Blog Archives
Stories of Inspiration
The Bluffton Christmas Shoppe is a collection of stories centered around a mystical shop and the unique objects to which it is home. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Readers were enchanted with my first story, The Mirror, so I decided to keep going. I soon committed to write an anthology, but designed it such that all stories had a common thread, namely, gifts from The Bluffton Christmas Shoppe. Characters were allowed to cross from one story to another, imparting a surprising and unique blended feel to the collection.
Do you have a favorite among the stories in this collection?
Every reader of The Bluffton Christmas Shoppe will ultimately adopt one story as their favorite. Why? Because the characters and the plot of a particular story will touch upon a personal experience of the reader, thus opening a connection. Of course, my favorite story is…
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
No matter how dark things might appear there’s usually a way out. These are stories of inspiration and how folks in trouble find a helping hand. Magical realism allows the solutions to be fun!
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
Next book: The Edge of Her Mind. Ride this adventure with Dannilee Bennett, a highly clairvoyant teenager using only her wits to escape an international mobster!
Stay tuned for the exciting release!
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
Meet the fascinating characters of the Lowcountry as they struggle with challenges that threaten to overwhelm their daily lives. Facing job loss, dangerous weather and seas, family sorrows and eminent perils, they find a way forward with the help of life-changing gifts from The Bluffton Christmas Shoppe. During the darkest hours of despair and fear, a hand up can be most welcomed — even if it comes in a very unusual way.
The Bluffton Christmas Shoppe
The Bluffton Christmas Shoppe, by Mike Raymond, is an enchanting journey through the streets of Bluffton, South Carolina, where ordinary lives intertwine with the magical. Through a series of stories connected by a mystical store, the novel skillfully blurs the lines between the mundane and the magical. Each narrative revolves around a unique object from the shop, bestowing its owner with unexpected twists of fate and insights.
Raymond’s writing is a delightful blend of charm and depth. It weaves a tapestry of stories that resonate with warmth and authenticity. The characters are richly drawn, allowing readers to immerse themselves fully in their lives and experiences. Particularly compelling is the story of “The Ornament,” where an unemployed Marty finds his destiny through a prophetic Christmas decoration. This tale, like others in the book, balances whimsical elements with real-life struggles, creating a narrative that is both uplifting and grounded. While I found the magical elements to be intriguing, at times, I felt that they were slightly underexplored, leaving me yearning for a deeper dive into the enchantments of Bluffton.
The book excels in its portrayal of Bluffton, painting a vivid picture of the town’s landscape, culture, and community spirit. Each story, from Joanne’s encounter with a protective gris-gris in “Gris Gris” to Lisa and Nick’s mysterious connection in “The Photograph,” contributes to a rich, collective narrative of the town and its inhabitants. The author’s skillful storytelling brings Bluffton to life, making the town itself a character in the book. While I enjoyed the story, I felt that the transitions between the magical and the ordinary felt abrupt at times, leaving me wishing for a smoother blend of these two worlds to maintain the narrative flow.
The Bluffton Christmas Shoppe is a heartwarming read and perfect for readers who enjoy a blend of magical realism and character-driven narratives. Its strengths lie in its engaging storytelling, well-crafted characters, and the vivid setting of Bluffton. This novel is especially recommended for readers who appreciate a touch of magic in everyday settings and enjoy stories that celebrate community and personal transformation.
Pages: 157 | ASIN : B0CPBY1SH2
Age is Just a Number
Daylight Saving Time: The Power of Growing Older is beautifully written and addresses a subject that is rarely discussed. Why did you want to write about subjects such as growing older?
Honestly, I was in the throes of it, this aging thing. And we all are. Plus, I think in America, at least, we shun the subject a great deal. Instead of embracing it, we work to find ways to avoid it, to battle the aging process. It seemed a subject worthy of exploration. Plus, it interested me personally. There must be others who feel the same. Plus, aging is not just for the old. We are aging from the moment we are born.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
I wanted the prose to feel “of the moment.” And did not want it to be a self-help or an instruction book. I’m not qualified to write such a book. That was never my intention. I wanted this book to be personal, real, authentic, and honest. I think I did that. Hopefully, the reader thinks so, too. I think the reader will see much of himself/herself in this story.
You discuss a lot of topics that conjure up strong emotions for people. What was one of the hardest parts of this book for you to write?
There was nothing “hard” to write, but if you are asking what was the most “emotional,” well, that would be the letter I wrote to my sons which is documented in the book. I thought long and hard about that. I wrote the book some time ago, and I recently re-read that letter. I wouldn’t change a thing. But it took a great deal of my emotional strength to write that letter exactly the way I wanted to.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Daylight Saving Time?
That life is a gift. Seems a cliche, but one to remember. And that growing older is a process to savor. To find new loves, new experiences, to remind ourselves that age is just a number, as they say. And that aging is not just for the old. We are all aging, all the time. As one Buddhist saying suggests, “Our aging at every stage is the greatest kindness we can offer to ourselves and those we love.”
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Amazon
A Simple Foundation: 5 Universal Principles for Building a Great Relationship with God
A Simple Foundation by Heitz is a guide for readers that is structured around five fundamental principles for establishing a solid relationship with God. Each principle is explored in its own dedicated chapter, with the author providing biblical references, personal insights, and practical advice on how to integrate these principles into daily life. The book emphasizes the importance of a direct and simple relationship with God, free from the complexities and additional rules often associated with religious practice. It encourages readers to focus on the core teachings of Jesus and apply them in a practical, life-affirming way.
Heitz’s writing style is clear, straightforward, and accessible, making complex theological concepts easily understandable. He effectively blends personal anecdotes with biblical references, creating a narrative that is both relatable and spiritually enriching. The book’s structure, focusing on five key principles, allows for a well-organized and focused exploration of each topic. Heitz’s approach is refreshingly practical, emphasizing the application of Jesus’s teachings in everyday life. His discussion of the challenges within Christian denominations adds a thoughtful dimension, encouraging readers to pursue a faith that is both personal and profound.
A Simple Foundation is a meaningful read for Christians seeking to navigate through the complexities often associated with religious practices. It’s a commendable effort by Heitz to guide believers toward a more fulfilling and uncomplicated relationship with God, and I am pleased to have explored its insights. This book is a valuable contribution to Christian literature, offering a fresh perspective for those seeking clarity and simplicity in their faith.
Pages: 107 | ASIN : B0CLKZDWTF
God’s Eyes: A Vision for Us: Presence, Promise, and Power
In God’s Eyes: A Vision for Us: Presence, Promise, and Power, author Rev. Dr. Anne Hays Egan presents a visionary narrative that delves deep into the essence of spirituality and our connection with the divine. Stemming from a profound experience that transcended the ordinary, this book offers an insightful exploration into the nature of humanity’s relationship with God, as perceived from a divine vantage point.
The book is structured around a pivotal vision experienced by Egan, one that significantly influenced her understanding of humanity and unveiled aspects of God’s intentions for us. The narrative is not just a recounting of this life-altering event but also a detailed interpretation of its implications. Egan’s journey, as chronicled in these pages, invites readers to consider a form of spirituality that goes beyond religious confines, embracing a more universal approach.
Rev. Dr. Egan, whose background is deeply rooted in Christianity, demonstrates a respectful and open appreciation for various religious traditions. This inclusivity is a cornerstone of her message, which advocates for a sense of unity and goodwill amongst all people. The book unfolds through her vision, a vivid portrayal of God’s desire to strengthen His bonds with humanity. Egan’s enthusiastic storytelling, combined with her evocative descriptions of divine love, captivated me. Additionally, her insights into spirituality and mindfulness provide a thought-provoking layer to her narrative. While the book revisits certain themes, this repetition serves to reinforce the importance of spirituality and the nature of our relationship with the divine, aligning with Egan’s intent.
The coherence of Rev. Dr. Anne Hays Egan’s storytelling and the clarity of her message render God’s Eyes a meaningful exploration of faith and the interconnectedness of all beings. Those interested in spiritual growth and a deeper understanding of divine connections will likely find God’s Eyes to be an enriching and enlightening read.
Pages: 80 | ASIN : B0CNQVKWPP
God’s Sovereign Reign Over His Creation
God’s Sovereign Reign Over His Creation, by Dale Heil, delves deep into the Christian non-fiction realm, offering readers a compelling perspective on the sovereignty of God over all creation. Through the lens of this genre, Heil passionately argues that everything that transpires on Earth, both the benevolent and the adversities, aligns with a preordained plan. While the Church, at times, suggests God’s limited control due to human free will, Heil perceives this notion as a misinterpretation.
Drawing heavily from both the Old and New Testaments, Heil substantiates his viewpoint, asserting that every scripture holds a kernel of truth and divine wisdom. A central theme of the book is the emphasis on salvation through grace rather than deeds, suggesting that many are called, but few are chosen based solely on their actions.
God’s Sovereign Reign Over His Creation is articulate and accessible. Heil’s dedication to providing well-sourced arguments from scripture makes it a thought-provoking read, shedding light on lesser-discussed aspects of the Old Testament.
For readers eager to explore the foundations of Protestant beliefs and take a closer look at Christian theology, this book promises to be a informative journey. Those who enjoy deep theological discussions and anyone with whom the concept of the elect few resonates will find God’s Sovereign Reign Over His Creation a fascinating read.
Pages: 150 | ASIN : B08YR4Z858
Spirits Unveiled: A Theological Unveiling of the Spiritual Realm
Prepare to be enthralled by Tekoa Manning’s riveting exploration of the spiritual realm in their book, Spirits Unveiled. Manning meticulously dissects the nature and origins of angelic beings, specters, and demons, simultaneously unraveling the intricacies of the deliverance ministry and shedding light on the common misconceptions propagated within it. Grounding observations in biblical teachings, Manning offers readers a nuanced understanding of demonic entities and the processes of deliverance.
In Spirits Unveiled, Manning deftly navigates the historical contexts of spiritual beliefs, incorporating elements of Hellenism and the Babylonian exile. Through a careful study of these ancient perspectives, she weaves a compelling connection between past and present, gifting readers with an all-encompassing understanding of the spiritual sphere.
The spiritual world is a source of diverse beliefs and is often subject to many misconceptions. Some affirm the existence of spirits, while others remain skeptical. Manning, drawing on substantial personal encounters, adeptly demystifies the nature of various spirits, serving as a reliable guide through this profound yet mystifying realm.
A paramount theme underscored in Spirits Unveiled is the necessity of protecting children from the potentially harmful aspects of the spiritual world, such as witchcraft. Manning astutely warns against corporations that subtly endorse sorcery through innocuous-seeming products, potentially inflicting adverse effects on unsuspecting consumers. Rather than asserting their views, Manning utilizes thoughtful biblical citations and personal anecdotes to illuminate and steer readers.
Manning’s probing examination of biblical teachings, specifically those of Jesus concerning spirits, held me spellbound throughout.
For those intrigued by spirituality, Spirits Unveiled (Unmasking the Unseen Series Part 2): A Theological Unveiling of the Spiritual Realm is an indispensable read. Its insightful dissection of biblical scriptures and narratives serves as a remarkable guide for readers keen on comprehending the labyrinthine world of spirits.
Pages: 213 | ASIN : B0C2GW9LRN
LITERARY TITAN 