Tag: #Supernatural

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#Paranormal Author Christian Fiction Inspiration New Adult Romance Speculative Fiction Thrillers Uncategorized Urban Fantasy

The Battle Continues

 

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As I sit here on release day  for my second novel, I’m in awe. I have two books published. It’s surreal.

 

Three years ago, almost to the day, I began this journey. I finally gave in to my sisters’ urging (The none too subtle or gentle urging. More like shoving me off the cliff!), and sat down to start writing a book. I hit the keyboard with no idea what I was doing, no concept of how to get where I wanted to be.

 

I just wrote.

 

I stopped overthinking, let my fingers fly, and out poured the story that had been churning in my gut.

 

I was scared. Terrified, really. Putting so much of my own life into the tale was…exhausting, nerve-wracking, embarrassing, crazy-making, eye-opening, gut-wrenching, and so much more. I poured my blood, sweat, and tears onto those pages. Quite literally at times. I worked through my issues as Liz worked hers out on the page.

 

I faced my fears.

I unearthed those hidden hurts I’d buried so deep.

I confronted the rage inside me, rage I thought I’d conquered.

I walked through the agony, despair, and abandonment.

 

I met myself in those pages.

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The self I’d tried to forget and pretend didn’t exist. The self with her heart still isolated, cut off and determined not to really let anybody in. The self that never fully let herself trust. The self who raged at the world, at those who had hurt her, and yes, a little at God, for “letting” some of those things happen to her.

The self who had yet to forgive, and had no idea she was poisoning her life, holding herself back, limiting her own potential and hurting the ones she loved.

 

And as I climbed up in the middle of all that mess, as I waded through to find the true me, the true Liz, the whole story underneath all the debris, a miraculous thing happened.

 

I began to heal.

 

I cried. I laughed. I threw things. I laid into the heavy bag and split my knuckles open several times. (Don’t forget gloves.) I shivered and screamed and begged God. I opened myself up, every dark recess, every secret corner, and I looked that broken girl who had no idea she was still broken right in the eye. I begged her to forgive. To laugh. To love. To fight. To trust, like she’d never been capable of before.

She did.

Though the battle rages on, she continues to stand tall. To face her fears. To step into the hot zone and eliminate the threat.

And every time I write another installment of this story, my story, I pick up my sword and I face down those demons.

But I don’t go it alone.

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They say it takes an army. I’m convinced that is true.

The army behind me and my story? Second to none.

The only way I’ve gotten to this point is because they’ve been with me. No way could I have undertaken this mission on my own and succeeded.

It’s overwhelming when I really think about it. The sheer number of people I have supporting me is unreal.

My husband. My kids. My sisters. My brothers. Aunts and uncles and cousins. My friends. My publishing team. My Realmies. My loyal readers. There are too many to label individually, unless I wanted this post to be three days long.

These people have fought countless battles with me. They’ve guided me, cried with me, laughed with me, held me, taught me, encouraged me, and kicked me in the butt when I needed it. This series would not exist if not for them, and I am forever grateful.

 

So as I celebrate another release, another piece of my story out in the universe, I think of these people. I think about the army that surrounds me. The Realm Warriors. They’ve got my six and I’ve got theirs.

As this battle continues, I know I will never fight alone.

 

Categories
#Paranormal Christian Fiction New Adult Romance Speculative Fiction Thrillers Urban Fantasy

Reconciliation is Coming!

On January 24, 2017, the battle rages on.

Are you ready?

Today is a big day around here. We are revealing the cover and blurb for Reconciliation! Since you’ve been champing at the bit, I won’t make you wait any longer.

I have to warn you, though, this story is not for the faint of heart! In this second installment, Liz and Ryland face an even more brutal enemy, and challenges they never saw coming.

Challenges that may tear them apart.

If you think you have what it takes to stay in the fight, read on.

Some ghosts from the past refuse to stay dead.

Finally. Finally everything is coming together for Liz Brantley. She’s marrying Ryland Vaughn, the man of her dreams. She’s embraced her calling and battles the minions of hell bent on her destruction. And she’s left her dark past far behind her. Or so she thought.

A secret she holds close, stuffed down deep, surfaces at the wrong time for everyone in Liz’s life, leaving a trail of devastation. Left reeling, Liz wonders if she made a mistake, putting her trust in God, her guardian Arie, and Ryland. And the demon Kade capitalizes on her shaken faith. With a vengeance.

Torn between her tortured past and the future she craves, Liz is desperate to defeat every demon that stands in her way. Before all hell breaks loose and swallows her whole.

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Website Preorder Link: http://bit.ly/2h0CoeY

For more information, sneak peaks, and behind the scenes content, follow me on social media!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmyBrockMcNewAuthor

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Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/26955721-amy-mcnew

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/AmyBrockMcNew/

Categories
#Fantasy #Paranormal Author Christian Fiction Music Speculative Fiction YA Young Adult

Scarlet Moon

Today I have another special guest on Guts on the Page, author S.D. Grimm. Plus, a giveaway!

S.D. just released her latest fantasy, Scarlet Moon, Book One in the Children of the Blood Moon series. I’ve just started reading and, trust me, you’re going to want to get your hands on this book!

I took this opportunity to ask a few questions and find out exactly what makes this promising author tick. Here are the results.14658376_10210665510698298_1074934663_n

First, I got the scoop on the real S.D.! You know, all those important, burning questions. 

~What’s something we wouldn’t know about you just by looking?

Well, I do like Brazilain jiu jitsu, kickboxing, fencing, and shooting. Archery is next.

A woman after my own heart. This chick is dynamite in a small package. Don’t set her off!

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~If you were a superhero, what would be your super power?

Invisibility. But that’s not the superpower I’d want. I’d want to be telepathic.

Hm. Not sure I’d want to know what most people are thinking! If I had to choose, I think I’d go for telekinesis. Who wouldn’t want to be able to move things with your mind?

Now let’s get to what we all know is one of my favorite topics, in addition to fighting. Which we covered. 😉 

~Do you listen to music while you write?

YES! But not while I edit. I need to hear the cadence of the sentences when I edit.

I can see that. Myself, even if I’m doing an out loud read, I gotta have the tunes. It’s like oxygen for me.

~Name one song/artist you’re embarrassed you like.

Haha! “Call Me Maybe”

Wow. Okay. So maybe I’m wishing I hadn’t asked that question! But, sometimes there are no explanations for why a song resonates with you. Or just gets stuck in your brain.

~Here’s the question that really tells us a lot about someone. What’s your favorite fandom?

I have way too many. I love Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, a bunch of anime, the first seasons of the Vampire Diaries and Supernatural, DC and Marvel, Harry Potter, some 80s cult classics, Buffy. I mean, I’m pretty well-rounded when it comes to this kind of thing.

I am right there with you on LOTR, Supernatural, and Buffy. Now I understand a little more of why we get along so well!

Now on to a little more serious type questions.

We all know I live and breathe speculative fiction. I read it, watch it, write it, and sometimes, live it. I’ve always been drawn to the strange, paranormal, and wonderfully weird. So I gotta know, 

~Why do you write speculative fiction? What draws you to it?

Magic. I love the endless creative possibilities of fantasy and sci-fi. Something about this genre sparks to life the kid inside me that makes me want to share the wonder I experience in believing and hoping and knowing the impossible is somehow possible. I like to encourage others to embrace that inner child and believe it too.

It does have unlimited potential, doesn’t it? Nothing is too far outside of the box. The only limit is your imagination.

~When did you start writing?

In elementary school. I wasn’t serious about trying to get published until seven years ago, and that’s when I started writing Scarlet Moon.

~What’s a normal writing day like for you?

I’m not sure normal is the right word, but when I write I sit with my laptop somewhere or in my little cubby in the basement, and I turn on some music and I write. Prepping for that includes thinking about upcoming scenes, which I do while I do chores, or take a shower, or right before I fall asleep. I have been caught brandishing a wooden spoon in the kitchen while simultaneously cooking dinner and “head-writing” a fight scene. *blushes*

Yay! I’m not alone! Why is it that the best scenes, especially fight scenes for me, come to you at the weirdest times? And, then there’s the fact that I can’t seem to just think them, I have to act them out. 

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~What was your inspiration for writing Scarlet Moon?

I love animals. The novel I wrote prior to this one (which sits in a proverbial dark, secret drawer) was about animals. All the characters were animals. And one day I decided to get serious about publishing. Then I decided I was going to write about people. I still wanted animals to be a big part of the story so I chose to write about a race of people who can commune with nature. These people basically get certain talents or abilities from animals—and they reciprocate, giving animals certain abilities too. Then I researched some really cool animals, including mythological ones, and the story world really grew from there.

~What is Scarlet Moon about? Told from multiple point of view characters, Scarlet Moon is a young adult fantasy about Jayden, a seventeen-year-old, dagger-wielding, storm-detecting orphan who can save the race of people known as the Feravolk from a sorceress queen bent on annihilating them. Maybe they should have thought of that before they killed Jayden’s family.

It’s sounds amazing. I can’t wait to dive in deeper. 

~Where can we learn more about you and your book?

My website http://sdgrimm.com

You can order it here: https://www.amazon.com/Scarlet-Moon-Children-Blood-Book/dp/1683700503/

And you can totally come to this facebook party and try to win a copy. 😀 https://www.facebook.com/events/183601465406699/

Thank you so much for letting me pick your brain today!

If you would like to win a signed copy of Scarlet Moon, all you have to do to be entered is like mine and S.D.’s Facebook pages! Her link is above, mine is below. Once you’ve liked, comment here to let us know so you can be entered.

Amy Brock McNew Author 

 

If you would like to know more about S.D. and her stories, check out the links above and below. And definitely get your hands on a copy of Scarlet Moon!

14642713_10210665491337814_440895232_nS. D. Grimm’s first love in writing is young adult speculative fiction. She is represented by Julie Gwinn of the Seymour Agency and her debut novel, Scarlet Moon, is slated to be published in October 2016. When she’s not writing or editing, Sarah enjoys reading (of course!), making clay dragons for her Grimmlies store on Etsy, practicing kickboxing and Brazilian jiu jitsu, training dogs, and doing anything outdoorsy with the family. Her office is anywhere she can curl up with her laptop and at least one large-sized dog.

Facebook http://www.facebook.com/SDGrimm/

Twitter http://twitter.com/SDGrimmAuthor

Website, blog, and newsletter. http://sdgrimm.com

Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/SDGrimmAuthor/

Scarlet Moon on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Scarlet-Moon-Children-Blood-Book/dp/1683700503/

Categories
#Fantasy #Paranormal Speculative Fiction Thrillers Urban Fantasy

Blood Mercy

Houses of the Dead cover

Today I have the privilege of hosting two creative, interesting women on my blog, and highlighting their new paranormal novella, Thicker Than Water, the first in the Blood Mercy series. It’s an illustrated novella, something I haven’t seen a lot of in adult genres.

This was a no-brainer for me. Paranormal is my favorite genre, of course. And vampires? As long as they don’t sparkle, I’m all in. I was more than happy to dive into this story and be a part of the blog tour.

Now, this was originally supposed to be a character interview with Melrose and Lucy. But, saying those two have issues is a gross understatement. Melrose cancelled, muttering something about a spot on his suit and things he had to do. And Lucy, well bless her heart, she’s been hiding out all week, asking herself questions out loud (and answering them). Every time I got close to ask her if we could talk, her eyes filled with blood lust, she got a weird look on her face and…Yeah. I may be a pretty good fighter, but against a vamp? Nah. I prefer not to be her sanguine meal, thanks.

So, I talked their creators into having a little convo with me instead. Without further ado, I give you Janeen Ippolito and Julia Busko.

What inspired your collaboration? How did you get started?

JB: I’m the type of person who is constantly creating new story ideas, and Janeen’s the type of person who is constantly connecting ideas and pushing towards a finished goal (which is something I lack, hahaha). We’re similar enough that our visions meld well, and different enough that we each bring something unique to the table. We both have a love for horror and monsters, and we both are inspired by the lessons we can learn through their stories.

JI: Ditto.

I love the premise and the new take on vampires and how they are made. I also really love the issues you’ve given each one. What inspired this book?

JB: It started as a role-playing game with friends, and then eventually Janeen and I realized the stories we were telling would make a fantastic book, and here we are!

      JI: Yeah, Julia and I met at work and started talking about stories. From there it was text message after text message writing scenes and characters and plotting all kinds of awful disasters.

 

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I’ve never collaborated with someone else in writing before, though I have a few joint ventures in talks. So, I’m curious about the process. What does a typical writing/creating session look like for you?

     JB: Oh, gosh. Insanity. Both Janeen and I are attracted to shinies (Janeen) and rabbit holes (me), so in the span of a few hours we will have discussed the plot of the book itself, backstories of the characters, tweaks to world-building, and the exact nature of a Jackalope and its relation to a Unicorn.

     JI: The Jackalope and Unicorn discussion was VITAL. As are all the random music searches on YouTube. And the other YouTube videos. All part of the creative process.

     JB: So, although incredibly non-linear, our creative sessions tend towards fun, energetic, and, oddly, focused. We both love to play, but we also both know when to be serious.

I definitely understand the rabbit trail of searching for music! I can get lost in finding the perfect song.

If you could tell yourselves anything when you first began collaborating, what would it be?

     JB: Stop throwing in the kitchen sink, your story arc looks like a glacier.

     JI: Write more things down. Text message is a bear to transcribe. Once I discovered Google Chats, life got easier, because we could copy and paste from transcripts. Oh, and when painting a prop for a student play, open the window. And definitely don’t ignore the fumes in favor of story-texting with a friend.

     JB: But when all-else fails, forgetting to open the window when using Goo-Gone will result in making an awesome new friend.

     JI: Yes! As well as nausea. But not over the friend.

Okay, I don’t think I’ll ask any more about the fumes and the results of that! So…

I have a thing about names. In my own stories, I like the names to have particular meanings. I can spend hours pouring over name sites. How did you select character names for Thicker Than Water?

JB: I look at either a portrait of them I’ve sketched or the face reference I have for them, and I consider their journey, their backstory, and their personality. From that, I generally get an idea of how I want their name to “feel” (strong, bold, gentle, weak, timid, etc). Often times, that’s paired with a sound I want in their name (be it an “Oh” sound, or I want their name to start with a “Jay” sound, or even I have a specific first letter in mind). From there I either narrow my search to a specific language (the website I use has a “sort by country” filter) and go through the list, comparing them to my character’s reference.

 JI: They often come named and refuse to answer to anything else. Which is fun when Julia wants to hunt down names, and I’m stubbornly clinging to the ones in my head. I’m also fussy about making sure there is naming diversity within stories.

Julia, your process sounds a lot like mine. Though I have had a few characters, Like Janeen, come to me already named.

   How many more books will be in this series?

JB: could be 4 books, could be more. Current plan is 4, but I know us well enough to not limit ourselves.

   JI: not including spinoffs!

 

   Okay, last question. What is something you want readers to take away from this series?

     JB: There are monsters in every one of us, and we are more than the horror within ourselves.

 JI: Being born with an issue, ailment, disability, or other chronic illness can define your life, but doesn’t have to define your identity. Everyone is given a particular set of conditions and life experiences, but there is also hope even in darkness. And everyone should consider carefully what they choose to cling to when life turns horrible. We humans have a nasty tendency to indulge destructive habits rather than healing ones.

Also, dachshunds are amazing.

JB: And onion rings go really well with vanilla milkshakes. Try it! Or with French fries, that’s tasty too.

I could argue chocolate shakes go better with fries, but I don’t think you want to get into that here. 😉

Thank you both so much for joining me today! It was a blast!

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Be sure and get your copy of Blood Mercy: Thicker Than Water!

What would you do if the one you loved was turned into a monster?

Melrose Durante brings order. As founder of the Houses of the Dead, he tirelessly opposes the vampires, and provides refuge for the Blood Kind, those like himself who fight against the blood curse that leads to vampirism. His medical breakthroughs have brought many back from the vampire path. After thousands of years, the Blood Kind finally has the upper hand.

Until a vampire attacks Melrose’s family, then begs for asylum. To his friends she’s Lucy, a disturbed young woman prone to incoherent rants, warning of an imminent attack by vampire leader, Conan. But to Melrose she’s something more.

His lost wife, Jane.

One thing is clear – time is running out. In five days Conan will attack Quebec City, killing or enslaving all in his way. If Melrose cannot unlock his wife’s tormented mind, even his immortal wisdom may not be enough to save Quebec City, the Blood Kind, and the Houses of the Dead.

 

Blood Mercy Official Website: http://www.bloodmercy.wordpress.com

Amazon Preorder Link: https://www.amazon.com/Blood-Mercy-Thicker-Than-Water-ebook/dp/B01L47ILUS

Uncommon Universes Press Website: http://www.uncommonuniverses.com

2016janeenheadshotJaneen Ippolito

 

Author Bio: Janeen Ippolito is an idea-charged teacher, reader, writer, book reviewer, and the Fearless Leader of Uncommon Universes Press. She writes nonfiction writing help and speculative fiction laced with horror, humor, and cultural tension. Her co-written illustrated novella, Blood Mercy: Thicker Than Water, releases on October 29th.  In her nonexistent spare time she reads, cooks, and sword-fights. Two of her dreams are to eat a fried tarantula and to travel to Antarctica. Go to janeenippolito.com for world-building resources and off-the-wall insights from this sleep-deprived author.

 

Social Media Links

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/janeenippolitowriter/

Twitter: @TheQuietPen

Website: http://www.janeenippolito.com

Instagam: janeen_ippolito

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14112384.Janeen_Ippolito

Pinterest: Janeen Ippolito

2016juliaheadshotJulia Busko

 

Author Bio: Julia Busko (like “bus” and “co.”) is an illustrator, designer, writer, and the Elusive Unicorn (art director) of Uncommon Universes Press.  In addition to co-writing with Janeen Ippolito, Julia has created book covers, made logos and t-shirt designs, and is planning a series of steampunk fairy tale picture books. In her spare time she dances with a local company and watches documentaries and horror movies. She strives for art filled with creative wonder and the beauty inherent in tragedy. Go to juliabusko.com to dive into a world of remarkable visions and artistic musings.

 

Social Media Links

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JuliabuskoIllustrator/

Website: http://www.juliabusko.com

Instagram: juliabuskoillustration

Pinterest: Julia Busko

And don’t forget to check out the rest of the stops on this blog tour! Don’t miss out on all the fun.

Monday, October 17th – Deanna Fugett – Interview on Quills and Inkblotts (http://quillsandinkblotts.blogspot.com/)
Tuesday, October 18th – Blood Mercy: Thicker Than Water on The Write Stuff with Parker J. Cole
Thursday, October 20th – Tina Yeager – Blood Kind and Mental/Physical Disorders (http://www.tyeagerwrites.com/)
Monday, October 24th – Laura Vanarendonk Baugh – Dracula, Tropes, other Inspirations(http://lauravanarendonkbaugh.com/blog/)
 
Wednesday, October 26th – Bethany Jennings – Character MBTI Personalities (http://simmeringmind.com/)
Friday, October 28th – Ashley Townsend – Special Interview (https://ashley-townsend.com/)
 
Saturday, October 29th – Launch Party on Facebook! 8 pm-10pm (EST) (https://www.facebook.com/events/1846423622258672/)
Monday, October 31st – GEKE’s Article on New Author’s Fellowship (https://newauthors.wordpress.com/)
Wednesday, November 2 – Ashley Townsend – Behind-the-Scenes Feature (https://ashley-townsend.com/)
Friday, November 4 – H.A. Titus – Special Interview (https://hatitus.com/)
Categories
Christian Fiction New Adult Romance Speculative Fiction Thrillers Urban Fantasy

A Full and Grateful Heart

Thank You!

Release week for Rebirth surpassed my expectations, my hopes, and my dreams.

So many bought the book, reviewed it, shared, and practically screamed about it from rooftops. I felt the love! I never imagined that it would blow up like it did. To say that I am grateful is an understatement. My heart is overflowing.

Though a bit overwhelming at times, it was one of the greatest weeks of my life. To have so many show their support for me and my story was something I hadn’t even dared hope for. The bloggers on the tour, the readers, my family, my friends, my fellow authors, and most of all my publisher. Everyone stepped up and got behind me. I’m so thankful for all of you. There’s no way I could’ve gotten through the week without you!

20160527_171830(Me signing my first autograph!)

Friday night, we had a launch party at Boondocks. We had an amazing turn out. Again, I got my mind blown. Friends, family, and perfect strangers showed up and showed out, making the night a fantastic success. I’m still flying high! Thank you to all who were able to make it out and see us. It means so much.

(Me and my publisher on the left, my handsome hubby and I on the right.)

(My first two autographs, who happen to be great friends!)

Again, thank you to everyone who had a hand in making Rebirth’s first week out in the world an amazing one! 

This is only the beginning of the adventure and I absolutely cannot wait to see where it takes me.

Love & Hugs, y’all!

Categories
#Fantasy Christian Fiction Long Distance Romance New Adult Romance Speculative Fiction Urban Fantasy

Hearts on the Page #5 ~ It’s Not Over

This week, it’s Ryland’s turn again.

A quick recap:

Liz hates the fact that she can see the angels and demons in our realm no one else can. When the demons stopped simply observing and started attacking, Liz took off in the middle of the night. She didn’t say goodbye, and only left a note saying she was sorry.

Determined to protect Ryland and everyone else she loves, she’s run far and fast, trying to put as much distance between them as she can. Ryland won’t accept what she’s done until he hears it from her, so he’s set out to find her. Liz knows him well and has moved again, assuming he’s on her trail.

 

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Lizzy,

You’re good. I’ll give you that.

It’s been two months now since you left and I’m no closer to having you back in my arms. No closer to having answers. I’ve come so close to you so many times, but every time you blow town before I can get a hold on you, barely leaving a trace that you’ve been there. Either you know somehow or you’re guessing that I’m on your trail, or you’re just trying to stay ahead of anyone who might be looking for you. Knowing you, I’m gonna say it’s a little of both.

Well, I guess it’s a good thing I can work from anywhere, because I have a feeling this could go on for a while longer than it already has. Least I won’t be hurting for money. But that’s actually not at the top of the list of my worries about now.

These places I’m finding out you’re staying, working. Liz, what are you thinking? It’s like you’re deliberately putting yourself in danger, tempting fate. You say you wish you didn’t see the things you do, then you put yourself right in the middle of some of the worst situations you could possibly be in! I mean, do you have a death wish? Are you trying to throw me into some kind of breakdown? Or are you making a point that you can do whatever you want? I don’t get it. This isn’t like you. And it’s killing me. I know you’re hurting and I know you’re scared, but, baby, this isn’t the way. It’s about as far from the right way as you can get.

Just know that I’m not giving up. You can try as hard as you want to scare me away, try to make me think you’re a hopeless cause. It’s not going to work. I will never give up on you. I can’t. I love you too much to not at least try to talk some sense into you. I have to try to help you get back on the right path. Try to get you back home. Even though I’m starting to wonder if you ever intend on coming back. Still, that doesn’t matter. I will find you. I have to hear what you’re thinking, what you’re feeling, from your mouth. I won’t rest until I do.

We’re not over, baby. Not by a long shot. I’m going to prove how much I love you. Prove that you can trust me. That we can get through anything together, because I know in my heart that we can.

Always,

Ryland

 

 

 

 

Categories
Christian Fiction Long Distance Romance New Adult Romance Speculative Fiction Urban Fantasy

Hearts on the Page #3 ~ Oath

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Oath

Lizzy,

Okay, I’ve had a lot of time to think over the past couple weeks and I’ve come to a few conclusions. First off, I think I’ll keep up with this writing thing. It actually did help to get this crap out of my system a little bit. Who knows? Maybe someday you’ll actually read it. I can only hope.

 

Anyway, I’ve realized something pretty important that I should’ve known right away, I was just too ticked off to see it. The last time I wrote you, I said I doubted your love. I knew as soon as I wrote it that it wasn’t true. I know you love me. I’ve felt it, I’ve seen it. Realizing that and knowing you like I do, I’m pretty sure I know at least part of the reason you left. You think you’re protecting me from something. Saving me. Well here’s the thing, baby girl: I don’t need protecting. If you think you’ve got problems I can’t handle, or you think dealing with whatever’s got you running may end up with me getting hurt in some way, you’re wrong. I’m a big boy and I can take a lot more than you apparently think I can. Not to mention, you should know that I would stand by you through anything. I want to be the one that protects you, the one you rely on. The one you trust. You don’t have to do this alone, whatever this is. And I’m not going to let you fight it all by yourself.

 

I know you’d probably blow a gasket over me telling you I won’t let you do something. But you know I don’t order you around or try to control you. Like that’d even be possible anyway. You’re probably the most stubborn person I’ve ever met. In this case, you’ll just have to get over it. Let me tell you why.

 

This relationship is a partnership. Or it was. Obviously, we’re having a bit of an issue with that about now. Since you’re not here to be in on the discussion, I’m making a command decision. I’m done wallowing and worrying and wondering. I refuse to just sit here and do nothing. That’s not me. Never has been and never will be. I see what I want, or something I need to accomplish, then I make a plan and go after it. That’s who I am. So why should this situation be any different? You are the most important person in the world to me. I want you. I need you.

 

I’m coming after you.

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You know me, Lizzy. You should’ve known I wouldn’t just let you leave and not do anything about it. Not gonna happen. I deserve answers. You owe me at least that much courtesy. Just like I owe you the proof of my loyalty and love; the proof that I won’t give up on us without a fight. You’re too important. We’re too important, and we’ve been through too much to throw it away so easily. You’re mine and I’m yours. I love you more than my own life. I can’t stand the thought of you being out there alone, knowing what’s following you and what you could be facing. What kind of man would I be if I didn’t at least try to protect you, try to bring you home where you’re safe? Not much of one.

 

So get ready, baby girl. Whatever it takes, I will find you.

Ryland

 

 

 

 

 

 

Categories
Christian Fiction Long Distance Romance New Adult Romance Speculative Fiction Urban Fantasy

Hearts on the Page #2 ~ My Heart is Broken

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Hearts on the Page

A few days ago I released the first post in the Hearts on the Page series; letters between the hero and heroine of The Reluctant Warrior Chronicles. Letters they never sent. On these pages, Liz and Ryland pour their hearts out to each other without restraint. Their secret missives are raw, honest, and painful, but also sprinkled with joy and, at least on Ryland’s part, a whole lot of hope.

 

This week, it’s time to take a look at Liz’s first letter. Can she justify leaving Ryland without a word? Will her plan to outrun her pain work, or just pull her farther into the misery pit? Read on to find out.

My Heart is Broken

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Ryland,

I’m sitting here at some hole-in-the-wall joint in a town I don’t even know the name of, writing a letter I know I’m never gonna send. How’s that for pointless? Maybe it’ll make me feel better though. Doubtful. Life royally sucks about now. Yeah, maybe it’s partly my fault, but not all. I for sure didn’t give myself this freaking curse! But I am going to get rid of it. No matter what I have to do.

It’s like seven in the evening, and by now you know I’m gone. You probably flipped out and gathered a posse or something to look for me. I know you, and you wouldn’t believe it until you had to. Until there was solid proof. Which I’m sure you have by now. I know you like plans and order and this threw a big wrench into that. I really am sorry for that. I hate knowing something I’ve done has hurt you. That’s the last thing I ever wanted. But if I’d stayed, you’d end up being hurt worse, torn apart, and I won’t be the one to do that. I love you too much to stay when I know all I’m gonna bring you is chaos and pain.

You should’ve never made plans with me, for us, in the first place. I’m so screwed up, Ry. This curse is messing with my head, and it’s messing everything up. I know you were all cool when I told you my secret, but you don’t know what it all really means. What it would mean for us. I can never have a normal life. We won’t be able to just live and get married and have babies and live like everyone else. I’ll always have to watch my back and yours too because you won’t even be able to see what’s coming. And I have a feeling something real bad is coming. Need proof? Three weeks ago, one of those nasty freak demons that follows me all the time actually attacked. First time any of them ever did more than stare and snarl. I got some good shots in after I got my crap together and figured out what was happening. And it was weird, it was like I was stronger and faster than I should be. I kept thinking there was no way I should be able to take on a big demon like that and live. Still, it was rough. I know I told you I fell when I was out hiking and I hated lying to you, I never had before, but I had no choice. I know how you are. If you found out, you’d never leave my side, and you’d just end up getting hurt because there’s nothing you can do about any of this. I can’t let that happen. I can’t let you tie yourself to a freak that’ll end up being the reason you end up in a world of pain or even dead.

I love you so freaking much, but I had to do this. It’s my turn to protect you, to watch out for you. I had to put you, my parents, my friends, all ya’lls safety before what I want or what I thought I could have. What I want doesn’t even matter. You have to get over it and move on. It kills me to say this, but find somebody else, Ry. Somebody who can give you what you want, what you need, and not put you in the middle of some stinking war with Hell. I know you’ll find her. You’re the finest man to ever set foot on the dang planet. I should know. But I can’t be around that. I don’t want to see it. I can’t be around you. Period. The only way to keep you safe is for me to stay away. I can’t keep pretending everything will somehow be okay when I know it won’t be.

Don’t think it’s not gonna be hard on me. This is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do in my life. If feels like somebody ripped my heart out through my throat and stomped on it. I never knew anything could hurt this freakin’ bad. What we had was─it was crazy. We were like wildfire, but it worked. Everything was always so intense, but it was perfect. It was just us. Not having that insane, burn you up but at the same time able to cool you down, like we’re one person connection is gonna kill me. It was like we knew what each other were thinking and feeling. Now it just feels empty in my head, my chest, and the farther away from you I get, the worse it gets. I need to stop writing, I’m not even making sense anymore and it’s stupid to even do this because you’ll never see it. But it kinda does make me feel better.

You’ll probably never forgive me. I can live with that as long as you’re okay. As long as you’re safe and have a chance at happiness. I gotta go. I need to put more miles between us so I don’t say to Hell with it and turn around. It was so tempting to ask you to go with me. But, I knew you wouldn’t, and it woulda defeated the point of me leaving in the first place. Ok, I’m leaving now. Maybe I’ll write more, who knows. I love you, Ryland.

In my heart I’ll always be yours,

Liz

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Categories
Christian Fiction Long Distance Romance New Adult Romance Uncategorized Urban Fantasy

Hearts on the Page #1 ~ Broken

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            In my soon to be published series The Reluctant Warrior Chronicles, the heroine Liz and hero Ryland have a powerful yet tortured relationship with a long history. The first book, Rebirth, begins as Liz is coming back home after having been gone for several years. While she was away, both Liz and Ryland had some extreme experiences that changed them and their relationship forever. But, despite everything that happened and the physical distance between them, their connection remained.

The proof? It’s on the page in black and white.

During their separation, each of them wrote letters to the other. Letters they never sent. On these private pages, Liz and Ry poured out their hearts and bared their souls to each other, saying everything they couldn’t, or wouldn’t, say out loud.

Now, you can read them for yourself. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be divulging the contents, giving you a little more insight into their hearts and minds. Maybe, someday, they’ll each have the courage to exchange these letters. Meanwhile, I invite you to step into their secret world and discover that sometimes love can be the most terrifying battle of all.

First up, Ryland.

 Broken

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Lizzy,

You’ll probably never see this. I don’t normally like to write. It’s not like I keep a journal or anything, that’s your deal. At least, I think it is. I thought I knew everything about you. But I’m learning real fast that I don’t. Anyway, I just needed a way to get some of this crap out of my system. Some way to feel like I’m saying what I need to say, even though I have no idea if I’ll ever even see you again.

When I got the call from your parents this morning and they said you were gone, I panicked. I didn’t want to believe them when they said you’d taken your stuff. That’d mean you left me. Without telling me why. Without me getting to hold you and kiss you one more time. Without even saying goodbye. I tore up this county looking for you. That’s what I’ve been doing all day. Contacted all your friends, went to all our spots, your hideout, everywhere. I even hacked into your email, trying to find something to tell me where you were. But you left me nothing. Nothing except a note that wasn’t even meant for me. The note that didn’t tell us why. That told your parents to tell me you loved me and you were sorry.

Well, I think that’s a load of bull. You’re not sorry. And I’m wondering if you ever really did love me like I love you. How could you? You just left, Liz. I know you had a lot going on, a lot to deal with that you didn’t understand. But you could’ve come to me. You know you can talk to me about anything. I proved that when you told me about the things you saw. All I’ve ever done is support you and try to help you. I thought you knew you could lean on me, could count on me. If you’d have just come to me, trusted me, things could’ve been so different. You could’ve given me the chance to help you. But you didn’t. You have this habit of bottling everything up, hiding what you’re feeling, even from me. And now you’re running from it. I know that’s what’s happening. I know you. You think if you ignore it, if you run far enough, you can get away from it. That’s not how this works. This isn’t something you can run from. And I could’ve helped you deal with it. We could’ve worked this out together. But you didn’t even try.

I honestly don’t know what to do right now. And that’s something I don’t know how to deal with. We had a plan, we had dreams. And now, you’re just gone and I have no idea where you are or if you’re even okay. Are you safe? Not like the question matters, ‘cause I couldn’t protect you now even if you weren’t. I’ve got this ring sitting here in front of me on the table. I bought it right after you graduated last summer. I’ve been trying to figure out how to give it to you, how to ask you. You’re not the average woman, you don’t really like all that mushy crap, so I wanted to do something that was unique to us. Unique to you. I had a few ideas and now I can barely remember them. Probably because you just smashed my heart into pieces. I’m stinkin’ furious with you, but at the same time I’m terrified. You’re out there alone, demons bearing down on you and I can’t do anything about it. You know what?  I can’t do this. I can’t even think about this right now. I’m heading to the gym. Maybe I’ll take Nate with me and see if he wants to go a few rounds. I need to pound on something. Maybe I can pound this pain away. I love you so much. How could you do this?

Ry

 

 

 

Categories
Uncategorized

Mind over Matter

Welcome to Monday!

Fellow warriors, I hope that your week is starting off well! It’s already getting busy around here. Today, I’m finishing up edits on REBIRTH. Tomorrow, the proposals go out! I’m also in the process of building my website and setting up a newsletter, so keep an eye out for that.

Setting the tone for the week.

Every week, we will have a different theme here on Guts on the Page. The theme will connect to the book I’m reading and reviewing for the week. Also, we’ll have discussion posts and lots of fun stuff as well.

This week, I’m starting a new series of posts, focused on the Armor of God.

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 ~Therefore, take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Ephesians 6:13~

First piece, the Helmet of Salvation

Before any warrior goes into battle, one of the first things they put on is their helmet. Through the ages, helmets have been made from a variety of mediums (more on that in our Fight Friday post). Whether some sort of metal, or reinforced leather, the purpose of a helmet, as we know, is to protect the brain. Above all else, the head needs to be shielded. When a warrior loses their helmet, the head is left vulnerable, making it a prime target for the enemy. And that is the first place a smart enemy will attack.

Survey of the Battleground

6ef78a80c66bd42e3f531d39bb789c77The same holds true for battles outside of the physical realm. In Ephesians 6, verse 17, we are told:

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

In my opinion, it is no coincidence that the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit are listed in the same verse. As with each piece of armor, they work in tandem to protect, but these two more than any others. More on that in a moment. First, let’s get a better look at the battlefield, so we know what we’re up against and why this armor is necessary.

 Our thoughts guide our actions, our choices, our words, even our moods. If not brought under control, they can destroy us, maybe even physically. There has been much research done to support the idea that we have at least a modicum of control over our physical health, simply by using the power of our minds. The strength of the mind to affect our bodies and our lives is no secret. I’m sure we’ve all heard at least one of the phrases “Speak it into existence”, “Name it and claim it”, or “Think yourself well”.

A well-known quote that illustrates the power of the mind comes from Descartes. Cogito ergo sum, or, I think, therefore I am.

With the mind being one of the most powerful things in our human arsenal, it makes sense that this is where the majority of attacks would be focused. Our minds are Satan’s favorite target. If he can get our thoughts under his control, the body and spirit will follow. We are cautioned again and again in Scripture to shield our minds and guard our thoughts.

~ I Corinthians 10:5- Casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ.

~Philippians 4:8- Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy, mediate on these things.

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Prepared for War

Now the question becomes, how do we guard our minds? The first step: putting on our helmet of salvation. Salvation is the one thing God wants most for us. He has provided us a way back to Him, a rescue from the fall. When we are once again grafted into His family, He is able to arm us fully for whatever lies ahead.

~I Thessalonians 5:9- For God did not appoint us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.

If you are reading this and you have yet to accept that salvation, I implore you, do it! Simply confess that Jesus is Lord, ask forgiveness for your sins, and ask Him to live in your heart, to guide your thoughts and your steps.

 You will take heavy fire. Satan will focus even more viciously on your weak points. But with the helmet of salvation strapped on, you have protection against whatever the enemy throws at you. The primary target is secured, your backup is guaranteed. You no longer have to struggle alone, under your own mental strength. Someone is now providing cover fire.

Maintaining the Armory

Once you’ve donned the helmet, you have to maintain it. This does not mean it won’t receive hits, get a few dings, or feel like it’s slipping off your head. No one is perfect. Romans tells us that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. You will still have weak moments, and flashy decoys will attempt to sway your focus toward them. So, how do we keep this helmet on, keep it in top condition, and prepare for these attacks?

That’s where the word of God, the sword of the Spirit, comes in. You must have this to maintain every other piece of equipment, especially your helmet. When you take the words in to yourself, meditate on them, and live them, you are fortifying your armor and keeping it in shape for battle. When your mind is full of the word, it becomes more difficult for the enemy to breach the gates. 6278a2dff2d18c6f023f0d960261129a

Pre-mission Briefing

We all have those less than stellar moments. The times when our thoughts wonder into dark territory, places they should never go. With all the chaos and temptation around us, it would be so easy to let our minds go and get caught up in the excitement. Or, when our battle plans are blown to bits, it’s hard not to wallow and let the darkness consume our minds. I’ve been there, much too frequently, as I’m sure many of you have.

But when the blackness creeps in, in whatever form, we now have the power through Christ to push back. To send it packing in retreat. All we have to do is pull on our helmets, and fill our minds with His words of strength. We are no longer hostage to the enemy, or our own thoughts. He has released us. He has saved us.

If you would like someone to pray with you, whether for salvation or for strength for a particular fight you are facing, share your needs below, or contact me at: AmyMMcNew@att.net. You can also find me on Facebook or Twitter. I would be more than happy to pray with you.

If any of you would like to share your battles and victories, feel free to do so below. There is no judgment here. We only seek to build each other up, and celebrate one another’s triumphs.

And, as is a pre-battle tradition here at Guts on the Page, I send you off with a song to ponder.