Happy October, readers! I know you opened this newsletter for one main reason: to find out when you can read Sparks Fly Upward. Until a few days ago, I honestly wasn’t planning to post it yet. Usually, I wait until I’m farther along in the writing process, but throughout this book, my characters have been unruly and keep changing things. The ending is now on its fifth or sixth version (no promises that it’s the last.) My antagonist decided he wanted to make me research something off script which led to me killing and subsequently resurrecting someone else. Of course, that then led to adding said not-quite-dead character into multiple scenes. I’m glad I brought this person back (I think you will be too!) but can someone please tell my characters to stop the chaos?!

As I said, I wasn’t planning to set a release date yet, but I think it’s what is needed. Being an indie author is wonderful because you get to decide your own schedule and move it according to your needs. The downside is that you can continue pushing things off and never get anything accomplished. By sharing this date with my readers, it provides a tangible goal and will hopefully help my characters settle down, too. Please pray for me as I work through this story that I will stay motivated and remember to allow God to guide my pen.

For now, I am only releasing this date to my newsletter subscribers. You’ll also be the first to know when the cover reveal and pre-order are available. Both will be sometime in early 2024.

Buy Books, Support Kids

Still need copies of my books? Want to support a good cause? On Saturday, October 14, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. visit St. Joseph Cottleville Catholic School (1351 Motherhead Rd.
St. Charles, MO 63304) for their Craft Fair where I will be signing books with fellow historical fantasy author, Susan Laspe. Not only will you help to support a good cause, but you can purchase signed books at a discount. We will both be offering the following deals: 3 books for $30, 2 books for $25, or 1 book for $15. You’re also welcome to bring up books you’ve already purchased to be signed and grab some swag! Hope to see you there!

Hotel Hamilton Giveaway

Thank you to those who entered the In Spotlight and Shadow giveaway last month. When asked what your favorite stage play/musical was, almost every answer was different! There were two titles that received two votes, however: The Phantom of the Opera and The Sound of Music. Congratulations to our winner, Michael L!

This month, I’ve partnered with author, Tanya E. Williams for a double giveaway, celebrating the release of Meet Me At the Clock on October 25. For international residents, Tanya is providing an eBook copy of both books in the Hotel Hamilton Series to one winner. For United States and Canadian residents, I am also offering a chance to win one paperback copy of Meet me At the Clock (will be shipped directly from Amazon). To enter, complete the form at the link below by October 27. Winner will be contacted directly and announced in next month’s newsletter.

Enter the Giveaway

Releasing in October

Need another read? October is a great month for new releases (and why my TBR list is out of control)! Here are the ones I’m excited about:

1. A River Between Us by Jocelyn Green – a Southern Civil War story that’s so much more than a romance. Read my review here.
2. The River Queen by Stephenia H. McGee – romance and river pirates aboard a 1920s showboat
3. Royal and Ancient by Amanda Lauer – time travel romance in 1691 Scotland
4. Lost in Wonder by Liz Chapman – romantic Regency adventure of love and loss, facing fear, and embracing the wonder of God. This book is the Q1 2024 featured read for the Faithful Fiction Book Club.
5. Meet Me At the Clock by Tanya E. Williams – two maids at a luxurious hotel in 1927 Vancouver discover the demands and injustice of a fast-changing society. Read my review here.
6. The Lost Boys of Barlowe Theater by Jaime Jo Wright – dual-time (1915 and present day) of “mysterious disappearances and ghoulish happenings” at a historic theater
7. Not Quite Mr. Darcy by Kim Griffin – a 29-year-old widow travels across the sea on a journey of faith, love, and family
8. New Augsburg by Christa Petzold – The first in a series about a small town church community in a dystopian world

Did you know that reviews help both readers and authors? Even one sentence is enough, and every word greatly appreciated. Please consider leaving a rating on Amazon, Goodreads, BookBub, and/or your favorite retailer!

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Until next month, happy reading!

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam

Kelsey

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Due to variability in social media algorithms, the best way to receive this newsletter is through e-mail. If you were directed to this site via social media or a search engine, you can subscribe to updates by entering your e-mail on the Contact page. E-mail addresses are never sold or distributed. You may unsubscribe at any time.

Read past newsletters here: NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE.

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COPYRIGHT © KELSEY GIETL 2023

Happy September, readers! It’s back to school for the kids and back to work for me, in more ways than one. I began a new day job and created a new timeline for drafting Sparks Fly Upward. Please send prayers that both continue to go well! I don’t have a release date just yet, but hopefully will have more to share in the coming months.

Also, a few months back, I proposed the question of what to name the villain of my next novel. Many of you enjoyed having a say in the writing process and asked to see similar opportunities in the future. So, throughout the process, I’ll be doing just that.

Pick Your Programme (That’s Not a Typo)

Sterling’s Theatrical, the name of the circus in Sparks Fly Upward, is partially inspired by a real-life San Francisco circus, Rowe’s Pioneer Circus, which ran from 1849 through the 1850s and also traveled to several states and even other countries. Their most popular acts involved the equestrian acrobats; their riders were considered some of the best in the world. This was a time before the familiar 3-ring circus. Usually, shows consisted of a large open-floor space with various acts occurring at its center, trapeze artists swinging above, and equestrian acrobats performing around its outer rim. Tickets cost $1-$2, around $35-$75 in today’s money.

While none of my research noted a darker side to Rowe’s circus, it was known that many other circuses and theatres of the old west contained back room saloons, gambling, brothels, and other types of trafficking. I decided to merge documented fact with speculated rumor to create Sterling’s Theatrical, a show that is beautiful on the surface and dark and twisted behind the curtain. It’s very different from the trail life of For a Noble Purpose or the pioneer life of Dusk Shall Weep, and the change of pace has made for some fun, although at times emotional, writing.

While Sparks Fly Upward focuses on only a few key circus acts, many acts are needed in order to create an enjoyable show and a believable literary world. So here’s the question I open up to you, readers: What are 3 acts you would like to see incorporated into the story? They can be listed in the program above or of your own choosing. Reply back to this email and let me know. The top 3 favorites will be included. I can’t wait to see what you’d pick!

Join us Live with Author, Jennifer Q. Hunt

On September 26 at 7 p.m. CST / 8 p.m. EST, join the Faithful Fiction Book Club live on Instagram as we chat with historical fiction author Jennifer Q. Hunt about her most recent release, Through Thorny Ways. The first book in this family saga is beautifully written, creating connections between the restoration of a Southern plantation, the redemption of a broken family, and finding forgiveness. Together, the characters learn how to overcome the past and form more beautiful relationships with each other, their community, and Christ.

In Spotlight and Shadow Giveaway

Thank you to those who entered the In Pieces giveaway last month. When asked whether you would rather learn to sew with Molly or learn to sail with Josiah, it was split down the middle with Molly’s sewing class winning by only 2 votes. Congratulations to our winner, Susan B!

This month’s subscriber giveaway is for one paperback copy of In Spotlight and Shadow by Rachel Scott McDaniel. As someone who majored in theatrical design in college, the 1920s part of this dual-time novel resonated with me in all kinds of ways. To enter, complete the form at the link below by September 22. Winner will be contacted directly and announced in next month’s newsletter. U.S. residents only.

Enter the Giveaway

Releasing in September

Need another read? Here are the September releases I’m excited about:

1. A Royal Christmas by Melody Carlson – When a regular girl finds out she’s royalty, it’s The Princess Diaries meets A Christmas Prince
2. Fall Back and Find Me by Sarah Hanks – Civil War split-time about strong women overcoming impossible odds
3. Freedom’s Price by Pegg Thomas – an indentured servant is torn between freedom, truth, and the Quaker family she’s grown to love
4. The Secrets Beneath by Kimberley Woodhouse – 19th century paleontologists discover secrets, and love, amongst the dinosaur bones
5. Like a Ship on the Sea by Kellyn Roth – Is a loveless marriage of obligation better than setting sail on a voyage without a safe harbor?

Did you know that reviews help both readers and authors? Even one sentence is enough, and every word greatly appreciated. Please consider leaving a rating on Amazon, Goodreads, BookBub, and/or your favorite retailer!

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Until next month, happy reading!

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam

Kelsey

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Due to variability in social media algorithms, the best way to receive this newsletter is through e-mail. If you were directed to this site via social media or a search engine, you can subscribe to updates by entering your e-mail on the Contact page. E-mail addresses are never sold or distributed. You may unsubscribe at any time.

Read past newsletters here: NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE.

Follow me on:

COPYRIGHT © KELSEY GIETL 2023

Happy August, readers! But what happened to the July newsletter, you ask? Due to an overly busy month at my day job, my authorly duties got away from me. It was one of those months where you finish work and just want to play video games and watch tv with the kids. Ok, ok, I’ll admit most of the gaming was initiated by me. June’s top game was Hogwart’s Legacy and July’s included LEGO Marvel Super Heroes with my son and creating a Lord of the Rings themed world in Minecraft with my daughter.

Despite losing myself in work and games, however, I did find time for a few book related activities including the Jingle Jangle in July vendor fair with historical fantasy author, Susan Laspe.

Cover Wars – Please vote!

From August 13 to 19, I will be one of the featured authors in Author Shout’s weekly Cover Wars competition. Basically, every week, they feature a handful of authors and readers vote on which one has the best cover. The winning author will then be featured on their website and newsletter for another week. Readers can vote once per day. Thank you in advance!

Vote in the Cover Wars

Designing in the Kudzu

On July 4, I revealed the cover design for Hannah Hood Lucero’s romantic suspense novel, Already in the Kudzu. This is the first book in her Sons of Vigilance series, and I am blessed to have been commissioned for all four covers. (Thanks, Hannah!) Hannah wanted the cover to show a pivotal moment in the story without giving too much away, and I think the end result provides just the right mix of suspense and setting. Already in the Kudzu is available for preorder and releases November 10, 2023.

Adrift Release Day Giveaway

August 8 is release day for Adrift, the second book in the Molly Chase historical fiction series by Rhonda Ortiz. I was an early reader and after waiting two years, I am happy to say that Adrift is as good, if not better than, its predecessor, In Pieces. Molly and Josiah have become one of my favorite literary couples and their relationship is the perfect friends-to-more romance, based in faith, family, and copious amounts of witty banter. Plus, the side character couples’ stories will have you as invested as the main characters. Overall, this story is 5-star fabulous, full of family secrets, spies, intrigue, and so much history. I loved every moment.

To celebrate the release, I am giving away one signed paperback copy of the first book, In Pieces to one newsletter subscriber. To enter, complete the form at the link below by August 25. Winner will be contacted directly and announced in next month’s newsletter. U.S. residents only.

Enter the Giveaway

Released in July/Releasing in August

Need another read? Here are the July and August releases I’m excited about:

1. Adrift by Rhonda Ortiz – spies, sailors, and witty romance in 1793 Boston
2. The Starlet Spy by Rachel Scott McDaniel – World War II Hollywood spies on the Swedish elite
3. Refuge for the Archeologist by Danielle Grandinetti – romantic suspense between a curious female archeologist and a coastal town cowboy
4. A Beautiful Disguise by Roseanna M. White – aristocratic acrobats and espionage in 1909 England
5. Two to Tango by Kathleen Fuller – a small town librarian and pediatrician dance their way into love

Did you know that reviews help both readers and authors? Even one sentence is enough, and every word greatly appreciated. Please consider leaving a rating on Amazon, Goodreads, BookBub, and/or your favorite retailer!

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Until next month, happy reading!

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam

Kelsey

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Due to variability in social media algorithms, the best way to receive this newsletter is through e-mail. If you were directed to this site via social media or a search engine, you can subscribe to updates by entering your e-mail on the Contact page. E-mail addresses are never sold or distributed. You may unsubscribe at any time.

Read past newsletters here: NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE.

Follow me on:

COPYRIGHT © KELSEY GIETL 2023

Happy June, readers! There’s so much to talk about this month, so let’s dive in!

For a Noble Purpose Awarded 1st Place

I am so honored (and excited!) to announce that For a Noble Purpose received First Place at this year’s Catholic Media Awards for the Catholic Novels category. Truly, I want to thank each and every one of you for your continued support of my writing.

Here’s what the judges had to say about For a Noble Purpose: “Well-written and produced novel which clearly undertakes all elements in the Catholic novel theme involving Catholic faith, Catholic imagination, the power of grace, the struggles of life on all levels, and God’s closeness in the struggles of faith, in times of loss and sadness, and in times of joy. Terrific, transportive story which not only engages and entertains with plot surprises but also inspires and offers examples of good Christian behavior in a “real” human setting. Memorable characters, and an excellent balance of very satisfying- yet clean- and Godly historical romance.”

What’s in a Name?

Remember this dark and mysterious fellow from last month’s newsletter? I asked you all for naming suggestions for Sparks Fly Upward‘s antagonist and you definitely delivered! I received 36 names, including many excellent choices. It was so hard to decide, but in the end, our bad guy’s name is:

Ashley Sterling

Congratulations to Erin L. who submitted the name “Ashley” and Jodi W. who submitted the name “Sterling”. Thank you to all who sent recommendations. Who knows, some of your other suggestions may end up as minor characters!

My Current Inspiration

In between writing sessions, I’ve been researching 1850s houses, circuses, and theatrical spaces. Right now, the story’s main circus space is set within a building similar to the popular octagonal style of the mid-1800s. These homes, especially in San Francisco, were more economical as they maximized the interior space within a compact floor plan, but still maintained a unique conversation-worthy exterior, what we would now call “curb appeal.” In some areas of the country, however, such as at South Carolina’s Frazier-Pressley House (above, courtesy WikiCommons), these homes were built on a much grander scale and more similar to what Ashley Sterling would have chosen for his circus. The floor plan shown is the closest to my vision for the circus interior, although a proscenium would have been added across Area K, creating a backstage. Sadly, only two of these houses still stand in San Francisco, while 68 survive throughout the United States.

Photographic Historical Note: Pick-up trucks were not in use in 1858 and Ashley Sterling is not a time traveler.

Have I Got a Deal For You

During the month of July, all of my eBooks will be 50% off on the Smashwords store as part of their Annual Summer/Winter Sale! This includes my latest novel, Dusk Shall Weep, and recent award winner, For a Noble Purpose. Access the sale here.

In addition, all eBooks will be 50% off through my website using the coupon code EBOOK50. Sale runs June 30-July 31, 2023. Purchase your copies here. 

Released in June

Need another read? Here are the June releases I’m excited about:

1. Estuary by Lisa T. Bergren – Medieval Time Travel with action, adventure, and romance, sequel series to River of Time
2. Neverending Mercy by Latisha Sexton – contemporary romance about overcoming the past, restoring friendship, and returning home
3. City of Secrets by Megan Lynn Rose – two worlds collide in this royal romance/love triangle fantasy sequel to Kingdom of Lies
4. Fairest of Heart by Karen Witemeyer – Snow White retelling set in 1890s Texas
5. A Royal Competition by Amanda Schimmoeller – The Bachelor meets The Princess Diaries in this royal competition romance

Did you know that reviews help both readers and authors? Even one sentence is enough, and every word greatly appreciated. Please consider leaving a rating on Amazon, Goodreads, BookBub, and/or your favorite retailer!

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Until next month, happy reading!

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam

Kelsey

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Due to variability in social media algorithms, the best way to receive this newsletter is through e-mail. If you were directed to this site via social media or a search engine, you can subscribe to updates by entering your e-mail on the Contact page. E-mail addresses are never sold or distributed. You may unsubscribe at any time.

Read past newsletters here: NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE.

Follow me on:

COPYRIGHT © KELSEY GIETL 2023

Happy May, readers! Thank you for all your support on a successful launch of Dusk Shall Weep! Interacting with readers is one of my favorite parts of being an author, and it was inspiring to see your beautiful posts and encouraging words. Seriously, how cozy are these Instagram posts from @takingbooksbystorm, @transientdrifter, and @lizchapmanwriter? Thanks for sharing, ladies!

Want more fun behind-the-scenes of Dusk Shall Weep? Head over to the Events page on my website to see my recent Cath-Lit Live interview with author, Amy J. Cattapan and my Book Banter interview with author, Tanya E. Williams. Thank you, Amy and Tanya, for the invitations!

A final thank you to those who entered the release day giveaways. Congratulations to our winners: Judy, Ariel, and Andra!

If you still need a copy of Dusk Shall Weep, signed paperbacks and eBooks are available in my online store or at many online retailers. Purchase your copy here. 

Sparks are Flying

If you missed the news, Book 3 in the Larksong Legacy series is titled Sparks Fly Upward with an anticipated publication of Spring 2024. The title comes from the Biblical verses of Job 5:6-7, “For mischief comes not out of the earth, nor does trouble spring out of the ground; but man himself begets mischief as sparks fly upward.”

For a circus story set primarily in the oft corrupt 1850s San Francisco, there is definitely plenty of trouble to be had. So far, this story has proven to be grittier than the first two in the series with the characters experiencing some of their greatest challenges yet. It includes tests of faith as well as opportunities for love and forgiveness, even when one questions if they are truly deserved. And of course, there’s the usual dose of romance and happy ending; they just have a lot to go through before they get there.

The Nameless Character

Speaking of obstacles in Sparks Fly Upward, I am having a terrible time figuring out the name of its villain. I went through several names that all seemed wrong, so, instead, I decided to take it to you, the readers. Here’s a few things to know about him:

• The photo above is my current inspiration for “Circus Man.” Despite his flaws, he’s a smart dresser and has a charisma which wins him many friends.
• He runs a circus on the outskirts of San Francisco. From the outside it seems family-friendly like The Greatest Showman. Behind the scenes, it more like the movie Moulin Rouge. (Don’t worry, it’s still a clean read.)
• He has no problem using anyone and anything to get what he wants. He has a talent for seeing opportunities and capitalizing on them in the worst way.

Do you think you have the perfect name for “Circus Man”? Send me your suggestions by replying to this email. You may see your choice end up in the story and your name credited in the acknowledgments. Thank you in advance!

Released in May

Need another read? Here are the May/June 1 releases I’m excited about:

1. In the Shadow of the River by Ann H. Gabhart – Mystery, suspense, history, and romance all on an 1897 River Showboat
2. Who am I to Judge by Emily Hanlon – An odd church lady known as the “Purple Pest” must sleuth out the truth in this Christian murder mystery
3. Cathey’s Creek Road by Hannah Hood Lucero (Releases June 1) – bluegrass and dubstep music mix in this young adult romance of healing and hope
4. Through Thorny Ways by Jennifer Q. Hunt (Releases June 1) – the beginning of a 1920s family saga about reconciling with the past and finding light for the future
5. Full of Wonder by B.M. Baker (Releases June 1) – a fake dating sweet contemporary romance

Did you know that reviews help both readers and authors? Even one sentence is enough, and every word greatly appreciated. Please consider leaving a rating on Amazon, Goodreads, BookBub, and/or your favorite retailer!

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Until next month, happy reading!

Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam

Kelsey

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Due to variability in social media algorithms, the best way to receive this newsletter is through e-mail. If you were directed to this site via social media or a search engine, you can subscribe to updates by entering your e-mail on the Contact page. E-mail addresses are never sold or distributed. You may unsubscribe at any time.

Read past newsletters here: NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE.

Follow me on:

COPYRIGHT © KELSEY GIETL 2023