Day 2 – A Single Step

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

And there are also secret combinations, even as in times of old, according to the combinations of the devil, for he is the founder of all these things; yea, … and he leadeth them by the neck with a flaxen cord, until he bindeth them with his strong cords forever.
~ 2 Nephi 26:22 ~

There’s a reason the scriptures don’t say the adversary drags us with chains from the beginning. They say he starts with a flaxen cord—soft, subtle, almost unnoticeable.

Flaxen cords feel harmless. They feel like “I’m fine.” They feel like “It’s not that bad.” They feel like “Everyone else is the problem.” They can be associated with small compromises and everyday distractions that initially seem trivial, but over time can lead us down a path we never intended to walk.

We might find ourselves rationalizing decisions that, in retrospect, clearly lead away from our values or beliefs. Gradually, we become accustomed to the tightened grip of that cord, oblivious to our increasing vulnerability. Over time, each little distraction or compromise we accept acts as another loop in that cord, binding us tighter and tighter until we feel as though escape is impossible.

And then one day, you wake up and realize you’re not holding the cord. The cord is holding you. The realization can be jolting; it is a moment of clarity where we recognize how far we’ve strayed from our intended path. This moment often comes with feelings of regret, confusion, or despair, as we confront the reality of our situation.

This is exactly how 2 Nephi 26:22 operates in real life. Not with sudden destruction—but with slow spiritual erosion until the truth becomes unavoidable. It’s a gradual process, where the adversary uses our own indifference against us, allowing darker patterns to take root before we even realize the danger. Awareness becomes the first step toward liberation. By recognizing the effects of the flaxen cord, we can take action—whether seeking support, reevaluating our choices, or returning to foundational truths that can help strengthen us against the subtlety of temptation. Thus, the journey back to freedom is not only possible but essential for spiritual renewal and growth.

Hello and welcome fellow travelers. Today, we are going to focus on what it means to take that single step. How it breaks the flaxen cords that brought us into captivity, and how we take necessary action when we step out in faith and into God’s grace – a grace that empowers us to seek His will, His purpose, and brings us into a right relationship with who he is, his love, tender mercies, and joy.

Let’s pray

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Day 1 – The First Step – Honesty

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

“I do not boast in my own strength, nor in my own wisdom; but behold, my joy is full, yea, my heart is brim with joy, and I will rejoice in my God. Yeah, I know that I am nothing: as to my strength I am weak; therefore I will not boast of myself, but I will boast of my God, for in his strength I can do all things” (Alma 26:11-12)

Addiction surrenders later freedom to choose. Through chemical means, one can literally become disconnected from his or her own will.” (Elder Russell M. Nelson, in Conference Report, October 1988, 7; or Ensign, Nov. 1988, 7). 

There comes a moment in our own personal journey when the illusion of self-sufficiency collapses. We discover that the strength we trusted has betrayed us, and the wisdom we followed has led us into bondage. Yet this moment – this breaking – is not the end. It is the doorway to the only strength that can save us.

Welcome, fellow travelers. Today we walk together into the holy paradox of recovery: the place where admitting our nothingness becomes the birthplace of divine strength. The scriptures do not shame our weakness – they reveal it as the very place where Christ meets us. This journey towards wholeness involves a profound acknowledgment of our vulnerability and the limitations of our mortal existence. As we explore these spiritual truths, we uncover the transformative power inherent in our weaknesses, enabling us to forge a deeper relationship with our Creator.

Heavenly Father, we come as we are – empty, weary, and aware of our need. Thank you for your grace that teaches us the freedom of surrender. Thank you for teaching us the joy of boasting only in Your grace that strengthens us in our own weakness. Thank you for your grace that fills our nothingness with Thy strength, that we may rise in the light of Thy truth – in Jesus’ name, Amen.

There is a sacred honesty that God requires before He can remake a soul. It is not the honesty of mere confession, nor the honesty of admitting mistakes. It is the honesty of reaching the end of our own resources and discovering that our strength has never been enough. Alma’s declaration— “I know that I am nothing”—is not the groan of despair but the first breath of spiritual clarity. It is the moment when the soul stops pretending, shedding the facade of self-reliance to embrace the empowering truth of dependence on God. This is where healing begins—a transformative process that beckons us to lay down our burdens.

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5 Solid Reasons the Abrahamic Covenant Makes the Trinity Impossible: The Father and Son Revealed in Scripture

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

For centuries, Christians have read Genesis 22 as a foreshadowing of Christ’s sacrifice. But when you slow down and actually study the text — the covenant structure, the typology, the roles of Abraham, Isaac, and the Angel of the Lord — something startling emerges:

The story only makes sense if the Father and the Son are separate, distinct divine beings. Not one being in three manifestations. Not “without body, parts, or passions.” Not the metaphysics of the 4th‑century creeds.

Genesis 22 quietly dismantles the classical Trinity — not through argument, but through narrative logic. The intricate details within the text draw attention to the unique roles played by each character involved, suggesting a profound relationship rather than a singularity of essence. The distinct actions and motivations of Abraham and Isaac, coupled with the divine intervention of the Angel of the Lord, create a rich tapestry of covenantal dynamics that aligns with the understanding of a separate Father and Son.

And once you see it, you can’t unsee it.

The text itself tells us that Abraham’s offering of Isaac was “a similitude of God and His Only Begotten Son” (Jacob 4:5). That means the story is not merely symbolic — it is covenantal drama. A reenactment. A prophetic preview. It sets up a scenario where the identity of God is not just established by abstract definitions, but by tangible actions and relationships that unfold throughout the narrative, reinforcing the need for distinct divine entities within the story.

  • Abraham = the Father (El Elyon)
  • Isaac = the Son (YHWH / Jesus Christ)
  • The Angel of the Lord = YHWH intervening
  • The Ram = the substitute sacrifice provided by the Son Himself

But here’s the problem for classical Trinitarian theology:

A being cannot covenant with Himself. A being cannot offer Himself to Himself. A being cannot substitute for Himself.

Yet that is exactly what the Abrahamic narrative requires if the Father and the Son are not distinct beings. The narrative requires a sacrificial offering that conveys deep relational significance. The act of Abraham being asked to sacrifice his son not only serves as a test of faith, but also as a prelude to a much greater divine act of love and sacrifice. The intricacies presented in Genesis 22 reflect the essence of divine relationships that contradict the notion of a singular being.

The entire story collapses under Nicene metaphysics — but it becomes beautifully coherent in a Latter‑day Saint reading of the Godhead. This perspective not only makes sense of the narrative but also invites readers to engage with the text in a way that reveals a more nuanced understanding of who God is in a relationship with humanity.

This isn’t sensationalism. It’s careful, text‑driven theology supported by biblical scholarship and restored scripture. Scholars widely recognize Genesis 22 as a covenantal test and a typology of divine sacrifice. The events leading to the sacrificial act have a resonance throughout scripture, inviting further exploration of God’s nature and His intentions toward His children.

The Book of Mormon explicitly identifies the event as a similitude of the Father and the Son (Jacob 4:5), strengthening the argument for distinct divine persons within the Abrahamic narrative. Classical creeds describe God as “without body, parts, or passions” (Westminster Confession). That metaphysical framework cannot sustain the relational, embodied, covenantal drama of Genesis 22. It lacks the relational depth that is essential to understanding the interactions within the story.

In this article, we’ll walk through:

  • Why the Abraham–Isaac narrative presupposes two divine persons in real covenantal relationship.
  • How the cut covenant (Genesis 15) requires two parties who can engage in meaningful interaction.
  • Why the Angel of the Lord is best understood as YHWH, the premortal Christ, intervening in history with divine purpose.
  • Why the ram, not a lamb, matters significantly as a symbol of substitutionary sacrifice.
  • And how all of this aligns seamlessly with Latter‑day Saint theology while exposing the weaknesses of post‑biblical Trinitarian formulations.

If you’ve ever sensed that the God of the creeds feels abstract, distant, or philosophically over‑engineered, Genesis 22 offers a different vision — one rooted in relationship, embodiment, covenant, and divine love that is anything but passionless. Through this lens, one can find a God who is intimately involved in the lives of His people, crafting a narrative of redemption that resonates with both ancient and modern believers.

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Come Follow Me: Feb 16-22 – Genesis 12-17; Abraham 1-2 | “To be a Greater Follower of Righteousness

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

Abraham’s story is more than ancient history — it is the blueprint for every disciple who seeks covenant belonging, divine protection, and a future filled with hope. This week’s Come, Follow Me study reveals how God transforms ordinary people into extraordinary instruments of righteousness. The narrative not only showcases the life of Abraham but also serves as a powerful reminder that faith can lead to significant change and divine outcomes.

From Abraham’s near‑sacrifice in Ur to the sweeping promises of the Abrahamic Covenant, these chapters unveil the pattern of deliverance, faith, priesthood, and covenant identity that defines the gospel of Jesus Christ. Each event in Abraham’s journey can be viewed as a stepping stone toward understanding how God interacts with humankind and the purpose He has for each of us in fulfilling His divine plan.

Drawing from Genesis, the Book of Abraham, the Pearl of Great Price Student Manual, and the Come, Follow Me 2026 manual, this commentary provides doctrinal clarity, historical context, and practical application for modern disciples. This comprehensive approach allows readers to see the relevancy of Abraham’s story in today’s context, encouraging them to deepen their understanding of their own faith journeys.

Abraham’s life is a witness that righteous desires shape destiny. Though born into a family steeped in idolatry, Abraham “sought for the blessings of the fathers” and desired “to be a greater follower of righteousness” (Abraham 1:2). His story demonstrates that God honors righteous desire with revelation, deliverance, and covenant belonging. This ideal underscores the power of longing for a deeper connection with God and striving for righteousness, emphasizing that such pursuits are met with divine support and guidance.

This study argues that:

Abraham’s early trials reveal the pattern of divine deliverance. Each trial faced by Abraham not only tested his faith but also set the stage for miraculous intervention by the Lord, reinforcing the belief that faith often precedes divine action.

The Abrahamic Covenant is the foundation of all latter‑day covenant identity. This covenant is essential in understanding the relationship between God and His people, serving as a framework for spiritual growth and community among believers.

Abraham’s life models what it means to walk the covenant path with faith, sacrifice, and obedience. His unwavering commitment in the face of uncertainty illustrates the essence of discipleship. Disciples today are called to emulate this model, highlighting the importance of perseverance, trust, and dedication on their own journeys.

Ultimately, the exploration of Abraham’s life serves as both an educational and inspirational guide for individuals seeking to embrace a deeper sense of identity within their covenant relationship with God. It challenges readers to reflect on their own journeys, urging them to strive for the kind of faith that transforms lives and leads to lasting hope.

God often begins His work in the quiet soil of longing, where dreams lie dormant, waiting for the gentle touch of faith to cultivate them. In this sacred space, where silence speaks volumes and sincere desires take root, the heart learns to hope anew, nurturing seeds of potential that, with time and devotion, will blossom into a beautiful manifestation of His divine purpose. It is here that we discover the deep connection between our longings and the unfolding of His plans, reminding us that even in the stillness, something remarkable is taking shape beneath the surface, preparing us for the amazing journey ahead.

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Does the Book of Mormon Teach “Mormonism”? Examining the Claim Before the Debate Begins

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

Does the Book of Mormon contradict Mormon doctrine—or is this another case of critics debating a faith they haven’t actually given over to comprehend and understand?

There is a recent video discussion between Melissa Dougherty and Keith Walker claims that “The Book of Mormon does not teach what Mormons believe.” That’s a bold assertion. It sounds persuasive. It spreads quickly. And it’s wrong in ways that reveal more about evangelical presuppositions than about Latter-day Saint scripture.

Due to the reality of response needed for this interview between Melissa Dougherty and Keith Walker, I will be addressing each segment of the point-by-point rebuttal in separate and subsequent blog posts and video responses. This approach is essential, as it allows for a thorough engagement with their arguments. Each segment will be dissected, providing not only a rebuttal but also an opportunity to delve into the core teachings of the LDS Faith. I will strive to offer a comprehensive expository and exegetical analysis of their claims.

In my exploration, I aim to shed light on the teachings of the Book of Mormon, contextualizing them within the broader spectrum of Latter-day Saint theology. Over the past thirty years, I have come to profoundly understand and appreciate these teachings, and I believe it is crucial to convey them in their intended spirit. Each post will serve to clarify misconceptions, respectfully counter claims made by the critics, and illustrate how these beliefs are rooted in scripture and prophetic teachings.

To the point, this sequence of responses will also highlight the importance of understanding faith from within. Engaging sincerely with a belief system requires an openness to learn and understand its scriptures and doctrines. Therefore, I encourage readers to approach the upcoming discussions with a willingness to explore different perspectives. Through this method, I hope to foster a respectful dialogue that promotes understanding rather than division.

Therefore, each response does three things’ critics rarely do:

  1. Steelman their arguments rather than caricature them. Critics often oversimplify or misrepresent beliefs, making it easy to refute a distorted version of Mormon doctrine rather than engaging with genuine Latter-day Saint teachings. By presenting a more nuanced interpretation, this response aims to foster understanding and promote thoughtful dialogue, which can be a rare occurrence in discussions about faith.
  2. Engage the actual text of the Book of Mormon and the Bible. Many critiques are rooted in a lack of familiarity with the foundational texts themselves. This response will delve deeply into specific verses, themes, and doctrines found in both the Book of Mormon and the Bible that align with Latter-day Saint beliefs. By utilizing the actual scriptures, we provide clarity and context, allowing the audience to comprehend the rich theology woven throughout these sacred texts.
  3. Explain LDS doctrine as Latter-day Saints understand it, not as outsiders imagine it. It’s critical to delineate between the caricature of belief often presented by critics and the lived faith of Latter-day Saints. This engagement will showcase how adherents interpret their scriptures, the importance of prophetic revelation in their doctrine, and how teachings have evolved over time within their faith community, promoting a more authentic representation of what Mormons believe.

These are not mere hit pieces. They are well-researched and a careful, evidence-based, expository, and exegetical response. By seeking to understand rather than simply demolish, we create a space for constructive conversation, challenging misconceptions, and illuminating the deeper aspects of a faith that, for many, serves as a guiding light in their lives. The goal is not to dismiss critiques outright but to respond with insight and clarity, enriching the understanding of both Latter-day Saints and those who are curious about their beliefs.

The interview highlights a persistent critique of what some are labeling the Impossible Gospel of Mormonism. Critics argue that this gospel presents a troubling standard: forgiveness is only available following the complete abandonment of sin, a standard that seems unattainable for any individual. Such a viewpoint can be disheartening, especially for those striving to align their lives with gospel principles.

Keith Walker, representing Evidence Ministries, brings over 30 years of experience serving and evangelizing among members of the LDS faith and adherents of Jehovah’s Witnesses. His approach emphasizes the concept of same vocabulary, different dictionary, which aims to foster respect for individuals while critiquing their doctrinal views. However, this method can sometimes create confusion about the true nature of Latter-day Saint beliefs.

From a mindful Latter-day Saint apologetic perspective, it is essential to engage in these discussions with an evidence-based and rational framework. While critiques may arise, they often stem from misunderstandings or a lack of familiarity with LDS doctrine. Trust can be built through open, respectful dialogue that accurately represents the beliefs and practices of Latter-day Saints. It is important to clarify that the teachings of the Book of Mormon do, in fact, align with the beliefs of its adherents, emphasizing grace, personal responsibility, and the process of repentance in a way that many might find both rational and life-affirming.

My goal is one of purpose and intention where I want to address these theological discussions. One that requires both an understanding of differing viewpoints and a commitment to presenting LDS doctrine in its true light. Through thoughtful engagement, we can demystify misconceptions and foster understanding amongst all parties involved.

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COMING SOON — FEATURE ATTRACTION | Don’t Forget to Rewind

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

Gooooood day, ladies, gentlemen, and all lovers of rewound magnetic tape! This is your host broadcasting live from the cluttered, popcorn‑scented front counter of a story still under construction. Yes, that’s right — the creative scaffolding is up, the characters are pacing backstage, and someone has definitely misplaced the rewinder again.

What’s coming? A brand‑new retro‑comedy adventure straight from the golden age of VHS, where the drop‑box clanks, the fluorescent lights hum, and the employees take their jobs way too seriously. Imagine a world where the layout of the store is a labyrinth, the walls adorned with posters of blockbuster hits—you know, the ones everyone claims to have watched but really just used as background noise while scrolling through their phones. Enter Rex “The Reel Deal” Thompson, manager of Hollywood Nights Video, a man whose dedication to the bygone era of physical media makes him more passionate than a desperate film buff at a yard sale.

Across the street, Marvin “The Marvel” Pickett of BlockBusterama!, engages in a rivalry with Rex “The Wrecking Ball” Dalton of Hollywood Nights Video that’s as heated as a VCR left in the sun. Marvin may not have the charm of a young George Clooney, but he sure knows how to throw a killer movie night event—complete with popcorn-fueled trivia contests that leave the participants questioning why they ever thought Titanic could sink.

For years, these two have battled it out in the ultimate face-off for the title of Best Video Rental Store, using tactics as absurd as trying to sell bottled air from famous movie sets and outrageous pricing strategies that only a psychotic accountant could love. Picture Rex attempting to lure customers in with an audacious “Rent One, Get One Free—Plus Your Next Three For Just A Dollar” promotion, while Marvin counters with a whacky “Free Lemonade with Every Rental”—that is, until he unwittingly creates a sugar-fueled frenzy and blames it on the “Killer Tomatoes”.

But as fate would have it, their comedic competition is about to face a beast far more formidable than any raffle stunt or “Guess the Movie Quote” competition. Enter OmniFlix Streamplus: the slick, soulless streaming service that arrived like a tidal wave, sweeping away the remnants of video rental culture in a blink. Utilizing technology so advanced it might as well have come from a Marvel movie set; it promises instant access to any film from the comfort of a person’s couch. Suddenly Rex’s charming, cluttered aisles filled with nostalgia feel more like a relic from a distant past, gathering dust along with old copies of “Dude, Where’s My Car?”

As this digital coup unfolds, the real comedy begins to unravel—not just the hilarious antics of Rex and Marvin’s doomed competition, but also their need to navigate this new reality. With wacky plot twists coming at us faster than a rewinding VHS tape, our two foes will have to unite against the common enemy. Rex still clings to the dream of showing halfheartedly edited reels of classic films during midnight screenings, while Marvin devises absurd marketing gimmicks, like “All You Can Rent” days and “Surprise DVD Buffets.” (Spoiler alert: nobody wanted stale popcorn balls or expired candy).

The journey is punctuated by outrageous cameo characters, including a crazed conspiracy theorist who swears that OmniFlix is a front for extraterrestrial film preservation, leading to a quest that sees our duo dodging rickety movie props, mistaken identity crises, and an angry mob of disgruntled customers dressed as iconic movie characters—think Star Wars meets A Clockwork Orange meets a neon rave.

As we rewind through this slapstick affair, expect your share of movie title references, ingenious gags, and comedic gold that rips apart the very fabric of modern conveniences, turning it into a chaotic romp filled with nostalgia and laughter. The story unfolds in perfect reverse storytelling fashion—beginning with the surprising aftermath of their epic fight against OmniFlix and rewinding to reveal how it all began, how their rivalry turned into allyship, and how a simple love for films sparked a battle worth watching.

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CFM Feb 9-15: Genesis 6-11; Moses 8 – “Noah Found Grace in the Eyes of the Lord”

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

Every generation eventually reaches a moment when it looks around and whispers, “Something is wrong with the world.” In these times, violence feels all too normal, permeating the fabric of society and influencing our daily lives. The mockery of faith becomes a fashionable trend, with belief systems ridiculed and disregarded as obsolete or irrelevant. Covenant identity, once held as sacred and unbreakable, is now treated as merely optional, leading many to question their values and commitments.

Amidst this unsettling atmosphere, the quiet, steady voice of God seems drowned out by the cacophony of a culture sprinting toward self-destruction. The distractions and temptations of the modern world are many, each vying for our attention and allegiance, leaving little room for genuine reflection on our spiritual existence.

Genesis 6–11 is not ancient history. It’s a mirror reflecting our current realities. Within these verses, we can find resonating truths about the human condition and the inherent struggles we face in a world rife with chaos. The narratives captured in these chapters hold profound relevance today, illustrating the timeless nature of our challenges and the critical need for divine intervention amidst suffering and despair.

Moses 8 is not merely a prelude to the Flood; it functions as a prophetic commentary on what true discipleship can look like when the world is collapsing around you. This text invites readers to consider their own paths and the steadfastness required to remain faithful in the face of overwhelming adversity. The examples set forth serve as reminders that unwavering dedication to one’s beliefs can be both a source of strength and a beacon of hope in dark times.

Noah’s story is not merely a story about a simple boat; it is an embodiment of a God who passionately refuses to give up on His children. The narrative illustrates the depths of divine love and commitment, showing that even when humanity falters, God’s covenant remains steadfast. It’s about a covenant that refuses to die despite the floods of life that threaten to engulf us. It’s about grace that finds us, even when the world is drowning in despair, offering a lifeline steeped in hope, redemption, and the promise of a new beginning. This grace reminds us that no matter how far we stray, we are never beyond the reach of divine mercy and love.

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Cover Reveal: Mourning Ellyn — Launching February 28, 2026

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

Today I finally get to share something I’ve been working toward for a long time: the official cover reveals for Mourning Ellyn. This story has lived with me for years—through drafts, rewrites, and the quiet hours where Jaymes and Ellyn’s world kept tugging at me to finish what I started. Seeing the cover come together feels like watching the emotional heart of the book step into the light.

The artwork captures the soul of the story: grief, love, memory, and the fragile hope that rises even in the darkest places. Jaymes sits in the rain, surrounded by the weight of loss, embodying the struggle that many face when confronted with the grief of losing someone dear. His expression conveys a depth of emotion that resonates with anyone who has experienced similar heartache, reminding us of the complexities of love that often-come hand in hand with sorrow.

Ellyn lingers in the shadows of the back cover—present, watching, guiding. Her role as a soothing presence, even in absence, symbolizes the enduring impact of relationships that persist despite physical distance. The cover design serves as a poignant visual echo of the journey they share across the pages, highlighting the intertwining of their lives and the lessons learned through their shared experiences.

This reveal is not just a moment of pride for me as the author, but also a celebration of the story itself and the themes that it embodies. I hope that when readers see the cover, they feel a connection to the journey before them, one that is deeply layered and reflective of the human experience. It is my wish that Mourning Ellyn resonates as much with you as it has with me throughout this creative process. Your support means everything, and I can’t wait for you to join Jaymes and Ellyn on this emotional expedition.

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Mourning Ellyn— Pre‑Launch Update & Story Summary

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

The journey to bring Mourning Ellyn into the world is nearly complete. After months of writing, revising, restructuring, and rediscovering the emotional heart of this story, I’m excited to announce that the Kindle and Print Editions will officially launch on February 28, 2026.

This novel has grown into something deeper and more resonant than I first imagined — a story about grief, connection, redemption, and the quiet ways love continues even after loss.

Below is a full summary for readers who want to understand the heart of the book before launch.

Story Summary

Jaymes Sprague’s life shatters in an instant when his wife, Ellyn, dies unexpectedly. Only days after her passing, he finds himself slipping back into old destructive habits — the very ones he fought so hard to overcome. Grief becomes a storm he can’t outrun, and the world around him feels dimmer, heavier, and unbearably quiet.

But Jaymes isn’t as alone as he believes.

As detectives investigate the circumstances surrounding Ellyn’s death, Jaymes begins to sense her presence in the quiet spaces of his life — in memory, in intuition, in the pulse of something beyond the veil. Her love lingers, urging him forward even as he struggles to stand.

Everything changes when Jaymes finally realizes Ellyn is there, in the pulse, guiding him, anchoring him. Jaymes is forced to confront the man he became… and the man he still has the chance to be.

With the help of two detectives — Shania, steady and intuitive, and Chandler, a man quietly unraveling under the weight of his own ghosts — Jaymes begins to uncover the truth behind Ellyn’s final moments. What he finds is not just closure, but a path toward healing, forgiveness, and rediscovery.

Mourning Ellyn is a story about the fragile beauty of second chances, the power of family, and the enduring presence of love that refuses to fade — even beyond the grave.

Launch Date

Kindle Edition: February 28, 2026 Print Edition: February 28, 2026

Both formats will release together for a unified launch.

What’s Next

Over the coming weeks, I’ll share:

  • Preview excerpts
  • Behind‑the‑scenes notes
  • Character insights
  • Launch announcements
  • Pre‑order links as soon as they’re available

Thank you for your support as this story finds its way into the world. This book is deeply personal, and I’m grateful to share it with you.

More updates soon.

Mourning Ellyn — Rewrite Progress Update (Mid‑Chapter Twelve)

Timothy R. BermanLeave a comment

Tonight’s writing session brought a major milestone: I’m officially halfway through Chapter Twelve of the revised and expanded edition of Mourning Ellyn. This rewrite has become far more than a simple polish — it’s a full emotional and structural transformation of the original 2006 manuscript. The story is not just evolving; it is expanding into new dimensions that I had not anticipated during the initial drafting process.

As I dive deeper into the narrative, I find that the characters are developing in unexpected ways, revealing complexities that enrich their journeys and intensify the emotional core of the tale. Each rewritten page brings a greater sense of cohesion to the plot, allowing the themes of love, loss, and redemption to resonate more profoundly with readers. What began as a personal recounting of grief has now transcended into a richer tapestry, beautifully intertwining elements of paranormal romance with the weight of supernatural tragedy that I always envisioned for this story.

Additionally, I’ve been incorporating and refining the pacing and character arcs, ensuring that each moment feels purposeful and engaging. I’ve taken the time to explore backstories and motivations that were previously untapped, resulting in a narrative that feels both complete and ready to captivate a broader audience.

Below is a snapshot of the journey so far, reflecting on the significant changes and the emotional depth I’ve strived to achieve throughout this process. Each milestone in this creative endeavor marks a step closer to honoring the essence of Mourning Ellyn as it was meant to be, a story filled with heart and supernatural intrigue.

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