Life - Stranger Than Fiction! by Paula Rose Michelson

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Today as I sat down to write I knew that I needed to do the one thing I had promised a stranger, that’s now an acquaintance that I would do first thing on Monday morning. Since many of you know me, I’m certain my sounding reticent seems slightly off kilter. And I must admit that this is exactly how I felt…Of Kilter! For you see, many Jews don’t believe that a person can be Jewish and believe in Messiah! And doing this one thing meant contacting Jews that might think me a renegade or worse! Yet I had pledged that I would so I did!!

I called the Jewish Community Center closest to me and spoke about my novel. The person I spoke with took my name and number. Feeling a lot better, and very aware that what I had written was a blessing for me and would be considered a blessing by them, I dialed the phone several more times! Instead of feeling trepidation, I felt elation! Then I received a call back from one of the locations. The lady had spoken with the rabbi who asked me to send him information. Gladness and trepidation mingled together as I wrote what I’ve posted below. Then I glanced at the title for today’s blog and knew that Gods timing was, as it always is, perfect. And so dear friends as you read this missive please pray that the path is cleared for me to bring this blessing to others who, like Naomi, fear that being who they are will cause others to reject them or worse.


The Letter

Dear Rabbi,

Thank you for taking the time to review what I’ve sent. I look forward to your response. 

As a Jew I have always been interested in learning more about our history and people. I wrote the historical fiction, Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing based upon my research of the Spanish and later the Mexican Inquisitions and its effect upon our people. During that time, I met some Jews that only later in life discovered or realized that they were Jewish. You will find their interviews as well as a brief history of the Spanish Inquisition at the beginning of the novel.

I have posted the link to Amazon (below) so you can read a bit of the text. Should you decided to do that, I hope you enjoy your journey into the heart of a teenager who leaves home without a why or goodbye, and companions a blind old women to gain entry into America to search for an uncle she has never met. She finds her plans thwarted when she is handed over immigration. However, she is rescued and taken to Spanish Harlem, where she sees a large Catholic church and believes that though she is in America she has never really left Spain. 

Here is the Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/Casa-Naomi-House-Blessing-Blessings/dp/1613461380/ref=lp_B007ECYI32_1_1_title_0_main?ie=UTF8&qid=1334800009&sr=1-


Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing

Fifteen-year-old Naomi wants to practice her faith in public, find her uncle, and help him raise enough money to bring their family to America. To accomplish this she agrees to companion a blind, old woman whose family plans to tour Europe and settle in the United States. Her plans are thwarted when the woman passes away aboard ship, and Naomi is handed over to immigration. While she awaits her interview, an old Tía comes to Naomi’s rescue and offers to take her in. With nowhere to go and no one to turn to, Naomi agrees and unwittingly enters the country illegally.

This is Naomi’s journey from adolescence to womanhood, from frightened isolation and captivity to the noble status of heiress with a mission and responsibility many would shirk placed upon her shoulders. Along the way, she contends with piercing memories, hurtful loss, jealous opponents, a devious lawyer, and a curious priest. Through each step of this journey, she guards two secrets she dare not share with anyone, not even Chaz, the man she has married. Will she keep his love when he discovers who she really is? Find out in the first book of Paula Rose Michelson’s saga, The House of Blessing.

Paula Rose Michelson is the founder of LAMB Ministries, which helps women recover from trauma and abuse through the effective use of scripture, and prayer. She leads a monthly writers group at Congregation Ben David in Orange, California, and serves with her husband, Ron, with Chosen People Ministries. The mother of two married daughters, and grandmother of seven, when not writing, speaking, or teaching the effective use of scripture, you will find Paula researching her next book or meeting with friends.

Though this novel was written about a Sephardic girl and how she matures while hiding who she is, her struggles, though more poignant than most, are the same ones each person faces. Her grief of not knowing the fullness of all her faith is stands as a reminder to those of us that do for we need to cherish what we have been given.

Yours in Messiah,
Paula Rose Michelson – Author – The Casa Saga
Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing _ Book One
God said, “…all people on earth will be blessed through you.”

Visit Paula at http://www.PaulaWordsmith.com
E-mail her at CasadeNaomi@PaulaWordsmith.com
Join her Casa Reflections Blog at http://CasadeNaomi.Blogspot.com
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An Amazing Announcement!

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I'm thrilled to announce that my Laguna Beach Chapter of Pen Women just opened a page on Facebook! Don’t know about Pen Women? This group of professional authors, composers, and artisans was founded by President Taft’s daughter. Among our luminaries are such noteworthy women as Pearl Buck, Condalisa Rice, and Hillary Clinton. So if you’re looking for a group of creative women to visit our page https://www.facebook.com/NLAPWLagunaBeachCA then email Paula@PaulaWordsmith.com


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South Shores Church’s Gal’s Group Made My Day! by Paula Rose Michelson

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For many writer's the height of their creative endeavor is being published. For some, like me, that’s just the beginning of the creative experience because unlike our counterpart we seek an audience not so much because we want to grow our number of friends, which we do, but because the reason we’ve written is more important than staying out of sight or earshot of disapproving snubs. For one must be made of sterner stuff than most, or be blessed as I was when a lady who listened to my Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing Presentation at a prerelease party, bought, read, and fell in love with the story set up an event for me!

To say that this particular event was auspicious does not fully convey all it meant to me. For having done similar events for 16 months, give or take, accepting this booking was nothing new – although the number of those attending (50 to 60) did give me pause. Aware that my new friend Margaret had spoken with many of her friends about my book and the event, I was a tad intimidated.

However, all that almost angst vanished once I began preparing, which was as it needed to be, for unbeknownst to me, I was about to be friended on Face Book by “OneVoice OneMic” and asked to appear on that radio show. As I agreed peace settled around me like an old friend. I had no trepidation whatsoever until I chanced upon their postings on YouTube! All of a sudden it hit me that dumpy old lady –me had agreed to be filmed and posted! There was no time to diet, besides if I’m not into changing for my health I doubted that I could survive another, “You don’t want that!” attitude fighting within me!

No! I knew just what I needed! I prayed! That’s right I prayed to Yeshua Hamashiach (Jesus Christ) and you know what? He answered me. He didn’t fix me because I didn’t need to be fixed. He calmed me. Reminding me that he’d already prepared me for the YouTube taping of “One Voice OneMic” by giving me a group of gals that were eagerly awaiting my visit.

So as I prepared, last Thursday when Margaret picked me up, and throughout my presentation at South Shores Church, I felt the Lord at my right hand. And as I heard the words tumbling out of my mouth I knew they weren’t mine, but his. Yes, I’d done the practicing that all speakers must. Prior to that I’d done the writing that all whose books are published must, and before that I’d done the research that validated what the characters in Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing were telling me. However, it wasn’t until the moment I heard a woman ask, “Could you use the mic?” and I did that I fully realized that this novel and the rest in the Casa Saga are God’s work. I’m just along for the ride. I know that because I wrote a story I never intended to about people I never meet.

I relied upon God to show me what his good and perfect will was for me, and waited until he did. Now that I’ve gotten my marching orders I’m as thrilled as can I be, so doing that one thing that most authors can’t after all I’ve done that I shouldn’t have been able to do was just icing on the proverbial cake.

Want at bite? Ok! Today I’m nibbling on Romans 8:37 which says, ... in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

Having trouble believing that these words were written for you? As you walk the property at South Shores Church 32712 Crown Valley Parkway Dana Point, CA 92629 think about the faith of those who bought that land when all they could see was PCH. Then feel the serenity and experience the beauty of the place as you stop and gaze out upon what has been built since the foundation of this church was laid all those years ago. Then let God speak to your heart as only he can. 
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Heaven on Earth - Powell’s Sweet Shoppe, by Paula Rose Michelson

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Since I have a sweet tooth I make it a point to seldom go where sweets are the bill-of-fare. And if you share the dilemma of hips that seem to widen whenever you’re around any sugary food, I know that you understand all I mean without my having to belabor the point, so ‘enough said.’ At least I’ve said enough, until tongue-in-cheek, I share that I asked my publisher to book a signing for me at Powell’s Sweet Shoppe. That’s right, I did! And I almost left without sampling anything, which I believe shows how amazing my Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing book signing was thanks to the help that treated me as one would a very special guest, and those popping in for last minute Easter treats, a birthday party that outdid any I’ve been to or made, or to watch parents as their kids shopped or they themselves eyed and bought sweets to varied and delectable to mention here. Although now that I’m salivating I must rave about their cherry gelato with pieces of cherry that brought the sweet smooth treat to a level hereto not experienced by this confection lover. And of course I’d be remiss if I did not tell you about the handmade candy confections that were larger than I’d ever seen before! But again I must remind myself that this blog is not about the sweets though you must drop by Powel’s Sweet Shoppe in Laguna Niguel, 27000 Alicia Pkwy # E CA 92677! You owe it to yourself to have the very best, and that’s all that Powel’s serves!

Yet as delightful as the confections both sugar-free and not where it’s the help and those that popped in that made this book event stellar! And stellar it was from the perfect weather which allowed me to sit outside and talk with those passing by, to the gentleman who while waiting for the birthday party his daughter was attending inside to end went inside and reappeared with a cold Diet Coke for me to drink. Since I remembered that while visiting the place before my booking to speak with Melissa who managers the location, I had thought of it as WILLIE WONKA ON STERIODS, I was amazed that this man could go in and come out in a matter of moments! For I believed that no one could do that! Perhaps it was the small theater area where the movie Charlie and the Chocolate Factory runs nonstop. Perhaps the fact that from floor to ceiling every detail of the place says ‘Yummy in the Tummy,’ or as I am wont to believe, perhaps it was because this confectioners and sweet lovers dream is what we all wish life could be like… Yummy with a capital YUM and fun!

Think I’m overstating? Hardly! Where else can one literally have their cake and eat it to? My answer, Powel’s Sweet Shoppe where being sweet is not an affectation, not pure conjugation, not done by the staff because it’s what’s expected, but really, truly experienced by one and all because the setting, help, and every delectable treat was selected by those who know that individuals, a party of any size, as well as a really good treat is best enjoyed when experienced by those that love it while surrounded by those that care!


On Saturday, May 12, 2012 from 11-3, Powel’s Sweet Shoppe Host’s Children’s Authors


Donna Bevin’s
Barbara Ashley
Marlayne Grion


Powel’s Sweet Shoppe, 27000 Alicia Pkwy # E, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677!
For information visit: http://www.powellsss.com/go/
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Today Dorothy Adamek hosts Paula Rose Michelson on Her Blog!

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Today Dorothy Adamek hosts me on her Ink Dots Blog http://dorothyadamek.blogspot.com Please drop by, leave a message, and you might win the drawing for a free copy of Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing, which is the first novel in the Casa Saga.
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The Book Corral - Casa de Naomi Book Signing, by Paula Rose Michelson

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I believe that their first book signing is every new authors dream. Given this tenuous market where many booksellers have closed their doors and others are struggling to keep theirs open, I discovered that my forgone conclusion of having such signings might not be the norm. When Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing released, my publisher suggested I look at niche markets, which I did. The amazing experiences that followed were as varied as the colors of the rainbow and as lovely. Yet I longed, as I believe all authors do, for that illusive bookstore that would host me and rejoiced when my wish came true.

Upon receiving notification that The Book Corral would host a signing and seeing that they were local, I hopped into my car, drove to the location, and meet Chris who manages the place. Our impromptu meeting left no doubt as to his standing as a bibliophile for he was both well read and knowledgeable about the books within the Corral’s walls. When I discovered that he was a writer, I knew that as we spoke of the event, his heart and mine were in sync. By the time I left I knew that The Book Corral was the right place for me to have my first bookstore signing. I must admit that I looked forward to the event so much that I dropped by once more and meet David, who like Chris is an avid reader, extremely knowledgeable and helpful to all that cross the bookstores threshold, and also a writer.

When Saturday dawned gray and rainy, I hoped inclement weather would not dampen the event. My fears were not realized. For as I watched many entered the establishment looking for this or that book and the staff, which I soon discovered were all related to “Book Mom - Tina” as Chris called her, greeted and offered to assist each person. Having, once upon a time, worked in a bookstore I found their manner gracious, caring and most important of all, not clinging. Many who came commented on the new location (they had moved a few doors down so they could bring in more books) and the new ownership. To welcome those that stopped by they had a fresh pot of coffee, cookies, and sweets as well as punch for the younger crowed.

Since my table was situated towards the back, I set up while speaking with Tina’s teenage daughter, Madison, a young lady who's already thinking about preparing for a career, with a winsome smile that sets all  who might be off-put by such as youngsters focus on the future at ease. Then I took some bookmarks and walked around. I greeted people, gave them a bookmark, mentioned why I was there, and invited them to drop by my table once they were done with their browsing. A few did, and when one person bought a book, I was in author heaven! Then the unthinkable happened! I heard Chris greet, and offer to help two women as they came in. Each held up the half sheet flier The Book Corral had sent, and insisted, “We’re here to see Paula Rose Michelson!” Having heard their comments, I stood and walked forward to greet the ladies who were eager to hear about my writing journey. After they each purchased a copy of my novel there was a lull. When two other women came in looking for me, I knew I was living every authors dream! Those at The Book Corral must have felt the same way because I’m scheduled to return on Saturday, May 19, 2012 from 1-3 for another book signing. I look forward to seeing you there.


The Book Corral is located at: 25571 Jeronimo Rd., Ste 4, Mission Viejo, CA 92691

Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing is available on Amazon. Now offering a free download chapter one onto you Kindle.

An illegal immigrant
Bound by secrets
Trapped by choices
An arranged marriage
A forbidden love

The Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing Book Trailer is Posted on YouTube
To Watch enter http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M5uckLDfMaM into the URL Field
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To Critique, Not, and What Type of Critique, by Paula Rose Michelson

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It seems that all of our lives someone is critiquing us. First it might be our mother or father because they are trying to teach us what appropriate behavior is. Next it might be our teacher who is charged with the responsibility of helping us learn the skills necessary to advance to the next grade. Finally having matriculated, landed a job, and if one wished a spouse, we might feel that we’ve arrived. And for some the need to sustain that feeling may ultimately impede them allowing their creativity to be revealed to the rest of us.

I should know, for having been informed that I was deficient in many areas, I wanted to hide. Yet it wasn’t until I was standing in line with the Dean of the Library of Biola University who was soon to retire that I asked him what he planned to do once he could order his daily activities as he’d like. Imagine my surprise when he uttered that one word that writers prize above all others, “Write.” A lengthily discussion ensued during which I discovered that most good or even great authors never seek a publisher do to fear of…

Now as a recovering somewhat left of nor-mal in almost everything including ego trips, I understood what he said, and knew full well all that was not said, yet implied! I could sum all that my head and heart were burdened with in one thought, Writer be ware! Yet since many overcome their worries through a recovery (critique) group, I thought it beneficial today to write about the various types I have either been in or heard about. But before I begin let me share that what I write is soul my take.

For the purpose of this article I will break groups by focus and mode of interaction.

The Feel Good Group: A great way to begin ones writing journey. This gathering exists to encourage each other. Its membership may be writing within so many different genres that it might be described as a Potpourri Critique Group. Upside: Many who fear harsh comments will feel good especially if you are the only one writing in your genre. Downside: The writers’ within the group may be unable or fearful of giving a creditable evaluation, least they receive one.

The Evaluation Group: A great place to learn the skill sets such as Point of View (POV), Character Development, and Plot. Lead by a well known writer/author or someone with know how, here one can learn the nuts and bolts of their craft. For many (like me) who did not major in any form of writing in college save term papers, this group can be a quick way to learn the necessary tools.

The I’ve Got Mine Group: This group is one I would not be drawn to because I believe that ones commitment to growing in the craft can be inhibited by grandstanders. By grandstanders, I mean those who are very well known for what they do, yet when asked will not assist but might instead impede others growth. For example when asked what type of critique group has merit they might chose to mention the type that works for them. However, one must note that just like different people do things differently which I must say very tongue-in-cheek is why they are different, some many need to visit many groups before they find the one that’s right for them.

I noticed that I have written over 500 words without mentioning what type of group I belong to and since you’ve dropped by to chat with me, not the hypothetical professor I might have sounded like, let me confess, “I’m a group hopper!” That’s right! After spending four years in a feel good group where few brought anything that they had written to read, and pages were never sent in advance, I matriculated to an evaluation group. If you’re wondering how many years I spent there, I’ll confess, NONE! I discovered that there were two evaluation groups that meet monthly, sent in my first chapter to one, and a few months later repeated the process with the other. And dear friend I found pay dirt! That’s right you heard me, “Pay dirt!” that noun of yesteryear fame which is called an Americanism perhaps because it stems from the 1855-60 gold rush era. But, I digress, the pay dirt I’m writing about can best be defined as mining someone else gray matter for profit. And the profit I speak of is acquiring an individual sense that what you have to say, and they way you express it has merit. Not merit because you’ve written the next big hit or better yet, a timeless classic, but merit because you have added to the wealth of ideas upon which individuals thrive and society and nations exit.

If you think about your writing in light of the last sentence, I believe that you will grasp that the higher calling you and I struggle with is worth the effort, sacrifice, and others potential lack or understanding or appreciation, which brings me to my last point: Whether they know it or not, whether writing for academia or pulp fiction, writers write their heart. Therefore lets end by looking at the Bronte sister: Charlotte's Jane Eyre was the first to know success, while Emily's Wuthering Heights, Anne's The Tenant of Wildfell Hall and other works were later to be accepted as masterpieces of literature. One might ask, so I will, can any of us who slave to make each sentence a masterpiece live with “Later to be accepted as masterpieces of literature” accept this as a more than acceptable outcome? For sanities sake I believe we must. Otherwise we might find ourselves checking our novels numerical standing on Amazon several times a day while we wonder what the numbers mean, admonish ourselves, yet return once more. I know for I have been guilty of this fruitless activity. Better to work at our craft, publish or be published when the opportunity is available and let, as in the case of Bronte sister, posterity decide the outcome.

Until next time I wish all who write the blessing of ideas that inspire, and for those that read, may the next book you pick up give you everything you wished for but never thought existed.


Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing now available on Kindle.
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What do the Numbers Mean? by Paula Rose Michelson

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For many looking at data is tantamount to taking a sleeping pill. Others say that statics rock their world! Having worked for a marketing research company, I learned that the way questions are worded can prove or disprove the viability of various choices. However, looking at raw data gathered without questioning others can be very relevant.

Before you review the figures I believe it prudent to mention that having received inquires about the number of books I have sold through this and my Casa de Naomi Reflections blog, my www.PaulaWordsmith.com website, the various dot coms my novel is available on, and the many signing events I have gone to, I cannot give you a figure because I do not know what is happening within the book market, and I cannot control what a reader will buy.

If you ever wondered who’s reading this blog, and were interested in where they live, here’s that information: 

United States
2,673

Russia
125

Germany
85

Malaysia
83

Slovenia
71

United Kingdom
69

Canada
51

Israel
27

Netherlands
16

France
15

For those of you that are interested in what operating system readers use to visit this blog, here is that information:

Windows
2,717 (77%)

Macintosh
326 (9%)

Android
184 (5%)

Linux
103 (2%)

Other Unix
100 (2%)

iPhone
53 (1%)




This looks impressive, doesn’t it? But do these numbers equal book sales? Perhaps. I am saying perhaps because last week Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing’s standing on Amazon.com was in the mid six millions. Then the book Kindled and the number drop to the mid three millions! Does that mean that the novel sold about three million copies in a few days? Or does the novels number reflect the decease in the sales of other novels? Because new novels appear on Amazon daily, perhaps neither scenario is accurate.

Or, it just might be that many, like my friend Jane, who read the novel while flying and exclaimed, “I was unable to put it down, and glad that I finished the read before I had to disembark!” readers of this blog are telling others about the blog, their checking it out, and like their friends buying the book!

Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing now available in Kindle.


This is a first for me, but having looked at Amazon.com's Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing sales page, I discovered that numbers (as I have been saying) can mean many different things! Currently Amazon's bold blue lettering says they have eight books in stock. However, the lighter purple lettering above that claim shows that currently they have three books and more are on the way! Again, this leads me to wonder what numbers really mean! Although I don't want to belabor the point, I must add that each dot com has changed the price of the book at various times. I understand that those selling the novel in a foreign market where prices are higher must do this, but I find myself wondering if the change in price might indicate??? 


All I know for sure, is that one way or another we authors have to love Amazon since their the biggest dot com player:  Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing now available in Kindle.

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The Year of 5,000 Books, by Paula Rose Michelson

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On the 14 of January 2011,  my good friend Marlayne Grion had me come to her house so she could set up this blog. We selected the template, she added the features, and with some prompting from her, I agreed to her adding my picture so you could see me. Everything that needed her attention had been done, save one, and I have to admit that when she told me I needed to name my blog, I was stymied! I froze for I could think of nothing to say, or rather call this blog. Unlike the two times I had been pregnant and knew a name must be forthcoming upon the arrival of each precious bundle, I hadn’t a clue! It seemed to me that this was becoming a habit, for I had written a book without a title, and the chapters within it as well. Now, if I did not rise to the challenge, my blog might just (to my horror) be titled “Untitled!”
                                                                     
I closed my eyes thought about the Laguna Woods Writers meeting I had attended, and said, “Year of 5,000 Books.” I opened my eyes, watched as my friend typed the name into the subject field, and saw it become the blogs name. The moment I saw it, I realized that it should read The Year of 5,000 Books, but it was too late, for Year of 5,000 Books now had a Copyright © 2010 Year of 5,000 Books All rights reserved. If you think I’m daft, hit the first sentence of this entry and you'll be able to see my January 14, 2011 entry, then scroll down and see the copyright information that I mentioned. 

Since this blog began many have asked me why 5,000 Books? Today I share why that number matters to me, and if you’re a writer/author why it might matter to you as well.

To get at what I want to share with you, please pardon me for backtracking, which for someone like me who try to write sequentially i.e., in order, can appear disorganized, but here goes: While listening to an agent speak about those who send queries, and thinking of a publisher that shared how unlikely it was for new authors work to sell well, I realized that 5,000 in book sales within the first 12 months of release would ensure two things. One, it meant that booksellers would order my book thereby ensuring that I, would have book signings at those stores. And two, it further ensured that my six-volume Casa Saga, or anything else I wrote would be ordered by those booksellers, who are ever in search of a guaranteed sale to stock.

So it is that Year of 5,000 Books, which I blurted out seems to have been the right title for this blog after all! Therefore, should you wish to join me on this journey please know that books are the topic, both mine and yours. That’s right, YOURS!! For if you write of romantic historic fiction, follow this blog, and wish to be featured one month because of a book or article release please contact me. 
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News Flash! Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing now available on Kindel

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If you have been waiting for Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing to be available on Kindel, your wait is over!
 
If you have wanted to read a portion of Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing before you bought the novel, go to Amazon, and hit Kindel. Once the Kindel opens use the Search Inside feature and enjoy!
 
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Last Year – This Year, by Paula Rose Michelson

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Although living in Southern California one might not notice the change of seasons, every now and then one stands out amongst the others. One summer might bring sweet breezes instead of Santa Ana’s, and one winter might be cold enough for Ron and I to drive to the mountains before the snow melts, thus reminding us that although the names of the seasons stay the same, things are not stagnant.

For more years than I can count Ron and I were in change of hospitality for those that volunteered to make the MJAA Conference an event others could enjoy. Though often seen we were seldom able to snatch more than a few moments to visit with friends, renew acquaintances, attend a lecture, or enjoy shopping at The Messianic Marketplace. However, that changed last year when I felt the Lord encouraging me to pre-sell Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing during that three day event. Though I worried about selling a book that I did not have, those in charge let me pay my fee, and it was my joy to meet and speak with thirteen people who choose to buy the first book of The Casa Saga! I could hardly believe it when I counted the amount and discovered that the sales met the provision I had prayed for and not one penny more! LAST YEAR I prayed that I would sell enough books to cover the cost of the table, and I, no rather He, did! THIS YEAR I had the first volume of the six-book Casa Saga to sell. Nevertheless, once again God challenged me to do the unthinkable and pre-sell book two. And like last year people were eager to buy that book!

Since I shared a table with my good friend and fellow author Marlayne Grion, on occasion she would ask me how many books I had sold. Looking back, I know that when I said what I am sharing with you, my words might seems as odd to you as they probably sounded to her, for you see this is a faith walk. By faith in God’s providence I probably gave away as many books as I sold. I gave a book to a woman who told me that she had spoken with someone she felt needed to read Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing more than she did. I joyfully gifted her a replacement. I gave a book to two women who wanted to bless others, others I gladly gave to people eager or promote my work. I gave books to those who needed but could not buy a book. Lastly I gifted a book to Eva Rydelnik who years ago had read the manuscript at my request because, as a teacher Messianic Literature at Moody Bible College, I hoped to receive an endorsement from her. After she finished reading the manuscript a lengthily dialogue ensued during which she informed me that she could not give her endorsement because there were no hidden Jews in Spain. She offered to give me her endorsement if I set the date back 100 years. I could not do that for I had meet Sephardic Jews from Spain and heard their stories. Our parting was bittersweet, and I did not hear from her again until she walked the length of the marketplace.

I still do not know what caused me to look up when I did, but seeing her eyes riveted on me, a smile on her face, a spark of excitement kindled within me. Yet it wasn’t until she stood before me and proclaimed, “You made a believer of me!” that I understood that she had been observing all I did,  and read what I posted!

I have only seen Eva twice in my life. The first time I saw her was to ask her if she would read my manuscript. The second time was to hear from her own lips that she now knew that there are still hidden Jews in Spain!

1 Corinthians 13:12 says, For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known… and I believe that just as Eva and I loved each though we could not affirm the others point of view when we disagreed, the Lord loves us with an ever lasting love though we contend with Him.

May we like Levi, whom you may know as Matthew walk in the certain knowledge of Gods truth, as that apostle wrote in Mathew 6:21 remember, For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 

My prayer for you is that you walk in the certain knowledge that your faith walk is ordained and directed by God for without Him we may stumble or worse yet become sidetracked by what is not of God. 

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Welcome Guest Blogger Salena Stormo

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Interview

Salena, what is your favorite thing to write about, (i.e., forgiveness, rebellion, etc)?
Definitely forgiveness. Like all of us, I have faced moments in my life where I had the choice to hold onto anger and resentment or let it go. I knew that God wanted me to let it go. I didn’t want to live a life full of bitterness or teach my child to hold grudges so after much prayer I learned that forgiveness is a very powerful thing and whether the person accepts it or not isn’t always the issue. It’s what you do with your life going forward for the glory of God that matters. I want people to read my books someday and say “WOW, forgiveness IS powerful! It can change people and draw them closer to Him.”


What do you hope readers will take away from this story?
With this story, I hope the reader will get a glimpse into the life of a truly amazingly sweet woman who left her mark on this world and impacted the people around her through the simple act of love.


If you could travel back in time when and where would you go?
I would love to go to the mid to late 19th century. This country was changing drastically with the end of the Civil War, the formation of the basic civil rights, reconstruction, the creation of the cowboy, and taking industry to new heights. It is hard to imagine the amount of emotion and drive people had back then to fix the problems and get back on track to making this country something to be proud of.


What project are you currently working on?
I am working on a series of books set in the hill country of Texas immediately following the Civil War. It is about Tyler, a Yankee soldier and his young daughter who move south after the war, and after the loss of his wife. He meets Faith and realizes he saw her during the burning of Atlanta, Georgia. It is a story about how their lives intertwine to bring about a healing process and a love so strong that no battle lines could destroy it.


Excerpt from Quilted Love, by Salena Stormo

      The memories flood my mind as my eyes grow heavy. I close them and drift off to a familiar and happy place long, long ago. I'm sixteen again. My auburn hair is being teased by the Texas wind as I struggle to pull it into a bun and pin it in place. My calico dress whips against my legs as I place my bonnet neatly over my head to block out the intense morning sun. This is the land I love; the land of my ancestors and it is embedded with history I will forever carry with me, no matter where life takes me.
      I see the covered wagon as it sits beneath the tall oak tree at the bottom of the hill. It is exactly as we left it when we stopped to rest for the evening. I arose early to wash the clothes at the nearby creek before we continue our journey west. We have only been traveling a few days and yet home already seems so far away. My husband is hitching the team to the wagon and securing our belongings. He is meticulous as he checks everything one last time. Still a boy in so many ways and yet advanced for his years. We are both young, really. As ma said we were to young to be married and heading west to start a life for ourselves. But we are full of dreams and ambitions so we smiled and comforted our families as we made our plans to go to New Mexico.


Quilted Love was inspired by my great-grandmother and originally I wrote it for my mom. She loved it so much she encouraged me to get it published. I sent it off to one place, Harpstring Magazine, and wouldn't you know they published it in thier December 2011 magazine.


Quilted Love is about a lady who, during her last moments, reflects on her life and all the blessings God bestowed upon her. Her love of quilting is intertwined in the story because my great-grandmother loved to make quilts. I will always remember her sitting in her favorite chair by the window with her latest quilt over her lap. 

Also, don’t miss the release of another short story “The Gift of Yesterday” that will appear in Harpstring Magazine’s February 2012 issue.


You can purchase Quilted Love at: http://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/308785

Stop by http://throughhiseyestoo.blogspot.com/ and read about some talented Christian authors.
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When Wishes Really do Come True, by Paula Rose Michelson

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Did you ever wish that before you finished asking for what you wanted the person smiled and nodded YES! Well that’s exactly what happened to me a few weeks ago as I crossed the railroad tracks and entered yesteryear or as the residence of San Juan Capistrano call it, the Los Rios Historic district.

If you’ve been on the journey with me for a while my going to the historic district to speak with merchants about hosting a Book Signing Event for Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing would appear to be a perfect fit. If you haven’t, to bring you up to speed, I must share that while glancing up I saw an artistic woman crossing the tracks out as I crossed into the historic past. I had to fight the urge to turn and dog her steps, and I did because I knew that someone leaving in the middle of the day was not what I was looking for. No! I was absolutely certain that what I needed was someone who had a place that harkened back to old Spain, or if that were not possible, someplace where people leisurely lunch or sip tea.

At sometime in the future one of those places might contact me. However, I wasn’t going to wait. So crossing the tracks once more, I scanned the street and realized that the once vacant store front that had stood empty for years whose weathered window panes had allowed a recently re-transplanted native to view the collectables in its widow now housed a gallery. And having at one time been a rather good facsimile of an aspiring artist, I darted within as I joyfully called, “Hello!”

I was greeted by another equally joyous, “Hi!” as the woman who I hadn’t followed turned and look at me. If I were writing a book rather than a blog I might say that when our eyes locked it seemed to me that we understood each other at first sight! And since I’m writing this that’s what I’m going to say! A quick conversation and a commitment from Randi to host a Book Signing on Valentines Day followed. Before I turned to leave the shop, I handed Randi a copy of my novel.

As she escorted me to the door, her friend and fellow artist asked about the Star of David she’d been working on. When she smiled and held it up for him to see, I realized that it was one of a kind, and I wanted it. I reminded myself that I wasn’t there to buy jewelry no matter how beautiful and perfectly made it was. However, I couldn’t stop myself from saying, “If I sell some books I will buy one of your pieces!”

Randi pointed to a mirror. As I watched she put the bobble around my neck and fastened the clasp. “You gave me a book. I’m giving you a necklace.”

I came to San Juan looking for a place that would host a book signing. I left San Juan knowing that I had received a gift I will always treasure, and no, although I love it, it’s not the necklace; I’m speaking of Randi’s friendship.

If you’d like to join Randi, her artist friend and me, on Valentines Day, we’ll be at The Black Cat Gallery, 26755 Verdugo St., Suit 200, San Juan Capistrano 92675
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Between the Pages, by Paula Rose Michelson

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Since many of you haven't experienced my Newspaper article writing side, I thought you would enjoy this article, which I submitted for this weeks, Laguna Woods Globe Paper. Below this article you will find a short list of where and when Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing Book Signings will be held. I look forward to seeing you at one of these events!

Before you begin reading my Laguna Woods Globe Article, I think it prudent to mention that when writing about ones self it is always done as if one was writing about someone else. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Between the Pages~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Released on December 20, 2011, Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing Book One has already found an audience! Perhaps this happened because this story about fifteen-year-old Naomi who wants to practice her faith in public, find her uncle, and help him raise enough money to bring their family to America is universal. Perhaps it is because when she finds her plans thwarted, accepts an old Tía’s help, and unwittingly enters the country illegally, the reader experiences everything that the heroine goes through without leaving the comfort of their own home.

All we know for sure is that author Paula Rose Michelson must have been thrilled when within days of this novel appearing on Amazon readers posted:

“Me encanta! Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing is a "can't put it down" great read. I absolutely loved book 1, and highly recommend it. It is a perfect gift idea. I bought some for Christmas gifts, and I can't wait for Book 2 to come out.” Tracey Awwanda

“Michelson's debut novel is a rich, detailed story. Blessings abound in this house in Spanish Harlem. All the characters are compelling and appealing. Their story draws the reader along through the tangled threads of Naomi's life. There is never a let-up in the drama and action of this tale…For a wonderful journey to places seldom written about, I recommend this book, and I am waiting for Book 2.” Lyn Lawrence

“This is much more than a romance and I recommend it to men and women alike. I felt intimately involved in the challenges facing Naomi, Chaz, and the others that are involved in their life…The author has a way of making you really care about the characters. You feel as if you are in that house in Spanish Harlem. I could hear the accents of the people as they spoke; even the way they spoke English as bilingual people was very real. I am eagerly awaiting book 2.” Heather Micaela 

“I couldn't put it down! I was given Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing Book 1 as a gift. When I finally found a free moment, I picked it up and I was blown away! The story drew me in. I found myself thinking about the characters and the story throughout the day. I looked forward to reading it each night. I even read until 2am one night because I just couldn't put it down! The story stayed with me for weeks after as I found myself remembering little pieces here and there. My only complaint was that the book ended! I cannot wait to read Book two and find out what happens next!” Cheryl Henrikson

“An awesome Cliffhanger! This story was well researched and excellently written! Unfortunately, it is a cliffhanger...so we really want the sequel as soon as possible! It will keep you reading until the last page when you start to look for more!” Anthony Ort

“I finished reading Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing Book 1 and it was wonderful! Every day I looked forward to the evening when I could delve into the next chapter! I can't wait for book two.” Cora Bant

“I enjoyed book the first novel of the Casa Saga so much that I bought two more copies to give as gifts, and eagerly await book two!” Avalyn Ava Camp


Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing
by Paula Rose Michelson

An illegal immigrant
Bound by secrets
Trapped by choices
An arranged marriage
A forbidden love

www.Amazon.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Book Signings~~~~~~~~~~~~~

February 8, 2012 from 10-2, I'll be at The Kosher Bite, 23595 Moulton Parkway, Laguna Woods, Suite H, 92653

February 14, 2012, I'll be at the Black Cat Gallery from 11 on, 26755 Verdugo St., Suite 200, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675





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Author Book Signing Event Tomorrow!

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Meet the Authors’ Event! My friend Marlayne Grion and I will be selling and inscribing books at The Farmers Market at South Orange County Design Center, 3115 Harbor Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Saturday, January 28, 2012 from 9-3, and hope to see you there!  
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I Signed the Publishers Contract for Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing Book Two

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Hurray! Friday afternoon I sent book two of Casa de Naomi: The House of Blessing to my acquisitions editor at Tate. Today she overnighted a contract to me. When she conveyed that good news, she added, “You have written another amazing book that is beautifully written. I loved all of your reviews. This is a great selling point!”

Ron and I did the happy dance, my daughter and her family interrupted our dinner (which made the evening sweet indeed) to shout ‘Hurray!” Cheryl and I had a great talk, and the cherry on the top, is that none of this would have happened if it weren’t for Messiahs commission!

Because of this work, the Lord is allowing us to meet some very interesting Sephardim, one of which we are breaking bread with tomorrow night! I’m so very blessed to have been allowed to do this work, and now that I know a little about the Spanish Jews it seems that Messiah keeps putting them in my path so I can ask them if what I found out is true. By the time we have finished talking we’ve made a date to meet again!
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Barbara Robinson Guests Today! by Paula Rose Michelson

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Today, I’ve posted my interview with J.B, a well known author, whose novel Southern Superstitions, releases on Sunday, January 15, 2012. 


Me, “What is your genre?”

J.B, “Christian Romantic Suspense”

“Romantic suspense, I already loving that read! Why are you drawn to this particular style?”

“I love romance with mystery and intrigue.”

Me, “How many books have you written? Had published or self-published?”

J.B, “I'm working on my third. One, Last Resort, released July 15. Southern Superstitions releases January 15. Whispering Cypress will release August 15, 2012.”

“I don’t know how you can accomplish so much in such a short time! But I do know that your readership proves you’re a novelist worth reading! Share something about your writing life.”

“I’m a morning person. and love French vanilla coffee and writing time first thing before daylight.”

“Have you won any writing awards?”

J.B, “I won first prize for a short story in fiction-writing competition in college, first Runner-up in Florida Writers Association novel contest.”

“Which authors do you most admire?”

“Lynn Austin for her writing style, Chris Fabry for Dogwood, Naomi Much for The Green Veil and The Red Fury. Shawna K. Williams for No Other, In All Things, and The Good Fight, Eva Marie Everson for her Southern novels.”

“That’s quite a list! It proves that reading what we like to write, informs our writing. How can your work benefit, build up, or change a reader’s view of, or perspective of topic you're writing about?”

J.B, “My work may change a reader's view about forgiveness, eating disorders, swimming in creeks or rivers during the hot summer months, inspire, or encourage a closer walk with God, as I've been told by a few readers that Last Resort did, illustrate faith, and one reader/reviewer stated that Last Resort presented an inventive take on a villain. I hope readers will be entertained with sensational strawberry stories that keep them guessing until the end, like putting a puzzle together. They're unpredictable.”

“This sounds like a must read!”

Hope Lives even as a Last Resort
By B. J. Robinson

"Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. . . . For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage one another with these words.” 1Thessalonians verses 4:13, 16-18

She and I stood in the front yard of the old apartment house. Lisa wore a light pink suit jacket, and her sad brown eyes looked directly into mine as she said, "I hope it's not cancer. I don't want to die." That visual image is sealed in my mind as vivid today as it was seven years ago when I lost my youngest sister. Bird-like hands clutched a shining gold star with a pearl-head pin. She handed  it to me, "I want you to wear this." When she died, the heavens raged. Storm clouds covered the land and hurricanes blew in from the sea. That year, twelve blustery ones battered America's shores. The last, a storm named Lisa, tiny and non-threatening like her, eventually faded out over land. On September 13, a summons came for Lisa. Sent on a mission, angels ferried another angel home. As I fell to my knees bedside my bed and cried, I said a silent prayer. Then, I opened my Bible, and the  Comforter sent me encouragement. I knew then, that even in death, hope lived, for I'd see my youngest sister again in heaven.

Dear Lord, thank you for Your encouraging Word and the gift of eternal life through Your son, Jesus. Thank you for opening my eyes so I no longer grieve without hope, Amen.

Lives disrupted: 

You’re a young adolescent girl and life is too competitive--the competition is being the thinnest. It's  sad when people diet themselves to death. Many lives are disrupted with the loss of a loved one. In Last Resort, the main character Faith has lost her sister to an eating disorder. This was an important topic to brooch because I lost my youngest sister in 2004 right after Hurricanes Charley and Frances. She wanted to share her story in hopes of helping others. Though my novel is romance, mystery, suspense, and intrigue entwined, this subject is one of several important messages. God's love is the most important of all. Without it, we'd all be lost. Even in death, there's hope, and I used this scripture in my debut Christian romance novel Last Resort to encourage those who have lost loved ones through death.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=juwF0dLLX6M&feature=youtu.be
Book Trailer for Last Resort

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-184/B-J-Robinson-Last/Detail.bok
Read a free excerpt from the publisher. This book may be purchased here as a PDF file to read on your computer.

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/last-resort-b-j-robinson/1030124288?ean=2940012838063&itm=1&usri=last%2Bresort%2Bb%2Bj%2Brobinson Buy here if you own a Nook.

http://www.amazon.com/Last-Resort-ebook/dp/B005CQ7JQK/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1310918473&sr=1-1 Available here for the Kindle.

Scripture taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION ©1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved.

B. J. Robinson writes from Florida. Last Resort is her debut Christian romantic suspense. Southern Superstitions releases January 15, 2012, and Whispering Cypress releases August 15, 2012, all through Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc. When she's not  writing, she's reading, and reviewing books on her blog. Visit B. J. at http://barbarajrobinson.blogspot.com.


Monthly I post information about a book or an interview with a published author. If you are interested in guesting on my "Year of 5,000 Books Blog," please contact me. 
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