tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56928590730564998472024-03-13T10:02:36.440-07:00Harris HappeningsThe celebrations and rantings of a newly published authorKarina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.comBlogger92125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-55416779539057173042012-01-07T12:14:00.000-08:002012-01-07T12:14:08.391-08:00Consolidation...please don't lose me!I have built a new website and am trying to consolidate my online presence! By doing so, I will be moving my blog! Please join me at the "new" <a href="http://www.karinaharrisauthor.com/harris-happenings-blog.html" target="_blank">Harris Happenings</a> blog. <br />
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This site will officially be closed at the end of January, 2012.Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-48628076290978487822012-01-01T11:00:00.000-08:002012-01-01T11:02:12.070-08:00Face the Unknown in FreefallI have yet to read anything by Kristin Heitzmann that didn't fill me with wonder. She makes me want to crawl into a cozy place and not come out until the story is over. Then I spend the next few days reliving the tale in my mind.<br />
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She is the kind of author I long to be.<br />
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I recently read Freefall. This novel is set in Hawaii, and if you've never been there, you will most definitely want to after reading her breathtaking descriptions. It centers around a young lady who emerges from an accident with amnesia. Although these types of stories are not rare, I never felt as if I was reading "just another thriller." There is intrigue, danger, and...as I have found true in every novel by Heitzmann, endearing characters who by their very struggles and brokenness make you want to cheer them on.<br />
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While she wraps her stories in Christ, her characters are real in their questions, their fears, and their hopes. What I mean is that even as a Christian, I still struggle with life here. My thoughts are not always pure, my reactions to situations not always holy, and my need to control often squeezes Christ out of the picture. Heitzmann gives us characters like this. We can believe them in the midst of the unlikely and fictional situations they find themselves in. And we come away with hope that should such circumstances befall us, we might in the end, still turn to the one true source of strength and peace.<br />
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I highly recommend Kristin Heitzmann's works, Freefall in particular today.Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-82941190238583578242011-12-20T07:57:00.000-08:002011-12-20T07:57:43.736-08:00Roller coasterThe past month has been as bi-polar as possible. <br />
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Thanksgiving marked the arrival of prerelease copies of my second novel, Third Time Around. I was so excited to finally have this one ready for others to read! I went to work, setting up book signings and delivering copies to all who preordered. I had the privilege of sharing the publishing process and the end result with my students, my young authors, and even students in another school.<br />
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In the midst of this excitement, however, my father-in-law, who has been battling lung cancer for two years, took a turn for the worse. He passed away on Friday. Four days before he passed he told my husband he believed he had made things right with the Lord. We hold tight to that hope. <br />
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Because I am a writer, and I process my feelings with words, I sat down yesterday and wrote a poem. This has not been an easy road for our family, and as with many others, dealing with death shows itself in many different ways. My prayer is that regardless of the circumstances, we will turn to the one true source of comfort and allow him to give us peace.<br />
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Dealing with Death<br />
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For some it is steeped with guilt<br />
For words left unsaid<br />
Deeds left undone<br />
The best intentions laying in a pile of ash at their feet.<br />
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Others wail in anger and despair<br />
At the world<br />
At the wasting disease or cruel accident<br />
At God for not staying his hand.<br />
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Death can reunite embittered relatives<br />
Or rip apart the closest friends.<br />
It is the bringer of grief<br />
Mourning<br />
Loss.<br />
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But sometimes death delivers<br />
Peace<br />
In knowing the loved one no longer suffers.<br />
Hope<br />
For an eternity spent in paradise.<br />
Joy <br />
At the promise of a sweet reunion one day.Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-11469052893943859322011-11-01T17:15:00.000-07:002011-11-01T17:15:30.510-07:00Need a New Love Story?Victoria Burks has created a classic in <u>A Legacy of Love</u>. Young Dani McKinnon can't decide if her life has changed for the better or worse. She finds she is an heiress to an unknown relative in Georgia, meets a dashing young lawyer who seems intent on pursuing her, and at the same time, someone keeps threatening her life.<br />
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Mrs. Burks weaves a tale of suspense, romance, and God's redemptive love in this thriller. If you enjoy Christian fiction, you should give <u>A Legacy of Love</u> a try!Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-77060914814873721442011-11-01T17:02:00.000-07:002011-11-01T17:02:15.857-07:00"Old Acquaintances" -- a New HitUrsula Gorman's new thriller, <u>Old Acquaintances</u> is an action-packed bullet train. This fast paced mystery will have you turning pages as quickly as you can. Gorman spares no time with long descriptive passages or extraneous back story, but cuts right to the chase.<br />
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Rissa Neil's life turns upside down when she realizes she is the target of an unknown stalker. Her world further spins off kilter when she finds that several of her old acquaintances have been murdered. Enter Stone, the perseptive and elligible detective assigned to her case. Will he follow the clues to solve the killings before Rissa's assailant catches up with her? Get your copy of <u>Old Acquaintances</u> today and find out!<br />
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Available where books are sold, including <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Old-Acquaintances-ebook/dp/B004EBUTKW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1320191944&sr=8-1">amazon.com</a>.Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-5474211742433703212011-10-22T11:08:00.000-07:002011-10-22T11:08:43.723-07:003 Days in NashvilleThis should have a catchier title, but...it gets to the point, right?<br />
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Last weekend, I had the privilege of spending three days with five amazing women. We met on Facebook, shared a common publisher, and decided to share a booth at the Southern Festival of Books in Nashville, TN.<br />
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My feelings before the trip were ambivalent. I was both excited and nervous about sharing a 10x10 space with online acquaintances. I was anxious about selling enough books to make a return on my investment. I had that little feeling in the pit of my stomach at the thought of navigating downtown Nashville with only my sometimes questionable GPS. I began to feel sick the week of the trip, and that part of me that fears the unknown considered how bad it would be if I backed out. But I decided to tough it out and awoke early on Friday morning, dropped the children off at school, and made the three hour trip to Nashville with no problems.<br />
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The weekend was nothing like I planned. <br />
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The ladies I now count as friends were fun, vivacious, dedicated, prayerful, energetic, wise, and gracious! We smiled, we cried, we sang, we shared confidences, we handed out hundreds of each others' promotional materials, and we sold some books. All in all, I would say God was smiling on us. He definitely reminded me to consider his ways above my ways. I went to Nashville for a business trip and ended up on a spiritual retreat. How amazing that three ladies from Tennessee, one from Wisconsin, one from Oklahoma, and an Alabama girl could bond so quickly!<br />
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So I have to send a shout out to my fellow authors and encourage you, if you haven't already, to check out their work!<br />
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<a href="http://www.deedeewike.com/">Dee Dee Wike</a> has authored <i>Good to the Last Drop</i> and <i>A Pleasing Aroma</i>, both powerful devotionals that will uplift you with their wit and wisdom. Her daughter, Joy, certainly infused our days with her namesake! <br />
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/creativehomemomma?ref=ts&sk=app_190322544333196">Amanda Stephan</a> has authored <i>The Price of Trust</i> and has a new book, <i>Lonely Hearts</i>, coming out next month. <br />
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<a href="http://darleneshortridge.com/">Darlene Shortridge</a> has authored <i>Until Forever</i>, and is working on her second novel.<br />
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<a href="http://victoriaburks.tateauthor.com/">Victoria Burks</a> has authored <i>A Legacy of Love</i> and has a new book coming out in a few weeks.<br />
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Thanks, ladies for reminding me its not all about the bottom dollar. Its about the message, the journey, and the friendships we develop along the way!Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-12825591754857624462011-07-18T15:48:00.000-07:002011-07-18T15:52:01.363-07:00An Immortal Legacy Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I-i6VEeJPBQ/TiS49GLg3cI/AAAAAAAAABw/AQcwk27rLGU/s1600/immortal+legacy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I-i6VEeJPBQ/TiS49GLg3cI/AAAAAAAAABw/AQcwk27rLGU/s200/immortal+legacy.jpg" width="144" /></a></div>I was eager to read this new novel from first time author, Ashley Blalock. <i>An Immortal Legacy</i> is a paranormal vampire romance written by a Christian. I was interested to see how these two seemingly opposing theologies could exist in the same novel.<br />
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Our heroine, Brooke Hansen receives an inheritance from a great-grandfather she never knew existed. This is the beginning of discoveries that change her understanding of the world around her. As the existence of creatures she only read about are confirmed, so is her role in the war between good and evil. <br />
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Ms. Blalock tells a compelling story with twists and turns that kept me turning the pages to find out what would happen next. I have only read a few other books with vampires as the primary characters, and they all seem to have a unique take on the lore. Ms. Blalock was no different. In fact, I enjoyed the culture she created for her characters. The foundation was believable and the characters were fun.<br />
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I look forward to reading more from this young author and watching her storytelling abilities grow as she dedicates herself more to the craft of writing. I think high-schoolers would particularly enjoy the fast paced, easy to read style of this book. But I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys paranormal fiction.Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-44624971821154255672011-06-29T10:34:00.000-07:002011-06-29T10:34:11.171-07:00Witness on the Run~A Fast-paced ThrillerHope White's romantic suspense, <i>Witness on the Run</i>, was a fun, fast-paced, easy read. Robin Strand witnesses a murder, then suffers from amnesia after an accident. She holds tightly to hope in P.I. Jake Walters, who is involved not only in the investigation leading up to the murder, but also in her accident. By sticking together they hope to regain her memory and keep her safe before the killer finds her.<br />
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I enjoyed reading this book. The characters were believable and likable. Though the story-line was somewhat predictable, I didn't mind because this was a "for fun" read. My main critique would be the immediate strong attachment the characters felt towards each other. While the author tried to explain the initial attraction as transference on Robin's part and a sense of responsibility on Jake's, it seemed a little unlikely to me. However, that being said, I would still recommend this book to those who enjoy romantic suspense. It would be a great summer-at-the-beach novel! <br />
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This book is a Love Inspired Suspense Harlequin novel and was provided by the author for my honest review.Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-89842575437271793762011-06-14T10:22:00.000-07:002011-06-14T10:22:21.161-07:00Indelible~an Eerie Delight<i>Indelible</i> by Kristen Heitzmann is another amazing read by this author. Natalie Reeve's nephew is rescued from a mountain lion attack by ex-Olympic skier turned search and rescuer, Trevor McDaniel. The chance encounter connects them in more ways than one. As in many of Heitzmann's novels, both characters have weaknesses and fears that seemed destined to be healed only by each other. Trevor's demons are not only emotional, however. Someone else noticed the amazing rescue and has decided Trevor may be the opposing light to his darkness. <br />
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Heitzmann does a masterful job of putting the reader into the minds of her characters. Thankfully we only receive brief glimpses into the troubled thoughts of our mysterious antagonist. This story unfolds with a balance of action, psychological mystery, budding romance, and even humor that keeps the pages turning until the end.<br />
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This story takes place after her novel, <i>Indivisible</i>, and is set in the same town, with some of the same characters from that story taking a minor role in this one. I would definitely recommend reading <i>Indivisible</i> first, even though the major plots are not connected. My only criticism would be that I felt this story ended a little too abruptly...some questions still unanswered...which leaves me wondering if we might have a third novel in the works? I certainly wouldn't mind!<br />
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Thanks to Waterbrook Multnomah for providing this novel for my unbiased review. <i> Indelible</i> is available where books are sold. Check it out for yourself at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Indelible-Novel-Kristen-Heitzmann/dp/1400073103/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1308071989&sr=8-1">amazon.com</a>.Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-59304552043302134402011-05-23T14:30:00.000-07:002011-05-23T14:30:59.637-07:00Hold Fast to HopeAfter a few dry months, where words were as elusive as water in the wilderness, I finally managed some writing today. I've been trying to write the prequel to <i>Second Chance, </i>starting the story when the Summers siblings first discover their parents' deaths. It journals Jaden's path as he takes on the mantle of head of the family. While dealing with the loss of their parents, Avalin and Quinn also question their faith. I've been stuck 30 pages into the story for months, until today.<br />
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I always back up and reread what I have previously written to help refresh my memory and put myself back into the story. I had completely forgotten the last scene I penned, and fully believe it was not a coincidence that today I had the urge to revisit this story. <br />
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In the latest scene our characters are at church. In the sermon, the preacher uses a well quoted verse from Jeremiah; "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord. Plans to give you hope and a future." While one character in the story takes joy in this scripture, the Summers siblings do not. In fact they react with anger, not understanding how they can have hope while facing their personal tragedy. <br />
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As I read that, my heart was heavy. Over the past month hundreds in our state (Alabama) have suffered loss through violent storms. Flooding has devastated parts of Tennessee and Arizona. Then Joplin, Missouri was struck just yesterday.<br />
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I can't imagine losing a loved one in such a violent way. And while my story is purely fictional, the emotions inherent with loss are real. I sat at my computer struggling to answer the question my characters asked. If God is a loving God, why is he allowing so much destruction? How can we have hope and a future? And as I tried to reconcile the Summers's struggles, this verse continued to play in my mind: "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." Psalm 119:105.<br />
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How aptly it applies, both to the fictional plot in my story, and more importantly to the struggles in our daily lives. <br />
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Right now we may only be able to see the light at our feet, and not the whole path in front of us. I don't know why God has allowed the weather to cause such wide spread destruction. But I do know God is good because his WORD tells me. His word—that promise of his goodness—illuminates the air around me. Though I know not the fullness of his purpose, and cannot see the path in front of me right now, I also know he is faithful. If he says his plans are to give us hope and a future, then we can take him at his word. And when the time is right, he will light our path and allow us to see that future more clearly. <br />
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My prayers continue to go out to those who have lost loved ones. I don't mean to trivialize your pain. My own struggles with loss did not come swiftly through physical disaster, but slowly due to age and sickness. So while my experiences may not match yours, the pain of loss still tears at our hearts with the same sorrow and at times seems unbearable.<br />
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I hope that you will find comfort in knowing the God of the universe knows your name, and while he has allowed these events to occur, he still loves you. His WORD is full of comfort, and he can give you strength when yours fails.<br />
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So hold to hope. Hope that God is still in control. Hope that his mercies are new every morning. Hope that each day you continue here is an opportunity to share Christ's love with others. Hope that in heaven there is no more pain. Hope that the day will come when you will be reunited. Hope.Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-88430015673495220752011-05-15T17:25:00.000-07:002011-05-15T17:30:47.576-07:00Celebrating My Young AuthorsI have to give a "shout out" to my Young Authors' Club. We had our last meeting this past Monday. What started out as fifteen fourth graders who were interested in writing, ended with nine authors who worked hard, and now have their own printed anthology!<br /><br />We created the first ever <span style="font-style: italic;">AES Aggie Anthology</span> this year. It is a 25 page, soft-cover book filled with short stories, poetry, and personal essays. I am so very proud of this group. As I told them Monday, no matter who joins the YAC in future years, they will always be my <span style="font-style: italic;">first ever!</span><br /><br />I look forward to seeing more of their work in the future, and I hope each of them continues to write and finds a mentor who can help them grow even more.Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-90784306182880345202011-05-15T16:50:00.000-07:002011-05-15T17:07:38.906-07:00Breath of Angel<span style="font-style: italic;">Breath of Angel</span>, book 1 of The Angeleon Circle, by Karyn Henley, was almost everything I hoped it would be! In this fantasy novel, Henley does a masterful job of creating her world, her characters, and her storyline. From the first pages, I was hooked. <br /><br />Melaia, a young priestess discovers the legends she is charged with remembering through song are not simple myth. In fact, the ancient battle between good and evil continues its epic struggle in her land. She is drawn into the middle of the age old battle and learns her role is more than simple priestess. Her destiny is intertwined with the salvation of her world. And she must learn who she can trust, as her heart is pulled between her duty, her destiny, and her desires.<br /><br />I look forward to the continuation of the tale with bated breath! My only criticism is that I will have to wait for book 2...<br /><br />I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading fantasy. It was a clean, easy read, suitable for even middle school children. My thanks to Waterbrook Press for offering this book for review. It will be available for sale on June 21, 2011 and can be pre-ordered at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Breath-Angel-Novel-Angelaeon-Circle/dp/0307730123/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1305504243&sr=8-1">amazon.com</a>.Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-2546301142051495702011-05-12T06:47:00.000-07:002011-05-13T13:40:30.908-07:00Copy-Editing PhaseGood morning!<div>I just wanted to let you all know that <i>Third Time Around</i> entered the copy-editing phase at the beginning of May. We will begin concept editing (the hard work) at the beginning of June. I am so excited to get back into the lives of the Summers family!</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope to have pre-release copies available by Christmas. So if you haven't reserved your copy yet, please let me know. I am only numbering the first 100 copies of this book.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-70886535783702788662011-03-31T05:34:00.000-07:002011-03-31T05:48:35.426-07:00Clarity~An Edgy YA Treat<span style="font-style: italic;">Clarity</span> is an amazingly well-written debut novel by Kim Harrington. I was immediately drawn into 14 year-old Clarity Fern's mind and world. I finished the book in one day—determined to find out who the murderer of the teenager in Clarity's town was. Another plus in my opinion was that I didn't have it figured out within the first few chapters! There are twists, suspense, romance, even some paranormal characteristics— Clarity's family possess psychic abilities— that would keep any young adult glued to the pages. The story ends with several unanswered questions, suggesting a sequel? I certainly would read more about the struggles and adventures of Clarity and her friends.<br /><br />I have only two critiques which keep me from unreservedly recommending this book to any young teen reader. There is mild language that would offend some (including my 15 year old who does not curse). There are also a couple of lewd comments I found extremely inappropriate that added nothing to the storyline, and detracted from my enjoyment of the book. However, older teens would most likely enjoy the book with no qualms.Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-61235865695008013762011-03-13T20:30:00.000-07:002011-03-13T20:52:13.694-07:00What a Wonder of a Tale<span style="font-style: italic;">Mine is the Night, </span>by Liz Curtis Higgs is more than a Christian romance set in the Scottish borderlands during the 1700's. I confess that is what first drew me to this novel. I am giddy for all things ancient, Scottish or Irish. I found no disappointment in my expectations here.<br /><br />But I was delighted and amazed when, as I read the tale, I was reminded of another, dearly familiar one (aye, one of my favorites). The story of Elizabeth Kerr, her mother-in-law, Marjory, and Lord Jack Buchanan, mirror the beautiful tale of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz from the Old Testament.<br /><br />What makes this reading even more special for me personally, is that very recently, in our creative ministries group at church, I asked our members to dwell on their favorite name for God. I shared that mine is "Redeemer"...and reminded them of the story of Ruth, and the picture it paints of Christ as our kinsman redeemer even today. Since then, more than I can recount, I have been blessed to hear through songs or sayings that very name "Redeemer". I never imagined the joy of choosing a book that would have the same theme! How amazing is our Lord to work out such things ahead of time.<br /><br />Now, as for a review of the book (the true purpose of this post), I found it well written, and deeply touching. Mrs. Higgs's characters are endearingly realistic, easy to love, even in their flaws. And their consistent manner of choosing the word of the Lord for whatever situation they found themselves in—fear, sorrow, longing, joy—was both an encouragement and a conviction to me. Her description of landscape and use of Scottish vernacular were a delightful addition as well. I found myself wanting to read aloud, just to practice how the lads and lasses might have sounded!<br /><br />I would without reservation recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian, historical romance. My many thanks to Waterbrook/Multnomah Press for providing this book for my honest review.<br /><br />This book may be purchased beginning March 15th at online sites, including<br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mine-Night-Liz-Curtis-Higgs/dp/1400070023/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1300074596&sr=8-1">amazon.com</a>Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-34309346906483554652011-03-09T19:15:00.000-08:002011-03-09T19:57:16.714-08:00Being Made More Like HimGod has been convicting me lately. And since writing my thoughts out sometimes helps me make sense of His message, I hope that truth will speak to you as well.<br /><br />About a year ago our Sunday School class went through a series on discovering one's spiritual gifts. In the course of that study, we discussed how—though God clearly gives us spiritual gifts that we should work within to best serve him—as we seek to become more like Christ, those latent spiritual attributes may be strengthened.<br /><br />My gift is teaching. My personality is an introvert and organizer. So my joy comes through sharing the truth with others, through organizing tasks, creating and worshiping through introspection. But I am not gifted in investing emotionally with others.<br /><br />Fast forward to three weeks ago. Our pastor preached on being committed to serve on the battle ship of the church. He meant that as a Christian, as the Church, every person's role is vital. Too many times people are willing to sit on the sidelines and let others do all the work. He was calling us to service. And the greatest service should be to win souls to Christ.<br /><br />I was convicted. Service I am good at. My time at church is filled with leadership roles in various capacities. But rarely do I take the time to truly connect with people...to take the risk of an emotional tie that might in the end be painful. As I was sharing this conviction with a friend, I made the statement that I don't like to "get my hands messy with other people's lives".<br /><br />Last night we had the director's clinic for VBS. The message was making <span style="font-style: italic;">connections </span>through our faith. The powerpoint highlighted the importance of getting to know our teachers in order to meet their needs, so that they are free and prepared to share Christ with the children. The speaker said we have to get out of our comfort zones and do what it takes to touch the lives of those children and families God puts in our path. <br /><br />Then a lady shared her testimony, and at the end of it she said, "We have to invest in the lives of these children, and their families...and sometimes that's <span style="font-style: italic;">messy</span>. But we have to do it. Christ calls us to that!" I couldn't believe she used the same word I had used when describing what I DON'T like to do...but knew I should!<br /><br />I shared with the leaders of that clinic my experience and asked them to pray with me that God would help me to better connect with people, and that he would put someone in my path with whom I could invest myself and share his love.<br /><br />God doesn't wait around when you ask him for a field to harvest! Tonight at children's choir we had two children who had not been there before. At the end of choir we shared prayer requests, as always. The little boy spoke up and asked that we pray for his dad who "was in real trouble and that's why they were with DHR." You can imagine the strength that only comes from Christ that enabled me to make it through that prayer calmly. But now I have two children who I will certainly pray for daily, and who I hope I get the chance to share Christ with.<br /><br />But God wasn't finished tasking me. During adult choir we practiced a song we had sung awhile back...and our director brought out again. The name of the song is "A Little More Like You." It is a prayer—a question—that, at the end of the day, when all is said and done...am I more like you, Lord? There is even a part that asks God to "help us grieve when others grieve, to laugh when others laugh, and for our neighbors to see Jesus in us each day."<br /><br />That brings me back to the beginning of this post. So my gift is not personal relationships. But I have Christ living in me. And HE is the author of relationships. THROUGH him, I can love, I can minister, I can witness. <br /><br />In Corinthians 5:11-21, Paul reminds us that now we have Christ in us, we no longer view others as our old selves. God is making us brand new! He is making us more like Christ. And that love should urge us on to tell others of this grand and glorious treasure.<br /><br />I hope that you will seek to do so as well. Yes, Christ has given us specific gifts, and it is important to know them so we might fill our role on the battle ship to the best of our ability. But he has called ALL of us to "go and tell the world that Christ is Lord." Please pray with me that we will all feel this urgency, and not miss a chance to share the love of Christ to those around us.Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-71523135700802069232011-03-02T13:18:00.000-08:002011-03-02T13:28:59.195-08:00Just As You AreI had a moment of clarity this past Sunday. <div><br /></div><div>As some of you know, I am turning 40 this year. I have bemoaned the fact to friends and family alike, at church, work, and on Facebook. I had a mini breakdown (not really, more a moment of over reaction according to my teenage daughter) a couple of weeks ago when told I needed bifocals. My friends have laughed, those older have said, "It only gets better." I remained unconvinced.</div><div><br /></div><div>But this Sunday, we sang the song that says, "Come, just as you are to worship. Come, just as you before your God." Like the Lord has to sometimes do with me, I felt like he was standing right in front of me, his hand outstretched, indicating the words of the song and saying, "<i>SEE</i>?"</div><div><br /></div><div>Christ wants me just as I am. Overweight, bifocaled, bad knees, 40 year-old me. This body is not what is important to him. It's my soul. Though my body can lift up hands and heart and voice and eyes unto the heavens in worship, he wants all of me. And he loves me just where I am.</div><div><br /></div><div>That truth applies to you as well. Christ longs for you, the way a lover longs for his bride. He pursues you with a passion unimaginable and wants to know the depths of your being. And guess what? He doesn't require you to be outwardly perfect, or even inwardly perfect. He just wants your love and obedience. He'll make you brand new.</div><div><br /></div><div>Just come.</div>Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-17373367508984323792011-02-24T05:41:00.000-08:002011-02-24T05:51:36.205-08:00A Beggar's PurseI don't normally read nonfiction, but after making the acquaintance of author, Toni Nelson, she changed my mind. Put simplistically, her book, <i>A Beggar's Purse</i>, is a short autobiography. She describes her childhood in delightful detail, her youthful sorrows with heartfelt clarity, and her call to service in a way that gives the reader pause. <div><br /></div><div>Mrs. Nelson's mission field is the homeless. From childhood, God prepared her heart for these men and women who suffer among us. He gave her eyes to see them, ears to listen to their stories, and a compassion to help. Her honest writing makes us examine our own lives and look at how we are using our gifts. Are we answering our call? Or simply spending our time here?</div><div><br /></div><div>I would encourage you to take a look at this book. It is a very short read, but powerful in its purpose.</div><div><br /></div>Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-49823780881947738072011-02-21T06:11:00.000-08:002011-02-21T06:43:10.617-08:00What If?<i>Tandem, </i>by Tracey Bateman was a thrilling surprise. What I thought would be an intriguing suspense mystery turned out to be that and so much more. One of the endorsements on the inside cover read, "Is it possible for a writer of Christian fiction to pen a vampire tale with an inspirational message?" I thought, <i>are you kidding me?</i><div><i><br /></i></div><div>No joke. A Christian vampire novel. Or a novel that includes both vampires and Christians, and definite beliefs about God.</div><div><br /></div><div>Needless to say, I was hooked, and finished the book in two days. Once again, a book preceded this one (I think I've finally figured out how WaterBrook press indicates sequels...they note "author of <i>insert previous title here</i>" on the cover.), but that fact didn't hinder me at all as I read this one. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>Tandem</i> is set in Abbey Hills, a small town in the Ozarks, where strange, ritualistic murders have taken place. As the killings continue, fear abounds, and all visitors are suspect. A cast of strong characters helps move the story along, and we find ourselves pulled into the minds of three separate women: </div><div>Eden, a tortured, captured vampire who escapes her prison by remembering her past.</div><div>Amede, a vampire who refuses human blood, and who comes to Abbey Hills in search of her long lost sister, Eden.</div><div>Lauryn, an antiquities dealer whose life revolves around caring for her father who has Alzheimer's.</div><div><br /></div><div>My one critique would be the author's choice of vacillating between first and third person points of view. Lauryn's story is told in the first person, but when the point of view shifts to Amede or Eden (or any other character), it becomes third person. This frequent shift was a little jarring, and took a while to figure out. But once I realized the pattern, I could follow the story without difficulty. I just wonder why the author chose to write in that way to begin with.</div><div><br /></div><div>I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading the paranormal. It was an added pleasure to receive an inspirational message along the way. My thanks once again to WaterBrook Press for providing this book for review.</div>Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-34185777668991114252011-02-14T08:15:00.000-08:002011-02-14T08:24:14.206-08:00"Indivisible"...Irresistible, Intriguing and Exceptional"Indivisible", by Kristen Heitzmann was riveting. Heitzmann's breathtaking imagery, deep characters, and intriguing plot made this a book I couldn't put down. I especially appreciated the appropriate quotations at the beginning of each chapter...great literary touch.<br /><br />This story is set in a small mountain town, where everyone has an inescapable history. Some characters have moved to this town to forget their past, others have been unable to leave because of it. We see glimpses of a painful story between Police Chief, Jonah Westfall and candle-maker/prayerline counselor, Tia Manning. The tension between the two is palpable, yet the reasons for it are slow to unfold.<br /><br />In the midst of their personal struggles, a mysterious and sickening crime occurs...repeatedly. As Chief Westfall tries to understand the motivation behind the act and hopefully catch the person responsible, his time and energy are pulled in many directions, leaving him with little strength to maintain his fragile sobriety.<br /><br />A powerful story of life...how we can most hurt the ones we should treasure, how the actions of others can irrevocably affect our lives, and how some people can overcome while others give in to darkness.<br /><br />Thanks to Waterbrook/Multnomah for providing this book for review.Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-46944888837218571112011-02-11T08:57:00.000-08:002011-02-11T09:09:21.372-08:00"A Plague on Both Your Houses"Once again, my father recommended this book to me. <span style="font-style: italic;">A Plague on Both Your Houses</span> is the first in a series by Susanna Gregory (circa 1996). Set in the 1300's at one of the colleges in Cambridge, our main character is Matthew Bartholomew, an unorthodox physician and teacher.<br /><br />The story begins with the proclaimed suicide of the college's Master (head professor/administer). But his ghastly demise leaves Matthew unconvinced that his friend had taken his on life. Then other murders occur. Unwillingly, Matthew becomes embroiled in the sinister plot. Not knowing who he can trust, why the murders are occurring, or if his own life is in danger, Matthew spends his days split between seeing patients and trying to logically solve the crimes.<br /><br />And the the plague arrives.<br /><br />This book reminded me a little of Matthew Pearl's <span style="font-style: italic;">The Dante Club</span>, specifically the mystery of multiple murders, the true historical setting, and the gruesomeness of the Black Death. Although Gregory's description is not quite as vivid as Pearl's...that was fine with me in this case! She does a masterful job of weaving characters, plots, subplots, and twists and turns into a mystery that I had not solved by the time the answers were revealed!<br /><br />I look forward to reading the rest of Bartholomew's adventures by Susanna Gregory!Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-56347563866849592011-02-07T06:21:00.000-08:002011-02-07T07:03:39.875-08:00Helpful Hint #6: Write What you Know...Or Learn about it FirstI have never been one to write about my own experiences for others to read. I've kept a journal off and on for years. But to share my own life? Too personal, too painful, or too boring.<br /><br />So fiction is my form of escape. I leave my own world of daily grind and live in someone else's for a while. Creating characters, placing them in settings I would love to visit, and giving them problems to solve, delights me.<br /><br />However...I have learned that "writing what you know" is important. May I give you an example?<br /><br />When I began writing <span style="font-style: italic;">Second Chance</span> I knew the characters and had a vague idea of the plot. I wanted my hero to be FBI agent, Ian Martin. I looked at the FBI website and investigated the types of cases in which they might be involved. It was a superficial study, to say the least.<br /><br />I also knew I wanted my characters to leave the US during the course of their search. I chose Spain, to honor a friend of mine who read my chapters as soon as they were written. So my characters ended up flying to Lisbon, Spain, with the FBI agent to investigate the disappearance of their parents.<br /><br />Now. If you haven't guessed what's wrong with this picture, allow me to point out two major problems:<br />1. Lisbon is not IN Spain.<br />2. The FBI doesn't have jurisdiction overseas.<br /><br />Are you laughing yet? Obviously, I didn't do my research! Not only that, my friend (who grew up in Spain) kindly informed me that my scenes set in that country looked more like a suburb of Any Town, USA than Spain.<br /><br />So. I hit the computer a little harder! I spent time researching Lisbon, <span style="font-style: italic;">Portugal</span>, and surrounding cities, to make my description more authentic. As I researched, I fell in love with the landscape, the history, and the people. Portugal is now on my ever growing list of places I wish to visit some day.<br /><br />To address the problem with the FBI and overseas, I tried making my hero into a CIA agent, but it just didn't sit well with me. So after further research, I found a loophole in which the FBI does work with overseas cases involving Americans. They still don't have jurisdiction and must deal with local police in that country or INTERPOL, but I could make that work. (After more research involving INTERPOL, of course. I had learned my lesson!)<br /><br />My point? You don't have to draw from personal experience to write everything you write...but you better spend some time <span style="font-style: italic;">learning</span> about your subject before hand. Otherwise you may end up with a mess like me! I continue to be thankful for good friends who knew the difference, and weren't afraid to question me! And I have learned that researching new topics for other stories can be fun:)<br /><br />More helpful thoughts regarding this subject:<br /><a href="http://www.suite101.com/content/write-what-you-know-a49048">http://www.suite101.com/content/write-what-you-know-a49048</a><br /><a href="http://www.writersservices.com/res/ml/r_factsheet_2.htm">http://www.writersservices.com/res/ml/r_factsheet_2.htm</a>Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-87989300556511092222011-02-05T07:50:00.000-08:002011-02-05T09:31:06.166-08:00Helpful Hint #5: Show, don't TellIf you've ever taken a Writing course, I imagine you have heard that phrase. My memory of high school Creative Writing is summed up in those three words. It drives me to carefully consider everything I write, as I question myself, "Am I telling or showing?" <br /><br />But explaining what it means is difficult for me. The simplistic version (and I do teach children...) is to ask yourself, "Am I painting a picture with my words? Or am I telling the reader what's happening?" But that explanation isn't quite right either. So let's look at some examples that might make the difference more clear.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The group walked into the construction zone and had to place their hands over their ears because it was so loud.</span><br /><br />When I read this sentence I know exactly what is happening, because I've been told. I don't have to think about it. But there is also little or no emotional connection for me, the reader. Now, read how Christina Dodd shows the same scene in her paranormal romantic thriller, <span style="font-style: italic;">Chains of Fire</span>:<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Welders sparked and the rythmic blast of riveters created acoustic bedlam.</span><br /><br />Wow. Now I picture the scene, and I wince at the sounds I have imagined. I see the sparks fly from the welders. I don't know what riveters are, but the sounds they make must be deafening! Mentally, I am <span style="font-style: italic;">there,</span> in that scene, experiencing those sights and sounds.<br /><br />As writers, that should be the desired effect our words have on our readers; to draw them into the story in a way that they feel as if they are <span style="font-style: italic;">there</span>. I try to think of it as "sharing my story" rather than "telling my story".<br /><br />How to do this? Choose words precisely. Rather than <span style="font-style: italic;">ran quickly</span>, use <span style="font-style: italic;">raced</span> or <span style="font-style: italic;">fled</span>. <span style="font-style: italic;">Raced</span> implies running toward something, while <span style="font-style: italic;">fled</span> suggests running away. Depending on which your character is doing, either choice shows a better picture than <span style="font-style: italic;">ran quickly</span>.<br /><br />Another example:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The little boy licked his ice cream cone nervously.</span> (telling)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The boy huddled in the far corner of the room and his gaze darted from one person to the next, as he devoured his rare treat. </span>(showing)<br /><br />The first example requires no active participation from me, the readers. The second shows me the boy is nervous, but never actually uses that word.<br /><br /><br />Please visit these sights for much more helpful suggestions on this enigmatic rule. They "show" you much better than I do!<br /><br /><a href="http://foremostpress.com/authors/articles/show_not_tell.html">http://foremostpress.com/authors/articles/show_not_tell.html</a><br /><a href="http://www.sfwriter.com/ow04.htm">http://www.sfwriter.com/ow04.htm</a><br /><a href="http://jerz.setonhill.edu/writing/creative/showing.htm">http://jerz.setonhill.edu/writing/creative/showing.htm</a>Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-16847655399051174242011-02-01T09:29:00.000-08:002011-02-02T10:18:23.613-08:00Helpful Hint #4: To Use "Be" or Not to Use "Be"I often struggle with overusing forms of the verb 'be'. Usually this occurs during the first draft stage when the action of the story moves faster than my thoughts, and word choice is not my highest priority. However, when editing I often am appalled at the overuse of linking verbs such as 'is', 'was', and 'were'. Writing instructors discourage the use of linking verbs because they create wordy, weak sentences.<br /><br />Let's look at some examples:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Yesterday, I was going to the store to pick up some peaches.</span><br /><br />Rather than <span style="font-style: italic;">was going</span>, choose a more accurate action verb, such as <span style="font-style: italic;">drove, walked</span>, or <span style="font-style: italic;">ran</span>. These actually help the reader create a more vivid mental picture.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">She is trying to fly a kite.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span></span></span>How can we reword this without the linking verb? Also consider the picture you wish to portray.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">She tugs the string upward, but the kite refuses to follow.</span><br /><br /><br />I once saw a post on FaceBook from a fellow author sharing the best tip she learned at a workshop: eliminate the word 'was'! It remains a personal challenge for me. But when I take the time to carefully consider the picture I want to show my readers, and word my sentences accordingly, the outcome is worth it.<br /><br />Which of these examples creates a more moving picture for you?<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Susan was feeling lonely because her friend moved awa</span>y.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">After Jake moved away, Susan's loneliness consumed her.</span><br /><br />It takes time and energy to consciously limit the use of linking verbs, but the professionals I have studied claim it makes for much better reading!<br /><br />Feel free to check these related discussions:<br /><a href="http://300daysofbetterwriting.wordpress.com/2010/09/24/keep-verbs-as-verbs/">http://300daysofbetterwriting.wordpress.com/2010/09/24/keep-verbs-as-verbs/</a><br /><a href="http://www.dailywritingtips.com/5-ways-to-set-smothered-verbs-free/">http://www.dailywritingtips.com/5-ways-to-set-smothered-verbs-free/</a><br /><a href="http://wiki.answers.com/Q/How_can_you_replace_linking_verbs">http://wiki.answers.com/Q/How_can_you_replace_linking_verbs</a>Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5692859073056499847.post-16488068762780022732011-01-31T05:52:00.000-08:002011-02-01T05:49:55.266-08:00Helpful Hint #3: Dialogue tagsLimiting the variety of dialogue tags, a "rule of thumb" in the literary world, was very difficult for me to accept. As a second grade writing teacher I often encouraged my students to think of other words to describe their characters' dialogue other than 'said'.<br /><br />Yet during the production of my first novel, my editor suggested that using more flowery dialogue tags were unnecessary. I remained unconvinced, but took her advice half-way...meaning I deleted some of my tags but kept many of them. Even after reading some well written posts on the subject I couldn't bring myself to agree with what was essentially the opposite of what I had been teaching my students.<br /><br />However, I began to pay attention to tags used in other books...those by prolific, best-selling authors. As you might have guessed, there was little variation from the word 'said'. And when the speaker was obvious, there might not be a dialogue tag at all.<br /><br />So I have tried to scale down my use of 'commented' and 'reproached' and 'moaned' (etc).<br /><br />In addition to that is the overuse of adverbs hooked to tags such as 'she said joyfully'. This is a particular weakness of mine. I am learning, however, that if I take more care in what my characters are actually saying, I don't have to tell my readers how it was said. I can assume they are smart enough to know.<br /><br />Take for example, <span style="font-style: italic;">"I'm so excited!" Sara shouted gleefully</span> or <span style="font-style: italic;">"Thank you so much," she whispered thankfully</span>. The adverbs are completely redundant. We can infer quite easily the speaker's emotion from the words.<br /><br />For more on this suggestion check out the following articles:<br /><a href="http://www.writing-world.com/fiction/said.shtml">http://www.writing-world.com/fiction/said.shtml</a><br /><a href="http://www.fiction-writers-mentor.com/dialogue-tags.html">http://www.fiction-writers-mentor.com/dialogue-tags.html</a>Karina Harrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03798261527744749941noreply@blogger.com0