A Historical Mystery Romance Release

This new Historical Romance series is set in the 1800s. Each story has a mystery to solve and each book is family friendly. I have just released a new book in this series, which takes place in 1839 in the United States. This was a time of turmoil for many, especially for those who supported the abolitionist movement.

In A Pleasant Rivalry, Angelica Davis is surprised when she finds out that an old school chum has returned to Willow Valley to take over his grandfather’s business. Since she writes articles for the Chronicle and Simon Morgan owns the Willow Valley News, they just happen to be rivals. The competition is on. Who will be the first to discover the identity of the jewel thief or the arsonist? Will it be Angelica or Simon? Gradually the feelings she once had for him return as they both search for the same stories. To her surprise, Angelica realizes she is losing her heart to her rival. 

Sunnie Reviews wrote: “I loved this book!  It was a great historical read and full of surprises.  I totally didn't expect what happened… to happen.  The time period was an interesting one and I love how the author intertwines historical events into the story.  It was a new and refreshing tale.”

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You will learn about the Trail of Tears, the abolitionist movement that began in Illinois, the refugees that were kicked out of Missouri, and you will fall in love all over again as you see two classmates bond in a pleasant rivalry.

It has been thirteen years since Angelica saw her classmate. He left at the age of seventeen to join the Navy. Now he’s back to run his grandfather’s newspaper business. With Simon running the Willow Valley News and Angelica writing articles for the Chronicle, the competition is on. Who will get the story first? Angelica or her rival?

"What a delightful story! Clarke's characters just get better and better. They have always seemed like real people... partly, I guess, because many of them are. I loved how everything dove-tailed in this story. It flowed so perfectly." --Linda Badurek

Since this is book three in the series, you will meet a few of those from previous stories. You will see Nicholas and Felicity from book one and Emmeline and Lucas from book two. They were beloved characters that snuck back into this story and are even more enchanting. They add a bit of fun to this story.

The first book in the Willow Valley series is One Last Dance. Felicity Brooks is an artist but her career is cut short when her father passes away. When Felicity meets their new neighbor, a fine-looking bachelor, she soon discovers that he is hiding his true identity. Nicholas Adams is on a quest. But that is not all. When she finds out that someone is after a valuable heirloom…a precious treasure that her father had discovered in his attic, her life takes a new turn.

“One Last Dance is a historical romance with a mystery to add to the tale. Felicity has always been a strong and independent woman. Amongst mystery, loss, paintings, and a career, she is going to have to decide if love has a place in her heart.” --Author Anna Del C Dye

The second book in the Willow Valley series is Angel’s Serenade.  Emmeline Scott is raising her sister’s two children and is surprised when she finds out the new doctor in town is helping her nephew adapt to his surroundings. It is not easy to be uprooted and have to start a new life. As Emmeline gets to know the charming doctor, Lucas Golden, they become intrigued by her neighbor’s mysterious behavior. Will they discover his secret? And who is the leader of the River Pirates, who is causing so much havoc?

“Clarke has created a sweet romance that will warm the heart, and it’s wrapped up in fascinating yesteryear details of courting, medical practice and river pirates. I highly recommend the book to those who enjoy sweet romance with a bit of mystery.” –Author Gail Pallotta

Linda’s Website: www.lindaweaverclarke.com

My Book Blog: https://lindaweaverclarke.wordpress.com

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A Pleasant Rivalry is available at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Z49N2LJ

Angel’s Serenade is available at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RV79LDN

One Last Dance is available at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GVNWSP9 

About Author:

Linda Weaver Clarke was raised among the Rocky Mountains of southern Idaho and now lives among the red hills of southern Utah. She is the author of Historical Romance, Cozy Mysteries, Swashbuckling Romance, a Children’s Book, and Nonfiction. Linda teaches a class about writing your family history that is free to the public at the Family Search Center in Southern Utah. She is also a missionary at the Family Search Center where she helps people find their ancestors so they can learn about their heritage.

Mystery Suspense Audiobooks

This week I'm highlighting my new audio book series from The Adventures of John and Julia Evans. These books are full of adventure and mystery, with a touch of romance. Since this series is family friendly, these stories are labeled as cozy mysteries. I hope you enjoy them. There is a description of each audiobook, a review, and a sample audio to listen to.

Julia is a newspaper reporter and her husband is a professional knife maker. Because of her curiosity, John and Julia find themselves in trouble a few times. The Evans also have three college age daughters, which add a little spice to their life. She never realized that being a reporter could be so dangerous.

Anasazi Intrigue
 

When a devastating flood takes out several homes in a small town, residents are shocked by the news of also a possible poison spill that kills many of the fish and neighbor's pets. Julia, the town's newest reporter, begins her investigation but realizes the story is much bigger and more dangerous than she thought! Julia and her husband find themselves on the run trying to save their lives while finishing the story of a lifetime! She never realized that being a reporter could be so dangerous. With artifacts, dead fish, a devastating flood, and miscreants, John and Julia have their hands full.

“This is the first book I've read by Linda Weaver Clarke and I'm already hooked. The first pages grab you right in and grab at your heartstrings as you read about the destruction caused by the flood. When Julia and John fight for their lives, readers will be on the edge of their seats for this one.

“There's also romance in the mix. John and Julia's marriage is strong and they are quite supportive of each other. Even when they have their ups and downs, it's not for long and they get right back into each other's arms. It's nice to see a relationship portrayed this way. Very realistic and believable. In fact, all the characters are portrayed realistically including their three daughters.” --Socrates Book Review

 

Mayan Intrigue

The discovery of a priceless artifact puts Julia's life in great danger. While on assignment for the newspaper, John and Julia Evans try to enjoy a romantic vacation among the Mayan ruins. When Julia sees a couple suspicious men exchanging an item, she quickly turns and leaves but it is too late. The men have seen her. Before John and Julia realize what is going on, they are both in danger and find themselves running for their lives through the jungles of the Yucatan.

“What starts out as a romantic trip quickly turns into a dangerous adventure among the Mayan ruins and jungles, and the vacationers are on the run from thieves--and wild animals! Excitement prevails! This book is full of mystery and suspense. Linda’s writing is lively and down-to-earth; she has the ability to make you feel as if you're in these stories, along with John and Julia, trying to decipher the truth and escape from harm.” --Susan Ortlieb, Suko’s Notebook Reviews

 

 

Montezuma Intrigue 

When a leather parchment of Montezuma's map is found in great-grandfather Evans' old chest, April and the twins know this summer is going to be a memorable one. The girls want to search for it but their father is against it for some mysterious reason. With Julia's help, she and the girls convince John to go on a treasure hunt. Is Montezuma's treasure a legend or reality? Whatever the case, John insists on keeping their little treasure hunt a secret. If certain people find out about it, the family could be in danger.

“I am charmed by Montezuma Intrigue. The mysteries continue as this author entrances us with life-like characters and electrifying adventures. The search for Montezuma's treasure is both exciting and memorable. There are also a few romances, and some surprises as well, which kept my reading pleasurable and lively. I enjoyed the adventure and suspense in her latest novel, which kept me reading well into the night.” --Susan Ortlieb, Suko’s Notebook

 

Desert Intrigue

 When Julia's brother announces that his dude ranch is haunted, she believes that someone is trying to sabotage his place and force him to sell. The mysterious happenings have to do with Superstition Mountain, the lost Dutchman's goldmine, and the great Thunder God. Is it possible that the legend of the Thunder God is actually true? After a terrible thunderstorm, everyone begins to wonder. John and Julia quickly head to Mesa, Arizona and discover a few mysterious events. Will they find out who is behind these disasters before Uncle Kelly's dude ranch is ruined?

“As a guy, it was really great to see a man, check that men, being shown as strong not only physically, but emotionally as well. I've read a lot of books where the guy in the book isn't shown as being connected to his wife/girlfriend through anything other than surface thoughts. With John and his brother-in-law Kelly, though, I saw them as ‘men's men’, and ones that also were invested in the life of the women around them. The story moved quick enough, there were plenty of red herrings to keep me guessing, right down to the ending of the book.” –Rick Estep, Reviews From A Man's Perspective

More Fun Reviews:

“I loved the first three books in this series, but I actually loved this one even more. I didn’t think that was possible. The characters are so well written and I absolutely adore each member of the Evans family. They grab at your heartstrings and won’t let go. As for the story, talk about fast-paced. Desert Intrigue is that and more! It’s a book that will leave you with that warm fuzzy feeling. Linda Weaver Clarke has outdone herself with this book! I'm sure it comes as no surprise that it's getting my Socrates' Great Book Alert.” –Socrates Book Reviews

“Desert Intrigue is an entertaining and joyful book, my favorite in this mystery series by Linda Weaver Clarke.  I love the sparks of romance in this adventure--they spice things up and add much interest to the story. The book has a handful of surprises that I did not anticipate, and the mystery fuels much of the action.” –Suko’s Notebook

“This book can be read safely by anyone, and the romance scenes are absolutely delectable! The mystery in the book is probably the best I have seen from Linda Weaver Clarke. She gave subtle details, but even I did not have it all figured out by the end.” –My Devotional Thoughts

  
LEARN HOW TO GET A FREE AUDIO BOOK FROM AUDIBLE! Receive this audiobook free if you join audible.com. Membership includes two free audiobooks and you can choose from 150,000+ titles. Go to Linda Weaver Clarke’s Audible Page and find the book you’re interested in and sign up for some free audiobooks.

My Audible Page: https://www.audible.com/author/Linda-Weaver-Clarke/B004P47EWO

Inspriational Romance Book Release Celebration

Today we’re celebrating a Book Release for Regina Andrews’ new book: IN GOOD FAITH. She will be having a giveaway of two free ebooks to three readers who comment, chosen at random. They will receive an ebook of IN GOOD FAITH and their choice of any of the Sterling Lakes Series Books 1-4. 

Welcome, Regina, to my blog. Please tell us about your new Inspirational Romance.

Hello Linda. Thank you very much for hosting me on your blog. I am very excited because IN GOOD FAITH, my new inspirational romance novel, has just been released. It is the first book in my new series, the Dunbar Falls Series.

About IN GOOD FAITH: When Haley Hawthorne’s future is out at a crossroad and she can’t get air, what will she do? The Past is closing in on her. Faced with upheaval, will Haley choose the path God has set out for her, and what part in her future will Carrier play?

A Sampling of Amazon Reviews

Heartfelt Superb Story--Loved it!

“Haley has grown used to city life, but goes back to her hometown when her uncle passes. He has left her the use of his three-story mansion if she'll stay and run his company. She encounters Aaron, a boy she's known all of her life and discovers all the locals know how much he cares for her, even if she doesn't. She's been too caught up in city life and the hustle and bustle of it all to take the time to see people from her past or even to see what is right in front of her eyes...I highly recommend this book!” –B. J. Robinson

A Delightful Story

“This is a delightful story. I would describe Haley as a fashionable city girl in designer clothes. When she has to make the change from city girl to small town girl, it isn't easy...This is truly an adorable story.” –Linda Weaver Clarke

What Will Haley Choose?

“I received a review copy of this book, and I couldn't put it down. This novel is an engaging Christian romance without being preachy. I love how the story reinforces the real-life challenges of choosing what is best for you while keeping others in mind.” –SB101

Questions for Regina!

Regina, does your faith affect your writing? How?

I’m so glad you asked me that question. Yes, in fact my faith is really the reason why I write. My inspirational romance deals with a hero and heroine, of course. But they also deal with God’s role in our lives. We may not have a lot of faith, we may be in trouble—no matter what the circumstances, God is always there for us. And in an inspirational romance, God‘s love is what brings the hero and heroine together.

What’s next in the Dunbar Falls Series?

I am working on the second book in the series and hope to have it finished by the end of this year. The title is ACT OF FAITH, and the heroine is a character, Alison, from IN GOOD FAITH.

Thank you for visiting my blog this week. I hope many people will learn about your book and check it out.

About the Author: Inspirational Author Regina Andrews grew up in the seaside village of Barrington, Rhode Island. She still loves visiting the beach, and her other hobbies include museums, travel, and music. After graduating from college she attended the University of Delaware and eventually earned her Master’s degree in American Studies from Brown University. She is the author of The Sterling Lakes Series, The Perfect Proposal, Spotlight on Love, and the award winning e-book of the year, Destiny’s Designs, which will be re-released in August 2019.

Link to Regina’s website: http://www.reginaandrews.com/

The winner will receive an ebook of IN GOOD FAITH and their choice of any of the Sterling Lakes Series Books 1-4. I have read all these Inspirational Romances and really enjoyed them.

 

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Why Honor Our Flag?

When I see our beloved flag, I think of all the men who have fought for our freedom. The soldiers in Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan have risked their lives so freedom could be preserved. We have troops in other areas, as well. These men have left their wives, children, and families to serve their country.

Freedom is the most precious gift given to man. It isn’t free, but it’s fought for. Why do we value our freedom and hold it so close to our hearts? When we pledge allegiance to our flag, what does that mean to us? Do we take our freedom for granted? Many countries have no rights and are not at liberty to say what they feel or to worship as they please. In some countries, Christianity cannot be preached among the people. Newspapers, media, and even the Internet are all government controlled. Do we understand the freedom we possess? Do you appreciate the patriots who fought for the liberty we enjoy?

On July 4, 1776, Thomas Jefferson wrote the “Declaration of Independence.” This document inspired every patriot to fight for his liberty. It read: “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

The Declaration of Independence was inspired of God. These brave patriots hungered for freedom of choice, for their rights, and to worship according to the dictates of their own conscience. The patriots fought with every fiber of strength they had, both bond and free.

Many of these patriots were willing to die for their freedom. Nathan Hale, a 23-year-old artist and schoolteacher, felt the conviction of his beliefs so strongly that he agreed to go on a dangerous mission for George Washington. He was caught with sketches of British gun emplacements and the penalty for being a spy was death. As he marched up the steps of the gallows, he held his head high. Nathan Hale faced the people and declared boldly, “I regret that I have but one life to give for my country.”

The patriots knew the value of freedom and were willing to pay the price. Most of the victories in the south came from Colonial Francis Marion and his men. Francis Marion knew how to deal with the enemy in his own homeland. He was known as the Swamp Fox and had the slyest fighting command in the whole revolution. He had trained his men to disappear into the thick forest and swamps of South Carolina without a sound. Hidden from sight, they would strike and then quickly move through the woods like silent shadows, fading into the forest and undergrowth. Francis Marion and his men tormented the British army with one ambush after another. This frustrated the British officers because they were helpless in the woods and swamps.

After eight long years, the Americans beat the greatest military power in the world. Many patriots paid for this freedom with their lives and we should be grateful to those who fought for this liberty. We are a great nation with ancestors who fought to be free.

We should honor those who have served and fought to preserve our liberty! Take time to thank a soldier for his service!

A Willow Valley Historical Romance

Angel’s Serenade is a Historical Romance with a mystery to solve. This story is set in 1836 in the United States. You will learn about the infamous River Pirates, the remedies for illnesses of that time period, the effects that music has on a person, and you will fall in love all over again.

Emmeline Scott is raising her sister’s two children and is surprised when she finds out the new doctor in town is helping her nephew adapt to his surroundings. As Emmeline gets to know the charming doctor, they become intrigued by her neighbor’s mysterious behavior. Will they discover his secret? And who is the leader of the River Pirates, who is causing so much havoc?

“This book, combining children, doctors and music with a little bit of a mysterious pirate gang, is a lovely way to relax and enjoy positivity! Ms. Clarke has a gift for writing homey dialogue, and a deep understanding of children’s needs and feelings – all combined into a developing love story in the not-so-long-ago past. All of this results in an enjoyable read.” –Author Sherrill Cannon

When Emmeline is given the responsibility of raising her sister’s children, she finds out that it is not as easy as she thought. The children have a difficult time adapting to their new surroundings. Would giving them an education and all her love be enough? After her nephew meets the good doctor, Emmeline wonders why Sam is so drawn to him? When Doctor Lucas Golden finds out that he’s being picked on at school, he wants to help young Sam but his advice is unusual and Emmeline is not happy about his interference.

“Clarke has created a sweet romance that will warm the heart, and it’s wrapped up in fascinating yesteryear details of courting, medical practice and river pirates. I highly recommend the book to those who enjoy sweet romance with a bit of mystery.” –Author Gail Pallotta

Emmeline Scott is an accomplished pianist and teaches piano to young students. Every day at five o’clock, after her last student is gone, she sits down at the piano and plays her favorite pieces. Unbeknown to Emmeline, the new doctor across the street sits outside on his porch and listens to her play. Lucas closes his practice at 5:00 and looks forward to being serenaded. It relaxes him after a long day at work. They haven’t been introduced, but he has dubbed her “Angel Lady” because of her music.

How about the mystery surrounding this story? Emmeline is worried about her neighbor. Why is Mr. Miller acting suspicious and meeting with disagreeable men in private? Is her neighbor harboring a secret, which may prevent him from winning the election? Is it possible that Emmeline can help or is it best to not get involved?

The first book in the Willow Valley Historical Romances is One Last Dance. In this story, Felicity Brooks is an artist but her career is cut short when her father passes away. When Felicity meets their new neighbor, a fine-looking bachelor, she soon discovers that he is hiding his true identity. Nicholas Adams is on a quest. But that is not all. When she finds out that someone is after a valuable heirloom…a precious treasure that her father had discovered in his attic, her life takes a new turn.

“One Last Dance is a historical romance with a mystery to add to the tale. Felicity has always been a strong and independent woman. Amongst mystery, loss, paintings, and a career, she is going to have to decide if love has a place in her heart.” --Author Anna Del C Dye

Linda’s Website: www.lindaweaverclarke.com

Angel’s Serenade is available at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Angels-Serenade-Willow-Historical-Romance-ebook/dp/B07RV79LDN

One Last Dance is available at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Dance-Willow-Valley-Historical-Romance-ebook/dp/B07GVNWSP9

A Fantasy Extravaganza!

I enjoy Fantasies with a tender love story, an enchanting kingdom, adventure, suspense, and mystery. Young and old alike will enjoy these stories. (If you are interested in reading and reviewing or listening to any of these books, let us know.)

Magnolia’s Choice: Princess Magnolia refuses to be tied to her kingdom, Bellavista, at her father's decree. One night, she took charge and escaped to Grayville, a neighboring kingdom. However, it's one frightful escapade to the next until she meets Robin, the knight in shining armor, and the kingdom which stole her heart years ago.

Robin, the prince of Grayville, cannot forget the enchanting, yet distressed, girl who fell into his arms two years ago. He was disguised and exploring the city with his two best friends and she knew him not. Who is she and where did she go? Some say time makes everything better, but the hole in his heart grows ever painfully empty. Dare he dream of having her back in his arms?

“This is a delightful story. It's full of adventure, intrigue, and treacherous villains. Add some attraction between the princess and prince of another kingdom, and the story is hard to put down. I found myself sitting on the edge of my seat, wondering what Magnolia was going to do next. How was she going to save her kingdom? This Family Friendly story is perfect for teens and adults.” —Author Linda Weaver Clarke

To buy Magnolia’s Choice, click HERE.

The Treasure of Isian: Prince Garin is a brave, proud, adventure-seeking prince. Elani is his most trusted servant and she would do anything for him. Their quest to find the mystical Treasure of Isian is immediately interrupted and they find themselves confronted by giants, elves, dragons, and a vengeful water-witch. Elani must face her greatest fears to save her prince and her kingdom. Will they be able to make a great sacrifice to save the kingdom?

"The Treasure of Isian is a stirring tale of an enchanted servant and a handsome prince and the adventures they face together as they search for the fabled treasure of Isian that will grant the bearer any wish they desire. This story had everything--dragons, witches, giants, elves, kings, princesses, terrifying forests and true love. Once I picked it up, I couldn't put it down. The author did a wonderful job pacing the story and connecting me to the characters. I loved them all. Superb story that brought a smile to my face and helped me remember that sometimes, we can overlook the most valuable treasures in life if we're not careful."  –-Author Charissa Stastny

To buy The Treasure of Isian, click HERE.

The Alliance of Isian: Isian decides to make an alliance with their long time enemies in order to defeat a common enemy. So Isian sends a proposal, offering their daughter to the prince, in order to ensure an alliance. Princess Gabrielle and Prince Alec must learn to work together and trust each other in order to triumph in the approaching war. With a mysterious beast attacking the kingdom, their lives in danger, and overcoming their vast cultural differences, will love grow despite their trials?

“I love a good story with an arranged marriage in it--especially if it involves royalty. How could I not love this one? Gabrielle is offered up to marry handsome Prince Alec in order to forge an alliance that will help in the coming war. Their relationship progresses slowly and naturally and I really enjoyed watching it unfold. I loved the mystery and adventure and thought there was just the right amount of fantasy. Of course, my favorite parts were the romance. I loved how kind and gracious this couple was and how they worked together to find a solution to the problems at hand. I really liked the first book, but I loved this one! So far, they just keep getting better!” -- Katie Watkins, Katie’s Clean Book Collection

To buy The Alliance of Isian, click HERE.

The Secret of Isian: Many prophecies have been uttered about the impending war and those who will seek to stop it. With the war finally upon them, Rimelda, a talented seer, has heard the prophecies and believes she can help. Prince Ander, doubtful of her abilities and her true intentions, but determined to save his kingdom accepts her help and they proceed on a quest to end the war. Hindered by enemies as well as their own doubts, Ander and Rimelda must search for guidance in unlikely places and unravel the mysteries of the prophecies. With the world shrouded in darkness, will Ander accept his destiny in time to save the kingdoms and will he admit his true feelings for Rimelda?

“You will see battles with interesting characters and mythical creatures. This fantasy is an exciting story that will keep you on your toes and wondering what will happen next. And of course, there is some romance! You will want to keep reading until the end of the book to find out where the interesting twists and turns will lead you.” –Sunnie Reviews

To buy The Secret of Isian, click HERE.

*Check out Serena’s Audible Audiobook Page at https://www.audible.com/author/Serena-Clarke/B009DW3CJ2

*Check out Anna’s Audible Audiobook Page at https://www.audible.com/author/Anna-del-C-Dye/B002BLY7D2

HAPPINESS – What Does it Mean to Live a Happy Life

Article written by Ari Yeganeh

   We live in a happy-obsessed society, constantly bombarded with happy smiling faces on TV or billboard ads telling us their version of happiness. Even worse than this, we see our own friends on social media posting photos of their ridiculously happy lives; but never sharing any raw feelings of what’s really going on in their lives.

   It is an unspoken law that we all want to be happy but the reality is that most of us have not thought about what happiness means for ourselves. I used to think, if only I had the right kind of job, the right group of friends and the right partner, then I would be happy. I worked so hard chasing these goals. I saw happiness like reaching the peak of a mountain… All I had to do was work really hard, achieve all my goals and then I’ll be happy. And that’s exactly what I did. I worked really hard and got to the top of the mountain. But at the top, I didn’t find what I was looking for.

   What I actually found at the top of the mountain was disappointment. I had worked so hard to conquer my goals, and the realization that I still wasn’t happy made me even more unhappy. But little did I know, I had no idea what happiness was.

   WHAT ON EARTH IS HAPPINESS?

   There are probably as many definitions of happiness as there are humans on the planet but broadly speaking, modern psychology categorizes happiness in two parts:

   1) HAPPINESS AS AN EMOTION

   Experiencing positive emotions like joy, pleasure and excitement
We are all familiar with this type of happiness – good food, new clothes, walks on the beach, hot oil massages and puppies… lots of puppies. This is what’s constantly advertised to us and what we think of when we see our happy smiling friends on Facebook.

   2) HAPPINESS AS LIFE SATISFACTION

   Living with a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment with life
We are less familiar with this type of happiness, as it is not as straightforward as getting a massage or hugging a warm puppy. Rather it involves a deliberate process of self-discovery and cultivating the right mental attitudes to live a happy life, despite the ups and downs of everyday emotions.

   Let’s explore these… HAPPINESS AS AN EMOTION

   1) CHASING POSITIVE EMOTIONS

    Imagine if there was a machine you could plug yourself into that made you feel pleasure and joy 100% of the time. Better yet, you wouldn’t know you were plugged in so you would have no feelings of guilt. Would you plug in or stay in your current life? The answer you give this question can reveal a lot about how you feel about happiness as an emotion.

   If you asked me this question shortly after I had finished climbing my mountain of happiness, I would have almost certainly said yes. This is because I saw happiness only as an emotion that I had to feel on a regular basis. If I was not experiencing emotional happiness in the form of pleasure or joy regularly, my conclusion was that I’m not happy and that something is wrong.

   This is why I chased goal after goal, mountain after mountain, pursuing the good feelings a new job or new travel destination gave me. But the good feelings didn’t last. Before long, the emotions of joy and excitement would dissipate and I was back to where I started, looking at an even bigger mountain to experience more joy in my life.

   This is a common path to happiness for many people. “If only I have *fill in the blank*, then I’ll be happy.”

   The obvious problem with this approach is what psychologists call hedonic adaptation – the idea that no matter how good something makes us feel, “most of the time, we drift back to where we started, emotionally-speaking. One often-cited study famously showed that despite their initial euphoria, lottery winners were no happier than non-winners eighteen months later. The same tendency to return to “baseline” has been shown to occur after marriage, voluntary job changes, and promotions—the kinds of things we usually expect to change our happiness and well-being for the better in a permanent way.” (Heidi Grant Halvorson Ph.D.)

   This is not to say we shouldn’t enjoy the pleasures of life. We absolutely should celebrate getting that new job and we should cherish every moment of the honey-moon period of a new relationship. However, we should be conscious that experiencing these short-term emotional highs does not equate to long-term happiness.

    2) RUNNING AWAY FROM NEGATIVE EMOTIONS

   Another unfortunate consequence of seeing happiness only as a positive emotional state is that we ignore or suppress any other emotions that don’t make us feel good. We all want to feel joy and avoid pain. This is normal. What is not normal, and is rather unhealthy, is persistently avoiding or suppressing difficult or negative emotions.

   The reality of life is that we all experience difficult emotions and circumstances. People get sick, we lose our jobs, relationships fall apart, things break, shit happens. Put more elegantly by Murphy’s Law “whatever can go wrong, will go wrong.”

   In his book, The Happiness Trap, Russ Harris writes: “The more we try to avoid the basic reality that all human life involves pain, the more we are likely to struggle with that pain when it arises, thereby creating even more suffering.” – Russ Harriss

   Ultimately each one of us is responsible for making our own happiness cake; one filled with ingredients that gives us true satisfaction and contentment. But even with this perfect life satisfaction cake, we are bound to experience sadness and pain in our life. This is part of the human experience. Equally, we are bound to experience immense joy and pleasure in our life. True happiness is not about being caught up in these emotional highs and lows of life. Rather it’s learning to enjoy the highs with gratitude and accept the lows with self-compassion.

  Most important of all let’s not forget to share the love with one other.

Thank you, Ari, for this insightful article.

Everyone is seeking true happiness in their lives. It’s the most sought-after subject on earth. To be truly happy is a great mystery to many, as they search for joy in everyday life. When we’re feeling discontent, we tend to think a change in our lives is the answer to our restlessness. After making that change, we find that it was not the answer we hoped for after all. The fact is, I never find the joy I’m seeking, if I’m looking for it. There is much more to finding happiness than we think.

In my book, Searching For True Happiness, you will be assigned a few tasks to do, things that are uplifting and will bring you great joy. They are simple tasks, but yet very important for true happiness. Joy in one’s life does not come without a bit of work.

Author Brooke Williams wrote: “If more people took the advice from this book and used it to its fullest, the world would be a different place. Some of the ideas are rather simple but the overall message is profound. Happiness isn't sitting where you'd think. But it's easy enough to find with a little work and a few extra steps. I hope many, not only read this book, but also take it to heart.”

There are several things mentioned in this booklet. Acts of kindness and serving others is one of them. The joy one feels when helping those in need is indescribable. Why are we here on earth if not to serve our friends and loved ones, or even those strangers who need help? How about music? Does it affect our lives?

Inishowen Cailín, from Ireland, wrote: “At the beginning of the book, the author gives us a few tasks to complete in order to kick start our journey to personal happiness. One of her assignments is to greet someone each day. I live in a town where it is a normal everyday practice to greet every single person you meet, whether you know them or not... so this was an easy one for me. Her other tasks are also simple, fun and rewarding to complete: show love to others, give hugs, etc. I really enjoyed reading all the stories the author researched for her book, as well as all the stories from her own family. I think when I reread this book I will be inspired by something different each time. It is a simple guide to put you on the right path to feeling happy and optimistic. A worthwhile read.” 

This book is available at Amazon. Happy Reading!