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I Want Mary’s Story To Come Alive
The Chosen One: Mary’s Story follows a young Jewish girl caught on the brink of marriage as she discovers her divine calling to give birth to the son of God, in a narrative that weaves ancient events with modern-day language. Why was this an important book for you to write?
I began to think of Mary as a young pregnant unwed teenager. Today that is common. In those days, it meant death. I wanted to portray her thoughts and fears – and yet her strength in her faith in God.
How did you approach making this ancient narrative accessible to contemporary readers?
I wanted to show Mary with close friends and a loving family. I attempted to show her interaction with contemporary thoughts while still adhering as close as possible to Jewish traditions and values. My goal was to make the story come alive for many who may have never heard it.
The characters are portrayed as multi-dimensional. How did you go about developing them to show the human side of these biblical figures?
I did a lot of research for this book through Jewish history and mythology, as well as scriptural references. It is thought that Mary was only around 13-14 when she gave birth to Jesus. Joseph may have been much older. Jewish history gives a lot of detail to places and the timeline of Mary’s visit to her relative, Elizabeth, as well as the birth of Jesus and what drove them to Bethlehem.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am working on a YA thriller about child trafficking that will hopefully be out in 2024.
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When the angel appeared to her, she knew there would be consequences. What would people think? Her act of obedience could become her death – and yet, she willingly accepted her mission. She only hoped Joseph would understand….
The Chosen One – Mary’s Story is Mary’s account from her perspective. It will take you into her thoughts and hopes from her betrothal up through Jesus’s birth and flight to Egypt. Through biblical history, Jewish history, myth, and legend, the story will bring new revelations to this age-old Bible story.
A Bit of Truth Mixed Into Fiction
Rock Band Roadie follows a sixteen-year-old girl growing up in the projects who dreams of becoming a singer in a band, only to have her dream become a nightmare. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I played the keyboard in the gospel rock band called Cross Road Band. The first couple of chapters were taken from real-life events, which set up the story.
Some events in the book were chillingly similar to real-life events. Did you take any inspiration from real life when developing this book?
Yes, the prison riot was a true event. I was one of the keyboardists who hid behind the curtain until it was over (but no one was kidnapped or escaped in the real event). The events in Patterson were also true. The projects and the park where we played as well as the occurrences written about it were true. We often had other teenagers come along (‘roadies’ if you will) to help pass out literature or help set up. The band traveled to maximum security prisons and juvenile detention centers to sing and play and then stayed in communication with a number of the inmates.
What was one of the hardest parts of Rock Band Roadie for you to write?
Probably the hardest part was staging the prison escape and making it believable. I consulted with a policeman and a military judge for details and accuracy. This started out as a short story and evolved into a book through the advice of these men. And the title is always one of the hardest tasks for me.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
There are a couple I’m mulling around in my head at this point. One will be a coming-of-age story about a pre-teen boy who migrates to the USA in search of his father.
The other will be about a child who yearns for a magic dress that will keep her from disappearing like her friend did. A story of terrible secrets of child trafficking.
When will they be available? Hopefully by fall of 2024
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Through a few twists and turns, Jemma overcomes her trauma as her dream is about to come true. Tonight she will sing with the band in a maximum security prison. Nerves on edge as she walks to the stage, she senses a man’s eyes following her every move. When the lights suddenly die, a riot breaks out and panic erupts. Cowering in the darkness, Jemma’s scream is stifled when an oily hand clasps her mouth shut and drags her into the deep bowels of the prison.
All she wanted to do was sing — she didn’t plan on being kidnapped and part of a getaway plan. Will she be able to talk her way out this time, or was she in on it the whole time?
The Chosen One: Mary’s Story
In The Chosen One: Mary’s Story, author C.A. Simonson takes us on a captivating journey, re-telling one of the most renowned biblical tales about the birth of Jesus. This engaging narrative revolves around a young Jewish girl named Mary, who finds herself on the cusp of a significant life event – her wedding day and the transition into a new chapter of her existence. With dreams of fulfilling her purpose to God, Mary is supported by her loving parents and her best friend, Hannah, as she prepares for her momentous day.
However, Mary’s life takes an unexpected turn when an angel reveals that she will be the chosen one to give birth to the son of God. The news brings immense happiness to Mary, but it also presents a unique challenge – how can she explain this divine calling to her betrothed, Joseph? Will he be able to accept that she has been chosen for a greater purpose?
Throughout the book, Simonson skillfully weaves in modern-day language, which breathes new life into the ancient narrative, making it accessible and compelling to a contemporary audience. The author effortlessly keeps the reader’s attention at every turn, recognizing the story’s profound significance to countless individuals. Notably, Simonson’s portrayal of Mary’s family showcases them as multi-dimensional characters, allowing us to see the mother of Jesus beyond her divine role and as a relatable person with her own aspirations and emotions.
One of the book’s remarkable aspects is its universality – it appeals not only to religious readers but also to those who enjoy historical fiction. The narrative proves to be both intriguing and captivating, making it accessible to anyone regardless of their beliefs. While some readers may notice a slight variation in pacing, with the latter part of the book picking up speed, the initial sections embrace a more gradual approach, adding depth to the overall reading experience.
The Chosen One: Mary’s Story is a delightful read, transporting the reader through time and evoking a profound sense of immersion. Simonson’s writing exudes a genuine passion for the subject matter, allowing readers to connect with the characters and events on a personal level. Whether one seeks spiritual enlightenment or simply appreciates a well-crafted historical tale, this book promises an enriching and enjoyable experience.
Pages: 108 | ASIN: B0B7F77ZFX
Rock Band Roadie
Immersed in a profound love for music and the allure of the stage, Jemma finds solace in witnessing her favorite band perform the songs that resonate with her soul. Yet, her life is far from idyllic. Growing up in the projects, amidst the struggles of an addicted mother and a controlling boyfriend, Jemma knows all too well that dreams seldom manifest in such an environment. However, a chance encounter with Annie alters the trajectory of her existence.
Within the pages of the poignant yet inspiring novel, Rock Band Roadie by C.A. Simonson, we are intimately drawn into Jemma’s arduous journey. Unfolding through a traumatic event that thrusts her into a perilous situation, the narrative unearths the profound growth and coming-of-age of this resilient young woman. Despite projecting maturity, the author artfully reminds us that Jemma remains a sixteen-year-old adolescent.
The narrative style captivated me deeply. From the outset, we are apprised that this compelling story is grounded in real-life experiences, lending an added layer of impact to the tale. Skillfully alternating between the perspectives of Jemma and her boyfriend, Jimmy, the dual point of view enriches the narrative, allowing us to witness events from both sides before converging into a climactic moment at the story’s end. The prose flows effortlessly, making it a quick and engrossing read. One drawback I observed in the book was its brevity towards the conclusion. The story left me yearning for approximately 50 more pages to provide a more complete resolution. Notwithstanding this minor setback, the novel’s conclusion left a lasting impression on me. The story’s impact and emotional resonance more than compensated for the slight drawback, making it a compelling and memorable read.
Rock Band Roadie‘s ability to evoke emotions and immerse readers in the world of its characters is commendable, making it a compelling and worthwhile read.
Pages: 173 | ASIN : B0BYCCXXLS
From Personal Experience
C.A. Simonson Author Interview
Runaway follows Rose as she is taken from one home to the next and struggles to find a place without pain. What was the inspiration for the setup to this intriguing story?
This story actually came from a dream that interrupted my sleep night after night until I finally got up and wrote the outline. I tried to describe Rose the way she looked in my vivid technicolor dream.
Rose’s character is interesting and deeply developed. What were some ideals that drove her character development?
Although I was loved and wanted as a child, I grew up alone with older parents who were often mistaken as my grandparents. I had to entertain, and sometimes care for myself. Perhaps some of my own characteristics come through in finding the hideaway in the attic, pretending to be someone else through my own fantasies, and particularly escaping into my music. My own piano playing comes naturally; I play by ear as well as by note. Playing before a crowd, or on a small Sunday night service also comes from personal experience. How the book describes Rose getting lost in her music, playing with her eyes closed, or banging out her frustration on the keys comes from personal experience.
This novel sheds light on the condition of runaways and abused children. What do you hope readers take away from this story?
My husband and I were foster parents to young preteens. We saw the plight of these young children and what they had to endure (especially if they had to return to their families). We had to deal with and abide with CPS *(aka, the system) and their rules. It may not be the perfect answer, but with so many abused runaways/throwaways in our nation, it may be their only hope and salvation to be placed with a good foster family, and eventually adopted. More good families are needed in the system to meet this need.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I am presently doing research on an immigrant child from Venezuela seeking to find refuge in the United States. His Venezuelan mother has been promised safe transport for herself and her twelve-year-old son if she can only come up with the money. She knows if she can get her son to his American father, he will be cared for properly and safe from the cartel. Even though Mateo’s father was only in Venezuela on a short work project, she believes he will welcome the son he knows nothing about. Little does she know the man she hired is only doing this for profit and benefits.
Hopefully, this will be available sometime next year.
My Love’s Journey Home trilogy (available on Amazon, Barnes & Nobel, or at my website, casimonson.com- 2013-2015) also deals with abandoned children. Separating to survive, some end up going through the adoption setting.
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![RUNAWAY by [Simonson, C.A.]](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41iGdBlV9RL.jpg)
She was told she was unwanted. Unloved. Broken and scarred. “No man wants a cripple,” she was told. “You’re damaged goods.” But she never dreamed she’d be thrown away. There was only one thing she could do…”Runaway” is a fictional account that captures the plight of runaways, child abuse, and foster care in America. It’s a message of hope and faith when all else seems lost.
Runaway
Nina doesn’t want her and told her as much. The man in the car wanted her, but she knew he was no father figure. The two old ladies who find her want her, but the system says otherwise. Nothing in her life is the way it should be. A scar mars her face, and her leg is twisted and forces her to limp. When the girl now called Rose is taken from the one home where she feels loved and truly cared for, she is placed in a shelter for runaways and begins to question everything about where she came from and where she wants to be.
Runaway, by CA. Simonson, is a gripping novel detailing the struggle one young girl faces as she is forced to leave the wreckage she knows as her life thus far. The only parental figure on whom she can rely is mentally abusive and more inclined to offer her up to a man who wants to sexually exploit her. From the first pages, Simonson engages readers in Rose’s story as she fights to flee from a man who promises to do nothing but continue her world of hurt.
Simonson does an amazing job communicating to readers the intense feelings of neglect and mental anguish experienced by young Rose. Her thoughts are painfully clear, and her pain is tangible. The author has created a phenomenal main character and provided a supporting cast of characters that further develop the tragic plot enveloping Rose.
When Rose is essentially rescued by Hope and Faith, she sees what her life could be like for the first time. It is during this part of Rose’s story that readers see her experience real love and kindness. There is a sense of relief for Rose and readers are filled with hope. Simonson shapes her story well and immediately finds a way to continue the rollercoaster that is Rose’s young life.
Simonson is adept at creating characters readers will love to hate. Nina is number one on that list. Not in a long time have I loathed a character as much as I loate Nina. The way she treats poor Rose from the first chapter is reprehensible and unforgivable. Simonson’s antagonist serves her purpose well.
There is a satisfying amount of mystery in Simonson’s novel. Rose’s background, while tragic and fairly transparent in the first chapter, is a bit of an enigma. As the detective searches for the truth about Rose’s mother, readers are taken on a heartbreaking journey. Nothing about Rose’s life has ever been easy, and readers soon see why.
I recommend this book to anyone searching for a novel based on faith and centered around Christian values. C.A. Simonson has created a character who overcomes tremendous odds in the face of a multitude of obstacles including a family who cannot bring themselves to provide the love she needs. Readers will be touched by the honesty and strengthened by the values expressed by Simonson’s cast of characters.
Pages: 193 | ASIN: B07RT73PTN
LITERARY TITAN 