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Determined to become one of the country's premier newspaper photographers, Elizabeth Westbrook travels to the Colorado Territory to capture the grandeur of the mountains surrounding the remote town of Timber Ridge. She hopes, too, that the cool, dry air of Colorado, and its renowned hot springs, will cure the mysterious illness that threatens her career, and her life.

Daniel Ranslett is a man shackled by his Confederate past, and he'll do anything to protect his land, and his solitude. When an outspoken Yankee photographer captures an image that appears key to solving a murder, putting herself in danger, Daniel is called upon to repay a debt. He's a man of his word, but repaying that debt could reveal secrets from his past he would prefer remain buried.

Forced on a perilous journey together, Daniel and Elizabeth's lives intertwine in ways neither could have imagined when first they met from a distance.

Just heard back from Tamera Alexander. She will be joining us mid-month so let's give her a warm welcome.

You're so great, Loraine, to arrange the author visits. Count me in! Thanks and this info just finalized my decision if I was going to join the discussion.

I know they are super busy people, and it's so nice when they can join us as part of the discussion.

I started the book and love it so far!

I will be starting it hopefully this weekend.

Finished this last night. All I can say is "WOW" this was incredible and it made my 2016 favorites list.

I hear you, Loraine! I just downloaded the next book from my library and placed a hold for #3. Most of my November reading list just got wiped out for this series LOL.

I will wait til January or at least after Christmas to read 2 & 3 as I need to plow through a bunch of Christmas books I have had for several years plus some reviews I need to do for authors.

I always get a little bit jealous when I see some of you get advance copies of books. I know though you also put in a lot of work for this site and/or give very detailed reviews so it's not like it's just a free book.

Anyway, there are so many good books to read with CFD right now that I'm going to suspend my hold on #3 and hopefully get to do it with you as a buddy read in 2017!

I have to apologize for not getting discussion questions up sooner, but life has been hectic. I had my 4 year old grandson from Thursday through Sunday. Sunday he fell and split his top lip. So had to return "damaged goods" back to mom and dad Sunday afternoon LOL:) Also two good friends from church passed so funeral yesterday and one on Friday.

Now let's start talking! Something a little different this time, we are going to actually look back at the book to prompt discussion. I'll post a new question each day for discussion.

1. Read the opening paragraph of Ch. 1. Then consider these questions. Have you ever had a dream you’ve wanted so badly you could taste it? A dream for which you would gladly sacrifice much in order to obtain? A dream you’re certain God would be glorified in if only He would give it to you? Can you identify with Elizabeth’s feelings in this passage? Have you ever wanted a dream with similar passion? If yes, what was/is it? And what’s hindering you from
pursuing it?

Hey gals! Thanks SO much for reading From a Distance, and I look forward to visiting from time to time as you discuss it.

If you have any questions for me, please share and I'll answer as I can as I race toward my deadline next week with the third book in the Belle Meade Plantation series!

Loraine, praying for your sweet grandson and his healing. And condolences on the passings of your friends. I was just listening this morning to WE SHALL SEE GOD by Randy Alcorn on my way to BSF, and I found my hope renewed, yet again, when thinking about our forever home!

Much love to all, and I'll drop back in soon!
Tammy

Welcome Tamera! So glad you can spare a bit of time with a deadline looming. WHOOPEE book 3 of Belle Meade Plantation! I read #1 and absolutely loved it!! Book 2 is on my TBR list for January, Now I can look forward to Book 3.

I loved this bit of trivia at the bottom of the discussion questions Tamera. Definitely tickled my funny bone:)

One small bit of trivia about the cover of From a Distance: We couldn’t get the model’s hair to look like what Elizabeth’s hair did in the book, so Tamera’s editor flew to Nashville and photographed Tamera’s daughter’s hair. Then the art department at the publisher “photoshopped�� it on the model’s head. Because hair matters!

Loraine wrote: "Welcome Tamera! So glad you can spare a bit of time with a deadline looming. WHOOPEE book 3 of Belle Meade Plantation! I read #1 and absolutely loved it!! Book 2 is on my TBR list for January, Now ..."

Thank you!!

Loraine wrote: "I loved this bit of trivia at the bottom of the discussion questions Tamera. Definitely tickled by funny bone:)

One small bit of trivia about the cover of From a Distance: We couldn’t get the mode..."

LOL, Loraine. See a picture of the difference here:

Tamera wrote: "Loraine wrote: "I loved this bit of trivia at the bottom of the discussion questions Tamera. Definitely tickled by funny bone:)

One small bit of trivia about the cover of From a Distance: We could..."

Oh my, so much better with your daughter's hair. The other is only ho hum.

Tamera wrote: "Loraine wrote: "I loved this bit of trivia at the bottom of the discussion questions Tamera. Definitely tickled by funny bone:)

One small bit of trivia about the cover of From a Distance: We could..."

Your daughter's hair is beautiful and was definitely the right call.

Loraine wrote: "I have to apologize for not getting discussion questions up sooner, but life has been hectic. I had my 4 year old grandson from Thursday through Sunday. Sunday he fell and split his top lip. So had..."

I can absolutely relate to Elizabeth's passion. My dream happens to involve my writing career. I want my stories to be enjoyed by many and my hope is to truly affect my reader's view of God and how He sees them. As for hindrances, I am reluctant to label my children as such, but my writing definitely took a backseat when they were young and I struggled to balance my priorities and manage my time well. Then there are those inner critics trying to scare you into giving up before you even try - like Elizabeth, some are voices from my childhood; people who saw writing as a hobby best not taken seriously. Fortunately God's patience is unending and He's helping me to actively pursue my dream now.

#2 At the end of Ch. 2 (pg. 30), something slips from Elizabeth’s grasp—both figuratively and literally. What is it? How does Elizabeth react in the following chapter? What stayed with you most about Elizabeth and Daniel’s initial meeting?

Great discussion questions, Loraine! She had just taken a picture of the elk when the gunshot noise made her drop and break the glass plate. Considering how intense it was to get pictures back then, it shows me my first world problem mentality when my phone takes a blurry picture. Anyway, not surprisingly, their first meeting starts out with major conflict.

#3 Starting with the last paragraph on pg. 123, read through two full paragraphs (into pg. 124), then discuss the following: Elizabeth considers why God gives gifts to certain people (those innate talents given to individuals that can be honed, most certainly, but that are “there�� inherently). What is one of her father’s talents? What is his reasoning behind why he has that ability? What’s Elizabeth’s opinion on his reasoning? What does the Bible say about how God distributes gifts (1 Corinthians 12:11)?

Marion wrote: "Great discussion questions, Loraine! She had just taken a picture of the elk when the gunshot noise made her drop and break the glass plate. Considering how intense it was to get pictures back then..."

I felt so badly for her when she dropped the plate after working so hard to get the picture. As you say, a lot more work then compared to what we take for granted now!

Tamera - did you have to do a lot of research on photography from that time period or was it something you had previously been interested in? Are you a photographer?

#4 On pg. 157 (Ch. 18), first full paragraph, Josiah says, “We got to tell him, I know that. It’s the right thing to do, but it bein�� the right thing don’t mean I got to like doin�� it.�� Josiah is an honorable man. And despite the hardships and injustice he’s endured, he still holds fast to doing the right thing. Discuss Josiah’s character. What do you think made him this way? How often have you done “the right thing�� while not wanting to? What came of that decision in your own life, and what drove you to remain true to that kind of commitment?

I thought Josiah was such an amazingly wise man. He had learned so much from all he had been through, but it didn't defeat him. He still kept doing the right things and believing in the future. I can't imagine how hard it must have been during that time period and probably being the only black in the area to stand strong like he did.

I loved Josiah! I agree with Loraine that I can't even imagine how hard it would've been for him, a black man, to stand up for what is right. Sadly, even Daniel looked down on him for a while.

I feel like being a born again Christian today requires us to stand for what is right when the world says we're wrong. There are so many issues I could name, but this isn't a thread for that. I can say I have personally lost dear friends because I choose to believe the Bible, and it disagreed with their worldview. I can't say it was as brave as Josiah because I was never in physical danger, but it definitely took courage knowing I may not like the outcome.

Loraine wrote: "#2 At the end of Ch. 2 (pg. 30), something slips from Elizabeth’s grasp—both figuratively and literally. What is it? How does Elizabeth react in the following chapter? What stayed with you most abo..."

Since the "what" has already been covered, I'll go with answering what stayed with me the most: the lingering looks from both Daniel and Elizabeth. They are clearly intrigued by each other and despite the conflict, there is a mysterious spark.

Loraine wrote: "#4 On pg. 157 (Ch. 18), first full paragraph, Josiah says, “We got to tell him, I know that. It’s the right thing to do, but it bein�� the right thing don’t mean I got to like doin�� it.�� Josiah is a..."

Trauma shapes a person. It can be for better or worse, but it always changes you in someway. It seems clear Josiah has found his way to letting his traumatic experiences make him a better man - that God has used for good what others meant for evil.

In answer to the questions, "How often have you done “the right thing�� while not wanting to? What came of that decision in your own life, and what drove you to remain true to that kind of commitment?" I'm blessed enough not to have been in a position where doing the right thing meant risking my life. I have been in the position of having to report on the unethical and even illegal activities of employees who'd been at the company longer than I and who held a higher position than I. Nothing was done about it. Apparently the company had no qualms with those activities so long as the employees in question continued to bring in big bucks for the company. Though my reports were kept confidential and I suffered no repercussions for coming forward, I ultimately resigned my position there rather than continue to work in such an environment.

Kathleen wrote: "Loraine wrote: "#4 On pg. 157 (Ch. 18), first full paragraph, Josiah says, “We got to tell him, I know that. It’s the right thing to do, but it bein�� the right thing don’t mean I got to like doin�� ..."

Kathleen I commend you for doing what's right at work. In today's environment, that is not an easy thing for someone to do. And it took even more moral character, to quit a job rather than work in an environment where things weren't right. May God bless you for your strength.

#4 My commitment to doing the right thing is probably small in the vast scope of things. My husband has always suffered from back problems, but 4 years ago it began to get even worse. In the past 4 years, he has had 3 back surgeries and has basically become homebound as it is difficult for him to walk a distance or sit for very long. I am a very social person and had been involved in quite a few different things as we were both retired. Now, my social life and volunteering is very limited. Many friends and some family members have asked why I don't just put him in a nursing home. My response has been that my marriage vows said "in sickness and in health." I thank God that he has given me both the health and stamina to take care of him in the things he has difficulty doing for himself.

#5 On pg. 171 (sixth full paragraph), Sheriff McPherson tells Elizabeth that she’s brought the future to Timber Ridge (in bringing her camera, taking photographs, thus enabling others to see things second-hand that they would have never seen otherwise). Read that paragraph and discuss the implications of Elizabeth introducing photography to the mountain town of Timber Ridge, and also in that particular page of history (1875). And further, what are the inherent warnings for us today (in the information on the media and internet)?

I think the Sheriff had insight that people will jump to conclusions because pictures tell only part of the story. Yes, they portray truth, but sometimes it's not the whole story. For example, someone takes a picture of Josiah going in Elizabeth's bag to get her medicine. People could accuse him of stealing when it's not the case.

On the other hand, though, Elizabeth's pictures of the cliff dwellings could expose people to wonders they never new existed plus aid in making sure they were saved for posterity.

#6 Read the last paragraph at the bottom of pg. 176 (continuing to top of pg. 177) in Ch. 20. Elizabeth is contemplating Josiah’s statement, “But knowin�� He’s already sifted through it and that Jesus knows what’s comin�� before it gets to me...well, I reckon that ought to be enough.�� Discuss where Elizabeth is in her spiritual journey right now, in her faith. What does she do right after this moment? Have you ever prayed something you wished you could recall (once you realized the possible cost)?

#7 On pg. 207 (Ch. 23), the last full paragraph begins with “All her life she’d wanted to do something special.�� Read Elizabeth’s continuing thoughts in that paragraph and share your personal insights on moments in your own life when (regardless of
whether you realized it at the time) God was redirecting your dreams? How did it feel at the time? What did that redirection cost you?

Loraine, to get back to question #5, yes, having pictures of the cave dwellings are positive because it will help in preservation. I think however since the Sheriff probably looks at everything from a justice POV, he's concerned about the negative effects.

For #6, the app doesn't let me see your question while I'm commenting (so I don't remember your actual question), but I did highlight that passage while reading where Josiah made the "Jesus has already sifted..." comment. What a comfort, and that's part of what made me love this book. Tamera didn't shy away from the words of Jesus! I feel like a lot of fiction labeled Christian is only labeled such because the characters believe in God or go to church. So it's refreshing and encouraging to have authors who aren't afraid to talk about Jesus.

Marion wrote: "Loraine, to get back to question #5, yes, having pictures of the cave dwellings are positive because it will help in preservation. I think however since the Sheriff probably looks at everything fro..."

I so agree with your answer to #6. I call those books that just mention Jesus or attending church "Christian Lite." I love the authors who aren't afraid to have their characters really speak up or delve into their faith.

#8 Daniel carried a weight of regret around inside him. Read the first paragraph on pg. 238 and discuss what carrying this weight had done to Daniel—in his emotional life, in his faith. Do you have a weight of regret inside you that you need to surrender to Christ? What did God do in Daniel’s life to finally bring him to the point of surrender?

Loraine wrote: "Kathleen wrote: "Loraine wrote: "#4 On pg. 157 (Ch. 18), first full paragraph, Josiah says, “We got to tell him, I know that. It’s the right thing to do, but it bein�� the right thing don’t mean I g..."

Thank you. That's very kind of you to say.

Loraine wrote: "#4 My commitment to doing the right thing is probably small in the vast scope of things. My husband has always suffered from back problems, but 4 years ago it began to get even worse. In the past 4..."

What you are doing in no small thing! I watched my father in law caring for his increasingly homebound and eventually bedridden mother. He lived with her and cared for her 24 hours a day 7 days a week for years before she passed. We gave him a break when we could and eventually a nurse came in for a couple hours a week near the end but it's hard work physically and emotionally no matter how much you love the person. As you know, many people would not make the choice you are making. Let yourself feel good about doing the right thing. You deserve it. :)

Loraine wrote: "#5 On pg. 171 (sixth full paragraph), Sheriff McPherson tells Elizabeth that she’s brought the future to Timber Ridge (in bringing her camera, taking photographs, thus enabling others to see things..."

I think the Sheriff recognizes that sharing information in a new way to a wider range of people makes change inevitable. For better or worse or both.

Kathleen wrote: "Loraine wrote: "#4 My commitment to doing the right thing is probably small in the vast scope of things. My husband has always suffered from back problems, but 4 years ago it began to get even wors..."

Thank you Kathleen for your kind words.

Loraine wrote: "#6 Read the last paragraph at the bottom of pg. 176 (continuing to top of pg. 177) in Ch. 20. Elizabeth is contemplating Josiah’s statement, “But knowin�� He’s already sifted through it and that Jes..."

Oh, this part made me laugh because I knew that feeling. There are many times I have prayed for more patience and immediately wondered what I'd just done to myself. LOL Fortunately, I am able to trust in the Lord's judgement to give me what I need and to work things out for my good. So the feeling of regret and mild panic is only momentary. :D

#9. Elizabeth had an addiction in From a Distance. What was she addicted to? How did she become addicted? How did the addiction hamper her lung disease (asthma)?
Have you ever had an addiction to something that—though it might have provided temporary relief—was really hurting you in the long run?

Loraine wrote: "#7 On pg. 207 (Ch. 23), the last full paragraph begins with “All her life she’d wanted to do something special.�� Read Elizabeth’s continuing thoughts in that paragraph and share your personal insig..."

I don't know how many of you follow the news in regard to international adoptions, but on December 28, 2012 Russia permanently closed their country to adoptions by U.S. families. I will never forget that day because it was our 11th anniversary and we were in the middle of trying to adopt from Russia. We had a child identified though we had not yet met her. She has a special need and is very, very unlikely to be adopted domestically. Pursuing her adoption was something we had felt God directing us to do so when Russia closed those doors it was a very painful and confusing time. Four years later I can see His plan in hindsight and how the choices we have made since then would never have happened without that experience. There are lives He has changed through ours that would never have been part of our story had we not first walked that path. When God changes our dreams it is painful and confusing, but He always has a better plan in store. It's only a matter of whether we will understand it now or not until we see Him face to face.

Loraine wrote: "#8 Daniel carried a weight of regret around inside him. Read the first paragraph on pg. 238 and discuss what carrying this weight had done to Daniel—in his emotional life, in his faith. Do you have..."

I am reading on my Kindle so I don't have page numbers. Can you give me the first sentence of the paragraph or something else I can use to find the section you are referring to?

Kathleen, on my kindle paperwhite, there is a Reading Progress option to choose page or location numbers. I can also just keep tapping the bottom left of the screen to get page numbers for most books. HTH!

I didn't know about the Reading Progress option Marion. Thanks for sharing as I have a kindle paperwhite.

Thanks for sharing your story about adoption Kathleen. It is so interesting to read other's experiences. I had a first grade student many years ago whose father was a Continental airline pilot and did flights into Russia. He was approached by a man who asked if he would adopt his little girl who was 6 years old. She was very beautiful and he told the pilot that if they didn't get her out of the country she would be kidnapped and sold into white slavery. He and his wife ended up adopting the little girl and bringing her to Texas. She was absolutely beautiful and the sweetest child. It broke my heart knowing this father let her go in order to give her a better life. Blessedly the new parents kept in touch with the birth parents so they could know what was happening in their little girl's life.