Today I’m visiting Sandra Cox’s blog. She is not only supportive but also helps me out with insightful beta reads. Plus, she’s always there to offer any other needed input with her wit and kindness. Before heading over to the post, if you haven’t read her vast collection of work, I highly recommend it. Here’s one of my favorites and the review:
Today is Miracles & Ghosts Past: A Christmas Collection Two‘s book birthday. John Howell has graciously offered to kick it off. He’s always helping other authors out, including me. He has encouraged me to write a couple of my stories, for which I am grateful for the nudge. Before you head over, if you haven’t read a John Howell book, you are missing out! Here’s one of John’s great reads and my review.
Link for blog stop below.
James dies and ends up with a girl he hasn’t seen since they were children. This is only the beginning of his journey. I loved the places they traveled together, and the history weaved into them. Each stop had a different story they had to maneuver through without making any changes that could affect the future. I appreciated the relationship between James and Sam how they fell back into the connection they had as children that worked now that they were adults. Then having to deal with Lucifer, who interfered with their travels, was both amusing and a bit chilling to me. Their time travels were not only action-packed with lessons weaved in, but each place they visited was an engaging tale within the main story. The attention to detail and research was well done. Many parts had me laughing and a couple that left me teary-eyed. The ending surprised me, but I was satisfied with its conclusion. This is a story I won’t soon forget, and I highly recommend it!
Welcome to the Books That Changed Me: 2025 Fall Edition! You’ve seen these books before with my review, but today I’m bringing them back with their blurb because good reads deserve attention. This time was hard to pick, I’ve been reading a great group of books that linger.
So, grab a cup of pumpkin latte, coffee, or tea with a nice slice of apple pie and settle down in the changing colors and read a great book this fall.
BLURB
When the two Corey children are orphaned in an Indian attack on the frontier of Kentucky, Daniel Boone tracks their escape through the woods and brings them to his home in Fort Boonesborough. There they will live with him, his wife Rebecca, and their eight children in their crowded cabin, where she and her brother Thatch learn much about Colonel Boone and why he is regarded as one of the greatest frontier explorers and hunters. Eliza is soon immersed in the hard life of a frontier woman – doing the many household chores, working gardens and crops, foraging for food in the woods, and hunting. After surviving a pivotal historic event in the Revolutionary War – the siege of Boonesborough, Eliza’s own story is integrated into the remainder of Daniel Boone’s life, his constant uprooting of his family to unexplored areas, his failed business ventures, and his growing fame.
This is a tale of life’s challenges in frontier Kentucky, Eliza’s grit and determination in meeting them, and above all, high adventure. It offers a deep look into the long and amazing life of Daniel Boone through the eyes of a young girl.
A Bold Bargain (The Bargainer Series Book 3)
by Jan Sikes
BLURB
A Young Man With the Heart of a Wolf
Eighteen-year-old Jack Barlow Blaine is driven by unwavering compassion for all, and a thirst for knowledge. Born into poverty and haunted by a violent past, he’s determined to escape his history by helping others—whether human or animal, no matter the cost.
But when Jack discovers an elderly woman in crisis, he faces a choice that challenges everything he thinks he knows about living and dying. The bargain she offers promises a better future, if the price isn’t higher than he’s capable of paying.
As Jack grapples with his decision, he must summon the courage to honor their bargain if he accepts her offer.
How far is he willing to go to keep his word?
The greatest acts of kindness are the ones that demand the most from us—and every decision can unlock destiny’s doors.
BLURB
Two worlds separated by time and space, a frantic search, a powerful enemy, and a baby dragon… At sixteen, Gabri’s life is complicated.
When a nightmarish vision rips Gabri O’Connell from her home and family, she wakes up powerless in a freezing tower on a hostile planet.
Saved by a dragon and brought to Sanctum inside the planet, her rescuers don’t want her there.
Will a baby dragon be the key to her survival? Will Gabri ever see her family again?
Get your copy of SANCTUM today.
Literary Titan Book Award Winner
TEEN TO ADULT FANTASY ADVENTURE
Ancient Voices: Poems About Ancient Egypt
BLURB
The Ancient Egyptians loved life and celebrated it with joy. Their deepest desire was to live an honorable life and achieve immortality in the afterlife, where they could exist in perfect harmony with the cosmic order and never experience pain, suffering, and hardship again. These original poems by Dawn Pisturino reflect the hopes and dreams of people who were not much different from us. They worked, loved, raised families, worshipped their gods, honored the dead, enjoyed festivals and celebrations, imbibed beer and wine, danced, sang, and played, aspired to better themselves, and appreciated the beauty and wonder of nature. Take a journey back in time to explore the minds and hearts of the Ancient Egyptians
NOTE: Two days until Miracles & Ghosts Past release, and John Howell is kicking off the blog tour on Wednesday. So there will be no Tuesday post tomorrow, but I will be posting the links here for the tour stops.
Embrace that inner child by reading a fantastic book this fall! D. L. Finn (Denise)
All the results are here this month. I’m excited to share two amazing poems by Priscilla Bettis and Marsha Ingrao, and my flash fiction.
Marsha’s Poem:
There once was a house in the forest
Whose walls were a little bit porous
But what did we care?
We went there to stare.
And gather the candy there for us.
By Marsha Ingrao
Priscilla’s Poem:
The mother at the mailbox
pauses before returning to the house
where petunias populate the flower beds,
chimney smoke smells like vanilla,
and children’s laughter flitters.
The eaves curve as if smiling
at the daily prayer from her own mother
murmurs from the upstairs bedroom window,
even now, the rosary beads click-clicking.
It’s hard to believe this is the house
where her husband killed himself,
it’s hard to believe since then
the healing lavished upon her.
By Priscilla Bettis
My Flash Fiction:
The Cottage in the Woods
The quaint cottage was as advertised. It even glowed on a foggy mountain day.
“It has everything you asked for. The owner is leaving the satellite dish, solar panels, and propane tank at no extra cost. If you want the furnishings, they come with it; if not, they will go to charity. Mr. Wunder’s motivated to sell, and you’ll never get a deal like this again.” The chipper realtor, Rose, grinned.
I nodded, taking in the unusual landscaping. “How does one take care of the flowers on the roof?”
Rose shaded her pale blue eyes. “Sure adds to the charm. There’s a sprinkler system set up on the roof.”
As we crossed over the threshold, the overpowering smell of gardenia made me sneeze.
“Bless you. Over here is a fully updated kitchen. Don’t you love how the kitchen window overlooks that beautiful pond? The solar and batteries run the house most of the time. When it doesn’t, the generator kicks in. I love how Mr. Wunders put the panels and batteries in the field next to the house and not on the charming roof, don’t you?” Rose tucked a loose gray hair behind her ear and waited for me to respond.
“It is everything I was looking for, and the kitchen is nice. I like that it’s self-sufficient. What about the well?”
She grinned, “Couldn’t ask for a better well.” Rose pulled a report out of her large tote and handed it to me, and continued her tour. “You’re going to love the master bedroom with a huge closet, forest view, and fireplace. So many simple upgrades you can make. A fresh coat of paint, and there are hardwood floors under these carpets. The windows are double pane, and some curtains would…”
I tuned out her chatter as we explored the amazing house. The library off the master bedroom was my favorite room. I could write a bestseller there.
“What do you think? Ready to sign the papers?”
I was in love with this house, and I could pay cash for it thanks to my aunt, may she rest in peace. Plus, I’d still have had enough left over to live frugally. “What about a house inspection?”
“Everything’s been done, and the house deep-cleaned. If you are satisfied with everything being offered, the papers are ready. Mr. Wunder’s picked you out of the five interested parties to offer this deal. You are getting it way below its asking price and value, Carrie.”
Although it seemed too good to be true, and I’m not usually impulsive, this just felt right to me. I signed paper after paper and saw nothing alarming in them.
“Everything here is now yours. My brother-in-law has a moving service to get your stuff packed and delivered. Did you see that you can move right in? It’s yours rent-free until closing.”
“You are saying I can stay here tonight?”
Her smile reminded me of the Cheshire Cat. “That’s what I’m saying.” She handed me the keys that were on a yellow plastic flower bob.
“I…well, I had planned on staying at the motel tonight, but sure, why not. Any good take-outs nearby?”
“I just texted the grocery store. The essentials will arrive in two hours, and Hank’s will deliver a combo pizza at dinnertime. Wait. I didn’t even ask you if you wanted pizza. I can cancel and get you something else.”
“I love combo pizza, thank you.”
She looked relieved. “Part of my service. Welcome to your new home. Give my brother-in-law a call today. He’ll pack and bring everything to you. All I need is the key to give to him.”
“Um…how much is that?”
“Included in the price.”
“Wow. Thank you.” I handed her my apartment key.
“My pleasure.” Rose paused at the door. “You are going to be very happy here. Oh, I almost forgot your Wi-Fi password on the fridge.”
Right before the door shut, a deep male voice said, “You are going to die.”
“Excuse me?” I said.
“I said the password is on the fridge.” Rose stepped back inside.
“Thank you, I see the password, but did you hear that male’s voice?”
“I didn’t hear a thing. Could be the wind.” She glanced at the forest and shrugged.
“It said…well, never mind.” Goosebumps filled my skin.
“You’re cold. There’s wood for you by the fireplace and two cords of oak behind the house, ready to go. Sleep well.” Rose shut the door behind her.
Maybe it was the wind, but… I quickly settled into my house. It became home the first night, but at times, I felt like I was being watched.
“Probably just a curious deer or squirrel.” I sighed and went back to reading.
As promised, someone arrived with all my possessions just two days later.
“Thank you for delivering them.”
His smile didn’t go to his eyes. “You’re welcome. My boss usually does this, but his sister in law died suddenly this morning. Her heart. I’m sure you met her, Rose?”
I gasped, remembering the voice and dire message. I expressed my condolences, feeling sad and unnerved that the perky older woman had passed. By the afternoon, I had convinced myself it was a coincidence. Just the wind, like she said. I got to putting my stuff away.
A week later, I sat contentedly sipping my peppermint tea by the warm fire when a small man with pointed ears, dressed in jeans and a red plaid shirt, slid next to me. The smell of gardenia was overpowering, and I dropped my teacup, which shattered on the newly polished wood floor.
“Thought it was time to introduce myself. I’m Terrance. I come with the house.”
“You…I need to go.”
He raised his hand, and I found I couldn’t move. “Why? I’m only here to help and protect you. Mr. Wunder picked you, and you are perfect.”
Oddly, I felt suddenly calm. Had I been drugged? “What are you? And your voice, that’s what I heard that day about dying.”
“Just always been here in this house. Yes, I knew Rose was about to die. A shame, but only you can hear me. I have a knowing and can do things humans can’t.”
I could move again, but instead of fleeing, I sank more into the leather couch.”Are there more of you?”
“Only one left in these parts. Now I’ll clean that up, and you’ll be calm. You’ll get used to me soon enough. You are young enough for kids. I’d like that.”
He hummed as he cleaned, and I did feel very relaxed. I had moved into a fairy tale; hopefully, this was a happily ever after.
Welcome to the ninth Creative Perspective Challenge. Time’s running out; there are only three left after this one. Join in before it ends. All you have to do is write a flash fiction story or a poem based on this image, and post it on your blog. Then leave me the link below in the comments.
Here’s the image:
I look forward to seeing the results, which will be posted next week.
I’m thrilled to be the final stop on the Sisters on Tour! Both are favorite authors, so to have both here today is an extra treat 🙂 They have a special announcement following their interview.
My reviews for both five-star stories are here: LINK
We are deeply grateful to you, Denise, for offering to let us wrap up this tour on your wonderful blog site!
When we decided to launch our new books together on the same day, Linda and I wanted to make it something special. It feels like we are making publishing history, and perhaps we are.
For this blog tour, we’ve chosen questions and answers designed to give the readers a deeper look into who we are, our background, and how we ended up where we are today, launching books together.
Question: What’s the most difficult thing about writing characters of the opposite sex?
Jan: I think the hardest part about writing characters of the opposite sex is getting the dialogue right. Men talk and express emotions much differently than women. I think women writers who have raised sons have a deeper insight into this. Also, men tend to get angry much quicker than women. I love writing male characters who are both rugged, yet sensitive. However, I think they only exist in fiction. (Sorry guys. No offense)
Linda: Men react differently from women when under stress or fear and it’s not always easy to figure out what they should be doing. My male writer friend is very helpful whenever I’m in doubt. Also, men show emotion very differently as well. I can’t claim that I always get that right. And, as Jan said, the dialogue. Men tend to speak in short, choppy sentences and they don’t use “ly” words.
Question: How do you select names for your characters?
Jan: I almost giggled when I read this question. I honestly can’t say I spend a lot of time selecting names for characters, at least the main characters. They tell me. I know that sounds crazy, but it’s true. However, when I wrote Ghostly Interference, I struggled with a name for the main character. Everything I came up with didn’t fit. So, Linda suggested I interview the character and ask him. But it was his mother whom I wound up interviewing. I know that sounds crazy as this entire conversation took place in my head, but it happened. She told me her backstory. Once, when she was still in high school, she met Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones and vowed if she ever had a son, she’d name him Jag. Boom! Not only did I get the character’s name but also another story (hers) that I wrote as a short story for an anthology. But if I do have to search for names for secondary characters, I have some favorite internet sites I use. It helps to put a year in the search bar for popular names in that time period. One thing I try to avoid is having character names that sound too much alike or names that all start with the same letter. I once read a story with characters named J.J. and Jay. That was super confusing.
Linda: I keep a list of names that I’m always adding to, and if none of those fit my character, I turn to the internet. Also, I’ve found names in cemeteries. Once I ran across the name Texanna on an old tombstone, and I used that in a novella. They’re a great place to look. And as Jan said, often a name will just pop into your head. Writing historicals, I need to know their nationality, and the name has to fit where they originated from. You can’t have an Alistair from Sweden. One of my favorite parts is naming characters. My hardest thing is not repeating. I love the name Luke, and I used it in four different books!! As the hero, no less. Crazy.
Question: What one thing would you give up to become a better writer?
Jan: This one made me stop and think. What would I give up? I’ve already given up time, money, ego, and fear of rejection. What’s really left? I’m not a big TV watcher, so that’s nothing I’d miss. I mostly read for entertainment, and I’m definitely not ever giving that up. Besides, as Linda mentioned at a previous stop, reading enhances writing. So, really, I don’t have an answer to this question.
Linda: I really love coffee but I would give it up if I could be a better writer. That’s how much I yearn to turn unique phrases and write vivid descriptions. I read books by bestselling authors and feel so inadequate next to them. I really admire good writing. A long time ago, a writer told me never to compare myself to other authors. Everyone has different viewpoints and skills. She said, “Someone is always going to write better, and you will always better than some. So, I try not to compare.
Question: Does your family support your career as a writer?
Jan: For me, the answer is yes and no. They seem proud when I win book awards, and they celebrated with champagne when I got my first publishing contract. But I don’t think any of them have actually read my books. My oldest daughter has read some, but not the younger one. It’s almost as if she has a mental block against it – like Mom couldn’t possibly be good enough to write a compelling story. Still, I always give them both an autographed copy of every new book. I envy writers who have family involvement in their writing.
Linda: Not much and I’ve been a published writer for 25 years. My oldest daughter is good about reading each new book, but she’s the only one. I’ve spoken to my writing friends about this subject, and they tell me their families don’t read their books either. My family, including my oldest, never asks what I’m writing or even seems curious, and I don’t know why that is.
PURCHASE LINKS:
CADE’S QUEST: https://www.amazon.com/Cades-Quest-Western-Romance-McIntyres-ebook/dp/B0FD7X4H5D/
A BOLD BARGAIN: https://www.amazon.com/Bold-Bargain-Bargainer-Book-ebook/dp/B0FD7VSY68/
LINDA BRODAY SOCIAL MEDIA:
WEBSITE: https://www.lindabroday.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/lindabrodayauthor
BLUESKY: https://bsky.app/profile/lindabroday.bsky.social
AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Linda-Broday/author/B001JRXWB2?ccs_id=4a2c44df-2076-43cd-8bf8-f15b530ea92f
JAN SIKES SOCIAL MEDIA:
WEBSITE: https://www.jansikes.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/authorjansikesbooks
TWITTER: HTTPS://WWW.TWITTER.COM/JANSIKES3
BLUESKY: https://bsky.app/profile/jksikes-author.bsky.social
AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jan-Sikes/author/B00CS9K8DK?ccs_id=8185cb63-9ad0-4d7b-85ad-c2d64ce37812
Here are the amazing books I read in August that were four stars and higher. Click on the book titles for the Amazon link.
The story continues for Gabri, Eilo, and their dragons. They are still fighting the Shadow, while back home, Gabri’s family continues to search for her. The point of view switches between the two worlds, showing the love of family and a newly created family. A fight is coming, and the Dragon Guild is preparing for it by recruiting, scouting, and training. I love the developing relationship between Eilo and Gabri, but I think my favorite parts are the dragons and their riders, along with Ting. The pull between Gabri’s past and Donny, as well as her current life and Eilo, adds another layer that had me rooting for her to make the right decision. The settings bring this world both beauty and the ugly side of it to life. A hard story to put down, as I wanted to know what was going to happen next. I can’t wait to dive into the next book and can highly recommend “Aerie.”
The Dance of Discord: A Short Story: Gilded Age Intrigue
A quick but exciting read that takes the readers to 1900s Washington, DC. Secret Service agent Milo Quick and his sidekick Duchess Felina Gattone skillfully maneuver the world of political intrigue. Told through the Duchess’s perspective, there is never a dull moment. I knew there would be a twist coming and tried more than once to guess what it was, but in the end, I was completely surprised. The settings, language, and characters pulled me deep into the story. I loved all the international implications of learning who to trust. A fast-paced story that was hard to put down. I hope there is more to come featuring Milo and the Duchess!
Cade’s Quest: (Book 1 Sweet Western Romance)
By Linda Broday
Cade’s family was torn apart after outlaws killed his parents. His siblings were separated and sent to live with new families. Now, as an adult, he has returned home looking for his family and to reunite with them, including his older brother, who he had been told was riding with a gang. On his quest, Cade is attacked and ends up being treated by a local doctor. It’s here he finds his sister, Summer, but loses his freedom when the out-of-control sheriff decides he is a criminal too. Forced to flee, he finds the perfect hideout and a young woman and child who are also hiding out. Although townspeople remember him and his family and want to help him, the sheriff won’t give up and pursues him at any cost. I love the relationship that develops between him and Rain and her nephew. They are both searching for their place in the world, with someone determined to end that quest. Cade is loyal and complex, and Summer and Rain are strong, determined women. The history and setting pulled me right into their world. Although questions were answered, some weren’t. I can’t wait for the next book to see what happens next to this family. I can highly recommend “Cade’s Quest!”
A Bold Bargain (The Bargainer Series Book 3)
by Jan Sikes
“A Bold Bargain” is the third book in the Bargainer Series. I loved the first two books and was eager to read this one. Jack, who was a minor character in book two, had a tough childhood. Now grown up, he is working to protect animals, but his dream is to go to college. His past did not break him but made him into a kind, caring man whose first instinct is to rescue those who need help, whether a human or an animal. His first save is a dog drowning in the river, which ends up staying with Jack. Named Wolf after his mixed breed, this character becomes one of my favorites. What Wolf brought home touched my heart. When Jack finds an older woman who needs his help, he doesn’t hesitate. He finds not only her dog but also a friend. Their developing relationship is not only sweet, but what she offers him becomes the bargain. Although being the person he was without the bargain, he would have helped out. In this mix were a gold miner and his granddaughter, who added another layer that I fully enjoyed. The human connections and setting were amazing, but there was a dark side too, that included dangerous mink trappers, illness, and an abusive ex in the mix. Another great addition to the series that might be my favorite one. I can highly recommend this!
The Prince’s Man (The Five Kingdoms #1)
By Deborah Jay
“The Prince’s Man” is an exciting fantasy with settings and characters that pulled me right into it. It starts with a young girl, Risada, who watches her parents being brutally killed as she protects her little brother. Years later, this grown-up Lady Risada, the court’s secret assassin, teams up with Rustam, the court seducer and clandestine spy, to save their kingdom from a hostile takeover. While magic has been banned and feared in their realm, they rescue a tortured elf, Elwaes, from a cruel doctor. They have to survive the trek through the mountains with a sick elf to seek crucial support on the other side. The journey forces them to deal with magical beings, including trolls, a water seducer, and a werecat. Although there is an attraction between Risada and Rustam, there is also a lack of trust and borderline hatred from Risada. Their relationship is fascinating as it progresses, but I love how Rustam and the elf, Elwaes connect. A story I found hard to put down, and I look forward to seeing what happens next in the Five Kingdoms Series. I can highly recommend this!
King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry
By Lauren Scott
“King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry” is a beautiful tribute that deeply touched my heart. The words brought back memories I had of losing our sweet dog a couple of years back and of remembering the joy she brought us too. Our pets are such a gift, and this collection not only shows that but also offers comfort to all of us who have known the loss of a beloved pet. Here is an example of the depth of emotions: “A dog barks in the distance causing me to pause,/it sounds like Copper’s wild imagination longing for one more moment”—One More Moment. I can highly recommend this for all those who have loved and lost a pet family member.
NOTE: Don’t miss Thursday’s post from Jan and Linda 🙂 Next week is the 9th Creative Perspective Challenge!
Embrace your inner child by reading a good book! D. L. Finn (Denise)