Imma be honest…

It just doesn’t feel right for the world to keep plodding on with so much suffering going on right now. Terrible flooding, loss of life in the south, after Hurricane Helene. Our troops deploying to the Middle East (not to mention the suffering there, and in other countries).

Anyway, my heart is heavy today, and as I write this note, I am also praying for hope and grace and comfort. Come, Lord Jesus, save us.

Recently, I headed to Australia. We had fun, (as you saw). But what you didn’t see was THIS:

Me, in the airport, sicker than a dog after an allergy attack. I was sick for five days. I landed at my amazing assistant’s home in Melbourne, and she looked after me (in person!) and let me wear her OODIE:

…and fed me soup and made me laugh and most of all, she cared.

Which brings me to free books.

I care about the hearts and minds of you, my reader friend. And while I feel like this is a breadcrumb in a ravenous world, I also believe that faith-filled stories bring light and hope and edify those whose minds might need to take a break from the darkness, just for a bit.

So, I am offering you the books below on this sad Friday afternoon.

​A Rebel’s Heart by Sara Blackard​

He’s loved his best friend since he met her. She’s ignored him since his accident shattered her world. Will a second chance sweep them away toward love?

​Morgan by Jodi Basye​

Morgan Cross is avoiding his family. Rachel Sanders just wants hers back.

But I also want to say this.

I’ve been through a few dark times in my life (not gonna go into deets here—you might pick them up from some of my novels, however) and I have consistently discovered that when darkness wants to make its way into my heart, the answer is always Praise. I turn on my Christian radio and I worship. I open my Bible to the Psalms and I read out the words of David (even the dark verses—calling out to God brings us back to praise!).

Praise changes your heart, aligns us with truth and hope and puts us in the arms of the Father. It helps us see through the chaff of this world and shines light in the darkness.

So. This weekend. Read a good book. Pray for our world. If you can…help. (Volunteer, or give. I’ve always been especially impressed with Samaritan’s Purse, who is in the region now with teams. However, there are many great organizations that are helping.) And most of all, Praise.

For the Lord is good and His steadfast love endures forever. Even when it feels impossible.

Have a steadfast weekend.

Warmly, xo