From the back cover of “Love in the Balance” Molly Lovelace dreams of being a society leader in 1879 Lockhart, Texas, but being smitten with handsome wrangler Bailey Garner doesn’t seem the quickest route. If only he would settle down so he could support a family.
Bailey imagines doing great things for God, but his greatest obstacle is Molly. As long as he thought they’d be married, he excused their stolen kisses, but when she keeps refusing, he vows to earn her love. In town, he tries his hand at several different trades, but everywhere he turns he runs into the mysterious stranger Edward Pierrepont. No surprise that Molly’s always making calf eyes at the wealthy adventurer.
As pressure from Molly’s parents grows she is forced into a hasty decision. Had she weighed all her options and will she find love in the balance?
Everyone in Lockhart, Texas has expectations. Molly Lovelace’s parents expect her to pick a suitable husband and settle down. Molly expects wrangler Bailey Garner to pick a more stable job. And Bailey expects Molly to accept him as he is.
It’s a bumpy beginning for the folks of Lockhart in 1879. But the opening scene of the book, which takes places in church during the Sunday service, literally made me laugh out loud.
I had a lot of fun becoming a part of Lockhart. Jennings paints a vivid picture of the Texas town and its cast of characters that absorbed me into the story. I loved going to work each day with Molly at the courthouse.
I don’t read a lot of historical novels but the characters in this book are identifiable with us today. Molly in particular has a lot of room for spiritual growth. Her actions aren’t always the most likeable. But neither are mine. I appreciated the authenticity of Molly’s character. The journey to defining love is exciting and real. Jennings has written a story that subtly reminds us the importance of acceptance.
I chatted with Regina recently about the characters spiritual journey.
Me: All of the characters seemed to have expectations of one another in the book. And often they let one another down. Did this figure into how you wanted the spiritual plot to play out.
Regina: You know, a character doesn’t grow or mature without trouble. Often we don’t turn to God until everyone else has let us down. I wanted the growth to be realistic, and for that to happen they had to be desperate.
If you missed the book’s launch party, check out the link for photos and and QandA with Regina about the book.
Be sure to stop by Regina’s site for fun facts about the real town that inspired the book.
I received a copy of “Love in the Balance” from Litfuse Publicity in exchange for an honest review. The opinions are my own.
I hesitated before signing up to review it. Would this be another book that only spoke to a woman’s Christian role as a wife and mother? Would it swing the other way and make no differentiation between the biblical roles of men and women? The title really intrigued me so I took a chance.
When the book arrived packaged in bubble wrap I prayed “please Lord let my enthusiasm for this book last longer than it takes for me to pop the bubble wrap.”
The first paragraph-an example from the author’s life-had me cringing, afraid that the book would be filled with true-ish stories of Jane Christian that we’re all supposed to relate to. But the next few pages had me grinning! This is the most refreshing book I’ve ever read that is written for women because it doesn’t speak to a certain group of women based on a season of life. Single, married, never married, divorced, widowed, childless, mother to more kids than the Duggars..none of these is your primary identity.
We (both male and female) are created in the image of God and are being conformed back to the example of Christ. Ruth is not the idea for women-Jesus is. Our identity is completely tied to what He has done for us.
Not that Alsup ignores and discounts our everyday roles. But she focuses on subjects that apply to every woman.
The book begins in the beginning, literally, as we look to Genesis to the account of woman’s creation. It progresses through our fallen state to our redeemed state in Christ. Subjects like godliness with contentment and forgiveness are explored by focusing on the Gospel and all of Scripture.
This is a book that examines theology, ladies. Don’t be intimidated. Theology isn’t just for guys. And theology for women is more than being a Proverbs 31 woman (which is addressed in the book.)
There are several word studies which examine how and why the Bible uses a word. The word helper is explored. I’d always equated helper with helpmeet as it applies to married women. It was certainly encouraging to read that each woman is called to be a helper.
God Himself is our example on what it means to be a helper suitable to the needs of our male counterpart, and His example reveals a high and worthy calling for women to embrace. Christian women are not glorified maids, butlers, or cooks waiting on an order to perform for a master. This is not God’s example of help at all! We are called to be conduits of God’s grace in our homes. We are called to be like Christ.
All of the points made in this book are firmly rooted in and thoroughly backed up with Scripture. From Genesis, to the Gospels, to the Epistles, you’ll find yourself being led to the Bible in every chapter. Ephesians is heavily referenced (as Alsup has written a study on the book) and I found myself not just reading the verses listed but entire books of the Bible.
My only complaint about the book is that a few of the sentences were confusing-not the point, just the structure. But then the author is a math teacher, a subject I’ve often misunderstood.
Do I agree exactly with every point in the book? No but it’s not Scripture. The book not only encouraged me but it called me to examine myself and to examine Scripture. Unlike many books I read, this material didn’t go in one ear and out the other. I think I’ll be applying what I learned in many situations for the rest of my days.
I mentioned that I’d like to give everyone a copy of the book. I can’t but I can give away one copy. To enter, visit the website of Susan’s Kids, a charity close to my heart. (www.susanskids.com) Leave a comment on this post (be sure to leave an email address.) The winner will be drawn on April 30. The winner will have five days to respond or a new winner will be drawn.
**I received a free copy of this book from LitFuse Publicity Group in exchange for an honest review. **
About The Gospel-Center Woman:
Understanding Biblical Womanhood through the Lens of the Gospel
Many Christian books written to women claim to present God’s good instructions for their lives. Some expound on the value of marriage and children. Many extol the virtues of the Proverbs 31 wife. A good number teach the value of love, submission, and respect in Christian marriages. Though this book deals with these topics, The Gospel-Centered Woman addresses women from an entirely different perspective. The most important part of the Bible’s instructions to women center around the gospel. Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection brought about a seismic shift in our understanding of Scripture. After His resurrection, His disciples understood words written thousands of years before with a clarity they never had previously. The good news of Christ illuminates all other Scripture, including instructions to women.
Link to buy the book: http://ow.ly/jgKJd
Meet Wendy:
Wendy Alsup is a wife, mom, and math teacher. She is the author of “Practical Theology for Women: How Knowing God Makes a Difference in Our Daily Lives” and “By His Wounds You are Healed: How the Message of Ephesians Transforms a Woman’s Identity”.
Maybe this will make up for the hour of sleep most of us lost when the clock sprang forward early this morning-TWO FREE EBOOKS. But both titles are page turners that might mean reading until the wee hours. Maybe it’s not meant for us to get our beauty sleep this week.
Sidelined by injuries from a vicious assault, chaplain Riley Hale is determined to return to her former duties as an ER nurse. But how can she show she’s competent when the hospital won’t let her attempt even simple tasks? Determined to prove herself, Riley volunteers at a controversial urban free clinic despite her fears about the maverick doctor in charge. Dr. Jack Travis defends his clinic like he’s commander of the Alamo. He’ll fight the community’s efforts to shut its doors, even if he must use Riley Hale’s influential family name to make it happen. As Riley strives to regain her skills, Jack finds that she shares his compassion—and stirs his lonely heart. Riley senses that beneath Jack’s rough exterior is a man she can believe in. But when clinic protests escalate and questions surface about his past, Jack goes into battle mode and Riley wonders if it’s dangerous to trust him with her heart.
Even if your experience on a horse is limited to the mechanical kind, come on and saddle up for the romantic western by Loree Lough. “Beautiful Bandit” volume 1 in the Lone Star Legends trilogy is available as a free ebook as of this post. Click on the photo for the Kindle download.
Joshua Neville is a quiet, even-keeled rancher who was just minding his own business when he witnessed a brazen bank robbery in San Antonio, Texas, that leaves three men dead. Even more shocking than the heist itself is that the ringleader looked like a woman!Weeks later, when Josh is on the trail, a lost and confused woman stumbles upon his campsite. He agrees to take “Dinah” to Mexico, but soon their journey is hampered by harsh weather and wild animals. When Dinah breaks her ankle, Josh takes her to his ranch to heal.As the two grow closer, Josh realizes he’s fallen in love, even as he learns the truth about Dinah. But does he know the whole story? And, after the truth comes out, will he put his life at risk to keep her with him?
I’ve seen this style of scarf everywhere for the past year. Despite being a pretty competent crocheter I was intimidated by the ribbon like yarn. One internet search and 2.5 hours later I’d created my first Sashay Scarf. It’s made from Red Heart Sashay yarn and the color is Rumba. Even if you’ve never picked up a crochet hook before you can breeze through the Sashay Scarf thanks to the free video tutorial at Livin’ Looney.
Veronica Jane’s coworkers know her as Vee, the passionate, spunky and determined female firefighter.
No one gets a taste of Vee’s tough side more than co-worker Ben Atwood. The two have been butting heads for a while. But there’s more than meets the eye with their relationship.
When Veronica Jane enrolls in an online Spanish class she strikes up a virtual friendship with classmate BJ. The two exchange a series of emails that reveal more than details about the class assignments.
Meanwhile at work Vee and Ben begin a tentative truce that has both of them rethinking the other.
I love a feisty heroine. It’s pretty cute the way Ben came make Vee hot under the collar. Yet the two quickly move beyond the tension as they mature personally and as they grow in their relationships with each other and with Christ.
I was very pleased with the story’s ending and with the journey along the way.
Click on the book’s photo to the left to read an excerpt or to order it in ebook or paperback formats. Also look for “Meeting Mr. Right” in the book aisle of big box and grocery stores through the end of March.
*I was provided with a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Jennifer Evans’ scars are still fresh from the explosion that nearly killed her and the fire that cost her her home, beloved dog, career and fiance. She arrives in Tipton, Vermont in search of refuge and reconciliation with her brother. Bill Morgan, her brother’s roommate and coworker at the Wild River Nature Center, is a complication that her healing heart doesn’t want.
Bill is instantly turned off by Jenn’s career as an actress, after being burned by his former girlfriend who chose the bright stage lights over him. His conscience tells him to offer her hospitality while she recovers.
As the two are thrown together as they prepare for her brother’s wedding, Bill is drawn to Jenn and helps her accept her physical scars. But it’s the scars on her heart left by her parents death ten years ago that could keep them a part. Jenn is still angry at God for not answering her prayers to let them live.
Bill’s faith is based on actions and few words. His attempts to explain Jesus as a trust worthy healer push Jenn away. He falls deeper in love with her even as he knows they can’t have a future. Bill wonders if his prayers salvation are motivated by the wrong reasons.
As Jenn is loved on by the people of Tipton, she encounters the words of Christ lived out among believers. As she ponders her friends reasons for believing, she turns to the Bible Her heart softens as she sees Bill’s faith lived out.
I enjoyed “Surrendered Hearts” by Carrie Turansky because of the flawed characters. Even Bill, the mature Christian hero, isn’t a perfect prince charming (though he does lend some aid to the damsel in distress.)
The dialog kept me turning the pages. There’s lots of genuine emotion, from Jenn’s struggle to trust God to funny lighthearted romance.
The nature park setting adds a lot to the story and I really felt like I’d traveled to Vermont. There’s a cast of charming supporting characters and a very realistic “bad guy.” The ending felt a tad rushed but it was a satisfying end to a very enjoyable read.
This is book two in the Vermont Blessings series and I’m going to buy number one “Along Came Love.”
After I posted book five in my 100 books in 2013 challenge I realized that I never reviewed book three. There’s a very good reason that I work with words instead of numbers.
Book three is “Naked Heat” by Richard Castle. Yes, I admit, I read a book “written” by a fictional TV character. I’m going to say something I never thought I’d say about a book. Instead of reading “Naked Heat” just go and watch a couple of hours of the TV show Castle. An episode of the show is much more rewarding than the book. If you want to read the summary of the plot, click through to Goodreads. I only gave the book 2 stars so instead of rehashing what I didn’t like about the book, I’ll just leave you with this.
Before you read what I have to say about the book, why not click thru and read the 1st chapter of the book for free?
From the back cover of “Her Valentine Hero.”
“This handsome football coach cannot be little Jonny Turner, Neely Andrews’s best friend’s kid brother. Back in high school, Jonny was nothing but a pest. When family troubles bring Neely back to her hometown, Jon is there to offer friendship and support and maybe something more. Turns out that Jon has adored her from afar all these years.Neely has to admit he’s become the kind of man who’d make any woman proud. But will a terrible secret from her past scare him off? Or will Jon make her feel free enough to share everything with him?”
My thoughts: The book is deeper than the title implies. The story has very little to do with Valentine’s Day, which plays only a small (but sweet) role at the end.
Neely is a thirty something who’s biggest problem isn’t her unemployment, her ailing father, her widowed sister, her weight, or her love life. Neely’s biggest problem is discontentment.
It took a few chapters before I was able to appreciate Neely’s personality. Her tough cool exterior can be off putting. But there’s a very realistic vulnerability underneath that few people see. She’s still nurturing her guilt over a painful past that threatens to ruin her present. She’s struggling with the move back to her hometown and into her father’s home. She searching for balance between caregiver and daughter. The same determination that won her the childhood nickname “Steely Neely” is both positive and negative in her adult life. Doing it her way is causing problems with her family and with her potential love interest, the “boy next door” Jonny. Jon’s now the local football coach and a mature Christian man. Jon has never forgotten his teenage crush on Neely. He appreciates the woman she’s become even more.
While Neely is determined to keep things casual he’s just as determined to show her that the past is behind them. Neely’s famous determination proves helpful as she learns from her mistakes and matures into a better woman by the story’s end. Football fans will appreciate Mrs. Martin’s efforts to include coaching details and plays into the story. Even a football novice should enjoy the football style metaphors about love and life.
It’s refreshing to read a story about two never married people who don’t have kids. The book started off a little slow. But I appreciated the heroine’s emotional growth, a likeable hero and a solid ending. I give the book 3.5 stars.
*I normally review Christian fiction and non-fiction here. This review features a secular novel and the book (not my review) contains adult language and content. If you’d like a Christian alternative to this title please check out the Uncommon Heroes series by Dee Henderson.
If you’re a Troubleshooters groupie (like me) you may have already read many of the dozen plus short stories, vignettes, character interviews and notes from Suz that make up “Headed for Trouble” by Suzanne Brockmann. But having them all together in one package makes this book one for the keeper shelf! The one new short story “A Seal and Three Babies” featuring Sam, Jules, Robin and their families, is in itself absolutely worth the price of the book. The story is about 30 pages and manages to pack in a reunion with characters along with a real page turning plot line that provides a satisfying ending. Though who can get enough of Cowboy Sam? Especially when the former Navy Seal’s team members for a vacation turned escape from terrorists consists of an actor, a civilian mother, three babies, and Murphy (as in Murphy’s Law.)
There’s also a new chapter in Arlene and Jack’s previously released short story.The book contains extras including a timeline of where each story falls in the TS universe to help acclimate you whether you’ve read none or all of the previous TS novels. Not every TS character makes an appearance but it’s a fun and often laugh out loud experience as familiar faces make an appearance.
So who are the Troubleshooters? They’re the men and women of the Spec Op community. They include former and current Navy Seals, FBI agents, and law enforcement officers. All have an incredible sense of duty to their country and the ones they love. They’ve got heart, skill, determination, and they’re pretty cute too. The love as passionately as they live.
I read this book in the midst of a frustrating week and it provided some much needed laugh out loud moments!
The stories pack in romance, suspense, military action, and comedy all while facing life TS style. Funny, sensitive, action packed and well-written, “Headed for Trouble” serves as an amazing introduction for new fans and a wonderful gift to longtime TS fans. Here’s hoping for more full length novels and short stories in the Troubleshooters series.
*I received a free advanced review ebook copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions in this review are my own.
Like one of my favorite heroines, I plan to be a girl on fire in 2013. My goal is to read and review 100 worthy books in 2013. Do you have a book or genre that you think I should read? Comment and let me know. I’m linking up with The Book Vixen 2013 Out Door Yourself Reading Challenge. Are you brave enough to join me? You can set your own pace and goal. If you have a blog or other place where you review books, leave a comment with the url so I can visit you. You can keep up with my progress here and on Good Reads.
Thanks to my blogging buddy Melissa at ReadingNKS for the heads up about the challenge!
The Book Vixen Out Do Yourself Challenge: What’s your reading goal for 2013? If it’s to read more books, then this is the reading challenge for you! There have been almost 400 readers who wanted to outdo themselves so far. Are you up for the challenge?
Reading Challenge Details:
Runs January 1, 2013 – December 31, 2013 (books read prior to 1/1/2013 do not count towards the challenge). You can join at anytime. Sign up on The Book Vixen’s blog.
The goal is to outdo yourself by reading more books in 2013 than you did in 2012. See the different levels below and pick the one that works best for you. You can move up a level as often as you’d like but no moving down.
Books can be any format (bound, ebook, audio).
Novellas that are at least 100 pages in length, as well as full-length novels, will count for this reading challenge.
Re-reads and crossovers from other reading challenges are allowed.
Grab the reading challenge button and post this reading challenge on your blog to track your progress. Please include a link back to this sign-up post so others can join the reading challenge too. You do not have to be a book blogger to participate; you can track your progress on Goodreads or LibraryThing.
Levels:
Getting my heart rate up – Read 1–5 more books Out of breath – Read 6–10 more books Breaking a sweat – Read 11–15 more books I’m on fire! – Read 16+ more books
My 2nd title in the 100 books of 2013 features a chance for YOU to win a copy of “Love Finds You In Glacier Bay, Alaska” by Tricia Goyer & Ocieanna Fleiss!
From the cover: Singer Ginny Marshall is one signature away from the recording contract of her dreams—a deal that would guarantee success for the former foster child, who still struggles to bury the memories of her painful childhood. But Ginny needs advice from the one person who will look out for her best interests—her former fiancé, Brett Miller. She travels to the remote town of Glacier Bay, Alaska, where the town’s colorful characters and stunning scenery provide respite from LA’s pressures. In Glacier Bay, Ginny discovers a box of old letters and is swept up in the love story between Clay, an early missionary to Alaska Territory, and Ellie, the woman who traveled there to be his children’s governess. When Ginny is reunited with Brett in Glacier Bay, will she discover—as Ellie did—that healing and love are sometimes found in the most unexpected places?
I enjoyed this book for the setting as much as I did the characters! Set in the breathtakingly beautiful town of Glacier Bay, Alaska this book provides a quirky backdrop for a typical romance. The small knit community provides a cast of colorful townsfolk that reminded me a bit of Mayberry.
Ginny’s journey becomes even more interesting as she receives guidance from 80 year old journals that speak to her own pain and confusion. The letters are woven seamlessly throughout much of the book. Though long dead the writers of the letters become a part of the story as Ginny and Brett retrace their footsteps throughout the small town and surrounding countryside.
The most significant part of Ginny and Brent’s journey is about finding and granting forgiveness.
I’d recommend grabbing a cup of hot chocolate and curling up in your favorite chair for a trip to Glacier Bay!
To get a peek at the research trip that Tricia and Ocieanna took to Alaska, check out this video.
Want to win your own copy of LFYI Glacier Bay? I’m keeping it simple, just leave a comment by Jan. 13 at 11:59pm EST. Since LFYIGB is set in Alaska, where’s the place you most want to visit? Make sure to leave an email where I can contact you. (Open to residents of the US and Canada only.)
Want more chances to win?! Click on the little smiley blob below to enter giveaways of LFYI Glacier Bay from my friends on the book’s launch team happening Jan. 8-14, 2013.
100 books on the shelf, 100 books to read, take one down, pass it around, 99 books on the shelf. My goal this year is to read and review 100 books. Book 1 of 100 books in 2013 is “Found: God’s Will” by John MacArthur. At well under a hundred pages and just seven chapters, this is a very quick read.
This book begins and ends with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
“Don’t ever water down the gospel. If the truth offends, then let it offend. People have been living their whole lives in offense to God; let them be offended for a while.”
Most of the book is spent helping the reader to understand salvation and the Holy Spirit.
“Do you know what the Spirit-filled life is? It is living every moment as though you are standing in the presence of Christ.”
The remaining chapters address sanctification, submission and suffering. The last chapter arrives at how to recognize God’s Will.
“God’s will is that you be saved, Spirit-filled, sanctified, submissive, and suffering.”
This is a small but powerful read that can be understood by the unsaved and Christians alike. The five principles in the book aren’t MacArthur’s steps to success but is simply Scripture made plain.
Thank you to David C. Cook Publishing for offering this as a free ebook download. CLICK HERE to to be notified of weekly free ebooks from DCC! The title is currently just $2.51 in the Kindle Store.
The first two days of Advent has brought flip flop weather to my door here in eastern Carolina. Quite a difference of the opening scene of “Snowflake Sweethearts” by CarrieTuransky.
Annie Romano is back in her hometown standing the cold literally and figuratively as she shows up on the doorstep of her friend’s bakery looking for a part-time job to support her and her young daughter while she builds her business as a personal chef.
Bringing her daughter to the one place she feels safe, single mother Annie Romano returns to Fairhaven, Washington. Though hoping to start a new life as a personal chef, Annie accepts a different job. Alex Jameson, the handsome man she secretly loved as a teenager, needs a live-in caregiver for his ailing grandmother. A big-city workaholic in town temporarily, Alex doesn’t seem to realize how much he needs family—or love. But the holiday season, his grandmother’s matchmaking friends and one fatherless little girl start pulling at both Annie’s and Alex’s heartstrings. Just in time for the most special Christmas ever.
Annie turned out to be one of my favorite heroines. The single mother heroine pops up a lot even in Christian fiction. But Annie’s life isn’t mired down in guilt. She’s a Christian and has chosen to let love and forgiveness win over guilt from her past. She doesn’t give you much chance to pity her as she spends each day moving forward.
“Tingles traveled up her arms as that thought sank in. She’d felt so distant from God when she’d gotten pregnant, sure that He’d pulled back from her because He was disappointed in her choices and actions. But He’d been right there all the time, watching out for her and protecting her from deeper heartache. He didn’t take away the consequences of her foolish choices, but as soon as she called out to Him, He walked with her in the midst of them and cared for her each step of the way.”
When an unexpected romance develops between Annie and Alex she must decide if she can choose again whether to let love and trust win.
Alex is basically a good guy. He works hard and loves his grandma. And he’s falling for Annie and her little girl. But his own past have left him lacking in trust and faith.
Annie and Alex’s road to happiness resonates with real obstacle, emotions and faith. “Snowflake Sweethearts” will satisfy your reading sweet tooth (and it’s good for your waistline too.) This is a sweet story for the Christmas season or next summer when flip flop weather comes back to stay. You can purchase “Snowflake Sweethearts” in paperback or ebook formats online or at your favorite retailer.
I was provided with a free copy of the book for review purposes. The opinions are my own.
I wanted a fun and functional wash cloth to include in my Operation Christmas Child shoe boxes. When I’m looking for free crochet patterns I often start my search at Tangled Happy. Sara has an eye for finding some of the best free crochet patterns to be found online. Plus she designs pattens too! I found inspiration in her star pattern.
I used 100% cotton yarn in several colors and G, I, and K hooks to create several wash cloths to pop into the boxes for preschool-teenagers. The cloths measure about 7″x6″. Use the smaller hooks for preschool kiddos and a larger hook for tween/teens. This is a super simple pattern and uber fast (by the third cloth I was whipping them up in about 30 mins.) You only need to know the sc (single crochet) stitch. An advanced beginner should be able to tackle this. Don’t worry if your first one (or two) isn’t perfect. Only God makes perfect stars. Sara explains the pattern very well. My only note is that when working the spiral part of the pattern, use a stitch marker.
Just like these stars, Sara’s site is addictive. I was using her site long before I’d heard of Pinterest.
If you want to pack a shoe box for OCC, collection week is happening now (Nov. 12-19, 2012.) If you don’t have time, you can build one online for a $30 donation.
The back page is probably the most read part of my town’s newspaper. That’s where the obituaries are printed. In a small town where everybody knows everybody it’s typical to see a familiar name in black and white. A few weeks ago a customer where I work was telling me about a thirty-something guy who’d died suddenly. After a while she shut the paper and said “I don’t like thinking about death. It scares me.”
Without hesitation I replied “I’m not scared of dying. I know Who I’m going to see and where I’m going when I die. And you can know too.”
The woman said that she was raised Catholic and she didn’t think religion could give you that assurance. I was at work so I had to end the conversation there. But the encounter reminded me that sharing the Gospel starts at home. As much as I want to go and carry Jesus to countries that don’t have churches on every corner, there are many people I can reach every day. At work, the ball field, a family dinner or wherever my everyday life takes me.
I hope I didn’t sound smug when I declared that I know where I’m going when I die. I hope she heard the confidence and joy in my voice that comes not from a denomination but from a Savior. 1st Corinthians 15 is a wonderful celebration of Jesus’ victory over the grave and of humanity’s chance to put on immortality.
I don’t see this woman outside of my job so my chance to share Christ with her might not happen. But I am praying for her. I pray that before any of our names appear on that back page that our names will be found in the Lamb’s Book of Life.
One of my favorite songs that captures Jesus’ victory over the grave is “Overcome” by Jeremy Camp. Check out the video.
“We will overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony, everyone overcome.”
I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. 1 Corinthians 3:6
For those of you who’ve been following the Changing Tomorrow Foundation ministry please check out Wim’s June 6 Update. If you’re not familiar with the ministry, they provide physical and spiritual nourishment to preschool children in South Africa and Lesotho, Africa.
If you’re interested in what projects are hot off of my crochet hooks or if you’d like to order an item, check out my Willing Hands Crochet page on Facebook. When the page hits 50 likes I’ll be choosing one random fan to receive a free item.
You can custom order hats, scarves, mop covers (I’m not kidding) and anything else your mind and my hooks can come up with. The name comes from Proverbs 31:13 ESV “She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands.” My other choice was Hooking for Jesus but I figured that my generate a totally different kind of traffic for my page!
For five years I’ve been eagerly anticipating a new book from author Dee Henderson. But when my copy of “Full Disclosure” finally arrived I was hesitant to start reading. Would it live up to my expectations? Short answer: yes!
For a taste of “Full Disclosure” check out the video book trailer.
“Full Disclosure” is trademark Henderson-page turning romantic suspense with characters you keep caring about long after the book is done.
I was intrigued by the synopsis:
The Lady Shooter, a hired gun responsible for dozens of murders, has managed to keep her trail cold. Though she’s long been inactive, Special Agent Paul Falcon refuses to give up the hunt. Then, Midwest Homicide Investigator Ann Silver seemingly appears out of nowhere and drops the best lead on the case that he’s had in years. But Ann leaves him with more than just good evidence—he also has a strong desire to get to know this clever cop better. Is he prepared for both the case’s and Ann’s secrets?
A woman bad guy who for years has slipped out the grasp of the FBI’s top cop. The heroine of romance novel who is comfortable single and not looking for marriage. That alone was enough to start me reading.
“Full Disclosure” is one of those rare books that doesn’t need a genre label beyond excellent book. Henderson’s sharp dialogue, meticulous detail and genuine emotion are enough to draw in any reader regardless of what kind of story you’re looking for. Guys you’ll enjoy Henderson’s books, I promise! Don’t let the romance label turn you off. And for romance readers, don’t let the suspense label scare you. Though if you’re prone to bad dreams, don’t read this title too close to bedtime.
“Full Disclosure” is Christian fiction but this is a book that you can give to anyone who’s just looking for a good read. The spiritual aspect of the story is seamlessly woven into the plot. The character’s faith journey is a natural extension of their life. I would recommend “Full Disclosure” to fans of James Patterson, Nora Roberts, Karen Kingsbury, or Nicholas Sparks.
While Henderson sticks to the same formula of danger, romance and faith that has won her awards and loyal readers, this latest novel shows that Henderson isn’t afraid to take chances in her writing. Both the suspense and romantic plots dig deeper than any of Henderson’s previous titles. The maturity of Ann and Paul is reflected in their romance and in their relationships with family, coworkers, and God.
(Update to review) A fellow reader mentioned that she felt Ann was selfish in her relationship with Paul. I laughed at that comment about Ann. Not because I disagreed but because I’m 30, single all my life and an only child. My friend and I were joking the other day about being single and selfish and loving every minute of it. I was impressed that Dee took a different route with the heroine of this book. Usually it’s the man being “selfish.” I admire Dee for taking chances in her writing. And Ann’s stubbornness worked as an obstacle for Paul to overcome. It also gave a chance for us to see a character enjoying a deeper intimacy with God than we usually see in Dee’s books.
As a bonus, readers of Henderson’s O’Malley series will appreciate catching up with Lisa, Kate and the rest of the family. Ann also reveals a fun surprise that will please longtime fans while sending new readers of Henderson’s books looking for the rest of her titles. My favorite Dee Henderson titles are “The Truth Seeker” or “True Devotion” but you can read first chapters of all her books at www.deehenderson.com.
Some books I read it one sitting. But I took my time to savor each page of “Full Disclosure.” I hope it doesn’t have to hold me over for another five years, though!
Be sure to click over to the “Full Disclosure” website for fun extras including a note from Dee, overview of the book, free peek at the first three chapters and more. There’s also a D-Day Countdown Party happening on Facebook with weekly chances to win an autographed copy of the book. To talk with other fans of Dee’s books, join the Readers of Dee Henderson group on Facebookwhere one member will be selected to win an autographed copy of the book. (Drawing Oct. 1) Congrats to Ann P., the winner of the autographed copy of “Full Disclosure.”
Fine Print:
I was provided with a free Advance Reader Copy of "Full Disclosure."
The opinions of this review are my own.
One of the unique things about living in a small town is that even when you head out of town to a slightly larger town, you’re still going to run into people you know.
On the 4th of July a couple of single girlfriends (for which I thank God for putting into my life during this season) and I drove 20 minutes down the road for music and fireworks on the river. Despite the crowd of several thousand people I still saw lots of faces from home. There was plenty of waving across the commons and quick hellos.
After the fireworks I literally bumped into an old friend amid the crush of people making our way to our cars. I’ve only seen this person one other time in the last ten years. We did the quick “Hey. How are you” as me moved along with the crowd.
This person had been my BFF from the third grade when we hung out at a birthday party while everyone else watched a New Kids On the Block video all the way through our freshman year in college. I’d pictured us being in each others weddings or someday causing trouble together in the old folk’s home.
Then one day we had a falling out. A cut you out of my life, I’m not going to acknowledge you in public, kind. In one moment a lifetime of friendship was over
For me it was devastating and brutal.
It took a lot of tears, years and prayers for me to forgive my friend. And to forgive myself. To be able to let go of the pain and the past.
I feel like Brandon Heath looked into my heart and wrote the song “I’m Not Who I Was” for me.
One of the lines that cut the deepest for me is
Well the thing I find most amazing
In amazing grace
Is the chance to give it out
Maybe that’s what love is all about
It’s taken me a decade to get to this point.
I don’t know if this person would even want my forgiveness. But regardless I can finally say “I’m not who I was.”
I don’t say any of this to cast blame or brag about what I’ve been able to overcome. It has only by God’s grace, loving rebuke and healing that I can say “I’m not who I was.”
I don’t think anymore about how our friendship ended. Instead I think about my friend and smile at the happy memories. And the good things that we brought to each others lives. Instead of longing for a different ending to the story I simply give thanks for season of friendship we enjoyed. And I remember this person in prayer often, hoping that one day we can say “hello” in Heaven.
“I’m Not Who I Was” Lyrics by Brandon Heath from the album Don’t Get Comfortable Copyright: (P) 2006 Reunion Records
I wish you could see me now
I wish I could show you how
I’m not who I was
I used to be mad at you
A little on the hurt side too
But I’m not who I was
I found my way around
To forgiving you
Some time ago
But I never got to tell you so
I found us in a photograph
I saw me and I had to laugh
You know, I’m not who I was
You were there, you were right above me
And I wonder if you ever loved me
Just for who I was
When the pain came back again
Like a bitter friend
It was all that I could do
To keep myself from blaming you
I reckon it’s a funny thing
I figured out I can sing
Now I’m not who I was
I write about love and such
Maybe ’cause I want it so much
I’m not who I was
I was thinking maybe I
I should let you know
I am not the same
But I never did forget your name
Hello
Well the thing I find most amazing
In amazing grace
Is the chance to give it out
Maybe that’s what love is all about
I wish you could see me now
I wish I could show you how
I’m not who I was
On Thursday I dropped my Droid in the toilet. I think that’s an apt description of this week. My phone’s imitation of Michael Phelps going for the gold was preceded by a malfunctioning smoke detector on Wednesday (thank-you to the local Fire Dept. for installing a new one!) and encored by a roof leak in the attic discovered during Saturday night’s mini-monsoon.
If I start listing everything that has gone wrong in 2012 this post would have to be titled “Heather and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Year.” (You knew I had to sneak in a children’s book title, right?)
But bemoaning my week isn’t the point of this post. It’s to say that I have found joy in these trials! That’s what we’re instructed to do by the Apostle James in the first chapter of his epistle.
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” (James 1:2-3 ESV)
Not that a computer with an inadequate fan that cuts off more than an overheating clunker traveling through the desert qualifies as a faith testing event (even if I do have a July 31 deadline for a major project I’m working on.). These recent toilet weeks have been a lesson that I can trust God in the small stuff. Yes, even with the ‘rolling pennies for gas money because of a ten cent per gallon hike in one day’ details.
Maybe the Holy Spirit inspired James to write his epistle for us fixers. When I’m confronted with a problem I immediately start looking for solutions. If a friend comes to me with a problem my first question is “What can I do to help you?” Both are perfectly acceptable. Except that they shouldn’t be my first step. That spot is reserved for prayer. James 1:5 says
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
Of course I pray and ask for God’s help with problems. But too often I’m guilty of telling Him how that problem ought to be solved and asking Him to bless my actions. Miss Fix-It isn’t good at waiting on the Lord. Instead I start naming my abilities to fix the problem myself like a child reciting the alphabet.
In those times when I hold problems too tightly I have to go before the Lord and ask His forgiveness for not giving Him the time or the room for His will to be done instead of mine.
I know there’ll be more ‘phone in the toilet’ trials that will give me the chance practice the words of the Psalmist.
“Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him.” (Psalm 37:7a)
Epilogue: My Droid is working once again after I sealed it in a bag of rice for three days (thank-you Uncle Ben)! And from now on I’ll take a piece of advice I received and keep my phone out of the bathroom.
Next time you experience your own ‘phone in the toilet’ moment think about the song “This Is The Stuff” from Francesca Battistelli.
Last year I taught myself how to crochet. Since then I’ve been obsessed with all things Granny! I’ve made bags, a scarf, a shawl, and even twinkle star garland for my mantel using the Granny shell. But after a year of crocheting I still hadn’t made an actual Granny Square.
This weekend I made my first Granny Square! Before I post a photo of the square, here are some of the Granny goodness projects that I’ve made so far.
One of my first projects was a Granny Stripe Boutique Bag. They make sweet Bible bags. Be warned they are addictive. I’ve made a dozen of them. Once you start you’ll want to finish one more row. You can find the FREE pattern over at Tangled Happy. (Thank-you Sara for making me feel like a real crocheter with this pattern!) If you’re a crafter, you’re going to adore the Tangled Happy blog.
Then for Easter I made myself a Granny Triangle Shawl. I’ve always wanted a shawl since I wore my Grandmother’s to church one Easter. This shawl makes me feel feminine (even if I do look like a giant watermelon in this photo.)
For my first Granny Square I went with a simple Summer Garden Granny Square from Attic24. I dug in my stash and used a little cotton, some Caron Simply soft and lots of Red Heart Super Saver yarn. If the square looks huge, it’s because it is! It measure 12.5×12.5 inches. This square will be added to dozens of others made by folks from across then country and made into a blanket that will be sent to the Justin Boots Crisis Fund where it will be given to an injured cowboy or cowgirl.
I was joking with Wendy (who will stitch all these squares together) that my square might be best for a cowgirl. But hey, cowboys are Tough Enough to Wear Pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness. So my bright square should work for any cowboy or cowgirl!
Ravelry is a free community for crocheters and knitters where you can find TONS of free and for sale patterns, get advice or inspiration, and connect with other crafters.
My next Granny Square goal is to create a groovy afghan using this Peace Sign pattern.
I mentioned that I’m a self-taught crocheter. I got started using a book I checked out the library (in the children’s section of course.) “Get Hooked Again : Simple Steps to Crochet More Cool Stuff” by Kim Werker uses simple instructions and detailed photos to teach the basic steps that will having you rocking projects in no time. Unfortunately it’s out of print but check your local library or favorite used bookseller.
One of my favorite presents to give and receive is a gift certificate to a bookstore. So I’m super excited about the giveaway happening over at Little One Books. They’re giving away a $25 gift certificate AND a signed set of five CDs from children’s musician Caspar Babypants to one winner.
Whether you’re rocking your little one to sleep or rocking to the radio on the way to grandma’s, Caspar Babypants’ fun songs is music to your child’s ears. It will be easy to spend the gift certificate since the site offers classic and current children’s books. Hmm, maybe not so easy when you see all the great choices.
To enter, just click through to their website by July 1.
Update: “Danger in the Shadows” is no longer available as a free ebook but it is ABSOLUTELY worth your money and your time! I bought the paperback several years ago and I’ve read it a few times.
The best books are the ones that keep me up late or make me late because I forget all about time. I no longer have my mom telling me to turn out the light and go to bed. Instead of sneaking a flashlight into bed, I now read on my the ereader app on my smartphone and sometimes fall asleep with the phone in my hand trying to finish “one more page.”
In the case of books by my favorite authors I ration the number of pages I read in a day to try to make the book last longer.
One of those authors is Dee Henderson. Dee is one of the most original voices in inspirational suspense. The “Danger in the Shadows” ebook is currently available as a FREE download. In “Danger in the Shadows”, Dee doesn’t waste any words. The pace is fast, the dialogue is sharp, the characters are real, and the suspense will keep you turning the pages. This isn’t chick lit, guys won’t be embarrassed to be caught reading this book. The inspirational aspects of Dee’s book are a genuine exploration of faith-no hokey getting saved moments or random Bible verses.
Sara is terrified. She’s doing the one thing she cannot afford to do: fall in love with former pro-football player Adam Black, a man everyone knows. Sara’s been hidden away in the witness protection program, her safety dependent on staying invisible—and loving Adam could get her killed!
Introducing the O’Malleys, an inspirational group of seven, all abandoned or orphaned as teens, who have made the choice to become a loyal and committed family. They have chosen their own surname, O’Malley, and have stood by each other through moments of joy and heartache. Their stories are told in CBA best-selling, inspirational romantic suspense novels that rock your heart and restore strength and hope to your spirit.
Though free at time of posting, prices may change at any time. Please verify that the “Kindle Price” is $0.00. If you see a price for “Prime Members” or “read for free”, then the book is NOT free any longer.
I bought six greeting cards yesterday. It’s common for me to send twice that many emails in a day. But I rarely send handwritten cards.
My grandmother Viola always kept a box of cards on hand for every occasion. Okay maybe not every occasion-while browsing the card aisle I saw sympathy cards for the loss of a dog, cat or pet. I shouldn’t laugh since it did seem pretty tragic to eight-year-old me each time I’d find one of my beta fishes doing the belly float. (My mom owes me a LOT of sympathy cards. Or maybe I owe her a thank-you note for drying my tears and taking me to the store to buy another fish.)
Usually I just wish friends a happy birthday on their Facebook wall. But a post on the Love Inspired blog by author Alllie Pleiter reminded me that handwritten notes are more than about communicating but are really about connecting with people.
Growing up I wrote letters back and forth to my cousin Amy who lives in Virginia Beach. (I still have those letters in my keepsake box so that maybe one day my kids can laugh at our childhood antics.)
In that last year I’ve received several handwritten cards and notes from my friends’ kids. Kelly and Angela are doing an excellent job of instilling in their children the importance of written communication as a way to connect with friends. I know some public schools no longer teach cursive. I recently learned of a school that doesn’t teach kids to print their letters.
Back to the half a dozen cards I’m mailing out. I’m sending a few thank-you notes to my friends who helped me move, a couple of birthday cards for young girls turning 5 and 9, and a card for a little friend who’s heading to church camp for the first time.
Do any of you still send handwritten cards, notes or letters by traditional mail? Would you rather get mail, email or a Facebook message? One of the cards I bought was blank on the inside. Which do you prefer, pre-printed verses or a blank inside to express yourself?
The one drawback to traditional mail…postage. I’m thinking about writing notes and then scanning and emailing them.
I love that giddy feeling of anticipation that I get whenever I’m in a book store or library. It started back when my elementary school would host a book fair. I’d circle the rows of tables again and again and again in search of the perfect book or more likely books (thanks, Mom!)
Even in elementary school I loved a good mystery. I spent hours on Fear Street and with The Boxcar Kids. In high school my best-friend Jerri Lynne and I thought we were grown for sure when we started reading James Patterson’s Alex Cross series. A real grown up mystery series with blood and guts and mystery and mayhem.
For a while though I was on mystery overload. Between whodunit books and TV shows, I was ready for something a little lighter.
I started reading Love Inspired novels. One of my favorite LI authors is Gail Gaymer Martin. I’ve featured several of her books before. The final installment of the Dreams Come True series is now on sale. (The following may contain SPOILERS.)
“A Dream of His Own” is a refreshing mystery. The enemy isn’t a flesh-and-blood psycho. The families in the series battle a common enemy: cancer.
Throughout the series, a different family with a child in need has received a grand, once in a lifetime wish from the Dreams Come True Foundation. This wishes are funded anonymously.
In the final book we meet Quinn O’Neill, the man and money behind the foundation. Quinn is as guilty as he is giving. Or at least he feels guilty about a lost opportunity. Years ago he put all his energy into making money and missed a chance to be a good father to his son. An accident took away Quinn’s son.
Now an accidental fender bender with single mother Ava Darnell may give Quinn a second chance at a family. Ava is struggling to parent her teenage son Brandon, a survivor of cancer. She’s also struggling with her own past issues of distrust.
Quinn and Ava’s road to romance is plenty bumpy. There’s a fun give and take between the two. Quinn steps into Brandon’s life to model manhood and Christianity to the confused teen. As always the characters’ spiritual growth seems genuine and organic.
This is the last book in the series but can be read as a stand alone title. But you’ll likely be eager to immerse yourself in the entire series including “A Dad of His Own” and “A Family of Their Own.”
If you’d like to leave a comment or ask a question from Gail Gaymer Martin, she might be dropping by to say hi.
Writers will want to check out Mrs. Martin’s writing blog.
“A Dream of His Own” is now on sale in stores or online.
I received a free copy of this book from review purposes but wasn’t required to give a positive review. The opinions are mine alone.
I rarely watch movies-particularly ones based on books I’ve read. Bookworms know that the book is always better than the movie.
Tonight my mom and I watched “One For the Money” based on the book by Janet Evanovich. My mom is a huge fan of the Stephanie Plum series. Katheryn Heigel was funny and believable in the role of Stephanie Plum, an embryonic bounty hunter, with more attitude then sense who’s over her head in the search for a murder. The Jersey girl gets help from the bail jumper she’s hunting, a sexy security guard, and a sassy “working girl.”
I haven’t read any of the books so I don’t know whether or not the big screen portrayal measured up to the book.
Sometimes even mediocre movies can make new fans for an author. After watching the Jesse Stone TV movies on CBS I finally gave Robert B. Parker’s books a try. My mom had been laughing out loud to his books for years and constantly told me how much I’d like them. I read straight through the series during Spring Break. I’d never have pictured Tom Selleck in the role of Jesse Stone (he’s old enough to be Jesse’s father) but now I can’t imagine another actor playing the part.
The worst adaptation of a book into a movie was “The Horse Whisper.” The movie leaves out the last 3rd of the book and the end is different. As the credit’s rolled I was like “but they didn’t, and he’s not and she’s not.” I don’t think the script writers read the book. Not even Robert Redford can make-up for the three hours of my life that I lost.
If I were the head of a Hollywood studio I”d start with making Christian suspense books into movies. My dream list: The O’Malley series by Dee Henderson, the Newpointe 911 series by Terri Blackstock and “Protection for Hire” by Camy Tang.
What’s your favorite (or least favorite) book that’s been made into a movie?
What book would you love to see on the big screen? Who would you cast?
One thing I like about winter is the lack of bugs. In the summer, no matter what kind of pest control measures I do around the house, I know that I’m going to run into at least one creepy, crawly creäture that has decided to crash rent free in my house. I also know we’re probably going to run into each other in the middle on the night in the darkened kitchen or bathroom.
That’s the way I feel about passive voice in my writing. No matter what I do, Passive Voice sneaks its way into my story, popping up in unexpected places.
So I called in the professionals for advice on how to eradicate Passive Voice from my writing. I asked one of my favorite authors Camy Tang for tips. Camy answered my question over on her Story Sensei blog. Click over to Camy’s blog for her tips on how to avoid and fix passive voice in your story. Even if you’re not a writer, it’s fun to see how your favorite authors stories come to life.
For my interview with Camy and my review of “Protection for Hire”, click here. And for my review of her book “Stalker in the Shadows” click here.
I also want to give a shout out to author Darlene Franklin who offered similar advice about using find and replace to permanently erase Passive Voice.
I found Gail Gaymer Martin’s article “Love in Motion“ helpful in creating an active voice. For a treasure trove of writing tips for Gail Gaymer Martin check out her WRITING FICTION RIGHT blog.
Rain, sleet, snow, wind…most of the country looks like a winter wonderland. The weather fits in perfectly with the setting of last week’s giveaway, “Montana Match” by Merrillee Whren. I’ve picked a winner which I’ll announce at the end of the post. Sneaky, I know.
There are some dark clouds on the horizon for nurse Monica Grant, the heroine of “Stalker in the Shadows.” Monica’s on a mission to open a children’s free clinic. She seeks support from investors and the community to make the dream a reality. But not everyone in the neighborhood welcomes the idea. Someone is trying to shut down the project at any cost.
Monica knows someone is stalking her. The person wants her to know and to be afraid. Monica receives anonymous threats that are very real. Threatening letters accompanied by a dead snake, phone calls, and photos tracking every move she makes.
Monica is resilient and persistent. She turns to former lawman Shaun O’Neill for help. Shaun takes the case personally. Five years ago his sister was murdered-and Shaun’s believes it was by the same madman who’s stalking Monica.
Together the pair set up to save Monica’s dream and to catch a killer. Along the way both Monica and Shaun discover things about themselves and about each other. The dialog between the pair is a fun give-and-take, adding levity between the serious scenes.
Tang subtly weaves in a believable spiritual subplot that can be digested by a non-believer or spiritually mature Christian.
“Stalker in the Shadows” is my favorite book by Camy Tang. Okay, so I said that in my review about her last book “Protection for Hire” but it’s true. Tang’s writing continues to improve which each story. If you like romantic suspense, “Stalker in the Shadows” is a must have for your collection. But beyond the label of romantic suspense, “Stalker in the Shadows” is a book that breaks out of the genre mold and earns the label of a great read.
You can purchase “Stalker in the Shadows” in stores, online, or as an ebook.
To learn more about Camy, check out my interview with her. Or visit Camy’s website or look her up on Facebook.
I was a provided a free copy of this book for review purposes. Love or leave, my opinions are my own. Thanks for stopping by!
Oh, and the winner of a free copy of “Montana Match” by Merrillee Whren is commenter 40 Lisa Howard Colpo. If you want to make sure you don’t miss future giveaways, be sure to subscribe to my blog.
I leave you with these photos that made my heart smile. Born into poverty, each of these precious little ones are children of the KING! Enjoy a little fellowship with some of Susan’s Kids at Faith Hill Church in Leratong, South Africa.
It wasn’t love at first sight for me when I met Parker Watson, the hero of “Montana Match” by Merrillee Whren (Love Inspired, January 2012.) This cowboy’s heart is colder than a Montana winter. The only thing that can melt this glacier is his young twin daughters.
He has reason to be bitter. Six years ago unfounded accusations and malicious gossip cost Parker his career, his reputation, his friends, and the woman he loved. Taking refuge on his ranch, Parker’s lived the life of a recluse-staunchly avoiding the town of Stockton and the residents that shunned him.
He believes he’s protecting his daughters from Stockton’s scorn by keeping them in the nest. But when the girls’ nanny and teacher moves away, the working dad is desperate to find a replacement.
After an unexpected meeting with recently unemployed Brittany Gorman, Parker makes her a generous offer. But Brittany has reservations, she’s a former financial planner and sometimes substitute teacher, who feels ill-equipped for the challenge of schooling two energetic girls. Despite her misgivings, Brittany feels God is pushing her outside of her comfort zone, so she reluctantly accepts the position.
After a rocky start, Brittany fits in with the family, bringing fun and a fresh perspective to the lives of Parker and his girls. Brittany’s rock-solid faith in the God that Parker hasn’t had any more use for than he does the folks of Stockton has him considering that it might be time to let go of the past. Slowly Parker begins to warm to Brittany’s optimistic spirit and hardworking ways.
But his inability to forgive and forget the past, causes strife between the pair. Brittany’s determination to expose the girls to the simple joys of town life angers Parker. His icy tongue will have you reaching for a parka.
Spring is slow in coming to Parker’s heart. But seeds of hope and change take root in his life. Parker’s journey from silent and sulking to a changed creature in Christ seems as natural as a winter snowfall. By the end, even this Carolina beach girl would be willing to be his Montana Match!
I don’t think it’s too soon to say that “Montana Match” is one of my favorite books of 2012!
Montana Match is on sale now in paperback and ebook formats. Be sure to stop by Merrillee’s website at www.merrilleewhren.com
Interview with Merrillee Whren
OA: What led you to write your first novel?
MW: I always enjoyed reading romances and decided I’d like to write one.
OA: Why do you choose to write inspirational versus secular books?
MW: I like being able to relate God’s principles in my writing.
OA: Which comes first when you write a book, the plot or the spiritual journey?
MW: Probably the spiritual journey because that creates the plot.
OA: How do you choose which Bible verses to include in a book?
MW: I pick one that fits the spiritual journey of the characters.
OA: How do you balance showing a character’s spiritual journey without “preaching” to the reader?
MW: It is a part of the character’s life and can’t be taken out without leaving a void in the story.
OA: This may be like asking you to choose a favorite child but do you have a favorite character or book that you’ve written?
MW: I suppose if I have to choose, I would pick my first published book, THE HEART’S HOMECOMING, since it started me on this journey.
OA: Who are some of the authors who’ve inspired you?
MW: Karen Kingsbury and Linda Goodnight
For more books by Merrillee check out
Hometown Proposal, August 2010
Hometown Dad, Feb. 2011
Montana Match, Jan. 2012
Book Giveaway ends Saturday, Jan. 21 at 11:59 EST
To enter to win a copy of “Montana Match”, simply leave a comment for Merrillee. Be sure to make sure I can contact you by email.
Bonus entries. You may leave a separate comment for doing any or all of the following (each action earns a comment entry.)
I was provided with a free copy of “Montana Match.” I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Thank you to all the authors and readers who participated in the 12 Days of Christmas!
I hope you find at least one book in your stocking or e-reader on Christmas morning! My book wish list is forever growing and I can never decide what to read next, so at Christmas I just hand the list to my mom and let her choose what book to buy for me.
The fun part of the last 12 days has been getting to know the featured authors through reading their interviews. Beyond the good stories and memorable characters these women create are enduring stories of faith, hope and love.
I enjoyed the insights each of the authors shared with us about their faith, their writing process, and their Christmas traditions. If you missed any of the interviews, just click on the author’s name below.
I though I’d share a favorite Christmas memory with you. My mom and I are supporters of Susan’s Kids and Changing Tomorrow Children’s Foundation, which support children in crisis by providing physical and spiritual nourishment, a preschool education and other humanitarian aid. A few years ago many people in my county (and beyond) donated to these organizations to give a very special Christmas to the kids of Leratong, Village. (Click here to see photos.)
If you missed any of the 12 days of Christmas (which really turned out to be 9 different interviews and giveaways), check out these links to enter by 11:59pm 12/23/11. Please Note….Contest entries are not accepted on this page. Feel free to comment. BUT to enter a giveaway, click on the post for the giveaway you’d like to enter, and comment on that post. ~Blessings, Heather
Today I’m hopping aboard the “Arctic Express” for a magical train ride around the world with conductor Steve Somers.The “Arctic Express” is stopping by my local public library as a part of the annual Christmas program. Through classic children’s books and with help from a few friends including Hopper the rabbit, Steve teaches children the importance of giving and sharing. When Steve makes it snow inside or as he brings to life the “Polar Express” with a magical bell trick, everyone is mesmerized, even the adults, who for a few minutes become kids again.
While I’m gone, my friend and writer Teresa Holey Slack is here with her guest post “Chasing Squirrels.”
Teresa Slack is the author of five novels. EVIDENCE OF GRACE, her most recent release, debuted nationwide at #18 in the Christian market. Three jobs, three grandchildren, two dogs, and a needy husband have conspired to temporarily derail her writing career. But she’s determined to get back to writing and procure another book contract for her latest novel, JOY REDEFINED…just as soon as she finishes her Christmas shopping. To learn more about Teresa and her writing, please visit www.teresaslack.com.
Teresa is giving away 2 books to the winner! Leave a comment & you will be entered to win two of her titles, STREAMS OF MERCY & A TENDER REED. (See end of post for Bonus Entries.) You can enter now through Friday, Dec. 23.
Don’t forget, you can enter each giveaway of the 12 Days of Christmas. Click here to see what (and who) you’ve missed.
Chasing Squirrels by Teresa Slack
Behind our house is a few hundred acres of state owned property. That means I have miles of hiking trails at my disposal. It is a rural area, and I have never run into another person on the trails. But I run into wildlife nearly every time I’m out there.
The other day while hiking with my dog Molly, she spotted a squirrel. She laid her ears back, lowered her body to the ground, and dug up paws full of dirt as she gave chase. She wanted that squirrel so badly she could taste it. Literally, I’m sure.
I immediately noticed the difference in her pursuit of something larger. We often see whitetail deer in the woods too. I always hope to spot them first so I can enjoy their majesty and beauty before Molly scares them away. As soon as she spots them, she’s off. But there is hesitancy in her stride. She doesn’t lower herself to the ground. She doesn’t run so fast it looks like her feet are missing the ground. She’s curious, but I can tell she’s wondering what in the world she’d do if she caught the thing.
Sometimes I wonder if we do the same thing with our writing goals. We say we’re going to write the next great American novel. We attend conferences and read the right books and groan in indignation when a celebrity or ex-president’s wife signs a multi-million dollar book deal.
But are we like Molly chasing the deer? We want it, but not badly enough to put our chests to the ground and paw up earth the way we do when we’re chasing squirrels.
You see the squirrel isn’t a threat. We can handle an overgrown rat. But a deer, well, that’s different. We’ll never catch something that moves that fast. Even if we did, we aren’t strong enough to bring it down on our own. So we begin our pursuit but hold back. Even while we’re running, we wonder if we’ve bitten off more than we can chew.
Writing is not as romantic as we’ve been led to believe. It takes blood and sweat and a strong constitution to stand against the frustration and rejection. That’s why you probably know someone who’s talked about the same book idea for years but hasn’t written the first word.
Molly thinks she wants that deer when she sets off down the hill after it, but she knows she’s outmatched. She’ll put forth a half-hearted attempt every time because she’s a herding dog and it’s in her nature to chase anything that moves.
It’s in our nature to want affirmation. We want the pat on the back, the accolades, the respect of our peers, the right to say we’ve done something that most others only dream about. But are we willing to get down in the dirt and go after it? Only you know how badly you want to catch the illusive dream of writing a novel or seeing your name in a national magazine’s byline.
Don’t be afraid to chase your dreams. Don’t let your dreams be stopped by the fear of what happens should you catch them. Pretend it’s only a squirrel you’re chasing and see how far it takes you.
“God had a plan for my life that I never saw coming.” Vickie McDonough, best-selling author
As a little girl whenever my family would go to town, I made sure I had a quarter with me. Having that shiny piece of change in my pocket meant I could buy a ride on the electric horse outside of Roses Department store. For sixty seconds me and my bucking horse could herd cattle or chase outlaws across the open plains.
Most every Sunday during the ’80s and ’90s my family tuned in to watch Mesquite Championship Rodeo on TNN. After the rodeo was over I’d pretend to be a sports reporter and I’d write stories recapping the events. In high school I interned at the local newspaper and every time the rodeo was in town I’d put on my boots and hat and bring my camera to get as close to the action (and the cowboys) as I could.
If I’d followed my childhood dreams I might be riding the rodeo circuit, traveling the country with my horse, or maybe working cattle on a ranch. Instead God’s providence provided a job as a children’s librarian.
One of the reasons I love historical novels is that for a couple of hours I can immerse myself in another time and place (while still having the creature comforts of electricity, running water, an indoor bathroom and air conditioning.)
Whenever I feel the urge to saddle up and ride into the Old West, I grab one of Vickie McDonough’s novels. (No stall mucking required.) Vickie has penned 24 books and novellas. Many are set in Texas and Oklahoma in the 1800s.
In the Texas Boardinghouse Brides series I loved experiencing the bumpy road to matrimony for three mail-order brides who arrive in Lookout Texas, with intentions of wedding the Marshall, who has no clue he’s anyone’s intended groom!
Vickie is giving one reader a copy of Long Trail Home, book 3 in the Texas Trails series. To enter, just leave a comment (make sure to include your name and email)-that simple. (See end of post for Bonus Entries.) You can enter now through Friday, Dec. 23.
Don’t forget, you can enter each giveaway of the 12 Days of Christmas. Click here to see what (and who) you’ve missed.
INTERVIEW WITH VICKIE MCDONOUGH
OA: Vickie, thanks for joining us. Tell us about the Texas Trail series.
VM: Texas Trails is a six-book collaborative series written by three authors. The first three titles in the Texas Trails series are Lone Star Trail by Darlene Franklin, Captive Trail by Susan Page Davis, and my book, Long Trail Home. Next spring, the final three books in this series will be released: Ranger Trail, Cowgirl Trail, and End of the Trail.
OA: What led you to write your first novel?
VM: For years, I’d prayed for God to give me an idea for a home business, so I could make some income but still stay home with my four boys. I never dreamed God would answer that prayer by sending me stories to write or that I’d one day be a published author, but that’s what happened. About 11 years ago, a story idea started running through my mind and wouldn’t go away. It was like watching a movie in my head. It was affecting my sleep a lot, so I thought maybe if I wrote it down it would go away. I ended up writing a whole book, but as soon as I finished it, another idea came…and they are still coming. Most writers say they always dreamed of becoming a writer, but I can honestly say I never did. God had a plan for my life that I never saw coming.
Why do you choose to write inspirational versus secular books?
VM: For me, secular was never an option. I’ve been an avid fan of Christian fiction, ever since discovering it back in the 1980s. I’ve read hundreds of books in the genre. Writing an inspirational novel is a ministry. It’s a way for me to walk out—or rather—type out my faith in a story that’s entertaining, and hopefully engaging, with a message that will inspire readers.
OA: Which comes first when you write a book, the plot or the spiritual journey?
VM: Actually, it’s the characters that usually come first. I’ll get an idea for a character in a certain situation and built from there. The spiritual journey is a natural outflow of whatever is going on in the character’s life.
OA: How do you choose which Bible verses to include in a book?
VM: It usually has something to do with what the character is currently struggling with. In Long Trail Home, my heroine is a pickpocket in the prologue. It’s the trade she learned from her father and all she’s ever known. After she hears a street preacher preaching about the ten commandments, she realizes for the first time that stealing is a sin. After that, it bothers her until she is finally able to quit.
A writer shouldn’t whack their characters or readers over the head with scripture. It needs to be a natural flowing part of the story.
OA: How do you balance showing a character’s spiritual journey without “preaching” to the reader?
VM: It’s pretty much like I said in the last question. A character’s spiritual journey must develop naturally as part of the story. A character who is angry at God over the death of his wife isn’t going to be mad and hurting one day and happy and right with God the next. It’s a gradual progression. Think of it like a garment made on a loom. You have certain colors of thread running up and down. Then the weaver shuttles through a horizontal thread. It doesn’t look like much at first, but the more he weaves, the more the pattern develops. Writing a story is like that. You have a character’s physical journey interwoven with his spiritual journey, and hopefully when the book is done, you have a beautiful tapestry.
OA: This may be like asking you to choose a favorite child but do you have a favorite character or book that you’ve written?
VM: Yes, that is hard, but I do have a favorite. It would be Jack aka Jacqueline Hamilton Davis, a feisty tomboy and later a spunky young lady, who appeared in my Texas Boardinghouse Series. Jack is a girl in the first two books and the heroine in the last book, which is set ten years later. The book titles in that series are The Anonymous Bride, Second Chance Brides, and Finally A Bride.
OA: You’ve written several historical titles. What’s inspired you to set your books in the past?
VM: I’ve always loved horses and cowboys. I grew up watching the westerns of the 1960s with my dad. My dream as a girl was to grow up and marry a rancher. Instead, I married a sweet computer geek who’s scared of horses. When I read, I mostly read historicals. I love the slower pace of the 1800s.
OA: What kind of research do you do for writing historical novels?
VM: It varies a lot, depending on how familiar I am with an area and the subject matter. When I wrote my North Dakota and Charleston series, I had to do a lot of research, but not as much with my Texas books, since I’ve visited Texas many times.
How much I research also depends on my hero’s or heroine’s career, the time period, and the topics covered in the book.
OA: Who are some of the authors who’ve inspired you?
VM: The first Christian fiction book I ever read was written by a Scottish pastor, George MacDonald. His books were a bit deep for me but I enjoyed the unique plot twists he always had. Next, I discovered Tracie Peterson’s and Janette Oke’s work and devoured their books. Gilbert Morris is another author I read early on. I believe that reading their books before I ever started writing gave me a fictional foundation to build on. There are so many other authors who’s books I love that I can’t mention them all, but these are the ones I first read.
OA: What is your favorite and least favorite parts of writing a novel?
If I’m being totally honest, it’s the actual discipline of writing that’s hardest for me. Writing is hard work and takes a lot of time. I love the creating stage before I start writing and the “ah” feeling after the book has been turned in, but probably my favorite part is going on a research.
OA: Do you have advice for writers aspiring to be published?
VM: Yes. Try to get involved with other writers, either locally or online. Study your craft and learn all you can and then write and write and write. Most writers need to write a few practice books before they are ready to seek publication. A good group to join if you’re writing Christian fiction is ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers). Their website is acfw.com
OA: What do you have in the works for 2012?
VM: End of the Trail, which is the final book in the Texas Trails series, releases next spring. It’s the story of a returning Civil War soldier, and my pickpocket, who has grown into a respectable woman—for the most part. Whispers on the Prairie, book 1 in my Pioneer Promises series from Summerside Press releases Aug. 1st. It’s the series of a family who runs a stage stop at the beginning of the Santa Fe trail.
OA: Christmas is just around the corner. What special traditions that you and your family do each year at Christmas?
VM: We always put up our tree the weekend after thanksgiving. The boys and my husband bring down all the boxes, my mom unwraps the bulbs, and I hang they on the tree. At Christmastime, we all usually go to my sister’s house, which is an hour’s drive from ours, and eat brisket, scalloped potatoes, veggies, and lots of pie and Christmas goodies. My granddaughter is five this year, and seeing the excitement of a young child again at Christmas is a lot of fun.
OA: In this spirit in the season of giving, would you tell us about a charity or organization that you support?
VM: My youngest son is going on a engineering missions trip to Ghana next summer with ORU missions. Their goal is to build a renewable energy source that will help the Ghana people. Here is a link to their website: http://oruteamghana.wordpress.com/
After a week of delicious spring-like temperatures, the weather in my neck of the woods has finally gotten into the Christmas spirit. BRRRR!!! (Sounds like an excuse to snuggle up with a good book while sipping homemade cocoa!)
For those of you who’re already tired of winter, how about some rays of warm West Coast sunshine for you courtesy of romantic suspense author Camy Tang. She’s dropped by for an interview and to give away a copy of her newest novel.
Camy is a native of Hawaii and now lives in the San Fransico Bay area. The biologist turned novelist has published nine titles with Zondervan, Guideposts and Love Inspired Suspense, with more releases to come. Camy incorporates many of her own experiences into her writing including hobbies like volleyball, running (the lady has done marathons), and knitting. Camy and her husband also spend time as youth workers at their Asian American church. To learn more about Camy, click here.
As a part of the 12 Days of Christmas giveaways, Camy is giving away a copy of her newest release “Protection For Hire.” To enter, just leave a comment (make sure to include your name and email)-that simple. (See end of post for Bonus Entries.) You can enter now through Friday, Dec. 23.
Don’t forget, you can enter each giveaway of the 12 Days of Christmas. Click here to see what (and who) you’ve missed.
This giveaway is open to everyone (no residency restrictions!)
Camy recently made my “buy everything this author publishes” list after I read “Protection For Hire.” My review is below (please note, it may contain SPOILERS.)
REVIEW OF “PROTECTION FOR HIRE” by Camy Tang
I’ve been told by more than one person (Mom and Amber) that I can be obnoxious when I predict the ending of TV crime shows and chick flicks.
Once you know the formula it’s easy to know the ending long before the last commercial break.
I’m a bookworm and to me books are far better than TV. So when I’m reading I crave a book that keeps me eagerly turning (or tapping) the pages until the last sentence. My standards for books are much higher than TV shows.
Camy Tang must have taken a cue from her days in the lab when she came up with the formula for “Protection For Hire.” She took the basic ingredients of romantic suspense and added in a kick of her trademark wasabi to create a five-star recipe that will keep you coming back for more!
Tessa Lancaster is a Japanese American with deep family ties. From the age of sixteen Tessa is known on the streets as a violent and ruthless enforcer for the Japanese Mafia (yakuza) until she sacrificed her freedom to protect the family. Fresh out of prison after serving seven years for a crime she didn’t commit, Tessa is free to return to “the family”-literally-the yakuza run by her Uncle Teruo. While in prison, Tessa is set free spiritually, encountering Christ and becoming a Christian.
Tessa sets out on a straight career path, channeling her skills into serving as a bodyguard for wealthy socialite Elizabeth St. Amant and her three-year-old son. But being from the upper crust doesn’t preclude Elizabeth from having problems. The socialite comes with a lot of baggage, including an abusive ex-husband and a missing fortune.
Tessa is grittier than most heroines-she’s trained in martial arts and we get to see her put her skills to the test against a variety of bad guys. She doesn’t doubt her ability to keep her charges safe but she’s going to have a harder time guarding her own heart. The case forces her to work closely with Elizabeth’s lawyer, Charles Britton. Tessa unknowingly lets her guard down to the man who led the charge to lock her up and throw away the key for her supposed crime.
The pair must try to survive assassins, gang rivalries, and exasperating family in their search to give Elizabeth her life back.
It’s not only evil that Tessa is battling. She faces temptation in the form of a disappointed mother, an angry sister and eager uncle who still see Tessa the same as they always have. Tessa must decide whether to handle things herself, the way she did when her life revolved around the yakuza, or fully follow Christ.
I was surprised that one of my favorite characters was Uncle Teruo. Tang does an excellent job of slowly growing his character into a man much deeper than just a caricature of the organized crime boss.
The first few chapters are heavy on description-though it’s integral to the plot and informative about the Asian mob community. The book quickly progresses to a page turning read with strong dialogue, an engrossing plot and characters you’ll care about.
Fans of books by Dee Henderson, Terri Blackstock and Irene Hannon, and fans of female detective including Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series and the Sunny Randall series by Robert B. Parker will enjoy “Protection For Hire.”
INTERVIEW WITH CAMY TANG
OA: Camy, your slogan is “Romance with a kick of Wasabi.” Elaborate on that.
LL: Wasabi is a very hot (sinus-clearing) Japanese radish condiment used to give a clean-tasting little spice or kick when eating sushi or any raw seafood. Most of my stories have a hint of romance in it, and wasabi, with its Asian origin, refers to my Asian characters, that “kick” of sass in my contemporary romance, and that “kick” of danger in my romantic suspense.
OA: On your website you write, “Nosy relatives, sibling rivalry, and parental angst are the same whatever your ethnic background, and I hope my stories give people a fun taste of Asian American culture.” How does your ethnicity influence your writing.
LL: I am fourth generation Japanese American. Before I was published, I had been considering writing Asian American characters because there were so few Asian heroines in Christian fiction. However, none of the publishers were looking for multicultural stories, so I wasn’t avidly pursuing it.
Then, at the ACFW conference in Denver, Colorado (2004), Brandilyn Collins prayed over me and three other friends. I told her to pray for me however the Spirit led her.
The very first thing she said was to very clearly tell me to “write your heritage.”
I hadn’t told Brandilyn that I was considering writing Asian characters. I hadn’t told anyone, actually. This was the most specific word from God that I’d received about my writing. I wasn’t about to ignore it.
So my I made my next heroine Asian American. Around that time, I realized that no one else had written any contemporary Christian fiction with an Asian American protagonist.
I discovered that even though my characters were Asian, readers could relate to them because no matter what your ethnicity, families are all alike. And that’s the theme that runs through all my books.
OA: Why do you choose to write inspirational versus secular books?
CT: I prayed about that and God very clearly steered me toward the Christian fiction market rather than the mainstream market, at least for now. I don’t know why, but I know this is where God wants me to be.
OA: As you start the process of writing a novel, which comes first when you write a book, the plot or the spiritual journey?
CT: Each book is different, and for some books, the plot comes first, and for others, the spiritual journey comes first. For Protection for Hire, the heroine’s spiritual journey definitely came first.
OA: How do you choose which Bible verses to include in a book?
CT: As I’m writing the manuscript, I’ll typically have a certain spiritual theme and I’ll find a verse to fit that theme. For example, while writing Protection for Hire, I knew the heroine’s spiritual theme was about leaving her old life and walking forward in newness in Christ. So I picked Philippians 3:7-8 as the theme verses for the book.
OA: How do you balance showing a character’s spiritual journey without “preaching” to the reader?
CT: I write my characters the way I live my life. I don’t go around preaching to all my nonChristian family or friends, so I have my characters do the same. Everyone has both strengths and flaws, and I make sure my characters have the same strengths and flaws. When they reach a spiritual realization in the climax of my books, that comes out of their flaws and mistakes and the grace of God. I think my readers can relate to that and so they don’t feel preached to.
OA: This may be like asking you to choose a favorite child but do you have a favorite character or book that you’ve written?
CT: Actually, I really like Tessa the best. She’s street smart and can protect herself, but inside she’s very vulnerable because she’s been hurt so badly by the two closest women in her life, her mother and sister, and she’s only now learning how to open up to them again and learn to understand them.
OA: I work in a library and I’ve noticed that when male readers hear the label “romantic suspense” they tend to shy away from those books. What would you say to recommend your books to guy readers?
CT: I wrote this book mostly for women readers, but I did utilize my husband’s love of mixed martial arts in creating Tessa’s character. Guys will probably like the fight scenes. They will also like the yakuza background of the heroine, since mafia-type stories–like the TV series The Sopranos–seem to appeal to men.
OA: You’ve written several shorter novels for Love Inspired as well as longer ones such as your Sushi series. Do you find it more challenging to write shorter or longer novels?
CT: I like writing both. Writing shorter is definitely difficult because each word has to count and I want the story to be rich with good pacing. Writing longer is hard because I have more subplots to keep track of. I think that whatever I happen to be writing at the time seems the most challenging to me.
OA: Who are some of the authors who’ve inspired you?
CT: Definitely Jane Austen. Her wit and the way she used words continues to inspire me.
OA: What is your favorite and least favorite parts of writing a novel?
CT: My favorite part is plotting. My least favorite is editing.
OA: Do you have advice for writers aspiring to be published?
CT: My first piece of advice is to just write. Lots of people want to finish a book, but very few people actually write “The End.” Just write and don’t think about how good/bad the writing is, just get it down. You can edit it later.
My second piece of advice is to make sure you read a lot. A New York Times bestselling author once said that if you write one word, read two. Meaning read more than you write. You can’t know if your story is unique and fits the marketplace if you don’t ever read books in your genre or from the publisher you’re targeting.
OA: Do you have any special traditions that you and your family do each year at Christmas?
CT: We always open one present on Christmas Eve. I think my parents started doing it to keep my brother and me from being antsy, but we still do it now.
OA: What do you have in the works for 2012?
CT: In January I’ll have a Love Inspired Suspense novel, “Stalker in the Shadows,” which is the 3rd book in my Sonoma series, although readers don’t have to read the other books before reading this one. I’ll be releasing book 2 in the Protection for Hire series, titled A Dangerous Stage. And I’ll release 3 books in the Guideposts’ direct mailing book club (which, unfortunately, aren’t for sale online yet).
Thanks for the interview!
Look for Camy’s new Love Inspired release “Stalker in the Shadows” in stores soon. I’m hoping Santa will leave a copy in my stocking!
Growing up I was forever getting in trouble in school–for reading too much! Or at least for reading at the wrong time-aka Math class, Science class, or any subject that didn’t hold my attention.) This week at the library while attempting simple addition in my head and missing the mark by .20 cents my coworker quipped, “(That’s why) we work with words, not numbers.” Maybe I should’ve taken my nose out of my fantasy world long enough to learn math….
My friend and fellow bookworm Aliesha told a story at our Bible Study Christmas Party of how as a child whenever she was in trouble her punishment was “no books for a week.” The book ban was “torture” for her because it meant having to wait to find out what happened next in whatever book she was in the middle of reading.
Her husband was appalled! “Doesn’t that discourage kids from reading?” Aliesha copped to the fact that her reading restriction usually came about when she’d been caught one too many times with a flashlight and a book reading into the wee hours.
I know I’ve found a book for my keeper shelf when I lose track of time and wind up staying up hours past my usual bedtime so I can read “one more chapter.” Or like recently when I was late for work because I couldn’t stop turning the pages of “The Betrayal” by Jerry B. Jenkins. (Click here to read my review.)
Last summer I discovered ”Against All Odds” and “An Eye For An Eye,” the first two books of Irene’s “Heroes of Quantico” series on sale for $5 each. I was attracted by the summaries (FBI Hostage Team members taking on terrorists and guarding the women they love) and by the covers (hot guys). But what really hooked me was an endorsement of Irene’s books by my favorite author Dee Henderson.
“This is a captivating, fast-paced, well-written romantic suspense destined for my keeper shelf. I loved this book, and highly recommend this author. I found someone who writes romantic suspense better than I do.” Dee Henderson (author of the O’Malley Family series)
Sold! After devouring the first two books I gladly drove to the next county to the closest bookstore to pay full price for the final book “In Harms Way.” I’m not the only one who adores the series. “In Harms Way” won a RITA Award and “An Eye For an Eye” was RITA Award Finalist.
“Deadly Pursuit,” (book 2 in the Guardians of Justice series), earned the honor of being named to Booklist magazine’s Top 10 inspirational fiction titles for 2011!
Last year my beach vacation came courtesy of Irene’s Lighthouse Lane series which transports visitors to Nantucket island. There I became absorbed in the lives of a feisty female fishing boat Captain and a bullheaded Coastguard Lieutenant; a world-weary cop and shy Tea Room owner; a waitress who’s had plenty of hard knocks and a kind doctor who knows just the prescription to heal her battered heart; and a reformed ex-con who finds a new start rehabbing a worn bed-and-breakfast owned by an overprotective widow and her young son. (Book 1 “Tides of Hope”, Book 2 “The Hero Next Door”, Book 3 “The Doctor’s Perfect Match”, Book 4 “A Father for Zach.” All four titles are available in ebook format.)
Irene is visiting the blog and she’s giving away a copy of her new book “Seaside Reunion” (Love Inspired, January 2012.) Just leave a comment to enter-that simple. (See end of post for Bonus Entries.) You can enter now through Friday, Dec. 23.
Don’t forget, you can enter each giveaway of the 12 Days of Christmas. Click here to see what (and who) you’ve missed.
OA: Irene, Congratulation on “Deadly Pursuit” being named one of the top 10 inspirational fiction titles for 2011 by Booklist! Inspiration fiction has gained a lot of ground over the last few years with readers and publishers. There are so many genres from Amish to suspense that qualify as inspirational. What is it about inspirational fiction that appeals to readers?
IH: I think the growth in inspirational fiction is a reflection of a shift we’re seeing in this country back toward more traditional values. I believe a lot of people are looking for a reaffirmation of things like principle, character, integrity, honor and faith in what they read, and inspirational fiction focuses on those values. I also think many people are turned off by the violence and vulgarity in today’s media, and in inspirational fiction readers can find compelling stories that don’t contain gratuitous violence, explicit sex and four-letter letter words.
OA: Why do you choose to write inspirational versus secular books?
IH: The funny thing is, when I began writing, there really wasn’t a category known as “inspirational” fiction. It only emerged as a unique and distinct genre in the past 10-12 years. So my original goal was to tell engaging stories that featured traditional values. That remains my objective, but now that there is an official inspirational genre, I’m able to include faith content when appropriate.
OA: Which comes first when you write a book, the plot or the spiritual journey?
IH: The plot. But it’s always a plot that encourages at least one character to embark on a spiritual journey by presenting them with a moral dilemma of some sort.
OA: How do you choose which Bible verses to include in a book?
IH: I don’t include a lot of Bible verses; when I do, they are ones that flow naturally from whatever action is taking place in the story.
OA: How do you balance showing a character’s spiritual journey without “preaching” to the reader?
IH: Preaching is the kiss of death for any novel, in my opinion. Most people read commercial fiction to be entertained. In my books, the spiritual, or faith, content is organic to the story and typically very subtle. I like to show my characters living their faith rather than talking about it. And I think that’s true for the majority of inspirational fiction being published today. Unfortunately, the genre has a reputation in the general market as being preachy and very heavy-handed evangelical. That’s a shame, because I think many general readers looking for “clean,” wholesome, uplifting stories would enjoy inspirational fiction if they gave it a try.
OA: This may be like asking you to choose a favorite child but do you have a favorite character or book that you’ve written?
IH: You’re right, this is a tough question. I’ve loved all the books I’ve written. But a few, for various reasons, do stand out in my mind. Never Say Goodbye (RITA-Award winner), Rainbow’s End (RITA-Award finalist), Against All Odds (Daphne du Maurier and RT Book Reviews Reviewers’ Choice Award winner), In Harm’s Way (RITA-Award winner) and Deadly Pursuit (Booklist Top 10 2011) are among those. As you can see by the awards and honor, they resonated with readers as well! I’m also REALLY excited about my next suspense book, Lethal Legacy!
OA: Your Heroes of Quantico and Guardians of Justice series in particular combine suspense with romance. How do you balance to the two elements? Do you hope your books will appeal to men as well as women?
IH: Balancing the romance and suspense has never been difficult for me. In fact, the heightened tension in a suspense novel is conducive to the development of strong feelings in an accelerated time frame, so the romance and suspense feed into each other very well. As for my suspense books appealing to both men and women…that was a bonus. Prior to 2009, I wrote only contemporary romance, where my readership was primarily female. Much to my surprise, I gained many male readers as I branched into suspense. My first romantic suspense novel, Against All Odds, attracted a lot of male readers with its two-continent setting and an inside look at the FBI’s elite Hostage Rescue Team, and that male readership has been growing with every book
OH: You’ve written several shorter novels for Love Inspired as well as longer ones such as your Heroes of Quantico series. Do you finding it more challenging to write shorter or longer novels?
IH: Each has its own challenges. When writing shorter romances, the focus has to stay on the hero and heroine; there’s just not enough space to delve into other characters. The writing has to be very, very tight and focused on the main action. With my longer suspense books, I have the luxury of using more points of view and letting readers get to know more people—including the villain. I can also more fully develop subplots, so there’s more complexity in the stories. At the same time, though, they take a lot longer to write.
OA: I first picked up one of your books because of that recommendation from Dee Henderson. Who are some of the authors who’ve inspired you?
IH: Many, many readers have told me they read my first suspense novel because of the Dee Henderson quote on the cover. I’ll be forever grateful for that stellar endorsement! As for authors who’ve inspired me—Dee is high on the list. Early on, a writer from the 1940s, Emilie Loring, was a great influence on my romance writing. I also admire Nora Roberts’ ability to tell a good story. But I try to learn something from every book I read, so even when reading for pleasure, I’m usually also analyzing the book!
OA: What is your favorite and least favorite parts of writing a novel?
IH: The early stage, where I’m developing the basic plot and doing lots of research, is my least favorite part. Even though that step is necessary, I’m not actually putting words on paper, so it feels less productive. My favorite part is how I start each writing day—going over the text I wrote the day before and polishing it to make every word sparkle. I love that process!
OA:Do you have advice for writers aspiring to be published?
IH: Yes, but it’s too long to publish here. I’d suggest checking out the article I wrote on this subject, which is available on my website, http://www.irenehannon.com/extras.html.
OA: How many books have you published?
IH: My January 2012 book (Seaside Reunion) is number 37 and will release around December 20. (Just in time to use as a stocking stuffer!) It’s book 1 in my Starfish Bay series, which is set on the gorgeous northern California coast.
OA: Do you have any special traditions that you and your family do each year at Christmas?
IH: We have several. One of the most beloved is our White Christmas night. My extended family (parents, brother, sister-in-law, nieces) always gathers in the week before the holiday to eat goodies and watch White Christmas. We’ve seen it so many times, we can recite the lines and sing along with the actors, but it wouldn’t be Christmas without that movie!
OA: What do you have in the works for 2012?
IH: Next year promises to be very busy! In addition to the launch of my Starfish Bay series, I’ll be concluding my Guardians of Justice romantic suspense series in August with “Lethal Legacy.” I’m already at work on my next suspense series, which will feature three former law-enforcement operatives who band together to create a private investigation firm. Let’s just say they will be handling some very interesting cases!
But First the Rules. Please read over them, they’ll likely answer any questions you have about the giveaway-if not, ask away.
This giveaway is open to US Residents, with the book mailed to the winner by the author. (Sorry international friends, postage is expensive!)
Here’s how you can enter to win a free copy of “Seaside Reunion.”
Simply leave a comment under this post, with your name and email address (so I can contact you if you win! Email addresses are used for this contest only. I don’t collect or sell email addresses.)
BONUS ENTRIES (Leave a Separate Comment for each action you complete stating what you did along with your name and email.)
The giveaway closes on Friday, Dec. 23 at 11:59pm. Winners will be announced on Saturday, Dec. 24 at 2p.m. Please check back every day through Dec. 23 for a different giveaway and interviews with authors. You can enter all of the giveaways but you can only win once.
Please note, this giveaway is not affiliated with Karen Kingsbury or her publishers. If you’d like to leave a comment for Karen, direct them to her website. Thanks for visiting! ~Heather)
My favorite way to spend a lazy day off is to get lost in a bookstore. (Which some people may find odd since I work in a library.) I can spend hours browsing, reading, and sipping Passion Tea while nibbling pastries. My family and friends will testify that when I travel out-of-town I have to visit at least one bookstore before heading home.
Those “mini-vacations” to the local Christian bookstore or Barnes and Noble are my chance to expand more than my bookshelf (which is groaning from the weight of so many books.) I become giddy at the prospect of discovering a new author, finding a title that I haven’t read from a favorite author , or unearthing a book that would never make it into my online shopping cart.
To my dismay I rarely have the pleasure of walking into a brick and mortar bookstore.
Since my bookstore trips have been depressingly few this year, I rely heavily on word of mouth via online groups and websites to point me in the direction of what to read next.
This year I discovered the digital magazine FamilyFiction.
It’s like having your own personal librarian or
bookstore clerk at your fingertips 24/7. A bonus is their Facebook and Twitter pages which provide up-to-date news from the Christian fiction world including a current list of free ebooks, author interviews, new releases, DVDs and more.
I love the FamilyFiction motto:
“Celebrating Christian storytelling of all kinds: Amish, Historicals, Romance, Suspense, SF/Fantasy, Contemporary and YA. Because everyone deserves a good story.”
I work in a library and I’m often encouraging (and prodding) patrons to read books out of their norm. I tend to gravitate toward romantic suspense. FamilyFiction reviews a variety of genre’s, helping me practice what I preach. I delight in finding an unexpected treasure in a book I wouldn’t have selected on my own.
FamilyFiction is giving one of you a copy of Karen Kingsbury 3-in-1 edition “Forever Faithful: The Complete Trilogy” (which features “Waiting For Morning,” “Halfway to Forever,” and “Joy Comes in the Morning.” )
To enter for a chance to win, just comment on this post. (There’s also a chance for bonus entries.
Chris Well, Editor of FamilyFiction is visiting to tell us about the magazine.
OA: Chris, what is the story behind FamilyFiction?
FF: Our mission is to be a news source for Christian fiction readers — providing news, features, and author interviews. We cover nearly every category of Christian fiction, including Amish fiction, Suspense, Historical, YA/Teen, Romance, Speculative fiction, children’s books, comics & animation, and movies & DVDs.
We keep our readers updated through a digital magazine, a weekly email newsletter, and a comprehensive website. Since our website launch in January 2011, we have been constantly adding new content to our database — and, as of this writing, have more than 670 authors pages, more than 2700 listed books, nearly 500 book trailers, nearly 300 listed movies and DVDs, and nearly 150 movie and DVD trailers. And we keep adding more authors, more books, and more movies all the time!
Thanks to Chris and FamilyFiction for joining us! Tomorrow’s guest is Irene Hannon. Don’t forget, you can enter each giveaway of the 12 Days of Christmas. Click here to see what (and who) you’ve missed.
But First the Rules. Please read over them, they’ll likely answer any questions you have about the giveaway-if not, ask away.
This giveaway is open to everyone!!! (No residency restrictions!)
Here’s how you can enter to win a copy of “Forever Faithful” featuring all three novels from the series by Karen Kingsbury.
Simply leave a comment under this post, with your name and email address (so I can contact you if you win! Email addresses are used for this contest only. I don’t collect or sell email addresses.)
BONUS ENTRIES (Leave a Separate Comment for each action you complete stating what you did along with your name and email.)
Post a comment with your favorite author, book or genre.
The giveaway closes on Friday, Dec. 23 at 11:59pm. Winners will be announced on Saturday, Dec. 24 at 2p.m. Please check back every day through Dec. 23 for a different giveaway and interviews with authors. You can enter all of the giveaways but you can only win once.
*This post may contain affiliate links.
The giveaway is in no way affiliated with Karen Kingsbury or her publisher.
Now I’m a bit biased when I say Carolina girls are the best in the world (there’s even a song about it, so it must be true.) Today’s guest is Jennifer Hudson Taylor, who lives in the Charlotte area. Jennifer is a southern girl but the setting of her current Highland series transports readers across the ocean and back in time to 15th century Scotland. She’ll be sticking closer home with next year’s novella “Quakers of New Garden” which features four stories that follow a Quaker family living in Greensboro in the 1800s. (My mom-who rarely reads historicals-is already excited to read this one, just from reading the summary!)
Jennifer has published two books, and signed contracts for two novellas and four more upcoming novels through 2014. Her work has appeared in national publications, such as Guideposts, Heritage Quest Magazine, Romantic Times Book Reviews, and The Military Trader.
Don’t forget, you can enter each giveaway of the 12 Days of Christmas. Click here to see what (and who) you’ve missed.
INTERVIEW WITH JENNIFER HUDSON TAYLOR
OA: Jennifer, why did you choose to write a historical series, particularly one set in Scotland?
JHT: There aren’t many Christian fiction books written in 15th century Scotland. At the time in 1998, the market seemed saturated with prairie romances, and I thought it would be nice to write something in a time and place I had enjoyed in the secular market. When I switched to reading Christian fiction, I missed the variety of selections that were available in the secular market, but I craved books with Christian values that didn’t have all the bad language and sex in them. I had always loved Scottish historicals and so that was the first thing that came to mind, even though it wasn’t published until 2010.
OA: What do you think readers can take away from a book whose time and place are so far removed from our own?
JHT: I think historical lessons can be discovered through an interesting story by way of skipping a boring history lesson, although history lessons are rarely boring to ME! I’m learning from my family that I’m in the minority on that. People never change regardless of gender, race, or period of history in which they live. People still want to be loved, valued, happy, and often are searching for a way to make their life count, for meaning and purpose. For this reason, Christian fiction will always have take away value as we writers are led by the Holy Spirit to inspire modern readers in their own faith walk, plant seeds in developing minds to dispel doubt, remind people of God’s hope when they are depressed or grieving, and show them the love of Christ through fiction parables.
OA: What led you to write your first novel?
JHT: I’ve always loved reading historical romance novels. I finished reading a book that inspired me when I was 12, and I decided to write a book. And so I did.
OA: Why do you choose to write inspirational versus secular books?
JHT: I started out writing secular books even though I’ve been a Christian since I was 9. For a long time, I didn’t know that Christian fiction was available and when I first heard about it, my reaction was, “It’s probably so chaste that it isn’t realistic.” God called me to write Christian fiction, I know this now when I look back at all the signs I ignored, but I ran from it like Jonah. I didn’t think the market was big enough or that I could make a living from it. I was even so stubborn that I stopped writing for 3 years.
Deep down there was a fear that I wasn’t qualified to write Christian fiction—that I didn’t know enough about the Bible or that I wasn’t a good enough Christian. During those 3 years, God took care of that. He allowed me to be humbled to a breaking point. We went through so many things that the Bible became my desperate search for answers. No more seeking sermons or ministry leaders for their thoughts, I wanted to read and find the answers for myself. The Word of God came alive and my relationship with Christ grew in such a way I never imagined possible.
After this experience I vowed I would never write another thing unpleasing to God. In my mind this meant I’d never write romance again. Of course, God had other plans. When I found Embrace the Dawn by Kathleen Morgan in the Religion section of Borders, I freaked. Since when did Christian fiction contain Scottish medieval romances? I bought it on the spot. Read through it and I was hooked from then on. It inspired me to convert my Scottish historical to Christian fiction and it became my debut novel, Highland Blessings.
OA: Which comes first when you write a book, the plot or the spiritual journey?
JHT: It depends, but most of the time it’s the plot and then the rest comes together. Since I started out converting my secular novels to Christian fiction, I’ve just sort of gravitated to that chronological order. However, some of my more recent books have had the spiritual journey integrated in the plot as it was developed.
OA: How do you choose which Bible verses to include in a book?
JHT: It depends. Sometimes a verse will rise up from my spirit based on what my characters are facing. Other times, I have to do searches for key phrases on Bible Gateway.
OA: How do you balance showing a character’s spiritual journey without “preaching” to the reader?
JHT: That’s hard because what one person considers too preachy another may not. I try to take my mind back to my younger Jonah days and look at it from the perspective of those eyes. If it seems like something that would have caused me to toss the book or keep reading and digging, I go by that. One thing that I try to do is limit church sermons and if I have a church scene, keep the pastor’s comments limited to a line or two. Also, I try not to have other characters preach to each other with long paragraphs of dialogue. If they give advice, I try to limit it to 2-3 lines, no more than one paragraph and then get the action going again.
OA: How do you do research when preparing to write a historical novel?
JHT: These days I begin with the Internet. Google Search is a powerful tool. I read a few articles and blogs, print out and highlight things I’m interested in and want to research further. Once I have the basic info, I go back to my highlights and questions and begin researching specific questions. If I need more details than what is provided on the Internet, I look up specific books. If they’re available, I order them from Amazon or Google Books. While I like reading novels on my Kindle and Nook, I still prefer a printed book for research. This may change since my shelves are getting full and I can store up to 3,500 books on my Kindle.
OA: Who are some of the authors who’ve inspired you?
JHT: Kathleen Morgan, as well as some of the secular authors like Julie Garwood, Teresa Medeiros, and Judith McNaught with some of their earlier books. I don’t read them now, for obvious reasons, but they did inspire me to want to write. God inspired me to want to write for Him. God showed me through Kathleen Morgan’s work that there is a place in the Christian fiction market for a writer like me. Now, I’m moving on to chart new territory with Quaker historicals based on some of my family history, even our Scottish Quakers.
OA: What is your favorite and least favorite parts of writing a novel?
JHT: The doubt. I love all stages: the research, the writing, the editing, cover design, the promoting—but at every stage, doubt will always try to creep in and attack. I worry the current book isn’t as good as the last one—that it’s too different and readers won’t like it. I worry that I’m too tired with my day job and all my responsibilities and I’m not giving the same quality as before. I worry that no one knows about my books, and therefore, won’t buy them and no amount of marketing will make a difference. I worry stuff will happen and I won’t meet a deadline. On and on it goes, but I have to cast those thoughts aside and keep pressing forward.
OA: Do you have advice for writers aspiring to be published?
JHT: If this is something you really want/need to do, don’t give up. God’s timing isn’t your timing. Learn as much as you can. The more realistic your expectations, the better are your chances of not being disappointed and your ability to make valuable decisions when you are published.
OA: This may be like asking you to choose a favorite child but do you have a favorite character or book that you’ve written?
JHT: Highland Sanctuary has a special place in my heart. I based the heroine, Serena, and her seizures on my daughter, Celina, and her seizures.
OA: Do you have any special traditions that you and your family do each year at Christmas?
My daughter and I try to read at least one Christmas novel or novella together. We used to watch a Christmas movie each night in December, but my deadlines have kept me from doing that this year. I still have to work my full-time job, so writing is reduced to evenings and weekends. I used to send out Christmas cards through the mail, and I normally put out an historic Christmas Village, but this is the first year I’ve not done so in 18 years.
This has been a hard year. A few months ago we lost my father-in-law and my mom has been fighting an aggressive cancer and may need further surgery. The happiness that is usually part of the season for us isn’t as prominent as before. I think grief does that, but I know that things will get better.
OA: In the spirit of the Season of giving, can you tell us about a charity that you support and why it’s special to you?
JHT: The Ronald McDonald House Charities was a huge support to our family when our daughter was in Brenners Children’s Hospital. They provide a place for families and parents to stay while their child is being treated for long-term care in the hospital. This is why every city with a hospital needs a Ronald McDonald House. Some of these long-term hospital visits are unexpected and parents can’t afford the hotel expenses for weeks and months at a time. Emotionally, they are already dealing with enough. I was able to stay in the hospital with our daughter, but the Ronald McDonald House gave my husband a place to stay nearby. All he had to pay was a donation and it was no set amount. It was/is such a blessing! http://rmhc.org
OA: What do you have in the works for 2012?
JHT: Novellas
Highland Crossings Novella, Feb 2012 featuring Heart’s Inheritance (1815) by Jennifer Hudson Taylor.
The four stories in Highland Crossings is centered around the lives of the McKay and McPherson cousins and their descendants. A priceless brooch is given to an ancestress for a good deed she once performed for the imprisoned Mary Queen of Scots and serves as the motivation that tears the family apart. It plays a role in bringing the sisters together after twenty years of separation, gives a daughter a start on her dreams, and a granddaughter a new plan for the future. Each finds her way in the New World, the new nation, and a new century, finding God’s purpose for their lives and the loves of their hearts.
Quakers of New Garden Novella, Apr 2012 featuring “New Garden’s Hope” (1808) by Jennifer Hudson Taylor
Quakers of New Garden is a collection of four stories centering around the generations of the Wall family starting in 1808 in Greensborough, NC with their assistance in birthing a new city and tracing their migration to the non-slave state of Indiana. There, they face new struggles in their involvement with the underground railroad leading up to the Civil War, and cling to the plain ways of tradition and faith for 200 years until present day when a new generation is tempted to abandon plainness and step out in faith to a new life and a new love.
OA: You’re also a speaker as well. What kinds of topics do you speak on? How can someone have you come speak to their group?
JHT: Yes, I have topics of Faith & Inspiration, as well as Writing & Publishing. People who want to have me come speak can either contact me through the online form on my Speaker page or send me an email at jt4novels@yahoo.com. Here’s a link to my Speaker page for a list of topics, quote recommendations and a speaking video: http://jenniferswriting.blogspot.com/p/jennifers-speaking-topics.html
But First the Rules. Please read over them, they’ll likely answer any questions you have about the giveaway-if not, ask away.
This giveaway is open to US Residents, with the book mailed to the winner by the author. (Sorry international friends, postage is expensive!)
Here’s how you can enter to win a free copy of “Highland Sanctuary.”
Simply leave a comment under this post, with your name and email address (so I can contact you if you win! Email addresses are used for this contest only. I don’t collect or sell email addresses.)
BONUS ENTRIES (Leave a Separate Comment for each action you complete stating what you did along with your name and email.)
The giveaway closes on Friday, Dec. 23 at 11:59pm. Winners will be announced on Saturday, Dec. 24 at 2p.m. Please check back every day through Dec. 23 for a different giveaway and interviews with authors. You can enter all of the giveaways but you can only win once.
It’s day three of the 12 Days of Christmas. And if you’re like me you’ve probably (okay definitely) indulged in some homemade goodies this Christmas season. One perk (and temptation) of working in a library is being spoiled during Christmas with sweets and goodies from patrons.
Today I’ve got a waist-line friendly treat-a short but sweet interview from author Lenora Worth. If you frequent the book aisle of your local big box store you’ve probably seen Lenora’s books. She has published more than 50 titles for Love Inspired and Harlequin Superomance, among others. She’s written books for just about every genre from historical romances to romantic suspense, and many faith inspired novels, all with the common thread of loveable characters and strong stories that will make you both eager and sad to make it to last page of the book.
Now through Dec. 23, you can enter to win her new release “Southern Reunion“-just comment on this post. (Details are at the end of the post.) And don’t forget, you still have time to enter each giveaway of the 12 Days of Christmas.
Interview with Lenora Worth
OA: How long have you been writing?
LW: I always wanted to be a writer since grammar school. I made up stories and sold them on the playground!
OA: In Inspirational novels, the spiritual element is an important part of the plot. Which comes first for you, the character’s spiritual journey or the plot?
LW: I usually come up with a plot, knowing there will be a spiritual element in the story. I choose my (Bible) verses based on the characters and the theme of the book–forgiveness, suspense, redemption, etc.
OA: How do you craft an inspirational story that doesn’t “preach” to the reader?
LW: I try to show my characters just “being” Christians. Or if they are struggling, I show that struggle. It’s more organic and natural to write it that way.
OA: When I asked Gail Gaymer Martin if she has a favorite character, she told me it was like asking her to pick a favorite child. Do you have a character or novel that’s close to your heart?
LW: Yes, that’s a tough one. I loved Eli Trudeau in “Heart of the Night”. He really needed his own story. He was a very troubled man.
OA: I’m sure writing a novel is like most things-you have things you love and dislike about the process. What are your favorite and least favorite things about writing?
LW: Favorite–getting the initial idea and creating a story around it. Least favorite–never having enough time to make it better.
OA: Many readers are also writers, too. On your website you have some valuable advice for writing an inspirational romance. What do you recommend to writers who are working to finish a novel?
LW: Read, read, read. Learn all about revisions. The first draft is not a book yet. Keep polishing and learning.
OA: I hope this 12 Days of Christmas blog will become a tradition for me. What Christmas traditions does your family enjoy?
LW: We like to decorate the tree together. On Christmas Eve we drive around after the church service to see all the lights.
OA: What can readers expect to see from you in 2012?
LW: Lots of stuff. I’m working on another Superromance right now and I have a Love Inspired and a Love Inspired Suspense contracted. I’ll be very busy next year, thankfully!!!
Now for the contest. But First the Rules. Please read over them, they’ll likely answer any questions you have about the giveaway-if not, ask away.
This giveaway is open to US Residents, with the book mailed to the winner by the author. (Sorry international friends, postage is expensive!)
Here’s how you can enter to win a free copy of “Southern Reunion.”
Simply leave a comment under this post, with your name and email address (so I can contact you if you win! Email addresses are used for this contest only. I don’t collect or sale email addresses.)
BONUS ENTRIES (Leave a Separate Comment for each action you complete stating what you did along with your name and email.)
The giveaway closes on Friday, Dec. 23 at 11:59pm. Winners will be announced on Saturday, Dec. 24 at 2p.m. Please check back every day through Dec. 23 for a different giveaway and interviews with authors. You can enter all of the giveaways but you can only win once.
Each time I start writing a post for the 12 Days of Christmas, the iconic song keeps playing in my head (What I can remember of it anyway.) I think that the passing of time has lost the translation of these strange “gifts.” I’m probably not your true love and the turtle doves I caught flew away (who wants to clean up after them anyway?!) So on the second day of the 12 Days of Christmas giveaways your gift is a review, plus an interview, writing tips and chance to win a Christmas title from the multi-talented Gail Gaymer Martin. To enter the giveaway, simlpy leave a comment with your name and email address by Dec. 23. There’s also a chance for bonus entries. (Don’t forget to comment on the Day One post to win a book from Loree Lough.)
I have a rule…no Christmas songs, decorations or fa-la-la-la-la fun until December. Over the last few years I’ve become a little fanatical about it as stores begin decorating in October. But when it comes to books from my favorite authors I’m more impatient than a child on Christmas morning. So when I got Gail Gaymer Martin‘s new Love Inspired release “Christmas Gifts” in the mail I started reading it immediately (even though Halloween hadn’t arrived.)
You’ll want to read this book anytime of the year-curled up by the fire in December or on the beach in July.
From the back cover When seven-year-old twins act up in temporary teacher Amy Carroll’s class, she meets their very apologetic widowed father, Mike Russet. The handsome man has his hands full—but can two mini matchmakers and holiday cheer open his heart to Christmas romance?
Frazzled father Mike Russet is the man and the mom of the house. The widower is raising precocious seven-year-old twins Holly and Ivy.
Teacher Amy Carroll’s life is in upheaval. Budget cuts force her to leave her job in Chicago for a job in a small town. Even as she makes her new life she must deal with her baggage from the past.
Amy knows first hand what it’s liked to be raised by a single father. She sees a chance to help Mike give some tough love to the twins.
Mike sees beyond Amy’s beauty and hard shell.
The twins see a chance to help their favorite teacher find a permanent place in their school and in their daddy’s heart.
While Mike’s genuine faith challenges Amy to put the past to rest, Amy awakens feelings that the father thought he had buried with his wife.
The novel wraps up realism, romance, faith, and the magic of the season in one small package (It’s 110 pages and I read it in one sitting.) And “Christmas Gifts” keeps on giving with a bonus novel “Her Christmas Cowboy” by Brenda Minton.
I’m putting “Christmas Gifts” on my keeper shelf and I have a feeling I’ll be pulling it out this summer for a little Christmas in July!
Interview with Gail Gaymer Martin
OA: Every Christmas season I pull out one of your Christmas books to read (“The Christmas Kite”, “With Christmas In His Heart”, “Christmas Gifts”, “Upon a Midnight Clear.”) I guess it’s become a tradition for me. Have any of your family’s Christmas traditions found there way into your Christmas novels? What fun or special traditions does your family celebrate?
GM: I suppose an occasional tradition shows up in a Christmas book but they are things that are traditional to most people–playing Christmas music while decorating the house and tree, hanging up Christmas stockings to be opened on Christmas Day, and putting a creche beneath the tree that has been in my husband’s family for years.
One particular tradition that my family has is on Christmas Day we break up into groups of 11 and sing the Twelve Days of Christmas. We all begin on Day 1 and then each group or individual must remember to sing the day they or she has been assigned. It provides a lot of laughs when people forget what came on that day or when some of the singers can’t carry a tune. The song is often modulated into a variety of keys. : )
OA: I’m amazed at the variety of books you published. How many of your books have been published?
I’ve been published by Steeple Hill/Love Inspired and Barbour Publishing as well as their Heartsong Presents line. My fiction totals 50 novels, I believe. I am also the author of Writing the Christian Romance from Writers Digest, and I have 27 books involving church resource materials of programs, skits and plays for adult and children in church and Sunday school.
OA: As an aspiring writer I’ve been following your writing blog for years. I’ve used many of the tips for writers you’ve posted on your website. What advice do you have advice for writers aspiring to be published?
Learn the craft. God-given talent is important but that doesn’t sell a book. Writing needs training and study, attending workshops and conferences, networking with writers, reading magazines and books on writing, and then practicing. Often the first novel doesn’t sell. The third or fourth or fifth or twentieth might. Patience, perseverance, practice, polish, and prayer for a story that grabs an editors heart and hangs on.
OA: Why do you choose to write inspirational romance instead of secular books?
GM: I am a lifelong Christian, born into a family of believers who attended church, and though they made mistakes and sinned, as we all do, they held on to the hope of Christ as their redeemer and savior. When I was first writing—which was not fiction but articles for magazines—I recalled my childhood dream which was to write novels. During my first or second conference, Gayle Roper told me about a bulletin board of writers on AOL (that was in 1996) and on that bulletin board I ran across a message that said anyone who wanted to write Christian romance could join a new group that was being established. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to write but that sounded fine with me. Little did I know the group included Francine Rivers, Liz Curtis Higgs, Karen Ball, Lisa Tawn Bergren , Linda Windsor, Annie Jones, and many more. They truly mentored me and I sold my first novel in 1998.
OA: Which comes first as you write-the story or the spiritual journey.
As I develop a novel, usually I have a general idea of story along with types of characters and their problems which might include a faith issue. They come together in small pieces
OA: How do you balance showing a character’s spiritual journey without “preaching” to the reader?
Preaching is the worst thing anyone can do in Christian fiction. It’s a turn off for most readers, even Christians. My character’s journeys stem from their inner conflicts and sometimes that can involved faith issues: why does God let this happen, does God hear my prayers, will God listen to me a sinner, and so on. Sometimes the problem is weak faith or lack of faith. I try to write my novels “real.” I present characters just as I live my life with the worries and fears along with the faith that is from my heart and soul. When faith discussions or a faith lessons stem from realistic issues or situations, they are not preachy. Preachy is when the story almost stops to drive home a point that is meant to sway the reader’s thinking. It’s long prayers and Bible verses filling the story as well as constant church scenes that can turn off readers.
OA: Do you have a favorite character or book that you’ve written?
That’s like asking a mother which of her children she loves the most. I love each book as I write it. Some linger in my heart longer than some. Upon A Midnight Clear (my first book published by Love Inspired) is one. The Christmas Kite is another – my first single title from Steeple Hill. A Love for Safekeeping (an award winning romantic suspense) published by LI in 2002 was my first romantic suspense and is now available on Kindle.
OA: What is your favorite and least favorite parts of writing a novel?
I love hearing from readers who have been touched and changed by one of my novels. My least favorite part is two things: the way being an author takes over my life and the other, doing what my editor calls “tweaking” a novel that’s contracted and complete. This often means almost rewriting the book.
OA: Performing in choirs keeps you busy. Tell us about your music.
My husband writes handbell music and he’s published. But I am very active in music. I’ve always been a singer since I was a child singing in elementary and high school choirs, then auditioned groups in college and a well-known madrigal group, and I sing with a well-known Christian chorale in the Detroit area. In church, I sing solos, participate in the choir, and a member of the praise team. I perform at church in handbells land handchimes. Years ago I played the piano for Sunday school. Don’t ask me now. I can barely remember how to play.
A Family of Their Own is available in paperback from your local bookstore, or online. It’s also available as an ebook.
I was provided an Advance Reader Copy of A FAMILY OF THEIR OWN at no cost for review purposes. The opinions are my own and I was not a required to provide a positive review.
Simply leave a comment under this post, with your name and email address (so I can contact you if you win! Email addresses are used for this contest only. I don’t collect or sale email addresses.)
BONUS ENTRIES (Leave a Separate Comment for each action you complete stating what you did along with your name and email.)
Sign up for Gail’s monthly newsletter with photos, new, appearance, info on free books, recipe, and devotional. Subscribe at: www.gailmartin.com below the welcome message.
Howdy y’all. Thanks for stopping by the 12 Days of Christmas giveaway. I hope you’ll drop by every day until Dec. 23 for a chance to win a book a day and to enjoy interviews with best-selling authors.
Today we welcome best-selling author Loree Lough.She’s dropped by to tell us a little about her books, give some writing tips and share some of her family’s Christmas traditions. Oh and she’s giving away a free book to one lucky winner!
Loree is the author of 84 books. With an amazing 3 million books in circulation, Loree is one of Inspirational Fiction’s most well-know (and spunky) authors. Her titles have earned numerous 4- and 5-star reviews and dozens of industry awards. She splits her time between a humble home in Baltimore and a teeny cabin in the Alleghenies (where she loves to show off her “Identify the Critter Tracks” skills).
Before becoming a best-selling author, Loree “literally sang for her supper” (click this link for a flashback of Loree. I think she looks like Lynn Anderson) and worked as a reporter for major newspapers and magazines.
Loree doesn’t just write about faith, she lives it. Following the words of”Acts 20:35 “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” she donates a large portion of her annual income to charities including the Wounded Warriors Project, Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund, the Autism Society of America, and the Wolf Sanctuary of Pennsylvania.
Loree loves to hear from readers and answers every letter, personally. (It’s true, she’s a fun friend to follow on Facebook! You’ll get lots of laughs and inspiration from her page! And maybe a growling belly after you read all the yummy recipes she posts.) To connect with Loree , visit her at Facebook, Twitter, Shoutlife, and http://www.loreelough.com!
The premise of Loree’s First Responders series is heartwrenchingly familiar. In “From Ashes to Honor” (book 1) NYC Cop Austin Finley must live with the unthinkable-he ignored a final phone call from his brother who was inside the World Trade Center on 9/11. “Honor Redeemed” (book 2) follows two Search and Rescue workers as they sort through the mangled wreckage of an jumbo passenger jet.
OA: Loree, your upcoming release Honor Redeemed (book 2 in the First Responders series which releases February 2012) follows the lives of characters who were personally and deeply affected by 9/11. It’s been 10 years since the 9/11 attacks. What inspired you to write the First Responders series now?
LL: Like most Americans, I used to accept as fact that first responders would be there when I needed them. Just dial 9-1-1 and help arrives, right? While driving, I did my civic duty and pulled over when I saw flashing lights and heard sirens. I said a little prayer for whomever they were about to help, but once the emergency vehicles had passed, I pretty much forgot about them.
And then 9/11 happened. I saw cops, firefighters, EMTs, Port Authority Police walking into the mayhem with only one thought: Save lives. Many of them gave their own lives that day…and in the days, months, and years to come, and I felt overwhelming guilt, caused by my “took them for granted” mindset. Notice…that’s past tense….
The First Responders series will, I hope, make everyone who reads the novels more aware of the brave men and women who put our safety ahead of their own. I also hope that, as readers go about their normal routines, they’ll stop and say thank you when they see a policeman, firefighter, or soldier.
OA: I recently watched the video book trailer for Honor Redeemed on Youtube. It’s so fun to watch books come to life visually, if only for a couple of minutes. What do you think videos being used to promote books?
LL: The number of industry pros who claim video book trailers increase sales are probably equal to the number who insist trailers are a waste of ,money. But in an industry where an author’s opportunities (to sell) are decreasing as the number of competitors increases, I say name recognition is critical. If a reader views–and likes–a trailer, they’re more likely to remember my name while browsing the bookstore shelves. That’s why I’ve put my hard-earned marketing dollars toward book trailers…and why I’ll keep right on doing it!
OA: You’re donating a portion of the proceeds from “Honor Redeemed” to three charities that serve ourmilitary men and women. Tell us what prompted you to do this.
LL: It’s really no sacrifice, giving up a few Hershey’s Bars, Maybelline products, and Dominos Pizzas to thank them for all they do to improve the lives of others. Besides, ‘giving back’ feels so doggoned good!
Soldiers’ Angels exists to add comfort to the lives of deployed soldiers and their families. Care packages, filled and mailed solely by volunteers, arrive daily at military bases around the world. And the resilient family members who make it possible for these valiant men and women in uniform are given small but meaningful gifts, too.
Special Operations Warrior Foundation provides funds that allow the children of our fallen soldiers to go to college…something that, for many of them, would be impossible, otherwise.
The Wounded Warrior Foundation partners with many organizations and charities to give soldiers whose deployments have ended whatever assistance they need. From jobs to training for new careers, help in getting prostheses (and other medical/psychological aid), housing…you name it.
The main reason I choose to donate a large portion of my annual income to these organizations is because I see it as my duty…my way of “giving back.”
OA: Why do you choose to write inspirational romance versus secular books?
LL: When I was a reporter, writing for just about every major magazine and newspaper out there, I saw a disturbing,repeated trend: Editors, altering facts to appease advertisers. I figured if I was gonna write fiction, I might as well pen a novel. And if I was blessed enough to see it published, I wanted it to reach hard-working Christians who were looking for wholesome entertainment. As anyone in this business can tell you, there isn’t nearly as much money in writing faith-based fiction as there is writing secular stories. But they’ll also tell you it really isn’t about the money as much as it’s about using our talents to help spread God’s word.
OA: Which comes first when you write a book, the plot or the spiritual journey.
LL: It varies. Sometimes, a title comes to me first. Other times, an event wakes an idea that starts a series of “What if…?” and “And then what…?” questions that serve as the basic storyline. But without exception, answering the “What if?” and “And then what?” questions always goes hand in hand with a faith-based them, such as forgiveness, acceptance, trust and faith.
OA: How do you choose which Bible verses to include in a book?
LL: For me, the storyline dictates which passages make the most sense. As I present characters with issues, I introduce Biblical principles that will aid them in coping with conflicts, and brings them to a spiritual place that helps them resolve those difficulties.
OA: How do you balance showing a character’s spiritual journey without “preaching” to the reader?
LL: The only way to accomplish that, I believe, is to create characters my readers can easily identify with. The people I write about have flaws—sometimes, big ones—that make whatever goals they’re trying to reach impossible (or at the very least, a whole lot harder). As the characters turn to God for the strength to overcome their problems, readers see faith slowly unfolding. If the changes and growth required of my characters happened “overnight,” readers would never believe it. And why should they, when in real life, change and growth is a process that takes time, thought…and prayer.
OA: This may be like asking you to choose a favorite child but do you have a favorite character or book that you’ve written?
LL: I think of all the characters I’ve developed, I like Dusty Parker best. (He’s the hero in A Man of Honor, book #3 in the First Responders series.) Not only is he the character who was most willing to sacrifice for those he loves, Dusty is also a man with a lot of baggage. He overcame some huge obstacles from his past, and after finding Christ, approaches his life and those he shares it with grace and dignity…and he accomplishes this with a steadfast (other characters might say stubborn!) trust in the Lord.
OA: What is your favorite and least favorite part of writing a novel?
LL: My favorite part of writing a novel is dumping a boatload of troubles into characters’ laps…and having the power to help them solve every problem. To answer the second part of that question, I have to admit that I’ve never been one to blow my own horn. These days, with so many cut-backs in the publishing industry, authors are required to market their own books. It’s a strange, unnatural thing…this “shameless self-promotion. I compare it to preparing a mouth-watering 7-course gourmet dinner…and then facing the ugly task of cleaning up the pots and pans!
OA: Do you have advice for writers aspiring to be published?
LL: First, follow the usual advice: Read the genre you hope to publish; read how-to books (written by authors who’ve earned the right to tell you “how it’s done”); attend writing classes (seminars and workshops); sign up for conferences where you can meet and mingle with people who “get” the whole crazy mixed-up publishing industry.
Equally important is not to write “what you know,” because that limits your audience, a lot! And please, please, please don’t write “the book of your heart” unless you’ve done some thorough research and you know, without a doubt, that it contains the necessary elements to help you sell it.
OA: You have a quirky sense of humor that is reflected in your characters. Where do you get you inspiration?
LL: I’d have to give some of the credit to my quirky family. Every one of us—Mom (who passed away Aug. 9, 2011), Dad, and all 4 of my siblings are cut-ups. Then, I have to give some of the credit to Life. If not for my sense of humor, I doubt I could have survived a lot of what it threw at me!
OA: What do you have in the works for 2012?
LL: #2 in the First Responders series, “Honor Redeemed”, will release in February. In June of 2012, #3 in that series, “A Man of Honor,” will join it, and it’ll be followed soon after by “For Love of Eli”, one of the launch books in Abingdon’s Quilts of Love series. (Please pray for me: There are a few proposals under consideration that I’d love to see turned into books!)
OA: Loree, thanks for being a part of our 12 Days of Christmas and gifting us with this fun interview and a free book for one lucky reader! We’ll let you get back to preparing for Christmas. But before you go, what traditions are you looking forward to celebrating with your family?
LL: We always, always have a birthday cake that says “Happy Birthday, Baby Jesus.” After our big dinner, the family gathers round for dessert, but we aren’t allowed to eat a bite until we’ve sung the birthday song to our Savior. This helps even the littlest kids gathered focus on “the reason for the season,” and reminds grownups that Christmas isn’t about food, or decorations, or presents under the tree.
I’d like to thank Heather for her generosity in sharing her blog—and her regular followers—with me! And I’d also like to wish all of you a happy, healthy Christmas that’s filled with love, peace, and joy.
Now for the contest. But First the Rules. Please read over them, they’ll likely answer any questions you have about the giveaway-if not, ask away.
This giveaway is open to US Residents, with the book mailed to the winner by the author. (Canada friends, you can enter but only if you’re willing to send the author a SASE to mail your book. Sorry, postage is expensive!)
Here’s how you can enter to win a free copy of your choice of either “From Ashes to Honor” or “Love Finds You In Folly Beach, South Carolina.”
Simply leave a comment under this post, with your name and email address (so I can contact you if you win! Email addresses are used for this contest only. I don’t collect or sale email addresses.)
BONUS ENTRIES (Leave a Separate Comment for each action you complete stating what you did along with your name and email.)
The giveaway closes on Friday, Dec. 23 at 11:59pm. Winners will be announced on Saturday, Dec. 24 at 2p.m. Please check back every day through Dec. 23 for a different giveaway and interviews with authors.
From the back cover of “Love in the Balance” Molly Lovelace dreams of being a society leader in 1879 Lockhart, Texas, but being smitten with handsome wrangler Bailey Garner doesn’t seem the quickest route. If only he would settle down so he could support a family.
Meet Wendy: 
The contest ends Oct. 20. So go on over.
Thanks for stopping by!
