You will find the November releases of Christian fiction below. I hope you find these lists useful as you look for provocative and edifying reading for yourself and your students.

Please email me with any comments or feedback you have if you read any of the listed books. I am always interested in how the writing of others impacts you.

Send comments to sarahgm917@gmail.com, or fill out the form in the Comments section of this web site.

May your holiday season be blessed, calm, and may it include the making of new memories with family and friends.

NOTE FOR FURTHER INFORMATION:

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Biblical:

Slender Reeds: Jochebed’s Hope by Texie Susan Gregory — In a deadly race to save her son, a young slave woman dares defy the most powerful man in the world. (Biblical from Barbour Publishing)

Contemporary Romance:

Crazy Woman Christmas by Renee Blare — A quiet cowboy whisks Bianca to his ranch to ride out the Christmas blizzard where she discovers life is cold but also beautiful in the “Cowboy” state. (Contemporary Romance from Inspired [Prism Book Group])

Other Than a Halo by Valerie Comer — Even though she’s a new woman in Christ, single mom Bren Haddock was no angel as a teen. Now managing the Hiller Farm for a CSA, life is good until a friend offers to enter her daughter into the Little Miss Snowflake Pageant. Old insecurities flare when she meets the intriguing head of marketing the pageant. Rob Santoro isn’t so sure about handling the pageant portfolio until he meets Bren. Soon he’s fallen for her and her two kids. When a Thanksgiving adventure goes awry, he’s left wondering how to love a woman who refuses to be loved. What will it take for Bren to retire her tarnished halo and move into the future God has for her? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Do You Know What I Know? by Becky Melby — What if a phone call from the obstetrician’s office went to the wrong person? Elizabeth Schmidt can’t figure out why her husband doesn’t seem excited about the news she’s sure he heard. Is he unhappy? Or is James cheating on her? Pastor Jay Davidson is in shock. Bethany Schmidt, the woman he’s in love with, is pregnant. Should he walk away, or is God asking him to play the part of Joseph in real life and not just in the church Christmas program? Bethany can’t figure out why Jay is acting so weird. Has he figured out one of the two secrets she’s keeping until after Christmas? Can a ponytailed itinerant carpenter with a pet chicken help unravel the confusion? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

How to Charm a Beekeeper’s Heart by Candice Sue Patterson — Weddings are the last thing beekeeper Huck Anderson wants to be associated with, considering his past. So when he inherits a building occupied by a bridal boutique, he aims to evict the failing business and open a sporting goods store. That is until his tenant ends up being Arianne Winters, a woman he’s indebted to from a mistake made years ago. When a life-threatening injury derails Huck entirely, Arianne offers to aid in his lengthy recovery if he’ll allow her to remain in his building. But nursing her adversary proves challenging when her adolescent crush resurfaces. (Contemporary Romance from White Rose Publishing [Pelican])

A Portrait of Emily Price by Katherine Reay — After a whirlwind romance and marriage, Emily Price returns home to Italy with her new husband and learns that life at its richest is only found when she accepts its chaotic beauty. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan])

Contemporary Women’s Fiction:

Forgiveness by Marianne Evans — Country music bad boy, Chase Bradington is on the comeback trail. Fresh from rehab for alcohol addiction and transformed by the power of Christ, Chase is battling to rediscover the music he loves and a career he nearly ruined. Then he meets up-and-comer, Pyper Brock and instantly sparks ignite. Despite her rampant attraction to the handsome and talented icon, Pyper knows of Chase’s reputation and soundly dismisses his romantic overtures. No way will Pyper repeat the mistake of trusting a man whose done battle with the bottle. Can a sin-damaged past be released in favor of forgiveness? (Women’s Fiction from Harbourlight Books [Pelican])

Historical:

Beneath a Golden Veil by Melanie Dobson — As elegant as the Sacramento residence she operates, Isabelle Labrie keeps her past concealed, like the treasure she hides under the Golden Hotel. Then, unexpected guests—fugitive slaves seeking safe passage to the North—force her to confront her past and reconsider her path. (Historical from Waterfall Press)

Forest Child by Heather Day Gilbert — Historically based on the Icelandic Sagas, Forest Child brings the memorable, conflicted persona of Freydis Eiriksdottir to life. (Historical from Elk Lake Publishing Inc.)

The Lost Generation by Erica Marie Hogan — On August 5th 1914, the world changed forever. For John and Beth Young, it meant the happiness they finally achieved was snatched out from under them. For Emma Cote, it meant that her husband Jared would do his duty, despite her feelings. For Christy Simmons it meant an uncertain future with the boy she loved. The lives of six people, spread across the British Empire to America were changed forever. (Historical from Elk Lake Publishing Inc.)

Historical Romance:

The Blue Ribbon Brides Collection by Jennifer AlLee, Angela Breidenbach, Darlene Franklin, Cynthia Hickey, Carrie Fancett Pagels, Amber Stockton, Niki Turner, Gina Welborn, and Becca Whitham — Meet nine men and women whose competitive goals take them to state and county fairs between 1889 and 1930. From baking pie to polishing pigs, from sculpting butter to stitching quilts, everyone has something to prove to themselves and their communities. But in going for the blue ribbon, will nine women miss the greatest prize of all—the devoted heart of a godly man? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Left at the Altar by Margaret Brownley — In the wild and untamed West, time is set by the local jeweler…but Two-Time Texas has two: two feuding jewelers and two wildly conflicting time zones. Meg Lockwood’s marriage was supposed to unite the families and finally bring peace until she’s left at the altar by her no-good fiancé. Hired to defend the groom against a breach of promise lawsuit, Grant Garrison quickly realizes that the only thing worse than small-town trouble is falling for the jilted bride. But there’s something about Meg’s sweet smile and determined grit that draws him in…even as the whole crazy town seems set on keeping them apart. (Historical Romance from Sourcebooks)

Mail Order Mommy by Christine Johnson — Nursing a broken heart, Amanda Porter had answered a frontier mail-order bride ad placed by Garrett Decker’s children—only to find the groom-to-be didn’t want a wife. But his adorable children are determined she’ll be their mother by Christmas… His wife’s betrayal and tragic death demolished Garrett’s life. Now he can’t even look at another woman, let alone marry Amanda, who resembles his first love. But with his daughter convinced Amanda is the perfect mother, will Garrett realize she’s also his perfect match? (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Hope’s Design by Dawn Kinzer — An independent city girl aspiring to be a fashion designer falls for a stubborn artist from the country who wants to keep his talent a secret. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Brides of Wyoming by S. Dionne Moore — Roam the Wyoming range alongside three couples who meet under danger from bands of outlaws. Renee escapes a gang of outlaws and lands in the arms of a sheepherder. Olivia’s sleuthing upturns secrets key to solving the murder of a reluctant rancher’s father. Maira is trying to keep her ranch running alone when a drifting cowboy offers a hand. Can love develop where suspicion and greed roam the range? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

The Negotiated Marriage by Christina Rich — When the railroad pushes to buy her land, orphaned Cameron Sims will do anything to keep the only home she and her sisters have ever known. Even if she must marry a stranger. Duncan Murray doesn’t want a wife. He wants Sims Creek, a sanctuary that can help him forget a troubled childhood. But his reluctant, and captivating, bride-to-be is key to making his dreams a reality. And despite their business arrangement, Camy and Duncan might be signing on the dotted line for true love… (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Love in the Seams by Jodie Wolfe — A little girl on a quest for a new mama has the local seamstress in her sights. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Romantic Suspense:

His Perfect Love by Sharon K. Connell — On the run from a hit man, Patricia Campbell is unaware of the FBI’s search for her to learn what information she might hold, so she continues to hide out. Then she meets a persistent computer technician, a charming philanthropist, and a handsome, wealthy businessman who wants to marry her. But her fears resurface, and she wonders if she can trust any of them. Can she survive long enough to find peace…and perfect love? (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Counter Point by Marji Laine — Her dad’s gone, her diner’s closing, and her car’s in the lake. Cat McPherson has nothing left to lose … except her life. And a madman, bent on revenge, is determined to take that, as well. Her former boyfriend, Ray Alexander, returns as a hero from his foreign mission, bringing back souvenirs in the form of death-threats. When several attempts are made on Cat’s life, she must find a way to trust Ray, the man who broke her heart. (Romantic Suspense from Write Integrity Press)

Speculative:

The Flaming Sword by Heather L.L. FitzGerald — When evil joins forces in the Tethered World, Sadie Larcen must risk all to protect the Flaming Sword and her family…even if it takes her life. (Speculative Young Adult from Mountain Brook Ink)

November 2016 New Releases

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Biblical:

Slender Reeds: Jochebed’s Hope by Texie Susan Gregory — In a deadly race to save her son, a young slave woman dares defy the most powerful man in the world. (Biblical from Barbour Publishing)

Contemporary Romance:

Crazy Woman Christmas by Renee Blare — A quiet cowboy whisks Bianca to his ranch to ride out the Christmas blizzard where she discovers life is cold but also beautiful in the “Cowboy” state. (Contemporary Romance from Inspired [Prism Book Group])

Other Than a Halo by Valerie Comer — Even though she’s a new woman in Christ, single mom Bren Haddock was no angel as a teen. Now managing the Hiller Farm for a CSA, life is good until a friend offers to enter her daughter into the Little Miss Snowflake Pageant. Old insecurities flare when she meets the intriguing head of marketing the pageant. Rob Santoro isn’t so sure about handling the pageant portfolio until he meets Bren. Soon he’s fallen for her and her two kids. When a Thanksgiving adventure goes awry, he’s left wondering how to love a woman who refuses to be loved. What will it take for Bren to retire her tarnished halo and move into the future God has for her? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Do You Know What I Know? by Becky Melby — What if a phone call from the obstetrician’s office went to the wrong person? Elizabeth Schmidt can’t figure out why her husband doesn’t seem excited about the news she’s sure he heard. Is he unhappy? Or is James cheating on her? Pastor Jay Davidson is in shock. Bethany Schmidt, the woman he’s in love with, is pregnant. Should he walk away, or is God asking him to play the part of Joseph in real life and not just in the church Christmas program? Bethany can’t figure out why Jay is acting so weird. Has he figured out one of the two secrets she’s keeping until after Christmas? Can a ponytailed itinerant carpenter with a pet chicken help unravel the confusion? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

How to Charm a Beekeeper’s Heart by Candice Sue Patterson — Weddings are the last thing beekeeper Huck Anderson wants to be associated with, considering his past. So when he inherits a building occupied by a bridal boutique, he aims to evict the failing business and open a sporting goods store. That is until his tenant ends up being Arianne Winters, a woman he’s indebted to from a mistake made years ago. When a life-threatening injury derails Huck entirely, Arianne offers to aid in his lengthy recovery if he’ll allow her to remain in his building. But nursing her adversary proves challenging when her adolescent crush resurfaces. (Contemporary Romance from White Rose Publishing [Pelican])

A Portrait of Emily Price by Katherine Reay — After a whirlwind romance and marriage, Emily Price returns home to Italy with her new husband and learns that life at its richest is only found when she accepts its chaotic beauty. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan])

Contemporary Women’s Fiction:

Forgiveness by Marianne Evans — Country music bad boy, Chase Bradington is on the comeback trail. Fresh from rehab for alcohol addiction and transformed by the power of Christ, Chase is battling to rediscover the music he loves and a career he nearly ruined. Then he meets up-and-comer, Pyper Brock and instantly sparks ignite. Despite her rampant attraction to the handsome and talented icon, Pyper knows of Chase’s reputation and soundly dismisses his romantic overtures. No way will Pyper repeat the mistake of trusting a man whose done battle with the bottle. Can a sin-damaged past be released in favor of forgiveness? (Women’s Fiction from Harbourlight Books [Pelican])

Historical:

Beneath a Golden Veil by Melanie Dobson — As elegant as the Sacramento residence she operates, Isabelle Labrie keeps her past concealed, like the treasure she hides under the Golden Hotel. Then, unexpected guests—fugitive slaves seeking safe passage to the North—force her to confront her past and reconsider her path. (Historical from Waterfall Press)

Forest Child by Heather Day Gilbert — Historically based on the Icelandic Sagas, Forest Child brings the memorable, conflicted persona of Freydis Eiriksdottir to life. (Historical from Elk Lake Publishing Inc.)

The Lost Generation by Erica Marie Hogan — On August 5th 1914, the world changed forever. For John and Beth Young, it meant the happiness they finally achieved was snatched out from under them. For Emma Cote, it meant that her husband Jared would do his duty, despite her feelings. For Christy Simmons it meant an uncertain future with the boy she loved. The lives of six people, spread across the British Empire to America were changed forever. (Historical from Elk Lake Publishing Inc.)

Historical Romance:

The Blue Ribbon Brides Collection by Jennifer AlLee, Angela Breidenbach, Darlene Franklin, Cynthia Hickey, Carrie Fancett Pagels, Amber Stockton, Niki Turner, Gina Welborn, and Becca Whitham — Meet nine men and women whose competitive goals take them to state and county fairs between 1889 and 1930. From baking pie to polishing pigs, from sculpting butter to stitching quilts, everyone has something to prove to themselves and their communities. But in going for the blue ribbon, will nine women miss the greatest prize of all—the devoted heart of a godly man? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Left at the Altar by Margaret Brownley — In the wild and untamed West, time is set by the local jeweler…but Two-Time Texas has two: two feuding jewelers and two wildly conflicting time zones. Meg Lockwood’s marriage was supposed to unite the families and finally bring peace until she’s left at the altar by her no-good fiancé. Hired to defend the groom against a breach of promise lawsuit, Grant Garrison quickly realizes that the only thing worse than small-town trouble is falling for the jilted bride. But there’s something about Meg’s sweet smile and determined grit that draws him in…even as the whole crazy town seems set on keeping them apart. (Historical Romance from Sourcebooks)

Mail Order Mommy by Christine Johnson — Nursing a broken heart, Amanda Porter had answered a frontier mail-order bride ad placed by Garrett Decker’s children—only to find the groom-to-be didn’t want a wife. But his adorable children are determined she’ll be their mother by Christmas… His wife’s betrayal and tragic death demolished Garrett’s life. Now he can’t even look at another woman, let alone marry Amanda, who resembles his first love. But with his daughter convinced Amanda is the perfect mother, will Garrett realize she’s also his perfect match? (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Hope’s Design by Dawn Kinzer — An independent city girl aspiring to be a fashion designer falls for a stubborn artist from the country who wants to keep his talent a secret. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Brides of Wyoming by S. Dionne Moore — Roam the Wyoming range alongside three couples who meet under danger from bands of outlaws. Renee escapes a gang of outlaws and lands in the arms of a sheepherder. Olivia’s sleuthing upturns secrets key to solving the murder of a reluctant rancher’s father. Maira is trying to keep her ranch running alone when a drifting cowboy offers a hand. Can love develop where suspicion and greed roam the range? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

The Negotiated Marriage by Christina Rich — When the railroad pushes to buy her land, orphaned Cameron Sims will do anything to keep the only home she and her sisters have ever known. Even if she must marry a stranger. Duncan Murray doesn’t want a wife. He wants Sims Creek, a sanctuary that can help him forget a troubled childhood. But his reluctant, and captivating, bride-to-be is key to making his dreams a reality. And despite their business arrangement, Camy and Duncan might be signing on the dotted line for true love… (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Love in the Seams by Jodie Wolfe — A little girl on a quest for a new mama has the local seamstress in her sights. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Romantic Suspense:

His Perfect Love by Sharon K. Connell — On the run from a hit man, Patricia Campbell is unaware of the FBI’s search for her to learn what information she might hold, so she continues to hide out. Then she meets a persistent computer technician, a charming philanthropist, and a handsome, wealthy businessman who wants to marry her. But her fears resurface, and she wonders if she can trust any of them. Can she survive long enough to find peace…and perfect love? (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Counter Point by Marji Laine — Her dad’s gone, her diner’s closing, and her car’s in the lake. Cat McPherson has nothing left to lose … except her life. And a madman, bent on revenge, is determined to take that, as well. Her former boyfriend, Ray Alexander, returns as a hero from his foreign mission, bringing back souvenirs in the form of death-threats. When several attempts are made on Cat’s life, she must find a way to trust Ray, the man who broke her heart. (Romantic Suspense from Write Integrity Press)

Speculative:

The Flaming Sword by Heather L.L. FitzGerald — When evil joins forces in the Tethered World, Sadie Larcen must risk all to protect the Flaming Sword and her family…even if it takes her life. (Speculative Young Adult from Mountain Brook Ink)

Christian fiction’s premier writers’ group, American Christian Fiction Writers, publishes their list of new releases every month. Beginning this month, October, 2016, I will include this list in this blog. If you or your students are looking for new fiction, this may be just for you. Below is this month’s list. Take some time to review it and see what looks interesting.

Send me a comment about any books you read from the list. I’d love to hear your opinion of them. You may get a chance to be a guest blogger in the future!

October 2016 New Releases

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Biblical Fiction:

Providence: Hannah’s Journey by Barbara M. Britton — When the prophet of Israel refuses to heal her, Hannah flees Jerusalem and is captured by an enemy with a curse all his own. (Biblical from Harbourlight [Pelican])

Shadow of the Storm by Connilyn Cossette — In defiance of her mother, Shira pursues her heart’s calling to become an apprentice midwife. When a delivery goes horribly wrong, Shira finds herself bound to a man who betrayed her, the caretaker of three young children, and the target of a vengeful woman whose husband was killed by Shira’s people, the Levites. As contention between the Hebrew tribes and the foreigners fans the flames of another dangerous rebellion, Shira will come face-to-face with the heartbreak of her past that she has kept hidden for so long. How can she let go of all that has defined her to accept the love she’s denied herself and embrace who she truly is? (Biblical from Bethany House [Baker])

Christmas Novella:

Christmas Lights by Chautona Havig, Vikki Kestell, Cathe Swanson, and April Hayman — From historical romance to contemporary cozy mysteries and Christmas wonder, these four “light” reads will warm your heart and ignite your Christmas spirit! (Christmas Novella, Mixed Genres, Independently Published)

Contemporary Romance:

Risking Love by Brenda S. Anderson — Can cautious bank employee Lissa Morgan risk falling in love with a former thrill-seeker, a widowed single dad, when she may have to foreclose on his house? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

A Mom for Christmas by Lorraine Beatty — Noah’s dream of a happy family and Beth’s dream of a continuing ballet career are both dashed, but when they come together they discover that the Lord might have a new dream for both of them. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Sleigh Bells Ring by Sandra D. Bricker, Barbara J. Scott, Lynette Sowell, and Lenora Worth — Santa Claus is coming to town, and so are the Tucker sisters. The girls have inherited their father’s run-down horse farm for Christmas. It needs some serious TLC in order to make it sell-ready. Joanna knows that by recruiting her sisters and one handsome ranch hand they can fix up the place and even celebrate one last Christmas while they’re at it. However, to Isabella, returning to their home in Kentucky bluegrass country for Christmas seems like an impossible hurdle. Can her Chicago boyfriend make life merry and bright again? One thing’s for sure: nothing is peace on earth for Sophia as a new beau brings up old wounds. And when the fate of the horse farm is put in jeopardy because Amy accidentally fraternizes with the enemy, tensions rise. But it’s not like the land developer stole Christmas . . . just her heart. Can the Tucker sisters have themselves a merry little Christmas? (Contemporary Romance from Gilead Publishing)

Do You Hear What I Hear? by Margaret Brownley — Stranded at the old Star Inn until the road back to his cabin reopens, lumber mill owner Rick Talbot suddenly comes face to face with the past. The only woman he’s ever loved is standing in front of the inn’s blazing fire trying to get warm. Both Rick and Sally regret what happened between them years ago, but his family lumberyard clashes with her tree-hugging ways and neither is willing to try again. It will take the storm of the century, one stage-struck young boy, a certain meddling “angel”–and even a cranky cat–to convince them that in matters of the heart, sometimes the second time around is best. (Contemporary Romance from St. Martin Press)

More Than a Tiara by Valerie Comer — Marisa Hiller abandoned her modeling career to nurse a broken heart in Montana, far from the photographer who ruined everything. Her family farm is now part of a CSA program teaching gardening and cooking to single moms, but when the coordinator begs her to represent the program in the Miss Snowflake Pageant, Marisa balks. God has forgiven Jase Mackie but hasn’t answered his prayer to bring Marisa back into his life… until Jase finds himself out West as the official photographer for a beauty pageant, face to face with the woman he’s never forgotten. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Room at the Inn for Christmas by Mary Connealy — Ambitious hotel executive Amanda Star’s has got her sights set on the CEO job at the multi-national Halston hotel chain. But then she inherits the Star Inn, a place her father had always wanted her to run alongside him. With no time to be away from her job, she rushes home to put the inn up for sale. Once there, she’s struggles against keen regret, sweet memories, and the longing to return, which grows stronger when she is reunited with an old classmate: Anthony Carter, a handyman with a guarded heart. (Contemporary Romance from St. Martin Press)

Can’t Help Falling by Kara Isaac — A funny, heartfelt romance about how an antique shop, a wardrobe, and a mysterious tea cup bring two C.S. Lewis fans together in a snowy and picturesque Oxford, England. (Contemporary Romance from Howard [Simon & Schuster])

A Christmas Homecoming by Kimberly Rose Johnson — Interior design assistant Bailey Calderwood suspects the mysterious admirer sending her cards and flowers is none other than the son of her unpleasable, bed-ridden boss. When Stephen Belafonte’s mom demands he fire Bailey, can he find a way to heal the rift in his family as well his own heart, or will he be forced to let Bailey go? (Contemporary Romance from Mountain Brook Ink)

Where Two Hearts Meet by Liz Johnson — When Caden Holt’s boss asks her to show off their own beautiful Prince Edward Island to impress a visiting travel writer and save the Red Door Inn, the reclusive executive chef is forced to face a world much bigger than her kitchen–and a man who makes her wish she was beautiful. (Contemporary Romance from Revell [A Division of Baker Publishing Group])

Trust My Heart by Carol J. Post — Grant McAllister, a jaded big-city lawyer and small-town reporter Jami Carlisle have no hope for finding true love–except for a zany old matchmaker who won’t give up. In the unspoiled beauty of the Smoky Mountains, there’s healing and forgiveness to be found. And for Grant, this unplanned detour may be just what’s needed to finally guide him home. (Contemporary Romance from Waterfall Press)

Insight by Deborah Raney — She’s having a baby. It’s a blessing that brings comfort to newly widowed Olivia Cline. Yet with no insurance, no job and precious little money, how will Olivia care for herself and her child? The answer is a handsome and brooding artist seeking an assistant. Reed Vincent has recently regained his eyesight thanks to a donor. And through his eyes, Olivia begins to see all the possibilities before her. Before them. Until, in a flash of insight, she knows why his signature is so hauntingly familiar. (Contemporary Romance from Raney Day Press)

Silver Bells by Deborah Raney — As Elvis croons from the radio and Christmas descends upon a small Kansas town, two people find the miracle of love. (Contemporary Romance from Raney Day Press)

A Family Under the Christmas Tree by Terri Reed — In this heartwarming tale set during the Christmas season, a single father and a fashion photographer are brought together by a young boy and a mischievous Bernese mountain dog–but first they must learn to set aside their differences if they are willing to let their relationship bloom. (Contemporary Romance from Howard [Simon & Schuster])

Third Strand of the Cord by Catherine Richmond — Caroline will do anything to keep her ex-husband from putting her son with Down syndrome in an institution–even enroll the boy in a class taught by a know-it-all karate instructor. Lee Marivaux is an expert at reading people. He knows his feisty new student will thrive with firm guidance – and he’s right. He pegs the boy’s mother as a clueless socialite who loafs at the country club – and he’s never been so wrong. When Caroline’s abusive ex shows up, demanding custody, Lee and Caroline must join forces to keep the boy safe. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Buying Love by Toni Shiloh — Impatient for marriage, Nina Warrenton places an ad in the newspaper for a husband–attaching a monetary reward. But when she begins to fall for the small-town chef who answers her add, she realizes how much she wants him to love her and not her money. Dwight Williams needs fast cash to save the family restaurant, but can he let it go to prove his love for Nina? (Contemporary Romance from Celebrate Lit)

Moonlight Over Manhattan by Carrie Turansky — Professional organizer Sarah Montgomery is hired to organize her elderly neighbor’s cluttered apartment by Justin Latimer, her neighbor’s grandson. Sarah believes free-spirited Justin is a lazy, unemployed poet who is taking advantage of his grandmother’s generosity. Though attracted to him, she guards her heart against her growing feelings. As Sarah and Justin work together to help his grandmother and enjoy Christmas events in NYC, romantic sparks fly. When Sarah discovers who Justin really is, she must decide if she will continue to hide behind her protective wall or open her heart and embrace love. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Love Bears All Things by Beth Wiseman — Charlotte Dolinsky needs time to recover after breaking up with her boyfriend, Ryan. But when a surprise visitor shows up on her doorstep in Texas, she’s forced to put aside her own worries to help her Amish friends in Lancaster County. Daniel Byler struggles each day in his Amish community to heal from his fiancée’s betrayal. When he discovers that a member of his family is in danger of being shunned, his pain turns to fear. His only way to help is by partnering with Charlotte, a woman he barely knows who has already deceived them all before. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing)

General Contemporary (includes Women’s Fiction):

Paint The Storm by Dawn V. Cahill — When Meg is challenged to love her lesbian daughter as Christ would, she struggles to live out God’s command, and when her daughter goes missing, she finds herself joined with the unlikeliest of allies in her search for Linzee, and finally learns of God’s unconditional grace for sinners. (Contemporary Women’s Fiction from Spring Mountain Publishing)

Restoration Road by Elise Phillips — Mallory Andrews’s short trip back to Texas for her mother’s funeral quickly becomes a move home to help her grieving father with his contracting business. When her old crush, Tres, hires them for a restoration project Mallory falls in love with the crumbling old house. And when feelings bloom between her and Tres, she finds herself on the road to a brand new, unexpected life filled with faith, sweet tea, and fresh paint. (General Contemporary from Desert Breeze Publishing)

Above All Things by Deborah Raney — Expecting their first baby, Judd and Evette McGlin are thrilled to become parents. But the couple faces the ultimate test when Judd learns he already has a child: a six-year-old mixed-race girl born amid secrets and lies. Now, Evette must decide if she can accept the child. She thought she was open-minded–until hidden prejudices threaten the future of an innocent little girl, Evette’s marriage and the very notion of who she thinks she is. (Contemporary Women’s Fiction from Raney Day Press)

Restoring Christmas by Cynthia Ruchti — Alexis set out to restore a fieldstone farmhouse in need of repair. She didn’t expect to restore a life in the process. (General Contemporary from Worthy Inspired)

Strings of Faith by Terry Stafford — Darcy is a classically trained violinist who dreams of playing bluegrass and winning The National Oldtime Fiddle Contest in Weiser, Idaho. When tragedy strikes, Darcy lays her gift aside for her family and faces unimaginable pain and loss, leading to dissension with her husband, disappointing judgment from her church, and anger with God Himself. Can her gift of music survive when her life is turned upside down? (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

Historical:

The Lost Generation by Erica Marie Hogan — On August 5th 1914, the world changed forever. For John and Beth Young, it meant the happiness they finally achieved was snatched out from under them. For Emma Cote, it meant that her husband Jared would do his duty, despite her feelings. For Christy Simmons it meant an uncertain future with the boy she loved. The lives of six people, spread across the British Empire to America were changed forever. (Historical from Elk Lake Publishing Inc.)

Aboard Providence by Keely Brooke Keith — When an accident forces Jonah Ashton to serve as a ship’s physician, he boards the Providence with the plan to escort a group of families to their new settlement in South America and then return to Pennsylvania to finish medical school before rumors of Southern rebellion erupt into all-out war. What he doesn’t count on is getting lost at sea… and Marian Foster. When the settlers finally reach land, Jonah makes a startling discovery that changes everything, but will it change his heart? (Historical from Crossriver Media Group)

Historical Romance:

The Rails to Love Romance Collection by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Lisa Carter, Ramona K. Cecil, Lynn A. Coleman, Susanne Dietze, Kim Vogel Sawyer, Connie Stevens, and Liz Tolsma — Journey the Transcontinental Railroad along with nine unlikely couples who encounter all the dangers and disappointments of traveling the rails in the late 1800s. From sight-seeing excursions to transports toward new lives, from orphan trains to circus trains, can romances develop into blazing love in a world of cold, hard steel? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Cowboy Christmas Homecoming by Mary Connealy, Ruth Logan Herne, Julie Lessman, and Anna Schmidt — For widow June Harper, another cold front is about to hit. Most call him Hugh. She’d call him Scrooge, except as the man ensures her needs are met, June can’t help but wonder how to meet the needs of his heart. Netty Lewis can take care of herself, has for a while now. And even if Roy, her hired help for the holidays, does take care of her, that doesn’t mean he cares for her or that he’ll stay past Christmas. Pastor Colton McCabe is not sure he’ll make it through the holidays with his new housekeeper. Grace can’t seem to do anything right but love. Perhaps being a homekeeper will earn her a permanent residence in his heart. Connie Lancaster is determined to return to St. Louis, and no cowboy can change her mind. But if Isaac can change her heart, maybe Connie will see the homecoming she’s been longing for isn’t to a place but a person. (Historical Romance from Gilead Publishing)

The Captive Heart by Michelle Griep — Stranded in a strange land, Eleanor Morgan faces starvation or marriage . . . but who wants to marry a murderer? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

The Rightful Heir by Angel Moore — Cowboy Jared Ivy must work with stranger Mary Lou Ellison until a judge comes to town and determines which one of them is the rightful heir to his family’s Texas newspaper. Intrepid reporter Mary Lou won’t lose the Pine Haven Record–the legacy he left her–without a fight. But when she and Jared stop sparring long enough to investigate a story together, they become a force to be reckoned with. Will they let their battle over the Record get in the way of something even more newsworthy: true love? (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Christmas at Stoney Creek by Martha Rogers — When newspaper reporter Tom Whiteman befriends a homeless man named Joe, Tom decides to bring him home to Stoney Creek, Texas for Christmas. As Tom and his childhood friend Faith Delmont set out to learn the truth about the mysterious old man with the kind, sad eyes, they discover that God’s love can turn tragedy and loss to triumph, and that true love comes to those who wait. (Historical Romance from Realms [Charisma Media])

Mystery:

Another Day, Another Dali by Sandra Orchard — In order to regain her grandmother’s favor FBI Special Agent Serena Jones agrees to investigate a missing Salvador Dali painting. But when the evidence points to members of the owner’s own household, it becomes clear that Serena won’t be winning any popularity contests. Then Serena stumbles upon links to her grandfather’s unsolved murder. (Mystery from Revell [A Division of Baker Publishing Group])

Romantic Suspense:

Tangled Webs by Irene Hannon — After a disastrous Middle East mission ends his six-year Army Ranger career, Finn McGregor needs some downtime in the woods. But when someone threatens his neighbor, publishing executive Dana Lewis, Finn and Dana must work together to discover who wants her to leave her lakeside cabin before it costs both their lives. (Romantic Suspense from Revell [A Division of Baker Publishing Group])

Identity Unknown by Terri Reed — When a John Doe washes up on the shores of Calico Bay, no one knows who he is—including him. But one thing’s instantly clear to deputy sheriff Audrey Martin: the man’s marked for murder. And she’s the only one who can protect him from the assassins who lurk at every turn. The arrival of a team of men claiming he’s Canadian Border Services officer Nathanial Longhorn only further complicates the matter. As his memories slowly start drifting back, Nathanial and Audrey work to uncover who wants him dead and why. If they don’t, this Christmas might be their last. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Speculative:

A Time to Rise by Nadine Brandes — What more can you sacrifice than your life? Parvin Blackwater is dead. At least that’s what the Council and the world thinks. But her sacrifice tore down part of the Wall long enough to stir up hope and rebellion in the people. Parvin and Solomon must uncover the mysterious clues that Jude left behind in order to destroy the projected Wall once and for all. Meanwhile, the Council schemes to new levels of technology in its attempts to keep the people contained. Can a one-handed Radical and a scarred ex-Enforcer really bring shalom to the world? (Speculative Young Adult from Enclave Publishing)

Unblemished by Sara Ella — Eliyana can’t bear to look at her own reflection. But what if that were only one Reflection—one world? What if another world exists where her blemish could become her strength? (Speculative Young Adult from HarperCollins Christian Publishing)

Beast by Chawna Schroeder — For as long as Beast can remember, she has lived among her master’s dogs. With them she sleeps. With them she eats. With them she fights and struggles to survive. But through hunger and cold she dreams of one day becoming her master’s favorite, earning bones with meat and a place beside the fire. When her pack scatters after a surprise raid, Beast must defend herself against slavers, hunting down the loners. They are so strong, and she is only a beast . . . or is she? (Speculative Allegory from Enclave Publishing)

Accelerant by Ronie Kendig — He’ll destroy the world. But he must save it first. As the only able-bodied heir to the Fire Throne, Haegan, Prince of Seultrie must return to the Nine Kingdoms and fight for his people. But there are insidious forces at work. When reality itself falls into question, Haegan struggles to know where to fight, who to trust. Caught between duty to his country and duty to the world, Haegan must see clearly enough to choose the right path to save his devastated world. (Speculative High Fantasy from Enclave Publishing)

Thriller/Suspense:

Death in the Mind’s Eye by Rick Acker — It knows what you’re thinking. It knows when you’re lying. Does it know how to kill? San Francisco attorney Mike Webster and Dr. Johanna Anderson, a brilliant and beautiful psychologist, must clear Jo’s name of a malpractice case before the controversial, technologically-assisted Mind’s Eye therapy is seized by a shadowy finance firm and used as a weapon. (Thriller/Suspense from Waterfall Press)

The Warrior’s Seal by Ronie Kendig — A Special Forces team is thrust into a war with the past to save the president after an artifact unleashes a deadly toxin. Special Forces operative Cole “Tox” Russell and his team are tasked in a search-and-rescue–the U.S. president has been kidnapped during a goodwill tour. The mission nosedives when an ancient biblical artifact and a deadly toxin wipe out villages. Tox must stop the terrorists and the toxin to save the president. This is a free e-novella prequel! (Thriller/Suspense from Bethany House [Baker])

Deadly Infiltration by W. Richard Lawrence — Infiltrators inside the American government are betraying undercover agents while helping sneak weapons of mass destruction across our borders. To keep their work hidden, they are willing to murder anyone who gets in their way. Sara, a brilliant computer expert working for the FBI, finds herself caught in the middle. Sara’s young faith in God is gravely tested when she is framed for the murder of an FBI agent, forcing her to go into hiding. Meanwhile, Sara’s fiancé Derry lives up to a promise he made to her, and gives up his future to save her and hopefully the country. (Thriller/Suspense from Boarding House Publishing)

Western Historical:

Refining Fire by Carol Cox — Meet the Arizona Territory Brides. Four strong, independent women–each determined to stand on her own two feet, and not one of them looking for romance. But sometimes love shows up when you least expect it… (Western, Pioneer/Prairie, Independently Published)

7 MEDIEVAL WORDS TO SAVOR

Guest Post by Northwest Author Janalyn Voigt

SAVORING UNFAMILIAR WORDS

A precocious reader at a young age, I collected words the way some children collect stickers. I can remember reading adult novels at the age of nine and pausing here and there to savor an unfamiliar word. Never mind consulting a dictionary. I could usually figure out what it meant in context. As for the pronunciation, well… later in life I would discover my guesses didn’t always reflect the actual pronunciation.

FORGOTTEN GEMS

One of my personal complaints is that certain worthy words, for one reason or another, have gone out of style. I found writing my Tales of Faeraven trilogy cathartic in that I was able to use some of these forgotten gems, and I thought you might enjoy savoring some of them with me.

MEDIEVAL WORD USED IN DAWNSINGER

• Fell: This word comes unaltered from Old English. It means inhumanly fierce, strange, and other-worldly. The word felon comes to us from an Old French variant of this word. The expression, one fell swoop uses this word in context. My editors stripped this word out of book two of my trilogy, but they let me use it in book one.

Usage in DawnSinger: “A fell spirit somehow touched mine.”

MEDIEVAL WORDS USED IN WAYFARER

• Bard: The origins of this word mean packsaddle, and that seems appropriate since it refers to a traveling lyric poet and musician.

Usage in Wayfarer: Jugglers, bards, and acrobats waited to regale them.

• Ken:  This luscious word, which means to know or understand, derived in Scotland from the Middle English kennan, which in turn was based on the old Norse word, kenna, which means to perceive.

Usage in Wayfarer: “What troubles you? Although I ken well enough, I think.”

• Bastion: Derived from the Old French bastille, which means fortress, it may have originated from the idea of making something with bast, the inner bark of the linden tree, which was used for building. A bastion was a projection in a fortification that allowed defense of a wall.

Usage in Wayfarer: “He’s uninjured, but we lost several archers on the wall and three who manned a bastion.”

• Embrasure: This word is of uncertain origin but derives from the obsolete French embraser, which means to widen. It defines an opening in a wall, especially one with splayed sides that widen inwardly.

Usage in Wayfarer: Elcon clutched the rough stone at the edges of the embrasure.

• Fealty: From the Old French feauté, this word originated with a Latin word for fidelity. It stood for loyalty and faithfulness. In the Middle Ages as a practice of chivalry, knights often took oaths of fealty to their liege lords.

Usage in Wayfarer: Kai bowed at his feet and pledged fealty.

• Barbican: The Old French barbacane may have evolved from a Arabic or Persian word for gatehouse to create this word for an outer gatehouse that protected a city or castle.

Usage in Wayfarer: “Who goes there?” A guard called from the parapet above the barbican.

The study of words is truly fascinating. I hope you’ve enjoyed my list.

SPECIAL OFFER FOR JANUARY 3, 2014 ONLY!

In celebration of the release of Wayfarer, book two in Janalyn Voigt’s Tales of Faeraven trilogy, her publisher is offering her book at a 50% discount.

Click here to take advantage of this offer.

MORE ABOUT JANALYN VOIGT

As children, my older brother and I would beg my father for bedtime stories, and he would give them.  His deep voice rumbled against my ear at his chest as he unfolded stories of exotic places like Oz and Neverland. My imagination carried on with the tales even after he closed the book for the night. When eventually he stopped reading stories, I began creating my own.

Within a few years I’d become storyteller of my neighborhood. The other children would gather in a circle on our lawn while I invented stories to entertain them. No one, including myself, thought of this as anything unusual. It wasn’t until my sixth-grade teacher pointed out my ability to spin a tale that I and my parents took note. This is how at the age of twelve I decided to become a novelist. At it turns out, the fulfillment of that dream took a few more years than planned.

Find out more about Janalyn, her closet writing office,

and her books at the author website for Janalyn Voigt

To read Sarah Gunning Moser’s prior review of DawnSinger:

http://www.familyedservices.com/blog/fantasy-world-dawnsinger/

TAKE A MENTAL VACATION –

WRITING EXERCISE, PART I

WRITE A VOCABULARY POEM!

NaBloWriMo Post Number 14

by Sarah Gunning Moser

Ever been stuck on a writing assignment?  Take heart. Sometimes, you just need to take a little vacation…even if it’s only a mental one. How? Well, follow me through the mist of “writer’s block”.

GOT WRITER’S BLOCK? 

Writers experience this problem often, no matter what type of writing is done. When befuddled about getting going again, perhaps your brain needs a “time out”. If you refuse to wind down, take the time to breathe more deeply, and try something new in your writing time, you may need to take more than just a short break. You might need to walk away from your project for longer than necessary. So work with this, my friends, and see where it takes you.

SO WRITE A POEM, ALREADY!

Endeavor to write a poem … with unfamiliar words!

But, why? Because, my fellow logophiles, in this exercise you must step from your typical routine into one which creates new mental territory. Think of it as “taking new ground”, if that helps.

This may sound odd if you are not a poet, but consider the elements of this exercise.  Poetry forces your mind into new thinking patterns, teaches you new vocabulary words, and causes you to look beyond the obvious … and change your perspective.

ALL RIGHT CHILDREN, NOW USE TWENTY AP ENGLISH WORDS…

As an English teacher, I am famous — or perhaps to my students, infamous — for assigning a disparate list of AP English vocabulary words and assigning them to write a poem.  Impossible, you say?

Daunting, yes; impossible, no.

For instance, using the same list of twenty assigned words, a junior high school girl wrote a humorous poem about her older brother. Her brother wrote his testimony in verse, which, when he read it to the class, brought us all to tears. Another student wrote about a family outing that went awry. One young man wrote a delightful poem starring an army general strutting about giving orders to his troops. A freshman wrote a powerful, poignant poem about the break-up of his parents’ marriage and his father’s abusiveness toward his mother. While in each instance they used the same required words, my students’ creativity and boldness astounded me.

WHAT DID YOU LEARN?

Once they finished, I asked what they learned from it.  They remarked that their success surprised them because initially they did not believe they could complete the task.  But each student finished, and finished well.

You can, too!  Even if you are uncomfortable at first, complete this process and see where it leads.  As with most writing exercises, no one but you ever has to see it.  Allow your brain to wrestle with your list of words and develop something new and different for you.

INSTRUCTIONS TOMORROW

Stay tuned for Part II of this article tomorrow for step-by-step instructions.

NoBloWriMo Post 15

Welcome back! Yesterday, I promised you I would teach you the five steps necessary to write a vocabulary poem. They are the prerequisites to take your mental vacation. If you follow them exactly, you will find freedom in your writing and your thinking that you may not have thought possible.

5 STEPS TO A VOCABULARY POEM

First, look up an AP English or GRE word list.

Go to:

http://quizlet.com/21703652/ap-english-vocabularytone-words-flash-cards/.
Click on “Print List” for “Princeton Review’s Hit Parade Words”: all 500 of them.

To increase the challenge, you may choose to move to the Graduate Record Exam vocabulary list:

http://quizlet.com/216464/kaplan-gre-vocabulary-flash-cards/.
Again, click on “Print List” and proceed.

To complicate the challenge, look in an unabridged dictionary, choose twenty words unfamiliar to you, and continue this exercise.  Any list works.

Second, choose twenty words at random from your list, after you determine the level of difficulty.

Do not censor yourself or second-guess what the list should be, just choose from the myriad of words.

Sure, it makes it harder that way. That’s the point of the exercise: to get you out of your normal method of beginning a writing project so that your mind can open up, explore ideas, all without preconceived notions of what to do.

The task is tougher if you use words unknown to you, as this requires making more mental connections and learning new words you do not ordinarily use.  The idea here is to s-t-r-e-t-c-h   y-o-u-r   m-i-n-d.

Open that perfectly good mind of yours to learn – and use – words that may help you later, and discover useful derivatives.

Third, look up the meanings of any of your chosen words with which you are unacquainted. Look for how to link them in thoughts, sentences, settings, or other linguistic patterns.

Fourth, write the first stanza. I tell my junior and senior high school students that the first stanza is a challenge test: they must maintain the meter and style of the first verse throughout the poem.

Fifth, let your thoughts flow freely and see what surfaces. As you use the 20 words on your list be sure to underline them. This helps you keep track of your progress. Once you get going, you will likely find you are enjoying yourself.  Your mind keeps the process moving and you may be astonished by what you do.  My students were!

RELAX, BREATHE, REPEAT

Most of all, remember to relax as you work, and have fun.  After your mental vacation, your mind will be facile and free, your cognitive batteries recharged.  Satisfied and refreshed, you will be ready to resume normal writing, move ahead with your project, and probably complete more than you thought you could.

Depending on which “unabridged” dictionary you use, English has over 500,000-1,000,000 words, the largest language on earth.  Richness and flexibility exist merely by virtue of the enormous vocabulary available to writers.  No one knows all the words in this extraordinary lexicon, so why not learn some new ones and remove a writing block in the process?

And who knows?  You might discover you enjoy writing poetry! I’d love to see what you come up with. If you send a poem, though, be sure to include your list of words.

Note:  If you would like me to send you the original list of 20 words her students used, email me using the Contact Form on the top of this page, or email me at SarahGM917@gmail.com.

NoBloWriMo Post 13

** It is like having my own children small again,

but with the added wisdom

of years of parenting lessons learned.

** I love watching my child be a parent and see her gain that perspective of life.

** I can see the world through the eyes of a child, only now it’s my child’s child.

** I can spend time doing things with my grandchild I often could not do with my children.

** I get to be a kid again!

My grandchild’s trust and joy of life

remind me to once again become

closer to God. We are both lifted up.

Are you a grandmother yourself? Or a grandfather?

What are some of your memories of spending time with your grandmother?

NaBloWriMo Post 12

NY Times Bestselling Author, Debbie Macomber, from Port Orchard, Washington, recently published a new book called Once Upon a Time, one of her excellent nonfiction books replete with her signature openness and warmth. On page 34 of the book, she remarked upon something about children that bears repeating:

“Children who become readers become romantics in the classical sense of the word.

They live far beyond their own scope.”

LIVING BEYOND YOUR OWN SCOPE

“Living beyond your own scope.” What a great turn of phrase! It implies not only enthusiasm for life, but faith and love and a desire to make things better, presumably for others as well as yourself. And what better way for a child – or anyone – to move beyond what is familiar than to read? Most of us will never be able to afford to see all the places we want to see, and certainly we do not have the ability to go back in time to experience history first-hand.

But well-written books, and they are legion, do all that and more. For children, books open the world like no television program or movie can. Nothing beats the hours spent in a good book, literally revelling in the creation of the world in a story, or in the mind of the person who took the time to write it.

READING TAKES YOU EVERYWHERE

As I frequently tell my students, reading takes you anywhere you want to go, teaches you anything you want to learn, and helps you understand other people, nations, and beliefs. It solidifies what you experience of the world, and it makes you better than you are. Reading challenges you, exhorts you, encourages you, baffles you, and sometimes even tickles you. Reading takes you on a journey, whether you read fiction or nonfiction, and it takes you wherever and whenever you wish to go.

READING GOES ANYWHERE

Reading is something you can do just about anywhere: while waiting in a doctor’s office, for a bus, or while lounging on your bed. Reading can happen in any room in the house, in the garden, on a mountain top, during a retreat, at a table, or in a class or library. Reading is sometimes shared, when a parent reads to a child or a child to a parent, or when husband and wife or friends read together, enjoying the rhythm of a story enjoyed together.

READ TO ANYONE!

Children who read usually love it so much they’ll read anytime, to anyone, including their favorite teddy bear or the family cat if no one else is willing to listen.

As far as Ms. Macomber’s comment about becoming romantics through reading, she’s right. In the classical sense, being “romantic” does not mean hearts and flowers and being dramatically in love a la Romeo and Juliet. The classical meaning of “romantic” had more to do with going on an adventure, exploring heroism, or defining legends, than with what we consider romantic love today.

READING NURTURES IMAGINATION

Children have huge imaginations if adults do not squelch them first. They love to make up their own stories and share them. Children dream dreams and tell stories, then proceed to live them, or at least act them out. They create “new worlds” in their fertile young minds and still have the unfettered ability to imagine something better than what is.

READING CULTIVATES WHAT IF? AND WHY NOT?

It is only we adults who have become jaded and fearful of doing so. Yet most of us still admire great writers, and wonder at their ability to create and persevere. Writers somehow cultivate, or manage to keep, important aspects of their childhood, the part of themselves that allows them to dream, to ask what if? or why not? … to ponder God, to imagine a better world, to be creative.

DO YOU KNOW THE NEXT AGATHA, JANE, OR J.R.R?

I, for one, would rather nurture that in children through books and deep thought, unfettered by naysayers and cultural idiocies. The children we speak with who are wrapped up in playing may be the next Agatha Christie, Jane Austen, or J.R.R. Tolkien. It seems to me it would be a good idea to be mindful of that, and nurture the creativity before us.

THE WORD GEEK: borborygmus

NaBloWriMo Post 11

Sometimes in my guise as The Word Geek, I come across a word I have never seen before, and it makes me giggle.

Borborygmus is just such a word, and the picture to the left should give you a hint as to its origin and meaning. If not, the following information will.

General Word Information:

English pronunciation: bore – bo – RIG – mus (accent on third syllable)

Spell to Write and Read word and markings: borborygmus: bor bo ryg mus

Definitions/Parts of Speech:

1. noun, rumbling in the intestines from the movement of gas in the bowel; “tummy rumbles”
2. adjective, of, relating to, or affected with borborygmus

Plural form: borborygmi, bor bo ryg mi 

Additional singular form:

borborygm (n.)– bor bo rygm (g is silent)

Derivative forms:

adjective: borborygmic

plural: borborygmies

Sample sentence:

Despite trying to ignore it, she was embarrassed that her borborygmus was so loud during her speech.

Sample quotations:

“Borborygmi..are a serious annoyance.”

— L. S. Beale, Slight Ailments, page 97 — 1880

“Elephant hunters say that they can tell the proximity of a herd by the borborygmic (see dictionary) noises the poor brutes emit.”

— H. G. Wells, The Milwaukee Journal, Sunday Express, May 1, 1927, “Human Life Happier Today Than Ever Before on Earth”

Etymology:

borborygmus, New Latin, from Greek borborygmos, to rumble, of an imitative origin; borborygmy from Greek borborygmos + English –y, first use, circa 1724

Final Thoughts:

You may already have discerned that borborygmus is an unusual word, and one not often seen in modern literature. Mr. Wells’ wry 1927 statement, quoted above from 1927, is indicative of the type of humorous usage this word seems to engender. Somehow it rolls off the tongue with vigor, almost with its own effervescence, asking us to amuse ourselves with it.

Well, so be it, I say. We should have fun using new and unusual words; there certainly are a lot of them!

What are some unusual words you have discovered recently?

SOUNDING OFF ABOUT MANNERS: PET PEEVES III

NaBloWriMo Post 10

I continue to get wonderful feedback on this blog post series. It is always nice to know posts are not falling into a cyber-hole somewhere. I hope you will enjoy reading this one, too. Several of you have sent me some of your favorite pet peeves.

If I get enough of them, there will be a Pet Peeves IV one of these days, but with all the peeves from readers!

Here is today’s list:

PET PEEVES III

1.  People who talk during theater performances, particularly during the overture of a musical production.

2.  Talking heads on TV who shout over each other, thereby rendering intelligent debate and an exchange of ideas impossible.

And no, it isn’t always one party or the other who does this.

They ALL do this.

3. People who refuse to entertain even the thought of maintaining a friendship with someone who believes differently than they do. Alas, this is a particularly popular viewpoint in the 21st Century.

Frankly, this disgusts me. Whatever happened to “the loyal opposition”, or mutual respect?

I certainly do not know everything about everything, do you? Is it not possible for us to learn from one another?

4.  Those who make fun of or denigrate those with other opinions.

Please see # 2, above.

Try this instead: Ask a question of a person with whom you disagree and find out why they believe as they do. This is far more instructive and kind than to lambast them or ridicule them without having understanding.

5.  Drivers who read the mail, text, talk on their cell phones, put on makeup, unwrap a sandwich, or brush or comb their hair in the mirror while driving.

That isn’t driving, people, that’s almost criminal negligence.

Please do not forget you are driving a potentially lethal machine!

7.  Public nose-picking or derriere-scratching. Also making a point of burping, or worse, in public, or without saying, “Excuse me.”

8.  People who refuse to take the time to write a thank you note for a gift, or at all…

… written by hand, in cursive!

What? You think you’re automatically entitled to a gift? Gifts should come from the wellspring of the giver’s heart, not due to a sense of obligation or under duress.

So be appreciative, and honor the time, effort and money the giver spent for you.

8.  Children who constantly interrupt adults without saying, “Excuse me,” or without patiently waiting their turn to speak. (If you doubt this is possible, think again.)

Anyone need a suggestion about how to curb their offspring’s habit of interrupting? Please email me using the “Contact” form on this web site, and I’ll share an idea or two that worked well with our children. Easy schmeazy.

9.  Those who push their way onto an elevator before letting those already on board get off.

10. Those who do not respect the time of the following:

a) stay at home parents – b) homeschooling parents – c) people working in home businesses.

In other words: just because someone’s life revolves around their home does not mean they are less than, dumber than, or less busy than someone else. REMEMBER! It’s all about The Golden Rule!

NaBloWriMo Post 9

A DECIDED LACK OF MANNERS

I promised you the Pet Peeves II list today, and I shall deliver. I suspect most of these peeves are some of yours, too. If you think I left an important one out about minding one’s manners, please leave a comment and let me know what it is.

WHAT ARE MANNERS?

Having good manners includes putting yourself in another person’s shoes and applying the Golden Rule. (It also requires knowing what the Golden Rule is.) It involves taking a small amounts of time to consider what your actions might do to someone else. Aesop called it ‘looking before you leap’ in his fable “The Fox and the Goat”. Jesus said the same thing more eloquently, but it means the same thing.

PUTTING THE GOLDEN RULE INTO PRACTICE

“Good manners” merely presumes that we slow ourselves down before speaking or acting and treat others with respect. Sometimes I wonder, though, if we no longer understand the word “respect”. It does not mean “agree with”. Think about it. Jesus of Nazareth said it this way in Matthew 7:12, the King James Bible:

OFF THE SOAPBOX

I am stepping down from the soapbox now to present you with my list. Have a little fun with this. Ponder, observe, and please keep your sense of humor! We humans are so fallible, we do not even fathom how much, so we need to help each other do better. The first step toward that, however, is knowing the difference between good behavior and poor behavior.

So without further adieu, the Pet Peeves II list awaits.

THE PET PEEVES II LIST

1. People who leave their grocery carts in the middle of a parking space for someone else to return.

2. Drivers who treat parking lots like the Indianapolis Speedway.

3. Those who treat poor people or those out of work as if they have the plague. They don’t, so repeat after me: this could be YOU some day.

4. People who wear too much perfume or cologne during theater performances.

5. Men who refuse to open doors for women, older people, those on crutches, in wheelchairs, or for one another if the other man is laden with packages and cannot open the door himself. This goes double for being unwilling to perform this small courtesy for smaller, older, or weaker people than oneself.

6. Women who refuse to accept a man’s honest desire to assist her, open a door for her, or help her be seated.

NOTE: This is not abuse. This is courtesy. There’s an ENORMOUS difference.

7. Those who refuse to offer their seat to an older, disabled, or sick person on a bus, train, or in a crowded waiting room.

8. Kids who run into shopping centers or stores, no matter who is already walking through the same door.

NOTE: It is not okay to run down little old ladies attempting to get through a door.

9. Teenaged girls who roll their eyes, flip their hair, stomp up the stairs, or slam doors when they don’t get their way.

10.  The idea that if I make less money than you do, you are somehow superior to me.

NOTE: if circumstances change, this could be you. Beware.

How about you? Any pet peeves to add?