Daphne Self's Blog

 It's been a while since I posted an update on all things book related. So I am going to list a recap of old and recent news.

** Today I received some seals to use: Clean Fiction. These are to designate that I am an author who writes clean fiction which means there will be no explicit sex scenes, no gratuitous violence, and no cursing or bad language. Though I do at times write about and show the grittier side of life, I do not cross that line. If you would like to know more about clean fiction authors and see some reviews on these books, I will provide links at the bottom of this post.

** Speaking of reviews, I have been accepted as a Flex Reviewer for Clean Fiction Magazine. After being an editor for many years (you can see a list of books that I have edited here) and working as a marketing consultant where I created and designed graphics and book trailers, I had to leave those positions due to health reasons. So that left me with idle hands. Though I still write on my books, I knew I needed something to do when days demanded that I move at a drunken snail pace. So I reached out to Clean Fiction Magazine. The first book I reviewed will be in the Summer 2024 edition, so I hope you go and purchase a copy to see what I said about Solitary Man by Eric Landfried. 

** Being a reviewer cost me one thing: I can no longer submit to the Windows Into the Multiverse Contest. Out of the 6 entries I submitted in the past, I won 4: The Parting Glass (Autumn 2022), The Cherry Trees (Winter 2022), The Christmas Surprise (Winter 2023), and He Gave Me Flowers (Spring 2024). 

Please consider purchasing these editions and read my short stories, plus the short stories of other wonderful fellow authors of clean fiction. Though it does sadden me a bit that I can no longer enter these contests, I have been extremely blessed that I had a chance to do this and to win. Now it is time to let others travel that path.

** In addition to the short stories, two of my books have been reviewed by Clean Fiction Magazine. Into the Unknown: Seven Short Stories of Faith and Bravery was in the Spring 2022 edition. When Legends Rise was in the Winter 2022 edition.

And speaking of books, What Legends Become, the second book in the series, releases in June 2024. I'm beginning to share about this on social media, so if you haven't followed me yet, check out the sidebar for the platforms where you can find me.

I don't have an update about Mississippi Nights and its reissue. But once I do, I will be sure to share about it! 

Here are the links to find out more about Clean Fiction Magazine, how to become a patron or support them, a link to a YouTube channel I've been following (The Blimey Cow), and, of course, a link to my publisher's author page:

https://www.sunsetvalleycreations.com...

https://www.patreon.com/cleanfiction

https://www.youtube.com/@blimeycow

https://ambassador-international.com/...

 I'm excited! This cover is just about perfect for the story. And I look forward to sharing the continuation of the Williams family and lives of the Enhanced. 

What Legends Become Book 2 of the Legends of Light Blurb: Their blood holds the key.It's been almost forty years since they gained their freedom. The world has changed: new government, new people, new threats. Global Federated Territories had shut down the Serum-74 program, yet a faction has survived. And now they want the descendants of Julius Williams, the former assassin who retained the Serum-74 encoding. Seth Williams has only known life behind the borders of Alaska Country. When his rebellious son and his headstrong daughter disappears, Seth must venture out into the unknown to rescue his children before they are captured by Intech Juliet Serum Initiative.With the last former Zulu assassin by his side, Seth is running out of time.Their freedom is in jeopardy. Their lives are endangered.Their blood is sought.And there is a new threat working alongside his father's former adversary.

Use the following link to sign up to become an Advanced Reader:

Advanced Reader Sign-up

  

 

 July 1, 2023 COVER REVEAL

What Legends Become

Book 2 of the Legends of Light series

Blurb:

Their blood holds the key.

It's been almost forty years since they gained their freedom. The world has changed: new government, new people, new threats. Global Federated Territories had shut down the Serum-74 program, yet a faction has survived. And now they want the descendants of Julius Williams, the former assassin who retained the Serum-74 encoding.

Seth Williams has only known life behind the borders of Alaska Country. When his rebellious son and his headstrong daughter disappears, Seth must venture out into the unknown to rescue his children before they are captured by Intech Juliet Serum Initiative.

With the last former Zulu assassin by his side, Seth is running out of time.

Their freedom is in jeopardy.

Their lives are endangered.

Their blood is sought.

And there is a new threat working alongside his father's former adversary.

Use the following link to sign up to become an Advanced Reader. 

https://forms.gle/h4Yo8aEjr2BhHACg8

On July 26, 2022, When Legends Rise, was released. This is the first science fiction novel I had written, and it will now become a trilogy (with prequel book or short story). So far it has received high remarks and garnered a few 5-star reviews.

 

If you have read When Legends Rise, please leave a comment or review at one of the retailers or Goodreads or BookBub. Reviews do help!

In other news, my short story a.k.a. micro-fiction, "The Parting Glass", won the Clean Fiction Magazine Windows Into the Multiverse contest. It is featured in the Autumn 2022 edition of Clean Fiction Magazine.

 

"The Parting Glass" was my first micro-fiction and I have to say, I am addicted to writing that now! It's a great way to jump-start my writing day. I guess my high school teacher, Mr. Kilpatrick, knew what he was doing when he had us do short writing exercises!

I'm busily working on the second book, What Legends Become. Below is a character representation chart of the protagonists. If you haven't already, follow me on social media. I share news, tidbits, books I've read, and a lot of other things. I would love to connect with you!

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

Discord: https://discord.gg/vSqJ59k4

Last year in August my short story, The Interview of Malachi Jones, was published in Ambassador International's first anthology. Along with six other authors, we explored the complexities of faith, life, and human behavior. Into the Unknown: Seven Short Stories of Faith and Bravery is a rich and exciting read that showcases the different voice of each author.

 My story was one that I had begun about twenty years ago as part of a college literary project. I set it aside afterwards as life took its turn. Yet when the idea of spearheading an anthology came about, I decided that Malachi's story would be perfect. Why?

If you were faced with a choice, one that pushed the limits to your faith and presented a scenario that was practically a no-win no matter what was decided, how would you behave? The Bible is black-and-white. Sin is sin. Yet life is gray. Life doesn't follow the faith we have in God's Word. So I presented a situation in which my character has to face the darkest parts of himself. And then show how Malachi reacts and learns from what happens.

After the publication of Into the Unknown, I thought about a story I had written back in the early 1990s. I had submitted and had been rejected by Tor, Ace, and Baen. So I shelved it, so to speak.

So in January, I pulled it back out. I had written and changed it a bit at a time since 2012. Taking it from mainstream science fiction to Christian science fiction. I worked and worked on it. Yet the core theme remained: the redemption of an assassin.

I wanted to show that no matter what had been done to someone or what someone has committed, no matter how atrocious, Christ is right there for that person. I had a character was was taken at an early age, genetically altered, conditioned, enslaved, and trained to be the perfect killing machine. Yet God's design is always much stronger than man's design. In When Legends Rise, I explored the deep facets of human nature, personalities, and above all the grace that Jesus gives to all.

I'm excited for When Legends Rise, which releases in July 2022. These characters that I created seem so real to me and I love to be able to have others know about them, too.

 If you enjoy science fiction, I hope you read Into the Unknown and When Legends Rise. I am working on other stories as well. To stay updated, consider joining my Facebook readers group and follow me on Instagram.
 

 

 

Why Did I Write What I Wrote?

One question that is always asked of me: “How did you come up with your book?”

Well, it is simple and complex. Like the helix shape of a DNA strand that holds four proteins in an infinite combination, my ideas are a lot like that. My first book, Mississippi Nights, started off as a book from my childhood. I wrote One Big Happy Family when I was about 16. It was buried and put aside for so many, many years. And after the line-of-duty death of my husband in 2005, the idea of resurrecting that novel percolated for some time. Finally in 2010, I took the story, revamped it, and drew from life to create a story about the prodigal son who returns home to family. It wasn’t just his story, but a story about his brother, a family friend, and a little girl. Mississippi Nights brought to life the story of alcoholism and how a person can fall into that addiction.

After that book was published, I started thinking: “What if someone saw death, hurt, and sorrow on a daily basis? What if that person didn’t have Jesus to lean upon? What would he do?”

And that’s how Alabama Days was born. While Mississippi Nights dealt with alcoholism, Alabama Days dealt with drug abuse, and in this case, prescription drug abuse.

Yet it was much deeper than that. What if the person was a really good guy? He was likable, generous, loving, yet he lacked that one relationship that would bring him peace. If he were someone who did what was right, no matter what, what would happen if he committed a wrong act only to find that his wrong act saved the life of another?

I had so many ethnical questions thrown at my characters. How would a Christian and a non-Christian react to certain circumstances. Because life isn’t always clear-cut, yet the Bible is, I wanted to show the messiness of being human.

We know that as Christians, we all fall short. We all sin at times. The difference is that when we sin, we know we can receive forgiveness and “Go and sin no more.” But how would a person who ran from God think? How would I react if I were like him?

Writers play around with what-ifs. We see the many facets of humanity. And that’s how our stories are born. And why we write what we do. For me, I want to show the many sides of human nature and behaviour and show that in all things, Jesus is the answer. Jesus is there for us all.

So, why do I write what I do? To bring glory to His Name and hope that through my words, people will come (or return) to Christ.

Journey On: Through This Shadowed Valley (November 2020) 

Chronic illness, chronic chaos...
We all have a valley to walk in our lifetime, yet what if that shadowed valley never ends?
Living with a chronic condition--be it chronic pain, fibromyalgia, CRPS, Lyme, MS, lupus, RA, or any other--forces us into a new normal. What do we do when our illness steals so much from us?

This is the question I posed to an online fellowship group. In response, I received 29 verses to help guide me through my "low time".

Journey On is my journal, my journey. It chronicles my ups and downs, my doubts, my praises, and my dreams. I'm giving you--my readers--an inside look at being newly diagnosed with a chronic condition and chronic pain. It's my hope that you find that you aren't alone in the fight as you read my words and the words of six other people who have learned to live with their chronic conditions.

Our illness may be a thief, but we can still live life to its fullest!
I invite you to travel with me in Journey On: Through This Shadowed Valley. Together we thrive!  Praise for Journey On: Through This Shadowed Valley "The blunt honesty that Daphne reveals as she struggles with fibromyalgia provides hope to those who deal with lifelong chronic pain. Her relationship with Jesus during the worst of times shows through our weakness Jesus shows his strength. If we lay our sorrows before Christ He will life them from our shoulders just as He promised when He said 'My yoke is easy and My burden is light' (Matthew 11:30). Daphne's journey gives hope to those who believe they have no hope and that hope is found in Jesus."Ann Allen, author of Out of Darkness
"Journey On: Through This Shadowed Valley by Daphne Self paints a picture of chronic illness. The book's daily descriptions of pain and loss are woven into the author's strong faith, which sees her through the valleys of her disease. The book will help others who have chronic illnesses feel less alone as it educates all to the depth of suffering and daily struggles of those with chronic diseases."Gail Pallotta, a Reader's Favorite Award Winner and TopShelf 2020 Nominee "Daphne Self's Journey On: Through This Shadowed Valley is an illuminating account of the daily struggles faced by fibromyalgia and chronic pain patients. The author finds consolation in her Christian faith, but this is a must-read for anyone with FMS who feels lost, confused and alone; or for their family members or friends. Helpful references are included where to seek more information. Fibromyalgia is a genuine disease, which recent evidence is confirming, and this 'real and raw' book reveals its devastating effects on the sufferer."Ronda L. Wells, M.D.
Available at:Ambassador InternationalAmazon


_________________________________________________

Alabama Days: A Southern Saga (June 16, 2020)

How could a loving God hurt so many people?

Paramedic Scott Wilson believes he can chase death away, but his spirit is shattered when people he loves are taken from him. As a paramedic, Scott see every day the pain that people suffer, and he wants no part of a God that would allow bad things to happen to good people. As a result, he hides behind his work and addiction to ease the pain within his soul.

But once newspaper reporter Angela Mabry, and her son, Max, move into town, Scott can't help but notice the feisty redhead. Angela is determined to uncover the town's seedy underbelly and reveal the strange coincidences of so many car accidents at one location.

When a prominent city official dies in a car wreck, Scott and Angela find themselves entangled in a web of intrigue and deception.

Together they search for the truth and discover that not all is what it seems.



Praise for Alabama Days:

"Alabama Days carries the reader through intrigue, danger, and romance. With writing that sparkles, characters that come alive, and relationships develop, both socially and spiritually. Who is to be trusted? What are the consequences of stealing an unknown medication, of finding a flash drive that someone wants destroyed? These mysteries will keep you in Alabama till all is resolved."~Eleanor Gustafson, author of An Unpresentable Glory and Dynamo

"Daphne takes small-town intrigue, tosses in romance and a strong thread of redemption, and creates a story romantic suspense readers will thoroughly enjoy. A definite heart-warming--and pulse-pounding--read."~Susan Tuttle, author of At First Glance

"A compelling story of small-town corruption and unstoppable romance. Alabama Days entertains while also presenting readers with the hope of the Gospel."~Heather Norman Smith, author of Grace & Lavender

"Blockbuster action and a heartwarming story filled with characters who are realistic and well crafted. Recommend Daphne Self for a story that last beyond 'The End'."~Lucy Thompson, author of Mail Order Surprise, A Cowboy's Dare, and "Waltzing Matilda" of The Captive Brides Collection
Available at: Amazon                    Christianbook
                   Barnes & Noble                    iTunes
______________________________________________

The Adventures of Wilhelmina: The Case of the Missing Firehouse Dog (Ambassador International March 2019)

Majesty, the firehouse dog, is missing.

Willie and Jax are on the case to discover who is the dognapping culprit. Could it be their neighbor, Mr. Applebee? Or maybe it is Ms. Thornton?

Join the Pintail Duo, Wilhelmina van der Coup and Jackson Barnaby, as they follow the clues to rescue Majesty in The Case of the Missing Firehouse Dog.


Purchase now through online retailers or your local bookstores.



Praise for The Case of the Missing Firehouse Dog:
"Love The Case of the Missing Firehouse Dog! Delightful!"~John Kilpatrick, retired South Panola high school English teacher

"A lovely children's book about a wonderful character named Wilhelmina! A child detective who loves mysteries. If your child enjoys investigating dilemmas around your house, your child will love this entertaining book!! A must buy (or read) children's book."~Anita Holland Smith, third grade teacher for 32 years

"Look out, Encyclopedia Brown! Here comes Willie and Jax, ready to solve your neighborhood crime--no matter how big or small! This delightful book will have your children giggling and sleuthing as Willie and Jax, a.k.a. the Pintail Duo, solve the case of the missing firefighter dog. Daphne Self also beautifully weaves the truth of God's Word into the lessons learned by the two young detectives, reminding children that God's commands are just as real and necessary for us today. Well done, Daphne!"~Katie Cruice Smith, author of Why Did You Choose Me?

"Kids will relate to the humorous tale of friends, amateur sleuths, as they try to find the dognapper. Surprise ending! I highly recommend this book."~Linda Wood Rondeau, author of The Fifteenth Article and Miracle of Maple Street
_______________________________________________________

30 Days: A Devotional Memoir (Ambassador International 2013)

Do you desire to no longer be alone? Do you yearn for understanding and hope? Do you wish for a closer walk with Jesus?

When a relationship ends, whether through divorce or death, it leaves us with heartache and sadness. Fear of loneliness overwhelms our soul. Anger at God consumes us. We are suddenly thrust into unknown territory, lost and bewildered.

Psalm 147:3 "He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds." 30 Days: A Devotional Memoir brings our deeply moving stories to strengthen your walk and bring you closer to Christ. Author D.M. Webb shares her three year spiritual journey with a collection of thirty devotions designed to reach out and uplift those who have endured the turbulent emotions that come with divorce, widowhood, and single parenting. Reach out, place your hand in His, and begin your journey today.

Purchase now through online retailers or your local bookstores.

______________________________________________

Mississippi Nights: A Southern Saga (January 2012)

Two brothers, one death--the bond of brotherhood faces its greatest challenge against resentment and guilt.

Can the love between two brothers eventually win against pain and guilt? When firefighter David Boyette's fiance perishes in a car fire, he blames his brother, Sgt. Jeremy Boyette, for her death. Three years later, David returns home with a dark and devastating secret. With the help of family, a woman's love, and a small child's devotion, can David overcome insurmountable odds as he and Jeremy face the bitterness that enslaves him?

Together the brothers must decide if the bond of brotherhood is stronger than resentment and hate.

Purchase now at online retailers or your local bookstores.

___________________________________________________

I Lost My Hat (2009)

Come join in the delightful tale of a boy who could not go out to play unless he found his hat. Along his quest for the missing hat, he makes many wonderful discoveries. From a mouse to a bug and from a frog to a dog, will he ever find that missing hat?

Purchase now:
Amazon
Barnes & Noble

Journey On: Through This Shadowed Valley (November 2020) 

Chronic illness, chronic chaos...
We all have a valley to walk in our lifetime, yet what if that shadowed valley never ends?
Living with a chronic condition--be it chronic pain, fibromyalgia, CRPS, Lyme, MS, lupus, RA, or any other--forces us into a new normal. What do we do when our illness steals so much from us?

This is the question I posed to an online fellowship group. In response, I received 29 verses to help guide me through my "low time".

Journey On is my journal, my journey. It chronicles my ups and downs, my doubts, my praises, and my dreams. I'm giving you--my readers--an inside look at being newly diagnosed with a chronic condition and chronic pain. It's my hope that you find that you aren't alone in the fight as you read my words and the words of six other people who have learned to live with their chronic conditions.

Our illness may be a thief, but we can still live life to its fullest!
I invite you to travel with me in Journey On: Through This Shadowed Valley. Together we thrive!  Praise for Journey On: Through This Shadowed Valley "The blunt honesty that Daphne reveals as she struggles with fibromyalgia provides hope to those who deal with lifelong chronic pain. Her relationship with Jesus during the worst of times shows through our weakness Jesus shows his strength. If we lay our sorrows before Christ He will life them from our shoulders just as He promised when He said 'My yoke is easy and My burden is light' (Matthew 11:30). Daphne's journey gives hope to those who believe they have no hope and that hope is found in Jesus."Ann Allen, author of Out of Darkness
"Journey On: Through This Shadowed Valley by Daphne Self paints a picture of chronic illness. The book's daily descriptions of pain and loss are woven into the author's strong faith, which sees her through the valleys of her disease. The book will help others who have chronic illnesses feel less alone as it educates all to the depth of suffering and daily struggles of those with chronic diseases."Gail Pallotta, a Reader's Favorite Award Winner and TopShelf 2020 Nominee "Daphne Self's Journey On: Through This Shadowed Valley is an illuminating account of the daily struggles faced by fibromyalgia and chronic pain patients. The author finds consolation in her Christian faith, but this is a must-read for anyone with FMS who feels lost, confused and alone; or for their family members or friends. Helpful references are included where to seek more information. Fibromyalgia is a genuine disease, which recent evidence is confirming, and this 'real and raw' book reveals its devastating effects on the sufferer."Ronda L. Wells, M.D.
Available at:Ambassador InternationalAmazon


_________________________________________________

Alabama Days: A Southern Saga (June 16, 2020)

How could a loving God hurt so many people?

Paramedic Scott Wilson believes he can chase death away, but his spirit is shattered when people he loves are taken from him. As a paramedic, Scott see every day the pain that people suffer, and he wants no part of a God that would allow bad things to happen to good people. As a result, he hides behind his work and addiction to ease the pain within his soul.

But once newspaper reporter Angela Mabry, and her son, Max, move into town, Scott can't help but notice the feisty redhead. Angela is determined to uncover the town's seedy underbelly and reveal the strange coincidences of so many car accidents at one location.

When a prominent city official dies in a car wreck, Scott and Angela find themselves entangled in a web of intrigue and deception.

Together they search for the truth and discover that not all is what it seems.



Praise for Alabama Days:

"Alabama Days carries the reader through intrigue, danger, and romance. With writing that sparkles, characters that come alive, and relationships develop, both socially and spiritually. Who is to be trusted? What are the consequences of stealing an unknown medication, of finding a flash drive that someone wants destroyed? These mysteries will keep you in Alabama till all is resolved."~Eleanor Gustafson, author of An Unpresentable Glory and Dynamo

"Daphne takes small-town intrigue, tosses in romance and a strong thread of redemption, and creates a story romantic suspense readers will thoroughly enjoy. A definite heart-warming--and pulse-pounding--read."~Susan Tuttle, author of At First Glance

"A compelling story of small-town corruption and unstoppable romance. Alabama Days entertains while also presenting readers with the hope of the Gospel."~Heather Norman Smith, author of Grace & Lavender

"Blockbuster action and a heartwarming story filled with characters who are realistic and well crafted. Recommend Daphne Self for a story that last beyond 'The End'."~Lucy Thompson, author of Mail Order Surprise, A Cowboy's Dare, and "Waltzing Matilda" of The Captive Brides Collection
Available at: Amazon                    Christianbook
                   Barnes & Noble                    iTunes
______________________________________________

The Adventures of Wilhelmina: The Case of the Missing Firehouse Dog (Ambassador International March 2019)

Majesty, the firehouse dog, is missing.

Willie and Jax are on the case to discover who is the dognapping culprit. Could it be their neighbor, Mr. Applebee? Or maybe it is Ms. Thornton?

Join the Pintail Duo, Wilhelmina van der Coup and Jackson Barnaby, as they follow the clues to rescue Majesty in The Case of the Missing Firehouse Dog.


Purchase now through online retailers or your local bookstores.



Praise for The Case of the Missing Firehouse Dog:
"Love The Case of the Missing Firehouse Dog! Delightful!"~John Kilpatrick, retired South Panola high school English teacher

"A lovely children's book about a wonderful character named Wilhelmina! A child detective who loves mysteries. If your child enjoys investigating dilemmas around your house, your child will love this entertaining book!! A must buy (or read) children's book."~Anita Holland Smith, third grade teacher for 32 years

"Look out, Encyclopedia Brown! Here comes Willie and Jax, ready to solve your neighborhood crime--no matter how big or small! This delightful book will have your children giggling and sleuthing as Willie and Jax, a.k.a. the Pintail Duo, solve the case of the missing firefighter dog. Daphne Self also beautifully weaves the truth of God's Word into the lessons learned by the two young detectives, reminding children that God's commands are just as real and necessary for us today. Well done, Daphne!"~Katie Cruice Smith, author of Why Did You Choose Me?

"Kids will relate to the humorous tale of friends, amateur sleuths, as they try to find the dognapper. Surprise ending! I highly recommend this book."~Linda Wood Rondeau, author of The Fifteenth Article and Miracle of Maple Street
_______________________________________________________

30 Days: A Devotional Memoir (Ambassador International 2013)

Do you desire to no longer be alone? Do you yearn for understanding and hope? Do you wish for a closer walk with Jesus?

When a relationship ends, whether through divorce or death, it leaves us with heartache and sadness. Fear of loneliness overwhelms our soul. Anger at God consumes us. We are suddenly thrust into unknown territory, lost and bewildered.

Psalm 147:3 "He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds." 30 Days: A Devotional Memoir brings our deeply moving stories to strengthen your walk and bring you closer to Christ. Author D.M. Webb shares her three year spiritual journey with a collection of thirty devotions designed to reach out and uplift those who have endured the turbulent emotions that come with divorce, widowhood, and single parenting. Reach out, place your hand in His, and begin your journey today.

Purchase now through online retailers or your local bookstores.

______________________________________________

Mississippi Nights: A Southern Saga (January 2012)

Two brothers, one death--the bond of brotherhood faces its greatest challenge against resentment and guilt.

Can the love between two brothers eventually win against pain and guilt? When firefighter David Boyette's fiance perishes in a car fire, he blames his brother, Sgt. Jeremy Boyette, for her death. Three years later, David returns home with a dark and devastating secret. With the help of family, a woman's love, and a small child's devotion, can David overcome insurmountable odds as he and Jeremy face the bitterness that enslaves him?

Together the brothers must decide if the bond of brotherhood is stronger than resentment and hate.

Purchase now at online retailers or your local bookstores.

___________________________________________________

I Lost My Hat (2009)

Come join in the delightful tale of a boy who could not go out to play unless he found his hat. Along his quest for the missing hat, he makes many wonderful discoveries. From a mouse to a bug and from a frog to a dog, will he ever find that missing hat?

Purchase now:
Amazon
Barnes & Noble

Journey On: Through This Shadowed Valley (Autumn 2020)

Chronic illness, chronic chaos....
We all have a valley to walk in our lifetime, yet what if that shadowed valley never ends?

Living with a chronic condition--be it chronic pain, fibromyalgia, CRPS, Lyme, MS, lupus, RA, or any other--forces us into a new normal. What do we do when our illness steals so much from us?

This is the question I posed to an online fellowship group. In response, I received 29 verses to help guide me through my "low time".

Journey On is my journal, my journey. It chronicles my ups and downs, my doubts, my praises, and my dreams. I'm giving you--my readers--an inside look at being newly diagnosed with a chronic condition and chronic pain. It's my hope that you find that you aren't alone in this fight as you read my words and the words of six other people who have learned to live with their chronic conditions.

Our illness may be a thief, but we can still live life to its fullest!
I invite you to travel with me in Journey On: Through This Shadowed Valley. Together we thrive!
___________________________________________________


Alabama Days (June 16, 2020)
How could a loving God hurt so many people?

Paramedic Scott Wilson believes he can chase death away, but his spirit is shattered when people he loves are taken from him. As a paramedic, Scott sees every day the pain that people suffer, and he wants no part of a God that would allow bad things to happen to good people. As a result, he hides behind his work and addiction to ease the pain within his soul.

But once newspaper reporter Angela Mabry, and her son, Max, move into town, Scott can't help but notice the feisty redhead. Angela is determined to uncover the town's seedy underbelly and reveal the strange coincidences of so many car accidents at one location.

When a prominent city official dies in a car wreck, Scott and Angela find themselves entangled in a web of intrigue and deception.

Together they search for the truth and discover that not all is what it seems.


Praise for Alabama Days:
"Alabama Days carries the reader through intrigue, danger, and romance. With writing that sparkles, characters come alive, and relationships develop, both socially and spiritually. Who is to be trusted? What are the consequences of stealing an unknown medication, of finding a flash drive that someone wants destroyed? These mysteries will keep you in Alabama till all is resolved."~ Eleanor Gustafson, author of An Unpresentable Glory and Dynamo
"Daphne takes small-town intrigue, tosses in romance and a strong thread of redemption, and creates a story romantic suspense readers will thoroughly enjoy. A definite heart-warming--and pulse-pounding--read."~ Susan L. Tuttle, author of At First Glance
"A compelling story of small-town corruption and unstoppable romance, Alabama Days entertains while also presenting readers with the hope of the Gospel."~Heather Norman Smith, author of Grace & Lavender
"Blockbuster action and a heartwarming story filled with characters who are realistic and well crafted. Recommend Daphne Self for a story that lasts beyond 'The End'."~Lucy Thompson, author of Mail Order Surprise , A Cowboy's Dare , and "Waltzing Matilda" of The Captive Brides Collection
_________________________________________________
The Adventures of Wilhelmina: The Case of the Missing Firehouse Dog (Ambassador International: March 2019)
Majesty, the firehouse dog, is missing.
Willie and Jax are on the case to discover who is the dognapping culprit. Could it be their neighbor, Mr. Applebee? Or maybe it is Ms. Thornton?
Join the Pintail Duo, Wilhelmina van der Coup and Jackson Barnaby, as they follow the clues to rescue Majesty in The Case of the Missing Firehouse Dog.

Purchase now through online retailers.
Ambassador InternationalAmazonBarnes & Noble
Walmart
Praise for The Case of the Missing Firehouse Dog:
“Love The Case of the Missing Firehouse Dog! Delightful!”~John Kilpatrick, retired South Panola high school English teacher
“A lovely children’s book about a wonderful character named Wilhelmina! A child detective who loves mysteries. If your child enjoys investigating dilemmas around your house, your child will love this entertaining book!! A must buy (or read) children’s book.”
~Anita Holland Smith, third grade teacher for 32 years

"Look out, Encyclopedia Brown! Here comes Willie and Jax, ready to solve your neighborhood crime--no matter how big or small! This delightful book will have your children giggling and sleuthing as Willie and Jax, a.k.a. the Pintail Duo, solve the case of the missing firefighter dog. Daphne Self also beautifully weave the truth of God's Word into the lessons learned by the two young detectives, reminding children that God's commands are just as real and necessary for us today. Well done, Daphne!"
~ Katie Cruice Smith, author of Why Did You Choose Me?
"Kids will relate to this humorous tale of friends, amateur sleuths, as they try to find the dognapper. Surprise ending! I highly recommend this book."
~Linda Wood Rondeau, author of The Fifteenth Article and Miracle on Maple Street


Find out more about The Case of the Missing Firehouse Dog:
The Diamond Mine of Christian FictionJulie Arduini: Fiction Finder New ReleasesAmbassador InternationalInspired PromptLighthouse-AcademyTwo Girls and a BookPatti SheneReading is My Superpower
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30 Days: A Devotional Memoir (Ambassador International 2013)
Do you desire to no longer be alone? Do you yearn for understanding and hope? Do you wish for a closer walk with Jesus?
When a relationship ends, whether through divorce or death, it leaves us with heartache and sadness. Fear of loneliness overwhelms our soul. Anger at God consumes us. We are suddenly thrust into unknown territory, lost and bewildered.
Psalm 147:3 "He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their their wounds". 30 Days: A Devotional Memoir brings you deeply moving stories to strengthen your walk and bring you closer to Christ. Author D.M. Webb share her three year spiritual journey with a collection of thirty devotions designed to reach out and uplift those who have endured the turbulent emotions that come with divorce, widowhood, and single parenting. Reach out, place your hand in His, and begin your journey today.

Purchase now through online retailers or your local bookstores.

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Christianbook

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Mississippi Nights (Ambassador International 2012)
Two brothers, one death--the bond of brotherhood faces its greatest challenge against resentment and guilt.
Can the love between two brothers eventually win against pain and guilt? When firefighter David Boyette's fiance perishes in a car fire, he blames his brother, Sgt. Jeremy Boyette, for her death. Three years later, David returns home with a dark and devastating secret. With the help of family, a woman's love, and a small child's devotion, can David overcome insurmountable odds as he and Jeremy face the bitterness that enslaves him?
Together the brothers must decide if the bond of brotherhood is stronger than resentment and hate.  
Purchase now at online retailers or your local bookstores.
Ambassador InternationalAmazonBarnes & NobleiTunesKoboChristianbook


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  I Lost My Hat (self published 2009)
​Come join in the delightful tale of a boy who could not go out to play unless he found his hat. Along his quest for the missing hat, he makes many wonderful discoveries. From a mouse to a bug and from a frog to a dog, will he ever find that missing hat?
Purchase now through online retailers or your local bookstores.
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Five Interesting Facts



To start off with, thank you to my host, Daphne Self, who was kind enough to agree to host me on the blog for today’s blog tour stop! I appreciate it, and I’m excited to share. We’ve been talking a lot about themes, why I wrote the book, and what the point of the book is this week, so this will be a little bit of refreshing break from that. Not that it isn’t fun to talk about themes and the reasons for the book, but we’ve heard a lot of it, so let’s talk about my top five interesting facts about the book!

1.       Number one on the list! This book was written when I was about seventeen, so very close to Cat’s age. Since then, it has been through at least three revisions/edits, maybe more.

2.       Originally, the series wasn’t ever meant to be a Christian fantasy series. I wrote the book intending to write a second one, but I just didn’t feel super into it and wasn’t excited about working on it, so I just didn’t. The sequel sat untouched for a good three years until I started working on it last year, and that’s when it was shaped into a Christian fantasy series because nothing else felt right.

3.       By the time I revised On Twilight’s Wings, I actually pulled her feelings toward guys and being touched from my first experience in a relationship, which happened while I was away at school. The relationship crashed and burned, and I spent my entire last year of school terrified of being anywhere near him, scared I’d run into him, and fearful for both my safety and that of my friends. It wasn’t pretty, but it made excellent material for when I went back to make my final edits and touch ups because I knew exactly how it felt to be terrified of people and unsure of who to trust in the wake of emotional abuse and unwanted physical attention from someone you once trusted.

4.       On Twilight’s Wings was one of the first books where I started really exploring male leads who took charge and took control while also being gentle. It is also one of the first books where I explored having a main character who has been utterly broken prior to the book’s opening but rises out of the ashes to become strong and independent in her own right.

5.       Final fact for this post! Gabriel is on my list of top three favorite male leads in my work, and Kellan is on my list of most-hated villains. I love Gabriel’s personality and how gentle he is with Cat. He clearly loves her with everything in him, but he holds back at the beginning of the book and throughout the book until he knows she’s okay with where they’re at and feels safe. He continues to do everything he can to help her, protect her, and let her know just how special she is to him. As for Kellan, while I do pity him for what he becomes, I also can’t stand him. He makes me so mad. A lot of his personality was drawn directly from my relationship experience, and I can tell just how much when I read it just as a reader, not as an editor or writer. I hate his guts. He’s exactly the kind of guy that gives every guy who likes taking charge and being in control a bad name: pushy, can’t take no for an answer, and certainly has zero respect for the woman he claims he loves. Yup. He makes top three on my list of most hated villains, right next to Kiarhsu from Pathway of the Moon and Dhiabhan’s father, King Rabhor, from Trader Prince of Aleshtain.


That’s it for today’s blog stop, guys! Thanks for joining me. If you’re interested in learning more about me or my book, you can find more information below using the various links for my website and social media pages. You can get the ebook or print book directly from me at a discounted rate if you buy it through my store via my website, but the ebook will deliver as a pdf since the site won’t allow me to upload epubs or mobi’s. If you need the epub or the mobi, I can send those to you instead, but you’ll have to email me at arielpaiement@gmail.com with the book you’re requesting and a screenshot of your order confirmation. 


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Book Description:

She is the key to everything.

Until a few months ago, Cat's only worries were about her foster parents and whether she'll be shipped off to another boarding school over the summer. Dealing with a painful past and a friendless existence were at the top of her priority list.

All of that is about to change.

Shortly after she finds out that she'll be remaining home for the summer, the visions, headaches, and terrible pains start. Then a new guy shows up in her quiet neighborhood, and, suddenly, her visions are showing events surrounding him and other strange beings.
Nothing is as it seems.

In this new world, nothing is the way it was, and everything requires her to become more than a frightened foster kid trying to make it through the day. She's determined to get answers, but the more she sees in her visions, the less certain she is that she wants those answers.

But answers are coming.

Like it or not.