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Debut author is award finalist for “Spark”

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Centre County author J.M. Hackman’s debut novel, “Spark,” is a finalist for the Christian Editor Connection’s Excellence in Editing Award.

The announcement was made May 4 at PENCON, the only conference for editors in the Christian market, held in Grand Rapids, Mich.

The annual award celebrates “superbly written and well-edited books published by a Christian Booksellers Association publisher.”

“Spark” was published in 2017 by Love2ReadLove2Write Publishing.

Hackman says she loves bookstores and libraries, and she spent her childhood visiting these magical places and writing. Since graduating from Penn State, she has held many positions: assistant librarian, office assistant, office manager, substitute teacher, author, wife, and mother. She says she “still holds the last three jobs.”

J.M. HACKMAN

The author says she “spends her days writing stories, consuming massive quantities of dark chocolate and Coke Zero, and looking for portals to other worlds.”

Her short stories have been published in two anthologies (Realmscapes and Mythical Doorways).

“Spark” is a clean, young adult fantasy focusing on Brenna James, a 16-year-old with Attention Deficit Disorder. Along with romance and adventure, the themes of self-worth, self-confidence, and utilizing your unique abilities are woven into the fabric of the story. It’s a valuable message, but never more crucial than now during this period of women’s empowerment, according to the author.

“Spark” is Book One of The Firebrand Chronicles. The sequel, “Flare,” is scheduled to be released this October.

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