New Release in time for Christmas: Joseph's Cradle

COVER BLURB FOR Joseph’s Cradle:

Joseph and his wife, Mary, expect a baby. With all that is happening, including the government requiring a census, Joseph feels a little overwhelmed and a bit left out of the preparations for the baby. Is there something he can do?

5 SHORT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FOR STEPHANIE:

#1: What inspired you to write the story?

STEPHANIE: I wanted to write the Christmas story from the view of being expectant parents.  I wanted to show how Joseph grew into fatherhood. I think these are all aspects of life we all can identify with. 

#2: How long did it take? 

STEPHANIE: The story took about a day to write.  After editing, I’d say it took about a week.

#3: Did you pick the illustrator?

STEPHANIE: No, I did not.  4RV Publishing selected the illustrator.  I think Matthew Hughes did a fantastic job with the illustrations.  They have a very soft hearted feel and compliment the story well. 

#4: What makes this book special?

STEPHANIE: It’s a look at the Christmas story from a different perspective. 

#5: How long have you been writing children's books?

STEPHANIE: About 5 years now. My first children's book, "The Giving Meadow" was published with 4RV Publishing in 2010. It has a great message about sharing and caring for young children as well as telling about Caterpillar's transformation into a butterfly. It's perfect for Easter as it helps young children understand Jesus' story.

*****

A Different Perspective

By: Stephanie Burkhart

Have you only believed there was one way to do a task and when you learned there was another way, you were surprised? That’s happened to me a couple of times. Every time I’m always amazed. “Why didn’t I think of that?”

The Christmas story with Mary ad Joseph is one of the oldest, memorable stories in the world. In the Bible, Luke and Matthew share their accounts. We know Mary and Joseph traveled a good distance while Mary was about to have her baby. What an inconvenience that must have been! We discover how Mary embodies dignity and grace and we learn the depth of Joseph’s faith when he listens to the angel who visits him. Once they say ‘yes’ to God, what happens next?

I wanted to show another perspective of the story, one more personal and one we can all relate too. Mary and Joseph are going to be parents. The thought can be overwhelming. What must it have been like for them preparing for a baby? “Joseph’s Cradle” shows how Mary and Joseph approach parenthood. I hope you enjoy the story!

Question for you: What gift would you give Jesus for Christmas?

*****

Reviews: 

Patricia Karwatowicz, 4 stars, Amazon Reviewer: 

“Artist Mathew Hughes' soft, time-friendly paintings take us back to Biblical times. This is a sweet Christmas book that could start a discussion about what a young child might like to give the Christ Child for Christmas.” 

Rising Star Reviews, 5 Stars, Amazon Reviewer:

Joseph's Cradle is a wonderful story about Joseph, who wanted to do something special for the coming baby. Because he was a carpenter, he gave the best gift he could think of--something made by his own two hands. Children will understand this story.

Suzanne C., 4 Stars, Amazon Reviewer:

This beautifully illustrated picture book with its gentle, sweet story will enliven discussion with the young people in your life about each person's special place in the story we thought we knew.

*****

Author Bio:

Stephanie Burkhart was born and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire, but now calls California her home. She currently works for LAPD as a 911 Dispatcher. Stephanie has been writing since she was five, when she crafted homemade comic books on the kitchen table. Her previous books with 4RV Publishing include: The Giving Meadow, and First Flag of New Hampshire.  Stephanie enjoys coffee, adores chocolate and is currently the Den Leader for her son's Cub Scout Den.

JOSEPH’S CRADLE:  is available in print from 4RV Publishing.

BUY LINKS:

4RV PUBLISHING BOOKSTORE: http://www.4rvpublishingcatalog.com/burkhart.php

AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Josephs-Cradle-Stephanie-Burkhart/dp/1940310342/ref=sr_1_18?ie=UTF8&qid=1446519672&sr=8-18&keywords=stephanie+burkhart

FIND ME ON THE WEB LINKS:

FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:

WEBSITE:

http://www.stephanieburkhart.com

TWITTER:

http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart

FACEBOOK: 

https://www.facebook.com/StephanieBurkhartAuthor

GOOD READS:

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4031660.Stephanie_Burkhart

YOU TUBE CHANNEL:

http://www.youtube.com/user/botrina?feature=mhee

PINTEREST:

http://pinterest.com/sgburkhart/

New Release: Brady's Lost Blanket, childrens book #newrelease

Welcome my new release: Brady's Lost Blanket from 4RV Publishing. Illustrator Bridget McKenna's drawing are whimiscal and heartfelt and a perfect compliment for the story.

BLURB:Brady is a sensitive young boy who takes his blankie wherever he goes. After traveling with his parents to visit his new cousin, Brady accidently leaves his blanket behind. Can Brady learn to get by without his blankie?

5 SHORT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FOR STEPHANIE:

#1: What inspired you to write the story?

STEPHANIE: One of my husband's relatives mentioned their grandchild had a blankie and was having a hard time without it.  I drew on my own childhood memories of having a blankie.  I think letting go of the blankie is the first step in growing up.

#2: How long did it take?

STEPHANIE: It took about a week to write the story. I have to thank 4RV Publishing for publishing Brady's Lost Blanket.  It took about 2 weeks back and forth with the editing.

#3: Did you pick the illustrator?

STEPHANIE: No, I did not.  4RV Publishing selected the illustrator.  I think Bridget McKenna did a great job with the illustrations.  They have a very whimsical feel and compliment the story well. 

#4: What makes this book special?

STEPHANIE: Brady's Lost Blanket has a message for all young children who become attached to "something" (be it a blanket or something else) because they want to feel secure. It's okay to let go of our "security" nets and move forward.  It maybe a little scary at first, but once you go without it, you learn you can live without it. 

#5: How long have you been writing children's books?

STEPHANIE: About 5 years now. My first children's book, "The Giving Meadow" was published with 4RV Publishing in 2010. It has a great message about sharing and caring for young children as well as telling about Caterpillar's transformation into a butterfly. It's perfect for Easter as it helps young children understand Jesus' story.

Author Bio:

Stephanie Burkhart was born and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire, but now calls California her home. She currently works for LAPD as a 911 Dispatcher. Stephanie has been writing since she was five, when she crafted homemade comic books on the kitchen table. Her previous books with 4RV Publishing include: The Giving Meadow, and First Flag of New Hampshire.  Stephanie enjoys coffee, adores chocolate and is currently the Den Leader for her son's Cub Scout Den.

BRADY'S LOST BLANKET is available in print from 4RV Publishing.

BUY LINKS:

4RV PUBLISHING BOOKSTORE: http://www.4rvpublishingcatalog.com/burkhart.php

AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Bradys-Lost-Blanket-Stephanie-Burkhart/dp/1940310040/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1423445945&sr=8-8&keywords=stephanie+burkhart

BARNES & NOBLE:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bradys-lost-blanket-stephanie-burkhart/1121138037?ean=9781940310046

******If you are interested in reviewing the book, please send me an email at: Botrina_Buchanan@yahoo.com and I'll make arrangements with you to send you a review copy.****

New Release: 99 cent contemporary romance: Arrow Through the Heart #99centebook #newrelease

Welcome my new release: Arrow Through the Heart.  It's a short story, approx 12K (words) published with Victory Tales Press. It's available for 99 cents - a great deal!

BLURB: Summer vacation and the Fourth of July brings Ella to New Hampshire while participating in a tennis competition. Logan is an innkeeper's son who bumps into Ella and invites her for an ice cream. Attraction flares and they enjoy spending time together, but each has their own plans for their life. Then disaster strikes Ella. Can a summer attraction truly become a lasting relationship?

5 SHORT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FOR STEPHANIE:

#1: What inspired you to write the story?

STEPHANIE: When I think of summer, I think of being outdoors, so I wanted a major of the setting to be outdoors. I wanted Ella to be a strong heroine, one who was very self-confident, and I thought being an althete would give her that.  She's modeled after Maria Sharipova. I wanted my hero to be down-to-earth and very easy-going.  Logan really embodies that. 

#2: How long did it take?

STEPHANIE: It took about 6 weeks to write the story.  

#3: Why set the story in New Hampshire?

STEPHANIE: I come from the area so I'm familiar with it.  I did do some research about the lake and some on tennis. I always have fun researching.  Anyhoo... New England is a place where summer is a very distinctive season and I thought it was the best place for the story. 

#4: What makes this book special?

STEPHANIE: There's plenty of suspense and romance. Logan is a special kind of hero - just perfect for Ella. 

#5: How long have you been writing short stories for Victory Tales Press?

STEPHANIE: Since 2010 or 2011. My first story was "Christmas in Bayeux."  I like to travel to international locations in my short stories.  It's a nice escape and travel, especially around Christmas time. 

Reviews:

5 Stars, Maggie Toussaint, Amazon Reviewer: "A sweet novella about falling in love."

5 Stars, Reader Forever, Amazon Reviewer: "This is a well-written fast-paced novella that I read in a couple of hours. I love the idea of setting the story around a tennis tournament since we never miss tennis shows on TV. The characters are nicely developed and there is enough suspense to keep you hooked. Recommended read."

Author Bio:

Stephanie Burkhart was born and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire, but now calls California her home. She currently works for LAPD as a 911 Dispatcher. Stephanie has been writing since she was five, when she crafted homemade comic books on the kitchen table. Her previous stories with Victory Tales Press include: Christmas in Bayeux, Gifts, Feast of Candles, and Mr. Christmas Elf.   Stephanie enjoys coffee, adores chocolate and is currently the Den Leader for her son's Cub Scout Den.

Arrow Through the Heart is avail from Victory Tales Press as ebook.

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON: http://amzn.com/B00TJH0UT6

BARNES & NOBLE: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/arrow-through-the-heart-stephanie-burkhart/1121218765?ean=2940046574821

SMASHWORDS: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/518986

KOBO: 
https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/arrow-through-the-heart-1

******If you are interested in reviewing the book, please send me an email at: Botrina_Buchanan@yahoo.com and I'll make arrangements with you to send you a review copy.****

New Release: Brady's Lost Blanket, children's book #newbookrelease

Welcome my new release: Brady's Lost Blanket from 4RV Publishing. Illustrator Bridget McKenna's drawing are whimiscal and heartfelt and a perfect compliment for the story.

BLURB:Brady is a sensitive young boy who takes his blankie wherever he goes. After traveling with his parents to visit his new cousin, Brady accidently leaves his blanket behind. Can Brady learn to get by without his blankie?

5 SHORT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FOR STEPHANIE:

#1: What inspired you to write the story?

STEPHANIE: One of my husband's relatives mentioned their grandchild had a blankie and was having a hard time without it.  I drew on my own childhood memories of having a blankie.  I think letting go of the blankie is the first step in growing up.

#2: How long did it take?

STEPHANIE: It took about a week to write the story. I have to thank 4RV Publishing for publishing Brady's Lost Blanket.  It took about 2 weeks back and forth with the editing.

#3: Did you pick the illustrator?

STEPHANIE: No, I did not.  4RV Publishing selected the illustrator.  I think Bridget McKenna did a great job with the illustrations.  They have a very whimsical feel and compliment the story well.

#4: What makes this book special?

STEPHANIE: Brady's Lost Blanket has a message for all young children who become attached to "something" (be it a blanket or something else) because they want to feel secure. It's okay to let go of our "security" nets and move forward.  It maybe a little scary at first, but once you go without it, you learn you can live without it.

#5: How long have you been writing children's books?

STEPHANIE: About 5 years now. My first children's book, "The Giving Meadow" was published with 4RV Publishing in 2010. It has a great message about sharing and caring for young children as well as telling about Caterpillar's transformation into a butterfly. It's perfect for Easter as it helps young children understand Jesus' story.

Author Bio:

Stephanie Burkhart was born and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire, but now calls California her home. She currently works for LAPD as a 911 Dispatcher. Stephanie has been writing since she was five, when she crafted homemade comic books on the kitchen table. Her previous books with 4RV Publishing include: The Giving Meadow, and First Flag of New Hampshire.  Stephanie enjoys coffee, adores chocolate and is currently the Den Leader for her son's Cub Scout Den.

BRADY'S LOST BLANKET is available in print from 4RV Publishing.

BUY LINKS:

4RV PUBLISHING BOOKSTORE: http://www.4rvpublishingcatalog.com/burkhart.php

AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Bradys-Lost-Blanket-Stephanie-Burkhart/dp/1940310040/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1423445945&sr=8-8&keywords=stephanie+burkhart

BARNES & NOBLE:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bradys-lost-blanket-stephanie-burkhart/1121138037?ean=9781940310046

******If you are interested in reviewing the book, please send me an email at: Botrina_Buchanan@yahoo.com and I'll make arrangements with you to send you a review copy.****

New Release: Brady's Lost Blanket, children's book #newbookrelease

Welcome my new release: Brady's Lost Blanket from 4RV Publishing. Illustrator Bridget McKenna's drawing are whimiscal and heartfelt and a perfect compliment for the story.

BLURB:Brady is a sensitive young boy who takes his blankie wherever he goes. After traveling with his parents to visit his new cousin, Brady accidently leaves his blanket behind. Can Brady learn to get by without his blankie?

INSPIRATION:
I was one of those young kids who grew up with a blankie.  My blankie was blue and soft and I loved to rub the silky part against my cheeks. When my blankie was close, I felt very confident and secure. However, I think there comes a time when one "outgrows" a blankie and it's time to let go. Unfortunately, letting go can be hard to do. Learn how Brady lets go and grows up a little in my new children's story.

Author Bio:

Stephanie Burkhart was born and raised in Manchester, New Hampshire, but now calls California her home. She currently works for LAPD as a 911 Dispatcher. Stephanie has been writing since she was five, when she crafted homemade comic books on the kitchen table. Her previous books with 4RV Publishing include: The Giving Meadow, and First Flag of New Hampshire.  Stephanie enjoys coffee, adores chocolate and is currently the Den Leader for her son's Cub Scout Den.

BRADY'S LOST BLANKET is available in print from 4RV Publishing.

BUY LINKS:

4RV PUBLISHING BOOKSTORE: http://www.4rvpublishingcatalog.com/burkhart.php

AMAZON: http://www.amazon.com/Bradys-Lost-Blanket-Stephanie-Burkhart/dp/1940310040/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1423445945&sr=8-8&keywords=stephanie+burkhart

BARNES & NOBLE:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bradys-lost-blanket-stephanie-burkhart/1121138037?ean=9781940310046

******If you are interested in reviewing the book, please send me an email at: Botrina_Buchanan@yahoo.com and I'll make arrangements with you to send you a review copy.****

New Release: 2.99 2014 Autumn Collection featuring Young Witchcraft #bookrelease

The Victory Tales Press 2014 sweet to sensual Autumn Anthology has been released featuring my story, "Young Witchcraft."  It's avail as an ebook right now on Amazon & Smashwords for 2.99. Here's the skinny:

The Blurbs:

Man of Her Dreams by Gerald Costlow 
Anise and Charlene are living the busy lives of young Goth women trying to juggle college and jobs and – in their case – training as apprentice Sherritt witches under the tutelage of Anise's mother, Annabel. 

Then over Thanksgiving break, the girls encounter a young man named Donnie who claims to be running from a demon – a demon sent by the Devil himself. They might have dismissed the man as deluded, but Anise recognizes him from her dreams. He is the perfect lover she's been dreaming of night after night. 

Now the witches are involved in a deadly game of hide-and-seek, discovering they have only days to figure out how to help Donnie. Are even the famous Sherritt witches up to the challenge? Third in the Modern Day Sherritt series. 

Under the Harvest Moon by Markee Anderson 
Victoria Sommerfield is the maid of honor at her neighbor's wedding, the day after the Harvest Festival. She's also very fond of Kirby, her best friend from high school, who's also in the bridal party. Victoria's forced to make a few decisions thanks to a crime in town. At least Kirby can save the day, for now. But can she take the next step with him? 

Day of the Dead ~ (Dia de los Muertos) by Cecilia Corona 
The Day of the Dead takes on a new meaning, when the dead don't stay dead. Dr. Valentina Bellmonte, a cancer survivor, is the new coroner at Hope Memorial. Her faith is put to the test when a body arrives at the morgue drained of blood and the man responsible for the crime is sporting fangs. Could vampires be real? 
Her good friend, Dr. Xander Carlisle seems to know the truth, but he's unwilling to confide in her. He has a secret of his own and it's not just how he feels about her, but something else entirely, something he's forbidden to reveal. 

Apple of His Eye by Nan O'Berry 
Callie Dalton's truck runs out of gas on the road to her family's fruit stand. When a forestry agent Marshall Albright comes to her rescue, little does she know that he is the grandson of her grandfather's worst enemy, Brice Huntington. It seems the Dalton's and Huntington's have been waging a feud for the past twenty-nine years, ever since Laura Huntington left Stephen Dalton at the altar. 

Falling in love was the easy part; the hard part is going to be keeping their grandparents from confronting one another. Can their love bring these two warring factions together? 

Alive by Vincent Nutt 
A mutated form of Cholera infects the world, creating zeeks, zombielike creatures in every respect. The group I'm with has traveled far. We've all lost those we've held dear along the way, but when life is unpredictable, anything can happen... This Thanksgiving brings new friends into our lives, and a fresh look at what tomorrow may bring. 

Young Witchcraft by Stephanie Burkhart 
Rachel's secret would have Cotton Mather rolling over in his grave. She's been raised from an early age to use magic for good, despite her temptation to cast a spell against Phil the bully who can't stop teasing her. 

Joe thinks Rachel is cool, especially when she weaves her healing magic spells on him, but he's got his own problems. It's not easy keeping Rachel safe from Phil's constant threats. 

When Phil poisons Rachel, can love and a little young witchcraft bring Rachel and Joe together or has years of Phil's bullying ruined their relationship for good? 

Enjoy this Excerpt from "Young Witchcraft:"

The knots in Rachel's stomach relaxed. Joe could always bring her spirits up, especially when the world weighed down her shoulders. Knowing that he wanted to be close to her after high school warmed her soul. She took in a breath and drew on her courage. "Three girls made fun of me at practice. One of them was a witch, too. Anna stuck up for me."

"That sucks. I'm glad Anna was there for you." He hesitated. "Phil tried to hide my shoulder pads before practice but they're too big and he's too stupid to find a good spot."

She giggled.

"You keep cheering and don't let those nasty girls get you down. You're stronger than that. If I can play football, you can cheer."

"Thanks, Joe." She squeezed hand. The urge to kiss him filled her heart.

His eyes softened. He reached over and embraced her, only this time his hug was different – tighter, unrestrained. His muscles shook. Did he feel the same?

His long, slender build enveloped her, filling her entire body with an unusual warmth and courage she hadn't known before. Joe was willing to sacrifice his opportunities for her. Rachel pulled away and gazed into his beautiful green-malachite eyes. Kiss him.

She cupped his cheek, unable to turn away. His lips parted. He leaned close. She leaned closer. A warm wind wiped around them like a sweet cocoon. Their mouths skirted each other. His breath hinted at citrus. They met in a mutual tender kiss. She trembled next to him, anxious, happy, and eager all at once. 

BUY LINKS:

Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NGO7S66

Smashwords

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/474982

Smashwords Publisher Page

https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/victorytalespress

REVIEWS:

"Every story in here kept my interest till the very end. Every author had such great concepts and ideas. Absolutely loved it. - Jeanette Chanocua, 5 Stars, Amazon Reviewer. 

New Release: 2014 VTP Summer Anthology - enjoy the summer with these stories! #newbookrelease

Five complete sweet to sensual stories from five multi-talented authors in settings to make any summer occasion more special for 2.99. Included are: 

Meet Me In Seattle by Markee Anderson 
Madysen Duke has been coerced to participate in a reality show with her teacher friends. But little does she know, her high school flame is also along for the ride, with intentions much different from hers. Even though she's out for the money, he's trying to thwart whatever crime is happening right before their eyes. 

Arrow Through The Heart by Stephanie Burkhart (my story)
Summer vacation and the Fourth of July brings Ella to New Hampshire while participating in a tennis competition. Logan is an innkeeper's son who bumps into Ella and invites her for an ice cream. Attraction flares and they enjoy spending time together, but each has their own plans for their life. Then disaster strikes Ella. Can a summer attraction truly become a lasting relationship? 

Taking Liberty by Gerald Costlow 
Liberty "Libby" Bell is a waitress at a roadside diner, trying to hide from an abusive ex-boyfriend who refuses to leave her alone. She strikes up a romance with Roger, a hunky local fireman, and seems to be getting her life back into gear. Then her ex-boyfriend tracks her down. 

Will she be forced to leave Roger and run away again, or see the ex-boyfriend and risk a violent confrontation? 

And if that isn't enough to handle, suddenly there's a serial killer in their midst. 

Marcy’s Struggle by Larry Hammersley 
Marcy Mason is in her final year of graduate school, pursuing a PhD in chemistry. She has brains and looks, but struggles in the romance department. She met Ross Franklin in undergraduate school when she was a senior; he was a freshman and second-string quarterback. Her problem – she was hung up on Leroy Doyle at the time. 

Leroy is married and moved away, but Ross, now star quarterback, isn't convinced she’s over Leroy. When Leroy arrives on campus to give a lecture, Marcy must make all the arrangements. After contact with Leroy, Marcy admits to what she’s known all along—she’s over Leroy and wants Ross in her life. Can she convince Ross to look past their different backgrounds and give love a chance? 

The Garden by Jory Sherman 
Summer brings forth fresh vegetables in the garden and with them, the ultimate fight against insects and wild critters to protect those vegetables. Harvey enjoys his garden, especially the corn – watching it grow, providing food for his beloved wife Ruth. Then, something unusual happens in the garden and his corn begins to disappear.

-- The Anthology is avail in ebook and in print.  Buy Links:

AMAZON:
http://amzn.com/B00KMJB4NG

SMASHWORDS:
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/442711