Snippet Saturday | Heartfelt Cases 4: The Keres Case

 

Chapter 2

The New Problem

Karen peeked up at the little boy Connor was helping. Now that he wasn’t screaming his head off, Silas didn’t seem like a bad sort. She wondered how anyone could hurt him. Searching her feelings, Karen’s heart seized painfully when the possibility of somebody kidnapping Ellie again sprang to mind.

What would mom do?

That was an easy question: freak out.

What would dad do?

That one was almost as easy: hunt down the jerk and give him a fistful of knuckles.

Karen tried to stop the flow of thoughts, but it didn’t work. In all honesty, the chances of somebody walking away with Ellie were better than good. Kids with Down syndrome could be far too trusting.

Is there such a thing as too trusting?

Before Karen could answer the question, a hand fell across her mouth, slamming her head back hard against the tree trunk.

A man’s voice whispered, “Come with me quietly or I’ll shoot your boyfriend from the tree.”

He’s not my boyfriend, she thought through the haze of pain piercing her skull. Though technically true at the moment, it didn’t mean she could just let the man shoot Connor.

“Nod if you understand me.”

Karen breathed hard, almost hyperventilating.

Don’t faint! Faint! He can’t hurt you then! The conflicting thoughts got tangled in her mind.

The man cursed. “Stop that. If you faint, I’ll shoot you! Come quietly or die here. Those are your options!”

Karen hesitated, torn between screaming for the help that walked mere feet away and heeding the man’s threats. She struggled to pull away, but he tightened his grip, pressing her head painfully against the tree.

“I know where your sister lives.”

That made up Karen’s mind. She ceased her struggles. Tears stinging her eyes, she nodded.

New Release | The Kiverson Case [Heartfelt Cases: Book 2]

 The Kiverson Case

Heartfelt Cases: Book 2

Genre: Christian Mystery

Release Date: Early 2014
Presented by: As You Wish Tours

BLURB

One man’s vendetta could cost them everything …

When a routine arrest turns deadly, FBI Special Agents Julie Ann and Patrick Duncan are drawn into a dangerous game with Kevin Kiverson, a man with little to lose and much to avenge.

In her heart, Ann knows they will catch Kevin, but she doesn’t know when or how or what sacrifices will be made along the way. She’s prepared to risk her life for others but will her resolve hold when the threat turns to her baby boy?

PROLOGUE

Kiverson Residence
Vienna, VA
Five years ago

“The only thing you kids need to know is to protect the family,” Asan Kiverson said. His gaze bore into each of his children.

Kevin, the eldest, returned his gaze steadily.

Angela, the middle child, nodded hesitantly, so Asan gave her a reassuring smile.

His smile faded when he looked at his youngest child. “What’s the matter, Benjamin? Don’t you believe me?”

“Yes, Papa,” the boy murmured.

“That’s my boy. You can choose your own path, but always remember the family protects its own. One day, perhaps you kids will be called upon to protect the family.”

Enter the Giveaway!

Three (3) Winners will receive an eBook

The Kiverson Case (Heartfelt Cases: Book 2)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

**FREE** The Collins Case [Heartfelt Cases: Book 1]

Title: The Collins Case
Series: Heartfelt Cases (Book 1)
Release Date: October 31, 2012
Genre: Christian Mystery
Presented by: As You Wish Tours
Banner Made by: Camelia Miron Skiba

BLURB

Working for the FBI certainly isn’t a “normal” job, but Special Agent Julie Ann Davidson has never encountered a case as personal as this one. Although not officially assigned to the case, Ann and her partner, Patrick Duncan, take up the cause of finding Rachel, Jason, and Emily Collins. As if that task wasn’t enough, Ann and Patrick also have a baffling case of internet thievery to investigate.

Who is Christopher Collins and what about his past is endangering his family? Where are Rachel and the kids being held? Where is God in the midst of chaos? Will Ann and Patrick arrive in time or will they find only pain?

 EXCERPT

After work on Thursday, Rachel Collins stopped at the grocery store for basics and something special for dinner. Having heard many horrible stories, she didn’t dare leave the children alone in the car. Warnings about best behavior fell upon deaf ears. Somewhere, she found the patience to tolerate Jason and Emily’s childish antics.

“Why you frown, Mommy?” Jason asked.

“I’m just tired, Jay,” replied Rachel. Her mind took a trip back to the office where a thousand little things had gone wrong. The secretary’s morning car accident had added considerable stress to Rachel’s hectic life. Her trust in God’s sovereignty didn’t make lousy days any easier to live through.

For years she had believed Christ to be mere church rhetoric. Finally, during a particularly rough college year, she had accepted God’s gift of salvation through Jesus Christ’s sacrifice. It pained her that Chris avoided church. Come Sunday, Rachel forced a bright smile, sang in the choir, helped in the nursery, and coordinated other children’s ministries. In fact, she kept herself so busy with work, kids, and church that her spiritual walk floundered. Stress and bills were her biggest problems, but she understood that they allowed her family light, food, warmth, and a fine home in the great state of Pennsylvania. She knew the ‘could-haves’ and the ‘what-ifs’ could drive her mad so she decided not to worry about the future.

“When we get home, you need a nap,” Jason said.

Her son’s solemn suggestion drew Rachel back to the present. She chuckled softly. Children were a blessing, even if they did jump all over her nerves sometimes.

“Cookies!” Emily shouted, pointing with a tiny finger.

Annoyed at herself for wandering down the wrong aisle, Rachel winced at the volume, grabbed Emily’s wildly waving hand, and said, “Hush, sweets, I see them.”

That’s what you get for not paying attention. Oh well, the damage is done. The pantry’s nearly empty anyway.

She let them each pick a favorite and finished the hike to the back corner where the main selection of milk and eggs were located.

Ingenious to put milk in the back, Rachel admitted.

Next, they swung by the fish department where Jason made a face.

Emily covered her nose and announced, “Stinky!”

STALKER LINKS
Facebook
Twitter
Website
Goodreads
Amazon Profile

BOOK LINKS
Amazon
Goodreads

Goodreads Thursday | Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly

Title:  Revolution

Author:  Jennifer Donnelly

Length: 498 Pages

Released: Oct 12, 2010

Add on Goodreads

Buy on Amazon

Blurb

From the privileged streets of modern Brooklyn to the heart of the French Revolution, Jennifer Donnelly, author of the award-winning novel A Northern Light, artfully weaves two girls’ stories into one unforgettable account of life, loss, and enduring love. Revolution spans centuries and vividly depicts the eternal struggles of the human heart.

BROOKLYN: Andi Alpers is on the edge. She’s angry at her father for leaving, angry at her mother for not being able to cope, and heartbroken by the loss of her younger brother, Truman. Rage and grief are destroying her. And she’s about to be expelled from Brooklyn Heights’ most prestigious private school when her father intervenes. Now Andi must accompany him to Paris for winter break.

PARIS: Alexandrine Paradis lived over two centuries ago. She dreamed of making her mark on the Paris stage, but a fateful encounter with a doomed prince of France cast her in a tragic role she didn’t want—and couldn’t escape.

Two girls, two centuries apart. One never knowing the other. But when Andi finds Alexandrine’s diary, she recognizes something in her words and is moved to the point of obsession. There’s comfort and distraction for Andi in the journal’s antique pages—until, on a midnight journey through the catacombs of Paris, Alexandrine’s words transcend paper and time, and the past becomes suddenly, terrifyingly present.

**My Review**

The cover art on this version's prettier than the audio CD I got, but that's besides the point. The story was fantastic. Anybody who's bothered to read my reviews might notice that I don't often say that. It's a long book; 15 hr and 4 minutes for professionals to read start to finish, but it's worth it. Because I had the CD, I must say that the actresses did a truly wonderful job with their performances. Had I read the book myself, I'd probably be giving this a 3 and a half or 4 star review, but the performances were enjoyable.

Was it perfect? No. There were a few times that I wanted to shake the main character and tell her to get on with her life, but hey, that can happen when you talk about anything for 15 hrs.

Was it believable? Not really. Most of it was believable until the whole time travel thing (which is not a spoiler b/c it's on the back cover of the book). Still, it was enjoyable.

I probably only like Andi's character because I like the way the voice actress presented her, but I suppose paper and pen Andi has her strengths. Alexandrine's a cool character; brave, compassionate, etc.

Things to like: There are multiple layers here, yet the switching between Alexandrine's diary entries and Andi's first person narration seemed seamless. Truman's story unfolds in bits and pieces. Tantalizing bits are woven throughout changing your perspective each time you see it, shining light on different sections of a beautiful painting. The music references were nice. I can't relate to that sort of obsession with music, but Andi came through with a genuine passion for the subject.

Parental note: The book says it's for listener's 12-17, but I think it's worth mentioning that it contains some fairly strong language. I'm probably just a relic from the past and kids probably hear way worse things on the school bus, but for those who still like to know such things, there it is.

Summary: Can't say how I'd feel if I read each page, but hearing the story on CD was a lovely experience. The story's excellent.

My 2014 Goal | Give Back + Raise Money: Charities

The 2014 Goal / Objective: 

To obtain 200 new reviews for my books + raise money for charities.

Possible Beneficiaries:  

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Easter Seals

Tiny Hands International

Polaris Project

Habitat for Humanity

Rationale:
Together we are stronger than the individual sum of our parts. We can have a greater impact if we work together. Many people understand these sentiments but have no idea how to turn them into practical means of helping. There are many causes worth fighting for, but limited resources often make us feel inadequate. We don’t often consider time and talent gifts to be spent on worthy causes.

Sure, I could give to each cause on my own without anyone ever knowing it, but the amount I actually would give is probably far less than what will be given if I force 1000 strangers and new friends to keep me accountable. Besides, many of these non-profits rely on word of mouth to spread their causes. By reading this, you’ve heard of them and maybe even read up on their causes, whether they stick in your mind and heart is up to you.

Proposal/Promise:
In 2014, I will donate $1 per new honest review of any of my books. (2014 reviews thus far = 1) I will also donate $0.10 per "New Like" on my Facebook Page and $0.20 per postcard/bookmark pack given away in a contest (up to $200). The current “like” count is 1095. (Facebook Likes Increased = 11 at $1.10 & Postcards given away in 2014 so far = 5 at $1) A very good start I'd say.

What books does this apply to?

Ashlynn’s Dreams

Genre: YA, Science Fiction

Nadia’s Tears

Genre: YA, Science Fiction

Heartfelt Cases 1: The Collins Case (novella)

Genre: Christian, Mystery

Heartfelt Cases 2: The Kiverson Case (novella) - Coming Soon

Genre: Christian, Mystery

I want to help, but I don’t really want to buy a new book:
I’m willing to invest a bit in this project. I have 20 copies of Ashlynn’s Dreams, First Edition (old cover). Anyone within the U.S. may request one of these. Upon request, I will mail a book to an address you provide. Your obligation from that point on is to read, review, sign, and pass on the book. The pass on part is important. The worst fate any book can suffer is to languish in a box, where most of these are currently residing.

Also, if you email me or my PA and let us know which book (title) and eBook version/format (mobi, epub, pdf) you prefer we'll provide you with a review copy that way.

I want to help, but I hate reading YA and/or Christian books, how can I help?

1. Like my Facebook Page. Invite your friends to like my page.
2. Email the blog post of my proposal to good friends (ones who won’t consider your email spam).
3. Donate to one of these worthy causes.
4. If you’re an author, run a similar program. I dare ya. I triple dog dare ya.

If none of this fits you, then try to think of some creative way you could give. I’d love to hear your story.

Ideas to consider:

• Volunteer at a food bank
• Take a struggling friend out for dinner
• Do the dishes for your parents
• Visit people in the hospital
• Rake leaves/ shovel snow / pick up sticks for a neighbor
• Buy gift cards to a food market and donate them to those in need
• Sell some treasures you haven’t used in 20+ years on eBay and donate the cash, etc.

Fine Details/ How do I get my review to count?
I’d prefer the reviews be done on amazon, goodreads, or some other program I’ve heard of, but I’ll also take email submissions. They don’t have to be positive reviews, just honest, and it needs to be more than “it was good” or “it was bad”. Amazon says you have to put in at least 20 words, but I’m going to up that to at least 100 because I believe you’ve got to put time and effort in this as your investment.

The total number of Amazon reviews is easy to check on, but if you’re posting to a different site or don’t want your review out in the public eye, paste the review into the body of an email.

Closing Remarks:
An idea like this only works if other people catch on to the vision. Part of why I want to do this is to get people to realize that lending a helping hand doesn’t always have to involve money, sometimes the gift can be time, talent, or even just a smile.

Disclaimer:
I, Julie C. Gilbert, am in no way directly associated with any of these charities.  I am simply promising to donate in response to your (my followers) participation on my Facebook page and interaction with my work.

Teaser Tuesday | Nadia's Tears Chapter 6

Surrender

Malia sat on the van’s floor with her hands folded neatly in her lap. I had to review the dream six times before I noticed the dark cuffs binding her wrists. Malia looked sad and tired. The dark jumpsuit she wore had thin, red and blue stripes that looked like wires running down the sleeves and legs. I’d never seen anything like it, but Varick obviously had for his reaction was to take three angry steps forward.

The guards shifted nervously but held their guns steady.

“I’m all right, Varick,” Malia called. The light shining down on her glinted off the three tears forming tracks down her face.

“No tears, my dear,” Dr. Devya said softly. He reached down with a towel and blotted the tears from her face.

“This wasn’t part of the deal,” Varick protested. “I told you I would come alone. Why didn’t you believe me?”

“Get in the van,” Dr. Devya ordered.

“I want an answer. How do I know this isn’t just a trap?”

Dr. Devya’s laugh could definitely be qualified as bitter. “You’re not that important.” He nodded toward Malia and added, “She’s not that important, but Nadia is. She must live. Now get in or make a move that will likely get two of your sisters seriously hurt or killed.”

Two?

Varick didn’t ask the question out loud, but I felt it blazing brightly in his mind. Without further delay, he climbed carefully past Malia into the van. A hood slipped over Varick’s head, but before it could completely block his vision, I saw him reach for Malia. Even after the hood blocked his sight, I felt his odd mixture of sorrow, joy, and burning anger melt away when he sat by Malia and wrapped her in a warm hug.

Add on Goodreads

Buy on Amazon

Snippet Saturday | Heartfelt Cases 4: The Keres Case

 

Chapter 1

The Search

Who kidnaps a kid only to give the police instructions on where to conduct a manhunt?

He could still feel the laminated piece of white paper buried under the packing materials and knife on the kid’s bed.

“You’re doing it again,” Donny said in a slightly scolding tone.

“What?” asked Ralph. He finished off the water and crushed the flimsy plastic against his leg.

“You’re thinking that something’s off about that note.” Donny opened a fresh bottle of water, drank a good bit of it, and poured the rest over his graying black hair.

Unable to deny it, Ralph just shrugged. “What kind of criminal leaves notes these days? That’s for low budget films and cheap paperbacks.”

“The kind of sicko who leaves a knife tucked up in a kid’s bed,” Donny replied, matching Ralph shrug for shrug. “We’re all agreed that this guy’s a few cards short of a deck, but don’t let it get to you.”

A high-pitched, female scream disintegrated any sort of reply Ralph could possibly imagine. Exchanging a grim look with Donny, Ralph tossed the useless water bottle to the ground and ran toward the commotion. His breaths came in gasps, and he thought he might keel over from a heart attack at any moment. Nevertheless, Ralph forced himself to jog along in Donny’s wake.

Got to work out more. Got to eat less.

Ralph’s boot caught briefly on a tree root. He grunted and

stumbled forward into a small clearing. At first, he couldn’t see anything unusual. A bunch of people milled about in front of a tree like agitated ants.

Everybody babbled, and nobody heard anything.

The first real sound that broke through Ralph’s desensitized senses was a woman’s sobs. Knowing she would have some answers, Ralph weaved through the milling crowd toward the sobs.

A flash of white pulled Ralph’s gaze upward just as Donny gripped his right bicep hard. Ralph speared Donny with a glare before letting his eyes follow his friend’s line of sight up, up, and up some more until he finally saw a child’s body hanging from the tree.