From Amazon: From monsters to cave demons, Tiffee creates Halloween tales with new, and unexpected twists. In “The Cemetery Book,” a writer gets himself in trouble when he leaves a book by his parents’ grave. “The Birth of Jazz” gives us a glimpse of what might have inspired a new music genre. The third story “Halloween Skull Flash Story” is a short, but powerful story of archaeologist who finds a skull in an Arizona cave. Purple Magic begins on All Hallows’ Eve in a pumpkin patch with the birth of a baby boy. An original fantasy story with a twist that takes the reader where they have never been.

My Review: Ah. Tis the way of this book for sure, which is to leave the reader wanting more. From being chained to a stone in a cemetery to a baby with magical powers, this set of short stories is perfect for all readers. The first story chilled me to the bone and the unique way it played out is amazing. Several stories could easily continue on in a book of it’s own. Five stars.

From Amazon:

The Veil is a biblical fiction book about the tearing of the veil inside the Jewish tabernacle when Jesus died on the cross. We don’t know of any eye witnesses to this from the Bible, but in the bibilical fiction story, The Veil, a Priest and a young boy who is being trained to become a Priest are eye witnesses to this spectacular event. Come along on this journey and experience this heart-pounding, fear-inducing, yet awe-inspiring event that holds so much meaning to the Christian faith.

There are references to the tearing of the veil in 3 books of the Bible (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), “the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.” Inside the Tabernacle were two rooms, The Holy Place and the Holiest of Holies. The veil separated these two rooms. The Holiest of Holies was where God lived and only one Priest was allowed to enter that room and only after being both physically and spiritually cleansed.

The tearing of the veil upon Jesus’ death represents what Jesus did for mankind on the cross–he paid the ultimate price for our sin, so we are no longer separated from a Holy God, our Creator. Therefore, we now have access to God because of the blood of Jesus. All of our sins are forgiven and we are made righteous. There is no more guilt to bear for our sins. We are free! Hallejuah!

This book was written to inspire all who read it regardless of age to “live” the experience and contemplate the wonderful gift Jesus gave us when He died upon the cross. But, his death was not final. He was raised from the dead in 3 days as was predicted by ancient prophets in the Bible. Because he was raised from the dead, He overcame death. We do still die physically, but after we die, if we have accepted this free and wonderful gift that Jesus offers us, we will join Him and His Father (God) and the Holy Spirit in Heaven and live for all eternity!

At the end of the book is a prayer and an opportunity to accept Jesus as your personal Savior so that you can accept His gift and live forever! Your eternity starts the moment you accept Jesus into your heart. You will live without guilt or shame from any past or future sins you may commit, if you sincerely repent. You will know LOVE like you have never known it before. You will know JOY and PEACE no matter the circumstances you are in. You will find a FRIEND that will NEVER leave you and that’s Jesus!

My Review:

This moving biblical story had me enthalled from the start. A Jewish boy becomes a man at age 13, and he is chosen by the priest to study under him, live with him. The most moving part was when I read the words, “it is done”. I prayed then and there. True Christiand drama and delivered in a powerful verse by the author.

From Amazon:

When working for the British Secret Service, Sarah Gillespie can trust no one, not even her closest friends…

London, 1941

After losing her family to a Nazi bomb attack back home in Ireland, Sarah Gillespie joins the British Secret Services to bring them justice.

Partnered with American undercover agent Lieutenant Tony Anderson, Sarah embarks on a dangerous mission that takes her from war-torn London into the black mountains of Wales. But when one of her team is revealed to be a German mole, and enemies begin to close in, what price will Sarah have to pay to save her country—and herself?

My Review: I found this book by Lecky to be a fabulous read! Full of intense moments of intrigue, wondering who would come out alive, the electricity flowing between a man and woman, the baser human traits that are usually one’s own undoing, and all set in Wales and London with one person Irish and another American, set during WW 2, and a throughly lavish plot equals a solid five stars!

Please welcome Maurice M. Hebert to my blog. Hello Moe!

Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

Good day all, first I want to thank you Mary for your efforts in promoting new authors and for this interview opportunity. I am Maurice M. Hebert; the M is for Martin, but close friends know me as Moe. Thank you for featuring me in this post.

Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?

My journey towards writing began with reading. I grew up of course with picture books and comics but soon I was intrigued by the material my dad would read. I read every issue of Popular Mechanics, Popular Science, Mechanics Illustrated etc. All these tech and DIY magazines were helpful in developing my love of learning about how things work and built. I also enjoyed authors Mark Twain, Jules Verne and Eric Von Daniken. I consumed many Science Fiction, Archaeology and Adventure books.

I began writing and storytelling in Vocational School and a bit more while in Community College. Soon after I married my wife in 1981, I was writing short plays and skits for Puppet Productions that we would both direct and perform for Sunday School. I wrote longer plays later for other church theatrical productions.

Inspiration for writing my first book came about while in a discussion with Megan Tennant, a friend at work. Megan recently graduated from Houghton College with her degrees English Lit and Studio Art. We agreed that the concept I had was a great idea and negotiated a contract for her to illustrate the book. She was encouraging, and helpful in teaching me the process of producing a picture book through Amazon Create Space now known as Kindle Direct Publishing.

How difficult was it writing your first book?

The first book “What Would I Do” was straightforward. Once I worked through the alphabet naming each character’s vocation A for Astronaut, B for Butler etc. the most difficult part was creating the situational rhyme associated with the character. Some rhymes came naturally others took a little more searching and imagination. Picture book illustrations carry much of the readers interest and Megan oversaw that aspect wonderfully.

Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?

I never had a thought about giving up the project as it was so exciting a concept to let go. I was having fun producing the characters, the situations, and the rhyme.

Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?

My wife, my three daughters, and my youngest son are all so encouraging and supportive of my efforts. They have similar creative gifts that we as parents encouraged in them while homeschooling.

Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

I know you and your children will enjoy my books because I evaluate them out on eleven grandchildren who really enjoy them and are always asking me to write more.

What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?

The best advice I have ever had was from a Pastor. He explained the meaning of the words in Zachariah 4:10 when the Lord was encouraging His people in rebuilding the Temple “Who shall despise the days of small beginnings”

He told encouraged me regarding what seems like little progress but be steadfast in your pursuits and your work. When you look back at the early days of your projects you will be amazed at how far you came because of your persistence and faith in God.

What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel

I am hoping to reach young readers aged four to twelve with my first two books. “What Would I Do?” helps young readers explore various occupations of the adult world and encourages them to imagine consequences of the actions the characters may choose in real life situations.

My second book “The Kingdom Without Rhyme” is more a fantasy story of a kingdom where the King has outlawed all rhyme. The reader takes part in the story by finding hidden words to complete the narrative verse. It is a fun story that involves a curse an inventor and a brave heroine. Megan Tennant skillfully illustrates this book.

Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?

The cover for “What Would I Do?” is a wonderfully illustrated image of all the characters within the book relating to each other in the last characters venue of the local Zoo Park. Megan and I produced and agreed to go with the idea immediately!

What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?

The next book to publish soon leans more toward the 10- to 14-year-old reader. The Pilgrim story comes from the genealogical perspective of a famous Pilgrim family.

Here is an excerpt from “Tell Us About The Pilgrims”

“It was a dark and terrible day! We were all cold and damp from the ocean waves pounding against the ship. The noise below decks was almost unbearable. The loud creaks and straining groans of the Mayflower, accompanied by the moaning of the people with sea illness.

“Infants were wailing and crying for their mothers, many of whom were ill and not able to comfort their children. Tossed about the lower deck, and sailors restrained the children and tied them with ropes to the posts and rails for their own safety.

“The spirit of prayer was as deep as the sea. We were petitioning the Lord for His mercy. Our voices reaching up through the hull into the dark windswept heavens. Suddenly, there was a great heave of the ship and a loud explosive ‘CRAAAACK’ sounded from one of the beams! The crew scurried about, inspecting the ship. They found the main beam had cracked and shifted menacingly. Soon we were all focused on the crisis as the chief mariners began shouting their hasty opinions of how to proceed. We turned to each other and questioned if we would be able to complete the voyage.

Any last words before we wrap things up?

There are so many books out there for children of all reading levels and it is hard for new authors and publishers to compete in the marketplace. Self- publishing is an expensive venture, and time scheduled for marketing and promotion. I have several manuscripts in submission process and would be thrilled to see one or more of them picked up by a big-name publisher. However, many publishers have succumbed to the latest trends that a few parents do not agree with. I am certain there is still a place for the traditionally wholesome down home picture book for young children, and intellectually stimulating, informative and entertaining material for young adults!

                    

Bio

Maurice M. Hebert is a New England descendant of the Hebert lineage from Canada. He was born in 1957 and married his wife Jane in 1981. Together they have raised five children and are now grandparents of eleven high-energy grandchildren! Maurice is enthusiastic about Christianity’s influence in history and politics and when not writing for children he often writes on apologetics.

He has extensive life experience that includes manufacturing, construction, creative arts, marketing, and administration. He has written many songs and several plays for children and adults. Maurice created Mograce Publishing to publish and promote new material. He is a member of the International Book Publishers Association and Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.

He also offers creative fine art photography at maurice-hebert.pixels.com You may find his blog post at momeaning.com and at mogracepublishing.com.

Now that his children are all grown up, Maurice has the time to create material that will entertain and inspire rational thought and reason in his grandchildren, and many others along the way!

Website

https://www.mogracepublishing.com/welcome

Authors Page

Twitter

Tweets by MoPubs

Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers’ Favorite
As a child, Mary could not figure out why her mother’s behavior toward her tended to be either violent or angry. As she got older the relationship between them only got worse, so much so that she could not wait to get out of living under her mother’s control. Her siblings were not immune and even her mother’s partners bore their fair share of her vitriolic attacks. After she had moved out, got married, and started her own family, you would expect that Mary would be free of her mother’s machinations. Then she received a call about her stepfather’s death which coincided with her mother’s strange late-hour visit. Could it be that her mother somehow found a way to rope Mary into her fiendish scheme? One so unbelievable it could involve murder? Find out in Her Alibi by Mary L. Schmidt.

Mary L. Schmidt tells a compelling story in her book. Her accounts are detailed and graphic, leaving precious little to the imagination. She explains her family history thoroughly, making it easier to understand her story. It is difficult to believe that some of the events transpired in the way she recorded them, but the way the details come together in the latter stages gives the reader ample opportunity to draw conclusions as to the mental state of Mary’s mother and her capabilities. Her Alibi is another example of where reality trumps fiction and Schmidt must be commended for finding the courage to pen this book.

Media Kit

Book Title: Brushstrokes from the Past

Series: Soli Hansen Mysteries

Genre: Historical fiction – dual timeline, a bit of mystery and sweet romance

Twitter Handles: @HeidiEljarbo @cathiedunn

Hashtags:  #solihansenmysteries #BlogTour #TheCoffeePotBookClub

Tour Schedule: https://thecoffeepotbookclub.blogspot.com/2022/07/blog-tour-brushstrokes-from-past-by.html

Brushstrokes from the Past

Soli Hansen Mysteries

Heidi Eljarbo

Blurb:

A Historical Art Mystery

WWII and the mid-seventeenth century are entwined in this fourth dual timeline novel about Nazi art theft, bravery, friendship, and romance.

April 1945. Art historian Soli Hansen and her friend Heddy arrive at an excavation site only to find Soli’s old archeology professor deeply engrossed in an extraordinary find in a marsh. The remains of a man have lain undisturbed for three centuries, but there’s more to this discovery…

As Soli tries to understand who the baroque man was and discovers what he carried in a sealed wooden tube, problems arise. A leak reveals the finds to the notorious Lieutenant Colonel Heinz Walter, and soon, both Nazi elite and the Gestapo are after the treasure.

When Heddy and the professor disappear along with the artwork, Soli and her resistance group must find them before it’s too late.

1641. In Amsterdam, French musketeer Claude Beaulieu has had his portrait done by his close friend and artist Rembrandt van Rijn. When a band of thieves steal the precious painting, Claude and his wife Annarosa Ruber pick up their swords and a few belongings and go after the culprits.

Set in Norway during the tumultuous last days of the second world war, as well as the peak of the glorious baroque art period, these two stories are a must for readers who love historical fiction with adventure, suspense, and true love that conquers all.

Perfect for fans of Kate Morton, Lucinda Riley, Kathleen McGurl, Rhys Bowen, and Katherine Neville.

The Fascination with dual timeline novels

by Heidi Eljarbo

I enjoy reading dual timelines that seamlessly move between two eras and the dual narratives are linked together. When cleverly done, both timelines function on their own, and every scene moves the plot forward. Each riveting story is complete with a great setting, strong characters, a compelling plot, and a satisfying ending. But somehow, these two tales belong together, and the excitement of how they connect makes the journey twice as enjoyable. When both time periods are filled with obstacles, conflict, courage, loyalty, and love, I know I’ll be hooked to the pages.

For such a novel to function, both timelines need an interesting storyline and a compelling drive that makes you want to know what happens in both eras. The transition between times should be distinct and the chapters woven together in a natural progression.

A dual timeline is different from a chronological story that starts and ends with the same protagonists and one main plot. It’s also more than a novel with flashbacks. Even though a backstory may cover things in the past that lead to where the protagonist is today, this is not a dual timeline.

Also, stories where someone travels through time with the use of a hypothetical device is not considered a dual timeline, nor is the timeslip aspect where the characters magically or supernaturally travel backward or forward in time.

Dual timeline novels usually link a contemporary story and another historical tale. In Brushstrokes from the Past, I’ve chosen two historical eras that are three hundred years apart. I’ve connected three aspects I love—the bravery of the resistance during WWII, the seventeenth century, and art. I have a true passion for art history and have so much fun researching details about master artists, painting techniques, colors, and compositions. The goal becomes to weave in truly interesting history without having it read like a textbook or making it obvious to the reader.

As an avid reader of historical fiction novels, I expect no less. For two entwined stories to function together as a book, we need a common theme, element, or happening.

The main shared item in Brushstrokes from the Past, is a portrait painted by Rembrandt van Rijn in the seventeenth century as well as an ancient, preserved ledger kept by one of Rembrandt’s models. When an art historian during WWII comes across these two things, anything can happen.

Brushstrokes from the Past is a historical art mystery and the fourth installment in the Soli Hansen Mysteries. Each novel can be read as a standalone, but they are more enjoyable when read in order as both of the stories progress.

I hope you’ll enjoy the journey.

Buy Links:

Available on #KindleUnlimited

Universal Link: https://books2read.com/u/47g8Ej

Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09ZBBRH84/

Amazon US: https://www.amzn.com/B09ZBBRH84/

Amazon CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B09ZBBRH84/

Amazon AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B09ZBBRH84/

Author Bio:

Heidi Eljarbo is the bestselling author of historical fiction and mysteries filled with courageous and good characters that are easy to love and others you don’t want to go near.

Heidi grew up in a home filled with books and artwork and she never truly imagined she would do anything other than write and paint. She studied art, languages, and history, all of which have come in handy when working as an author, magazine journalist, and painter.

After living in Canada, six US states, Japan, Switzerland, and Austria, Heidi now calls Norway home. She and her husband have a total of nine children, thirteen grandchildren—so far—in addition to a bouncy Wheaten Terrier.

Their favorite retreat is a mountain cabin, where they hike in the summertime and ski the vast, white terrain during winter.

Heidi’s favorites are family, God’s beautiful nature, and the word whimsical.

Sign up for her newsletter at https://www.heidieljarbo.com/newsletter

Social Media Links:

Website: https://www.heidieljarbo.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeidiEljarbo

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-eljarbo-morrell-andersen-345a253a/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heidieljarbo/

Instagram author page: https://www.instagram.com/authorheidieljarbo/

Pinterest: https://no.pinterest.com/heidieljarbo/

Book Bub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/heidi-eljarbo

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amzn.com/Heidi-Eljarbo/e/B073D852VG/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16984270.Heidi_Eljarbo

From Amazon:

Dreamland, the western territory of Romania, a paradise dreamed of by empires; a fairyland protected by its hearty folk; and centuries-long safe haven to hopeful emigrants.

Dreamland, these are stories lived, legends of why, myths of who, folk believes rooted in the days when the populace of Banat, Crisana, Maramures, and Transylvania laid the first foundations in places still untamed, places that maybe changed their face as they changed many hands throughout centuries.

Dreamland: like a river flows free, like the bird knows no boundaries, and like clouds spread over the entire horizon, so is the history, and the tales of these Romanian provinces. Dacians and Romans, Vlachs, Moti, Mocans, Huns, Peri, Magyars, Transylvanian Saxons , Swabians, Szeklers, Jewish refugees, Ottoman invaders, hajduks and emperors, priests, these are the folks who shared this Dreamland and together they shaped its history, culture and architecture.
In these troubled times, when one’s identity escapes and is easily strewn along paths travelled far and wide, let’s take another look back. Let’s meet the people who can still remember the tales of their ancestors, entrusted to them with the seed of truth.

Today Romania has ten defined historical provinces: Banat, Crișana, Maramureș, Transylvania (Ardeal or Erdély) presented in this book, Dreamland, but also Bucovina, Moldova, Basarabia, Oltenia, Muntenia, and Dobrogea.

Banat: local population lived mainly in huts scattered over the valleys because the main occupation was pastoralism without transhumance. This historical region often bordered various empires that made the area somewhat insecure, and often depopulated due to war outbursts. Today Banat is a land peacefully shared between Romania, Serbia, and Hungary.

Crisana: is a geographical and historical region in north-west Romania named after the Criş Rivers guarded by the peaks of Apuseni Mountains. The etymology for Crişana goes back to the old name for Criş Rivers, Chrisola, deriving from Ancient Greek golden due to golden specks often spotted in its waters.

Maramures: located in the very north of Romania, the very birth of Maramureş has its legend. Its people love to share it by the fire of the woodstove, during cold January evenings steeped in snow. The wood-carved Maramureş Gates are one of the most precious symbols of Maramureş Country.

Transylvania is a historical plateau located at the heart of Romania. Dominated by large pastures, Transylvania is sheltered by the Carpathian Mountains which stand guard around it: to the west, Apuseni Mountains; to the east, Harghita Mountains; and to the south by the Fagaras Mountains nicknamed the Alps of Transylvania and traversed by the spectacular Transfagarasan Road. A multicultural region with a noteworthy history and a rich cultural heritage, Transylvania is known as Ardeal to its millennial Romanian inhabitants, Siebenbürgen to the German Saxons who lived on this land for centuries, and Erdély to the Szeklers and the Hungarian people living here today, alongside Turks, Jews, Serbs, and Roma Gypsies.

This isn’t a history book, or a storybook, but rather a collection of fleeting impressions, lived truths, reflections, descriptive essays, and snapshots of a life lived in fabulous ways.

These short texts are meant to evoke passages from history and I tried to write them with passion and lyricism, and, I hope, wit. Telling stories is the best way to keep the past, this untouchable treasure, alive.

In chronological order: 117 Stories punctuated by historical details.
Over 80 color photographs.

My Review: Wow. This book was much more than I expected going in to read. I read folklore yes, and more. The stories evoked different reactions and that is the hallmark of a well written book. Most stories include a photo of the area, fortress, church, country home, etcetera. History of each area gives great insight to this special place on our beautiful blue sphere of life. Thank you, Ms Furstenberg.

From Amazon: THE EVERYDAY WORLD IS FULL OF STRANGE AND MAGICAL CREATURES, AND SOME OF THEM DON’T PLAY NICE … Protecting innocents in the mortal world is not a job to be taken lightly, and life for the paranormal Younglings is spiralling back to Insanityville. Stranded spirits, violent, rogue vampires and evil demons are bad enough … but now there’s a serial killer on the loose. The cunning vampire ministry will go to any lengths to secure the half-angel’s blood, but can they find out Eve’s identity? A tenacious vampire tracker is determined to locate her, and he’s closing in. For some Younglings, love lives are blossoming; for others, love is on the verge of crumbling. And a newcomer, sent to spy on the Younglings, brings an unexpected twist. As normal, trouble follows the Younglings like a menacing cloud, and this time it arrives in the guise of savage combat vampires. To make matters worse, merciless witch hunters are stalking Millie—they will do anything to see her dead. Can the Younglings protect her? Monsters don’t always have claws or fangs … sometimes they hide in plain sight—and they’re just as deadly. Being one of the Younglings can be bad for the health … FIRE & MAGIC is the second book in THE YOUNGLINGS series. An action-packed, gripping, full-length, coming of age, YA paranormal fantasy, it will transport urban fantasy fans to a fascinating, supernatural world within our own. Filled with magic, suspense, danger, sizzling action and adventure, a large dose of humour and thrilling paranormal romance, this book will take the reader on a rollercoaster of a ride.

My Review: I didn’t know at the I started reading this book, that it is book two in a trilogy. However, that fact is not an issue, as the book is written such that enough from book one is brought into this one to make this book a standalone read, except, one will want to read book three when it comes out with the cliffhanger this book leaves! This book has it all, the magical characters exhibit a full range of emotions, and one particular love scene is written in such a way that anyone would yearn for love, and written without coarse language. That makes even that scene a cut above for all the feels and emotions without coarse language or scene descriptions added. The Younglings face their share of family, battles, love, and more in this epic book. Although The Younglings are a younger group, one need not be age 17 to 30 in order to feel like this book suits them. Anyone who loves the supernatural world will love this five star book!

Book Title:  The Muse of Freedom

Series: Cévenoles Sagas

Author: Jules Larimore

Publication Date: September 13, 2022

Publisher: Mystic Lore Books

Page Length: 454

Genre: Historical Fiction / Renaissance Fiction / Sagas

Twitter Handles: @jules_larimore @cathiedunn

Hashtags: #historicalfiction #BlogTours #TheCoffeePotBookClub

Tour Schedule:  https://thecoffeepotbookclub.blogspot.com/2022/08/blog-tour-muse-of-freedom-by-jules.html

The Muse of Freedom

a Cévenoles Sagas novel

Jules Larimore

Blurb:

First in the series from The Cévenoles Sagas is THE MUSE OF FREEDOM.

“Brilliantly told, a story that will stick with you long after you’ve turned the last page . . . fresh and compelling, as relevant now as it was then.”

~ Janet Wertman, award-winning author of The Seymour Saga trilogy

A French Huguenot apothecary’s legacy of secrets, a mystic healer’s inspiration, a fateful decision.

In the mysterious Cévennes mountains of Languedoc, France, 1695, Jehan BonDurant, a young nobleman forcibly held in a Dominican prieuré as a child, comes of age only to inherit a near-derelict estate and his Huguenot family’s dangerous legacy of secrets. While he cherishes his newfound freedom apprenticing as an apothecary, his outrage mounts over religious persecutions led by King Louis XIV’s Intendant Basville, who is sent to enforce the King’s will for “One King, One Law, One Faith”.

The ensuing divisions among families and friends and the gradual revelation of his own circumstances lead Jehan to question his spiritual choices. A journey deep into the heart of the Cévennes in search of guidance, unfolds in a way he least expects when he enters the enchanting Gorges du Tarn. There he discovers his muse, Amelia Auvrey, a free-spirited, mystic holy woman who reveals ancient healing practices and spiritual mysteries.

Together they quest for peace and spiritual freedom by aiding the persecuted until the Intendant’s spy reports their activities and the King’s dragoons are sent out after them. To retain their freedom, they must choose to live in hiding in a remote wilderness, join a festering uprising against the persecutions, or flee their cherished homeland with thousands of other refugees in search of hope.

Inspired by the true story of Jean Pierre Bondurant dit Cougoussac, distilled and blended with Cévenole magic lore, this is an inspiring coming of age story and family saga of courage, tenacity, and the power of love in a country rife with divisions under the control of an authoritarian king obsessed with power.

Fans of Poldark, Magic Lessons, The Lost Apothecary, and The Huguenot Chronicles will find thematic elements from those stories melded into this thrilling and obscure slice of French history.

Buy Links:

Universal Link:  https://books2read.com/u/b5jMXp

Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BBBS2DTK/

Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BBBS2DTK/

Amazon CA: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0BBBS2DTK/

Amazon AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B0BBBS2DTK/

Author Bio:

Jules Larimore writes emotive, literary-leaning historical fiction to inspire positive change for the oppressed and refugees, and to encourage an intimate relationship with the natural environment.

Influenced by a background in freelance travel writing, Jules uses captivating historical settings as characters. Then distills and blends them with a dose of magic, myth, and romance to bring to life hopeful human stories. A previous career in marketing offered an outlet for creative writing used to romance brands with mystery, excitement, and remoteness from everyday life.

With a Bachelor of Arts from Indiana University, Jules has studied medieval history, ancient Greek culture, anthropology, folklore, narrative composition, and architectural design, and has trained under writing geniuses Libbie Hawker/Olivia Hawker and Roz Morris. While investigating the ancestor who inspired The Muse of Freedom, Jules researched late 17th century Languedoc customs, politics, and spiritual traditions specific to the little known Cévennes mountains of south-central France, culminating in a rich repository to feed future novels about the Cévenol people and culture.

Jules lives primarily in Ojai, California, with time spent around the U.S. and in various countries in Europe gathering more treasures in a continued search for authenticity.

Social Media Links:

Website: https://juleslarimore.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jules_larimore

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juleslarimore/

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

Book Bub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/70036407

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Jules-Larimore/e/B0BBC13BR7/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/115944791-jules-larimore

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0rKEuQwQDt_-dpnzQAYNvA

Excerpt for Gone in an Instant: Losing my son, Loving his killer by Tammy Horvath:

After several more negotiations, the Assistant District Attorney contacted me in early December 2018. They wanted to know if I’d agree to a plea deal of thirty to sixty years. In my opinion, anything less than life without parole was unfair, but I also knew it wasn’t really up to me since the DA’s office, not me, would make the final decision. Asking for my input was simply a courtesy to the victim’s family.

In the end, I agreed to the plea deal, as did the defense. A few days later, I received a call informing me that Wednesday, December 12, 2018, would be the date for Tyrone’s sentencing. I would have the opportunity to present a victim’s impact statement during the sentencing.

This was all happening right before Christmas. I was emotionally distraught and cried so much that I was having a hard time functioning at work. I originally prepared just three short, simple points for my impact statement. But God had other plans. On the morning of the sentencing, I listened to a daily devotion from Saddleback Church (drivetimedevotions.com) as I did every morning. God never fails to speak if we listen for his voice. By the end of the short broadcast, it couldn’t have been clearer what God wanted me to say to Tyrone.

Mike, my mom, my sister Jamie and her husband Jerry, and a couple of Luke’s friends accompanied me to the sentencing. My stomach lurched with nervousness as we arrived at the courthouse, but I was also energized that this would finally be over.

As we were escorted to our seats in the courtroom, I spotted Tyrone seated at the defense table with his public defender. He was reading some legal documents, and it seemed odd that he wasn’t wearing any handcuffs. If he was a dangerous killer, why wasn’t he in handcuffs? I reminded myself that God was with me and that one of the most repeated commands in the Bible is to “fear not.”

Everyone stood as the judge entered the courtroom. After we were all seated, the judge read off the charges against Tyrone, including criminal homicide and robbery. I was so emotional I couldn’t stop shaking. Just then I noticed that no one was on the defense side of the courtroom. Not a single member of his family had shown up to support Tyrone.

With that sad realization, a love only God could give overwhelmed me for this young man. It was so intense I felt my heart was going to burst. I wanted to sit on his side of the courtroom so that he wouldn’t be alone.

About ten minutes later, my shaky legs barely got me to the front of the courtroom to give my victim impact statement. I waited to see if Tyrone would look at me. He didn’t, so I began.

“Tyrone, when I was listening to a devotional program this morning, God laid on my heart what he wanted me to say to you today. It was a Christmas-themed devotional, and the word for today was love. So I’m going to share that devotion with you.”

For the first time, Tyrone glanced at me. I went on, “If I asked you to summarize Christmas in one word, you might say giving or joy or family, maybe even hope. But the essence of Christmas at its very core is about love. L-O-V-E.” I spelled out the individual letters. “In fact, maybe the most well-known verse in the Bible is John 3:16, ‘For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life.’”

Praise God. I now had Tyrone’s full attention. “That’s it. Christmas is all about love. The love of God who was willing to step into the brokenness, messiness, and sinfulness of humanity and redeem us to himself. Just think about the depth of God’s love for you by answering this question. If you knew your son was about to die unjustly because of something someone else had done and it was within your power to prevent his death, wouldn’t you stop it from happening?”

Was I getting through to Tyrone? I prayed for God to speak to his heart as I continued, “Of course, you would because you love your son. Imagine then how much God must love you that he would give his only begotten Son to take your place and die for you even when you were sinning against him. The Bible says while we were sinners, Christ died for us. It may not seem to make sense that God would love you and me so deeply. But it’s true. The manger shows it. The cross proves it. We worship the only God who loves sinners. He loves the world even when we are sinning against him, and he wants us to love others even when they sin against us.”

I finished reading the devotional, then looked directly into Tyrone’s soul. “Tyrone, because I am a follower of Jesus, I am required to forgive you. And I have forgiven you from the moment you took my son’s life from this earth. I want you to know that God will also forgive you if you ask him. The Bible says that if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us. But the Bible also says we reap what we sow. I believe thirty years is too short of a sentence for taking my son’s life. But in those thirty years, God is also giving you a chance to find him. And maybe someday you will feel the need to let me know why you decided to kill my son Luke.”

Shakily, I rushed back to my seat. Now it was Tyrone’s turn to agree to the charges. I tuned everything out, feeling vulnerable and crying a little. At one point, the judge asked Tyrone if he wanted to say anything.

“No.” But just as the judge started speaking again, he looked at me and interrupted her. “Your Honor, I do have something I would like to say.”

 “Do you want to speak to council first?”

“No.”

“Then go ahead.”

Tyrone turned and addressed me directly. “Like you said before, I don’t have any children, so I can’t really begin to imagine what you feel.”

I was stunned at his words. I’d gotten through to him. God had gotten through to him. Oh, me of little faith. Why did I ever doubt the all-powerful, all-knowing, almighty God?

I had tears in my eyes as Tyrone continued, “There was a reason behind what I did. It may not be right, and I don’t want to put it on record, but given a chance, I will have my lawyer contact you. All I want to say right now is I apologize for your loss. If I could take it back, I would.”

Whether he was saying this because he’d been caught or because he genuinely wished he’d never killed my son, I couldn’t know. But I felt so blessed God was granting my plea that Tyrone would speak to me that I found myself smiling at him as joy washed over me like buckets of cool water on a sweltering day. Finally, I’d been promised answers as to why he’d shot my son.

Jumping up, I begged the judge. “Your Honor, would it be possible to hug him?”

My whole family and the ADA gasped. Then everything was silent except for the hammering of my heartbeat. The judge pursed her lips and stared at me. I held my breath, saying a silent prayer that God would give me this. I really wanted to hug Tyrone. I wanted him to feel my love.

It felt like minutes passed, though I’m sure it was only seconds. Then the judge said emphatically, “No, not for a few reasons, okay? Because he is incarcerated.”

My heart dropped to the floor. Pain swept over me like a rip current grabbing hold and pulling me under. I couldn’t breathe as I plummeted to the ocean’s floor. Back in my seat, tears poured from my eyes like water from a faucet, knowing I wouldn’t get the chance to hug Tyrone. Beside me, I could feel Mike’s relief. I knew my husband well enough to guess he was figuring Tyrone might very well snap my neck if he got his large bony hands on me. But at that moment, I didn’t care.

Tyrone was still staring at me, so I looked him straight in the eyes and said with complete sincerity, “I’m sending you a hug, Tyrone. I really wish I could give it to you in person.”

After the sentencing, I tried to get permission to visit Tyrone in prison. I found someone willing to talk to Tyrone on my behalf, and Tyrone agreed to see me. But I wasn’t able to get authorization to visit him. So I did the only thing I could. I sent him another message to let him know it wasn’t my choice not to see him.

I didn’t know if Tyrone had people in his life who’d let him down, but I didn’t want to be one of those people. He would have a long life ahead of him in prison, and my heart broke for him. I could not explain my love for him, a love which only God could have placed in my heart. He remains on my daily prayer list, and maybe someday God will open the door for me to share God’s love and forgiveness with him in person.

Review from the United Kingdom with the link embedded:

 Lisa 5.0 out of 5 stars powerful and candid memoir of forgiveness Reviewed in the United Kingdom on June 1, 2022

Losing a child has to be every parent’s worst nightmare. Having that child murdered horrifically is beyond imagining for most of us, but not for Tammy Horvath. Given the distressing subject, I was initially wary of reading ‘Gone in an Instant’, Tammy’s incredible memoir of love, loss, and forgiveness. I had, however, read so many reviews praising the book, I put my qualms aside and I’m so pleased I did. ‘Gone in an Instant’ is a powerful, well-written and candid memoir which draws the reader in and leaves you flapping, open mouthed in awe at Tammy’s resilience and strength. Could I have forgiven the man who murdered my son? I really think I could not, but Tammy can, and does. She pulls no punches about her, or her son’s, past mistakes but rises incredibly above them all to forgive, even as she faces his killer. Wow!

Tammy’s Bio:

Whether climbing pyramids in Mexico, scaling glaciers in Iceland, or island hopping in the Caribbean, Tammy Horvath lives life to the full. She loves getting immersed in a good book (reading it on the beach), playing pool, or singing karaoke—although she’s severely voice challenged to the point where her husband only lets her sing at home. She has a background in real estate and insurance, and for over ten years, she’s volunteered with a Christian nonprofit that serves children at risk around the world. Tammy lives in western Pennsylvania with her amazing husband Michael. Contact author at tammy@tammyhorvath.com

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