Jesseca Wheaton's Blog

Hi everyone! I hope you're having an absolutely amazing weekend!
We've been super busy starting the school year and I haven't really had time to post on here much other then a story on Friday. :) So this is an update, and then I have a question I'd love y'all's opinion on as well!
I'm working an a few different projects for writing right now. No Greater Love, the blog story I've been posting is coming along quite well! I've also been working on a WWII story/book that I'm having a lot of fun with. It's coming along nicely and it's been fascinating to research! Plus, even though I'm only about 5 chapters in, I've already fallen quite in love with the characters. ;)
My third project is. . .The Silent Blade! I've been working on editing it, re-writing some scenes, taking some out, etc.
And this is where my question comes in. The Silent Blade is written generally in two different points of view. Eira's and Kevin's, although there are sometimes where the POV switches to Caismir and Merek.  As I've been working on it, I've considered switching everything over to Eira's POV because I know that's how books are usually written. My question is, do you enjoy reading books with more then one POV?
Here's a sample chapter from The Silent Blade. If you need a quick reminder as to who the characters are, I posted the first chapter here.


        Chapter 4“No, Kevin. It's what he wants. Can’t you see that?” Aeden, the leader of the three mysterious men pulled Kevin around to face him. “Once Merek knows he has your siblings, he’ll not go looking for you anymore because you’ll come to him. He knows how you feel about your family. The most natural thing would be for you to try and get them back.Kevin stared at him for a long moment, his eyes flashing, “They are my siblings. Whether you come or not is up to you, but I’m going. We all know where they’re headed, am I right?” he glanced around the circle of men. One by one they all nodded.“Of course, Kevin. We all know where they’d go and Merek knows that we would know. It’s what he’s counting on,” Aaron said in exasperation. “Don’t you see? It’s a trap, Kevin. And you're just going to walk straight into it?”It was Kevin’s turn to be exasperated, “What do you take me for? What have we been trying to do for the last four years? Get Merek of course! Now he’s given me a perfect excuse to do it. We’ll get Willem and Eira back and at the same time, we’ll get Merek.”“How? We don’t have enough men and you know it. Merek has a band of followers that are there to carry out his every wish.”“We’re three more then we were before,” Kevin stubbornly replied.Aaron shook his head in defeat. When an O’Brien made up his mind, there was no stopping him. It was either go along for the ride or else. He chose to go along for the ride.“One more thing, I need you to go into Dublin and bring Casimir Lannon back here,” Kevin announced.This was met with silence as the men glanced at one another uncertainty. Kevin had always been very quiet about their group, telling no one. Why did he want this Casimir anyway?Aaron finally asked the question everyone was thinking, “Kevin, who is Casimir and why do you want him?”“Casimir is a close friend of Willem. . .and Eira. I think he will be an advantage.”“How?”“Well, to start with he’s better with a sword then any of you and second, Merek would not be expecting him.”“What can one person do against Merek’s band? He’s got at least thirty-five men and they all hate you with a passion.”“One person can do quite a lot.”Aaron sighed, Kevin was sidestepping the question. “I’ll send a note with you. Desmond, Casimir’s father, is on our side. Merek did more to him then he did to any of us. He’ll let Casimir come," Kevin continued. “Alright, Kevin. If you think it's best, I’ll go for him.” Aaron gave his friend a slap on the shoulder, then slipped his sword into its sheath, “I’ll be back before dark.” Without another word, he disappeared from sight.                                        -----
Casimir could sense that something was wrong. He glanced around uneasily. Without warning, a man stepped forward.“You are Casimir?”He nodded, “I am.”“My name is Aaron. I was asked by Kevin O’Brien to come and fetch you. I went by your house and delivered a note to your father. He said I would find you here.”Casimir released his hold on the hilt of his sword, which he had been clenching ever since Aaron had stepped forward.“Kevin. If father said it was alright, I’ll come. I know he trusts Kevin.” Casimir stood and followed him as they took, what seemed to be, an invisible path through the trees. After a while, Casimir gave up trying to figure out where they were going and simply concentrated on not losing sight of Aaron, who moved swiftly through the woods.  After about twenty minutes of walking, Aaron suddenly turned to the side and stepped into a small clearing. Following him, Casimir looked around at the small group of twenty-three men, some standing, some siting on rocks scattered throughout the clearing. His eyes easily spotted Kevin, who was sitting at the far side of the clearing. “Casimir, it’s good to see you, my friend,” Kevin stood as he welcomed him. “Did Aaron say why I wanted you?’Casimir shook his head.“It’s Eira and Willem. They were captured by Merek’s men.”At the mention of Merek’s name, Casimir stiffened and his eyes became stormy. “Do you mean to tell me Eira is in the hands of Merek?”Kevin nodded, “So is Willem.”“If they’ve touched Eira I’ll--”“You’ll what?” Despite the seriousness of their undertaking, Kevin’s eyes began to twinkle, “I had no idea there was anything between you two other than friendship.”“There isn’t.”“Really? Well, you didn’t seem to be in as much of a hurry to rescue Willem.”Casimir’s glanced down, not meeting Kevin's gaze.Kevin laughed, “It's all right, Casimir. I’m sorry I teased you. I know you care for Eira, and, yes, we are sure it was Merek who has them. Why we don’t know, but it seems that the same men who needed a doctor this afternoon are the ones who took her.Casimir looked up as though realizing something for the first time. “It was him. The man with the dark hair was Merek.” He slammed his fist into the bark of a tree, “Why, oh why didn’t I see it sooner!”“Probably because he looked nothing like he did when you saw him last," a new voice spoke up.
Casimir turned toward the man who had spoken. “I’m Aeden. I saw both Willem and Eira on his ship last night.”“And you did nothing?”“We came here, to Kevin. We knew Eira and Willem were his siblings. We knew he had been looking for Merek for quite a while.”Casimir turned back to Kevin, “Do you know this man?”Kevin nodded, “I do now, although he had me worried earlier. Caismir, meet Aeden, Cian and Diarmuid. Michael’s brothers.”     “Michel? As in Anna’s husband?”     Kevin nodded. “We can talk more about it later, but right now we don't have time. We need to go after them and we need a plan.”                                           -----
Eira was exhausted from the long ride and it wasn’t over yet. She had resisted the urge to lean her head on Rowen’s back this long, but she knew she couldn't keep it up much longer. Her eyes grew heavy and the plodding of the horse made her want to do nothing more than fall sleep. Then, without even realizing it, she drifted off to sleep.A sudden jerk startled her awake. She nearly fell into Henry's arms as he roughly pulled her off the horse. She winced as a sharp pain shot through her ankle at the same moment her feet hit the ground.“Henry, I said to be careful!” Rowen dismounted and helped her to her feet, casting a withering glance at Henry when he realized she couldn't put any weight on her right ankle.Henry only grinned at her, the ice in his eyes as cold as ever. Eira knew it hadn’t been an accident, and she also knew Henry would try his best to make these small “accidents” as frequent as possible. Better try and make sure I always stay close to Willem, Stace or Rowen. . .even Merek. Anyone’s got to be better than Henry!Rowen helped her as she limped over to a tree stump and sat down. “Now you just stay here and I’ll send your brother over to take a look at your ankle.”He walked away leaving Eira alone. She looked out across the clearing. It looked as though the men had been here for several months. Crude shelters had been constructed that looked more permanent than the tents that were usually set up when people traveled.Which means they’re planning on staying here for a little while, Eira thought.She was startled by Merek’s voice as he walked over to her, “You, girl, go and make us some soup. My men have fish and I want to have a warm, home cooked meal for once in my life.”Eira looked at him blankly, “Uh, sir. I can’t walk. My ankle. . .” her voice trailed off and Merek’s gaze traveled down to her ankle which had already swollen to twice its normal size.Merek swore under his breath and Eira looked at him, startled. “Haven’t you been taught not to say such things?” the words were out before she could stop them.Merek simply stared at her and she squirmed under his gaze. She liked the yelling Merek better, when he was quiet it seemed to signal that he was extremely angry with you. . .and his eyes further confirmed the fact.“I--don’t like--to be questioned,” his words were carefully measured and controlled. “Is that clear?”Eira nodded.“Now, I will help you over to the fire, and I want that soup. Have I made myself clear?” Once again Eira nodded, not bringing her eyes up to meet his. She felt his arm go around her as he helped her over to the fire. The fish had been cleaned, and when she glanced around to see who had done it, she caught Willem’s grin from across the fire. Of course; Willem! I certainly hope he can help me with the soup. The last time I made anything, mother proclaimed it not fit to be eaten!As Merek left her alone, she tried to catch Willem’s eye without making it obvious. When softly calling his name didn’t make a difference, she picked up a pebble from the ground and tossed it at him. She missed and was just about to try again when a soft chuckle made her look up. Stace stood behind her, eying her in amusement.“Would you like me to get your brother for you?” his eyes twinkled merrily down at her.Eira’s face flushed red, “You saw all that?”He laughed, “I did!”“Yes, I would greatly appreciate it if you could get Willems attention for me!” she said as Willem walked into one of the huts.He winked at her, “Wait here, I’d be happy to.” He walked over and entered the hut, reappearing a moment later with Willem.“Do you need something, Eira?” Willem asked as he hurried over to her, Stace leaned against the side of the hut and watched them with--Eira noticed--the same twinkle in his eye. She tried to block him out as she turned to Willem. “I’m supposed to make soup and--”“You'd rather not have Merek’s fish become ‘unfit to eat’?”Eira nodded.Willem grinned, “All right, I’ll help you and then I’ll take a look at your ankle. Rowen told me you needed help.”                                         -----
“Hold still, Eira.” Willem had unlaced the leather shoe and was trying to gently pull it off  the swollen foot. Supper was over and Willem had finally found time to look at her ankle. The soup had turned out quite tasty, as Eira knew it would. Thankfully, neither Rowen nor Merek saw him helping and Stace hadn't said a thing.“It hurts!” she exclaimed suddenly as she pulled her foot back.He sat back and looked at her, “It'll hurt a lot worse if you don’t let me look at it.”“And what exactly are you going to do? It’s not like there’s some special salve that will help a sprained ankle.”Willem gave her the ‘you’d-better-do-what-I-say-and-don’t-ask-any-questions’ look. Eira groaned, but sat still as Willem continued to gently ease the shoe off. Even though Willem was usually easy going, there were times you simply didn’t cross him. Eira had learned to sense when her older brother was set on having his way--and this was one of those times.She clenched her jaw as he took a roll of cloth and began to tightly wrap her ankle.“How in the world did you manage to fall hard enough to cause this?” he shook his head. “Usually dismounting a horse isn’t so dangerous.”“It wasn’t! Well, it wouldn’t have been if Henry hadn’t yanked me off. I guess I had drifted off to sleep and when we stopped he pulled me off. I landed on my foot--obviously.”Willem paused and glanced up at her, “He pulled you off the horse? That’s not what Rowen said.”“Well, you go right ahead and believe him if you want!” Eira snapped.  She instantly regretted it,  “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it.”Willem, who had finished wrapping the ankle, laid back on the grass and gazed up at the stars. Neither of them spoke for a long moment.“It’s okay. I knew you didn’t mean it,” Willem finally spoke breaking the silence.“They’re so beautiful. So peaceful," Eira said. "When I look up at the stars at night, it makes me wonder how someone can not believe in God." Willem nodded. The sky seemed to be alive with twinkling lights. The moon shone bright as well, bathing the clearing in pale, warm light.Merek and Rowen along with Henry, Stace and two other men Eira didn’t recognize sat around the fire which still blazed cheerily. The other men had retired soon after supper was over.“I wonder--” Eira started, but was shushed by Willem.“Listen.”Eira strained her ears, but she could only hear snatches of the conversation.“Kevin will come. . .he knows what we want. . .his fault. . . turned against us. . . knows where we are. . .”Kevin again. What does he have to do with these men? Eira wondered.Then she heard two clear sentences.  Two sentences that sent a shiver through her.“We have his sibling now and they are the bait. Kevin will come and walk right into a trap.”Eira turned horrified eyes toward Willem, but before she could speak Willem put a finger across her lips. “Not now,” he whispered.Eira kept silent, but one thought kept pounding through her brain. It’s our fault. Kevin is going to get hurt and we can’t do anything to help him!

This is an average chapter in The Silent Blade. So what do you think? Would it be better to change it all to one POV? I asked a friend who has read it, and her thoughts were that if I did change it to one POV, it would be a lot of Kevin and Casimir telling Eira what happened and not the readers experiencing the action. 
So. . .what are your thoughts? Do you generally like one POV better? I'm open to any suggestions!!

Rachel smiled as she  brought two plates of fish and rice out of the kitchen and set the down in front of her parents.Dad smiled and rubbed his hands together, “My, my does this look good.”Mom nodded in agreement, “Yes, it certainly does, Rachel.”Richard glanced at their plates, “Aww, come on Rach. Don’t make me wait. I’m starved for some real food.”Rachel laughed, “you be patient. I’ll bring your plate next.” She disappeared into the kitchen and returned a moment later with two more plates. One she set down in front of her chair, the second one she set in front of Richard. He looked down at his plate. . .and promptly froze.“Uhh, Rachel, what is this?”She grinned mischievously, “It’s your fish, my dear brother.”“Rachel, it’s burnt.”She glanced at his plate as though seeing it for the first time, “Oh, really? Well, that’s a pity, but I guess it’s what happens when you tease me about my cooking.”A smile spread over Richard’s face, “Ahh, so this is what it’s all about.”Dad laughed as he watched the exchange between the two, “Don’t ever tease the cook, Richard. While this cook may not poison you, she’ll make sure you learn your lesson.”Richard smiled, “Yeah, and I do believe I’ve learned my lesson. I’m curious,” he turned to Rachel, “do I have to eat this?”“Why don’t you go in the kitchen and see what else you can find.”He raised his eyebrows, “Seriously?”Rachel laughed, “yes, seriously. Now go!”Richard sighed as he pushed his chair back from the table and made his way into the kitchen.“Ahh, now we’re talking. Chocolate cake, all for me!” Richard’s voice drifted into the dining room. Rachel rolled her eyes as she hurriedly stood and dashed into the kitchen, snatching the cake from Richard’s hands, “you oughta be ashamed of yourself Richard Smith!”Richard raised his hands in mock surrender, “alright, take your cake. I’ll just go and eat my burnt fish since there doesn’t seem to be anything else in here.” “Richard. Turn around and look on the counter next to the sink,” Rachel commanded as she carefully set the chocolate cake on top of the fridge.Richard turned, then a smile spread over his face as he saw the plate piled high with fish, rice and even a small slice of the chocolate cake he had been holding, “thanks, Rach. You’re the best!” He picked up the plate and headed back towards the dining room. Setting his plate down, he pulled Rachel’s chair out for her, then waited until she sat before taking his own seat. Dad looked at them with a twinkle in his eyes, “Well, if you two are done, can we pray now before our food gets cold?”Richard grinned, “yes, dad.” The family joined hands, then dad’s strong, quiet voice filled the room. “Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for this food you’ve given to us, and for the home you’ve blessed us with. I also thank you for the blessing of family. Lord, as Richard leaves tomorrow, I pray that you’d be with him as well as all the other men who are being sent to Vietnam. Thank you for this time together that you have given us. In your name I pray, Amen.”As he ended the prayer, Rachel quickly withdrew her hand from Richard’s and wiped away the tear that had slipped from her eye during the prayer. Please, God. Please, keep him safe! she silently prayed. She caught Richard’s eye and he gave her a small smile before attacking his chocolate cake. Despite the gravity of the moment, Rachel couldn’t help but chuckle. Why do guys always seem to eat their dessert first? she wondered. With a small shrug of her shoulders, she turned back to her own plate. ***“I’ll do the dishes. You two go and have your walk.”“Are you sure, Mom?” Rachel hesitated. “It wouldn't take to long for me to do them.” Mom laughed, “the faster you take your walk the faster you’ll get back and the faster you get back the more time we’ll have with Richard. So go!”Richard winked a her, “better obey orders, sis. That’s one thing I’ve learned; when orders are given, you never question them. Well, unless they go against God’s word. But,” he grinned, “This one doesn’t.”Rachel smiled and took the light jacket Richard held out to her, “alright. We’ll be back soon.” Richard led the way outside, holding the door open for her. Once outside, Rachel paused and took a deep breath, “there’s nothing quite as refreshing as the Texas air in December,” she said with a smile as she placed her hand in the crook of Richard’s elbow and they started down the drive. Richard nodded in agreement, “Yes, it’s one thing I’ll miss. Well, other than you guys of course.”Rachel playfully shoved her brother, “so we’re just an afterthought? Thanks a lot!”Richard chuckled, “Well, that’s not exactly what I meant and you know it.”“I know. Oh, Richard, I wish you didn’t have to go tomorrow. Once you leave, we have no idea when we may see you again.”“Even if I stayed here, there’s no guarantee you’ll see me tomorrow. That’s why we need to be so grateful for each day the Lord has given us. Each one of them is a gift, and there’s no promise you’ll ever get another.”There was silence for a moment as neither sibling spoke.As they neared the barn, Richard chuckled, “Well, I can see nothing’s changed here. This thing looks just about the same. It’s been empty for as long as I can remember.”“Thank you, Richard,” Rachel spoke at last.“For what?” Richard asked in apparent confusion. “For talking about the barn?”Rachel laughed, “No, you goose. For the lecture you gave me about every day being a gift. I do tend to take them for granted.”“It wasn’t a lecture, Rach. Just a reminder. I need them myself every so often.” “I know, and that’s what I’ll miss when you’re overseas. These talks we have together. All the problems you help me with.” “Rachel,” Richard turned around to face her, “You know that you can always take your problems to Jesus and He will help you.”Rachel nodded as a tear spilled down her cheek, “I know, but you help me understand myself,” she gave a small laugh, “and that can be hard sometimes.” “Well, mom and dad are always ready to listen to you and help you. Plus, you can still ask me any questions; I’m only a letter away.” He reached out and wiped the tear off her cheek. “I love you, Rach. You’re my favorite sister. . .even if you are my only one.”Rachel laughed, “And you’re my favorite brother.”The two siblings paused for a moment, both leaning on the old rail fence and gazing at the stars.
After a moment, Richard turned. “Well, we’d better get back inside before mom decides to send someone out after us.”Rachel smiled, “Yeah, I can see her doing that. Only we’d have to be gone for a few hours, not minutes.”Richard laughed, “Same difference. Besides, I need to get home to that cake.”

It took Richard almost no time to collect his things; he hadn’t even had a chance to unpack. Picking up his bag he carried it out and set it on the dining room table. Inwardly he hated himself for leaving his sister without even a word of comfort. Why Vietnam? he wondered. Sure there had been talk about the trouble in Vietnam and there had even been rumors of American troops being sent overseas, but that was all it had been. Rumours. He sighed and walked into the kitchen where Rachel stood busily cooking the fish, her back turned toward him. He went and stood behind her, putting a hand on her shoulder, “I’ll be okay, Rachel. No matter where I am, He has promised to never leave us or forsake us. And we still have tonight, right? We can do what you and mom planned.”she turned to him, her eyes filled with tears, “Oh, Richard!” she threw her arms around his neck. “Hey, it’s okay.” He did his best to comfort her.She stepped back and looked up at him through her tears, “Promise me I’ll see you again.”Richard smiled an easy smile, “Of course, Rachel. That’s the wonderful thing about knowing Jesus as Savior; you have the assurance of meeting again. If not here on this earth, then in heaven.” Rachel smiled and took a step back, wiping the tears from her eyes. “I know you’re right, Richard.” she paused and wiped her eyes.
Richard looked up, sniffed, then glanced at the stove.“The fish!” Rachel wailed as she hurried across the kitchen and took the cast iron skillet off the stove.“It’s burned.” She spoke the obvious as a thick curl of smoke wafted its way up from the pan.“Well, look on the bright side,” Richard offered, “at least you had only added one of the fish to the skillet. Besides, you don’t mind eating burnt fish, right?”Rachel turned to him with a sweet smile, “Do you want to cook the rest of the fish?”Richard chuckled and slowly backed out of the kitchen, “Uhh, no. I do believe the last time I tried cooking, we went out to eat.”Rachel playfully pointed her wooden spoon at him as she turned and picked up the iron skillet, “then don’t tease me about my cooking.”“Point taken. I’ll just go, uhh, take a look around outside and see if anything’s changed.”“No, don’t go yet. I wanted to go with you after supper. Please?” Rachel implored, turning to face him after placing the second fish in the pan. “I want to take one last walk with you before you leave.” Richard nodded, “All right. I guess I’ll go wander around the house and see what’s changed.” He turned to leave, then took a step back into the kitchen, “Hey, Rach, do you know--”“If John is home?” Rachel smiled, “He’s your best friend and he’s been dying to see you, but he thought he’s wait till tomorrow so we could have the first day with you. But, yes, he’s home.”Richard flashed a smile, “Thanks. you don’t mind--”“If you go over and see him? Of course not, but don’t be gone too long or you’ll have to deal with me when you get back.”Richard groaned in mock despair, “please, spare me!” He turned serious, “I promise I’ll be back in no more than an hour. When are Mother and Papa going to be back?”
“Soon. They said they’d be home around 5:30. It’s what,” she glanced at the clock, “5 o’clock now. And you know they want to see you when you get back.”“I get the message, Rach.” He grinned, “I’ll be back soon. By the way,” he sniffed and winked at her, “I do believe you burned the second fish. So much for looking on the bright side.” he turned and dashed out the front door.Rachel ran after him, “Richard, you get back here right now. Richard!”Richard glanced over his shoulder and gave Rachel a sparkling grin before continuing on down their lane.“Augh! Brothers,” Rachel exclaimed hurrying back into the kitchen. taking one glance at fish that was now black in the hot pan. She sighed, then an idea hit her and a small smile covered her lips, “Well, we’ll see how Richard likes his supper tonight.”

December 1961 “Rachel, Rachel, Rachel. How many times have I told you that you have to actually touch the fish before you can clean them?” Richard shook his head in despair. Why in the world is she scared of the fish? They’re dead!“I can’t do it, Richard! This was your idea not mine!” Rachel wailed.“Fine, fine. I’ll do it.” he took the fish and sliced it open.“I’m sorry, Richard. I did want to make your favorite supper tonight. I mean, your first night home and all.”Richard smiled, “It’s alright, Rachel. You can still make the meal only I’ll clean the fish for you. I mean, I wouldn't want to ruin the supper you had planned,” he winked at her.“Oh, Richard. I’m so glad your home. I missed you so much!” she laid her head on his shoulder as he continued gutting the fish.He bent down and kissed the top of her head, “I missed you too. But I’m home now and we can have a full three weeks of fun!”“Richard, you won’t be called back or anything, will you?”Richard shook his head, “I don’t think so.”“There’s been a lot of talk about what’s going on in Vietnam. Do you think the U.S will join in the war?”Richard set down the last of the fish skinned and cleaned, “Well, I’m not sure. I know there has been talk of U.S. troops being sent to Vietnam. But I don’t think it’ll be anytime soon.” He gave her a reassuring smile. “Good, I don’t want you off at war somewhere where I’ll never know where you are or if you’re safe or not.”He laughed, “Don’t worry. Even if I did get sent over there I wouldn’t dare die without your permission.”“Richard! It’s not funny! Do you know how many people have been killed when they’re sent overseas?”“Settle down, sis. I was only teasing.”Rachel’s eyes filled with tears, “I worry about you, Richard.”“Oh, I’m sorry, Rachel,” he wrapped his arms around her, “I didn’t mean to upset you.”Rachel shook her head,”It’s okay. I knew you were only teasing, it’s just I worry about you so much.”“Hey, it’s alright. By the way, Is that a new dress you’re wearing? When you picked me up at the airport I noticed it wasn’t one I had seen before.”Rachel smiled, “Yes, it is. But I have to say I almost didn’t recognize you in your uniform.” she reached up and brushed his brown hair out of his eyes, “You’re so handsome.”“Awww, no more of that, Rachel. There’s only so many compliments a brother can take. Oh, where are mom and dad?”“They asked me to pick you up because they wanted to go to the store and pick up your favorite dessert.”“Chocolate cake?” “You guessed it! Mom wanted you’re homecoming to be perfect.”Before Richard could answer, the doorbell rang.“I’ll get it.” Rachel squirmed out of her brother’s arms and hurried toward the front door.“I’ve got a telegram here for Richard Smith.” the carried handed her the small envelope.“Thank you. I’m his sister and I’ll be sure and give it to him.” she reached into her pocket and gave him the required sum. He thanked her and left, Rachel closed the door behind him.“Richard. Telegram for you.”Richard sauntered into the living room, “Well, let’s see who’d think me important enough to send me a telegram.” he grinned as he took the envelope from her and opened it. As his eyes scanned the few sentences written on the paper, his face became grim.“Richard? What is it?”Richard looked up and his eyes met hers. How can I tell her? She was so excited about my coming back. . . he shook his head to clear his thoughts and silently handed her the paper.Her eyes scanned the two, scant sentences and she let the paper slowly fall to the ground as she covered her mouth with her hand.The telegram read You’ve been ordered to report back to base stop Troops being sent to Vietnam at the order of the president stop.“I’ll need to leave in the morning,” he announced before abruptly turning and walking to his room. He couldn't bear the look on Rachel’s face. Why, God? Why did it have to be me?

Hey everyone! So since I finished up Gathering Clouds last week, I had to dig through my google docs mess and try to find another story I had written. . .not an easy task!
I finally found on that I can start posting. ;)
No Greater Love is a story set in the Vietnam war time period of 1961. I was inspired to begin writing this after I went and saw an amazing christian film called Faith Of our Fathers that was set against the backdrop of the Vietnam war. It was then that I realized I had never read/seen a christian young adult book about the Vietnam war.
It was a horrific war killing around 52,000 american troops. Those who did live through it would never quite recover from the shock of what they had seen on the battlefield. I have a grandpa who served in the Vietnam war and he refuses to talk about it. In fact, most of the men I have met who served in that war will not talk about it. It was also very hard on the veterans returning from the war because most Americans were not supportive of the war to begin with and there was no welcome for the returning veterans.
The majority of our soldiers who returned from the Vietnam war also needed medical help. During the Vietnam war, many soldiers came in contact with agent orange, a herbicide concocted by the U.S and Britain. which was sprayed over much of the Vietnamese agricultural land. The effects of this herbicide were very dangerous and many of the men returning home had to deal with the long term affects on their own. Over 39,00 disability claims were submitted to the VA because of the effects of Agent orange, but only 487 of the victims were actually compensated.
So now that I've given a little background on the Vietnam war,  here's the first part of the story. Because my grandpa served in the war, I thought it'd be interesting to have the story told be a grandfather to his grandchildren. Here's the first part. . .I hope you enjoy it!

No Greater Love
Eva and Nate propped their bikes up against the side of the garage before opening the screen door and charging into the old house.“Grandpa, are you home?” Eva called out.Nate sniffed, “It smells like grandma’s been baking.again.”Eve rolled her eyes, “Is food all you ever think about?”He grinned, “Not always. I think about you a lot too, seeing as how you’re always dragging me into one project or another.”“Nate! This is a school project; you have to help!”Nate sighed, “The one disadvantage to being homeschooled; your only partner for projects is your sister.”Eve glared at him, and he put up his hands, “Alright, alright. We’ll interview Grandpa. Who ever heard about doing a report on the Vietnam war anyway? Most kids in school just learn about it and take a test. It wasn’t an important war or anything. Not like WWII. Now that was interesting to research!” Eve laughed, “That’s only because Mom let you to your whole report on the Battle of Britain. I’ll bet the Vietnam war used airplanes as well.”Nate shook his head, “Not like WWII did.”“Well are my grandchildren coming inside to see me or have they decided to stand in the entry and talk all day?”Both children turned to the older woman who was standing in the doorway, her silver hair hung down to her shoulders in soft waves and her blue eyes were shining, a wooden spoon was in her right hand, proof that she had been cooking. “Grandma!” Eve ran and gave her a hug, Nate following suit.“Hey, Grandma, what have you been making? It smells delicious!” Nate asked.Grandma laughed, “You’re just like your grandfather. Eat, eat, eat!”“It’s because their boys,” Eva said, “you’d think they’d get tired of eating, but they never do.”“Well, I have been making some cookies, but I’m sure that's not why you two came all the way out here on a school day.”Eve brushed back a strand of hair that had come loose from her ponytail, “Mom assigned a  school paper on the Vietnam war. She told us the best place to start our research would be to ask grandpa about it. He fought in the Vietnam war, right?”Grandma sighed, “Yes, he did, but he doesn’t like to talk about it. It can’t hurt to ask him, I suppose. You two sit at the table and I’ll get you a glass of milk and some cookies, then I’ll call your grandpa in." She smiled, “He’s been working out in the garden all morning and he needs a break.”Eva and Nate didn’t need a second invitation, they hurried into the dining room and sat at the table. Grandma poured the milk and set a plate of cookies on the table before opening the back door, “Richard, the kids are here.”Richard, “grandpa”, looked up and wiped his forehead, “I’ll be right in.” He stood up and walked towards the house, stopping outside the door to wash his hands in the silver bucket that was full of cool water.Opening the door he glanced at the two children who sat at the table. Nate, at fifteen, was the older of the two, his unruly brown hair lay plastered on his forehead and his bright blue eyes sparkled with mischief. Eva was thirteen and her brown hair and dark blue eyes matched her brother’s often causing them to be mistaken as twins.“Well, how are you two doing today?” he pulled out a chair opposite them and sat down at the table, “Isn’t it a school day? I thought your mom would have you both inside working hard on algebra or English grammar.” There was a twinkle in his eye as he spoke.“We’re actually here on a school project, Grandpa,” Eva explained as she took a drink of milk. “Mom assigned us a paper on the Vietnam war and she said we should talk to you first since you fought in the war.”Grandpa set down the glass of milk he had been holding and for a moment no one said anything. Finally, Grandpa spoke, “I don’t really like to talk about what happened over there. It was a horrible war. So many men were lost. In fact, I don’t think there was one man in that war that didn’t know at least one person who died or was killed. But, I suppose it’s a part of history, a story that needs to be told,” he sighed, “It still hurts just to think about it.”“If you’d rather not talk about it, Grandpa, we can find someone else to interview,” Nate quickly added.“No, no. I’d rather you hear it from my perspective than someone else’s. It started in December, 1961. Well, it actually started long before then, and some may even say it started later, but that was when it started for me. He got a faraway look in his eyes. “I had been in the U.S military for about a year and I had gotten permission with my commanding officer to go home for Christmas. I lived in Texas at the time and my twin sister had picked me up from the airport. We had just returned from fishing. . .”

Yep, that's right. Today Dark Storm Rising was officially published!! :D
To say I'm excited would be an understatement. I can't tell you how thrilling it is to finally be able to hold my book in my hands! There are so many people who deserve a HUGE 'thank-you' for helping me with this project.
My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who loved me so much He came to earth and died for me. It's for His glory and honor that I write!
Emily McConnell for inspiring me to write it, reading my terribly messy, unedited chapters and telling me you enjoyed them ;), and for helping me with the book title as well as the chapter titles.
Deborah C. for all your help with the editing. Honestly, you were the best editor anyone could ask for and you were always so encouraging. You also enjoyed my story which is a huge thing!
Rebekah Eddy for your help explaining the Lulu publishing site when we came to visit. It was a breeze to be able to work on when we got back. ;)
And also all my blog readers! That you would choose to visit my blog and read my work when I know there are so many others out there means a lot!
Ahh! I'm just so excited right now!! The book is available for purchase here (Dark Storm Rising). It is not on Amazon yet. I have been considering whether to put it on Amazon or not and I haven't decided yet. :)
It is also on Goodreads, so if you have read it and would be willing to review it, that would be awesome!
I hope y'all have an amazing weekend!

“He called me. . .Daniel,” Wilhelm replied, still bewildered as to how Arnold knew his Jewish name.Martin shook his head in confusion, “Daniel? But you said your name was Wilhelm.” Wilhelm nodded, “It is. Look, I know this isn’t making sense right now and I promise I’ll explain it to you as soon as I can, but right now I need to get Arnold here back to headquarters and then behind bars. I’m sure there’s at least one person I’ll be able to interest in looking into your history," the last sentence was directed at Arnold. “Wow, let me guess who that would be. Ramond?” Arnold said in a rather sarcastic voice.“Yes, Ramond, and let me tell you I think he’ll be happy to see you. But it won’t be the kind of happy you’ll enjoy,” Wilhelm muttered.The Autenburg’s exchanged puzzled looks, then Martin turned to Wilhelm, ‘“do you need any help?”Wilhelm shook his head, “Arnold will come nice and quietly. Won’t you, Arnold?”“Are you giving me a choice?”“Not at all.” Wilhelm began to walking toward the door, then turned. “I’ll be back a little later and explain things. I’m really sorry you all had to get involved,” his tone turned apologetic.Martin nodded, “That’s alright, but we’re all looking forward to the explanation.”“And it will come, I promise.” ***“This is the guy I was talking about. Remember him?” Wilhelm asked as he shoved Arnold into the building. Finch stood from his place behind the desk, “Yes, I do. I remember him well.""If the German and Austrian governments weren’t at odds, I’d say they’d both be glad to see this guy behind bars," Wilhelm exclaimed as he closed the door behind them. Finch chuckled, “Yeah, but that’s a big ‘If’. They are at odds.”“I know. So why don’t you get him locked up and then go and get Ramond. I know he’ll be more than happy to see Arnold.”“Wait, where are you going?” Finch asked as he took the keys Wilhelm handed him.“I’m going to go do a little explaining. The Autenburgs probably have no idea what to think of me right now.”“Ahh, I get the picture,” Finch grinned. “You go and be the hero, then leave me to do the dirty work.”“No, I did my share of dirty work as well,” Wilhelm reminded him.“Sure, sure. Alright, go on and do your explaining, but once everything’s settled I want to meet the Autenburgs,” Finch said, shaking a finger at Wilhelm.“Sure, anything you want,” Wilhelm said with a smile.“I’m going to hold you to that!” Finch yelled after  Wilhelm as he left the building. As the door closed, Finch turned to Arnold, “Okay, let's get you an interview with Ramond.”Arnold groaned as Finch started down the hall. ***“Both of my parents died when I was four-years old. I was adopted by my German parents a year later. They gave me the name Wilhelm, but they also didn't want me to forget my Jewish heritage. Still, they were careful not to tell anyone else about my Jewish background, which I’m thankful for now. The way hostility is rising against the Jews in Germany since Hitler came to power is nothing less than horrific. I shudder to think what will happen here in Austria in there is an Anschluss with Germany.”Wilhelm was seated in the sitting room of the hotel explaining his story to the Autenburg’s.Martin nodded, agreeing with Wilhelm’s last statement, “Austria has become a haven for many of Germany’s Jews. If an Anschluss does happen, I fear for their future.”Wilhelm nodded and leaned back in his chair, “Yes. Only time will tell. Also, if you're wondering who Ramond is and why he'll be happy to see Arnold, I'll just say that's a story for another time. A rather. . .complicated one. Well, enough about me, tell me a little about your family. Why are you here in Vienna?”Martin smiled, “We decided to take a little family vacation. We live on a small farm just outside of Innsbruck. My sister and her family live right next door. For quite a while now we’ve been helping Jews that are escaping Germany.” He paused for a moment, “Before I go any further, I need to know that anything you hear here won’t be repeated.”Wilhelm nodded, “you have my word.”“We’re part of a network that helps the Jews. Some of them are trying to get into Switzerland or Czechoslovakia, some of them just want to live their lives away from the persecution in Germany. Whatever the scenario may be, we are a link in the network. We get orders and we follow them. Most of the time we have no idea who we’re working with, but it’s best that way. If there ever is an Anschluss with Germany, the secrecy will protect those who were a part of the network.”“Will you stop helping the Jews if Germany and Austria are joined?”Martin glanced at his wife, “We will not stop our work until the Lord tells us to.”Wilhelm nodded, then turned as the clock struck seven.“Well, I’d better get going back to the office. I left Finch with the prisoner and I’m sure Ramond will have a lot to say to me. But,” He turned to Martin, ‘Before I go I do have a question to ask.”Martin smiled, “Anything. What is it?”Wilhelm took a deep breath, "Mr. Autenburg, I’d like to ask your permission to court your daughter, Lesiel.”Martin smiled, “If that’s what she would like, you have my blessing.” He turned to Lesiel, ‘What do you say? Would you like to be courted by Mr. Snyder?”A happy smile lit Lesiel’s face, ‘There’s nothing I would like more!”

Anddd today we take a break from our regularly scheduled Gathering Clouds short story to bring you the Prologue of The Silent Blade.
(In other words, we just got back from our vacation and I haven't finished the next part. ;) 
It is quite a bit shorter then what I've been posting and I promise I'll get the next part of Gathering Clouds up next week! Also, If you would like to read chapter 1 right afterwards to get at least two parts in order, you can go here. The Silent Blade Chapter 1 . The first chapter starts four years  after the Prologue.


Prologue
Kevin glanced back at the city, hand on the hilt of his sword. The sun was just setting over Dublin, bathing the valley in a luminescent light and giving the small houses scattered about an enchanted look. Off in the distance, the Irish sea shone clear in the fading light. The man standing next to him put a comforting hand on his shoulder, “You did the right thing, Kevin.”Kevin sighed, “Right now it sure doesn’t feel like it. I just want to go back.”“It’s hard, but remember; God will never leave you or forsake you. I’ll be with Merek and do my best to keep you informed. I’m sorry it has to be this way.”Kevin nodded, “So am I. God go with you, my friend.”“And with you.” The man turned, then was gone, leaving Kevin alone.Kevin stayed there a moment longer, torn between his love for his family and his fear for their safety. God, please be with them. Protect them,and  please don’t ever let Willem or Eira feel the hurt one man can bring to their lives. And Anna. Please, heal her hurt. She's been through more then anyone else.There was a rustle in the bushes and he turned to see Aaron standing behind him.“Did he leave?”“Yes. Unless there’s a problem, it’s unlikely we’ll see him again for a very long while.”“Kevin, I know this is hard, but we need to go. Now. The men are ready.”“I know, I’m coming. I just had to take a moment and say goodbye,” there was a catch in his voice as he spoke.“We’ll return, Kevin. The goodbye isn’t forever," Aaron said in an effort to encourage him.
There was silence as the two men stood a moment longer, then turned and left the city behind them as they strode deep into the trees.

As they stepped outside the hotel, Mr. Autenburg turned, “I don’t think we’ve met before. My name is Martin, Martin Autenburg,” he extended his hand.Wilhelm clasped it in a firm grip, “It’s good to meet you, Martin. I’m Wilhelm, but I’m assuming you already knew that.”Martin smiled, “Yes, I’d gathered as much. What can I help you with?”
Wilhelm shifted and there was a slight pause as he seemed to search for words, “I can’t think of any way to say this gently, so I’m just going to get to the point. I’m here about Arnold.”Martin raised an eyebrow, “Arnold? Is there a problem with him?”Wilhelm nodded, “There might be. You see, Arnold was arrested two years ago for being an accomplice to an attempted bank robbery. The actual robber served his time, then went to Germany. Arnold followed, but not after he served time. He was running from the police and escaped into Germany. While there he committed several small crimes and he is now wanted by both the Austrian and the German government. The only reason I can think that he hasn’t been arrested yet is because of the relations between Germany and Austria at this time. The two countries aren’t exactly on friendly terms if you know what I mean and not much attention has been paid by either country to looking for a wanted man.”Martin stared at him in astonishment, but then his eyes took on a questioning look, “How do you know all this?”“I was one of the men who was there when they were arrested. I’m also a lieutenant in the Volkswehr. I made sure of this before I came to see you.”Martin shook his head as though not able to believe his ears, “Well, I have to say I never would have thought of Arnold as a person like that. Thank you for coming and telling me, it was an act of God that you ran into them yesterday.”Wilhelm nodded, “I believe you’re right. In fact--” A movement to the left caught Wilhelm’s eye and he turned. Arnold was just entering the hotel, a bouquet of flowers in his hand. Martin’s face took on a determined look, “I’ll be back in a minute.”“Mind if I come along? I have some unfinished business with him as well.”Martin was already striding toward the door, “Be my guest.”Martin opened the door and strode toward the small sitting room where Mrs. Autenbug, Leisel and Max had retired for tea. Glancing around the room, Martin quickly spotted Arnold standing comfortably behind Leisel’s chair. “Arnold, may I have a word with you? Outside.” The last word made it clear that this was a command, not a request.Arnold looked up, clearly startled until he located Wilhelm. Then a look of contempt stole over his face, “Mr. Autenburg. If you believe everything a stranger says, I’m afraid you don’t have very good judgment.”Time seemed to stand still as everyone waited to see how Martin would respond to the direct attack on his character.“I would rather have this conversation outside, Arnold.” If Martin was disturbed or upset by what Arnold had just said, he didn’t show it. “No. If you want to tell me something it can be done here.”Both Leisel and her mother gasped at such an outburst. “Very well, I am forbidding you from courting my daughter. And I never want to see you around here again.” “On what grounds, sir, if I may be so bold,” Arnold asked, raising an eyebrow.“I think I can answer that,” Wilhelm stepped forward from where he had been standing in the shadow of the door. “Arnold, I’m here to arrest you on grounds of attempted robbery and then running from the Austrian government. I’m sure if there was a German police here he’d have a few more changes to add.”“You just couldn't let it go, could you? I knew when you saw me yesterday that you were onto something. Well, see if you can get me.” Arnold turned and dashed toward the second door, but not fast enough. Max quickly closed the door and slipped the lock in place as Wilhelm drew a pair of handcuffs from his pocket. Clipping them on one wrist, he brought both of Arnold’s hand around and secured both hands behind his back.“Now, I think I’ll take you into the office. I dare say there is someone there who will be happy to see you.”“You just wait. You’ll pay for this, Daniel. If it takes me my whole life, you will pay.”Wilhelm glanced up sharply at the use of his Jewish name. How could he have known my secret?Martin, Leisel, Sabine Max’s eyes all turned on him in confusion, but Martin spoke the question, “What did he just call you?”

Wilhelm took a second look  at the slip of paper in his hand and then glanced up and the ornate hotel. Yes, this is the right address.  Taking a deep breath, he hurried up the front steps and entered the lobby.Approaching the clerk, he set the card down on the desk, “I’m looking for the Autenburg family? I was given the address of this hotel and told they were staying here.”“They’re not in at the moment..I can let them know you called. What was your name?”“Wilhelm, Wilhelm Snyder.”“Well, I’ll be sure and tell the Autenburgs that you called and I’m sure they’re sorry they missed you.”“Wait, not all the Autenburgs are gone.”Both Daniel and the clerk turned as a blond headed boy sauntered into the lobby“I’m Maxwell Autenburg, but most people just call me Max.”“I’m sorry, Mr. Autenburg. I assumed he wanted to talk to your parents,” The clerk apologized.Wilhelm turned, “Well, I can talk to Max for a moment. That is, if it’s okay with him?” Max grinned, “Sure, I don’t have anything better to do.” He took a seat in one of the lobby chairs and Wilhelm lowered himself into one opposite him.“So, you’re the one who helped my sister yesterday?”Wilhelm nodded, “Yes, I’m assuming she told you about that?”Max smiled, “You bet. You at least helped her,” a frown crossed his face, “not like Arnold.”Detecting a note of judgment in his tone, Wilhelm turned, fully alert.“You don’t like Arnold?”Max scoffed, “What’s there to like? Sure he acts all nice and sweet around Lesiel and mother and father, but when I’m the only one with him he acts like I’m not even there. I’m still not sure how in the world he got father’s approval.”“Where did you meet Arnold?”“I think he went to our church a while ago. I know if he didn’t father wouldn’t let him near Leisel.”“So you’re Christians?” Wilhelm inquired.Max nodded, “As far back as I can remember father’s been teaching us from the Bible and we’ve always gone to church. I remember when I was saved. It was a few years ago. Father prayed with me and I accepted Jesus into my life. That’s when I realized there was a difference between just going to church and actually truly being saved. I always thought that life was easy once you got saved, but I sure have learned differently. Every day brings a new challenge, a new obstacle to overcome.”Wilhelm nodded, “I can speak from experience, I know the struggle to try and live a godly life everyday. God’s principles can be hard to put into action. But, how old are you?”Max flashed a smile, “I’m fourteen.”“Is Lesiel your only sister?”Max nodded, “Yes, and she’s the best big sister anyone could ever hope for, although we do have our arguments from time to time. Normally it’s my fault. The arguments I mean.”“And how old is your sister?”Max’s face took on a mischievous look, “It’s not polite to ask a lady’s age.”“No, I think the correct way to say it is, ‘It’s not right to ask a lady her age’. I’m not asking a lady, I’m asking you; it’s completely polite.”Max laughed, “I do suppose you’re right. Lesiel is twenty-two. But we’ve been pretty close, despite the age difference. And we live close to my uncle and his daughter is only six months younger than me, so we have a lot of fun together.”“What’s her name?”“Helena. She’s the only child in her family, and boy can she get into trouble. I’ve kept her out of more scrapes than I care to count! But the problem is, when I get her out of them, I always seem to land in them myself.”Wilhelm smiled, feeling right at home next to this young boy. Not only does he share the same convictions as I do, he has a knack for making others feel welcome. A quality rarely found in someone so young. Wilhelm silently mused. “Give me an example,” he said with a twinkle in his eye, responding to Max's last remark.“Excuse me?”“Give me an example of one of the times you tried to help Helena.”Max grimaced, “I’m not sure if you want to hear it. I shouldn’t talk bad of her when she isn’t here.”Wilhelm laughed, “I promise, I won’t think badly of her.”“Alright. . .I guess. There was this one time we were over at Uncle Johann’s house for supper. He had another guest as well who had been spending the week and Helena did not like him. He was from Berlin and she thought he was too stuffy and stuck up. So she decided to teach him a lesson. There is a big oak tree in front of their house and she decided to climb it with a bucket of water. I saw her and climbed up after her. I managed to toss the bucket of water down before their guest came out, which didn’t make her happy, but as he walked out of their house I took a step back and the branch wasn’t strong enough to bear my weight, I fell and landed right on top of him, knocking him to the ground.”Wilhelm was trying his best to contain his laughter, “Was he badly injured?”Max shook his head, “We were both just fine. But oh boy, was he ever mad! He yelled at Uncle Joann something awful, then stormed off and left. I do believe that taught Helena not to ever try something like that again.”Wilhelm chuckled, “She sure sounds feisty.”“You’re telling me! One day she’s going to get us in some sort of trouble we won’t be able to get out of.”Wilhelm and Max both turned as the doors to the hotel opened, “Oh, and here are my parents and Lesiel now,” he stood to greet them. “Mother, Father, Wilhelm came to see you.”Wilhelm stood, “Mr. Autenburg, can I talk with you for a moment?”The tall, dark haired man nodded, “Sure, outside a moment?”Wilhelm nodded, “That would work just fine.”