April Erwin's Blog, page 16
January 18, 2014
Dysfunction Junction Makes Top 10!
The Rocky Mountain Heiress Collectin by Kathleen Y'Barbo
Song Stuck on the Brain: Sally Was A Good Ole Girl by Roy Clark
The Rocky Mountain Heiress Collection: The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper, Anna Finch and the Hired Gun, The Inconvenient Marriage of Charlotte Beck by Kathleen Y'Barbo MY TAKE: Do you love a good clean romance? One that's got more than a few good laughs and sweet "aw" moments? How about one with a spunky female heroine, a handsome hero and few sparks? Yes? Well, me too! And if I added that it was also a Christian story to boot, well that like extra icing on the best cupcakes.
Even better - there's more than one. I have to say, I love a good series, but waiting for the next book for months at a time can be killer. This was a great opportunity to immerse myself in another world and not come out until it was done. That always makes me VERY happy.
Kathleen Y'Barbo has a great writing style and the fact that her publishing list is so long just proves that. I loved this series, but that didn't surprise me. I've like every book I've read by Kathleen Y'Barbo.
ABOUT THE BOOKS:
Take a trip back to the nineteenth-century Wild West in these three inspirational romance novels, attractively priced and packaged as an eBook omnibus. Kathleen Y'Barbo's The Rocky Mountain Heiress Collection includes the rollicking romances of three amazing young women; an adventure-seeking heiress pretending to be a governess to go west, a feisty well-to-do society girl longing to become a journalist and chase the story of a lifetime, and the millionaire's daughter who is being asked to marry for the good of the family business . Fans of westerns will find themselves transported to frontier Colorado, and into stories with independent heroines, adventure, love, and ambition.
The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper
Roman Holiday meets Mary Poppins in this Gilded Age tale of Eugenia "Gennie" Cooper, a New York socialite who takes advantage of a rare opportunity to step into the world of the dime novels she secretly loves. From the splendor of Fifth Avenue's mansions to the gilded homes of Denver silver barons and the rugged Leadville mines, Gennie's adventure as a governess soon becomes a love story despite the rocky start she has with widower Daniel Beck and his daughter Charlotte.
Anna Finch and the Hired Gun
Anna Finch's father desperately wants to marry her off, but Anna's not having much success, mostly because she's much better at the written word than the spoken word. When she's around an eligible man, she becomes completely tongue-tied. It doesn't help that the awful man at the newspaper taunts her with constant mentions in his "Perish the Thought" gossip column.
When Anna encounters the infamous lawman and outlaw Wyatt Earp, she sees her chance to finally achieve her dream of becoming a reporter. In this capacity, she finds love and trouble in equal measure when she convinces the dying gunfighter Doc Holliday to tell her his story. Her freedom to meet with Holliday is hampered, however, by Pinkerton agent Jeb Sanders, who's been hired to keep an eye on her--and keep her away from nobleman and notorious playboy Edwin Beck. Once Jeb realizes what Anna's up to, his annoyance at being forced to babysit a rich girl is swamped by his need to exact revenge on Doc Holliday.
As the reporter and the detective get more tangled in Doc Holliday's story and each other, will their opposing goals tear
them apart--or bring them together?
The Inconvenient Marriage of Charlotte Beck
Charlotte Beck wants to go to college, but her father would rather she get married and spend her days painting. Alex Hambly's aristocratic family is in financial straits, and he has two options: either sell off the family's Colorado silver mine or marry a rich, American heiress. Charlotte's father makes them a deal: he'll allow Charlotte to go to college and be the instrument of Alex's financial salvation on one condition--that they agree to get married. Seeing no way out, Charlotte and Alex find themselves engaged. They agree that they'll have the marriage annulled as soon as possible and go back to their own lives. Except Alex isn't sure he wants the annulment. He sets out to woo his wife for real, and Charlotte suddenly finds that her marriage has become very inconvenient indeed.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
RITA and Carol award nominee Kathleen Y’Barbo is the best-selling, award-winning author of more than forty novels, novellas, and young adult books. In all, more than one million copies of her books are currently in print in the US and abroad, and her books have been translated into Dutch, German, and Spanish, to name a few.
Kathleen is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. She holds a BBA from Texas A&M University’s Mays Business School and a certification in Paralegal Studies, and is a former member of the Texas Bar Association’s Paralegal Division.
A tenth-generation Texan, Kathleen Y’Barbo has four children of her own as well as seven bonus kids she gladly inherited when she married her own hero in combat boots (read about their real-life romance here!). Kathleen is proud to be a military wife, even if it did mean giving up her Texas drivers license.
The Rocky Mountain Heiress Collection: The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper, Anna Finch and the Hired Gun, The Inconvenient Marriage of Charlotte Beck by Kathleen Y'Barbo MY TAKE: Do you love a good clean romance? One that's got more than a few good laughs and sweet "aw" moments? How about one with a spunky female heroine, a handsome hero and few sparks? Yes? Well, me too! And if I added that it was also a Christian story to boot, well that like extra icing on the best cupcakes.
Even better - there's more than one. I have to say, I love a good series, but waiting for the next book for months at a time can be killer. This was a great opportunity to immerse myself in another world and not come out until it was done. That always makes me VERY happy.
Kathleen Y'Barbo has a great writing style and the fact that her publishing list is so long just proves that. I loved this series, but that didn't surprise me. I've like every book I've read by Kathleen Y'Barbo.
ABOUT THE BOOKS:
Take a trip back to the nineteenth-century Wild West in these three inspirational romance novels, attractively priced and packaged as an eBook omnibus. Kathleen Y'Barbo's The Rocky Mountain Heiress Collection includes the rollicking romances of three amazing young women; an adventure-seeking heiress pretending to be a governess to go west, a feisty well-to-do society girl longing to become a journalist and chase the story of a lifetime, and the millionaire's daughter who is being asked to marry for the good of the family business . Fans of westerns will find themselves transported to frontier Colorado, and into stories with independent heroines, adventure, love, and ambition.The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper
Roman Holiday meets Mary Poppins in this Gilded Age tale of Eugenia "Gennie" Cooper, a New York socialite who takes advantage of a rare opportunity to step into the world of the dime novels she secretly loves. From the splendor of Fifth Avenue's mansions to the gilded homes of Denver silver barons and the rugged Leadville mines, Gennie's adventure as a governess soon becomes a love story despite the rocky start she has with widower Daniel Beck and his daughter Charlotte.
Anna Finch and the Hired Gun
Anna Finch's father desperately wants to marry her off, but Anna's not having much success, mostly because she's much better at the written word than the spoken word. When she's around an eligible man, she becomes completely tongue-tied. It doesn't help that the awful man at the newspaper taunts her with constant mentions in his "Perish the Thought" gossip column.
When Anna encounters the infamous lawman and outlaw Wyatt Earp, she sees her chance to finally achieve her dream of becoming a reporter. In this capacity, she finds love and trouble in equal measure when she convinces the dying gunfighter Doc Holliday to tell her his story. Her freedom to meet with Holliday is hampered, however, by Pinkerton agent Jeb Sanders, who's been hired to keep an eye on her--and keep her away from nobleman and notorious playboy Edwin Beck. Once Jeb realizes what Anna's up to, his annoyance at being forced to babysit a rich girl is swamped by his need to exact revenge on Doc Holliday.
As the reporter and the detective get more tangled in Doc Holliday's story and each other, will their opposing goals tear
them apart--or bring them together?
The Inconvenient Marriage of Charlotte Beck
Charlotte Beck wants to go to college, but her father would rather she get married and spend her days painting. Alex Hambly's aristocratic family is in financial straits, and he has two options: either sell off the family's Colorado silver mine or marry a rich, American heiress. Charlotte's father makes them a deal: he'll allow Charlotte to go to college and be the instrument of Alex's financial salvation on one condition--that they agree to get married. Seeing no way out, Charlotte and Alex find themselves engaged. They agree that they'll have the marriage annulled as soon as possible and go back to their own lives. Except Alex isn't sure he wants the annulment. He sets out to woo his wife for real, and Charlotte suddenly finds that her marriage has become very inconvenient indeed.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
RITA and Carol award nominee Kathleen Y’Barbo is the best-selling, award-winning author of more than forty novels, novellas, and young adult books. In all, more than one million copies of her books are currently in print in the US and abroad, and her books have been translated into Dutch, German, and Spanish, to name a few.Kathleen is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America. She holds a BBA from Texas A&M University’s Mays Business School and a certification in Paralegal Studies, and is a former member of the Texas Bar Association’s Paralegal Division.
A tenth-generation Texan, Kathleen Y’Barbo has four children of her own as well as seven bonus kids she gladly inherited when she married her own hero in combat boots (read about their real-life romance here!). Kathleen is proud to be a military wife, even if it did mean giving up her Texas drivers license.
Unspoken by Dee Henderson
Song Stuck on the Brain: The One I Love is Gone by The Secret Sisters
Unspoken by Dee Henderson
MY TAKE:
Dee Henderson is a master story teller. No, make that Master Story Creator and Teller. Her stories always suck me in and have me reluctant to put the book down, even at 4 am. Unspoken continues her legacy of great reads full of romance, suspense and faith.
Faith is a topic that is always very strong in Dee's books, but maybe not in the traditional way some come to expect from Christian novels. It's not all about non-believer meets believer and a soul is saved, although there's certainly nothing wrong with that. I love those tales too. But what I appreciate about Dee's books, is that whether the character is a believer or not, or maybe just questioning - it's about the personal journey. You see inside their hearts and minds, you know them deep inside and understand their struggles with life. You understand how they can believe so strongly despite a horrid past event or maybe how that past event could be hindering their growth. Either way, it's insight. That insight makes you connect to the story on a deeper level and you can't help but feel the tension, romance, suspense and frustration stronger when you're connected at that level to the character. I also appreciate that with each story there is spiritual growth in some measure and I know I can't help but carry that with me to think on later when the story is done.
So how can I not love a Dee Henderson novel? Unspoken has all the above - and I get a great romantic suspense with a good looking guy that makes my heart want to pitter-patter a little harder when he walks onto the page.
You can't go wrong with a Dee Henderson book. You just can't.
Check out my review of Full Disclosure
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Charlotte Graham is at the center of the most famous kidnapping in Chicago history.
The task force of FBI and local cops found her two abductors, killed them, rescued her, but it took four very long years. The fact she was found less than three miles from her home, had been there the entire time, haunts them. She's changed her identity, found a profession she loves, and rebuilt her life.
She's never said a word--to the cops, to her doctors, to family--about those four years.
A family legacy has brought her back to Chicago where a reporter is writing a book about the kidnapping. The cops who worked the case are cooperating with him. Her options are limited: Hope the reporter doesn't find the full truth, or break her silence about what happened. And her silence is what has protected her family for years.
Bryce Bishop doesn't know her past, he only knows she has coins to sell from her grandfather's estate--and that the FBI director for the Chicago office made the introduction. The more he gets to know Charlotte, the more interested he becomes, an interest encouraged by those closest to her. But nothing else is working in his favor--she's decided she is single for life, she struggles with her faith, and she's willing to fore go a huge inheritance to keep her privacy. She's not giving him much of an opening to work with.
Charlotte wants to trust him. She needs to tell him what happened. Because a crime cops thought was solved, has only opened another chapter...
READ AN EXCERPT HERE
PUBLISHERS Q and A WITH DEE HENDERSON:
Tell us about Unspoken.
Unspoken is the love story of Bryce Bishop and Charlotte Graham.
Bryce Bishop is a businessman. He takes care of his employees, works hard, manages the details, plans ahead, loves the give and take of business and making a profit. He’s the kind of guy who wears a business suit and cuff links as a sign of respect for the job, who believes honesty and ethics and a handshake matter. He’s also the kind of guy still willing to seek advice from his father.
Charlotte Graham was kidnapped, it spun into horror, and she’s not talking about it. She’s not a woman looking for pity, or even understanding. She’s changed her name, gone on with her life, and would prefer to see the past stay buried.
Their story is captured well by the title Unspoken. So much of their story has not been spoken about in over a decade. It’s time for it to be told. I found it breathtaking.
What captured your interest most with Unspoken?
Charlotte Graham hit a personal chord with me. God was reaching down to help her put the pieces of her life together and used Bryce to glue some of those pieces back in place. This is a relationship you want to see thrive. I listened to their story and I could see God’s hand at work. A woman with a dark past. And a man who loves her—who loves her so deeply and well she can heal. I think you will remember their story long after you’ve read the last page.
Is your new novel Unspoken related to Full Disclosure?
Bryce Bishop is a good friend of Paul Falcon, so I took advantage of that fact and brought back Ann and Paul Falcon from Full Disclosure during the investigation within Unspoken. I like being able to continue on with characters and see the next chapter in their lives.
What are your plans for future books?
Bryce Bishop has a brother who is a submarine commander. I love writing military romances and I’ll return to that theme for the next book. Undetected will be in stores in May 2014.
What inspires you to write?
God designed me to be a storyteller. It’s what I enjoy doing with my time. The hours involved in figuring out a story are a process of discovery. I’m inspired to create stories because I want to write the end, and then tell God—I wrote another story, would you like to read it? And hope God likes it as much as I do. The stories are gifts I can give back to God that I hope He enjoys. And I can create them with only paper and pen, so I’ve been making those gifts for God since I was a little girl.
Undetected by Dee Henderson
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dee Henderson is the author of eighteen novels, including Jennifer: An O'Malley Love Story, New York Times bestseller Full Disclosure, the acclaimed O'Malley series, and the Uncommon Heroes series. Her books have won or been nominated for several prestigious industry awards, such as the RITA Award, the Christy Award, and the ECPA Gold Medallion. Dee is a lifelong resident of Illinois.
Learn more at www.deehenderson.com.
Unspoken by Dee Henderson
MY TAKE:
Dee Henderson is a master story teller. No, make that Master Story Creator and Teller. Her stories always suck me in and have me reluctant to put the book down, even at 4 am. Unspoken continues her legacy of great reads full of romance, suspense and faith.
Faith is a topic that is always very strong in Dee's books, but maybe not in the traditional way some come to expect from Christian novels. It's not all about non-believer meets believer and a soul is saved, although there's certainly nothing wrong with that. I love those tales too. But what I appreciate about Dee's books, is that whether the character is a believer or not, or maybe just questioning - it's about the personal journey. You see inside their hearts and minds, you know them deep inside and understand their struggles with life. You understand how they can believe so strongly despite a horrid past event or maybe how that past event could be hindering their growth. Either way, it's insight. That insight makes you connect to the story on a deeper level and you can't help but feel the tension, romance, suspense and frustration stronger when you're connected at that level to the character. I also appreciate that with each story there is spiritual growth in some measure and I know I can't help but carry that with me to think on later when the story is done.
So how can I not love a Dee Henderson novel? Unspoken has all the above - and I get a great romantic suspense with a good looking guy that makes my heart want to pitter-patter a little harder when he walks onto the page.
You can't go wrong with a Dee Henderson book. You just can't.
Check out my review of Full Disclosure
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Charlotte Graham is at the center of the most famous kidnapping in Chicago history. The task force of FBI and local cops found her two abductors, killed them, rescued her, but it took four very long years. The fact she was found less than three miles from her home, had been there the entire time, haunts them. She's changed her identity, found a profession she loves, and rebuilt her life.
She's never said a word--to the cops, to her doctors, to family--about those four years.
A family legacy has brought her back to Chicago where a reporter is writing a book about the kidnapping. The cops who worked the case are cooperating with him. Her options are limited: Hope the reporter doesn't find the full truth, or break her silence about what happened. And her silence is what has protected her family for years.
Bryce Bishop doesn't know her past, he only knows she has coins to sell from her grandfather's estate--and that the FBI director for the Chicago office made the introduction. The more he gets to know Charlotte, the more interested he becomes, an interest encouraged by those closest to her. But nothing else is working in his favor--she's decided she is single for life, she struggles with her faith, and she's willing to fore go a huge inheritance to keep her privacy. She's not giving him much of an opening to work with.
Charlotte wants to trust him. She needs to tell him what happened. Because a crime cops thought was solved, has only opened another chapter...
READ AN EXCERPT HERE
PUBLISHERS Q and A WITH DEE HENDERSON:
Tell us about Unspoken.
Unspoken is the love story of Bryce Bishop and Charlotte Graham.
Bryce Bishop is a businessman. He takes care of his employees, works hard, manages the details, plans ahead, loves the give and take of business and making a profit. He’s the kind of guy who wears a business suit and cuff links as a sign of respect for the job, who believes honesty and ethics and a handshake matter. He’s also the kind of guy still willing to seek advice from his father.
Charlotte Graham was kidnapped, it spun into horror, and she’s not talking about it. She’s not a woman looking for pity, or even understanding. She’s changed her name, gone on with her life, and would prefer to see the past stay buried.
Their story is captured well by the title Unspoken. So much of their story has not been spoken about in over a decade. It’s time for it to be told. I found it breathtaking. What captured your interest most with Unspoken?
Charlotte Graham hit a personal chord with me. God was reaching down to help her put the pieces of her life together and used Bryce to glue some of those pieces back in place. This is a relationship you want to see thrive. I listened to their story and I could see God’s hand at work. A woman with a dark past. And a man who loves her—who loves her so deeply and well she can heal. I think you will remember their story long after you’ve read the last page.
Is your new novel Unspoken related to Full Disclosure?
Bryce Bishop is a good friend of Paul Falcon, so I took advantage of that fact and brought back Ann and Paul Falcon from Full Disclosure during the investigation within Unspoken. I like being able to continue on with characters and see the next chapter in their lives.
What are your plans for future books? Bryce Bishop has a brother who is a submarine commander. I love writing military romances and I’ll return to that theme for the next book. Undetected will be in stores in May 2014.
What inspires you to write?
God designed me to be a storyteller. It’s what I enjoy doing with my time. The hours involved in figuring out a story are a process of discovery. I’m inspired to create stories because I want to write the end, and then tell God—I wrote another story, would you like to read it? And hope God likes it as much as I do. The stories are gifts I can give back to God that I hope He enjoys. And I can create them with only paper and pen, so I’ve been making those gifts for God since I was a little girl.
Undetected by Dee Henderson
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Dee Henderson is the author of eighteen novels, including Jennifer: An O'Malley Love Story, New York Times bestseller Full Disclosure, the acclaimed O'Malley series, and the Uncommon Heroes series. Her books have won or been nominated for several prestigious industry awards, such as the RITA Award, the Christy Award, and the ECPA Gold Medallion. Dee is a lifelong resident of Illinois.
Learn more at www.deehenderson.com.
January 6, 2014
Hopping Around the Blogosphere
It's a new year. Time for new plans, resolutions, plots and characters. I was extremely blessed to have Dysfunction Junction published in 2013. Now it's a new year and time to work on all the new plots and outlines I've tucked aside. But before I get into that, I want to take a moment to introduce you to the author who invited me to be a part of this Blog Hop. KC Sprayberry has been a friend and fellow writer for quite a few years now and it's been amazing to see her success sky rocket, especially this year. She's been a great help in my writing journey as well.
KC Sprayberry was born and raised in Southern California. She spent time in the Air Force and was stationed for several years in Europe, specifically Germany and Spain and later transferring to a base in Phoenix where her love affair with the Old West begin. Since then, she's learned to explore every possible place of mystery, romance, adventure, or history no matter where she is. Her home is now in Northwest Georgia, in a small town brimming with history. Her sense of adventure now takes its turn on the pages of her computer screen as she translates a lifetime of discovery into stories for those who love her work. As to when she'll stop writing? To quote her husband, "When they nail the coffin closed."
You can visit KC Sprayberry's blog HERE .
Now on to this year's questions!
1) What am I working on?
In addition to marketing my latest release Dysfunction Junction? Cuz let me tell you, that takes a lot more time than I expected - and I expected it to be time consuming! :)
There is a sequel in the works to Dysfunction Junction. This book will feature Kianna's best friend and roommate Alexa Fehr. Alexa has a major life change ahead of her, one that is really going to make her take a step back and take a new look at her life and what God has planned for her. Of course there will be plenty of humor to go with that drama. That's kind of my trademark.
I have a new Christian suspense in the opening stages. Can't give too much away, but let's just say that there will be a stalker, a kidnapping, a little human trafficking... and a very unique gift of sight. I'm very excited about this one. My sister Angel had a great initial concept and between the 2 of us we had the whole outline plotted in 2 days over Christmas break. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the writing goes just as quickly! LOL!
A cover mock up I played with I also have a second suspense novel with the working title of Burning Justice that features an arsonist and the fire fighting heroes that work so hard to be our every day heroes. It will hopefully be getting a few touch ups and then sent on to a few publishers to see if I can get a nibble.
In addition to writing adult Christian Fiction, I've also written a few children's books. One, titled Creation's Ballad, is being illustrated by my mom. She's a very talented artist. I look forward to seeing that published in the near future. Keep your eyes open for updates on all of these projects and anything new that might pop up. I never know what might come up!
2) How does my work differ from others of its genre?
My current novel, Dysfunction Junction, is what many would term Christian Chick-lit, but it's so much more than that! Yes, it features a young single working girl looking for love and success amidst romance and comedy; but it's also a deeper look at what so many of us see in our every day lives. Abusive relationships amongst friends and family, infidelity, the struggle with personal self-confidence and acceptance.
Kianna is plus-sized, but her actual size is never listed. That was done intentionally. The point was for any one that struggles with self-image and weight to be able to identify with Kianna, no matter whether she was 5 pounds overweight or 150+ pounds overweight. Even those who aren't plus sized often still face the same self-image doubts and weaknesses. It was more important to share the heart and emotion at the center of it all.
The book is also written in first person present tense. Not overly common, but I hope it gives the reader the chance to really 'get inside' Kianna. I tried it initially in several formats, but I didn't find my writer's voice until this final format.
One more thing that may set my writing apart from other's, is also one of the most important for me. It's that I'm able to share my beliefs and witness of Jesus and the Restoration Gospel with freedom. I admire many other publishing houses and Christian authors, if you follow my blog you know what a big fan I am. However in my writing journey, I found that I was trying to simplify my message or watering it down to make it fit what the Worldview Publishers would accept. I got a lot of compliments, but no contracts. It wasn't until I told God I would no longer water things down in order to try and publish - that I would write everything straight forward and publish independently if necessary - that things changed. I did a final re-write on Dysfunction Junction and added back in those things I'd left out. A few months later a fellow writer friend convinced me to submit to Muse It Up Publishing. Within 10 days of submission I had a contract. No doubt God will open doors if you write the message He gives you!
3) Why do I write what I do?
To share my love of the Restoration Gospel of Jesus Christ with a new generation - and I want to do it in a way that captivates them in such a way that when they are done, they want to know more. I want to witness of Jesus' love in all our lives, no matter our size or station in life. Every year our world gets crazier and crazier. Stories of war, terrorism and murder is only part of it. The channels are filling constantly with Paparazzi gossip of all the misbehavior - partying, drugs, cheating, sleeping around, eating disorders, bullying... The list could go on.
Jesus knocking at the door of your heart by Greg Olsen
In all, I feel like no matter what story is written, any story can be made entertaining and engrossing as well as identifiable and touching. Every story can share HIS message without the reader feeling like it's irrelevant.
4) How does my writing process work?
Every book is completely different! LOL! I suppose there are some similarities. Generally, I get my concept and I see the pivotal scene or final plot twist that peaks in the end of the story. I write that scene and then work my way back to figure out how I got there. I do a basic outline and then cast all my characters. Once I start writing, things will probably change. As they do and the story grows, I go back and expand my outline to make it more detailed. In those cases I generally know how the book will end and start, but I have to come up with the middle.
Then there are times when I start with the character and the beginning and concept but have no idea how it will end. That is an interesting journey! So backward to my general process.
But since every story is unique, I kind of expect each to grow out of it's own unique process. It also is a good way to push my own boundaries as a writer. I don't think there will ever be a time when I will feel like I have nothing left to learn.
Be sure to check out these participating blogs next week:
Donna Alice Patton is another longtime writer friend and associate. Her writing is fantastic and she's so great to work with. :)
Donna Alice Patton
Donna Alice Patton is a freelance writer and history buff living in rural Ohio. She is the author of three books - The Search for the Madonna and The Gift of Summer Snow for children for adults – Roses are Red, Diamonds are Blue.
"I always say that I had to become a writer. It was the only legitimate excuse I could have for daydreaming all day!"
As far back as Donna could remember she loved to make up stories and characters. In one of her Memory Boxes, she has books that she made as a child. Each has a scribble of picture and a line or two of story. She loved nothing better than to create a whole new world or write 'sequels' to her favorite TV shows or books. One of her favorite authors was and still is Laura Ingalls Wilder. She wanted to grow up to be just like Laura and write books people would read for years and years. Recently she was able to take a trip to visit the places where Ms. Wilder lived and worked. "It was a thrill to see where my childhood heroine's books came to life..."
You can visit her at: Layers of Life
Barbara Ehrentreu
Barbara, a retired teacher with a Masters degree in Reading and Writing K-12 and seventeen years of teaching experience lives with her family in Stamford, Connecticut. When she received her Masters degree she began writing seriously. If I Could Be Like Jennifer Taylor, Barbara’s first YA novel, was published by MuseItUp Publishing, September 16th and was inspired by Paula Danziger. This novel recently won 2nd place in the Preditors & Editors Poll for the Best Young Adult Book of 2011. Her second YA novel, When My Life Changed is scheduled to be released by MuseItUp Publishing this summer or fall. In addition, Barbara has a story in the anthology, Lavender Dreams, also published by MuseItUp Publishing. All proceeds from this anthology go to cancer research. Barbara also writes poetry and three of her poems are included in the anthology, Prompted: An International Collection of Poems, a collaboration of members of The Anthologists and five are in Beyond the Dark Room also with The Anthologists. Her blog, Barbara’s Meanderings, http://barbaraehrentreu.blogspot.com/, is networked on both Facebook and Blog Catalog. She hosts RRWL Tales from the Pages (Red River Writers Live Tales from the Pages) on Blog Talk Radio every 4th Thursday. In addition, her children's story, “The Trouble with Follow the Leader” and an adult story, “Out on a Ledge” are published online She has written book reviews for Authorlink.com. and several of her reviews have been on Acewriters and Celebrity Café. She is a member of SCBWI. Writing is her life!
Visit her at: Barbara's Meanderings
Rochelle Weber
Rochelle Weber is a Navy veteran and holds a BA in Communications from Columbia College in Chicago with an emphasis on Creative Writing. “Would you like fries with that?” Her novels Rock Bound and Rock Crazy are available in both e-book and print. She edits the Marketing for Romance Writers Newsletter, as well as for Jupiter Gardens Press. Rochelle battles bi-polar disorder, quipping, “You haven’t lived until you’ve been the only woman on the locked ward at the VA.” Her song, “It’s Not My Fault,” won a gold medal in the National Veterans Creative Arts Competition. She lives in Round Lake Beach, Illinois. She has two daughters (one engaged, one married), four grandchildren, one step-grandson, two grown step-granddaughters, and one step-great-granddaughter. Two cats allow her to live in their house and cater to their every whim.Visit her at: Rochelle Weber--Author
KC Sprayberry was born and raised in Southern California. She spent time in the Air Force and was stationed for several years in Europe, specifically Germany and Spain and later transferring to a base in Phoenix where her love affair with the Old West begin. Since then, she's learned to explore every possible place of mystery, romance, adventure, or history no matter where she is. Her home is now in Northwest Georgia, in a small town brimming with history. Her sense of adventure now takes its turn on the pages of her computer screen as she translates a lifetime of discovery into stories for those who love her work. As to when she'll stop writing? To quote her husband, "When they nail the coffin closed."
You can visit KC Sprayberry's blog HERE .
Now on to this year's questions!
1) What am I working on?
In addition to marketing my latest release Dysfunction Junction? Cuz let me tell you, that takes a lot more time than I expected - and I expected it to be time consuming! :)
There is a sequel in the works to Dysfunction Junction. This book will feature Kianna's best friend and roommate Alexa Fehr. Alexa has a major life change ahead of her, one that is really going to make her take a step back and take a new look at her life and what God has planned for her. Of course there will be plenty of humor to go with that drama. That's kind of my trademark.
I have a new Christian suspense in the opening stages. Can't give too much away, but let's just say that there will be a stalker, a kidnapping, a little human trafficking... and a very unique gift of sight. I'm very excited about this one. My sister Angel had a great initial concept and between the 2 of us we had the whole outline plotted in 2 days over Christmas break. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the writing goes just as quickly! LOL!
A cover mock up I played with I also have a second suspense novel with the working title of Burning Justice that features an arsonist and the fire fighting heroes that work so hard to be our every day heroes. It will hopefully be getting a few touch ups and then sent on to a few publishers to see if I can get a nibble. 
In addition to writing adult Christian Fiction, I've also written a few children's books. One, titled Creation's Ballad, is being illustrated by my mom. She's a very talented artist. I look forward to seeing that published in the near future. Keep your eyes open for updates on all of these projects and anything new that might pop up. I never know what might come up!2) How does my work differ from others of its genre?
My current novel, Dysfunction Junction, is what many would term Christian Chick-lit, but it's so much more than that! Yes, it features a young single working girl looking for love and success amidst romance and comedy; but it's also a deeper look at what so many of us see in our every day lives. Abusive relationships amongst friends and family, infidelity, the struggle with personal self-confidence and acceptance.
Kianna is plus-sized, but her actual size is never listed. That was done intentionally. The point was for any one that struggles with self-image and weight to be able to identify with Kianna, no matter whether she was 5 pounds overweight or 150+ pounds overweight. Even those who aren't plus sized often still face the same self-image doubts and weaknesses. It was more important to share the heart and emotion at the center of it all.
The book is also written in first person present tense. Not overly common, but I hope it gives the reader the chance to really 'get inside' Kianna. I tried it initially in several formats, but I didn't find my writer's voice until this final format.
One more thing that may set my writing apart from other's, is also one of the most important for me. It's that I'm able to share my beliefs and witness of Jesus and the Restoration Gospel with freedom. I admire many other publishing houses and Christian authors, if you follow my blog you know what a big fan I am. However in my writing journey, I found that I was trying to simplify my message or watering it down to make it fit what the Worldview Publishers would accept. I got a lot of compliments, but no contracts. It wasn't until I told God I would no longer water things down in order to try and publish - that I would write everything straight forward and publish independently if necessary - that things changed. I did a final re-write on Dysfunction Junction and added back in those things I'd left out. A few months later a fellow writer friend convinced me to submit to Muse It Up Publishing. Within 10 days of submission I had a contract. No doubt God will open doors if you write the message He gives you!
3) Why do I write what I do?
To share my love of the Restoration Gospel of Jesus Christ with a new generation - and I want to do it in a way that captivates them in such a way that when they are done, they want to know more. I want to witness of Jesus' love in all our lives, no matter our size or station in life. Every year our world gets crazier and crazier. Stories of war, terrorism and murder is only part of it. The channels are filling constantly with Paparazzi gossip of all the misbehavior - partying, drugs, cheating, sleeping around, eating disorders, bullying... The list could go on.
Jesus knocking at the door of your heart by Greg OlsenIn all, I feel like no matter what story is written, any story can be made entertaining and engrossing as well as identifiable and touching. Every story can share HIS message without the reader feeling like it's irrelevant.
4) How does my writing process work?
Every book is completely different! LOL! I suppose there are some similarities. Generally, I get my concept and I see the pivotal scene or final plot twist that peaks in the end of the story. I write that scene and then work my way back to figure out how I got there. I do a basic outline and then cast all my characters. Once I start writing, things will probably change. As they do and the story grows, I go back and expand my outline to make it more detailed. In those cases I generally know how the book will end and start, but I have to come up with the middle.
Then there are times when I start with the character and the beginning and concept but have no idea how it will end. That is an interesting journey! So backward to my general process.
But since every story is unique, I kind of expect each to grow out of it's own unique process. It also is a good way to push my own boundaries as a writer. I don't think there will ever be a time when I will feel like I have nothing left to learn.
Be sure to check out these participating blogs next week:
Donna Alice Patton is another longtime writer friend and associate. Her writing is fantastic and she's so great to work with. :)
Donna Alice Patton
Donna Alice Patton is a freelance writer and history buff living in rural Ohio. She is the author of three books - The Search for the Madonna and The Gift of Summer Snow for children for adults – Roses are Red, Diamonds are Blue."I always say that I had to become a writer. It was the only legitimate excuse I could have for daydreaming all day!"
As far back as Donna could remember she loved to make up stories and characters. In one of her Memory Boxes, she has books that she made as a child. Each has a scribble of picture and a line or two of story. She loved nothing better than to create a whole new world or write 'sequels' to her favorite TV shows or books. One of her favorite authors was and still is Laura Ingalls Wilder. She wanted to grow up to be just like Laura and write books people would read for years and years. Recently she was able to take a trip to visit the places where Ms. Wilder lived and worked. "It was a thrill to see where my childhood heroine's books came to life..."
You can visit her at: Layers of Life
Barbara Ehrentreu
Barbara, a retired teacher with a Masters degree in Reading and Writing K-12 and seventeen years of teaching experience lives with her family in Stamford, Connecticut. When she received her Masters degree she began writing seriously. If I Could Be Like Jennifer Taylor, Barbara’s first YA novel, was published by MuseItUp Publishing, September 16th and was inspired by Paula Danziger. This novel recently won 2nd place in the Preditors & Editors Poll for the Best Young Adult Book of 2011. Her second YA novel, When My Life Changed is scheduled to be released by MuseItUp Publishing this summer or fall. In addition, Barbara has a story in the anthology, Lavender Dreams, also published by MuseItUp Publishing. All proceeds from this anthology go to cancer research. Barbara also writes poetry and three of her poems are included in the anthology, Prompted: An International Collection of Poems, a collaboration of members of The Anthologists and five are in Beyond the Dark Room also with The Anthologists. Her blog, Barbara’s Meanderings, http://barbaraehrentreu.blogspot.com/, is networked on both Facebook and Blog Catalog. She hosts RRWL Tales from the Pages (Red River Writers Live Tales from the Pages) on Blog Talk Radio every 4th Thursday. In addition, her children's story, “The Trouble with Follow the Leader” and an adult story, “Out on a Ledge” are published online She has written book reviews for Authorlink.com. and several of her reviews have been on Acewriters and Celebrity Café. She is a member of SCBWI. Writing is her life!
Visit her at: Barbara's Meanderings
Rochelle Weber
Rochelle Weber is a Navy veteran and holds a BA in Communications from Columbia College in Chicago with an emphasis on Creative Writing. “Would you like fries with that?” Her novels Rock Bound and Rock Crazy are available in both e-book and print. She edits the Marketing for Romance Writers Newsletter, as well as for Jupiter Gardens Press. Rochelle battles bi-polar disorder, quipping, “You haven’t lived until you’ve been the only woman on the locked ward at the VA.” Her song, “It’s Not My Fault,” won a gold medal in the National Veterans Creative Arts Competition. She lives in Round Lake Beach, Illinois. She has two daughters (one engaged, one married), four grandchildren, one step-grandson, two grown step-granddaughters, and one step-great-granddaughter. Two cats allow her to live in their house and cater to their every whim.Visit her at: Rochelle Weber--Author
December 28, 2013
Vote Dysfunction Junction as Best Romance Novel of 2013
Dysfunction Junction is nominated for best for Romantic Novel published in 2013 on the Preditors & Editors™ Readers' Poll!
Your vote and support would be greatly appreciated. The contest is open through January 14, 2014, but time flies, vote soon for all your favorite books.
http://critters.org/predpoll/novelr.shtml
And be sure to visit/vote in these other great categories.
Visit each page to vote in that category
Print/Electronic Novels pages:
Horror Novels
Romance Novels
Science Fiction & Fantasy Novels
Steampunk Novels
Erotica Novels
Mystery Novels
Thriller Novels
Children's Books
Young Adult Books
All other Novels
Short Stories pages:
Horror Short Stories
Romance Short Stories
Science Fiction & Fantasy Short Stories
Steampunk Short Stories
All other Short Stories
Anthologies page
Poems page
Nonfiction articles page
Artwork page
Book/e-book Cover Artwork page
Magazine/e-zine Cover Artwork page
Authors page
Poets page
Artists page
Book/e-book Editors page
Magazine/e-zine Editors page
Print/Electronic Book Publishers page
Review Site page
Bookstore page
Promotional Firms, Sites, and Resources page
Fiction Magazine/e-zines page
Poetry Magazine/e-zines page
Nonfiction Magazine/e-zines page
Writers' Discussion Forum page
Writers' Workshop page
Writers' Resource/Information/News Source page
Your vote and support would be greatly appreciated. The contest is open through January 14, 2014, but time flies, vote soon for all your favorite books. 
http://critters.org/predpoll/novelr.shtml
And be sure to visit/vote in these other great categories.
Visit each page to vote in that category
Print/Electronic Novels pages:
Horror Novels
Romance Novels
Science Fiction & Fantasy Novels
Steampunk Novels
Erotica Novels
Mystery Novels
Thriller Novels
Children's Books
Young Adult Books
All other Novels
Short Stories pages:
Horror Short Stories
Romance Short Stories
Science Fiction & Fantasy Short Stories
Steampunk Short Stories
All other Short Stories
Anthologies page
Poems page
Nonfiction articles page
Artwork page
Book/e-book Cover Artwork page
Magazine/e-zine Cover Artwork page
Authors page
Poets page
Artists page
Book/e-book Editors page
Magazine/e-zine Editors page
Print/Electronic Book Publishers page
Review Site page
Bookstore page
Promotional Firms, Sites, and Resources page
Fiction Magazine/e-zines page
Poetry Magazine/e-zines page
Nonfiction Magazine/e-zines page
Writers' Discussion Forum page
Writers' Workshop page
Writers' Resource/Information/News Source page
December 20, 2013
A Christmas Letter to You
It’s Christmas, the season when nature wraps itself in beauty like a shiny, glittering package to the world. We gather our family and friends a little closer and focus on making good memories and good food.
Among all the hustle and bustle of our preparations and parties, the most important thing we focus on is the reason for the season. The Nativity, the appearance of a new Star, Angelic choirs, a manger in a stable and Three wise men – just to name a few.
The Greatest Gift of All, though, is that the tiny child born so long ago is our Lord and Savior and He’s coming back. We celebrate the gift of His birth and the promise of His return.
My wish to all of you is that you have a Merry and Blessed Christmas this year celebrating God’s perfect gift, as well as a Happy and Hopeful New Year as we look forward to His coming. April Erwin
December 18, 2013
Merlin's Shadow by Robert Treskillard
Today I'm touring on behalf of the CSFF:
Merlin's Shadow (The Merlin Spiral book 2) by Robert Treskillard
MY TAKE:
The long awaited sequel is here, YAY! Gifted author Robert Treskillard was featured here with his first book, Merlin's Blade, in May, 2013. I knew then that the wait was going to be worth it, I hope you agree with me.
Merlin's story is as old as time and yet completely fresh and exciting in this series. He's young, only the beginning of his career as advisor to Arthur. Here we see him become the man we all admire and respect. His human weaknesses aren't hidden, he's easy to connect with in many ways, and yet you still see the faith and loyalty woven so tightly into his character rising to the top and leading you on.
The words are so well written, I feel like I'm actually there with the young group of protectors. The characters themselves so well written they give me chills. Merlin's sister particularly. She creeps me out even more than her grandfather, the leader of the druids.
It's a fast paced, high intensity, can't sleep until you put it down story that will suck you in and leave you wanting more. Be sure you read Merlin's Blade first though, reading a series in order is helpful. :)
ABOUT THE BOOK:
Betrayal.
After destroying the sinister Druid Stone and freeing his people from its dark control, Merlin finds himself to be a royal advisor without a king. Along with his friend Garth and Natalenya, his betrothed, Merlin treks north with the orphaned Arthur in hopes of keeping the young ruler safe from soldiers misled by their turncoat captain. Relentlessly pursued by his nemesis Vortigern, Merlin and his band make for the fortress of Dintaga. But dangers multiply when Merlin realizes that Vortigern is not his only enemy. Even his own sister appears bent on Merlin's destruction. As the threat on all their lives increases, Merlin discovers their only hope is sailing to the lands of eternal darkness and once again cleansing the world from an ancient and powerful evil.
“Turn the pages, and you can almost feel the fog rolling in off the moors, smell the low heather, and catch a glint off a blade.”— Best selling author Wayne Thomas Batson
“Treskillard builds a real person in Merlin … whose belief in honor and family make him a figure to cheer for.”— Christy Award winning author Jill Williamson
Read a Sample Chapter HERE .
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Robert Treskillard is a Celtic enthusiast who holds a B.A. in Biblical & Theological Studies from Bethel University, Minnesota. He has been crafting stories from his early youth, is a software developer, graphic artist, and sometime bladesmith. He and his wife have three children and are still homeschooling their youngest. They live in the country outside St. Louis, Missouri.It all began when Robert’s son wanted to learn blacksmithing and sword-making. The two set out to learn the crafts and in the process were told by a relative that they were descended from a Cornish blacksmith.
This lit the fire of Robert’s imagination, and so welding his Celtic research to his love of the legends of King Arthur, a book was forged— Merlin’s Blade, book one of The Merlin Spiral , now published by Zondervan / BLINK Young Adult Books and available worldwide wherever books are sold.
Visit the author's blog at: http://www.epictales.org/blog/robertblog.php
Be sure to pop by the other blog tour members as well:
Red Bissell
Thomas Clayton Booher
Beckie Burnham
Jeff Chapman
Pauline Creeden
Victor Gentile
Ryan Heart
Timothy Hicks
Jason Joyner
Carol Keen
Jennette Mbewe
Amber McCallister
Shannon McDermott
Meagan @ Blooming with Books
Rebecca LuElla Miller
Joan Nienhuis
Nissa
Jalynn Patterson
Writer Rani
Nathan Reimer
Chawna Schroeder
Jacque Stengl
Jojo Sutis
Robert Treskillard
Steve Trower
Shane Werlinger
Phyllis Wheeler
Deborah Wilson
In conjunction with the CSFF Blog Tour, I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
December 16, 2013
Teaser Tuesdays: Dysfunction Junction by April Erwin
Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!
It's Tuesday again and I'm giving my followers a sneak peek at my new novel this month. It released December 6th.
MY TEASER:“Tonight it’s more than just motions for me. The room crackles with electricity and our eyes lock like they never have before.”
~ pg 261 ' Dysfunction Junction' by April Erwin
Visit me at AprilErwin.com or Facebook.com/AprilErwinAuthor
December 15, 2013
The Hometown Lowdown
"Hi, my name is April and I'm addicted to Pinterest."
Not to make light of addictions, but my sister and I have both become quite attached to the site. Mine got locked down to what they termed 'suspicious posts' (no clue what they were and they didn't say. Hacker maybe?) and it took me months to finally get it back on line.
But now it is and I'm having fun, fun, FUN!
I've started a new board featuring the places that Kianna and her friends in Dysfunction Junction like to visit, and that I found inspiring to the story. Independence, MO is my hometown too, so if you want a peak at Kianna's hometown and what inspired the setting, here you go. :)
Independence, MO - Hometown Lowdown
Not to make light of addictions, but my sister and I have both become quite attached to the site. Mine got locked down to what they termed 'suspicious posts' (no clue what they were and they didn't say. Hacker maybe?) and it took me months to finally get it back on line.
But now it is and I'm having fun, fun, FUN!
I've started a new board featuring the places that Kianna and her friends in Dysfunction Junction like to visit, and that I found inspiring to the story. Independence, MO is my hometown too, so if you want a peak at Kianna's hometown and what inspired the setting, here you go. :)
Independence, MO - Hometown Lowdown
December 13, 2013
Just 4 More Days to Enter and Win...
There's only about 4 days left for you to enter to win - so if you haven't filled out the Rafflecopter entry below, what are you waiting for?
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Things I've Heard About the Contest:
"I don't have an e-reader, so I can't enter."
Sure you can! Do you have an Aunt, Niece, Granddaughter, Friend, Cousin or Co-worker with an e-reader? Then here's your chance to get them a great Christmas gift. FOR FREE! The Gift Certificate allows them to download it directly from the publisher in whatever format they need. NO problems. You don't even have to know what kind of reader they have, just hand them a Merry, Fiction filled Christmas.
Don't forget yourself this Christmas either. Some phones have apps that let you read e-books and there are free reader apps for your computer too. And you never know, maybe you'll find a reader for yourself under the Christmas tree.
"I've already liked you're Facebook page. / I don't have a Twitter account. So I'm already entered / can't enter. or I left a comment, that's good enough, right?"
Unless you fill out the Rafflecopter form, then I can't draw your name. You can earn up to 9 entries in the drawing, but only 1 is required. Easy and quick!
"Is it appropriate for my younger readers?"
I write Christian Fiction where Comedy and Drama abound. I would consider this acceptable for 16 years and up even though it's written for adults. Clean and acceptable for a wide age range despite the heavier themes like dysfunctional relationships.
"What's your book about again?"
A 26 year old woman who has never been kissed! She sees relationships failing all around her and decides to dub her hometown Dysfunction Junction. A friend encourages her to follow her dreams to become a songwriter and in the process encounters 3 different men that begin to show interest in her. She has to navigate following her dreams, her sister's failing marriage and her insecurities with romance and flirting.
