writing more biblical fiction?
I can see myself writing this style of Biblical Fiction—where I don’t portray actual characters (or, if I do, they will be side characters). I actually have a few ideas in my mind about other Biblical-Fiction type stories.
 
What was your favorite part about writing QFL?
Leviathan! I mean, really. A real, live, fire-breathing dragon? He was amazing to work into my story and imagine.
 
What do you hope readers will take away from QFL?
The main quote that the entire story wraps around is, “If we were to understand all of the ways of God and His workings, then we would be above mortal man, and God would not be God.” Not only do I want my readers to be reminded of the power of God, I also wish to remind them of Him as a personal Savior, and not just a big scary judge—because, while He is Judge, He also is loving and merciful.
 
Would you mind sharing your salvation testimony?
I would love to! I was raised in a pastor’s home and was one of the “good kids.” I tried to obey my parents and I really felt bad when I got in trouble. When I was about five, a lady in our church did a sign language class. During one of the classes, she asked who in there wanted to be saved. Well, I raised my hand. She later talked to me and told me to talk with my parents about it. Dutifully, I obeyed and bounced up to Dad and Mom and said that I wanted to be saved. That night, they talked with me, but very wisely, they didn’t lead me to pray a salvation prayer. I didn’t understand what salvation truly meant and was just going through motions—not because God was working in my heart. A few years later, Mom had us doing a little devotional for school where we would read a passage and answer a few questions she had (like “What stands out to you in this passage?”). I remember very vividly reading a passage and writing down, “THEY need to be saved.” Then, the Lord pricked my heart and I realized it wasn’t just “they” that needed to be saved—I needed to be saved. Later, I talked with my mom about it, this time fully understanding my sin, Jesus’ sacrifice for my sin, and my need to fully trust in Him as my Savior. In my teen years, I had doubts on and off since then about whether or not I “did it right” and if I was truly saved. After all, shouldn’t you see a vivid difference before and after salvation? The Lord has brought me to a place of full trust and assurance through Him, though. No, I don’t see a big “before and after” difference in salvation, because I was so young and a natural rule-follower. But my motive in living is to live for Him, to serve Him, and to follow Him. Added to that, I know that I am never worthy to enter heaven by my own good works, but that Jesus’ blood makes it possible for me to have eternal life. So in hindsight, I was truly saved when I was around seven years old, even though there was so much about life and the Gospel that I didn’t fully understand—but isn’t that why Jesus says we must come as children? Full, complete surrender and trust in Him.
 
What is your number one piece of advice for writers?
I could give a lot of advice from mistakes I’ve made. ;) Top piece of advice, though, is to be sure you’re following God every step of the way! Then, don’t be too proud to learn. Always try to actively learn as you write. Anyone can get an idea, and anyone can jot down words…but I personally believe that as Christian authors, our quality is a testimony of our diligence to develop the gifts that God has given us.


Last but not least, click here for a chance to win two print copies of Quest for Leviathan, one for you and one for a friend!

You can find out more about Amanda and her books at www.amandatero.com.  Also, I recommend you read her blog, as she gives sweet devotionals every Monday and bookish/writer posts in between.

Have a blessed weekend!
Ryana Lynn
Jude 22

P.S. The above graphic show cases the song that inspired the title (and theme) of my upcoming release "The Rivers of Sorrow". It is from the song "How Firm A Foundation."

Hello! It's been a bit since I've posted, but with good reason! Today, I am officially releasing my very first Christmas Novella, Coffee Shop Christmas!

I know everyone was expecting another Civil War novel, but due to some ruts and unexpected ministry opportunities, we are now shooting for spring of 2018 for it's release. Sorry about that, but I know it's all for the best!

Anywho, I super excited to share this new book with you! It's about 80 pages long, so it will make for a cozy winter evening read. It's also a mixture of things I love: Coffee, Policemen, writing, music, history...why don't I just give you the back cover blurb?

While for some, Christmas is a time of pleasant memories, for others, it is a reminder of past tragedies. Police widow Katherine Shannon is one such person. Since the death of her husband a year ago, she has made ends meet running a coffee shop across from the town police station. But as time goes on, she’s questioning whether she should keep the shop open or if maybe God has something else in mind for her.

Can a cup of coffee really make a difference in this world? Can a coffee shop be used for God’s glory? Can God use burnt cookies and salted caramel lattés to open a door for Christian service? Or an overheard conversation to touch a heart? (Mark 9:41)

Through a series of God orchestrated events, she will find her answer. Come along and join Katherine as she finds God’s will for her life. Once you visit The Coffee Shop, you’ll never be the same.

Grab your copy for $7 or get 2 or more copies at $5 a piece! Order them on my publications page:) Remember, Christmas is coming! What better gift than a Christmas story?
 
And speaking of Christmas, why not grab a few copies of The Land of Cotton and Our Heritage to Save while you're at it? All books can be found on my publications page:)

Have a Blessed day!
Ryana Lynn
Jude 22