“I travel the way of truth, even if I’m the only one. I travel the path of light, even if I’m the only one. I travel the path of hope, even if I’m the only one. One giving truth and hope and light to those who think there is no truth and hope and light left to hang onto.”
-James L. Rubart
Southern Fiction Author
Jennifer Hallmark
Jennifer Hallmark writes Southern fiction with a twist. Her website and newsletter focus on her books, love of the South, and favorite fiction. She creates stories with unforgettable characters—her stories are a little eerie and otherworldly but with a positive turn.
Jessie’s Hope, her first novel, was a Selah Award nominee for First Novel. Her latest novel, Smoking Flax, will be released on January 16th, 2024.
When she isn’t babysitting, gardening, or exploring the beautiful state of Alabama, you can find her at her desk penning fiction or studying the craft of writing. She also loves reading and streaming fantasy, supernatural stories, and detective fiction from the Golden Age or her favorite subject—time travel.
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Small Acts of Kindness: Lunch with a Friend
By Kathy Cheek My friend and I hadn’t met for lunch in a long time since she had moved across town and was going to a new church. After we were seated and were sipping our iced tea, I asked “How are you doing?” and her “fine” didn’t sound fine at all. When her voice...
Favorite Friday Fiction: Misstep by Deborah Dee Harper
Misstep by Deborah Dee Harper is a book I really enjoyed, laughing out loud at different parts of the book. Zany, believable characters and never knowing what is coming next made it another great read. Don't miss this series. Book 2, Faux Pas, is good and I'm ready...
Small Acts of Kindness: Mr. Priest’s Surprises
By David Parks Early in January 1954, Mr. Guy Priest came to our house with a box of surprises. Usually, I saw Mr. Priest when I was skidding my bike around on Teft Road or Baker Street. "Hello, Mr. Priest!" "Hello!" Instead of waving, he smiled and nodded. That's...
Favorite Friday Fiction: Out of the Frying Pan by Michelle Griep and Kelly Klepfer
Today's favorite is by a duo of writers: Michelle Griep and Kelly Klepfer. Out of the Frying Pan is a cozy mystery with a touch of romance. I like a bit of comedy in my mysteries, especially if it involves dry wit. Out of the Frying Pan has all of the above. So if...
Roses For No Reason
By Ellen Andersen It was an ordinary day at work. I’d been in and out of patients’ rooms, developing discharge plans for them when they left the hospital and returned home. In the middle of the day, someone came to the office and asked for me. When I answered, he came...
Favorite Friday Fiction: Still Waters by Lindsey P. Brackett
Still Waters by Lindsey P. Brackett is a good Southern fiction read set at Edisto Beach, South Carolina. I loved the way she combined the life of the South with the haunting beauty of the ocean. Her characters swept me into their lives and I couldn't wait to find out...
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