Linda Brooks Davis's Blog, page 20
December 6, 2017
Let’s Chat! Author Joy Palmer
Welcome, Readers and V. Joy Palmer!
Our guest this week is Joy Palmer (a.k.a. V. Joy Palmer) who writes inspirational romantic comedy.
Joy is the author of Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations and a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. Also, she’s an avid blogger and co-founder of Snack Time Devotions.
Joy is offering a copy of her debut novel, Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations, to someone who joins to conversation below. So … take it away, Joy!
Joy Palmer’s Pre-Author Life
So, I’m Joy. *waves awkwardly*
First, my life began as a bald book-hoarder. My mother likes to tell everyone how I was nearly bald until I was three-years-old and how I loved, loved, loved, my books.
Not a lot has changed. Well, I have hair now, but I’m still a hoarder of all things bookish.
When I was six years old, I wanted to be school teacher…or a bus driver. Yeah, I’m serious. However, I always loved telling stories, writing songs, and reading. So I started (and stopped) writing several stories while growing up, never showing them to anyone. I filled notebook after notebook with songs I had written. Yes, I wanted to be a singer/songwriter, but fear held me back.
How Joy’s Writing Began
However, God is awesome. He took that dream and helped me fully realize another dream – writing books. In my senior year of high school, I realized I actually liked writing assignments. They made me downright giddy. Yeah, I’m a weirdo, but that’s when I knew I wanted to be an author.
When I wasn’t writing, I volunteered as a youth leader, and I still love mentoring teens. I discovered the coolest writer’s conference in the world – the American Christian Fiction Writer’s Conference, and I married my warrior knight in August of 2013.
If you and I were hanging out, I’d drag you to a coffee shop with a stack of books in my purse that you MUST read. (And yes, my purse is that big.) We’d gush about our favorite authors, Gilmore Girls, cheesecake and everything under the sun as we drank all the coffee, tea, and hot chocolate the establishment had in stock.
And then the book stuff happened…
Joy Palmer’s Debut
It took me four years to complete my first novel, and I did some major revisions (translation: weeping and gnashing of teeth) right before my second ACFW Conference, where I pitched that novel.
Afterwards, I came home and waited.
Waited…
And waited.
Some rejections followed, and I drowned my sorrows with salty chocolate.
I mean, I tried to drown them. Rejections are hard. We know they’re not personal, but because we put so much of our heart and soul into our stories, sometimes it feels personal. God spent many hours whispering to my heart during this season. Not condolences, but to be me.
I distracted myself by writing and, goody, more waiting. Then I received notice my proposal was going to committee.
Thank God, I got the answer the next day because I could. not. sleep. that night!
My book baby, Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations, released from WhiteFire Publishing in June of 2016.
Love, Lace, and Minor Alterations
Isabel “Izze” Vez, bridal consultant extraordinaire, has been helping brides find The Dress for years. She loves nothing more than helping make wedding dreams come true.
But sometimes the happy endings grate on her. How many times can a girl discover someone else’s gown without dreaming of the day it’ll be her turn to wear one?
When James Miles Clayton walks into her life, he represents everything Izze can’t handle: change. He’s determined to bring the Ever After Bridal Boutique into the black…and prove to Izze she should give him a chance.
But if there’s anything Izze handles worse than change, it’s trust. She may have a few issues—fine, she knows she does. But will they keep getting in the way of any chance of her own Happily Ever After? She wants to trust God to give her those dreams of love and lace, but that’s going to require some…minor alterations.
Post-Debut for Joy Palmer
Remember that whispered message? It hadn’t sunk in. Not completely because things started getting really stressful.
First, there was the pressure of sales. The pressure of making every story even better. The pressure of following all the rules of all the social media outlets. The pressure of doing the author thing perfectly. And because I’m a perfectionist.
Finally, God’s voice broke through my stubborn, stressed heart in a blub session at another ACFW conference.
Be me. Write with Him. With. Him. Not me trying to do everything a certain way. Write with Him.
And that’s made all the difference for my heart.
What’s up with Joy Palmer now?
Then about two weeks after I found out about my book baby, I found out I was pregnant. So honestly, the last few years have passed in a sleep deprived blur. Zzzz.
Now I’m working on two projects. All I can tell you about the first one is that while I absolutely love these characters now, for a while they made me want to pull my hair out by the roots!
The other is a Christmas novella I plan to release next year. Yay! I’m super excited for readers to meet these friends. So check my blog and social media pages for updates!
In my spare time, I’m an unprofessional chocolate connoisseur/binger, and I love acting crazy and drinking coffee with the teens I mentor. (Click to Tweet!)
When I’m not urging the elves that live in my computer to write, I’m hanging out with my husband, our adorable baby girl, and our socially awkward pets.
How to Find Joy
Goodreads –
Website
Blog
Snack Time Devotions Blog
The Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction
Purchase Links
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Books-A-Million
~ ~ ~
Lord, You are Love and the Author of Romance. You’re the Author of Everything, including laughter. Thank you for authors like Joy who add the lovely spice labeled humor to love stories that inspire readers to look to You for their everything.
Bless each word Joy Palmer writes for You.
~ For Jesus’ sake ~
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
The post Let’s Chat! Author Joy Palmer appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.
November 29, 2017
Let’s Chat! Author Janet Simcic
Welcome, Janet Simcic and Readers!
This week we’re visiting with Janet Simcic, a freelance writer from Southern California who misses fiercely the East Coast (the snow and all). She claims as her personal motto: If it’s not fun, don’t bother.
Speaking of fun, Janet travels extensively in Italy, which is where she sets her stories. Also, Janet’s articles appear in numerous magazines, as well as the Orange County Register.
*In addition, Janet is offering a print copy of The Man at the Rialto Bridge to one person who joins our chat below.*
Janet Simcic Before Publishing
First of all, I was reared as an only child in a minister’s home. Because I was their first, my grandparents adored me. Likewise, my parents provided a stress-free life in the wonderful ‘50’s of Happy Days.
Then, I found my “wild child” in college, my first time away from home. However, I earned a degree in English and history and taught gifted children. Later, I owned my own secretarial service and helped my husband run a large successful construction business.
Most importantly, I married and had two children who have given me 15 beautiful grandchildren.
A Curve Ball for Janet
When I turned 50, life threw me a curve ball. I was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. The tumor was smaller than the head on a nail. Nevertheless, it had traveled all over. After a year of chemo and a double mastectomy, my oncologist told me I could no longer take hormones. He said to learn a language or a new skill or take math courses. (The math made me break out in hives. I’ve never balanced my check book. But that’s another story.)
Because my grandfather was the light of my life, I chose genealogy and traced his Italian roots. (Click to Tweet!)
Also, I learned Italian and am now fluent and love to travel to Italy.
In addition, I speak at women’s organizations about my battle with breast cancer, love of Italy, and overcoming adversity.
Janet Simcic’s Road to All Things Italian
On one occasion, a group of women and I rented a villa on the Amalfi Coast of Italy. Subsequently, I decided I should trade in my journalism skills for novel skills.
Similarly,, my extensive travel to Italy and love of the culture and language prompted me to write a non-fiction book: An American Chick’s Guide to Italy. As a result, I consult with travelers who are going to Italy for the first time.
Janet’s Debut Experience
My first novel, The Man at the Caffe Farnese, takes place in Rome. I dedicated it to my oncologist. After sending it out many times, I snatched a New York agent who loved the book. BUT India was in at the time. So he asked me to change the location of the story to India, and we “broke up.”
Then I researched small publishing houses and did a combo small house/Create Space marriage… and the rest is history. Finally, I built a website, marketed myself, made my platform everything Italian. Consequently, I had a successful launch. The sequel, The Man at the Spanish Steps, released in September 2016.
My latest, The Man at the Rialto Bridge, takes place on a Mediterranean cruise, beginning and ending in Italy.
What’s Janet Simcic Up To When Not Writing?
First, I play an active role in the lives of my 15 grandchildren. In addition, I serve as recording secretary of the California Writers Club and frequently appear at book clubs where I share my adventures, books, writing, and knowledge of Italy with reader fans. Finally, I direct a critique group and am active in my church.
Also, I’m an avid reader. My favorite authors are Nicholas Sparks, Daniel Silva, and Brad Thor, but I read new authors and enjoy the classics. Above all, my favorite is Les Miserables by Victor Hugo. In fact, one year I taught its beauty and lessons to gifted students.
Encouragement and Advice from Janet Simcic
Getting an agent these days is tough. Seemingly, you must be famous, have a drug problem, be a TV star, etc. As a result, I decided to brand myself as an Italy expert in concert with my The Man at … novels and write the non-fiction .book on Italy. Turns out, this has been a smart move. Now I sell my books to book clubs and speak publicly anywhere and at anytime. Also, I consult on Italy travel, and have built myself a nice fan base.
Significantly, women’s issues are woven into my stories—dealing with breast cancer, family dynamics, alcoholism, forgiveness, and restoration.
If you love to write, don’t stop. There are many ways to publish now. However, unless your name is John Grisham or others on his scale, the publishing houses no longer promote. Therefore, authors must market themselves.
Not surprisingly, it’s a lot of work. But I do it for the love of writing and Italy. For example, I just returned from a three-week villa trip to Rome and Florence. Now I’m midway through a new book with fresh insight.
Like me, everyone has a story. WRITE IT!
How to Find Janet Simcic and Her Books
The Man at the Caffe Farnese
The Man at the Spanish Steps (sequel)
The Man at the Villa La Fonte (Coming in 2018)
An American Chick’s Guide to Italy
~ ~ ~
Lord, You declare Your glory in the heavens and in heavenly locations on Earth—like Italy. Janet has walked through personal valleys of fear and pain. But through her You’ve shown how such valleys can be transformed into mountaintops of joy and peace. Therefore, we pray You’ll keep Janet’s body free of cancer and use her to show the beauty of Your creation and the joy of living the life You’ve ordained for her. May we all learn the same.
~ For Jesus’ sake
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSave
SaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSave
SaveSaveSaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
The post Let’s Chat! Author Janet Simcic appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.
November 22, 2017
Let’s Chat! Author Bethany Turner
Welcome, Readers! And Welcome, Bethany!
I’m so excited to be welcoming author Bethany Turner to our weekly chat session. Bethany writes contemporary romance/romantic comedy. Just looking at her picture makes me want to smile.
*Join the conversation below, and you may win a copy of her book!
Bethany Turner’s Life Before Writing
I feel like I spent the first 30-something years of my life trying to decide what I wanted to be when I grew up. As a child, I dreamt of being a member of the Disney Studio Chorus (yes, that’s a thing), or perhaps a Presidential Historian.
And then there was the period when I desired nothing more than to be the person who gets to name the tropical storms and hurricanes. (Click to Tweet) I didn’t understand that the task was completed by meteorologists and the like. I thought it was just a separate job.
And then I went to the University of Kentucky and declared my major in psychology. Before long I had shifted to Theatre, with a minor in History.
Bethany Turner, the Banker
Well, I dropped out of college to move to Colorado and get married, and I found a part-time job as a bank teller. Over the next thirteen years I rose through the ranks to Vice President.
While I was still in banking, I had turned to writing as a stress reliever. (I was managing the operations side of a corporate merger, so there was a major need for relief!) Though I self-published what I wrote then, it was really just for me. I think I needed to accomplish something, and see it through to the end. Those books were general market women’s fiction, and not really pointed in the direction my writing is headed now, but they unleashed a love of writing that I hadn’t known existed inside of me.
How Bethany Turner’s Writing Life Began
And then in 2014, after thirteen years, God made it abundantly clear it was time to get out of banking. God basically told me, “Okay, that was fun. A nice little warm up. Now let’s get down to business.”
So I wrote The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck. I wrote the first draft in about six weeks. It was the easiest thing I’d ever written. I knew the story from the beginning, and I knew who Sarah was…instantly. And I knew God had a plan for the story.
Almost as quickly I found myself on staff at my church. Now, in addition to following this crazy, amazing author dream, I also get to serve on the church staff full-time.
I think I finally know what I want to be when I grow up!
Bethany Turner’s Debut
When I finished The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenback, I wrestled with what to do. I have so much respect for indie authors who can make it on their own, but I knew I couldn’t. I knew I wasn’t capable of giving Sarah Hollenbeck’s story the opportunity to be heard that it deserved, so I submitted to Writer’s Edge, a Christian manuscript submission service. They accepted the story for their list, and thirteen days later I was contacted by Revell.
It was still a while before I signed my contract with Revell.
Longer still until I got an agent.
Longer still until I really began to believe I actually possessed any skills or talent which could perhaps create a book that anyone would want to read. (Still working on that one, honestly.)
But what I did know was that God had a plan, and my job was to hold on best I could and try not to get in the way!
I had a long period between contract and release (2 ½ years!), and in that time I completed a romantic comedy and got at least three quarters of the way in to two other romances. I was pretty sure I knew what God was up to, and I was pretty sure that those books were coming next.
What’s Next for Bethany?
But then He did something pretty unexpected and remarkable, in a way that only He can, and it’s looking like the next book is actually going to be an idea that my editor and I brainstormed over dinner one night at the ACFW Conference in September. It, like The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck, is going to address some issues we don’t typically read about in Christian romance, and it will once again be wrapped up in a rom-com package.
How to Connect With Bethany
I love to connect with readers on Facebook and Instagram, and everyone is welcome to visit my sadly neglected website.
I also love corresponding with readers via good old-fashioned email (bethany@seebethanywrite.com) or snail mail (P.O. Box 209, Cortez, CO 81321). There’s something to be said for occasional hashtag-free communication! (Though, truthfully, I’m just as likely to slip a hashtag into my verbal communication as I am social media!)
You can find various purchase links for The Secret Life of Sarah Hollenbeck at seebethanywrite.com/the-secret-life-of-sarah-hollenbeck, or you can pick it up from your favorite bookseller!
~
Lord, every once in awhile, one of your children comes along who exudes Your joy. Thank you for assuring the world of readers has access to Bethany Turner and her books. Bless each word Bethany writes for You.
~ For Jesus’ sake
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
The post Let’s Chat! Author Bethany Turner appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.
November 15, 2017
Let’s Chat! Author Darlene Oakley
Welcome, Readers! Welcome, Darlene Oakley!
This week we’re welcoming Canadian author Darlene Oakley, who has written a dystopian story along the lines of The Hunger Games, as well as romantic suspense and companion publications. Darlene’s life story is fascinating. What a treat!
*Darlene’s offering an e-book give-away—winner’s choice of Inner Sanctum or Voices of Angels—so be sure to comment below!
Darlene Oakley: The Growing-Up Years
I grew up in various cities across Canada. My parents were Salvation Army officers and we moved around quite a bit. (Click to Tweet!) At Catherine Booth Bible College, now Booth University, I studied Pastoral Care.
Actually, I didn’t pursue a career in that, but ended up taking advantage of my secretarial skills, particularly typing, and found work as a transcriptionist and eventually administrative assistant, which eventually saw me land a position in the Government Whip’s office in the Senate of Canada.
With experience in the publishing industry as a freelance writer and editor, I have over 400 articles published online, mostly on a site called EmpowHer.com, which deals mainly with women’s health issues. I also have a strong background in dentistry, as one of my longest transcription jobs was in an oral surgery practice.
I’m a single mother of two boys – one, 21 years old with Aspergers, and one, 9 years old with Sensory Processing Disorder. The younger one has presented extreme challenges with behaviour we now seem to have under control. I moved to the Niagara area of Canada 3 years ago to start fresh after a divorce and so my older son could take on a job at a local museum.
Darlene Oakley, the Writer
I write in a variety of genres. My first book, Inner Sanctum, was a dystopian story (along the lines of The Hunger Games. My second book was romantic suspense. So I wouldn’t say I write in one particular genre. I do like romance elements in my books, depending on the storyline.
A bit of a sci-fi geek, I like to read forensic science stories, so you might find some of those elements in my books. I also write from a Christian world view perspective. I try not to have those elements be preachy, but as part of the characters’ development.
Darlene Oakley’s Debut
Inner Sanctum ended up being a loose retelling of the Exodus. I did not plan that. I actually had a totally different idea for the book than what actually came out of my fingers. Originally, it was supposed to be a murder mystery in what was supposed to be a utopic, underground civilization. I kept the underground city part of it, the rest kind of morphed out of my other research, writing and transcription work.
The story was originally inspired by City of Ember. I saw the movie (then got the books, which I haven’t read yet), but that’s where I got the idea for writing something in that vein for adults. As I mulled over challenges in my underground civilization, I would watch City of Ember again, not to borrow ideas, but to show me how this author dealt with it, and then come up with an alternative that would work in my story’s case.
I published with Lanico Media House run by Lacresha Raino (formerly Hayes). I’d known her for a long time through online groups. I pitched it to her before I even had a word written and she said, “When it’s ready, send it to me.” And I did, and she loved it.
What’s Up With Darlene Oakley Now
Currently working on Book 2 of the Inner Sanctum series, I’m planning for 5 books in total.
My most recent publication was Voices of Angels, which is a romantic suspense story, along with a devotional companion (Finding your Voice), and a journal (The Connected Voice Journal).
Voices of Angels
This story is completely different from Inner Sanctum. While both heroines have a certain amount of me reflected in them, Julia in Voices of Angels lives out more of a recent spiritual battle. I found myself not 
involved in music ministry for the first time in about 30 years, and having to completely redefine who I was as a Christ follower, and an “angel without a voice”. This one was definitely therapeutic, and also delves into issues such as bullying and racism/prejudice and forgiveness I hope in a very uplifting light, while also delivering a satisfying, suspenseful read.
The devotional companion is a Scriptural walk through my journey that got worked into the book. And, as a writer, of course it made sense to have a journal as part of the series.
I’m planning at least one more book with these characters. I don’t have a plan for any more, but you never know. My publisher suggested that I create a spin-off with the characters. I don’t have any ideas yet for that, though I know which characters I would want to use.
To Contact Darlene:
Next Level Editing and Transcription
To purchase Darlene’s books:
Lord, You are the Great Servant, the Savior of the World. We glorify Your name alone! You led Darlene even as a child along paths of servanthood, and now You’re guiding her into a different sort of service through writing. Bless every word Darlene writes for You.
~ For Jesus’ sake
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
The post Let’s Chat! Author Darlene Oakley appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.
November 8, 2017
Let’s Chat! Author Elaine Stock
Welcome, Readers! Welcome, Elaine Stock!
This week we welcome Elaine Stock, an author who fuses romance, family drama, and faith in a clean fiction style. Now that I think of it, I haven’t met a single person who grew up in Brooklyn, which takes me back to that achingly beautiful A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. Suddenly, I can’t wait for you to meet Elaine, author of also beautiful Always With You and soon-to-be-released novella, And You Came Along.
*Also, Elaine’s offering a $5 Amazon card for one reader who comments below.*
Elaine Stock’s Pre-Author Life
My pre-author life began with my childhood days growing up in Brooklyn, New York. First, in the tenement apartments of East NY then in the Flatbush section and finally in the suburbs north of the city. Not to date myself, but those early years were during the US civil rights movement. I lived with many people from varying faiths, nationalities, and backgrounds.
Notably, I believe this was instrumental in teaching me first-hand about the differences and similarities in people. We are all human beings and we all must respect each other, an even more valuable lesson.
Athough these neighborhoods progressively worsened in crime and danger, the reason why my parents relocated, they were invaluable opportunities to learn life lessons. I see a direct correlation between my past and my “author themes” of tolerance, different kinds of prejudice, forgiveness, and the role of faith.
Above, a contemporary photo of my old apartment building. I lived on the 4th floor, facing the street.
Growing Up for Elaine Stock
Subsequently, God had a very interesting role in my life, considering I wasn’t born into a faith-practicing family. My family also was torn apart by mental illness and the stresses of a one-parent income from a 7-day a week business. Perhaps that’s why my early memories were of me searching for a bigger-than-me Ruler of the Universe who loved me for who I was.
Then my search took me into my high school years when, through literature and the arts, I became exposed to Christianity. It wasn’t until I met and married my first and only true love during my college years did I actively sought to become a Christian. I’m forever saying that if it weren’t for my Father holding my hand I’d never be brave enough to get out of bed and face the world.
Elaine’s Debut Experience
First, my debut book was Always With You. The story of Isabelle and Tyler’s confrontation of the evil of hatred and its threat to people, love, and faith, began to brew in mind after a writing workshop. However, I didn’t start putting words to the page until after the 9-11 attacks when. Like many, I tried even harder to understand the why behind hatred.
Yet, Life 101 happened. I became a very active member of my community group fighting a proposed 100-year mining project that threatened to remove 2 prominent hills only thousands of feet away from my doorstep. Praise God, we citizens won on the supreme court level of the state.
But then, Life 101 struck again and I needed outside employment (from my husband’s business). This took a heavy toll of adjustment. Finally, but slowly, I finished my novel and then learned the many lessons of editing.
Subsequently, I published two short stories and hooked up with my amazing agent Linda S. Glaz of Hardline Literary. I received a call from the publisher of Elk Lake Publishing who believed in the story and wanted others to read it.
The moral of my story: If you want to achieve something, with God’s grace and your fixed determination, you will!
On the left, the south hill proposed for mining. This photo was taken from my doorstep.
What’s Up With Elaine Stock Now?
What’s up with me now? I have a romance series under consideration at a publishing house. And I accepted an invitation to write a romance novella, And You Came Along, as part of the Winter’s Kiss novella collection.
I’m excited to be releasing my novella, And You Came Along, individually on December 2nd.
All single mom Jacey Tucker wants for Christmas is for her young son to have a home and a smile. What she never expected was an eviction notice from her apartment, or the loss of her job. Now she can’t leave Kindred Lake, Pennsylvania fast enough.
Zander Paxton, wounded on duty while trying to save the life of his partner, needs a new residence for the second half of his recovery. His hometown of Kindred Lake offers promises, but it may be too late to make up for his past.
Jacey heads south. Zander heads north. In the middle of a blizzard, five days before Christmas, they collide and wreck their vehicles, and nearly each other, on an ice-covered road. The kindness of two strangers provides a cabin for shelter, a place where pain is soothed and hope is renewed . . . until their pasts catch up to their present and a forever separation threatens. Is true love ever mistaken?
Where to Find Elaine Stock
Website/Blog: Everyone’s Story
Twitter
Facebook
Goodreads
Amazon
Lord, how amazing! You bring together Your children from different backgrounds and locales to communicate Your message. Elaine’s life story demonstrates this vividly. Thank you for plucking her up from Brooklyn and leading her to write clean stories of love, family drama, and faith. Please bless each word Elaine writes for You.
~ For Jesus’ sake
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
The post Let’s Chat! Author Elaine Stock appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.
November 1, 2017
Let’s Chat! Author Karen Sweeney-Ryall
Welcome, Everyone!
This week we’re making a place in our circle for author Karen Sweeney-Ryall. Karen’s a servant with a servant’s stories to tell. Get ready to be inspired, ya’ll!
*Karen’s offering a book to someone who comments, so join in, and you might win!*
Karen Sweeney-Ryall Before Writing
I have lived in the Laurel Highlands of western PA my entire life. I am the oldest of 4 children and I also have 4 children, 4 grandchildren, and 1 great-granddaughter.
My father was an alcoholic and the problems we went through led me to help others so I became a social worker.
Several Hats for Karen
I worked for Catholic Charities and a hospital but then stayed home when I had my children.
I volunteered – supporting new breastfeeding moms, at school, at church, and teaching adults to read. I later worked part-time in direct sales and as a realtor.
In 2000 I felt led to go back into social service. I worked 6 years for the Alzheimer’s Association providing education and support to families and caregiver staff. I also served as a consultant training volunteers for Faith in Action and now have worked 8 years in hospice as a bereavement coordinator.
Love and Loss for Karen Sweeney-Ryall
I married my high school sweetheart the week after college graduation and I worked 
full time while he attended dental school. I became pregnant with my daughter the first month we decided to have a baby. We had our next daughter 2 ½ years later.
When my girls were 6 and 9 years old, my husband died in a car accident.
I went through several horrendous years of grief. I settled his estate and moved forward in the best way I could for my daughters. A large extended family and many friends blessed us.
I didn’t plan to remarry but a few years later I met my second husband who is a contractor. We married and had a son and daughter and also miscarried 3 babies. I found blending a family to be one of the most challenging things in life, but we made it through.
Karen Sweeney-Ryall, the Writer
I have been an avid reader all my life. Reading was a childhood escape from the chaos in my home. (Click to Tweet!) I believe God used that to bless me because it helped me do very well in school and college where there is so much required reading. It also planted a desire in my heart to write a book one day.
My book, Revealing Your Treasures Hidden in Darkness, was birthed out of my recovery from one of the darkest seasons of my life. Eventually, hope returned, and I began to believe in a new future, I was strongly impressed to share my journey and the lessons learned to encourage other women.
I know God was in it because I found so much favor along the way. My church paid the registration to attend the She Speaks conference where I learned so much about writing, blogging and the publishing process. A former editor friend offered to edit my book for free as her contribution. Fifteen women freely shared their testimonies of how they made it through various difficulties of life. And other amazing benefits surprised me.
Some Lessons Learned
Writing a book was more complicated than I imagined. And it required more work, but the desire to share propelled me along. I wrote mostly on weekends while working a full time job in hospice and collecting the various testimonies for my year of writing.
I advise those who think about writing a book to be sure they feel the urge to write. Writing a book requires hard work and persistence. Determine your purpose and surround yourself with those who support you.
What’s Next for Karen Sweeney-Ryall?
Now, blessed by some wonderful feedback, I’m now focusing on the next 2 books in this Finding Joy for Your Life Journey series, speaking to groups and leading retreats. I hope to retire in the next year to have more time for speaking, writing and travel.
Where to Find Karen Sweeney-Ryall
Becoming My Best Me
Facebook
Amazon
Lord, only You can take tragedy and turn it into a masterpiece. We praise You for doing just that with Karen’s and her daughters’ sorrow. You’ve used it to Your glory, and for that we approach you in awe and thanksgiving. What a servant Karen is, and even as she writes, she serves. Thank you for her craftsmanship and we pray You’ll bless every word Karen writes for You.
~ For Jesus’ sake
SaveSave
SaveSave
The post Let’s Chat! Author Karen Sweeney-Ryall appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.
October 25, 2017
Let’s Chat! Author Michele Huey
Welcome, Readers. And welcome, Michele Huey!
This week we chat with women’s contemporary fiction/romantic suspense author Michele Huey who’s been in love with words since she was a child.
You’re going to LOVE Michele and her story, so gather ’round for an enchanting conversation.
*Michele’s giving away one of her books to someone who comments below. So join in, everyone.*
Michele Huey’s Background
I was born and raised in the Monongahela Valley in southwestern Pennsylvania. About 30 miles southeast of Pittsburgh, this steel mill valley boasted mills all along the Monongahela River, which I could see from my house in Donora.
Certainly, high fevers as an infant impacted my life by causing permanent auditory nerve damage and leaving 
me with a lifelong 40-percent hearing loss. Because of this, I turned to books for entertainment. Lying on the hardwood floor in front of the bookcase and paging through each volume of our World Book encyclopedia set, I found the stories and pictures captured me.
Subsequently, the hearing loss profoundly affected my personality. I became a talker (like nonstop). Because listening required hearing, it was easier to talk than to listen. Talking meant less embarrassment when I missed or misheard what someone else was saying. Consequently, this made me appear to be an extrovert, but I am really an introvert. I treasure times of solitude and quiet.
Michele Huey’s Treasured Memories
Certainly, a week my family spent in a log cabin in Cook forest when I was nine impacted my life. The result (and probably purpose) of that vacation was the purchase of a one-room, rustic cabin on the other side of the mountain from Cook Forest.
The cabin without electricity or indoor plumbing stood on concrete block piers in the middle of the forest on rather swampy ground which, ironically, yielded water that was undrinkable and unusable due to the high iron content. Dad promised he’d put in electricity, drill a well, build a foundation, install plumbing, and add rooms, but I suspect he wanted a hunting camp.
However, what he got was a family camp and a whole lotta work that was never completed. Mom named the place “Camp St. Jude,” after the saint of impossible cases. Whether the impossible case was the cabin or my dad is a mystery to this day.
Camp St. Jude
Thereafter, we spent many weeks, mostly summer months, remodeling it. My carpenter dad added a room, put in the foundation, and installed electricity. However, indoor plumbing did not happen because there was no well. We got our water from a neighbor, whose well was good. Or we’d drive to a mountainside where water gushed down the rocks and fill containers with cool, refreshing mountain water.
Consequently, no indoor plumbing meant trips to the poogy (pronounced like “hookie” with a g) house (what we called the outhouse) during the day. And using a galvanized bucket at night. Who’d want to make a midnight trek to a poogy with all forest critters and beasts around?
Oh, there is so much I could say about this place that became my happy place. It’s no longer in the family, but we have access to it through lifelong friends who purchased it.
Of course, I fell in love with the mountains. So, when it came time for college, I chose one not far from Camp St. Jude. When it came time for my first teaching job, I applied to one in a town an hour to the south of Camp St. Jude.
I used this area for the setting in The Heart Remembers and Getaway Mountain and western Pennsylvania in Mid-Love Crisis and Ghost Mountain.
Although my older brother and sister felt no such connection—or resonance—with Camp St. Jude, to this day I love mountains and solitude and simple days and ways.
Michele Huey’s College Years
In college, I wanted to major in writing, but back then (late 1960s, early 1970s) writing was not offered as a major. So I took the closest thing: English. And since English was offered as a secondary education specialty, I took the English education course. Comprehensive English because I had no minor. There wasn’t anything else I was interested in. Only words.
I graduated in three years without college debt because the Pennsylvania Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation paid all college expenses—tuition, room and board, books—and provided me with a hearing aid—my first.
So when I graduated from high school, I heard birds singing for the first time in my life. (Click to Tweet!)
Off to Work
I didn’t think I’d like teaching. My heart was in writing, so I took every writing course the college (Clarion State College, now Clarion University of Pennsylvania) had to offer. But a funny thing happened. When I stood in a classroom my first day of student teaching: a light went on and has never gone out. I LOVED teaching. I still do.
I worked full time as a junior high English teacher, but when my first child was born, I opted to be a stay-at-home mom. I went back to teaching as a substitute teacher when my three children were school age but was unable to obtain a permanent position.
W hen the door to teaching—my passion—slammed shut, I brought writing to the front burner. (Click to Tweet!)
Michele Huey, the Writer
Surprisingly, I got into writing because of my teaching. Subbing for a reading teacher on a semester-long sabbatical, I searched eight filing cabinet drawers for a teaching unit on the daily newspaper. Back then we did not have internet access to the plethora of materials offered online today.
The local newspaper donated daily papers for class use, and I never let a day go by without reading my newspaper. All I found was segments of lessons: the inverted pyramid style of writing. That’s it.
After all, what’s a snippet when the newspaper contains so much more? News articles. Editorials. Comics. Local news. Advertisements. Not finding what I wanted, I wrote and taught a unit on the newspaper.
While I was writing the unit, ideas for stories kept popping into my head. I’d scribble them on a scrap of paper and slip them into a file folder marked “Ideas.” This was in the mid-1990s.
As an avid Guideposts reader, I noticed they were holding a writers workshop, I wrote up my submission, “My Mother’s Refrigerator,” and sent it in. A few months later, I got a call from a Guideposts editor.
“We loved your story,” he said. “We want to publish it.” Talk about doing an exuberant happy dance! “Wisdom from an Old Refrigerator” was published in the September 1995 issue.
And so the journey began.
Michele’s Debut Novelist Experience
At the Sr. Davids Christian Writers Conference in western Pennsylvania, Melanie Rigney, Virelle Kidder, and I formed “The Novel Buds.” We wanted to delve into writing fiction. And so we did, submitting our chapters to each other to critique.
First, I wrote Before I Die. The opening line of the book summarizes the plot: “Before I die, I want to fall in love again.” I had fun writing it and jumped right into The Heart Remembers.
Next, I penned the story of an Army nurse who meets, falls in love with, and marries a Dustoff (medical evacuation helicopter) pilot while on her tour of duty in the Vietnam War. He goes MIA, the end of Part 1.
Finally, Part 2 is modern day, when she finds him—without memory of his life before his chopper crashed in ’Nam. Now he’s the caretaker of the resort where she attends her fortieth class reunion. No spoilers. You’ll have to read it to find out the end of that love story. And it is a love story, not a romance.
Both books were published by a publishing company with whom I am no longer affiliated. Recently, I re-released The Heart Remembers as an independent author-publisher. Before I Die is now following with a new cover and a new title, Mid-LOVE Crisis, which better captures the essence of the story.
What’s up with Michele Huey now?
My third novel, Getaway Mountain, is the first book in the PennWoods Mystery series. Next, I plan to release 
Ghost Mountain, Book Two in the series, by the end of this 2017. This story has been a struggle to write. I’m currently on my sixth revision. But I’m working with a developmental editor, who’s helping me to sort out all the ideas, scenes, and characters swirling around in my head, looking for a place to land. I’m learning a lot. Which is what I should be doing. After all, I must continue learning, honing, and refining to plumb the depths of the talent God gave me.
Finally, the third book in the series will be Gem Mountain. 
All three are set in western Pennsylvania, hence the name of the series—PennWoods. I love the forested mountains of Pennsylvania. And I love to incorporate the rich history of the area—the legends, myths, stories. Interestingly, I enjoy the research as much as I love getting lost in the story and characters.
Future Projects for Michele Huey
My idea of writing fiction is like riding a horse. First, get on him. Next, point him in the direction I want to go. Then, slap his behind. And finally, hang on as the ride (the story) takes me where it wants to go.
Yes, I’m a “pantser” (write by the seat of my pants), but I’m learning to be a plotter to write a good mystery. Which is why it’s taken me six drafts to get a clear picture of where Ghost Mountain is supposed to go.
Besides Gem Mountain, I’m planning Office of Divine Intervention. And perhaps a historical novel I began several years ago. It’s a story based on events that occurred in Whiskey Run, Pennsylvania in the early 1900s.
Where to Find Michele online
Oh, Lord, our God of Surprises, how we adore Your ways. Who would’ve thought an infant burning with fever would suffer hearing loss that would lead her to a love for words that would transport her into imaginary worlds where You await Michele Huey’s readers. Michele’s life story is fascinating, which You’ve turned into a prelude to the stories she writes today. Bless each word Michele writes for You.
~ For Jesus’ sake
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
The post Let’s Chat! Author Michele Huey appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.
October 18, 2017
Let’s Chat! Author Mary Hanks
Welcome, Mary Hanks! And welcome, Readers!
This week Mary Hanks treats us with a chat about her yummy Christian Romance & Marriage novels. Mary’s name appears on several books, each as beautiful as the former.
You’ll want to get to know this author, so join our chat. Mary’s offering a give-away: all 5 ebooks in the Second Chance series. So be sure to comment below!
Pre-Author Life of Mary Hanks:
I am a firecracker, born on the 4th of July! When I was little, I thought the fireworks were all for me. Boy, was I disappointed to learn the truth!
Also, I consider myself an Alaska Girl. Even though I haven’t lived in the “last frontier” for quite a few years, its raw beauty still dwells in my heart. I love nature, whether hiking in the woods or traipsing across miles of beaches, and I’m sure that originated in my Alaskan experiences.
My earliest dream was to be a wife and mom. This year, Jason and I celebrated our forty-second anniversary. And I’m blessed with four kids, who are grown and on their own exciting journeys. So my dream definitely came true!
My second dream was to write books. I’m living that adventure right now.
How it all Began for Mary Hanks
When I received a typewriter for Christmas, at age thirteen, I began writing a book—a Walton’s-esque tale I never finished. But even our early attempts at writing are stepping stones in our path toward becoming an author.
At fifteen, I had the opportunity to write skits for youth services at church. It was my first chance to see my words come to life on stage. Over the next couple of decades, I worked with schools to create drama programs. I love Youth Theater, and I’ve had the privilege of writing and directing 20+ full-stage shows.
Mary’s Favorite Themes
My favorite genre for reading or writing is Christian romance with a marital-reconciliation theme. Every marriage will face storms. Jason and I have weathered our share. But when we came to breaking points in our relationship, we chose to hold on tight to each other and to not let go, and I’m so glad we did. Since then, or maybe because of those experiences, the writing themes God has planted in my heart are redemption, reconciliation, and love in marriage. The beauty of second chances still strikes a thrilling chord within me. (Click to Tweet!)
Mary E. Hanks: First Book and Debut
My first published book was Winter’s Past (2013). In this story, Ty and Winter have been divorced for ten years, but neither of them have forgotten the love they shared. Ty’s life has been radically transformed by God’s love, and he’s praying for a chance to make things right with Winter. When she comes to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, to speak at a conference, he considers the opportunity to see her again a miracle. However, she’s still troubled by their past. Can she forgive the man she hasn’t been able to forget?
What’s up with Mary Hanks now?
It’s been hard for me to end my Second Chance series. The characters are like my family. However, my fifth book, Season’s Flame, a story about a pastor and his wife who, after losing their church, struggle in their marriage, released in September. While Saying goodbye to the characters I’ve grown so fond of is hard, but it’s time for me to move on.
I’m eager to meet new friends (and a few enemies) in a town on the Oregon Coast. I can’t wait to go there and do the research! The first book in this series is about a woman who returns to the beach to start over. But sometimes coming back is just as painful as leaving in the first place.
We all need a second chance sometime, don’t you agree? (Click to Tweet!)
Being an Indie Author
I love being an indie author. I like making all the decisions and being the boss (after God) of my art and ambitions. While I hire out tasks, like graphic design work and professional editing, I’m a DIY lifer. I also appreciate being a part of the indie community. And I thank God for letting me see my dream of writing books come true.
Second Chance Series:
Season’s Flame
How can we find Mary Hanks?
I love sharing about God’s love, reconciliation in marriage, and chocolate!
Here are some of the places online where I hang out:
Lord, You are the God of Second Chances! What a lovely theme You’ve called Mary to write. We glory in Your ways that are beyond our understanding and our ways.
Bless each word Mary writes for You.
~ For Jesus’ sake
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
The post Let’s Chat! Author Mary Hanks appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.
October 11, 2017
Let’s Chat! Author Mikal Dawn
Welcome, Everyone.
This week we chat with adorable Mikal Dawn, an inspirational romantic comedy author who’s all bout faith, fun, and forever.
I ask you … Who’s not into those three?
A prize awaits the winner of our drawing this week—Mikal’s Count Me In. So don’t miss out. Comment below for a chance to win. Winner announced Tuesday, October 17 after 6 PM Central.
Mikal Dawn’s Pre-Author Life
I was born and raised in a town just outside Vancouver, Canada, but from the age of eleven, I knew I’d end up a citizen of the United States. (Tweet That!)
Once upon a time, I earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and an associate’s degree in accounting.
When I was 30, I met my husband online (what was I thinking?!?!) in mid-September of 2005. He was stationed in Japan, so we had a lot of late-night (on my end) conversations. We met in person on December 17th of that year, and were engaged on December 25th—just a week after we met!
A couple of weeks later, my son and I flew down to Florida, met my husband’s family, and three months after that, we were married. It was whirlwind, but when you know, you know! (You might see a fictionalized account in print one day.)
Mikal and Her Family
Since we married in April 2006, we’ve added two more kids and a ferocious feline. My husband is still military, and I work part-time for a Christian ministry. Our oldest is engaged to be married himself this May. (Eep!! Where does the time go?) Our middle child is progressing through the Tae Kwon Do ranks. And our youngest is making her mark in the world of figure skating.
Meanwhile, I worked for other authors as a social media and publicity assistant, both in person and virtually.
I’ve lived throughout the southern United States, but I currently reside in Nebraska (and love it!) with my husband, three kids, and one lazy, ferocious feline who can often be 
found taking over my Instagram account. Or eating, sleeping, sleeping, and eating.
My first love is Jesus Christ. Second is my husband. Third, my kids; fourth, writing; and fifth, coffee. Or is it reading?
Nah, it’s coffee.
Mikal Dawn’s Debut
My first book, Count Me In, released this past May. I had such a blast writing it! But I’ll be honest, I didn’t start out writing romantic comedy.
At first, I thought I’d write suspense. (Who knows? I might publish that story one day.)
Next, I tried my hand at Medieval romance. (That story might see the light of day after a lot of edits.)
And I tried women’s fiction.
Then I attended a brainstorming meeting with some friends. I told them about the tug I’d felt toward romantic comedy. And my hesitancy to write “fluff.”
Well. I was slapped in the face. (Not literally, I promise. Though I’m pretty sure she hit me in the arm. Hard.)
Didn’t God create laughter?
Don’t some of His children need a lighthearted moment or an escape?
My friend’s statement—“I wouldn’t give my mother-in-law a heavy book to read while she’s in her chemo appointment. Would you?”—really struck me.
No. I wouldn’t.
God shook me up in a very good way. And lo and behold! The words came easier, and with some great help from my critique partners and fabulous editor, Count Me In made its splash.
What’s up With Mikal Dawn Now?
A wedding enthusiast and proud military wife, I work as an administrative assistant for an international ministry organization and serve in my church’s library. I run my kids to Tae Kwon Do and figure skating and drink lots of coffee.
By night, I pull out my hair, whispering to figments of my imagination as I write while dinner is burning. And I drink lots of coffee. When I’m not writing about faith, fun, and forever, I’m obsessively scouring Pinterest (with coffee in hand, of course) for wedding ideas for my characters.
Any Books on the Horizon?
Now I’m in the midst of writing a sequel to Count Me In. Supporting characters from the first book show up in On the Edge. Their story is kind of fighting me now, but the Lord is drawing me to lean on Him even more. He keeps reminding me these aren’t my stories, but His.
How can we find Mikal Dawn?
First, I love, love, love connecting with people on social media! I hang out mostly on Facebook, so I’d love to connect with you there.
But you can find me on my website, Twitter, Goodreads, Instagram, and Pinterest, too.
And if you’re so inclined, I’d love for you to get to know Tyler and Allegra from Count Me In. Their story is available in both ebook and paperback on Amazon.
I‘m honored to provide a digital copy of Count Me In to the winner of this week’s drawing.
Lord, we thank and praise You for the way You work in our lives from our earliest days. You called Mikal from Canada even as an 11-yr-old. And you led her through seemingly unlimited writing possibilities to the one You intended for her all along. You’re our good, good God, the author of faith, fun, and forever. Bless every word Mikal writes.
~ For Jesus’ sake
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSaveSaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
The post Let’s Chat! Author Mikal Dawn appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.
October 4, 2017
Let’s Chat! Author Sheila Hudson
Welcome, Readers. And welcome, Sheila.
This week we’re chatting with super-successful veteran author, Sheila Hudson, a Georgia girl who mainly writes cozy mysteries. I’m honored Sheila has agreed to join us this week. Find a comfortable spot, prop up your feet, and enjoy.
**There’s a prize at stake for the drawing winner—Classic City Murders. Enter by commenting below.**
Before Sheila Hudson Authored
In 1968 I married seminary student Timothy L. Hudson. With graduation we accepted an assignment with our first church along with parenthood. We served several churches before my husband accepted a position as a professor at a Bible college. Both from Georgia, our first winter in West Virginia with an infant proved quite a challenge.
From this background we entered campus ministry and our first assignment was Northern Kentucky University where we served 5 years. We now had two daughters and spent our time commuting across the river from Covington, KY to Cincinnati, OH where we lived in community with another family from our church.
I tutored and worked for the church until our last move in 1982 back to Georgia where my husband took the position of Senior Campus Minister at the University of Georgia where we served 28 years. We are both alumni of Atlanta Christian College (now Point University). I accepted a position at the University of Georgia and retired in 2007.
Sheila Hudson’s First Steps
My writing career began with a writing course from my husband while recuperating from surgery. I’ve written for the Athens Banner Herald, Athens Magazine, Christian Standard, The Lookout, Chicken Soup, and numerous other publications.
Sheila’s Debut Experience: “Pure Gold” Nonfiction
In 2014 Dancing with Bear Publishers published my first book, 13 Decisions That Will Change Your Life followed in 2015 by 13 Decisions That Will Transform Your Marriage. It was a thrill like no other to finally reach that milestone. The first box of books was like receiving pure gold. (Click to Tweet!)
Sheila Hudson’s Next Steps: Cozy Mysteries
I experimented with fiction and wrote a short novella – a cozy mystery. When I sent it to a friend to see if I was on the right track, she asked to publish it and two more just like it. (Did I mention she’s an editor and publisher?) That began my fiction career as the author of seven cozy mysteries known as The Thursday Club. I enjoyed these humorous stories about five women (drawn from my circle of friends) so much I later entered another contest by Winged Publications.
My Classic City Murders won that contest, and ThomasMax Publishers in Atlanta, Georgia published it in two volumes.
Since then I have begun a new cozy series called Silent Partners with Winged Publications. Kiss and Make Up is the first book in the series about twins who solve a murder. The second book in the series, Dead Ringer, features the same characters and will be available for the holidays.
A Little Advice from a Veteran
I advise anyone who wants to write to start with the inner circle. Start small with articles and start local. Pay your dues and take small bites in the writing world. Develop thick skin for critics and those who might be jealous of your successes. The world’s best editor and my writing partner and friend for over twenty years, Amy Munnell, blesses me. Amy introduced me to Southeastern Writers Association where I have been affiliated for over 23 years. I consider serving on the board in many capacities and as President a privilege.
I consider writing a ministry and have mentored others in this capacity. My husband and I served in campus ministries in two universities and currently minister at Classic City Community Church in Athens, Georgia. We have been married 49 years, have 2 daughters and 2 sons-in-law, 1 son, and 7 grandsons. God has blessed us beyond words.
What’s Next for Sheila Hudson?
I plan to continue working with SWA, the church, and a mission that is dear to us – SonSafaris, Inc. Hopefully we will visit their handiwork in South Africa in the coming year—a subject, no doubt, to write about.
About Sheila Hudson
Sheila S. Hudson authored the Thursday Club series: Murder at Golden Palms, Murder at Sea, Murder at the Mandelay, Murder at the Monastery, Murder on the Marquee, and Murder Under the Christmas Tree published by Take Me Away Books.
Sheila also penned Classic City Murders: Volumes I and II published by ThomasMax Publishers, Inc. She first published two nonfiction books: 13 Decisions That Will Change Your Life and 13 Decisions That Will Transform Your Marriage (Dancing with Bear Publishing). Sheila has contributed to Not Your Mother’s Book (2), Chocolate for Women (8), Chicken Soup, Patchwork Path (2), Love Stories (2) plus numerous periodicals.
Find Sheila’s books at www.amazon.com or on her website www.sheilahudsonwriter.com
Her byline also appears in Purple Pros and Costumer Magazine. Bright Ideas, the parent company, was established to bring hope and inspiration through the written/spoken word.
Contact Sheila at sheilahudson.writer@gmail.com; Sheila@13decisions.com or visit www.13decisions.com or www.sheilahudsonwriter.com for information on speaking engagements and forthcoming books.
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
SaveSave
The post Let’s Chat! Author Sheila Hudson appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.
