A Writing Upon the Sand is a compelling novel of love and intrigue set against the backdrop of the worst hurricane in U.S. history. Fiction inspired by real historical events. Artisan Book Reviews Book Excellence Award For Best Christian Historical Romance Immerse yourself in this inspirational page-turner from J.M. Kirkley. Galveston, Texas, 1900 : Twenty-year-old Emily Cleburne seizes the offer to become governess, but following her dream places her in the path of a devastating storm. Emily is desperate to succeed after her father thrusts her from home with no lifeline. With little experience, what she lacks in confidence, she makes up for in grit. Nathan Chambers, a reporter with a secret, pursues Emily’s affections. Drawn in, Emily agrees to keep what he reveals confidential, thereby threatening her position, and clashing with her integrity. Colin Hensleigh, a young minister, challenges her while proving himself a trusted friend. Emily's alarm grows as the catastrophic storm bears down on the island. She cannot foresee what will happen and who will survive. When the storm reduces Emily’s plans to rubble, adversity tests her character and faith in unimaginable ways. Will the teacher stand firm when all else gives way, or will she fail the test? ~ Grief, faith, and resilience themes ~ Clean romance ~ Includes book club discussion questions and author's historical notes "Draped in southern charm, cloaked in mystery and belted in real tragic history, J.M. Kirkley's, A Writing Upon the Sand is a prize Christian Historical Romance debut." Iris Fuller for Artisan Book Reviews "A Writing upon the Sand by J. M. Kirkley is a historical Christian novel set in Texas at the turn of the century. With the teasing intensity of a slow-coming tide, the story pulls readers into currents of romance intrigue, and mystery that keep pages turning well into the midnight hour." D.M. Griffin, Author with DevotedSteps "A Writing Upon the Sand is a deeply moving exploration of love, loss, and the power of facing the past. J.M. Kirkley's storytelling is poignant, her characters unforgettable, and her message profound. This is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page, a reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of faith." Author Faith Ijiga, Host of The Christian Readers Community Podcast J.M. Kirkley is the author of the award-winning novel, A Writing Upon the Sand . She received the Artisan Book Review Book Excellence Award for her debut novel.   By trade, she's a storykeeper. She's a faith-based counselor who specializes in grief and trauma recovery. By night, she researches and writes grace-filled Christian historical fiction.      She calls East Texas home. Her favorite pastimes include visiting museums and art festivals, refinishing furniture, touring coastal offices of the National Weather Service with her meteorologist son-in-law, and making memories with family and friends.