FCA Cleveland

Archive for February, 2010

Here’s a few tips that I’ve found extremely helpful when writing, and there are some that I’ve yet to try. Have a writing tip? Share it with us!

Mark words that you like or find interesting with a pen or highlighter (in a book that you own).
If you come across a word that you can’t understand, look it up on google.com
Looking for the right word to use? You can find synonyms and antonyms for a word on thesaurus.com
Pay close attention to your writing, making sure you don’t use the same words over and over again.
Put what you’ve been working on, away for a day or two. Check your writing and edit if you need.
Join a writers’ group.
Take some courses on writing.
Buy books that offer tips (amazon.com)
Read often.
Try to add new words to your vocabulary.
Ask for opinions on your writing from friends, family, and etc.
Ask for advice from authors/writers.
Practice!

God bless!
~Grace

You might have noticed that there’s a new poll up (it’s located on the right in the sidebar). The poll will run for three weeks (ends May 21st).

We’re running the poll to better improve our site. We would like to know what you would like to see more of – whether it be reviews, interviews, book trailers, articles, lists, or giveaways.We will use the results from the poll to add more content suited to our readers.

Voting in the poll is easy; you only have to vote once and you’re done! *Thank you*

God bless!
~Grace

God bless!
~Grace

Song in the Night: One Family’s Journey from Darkness to Dawn by Pamela Thorson.

Synopsis:
As a young Christian, Kevin Thorson was a normal, healthy 19-year-old. Music was his life, and he planned to play his guitar and use his talents for God. Abruptly, all seemed to end July 11, 1997.

His mother recalls the words from that dreaded phone call: Pam, you need to sit down . . . Kevin has been in an accident . . . paralyzed . . . ventilator . . . hospital . . . She could only comprehend the bits in between those horrifying words. Kevin was lying paralyzed on a ventilator in a foreign country with a broken neck.

Pam Thorson, with painful openness, recounts the true story of her family’s nightmare as they struggled to live out their faith in the face of impossible odds. Song in the Night traces the journey of her family to find peace in the midst of so much darkness.

Book Info:

Hardcover
Pages: 208
ISBN: 978-1930580381
Condition: New *autographed*

Giveaway Rules:
You must leave a comment with your e-mail address, so that we can contact you if you’re the winner. US and Canada only. This giveaway starts today and ends on the 17th of May. A winner will be chosen on the 18th. The winner will be chosen randomly and notified by e-mail. If the winner doesn’t respond within a week; we will have to pick another. Good luck! =)

God bless!
~Grace

White Purifies5 Stars
Time is running out, and Thomas Hunter is frantically searching for the right path to take. Things have changed; the forest people have been given a decree not to fight but to love the Horde. Thomas the Hunter is no longer a fighter but a lover. He has given his life to drown in the red pools of water for Elyon, and he’s been made new because of this. Justin (Elyon’s son) gave Thomas and his people the new decree to love passionately for the Horde – to be seen as being different from them because of their great love for others.

Unfortunately, the Horde has a disease because they have not yet drowned in the red pools. Is it time for a change? Thomas and a few of his best warriors get captured by the Horde’s mighty general, Woref. The triumphant general drags Thomas and his warriors to the leader of the Horde, Qurong. After showing off his prize, Woref throws Thomas and the others into a dungeon. Thomas doesn’t lose hope; instead he comes up with a plan. In trying to win their freedom, Thomas works at gaining the trust of Chelise (Qurong’s daughter).

While helping Chelise, Thomas soon finds himself in an awkward situation. He’s falling in love with the Horde princess! He tries to deny his feelings but discovers he cannot hide them. He’s drawn to her even though she seems to have no feelings for him. He can’t help it; he must save her from Woref. But, Thomas knows that turmoil and anguish lie on the other side of his dreams. Should he pursue Chelise or will it end up being a mistake that will cost his life?

My Thoughts on White:

Ted Dekker does it again! His storytelling is wonderfully crafted and is a cinch to read. He’s so descriptive with everything; the smallest things don’t get left out. Because he’s so descriptive, you might not like his writing style. But for me, the Circle Series wasn’t that graphic. The only thing that I picked up on is the use of the word “whore” which the men call some of the women. I definitely wouldn’t recommend this series to children but I would to older teens and up.

I’ve read Black, Red, and now White. I couldn’t distinguish much of a difference from Red and White in the sense of which one I liked better. I do know that I enjoyed Red much more than Black.

In White, there’s a couple of surprises – none of which I will divulge. Although I will say one thing: the ending of this book holds a big surprise. The only book left in the Circle Series to read is Green: The Beginning and The End. For that, I am excited to read and discover new adventures within the Circle.

Visit Ted Dekker’s website here: teddekker.com

*Note* This review was written for this blog and for New Release Tuesday

God bless!
~Grace

God bless!
~Grace

This is a list of giveaways that I put together from the beginning to the end of May.

Ends May 13th – Almost Forever by Deborah Raney
Ends May 13th – Radical by David Platt
Ends May 14th – Chosen by Ginger Garrett
Ends May 14th – Radical by David Platt
Ends May 16th – Love Finds You in Charm Ohio by Annalisa Daughety
Ends May 16th – The Anonymous Bride by by Vickie McDonough
Ends May 20th – Katy’s New World by Kim Vogel Sawyer
Ends May 21st – They Almost Always Come Home by Cynthia Ruchti
Ends May 22nd – Seeds of Summer by Deborah Vogts
Ends May 22nd – It Had to Be You by Janice Thompson
Ends May 22nd – Cowboy for a Rainy Afternoon by Stephen Bly
Ends May 23rd – Broken Angel by Sigmund Brouwer
Ends May 23rd – Welcome To College by Jonathan Morrow
Ends May 23rd – A Case For Love by Kaye Dacus
Ends May 23rd – The Clouds Roll Away by Sibella Giorello
Ends May 24th – Green Like God by Jonathan Merritt
Ends May 28th – Love Finds You in Humble Texas by Anita Higman
Ends May 28th – When Love Blooms by Robin Lee Hatcher
Ends May 31st – Fire Bible Student Edition
Ends May 31st – A Woman Called Sage by DiAnn Mills
Ends May 31st – The Inn At Angel Island by Thomas Kinkade & Katherine Spencer

Ends ? – Highland Blessings by Jennifer Hudson Taylor

We’re giving a book away!
Ends May 17th – Song in the Night by Pamela Thorson

God bless!
~Grace

I’m conducting research on the subject of hardcover and paperback books. I thought it would be fun and interesting to see what people have to say about them. After I’ve collected enough comments, I will post a select few here. I’ll also give my opinion on it as well.

The research will take a few months to do, probably. In the meantime, I will try to gather as many opinions as possible from various bookworms.

So I would love to hear what you think! Please, leave a comment saying what you prefer and why. I might or might not show your comment at the end of my research. For instance, I will put together an article in my own words about the responses that I received and at the end of it will be a few comments. I will ask readers myself – if I use it, do I have your permission?

If this research turns out to be a success and everyone enjoyed it, then I will do more like this. Perhaps one on Kindle books? I would really like to hear your suggestions on this!

Let the research commence! =)

God bless!
~Grace

Coming Home
4 1/2 Stars

Dani Davis’ car has run out of gas and in the middle of nowhere. Dani waits in her car alone on a dusty Texas road hoping that someone will stop by and give her a hand. Someone does come along eventually but he doesn’t look like her knight in shining armor. A cowboy stops in an old pickup truck and offers Dani a ride into town – she reluctantly agrees to ride with him.

While riding with the cowboy, Dani finds out that his name is Steve. She comes to realize that they’re complete opposites – she’s a city girl and he’s a country guy. They soon get into a heated conversation in which Steve quickly drops her off at a hardware shop. Dani uses the phone at the shop and calls her Aunt Beth “Mama Beth.” Dani is soon picked up by her aunt and taken to her home to stay.

After living at her aunt’s quaint home for a few weeks, Dani decides that she wants to stay permanently. Mama Beth advises Dani to pray and think it over first before deciding. She’s determined that this is where she wants to live – in a comfortable and peaceful home. But she soon learns that it’s not as quiet or private as she had thought; there are plenty of nosy neighbors around.

Dani had escaped her city life to leave everything behind her. Her relationship with her mother is falling apart and she’s suffered terrible loss. All Dani wants is a place to call home. Will she find what she’s looking for?

My Thoughts on Texas Roads:

I fell in love with the characters in Texas Roads – they’re so endearing and lifelike. The setting that the story revolves around is also something that I loved about the book. Cathy Bryant was able to paint a picture of what Texas looks like. The book really has a comfortable and lazy-like aura – a perfect book to read during summer. Just like the character Dani, I never wanted to leave!

Texas Roads is the first book in the Miller’s Creek Series and Cathy Bryant is currently working on the second. I’m anxious to read more about the characters that I grew to love. I recommend Texas Roads to readers, who enjoy a sweet romance, witty characters, and a fun story.

Visit Cathy Bryant’s website: www.catbryant.com

Come back tomorrow for an interview with Cathy Bryant, plus a book giveaway!

God bless!
~Grace

Cathy Bryant lives in Texas where she writes and teaches music. She just recently released her debut novel, Texas Roads (2009 ACFW Genesis contest finalist), in March of this year. She’s currently working on her second book for the Miller’s Creek Series.

Cathy dropped by The Christian Scroll to do an interview with us and has graciously offered to give one of her books away! *Make sure to read the rules below before entering.

Welcome Cathy!

Thanks for inviting me to your blog, Grace!

When did you decide that you wanted to pursue writing?

Since childhood I’ve enjoyed writing, and I can’t remember a time when writing a novel wasn’t on my bucket list. My last chick flew the nest in 2004, and over the next few years, God seemed to orchestrate a series of events that made me realize how brief life is. So in 2007 I attended my first writing conference and over the next year or two started snatching up every craft-of-writing book I could get my hands on. I was hooked after that!

Besides writing, you teach piano and singing. I take it that you love music?

Music is as much a part of my life as breathing. Both sides of my family were musical and it has always come easy to me. When I’m struggling with something, I crank out old tapes and albums (shows you how old I am) or sit down at the piano with a stack of piano music.

What are a few of your favorite artists/bands?

My favorite Christian contemporary artist is Stephen Curtis Chapman. His heart for God flows from the lyrics of his music. I also enjoy other artists and styles of music–Big Band, Tony Bennett, Bette Midler, jazz, classical. Of course my all-time favorite musician is my son, Jase Bryant. He’s a musician in the Dallas area—an awesome guitarist, songwriter and singer—if I do say so myself.

Texas Roads is your first book in the Miller’s Creek Series. What did you enjoy most about writing it?

I really enjoyed the whole process, though edits and revisions seemed to take forever!!! It was fun to create Miller’s Creek and the cast of characters that live there. Ever so often I’ll catch myself wondering what Steve and Dani are up to.

Out of the many characters in the story, which one is your favorite and why?
Without a doubt, my favorite character in Texas Roads is Mama Beth. She’s so much of what I someday hope to be—wise, kind, loving—and full of witty humor!

What is the overall message of the book?

The theme of the story is about making Christ our home. Though we may have temporary dwelling places here on earth, none of them are truly home for believers. Only Jesus can fill that home-shaped hole in each of our hearts.

You’re currently working on the second book for the Miller’s Creek Series. Do you have a title for it? Can you share with us a glimpse of what that book will be about?

I had to chuckle at the question about the title for book two, since I’ve only changed it about a million times. The title is “A Path Less Travelled”…at least for now. ;0)

Here’s the back cover blurb for the second book:

Trish James is tired of being rescued. When a spooked horse claims her husband’s life, she determines to make a life for herself and her son without outside help. But will it mean leaving the place that’s etched on her heart?

Andy Tyler has had to struggle for everything, and starting a new law practice in Miller’s Creek, Texas is no different. Though prepared for business challenges, he’s not prepared to fall in love–especially with yet another woman who will probably abandon him for her career. Will Andy and Trish be able to see beyond the obvious to take a path less traveled?

Do you have any advice for the budding writers out there?

First of all, read, read, read. Read in the genre in which you’d like to write. Read classics. Read other genres. And while you’re reading, also study the craft of writing. You’ll be able to correlate what you’re learning with what you’re reading. One drawback to this method: You’ll never be able to read without analyzing ever again. At least that’s the way it happened for me.

I would also suggest purchasing gently used craft-of-writing books and treating them like college textbooks. Mine are dog-eared, highlighted, paper-clipped and sticky-noted, and the margins are full of scribbles. I also take notes on my computer, which helps me retain more of what I’m learning.

How can readers get in contact with you?

I love to hear from readers! My e-mail is catbry1 [at] yahoo [dot] com. You can also catch me on Facebook and Twitter, as well as at www.CatBryant.com and my blog WordVessel (http://WordVessel.blogspot.com).

Thanks Cathy for doing this interview with us and for giving a book away! I wish you all the best on your writing. Blessings!

Thank you, Grace, for having me over. I enjoyed the visit very much, and I’m looking forward to finding out who wins the giveaway!

Book Giveaway!
Texas Roads (Miller’s Creek Series #1) by Cathy Bryant.

Synopsis:
City gal Dani Davis just wants to find a place to call home. Miller’s Creek, Texas, with its country charm and quirky citizens seems like the perfect place to start over. Perfect, that is, except for the cowboy who gives her a ride into town… Dani secretly finances renovations to downtown Miller’s Creek, but malicious rumors force her to choose between keeping her involvement a secret and the home for which she’s always longed. Then the discovery of an age-old secret propel her down a road she never expected to travel. Steve Miller is determined to save his dying hometown. When vandalism jeopardizes the Miller’s Creek restoration project, he can’t help but suspect Dani, whose strange behavior has become fodder for local gossips. Will Steve and Dani be able to call a truce for a higher cause, and in the process help Dani understand the true meaning of home?

Book Trailer:

Book Info:
PaperbackPages: 304ISBN: 978-0984431106
Condition: New

Giveaway Rules:

You must leave a comment with your e-mail address, so that we can contact you if you’re the winner. US and Canada only. This giveaway starts today and ends on the 28th of May. A winner will be chosen on the 29th. The winner will be chosen randomly and notified by e-mail. If the winner doesn’t respond within a week; we will have to pick another. Good luck! =)

God bless!
~Grace