Be one of the first to review my audiobook!

My audiobook, "I Walked With Jesus: New Testament Stories of Faith and Healing" is HERE! 

Just click the link above and you'll be taken to audible.com and the page where my audiobook is listed. Contact me at kathy@ariverofstones.com, or let me know here and I'll send you a free code to review this book.

Thank you!!

Get the audiobook and audible.com

Who Else Wants to Review I Walked With Jesus? [UPDATE]

Things on the book release homefront are getting closer with I Walked With Jesus: NewTestament Stories of Faith and Healing From the Least of These!

I would love to reach the 30 review mark by August 30th! [I am in need of 5 more reviewers!]

If you've been thinking about reviewing, but haven't committed yet, I would love to have you along. Let me know here or send me a note at kathy@ariverofstones.com.

Thanks!

You can choose to review the audiobook
[I will send you a code for a free audiobook - Update! I now have the free codes!]

or the paperback [I will send you a PDF]

Reviews of I Walked With Jesus [New Reviews Listed!]

Somehow, I missed this early review.

I Walked With Jesus: New Testament Stories of Faith and Healing From the Least of These

Amy's review - 5 Stars!

Aug 16, 2021

I Walked With Jesus: New Testament Stories of Faith and Healing From the Least of These is a collection of stories based on Biblical text from the New Testament. I loved seeing these stories come to life. I thought the author did a fantastic job making me feel as though I was transported back in time to see how they all lived. Such an inspiring and faith-filled book. I enjoyed every single page.

I Walked With Jesus: New Testament Stories of Faith and Healing From the Least of These will be getting a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading Biblical Fiction. I would love to read more by Kathryn Elizabeth Jones in the future.

I received a digital copy of I Walked With Jesus: New Testament Stories of Faith and Healing From the Least of These from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

"You are so talented. I love all your stories; it really brings the scriptures to life. But, I do have my favorites; "The Father's Son", "Bartimaeus' Sight", and my all-time favorite "Malchus' Word"!

- Todd Tolman

5.0 out of 5 stars  A powerful book about the wonders of faith

Reviewed in the United States on August 31, 2021

Kathryn Elizabeth Jones penned a wonderful collection of New Testament stories about people in biblical times and how they interacted and reacted to Jesus’ teaching. Some of the people were skeptical of the Rabbi who brought his friend Lazarus back to life after he had been dead four days!

Some people, like Susanna, a Samaritan, felt she was unworthy because she had married many times and she was burned by sins. She even lived with a man who was not her husband. She met Jesus at a well, while she searched for something to take away her loneliness. She looked into Jesus’ blue eyes when he told her if followed him, she would lose the sadness in her soul. She felt Jesus’ love for her and it transformed her life.

There are many miracles described in this book, such as Bartimeus, who was born blind. People in his area scorned him when his younger sister, Leah, led him from place to place. But Jesus healed him. What happened to Jedaiah after he fell? He was paralyzed from the neck down, but he prayed for faith and healing. His brothers took him to hear Jesus speak and he was healed.

The stories in I walked with Jesus are often poignant because you feel whatever events the characters are experiencing. You relate to the power of their faith and the immeasurable love that Jesus shared with each of his children. It’s a beautiful book that I learned from and enjoyed. Well done, Kathryn Elizabeth Jones.

* I received a complimentary ARC from the author and chose to review it without compensation.

Review by children’s author Deanie Humphrys-Dunne

Fisher Boy

"Tell me the stories of Jesus, I long to hear, things I would ask him to tell me if he were here.” [From the Children’s Songbook]

There have been so many times when I have read stories of Jesus when I wondered why we couldn’t have more information. The Bible stories have left me with many questions.

Who was the woman at the well? Why did only one of the lepers thank Jesus for his healing? Why did a young boy throw himself into a fire? Who sinned, a boy or his parents that he was born blind? Why did Jesus wait for four days to heal Lazarus? 

When you read, “I Walked with Jesus,” you will read the rest of the story and feel through the Holy Ghost what it was really like to be in the presence of the Savior.

Learn more about your Savior and the love he has for all mankind and the faith it takes to be a recipient of his healing power.

Kathryn Elizabeth Jones has written a heartfelt, fact-filled Bible Storybook with information, she has found through her own research and the research of other Bible scholars to put together the imagery that she adds to biblically accurate stories. The stories enlighten us who 'the least of these really were, what kind of faith was required for them to be healed by Jesus Christ and what their lives were like at the time of Christ. 

I highly recommend “I Walked with Jesus as an aide for family bible study or study groups who wish to know the rest of the story. The author added names to make the stories more complete and she also added facts from her research of the time period, with scriptures right from the Bible text.

 - Jill Ammon Vanderwood, Mom's Choice Award-winning author of Off Target

The Centurion

"I Walked with Jesus by veteran author Kathryn Elizabeth Jones is a series of well-written stories based on scriptures from the New Testament about personal encounters with Jesus, and how those meetings strengthened faith, mind, and bodies. This book will speak especially to those already on a well-trodden spiritual path in the LDS tradition. The dialogue is written in two forms, contemporary and as quoted text from the King James Version of the Bible. I found the change in dialogue style required sudden “gear shifts”; however, readers from the LDS tradition will be familiar with this style. Kathryn Jones is a sincere, skilled writer and I recommend this book for readers of the Christian faith or for those interested in LDS perspective." 

Review: 4/5

- Lori Knutson

Rachel's Jar

"I love your book. I will forever remember all those stories in much more detail after reading this. The book is wonderful."

- Dorothy Crofts

"I enjoyed the book. It was well written and must have taken a long time to research the information."

 - Connie Hall

"I'm only about halfway through [as of August 8] because I've been ill and physically struggling. These stories are thought-provoking, yet comforting to the soul. I can feel the holy spirit when I read them and they help me reconsider stories I thought I knew. If you like 'Two from Galilee' or other books that bring Bible stories to life, you'll love these."

- Michelle Higham

Jairus' Daughter

"After reading Kathryn’s stories, I felt that I needed to read the stories again from the scriptures. I was impressed with how she developed each story giving detail that made the event more meaningful to me. I have been guilty of reading the scriptures through without thinking deeply about what is happening in the life of the individuals. In the story “A Certain Woman” about the woman with a blood issue who had been rejected by society, Kathryn helped me to feel the woman’s loneliness and her desire to be accepted in society. A woman with a blood issue could not be with members of her family–those who loved her and could give her comfort.   Touching Jesus would make him unclean so she had to battle the guilt that she felt. After she touched him and was healed, she probably feared that he would be angry and lash out at her. Instead, she felt his love.

I recommend this book to those who have a desire to have a deeper understanding of the scriptures. Her work is imaginative, thought-provoking, and very moving."

- Valerie Tomer

Bartimaeus' Sight

“Your book takes us on an incredible adventure. So, for anyone looking for a good book to read, look no further. Kathryn's book will bring you hope and leave you feeling encouraged. I highly recommend gifting yourself and others with her timeless piece of literature.”

-Vernita Simmons

Marketing Your Book on a Budget Contest!

For those of you who haven't, as yet, perused my book for writers, Marketing Your Book on a Budget, now is the time to be a part of the contest I am holding at:

I Am a Reader!

Three print copies of the book will be given away!

Enter today!

Scrambled: Reviews

If you haven't read Scrambled yet now is the time.

Get the eBook FREE today through Saturday!

"I loved Scrambled. There are so many twists and turns in this fantastic debut mystery and it left me on the edge of my seat! Susan is a interesting character, and I like that the author gave her a bit more depth with a fascinating back story. No she's not a regular amateur sleuth in a small, cozy, sweet town. I do think a lot of readers will relate to her and definitely be back for more."

"Ms. Jones does a great job of throwing out red herrings and getting you as the reader completely distracted. That doesn't happen that often to me. This is borderline action mystery."

"In this novel, Kathryn Elizabeth Jones brings to life complex characters in a mystery where you can never be sure who to trust. The twists and turns are fantastic. Susan is not your normal amateur sleuth but many readers will relate to her. The author has a unique voice all her own. I'm looking forward to the next one in the series. A very enjoyable read."

"I could relate to Susan wanting something more out of life and going looking for it. I like that the setting for the story was an apartment building where there is an opportunity to introduce the reader to a lot of different personalities. I loved to hear about their lives and their quirks. It brought the story alive for me. I also loved that the book kept me guessing on who to trust the whole time. Just when I thought I had it figured out something would change and I would have to rethink it. I get bored easily with the usual predictable books out there." 

"This novel is a fun read when you want to curl up with a book and enjoy a light and fun mystery. It is creative in its simplicity and a must read when you aren't in the mood for a mystery that takes a wipe board and markers to keep all the details straight! I enjoyed the play on eggs as well as the quirky and unique characters."

"This story with all its twists and turns will have you at the edge of your seat and not wanting to put the book down. You might also be craving scrambled eggs in the end."

Learn more about Scrambled

How I Review Books

Since I'm currently reading An Invisible Hand by Kathy Golden, to be released in May, I wanted to spend a few moments letting you know what I look for in a great book, and how I write my reviews.

A great book must go beyond a terrific cover, of course. I look for an engaging story, one that takes me somewhere I may not yet have visited either physically or spiritually. I look for real characters, people that are unique in their characteristics; ones that I can relate to or understand. I want a message. I don't want to be beaten over the head with it, but I want a message. I want the sentences to flow like water, the typos to be minimal if any, and the work as a whole to leave me wanting more. Books like these get 5 star ratings.

I'd like to think my reviews are honest without being rude. I focus on what works in the book over what doesn't, what I like over what I don't like. I find a review rarely needs to focus on the negative to be a review that works not only for the author but for the readers who will now pick up the book.

Reviewing books for me is sort of like talking to a friend about something great I have just finished reading. If I like the book enough, I want them to feel like my choice might also be their choice.

I also want the author to know that I actually read and thought about their book. A few days ago I learned that some reviewers actually go to Amazon, read the little that's written there, and then post their review as if they'd read the book entirely.



Wow. I guess I'm a bit naive even in my 50's.

Reviewers have a great responsibility, not only to read the entire book, but to put their best foot forward when it comes to review time. And I hope that how I review books not only helps readers but also writers who want to continue to write.

THE FEAST: REVIEWS

If you haven't picked up a copy of The Feast yet, these two reviews (my first complete reviews in the realm of Amazon) should help you decide.

As an author, you are always looking for great reviews that reveal your book in a unique way, and such was the case with the review by Warren Thurston of Australia. You are also happy to see a review that your book has changed some ones life: such was the case with the review by Mike Nach, a writer and reviewer I met at a recent conference.

And so I place them before you today.

Amazon link

Kathryn Elizabeth Jones has created an amazing book about marriage, commitment and God. Virginia and Richard Green live in a childless union. They tried for five years to bring a child into the world, now all between them has broken down.

In the beginning the couple felt a strong commitment to each other as the flood of love washed over them. They thought their love for each other and for God would carry them through all of life's troubles. But doubt had crept in about their love and of God's commitment to them.

Both Richard and Virginia thought that God had abandoned them. Why? Neither could fathom the reason. What they didn't realize was they had cut themselves off from God. Wrapped in their perceived pursuit of happiness, they had unknowingly ex-communicated themselves from their creator. But God had not abandoned the couple and through patience and love, guides them back to him and their true selves.

Readers of this book will have no trouble in empathizing with Virginia and Richard. The characters have all the positive and negative characteristics of the human condition. Kathryn Elizabeth Jones shows a valued insight into what makes a successful marriage. Her writing style is easy to follow and a joy to explore her view of the world through the books characters.

The Feast is a book that manages to both instruct and entertain. I found the book thought provoking and a pleasure to read. I thoroughly recommend it to all those readers looking for a book of quality, one that is worth the effort to purchase and read.

The guide at the end of the book is an excellent reference that contains a wealth of wisdom.

Too many books today are poorly written in the telling style and lack substance. The Feast is not one of those. It's a book which I'm sure makes the author proud and is a worthwhile addition to the works of Kathryn Elizabeth Jones.

W.A. Thurston

In Kathryn's earlier book "In Conquering Your Goliaths & Parable of the Five Stones", Ms. Virginia Bean comes in contact with God and the five stones-Listening, Trust, Optimism, Tenacity and Constancy. These stones helped her to learn about herself, her relationship with God and others.
In this book, we learn that she and her husband of five years, Richard, are drifting apart. Reason-they are childless! These nagging problems have made Virginia dejected and lose her faith in God and the five stones.

But, God works in mysterious ways! Very soon, He, a little child and a cupcake with a ring on it manifest to play an important role in their lives. How? Read the book!

I must confess that this book has renewed my faith in God. We must accept what He has store for us to find peace in our life. I have read the last chapter "The Feast- A Spiritual Guide" over and over again. It contains advice which is applicable for everyone.
Thanks, Kathryn, for this wonderful book!

Mike Nach

You can purchase The Feast: A Parable of the Ring, through Amazon and Barnes & Noble, but you can also get the book from me. Same price, and you'll also receive an autographed copy.

If you can't make it to my signing on Saturday, take a peek at my book online. After you've read The Feast, I would love to hear from you.

Marketing: The Tough Part

Today I received another 5 star review for my book, Marketing Your Book on a Budget. It reminded me of how important it is to market my work, because, after all, no one is going to know that my book is in existence, if others don't talk about it.

I wanted to focus today specifically on the reviewer who reviewed this book, and share some good things that she accomplished on her blog that you can do on yours to bring in the readers.

1. The photo of my book is large; probably the largest I've seen on a website. And this is good if you've got the space. There is no missing it.

2. The blogger has included a brief description of the book; something short to give readers a heads-up on what the book is about.

3. She has also included many links. Not only within the copy, but at the end of the article. People love to clink on links.

4. There is also an excerpt of my book. Read the first few pages of my book (including links that I have added in the copy) for free.

5. My book trailer is included; something most bloggers don't add, (including myself). But what I know about trailers is that people like to watch them.

6. Her review is included.

7. The post ends with my own thoughts about how and why I write.

Many writers consider marketing the hard part about being an author, and while I agree, I also think there are many, many things a writer can do to get their work out there that aren't so tough. Here's a link to the post.

Enjoy!

I'm All for More Reviews!!

Getting sick of it yet?

All those reviews that keep coming your way?

You may be sick of me telling you about them, but I'm happy to report I'm at 25 for Marketing Your Book on a Budget! If you haven't read a single solitary one of my reviews yet, here's yet another plug to do so.

And if you haven't purchased my book yet, well...

That being said, I have learned some important stuff when it comes to improving my book for the 2014 version. Some have been baffled because my chapters are so short. Others have wondered where my marketing plan is in all of this fun information.

Can I be honest?

I really didn't have a marketing plan.

Now, before you click me off right here and now, allow me to explain. Marketing Your Book on a Budget came about as I tried new ideas and re-experienced old ones. I didn't have a marketing plan because I had no idea how to set one up. I read some stuff on how to do it, of course, but everything was so heavy I didn't want to begin.

So, during the course of getting my newest reviews the last week or so, I came to realize something. I now had a marketing plan! It was created through my experiences of the last 2 years and will be a part of Marketing Your Book on a Budget 2014.

Now, don't get scared. This marketing plan will be the simplest, least draining plan you will have ever seen. You will still have time to write and go out to eat and spend time with your family.

You want a hint?

Well, okay. Put book reviews at the top of your list. Follow book reviews with social networking.
I have seen the greatest personal success within these two areas alone. 

Want more?

You'll just have to read the book.

Marketing Your Book on a Budget 2013 Needs Reviewers

Do you want to get your hands on an electronic copy of Marketing Your Book on a Budget 2013?

 

FOR FREE?

Release date: March 21, 2013

Well, I'm in need of some book reviewers!

Here's what you need to do if you're interested:

• Write me back here, telling me of your interest. I will get a pdf out to you within the day. (The book is a short read: under 50 pages).
• I'm not looking for experienced reviewers, but I am looking for writers who need help with marketing their book(s). You can be a new or established writer, but you have to also be in the market for learning more about getting the word out about your book.
• I need reviewers who are willing and able to post their reviews on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.com. Goodreads is nice as well. If you have a blog, and can post it there, that's even better.

If this is you, please let me know.

Marketing Your Book on a Budget 2013 will be released on March 21. Without getting ahead of myself, there will be some fine deals during that time too, but keep in mind that if you decide to review my book, you'll get a nice head start!

One more thing!

You're not comfortable doing a review? Here's what I'll do. If you take a picture of yourself reading one of my books--and that means any of my books--and send me a photo of yourself reading one of my books,  I'll send you a free advanced copy! But March 20th is the deadline. Send your photo to: kathy@ariverofstones.com and I'll send out your pdf copy! That's all. Just be prepared for your photo to show up somewhere soon on my website!

I'm getting excited to share even more inexpensive marketing tools! If you read my book last year, Marketing Your Book on a Budget 2012, you found some great ideas. Be prepared for an update, including more links!

I'm excited to hear from you!

Kathryn

Marketing Your Book on a Budget

Today's post will be short but I wanted to let you in on a new booklet I'm working on that should be out in the next couple of months.

UPDATE: Release date March 21! Paperback $5.98, eBook $1.99.


If you've read "Marketing Your Book on a Budget 2012" then you should have a heads up on what is currently happening with book marketing. If you haven't, consider getting the 2013 edition; if you have, know that the 2013 edition will be giving you even more.

If you've wondered about reviews, book signings, interviews (both radio and blog) book trailers that won't cost you a dime to produce, social media, contests, free advertising and more, you'll want to check back.

The first time around, "Marketing Your Book on a Budget" was produced in Kindle form only for .99 cents. I have since discovered that there are many readers who also prefer the paper version, so expect to see this addition in the next few months.

Once you've purchased one copy of the book through Amazon, (and you let me know per instructions at the end of the book) you'll be on the list and I'll send you updates every year without you having to purchase another book!

So keep in touch!

Happy writing!

Kathryn

Guess What?

Enjoy!

Just updated!