Christmas Specials

Illuminated is available at these places: 
Barnes and noble (nook version/ soon print)
Amazon (print and kindle)
Createspace

Great news! Illuminated will soon be available in extended distribution. Please check your local books store and Barnes and Noble for ordering your print copy!

Luminosity is available at these places:
Barnes and Noble (Print version)
Amazon (Print and kindle version with Price Match)
Createspace

More great news! Look for Luminosity to be available on Nook after the New Year!


Be sure to check out my Author Page on Amazon for a listing of other books I'm featured in.

Wishing all of you a Blessed Holiday Season and may you take a break in your journeys to enjoy your Christmas Holidays with loved ones and Friends.

Jackie Castle

Luminosity has been featured over at Jojo's Corners!

Wow, it's been a busy month and as the holidays approach, I'm making my way up toward 50,000 NaNo words on Book Three, which I'm thinking about titling Emanate.

Or something like that.

But I'm here to talk about a couple of other things. First, is to tell you to go check out my newest review on Luminosity over at Jojo's Corner.  While you're there, take a look at what else she's been reading. There's always fun stuff to find on her site.


I've been pleased with the feedback I've received so far on Luminosity. This story goes into all the character's viewpoints and I was a little worried how readers would take that change. But so far, everyone has enjoyed hearing Lotari - a centaur on a mission, Stitch - who wishes his beard would grow in, Katrina - who finds it hard to maintain her secret and our favorite warrior- Jerin's take on the story, along with Alyra who remains the main story character as she begins to find out more about who she is and what amazing abilities the Dark Lord has tried so hard to extinguish in her.

And the fun continues in book 3!


Now, for my other announcement:
For the holidays...

Yes, that's right. A collection of holiday stories written by authors from around the world.

Jingle Bells: Tales of Holiday Spirit from Around the World.
Let these wonderful stories of holiday magic fill your heart with love and peace. With 33 unique short stories and 5 poems, written for children and adults alike to help you find a piece of that holiday spirit to warm your heart.

I have two stories and a drawing that I did for the collection. If you would like to hear more about this, Dirkus the dragon who lives over at The Castle Library, is talking about his very own story Dirkus's Dumb Christmas. Check it out and enjoy a free coloring page you can print for yourself over at the Castle Library.

Sticks and Stones... When Your Quest is Questioned

Okay, so maybe they don't break bones, but they certainly do hurt, and when being pelted with them, one can't help but run and duck for cover.

I mean, really. Right?

The Risk of the Quest
There will always be someone, somewhere, who will doubt your abilities. Who will doubt your sanity of undertaking something risky. Who will honestly be concerned about you, and wish to help direct your feet toward something more reasonable. Something sure. Something safe.

But the word QUEST in itself is not a safe word.

Dictionary.com describes a quest as: a search or pursuit made in order to find or obtain something: -or-  an adventurous expedition undertaken...

Um, adventurous?  Yeah, there's nothing safe about that word, now is there?

From the moment your foot steps out the front door of your comfort zone, you are now out in the open for any and all opposition to stop you from completing your quest. Here are some of the obstacles which will rise up against you: Doubt, fear, second-guessing, failure. And these are just a few. Let's not fail to mention Trouble, problems, discouragement, and pride. Yes, Pride, especially when our reputations and motives are laid out on the line. 

Ever hear this question? "Just what do you hope to gain by doing this?" or "How long are you really going to keep this up with no results?"

When these questions are allowed to make their way into our spirits, we start to stumble and slow in our steps as we "self-analyze" our reasons. 

Don't get me wrong, it's good to know why your are doing something. Get that firmly down in your heart because that's the rock you will stand on, or hide behind, when the sticks and stones are hurled in your direction. 

 

Stand Firm: On or Behind Your Rock
There are many, many reasons people will doubt your quest, or you going after your dream. Many reasons. Aside from jealously that you are doing something they wish they could do, there's also the fear of walking the unknown that many people aren't willing to take. Watching you take that narrow path scares them. Sometimes the motives are selfish. Sometimes, not.

The key to withstanding is to know why you are chasing after your particular dream and to be honest with yourself if this is the dream you should be chasing after. Look to the people in your life that you honestly trust to be honest with you. Not just one, you want to get varied opinions. Discuss your heart's desire with them. Even if they are opposed, look at why.

For me, writing is simply risky and there's no regular paycheck at the end of the week. I have to put in many hours without even knowing if what I'm doing will pay off or not. This causes some opposition in my household. However, my family knows this is my heart's desire and has been for as long as we've been a family. So despite whatever reservations they might have, they've chosen to be supportive of me. Some days, when times are tough, that support grows a little thin, but still, for the most part, they are willing to stand with me.

I also look to my God for confirmation and encouragement. I've prayed and prayed and sought out His will for me. If you are a believer, this is where you start. Then go to friends and family.

However, there are still a few who are close to me that simply don't understand why I'm doing this. Why I'm locking myself away from the world to write stories. They will never understand. A couple might even be waiting for me to fail so they can nod their heads and offer a sympathetic, "Well, I knew this would happen, but good for you for trying." 

Thing is, they mean well and I have to look past the doubters. This is MY dream. This is MY path. This is MY time to look to God, to those who do support me, and grasp onto the positive I do have and keep going.

Keep Your Sights on What's Ahead
Make the most of whatever opportunities are available to you.

One of my favorite books, and one of several that inspired the White Road Chronicle series, is Hinds Feet On High Places by Hannah Hurnard. I've read this book many times during my life and each time I do, it speaks to me from a different place in my journey. If you've never read it, I encourage you to find an copy and get to it. Such a deep, touching, fantastic story about finding yourself and throwing aside that which hinders you.

So, in chapter 7 of On the Shores of Loneliness, our heroine Much-Afraid is faced with her relations who are intent on bringing her back to her senses. (Sound familiar?)

I'm only going to give you a few bits of this passage. The section starts out:
"Spies were sent out..."

Of course, this happens at a time when, "Much-Afraid now had to endure a time of really dreadful assaults.  It is true that her eneies soon discovered that this was not the same Much-Afraid with whom they had to deal. They could never get within close reach, because she kept so near to Sorrow and Suffering and accepted their assistance so much more willingly than before."

See? We shouldn't even try to walk alone. We must find those who will help and support us as we travel along on our journey.

"However, they (her fear relatives) kept appearing before her, shouting out their horrid suggestions and mocking her until it really seemed that wherever she went one or another popped up (there were so many hiding places among the rocks) and hurled their darts at her."

They will come. And they will come armed with all sorts of weapons to use against you. Remember what Paul said in Ephesians 6:12? "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore..."

Therefore, buck up and get ready for it, because opposition will come.

Back to our story. Finally, one of the relatives says the wrong thing and Much-Afraid is reminded of something the Shepherd said to her. Something to encourage her during the trials. The encouragement, the power scriptures, the rocks to stand on are there. We just need to remember to use them when we are in the midst of the battle.

"When she thought of this, to Self-Pity's dismayed astonishment, Much-Afraid actually picked up a piece of rock and hurled  it at him, and as he said afterwards to the other three in an aggrieved tone of voice, 'If I hadn't ducked and bolted like a hare it could have laid me out altogether, the little vixen!' 

How To Lay Out Your Enemy
It's simple. You keep putting one foot in front of the other. You don't stop. You don't hide. You don't cower, or make excuses. You know what you want and you go after it.

Do you know what makes a Saint? It's not really their behavior, or being good or special or anything like that. It's that they kept getting back up whenever they fell.

You mustn't stay on the ground for long. Get up. Dust off. Keep walking. Know where your help comes from. Seek out like-minded people who will encourage you. Don't listen to the negative. And certainly don't believe them.

Hey, if it was an easy sure thing, then everyone would be doing it. Right?

You only get one life to find your destiny and live your dream. So get on with it, okay?

Be brave. Walk in confidence. You are going to do amazing things with your life.

Hey, if you like the pictures, feel free to share them on Pinterest or facebook.

NaNoWriMo - Here I Come!

I'm gearing myself up for the next White Road Chronicles installment.

I'm making a few plans. I'm developing a little plot line. I'm gearing up for a LOT of writing in November.

Yes, folks, it's NaNo Time!

So, how does one get ready for such an undertaking?

Well, first I will need to keep November as clear as possible. And with working two jobs, besides writing, that can be difficult. But I believe in myself. The only way to accomplish a quest is to start walking it out!

My quest, which I've chosen to accept, is to not just write the standard 50,000 words in November, but to actually aim for 100,000. The actual goal I will set will be in the middle: 75,000.

Here's what I will have to do. I really can't write much on the weekends. Sundays, I simply don't want to write. That's my break day if I'm not working at the bookstore.

So, I've given myself 26 days to write. To reach my 75,000 word goal, I will need to put out 2900 words a day. To reach my "hopeful" goal of 100,000, I need to write 3900 words a day.

I've reached 4000 words written in a day before. That I know I can do. So, here's the fun part. I even figured out how many words I can write in an hour. OH YES I DID. I'm that crazy at times.

I did a couple of test, timing myself and figured out I can type 30 words a minute. That's 1800 words an hour- barring I don't get distracted by shiny objects, the view outside, daydreaming, facebook or worse, Pinterest.

With that in mind, I need 30 hours to complete 50,000 words, or 80 hours to complete 120,000 words. Both previous novels have been in the 120,000 words range.

There's the logistics of it. To write my next novel, which I figure will be around the same word count as the other two, I will need to sit down to write around twenty hours a week in November. Without distractions.

Can I do it?

I'm certainly going to try. I have succeeded in reaching the 50,000 word goal while working a full time job when I wrote The Watchers. (Which will be released sometime before the end of this year.) So, I know I can do 50,000.

Can I double that?

I think, if I have a road map of what I need to accomplish - meaning I have a solid plotline established - then I should be able to sit and write without meandering. Having a plan is the key.

But isn't that the key for any undertaking? 

I know I'm talking about writing a book here. But honestly, all this I've done applies to anything we wish to accomplish. I talk about finding the path you are meant to walk here. I talk about living your dream. But if you're stumbling around blindly, you'll never get there. So that's why I'm sharing my plan with you. I want to show that living my dream isn't the easy path. It takes thought. It takes planning. Worse, it takes DISCIPLINE.

Yes, the yucky D word. Even with all my planning, I still have to sit down and write. Not play around on facebook. Not chat with friends. Not make excuses that I have other things to do. I will probably have to turn down some money making jobs from time to time and write instead. Why? Because this is what I really want to do with my life and the only way to make it happen is to simply sit down and do it.

The last thing we all need to accomplish our dreams... The one most important thing...

Daily. Sometimes hourly, is PRAYER.  I pray for clarity. I pray for inspiration. I pray for the right words. I sit and talk with God about where this story needs to go, how to solve a problem I didn't expect.

Which brings me to my last point about following your dreams: Never think you are alone in your quest.

At least, you don't have to be.

Dream Big!
J

~~*~~

Have you read Luminosity yet? What did you think? I honestly want to know. Tell me here by leaving a comment. Or better yet, if you purchased the book on Amazon, leave me a review.

Reviews help my rating in Amazon and helps others decide if they want to read my books. They also help me to get on advertising sites.

Things to look forward to:
I'm putting together a devotional for Illuminated. I'll have it up as a PDF file you can print or download. (Soon as I figure out how to do that) The devotional is simply scriptures to help you along your own journey. I've asked Lotari to help me put it together, so I'm sure he'll have something to say in the forward.

Another project in the hopper is a mini-story written from Tarek's point of view about why he helped Alyra escape Racah. Ever wonder, "What was that crazy boy thinking?" Well, soon you'll find out.

Be blessed dear friends. Happy travels.

Luminosity Book Two Is Here

 Finally, I'm happy to announce that Luminosity is alive and available at Amazon and Createspace. 

Alburnium is at war.
Eighteen-year-old Alyra’s joy of being reunited with her family fades when Prince Issah sends her beloved friends away on quests across the kingdom. Allies must be gathered to stand against the dark ruler, Lord Darnel.
The reclusive dragons happen to be necessary allies. Alyra’s friendship with the young drake, Crystal, offers a slim hope of being heard by them instead of being burned.
Alyra must travel to Drakensburg with her resentful brother, Ethan, a Messenger, who doesn’t trust her, a prankster Okbold intent on honoring his debt to her, and a unseen Guardian Instructor, who must teach her how to use the Illuminate’s gift before they reach the dragons' hold.
Ethan has the words to persuade the dragons. Alyra carries the red fruit of the white tree to present as a peace offering. Until she finds Tarek, beaten and near death. She must choose between using the fruit to save the man she loves, or the kingdom she serves.

“To accomplish this quest, you must put the past where it properly belongs… behind you. Set your face on the road ahead. Are you willing?” 

 Issah-Prince of Alburnium

Are You Ready for a Challenge?

Read Chapter One Here.

Listen to the Luminosity Playlist while your reading the book

Being the Piece You're Meant To Be

If you listened to the Luminosity playlist, you might have noticed I started off with Casting Crown's City on a Hill song. (listen to song at the end of this post.) When I first heard the song a few months back, I was astounded over how much the theme of the song went along with Luminosity's story theme. And I couldn't help but wonder, is the Holy Spirit trying to say something? Maybe.

When I first started the White Road Chronicles, there were two things I had to include in the storyline. The Meeting Halls and the Medallions which signify a person's gifting. We must have BOTH in our walk with God. We need the fellowship of believers, a support group to help us on our journey, and we need to know where we are going.

Not everyone will travel the same path. There are many White Roads in this life. Sometimes they crisscross, but they all head in the same direction. God is a God of diversity. Everywhere we look, we see it. Even to the point that it's near impossible to find two leaves exactly the same on the a tree. Our fingerprints are unique. Our eyes. Our looks! In all the billions of gazillions of people in this world, there are not two who are exactly alike. Even with twins. There are slight variances between the two individuals that mark them as individual.

So why, with all the uniqueness right before our eyes, would we think there is only one way to get something done? Why? Why would we think our way is better than his or her way? Why would we ever dare to believe we are better than someone else?

Truth is, God designed us as individuals with unique talents and unique abilities so He could reach this diverse world He created. I know not everyone will agree with me on this, but it's Biblical. I Cor. 12:4-6. Different talents, but the same spirit that gives them. The same source. The same one and only God who endows his children with what they need to bring his Kingdom to fruition.

If you're looking around at how bad the world has become, and nobody can deny it's not great, the real question that needs to be asked is what are we doing with the talents God has given us to make his Kingdom whole?

These are some of the questions presented in Luminosity. Questions Alyra has to come to terms with, and her brother Ethan. And the others, as well, who must find what they are capable of - great or small - and decide how will they use what have to help and not hinder their King?

From Chapter 9 in Luminosity:

Ethan interjected, “But the Academy only accepts selected warriors, Your Highness. What about those who are not imparted with the emblem, yet still wish to fight?”

Issah also accepted a cup of tea from the Okbold. Alyra shook her head, unable to stomach anything else. The tension in the room hung like dense clouds on a stormy day.

“Son, if everyone would simply use the giftings they’re given, to their fullest capacity, then eventually, we’ll succeed in overcoming Darnel’s influences. There are many ways to fight the enemy that does not require taking up weapons.”

“But Issah, the towns are unprotected.” Ethan persisted.

“You yourself have gone into many of these towns to deliver instructions on how they should protect themselves. Did you find listening ears, son?”

Ethan shook his head and turned toward the flames. “Still, we can’t abandon them.”

“Abandoning is never my intention.” Issah sipped his tea, then gave DezPierre a appreciative nod. The creature stood a bit straighter, looking pleased.

Shelton’s wife, Dulcet spoke next, “We’ve already lost one son and fear losing more. Please, Issah, tell us what to do.”

“Daughter, do what I’ve commissioned you to do when you received your medallion. That is all I expect from anyone.” Issah reached over and grasped Alyra’s hand. “Speaking of medallions, we should discuss the reason you’ve come tonight.”

~~*~~

What have you been given to do? Not sure? Have you ever taken a spiritual inventory, or personality test? That might be a good place to start. Here's the links for a few places that offer free tests. Take them a more than once and see what seems to stand out the most. Talk to your pastor, parents or a trusted leader about what strengths the quizzes show you. Finding your strengths will help you live at your strongest and be most successful in your life.

Free Spiritual Gifts Analysis
LifeWay Spiritual Gift test

Myer's Briggs Personality Test

When I come across more, I'll be sure to post the links on this site.
Happy travels!

Here's the video I mentioned above from Casting Crowns talking about the story behind City on a Hill. And following is the actual song which is also found in the playlist.

Luminosity Playlist is now avaliable

I've been asked, what kind of music do I like to listen to? Well, that depends on what's going on. Perhaps as you can tell from my playlist, my taste is varied. When I'm writing, I need music. It inspires, helps me think, and puts me in another world where anything is possible. Like stories, I believe music is the air our creative souls breathe.

I don't know how many times a song would come on the radio, or in a store, that snapped at my attention. I'd stop, thinking, "Yes, that's exactly what my story is trying to say." My son turned me onto SoundHound and other music identifying apps. How did I ever manage before such wonderful tools were made available? I don't know.

So if you ever see me with my phone held up high, tapping to a song playing on the loud speakers, I've probably just caught a story song. It's an amazing experience and hard to explain. But there it is. And here is Book Two's playlist.

Look for Luminosity's release in the coming weeks! It's close, folks!

Playlist for Luminosity

1. City on the Hill -Casting Crowns
2. The Call - Regina Spektor
3. Yael Naim - New Soul
4. This is Home - Switchfoot
5. ColdPlay - Fix You
6. Joe Cocker - have a little faith in me
7. Alanis Morissette - "Guardian"
8. Coldplay - Paradise
9. Mumford & Sons - Roll Away Your Stone
10. Sheryl Crow - Everyday is a Winding Road
11. Imagine Dragons - It's Time
12. Kari Jobe - You Are For Me
13. Fearlessly  - Luminate
14. Good To Be Alive - Jason Gray

When Life Goes Amiss... Get Out of the Tree!

During the last stages of the editing phase on Luminosity, it seems I've been hit with one mishap after another.

I don't wish to turn this post into a whine-fest, so let's just say that I've had to deal with computer problems to health problems. Which in turn, has put off my intended publication date.

So, the other weekend, I went into church (aka the Meeting Hall) dragging my little wagon full of discouragement and frustration. And during the worship time, this scene came to me.

This is from Book 2- a part of the scene. I took out important things that would give away a few surprises and left it at the bare bones. Because it was the very last part, that really struck my heart.

Like my little hero Alyra, I was hiding away with my sorrow keeping me company, despite what my friends might say about keeping my chin up and to keep going. And here's a truth. When we are pounded with troubles, Jesus eagerly beckons us to him with open arms. Understand, I said, beckons to. Hiding away and moping will get us nowhere.

So, as I said, this scene came to me while I was worshiping, okay, pouting about all the crap that was happening.

~~*~~

From Chapter 10 - Luminosity

Alyra returned the journal to her bag. Grow up? This. Was. Not. Her. Fault!

Lotari simply didn’t understand her problem. She yanked at a willow limb in irritation.

Alyra sighed as she rested against the trunk. She’d made herself a promise to start trying harder to do what’s right. A week had passed since and she’d already had one major blow up in front of her family and their friends. So much for acting her age.

Maybe being from Racah damaged her.

“I hear you brooding in there.” Issah’s leather boots appeared through an opening in the low hanging leaves.

She remained still, not sure she wanted to talk to anyone. Enough with the lectures.

Arms folded across his chest, Issah stared toward the meadow. His voice sounded tired, and lacked his normal enthusiasm.

“Despite the pain his foot is giving him, your father was about to come searching for you himself. He’s so worried.”

Alyra cringed. She’d forgotten to check Da's foot this morning. Add horrid daughter to her list of dysfunctions.

“Come out.” Issah crouched, stretching his hand to her. His earthy brown eyes took on the color of wet clay, like Lotari’s when he was upset. “I promised Stephan I’d bring you back home. Are you finished yet?”

“With what?” She drew her knees up to her chest, unwilling to move from her secluded place.

“Feeling sorry for yourself.  I am so sorry that you’ve had to undergo more ridicule.” The sadness in his voice startled her. “What really distresses me, though, is your total lack of trust in me. You still doubt that I care for you.”

How could he say such a thing? She grasped his hand and let him help her out of her hiding spot, “That’s not true.”

“Of course it’s true. Otherwise you would know I have your best interest at heart.”

She opened her mouth to argue, but the passionate fierceness on his face, caused her lips to close with a snap.

~~*~~

So there I stood, with this scene running through my mind. A scene, mind you, I actually wrote nearly seven years ago. And that day, those words came back when I needed them most.

Despite all the crap hitting my fan, despite all the set backs and attacks on my computers, health, and other stuff, God loves me. He not only loves me, he has a plan for me. A plan to prosper. A good plan. A plan that will not bring me harm, but hope for my future. (Jeremiah 29:11)

Not only does God have my best interest at heart, He has a plan, a way through the mess I find my way in. There is always a way through. Always. Isaiah 41:10- So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

He has this! Whatever we are going through. So, my friends, pull your head out from under those covers, set down that wagon full of despair, and come down out of that tree!

Keep going. Keep fighting. You're not alone in the storm.

~~~*~~~

Which brings me to the good news!
Luminosity is now with a couple of beta readers who are helping me with line editing for mistakes. So soon as I get my last edits back, and make the corrections, I'll be sending her out into the wide world.

It's taken longer than I intended. But I'm happy with the outcome and excited about this story. I know it's better than Illuminated, which I loved that story, too, but know it has a slowish beginning.

I'm hoping the end results of book two will please my readers, as well. 



One more announcement on something fun I participated in:
 A group of writer friends got together and donated a couple of flash fiction pieces to help raise funds to support the yearly Chapter Book Challenge. 

I've been reading through the other's work and finding the short stories wonderful. When I want a quick read during breakfast, or while standing in a line or waiting for an appointment, I open my copy of Teapot Tales. Some are serious and tug at your heart strings, some will make you chuckle out loud. I have two stories in the Anthology.

Check the book out on Amazon. It's inexpensive and helps a good cause.



Be blessed, dear reader friends.
Oh, and for your listening pleasure, here is the song they were singing during the worship service, which reminded me where I stood with Him.
JC

Coming Soon! Book Cover Revealing

That's right, Luminosity- book two is near completion. Check back tomorrow for a cover revealing and a peek at chapter one.

Oh, and if you're not up on what's going on, Illuminated - Book One remains on sale this month for $1.99.

Happy Reading, and stop back by tomorrow to see my beautiful cover, done by the same artist who created the cover for Illuminated. (See side tab for artist information.)

See you all here tomorrow!

Jerin of Yarholm - Oh, those Warrior Wanna-be's

Scene from Illuminated: Book 1 of the White Road Chronicles:

The doors to the inn burst open. A burly youth with an angry scowl stood in the entrance. He held a three-foot log in his upraised hand and a loaded slingshot that swayed like a pendulum in the other. His pale blue eyes scanned the now quiet room.

“I’ve had enough!” His voice rumbled like a snowy avalanche. “Enough of you blasted little pests planting weeds in my crops! Enough of you spoiling my milk and everything else I try to do! Heads will roll. I swear it!” 

DezPierre hopped from his seat. “Oh dear, Jerin’s on a rampage again. Stay here, Miss. I need to help smooth this out.” He hurried off to face the irate youth.

 When Jerin first appeared in Illuminated, my only purpose for him was to get Alyra onto the White Road. After that, I planned to send him back home to deal with his pesky Okbold problem. 

However--

Jerin glared at them all, his stubbly chin jutted out in contempt. He nearly matched the height of a grizzly, with sinewy arms and legs thick like pillars, though he looked no more than twenty summers.

The log swayed threateningly above his block-shaped head.

“I don’t plan to bust up the tavern, Rog. Just their heads, that’s all. They’ve got to go, and they’ve got to go now.”

DezPierre spoke up. “Oh, come now, boy. Why all this anger? Come and have a sit with Ol’ Dez, yes? We work this out. We learn to live together and get along, yes?”

“No!” Jerin brought the stick down over his head. The club hit the ground so hard, it splintered into pieces. DezPierre darted under a table and continued his peace talks from there. 

“Foolish boy! Is this necessary? I tries to be reasonable. All this-” He waved his twig like arms around, “-is big mistake, yes? Perhaps you not clear all weeds from your fields before planting, eh? Is this not possible? And perhaps you set milk too close to stove and it sours, no?”

Jerin paused a moment as if considering. “No. I planted a whole field of corn and instead, produced blasted dandelions. The milk came out of the cow soured and somehow curdled into moldy cheese in a matter of a day. So, no, the mistake wasn’t mine.” 

DezPierre glanced at the others, and with an innocent laugh, said, “Oh… well then… I thinks everyone had better… run!”

Jerin of Yarholm, was not to be sent back home so easily.

And this, my friends, is the true nature of a Warrior.

I pictured Channing Tatum when I first met Jerin, but not as pretty.
Jerin of Yarholm is a huge man, all block-like features, simplistic attitude, but a big heart.

He's a black and white thinker. If he's going, then you better get a move on. He doesn't like to goof around. Creatures are trouble. All of them. Even the nice ones. Trouble, trouble, trouble and best avoided.


And he's a fighter who must learn how to choose his battles and become more than just another foot solider.

Truth is, being a Warrior, is more than swinging a sword. Lots more.


So, I had this bit character. And as I said, I'd fully intended to send him back home. General Marcel had other ideas and felt Jerin needed to make the trip to Aloblase with Alyra.

Alyra and I weren't very happy about that at first. But we warmed up to the big oaf.

Warriors can be intense.

They're crusaders, after all, fighting for the greater good.
They're bold, and generally opinionated. Really opinionated. Really.
And they are generally at the forefront of whatever is going on.
They argue well.
They often believe the only right opinion is theirs.
They are constantly in motion.

Know anyone like this? I've met a few.

In the church, I see them on the worship teams. Leading a congregation in praise is akin to taking up a sword and hefting off the head of an enemy.

Warriors are also found in the missionaries who go into dangerous places. It's like taking a thrill ride to them, they love the adventure and the feeling of making a difference.

Warriors are those who go out into the streets preaching to the lost.

Warriors are also those who stand up to a bully who's picking on someone else.
Warriors are those who want to change what's wrong. Who fight for the rights of others.
Warriors are willing to go into the unknown places and bring aid, despite what it might cost them.

A warrior is a great friend to have. Truth. 
They are loyal, firm, steadfast and diligent in what they do.


Have you seen any Warrior types in your life? If you find one traveling along the same path you are journeying on, I'd encourage you to strike up a friendship. You'll need a bit of patience and understanding, but you'll have a true and valiant friend indeed.
  


Here is Jerin's Song from the Illuminated Playlist. One thing Warriors need to figure out is what, exactly, they are fighting for. This is Jerin's story in Illuminated. As Marya the Healer said, there is a difference between being a warrior and just being a soldier. A big difference. 




In other news....

Luminosity is nearing publication. The cover is in the works and I have to say, it's stunning and I can't wait to do the cover reveal party.

Look for Illuminated to go on sale in July. For those who haven't read it, you might want to before book two comes out.

I'm excited about this project now that I've settled on it being a series. I'm a fan of book series. Yes, it's hard waiting for the next one to come out, but I love being vested in a character's life and seeing them grow. And I hate when it ends!

I'm still missing Hogwarts. I have a dream Rowling might go back there... someday.

Anyway, keep checking back for more news. I've finished my rewrites and am in the editing process.

Soon! Alyra's adventures will continue, along with all her friends, Lotari, Stitch, Katrina and Jerin. Plus, there's new fun characters you'll meet as well. Oh, and DezPierre is most definitely back! Poor Alyra.

Happy Reading.

Update on Luminosity

I've been a busy girl. 

So-- here's my (semi)-lame excuses on why I haven't blogged in two... maybe three weeks.

1. I chipped a tooth and had to work a bunch of extra substitute jobs to earn enough money to get it fixed. Even with insurance, I'm still left with a hefty bill. 

2. I came across a word tracker to help me keep up with my progress. Thing is, the word tracker was one from NaNoWriMo. If you've never heard of NaNoWriMo, that's the HOLY COW I MUST BE CRAZY challenge thousands, if not more, writers take in November to write 50,000 words in a month.

Guess what? I have found that I can write 50,000 words in a month and once finished a novel for kids during one of these challenges. So, I set my goal for 60,000 words for the month (since the word tracker only worked for a month) and attempted to get my book's rewrites finished in that month.

Guess what? I kind of did it. Kind of meaning, I only have four scenes left to write, but I don't want to write them until I've gone back and done the edits on the other chapters. I like to keep things unfinished so I don't get into the mind frame that I'm finished with this and get tired of it.  It's a mental thing... that's all I can say.

3. And Guess What-else? When attempting to write 60,000 words in a month, while working two or three days a week all day, plus still working my night job at the book store... some things get forgotten: such as getting out of my pjs, eating, being out in the sun. Has anyone seen my dog? Didn't I have a teenager hanging around here at one time or another?

Ha, kidding. sorta.
Anyway, so yeah, I've been busy.

I found this on facebook or somewhere and it's on my desktop to keep me inspired. lol

Here's the good news! Yes, I actually have some.
If my estimates are correct... stop rolling your eyes, I can do this!
If my estimates are correct, Book Two: Luminosity should be variable by the end of July.
(yes, that's the final, for real, not gonna change my mind again, title of the next book. For really real.)

I've set a goal to finish my edits by the end of June, before I go off for a week anniversary get-a-way.
TWENTY-FIVE years, baby!! They should like give out awards and hold a celebration for those who make it this many years. You know?

 (focus, focus! Cut me a break, I've been mad-writing for the past month and that does things to people. lol.) 
Anyway, after I do my edits, I'll give the story over to a couple of beta readers. I'm still on the look out for an editor... which I'm confident I'll find someone. Of course, then I have to fix the mistakes. Hopefully, I'll catch more this time than my first time.
I feel more confident about how to load the books, what I want for my cover and all that. I've climbed that big mountain of first print and now walk confidently toward my destination.

If only I had a map. Oh well.

And now that I'm out of my writing frenzy and back in Reality, I have more blog post to work on. A house to clan up. A dog and kid to find. (kidding.)

I'm working on Jerin's bio and will have that out soon.

So keep checking back. When I have the book cover done I'll start sharing more about what happens in Book Two. I'm pleased with how it turned out.

I've come to the conclusion that this story has a will and mind of its own. I've also come to the conclusion that I don't have just four books in this series, but even more. So for those of you who like Alburnium, Alyra, and her friends, they have several stories in the making and just might be around awhile longer than I anticipated.

In Illuminated, Book One- Jerin takes a lot of time to draw out a map of where they will be going and how long it should take, and all the places they can stop. About halfway though their journey, he's crumpled up the map and shoved it down into the bottom of his pack.

This is often the way of our best laid plans. Which is why I love this scripture so much:

Proverbs 16:9-
In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps. 

This is simply life. We try to grab hold and make things work our way, but if we're walking God's path, he has his own plans. So, better to relax and enjoy the ride, is what I say.

Like Jerin, I plotted out this book, and I will still use my scenes and plot notes, just not the way I intended. This is and always will be God's book. I've prayed often asking for his direction and guidance while writing. He has a plan for this. And if that means I have to keep changing my plans, then so be it.

I'll never lose with him as my guide.

Are you up for a new journey? Or perhaps... a quest?

Lotari the Centaur - Never Discount the Underdog

Growing up, my Mom always told me to never discount the underdogs. People and circumstances are not always what they seem. 

Biographical Sketch of Lotari the Centaur from the River Woods:

Age: somewhere around 150 years
Eyes: gray like storm clouds
Hair: brown and wavy. Usually full of leaves and sticks
Height: from head to front hooves - 6'4"


WHAT IS SOMETHING THIS CHARACTER WANTS?
To be useful (Book 1)
To make a difference (Book 2)
To defend what he's worked hard to accomplish (Book 3)
To stop evil's reign once and for all.(Book 4)

CHARACTER TALENTS:
Knows herbal medicine and Healing skills
Is skilled with a bow and arrow, and can manage a sword quite well.
Plays the flute.
He's a mentor at heart.


MEDALLION: Needle and Thread - because he is called to mend broken relations between creature and humans.

 IN BOOK ONE
Lotari (Lot) is called from his safe River Woods surrounding the Kingdom town of Many Rivers to travel with the young girl Alyra. He fears that instead of helping, he will cause her and the hateful Jerin of Yarholm more trouble. However, the girl child has won his heart and he realizes she might be an important key to the Kingdom of Alburnium defeating the dark one, Darnel. So he undertakes the perilous journey to Aloblase, determined to make sure Alyra reaches the city safely, even if it means giving up everything he holds dear.

You can find more White Chronicles pictures on my Pinterest board.

"PAW. Did he just say I had paws..."- Lotari (Illuminated by Jackie Castle)

HERE'S SOME BACK STORY:

It wasn't until I was preparing this book for publication when I realized just where Lotari came from. I suppose, some life lessons are so embedded in our spirits we forget where they came from. So I want to take a moment to share with you the person who inspired Lotari.

In my story Illuminated, Lotari the centaur is loosely based on my friend Joey who I met during my high school years.

At around four or five years of age, Joey woke up one day to that he could no longer walk. He’d contacted some kind of disease that would render his muscles useless. When I met him, he was still the height of a five year old and bound to a motorized wheelchair. I never knew his real age, but think he was in his late twenties or early thirties.

I met Joey in church. He came zipping in, weaving his chair past groups of people conversing, the whine of his motor drowning out the muddled conversations. First thing I noticed, aside from his odd appearance, was his smile. His face wasn’t elated, or excited, but rather content, like one who’d found the most comfortable spot on the couch.

He wheeled up to the front pew, adjusted his chair, then sat and waited for service to start. The girl I was visiting with grabbed my arm and started pulling me toward the front, saying, “You’ve got to meet, Joey. I just love him.”

And that was generally how the whole congregation viewed him. Over time, I found out why.

When Joey talked, to get started took great effort. His small twisted body would tremble and shake as he formed the words he wanted to say. But once he got started, and when he had something important, and usually life changing, to say his words flowed from his mouth with hardly any effort at all.

It didn’t take long before I also totally loved this guy.

He was passionate.

I’d watch him during worship while everyone sang and lifted their hands in praise. Joey’s arms had little mobility, aside from his being able to move his arm enough in a forward direction to push the little stick that moved his chair. But he would always lift his face toward the heavens. And his face spoke of his utter and complete love for the God he served. Never once did I ever hear him ask why he was deformed. If he did, it was between him and God. Never once did I hear him complain about what he couldn’t do. To him, with God, all things were possible. He believed that, he prayed that, and he lived that.

He was fearless.

Because of his condition, he was totally dependent on his mother for all physical care. He wasn’t even able to feed himself. But that didn’t stop him from calling up his buddy who never seemed to mind loading Joey up in the van and driving him wherever he wanted to go. And go, Joey did. He’d talk his friend into driving to downtown Dallas where’s they cruise the back streets. There he’d strike up conversations with the people he met: prostitutes, homeless, and anyone else they came across. What did he talk about? He talked about his favorite topic, God’s love.

He was a friend.

To anyone. Anyone who came to him, from nicely dressed businessmen, to a struggling teenager, like myself, he made time to stop and talk, to listen, to hear your heart and impart some kind of wisdom. Joey helped me to understand God. To understand how to trust God even when things made no sense. He got me through my first time I’d been fired, and through all the teen angst experienced in those years. I counted him as one of my very best friends.

So when I was writing my story Illuminated, and Lotari the centaur popped out of the trees when Alyra was lost in the woods, I knew deep in my heart that Joey had resurfaced. No, I can’t say Lotari is Joey. Lotari is a fictional character in my story. Joey was a real, life-changing friend in my life. But I make that association because I know some people have problems with mythical creatures. They’re generally portrayed as evil, bad. Just as some people who are different (physically, developmentally, or other) are avoided, or shunned because we simply don’t know how to deal with them.

Alyra found a friend in the centaur. Just as I found a friend in wheelchair bound Joey. My hope is that readers will be touched by Alyra and Lotari's fictional friendship and start to understand that looks are deceiving.  Don’t shun away from people who act and look different than you. Why? Because you never know when you’ll find a friend who will help you manage your way through the dark, scary woods and get you back on your path. You just never know.

Here's Lotari's song: Kelly Clarkson's Dark Side

Read more about Lotari and Alyra in Book One of the White Road Chronicles

Illuminated: available on Nook and Kindle 

What Are Readers Saying?
“Quickly grabs the reader's interest.”

“Teens and young adults will really enjoy it!”