Mark Miller's Blog
November 25, 2018
New Release - The Journey from Death into Life
MillerWords is proud to announce the first new release of this holiday season!
The Journey from Death into Life
by Freida Edwards
About the book: Nothing can prepare you for the profound grief and sorrow you will feel at the loss of a loved one. Only God can provide the help, comfort, and strength needed to recover and feel whole again. Through his serene words of consolation and reassurance, a spectacular transformation from heartbreak to peace and tranquility can heal your soul and change your life completely.
About the author: Freida Edwards grew up in the small southern town of Mineral Springs, NC. She was a teacher for 31 years in the local school system. She was an avid caregiver to her father and mother. Her passion has always been writing. As a teacher she published a plan book which was sold nationwide. With a lifelong study of the Bible, her first book, THE JOURNEY FROM DEATH INTO LIFE, explores what the Bible has to say about life after death. It was written to give encouragement to those facing death or the loss of a loved one. She has also published pamphlets to hand out to others telling them about Jesus and their need for a Savior. Along with her sister she published a monthly paper called WORDS OF LIFE© 2014 which dealt with experiences in caring for elderly parents and words of wisdom from them in their old age.
The Journey from Death into Life is available in paperback and all major eBook platforms now!
Click HERE to get your copy today!
The Journey from Death into Life
by Freida Edwards
About the book: Nothing can prepare you for the profound grief and sorrow you will feel at the loss of a loved one. Only God can provide the help, comfort, and strength needed to recover and feel whole again. Through his serene words of consolation and reassurance, a spectacular transformation from heartbreak to peace and tranquility can heal your soul and change your life completely.
About the author: Freida Edwards grew up in the small southern town of Mineral Springs, NC. She was a teacher for 31 years in the local school system. She was an avid caregiver to her father and mother. Her passion has always been writing. As a teacher she published a plan book which was sold nationwide. With a lifelong study of the Bible, her first book, THE JOURNEY FROM DEATH INTO LIFE, explores what the Bible has to say about life after death. It was written to give encouragement to those facing death or the loss of a loved one. She has also published pamphlets to hand out to others telling them about Jesus and their need for a Savior. Along with her sister she published a monthly paper called WORDS OF LIFE© 2014 which dealt with experiences in caring for elderly parents and words of wisdom from them in their old age.
The Journey from Death into Life is available in paperback and all major eBook platforms now!
Click HERE to get your copy today!
February 12, 2018
Cover Reveal - Love's Sweetest Obsession
The
Castle in the Sun
series started with
Love's Sweetest Revenge
. Author Flora Reigada has promised more stories from that universe, which finds some of it's roots in the real world historical city of St. Augustine, FL.
The second story in her series, Love's Sweetest Obsession , is coming March 1st to all eBook formats and today we are proud to present the cover reveal!
About the Book: Picking up from the events of Love's Sweetest Revenge , Liz and Carlos seem to have a bright future ahead of them. However, Liz's Ex, Steve, has plans of his own that send the couple back to the Castle in the Sun. A Victorian restoration, a motorcycle gang and a hurricane are soon in the mix. But how does a tiny acorn figure into the plot and lead to a big surprise? Find out in Love's Sweetest Obsession !
About the Author: Flora Reigada is an award-winning journalist and novelist. She and husband, Dan, have been a reporter/photographer team for several newspapers, including the Florida Today and currently, Senior Life of Brevard County, Florida. Interesting places they have explored in pursuit of a story include a castle, the Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine, Florida. They also toured Titusville, Florida's historic, Vassar B. Carlton Courthouse, climbing a hidden stairway, to a long-forgotten jail. Flora has also written for Guideposts magazine, Decision magazine, the Upper Room daily devotional and more. She and Dan are proud parents and grandparents. The couple has traveled throughout the beautiful British Isles and visited Spain, where they stayed in a castle on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Flora invites you to visit her webpage: h ttp://florareigada.blogspot.com/
Love's Sweetest Obsession by Flora Reigada
eBook coming March 1, 2018
The second story in her series, Love's Sweetest Obsession , is coming March 1st to all eBook formats and today we are proud to present the cover reveal!
About the Book: Picking up from the events of Love's Sweetest Revenge , Liz and Carlos seem to have a bright future ahead of them. However, Liz's Ex, Steve, has plans of his own that send the couple back to the Castle in the Sun. A Victorian restoration, a motorcycle gang and a hurricane are soon in the mix. But how does a tiny acorn figure into the plot and lead to a big surprise? Find out in Love's Sweetest Obsession !
About the Author: Flora Reigada is an award-winning journalist and novelist. She and husband, Dan, have been a reporter/photographer team for several newspapers, including the Florida Today and currently, Senior Life of Brevard County, Florida. Interesting places they have explored in pursuit of a story include a castle, the Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine, Florida. They also toured Titusville, Florida's historic, Vassar B. Carlton Courthouse, climbing a hidden stairway, to a long-forgotten jail. Flora has also written for Guideposts magazine, Decision magazine, the Upper Room daily devotional and more. She and Dan are proud parents and grandparents. The couple has traveled throughout the beautiful British Isles and visited Spain, where they stayed in a castle on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Flora invites you to visit her webpage: h ttp://florareigada.blogspot.com/
Love's Sweetest Obsession by Flora Reigada
eBook coming March 1, 2018
February 7, 2018
Guest Post - Linda Weaver Clarke
The Rebel Series: Stories of Adventure, Mystery, and Romance
The Rebel Seriesis a mixture of romance and adventure. Each book, set in the late 1700s, is a love story with mystery and intrigue as a young couple and their rebel friends strive to help their country. For those who enjoy strong women characters, all three books have this in common. They are independent women who have an opinion and are not afraid to express it. The heroes in this series are rebels with a sense of justice. They are chivalrous and their feelings run deep for the women they’re in love with. Young and old alike can enjoy the romance in this series.
In The Rebels of Cordovia, Robin’s Rebels realize they must fight against the tyranny of a wicked king and help the people survive this oppression. In the small country of Cordovia, groups of rebels begin springing up, but its Robin’s Rebels who get the attention of the king.
In this battle for freedom, a tender love story begins to blossom. Daniel, a rogue and a leader of the Freemen, doesn’t realize that the sweet feminine woman he has met and is falling for happens to be the leader of Robin’s Rebels. Realizing the importance of uniting all the rebel groups, Daniel tries to recruit Robin’s Rebels but they refuse. Now he has to find a way to convince them. When he finds out the leader is actually a woman, what will his reaction be?
“I so enjoyed this fun book! It has adventure, romance, a little mystery, and action. No boring moments here. Placed back in the days of wicked and oppressive kings, the rebels work together for the freedoms of the common people. Will they succeed against the governing forces? The romance is sweet and the action is plenty.” --Sunnie Reivews
In The Highwayman of Cordovia, the people enjoy their new-found liberty but all is not well. One year after Cordovia gains its freedom, a group of powerful men plan to take over the small country and replace the leader with a king.
With the help of a bold highwayman and a pastor’s daughter, they try to save their country from being taken over by a power-hungry leader. As they strive to stop the Kingmen and thwart their plans, Christine finds herself falling in love with Austin Knight. The only problem with their relationship is that she thinks he is her knight in shining armor instead of a highwayman. If she finds out his trade, what will her reaction be? As a pastor’s daughter, will love override her values?
“Christine and Austin’s story is truly amazing. When Austin and Christine meet again, the feelings they had as kids is still there. Christine is truly a remarkable person. When Austin starts to protect her, their relationship starts to grow. The characters in this book will have you on the edge of your seat, waiting to see what happens next. God is working throughout this whole book. You won't be able to stop reading it.” --Debbie Jamieson
The last book in this series, The Fox of Cordovia, has adventure and mystery along with a “second-chance” love story. In this swashbuckling romance, a sinister plot has just been uncovered and its up to a former patriot and a young nurse to discover who is behind it. Caroline is engaged to the future mayor of Laketown, a man of influence and greatly respected. But all that changes when she overhears a conspiracy behind closed doors. After being discovered, she runs for her life. Caroline needs to report her findings, but whom can she trust? When she asks Jesse Conover for help, the adventure begins.
“I loved this book. It is full of adventure, drama, intrigue and suspense. We've got kidnapping plots, pirate ships, daring rescues and romance. The author weaves an exciting tale and a sweet romance together in a way that will appeal to all readers.” --Inishowen Cailín
About the Author: Linda Weaver Clarke is the author of historical romances, a mystery/adventure series, a romantic cozy mystery series, and a children’s book. All her books are family friendly. Read sample chapters and buy her book at http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com.
Buy them today!
The Rebels of Cordovia
The Highwayman of Cordovia
The Fox of Cordovia
UPDATE: The author has generously to have a giveaway of Book One to be drawn from anyone who comments on this post!
January 26, 2018
Guest Post - Flora Reigada
MillerWords author Flora Reigada continues our Friday series on unique writing habits.
Flora is the author of the "How-To" devotional Where Your Heart Meets God's and the Christian-inspired romantic thriller Love's Sweetest Revenge . This thriller is the first book in her Castle in the Sun series. She is currently at work putting the finishing touches on book two.
In Flora's guest post, Meet a Hero , she reveals her unusual writing habit is that her characters come to life for her and that leads to interesting situations. Check out this one:
Sometimes I talk about the characters in my books as if they were real. I never knew how real, until the day my husband, Dan and I went to the local (VFW) Veterans of Foreign Wars post.
As a reporter/photographer team for Senior Life newspaper in Brevard County, Florida, we were gathering information for a story about Memorial Day events. I couldn't resist telling the VFW members about Jack Martin, a fellow veteran. Jack exists, for me, in the pages of my book. He is one of the four central characters I brought to life.
Others include Liz, an accomplished artist and Carlos, Jack's brother, an international linguist and Presidential aide. There is also Rosa. Don't let her pretty face and small size fool you. She's an expert markswoman. She is also Jack's love interest, as Liz is Carlos'.
The guys at the VFW listened as I rambled on about Jack. Enlisting in the United States Army after high school, he served fifteen years and had risen to the rank of Master Sergeant. Now a civilian in his mid-thirties, he had served several tours of duty in Middle East hot spots. That's where the vehicle he was driving with fellow service members struck an IED. (Improvised Explosive Device) As the senior enlisted man and trained in first aid, Jack tended to the others' wounds. Securing a tourniquet around what was left of a young soldier's leg, he saved his life. In the aftermath of a suicide bombing, Jack had also comforted a 20 year-old soldier who bled out in his arms. But Jack had been in kill or be killed situations and he had prevailed.
Rosa is just tough enough for Jack, but tender enough too. She holds him when he awakens from nightmares about his troops being ambushed and blood on his hands.
In addition to being a tall, handsome much-decorated veteran, Jack is a motorcycle enthusiast, a hardworking bartender and the fiercely protective father of a teenage daughter. He can fix or build just about anything.
"We want to meet him," the VFW members told me. "Tell him to come here. We'll help him with his (PTSD) Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. We understand."
My eyes widened in surprise. Without intending to do so, I had convinced them Jack was real.
But in a sense, he is. More than in my story, we can see him in the faces of 540,000+ veterans whom Wounded Warrior Homes said have been diagnosed with PTSD.
"Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can be described as a mental health condition that's triggered by a trauma, whether experiencing or seeing it. The symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, depression and confusion," the organization states on their website.
The soldiers at the VFW wanted to meet Jack and I hope you will too—and the other characters as well, in the pages of Love's Sweetest Revenge.
Wounded Warrior Homes: http://www.woundedwarriorhomes.org/Veterans & PTSD Crisis Hotline: 866-382-2287
Love's Sweetest Revenge is available in all major eBook formats and paperback from MillerWords.
Get the Kindle version here - MWbooks.me/revenge
Paperback here (ISBN: 978-0998298689) - MWbooks.me/RevengePaper
Stay tuned for our next guest post!
Please follow MillerWords on Facebook for moreFB.com/MillerWords
Flora is the author of the "How-To" devotional Where Your Heart Meets God's and the Christian-inspired romantic thriller Love's Sweetest Revenge . This thriller is the first book in her Castle in the Sun series. She is currently at work putting the finishing touches on book two.
In Flora's guest post, Meet a Hero , she reveals her unusual writing habit is that her characters come to life for her and that leads to interesting situations. Check out this one:
Sometimes I talk about the characters in my books as if they were real. I never knew how real, until the day my husband, Dan and I went to the local (VFW) Veterans of Foreign Wars post.
As a reporter/photographer team for Senior Life newspaper in Brevard County, Florida, we were gathering information for a story about Memorial Day events. I couldn't resist telling the VFW members about Jack Martin, a fellow veteran. Jack exists, for me, in the pages of my book. He is one of the four central characters I brought to life.
Others include Liz, an accomplished artist and Carlos, Jack's brother, an international linguist and Presidential aide. There is also Rosa. Don't let her pretty face and small size fool you. She's an expert markswoman. She is also Jack's love interest, as Liz is Carlos'.
The guys at the VFW listened as I rambled on about Jack. Enlisting in the United States Army after high school, he served fifteen years and had risen to the rank of Master Sergeant. Now a civilian in his mid-thirties, he had served several tours of duty in Middle East hot spots. That's where the vehicle he was driving with fellow service members struck an IED. (Improvised Explosive Device) As the senior enlisted man and trained in first aid, Jack tended to the others' wounds. Securing a tourniquet around what was left of a young soldier's leg, he saved his life. In the aftermath of a suicide bombing, Jack had also comforted a 20 year-old soldier who bled out in his arms. But Jack had been in kill or be killed situations and he had prevailed.
Rosa is just tough enough for Jack, but tender enough too. She holds him when he awakens from nightmares about his troops being ambushed and blood on his hands.
In addition to being a tall, handsome much-decorated veteran, Jack is a motorcycle enthusiast, a hardworking bartender and the fiercely protective father of a teenage daughter. He can fix or build just about anything.
"We want to meet him," the VFW members told me. "Tell him to come here. We'll help him with his (PTSD) Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. We understand."
My eyes widened in surprise. Without intending to do so, I had convinced them Jack was real.
But in a sense, he is. More than in my story, we can see him in the faces of 540,000+ veterans whom Wounded Warrior Homes said have been diagnosed with PTSD.
"Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can be described as a mental health condition that's triggered by a trauma, whether experiencing or seeing it. The symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, depression and confusion," the organization states on their website.
The soldiers at the VFW wanted to meet Jack and I hope you will too—and the other characters as well, in the pages of Love's Sweetest Revenge.
Wounded Warrior Homes: http://www.woundedwarriorhomes.org/Veterans & PTSD Crisis Hotline: 866-382-2287
Love's Sweetest Revenge is available in all major eBook formats and paperback from MillerWords.
Get the Kindle version here - MWbooks.me/revenge
Paperback here (ISBN: 978-0998298689) - MWbooks.me/RevengePaper
Stay tuned for our next guest post!
Please follow MillerWords on Facebook for moreFB.com/MillerWords
January 20, 2018
Book Review - zo by Murray Pura
A brand new 5 star review came in for Murray Pura's semi-autobiographical, award-winning novel. The Amazon reviewer is petting a tiger in his profile picture, so it seems like a good idea to listen to what he says. That is amazing!
Review: Zo is one of the many inspiring historical fiction works by Canadian author Murray Pura.
The two poems: “My destiny” by Taras Shevchenko and “The Moon” by poet Andrii Chornavka set the tone for the entire book.
The story is set in the year 1911. The protagonist, Andrew Chornavka, is a monk. Interestingly, the author first introduces him as “Zoya’s brother.” Although the book is entirely written through Andrew Chornavka’s point of view, the book is about his sister Zoya.
The book starts off in the United States of America as Andrew Chornavka is being questioned in a monastery by an officer. The animosity that Andrew Chornavka feels, during that enquiry, is unmistakable. The officer asks Andrew Chornavka a number of questions about his sister Zoya and the readers are taken on an adventure down memory lane. This book is unlike any usual historical fiction. With descriptive scenes and strong characters, it successfully holds the reader’s attention until the end.
The book moves at a fast pace and every chapter leaves the reader wanting more. Strong characters and interesting plots leave the reader wanting more. The characters also show interesting contradictions. A good example is Andrew Chornavka’s character. Despite being a monk, he is described as someone who is “easily provoked to violence, sarcastic and spiteful.” Zoya’s character sketch is also equally captivating. Every chapter, without fail, excites and piques the curiosity and attention of the readers.
What I loved most about this book was author Murray Pura’s writing style. It is very elegant and expressive, almost poetic. His words linger with you even after you have turned the page. Murray Pura tastefully and gracefully describes a tumultuous time not only in Zoya and Andrew Chornavka’s life but also for the rest of the world. With eloquent linguistics, the author accurately sets the tone and articulately recounts events and emotion.
Most of the time, a good book comes down to three significant components - 1) a gripping plot, 2) Strong characters and 3) meaningful relationships between the characters. ‘Zo’ has an abundance of all these three components. This is one of those books that you won’t want to put down until you finish it. It is a book that makes you feel, and the feeling stays with you even after you finish reading it. You feel love when there is love and loss where there is loss and this feeling is guaranteed to resonate within you.
If you love historical fiction and stories about the Second World War period, this one story that you will get swept up into. ‘Zo’ by Murray Pura is the book for you. The relationships and plots are compelling; the storytelling is smooth and enlightening. ‘Zo’ will make you want to stay up late or stay in on a Saturday night just to read “one more chapter”. After reading ‘Zo’, I am definitely intrigued and interested to read other works by Murray Pura. ‘Zo’ is truly a great read and I promise you won’t regret it!
zo is available on all major eBook platforms and your favorite paperback sellers. You can see the review on Amazon here: MWBooks.me/zopaper
Review: Zo is one of the many inspiring historical fiction works by Canadian author Murray Pura.
The two poems: “My destiny” by Taras Shevchenko and “The Moon” by poet Andrii Chornavka set the tone for the entire book.
The story is set in the year 1911. The protagonist, Andrew Chornavka, is a monk. Interestingly, the author first introduces him as “Zoya’s brother.” Although the book is entirely written through Andrew Chornavka’s point of view, the book is about his sister Zoya.
The book starts off in the United States of America as Andrew Chornavka is being questioned in a monastery by an officer. The animosity that Andrew Chornavka feels, during that enquiry, is unmistakable. The officer asks Andrew Chornavka a number of questions about his sister Zoya and the readers are taken on an adventure down memory lane. This book is unlike any usual historical fiction. With descriptive scenes and strong characters, it successfully holds the reader’s attention until the end.
The book moves at a fast pace and every chapter leaves the reader wanting more. Strong characters and interesting plots leave the reader wanting more. The characters also show interesting contradictions. A good example is Andrew Chornavka’s character. Despite being a monk, he is described as someone who is “easily provoked to violence, sarcastic and spiteful.” Zoya’s character sketch is also equally captivating. Every chapter, without fail, excites and piques the curiosity and attention of the readers.
What I loved most about this book was author Murray Pura’s writing style. It is very elegant and expressive, almost poetic. His words linger with you even after you have turned the page. Murray Pura tastefully and gracefully describes a tumultuous time not only in Zoya and Andrew Chornavka’s life but also for the rest of the world. With eloquent linguistics, the author accurately sets the tone and articulately recounts events and emotion.
Most of the time, a good book comes down to three significant components - 1) a gripping plot, 2) Strong characters and 3) meaningful relationships between the characters. ‘Zo’ has an abundance of all these three components. This is one of those books that you won’t want to put down until you finish it. It is a book that makes you feel, and the feeling stays with you even after you finish reading it. You feel love when there is love and loss where there is loss and this feeling is guaranteed to resonate within you.
If you love historical fiction and stories about the Second World War period, this one story that you will get swept up into. ‘Zo’ by Murray Pura is the book for you. The relationships and plots are compelling; the storytelling is smooth and enlightening. ‘Zo’ will make you want to stay up late or stay in on a Saturday night just to read “one more chapter”. After reading ‘Zo’, I am definitely intrigued and interested to read other works by Murray Pura. ‘Zo’ is truly a great read and I promise you won’t regret it!
zo is available on all major eBook platforms and your favorite paperback sellers. You can see the review on Amazon here: MWBooks.me/zopaper
January 19, 2018
Guest Post - Phyllis f. McManus
We'll be running a short series of guest posts with a fun theme! Our guests have been asked to share an unusual or unique writing habit.
The first of this series comes from the best-selling author of The Southern Belle Breakfast Club ,Phyllis f. McManus.
During the past several months, I have experienced quite a few health problems. I didn’t feel like sitting at my computer to work on my next book. Instead, every time a thought popped in my mind about a character or a plot, I would write it on a sticky note and place it in a basket. While sitting in a doctor’s office, the hospital, or just resting I continued this pattern. I made sure I always carried a little notebook with me at all times to jot down any thoughts that might enter my mind.
When I felt better I went to the basket and pulled out the notes. I was surprised when I saw I had hundreds of pieces of paper filled with words. I took each note out and decided where it would fit best in my book. Then I placed each one in folders labeled as Chapter 1, Chapter 2 and etc… When I was able to start working on my book, I got the folder that said Chapter 1 and placed each sticky note on my easel. Right before my eyes was a complete chapter, and all I had to do was connect them all together. It was like putting a puzzle together, piece by piece. The words seemed to flow and before I knew it, I had finished.
This is how my new book, “The Problem with Pearls” was written. Yes, to some of my author friends this sounded very strange, but it worked for me. It was so much fun I have decided to do my next book in just this same way. As a matter of fact, I have my basket sitting right beside my desk just waiting for me to get started on book number ten.
About the author: Phyllis f. McManus was born in Monroe, North Carolina. She started writing as a form of therapy when she lost her parents in a car accident in 2002. She loves to write from her heart and this shows in her characters. She won 1st place nationwide in the Union County Writer's Club poetry competition in 2008 with the poem, "The Edge of Darkness." This is a poem focusing on Alzheimer's, which her Mother had to live with. She also won an award with her short story, "Mama's Memory Box," in 2011. She won first place in fiction short stories for "The Special Gift" in 2015, sponsored by the Union County Writers Club. She is currently doing public speaking about her journey of writing. Her new book, "Do I Know Me?", has been added in the Sneak Previews in the Southern Writers Magazine for January and February, 2016 issues. Also, "Southern Secrets," her sequel to "The Southern Belle Breakfast Club" has been placed in the Must Read section of Southern Writers Magazine as well. Her readers that follower her in her journey calls themselves her "bookies." They make sure they give her encouragement and motivation when she gets writers block.
Be sure to follow our blog for the next guest post. There is a form at the right of this page for the MillerWords newsletter where you can get a free novel just for signing up. Also, "like" us on Facebook for other fun like monthly eBook giveaways! www.FB.com/MillerWords
The first of this series comes from the best-selling author of The Southern Belle Breakfast Club ,Phyllis f. McManus.
During the past several months, I have experienced quite a few health problems. I didn’t feel like sitting at my computer to work on my next book. Instead, every time a thought popped in my mind about a character or a plot, I would write it on a sticky note and place it in a basket. While sitting in a doctor’s office, the hospital, or just resting I continued this pattern. I made sure I always carried a little notebook with me at all times to jot down any thoughts that might enter my mind.
When I felt better I went to the basket and pulled out the notes. I was surprised when I saw I had hundreds of pieces of paper filled with words. I took each note out and decided where it would fit best in my book. Then I placed each one in folders labeled as Chapter 1, Chapter 2 and etc… When I was able to start working on my book, I got the folder that said Chapter 1 and placed each sticky note on my easel. Right before my eyes was a complete chapter, and all I had to do was connect them all together. It was like putting a puzzle together, piece by piece. The words seemed to flow and before I knew it, I had finished.
This is how my new book, “The Problem with Pearls” was written. Yes, to some of my author friends this sounded very strange, but it worked for me. It was so much fun I have decided to do my next book in just this same way. As a matter of fact, I have my basket sitting right beside my desk just waiting for me to get started on book number ten.
About the author: Phyllis f. McManus was born in Monroe, North Carolina. She started writing as a form of therapy when she lost her parents in a car accident in 2002. She loves to write from her heart and this shows in her characters. She won 1st place nationwide in the Union County Writer's Club poetry competition in 2008 with the poem, "The Edge of Darkness." This is a poem focusing on Alzheimer's, which her Mother had to live with. She also won an award with her short story, "Mama's Memory Box," in 2011. She won first place in fiction short stories for "The Special Gift" in 2015, sponsored by the Union County Writers Club. She is currently doing public speaking about her journey of writing. Her new book, "Do I Know Me?", has been added in the Sneak Previews in the Southern Writers Magazine for January and February, 2016 issues. Also, "Southern Secrets," her sequel to "The Southern Belle Breakfast Club" has been placed in the Must Read section of Southern Writers Magazine as well. Her readers that follower her in her journey calls themselves her "bookies." They make sure they give her encouragement and motivation when she gets writers block.
Be sure to follow our blog for the next guest post. There is a form at the right of this page for the MillerWords newsletter where you can get a free novel just for signing up. Also, "like" us on Facebook for other fun like monthly eBook giveaways! www.FB.com/MillerWords
January 8, 2018
Cover Reveal - Murray Pura
Originally published in 2008, Murray Pura is reviving one of his personal favorites.
zo is the first story in Pura's series: Saint Zoya's Dance. This novel happened to be a finalist for the prestigious Kobzar Literary Award of Toronto in 2010. The series continues with the white birds of morning (coming soon to MillerWords) and beautiful skin .
About the book: Andrew Chornavka took on the Trappist’s cowl and disappeared from the 21st century in order to forget the century before.
Yet even at the secluded monastery in America the past finds him. A delegation from the Vatican arrives with questions about his youngest sister, Zoya, who is, to Andrew’s shock, a candidate for sainthood. Reluctant, hostile, wanting only to be left alone to his dairy herd and gardens and prayers, Andrew eventually begins to talk.The talk takes him where he does not wish to go, makes alive again what he had hoped was dead and buried, and makes real what had long ago been lost. He knows what he has to tell is no more than a story about a family that tried to stay together, and keep love strong, when everything on earth tried to rip that love apart. Yet he also knows the archbishop wants a story about an angel who walked with God.But Andrew did not experience a world of angels and miracles and fairy tales. And neither did his sister Zo.Or did she?
Available in all eBook formats on January 12, 2018and paperback soon after.
Join our Quarterly Newsletter on the right sidebarfor more book news.
zo is the first story in Pura's series: Saint Zoya's Dance. This novel happened to be a finalist for the prestigious Kobzar Literary Award of Toronto in 2010. The series continues with the white birds of morning (coming soon to MillerWords) and beautiful skin .
About the book: Andrew Chornavka took on the Trappist’s cowl and disappeared from the 21st century in order to forget the century before.
Yet even at the secluded monastery in America the past finds him. A delegation from the Vatican arrives with questions about his youngest sister, Zoya, who is, to Andrew’s shock, a candidate for sainthood. Reluctant, hostile, wanting only to be left alone to his dairy herd and gardens and prayers, Andrew eventually begins to talk.The talk takes him where he does not wish to go, makes alive again what he had hoped was dead and buried, and makes real what had long ago been lost. He knows what he has to tell is no more than a story about a family that tried to stay together, and keep love strong, when everything on earth tried to rip that love apart. Yet he also knows the archbishop wants a story about an angel who walked with God.But Andrew did not experience a world of angels and miracles and fairy tales. And neither did his sister Zo.Or did she?
Available in all eBook formats on January 12, 2018and paperback soon after.
Join our Quarterly Newsletter on the right sidebarfor more book news.
January 7, 2018
Review - Mark Miller
For immediate release:Author's new book receives a warm literary welcome.Readers' Favorite announces the review of the Fiction - Short Story/Novela book "Renaissance" by Mark Miller, currently available at http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B077XFQ3VR.Readers' Favorite is one of the largest book review and award contest sites on the Internet. They have earned the respect of renowned publishers like Random House, Simon & Schuster, and Harper Collins, and have received the "Best Websites for Authors" and "Honoring Excellence" awards from the Association of Independent Authors. They are also fully accredited by the BBB (A+ rating), which is a rarity among Book Review and Book Award Contest companies.
"Reviewed By Edith Wairimu for Readers' FavoriteWe all need rejuvenation at some point in our lives, something that will rekindle the thrill and passion we once had, and awaken us from our stupor, something that will set us on the right course again. Renaissance by Mark Miller is a collection of short stories about various characters living ordinary lives. Their lives at first seem to be just like any others until something happens that initiates the change they have been hoping to achieve. In one of the stories, Richard Thatcher remembers with nostalgia when things were easy; when all he cared about was playing in the mud with his friends who have now moved on with their lives. Looking back, he realizes how much life has changed. Everything seems to be a dazed rush. No stopping even for a breath of air. Pressure continues to mount on him. “Not anymore,” he finally decides, and walks out.
The four stories contained in Renaissance by Mark Miller are all unique in their own way, but still drive the same theme. Each story inspired reawakening within me. It is easy to carry on through life and forget who we are or what we really want. As I read the book, I was reminded of what really matters and what my priorities should be. The Forgotten Well specifically reminded me of the blessing of life’s simplicity and how not to get bogged down by unnecessary complications. The stories contain an honest and inspiring outlook on life and will be a great read for anyone seeking inspiration."
You can learn more about Mark Miller and "Renaissance" at https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/renaissance/1 where you can read reviews and the author’s biography, as well as connect with the author directly or through their website and social media pages.Readers' Favorite LLC
Media Relations
Louisville, KY 40202
800-RF-REVIEW
support@readersfavorite.com
https://readersfavorite.com
"Reviewed By Edith Wairimu for Readers' FavoriteWe all need rejuvenation at some point in our lives, something that will rekindle the thrill and passion we once had, and awaken us from our stupor, something that will set us on the right course again. Renaissance by Mark Miller is a collection of short stories about various characters living ordinary lives. Their lives at first seem to be just like any others until something happens that initiates the change they have been hoping to achieve. In one of the stories, Richard Thatcher remembers with nostalgia when things were easy; when all he cared about was playing in the mud with his friends who have now moved on with their lives. Looking back, he realizes how much life has changed. Everything seems to be a dazed rush. No stopping even for a breath of air. Pressure continues to mount on him. “Not anymore,” he finally decides, and walks out.
The four stories contained in Renaissance by Mark Miller are all unique in their own way, but still drive the same theme. Each story inspired reawakening within me. It is easy to carry on through life and forget who we are or what we really want. As I read the book, I was reminded of what really matters and what my priorities should be. The Forgotten Well specifically reminded me of the blessing of life’s simplicity and how not to get bogged down by unnecessary complications. The stories contain an honest and inspiring outlook on life and will be a great read for anyone seeking inspiration."
You can learn more about Mark Miller and "Renaissance" at https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/renaissance/1 where you can read reviews and the author’s biography, as well as connect with the author directly or through their website and social media pages.Readers' Favorite LLC
Media Relations
Louisville, KY 40202
800-RF-REVIEW
support@readersfavorite.com
https://readersfavorite.com
January 4, 2018
Review - George Loughmueller
For immediate release:Author's new book receives a warm literary welcome.Readers' Favorite announces the review of the Christian - Amish book "Set Free" by George Michael Loughmueller, currently available at http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B077XJ73KQ.
Readers' Favorite is one of the largest book review and award contest sites on the Internet. They have earned the respect of renowned publishers like Random House, Simon & Schuster, and Harper Collins, and have received the "Best Websites for Authors" and "Honoring Excellence" awards from the Association of Independent Authors. They are also fully accredited by the BBB (A+ rating), which is a rarity among Book Review and Book Award Contest companies."Reviewed By Michelle Stanley for Readers' FavoriteSet Free is an Amish Christian fiction by George Michael Loughmueller. Allan Howarth is discontented with his job, the bills, and feels like a stranger with his wife, Tina, and their teenage kids. After receiving a letter from a former teacher, Allan travels to the Amish town of Karsten Fields. He meets Ben Abrim, caretaker for a house that Allan inherited. Allan’s plans don’t include living without electricity and other necessities, but he hears a voice urging him to stay. He uproots his family, and they are naturally upset by their sudden lifestyle changes. Although not welcomed by everyone, the family attempts to adjust to their restricted situation. Their patience is fully tested by Allan’s illness, strict Amish rules, the lack of Internet and entertainment. Being isolated from the modern world lets each family member evaluate their lives and make drastic decisions they never thought possible.
Sometimes we need a retreat like Karsten Fields to get away from our stressful schedules and dependence on modern gadgets. The Howarth family had a culture shock when they moved into the deeply religious Amish town, where things are done the old-fashioned way. I have a deeper appreciation for the Amish religion. Some of their laws and teachings promote strong family values, non-violence and learning to respect others’ beliefs. The author was very thorough and detailed in his writing, which was never dull. He brought out every natural emotion and thought that the main characters had, thus enabling me to understand their actions and choices. Set Free is a touching spiritual story by George Michael Loughmueller."
You can learn more about George Michael Loughmueller and "Set Free" at https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/set-free where you can read reviews and the author’s biography, as well as connect with the author directly or through their website and social media pages.Readers' Favorite LLC
Media Relations
Louisville, KY 40202
800-RF-REVIEW
support@readersfavorite.com
https://readersfavorite.com
Readers' Favorite is one of the largest book review and award contest sites on the Internet. They have earned the respect of renowned publishers like Random House, Simon & Schuster, and Harper Collins, and have received the "Best Websites for Authors" and "Honoring Excellence" awards from the Association of Independent Authors. They are also fully accredited by the BBB (A+ rating), which is a rarity among Book Review and Book Award Contest companies."Reviewed By Michelle Stanley for Readers' FavoriteSet Free is an Amish Christian fiction by George Michael Loughmueller. Allan Howarth is discontented with his job, the bills, and feels like a stranger with his wife, Tina, and their teenage kids. After receiving a letter from a former teacher, Allan travels to the Amish town of Karsten Fields. He meets Ben Abrim, caretaker for a house that Allan inherited. Allan’s plans don’t include living without electricity and other necessities, but he hears a voice urging him to stay. He uproots his family, and they are naturally upset by their sudden lifestyle changes. Although not welcomed by everyone, the family attempts to adjust to their restricted situation. Their patience is fully tested by Allan’s illness, strict Amish rules, the lack of Internet and entertainment. Being isolated from the modern world lets each family member evaluate their lives and make drastic decisions they never thought possible.
Sometimes we need a retreat like Karsten Fields to get away from our stressful schedules and dependence on modern gadgets. The Howarth family had a culture shock when they moved into the deeply religious Amish town, where things are done the old-fashioned way. I have a deeper appreciation for the Amish religion. Some of their laws and teachings promote strong family values, non-violence and learning to respect others’ beliefs. The author was very thorough and detailed in his writing, which was never dull. He brought out every natural emotion and thought that the main characters had, thus enabling me to understand their actions and choices. Set Free is a touching spiritual story by George Michael Loughmueller."
You can learn more about George Michael Loughmueller and "Set Free" at https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/set-free where you can read reviews and the author’s biography, as well as connect with the author directly or through their website and social media pages.Readers' Favorite LLC
Media Relations
Louisville, KY 40202
800-RF-REVIEW
support@readersfavorite.com
https://readersfavorite.com
December 26, 2017
Spoiler Alert
I'm going to discuss a sensitive and polarizing topic in this post:
The Last Jedi.
If you haven't seen it yet, turn away now because there will be spoilers.
That's the first burning question: will we have an anthology story for Snoke? Who is he? Where did he come from? Does it even matter?
Before I go any further, I will say I loved The Last Jedi . I will also say that this post may be a bit self-serving. I have read and watched so many negative reviews about this movie. I saw an article about a petition to have it removed from canon. If we don't like something, let's whine about it and erase it from history? Does that work in pop culture as well as it does in politics?
The #notmyluke movement is what finally drove me to write this. I realize my opinion is no more or less valid than anyone else's, if you even read this.
Mark Hamill stated in an interview that his Luke Skywalker would never do the things that happened in the latest movie. He would never give up. He added at the end, that this wasn't his movie and a new generation of characters essentially needed to come into their own while he stepped aside. However, our sound-byte world will only latch on to the first part.
But that's what this Star Wars was about: giving up and failure. It was about how we deal with and overcome that failure. My generation grew up with Star Wars. We had idealistic heroes for an idealistic time. Things are not so hopeful these days (or are we blissfully nostalgic?). I, for one, think that many my age have become Last Jedi Luke. We are (or maybe it's just me) closed off from the force. We have forgotten the old ways and lost our hope. Something needs to happen to bring back that connection. This version of Luke realizes that and he comes back, if only to make his final and most important stand.
First they killed Han Solo and now Luke. They are killing our childhood. No. If it lives in our hearts and memories, can it really be killed? Everyone dies. Luke died. Yoda died. I'm going to die some day. That's not depressing. It's life. The death of Luke Skywalker somehow makes Star Wars more real and maybe that's why so many didn't like it? Who likes being confronted with their own mortality?
What else did they not like? Too many jokes? It's a kid's movie. Star Wars was always for kids. Part of the problem is that the kids have grown up. Maybe it's a little more aimed at kids these days, but it is owned by Disney now. While Marvel may take Disney further and further away from its core values, maybe Star Wars can bring some of those back.
Where were the light sabre battles? This movie was more about the Force than any of the other two movies combined. One of the worst things, in my opinion, that happened to Star Wars was Yoda holding a light sabre. As a Jedi Master for over 800 years, he should have been so far beyond the need for a physical weapon. His few moments in Last Jedi showed some of his true power. Frank Oz and his puppet stole the show for me. And Luke's final moments, expressing himself through the Force, were brilliant. Notice how different he looked from the version of himself on the island? He brought forth the best version of himself, an ideal that he had long since abandoned. I hate how I look in selfies. I wonder what the best version of my self would look like?
Eh, not too bad...
And for those that had a problem with Finn and Rose, are there no romantics left? Rose just lost her sister and she spends her time alone in the underbelly of the ship. Then she is suddenly thrust into an adventure with one of her heroes. Of course she's going to fall for him. We should be happy for something simple and good among all the death and destruction.
I think the last thing I want to comment on is Poe. It is my contention that every story is incomplete without a character arc, a defining change. While Poe's arc was maybe a little obvious, it was solid and necessary. Did he spend a lot of time looking out windows or was he actually looking at a window into his soul? If he had been constantly caught up in the action, he would not have had the time to discover himself.
In summary, The Last Jedi is one of my favorites of the Saga. While I was disappointed that they did not bump into Lando on Canto Bight, I was as equally surprised at how I felt seeing Leia floating in space. The revelation, or lack, of Rey's parents didn't even bother me. They do have to save something for Ep IX. I do apologize if I rambled a bit, I did warn that this would be a little self-serving. I posted some specific thoughts and I would love to hear in the comments if anyone agrees or disagrees with any of my points.
If you would like to see how Star Wars influenced my writing, Journey of the Fourth Queen in only 99 cents on Amazon Kindle - http://mwbooks.me/4Q
If you haven't seen it yet, turn away now because there will be spoilers.
That's the first burning question: will we have an anthology story for Snoke? Who is he? Where did he come from? Does it even matter?
Before I go any further, I will say I loved The Last Jedi . I will also say that this post may be a bit self-serving. I have read and watched so many negative reviews about this movie. I saw an article about a petition to have it removed from canon. If we don't like something, let's whine about it and erase it from history? Does that work in pop culture as well as it does in politics?
The #notmyluke movement is what finally drove me to write this. I realize my opinion is no more or less valid than anyone else's, if you even read this.
Mark Hamill stated in an interview that his Luke Skywalker would never do the things that happened in the latest movie. He would never give up. He added at the end, that this wasn't his movie and a new generation of characters essentially needed to come into their own while he stepped aside. However, our sound-byte world will only latch on to the first part.
But that's what this Star Wars was about: giving up and failure. It was about how we deal with and overcome that failure. My generation grew up with Star Wars. We had idealistic heroes for an idealistic time. Things are not so hopeful these days (or are we blissfully nostalgic?). I, for one, think that many my age have become Last Jedi Luke. We are (or maybe it's just me) closed off from the force. We have forgotten the old ways and lost our hope. Something needs to happen to bring back that connection. This version of Luke realizes that and he comes back, if only to make his final and most important stand.
First they killed Han Solo and now Luke. They are killing our childhood. No. If it lives in our hearts and memories, can it really be killed? Everyone dies. Luke died. Yoda died. I'm going to die some day. That's not depressing. It's life. The death of Luke Skywalker somehow makes Star Wars more real and maybe that's why so many didn't like it? Who likes being confronted with their own mortality?
What else did they not like? Too many jokes? It's a kid's movie. Star Wars was always for kids. Part of the problem is that the kids have grown up. Maybe it's a little more aimed at kids these days, but it is owned by Disney now. While Marvel may take Disney further and further away from its core values, maybe Star Wars can bring some of those back.
Where were the light sabre battles? This movie was more about the Force than any of the other two movies combined. One of the worst things, in my opinion, that happened to Star Wars was Yoda holding a light sabre. As a Jedi Master for over 800 years, he should have been so far beyond the need for a physical weapon. His few moments in Last Jedi showed some of his true power. Frank Oz and his puppet stole the show for me. And Luke's final moments, expressing himself through the Force, were brilliant. Notice how different he looked from the version of himself on the island? He brought forth the best version of himself, an ideal that he had long since abandoned. I hate how I look in selfies. I wonder what the best version of my self would look like?
Eh, not too bad...
And for those that had a problem with Finn and Rose, are there no romantics left? Rose just lost her sister and she spends her time alone in the underbelly of the ship. Then she is suddenly thrust into an adventure with one of her heroes. Of course she's going to fall for him. We should be happy for something simple and good among all the death and destruction.
I think the last thing I want to comment on is Poe. It is my contention that every story is incomplete without a character arc, a defining change. While Poe's arc was maybe a little obvious, it was solid and necessary. Did he spend a lot of time looking out windows or was he actually looking at a window into his soul? If he had been constantly caught up in the action, he would not have had the time to discover himself.
In summary, The Last Jedi is one of my favorites of the Saga. While I was disappointed that they did not bump into Lando on Canto Bight, I was as equally surprised at how I felt seeing Leia floating in space. The revelation, or lack, of Rey's parents didn't even bother me. They do have to save something for Ep IX. I do apologize if I rambled a bit, I did warn that this would be a little self-serving. I posted some specific thoughts and I would love to hear in the comments if anyone agrees or disagrees with any of my points.
If you would like to see how Star Wars influenced my writing, Journey of the Fourth Queen in only 99 cents on Amazon Kindle - http://mwbooks.me/4Q
