“I had always felt life first as a story: and if there is a story there is a storyteller.”
- G.K. Chesterton
For those of you stopping by after reading my devotion, The God of Story, I welcome you to She Reads with open arms. I look forward to announcing our featured book club selection each month the way I would look forward to introducing a good friend. Because really, that’s what books are to us. Yet this month I find myself in a unique position because the novel I’d like to tell you about is mine.
Fourteen years ago I stumbled across an article in Life Magazine and I knew that it could be a novel. And since no one had written on the subject I set about doing so myself. The result is my debut novel, Eye of the God: a story that revolves around the mysterious curse of the Hope Diamond.
Every month when we announce our featured book we do a giveaway. Typically readers leave a comment and enter to win an amazing prize. But this month I wanted everyone to win. You see, I read each and every comment left on this site. I know many of you by name. And I am so grateful that you come back to She Reads month after month in search of good books.
So this month, everyone wins. No contest. No beating the odds.
Between today and January 11th, you can download the entire novel for FREE.
Simply click here and it’s yours!
And if you happen to be one of the one million people who got a new Kindle for Christmas, you’re also in luck. From January 12th through the 19th, Eye of the God will be available as a free Kindle download.
A bit about the novel:
The world’s most spectacular museum heist, a cursed jewel, and a romance doomed to fail, all tied together with stunning historical fact, create the vast and intricate setting for the first-ever novel about the Hope Diamond.
According to legend, the Hope Diamond was once the eye of a Hindu idol named Rama Sita. When it was stolen in the 17th century, it is said that the idol cursed all those who would possess it. But that doesn’t stop the brilliant and ruthless Weld brothers from attempting to steal it from the Smithsonian. However, they are not prepared for Dr. Abigail Mitchell, the beautiful Smithsonian Director, who has her own connection to the Hope Diamond, and a deadly secret to keep. Abby soon realizes she alone holds the pieces to the complicated puzzle in this deadly game of illegal art collectors. Abby’s faith is put to the ultimate test as she confronts the father who abandoned her, the betrayal of the only man she has ever loved, and the possibility that she may lose her life because of the legendary gem.
When all is said and done, and the dust has finally settled over the last great adventure of the Hope Diamond, we understand the curse that haunts its legacy is nothing more than the greed of evil men who bring destruction upon themselves. No god chiseled from stone can direct the fates of men, nor can it change the course of history.
A bit about me:
I read, write and live in Texas with my husband and four young sons. I have a penchant for adrenaline-infused madness such as rock climbing (don’t ask), running marathons (bad for the knees), and jumping off bridges (not recommended) – as if raising four boys were not adventure enough. Along with my dear friend Marybeth Whalen I co-direct She Reads. When not immersed in a book, changing a diaper, or rescuing my dog from the death-grip of a toddler, you can find me here, lamenting my painful lack to technological abilities.
You can visit my website, www.arielallison.com
Or find me on Facebook where I spend way too much time.
I’m also on Twitter, but I find it about as enjoyable as flossing my teeth.
I hope you’ll download a copy of Eye of the God. I hope you read it. And I hope you pass it on to a friend. Please stop by my website when you’re done and let me know what you think. I’d love to hear from you.
(And yes, in case you’re wondering, that is my pinky. And it’s….er….less than standard size. If you’d like to read the story, you can stop by my blog.)
One last thing. Many avid book lovers have not yet warmed up to the idea of reading a novel on a computer scene. In many ways I can’t say that I blame them. There is nothing like the smell of a book, or it’s weight in your hand. So if you happen to be one of those holdouts, the amazing women at Proverbs 31 Ministries are providing a copy of Eye of the God to one lucky winner. Feel free to toss your name in the hat by leaving a comment on this post.
Good luck to all and thank you!
About Ariel Lawhon
Ariel Lawhon is the co-founder of She Reads, novelist, blogger, and life-long reader. She lives in Texas with her husband and four young sons (aka The Wild Rumpus). Ariel believes that Story is the shortest distance to the human heart.
Hi Ariel,
I am new to She Reads but think that I have been missing a real jewel. I am the mother of 5 children and 2 step-children. I am also a full-time student at Liberty University and I work full-time and in my spare time, those hours I should be asleep I enjoy reading. I am new to reading Christian fiction but so far so good. And not that I have this little gem I will be reading more.
I look forward to reading your book as well as others you may suggest and passing them on to my daughter who enjoys reading and wants to read more books of this nature.
I have some technology knowledge but I have not jumped on the Kindle bandwagon yet. I don’t mind ebooks as long as I can print them out. There is something about holding it in your hands and I write in my books, that’s hard to do on the screen. So, I will read and I am sure enjoy and leave you some feedback!
In His Name,
Natasha
Thanks so much…it feels great to win something and it’s a book! How cool are you? VERY
I just found this site – what’s wrong with me!? I’ve been reading Proverbs 31 Minstries for quite some time now. This book sounds so fascinating, as about every 4th book does…you should see my little wall bookcase! I will never live long enough to read all I want to read!
My favorite saying: “So many books, so little time.”
God bless your ‘writing future’ – you are an amazing talent!
The devotion for today, on the Parables that Jesus told, was absolutely wonderful! I had never considered how much those stories applied to the people in the world today. I’ve always winced when I read the account of Martha and Mary, because I’m a lot like Martha, trying to make people comfortable and fed, and miss a lot of what they’re saying. The article that you wrote on the Parables hit home in the same way. Thank you for this inspirational message. Thank you also for allowing your book to be online, although I unfortunately don’t have too much computer time (but would love to have a copy, even Library-borrowed, to read on my breaks). God bless you, and may He bless you with abundant success in your writing. Moe
Congratulations Ariel – I loved it! Well-written and great story – this is a fantastic read! Thank you, Ariel!
I am a hold out for a real paper book. I have read e-books, but I don’t find it as satisfying as actually gripping that book in my hands. I’m outdated and a fuddy-duddy.
Thanks for this chance to win.
I loved your devotion and we’re so excited at P31 to give away a copy of your book. Don’t enter me in the drawing as I think family and friends can’t win
. I feel like both! Hugs, Renee
First time stopping by here….and I can’t wait to come back for more! Would love to win a hard copy of the book, but will definitely enjoy the download! Thanks!
Wow! What a post! The part in the Parables that Jesus told how those stories apply to people in the world today – had never occurred to me.
You are a wonderful storyteller. I am blessed to have been sent your post by a friend!!
Thanks for the post!
Hi Ariel,
Just signed up on Twitter and looking for new friends. Would love to read your book. Thanks
Rosemary (aka Miss MelodyKitty)
Sounds like a great book! May you sell lots of copies.
Ooooh, this sounds like a really good book!! I’m definitely downloading but yes, I am one of those who prefer to hold it in my hands
WOW awesome I just stumbled on this book stie tonight — how great! I have hit a dry spell on books to read so this will be fun!!
I am new to P31 and just found this great part of it! I have a budding writer in our family, so we will definitely be reading your book and the other recommended book throughout the year! We both love historical fiction, so this is right up our alley.
I still like to be able to hold the book and turn the pages. Thank you for your wonderful devotional.
Thanks SO much Ariel! I can’t WAIT to read your debut novel. I hope it ends up racing to the top of the bestseller lists!
i would love to win this i am a big reader of books and just can’t get to many good ones
Just downloaded your book and can’t wait to read it!
A new book for me to start the New Year off with! How fun is that?! I’m still drinking my first cup off coffee and I’m not even sure how I got here but I’m so glad I did. Looks like a lot of fun
I was fascinated by your synopsis of your book and cannot wait to read it. I’m new to this She Reads site. I will keep popping in from time to time. Thanks so much for the free download of the book!
I just got a kindle for Christmas. I can’t wait to download your book. I love how you came up with the idea for the book.
I am so excited to get started…I started an online chat style book club…and I cant wait to dive in! I WOULD LOVE A REAL BOOK
I also love a good book in hand!! That way I can take it with me or curl up wherever I desire for my reading fix!!
I am one of those ladies that loves the feel of the book. this is my first official day of receiving your newsletter and i love it. my dear friend jacki told me about this website and im really excited. God is great everyday in my life. i look forward to reading all your books. andrea
First time visiting your site. Now I HAVE to remember to download to my Kindle from the 12- 19th of January. Can’t wait. Please pray I will remember! Thanks again.
Jan
This book looks very interested.. at this time I don’t have a personal computer to download the book on, and we live in a tiny town in Nowheresville so finding this book would take a miracle.. I have always been fascinated with the Hope Diamond, and it’s curse, so this book really caught my eye!! it would be great to win it!!
Sounds like a wonderful book I an’t wait read it, i’m not into reading books online but would rather curl up in my comfy hair and a good up of coffee with my book
Looking forward to reading this book – sounds like a lot of fun; infact, I forwarded the post to a non-Christian friend who is also a kindle owner. Only problem – it isn’t up as a free kindle download, at least as of 1/12/11. And here I was so proud of myself for retaining that date without a bunch of post-it notes. Only shows that I am truly interested in reading it. Just thought Ariell might like to know that the publisher hasn’t yet followed through on that promise.
It’s not showing as Free on Amazon Kindle…any idea why?
Hey there,
I was lucky enough to receive a kindle for my birthday and I wanted to download your novel. Is there a special code I need to enter? It is saying the price is 9.99 and I thought the free download was available beginning yesterday. Thanks for any help you can offer.
Katy
I still cant get it for free for my kindle. Is anyone having any luck with this?
Ladies,
I just wanted to let you know that I’m working with my publisher to get the Kindle download available on Amazon for free as soon as possible. This was an error on Amazon’s part. They were unable to get it on the site on the 12th as they originally said. At the moment it looks like it will be the first week of February but I will confirm the dates and let you know. Regardless, the download will still be free for a week.
Thank you so much for your interest in reading my novel! I consider it a huge honor.
Very warmly,
Ariel
Thank you, Ariel! I can’t wait to read your novel! It sounds like an amazing read!
Just stopping back in to let you know that I so enjoyed this book. What a great book of twist and turns.
Your book sounds like one I would really, really like. I got a Kindle about a month ago and was hoping to get the free download from Amazon.com. Is there any news on if this might be happening soon?
I must be missing something because I found this website today and I can’t access the free book download.
Aileen,
I’m sorry the book is no longer available for free download. That promotion ran through January only.
Warmly,
Ariel