Margaret Ann Philbrick
Margaret Ann Philbrick writes to plant seeds in hearts. Her first novel, A Minor – A Novel of Love, Music and Memory (Koehler Books, 2014) garnered critical praise, “An emotional story…clear prose…delicately constructed….nuanced characters….breaks the mold.” Kirkus Reviews. Her second novel, House of Honor is forthcoming in the fall of 2023 (Ambassador International). Back to the Manger (Singing River Publications, 2009) created with her mother, an oil painter, is now a family Christmas classic with over ten years of consistent sales. She is the contributing editor of the essay and poetry collection for women, Everbloom (Paraclete Press, 2017). Margaret is a founding member of the Redbud Writers Guild. Her poems and articles have been featured in numerous anthologies and publications including Christianity Today, Relevant, Ready, Propel Women, The Redbud Post and Patheos. Her husband Charlie and their three highly dramatic, artistic children make their summer home in Baileys Harbor.
Fiction
A Minor - A Novel of Love, Music and Memory
Koehler Books, 2014
Clive Serkin, a teenage piano prodigy, seeks victory at the Tchaikovsky Piano Competition in Moscow, and enlists the help of world-renowned pianist Clare Cardiff. She becomes his mentor and teacher and even though she is more than twice his age, Clive finds himself falling in love with her. After Clare is diagnosed with early-onset dementia, Clare's estranged husband, Nero, takes her away from Clive to pursue further medical testing. Clive is faced with the challenge of traveling to Moscow and performing at the competition without his beloved mentor. Ultimately, he must discover if the music they share is enough to keep them together. "Margaret Philbrick educates us about the powerful role of music for those suffering dementia and for those who provide loving care." Best-selling author, Dr. Paul Nussbaum
House of Honor: The Heist of Caravaggio’s Nativity
June 2024, Ambassador International
Two Italian sons, linked by a masterpiece painting, are put to a test of loyalty and honor. At the heart of this gripping tale is Orazio Bordoni, the wayward son of a construction magnate, living a reckless life like that of his artistic hero Caravaggio. He finds himself befriended by Nicolo Giotto, the devoted son of a powerful Sicilian mafia clan, who wants to uphold the honor of his family. As the dark underbelly of the art world and the Vatican expose their true character, Orazio finds himself in a world where his loyalty is tested, honor is at stake, and the boundaries between life and art blur. He and Nicolo discover just how far they're willing to push the boundaries of love and fidelity to prove themselves, even if it means sacrificing everything else. House of Honor is a pivotal story that weaves the threads of history, the ruthless allure of the mafia, the enigmatic power of the Vatican, and the timeless brilliance of Caravaggio.
Children's
Back to the Manger - A Treasure Hunt for the Nativity
Singing River Publications, 2009
Throughout Inga's childhood, visiting an historic Neapolitan nativity scene each Christmas was a time-honored family tradition. One year when Inga takes her own children to see it, she discovers that the creche is missing. Inga takes up the quest to find this Christmas treasure and restore a bit of holiday magic to the heart of her family, her community and the Christmas season. "This is an enchanting story, evocative and beautiful with the joy of discovering what matters most." Best-selling author, Rebecca Manley Pippert
Nonfiction
Everbloom - Stories of Deeply Rooted and Transformed Lives
Paraclete Press, 2017
Margaret Philbrick and the women of Redbud Writers Guild give voice to the voiceless in this collection of essays, stories and poetry: intensely personal accounts of transformation, chronicling the journey to find their own voices. Best of all, they invite you to join them, with writing prompts that encourage a response of honesty, faith and imagination. Accept the invitation: set out on the journey to find your own voice. You are not alone and you deserve a life of depth and beauty, to Everbloom in all seasons. "Readers will find gold within these pages." Best-selling Door County author, Dee Brestin
