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Chautona Havig

Chautona Havig

Using story to connect YOU to the Master Storyteller

Sometimes the Best Reads Are Out of Your Usual Comfort Zone

by Chautona Havig ·

Of Ink and Sea is nothing what I expected--and everything. Only one thing could have made it any better, but I'll just enjoy it as is. via @chautonahavig

The cover drew me first–that ethereal blend of coastal beauty and a woman in a diaphanous gown. The title then caught my attention. Of Ink and Sea.  Something about it called to me.  A closer look turned my admiration for the cover to a bit of disappointment. The woman floated in air.  Nothing to anchor her and not fading into oblivion as is often the case with similar cover elements.

Partway into the book, I grinned at that cover.  Truth be told, I probably looked like a greedy King Midas the moment he discovers the existence of Rumplestilskin!

I’ve not read a book like it in a long time, and had I known some of the elements, I might have passed it by.  I’m so glad I didn’t–know or pass it by, that is.

Of Ink and Sea

Note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.

Sometimes the Best Reads Are Out of Your Usual Comfort Zone

I’d never heard of Clarissa Kae before requesting a review copy of her recent release. The synopsis pulled me in because really, who can resist the call of Cornwall, Wales, and the sea? After reading Of Ink and Sea, I feel like I should say the siren call.

What I didn’t know when I picked up the book was that I was about to be treated to a delicate, gut-ripping, aching, gritty split-time tale spanning over four hundred years. No, those adjectives do not contradict. There’s a gossamer thread woven through the dual stories in here that whispers hope to the characters and the readers.  Like a spider’s silk, it’s deceptively fine and delicate, but it’s as strong as steel.

This is one of those rare times I’ll say that the first-person perspective used in the present-day part of the novel isn’t only “not annoying,” it’s perfect. This perspective is exactly what the book needs to ensure we deeply connect with Sienna.

But that’s not all.

Of Ink and Sea also manages to weave paranormal elements into a story in a way that makes you believe the story exactly as told. Only the tiniest bit of well-placed repetition hints of where to pay attention, but not once did I feel like, “Yeah. You already said that.”  Instead, it almost serves as a silent warning–foreshadowing used in a way I’ve rarely seen.  Or, rather, seen used so well.

If you’re looking for strong, Christian elements, you’ll only find themes that allude to them.  This isn’t Christian fiction. However, the way the author shows humanity in its weakest and strongest elements, and the consequences of those elements, offers at least a Christian worldview, for the most part.

I do have a caveat.

If paranormal elements bother you–and by that, I mean “seeing” into the past and future, knowing, family curses (not shown in any kind of demonic glory)–this book won’t be for you. One woman in this book was branded a “witch” by those who feared her four hundred years ago. My take from the story is that the author didn’t see it that way, but chose to allow the characters living in the time to agree or disagree based on their knowledge and understanding of things. It was rather brilliant.

That said, this is fantasy.  It’s deliberately “paranormal” rather than a representation of characters who are using ungodly, supernatural power to do what is forbidden.  This is a story told as if in a world where these things can happen. The biggest thing is, however, that world looks just like ours. Most of the world would think these characters are crazy.  For heavens’ sake, the characters in Of Ink and Sea think they’re crazy. But here’s the deal.

No one in this book turns to any outside source or acknowledges anything or anyone for this ability. It’s just there–a part of the story.  Much like a superhero is just there–able to fly or stop a train, or whatever. Because it’s who he is, even if no one else in the world can do what he does.

Recommended?

Well, yeah. If you love split-time novels, a hint of history that isn’t the most common era, and if you don’t mind a couple of minor historical liberties taken (super minor… a hymn brought back a century or so etc.)…  If you love books that show a strong, realistic character growth arc, and if you love beautiful writing that occasionally dips its toes into spooky without actually becoming scary, this is the book for you.

However, if you don’t like to step out of realism, I’d skip it.  As for me, I’ve got her other books lined up on my Kindle.  Clarissa Kae might not write my favorite genre, Christian fiction, but her, Of Ink and Sea, has pulled me out of my comfort zone and into a beautiful story. She’s suspended reality for me in a way that I’d like to experience again.

Of Ink and Sea is on tour with Celebrate Lit

of ink and seaAbout the Book

Book:  Of Ink and Sea

Author: Clarissa Kae

Genre: Romance with historical and paranormal elements

The Bristol Sea divides Cornwall and Wales—and sings an enticing tale to Sienna Rothesay, an English born, American raised photographer.  Since childhood, she’s fought the temptation to listen to its siren song.

When Ioan Waif, an enigmatic neighbor from her Welsh days calls her home to care for her ailing grandfather, Sienna is faced with an old myth that hints at a nefarious secret, linking her ancestors with Ioan’s.
To uncover the truth, she must walk the blurry path between legend and reality but with more questions than answers, she fears giving in to her heart will cost Sienna her head.

ClarissaKaeAbout the Author

Clarissa Kae is a preeminent voice whose professional career began as a freelance editor in 2007. She’s the former president of her local California Writers Club after spending several years as the Critique Director.

Since her first novel, she’s explored different writing genres and created a loyal group of fans who eagerly await her upcoming release. With numerous awards to her name, Clarissa continues to honor the role of storyteller.

Aside from the writing community, she and her daughters founded Kind Girls Make Strong Women to help undervalued nonprofit organizations—from reuniting children with families to giving Junior Olympic athletes their shot at success.

She lives in the agricultural belly of California with her family and farm of horses, chickens, dogs, and kittens aplenty.

More from Clarissa

I was supposed to go to Wales for my 40th birthday which is this month January 2021. But COVID happened. Instead, I delved into Wales for a setting and never looked back.

Blog Stops

Rebecca Tews, January 18

Sara Jane Jacobs, January 18

Texas Book-aholic, January 19

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 20

Inklings and notions, January 21

Wishful Endings, January 21

For Him and My Family, January 22

deb’s Book Review, January 23

Blogging With Carol, January 23

Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 24

Locks, Hooks and Books, January 25

Heidi and Books, January 25

Artistic Nobody, January 26 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Connie’s History Classroom, January 27

Holly Jo Morris, January 27

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, January 28

The Write Escape, January 29

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, January 29

Godly Book Reviews, January 30

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, January 31

Mia Reads, January 31

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Clarissa is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon, $50 Barnes and Noble, and $50 Target gift cards!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/105a9/of-ink-and-sea-celebration-tour-giveaway

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Episode 48: A Chat with T.E. Price
by Chautona Havig

What happens when you combine domestic violence with suspense?  A hair-raising ride you won’t want to miss.

On March 2, T.E. Price ‘s book, Take Flight, releases on eBook, and boy is this one excellent story.  Join me as I talk with Tiffany about her book, the inspiration, and all the excellence you’ll find within the can’t-put-it-down pages.

Note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you!

The 3 Best Things about This Domestic Abuse Suspense Novel

A new author to me, T.E. Price knocked her suspense (and almost thriller) out of the park with three excellent elements to the book.  

Aside from wonderful and realistic characterization and edge-of-your-seat storytelling, T.E. Price also digs deep into a subject Christians sometimes like to pretend isn’t a thing.  And boy does she do it well. 

So if a great story that grips you and won’t let you go isn’t the best thing, what is?  Well… I’ve got three.

First, the writing is stellar.

Let’s face it, domestic abuse victims have cyclical thought patterns and actions that can feel redundant and become boring when you see it on the page, but Tiffany managed to avoid that while still showing how real and confusing it can be both for the person going through it and for those watching from the outside.

Second, her laser focus on her subject.

Domestic abuse is a multi-layered and faceted subject that spans so many different aspects of life. It would be easy and natural, even, to try to show it all with the one person who experienced it all, but T.E. Price keeps her focus on one woman’s escape from that life and how it affects her relationship with the Lord and others. That’s it.  

Third, T.E. Price shows her heart for the Lord and His people in every word on the page.

While not preachy at all, and while often just the undercurrent of the story, there is no doubt in the reader’s mind that Price wants the reader to learn both how to overcome as the victim of domestic violence and how to aid others in the church going through it.  Additionally, that steady reminder of Who the only true support we truly have touches every aspect of Hallie McClain’s life.

There are so many other excellent elements to Take Flight, but I’d be chatting all day with Tiffany (and nearly did!) if I kept going.

Don’t forget!

T.E. Price’s book releases March 2, 2021 and on March 5, 2021  from 7-8 pm (EST) she is having a Facebook launch party with prizes and lots of information about it.  HERE is a link to that party and I hope to be there to celebrate with her!  Please join her and maybe you’ll win an eBook copy of Take Flight!

You can find more about T.E. Price (Tiffany) at her WEBSITE where you can also find her other novel, Love’s True Colors.

Title:  Take Flight Author: T.E. Price Synopsis:  

Within Take Flight, readers follow Hallie McClain as she is faced with numerous fight-or-flight decisions in her attempt to escape her abusive husband, Jonathan McClain.

Hallie has made the decision to leave him for good, but Jonathan has no intentions of complying. During their separation, Hallie grapples with trusting those closest to her, the gossip-mill of her small town, and her wavering trust in God. Living alone in a secret, secluded cabin in the woods, she is thrust into multiple circumstances where she has to balance her safety with the reality of inescapable encounters with her soon-to-be ex-husband. Jonathan soon discovers Hallie’s whereabouts, forcing her to escape to the city while awaiting the divorce, but her move isn’t the solution as her safety is still compromised.

Hallie has to learn to trust God with her safety while leaning on the church body for support. The tantalizing storyline of Take Flight weaves through one “fight-or-flight” scenario after the next, filling Hallie with angst regarding her constant need for escape. Take Flight addresses the ugliness of domestic abuse and the need for support from the church community. Furthermore, it affirms God’s trustworthiness in the midst of difficult, sometimes even life-threatening, situations.

Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at:

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You can find the Blog post HERE.

Episode 48: A Chat with T.E. Price
Episode 48: A Chat with T.E. Price
February 23, 2021
Chautona Havig
Episode 47: The Drew Farthering Mysteries
February 16, 2021
Chautona Havig
Episode 46: What Romances Do I Think Are Perfect for Valentine's Day?
February 9, 2021
Chautona Havig
Episode 45: A Gush about Things We Didn't Say
February 2, 2021
Chautona Havig
Episode 44: A Chat with Carolyn Miller
January 26, 2021
Chautona Havig
Episode 43: A Chat with Allison Pearl
January 19, 2021
Chautona Havig
Episode 42: A Chat with J'nell Ciesielski
January 13, 2021
Chautona Havig
Episode 41: A Chat with Jennifer Pierce
January 5, 2021
Chautona Havig
Episode 40: My Favorite Book of 2020
December 8, 2020
Chautona Havig
Episode 39: A Chat with L.K. Simonds
December 1, 2020
Chautona Havig
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