A Bold Reverence
Preorder Goodies, FREE Verse Cards, and More!
Hello, Friend! If you’re here from the recent “Give Thanks For Audiobooks Giveaway,” welcome! I’m Heather, and I write New Testament era fiction for Bethany House Publishers. Book Three in my Women of the Way* series releases in January. Each month, I run exclusive giveaways, share writing updates and favorite things, and so much more. Thank you for being here, and I hope you’ll stick around!
I love the directness of the psalms. At times, I think I’m too “tidy” with my prayers. Certainly, we are to approach God in reverence, but we are also to approach Him boldly. We see this bold reverence in the psalms, where David directly addresses God with everything on his heart. No sugar-coating. No tidy hemming and hawing. This kind of openness with the God of the universe feels a little scandalous. But isn’t this exactly what we’ve been invited into? Intimate communion with our Maker, purchased for us by the blood of His Son. We now have the right to approach Him with the full confidence of a child climbing into her father’s lap. Oh that my prayers might exude such bold reverence!
I’ve incorporated psalms in the Women of the Way series. Each story is broken into two parts, and before each part is a psalm, which I’ve chosen intentionally. Prefacing Part One is the “heart-cry” psalm. This is the need in my heroine’s heart—the hurt that keeps her up at night. Prefacing Part Two is the “answering” psalm as God responds to the need. Here are the passages for On Living Stone:
Part One
“Consider me and answer, LORD my God. Restore brightness to my eyes; otherwise, I will sleep in death. My enemy will say, “I have triumphed over him,” and my foes will rejoice because I am shaken.” Psalm 13:3–4 CSB
Part Two
“I am at rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I will never be shaken.” Psalm 62:1–2 CSB
There’s a progression from fear to faith, from worry to trust, from anxiety to peace. What once seemed overwhelming and daunting is now placed in its proper perspective. Enemies are real. The attacks we face in this life are real. But in the hands of God we are unshakable.
There’s a bold reverence in these verses, a direct pleading with God that is answered by His very character. This Christmas, may you approach God in this way. It’s why Jesus came—to reconcile you to the Father so that you might have such deeply personal, intimate access.
A few early reviews of On Living Stone are in! I always hold my breath, hoping that the characters who have become so dear to me also find a home in the heart of my readers. Here’s what early reviewers had to say:
“It is a truly beautiful novel in which the author faithfully follows Scripture and shows us the loving and compassionate Son of God.” —Sue
“Wow! More than 5 stars for this book. The characters are written brilliantly! I liked Salome instantly.” —Jeanette
“A deeply moving story which allows us to follow Jesus with Salome around the streets and towns of Judea and Samaria. The miracles, death and resurrection of Jesus hit me in a new light.” —Blessing
“This book will definitely leave you thinking or plant a mustard seed in your heart for sure. I hated to see this book end. I took my time and savored it.” —Lori
“In a gentle tale rich with metaphor, Kaufman builds up to familiar moments in meaningful ways.” —Rachel
Preorder Goodies
While supplies last, Baker Book House is offering a fantastic preorder bundle for On Living Stone! Not only do you receive 40% off and free shipping, but you’ll also receive a signed bookplate, custom bookmark, and custom sticker!
Preorders indicate to industry professionals that there’s interest in an upcoming book, which means retailers are more likely to increase their stock of the title. Additionally, all preorders count toward the first-week sales of a book, which helps that new title climb the rankings. All of this to say . . . I deeply appreciate every. single. one. of these preorders. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support!
Thank you to everyone who entered last month’s giveaway. Congratulations to Jo Ruth Richardson! You won the Tote and Journal Bundle! Please check your email to claim your prize by December 17.
I would love to gift you with a beautiful verse card set made especially for On Living Stone. These cards are separate from the preorder perks listed above and you can only receive them through me. The cards feature the “heart-cry” and “answering” psalms, and on the back is a place to write your own prayer. If you’ve preordered a copy of On Living Stone (from ANY retailer), simply fill out the form by clicking below to receive a free set (while supplies last).
Mark your calendars for not one but TWO launch events this January as we celebrate the release of On Living Stone!
On January 20, 2026, join me on my Facebook author page for a full day of fun. There will be Bible trivia, behind-the-scenes posts, amazing giveaways, and more! The best part? You can come and go as you’re able.
Calling all local friends! Join me for an amazing evening on January 21, 2026. Hosted by Main Street Books and the St. Charles County Library, we’ll enjoy a book signing, Q&A, and reading. There will be door prizes and giveaways. Hope to see you there!
A book-shaped package arrived in the mail the other day. Without looking at it too closely, I tore into it. Books arrive at my house all. the. time, so I didn’t think too much of it. Imagine my surprise when I discovered a preview copy of On Living Stone! It never gets old holding your book in hand for the first time. I immediately nestled it next to the others and was delighted by how the spines coordinate! They’re all fiery, vibrant colors of the sun. From sunrise to midday to sunset, the Women of the Way trilogy is complete!
This three-ingredient punch is a huge hit with the kids! Simply combine two liters of Sprite with a container of rainbow sherbet and a can of frozen juice concentrate (we use mixed berry). Ta-da! Instant happiness.
Do you have a Squishmallow lover in the family? Now you can combine the love of Squishmallow with the love of lip balm. Check it out HERE* and stock up on some last-minute stocking stuffers!
Need something a little less cute and a little more mature for your lips? Burt’s Bees lip shimmer is the way to go! This color palette is amazing and includes my personal favorite, Watermelon. Check it out HERE.*
These cinnamon applesauce ornaments are easy and fun to make, smell amazing, and make fantastic gifts for teachers, neighbors, and friends! I’ve created a fun graphic of the recipe, which you can access HERE.
Thank you for being here, Friend! I appreciate all the love, encouragement, and support. Don’t forget to snag your preorder from Baker Book House! Simply tap the image below:
Until next time, Friend, may you rest beneath God’s song. (Zephaniah 3:17)
*Amazon affiliate link