Josh Martin is a typical high school sophomore who has lived his entire life in the same house in Southern California. As one of five kids, he rarely sees a dull moment. When he gets together with fellow classmate, Shayla Gene, on a camping trip to Yosemite, Josh’s biggest worries are whether he will play well on the soccer field during his next game or if he will pass his upcoming driver’s license test. As feelings between the two teenagers ignite, they are both met with challenges. Josh is sure he can handle the chaos, even when his biological father makes his first appearance into his life. But when Shayla faces life-changing health issues, her courage falters as she attempts to deal with it all alone. Bonded together by time and the challenge of keeping their relationship God-honoring, Josh and Shayla are inseparable. But when Josh receives an invitation to travel to Colombia, everything begins to change. In this inspirational tale, a tragic event has the potential to either tear a young couple apart or help them realize that with, the help of supportive family and an unyielding faith in God, neither of them will ever have to face life’s struggles singlehandedly again.
Targeted Age Group:: Young-Adults
What Inspired You to Write Your Book?
I love, love, love to read! …AND I’ve never been able to resist the urge to write. When I was little, I had a bookcase that I covered with story ideas. Once my kids were all half-grown, I decided I’d never forgive myself if I never gave myself a shot as an author. A crazy, fun family whose members faced trials and still held firm in their faith was something I really wanted to put out there. Who doesn’t want to write a book they’d be happy for their kids to read?
How Did You Come up With Your Characters?
As my first book, Singlehanded is near and dear to my heart. While it’s completely made up, there are a few similarities that mirror my own life. My husband and I really do have a bunch of kids and live on 2 acres of property. My oldest daughter, Alexis was born a 1 lb. preemie just like Lainey and we really do have a pig!
Book Sample
I was halfway packed when I spotted the little box with the bow. It hit me that I still had never even gotten a chance to talk to Shay about getting to meet my real dad. I picked up her Christmas present one more time and headed to her house.
When Mrs. Gene came to the door, she seemed relieved. “Oh, Josh, I’m so glad you’re here. Maybe you can cheer her up. I just don’t know what to do to help her. She’s so depressed.”
I made my way to the front room where Shay was sitting on the couch watching T.V. She looked so lifeless; no expression on her face at all. “Hey, you, I’m so glad you’re home! I really need to talk to my girl right now. Wanna go for a quick walk? It’ll perk you up.”
Her eyes narrowed as she looked at me, disgusted. “Josh, I’m not a superhero.”
I never thought I’d see her wallowing in self-pity this way. I’d had enough of being understanding. She needed the truth. “Okay, first of all, I didn’t know you had to be a superhero to go on a walk. I never got the point of a superhero, anyway. What’s so super about somebody made up that can do things easily because of a special power they have? I mean, I’ve always thought someone who is able to do great things without special powers is a lot more amazing. There are people who overcome obstacles and give God the credit He deserves instead of seeking their own glory. That’s a superhero to me.”
She rolled her eyes. “Well, I’m not even normal.”
“I’ve never once thought you were. You’re amazing; so strong.
About the Author:
After being a stay-at-home mom of four for seventeen years(my dream job), my characters refused to be quiet any longer. So, I decided to shake off the dust bunnies and make my dream of writing novels a reality.
For those of you who enjoy young adult books, I’d love for you to check out mine! Inspired by my life in Southern California and a house full of teenage kids, they’re easy reads with twists that keep you reading. They do have a hint of sweet romance since I’m such a sucker for a good love story. They’re available in paper or as an ebook.
As exciting as winning Crossbook’s writing contest with my manuscript for “Hand Over Your Heart” was, hearing from my readers is even more thrilling for me. Though my books are geared toward young adults, I’ve been overwhelmed by the number of adults who are enjoying them.
Thankful you’re joining me. Happy reading!
Links to Purchase Print Books
Link to Buy Singlehanded Print Edition at Amazon
Link to Buy Singlehanded Print Edition at Barnes and Noble
Link to Singlehanded Print book for sale via LifeWay
Links to Purchase eBooks
Link To Buy Singlehanded On Amazon
Link to Singlehanded on Barnes and Noble
Link to Singlehanded eBook for sale via LifeWay
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