The Preacher's Bride by Jody Hedlund

The poor quality of this picture may leave something desired, but the book I'm holding, Jody Hedlund's THE PREACHER'S BRIDE, certainly doesn't.
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THE PREACHER'S BRIDE, Hedlund's first release from Bethany House Publishers, is a beautiful book on the outside, and the content within its covers is a perfect match. Jody Hedlund gives us a heroine of strength alongside a hero of substance, wrapped together in a phenomenal story of intention and inspiration. I can think of no better package for this novel's message of standing up for what you believe.
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From the back cover:
No matter the sacrifice, Elizabeth Whitbread would serve a wounded family.
No matter the danger, John Costin was determined to speak God's word.
Neither expected to fall in love.
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As enemies threaten to silence Costin--and those close to him--will following their hearts cost John and Elizabeth everything?
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THE PREACHER'S BRIDE is historical, taking place in the mid-1600's England. It's a romance, bringing together two unlikely characters with--as all great romances have--sizable obstacles to overcome. And, full of faith and strength, it's a moving story for its readers.
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THE PREACHER'S BRIDE, an incredible debut by this writer, is brilliant and it's perfect. Don't miss your chance to read it.
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Visit author Jody Hedlund today, and go to Jill Kemerer's site for a book party, too!

I've Joined the Army...

of Ermas!

This is Erma Bombeck, writer, humorist, wife and mother extraordinaire (RIP). She's inspired many who dream to follow in her funny footsteps.

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She was my own first inspiration. I can't tell you how I became acquainted with her; whether it was with a book my mom owned, something from the library, or something entirely random. But oh, was I taken with her insight, her honesty, and her sense of humor.

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It was writing like hers I first tried to emulate, back when I began taking the craft seriously. I was a young married mom, looking for a creative outlet. And I wanted to pen casual essays and personal anecdotes, much like any found in her famous titles: If Life Is a Bowl of Cherries, What Am I Doing in the Pits?; Family - The Ties That Bind... and Gag!; The Grass is Always Greener Over the Septic Tank. Those books are where I got my fledgling start, tested the writing waters. My first paid and published essay was in the vein of her kind of writing.

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Now, years later, several women writers have banded together to form An Army of Ermas. And I'm one of 'em!

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Visit our new blog, linked above, to see what we're about. Please read my debut post, Gimme a Break (up today!), and leave a comment if so inclined. It's a different side to my writing, so different from my women's fiction, and I'd love your thoughts.

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Three cheers for (and many thanks to) Erma!

*photo from Erma's website