Steven Hunt, Author and Speaker

Remembering 9/11

2011-09-10T14:22:00.000-07:00

It's been ten years since terrorists attacked the United States on our soil. I remember it like it was yesterday. I was at work when we received word that a plane had flown into one of the Twin Towers. My co-workers and I turned on the television to see the second plane fly into the other tower. I couldn't believe my eyes. After years of military duty and changing threat codes as often as I change clothes, I suspected war was imminent, just not in my home country. After the bombing of the Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City in 1995, the decision-makers in the state have become more cautious, so they ordered the state buildings evacuated. They additionally ordered the state law enforcement to begin immediate patrols in case Oklahoma was a target.
That day changed the lives of every American. We rose up as one and declared we would not be intimidated! We will never remember the names of the terrorists who flew the planes into the Twin Towers or the Pentagon. But we will never forget the words of Todd Beamer, a passenger on United Airlines flight 93. "Are you guys ready? Let's roll!"

I know, I know...

2011-07-26T15:05:00.000-07:00

I know I've been missing in action from this blog for several months. But I have a good reason. Really, I do! I've recently signed a contract with Harbourlight Books to publish my newest work, Chasing Christmas. It is scheduled to be released around Christmas 2012. Until then, I'm working on edits. I'm fortunate to have Lisa McCaskill as my editor. And I must say she is splendid. She is making this story sing! Once the editing process is complete I'll post a blurb on this blog. So stay tuned...

As always, I welcome comments and questions.

Steven

Just my thoughts...

2011-03-10T16:54:00.000-08:00

Have you ever shopped at a large bookstore for Christian or Inspirational Fiction only to find that the store's shelves are lacking in that particular genre? I have more times than I can count! Frustration builds as I turn to the thousands of shelves that hold books with bad language and explicit sexual scenes while only a handful of shelves are home to what I refer to as "clean works." I know that the stores stock their shelves with titles that they believe will sell the best. I know it's a business. But my mind questions whether society has stepped so far back that the only books that sell are the ones not suitable for buying, let alone reading. It only takes a few minutes watching television to realize that society now sees profanity as acceptable. How many times have you heard the term "sex sells"? What happened to the "family friendly" shows? Do filmmakers even consider making a G-rated picture anymore? One that isn't a cartoon? Do authors think twice before they write that word that makes their readers blush? Do they care that children may pick up their book and flip to the bedroom section that gives explicit details?

I care. And I know hundreds of Christian authors that refuse to stoop to that level.

Have parents stopped caring what their children read or watch?

My philosophy is this: If my books are not suitable for the entire family to read, what the point of writing it? Even action/adventure novels, such as the ones I write, don't have to have the characters speak like a sea-weary sailor. (I apologize to the men and women of the U.S. Navy for I know that not all of them talk this way. It's just I needed a cliche and that one fit.)

But this thought I hold close to my heart: As the Word of God unfolds in front of our eyes, as the countries surrounding Israel want nothing more than to blast God's people from the face of the earth, a new day is coming! When God's New Earth comes to be, take comfort in knowing that the bookstores will stock nothing but Christian and Inspirational Fiction! Hallelujah!

Just my thoughts...

Tell me your thoughts.

Great Book!!

2011-03-10T16:08:00.000-08:00

Deception is the first book of Randy Alcorn's that I've had the joy of reading. How did he pass under my radar for so long?

Deception is easy to read and keeps the reader on the edge of his seat. This book was the first in a very long time that I didn't want to put down. I lost hours of sleep as I turned page after page. I'm an avid reader (I read as many as ten or more books in a month) so my saying that Deception held my interest to where I cringed when the clock struck the midnight hour (I have to be up very early in the morning to get to work) is is a compliment that says bunches.

Deception is an intriguing story that follows Homicide Detective Oliver Justice Chandler as he tries to untangle the twists and turns surrounding the death of an unpopular professor. If that isn't enough, Chandler struggles with many problems in his own life such as alcoholism, mending a relationship with his estranged daughter, his general dislike for journalists, and having to question himself when some of the clues point to him. His closest compadres, who happen to be journalists (an additional conflict) are relentless in their determination to introduce Jesus to the heart-hardened Chandler, who blames God for the death of his wife. To me (as a Christian first and a career crime fighter second), Alcorn described the personality and thoughts of a cop perfectly.

I will most certainly read more of Alcorn's books and, after reading Deception in record-breaking time, I'm sure each one will not disappoint.

Great book!

2011-02-21T10:08:00.000-08:00

As an amateur historian of the Civil War era, I found that The Curiosities of the Civil War by Webb Garrison to be a valuable resource for those who thirst for more knowledge of the Great War Between the States. Mr. Garrison's book goes beyond the textbooks to include information that is not found in most study guides. For example, most textbooks do not speak of Old Abe, the pet bald eagle of the Eighth Wisconsin Regiment. Mr. Garrison details how Old Abe used to perch on a red, white, and blue shield while encamped. Old Abe was just one of the many pets that accompanied the many fighting regiments. A rooster and a bear were some of the more strange animals that followed their adoptive families into battle.

The textbooks focus on the major campaigns of the war. The Curiosisties of the Civil War goes beyond those campaigns to give insight into the men and women of the war. Distinctive headgear of the armies, the sounds and sights of the battlefields, and prisoners/hostages are just a few topics discussed.

Do you know how proud Abraham Lincoln was of his height? Mr. Garrison described how the six foot, four inch Lincoln used to measure his height against other tall men in the Army of the North. Rarely was he the shorter of the men being compared, but there is at least one time where he looked up to another man. Do you know the height of the man who stood taller than Lincoln? Do you know his name and rank?

Did you know that Lincoln was the only President of the United States that has even been under fire in a time of war while in office?

The Curiosities of the Civil War is much more than a textbook. It is a must read for anyone who has even the slightest interest in learning more about the war and the people who fought it. The Civil War remains the single greatest war that helped define our great country.

Seeds of Summer by Author Deborah Vogts

2010-06-14T14:51:00.000-07:00

Wow! As many if you know I don't read many romance novels--inspirational or otherwise. But Author Deborah Vogts has written an amazing book in Seeds of Summer, the second book in her Seasons of the Tallgrass series. A well-written book, her characters come alive on the page as we watch the characters face turmoil and despair. I don't want to give away the ending (you need to read it for yourself), but the words "warm, fuzzy feeling" comes to my mind about the way the plot ends. Very few books strike the soft place in my heart where I want to keep reading and not put the book down. Seeds of Summer is one of the few that I couldn't stop reading.

You can purchase your copy here: http://www.christianbook.com/seeds-of-summer-seasons-the-tallgrass/deborah-vogts/9780310292760/pd/292761?item_code=WW&netp_id=683685&event=ESRCN&view=details

Amazing Conference!

2010-05-18T12:25:00.000-07:00

Hello all,

I am safely home from one of the best conferences in North America. Even though it snowed on us every day (in May, nonetheless!) the Colorado Christian Writers Conference has to be labeled as one of the best in the country. The picturesque setting is like none other and the instruction was superb. If any writers are looking for great fellowship with other writers, a place to learn the craft, and a setting that is not hard on your eyes, this is it.

I was also blessed to be named one of the seven writers to participate in Author Robert Liparulo's Intensive Fiction Clinic. Not only did I get to meet one of my favorite authors, I got to learn from him! A class like none other.

Off to Colorado!!!

2010-05-11T05:44:00.000-07:00

I'm leaving this morning for a trip to beautiful Estes Park, Colorado! This is the site of the Colorado Christian Writers Conference where I'll take part in Robert Liparulo's Intensive Fiction Clinic. I'm excited because only seven students were selected for this clinic. I'm going to be a sponge and soak in all the knowledge Bob has to offer. He's the author of several bestselling books like Came a Horseman, Germ, the Dreamhouse Kings series for young adults, and many others.

Celebrating a New Life, Remembering an Old One, and Thankful For All Mothers

2010-04-28T13:35:00.000-07:00

Last night (April 27, 2010) my first granddaughter and second grandchild was welcomed by many who were waiting eagerly in the hospital's maternity ward. Brylee Aleksa Hunt came to us with a full head of dark brown hair (the nurses had to wash it five times!), a beautiful voice, and a face that would light a smile on the lips of the most unhappiest person. She is precious (okay, I'm a little partial) and full of joy.

As I watched her little hands and feet through the nursery window, I could not help myself from thinking about my own grandmother. Grandma was a little lady, but the love of Jesus in her heart made her huge. She was tuned into the Voice of God as no other person that I've known. A true servant of the Lord.

In 1986, I was serving in the military and my wife and I were stationed halfway around the world. There wouldn't be the flock of family members standing at the nursery window and there wouldn't be the grandparents waiting with open arms to hold our little baby when he arrived home. We understood this and had to accept it, but it still must have been hard for our family. Because of the distance, I agreed to telephone my mom to let her know when my wife went into labor. She would then call everyone else. I also promised to call again when the baby was born. At that time, and because of the military's medical services, we didn't even know the baby's gender.
My wife went into labor at 11:00 p.m. on a Friday in October. Because of her small frame and the baby's size, it was almost impossible for her to deliver naturally. On Monday morning the doctors came to us and said that they would have to deliver by C-Section. By this time my wife was worn out and too tired to really continue.
Remember when I said I had promised to call my mom. Well, my mom is a worrier and I know this. She's a nurse, as was my grandmother, so their knowledge, along with the time delay, probably caused her more worry than someone without any medical knowledge. On the Sunday in between the day my wife went into labor and the Monday where the baby was born, my grandmother telephoned my mom to see if she had received any news. When Grandma was told no, my grandmother told my mom that she'd had a dream. In her dream she saw the baby--which was a boy--and everyone was fine. The worrying stopped.

On Monday morning after my son was born, I called mom. I told her the good news and that she had a grandson. Her reply was that she knew and proceeded to tell me of Grandma's dream.

In 2006, as my grandmother grew older, she became really sick and was totally blind. My son, now a man in his own right, was due to have his first child. Surrounded by her family, Grandma said that God promised that she would not die until she'd held her first great-great-grandchild. No one doubted this.

On the day that my new grandson was released from the hospital, my son drove him to Grandma's house. A hospital bed had been moved into the dining room for her and she laid on the bed in a seemingly unresponsive state. As my son gently laid his son in the crook of Grandma's arm, I saw her arm slightly pull the baby closer to her. I knew she was aware she'd gotten her wish and that she was happy.

Grandma went on to be with the Lord within hours after holding her first great-great-grandson.

As I watched my new granddaughter being cared for by the nurses in the nursery, I felt mixed emotions. I wanted to celebrate a new life in our family--one that I'm sure will bring us multitudes of blessings--but on the other hand, I was sad that this little girl would not know the inspiration and love that Grandma showed to her family.

To all the mothers, I want to say thank you. Thank you for bringing beautiful blessings into the world; thank you for getting up for those late night feedings; thank you for changing the diapers when the baby is sick; thank you for caring for the rest of your family, even though your time is pressed with a new baby.
Thank you for loving us.

To my own mother--thank you for raising me to care and showing me the love of God.

To my Grandma--I'll see you when I get to heaven. Then you can hold all your great-great-grandbabies.

Hand of Fate by Lis Wiehl and April Henry

2010-03-17T12:44:00.000-07:00

Having just finished Hand of Fate, A Triple Threat Novel, I wanted to write a few notes to encourage any readers who have considered reading this book. The story took off on a whirlwind during the first few chapters that made me want to tighten my seatbelt (if my recliner had one!) and ended with a bang. I only wish the middle of the book had been more explosive, prompting me to give it a higher rating. However, the middle of the story did drag somewhat and, being the law enforcement critic that I am, I found two errors in concerning law enforcement procedures (actually one procedural error and an error on what a certain device that is widely used by law enforcement can do). But the good news is that these errors did not change the story or the plot in any way. Hand of Fate is definately an entertaining book for a rainy day.

Three stars out of five.

http://www.bookschristian.com/books/lis-wiehl/hand-of-fate/580187?&affcode=Steven13

Shame into Honor

2010-03-07T13:32:00.000-08:00

Luke 5:12-13 says, "While Jesus was in one of the towns, a man came along who was covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus, he fell on his face to the ground and begged him, "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. "I am willing," he said. "Be clean!" And immediately the leprosy left him."

Leprosy was a disease that sickened most men. It was not uncommon to see men take a longer path just to avoid being near a leper. This man knew his disease had placed him in a lower social category; one that was looked as being lower than a slave. However, the amazing thing about these verses are that this leper did not have a lack of faith issue. He KNEW Jesus was the Savior. So he said, "Lord, if you are willing..."

Then Jesus touched the leper. This was a big no, no during that time. Anyone who touched a leper was in danger himself of catching the disease. However, Jesus KNEW He was the Son of God--who controlled the heavens, the earth, and everything in between.

Jesus's actions turned this leper's shame--the shame of having this socially unacceptable disease--into a man of honor because he believed.

All of us are sinners and all of us fall short of being worthy of spending eternal life in heaven. But through Jesus Christ we can spend the rest of time rejoicing and praising the Lamb. Don't allow your shame to condemn you to hell. If you have not received Jesus as your Savior, don't wait another day. Confess your sins and receive the gift Jesus has already paid for.

Random Thoughts...

2010-02-24T13:59:00.000-08:00

Random thoughts...

Why is it that the world seems to become united in the spirit of sportsmanship during the Olympics, but not in the off years? At first I thought maybe we should keep the Olympic spirit going throughout the year with competitions set in intervals--say two months apart--but once I looked closer at this I saw that it could not work. If a year round, amateur (amateur, right? These amateurs have become millionaires through sponsors. How do I get a sponsor?) competition was organized, it would become just like the NFL, NBA, and MLB. People would become bored of the continual coverage. There has to be a way to keep that spirit going...

Any ideas?

Ransom Betrayal

2010-01-20T12:22:00.000-08:00

It's finally here! The long awaited and requested new suspense book, Ransom Betrayal by suspense author Steven Hunt. Ransom Betrayal is the first novel in the Ransom series and was published by Electric Moon Publishing as an eBook. It can be purchased now on Amazon.com with more avenues of purchasing locations coming later.

After the suspicious death of his wife, Covert Operative John Ransom is quickly pressed into accepting another mission—a critical mission with worldly consequences and political fallout. However, when a sniper kills his target first, Ransom knows he’s been set up to take the fall. On the run for his life, he makes a costly mistake; a mistake that sends him spiraling into a lengthy coma and to a place where he cannot fight for himself.

Waking up, Ransom discovers he was a sacrificial lamb so foreign operatives could steal his identity and to use it to steal military secrets. His awakening has threatened their overall mission and a contract for his death is authorized. For the foreign governments to succeed, Ransom had to be eliminated. His former partner—an agent Ransom personally trained—and now a relentless, world-renown assassin, Mohammed al-Askim, has been hired to murder Ransom.

Retarded by painful, lingering injuries, Ransom takes the battle to al-Askim and those who stole his identity—a huge task since his every move is being reported to al-Askim by an unknown agency mole. After nearly being killed in an ambush, Ransom forms a hodge-podge team of people who he trusts; two FBI agents, a CIA doctor, a pastor, and a beautiful nurse aide who has fallen in love with him. It is essential that the team rout out the mole, capture al-Askim, and stop the theft of secrets—an enormous duty considering their inadequate levels of experience and knowledge of espionage.

How will this ragtag team—people who know little about the world of espionage—manage to achieve these lofty goals?

How high up the chain of command of Ransom’s agency does the corruption climb?

How will Ransom’s annoying injuries affect his ability to combat al-Askim’s onslaught of attempts on his life?

One thing is clear. If Ransom is not successful in stopping the thefts, certain defeat in the wars in Iraq and its surrounding areas are inevitable.

The demons of his past have returned to haunt him. How will he be able to survive?

A Change of Seasons

2010-01-06T09:39:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2009 is behind us. It was a great time of giving, fellowshipping with old friends and new ones, watching Christmas movies on television, and wishing Jesus a happy birthday. Tulsa even expereinced its first white Christmas in seven years.

But now 2010 is here. What will this new year bring? Will our country experience dramatic changes? How long will this recession continue? How many new children will be born into our family this year and how many loved ones will pass to their heavenly home?

It's funny to me as I sit in my home office typing this, with cold wind and high drifts of snow piled outside my window, that I want to write about Spring. I love winter. I love the cold air, the snow, and staying close to a roaring fire with a cup of hot chocolate. But the older I become, the more my body doesn't care for it. With the cold, new pains are discovered which requires more time working out to strengthen those problem areas. Incidently, my BowFlex is in my cold garage. Isn't that a fine kettle of fish?

So when I think of the Spring, I think of the grass again becoming green (which means mowing again), the flowers and trees blooming (which means hayfever), warmer weather, and Spring cleaning. My garage is on the top of my cleaning list this year. This past Fall my son and I built a new storage shed in the back yard, so things need to be shifted from the garage to the shed. Take my word, it will be a major undertaking cleaning a garage that has been neglected for months, but the reward is a clean area and a good feeling.

Cleaning house is commonplace in the Spring. Garage sales will sprout up in the area with people wishing to get rid of their old junk. Curbs will be lined with rubbage that is no longer needed or wanted.

The words "cleaning house" reminds me of forgiveness. While there isn't any special time for forgiving (any time is a good time), "cleaning house" is as good a time as any to rid yourself of that old junk that is bringing you down. In Matthew 18:21-35 Jesus teaches the parable of the unmericiful servant. Unfortunately, I don't have the space to quote these passages, but in essence, a servant begged his master to forgive his debts. When the master did, the servant went to a fellow servant who owed him money and had him thrown in debtors prison, refusing to grant him the same forgiveness his master had just shown. The master heard of this and confronted his servant. In anger, the master had his servant thrown in prison. Verse 35 says, "This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart."

"Cleaning house" is a time for cleaning your soul. Asking forgiveness and giving forgiveness.

So, with "cleaning house" in mind, I wish to offer an apology from the bottom of my heart to anyone I have ever offended and ask for their forgiveness. Also I forgive those who have trespassed against me. Those debts are forgiven.

Matthew 22:37-40: Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love you neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."

As I often have said, "I am not perfect. There hasn't been a perfect man who has walked on this earth except Jesus." Every one else makes mistakes. In retrospect, I see that I have not loved my neighbor as I should have. The first step to healing is asking and giving forgiveness. "Cleaning house" so to speak.

2010 is a new year. A new start. Do yourself a favor and start with a "clean house." The reward is a "clean area" and a great feeling.

Christmas Spirit

2009-12-23T07:58:00.000-08:00

I have a story I want to share.

I received word a few days ago about a five year old boy. He lives with his widowed father, who is permanently disabled. There is not much money in the household. Knowing their struggles, this young boy asked his father if for Christmas maybe he could have a new toy from the dollar store. He didn't ask for anything else. Just a single new toy. One that would not break his father's budget. I don't know what the father said or even if he has the money for this single gift. I know the father loves this child dearly, just as our Father in Heaven loves us.

This story tore at my heart. Matthew 6:1 says, "Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them."

There are many children around this world who are in the same situation as this little angel. Some will receive one new gift, while many will be forced to go without. I challenge everyone who reads this blog to find some spare money to give the gift of giving to these children. It's not hard to find one in need in your community. You may have to do without that Starbucks specialized coffee for one or two days, but the joy your gift will bring will be priceless.

An Interesting Thing Happened

2009-12-23T07:45:00.000-08:00

An interesting thing happened to me yesterday. I received hate mail! While I won't reveal the identity of the writer, I will say that the lettter was purely judgemental in context, contained name calling, and challenged my Christianity and character. In fact, the writer at one point threatened my life and showed distaste for the entire law enforcement commmunity. In the writer's biblical readings I guess they missed Matthew 7:1-2 "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

I am not perfect. There is none perfect except for Jesus Christ. All men and women make mistakes and I can assure you I've made my share, most of which I'm not proud. But I have been saved by the Blood of Jesus Christ and I will continue to do His work!

Mark 13:13 (NIV) says, "All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved."

Enough said.

Red Dirt Book Festival

2009-10-21T10:18:00.000-07:00

I'm pleased to announce that the Red Dirt Book Festival will be held in Shawnee, OK, from November 6, 2009, through November 7, 2009. This is a fantastic opportunity for writers to gain valuable writing knowledge and for readers to meet their favorite local authors. The lineup of authors in attentance is staggering, so every reader should be able to find a writer of the genre they love. Two book signing have been scheduled with the first one being at the Shawnee Expo Center on Friday, November 6th, and the second signing at Geiger Hall on the beautiful campus of Oklahoma Baptist Univeristy on Saturday, November 7th. These are two fabulous opportunities to obtain signed copies of books from your favorite authors to give as Christmas presents. Don't miss it!

Also sit in on your favorite authors' classes. Do you want to learn more about the way they write, or how they come up with book ideas? This is the time.

Going Home

2009-07-26T10:40:00.000-07:00

While Pastor Ron Woods, The Assembly, Broken Arrow, OK, preached this morning from 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. His message was titled The King has One More Move and that we, as Christians, are just passing through this world. Our home is really in heaven with God.

A vision of Christians marching from a long day in battle filled my mind. They were dreary and dirty, and some were injured. They walked slowly, but with their heads held high. When soldiers return from battle they look forward to coming home. We, embattled Christians, need to look forward to going home. In heaven there will be no more pain, nor sickness, nor worries. We ARE soldiers for Christ!

When the battles (times) become tough and you think you cannot go on; when your future is bleak; and when everything seems to be piling up around you, remember that Jesus is the King of Kings and the General of our army. He will lead us.

Evil wants us to think we have lost the war. Evil wants us to doubt ourselves. Evil wants us to give up. Evil tells us that there is no way we will succeed.

But we have fought the fight and we will continue to fight for Jesus. Don't give in to evil.

Just remember that Jesus has one more move to make. And it is a BIG one!

Pastor Ron's sermon reminded me of my Uncle Cotton's sermons. It was a hellfire and brimstone sermon, just like Cotton used to preach. Uncle Cotton is now in heaven reaping the benefits of his battles. He IS a good soldier.

Thrive to be a good soldier. Go to battle for Jesus. The road will be long and tough, but you will not regret being in God's army.

Professionalism

2009-05-27T09:59:00.001-07:00

In my job as a law enforcement investigator and as a writer I get the chance to meet many people--people of various cultures and backgrounds. I know we are not supposed to judge, but when we meet persons who display a high level of professionalism, don't we have better feelings about them? I do.

There isn't any reason for a person to not be professional. The literary agents I've spoken with are always professional. The editors and publishers strive to display a high level of professionalism. Even some of the witnesses and subjects in the crimes I investigate can manage a level of professionalism that is satisfactory.

So when I meet that person who isn't friendly, professional, and bitter, I have to shake my head. It's not that hard to be a neighbor. It's not hard to be kind. Being kind actually makes the day go by quicker. If you don't believe me, try it. Start the day by asking God to guide you as you go through the day with a huge smile on your face.

Your smile is powerful. Watch as it changes the days of those you meet. People with who you come in contact and have been experiencing a troubling day will walk away from your glowing face with a new perspective. It works.

Just my thought...

The Noticer by Andy Andrews

2009-04-27T16:42:00.000-07:00

The Noticer by Andy Andrews is a wonderful book! I am usually skeptic whenever I see an endorsement that reads that this is the best book the endorser has ever read in their life. C'mon, their entire life? Have they never read any of the great classics like Moby Dick or The Great Gatsby?

I hate to admit that when I picked up The Noticer it already had one strike against it. I was not to be fooled by a lofty endorsement.

From the first page to the last, I admit, I was intrigued. It is a book with a solid purpose and is easy to read. Andy Andrews has a way of spinning the story with the right amount of "perspective" that makes the reader want more. I found myself longing to continue to read regardless what was happening around me. I was taken in.

While The Noticer is probably not the best book I have ever read, I must admit that it is certainly in the top ten.

Now I must read Andy Andrews' The Traveler's Gift.

The Rivers Run Dry by Sibella Giorello

2009-04-11T12:59:00.000-07:00

To be honest, this book started slower than I like. I found myself putting it down to do other things when I hoped the hooks at the end of the chapters would keep me reading. Since Sibella Giorello has another book which won a Christy Award (like an Oscar, but for Christian books), I had high ambitions that this one would be on an equal plane.

Sibella Giorello did a great job of dropping clues to the perpetrator's identity and causing unseen curves and twists throughout the middle and end of the story.

The best thing about The Rivers Run Dry is that Sibella Giorello wrote a story that is devoid of any bad language and explicit scenes. It is a book that parents could allow the young readers in their family to enjoy without any worries.

30,000 Reasons to Celebrate

2009-04-10T15:31:00.000-07:00

Easter was one of my favorite Sundays when I was growing up. The holiday meant that we traveled to my grandparents' home where I would get to see my cousins--the ones I only saw two or three times per year. Easter meant new clothes, playing with the cousins, photographs facing the early morning sun and walking to church (My grandparents lived only three blocks from their church). After a large lunch, the cousins and I would have a large egg hunt in the back yard. Above all, Easter weekends were fantastic.

As I grew older, I came to appreciate Jesus' sacrifice for us. His crucifixion and resurrection became the center of my heart and mind as I thought of Easter. Our Savior could have save himself from His ordeal, but He loved us so much that He gave his life so that we can live with Him in paradise.

Last Sunday my church had plans to have a block party for the community to celebrate Easter and Christ's crucifixion and resurrection. The entire community of almost 100,000 people were invited. The church planned a 30,000 egg Easter egg hunt, 3 on 3 basketball tournament, an exotic animal petting park, free hot dogs and hamburgers, and many other events. The one thing that was not planned for was the Oklahoma weather. It turned bitterly cold the night before that prompted the cancellation of everything except the egg hunt.

My two year old grandson had come to visit last weekend with hopes to participate in the egg hunt. Like mine many years ago, his weekend included new clothes, photographs (although not facing the sun since it was cloudy), and going to church (even if we had to drive). His weekend also included the egg hunt. He was a child at peace and had many reasons to be happy.

He, too, will one day realize the true meaning of Easter. For now he has 30,000 reasons.

Returning Home

2009-03-30T13:27:00.000-07:00

Over the past week, I was fortunate to return to a place I have considered "home" for many years. Many of my development years was spent at Wichita Falls, Texas. There I met many friends as I attended 1st through 7th grades. For the past thirty years I have not had the pleasure of returning home until an investigation brought me back. Since Wichita Falls is a location for one of my future books, I was eager to return and hopefully re-contact with some of my dear friends while conducting some research for my new book.

What I found was what I had not expected. The city I loved had changed. The downtown was described to me as being "dead." While the huge buildings were still there, the stores and businesses that my parents and I strolled to and from were gone. I remember the pride that swelled throughout me as I marched in parades with my Jr. High band and peewee football team along the street that lined these tall buildings. My Jr. High School is still there but now as an elementary school. A new Jr. High and High School has been built to replace the old halls of learning.

The old mall, Sikes Senter, was there and in good form. It was the focal point of a new and upcoming section of the city. As I walked through the mall where I first saw the screening of the movie Jaws , I struggled to see anything that would recall those fond memories.

The city is now filled to capacity with highways. Too many highways for a city of 100,000 people, in my opinion. I must have traveled on four major highways. The city I now live has only two. And it is comparable to the number of citizens in Wichita Falls.

While I was able to aqcuire many facts for my new novel, the enthusiasm was not the same. The little red store where I used to ride my bicycle to get a cold Icee was closed and boarded up. The local park was void of the playground equipent I enjoyed many hours playing on. The football field where I learned the game was there, but the baseball field was gone.

I was able to contact the daughter of one of my old chums, but that is it. My other friends have moved on.

I guess my memories will have to stay as that--just memories.

The Cycle of Life

2009-02-25T11:26:00.000-08:00

Lately, I've been thinking about the cycle of life. I know, I know that this is a deep subject, but it is one that has been forced on me. You see, my father is extremely sick and has been in the hospital for 40 days (The photo pictures my dad and Mark Mynheir, author and friend).

When I was just a baby, it was my parents' job to care for me and my sister. My dad was in the military and did a wonderful job of providing enough money so we didn't starve and we always had clean, unworn clothes to wear.

As I grew older, my dad was there to offer his opinion so I would not make the same mistakes he made. He continued to provide for us, but his main task was now as a man of wisdom.

When I left for college, I knew he was there if I needed him. He always offered to send money to "help me out, " but, of course I refused because I wanted to do it on my own. There were times that I needed the financial support and he was always there happy to help and wearing a grin. He never ridiculed me for my mistakes, but was there to help me up and dust me off.

When I joined the military, he was happy for me and drove me to the airport to catch my ride to boot camp. After training, I was stationed in England and he supported my through his letters and video tapes.

When I was injured, he was there, standing by me, holding my hand. It was the way he provided support.

As the years swept by us, I remember many events that cause me to grin. His orange hat that he wore when he read books to my daughter, his goofy story emails that resulted in a following of readers who eagerly awaited his next entry, his laugh, his taping of an Easter egg hunt where he started looking for eggs through the camera lens, and his homemade Christmas lawn ornaments of the scene of the birth of our Savior.

Last Saturday, I stood by his hospital bed, holding his hand, giving him whatever support I could. During his illness he has become more and more confused...something hard to see. He thought we still lived in Puerto Rico one day and thought it is March 3, 2010 the next. He wanted me to get his financial situation in order, which is common for former military folks, and he said good-bye to my daughter after he gave my son life lessons.

Did I miss something? Did I fall asleep like Rumpelstiltskin and awake several years later. When did the father-son jobs flip? When did he stop supporting me and I started supporting him?

I know one thing though...whatever happens...I love you, Dad, and you can be sure that I'll be there for you.

house of dark shadows by Robert Liparula

2008-12-23T14:57:00.000-08:00

The adventures in house of dark shadows by Robert Liparulo starts on page one and continues until the very end. This is one of those books where readers hate to put down so make sure you have plenty of reading time at your disposal. Robert Liparulo is ingenious when he uses a fifteen year old boy as the main point of view in this story. This not only adds innocence to the plot, it also makes seeing the adventure through young eyes an important element. The only thing about this book I didn't like is the ending. It doesn't end! You'll have to read it to find out what I mean.

I highly recommend this book for young adults and those adults who are still young at heart. I promise you will enjoy it.

Field of Blood by Eric Wilson

2008-12-13T12:53:00.000-08:00

Field of Blood by Eric Wilson is the first book in the Jerusalem's Undead trilogy. It is a fiction story about the modern day fight of good versus evil; of demons versus Those that Resist. Wilson has woven a remarkable story using the history of Judas' spilled blood to power a cluster of demons--the very demons whom Jesus had given permission to enter a herd of pigs in Mark 5:13. These demons, living in wait for over two thousand years, are freed by accident to roam the earth once again. This time, though, they are confronted by an unlikely group consisting of a young woman who only recently discovered her destiny, a young orphan boy, and a man who's job is to look after the chosen few. Field of Blood will have you cheering for its heroes from one chapter to the next. After you turn that very last page, you will immediately start impatiently waiting for the trilogy's next installment, Haunt of Jackals (August 2009).

ACFW Conference

2008-09-27T11:54:00.000-07:00

What a busy week it has been. September 22, 2008, we returned from beautiful Minneapolis, MN, where the annual ACFW Conference was held. The conference provided valuable information for seasoned and new authors and many people met new friends and rekindled old friendships.

But the most amazing thing about the conference was that God was there! I discovered this first-hand! After my manuscript was turned down by an editor I had hoped would love it, I went to the prayer room where Jesus waited. I prayed that if I was supposed to be a Christian fiction writer he doors would be opened. My next interview was with an editor of a publishing house that has a reputation for being one of the best. I pitched the one book I had prepared, but after the meeting was over, this editor wanted submission from a historical trilogy and a suspense book that I had finished. Praise God!

The book signing was also one of the better ones I had been a part of. My table partner was Annette Irby (pictured above) (http://www.annetteirby.com/ and http://www.annetteirby.blogspot.com/) and I couldn't have asked for a better one. She helped sell my book and I tried my best to help sell hers. If you like romance stories, you really need to check out her books.

Now that life is settling back into a calm chaos, I better get back to writing.

Blessings,

Steven

Conference

2008-08-30T06:35:00.000-07:00

The ACFW Conference is quickly approaching us and I still have sooooomuch to do. Only eighteen days away!

The high point of this conference is the public author book signing. 127 authors are participating in the event which will be held in the Mall of America on September 20, 2008, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. It will be an event you will NOT want to miss!

For Writers

2008-07-31T17:35:00.001-07:00

I'm hosting a forum discussion on Police Procedure on the Writers of Inspirational Novels on their website and thought it would be good to share the information here. We have started with the common traits found in most police officers. This is good information for when writers are developing a police character in their novels.

Enjoy!

As mentioned in the Introduction section, knowing the common traits of a police officer will help any writer with their WIP. If the writer knows what traits make up the officer, a more realistic police character can be invented. Since the list contains thirteen elements and will take some time to discuss (and since I still have to pay monthly bills tonight), let's tackle the top three.

1. Compulsive/Obsessive: This does not mean to the level where an officer is placed in treatment or is subjected to taking medication the rest of his/her life, but rather a learned trait. Police departments are fanatic about cleanliness. New rookies are graded down in their field training if their patrol cars are dirty, the brass on their uniforms are not shiny enough, or if they need a haircut. All of these are considered unprofessional and will eventually land a cop out of a job. Police trainees are even taught to dress in his uniform in a particular order and undress in the reverse order. This is to ensure the rookie does not forget any necessary tool or item (it has happened! I've had rookies that have reported for work and forgot their sidearms. I don't know how...)

2. The Need to be in Control: This is also a learned trait. From the first day on the job, an officer is taught that he/she is in charge. He/She may be in charge of a traffic accident or directing traffic around one, or he/she may be in charge of a crime scene. The authority eventually becomes a part of him/her. He/She learns he/she has the authority to take someone to jail for committing a crime, or not to take them to jail. He/She is drilled about deadly force from the first day of the academy. This authority makes them need to be in charge. If, for some reason they are not in charge, the officer feels uncomfortable.

3. Action Oriented: I used to tell people I became an officer because I liked to fight and drive fast and I wanted to do it legally. I always received a better reaction than saying I wanted to help those who needed help. And it didn't hurt that helping people most always included some type of action. Let's face it...police officers are action junkies. They get a thrill from a car pursuit that goes over 140 mph, while staying within fifteen feet of the bad guy's car bumper as they race down a two-lane road that curves and has hills. Who wouldn't get a thrill? Well, most citizens, that's who. But officers thrive for that type of action. If they receive a "man with a gun" call, the officers feel as if they have reached the peak of the action pyramid! To recap, we have discussed that a common officer is a person who likes things in order, needs to be in charge, and loves anything with action. I can see him in my mind now (Wait! That's me looking in a mirror. )

Christy Awards

2008-07-13T14:31:00.000-07:00

Last night the winners of the Christy Awards was announced in Orlando, FL. To be able to win a Christy award is a BIG deal, since the Christy is the cherry on top of the sundae in Christian Fiction. The winners for 2008 are Contemp stand alone:

CHASING FIREFLIES by Charles Martin
Contemp. series: HOME TO HOLLY SPRINGS by Jan Karon
Historical: A PROPER PURSUIT by Lynn Austin
Lits: HALLIE'S HEART by Shelly Beach
Romance: REMEMBERED by Tammy Alexander
Suspense: THE CURE by Athol Dickson
Visionary: SCARLET by Stephen Lawhead
YA: HOLLYWOOD NOBODY by Lisa Samson
1st novel: THE STONES CRY OUT by Sibella Giorello

If you are in the market for a new book, these are a sure bet.

New Website

2008-06-22T06:31:00.000-07:00

My cuurect website, www.stevenhuntbooks.com, is undergoing a change. While you can still view the old site, expect a new and impoved version in the coming future.

Deborah Raney Conference

2008-06-22T06:08:00.000-07:00

On June 21, 2008, I was fortunate enough to attend a mini-conference in Tulsa sponsored by the local chapter (Writers of Inspriational Novels or WIN for short) of the American Christian Fiction Writers Association (ACFW). The speaker was multi-published and award-winning novelist Deborah Raney (http://www.deborahraney.com/) .

Deborah spoke about rewriting. She did a wonderful job and touched on many aspects of rewiting a manuscript that is still a work in progress. She spoke on characterization, dialogue, Showing Not Telling, Verbage, Point of View, and many other pertinent topics.

The item that inspired me the most was that Deborah spoke with a clear and understanding voice. She didn't "talk over our heads", using language and vocabulary that a multi-published novelist more than likely has acquired, but rather spoke to us. This is a rare teaching method that is hard to find, especially when the instructor is very knowledgable in his/her craft.

She held a question and answer session near the end of the day and, while all the questions were good ones, Deborah attacked each question with the mind-set that she would answer each one as completly as she could. And she did.

The price of this valuable mini-conference was definitely affordable and, at the end of the day, it was money well spent. If you would like to attend a conference but cannnot afford one of the major ones that are offered throughout the country, or if you would love to learn more about the craft of writing fiction stories, I would recommmend that you attend one like the mini-conference that WIN (http://www.win-acfw.com/) conducted. Hopefully, WIN will make their mini-conference an annual event! Just check their website for any update of a proposed mini-conference for next year.

I just wish it could have been longer. Deborah is a vast treasure of knowledge.

WOW! It's been so long!

2008-06-17T14:23:00.000-07:00

It has really been a long time since I contibuted to this blog. But I had a good reason. Really! I have been busy with book signings of Guardian of Light throughout the Tulsa area and other locations, I have finished two new manuscripts, Once Upon a Dream and Identity Assault. I am now in the rewriting stage of these lengthy manuscripts.

I also have been continuing with my leathercrafting hobby having built two notebooks and making plans for two more and a wallet.

Also I have been spending as much time as possible with my new grandson! Brecken Reid Hunt was born June 8, 2006, and is the sweetest little fella a "PaPa" could have. You can see why I would be proud!

In addition to the above "busy" things, I have been making preparations to attend the annual American Christian Fiction Writers Conference in Minneapolis this September. This will be my first "major" conference and I'm really getting excited.

Then, of course, there is my job which seems to monopolize the time I want to spend on everything else.

I promise I will write more. I promise!

Join me at my new website!

2007-09-04T17:07:00.000-07:00

After many weeks of waiting, my new website is up and running. This website offers an avenue to purchase authographed copies, a short author's biography, a synosis of each published books, and much more. Please visit my website at http://www.stevenhuntbooks.com/

Released Soon!

2007-06-24T18:27:00.001-07:00

Guardian of Light

Private Investigator Theodore "Chas" Chasowski finds himself in a life changing investigation when he his hired to locate a Guardian of Light, a mysterious being who has been saving strangers in life or death situations. While placing his life on the line, Chas dangerously unveils information that could transform how the world thinks about the Bible. Unyielding in his determination, Chas sets out to prove that the "Good Samaritan" is really Michael the Archangel, sent from God to be His Guardian of Light--but dark powers emerge to stop Chas in his mission. Steven Hunt has penned a high-paced work of good versus evil, reminding readers, "A Christian must be willing to do whatever God wants him or her to do."

The official release date that Guardian of Light will be in bookstores is July 17, 2007. It can be purchased early through tatepublishing.com, cokesbury.com, walmart.com. barnesandnoble.com, and amazon.com

Endorsements

2007-06-24T17:15:00.000-07:00

Guardian of Light

"This work is truly profound. From the minute I began reading it, I was hooked. Steven Hunt has masterfully used his extensive police knowledge to produce a book that blends biblical principles and real-world law enforcement experiences into a suspense-laden Christian novel with a gritty edge." Captain K.P. Marks, Broken Arrow Police Department, Broken Arrow, OK.

"Fast paced and readable. Steven Hunt has developed a new genre: Sam Spade meets Jesus Christ. The message is plain and the mystery intriguing." Rev. Benjamin Potter, Author and Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church, Mulberry Grove, IL.

"Steven Hunt has done an excellent job of weaving together intrigue and the truth of spiritual warfare that we face in this world today. Though a fictional story, the underlining concept that the blood-bought child of God has authority over the enemy of our soul comes through clear." Rev. James B. Holder, Pastor of New Life Assembly of God, Broken Arrow, OK.