Blog Archives
12 New Christmas Stories
12 New Christmas Stories is a heartwarming and nostalgic collection of short stories, each offering a different perspective on the holiday season. Ranging from touching tales of family traditions to humorous fictional adventures, it’s a book that seeks to capture the essence of Christmas. Each author presents their own style, making it a delightful read for those who enjoy variety. You’ll find yourself drifting from the high deserts of New Mexico to cozy family living rooms, all while reflecting on the themes of love, kindness, and the magic of the season.
What I loved most was how relatable many of these stories were. Diane Kenel-Truelove’s “The Magic of Santa’s Christmas Box” really pulled at my heartstrings. She took me back to my own childhood, reminding me of those magical moments when Christmas seemed larger than life and was filled with mystery and wonder. The story about receiving a box of books from Santa transported me back to the days when even the smallest gestures during the holidays felt magical. The emotions it stirred were incredibly powerful. There’s something so simple and beautiful about remembering how special Christmas felt as a child.
Terry Broxson’s “The Christmas Tree,” stands out for its blend of whimsical fantasy and heartwarming tradition. The story is narrated through a conversation between the protagonist and his talking cat, Holly, who recounts a fascinating tale about the origin of their Christmas tree tradition in the Arapaho tribe. Broxson weaves humor into the narrative, especially in the playful dynamic between the cat and its owner, but the story also carries deeper themes of peace, unity, and the blending of cultures. The historical backdrop of Kit Carson and Native American customs, combined with the quirky cat’s storytelling, gives this Christmas tale a unique charm that feels both magical and thoughtful.
On the other hand, Lee Allen Hill’s “Jesús and Donkey” was lighthearted and fun but also had a deeper emotional core. This story about a boy in New Mexico trying to buy a turkey for his Christmas dinner was charming and felt like a love letter to simpler times. Hill’s writing paints vivid scenes and made me feel like I was alongside Jesús and his quirky dog, Donkey. The playful humor between the characters and the unexpected turn with the mountain lion added a nice twist. It reminded me of those feel-good holiday movies that leave you smiling at the end.
Jay Squires’ essay “Bring Back the Carolers” hit me right in the nostalgia. The way he reminisces about the simple joy of carolers and homemade hot cocoa made me yearn for a time when the holidays felt more communal. His writing was almost poetic, bringing the past alive with such vivid detail. His words felt like a gentle nudge toward rekindling old-fashioned holiday spirit.
Pages: 95 | ASIN : B0DBVCLX3S
A Sacred and Holy Right
Queering My Religion: Biblical Stories Of Queer Love In The 90’s transforms traditional religious stories into modern tales about identity, love, belonging, and the queer experience. What was the inspiration for this collection of stories?
Back in the 1960s, a bible scholar named Clarence Jordan was able to confront racism and segregation in the American South by retelling the story of Jesus as if it took place in the American South in the 1960s.
While I’m not a biblical scholar of the same magnitude, I thought these stories might be a way to do something similar. The Queer potential in these stories is discussed in even the most conservative seminaries, but I wanted to move these readings out of graduate-level classrooms into the hands of people.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
That Queer people have always been part of human reality and as much a part of God’s interaction with people as straight people have.
Is there any moral or idea that you hope readers take away from the story?
That Queer identity is as much a part of being created in God’s image as anything else. Queerness is a sacred and holy right alongside other points of human existence.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when can your fans expect it to be out?
I didn’t begin these stories with the intention of publishing them per se. I began them because I found that writing helped me deal with grief and stress. I’m still writing regularly. But right now I’m writing comedy for performance. I don’t know if I have another book in me or not. However, I did recently read a scholarly paper theorizing that a well-known character from the book of Judges may have been neurodivergent. So, perhaps Roseville, IN will receive a new resident.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
Join us as we reimagine familiar tales such as “Joseph and his Coat of Many Colors,” “David and Jonathan,” “The Centurion and his servant,” and “Philip and The Ethiopian Eunuch.” Each story tantalizingly hints at connections to the queer community, inviting readers to embrace ambiguity and explore the untold possibilities of these timeless accounts.
At the heart of this journey lies a powerful thesis challenging heteronormative interpretations, urging readers to question convention and celebrate the diverse spectrum of human experiences. Through the lens of Roseville, Indiana, themes of identity, love, and belonging come alive, offering readers a poignant reflection on the struggles and triumphs of the 1990s.
As you delve into these pages, be prepared to question preconceptions and rediscover the past through a fresh, inclusive lens. This anthology is not just a celebration of human existence but a bold call to reevaluate the narratives that have shaped our understanding of history. Join us on this literary voyage of rediscovery—one story at a time.
Queering My Religion
Queering My Religion by Rev. P. Crim presents a thought-provoking collection of short stories that reimagine biblical narratives through a queer perspective. This collection stands out for its modern twist on familiar tales such as “Joseph and his Coat of Many Colors,” “David and Jonathan,” and “The Centurion and his Servant,” among others. Set against the vibrant era of the 1990s, these stories delve into the intricacies of identity, love, and belonging, offering a unique window into the queer experience within the context of well-known biblical stories.
The book’s strength lies in its ability to breathe new life into these traditional narratives. Each story is carefully crafted to establish a connection with the queer community, challenging readers to embrace ambiguity and celebrate the diversity of human experiences. By urging readers to question their preconceptions, the book facilitates a rediscovery of history through an inclusive and fresh perspective. Drawing inspiration from works like Clarence Jordan’s Cotton Patch Gospels and P.K. McCarey’s Black Bible Chronicles, Queering My Religion adds to the rich tradition of reinterpreting religious texts.
The collection’s standout feature is its bold reinterpretation of biblical stories, providing insight into the lives of characters as they grapple with their identities and relationships. From the journey of self-discovery in “Joseph and his Coat of Many Colors” to the exploration of deep connections in “David and Jonathan,” each narrative resonates with contemporary audiences, bringing a new layer of understanding to these age-old tales. At its core, the collection challenges traditional heteronormative interpretations, highlighting the diverse spectrum of human experiences. Themes of love, acceptance, and resilience are woven throughout, reflecting not just the struggles and triumphs of the 90s but also presenting a timeless message of inclusivity.
Queering My Religion distinguishes itself by sparking discussions about inclusivity, representation, and the transformative power of storytelling. Appealing to fans of biblical narratives, queer literature, or immersive storytelling, this collection invites readers into a world of exploration and reflection, leaving a profound and lasting impact.
Pages: 97 | ASIN : B0CV9K3D61
It All Began With a Dream
In The Obsidian Dragon, a college student finds herself entering the world of her dreams and facing imminent danger in a realm of both evil and romance. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
It all began with a dream and, being as nerd as I am, it was really easy to develop the story around it. Furthermore, I’ve been in love with Japan and its culture since when I was a kid, so of course I had to set the story in Japan as well. Same goes for the Egyptian mythology.
Did you plan the tone and direction of the novel before writing, or did it come out organically as you were writing?
I didn’t plan anything beforehand (except for part of the dream at the beginning of the story). Everything else simply came along while writing. Sometimes the characters were the ones to tell me where they want to go and what they wanted to say or do. It was like magic and I just went with the flow.
Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your characters’ lives?
Yes. All the places I described into my story, are the places I visited (even more than once), both in Japan and UK. I’ve actually studied at Cambridge University and I got so impressed by the vibes and life on campus there, that I wanted to give it a tribute in my book. Also, I traveled so many times in Japan that I wanted to share a tad-bit of my experience with all those people who wish to visit the land of the rising sun or doesn’t know much about it’s strict way of living.
Will this novel be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?
Yes, it is indeed! It’s the first volume of a series. I’m actually about to finish the second volume and hope to publishing it soon.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
“To thee, I give my all”
The Obsidian Dragon
In The Obsidian Dragon, by Angel G.T., readers are invited on a riveting journey alongside protagonist Aribeth Mitchell, whose life at Cambridge University takes a dramatic turn as she delves into the enigmatic depths of her vivid dreams. This romance and fantasy fiction novel intricately weaves a spellbinding narrative, blending the realms of dreams, mystery, and mythology into a compelling tale of self-discovery and destiny.
Set against a backdrop that shifts from the esteemed halls of Cambridge to the exotic landscapes of Asia and Africa, the story plunges Aribeth into a world brimming with wrath, lust, and mythical encounters. Here, she navigates through a complex web of love and conflict, facing formidable battles and encountering mythical beings. The novel deftly explores the intricacies of love, morality, and the human spirit, promising a profound transformation for Aribeth that extends far beyond geographical boundaries.
Angel G.T. showcases a remarkable ability to draw readers into a world where the lines between reality and imagination blur seamlessly. The connection between Aribeth and Shinya, a mysterious figure from her dreams, is crafted with emotional depth and complexity, highlighting the author’s skill in character development and vivid storytelling. The prose is rich and evocative, contributing to the immersive experience of the narrative. As the story unfolds, it artfully addresses themes of friendship, resilience, love, and the eternal battle between good and evil. These elements are woven together to create a rich tapestry that resonates with the reader, making The Obsidian Dragon both engaging and memorable. While the romantic tropes may tread familiar ground, the journey concludes in a manner that is both satisfying and thought-provoking.
The Obsidian Dragon is a testament to Angel G.T.’s descriptive prowess and ability to maintain a fast-paced, tension-filled plot. The book remains an enthralling read, offering a unique blend of romance, fantasy, and adventure that is sure to captivate fans of the genre.
Pages: 317 | ASIN : B0CFQXHXVB
Something We Never Imagined
Colton Dust is a talented young writer who lives in California and works for a respectable local news company. Colton’s sheer talent as a columnist, producing stories about his views, has created quite a stir within the community. Colton denies that there is any need for a God, if one exists at all. Emma Lee, a competent and charming young woman, enters the picture. Colton catches her attention in a chance encounter, but his attitude leaves a foul taste in her mouth. Days pass and Emma only finds out that she disagrees with his morals as well. Despite this, both characters are drawn to each other inexplicably, and it is only a matter of time until they cross paths again.
Something We Never Imagined, by Douglas J. Wemple, is a fascinating read about faith and love. Wemple’s work is centered around the young and ambitious Colton Dust and Emma Lee, a struggling but resourceful young woman of faith. Both characters are highly relatable and will quickly draw readers into their tale. Despite being raised in a Christian family, Colton believes that a person is accountable for their own destiny and should not believe or rely on a God he isn’t even convinced exists. Emma Lee, on the other hand, is a fervent believer that God not only exists but should be the focus of one’s life despite the fact that she’s constantly tested by life circumstances. The conflict of their principles is one of many factors of the book that captured my interest, and I became emotionally invested in both characters.
Wemple’s writing style is easy to follow, and it is also encouraging and uplifting, giving readers faith. The author seamlessly conveys the message that forgiveness and faith in God are essential for finding meaning in life.
Something We Never Imagined, by Douglas J. Wemple, is a heart-warming and eye-opening read I can highly recommend to those who enjoy contemporary Christian romance.
Pages: 377 | ASIN: B09ZF19P2J
LITERARY TITAN 