A Love Story That Grabs At Your Heart!

I LOVE THIS FANTASY SERIES written by Author Serena Clarke. She is a fairly new author. When all three books became available as an audiobook, I just knew I had to listen to them. I can surely say this is my favorite fantasy romance series. The story in each book is exceptional. There is a tender love story, an enchanting kingdom, mystical creatures, adventure, suspense, and mystery between these pages for both young and old alike.

A Quest to Fulfill:

The Treasure of Isian is the first book in the Isian series. 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?

“This story is captivating and has many twists and turns. It gives a new dimension to fantasy characters. It was difficult to put down. Not only is it a fantasy, but a sweet love story that can be enjoyed by all. The devotion of Elani to her Prince was enjoyable, making the reader wonder when the Prince will see her as something more than a servant.” – Review by Author Linda Weaver Clarke

Listen to a sample of The Treasure of Isian

An Arranged Marriage:

What I love about this book is how each person realizes that they must give a little and accept the other’s differences before this marriage can work. This story will pull at your heartstrings like it did mine. In The Alliance of Isian, the second book in this series, the queen decides to make an alliance with their long time enemies.  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

Listen to a sample of The Alliance of Isian

Romance, Adventure, and Mystery:

The Secret of Isian is the last book in this series. 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 intensions, 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

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Listen to a sample of The Secret of Isian

About Author:
Serena Clarke is from Sunny Southern Utah and has taken several writing classes in college. She has a Bachelors Degree in Graphic Design and is a member of the Red Mountain Shadows Publishing team. She not only is an author, but also creates book covers for authors. She is passionate about learning, education, art and design. To learn more about Serena, visit her website at https://serenaclarke.wordpress.com.

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 Serena’s Audible Page and find the book you’re interested in and sign up for some free audiobooks.

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

Discover Your Family Heritage

Have you ever thought about your family legacy? Maybe it’s time to discover the stories of your past.

My mother was involved with genealogy and it was something she enjoyed. She wanted to plant a seed in me, the same desire as she had, so she told me about my heritage. I soon became interested in my ancestors. These stories were an influence on my life.

I was intrigued when she told me about my great grandmother who was deaf and how spirited she was. Sarah Eckersley Robinson had to rely on women’s intuition and knew when her baby needed her. She sensed it. At night, she would wake up even before her baby cried. When the neighbors were visiting, they were amazed when Sarah excused herself to get her baby who had just awakened from a nap.

Sarah was an example of fortitude and courage. She always listened to the promptings of the spirit. After returning from town, Sarah sensed the presence of someone in the house. Acting quickly, she grabbed her broom and began searching her home. She had a feeling to check her bedroom, but when she entered the room, no one was in sight. She quietly stepped to her bed and looked under it. There she found an evil and lustful man crouched and waiting for Sarah, but he was not prepared for a strong and determined woman with a weapon in her hands.

With all the strength she had, she started whacking him out from under the bed with the broom. She then hit him over the head again and again. Chasing him from the house, she continued beating him as he ran down the street. Sarah had spirit. This wicked man thought he could take advantage of her since she was deaf, but he did not expect such courage and fled. The man never returned. After telling me several stories about my great grandmother, my mother said I looked like her and gave me one of her thimbles.

(Note: Sarah’s life had an impact on me so I decided to write a historical romance and give many of her experiences to my character in Sarah’s Special Gift: A Bear Lake Family Saga.)

My mother told me about my father’s heritage and how my great grandmother, who was from Wales, had just as much spunk. After settling down in Utah, Frances Davies Clark had a harrowing experience, one she never forgot.

When her husband was gone, a band of Warriors came to her home and began picking her grapes, stripping the vineyard of all its fruit. It upset Frances as she watched them filling their bags full. She had babied those vines and this was her first crop. The first thing she saw was a large bowie knife, but she knew that would not do. Then an idea popped into her mind. She quickly put on her husband’s cavalry uniform, hat, and cape. Grasping his sword with one hand, she strode out onto the porch, waving it in the air in a threatening manner and demanding in a loud voice, “Leave now or perish!” Terrified, the marauders dropped their bags and fled as fast as they could, in fear of their lives. When they had disappeared, Frances gathered up the grapes and made grape jelly.

But that wasn’t all. Her adventures continued. One day a bull gored her neighbor and she went to his aid. His abdomen was torn open. With as much courage as possible, Frances washed away the blood, relocated the man’s protruding intestines, and sewed him up with a violin gut string that she had sterilized and soaked. Afterwards, Frances fixed a liniment of arnica burrs steeped in alcohol and then she applied some sterilized cloths to his wound, which was saturated with the liniment. After she finished, Frances told her neighbor that she would return each day and wash his wound with carbolic water and apply fresh bandages. That man lived for over 20 years after his accident.

(Note: This experience with the bull was so impressive that I gave it to my character in Edith and the Mysterious Stranger: A Bear Lake Family Saga. I love giving true experiences from my ancestors to my characters in this series of books.)

After the passing of my parents, I sat down and wrote their story. I wanted my children and grandchildren to learn about their heritage. One of the stories that I included was how my father closed down the school for a day. He was only thirteen and it wasn’t on purpose, but his friends thought he was a hero.

All summer he had been draining the scent glands of skunks and collecting it in a bottle. The following day he took the skunk oil to school with him to show his classmates. His friends had never seen skunk oil before. With all the excitement and attention he was receiving, he felt the bottle slip from his hands and land on the floor of the schoolroom.

The bottle broke into a million pieces and skunk oil splattered everywhere. It landed on the pant legs of his friends and on his own shoes. As the oil saturated the wooden floor, the room filled with the most putrid, foul, disgusting odor anyone had ever breathed in. The children instantly held their noses with their fingers and ran out the door, stumbling over one another as they ran. Marcus was close behind. And so was the teacher! She excused school for the rest of the day and Marcus didn’t get into trouble. He figured the children were so excited to get out of school that no one told on him.

(Note: This experience was so funny that I gave it to one of my characters in Melinda and the Wild West: A Bear Lake Family Saga. It’s so much fun to add true experiences to my stories.)

My mother told me that it was important to learn about my ancestors. So she gave me a “Book of Remembrance” full of stories about my ancestors that she had typed up. One day I came upon a story that brought tears to my eyes. I had never known such courage as my great, great grandmother had displayed. Could I ever be as brave as Martha Raymer Weaver? 

Martha’s husband, Edward Weaver, died from Pneumonia in 1845 and left Martha with seven children. They were living in Illinois at the time when a mob came to the Weaver home. Gilbert, her twelve-year-old son, described the leader as a “large, burly and murderous demon.”

The leader told Martha if she would denounce her religion, then she would be unmolested and they would not burn down her home. She knew they meant business, but her faith in God could not be denied. Martha faced this wicked man and his mob with dignity. Stomping her foot with defiance, she said, “You may burn it and be damned!”

This took the leader by surprise. Here she was, a helpless woman with no man to protect her, and she was standing up to him. Finally, he said, “I’ll give you twenty minutes to get out.”

What he said surprised her. Most people were not given any time to pack. With the help of her seven children, she gathered the most necessary items and threw them into the wagon. They had no team of horses, just one ox and a cow. So the boys yoked them to the wagon and they drove away. Without hesitation, the mob threw a torch to the roof and burned the house to the ground. As Martha watched their home burn, she remembered a nice fat pig that was in a pen behind the house. After the mob left, she sent her sons back to see if it had been spared, but it was burned to a crisp. 

Was this my heritage? Could I ever be as brave as my ancestors? My mother’s love for genealogy piqued my interest. I thought about my mother’s love for genealogy and decided it was time to do something about it. My children were now raised and I had some time on my hands. Since my husband was interested in his ancestors, as well, we put in our application to serve at the Family Search Center in our hometown. We attended a three-week course and learned how to help people who wanted to find their ancestors. Since we live in an area full of canyons, we get a lot of vacationers who come by to visit. I have helped people from many different religions and other countries.

To join Family Search is free. Just go to https://www.familysearch.org and sign up. I hope you can discover your heritage and be proud of who you are!

A BEAR LAKE FAMILY SAGA

To learn more about me, visit my websites below.

My Website: www.lindaweaverclarke.com

Sweet Romance & Mystery Blog: https://lindaweaverclarke.wordpress.com/

Family Friendly Audiobooks Blog: https://family-friendly-audiobooks.blogspot.com/

Historical Mystery Romance: One Last Dance Book Release

One Last Dance: Felicity Brooks is a talented artist but her career is cut short when her father passes away. Realizing the importance of family, she travels home to care for her mother. 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 discovered in his attic, her life takes a new turn.

Author Katrina Hart wrote: “One thing that always keeps me reading this author’s books is her characters; they are engaging, funny and passionate. I especially liked Mr. Adams’ character as he was both witty and charming with an air of mystery about him. I was impressed by Felicity’s character. She was a strong woman who had seen some of the world, only to end up back home where everything feels different. I liked the quirky bond between Mr. Adams and Felicity. He has her pegged from the start and from the moment they meet you can tell at some point sparks will fly, and they will challenge each other’s perspectives on the problem at hand, which made this book rather gripping. One Last Dance kept me guessing until the end and left me wanting to read this book all over again. If you like Historical Romance with a mysterious touch and well-developed characters, this book is a must-read.”

 

When writing historical fiction, I like to add true events that are part of history. Not only does this make the setting feel real, but it’s also fun for the reader to learn what it was like to live during that time period. It helps us to understand their life style.

 

In this historical romance, set in 1835, I wanted the main character to be an art teacher. Since women usually taught children that were elementary age, I had to do some research. Usually men were the ones who taught older children in a college setting. When I discovered there was a small ladies school, I was elated to find that women teachers were hired. If a woman had a desire to teach, they would train them. It was called the Troy Female Seminary.

 

Emma Hart Willard established this Seminary on February 23, 1821 in Troy, New York. It was the first in the United States, which provided young women with the same college education as that of young men. Many parents wanted their daughters to be educated beyond the average classroom setting. “The seminary provided tuition on credit for students who could not afford it, with the agreement that those students would eventually become teachers themselves.” (Scott, Anne F. “What, Then, is the American: This New Woman?” The Journal of American History 65, 1978: 679–703)

My story does not take place at this school but it gives the reader the background of my character and what she did for a living. She taught art to young women. In the first chapter, you learn that Felicity has returned home after the death of her father. Giving a good background for your character is important.

While teaching at the Seminary, Felicity learned a new dance step from her students called the Boston Waltz. This dance becomes one of the main themes of my story. In my research, I found that Lorenzo Papatino introduced this American Waltz to Americans in 1834. It is much slower than the original waltzes in Germany and France. In America, the Boston Waltz received much criticism by the upper classes. They didn’t want to overstep the bounds of propriety. After years of dancing at arm’s length, it was not readily accepted. To embrace one’s partner was unheard of and drew much criticism, especially among the pastors.

When Felicity finds out that someone is after a valuable heirloom that her father discovered in his attic, her life takes a new turn. With the help of her neighbor, Nicholas Adams, they search for evidence. While Nicholas and Felicity search for clues, I decided to add a few activities for them to attend. This way they can get to know one another. When Aunt Beth decides to have a ball, Felicity finds herself dancing the waltz with a man she is definitely attracted to…Nicholas Adams.

Why not take them to the County Fair next? As early as 1686, counties would set aside specific days for a three-day fair. It was usually held every May and October. Fairs were held for educational and social purposes. Women’s competitions usually consisted of needlework. During the early 1800s, horse-racing competitions were part of the fairs. Nicholas, of course, has to enter his horse in the race. She is a fine mare and Nicholas feels that he has a chance.

I was intrigued to find out they had “plowing matches” during the fairs. Each farmer had to plow so much land. The first one done was the winner. The farmer would attach his horse to a plow and away he went. The farmer could have help if he wanted. While he held the reins, his son held the plow. Of course, it wouldn’t be fun without a cheering section. There has to be people cheering for their neighbor, just like any competition. In my story, Felicity cheers for a father and his son, with a mule pulling their plow. As for Nicholas, he shakes his head at the idea. Mules are stubborn animals. A horse could out-plow a mule any day. That’s what he thinks. The race is one!

Fairs always had a Cattle Show or Swine Show. It was a competition of the best and healthiest-looking animals. Have you ever heard of a “Cow-Chip Tossing” competition? Men choose the most interesting ideas to compete in. Why would anyone want to throw a piece of cow-dung in the air?

“One Last Dance by Linda Weaver Clarke 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

You can find One Last Dance at Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Dance-Willow-Valley-Historical-Romance-ebook/dp/B07GVNWSP9

You can also find it at Barnes and Noble.

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/one-last-dance-linda-weaver-clarke/1129427291

About Author: Linda Weaver Clarke was raised among the Rocky Mountains of southern Idaho and now lives among the red hills of southern Utah. Linda is the author of 24 books. She has written in several different genres, which include: historical romances, romantic cozy mysteries, a mystery suspense series, children’s book, and non-fiction. All her books are family friendly. To learn more, visit www.lindaweaverclarke.com.

 

Bedtime Stories: Three Children’s Bedtime Stories On Audio

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A children's picture book that addresses a child’s fears was released for ages three to eight. It was so well received that it has been made into an audiobook and produced by Audible. Most people listen to audiobooks for entertainment while working or exercising. When a narrator reads a book, it’s easy to picture the characters interacting with one another, bringing the story to life as you or your child listens to the dynamics of the narrator. You can easily hear the anxiety or humor in the person’s voice.

Sonja Nishimoto, of Sunnie Reviews, wrote: “It is a sweet book which I think my grandkids would enjoy. It is written for younger children and shows the trust between mother and child.”

In each of these stories, a mother helps her child understand her fears at night. In Shadows In My Room, Kayla sees shadows that frighten her. When her mother notices the young girl’s anxiety, she answers all her questions about each shadow that she points to and helps her to calm down. In What’s That Noise, Amber hears noises that disturb her, such as the wind and thunder. Her mother teaches Amber to use her imagination by turning something fearful into something fun.

An extra story was added to this audio, which is not in the book. I'm Not Sleepy describes how Cason finds every way possible to get out of going to bed, such as needing a drink of water and having his mother read a book to him. With each request, he tells her that he is not sleepy.

After listening to this audiobook, Inishowen Cailín from Ireland, wrote: “This is a lovely book for your child to listen to at night especially if they are in any way anxious at bedtime. The stories talk through some of the most common fears little children have; scary shadows and noises, and explains them away in a cute and fun way. I also loved how the mother sang a little hymn to lull the child to sleep at the end of each story, as a signal that it was time to sleep. I can imagine that with repeated listening a child would naturally pick up on this cue as well.”

Was it difficult to listen to without a picture book? Donna Cochran wrote: “Not having the book to look at the pictures, I wasn't sure how much I would like it. But I'm happy to say that I was impressed! With the author's words and the voices of the narrator, I didn't need the book. The words flowed with emotion and fun.”

This Audiobook can be found at https://www.audible.com/pd/Kids/Shadows-in-My-Room-Whats-That-Noise-Audiobook/B01DE7R8N2

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

Historical Romance: A Bear Lake Family Saga

This Historical Romance Series, A Bear Lake Family Saga, has strong female characters who have a destiny to fulfill. Each woman wants to make a difference in the small town where she lives. No matter the trial that comes her way, she is ready to fight for what she believes. Even though the heroes are strong and masculine, they have their tender moments that can melt your heart. Bear Lake Family Saga has plenty of adventure along with a tender love story.

Below is a brief description of each story in this series along with a review.

Melinda and the Wild West (Book 1): Melinda is a schoolteacher. She has many challenges but it’s a rugged rancher who challenges Melinda with the one thing for which she was least prepared—love.

“Melinda and the Wild West is rich with historical settings and provides as much of a 'historical' education as entertainment. Linda Weaver Clarke displays an easy and excellent style of writing, blending adventure/romance/history/humor and courage. "Melinda and the Wild West: A Family Saga in Bear Lake, Idaho" is an instant classic and should put this author on the literary map all over the world. A MUST read!” –Page One Literary Book Review

Edith and the Mysterious Stranger (Book 2): Edith is a nurse. When a mysterious stranger starts writing to Edith, she gets to know a man's inner soul before making any harsh judgments. Whoever he is, this man is a mystery but is he as wonderful in person as he is in his letters?

“Clarke draws the reader into a world full of color and intrigue right from the first page. Her characters have faults that you want to see them overcome as you laugh, cry and cheer at just how genuine and vivid they are. It’s refreshing to be able to read a story that can make you run the full range of emotions. The end is uplifting while making you wonder what could happen in the next addition. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I would highly recommend Edith and the Mysterious Stranger to anyone looking for a novel that just makes you feel good.” --Melynda Gascoyne – The Amherst Bee Newspaper: Buffalo, New York

Jenny’s Dream (Book 3): Jenny is an aspiring author. She has a dream to fulfill, but the only thing standing in her way is an unpleasant memory, which has haunted her since childhood. She must learn to forgive before she can follow her dream.

“Jenny’s Dream tells a beautiful story that incorporates the value of loyalty, love, family and forgiveness into it. I found myself greatly enjoying the romances between Jenny’s parents and between Jenny and Will. I also enjoyed how the author put real experiences, taken from her family, into the plot. This is a great touch because it makes the story seem real. It is a wholesome novel that will be able to be enjoyed by family members of all ages who would enjoy a great historical romance. I think that this series is destined to be a classic.” --Review by Paige Lovitt – Reader Views

Sarah’s Special Gift (Book 4): Sarah is a beautiful and successful dance teacher but she is not an average young woman. Sarah is deaf, but this does not stop her from living life to its fullest. And it does not stop her from falling in love with a man who needs her help.

“The romantic friction between David and Sarah is central to a story that will have you cheering for them to get together! The fun part is wondering if there is truly a monster in the lake. It makes for an interesting adventure, with a surprise ending to the tale. I love that the author based the monster on a local folklore in Idaho. This is a heart-warming story of finding that right person to live the rest of your life with. So, if you want to laugh, learn and live in the life of some wonderful characters...read this book and enjoy the journey.” --Allison King,  Allison’s Attic

Elena, Woman of Courage (Book 5): The Roaring Twenties was a time of great change, when women raised their hemlines and bobbed their hair. As Elena fights to prove herself as the town’s first female doctor, the town’s most eligible bachelor finds it a challenge to see if he can win her heart.

“John, a confirmed bachelor, is entranced by the new woman in town, who just happens to be the new doctor. Clarke’s books are enjoyable to read, and although they're wholesome, they're never boring. Linda Weaver Clarke is outstanding at presenting the characters' thoughts, especially when it comes to romance, and she captures the highs and lows of romantic life rather adeptly. The author also pays close attention to historical accuracy, enabling readers to learn about U.S. history in her novels.” --Suko’s Notebook

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 470,000+ 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

The Importance of Research When Writing Historical Romance

Research is very important when writing Historical Fiction. I had fun writing the Bear Lake Family Saga series because I was able to put some very interesting historical facts in each of my books. Some things I added were from history while others were experiences of my ancestors. I will list one historical fact from each book so you will understand what goes into my research.

In Melinda and the Wild West, I found that Butch Cassidy robbed the bank in Montpelier during the time period of my story, which takes place in 1896 at Paris, Idaho. I used every detail of the robbery in my novel. I found that Butch Cassidy referred to himself as the “Robin Hood of the West.” He actually wrote, “The best way to hurt them is through their pocket book. They will holler louder than if you cut off both legs. I steal their money just to hear them holler. Then I pass it out among those who really need it.”

Cassidy never acted without a well staked-out plan. That was why he never got caught. He had two partners in crime at the time of the Montpelier robbery. Meeks held the horses while Cassidy and Lay robbed the bank. When the robbing was done, Cassidy nonchalantly walked outside and climbed upon his horse. Then he rode out of town while Elsa Lay held a gun on the bank teller. Then Meeks followed shortly afterwards. No one took notice of Cassidy or Meeks. After a while, Elsa Lay walked out of the bank, hopped on his horse, and took off at high speed. All three got away without a problem. (Treasured Tidbits of Time, Bear Lake Historian Pat Wilde) Every year, Montpelier puts on a reenactment of the robbery for the public.

In Edith and the Mysterious Stranger, my heroine is a nurse. My great grandmother, Frances Davies, saved a man’s life who had been gored by a bull. When the doctor was away, the neighbors went to her. Every detail was recorded in her biography and I used it for my story.

One day a bull gored my great grandmother’s neighbor and she went to his aid. Finding that his abdomen was torn open, she washed away the blood and relocated the man’s protruding intestines. Then she sewed him up with a violin gut string that she had sterilized. Afterwards, Frances fixed a liniment of arnica burrs steeped in alcohol and then she applied some sterilized cloths to his wound, which was saturated with the liniment. When she was done, Frances wrapped a clean strip of cloth around his body to hold the bandages in place. Each day she washed his wound with carbolic water and applied fresh bandages. The man lived for over 20 years after his accident. I instantly knew that Edith had to have this experience as a young nurse in my story.

For the subplot of Jenny’s Dream, the community has to deal with a vicious grizzly bear that is roaming the mountains. In the history of the Rocky Mountains, there have been many bears that roam the mountains, but none so famous as Old Ephraim. He roamed the mountains from Soda Springs, Idaho to the Logan Utah Canyon from 1911 to 1923. They called him Old Ephraim or Old Three Toes, since he only had three toes on one foot. As a subplot to my story, I added the actions and deeds of this vicious grizzly. Old Ephraim measured at exactly nine feet and eleven inches tall, and weighed 1100 pounds.

As the subplot in Sarah’s Special Gift, I added the intriguing story of the Bear Lake Monster. The mystery of the Bear Lake Monster has been an exciting part of the Bear Lake history ever since the pioneers arrived in Paris, Idaho in 1863. Prominent leaders of the area encouraged the Native American legend because no one had a desire to move to the cold Bear Lake country. The valley was located at the tops of the Rocky Mountains and the winters were harsh.

The legend of the Bear Lake Monster made life a little more exciting for the pioneers. Some people claimed to have seen the monster and gave descriptions of it. Throughout the years, no one has ever disproved the Bear Lake Monster. Is it fact or fiction, legend or myth? It was fun to add accounts of those who claimed to have seen it into my story.

Elena Woman of Courage was such fun to research. I wanted Elena to be a doctor during the 1920s, so I had to do some research and find out if there were women doctors back then. I found that Elizabeth Blackwell was the first woman to graduate with a doctor’s degree in 1868, and she opened a medical college for women where they could have the opportunity to get an education. Women were not allowed to attend a medical university until 1899. So how did Elizabeth get in?

She hounded them until the faculty gave in and admitted her as a joke. They figured she would fail miserably. But she fooled all the professors and graduated at the top of her class. After her graduation in 1849, she sadly found that no hospital would hire her because she was a woman. But this did not stop her. Elizabeth organized her own clinic in New York and helped many people.

Elena, Woman of Courage takes place during the roaring twenties when women stood up for their rights. They bobbed their hair, raised their hemlines, and wore long beads down to the waist. It was a new era for everyone, with new challenges. The new styles caused a lot of commotion. Women with bobbed hair were fired from their jobs without any warning. A preacher pounded the pulpit, saying that a “bobbed woman was a disgraced woman.”

The language of the twenties was new. Parents were in the dark, wondering what their children were talking about. I will list just a few slang words I got from my research:

Ah, horsefeathers! - An expletive

Tomato - a woman

Bearcat - a fiery woman

Doll - an attractive woman

Cat’s pajamas! – How wonderful!

Chassis - a woman’s body

Gams - a woman’s legs

Goofy - in love

Hotsy-totsy - something pleasing

Moonstruck - acting in a dreamy, confused way; in love.

Spooning - kissing or talking about love

Bank’s closed – There’s no kissing tonight.

You slay me! - That was real funny!

 

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 470,000+ 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

A Preteen Novella

Author Blake Leonard is twelve years old. He is an avid reader, likes science, animals and video games. Blake lives in North Carolina, close to his co-author grandmother, Mary L. Ball who writes Christian Mystery Romances. This young man has written his first novella and published it. What a great accomplishment!

Take a look at this young man's teen shirt. I love it. I believe it might represent his new story.

An Angel’s Burden is a Pre-teen Novella. Deep in the forest, danger shadows two children. Eleven-year-old Michael and his sister Caitlyn’s beloved pet, Sparky, has gone to Heaven, so Mom and Dad plan a camping trip to Indian Trails to lift their spirits.

When an accident happens, the children have no choice but to find help but they miss the correct path and are lost. But that’s nothing compared to the lone cry of a white wolf stalking them. Can the children face fear and continue on their journey to save Dad?

This is an inspirational creation. A reviewer wrote: “Absolutely adored this book. It's exciting. I couldn't wait to see what happened next! Plus it has a great Christian message.”

This preteen novella can be purchased at:
Amazon 
Media on Demand 

Kobo