Homeschool Authors

Books Complied by Amy Wiley

2012-02-22T01:00:00.000-08:00

Delivered

An immigrant and her young daughter, struggling to reach their dream…a special needs child, searching for hope…a newly released ex-con, seeking forgiveness. They have one thing in common—they’re about to be touched by God in a way they never imagined.

All through a simple postcard.

Brought up in a strict Muslim home in London, Sulafa has recently experienced the transforming power of Jesus Christ. Now, despite fear of discovery and its consequences, she knows she has to spread the good news. In an act of bravery, she sends out postcards with a single message: Let me pray for you. Her simple postcard request impacts lives and brings hope in the midst of hopelessness.

Struggle Creek

This mystery story about a small Tennessee town was created with 27 authors from all over the US, plus Canada and Australia. Each author wrote a chapter from the viewpoint of a different town member, but all the chapters tie together to make one novel. Come join the lives of the children who stumbled upon a strange dome in the woods, the new Deaf boy who's found himself caught smack in the middle of a dangerous mystery, the sheriff who is trying desperately to keep his town safe, and the actors trying to give the town hope. These are just a few of the delightful Struggle Creek residents who may seem a little familiar to those who know the authors, since we've given the characters a touch of ourselves.

To find works that Amy as contributed to as well as future projects click here

Joining us today is...

2012-02-20T01:00:00.000-08:00

Amy Wiley!!

First, tell the readers a little bit about yourself.

I am Amy Michelle Wiley, a lover of words and people, languages and cultures. These passions have led to my work as a professional sign language interpreter at my church and a community college and as a freelance author. I was honored to be homeschooled K-12 and graduated in 2000. My home in the Pacific Northwest is surrounded with the beauty and inspiration of God's creation. I am disabled and learning to find joy despite constant health issues. My online nickname, Sparrow, is a reminder to me from Matthew 10:29-31 that God cares about each tiny detail of our lives. Check out my website at www.sparrowsflight.com.

You are the director of Peculiar People. What is that?

Peculiar People (PeP) is an international collaborative fiction group. Since I founded it in 2005, almost 100 authors from seven or eight countries have submitted stories for consideration in our projects. The point of PeP is to bring fiction stories alive by letting a different author focus on each separate character to give them a unique personality, and in doing so, touch readers hearts with the love and care of God. I chose the name Peculiar People because of the Titus 2:13-14 passage which describes God's people as a peculiar people, set aside for good works. Plus it has a fun double-meaning because we writers tend to be pretty unusual and a bit odd!

What books have Peculiar People written?

To date we have two books published, Struggle Creek and Delivered. Struggle Creek is a small town mystery. Each chapter is told from the view-point of a different town member and written by a different author, slowly unfolding clues to the mystery. Delivered is a collection of short fiction stories about postcards that have been sent throughout the world offering, "Let me pray for you." Each story tells of someone who found a card and how letting a stranger pray for them influenced their lives. It also follows the story of the young lady who sent out the postcards as an act of bravery as she stepped from her Muslim past and embraced Christ as her Savior.

We also currently have the rough draft completed of an Heirloom Chronicles story, I Will Be Found, which follows a fictional box Jesus carved as it is passed down through history. Another project is in the writing phase: the as-yet-untitled Orphan Plane book, which puts a twist on the real-life 1800's orphan trains. This story is set in the future and the orphans are being sent to new homes on a space station.

Where can people buy the books by Peculiar People?

They can be bought through our website, www.peculiarpeoplebooks.com, or from many online bookstores such as Amazon. Delivered is also available as an a-book.

What was your most memorable homeschool project?

Perhaps it isn't a project exactly, but I really enjoyed a homeschool choir/singing school I was in during high school, Cathedral Choirs. We learned music theory and voice techniques as well as getting to give performances in churches and even nursing homes and other special events. I learned so much about how to better use my voice and love for music for God's glory.

I understand you have written and published some short stories. Tell us about them.

I've had nearly 70 short stories and articles published in various anthologies and magazines. Though I dabble in all genres, fiction is my favorite because I think God can use it to touch people's hearts in a special way. I especially love to take a true story and fictionalize it to make it come alive, and have written a number of Biblical fiction stories and ones based on current events. Lately I've also been trying my hand at writing devotionals, and contribute regularly to a daily devotional blog, www.jewelsofencouragement.com.

Where can people get them?

Many of my stories can be read on my website, www.sparrowsflight.net. I'm also working on a collection of short stories that I hope to eventually publish.

What keeps you writing?

I've been a storyteller since the time I could talk and all my life a large portion of my brain has been taken up by imaginary characters. In my early twenties I found an online Christian writing community called FaithWriters. It was through them that I became serious about my writing as I began participating in their weekly writing challenges. The people there provide me with so much encouragement, mentoring, and support, and were instrumental in me beginning to be published regularly.

When I write I feel fulfilled. It's a talent God gave me and that He uses to bless others and bring glory to Himself. My desire to be a good steward of that gift drives me to continue to put time and energy into writing and honing my craft. It's hard work, but I love it!

Is there anything you would like to add?

I'm especially excited right now about my two novels. I have a completed one, Reaching Sky, that I'm working on polishing up and already have a publisher who has requested to see the full manuscript. It is a young adult story about a brother and sister who run away from abusive foster care homes. During their road trip from California to Washington, they reconnect with each other and find God on their journey to look for a safe home.

I'm in the process of writing a suspense book, Voices of the Dark, about a trauma counselor who is fostering a withdrawn five-year-old. As she researches the child's past, she discovers the girl's silence is hiding a horrible secret: a child prostitution ring.

People can connect with me through my author page on FaceBook, , and through my blog

Announcement Saturday; Pirates and Jewlers

2012-02-18T05:04:00.000-08:00

The winner of the exciting book Jeweler's Apprentice by E. Kaiser is...

Starting for the first comment given and working to the last entry the winner is...

Margret!

Since Margret provided us with her e-mail she can expect to get her e-book shortly.

We are also excited to announce the release of Molly Evangeline's new book Courage!

Authors added this week

Perry Kirkpatrick

Rachel Coker

Sarah Scheele

Books added

Courage by Molly Evangeline

The Heavens Declare by Perry Kirkpatrick

Light of the World by Perry Kirkpatrick

Interrupted by Rachel Coker

Facets of Fantasy by Sarah Scheele

Fun Freebies

Truth - Chapters 1-3

Makilien Trilogy wall paper

Book deals ~ Paperbacks under $10

Unseen by Luke Alistar

The Pirate Daughter's Promise by Molly Evangeline

Journey of Faith by Katie McCurdy

The Courtship Series by the Castleberry Family

Precisely Terminated by Amanda Davis

The Heavens Declare by Perry Willis

Uncompromising by Hannah Farver

Send me, Lord Jesus by Christina Grubb

Land of Calais by Melody Grubb

Light of the World by Perry Willis

Red Rain by Aubrey Hansen

The Moody Series by Sarah Maxwell

Outlining You Novel by K. M. Weiland

Interrupted by Rachel Coker

Blogs/Websites you might want to check out

Goodreads ~ a great website for avid readers

In the Bookcase ~ A blog that helps readers share their book shelves

Last day

2012-02-17T09:50:00.000-08:00

Make sure to enter to win...

Before we choose the winner!

Jeweler's Apprentice (A Five Gems Book)

2012-02-15T01:00:00.000-08:00

On her first visit to the palace 16 year old Fia Brithin stumbles into a court intrigue. To keep the secret safe, the Chancelor sends her off as apprentice to a famous, and reclusive, high mountain jeweler.

...And straight into adventure.

Discovering gems with deep secrets and new friends with the same, Fia learns a whole lot more than just modeling wax. When to trust a stranger, and when not to; why not to try stealing from gem thieves; what heroism is, what royalty ought to be, and that the mountains themselves can sometimes be the greatest danger of all.

Today we are Joined by...

2012-02-13T01:00:00.001-08:00

E. Kaiser!! She is here with a giveaway!

Thank you so much for taking the time to do this interview! Would you start by telling the readers a little bit about yourself?
Thanks so much for having me, Sarah! I'm honored to be here today. As far as about myself, I don't know where to begin!

Actually that reminds me of a scene in one manuscript I'm working on, where our young heroine is left alone with the responsibility of keeping the attention of a slightly dangerous, but currently chatty, giant. ...While she's sitting in his hand.
~

“So,” he said. “Tell me about you.”

“Well,” I drew my knees up and put my arms around them. “There’s really not that much to say. I’m not at all interesting.” I batted my eyes and smiled winningly. “Wouldn’t it be better if you told me about you?”

“Ha!” he laughed, a deep rolling belly laugh that was slow and broken, so that it sounded like a boulder bouncing down a mountain. “Ha-ho!”

Then he wiped his eyes and subsided into chuckling.

“Please?” I said charmingly. I really needed to keep him in a good mood until they got back, and there’s nothing anyone loves so much as to talk about themselves.

Anyway, I guess I'll give it a try! ;-) I'm starting on the 28th year that the Lord has seen fit to keep me around, and I've had a pretty unique, and slightly rough-and-tumble, life so far. Due to various factors, my family moved around a lot, so I was exposed at an early age to a great variety of "settings", as well as "characters". This really was a blessing for my fiction writing, because, although I rarely lift directly from real life, everything I've seen and heard is just sitting around in boxes in the back room of my mind; and I know that they come out and swing their legs over the edge and holler ideas through the wall while I'm trying to bring a scene to life.

I was always the "thoughtful one", and all that people watching certainly has helped me in sculpting real life personas on the page.

I'm "best friends" with my youngest sister, and although she's not particularly "writerly inclined", she and I have great times brain storming plots, dissecting stories, and tossing ideas around. We also enjoy historical fashions, and inventing our own designs, sewing, working with animals. She loves medieval history, and has practically memorized the book The Kings and Queens of Britain. Myself, not so much, but is does show some Very Interesting plates of period depictions of fashion in medieval times! :-) I love finding gems like that, un-warped by the intervening centuries and "what we thought they probably wore"!

As for the rough-and-tumble part, we always lived out in remote areas, and so we kids grew up exploring whatever new woods we had moved next to; and learning to get along with horses, cows, goats, sheep, dogs, cats, chickens, and (lately,) turkeys. I was more the "nose in a book" type, but my siblings were my peer group, so I did what they did a lot of the time. And the older two could get kind of wild! Especially with horses. ;-)

So I count myself blessed with a good understanding of how things were before industrialization; which sets me up to write about far away lands in long ago times. I've always been a lover of fairytales, so oftentimes a good dollop of that gets stirred in to the mix.

What is your favorite homeschool memory?
I have always been glad to have been home schooled, and to single out one memory would be hard. I guess it might have to be one evening when I was little and wanted to get started learning something, since the older two had been set up with their school books for the year. Mom was a little busy with supper, but she took the time to write the "ing" ending on a paper, and explained how to make and modify words with it. She went back to cooking and I laboriously copied "ing" down the page; then "wing", "sing", etc. Years later when I hit the "ing" ending in the spelling book I had no trouble at all, and was surprised when I found other kids found that syllable highly confusing to spell.

What inspired you to start writing?
At the end of my ninth year, I read an abridged version of Little Women, and was surprised and delighted to read that Jo ended up writing books. I had never given a thought to how books came into being, and that new information sealed my fate. I knew right then i wanted to be a writer, and I asked Mom how to learn it. She replied, very wisely; "Read all the books you can find, and study them to see what the author did particularly well, and what you don't think worked as well."

I took her at her word, and she had a hard time getting books to stay out of my hand long enough to get my sweeping done. I don't think it's her fault, though, since I probably would have been that way no matter what she told me about learning to write. Still, her advice was very on-point... and I learned a lot from the vast array of genres which I consumed. Partly due to this, I don't think of myself as "having" a genre; because a good story was where ever I found it, be it adventure novel ("Kidnapped"! "Prisoner of Zenda"!) or regency romance. ("Pride & Prejudice" anyone?) And of course, a good, grueling historical was always an eye opening experience, and I think it's important for a writer of fiction to be intimately acquainted with reality on all it's levels. So while I don't write about the French and Indian Wars, ("The Frontiersman", "Northwest Passage") it was an experience not to be forgotten to live there for a while.

What is the plot for your book "Jeweler's Apprentice"?
I wrote the first draft as a gift for my sister, and she is a plot detective. She also objects to nearly every cliche known to novelists, so I was particularly hard pressed to create this character and her story arc. I plotted out a fresh course, and it passed muster with Abigail, so I think I have succeeded.

Our heroine, Fia Brithin, is sixteen-going-on-seventeen, and the sixth child of a regional governor whose entire family is invited to the royal palace. They are all excited about this; but while there Fia sees a sinister looking situation and tries to remedy it.
(One of the themes I notice a lot in my writing is "sometimes things go all wrong when you're simply trying to do the right thing". This should not discourage you from trying, but it will lead to an interesting, and possibly slightly uncomfortable, adventure.)
This misunderstanding results in the Chancellor forcibly conferring on her the honor of immediately apprenticing to a far away, and very famous, mountain jeweler. It's a huge opportunity for a girl like her, but it's a move that she wasn't ready to make right yet; but through the upcoming adventure she learns more than just jeweler-ing, and she emerges a more confident, and capable young lady.

With a savage civil war raging in the other side of the mountains, Fia gets caught up in the turmoil of uncertain times; escaping refugees, and the spy/information network that helps both the fleeing people and their defenders. She finds jewels with deep secrets and new friends with the same; learns why not to try stealing from gem thieves; what heroism is, what royalty ought to be, and that the mountains themselves can sometimes be the greatest danger of all.

Who inspired your main character?
Fia's character was drafted keeping Abigail, (and her objections!) heavily in mind. So she doesn't have golden, jet, or firey red hair. Just an ordinary rusty-brown. She isn't gorgeous, willowy, wonderful and has all the young men falling in love with her.

As a matter of fact, she considers herself completely unremarkable, especially when compared to her accomplished, brave, and prettier elder sisters. She tries hard to keep up the family honor, and her pride refuses to let her cry when faced with fierce, cloaked strangers threatening her in the night.

I think she is in general a fairly realistic portrait that a lot of readers can relate to, with her shyness, love of family, determination to do the right thing, (even when she's not sure what that is!) and most of all her simple, home spun heroism by always rising to the occasion and stepping up to the challenge, whether she feels any confidence in herself or not.

How did homeschooling effect your writing?Well, we kids were always glad we didn't have to spend the day in school, but could move on to our other interests as soon as we'd finished with our schoolwork. Because of this I had plenty of time to focus on both reading and, in my teens, writing. And parental encouragement to pursue our interests definitely played a big role in all the "paths" us kids delved into. So, we got a very well rounded education, particularly tailored to each individual.

Where can people go to get your book?

My first novel, Jeweler's Apprentice, is available as an e-book through Amazon. With the "look inside the book" feature, folks can get a good feel for the story.

Do you have any last thoughts?

I love to reinvent plot points and story techniques that turn the "expected" inside out and lead the reader on a path they've never been on before. My "plot partner" and I spend a great deal of time examining the weaves of beloved stories, new and old, and drawing fresh conclusions on how to use old standbys in refreshing and exhilarating ways. It is a fun field of study, and I hope it adds an element of surprise to the story lines that result.

I think books are important because they can take you places you've never been, or are impossible to go, (history, fantasy, etc.) and you learn so much from the worlds represented within the pages. That's why it's imperative that a book depict a hale and hearty sense of reality, (even if it's imaginative fiction.) Unfortunately, it seems that modern authors are diving deeper and deeper into warped and twisted perspectives of reality and serving them up as a mirror through which to view your own life.

I realize that most people read for pleasure, not profit, ( ;-) ) but I hold that the measure of a good book is how much "real effect" it has, while being a fun time. There are so many things we can learn from books, accepting from other people's lives information that we would otherwise have no access to. To throw away this special avenue for learning is a huge loss, and it makes me sad to think of the ignorance that will doubtless be the result of readers who aren't exposed to books rooted in the truth of the real world. The Real World, where every action has a consequence, where we must carefully discern the good from the evil in even the small things; where there are facts that we must deal with, work around, and overcome.

I write a lot of fantasy, and I enjoy it because I think that through that medium a writer can capture great truths and hold them reflected in the web of the imagination, for readers to see.

I sometimes include a mysterious power that in fantasy terms would be called "magic". I write this because I believe a mysterious power exists in our own world... and nobody can explain it. Neither can they "channel" it, "shape shift" with it, or make it do their bidding in any way. Therefore, neither can my characters.

This Power exists beyond the realm of human understanding, but it effects every day in invisible ways. (I have felt it, and I know it's more real than the tree in the yard. If He wished, that tree would disappear without trace, but He endures forever.)

This spiritual ground is part and parcel of Reality, and to work in a vacuum without it is just as unrealistic as "modern thought" lays at the door of any who Believe.

I have a huge respect for His ways, and so am very shy of infusing them into an historical narrative. His workings have changed from era to era, and who am I to presume so much as to "plug and play" His powers in concocting a tale to my liking? (I don't mean anything against those who do explore this heavily in their own works! Each to his own. Which means I'm responsible to my leading.)

It is said the "sincerest form of flattery is imitation." This is the route I take, and I hope that the worlds, characters, and actions that play out across the page are shapes of the implacable confidence and burning hope that I have from Him in the face of a world growing much darker.

We all need vision; and young people are particularly desperate for it. Their futures will see tumultuous things, and I have a passion for trying to reach out to them and give them a hand in the direction toward firmer, higher ground.

I look forward to the future with a mixture of real fear and an even stronger sense of anticipation. For even though I know things will continue to get worse, (as the Bible predicts,) I have felt the hand of the Almighty, and nothing, nothing, nothing can bring about even a slight shift in His Power.

The storm gathers, and the battle will be fierce. But only One will emerge victorious, and I am standing in His shadow.

Let the trumpets blow!

Do you want to win a free copy of

1. Madatory entry; ask E. Kaiser a question about her books, writer etc.

2. Extra entry; follow her blog

3. Extra entry; like her Facebook page

4. Extra entry; Follow her in Twitter

5. Extra entry; Like Homeschool Authors Facebook page

6. Extra entry; Tell your friends about the giveaway through Facebook Twitter or e-mail

The winner will be chosen randomly on February 18

Announcement Saturday; Winners and updates

2012-02-11T05:42:00.000-08:00

The Winner is… Wait, first we have some announcements

Authors added this week

Jessica Grey

J. R. Parker

Fun Freebies

Amazing free homeschool audio book; Red Rain

Blogs/Websites you might want to check out

Go TeenWriters

Verve LitAwards (Please nominate your favorite Homeschool author’s book published in 2011 or 2012)

Book deal of the week

99 cent Kindle books!

The PirateDaughter’s Promise by Molly Evangeline

Truth byMolly Evangeline

And the winner is…

Sarah Elizabeth! You have just won a copy of A Time to Love. Since you already provided us with your e-mail, you will be getting your e-book shortly.

Have an homeschool authors related announcement you want to make? e-mail it to thedestinyofone(at)juno(dot)com

Last chance

2012-02-10T10:34:00.001-08:00

Make sure you enter to win A Time to Love before tomorrows drawing!!

Books by Katie McCurdy

2012-02-08T01:00:00.000-08:00

Remember to enter the giveaway to win A Time to Love!

A Time to Love

Four years of war, two years of reconstruction…and still her husband is missing.

With the War Between the States over, Leah Williams waits expectedly for her husband’s return home. But that never happens. With no word if he’s alive, dead, or simply abandoned her, she struggles to go on. With the mortgage payments due and people pressuring her to remarry, does she have the strength to hold on? Or should she even wait for a man who might never return to her?

With so many unanswered questions, Leah must learn to lean on God implicitly. But will her faith be enough? Will God provide a way?

Journey of Faith

Faith didn't realize that her life was about to change forever.

Faith Martin never imagined any other life than the one she was leading on her family's little farm outside of Birchwood, Missouri. But as the year 1855 unfolds, her family makes a life changing decision that forces them all into the vast unknown. With so many unanswered questions, Faith and her family set out on a journey that will tax everyone's strength. After many hardships and adventures, they reach the safety of their new life. It seems like a haven of rest after the many rough and heartrending sorrows that accosted them along the way. Feeling safe and secure, Faith starts to enjoy the rugged life out west.

But when Faith and her younger brother find themselves in the hands of brutal outlaws with no hope of deliverance, her will to go on almost fails her. Trying desperately to cling to everything dear to her, Faith struggles to remain true to her life verse, Romans 8:28. "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose."

With us today is...

2012-02-06T01:00:00.001-08:00

Katie McCurdy!!

Welcome Katie, would you tell your readers a little bit about yourself?
Hey Sarah! Yeah, I sure can! Well, let's see....I am the third oldest in a family of 10 kids. I was homeschooled and graduated almost two years ago now (wow, can't believe that!) I spend much of my days either doing things around the house or on the computer. I am a reader--I always stick the book I am currently reading in my purse when going out (never know when you'll have a few idle moments!). I am a blogger--I post almost daily on Legacy of a Writer(www.katie-mccurdy.blogspot.com). And, last but not least, I am a writer--I am currently working on a medieval suspense entitled The Princess' Assassin and just last month I published a historical fiction novelette on Kindle called A Time To Love.

What is one of your favorite homeschool memory's?
Hmmm....I'd have to say it was the days we went to co-op. The homeschoolers who live in this area got together and started a co-op where we meet once a week to do extra-curricular activities that we usually don't do at home; like drama, P.E., history, crafts, ect. 2010 was a great year at the co-op, and I was part of an awesome volleyball team there. It was always SO much fun and something I looked forward to each week. :-)

How did you start writing?
I've always loved thinking up or creating my own storys. I can't remember exactly how it happened, but one day (probably when I was around 11 or 12) my mom encouraged me to start writing a book. I couldn't tell you what brought about her promptings, but I was kinda like "Yeah, okay, that'd be fun...maybe one day when I'm an 'adult'."

But then, Just a few weeks later, I read a book written by a 16 year old homeschooler, Avery Hitch. And it was so good! I remember reading the back--about the author--and just thinking "Well, if she can do it...why can't I? Even though I'm not an 'adult'?" So! Needless to say, I started writing! :-)

How is your currant work in progress coming and what is it about?
Right now I am working on a medieval suspense that is kind of a fantasy as well. I say "kinda fantasy" because the only thing that's fantasy about it is it's in a made-up kingdom. Trinovia. And as for what it is about...why don't I just give you the synopsis?

Can the man who destroyed her life restore it once more?

When a mission of mercy nearly ends in a kidnapping, Princess Olivia’s life takes a drastic turn. In one night she witnesses the unthinkable when the kingdom of Trinovia is taken over by a sinister man who destroys everything she holds dear. Doomed to a forced marriage and life as a captive within castle walls, Olivia escapes into hiding.

But one man stands in her way—a paid assassin hiding a tortured soul. Wulf’s only aim was to complete his mission. No feelings involved. He never imagined it would stir emotions he wanted left buried, and memories he wished to abandon.

In a fight for their lives, Olivia and Wulf must overcome murder, betrayal, abductions, sword fights, slavery, and duals…all while trying to save the kingdom.

Also, if you're interested in watching the book trailer that a friend of mine made, you can check it out at http://katie-mccurdy.blogspot.com/p/my-wip.html

What our your two published works about?
I self-published my first book, a historical fiction, when I was 16. It's called Journey of Faith and it's about a young woman in the mid-1800s who's family suddenly moves out west to Wyoming. I'm happy to say I've come a long way, writing-wise, since I published this book, but those who've read it said they've enjoyed it. It's focused more on the pre-teen/teenage level.

Then I just recently (the end of December 2011) published a novelette on kindle, A Time to Love. It's another historical fiction, set in the years after the War Between the States. I was really excited about publishing this one, since it was a short story that I wrote several years ago. A few months ago, I was exploring some of my old files, and stumbled across it. I'd always liked the idea behind the story plot, so decided to re-write it (it needed it...badly!) and publish it as a novelette on Kindle, so it'd be at a more affordable cost for anyone who was looking for a quick, pleasant read.

Where can people get them?
Both Journey of Faith and A Time to Love can be purchased on Amazon.com. Here's the links...

Journey of Faith - $12.99
A Time to Love - $2.99

Do have any final thoughts?
Ummm....nope! I don't think so! Except that I'd love y'all to visit me over at Legacy of a Writer. I talk about anything book related, so if you are at all a bookworm...we'll be the best of friends!!! :-D

Thanks so much for doing this interview with me, Sarah!!

Ask Katie a question in a comment, this is mandatory. For an extra entry (each) share it on on Facebook, Twitter, blog, or e-mail 10 friends. Leave a separate comment for each.

Giveaway closing on Febuary 11th!

The Makilen Trilogy by Molly Evangeline

2012-02-02T01:00:00.000-08:00

Book One ~ Truth

“What are we living for? Just to live? What is the point? Don’t you think there should be a purpose?”

Trapped in a village no one is allowed to leave, Makilien yearns for the answers to her questions about life and the world outside the village walls. Yet no one but her closest friend seems to understand or share her desire. Despite her family’s fears and warnings of the consequences, she is determined to find answers.

The unexpected arrival of a stranger, and the knowledge he possesses, drives Makilien to drastic action. Confronted with a world she knows nothing about, she must choose carefully who to trust as both good and evil lurk in all places. As a battle looms, one in which will be determined the fate of all, she must decide whether to believe in the One who is truth or fall prey to the lies of the enemy.

The adventure begins here . . .

Book 2 ~ Courage
Coming Soon...

Courage, the second book of the trilogy continues on with Makilien's story and those of her friends. It is based on the words of Psalms 31:24, Be strong and let your heart takecourage, All you who hope in the Lord. NASB

Book Review; The Pirate Daughters Promise

2012-02-01T01:00:00.000-08:00

By Sarah Holman

How far would you go to keep a promise? Skyler McHenry is faced with this question in the thrilling high seas adventure by Molly Evangline.

When Molly agreed to do an interview for Homeschool authors, I went to her website to do some research. When I saw that The Pirate Daughter’s Promise was only 99 cents, I decided to buy it. I am so glad I did.

From the gripping opening to the final, touching page, I was enthralled with Skyler's story. Orphaned and with only two friends in the world, Skyler leads a hard life. She keeps a secret her father had made her promise not to reveal until she finds someone who loves her and she trusts completely. A secret concerning a hidden pirate treasure.

I was skeptical when I began this book, as I have never really liked pirate stories. As a lover of history, I had learned too much about pirates to ever think of them as good guys in films or books. I was delightfully surprised at this book. This was not about a “Christian” pirate, nor was piracy shown as acceptable. The good captain and his crew hunt pirates and return the stolen goods.

I loved the faith and morals displayed in The Pirate Daughter’s Promise. Prayer not only is a normal part of life, it works. The romance will stand up to the highest moral standards. This book is very wholesome and refreshing.

If you are looking for a book full of adventure that is faith building, The Pirate Daughter’s Promise is a wonderful choice.

Pirates & Faith Series

2012-01-31T01:00:00.000-08:00

The Pirate Daughter's Promise ~ Book 1

by Molly Evangeline

Orphaned at a young age, Skylar McHenry grew up as little more than a servant and shunned by everyone around her because of her reputation as a pirate's daughter. Each day Skye faces is marked by some new struggle. Her only hope is to rely on her heavenly Father's care and comfort and the solace of her best friend, Will, who has become more than dear to her.

Just when an unexpected encounter gives Skye a small glimmer of hope that things might change in her favor, her world is shattered. She is awakened in the night by cannon blasts. Pirates storm the orphanage, drag her away, and force her aboard their ship. The cruel captain's intentions are clear. He will extract from her, through any means necessary, the location of the treasure hidden by her father. For Skye to divulge the location would mean breaking the last promise she made to him. She's certain she never will, but what happens when the lives of those dearest to her are at stake?

The Pirate Daughter's Promise is full of daring high seas adventure; sweet, wholesome romance; surprising discoveries; unlikely new friends; and the rewards of trusting in God even when life seems impossible.

Every Tear ~ Book 2

by Molly Evangeline

On the front of the metal, oval shaped locket were etched many tiny designs. Turning it over in his hand, Will looked at the inside on which was engraved his name, William Jonathan James. He ran his finger along the edge of the locket where once had been hinged another half. Will continued to stare at the necklace. It was the only link to his past yet it could never answer the questions he lived with. Who was he, really? Who had his parents been, what were their names, and why had they abandoned him to live the life of an orphan?

Aside from the nagging and sometimes troubling memories and questions of his past, life for Will over the last year has been truly blessed. His relationship with Skye grows daily as he plans and prepares a future life for them. However, all he has envisioned is endangered by an unexpected stranger with a shocking identity. Suddenly, Will learns more about his past than he thought he'd ever know, but it comes at a steep price when he and everyone closest to him are thrown into the middle of a dangerous plot that threatens all their lives.

Every Tear, the moving sequel to The Pirate Daughter's Promise, is an example of how God never leaves our side, even in our most troubling and sorrowful moments, taking every tear into account.

A Captains Heart ~ Book 3

by Molly Evangeline

Wealth and social standing mean nothing to Captain Kyle Bryden. To his family, however, they are everything. For years it has driven Kyle and his family apart. He longs for understanding from his parents, but most of all he yearns for them to accept the truth behind his faith.

When his father sends him on a voyage to collect two family guests, it only complicates matters, particularly Kyle's growing desire to marry and make a home. He finds himself caught between pleasing his parents and living according to what he believes is right. As some things begin to change for the better, could a secret no one is expecting be enough to tear at Kyle's heart and destroy the love he has found?

In A Captain's Heart, the continuing story of Pirates & Faith, meet new friends and revisit old ones while seeing the importance of patience and never giving up on those we love because all things are possible with God.

Finding Faith ~ Book 4

By Molly Evangeline

". . . I just wish she wouldn’t keep trying to marry me off.”
“Marriage isn’t a bad thing,” Edward told his daughter gently.
“I know it’s not, Papa,” Emma replied. “It’s just not for me. I love being who I am and being the captain of the Mercy. I don’t want things to ever change.”

But as hard as Emma tries to stop it, she finds change is inevitable, particularly when her father’s business, and therefore her livelihood, is threatened. The last thing she wants thrown into the midst of it is romance. Determined never to marry or give up her passion for sailing, Emma’s quick temper lands her in more and more trouble, especially when it brings a kind and handsome rival captain into her life, throwing it into turmoil.

In the dramatic conclusion to Pirates & Faith, can Emma find the faith to trust that God’s plans truly are better than her own, or will it be too late for a second chance?

Put Your Hands Together for....

2012-01-30T01:00:00.000-08:00

Molly Evangeline!!!

Thank you for joining us today Molly. Would you start by telling the readers a little bit about yourself?

Thank you for having me. I am a twenty-three year old, work-at-home, independent author and publisher. My mom homeschooled me and my brothers from kindergarten all the way through high school, which was instrumental in the way I do things and where I am now. I first began writing stories when I was eight years old and things have slowly grown from there.

Who influenced your writing the most?

Definitely my mom. She started writing when she was a teenager, and the whole time I was growing up I saw her writing and doing things like collecting magazine pictures for characters that looked like so much fun. She has helped me so much in getting to the point I’m at.

What book was your favorite to write?

That’s tough. I’d like to say Truth, the first book of my Makilien Trilogy, but I think it would have to be A Captain’s Heart. I wrote it in four months, and I think it was the easiest book I’ve ever written. I just love the characters and their situations. Something about that story flowed really well, and it will always be a particularly special book to me.

Which character in all your books, is most like you?

That would be Makilien in my Makilien Trilogy. When I wrote the original story at thirteen, Makilien was me. Even though the story and characters have changed, I think it was inevitable that quite a bit of me still remained with Makilien, though she’s quite a bit more daring than I am. She shares my love for family and appreciation of good friends.

What question are you most asked when people find out you are a writer?

The first question it seems everyone asks is what I write. Once I explain about my different series, they usually then ask if I have anything published.

How does your faith effect your writing?

It pretty much colors everything I write. I love to write stories that show how God works in people’s lives and in difficult times even when they can’t see it. Writing is the ministry God has given me, so I write to bring glory to Him.

Where can people go to buy your books?

The paperbacks are all available on Amazon, and the eBooks can also be bought on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iBooks, and Smashwords. I also have all the buy links for each book listed on my website. Soon I will be selling autographed books directly from my website.

Do you have any final thoughts you would like to share?

I’d like to encourage anyone who is working toward their goals. It has taken years to get to the point I am at now, and I still have not reached all my goals. There has been lots of struggle and discouragement along the way. Things are not always easy, but if you’re following God’s will, things will work out. He is always working in your life even if it happens slowly and it’s hard to see.

Book Review; For Life and for Eternity

2012-01-27T01:00:00.001-08:00

The Promises of a new life that have come with spring are touching everyone around Charity Wentworth, but she seems to be left behind. As she looks from a stormy today into an Unknown tomorrow, can Charity release the pain of disappointed hopes and embrace a new life ~ committed to God, heart and soul, for life and eternity? ~ From the back cover of For Life and for Eternity by Elisabeth Allen

I have to say I was sad at when I read The End. I was sad because it was like I was saying good-by to an old friend. Charity Wentworth has become like a friend to me and I was sad that I had reached the end of her story.

This last book in the Charity’s Dairy series was wonderful and exceeded all my expectations. Unlike so many series, the last book was just as thought provoking and faith building as the first two.

I don’t think I have ever read a series that I enjoyed so much. I have read many faith-based books but none of them were as good as this series. Faith building, without being preachy, real, without putting ungodly thoughts into your head, and captivating to the last word.

Thank you Elisabeth Allen for giving the world such an amazing story. You can be sure that I will be telling all my friends about this series.

Please support this amazing series and this wonderful author by buying the books new from her website, or on Amazon.

Book Review; No Matter What

2012-01-26T01:00:00.000-08:00

By Sarah Holman

As her chance for true love grows distant and one of her little sister is diagnosed with a rare medical condition, Charity Wentworth feels like everything most precious to her is being jeopardized. She knows that God wants her to let go and just trust Him. This winter is the longest Charity can remember having lived through. As she waits for spring can Charity trust God, no matter what? ~ From back cover of No Matter What by Elisabeth Allen

We all go through hard times. Times when we ask some of the hardest questions we ever will ask about life, faith, and our calling. This second book in the Charity’s Diary series takes Charity through a hard time and addresses many of the questions we all will face at one point or another. Where is God when bad things happen? Why doesn’t he stop them? And many more.

One of my favorite things about this book is it showed how to deal with heartbreak and hard times in a godly way. Charity makes mistakes, but she is striving to do what is right. As girls, we often catch ourselves forming emotional attachments with guys that may or may not be the one God wants for us. How do we deal with that? This book is a great place to start.

I cannot say enough about this book: It was so life-like and real that I felt that I was sitting in Charity’s living room.

For my friends who don’t read romance books, I think you will love this book.

You can buy the book on Amazon or here at Elisabeth Allen’s website.

Book Review; Just Like You

2012-01-25T01:00:00.001-08:00

By Sarah Holman

Age group; 12 - Young Adult

Rating; (1-10) 10

When you buy a self-published/small press book, you never know what to expect. To be honest, I really didn’t have very high expectations for this book, but my mind was quickly changed.

The first thing that struck me about the books was how well the words flowed. This was not like many self-published/small press books that are poorly written. Elisabeth Allan has a real gift for writing, and her talent is evident.

Plot; When Charity Wentworth leaves university, she's going to go to India and spend a year living and working there as a missionary. Right? She thinks so, but God has other plans. He wants her to do - and be - something else. His plans for Charity are beyond her wildest dreams, but can she embrace them when they're so different from her own plans - has she got the courage to change?

My thoughts; This has to be one of the best books I have read in a long time. The spiritual lessons are deep and very real. Although I was very convicted by this book to become more like Christ and other things (which I won’t go into, because it would give part of the book away), I never felt like I was being preached at.

I identified with Charity and some of her struggles. I liked it that, though she was a likable person and godly, she was human and made mistakes.

I also loved the sketches in the book. I really felt like I was reading Charity’s Dairy. I also loved the fact that it was a British book and felt very English, different from the American books I am used to reading.

Good things about this book; Godly morals, strong faith, family that likes each other, and much more.

Things you might want to know before reading; Some of my readers might like to know that there is some romance in this book, although I thought that it was one of the struggles that made this book good. Charity’s cousin dates and talks about it some, but I didn’t have an issue with it. Even some of my readers who don’t like romance books will most likely love this book.

You can order the book on Amazon here or at Elisheva Publishing

Elisabeth Allen's Books

2012-01-24T01:00:00.001-08:00

Just Like You

"What does God want me to do with my life - what does He want me to BE? That makes all the difference in the world."

When Charity Wentworth leaves university, she's going to go to India and spend a year living and working there as a missionary. Right? She thinks so, but God has other plans. He wants her to do - and be - something else. His plans for Charity are beyond her wildest dreams, but can she embrace them when they're so different from her own plans - has she got the courage to change?

'For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'Plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.' ~ Jeremiah 29:11 ~

No Matter What

"I keep telling myself - and everyone else - it'll be okay. There are so many things that could go wrong, but ... it'll be okay. It has to be. And if it isn't okay we have to believe it'll be okay at the moment."

As her chance for true love grows distant and one of her sisters is diagnosed with a rare medical condition, Charity Wentworth feels like everything most precious to her is being jeopardized. She knows that God wants her to let go and just trust Him. This winter is the longest Charity can remember having lived through - as she waits for spring, can Charity trust God, no matter what?

'For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,' declares the Lord. ~ Isaiah 55:8 ~

For Life and for Eternity

"This is a journey I never would have chosen to take, but ... it's taking me to a closer, deeper relationship with God than I ever thought possible."

The promises of new life that have come with spring are touching everyone around Charity Wentworth, but she seems to have been left behind. As she looks from a stormy today into an unknown tomorrow, can Charity release the pain of disappointed hopes and embrace a new life - committed to God, heart and soul, for life and for eternity?

To give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He might be glorified. ~ Isaiah 61:3b ~

Please Welcome....

2012-01-23T01:00:00.000-08:00

Elisabeth Allen from England!!

Thank you for asking me to take part in this interview! :)

You are so Welcome! First of all, would you tell the readers a little bit about yourself?

My name is Elisabeth Allen. I'm Jewish by birth, but my parents became believers in Jesus before I was born and I can't remember a time when I didn't believe in Him. Today I'm twenty-seven years old, a Preacher's Daughter and the eldest of four sisters.

I would love to visit England someday. Can you describe the area you live in?

I think you'd love England. I may, however, be somewhat baised in favour of "this green and pleasant land"! :) I love the hills and woods of this part of the country where I live. It's SO beautiful! The hills are described as "rolling" and that's because, well, they roll for as far as the eye can see. The woods are cool and green and beautiful as well as ancient and mysterious. There are narrow, twisty lanes and tiny villages comprised of stone churches and thatched cottages. There are lots of beautiful birds and fascinating creatures like hedgehogs - think of Mrs Tiggywinkle!

What is your favorite thing about living in England?

I spent a year when I was a teenager living in a very exciting country that wasn't my own and, oddly, it was this that made me appreciate my own home and my . own country. Now I don't have ONE favorite thing about England! Some of my favorite things about my country are ... the countryside, the history, the potential. I'm not a huge fan of many aspects of our culture, but I believe that our people have huge potential. Well ... so do all people of every country. But I'm born and bred in England and I love the fact that I get to invest in this country and this culture. I also love the fact that we have a Royal Family! :)

What started you writing?

I'm not really sure what got me started. I wrote my first story when I was four years old and just kept writing! I was always imagining and telling stories to myself - the sort that began, "What if there was a girl like THIS and THIS happened and ... ?" I wrote all through my childhood and teenage years and finally decided, when I was 16, to write for publication. I felt that it was a good way to the use the gift for writing that God had given me and I wanted to reach girls and touch their hearts - to encourage them in life. Writing, for me, isn't really about words. Some people write because they love words. I love people, faith, relationships, emotion and history and those are the things that drive most of my stories - girls, their walks with God, their families and friends, their hearts and events in history that forge heroines out of girls "just like me" - and YOU! That's always where I start with a story - and it's where I aim to finish with a novel. Does that sort of answer your question? :)

What was your favorite part of your homeschool experience?

Oh ... there are SO many things that I love about my homeschool experience! I loved being at home with my sisters and they became my best friends; my parents poured their lives into our education and my sisters and I were encouraged by our parents to explore and discover and wonder. I read hundreds of books and studied at the kitchen table while my mother took care of the baby and cooked and cleaned. We also learned a lot about life through living. I have always loved the way my parents gave us a houseful of books (and a library card each!) and the world and said, "This is God what says in the Bible, this is how you read, how you write, how you add and subtract, how you multiply and divide - now go and study what you want because we believe that you can be anything you want to be!"

Is Charity anything like you?

There's a little bit of me in ALL my heroines and, like me, Charity is English, a girl, a homeschooler, the oldest daughter in her family ... and she has brown hair. I almost made her a red head at the last moment before publication! :)

What have people been saying about the Charity books?

I've been so blessed by the kind things that people have said about Charity and her story. I love it when girls say that Charity is a kindred spirit; that's exactly how I wanted them to feel, but it's thrilling to know that they really DO feel that Charity is a real girl and a kindred spirit. The other thing that thrills me is people saying that Charity's journey of faith has encouraged them to walk more closely with God. It's good to know that Charity and her faith appeals to all sorts of girls from all sorts of families and churches and it's humbling to realise that my words are reaching girls and touching hearts. One of the wonderful things about serving God, however, is that we do our best and He does takes our efforts and uses them for His glory!

Tell us about your upcoming book "The Abolitionist"!

I'm so excited about "The Abolitionist"! :) This is Anna Ashwell's story - inspired by "Pride and Prejudice" and the movie "Amazing Grace". Anna, the orphaned sister of a Member of Parliament and an enthusiast of the abolition movement and Mr William Wilberforce, is seventeen years old in 1807 when the British Slave Trade is abolished. Her grandmother Lady Hawkridge, who she hasn't seen for years due to a mysterious breach in the Ashwell family, invites Anna to Bath where she attends parties, makes friends and realises that, although the slave trade has been abolished, slavery is alive and well in her world ... and her family. Anna's enthusiasm for the abolition movement is tested when her cousins tease her and she begins to feel that she cannot make a difference. What will she do when she's given the opportunity to make a difference in the life of just one slave ... but the personal price that Anna must pay in polite society is high?

Where can people go to buy your books?

You can ask for my books in your local bookstore and if they don't have them in stock then they should be able to order them easily. My "Charity" books are also available from Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com; just search for "Elisabeth Allen" and there I am - or, rather, there are my "Charity" books. :) "The Abolitionist" will be available for pre-order soon ... watch my blog, Hope Scribbles, for details about pre-ordering "The Abolitionist"!

Do you have any final words?

God has a plan for your life (Jeremiah 29:11) and I believe that He puts godly desires and hopes in your hearts for a purpose. Don't be afraid to embrace His plan for your life and explore His purposes in your desires and hopes. You may have to work a lot harder than you think you can and sacrifice a lot more than you want, but knowing Him and being part of His work in this beautiful, broken world is worth all the work and sacrifice you can imagine. It's not about you, it's about Him. He loves you! Remember that He makes all things new (Revelation 21:5) and makes everything beautiful in it's time (Eccelisiastes 3:11).

Starting Monday...

2012-01-21T07:38:00.000-08:00

Starting Monday, will will be featuring one author a week. Our first authors will be:

Elisabeth Allen
Molly Evangeline
Katie McCurdy (Katie will be hosting our first givaway!!!)

Interviews, Reviews, Giveaways and more!

2012-01-18T07:24:00.000-08:00

I am working on getting interviews with homeschool author, reviews of their books, and giveaways.

If you would like to provide a book to giveaway, know of a homeschool author we should publish, or to submit a review, you can contact me at thedestinyofone(at)Juno(dot)com

Update

2012-01-16T06:39:00.000-08:00

Check out the Book List for 23 Homeschool authors and 57 book and counting

Welcome!

2012-01-14T13:55:00.000-08:00

This site is under construction but it will soon be a place to find good, wholesome books by Homeschoolers. Come back soon!

If you are a Christian, Homeschool author, leave a comment telling me about your book.