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A Prisoner of Hope
Offering hope and encouragement for life, writing, and living a thoughtful life.

A Prisoner of Hope
Offering hope and encouragement for life, writing, and living a thoughtful life.
I post the first and third Tuesday of the month.
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Strategies to Make 2026 a Success
Happy New Year(ish)! The beginning of a new year is exciting, when resolutions kick in. Folks talk about the new diets they're starting, the improved sleep habits they're adopting, and the fitness goals they've set for the year. Those aren't bad goals. We should strive to live a healthier lifestyle—eat well, exercise, and get enough sleep. But to be successful, you need to have a strategy to tackle the coming year. Strategies for a successful year: This year, be intentional
Megan DiMaria
Jan 203 min read


Time-Tested Principles for Nurturing a Happy Marriage
What were you doing 47 years ago? I was starting the rest of my life. At the time, I thought I was all grown up. But looking back, I was so young, only 23 years old. I did not realize exactly what I was agreeing to when I said, “I do.” Who does? Who knows what the future holds? I was in love. Still am. I was seeking a grand adventure. Got that! I was looking for a happily ever after. Got that too. However, since I’ve said “I do,” I’ve realized happily ever after doesn’t oc
Megan DiMaria
Jan 66 min read


One choice can change EVERYTHING!
Forty-seven years ago this week, I made a choice that changed everything for me—I became a Christ-follower. By that, I mean I gave my heart and my life to Jesus Christ, and I was born again. Honestly, it was the beginning of a new me. Who knew a Top 40 song and a question from a stranger would set me (us!) on such an amazing journey? I did not realize the domino effect that choice would have on my life. At the time, it was a simple decision, but it changed everything . I al
Megan DiMaria
Dec 16, 20253 min read


Ten Truths to Cling to When Your Heart is Heavy During the Holiday Season
The leaves have fallen, the air has chilled, and Thanksgiving is behind us. From now until Christmas and the New Year, the days will pass in a blur. Hold on to your hat! No matter how much you look forward to this time of year, it screams past in a frenzy of activities. Unfortunately, the holidays are not filled with light and joy for everyone. The Christmas season tends to stir our emotions. For some, it's a difficult time to endure. There are losses of every kind that make
Megan DiMaria
Dec 2, 20253 min read


Calling All Godly Grandparents!
I'm thrilled to introduce you to my friend Lori Wildenberg and her fantastic new nonfiction book, Grandparents Make Grand Partners . I've known Lori for over a decade, and she's a delight. In addition to writing books about relationships, Lori is also a speaker. I was pleasantly surprised to see her as the keynote speaker at my church's women's conference a few years ago. One day, not too long ago, I ran errands with my daughter, a busy mom of three active kids who often has
Megan DiMaria
Nov 18, 20255 min read


My yearly Veterans Day tribute to my Dad, an unsung hero
In honor of Veterans Day (next week), I'm running this encore post. My father was the kindest, most gentle man I've ever known. He was also the bravest—but I didn't realize how brave he was until a few years before his passing. I had known Dad was in the Army during WWII, but other than that, little was said of his service. In our home, we didn't discuss the war or Dad's role in it. Oddly, I knew which branch of the service most of the men in my neighborhood served in. I ca
Megan DiMaria
Nov 4, 20252 min read


For Readers: 10 Fun & Cozy Autumn Bucket-List Ideas
I'm always stumped when someone asks me my favorite season. I love them all, and I'm blessed to live where all four seasons are distinct and beautiful. One activity that is consistent for me, no matter the season, is reading a good book. As a fellow reader, I'm happy to share some autumn bucket-list ideas. The bottom line: keep warm and keep reading, friends! Yes, this list is tongue-in-cheek, but I hope you enjoy it—and pick up a book, and read. Go apple picking at a local o
Megan DiMaria
Oct 21, 20252 min read


Discover Your Next No-and-Low-Spice Read
Since we just entered cozy-reading season, I thought I'd help readers who are in search of no-and-low-spice novels.
Megan DiMaria
Oct 7, 20254 min read


List of 2025 Award-Winning Christian Fiction for Your TBR Pile!
Looking for some great novels to get lost in? These books have risen to the top in competition and beat out some of the best of the year's novels, so they're worth your time.
Megan DiMaria
Sep 16, 20251 min read


Megan DiMaria
Sep 2, 20250 min read


Megan DiMaria
Aug 19, 20250 min read


Seek Wisdom and Embrace a More Fulfilling Life, part 5
This week's wisdom installment is about behaving in a manner that displays your wisdom, kindness, and character.
Megan DiMaria
Aug 5, 20252 min read


List of New Christian Fiction Reads
There's practically nothing I love more than getting lost in the pages of a good book. Because of that, I have suggestions for some good reads, and these books are newer Christian novels (released in 2024) that are finalists in the ACFW Carol Awards.
Megan DiMaria
Jul 15, 20252 min read


Opportunity Alert: The Crown Award (and why you should enter contests!)
Entering contests as an unpublished writer can be a tremendous benefit. The costs are usually reasonable, and even if you don't final or win, you'll receive valuable feedback that can help you improve your craft.
Megan DiMaria
Jul 1, 20252 min read


Seek Wisdom and Embrace a More Fulfilling Life, part 4
Do you desire a more joyful and stress-free life? Seek wisdom. I've always been one to save wise words to live by. This is part 4 of a series.
Megan DiMaria
Jun 17, 20252 min read


Seek Wisdom and Embrace a More Fulfilling Life, part 3
I have been saving snippets for ages, and I love to share wisdom and tips.
Megan DiMaria
Jun 3, 20252 min read


Welcome, Martha Hutchens
I've had the pleasure of knowing Martha for a few years. We connected as writers, and she's one of the most upbeat, encouraging ladies...
Megan DiMaria
May 20, 20254 min read


Opportunity Alert: Christian Writing Conference & 10 Reasons to Attend a Conference
If you're in the Denver area or want to travel to a one-day Christian writing conference, consider attending the Rocky Mountain Christian Writing Conference.
Megan DiMaria
May 6, 20252 min read


Opportunity Alert: 2025 Scrivenings Press Writers Contests
I'm always pleased to share great writing opportunities with you. Contests are a wonderful way to get valuable feedback and these two look great.
Megan DiMaria
Apr 15, 20253 min read


Seek Wisdom and Embrace a More Fulfilling Life, part 2
Operating in wisdom will help you to successfully move through your days.
Megan DiMaria
Apr 1, 20252 min read
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