Author: Amanda Tero

Music has always been a part of Amanda Tero’s life–from her mom singing Steve Green specials to her dad honking out the rhythm of “Jingle Bells” in the driveway. She began teaching in 2007 and fell in love with sharing music. Amanda started arranging hymns for herself in her teens, with fast and furious advanced hymn settings. Then, as her students began requesting hymns at their levels, she branched out to hymn arranging for pedagogical reasons. Because of Amanda’s interest in various genres, in her shop, you will find hymn arrangements of various levels embracing classical elements, light jazz style, Southern Gospel flair, and more.

First Line Fridays, Review | Beneath Copper Falls

Published on by Amanda Tero9 Comments
This Friday, I’m featuring a suspense novel. I think I’ve figured out that I’m not as much for suspense as I thought I was. I just don’t care for dwelling on that which is dark–on the sick cruelty of humanity when separated from God. Yeah… have any of you read this book? Did you like it?

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Also, be sure to hop along to all of these other blogs and see what First Lines they have to share!
Please note that I may not fully endorse all of the books that these bloggers read or the content in these blogs.
Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly
Trisha – Joy of Reading
Jeanette – CJane Read
Rebecca – It’s Storytime with Van Danniker!
Iola – Iola Golton
Nicole – Christian Fiction Girl
My Review
I’ll be honest up front: this is probably the hardest book review I’ve had to write. As far as writing style and ability, I admire Coble. Her writing style is enjoyable and well-rounded.

Content… since I’m given permission for my honest review, that is what I’ll stick with. I know other readers who enjoy suspense may like this book, but it was not for me. So, for you readers who are debating whether or not to read this book, here are my thoughts.


The back cover did not shed light about how dark the content would be. There was no mention of a serial killer (much less one who drowned women), which may have better prepared me for the contents. It’s not just that it was a serial killer, but how closely connected the characters were to people who were being killed. And… who the serial killer was. I figured it out about halfway and continued in horror of, “Please be wrong.” (I wasn’t wrong)


For me, it was too dark without a good balance of light. God was mentioned, as was prayer, but it was more of, “I’ll pray for you” and “God has His good will for your life.” I found it to be somewhat shallow, and the characters in their everyday lives didn’t think much about God.


Another aspect I didn’t care for was the romance. I could have read it wrong, but it appeared that one couple lived together before marriage (which is Biblically wrong to do). The romance was more surface-centered and a few things took place that made me cringe (mentions of going too far, being too close, that type of thing).


So, coming from a conservative Christian viewpoint, this is not the type of book I’d like to read again.


*I received this book from Book Look Bloggers and happily provided my honest review*

Welcome to my Music Studio (free downloads)

Published on by Amanda Tero2 Comments
I have mentioned teaching occasionally, but it’s not something that I have really looked at on this blog. Today, I’d like to give you a glimpse at this year’s music studio:
I  haven’t had much opportunity to decorate my studio in years passed, because for most of my teaching life, I have either shared my studio with someone else (i.e. I started teaching in my room), or just didn’t feel that creative. This year, however, I decided to do something kind of fun–and the kids loved it (which, I’ll admit, always feels rewarding!). As you can see, I went for a “back to school” theme (time will tell if I change it up every month or quarter or at all…). I did a fun play on words…

Then I also have some “cheat sheets” up there. The younger me would have frowned on this; after all, they need to KNOW their answers, right? But… I’d rather the student review it 100 times and KNOW it than get frustrated fifty times, because they just can’t remember. We’ll see if these remain up all year or not.

In addition to all of this, I make my students track down their practice minutes. Their weekly time goal is different, depending on their age and level. This year to keep track for their diligence the entire year, I have created a chart. Each week, I will color in whether they have practiced ALL of their time (four keys), HALF of their time (two keys), a quarter of their time (one key), etc. Here’s hoping it’s incentive to get those keys colored!

Now, the freebies I mentioned in the title. All of the charts I mentioned are uploaded here (PDFs) for you to have full access to–print and use to your heart’s content! And, if you use them, I would love to hear how they worked for you!
If you are new to teaching or are considering teaching and don’t know where to start, I published a short book (most people can read it in an hour) to help musicians get started teaching. “Me? Teach Piano?” is only $1.99 for Kindle (though you may also get the paperback for $7.99).
Now that I’m done jabbering, how many music teachers do we have out there? What instruments do you teach? What have you found to be your most helpful teaching tip?

And Some Weeks, I Really Don’t Feel Like a Writer

Published on by Amanda Tero5 Comments
After last week’s fun blog post with an amazing update and all…
This week I began teaching piano/violin again! Which meant writing was out the door. Literally. And music was in the door. In full swing! I’m not complaining, because I love music and have had some fun with my students already (more on that tomorrow). But I have missed writing a little.
I did have an afternoon dedicated to writing. On Thursday, I hosted my first Writing Day with some local homeschool students.
There were five writers who joined us and from what they said, they all had a blast. Which makes me happy! We’re already growing our list of participants for next time!
As for how my writing went that day…
Yup. Honestly, those were the words I put in my manuscript (don’t worry–I deleted them). The words just would not flow! Which, isn’t unusual, as I had about a five-day writing break. I had hoped to get some writing done over the weekend, but for some reason, it felt like all I did was run the roads. Which is okay. That just means that (hopefully) I’m all caught up. 😉
BUT! I do feel like I made progress! I have made it further into the Arms and Equipment of the Civil War book (which is amazingly interesting!). I have shown some self-control in my reading. Some. 😉 On Friday night, this was my reading selection.
Like a good girl, I chose the Civil War book and… yeah, read the whole A Fool and His Monet (but that goes into reading posts, not writing posts–and I DID balance it with pages from Arms and Equipment). Back to CW, this one section stood out to me: 
Can’t you just envision a story right there?! I don’t know if I’ll do anything with that interesting piece of history, but it fascinated me.
Oh, and speaking of Civil War books… I got Hoopla (my library online reading database). I have a video of me scrolling through just some of their Civil War options (if it loaded; this is my first time trying to upload a video straight into Blogger). I’m like… 😮 😮 😮 😮 😮 
No, I won’t ever be able to read all of those. Mom said that sometime I need to stop reading and just write. 😉
And there you have it. My non-writing week. 😉 Thanks for listening to me jabber.
Before I leave, I challenged my followers in one area last week:

Who is the last author that you read?
What star value would you give the book?
Have you left a review? If you have not…then the challenge is to go and leave that review! 🙂

Until next week!

Scripture Graphics #53

Published on by Amanda Tero3 Comments

“Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy. I will abide in thy tabernacle for ever: I will trust in the covert of thy wings. Selah. For thou, O God, hast heard my vows: thou hast given me the heritage of those that fear thy name.” (Psalms 61:1-5)


I know this is praise of God’s creation, but it struck me in a new way—as God’s time. Do I live as though the day and night are mine, to do as I please, instead of doing what pleases God? Just as God fashioned light and dark, He set the clocks in motion. Am I selfishly hoarding time which should ultimately be spent for His glory?

“For he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to their children: That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children: That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments: And might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not stedfast with God.” Psalm 78:5-8
There is so much in these verses about duties, penalties, warnings, and commands. God has done His part in providing His Word. He handed the responsibility to fathers to teach their children. Every generation of fathers who neglect this responsibility produces a generation of children who do not hope in God, keep His commands, and remember His works; a generation of stubborn and rebellious people who are not righteous and steadfast in God. Yet, just as Israel could turn back to God, so can wicked generations today: “But he, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity, and destroyed them not: yea, many a time turned he his anger away, and did not stir up all his wrath. For he remembered that they were but flesh; a wind that passeth away, and cometh not again.” (Vs 38-39)



This is a good reminder verse–first, a reminder of Who God is; second, a reminder of His delight to give His children good things (note: what He deems good; not always our perception of good).
“Yea, the LORD shall give that which is good; and our land shall yield her increase.” Psalm 85:12



What is something that stood out to you in the message yesterday?

First Line Fridays and Review | The Wisdom of God

Published on by Amanda Tero12 Comments

Happy Friday! I get to feature one of my new favorite books today!! As with other similar books, I didn’t go with first line, but a favorite quote.

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Also, be sure to hop along to all of these other blogs and see what First Lines they have to share!
Please note that I may not fully endorse all of the books that these bloggers read or the content in these blogs.
Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly
Trisha – Joy of Reading
Jeanette – CJane Read
Rebecca – It’s Storytime with Van Danniker!
Iola – Iola Golton
Nicole – Christian Fiction Girl
Anna – Cross Romance

My Review

What is wisdom? This book is divided into 23 chapters exploring Biblical wisdom vs. worldly knowledge. It begins with the history of how the Jews perceived wisdom, to how Jesus Christ personified wisdom, to how we are to apply wisdom today.

This was a powerful and convicting read. From all I could tell, it was Biblically accurate, quoted many Scripture verses, and even used some hymns to expound on Biblical truths. There was a strong emphasis on humility, repentance, and salvation.

There are many quotes I appreciated. Here are a few:

“Would the man filled with wisdom and spiritual understanding write cheap poetry? I would certainly hope not!”

“David could sin, but he could also repent.” 

“We should not only memorize the Word, which is an excellent thing to do, but also know the difference between truth and error in applying the Word faithfully.”

“Obviously there is enticement from sinners. It does not say in Proverbs 1:10, ‘If sin entices thee.’ It says ‘If sinners entice thee.'”

“If that person stands between you and Jesus Christ, that person is not a friend.”

*I received this book from Bethany House Publishers and happily provided my honest review*

You may get the book here.

Sometimes, I Feel Like a Writer

Published on by Amanda Tero4 Comments
Those were my thoughts as I stepped back and looked at my desk on Friday. Coffee, a cute sign (by Par la Grace), Scrivener open (which, btw, I’m now completely sold on!), a stack of research books…I had to take a picture.
This past week has been a good one for me writing-wise. It took me a little while to get back into the flow of writing, but, by God’s help, I made it!
For those who don’t follow me on FaceBook or Instagram (I feel you, because I used to have neither), I don’t want you to miss out on what I give everyone else by means of more daily updates. So here is a quick run-down:
Writing Progress
I added almost 5,000 words to the manuscript Monday-Friday (about 1,000 less than I wrote total in July!). Some of that writing was done in a waiting room as I waited with some friends for their baby boy to be born.
Journey of Choicereached 50,000 words! (my goal is 60k, but I just may surpass that goal, given the way things are moving now)
After reaching chapter 27, I realized I needed to make Nat’s life just a little more miserable, so I went back and added some tension via Second Lieutenant Ward (it’s gonna be great, y’all!)
Research Progress
I got three new Civil War books in! (yeah, I splurged) I’m making progress in listening to Sherman’s Memoirs on my Kindle Fire (on Kindle, the book is divided into two segments, and I’m in the 60%’s of book 2). I’m also reading my first K.M. Weiland book, Creating Character Arcs.

I just have to show you the CW book that I’m reading now (one of my new ones, yes). It is so cool!

Excerpt
Since I shared an excerpt with everyone else, here you go (from chapter 20)…

Nat’s mouth went dry as if they had already shoved the gag in. The brawl hadn’t seemed to draw much attention from the company, but being set in the middle of camp, with his body contorted worse than a rat caught in a trap, he would be the gazing stock of all of the men.

“And after that,” Captain Quinn continued, “you’ll fulfill your picket duty.”Nat didn’t fight against the men as they dragged him to the middle of camp. Being bucked and gagged wasn’t the worst thing that had happened in his life. Every second he was subjected to this punishment, though, he’d picture it was Ward there, enduring the same punishment.

The men shoved a dry cloth in his mouth. He clamped down on it, imagining that it was a piece of Ward’s flesh. The second lieutenant was going to escape punishment altogether while he—the low-down private—was disgraced in public.

A coarse rope sliced into Nat’s wrists as the men tied it tightly. One man held his hands while the other one forced his knees up between his arms and shoved a stick to secure his position. Then, the men stepped back.

Nat shifted. The butt of a gun jammed into his back. He clenched the gag even tighter between his teeth and his throat contracted. If he was lucky, he’d only have to endure this punishment for an hour.

He closed his eyes and laid his head on his knees. He braced himself against another blow, but nothing happened. Good. He’d just wait it out. Then tonight, as soon as he was away from camp doing his watch, he’d run.


Some Fun Things

My sister said this made her think of me. ;P Isn’t it accurate though?
And then, I was tagged on Instagram to do “10 Things I’d Never Say.” Now, for those of you who know me, I tried my best to do this in a lighthearted manner. My brain automatically went to more theological things like, “I’d never say, ‘You can read enough Bible’ or ‘Prayer isn’t as good as we think it is’ or ‘Christ’s blood isn’t sufficient to save ALL sinners.’” Yeah. Because, by God’s grace, I’d never say something that directly contradicts Scripture. BUT… I tried for fun here. So, just with that in mind…here are ten things I don’t think I’ll ever say in *seriousness* (I like to be sarcastic a lot, so saying things sarcastically doesn’t count).
1) Technology is ridiculous
2) Chocolate is gross
3) I’ve read enough books in my life
4) I love being a social butterfly
5) I will beat you at ANY cost!!
6) You may have all of my books
7) A musician never needs to practice
8) Bribery is okay
9) I love clutter
10) I never think seriously
Boy, it’s hard to think that way. 😉 How did I do? Sound like things I’d never say?
What are ten things YOU’D never say?
What progress have you made on your projects this week?

Scripture Graphics #52

Published on by Amanda Tero3 Comments
Number 52. I suppose this makes a year of sharing Scripture graphics! It has been a personal blessing for me to hear how God has used these posts to come for you on the exact days you need them. He is so faithful to use His Word just when — and how — we need it. 🙂 Here’s hoping for another year of diligence in sharing!

This kind of makes for a good “catch-up” post. I had found a few graphics that I lost track of my personal thoughts — or maybe I had my personal thoughts on the graphics but lost track of the exact verse that went with it.


What is your favorite verse?

Scavenger Hunt and Giveaway | Molly Jebber Tour

Published on by Amanda Tero16 Comments

How many of you like scavenger hunts? I’m happy to be a part of Molly Jebber’s bookish-themed scavenger hunt! Hop along for some fun!

Scavenger Hunt Stops
Stop by each blog to collect their special word then input the sentence it creates into the giveaway for NINE extra entries! While you are at each stop, don’t forget to comment to claim your bonus entries in the giveaway (the bonus entries for a comment on a blog can be claimed multiple times but only once in a 24 hour period).

My special word is HAS!
Visit these other blogs to discover their words:
August 8: Book Bites, Bee Stings, & Butterfly Kisses
August 9: Quiet Quilter
August 10: Smiling Book Reviews
August 11: Have A Wonderful Day
August 12: With a Joyful Noise
August 13: Bigreadersite
August 14: A Baker’s Perspective
August 15: Karen Sue Hadley
August 16: Blogging With Carol
August 17: cherylbbookblog
August 18: Baker Kella
August 19: His Grace is Sufficient
August 20: The Power of Words
August 21: Blossoms and Blessings
About Molly’s Books:

Change of Heart

A modern new century brings a young Amish woman an unexpected new life—and a chance to discover love’s true way home…
Ohio, 1899. Soft-spoken midwife Becca Yost lived by her Amish faith’s strict rules—until her fiancé jilted her before their entire community. She’s never been away from home, but the bustling Englischer town of Massillon, Ohio, is a welcome unexpected refuge. Especially when she goes to work for Dr. Matt Carrington, who shares her passion for healing those in need. His outgoing spirit and gentle strength show Becca a surprising new world of choices—and irresistible love. But there is one formidable obstacle: Matt’s wealthy mother is determined her son will marry a society woman.
With her newfound resolve challenged, Becca decides that she and Matt must not be destined for each other after all. She accepts that she will have to forge a life alone—until a wrenching crisis and life-changing revelations teach her that true faith lies in all things, especially impossible second chances…

Grace’s Forgiveness

A handsome newcomer with secrets shows a yearning Amish woman a chance at happiness—but their love will need all their courage to keep . . .
Grace Blauch is skilled at midwifery—and crafting quilts that help others pass on messages of enduring family love. But a disfiguring birthmark keeps the young Amish woman from a husband and home of her own—until Mark King arrives from another community. His helpfulness and independent nature earn Grace’s respect. And he finds her outspoken ways and determination to do right irresistibly appealing. Soon Grace is planning a wedding quilt of her very own . . . until her father discovers that Mark’s shunned brother is hiding somewhere in town . . .
Grace can well understand why Mark took such a risk once she hears his wrenching reasons. But she fears even prayer will not convince her father to restore his blessing on their union. She wills herself to face the end of her dreams, but sudden danger and an impossible act of generosity will show her that abiding hope can inspire the most precious of miracles  . . .

Two Suitors for Anna

In 1903 Ohio, a young Amish woman must choose between the life she has long planned for and a new, very different future…
Since Anna Plank moved to Berlin, Ohio, with her widowed mamm and two schweschders, she’s found a real sense of belonging. As soon as her beloved Noah Schwartz proposes, they’ll begin a new chapter here together. But Noah has a surprise for Anna: once they’re married, he wants them to travel and live in other communities. Anna, who loves her home and her job at the quilt shop, is distraught when he takes her hesitation as rejection—and leaves.
Daniel Bontrager’s arrival adds to Anna’s confusion. Since taking over his late brother’s farm, the handsome roofer has offered friendship and gentle attentions. Yet the pull of first love is strong and deep, especially when Noah returns. Through each revelation, Anna must search her faith for guidance, knowing she is choosing not just a husband, but a life to nurture and to share…
About Molly:
Molly Jebber’s books have been featured in Publisher’s Weekly, USA Today’s HEA, and Romantic Times has given them a near excellent rating. She’s on RWA’s Honor Roll. She’s a speaker for Women’s Christian Connection, and she offers presentations on writing, publishing, Amish lifestyle and traditions. She has received widespread media coverage, including live interviews, across the United States for her books and speaking engagements.
She’s just signed a new contract for four more Amish books! She loves interacting with her readers. She loves God, her husband, family and friends. She has a hard time saying no to cupcakes, swimming, nine holes of golf, and walks on the beach. Coconut, oatmeal, and onions, on the other hand, are not hard to say no to!
Guest Post from Molly:
In TWO SUITORS FOR ANNA:
Anna and her sisters are hiding a secret. One Anna knows is wrong to keep. The love of her life wants her to leave her family behind and travel with him. Her life is in turmoil, and she isn’t sure which way to turn? What does the future hold for Anna?
Have you read CHANGE OF HEART and GRACE’S FORGIVENESS? The first two books in the Keepsake Pocket Quilt Series? They are available in and online in bookstores.
I love interacting with you, and thank you for participating!
Giveaway
Blog Tour Prize is an Amish/English Basket!
One big item: Brand New Coach Purse!
Each day, visit the designated blog, comment, and your name is entered in the contest for a chance to win!

First Line Friday and Giveaway | Out of the Ashes

Published on by Amanda Tero21 Comments

Hi all! If you remember, a few weeks back, I already featured the first line from Out of the Ashes. So… today I’ll give you the first lines for all three in the series! 🙂

If you like good, solid fiction–and the Civil War, I highly recommend this whole series! Today, I’m specifically focusing on Out of the Ashes in a review, but before I do so… be sure to hop along to all of these other blogs and see what First Lines they have to share!
Please note that I may not fully endorse all of the books that these bloggers read or the content in these blogs.
Rachel – Bookworm Mama
Andi – Radiant Light
Robin – Robin’s Nest
Kathleen – Kathleen Denly
Trisha – Joy of Reading
Jeanette – CJane Read
Rebecca – It’s Storytime with Van Danniker!
Iola – Iola Golton
Nicole – Christian Fiction Girl

Share a first line — from one of your favorite series! 🙂

Now, for Ashes stuff…
About the Book

Sometimes peace is won through battle. 

Haunted by the memories he can’t escape, Ralph Williams wants to be left alone to lick his wounds. He doesn’t understand why he’s forced into the company of the one woman he least desires. Can God bring him healing through such uncomfortable circumstances?


Frank Harper thought he had left the war and its turmoil behind, but the home to which he has returned is anything but peaceful. When racial tensions arise in Maple Grove, Frank finds himself on a battlefield once more. He’s desperate for peace, but at what cost?


When George Chandler heads off to wed his beloved bride, things don’t go as expected. Just as George starts to get comfortable with what he believes is God’s new plan for his life, history threatens to repeat itself. Will he fight for the woman he’s come to love, or will he let her go?


The War Between the States has destroyed more than just a nation. In four years, it has damaged bodies and wounded souls until the people think that nothing is left. Will they find the healing they so desperately need from the God that loves them?


My Review
This was one of my most-anticipated 2017 reads. It’s a post-Civil War book (my current history fascination), the continuation of two books I greatly enjoyed, and by an author I knew I could trust. Those three all sum up to make a pretty solid read, in my humble opinion. 😉

What I loved most… continuing the stories of all of the characters in the former two Ancient Words books was amazing. I loved these characters, wanted to know what had become of them, and was sufficiently satisfied. Ralph’s story was probably my favorite. But I really think that he was just my favorite character overall.

The Christian element was very strong and woven throughout the story very well. I love it when I’m reading a story and suddenly the characters turn the conversation into something Biblical. Loved that! This one definitely gets a five-star on the spiritual content.

Romance… well, I know A.M. Heath. She’s a romantic at heart. However, I found that her writing wasn’t too overly-focused on the emotional side of romance. There was a lot about real love not just emotional love. There were some scenes that, because a couple was married, things were mentioned that is better for an older audience. But overall, I didn’t find that lines were crossed in what is appropriate.

I would say that the main down-side of this story was that it took me a little while to get into it and to remember all of the characters–the latter I will blame on my poor memory. It’s been 1 1/2 years since I’ve read books 1-2, and sometimes I finish a book and can’t even remember the MC’s name. So, I’ll just leave it at… if it’s been a while since you’ve read books 1-2, you may want to refresh your memory a little. Also, don’t read this as a stand-alone. It means so much more read as a series.

*I received this book from the author and happily provided my honest review*
GIVEAWAY!!
Be sure to enter here: https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b7851a908/?
And… in case you don’t win, you can buy the books on Amazon!
Book 1 | Book 2 | Book 3
About the Author

Besides being an Indie Author, I’m a wife, mother of four, children’s Sunday School teacher, sweet tea drinker, history fanatic, romantic, bubbly, lover of broccoli, and cake decorator who has a soft spot for Christmas trees, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. 
What I’m not is a laundress (or at least not one who keeps up very well), a duster, tall, or patient in a doctor’s office.
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/AMHeathfanpage/
Blog: https://amheathblog.wordpress.com/
Blog Stops
July 31: Karen Hadley @ Karen Sue Hadley : Book Review
Aug. 1: Krista Noorman @ by Krista : Book Review
Aug. 2: Becky Dempsey @ Blossoms and Blessings : Book Review
Aug. 4: Alicia Ruggieri @ A Brighter Destiny : Book Review and Interview
Aug. 7: Dana Kamstra @ D.L. Kamstra  : Book Review
Aug. 9: Laura Wilson @ Blue Eye Books : Book Review
Aug. 11: Amanda Tero @ With a Joyful Noise : Book Review
Aug. 14: Deana Dick @ Texas Book-aholic  : Book Review
Aug. 15: Virginia Winfield @  Bigreadersite : Book Review
Aug. 16: Raechel Lenore @ God’s Peculiar Treasure Rae : Spotlight
Aug. 18: Debbie Curto @ Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations  : Book Review and Interview