A Very Different Novel

Cover for Amber Bay

It’s time to release a project that is a very different novel that I’ve been quietly working on in the background for many years.

Amber Bay is unique in genre, voice, and setting.

A Different Genre

I’ve been writing epic fantasy with spiritual themes for a few decades now. I’ve also written contemporary fiction. Amber Bay is a historical novel based on a true story. It occurred during the Russian Revolution and World War II. The narrative voice is different from my other stories, and the pacing, scope, and style are all different. Yet this was a story I had to share, so I hope you’ll be inspired by it.

A Different Publisher

I have been blessed to work with wonderful publishing houses in the past, including Bethany House Publishing, NavPress, and now Enclave and Oasis Family Media. But this story is so unique and not part of my “brand,” so my agent agreed with me that doing this independently was a wise choice. I was able to assemble the same team that has worked on all my recent novels – editing, cover design, and typesetting, so I felt supported. Still, this was a unique experience for me.

A Different Setting

I’ve created a variety of settings for my novels. If you’ve read my work, you’ve visited the worship tower of Lyric, the villages of Braide Wood, the floating island of Meriel, and the unique nations of Sabor and Norgard. I’ve also set contemporary novels in more familiar settings of midwestern U.S. or Virginia. This story is set primarily in Latvia, a Baltic nation that many people aren’t familiar with. Recently I’ve seen Latvia mentioned in the news as various politicians and ambassadors have expressed concerns about Russia. They have reason for concern. Latvia survived both a communist and a Nazi occupation in the 1940s. So did my grandmother and father.

I’ve always been fascinated by the history of WWII, reading everything I could find, playing Anne Frank in the play based on her diary, and asking endless questions of my grandma.

Throughout my childhood, sitting at my grandmother’s kitchen table with a teacup of jam stirred into hot water, I often hounded her. In unguarded moments, she could be persuaded to tell her stories. For years I recorded her accounts. My historical research and the format of a novel allowed me to imagine scenes and flesh out the story.

But at its core, my new book, Amber Bay, is based on true events and a true woman who had a profound influence in my life. I’m glad for this opportunity to introduce her to you and to invite you to a very different setting.

Here are the details:

Amber Bay

Two nations battle across her homeland. Two men alter the course of her future.

After fleeing the terrors of Russia’s Bolshevik revolution, Marija Kappel longs for a peaceful life in Latvia. Her beautiful Baltic coast town with its white sand beaches is the perfect place to dream of marriage and children who can hunt for amber on the bay.

But her fragile hopes for stability collapse as powerful governments negotiate treaties that change everything. What starts as an agreement for a naval base soon becomes a full Russian occupation with all its brutality. Daily perils invade even her own home.

While Russia and Germany battle over Latvia like dogs over a bone, Marija fights to hold her family together. Her resilience is further tested by the horrors of the Nazi invasion. Torn by the atrocities of World War II, she grapples with decisions about her future and the two men who have played an important role in her life. As the world around her crumbles, she uses every strategy to protect her family and aid her friends. Will her faith in the God of her parents—preserved like a relic in amber—endure through loss and danger? Will she have the strength to love and trust again?

Available in paperback

or

Available in ebook format

As always, if you enjoy the story, please rate or review it so others may find out about it. Thank you so much for your interest in my stories. I appreciate you!

His,

Sharon Hinck

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Sabbatical for a New Year

Devotional Musing: Sabbatical
 
“Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’” Mark 6:31 (NIV)
 
Over recent months, I’ve resonated with Jesus’s call to get some rest. My normal response to challenge is usually to “push harder.” But as I confronted worsening health issues, I heard God’s gentle invitation to try a new way to respond. Trust and rest. So 2023 is going to be a year of sabbatical for me. I hope to focus my limited energy on relationships – with God, family, and friends.
 
A friend recently sent me an interview I did for her blog in 2006, and I was amazed how deeply my own old words spoke to my heart, and hope they might encourage you, as well. In part, I wrote:
 
“We live in a hyper-success-driven culture. We try to measure up to crazy unrealistic models of doing it all and doing it perfectly. We’re also very number obsessed and measure success by income, or degrees, or amount of activities. We lose sight of God’s upside-down measuring system—how a cup of cold water given in love is a precious act of ministry in God’s eyes, and how a widow’s mite is treasured by Him.

The theme of God working MORE powerfully through our lives when we DON’T have it all together developed as I wrote novels. It wasn’t part of my original intent—just one of those threads God kept bringing in.

I so much want to give God a strong, shiny, gifted person for Him to work with. Instead He’s called me to come to Him in all my quirks, flaws, and fears and let HIM be my strength. Each thing He is able to do (in spite of my emotional weakness, spiritual wobbles, and physical limitations) is a true miracle. In many ways I feel more frail the longer I go in my Christian walk – yet that isn’t a bad place to be because I have deeper trust in God’s mercy and strength. It’s much smarter to rely on Him than on myself!”

I pray that whatever form it takes, 2023 will be a year of rest and refreshing for all of us, as we trust ever deeper in our Savior.

Secret Project

Although I’m sabbaticalling (sabbaticalizing?) – okay, ON sabbatical – I have had a special project in the works for several years that I’ll share with you soon. So stay tuned! As soon as I am ready to say more, you’ll hear about it in my next newsletter.

Photo of a Miracle

There were years I didn’t think I’d ever be able to write another novel, and that if I did write, it would be as clunky and as difficult to read as it was to write. Yet God guided me day by day, and strengthened me to write word by word, to complete Hidden Current, Forsaken Island, and Windward Shore. Our Savior is so faithful! And then to my total shock these past three years, The Dancing Realms Series was awarded an unprecedented Christy Award for each book in the trilogy. A total miracle of God. The themes of freedom and grace and the beauty of art all ministered to my heart as I wrote, and I hope they resonate with you as well! If you haven’t read them yet, I pray these stories will provide a great adventure as well as encouragement for whatever impossible tasks you are facing. You can find them all HERE. and anywhere you buy books. 🙂

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Dream of Kings Birthday

Dream of Kings is born today!

I woke up this morning incredibly grateful that God enabled this book to exist. Thank you to everyone who has supported my writing through prayers, encouragement, and telling people about my books.

This is my twelfth novel, and each one holds a special place in my heart as I think about the characters who came to life in my mind, and the themes that challenged my heart. 

Where did the idea for Dream of Kings come from? I had noticed so many “reimaginings” of familiar stories (Alice in Wonderland, Wizard of Oz, Peter Pan, Pride and Prejudice, etc.) in recent years. I also admired Francine Rivers’ take on Hosea set in a different time and setting in Redeeming Love. One of my favorite Biblical accounts is that of Joseph, so I used that as my jumping-off place. From there I imagined an epic fantasy setting with kingdoms in conflict, a woman facing injustice, and God’s hand shaping mercy for her and her people. Then I let the story take unexpected turns.

I hope you enjoy this adventure! Available anywhere books are sold, including HERE.

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Preorder Gift!

Preorder gift? Yes please! Some of my followers have appreciated the devotions I’ve been writing for various devotions books the last ten years. Others read my novels. Here is a way to enjoy both! If you have preordered the hard cover version of Dream of Kings, just fill out this form and you’ll receive a FREE 30-day digital devotion book. “Devotions for Dreamers” explores various people in the Bible who experienced unique dreams and offers application for our lives today. If you haven’t preordered Dream of Kings yet, order it today. The preorder gift is only available until the book releases on October 11th.

I’m so excited for readers to meet Jolan the Dream Teller, and explore her fantastical world, and meet the other intriguing characters she meets on her adventures.

The Future Never Sleeps

In the glacial nation of Norgard, Jolan the Dream Teller serves every seeker, whether peasant or high lord. Though she loves using her gift, she struggles to navigate the corrupt and dangerous court and the jealousies of the Guildagard. 

When an old man’s nightmare imparts a dire warning, Jolan realizes her entire nation is in danger. But before she can sound the alarm, she is betrayed by the guilds and sold into slavery in a rival kingdom far to the south. As a slave in a foreign land, at first Jolan can’t see beyond her singular focus: return home to warn Norgard of the coming calamity. After facing new dangers, making new friends, and forgiving old wrongs, she must fulfill the purposes the Provider has set before her.

Only then can she face a decision that could cost her the man she loves, her calling, and her freedom—all to save a people who abandoned her.

You can preorder here, and then fill out the form for your free devotion book! 🙂 Easy peasy!

Thanks! Sharon Hinck

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Dream of Kings

Introducing Dream of Kings! The past few years, as my Dancing Realms series was releasing, I began work on a new epic fantasy novel. Inspired by Biblical accounts, as I often am, I developed a new story world and a character who found herself trapped in a place she didn’t belong.

I’m over the moon excited to share the amazing cover of Dream of Kings, and let you know about this new tale:

Dream of Kings Cover

Dream of Kings

The future never sleeps

In the glacial nation of Norgard, Jolan the dream teller serves every seeker, whether peasant or high lord. Though she loves using her gift, she struggles to navigate the corrupt and dangerous court and the jealousies of the Guildagard. 

When an old man’s nightmare imparts a dire warning, Jolan realizes her entire nation is in danger. But before she can sound the alarm, she is betrayed by the guilds and sold into slavery in a rival kingdom far to the south. As a slave in a foreign land, at first Jolan can’t see beyond her singular focus: return home to warn Norgard of the coming calamity. After facing new dangers, making new friends, and forgiving old wrongs, she must fulfill the purposes the Provider has set before her. 

Only then can she face a decision that could cost her the man she loves, her calling, and her freedom—all to save a people who abandoned her.

You can PREORDER the limited edition hard cover NOW, to ensure you get a copy. The book will release in October.

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West Side Story Memories

I read a terrific article at Lorehaven about the new film West Side Story. I agreed with so many of the thoughts, especially the way the writer Marian made a case for musicals fitting within the fantasy genre. Her terrific article also brought back fond memories. Be sure to check out her article.

Way back in 1981, I was choreographing for various musical theatre productions in the Twin Cities. I had a ball working on an ambitious production of West Side Story that was performed in a parking lot, with real cars driving into the set, and actual fire escapes on the side of the building that provided the backdrop of the staging. But rehearsing outdoors held some unexpected problems.

West Side Story news clipping

During tender moments, actors slapped frantically at attacking mosquitos. Dangerous pratfalls from fire escapes onto hidden mattresses kept my heart in my throat. But strangest of all, one night as I was working with the Sharks and Jets on the choreography for the rumble, we were interrupted by a police car bursting through the barriers and into the parking lot. We all froze as a K-9 unit pulled up as well, and a police officer stepped out. He looked around our motley group of performers, shaking his head and chuckling as he realized the mistake. I was tempted to have the cast start singing “When You’re a Jet” to prove they weren’t actual gang members. Apparently someone in a neighboring high rise saw the realistic street fighting and called the police.

The mixup brought us some great free press, and the show was one of my all time favorites. So when I went to see the new film, I was a little nervous about this new interpretation. I told my daughter, “If they take out the snapping fingers in the opening number, I’m walking out.”

I was delighted that the iconic snapping remained, as did the energy and spirit of story, all the wonderful music, and both a tribute to the original choreography along with wonderful new additions. My daughter and I had fun analyzing all the improvements, as well as a few things we thought worked better in the earlier film.

Most of all, the movie reminded me how I view the world. For me, it makes perfect sense that at any time people should break out into song, dance in the streets, and hear the orchestra swell.

How about you? Do you ever hear swelling orchestra music at emotional moments in your life? Do you see pieces of furniture as possible props for a dance number? Do you sing in the rain or spin with open arms to the hills that are alive with the sound of music?

My love for musicals threaded through both my fantasy series. The Sword of Lyric series includes music and songkeepers. The Dancing Realms series focuses on how dance can both express our heart and change us. If you love music or dance, I think you’ll enjoy both series.

Blessings!

Sharon Hinck

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Visiting Agape Review

In a recent conversation while visiting Agape Review, I was asked some intriguing questions. Here is a taste of one of the many topics we covered:

How and when did you know what your calling was?

That’s such an interesting question. I see my calling as living a life of worship to my Creator and enjoying His presence. Secondarily, I am called to share my Savior’s grace with others, and I’ve found various means to do that—as a church worker, choreographer, organist, wife and mom, etc. So that awareness of calling has been with me since childhood, but the specific avenues have gone through various iterations. In reference to writing……”

You can read more at Agape Review. 🙂

Have a VERY Merry Christmas, dear friends!

Sharon Hinck

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Forsaken Island Christy Award

I’m so stunned and grateful. Last night’s Christy Awards was a lovely evening of inspiration and terrific speakers. It reminded me of how much my life and faith walk has been shaped by authors of novels over the years–even more so than non-fiction. Their stories encouraged and challenged me. It’s a huge honor to be part of this amazing family of writers.

I’ll confess that when they read the first line of Forsaken Island, there was a roaring in my ears and a disoriented confusion, and if not for my hubby and daughter cheering, I would have forgotten to turn on my camera and mic and accept the award.

This was especially sweet because I was able to dedicate this to my mom. She taught me to read at a very young age and instilled a passion for books that led me to becoming a writer. She recently went ahead to heaven, and being able to acknowledge her was a very tender gift to me.

Thank you to everyone who has supported my writing over the years!

Blessings!

Sharon Hinck

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Looking for Good Books?

Avid readers are always looking for good books. One way to find beautiful, well-written new stories is to check out award-winning novels. The Christy Awards just released a list of finalists in a variety of categories:

CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
Just Like Home, Courtney Walsh, Sweethaven Press, 9781735527604
Some Bright Someday, Melissa Tagg, Larkspur Press, 9780997964264
Stay with Me, Becky Wade, Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group, 9780764235603 

FIRST NOVEL –
A Noble Calling, Rhona Weaver, Two Oaks Press, 9781734750003
The Edge of Belonging, Amanda Cox, Revell/ Baker Publishing Group, 9780800737405
Rain, Dana McNeely, Mountain Brook Ink, 9781943959921
Roots of Wood and Stone, Amanda Wen, Kregel Publications, 9780825446689

GENERAL FICTION
Set the Stars AlightAmanda Dykes, Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group, 9780764232671
The Water Keeper, Charles Martin, Thomas Nelson, 9780785230915T
he Way It Should Be, Christina Suzann Nelson, Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group, 9780764235399

HISTORICAL
Like Flames in the NightConnilyn Cossette, Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group, 9780764234330
Under the Tulip Tree, Michelle Shocklee, Tyndale House Publishers, 9781496446077
The White Rose Resists, Amanda Barratt, Kregel Publications, 9780825446481 

HISTORICAL ROMANCE
A Portrait of LoyaltyRoseanna M. White, Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group, 9780764231834
The Prince of Spies, Elizabeth Camden,Bethany House/ Baker Publishing Group, 9780764232138
When Twilight BreaksSarah Sundin, Revell/ Baker Publishing Group, 9780800736361
 
MYSTERY/SUSPENSE/THRILLER
Port of Origin, Lisa Harris and Lynne Gentry, Harris-Gentry Suspense, 9798640219463
Relative Silence, Carrie Stuart Parks, Thomas Nelson, 9780785226185
Unknown Threat, Lynn H. Blackburn, Revell/ Baker Publishing Group, 9780800737955 

SHORT FORM
A Match Made at Christmas, Courtney Walsh, Sweethaven Press, 9798697320600
Joy to the World: Far as the Curse is FoundAmanda Barratt, Kregel Publications, 9780825446696
Joy to the World: Wonders of His LoveErica Vetsch, Kregel Publications, 9780825446696 

SPECULATIVE
Extinction Island, Janice Boekhoff, Lost Canyon Press, 9781948003063
Forsaken Island, Sharon Hinck, Enclave Publishing, 9781621841357
The Story Hunter, Lindsay A. Franklin, Enclave Publishing, 9781621841227

YOUNG ADULT
DustKara Swanson, Enclave Publishing, 9781621841265
Mortal Sight, Sandra Fernandez Rhoads, Enclave Publishing, 9781621841203
Rebel Daughter, Lori Banov Kaufmann, Delacorte Press, an imprint of Random House Children’s Books, 9780593125816

Please chime in! Where do you hunt when looking for good books? What are your favorite genres to read? Have you read any of these?
Blessings!
Sharon Hinck
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Cover Reveal for Windward Shore

Introducing the Cover Reveal for Windward Shore!

The island world of Meriel faces an old adversary and a new danger. Will the reformed Order die before it has a chance to blossom?


Storm clouds loom on the horizon as Carya and Brantley struggle to overcome wounds of the past and build a future together. The fragile new Order is on shaky ground, with too few dancers and sparse resources. Then trouble erupts—and now an insidious rebellion and a new foe threaten their entire world.


When she uncovers an old enemy behind all the destruction, Carya realizes the past is not done with her. With conflict tearing apart the dancers and villages, rimmers are soon overrun, and Carya must unite her people by leading the battle to protect the very heart of her world … or lose it all.

The limited hard-cover edition will release in May, and you can preorder here. Thanks for sharing the Cover Reveal for Windward Shore with your friends!

Happy Thanksgiving! I’m giving thanks for YOU, and for the opportunity to share these stories!

Blessings!

Sharon Hinck

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