Linda Brooks Davis's Blog, page 22

Let’s Chat! Author Bonnie Mae Evans

Welcome, Everyone! And Welcome, Author Bonnie Mae Evans!
Bonnie Mae Evans

This week we chat with author Bonnie Mae Evans who hails from the Maryland Eastern Shore. Let’s form a friendly circle around Bonnie and give her a hearty readers’ welcome!

Bonnie’s offering a signed and personalized copy of her debut novel, The Trees Will Clap, to someone who comments below.

Pre-Author Life of Bonnie Mae Evans


I was raised near the town of Berlin on the Delmarva Peninsula—the Maryland Eastern Shore, in the late 50s, through the 60s. It was, and remains to this day a very unique and rural area. My family was made up of quirky, hard-working, country folk. We lived plainly, but rich in family traditions and church activities. It was a carefree time for the most part, although  race relations and the Vietnam War rumbling in the background created turmoil. This distinctive 



background inspired my book, but not until decades later. I realized with nostalgic remorse that this type of lifestyle was quickly disappearing.

Power of the Written Word: Bonnie Mae’s Inspiration
“Back home” for Bonnie

One of my favorite activities on those long, hot summer days growing up in the country was reading. Waiting with eager anticipation for the Bookmobile to arrive, I checked out as many books as allowed and escaped for hours on end between the covers of those books. It was magical. This is the same feeling I hope to capture between the pages of my own book and pass on to future generations.

In school, I excelled in English and reading classes. But, once I took a course called, Creative Writing, I was amazed at the power of the written word. On more than one occasion, I got into a scrape because of my imaginative writing.

College & Adult Life for Bonnie Mae Evans

But, alas, there was little time to pursue such “frivolous” things, as my upbringing called me to find a suitable career for a woman. I was the first in my family to attend college, where I became a nurse.

Baltimore, Maryland

My hubby and I married young and started our family late. We moved to the big city of Baltimore, which may as well have been a foreign country to me. My grandmother wrote me long letters in her beautiful cursive handwriting, describing every detail of life back home. I, in turn, wrote to her of my strange new life in the city. We were prolific letter writers. She often encouraged me to write a book, but I never found the time. 

A Family of Bonnie’s Own
Then our daughter was born 15 years into our marriage and our son in time for our 20th anniversary. I first began to put together thoughts for my book on scraps of paper. My children attended high school and college at the time. Two years after my dear grandmother passed away, I realized the notes were actually taking the form of the book she had hoped I would write.

Debut Novel for Bonnie Mae Evans

The Trees Will Clap is my debut novel published by Fruitbearer Publishers. I actively wrote it for 5 years, critiquing and tweaking with the help of my writer’s group for another 6 years.

However, I made a HUGE mistake immediately after finishing my book. Being new to the world of writing, I was anxious to get my masterpiece out there. I submitted it to a contest without editing (other than mine). It was the Women of Faith contest sponsored by Westbow Press. When it placed in the second round of finalists—top 30 of 750 entries, I was greatly encouraged, but quickly realized my mistake. I continued to try and edit it with the help of my writers group. I submitted to 2 more contests, placing in the top 10 finalists in Crossbooks Inaugural Writing Contest and Deep River Books Writing Contest.

Time for Growing

Something more was needed. The competition was tough. It was during this time I pursued publishing by attending conferences and making personal contacts. I was blessed to have several well-known authors and agents ask to see my manuscript. They gave me wonderful advice and I accepted almost all of it.

Nostalgia in Bonnie’s book

And the journey continued. I received several rejections because of my literary writing style. I was once told, “We’re writing for the ADD generation. They don’t want descriptions of the setting, etc. They want a quick read.” That’s just not my style and I believed there were still serious readers out there who wanted a book they would remember long after putting it down because they had been there. The story drew them in, and they smelled the smells, heard the rustle of the leaves, felt the heat of summer on their necks, cried with the broken hearted and most of all, remembered with nostalgic fondness and maybe pain, their own childhoods.

Some Advice & Encouragement

First, it’s impossible to read the unwritten word. (Tweet That!) A sequel has been beating around in my head since I finished The Trees Will Clap. It hasn’t made it to the pages of my computer yet. I intend to start it soon.

Bowen United Methodist, Bonnie’s home church in Newark, Maryland

You see, writing consumes me so that I disappear from life for long periods of time. You miss a lot like that. It’s a real sacrifice. I have however, continued to be a contributor to the devotional blog of my writers group, Mountain Christian Church Writers—Portions of Grace at portionsofgrace.blogspot.com. I’ve been committed to this for many years.

Writers who raise families, keep a blog and engage in other interests while churning out book after book amaze me. I guess they have found the key of balance. Hats off to them!

Finally, I advise a writer to be true to your own voice. Listen to what your heart is telling you to write and get it down on paper. Never be discouraged by advice other writers offer. Be enlightened. And lastly, I will say again, do not abandon your unique voice. It is a gift given specially to you.

How to Find Bonnie and her book

Facebook: @thetreeswillclap

Amazon

Twitter

~ ~ ~

Lord, You amaze us by giving each person his or her unique gifts. With the gift of writing, Bonnie wrote an inspirational story that honors her upbringing—and You. You blessed her with tenacity and faith, as well. Bless Bonnie’s every word for You. ~ For Jesus’ sake

 

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The post Let’s Chat! Author Bonnie Mae Evans appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.

Let’s Chat! Author J Carol Nemeth

Welcome, Everyone! And welcome, Historical Romance/Suspense Writer, J Carol Nemeth! 
J Carol Nemeth

This week we chat with J Carol Nemeth, an inspirational writer of historical romances with some suspense thrown in. Carol tells a fascinating life story, so let’s circle up and make a new friend.

Carol is offering one of her books as a give-away, so be sure to comment below to be included in the drawing.
Great Smoky Mountains
Pre-Author Life of J Carol Nemeth

A North Carolinian through and through, I was born in Burlington to the best parents in the world. My father pastored a country Baptist church, so I was raised in church and at the age of six I came to know Christ as my savior. I have an older sister and a younger brother and, as a family, we traveled around the southeastern United States, camping wherever we went. That’s where I acquired my love of camping and the outdoors.

J Carol Nemeth’s College and Early Career

After graduating from Centerville Christian School in South Boston, VA, I attended Bob Jones University and studied art. Although it wasn’t the Lord’s will for me to continue in that field, He opened different doors.

As a Park Aide for the National Park Service in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, I worked at Twentymile Ranger Station and at the Deep Creek Campground and Ranger Station. I absolutely loved my job. My favorite duty was horse patrol and caring for my tall four-legged friends, Billy Boy, Blackie and Fargo.

 
A Change of Path for J Carol Nemeth
Livorno, Italy

Once again, the Lord changed my path. I joined the US Army. Trained in communications, I worked in the COMM center at Camp Darby, Livorno, on the Mediterranean coast of Italy, a few miles from the Leaning Tower of Pisa. I traveled to thirteen countries while stationed in Europe. I planned to return to college for a degree in Parks and Recreation and return to the Park Service.

However, God planned otherwise, and I’m so thankful He did. I met my husband, Mark, while stationed in Italy; he was also active Army. I resigned from the Army, and Mark and I married. He’s the love of my life and my best friend and we’ve been married for almost thirty-two years. (Tweet That!)

Yorkshire, England
Family Life of J Carol Nemeth

We lived in various locations, including North Yorkshire, England, where our daughter was born. We now live in West Virginia, where, in our spare time, we enjoy camping and sight-seeing. Mark and I are very active in our church and we love spending time with our two grown children Matthew and Jennifer and our son-in-law Flint, and spoiling our three grandchildren Martin, Ava and Gage.

J Carol Nemeth’s Debut Author Experience 

First, my writing career began in junior high school but would take a long time to come to fruition. I started many books but never fully completed any.

Then, after the birth of my daughter in 1990, I wrote a novel set in North Yorkshire, England where we lived. I submitted it to various publishing companies but, after receiving many encouraging words, still no one wanted to publish this new author. I found out just how difficult it is to pitch a story to a publisher and that it is far easier to write the story.

Thereafter, I tried to get an agent, but no one was interested. Discouraged, I questioned if writing was truly my calling as I’d thought. I rewrote and revised several times but no one wanted to take a chance. I continued writing other stories, while waiting, but found it difficult to finish them. What was the point if no one would publish them?

But in March of 2016, I read a book written by an author friend of mine. I noticed a web address for Forget Me Not Romances. Having never heard of them before, I decided to look into it further. I sent my proposal to Cynthia Hickey, the editor, and within three days had an offer to publish my first novel, Yorkshire Lass. She was willing to take a chance on me, and I’m very grateful for that opportunity. It was a long twenty-three year road to publication, but our time is not God’s time and His timing is perfect.

What’s Up With Carol Nemeth Now?

In February, I published the novella Dedication to Love as a stand-alone book. It’s a historical novella set in 1940 in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is now part of a historical collection entitled A National Park Romance by Forget Me Not Romances that released earlier this month.

Currently, I’m working on my Faith in the Parks series, four full-length suspense/romance novels set in different National Parks

Where Can Readers Find J Carol Nemeth?
Facebook

Amazon

Goodreads

Email

Amazon Purchase Links:

Dedication to Love

Yorkshire Lass

~ ~ ~

Lord, we continue to be awed by Your providential ways. In particular, we applaud Carol’s inspirational writing that points the way to You. Bless Carol’s every effort for You. ~ For Jesus’ sake

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The post Let’s Chat! Author J Carol Nemeth appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.

Let’s Chat! Author April W. Gardner!

Welcome, Everyone! Let’s welcome, April W Gardner!

We’re privileged his week to have April W Gardner stopping by for a chat. Grab a cup o’ whatever you prefer and we’ll get to know April.

Who Is April W Gardner?

When asked, “Where are you from?” I sometimes go to the short answer: “I’m from all over, but I claim the South.” But when the asker looks me in the eye and seems genuinely interested, I unfold the lengthier version:



Childhood

Okinawa, Japan

First, I’m a true ATCK (adult third culture kid). Born to USAF parents in Okinawa, Japan, I didn’t enter the U.S. until my second year.

Before my tenth birthday, I’d visited or traveled through half the states and lived in four of them. I spent my remaining childhood years as an MK (missionary’s kid) in Spain.

Madrid, Spain
Adulthood


Germany

After college, my new USAF husband and I hopped a plane to Germany where we spent seven glorious years touring Europe and birthing our two precious kiddos.  

England

Then four years in England followed those in Germany, and after that, a beautiful stay in Middle Georgia where God taught us what true, lifelong friends look like.

April W Gardner Today
Texas Hill Country

As of last May, we’re in South Texas where God is teaching us what true, state loyalty looks like. Yesterday, I picked up a bag of tortilla chips cut into the shape of—wait for it!—Texas. (Tweet That!) I laugh, but honestly, I love it. A person should be proud of their state, and Texas is certainly a state to be proud of. If God allows, I’d be honored to settle down here for good.

In the meantime, we continue to serve (nineteen years and counting). Only the hubby is active duty. I hold down the home fort, homeschooling and concocting stories that bury characters up to their noses in trouble, then wondering how in the world I’ll ever get them out of it!

April’s Writing Career: How It Began

My writing career started out at a small press house, but two years ago, I got my rights back and re-published my stories as an independent author. Being indie is no cakewalk, but it’s the most fulfilling job I can ever imagine having. For any author considering the indie route, I cannot recommend it highly enough. (Tweet That!) Nothing beats being your own boss, writing stories the way you want, publishing them when you’re ready, and getting paid many times more for it!

How It’s Going Now

I write Christian historical romance with an emphasis on our 1800s Southeastern Native Americans, most especially the Muscogee (Creek). The Muscogee were once mighty and ruled all of what is now Georgia and Alabama and parts of Florida. My stories tell of their tragic downfall. And always with abundant, sweep-you-off-your-feet romance!

Writing Career: April’s Latest Book

Bitter Eyes No More, my February 2017 release, takes place in Florida’s final year as a Spanish colony. As Spain’s power crumbles, Lillian McGirth gets wrapped up in international intrigues that bring her under the fierce eye of the U.S. Army. An unwed mother accused of treason and many miles from home, she has no advocate and is destined for a traitor’s noose. (Tweet That!)

Enter Captain Marcus Buck, surgeon and swordsman, who (as every wonderful hero should!) sails in to save the day. Through sickness, abuse, and a massacre that changes the course of U.S. history, he carries her to safety, teaching her of God’s abundant mercy and forgiveness along the way.

April’s Hope for Readers

Finally, my prayer is that my readers will come away with the same boundless Hope that can be found in Christ.

Where to Find April and Her Books

You can find April W Gardner at her website,

Facebook Author Page,

Goodreads,

Twitter,

Google+,

Amazon: Boxed Set and Book 4

And BookBub

~~~

Lord, how marvelous are Your ways, even unto the ends of the Earth. You’ve set April Gardner in certain locales for purposes that have influenced her character. And now You’re using her to tell readers about the boundless Hope in Christ. Bless her every word for You.

~ For Jesus’ sake

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The post Let’s Chat! Author April W. Gardner! appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.

Let’s Chat! Author Debra Sue Brice!

Welcome, Readers! Welcome, Debra Sue Brice!

Debra Sue Brice honors us with a visit to this week’s chat circle. A busy teacher and author, Debra exudes joy and enthusiasm. Can’t wait to get to know her.

Comment below to be entered into the drawing for Debra’s romance novel, Icing.

Who Is Debra Sue Brice?

I grew up in the small township of Columbia Station, Ohio. I loved it so much that I stuck around and now have my own home two doors down from my parents. Oh, and my sister lives between us!

I own a horse boarding barn. Currently, I’m training two adorable three year old horse. They bring such joy and entertainment to my everyday life!

Speaking of everyday life, I teach first graders but have always had a passion for writing. I scribbled notes to my sister from her favorite actors and dropped them off in her locker in high school. I wrote my first novel when I was in high school but never thought I could do anything with a silly story about teenagers stuck in a blizzard. Now, I’m determined to find it, polish it up and send it off to a publisher!

As a teacher, I encourage my kiddos to write and be creative. (Tweet That!) We write anything from mysteries to plays. I dream that they’ll pick up one of my books when they are older and be proud they had me as their teacher.





Debra Sue Brice’s Debut Experience 

My first novel, Crossing Boarders, contains a hint of mystery and a bit of suspense. It tells the story of a young woman and her adventures in Canada with her horse.

At first I feared sending my manuscript out into the world, but my mom encouraged me, and I took the leap of faith. The first small press publisher I sent it to picked it up and worked with me throughout the entire process. He even let me be on the front cover with my horse! What a blessing!

An eternity, it seemed, passed  before the novel was actually printed, but when the proof copy finally arrived I snapped so many pictures you would have thought I was a New York Time’s best seller! 

What’s Happening With Debra Sue Brice Today?

The publication of Crossing Boarders encouraged me to keep writing and sending out my manuscripts. After Crossing Boarders, I wrote Icing, a romance novel, and self-published Danni Girl Mysteries, a cozy mystery series.

My wonderful publicist, aka my mom, blesses me. She encourages me to keep pressing on and pursuing my passion of writing. I dreamed of seeing my name on the front of a book, and I intend to keep doing what I love. 

Like other authors, I dream of having my books turned into movies. I know there are a lot of non-readers our there, but with a wholesome movie the whole family can enjoy a good, clean storyline.

What Are Debra Sue Brice’s Future Goals?

My ultimate goal is to continue sharing my passion through my stories. You don’t have to love horses to enjoy Crossing Boarders, but you’ll find a character you’ll want to see succeed. Not a Cleveland Monsters hockey You will definitely find a relatable character in Icing. You don’t have to like murder to enjoy the Danni Girl Mysteries … Well, maybe you like it a little.

I want to see everyone enjoying the beauty reading can bring to their lives! (Tweet That!) 

Where Can We Find Debra Sue Brice’s Books?

Amazon

Facebook

Twitter

Website

~ ~ ~

Reader Friends,

How can anyone not want to snatch up one of Debra’s books? Does she exude joy or what?

Debra,

Thank you for painting our world with enthusiasm. Please come again.

P.S. May I be one of your students?

Lord, You have the Words of Life. You are Creativity. You gift us and inspire us to use our gifts in creative ways. Bless Debra’s words designed to offer entertainment approved by You. Bless readers who hold her books and read her words. May they inspire us as they entertain, and may they reach hearts in need of encouragement.

~ For Jesus’ sake 

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The post Let’s Chat! Author Debra Sue Brice! appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.

Let’s Chat! Psychological Suspense Author J.A. Marx!

Welcome, Readers! And Welcome, J.A. Marx!

This week J.A. Marx, a great Texas author, honors us with a visit. 

Join the conversation by commenting below, and you just might win one of her books: Destiny Defied (psychological suspense) or her quirky, psychological “romance” novella, Mirror, Mirror, in ebook format. 

Take it away, J.A. Marx!

Who Is J.A. Marx?

I grew up in the mountains and graduated from college (CSU) in Colorado—God’s country. Living in the heart of the Rockies, I adored my childhood playground: the side of a forested mountain, facing Longs Peak. Even though I had no real clue what “church” was until I met Jesus at age 18, I know God communicated with me while I climbed trees and built forts. (Tweet That!) Certainly, He created this playground with my childlike heart in mind.

Presently, I live in Texas—also God’s country.

What’s an Adventure to J.A. Marx?

In college, I smuggled Bibles into China—the greatest culture shock of my life and my most courageous adventure. (Tweet That!) Some of the most satisfying years of my life, however, were spent homeschooling my children and introducing them to different cultures and beautiful people and places. 3 grandchildren bless my life.

How Was J.A. Marx, the Writer, Born?

First, Fank Peretti’s books inspired me to let loose the reservoir of stories running through my mind. I wrote my first novel in 1990. Now it is safely tucked away in some obscure file on my computer. (Tweet That!)

But in 2001, a picture crossed my mind: a girl washing up on a beach. I had to do something with her, and thus The Destiny Series was born. I wrote all 6 books in this psychological suspense series between 2001-2003. They were terribly written because I had never studied the craft. Thank goodness, my first book in the series (traditionally published) did not hit the shelves until 2014.

Jerry Jenkins Christian Writer’s Guild changed everything. I learned the craft through his group of top-notch authors/teachers–the best, people like Doc Hensley, DiAnn Mills, to name a few.

What Is Author J.A. Marx Involved in Currently?

While I’m traditionally published in psychological romantic suspense, I’m also gearing up to self-publish book 4 in my psychological suspense series this year (the one featuring the girl who washed up on the beach).

Any Lessons Learned or Advice from J.A. Marx?

What do I tell new writers? Writing is a serious business, and it should stem from a passion for story. Words carry the power to build up or tear down, to deceive or to deliver truth. (Tweet That!)

Julie’s Suggestions

First, spend lots of time in the presence of the I AM, Who created words; and don’t stop pressing in until Jesus returns.

Then write, join a critique group, write, study the craft, take classes, network at conferences, and keep writing. God opens doors that we cannot open. He connects us with people (even agents/editors) that we might otherwise not meet.

More importantly, what we surrender to His lordship and allow Him to build, He will also sustain (Tweet That!); what we strain to make happen on our own, we will also strain to maintain on our own. 

L iving a surrendered-writer’s life translates into the successful life of an author. (Tweet That!)

~ ~ ~

Thank you, Julie. I loved this interview. We appreciate your opening yourself to strangers who now can claim you as something akin to a friend. You can bet I’ll be reading what you’ve written, girl!

Readers, you can find J.A. Marx at http://jamarx.net and https://www.facebook.com/embattledspirit.

You can find her books on Amazon:

Destiny Defied: Book One

Destiny Delivered: Book Two

Destiny Defended: Book Three

Family Lies Deadly Ties

Mirror, Mirror (a quirky novella in ebook format)

~ ~ ~

Lord, You are the Word. Your every utterance is flawless. We writers beg you to make our puny words flawless in their effect for You. We readers beg You to lead us to the writers You have chosen to speak words of truth and encouragement into our hearts. ~ For Jesus’ sake

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The post Let’s Chat! Psychological Suspense Author J.A. Marx! appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.

Let’s Chat! Author Henry McLaughlin

Welcome, Everyone!

This week we chat with Henry McLaughlin, a writer who like me has a bit of gray on top.

Let’s Chat! Author Colleen Scott

Welcome, Readers! 
Colleen Scott

This week we welcome author Colleen Scott, author of the suspense novel, Misconceptions, to our chat circle. Let’s shout Colleen a hearty welcome and jump into the conversation at the bottom of the interview. Comments are very encouraging to authors—including me

Let’s Chat! Author Teresa Tysinger!

Welcome, Readers! And welcome, Teresa Tysinger!

I‘m just delighted to welcome debut author Teresa Tysinger to our circle this week. On Tuesday, the 30th, Teresa released her first novel—Someplace Familiar–so she’s over-the-moon excited, I’m sure. It looks like a book I’ll love.

Let’s give Teresa a warm welcome by commenting below. Someone will win a free copy of this Christian romance.

Let’s Chat! Author Andrea Lucado

Welcome, Everyone!

Andrea Lucado joins our chat circle this week. My husband and I have had the privilege of knowing Andrea and her family for about twenty-five years. I watched Andrea grow from a little tyke crawling around on the church pews to the beautiful debut author of English Lessons.

Please join our conversation. Andrea is offering an autographed book to someone who comments below. I will announce the winner next Tuesday, the 30th, on this site, Facebook, and Twitter.

~ ~ ~

Andrea Lucado, the girl

I grew up in San Antonio, Texas. As a pastor’s daughter, church felt like my home. I spent as much time there as I did in our house. I knew every hallway and back staircase. I learned about Jesus in that church. It’s where I met some of my lifelong best friends and where I felt most comfortable.

College Years

From San Antonio, I traveled to West Texas to attend school at Abilene Christian University and studied abroad in Oxford. I fell in love with the city and vowed to go back and live there one day.

After I graduated from ACU, I did just that. I lived in Oxford for a year and attended a school called Oxford-Brookes University where I earned my master’s in English Literature. I also started blogging while I was there. I prophetically titled my blog “English Lessons.” (Tweet That!)

Andrea Lucado, the grown-up author

English Lessons: The Crooked Path of Growing Toward Faith released May 2, and man, has it been a journey. The writing process was pretty organic. I sat down one morning at 5:30 before work (I was working in book publishing at the time) to write just for fun. I hadn’t done that in a long time. I thought I would write about women’s issues. Women in the church or women and beauty. Something like that.

Andrea’s Writing Journey

Instead, I wrote a story about two people I met while I was living abroad in Oxford. I wrote about the park we sat in, what the weather was like and what we had talked about. I wrote about how we walked to an ice cream shop and what I had worn. Navy shorts and a pink top. For the next several months I continued to get up at 5:30 on Mondays and write and all that came out were stories from Oxford. 

After a few months of writing for fun, I started collecting these stories into essay-form. I sent a few to my dad (also a writer) and asked what he thought. With his encouragement I kept going until I had a good ten chapters finished. My dad’s agent, one of our best family friends, agreed to represent me. He has been such a gift!

I think the hardest part of the process was when it came time to send my work to the people I wrote about. Because it’s a memoir, I was required to get story release forms from most of the people mentioned in the book. That felt incredibly vulnerable and while most of my friends were very kind about the whole thing, a few of them were not thrilled to be in a book. I had to cut chapters and make major edits. It was hard to get their feedback but also a very stretching and strengthening time. I learned that as a writer, I will never please everyone.
 (Tweet That!)

What’s Next for Andrea Lucado

I haven’t started working on another book yet, but I hope to soon. I want to see through this release of English Lessons and be sure I do it well. Then, I will sit down and see what comes out. English Lessons is largely about faith and doubt. (Tweet That!)

The year I lived in England I asked those big questions: Why do I believe what I believe? Would I still be a Christian if I hadn’t been raised in a Christian home? Etc.

Now I ask different questions but they do include doubt. Doubt in God’s character, in his goodness. My relationship with him has deepened so much since Oxford. Perhaps my next book will be about that.

Where to find Andrea Lucado

You can find me on my blog and website: AndreaLucado.com.

On Facebook: facebook.com/AuthorAndreaLucado/

On Twitter: twitter.com/andrealucado

And on Instagram: Instagram.com/andrealucado

Lord, You’re our refuge in times of trouble, our safe harbor in storms. You’re our good Shepherd who leads us into green pastures beside still waters. You restore us and feed us and comfort us. What more could we want? Thank you for Your faithfulness.

Bless Andrea as she seeks you and shares her insights with readers.

~ For Jesus’ sake

The post Let’s Chat! Author Andrea Lucado appeared first on Linda Brooks Davis.

Let’s Chat! Author Molly Jebber

Welcome, Molly Jebber!

I so love having authors like Molly Jebber join our chat circle each week. I love getting to know these writers and sharing them with the rest of you. 

Readers, please join our conversation below in the “Comment” box. Molly’s giving away a book to one of you!

Welcome, Molly Jebber

So glad you could join us this week, Molly. Please tell us a bit about your pre-author life, what’s going on now, and what you’re looking forward to in the future.

Take it away, Molly Jebber!

~ ~ ~

Life for Molly Jebber before Novels

I’m from a small town in the Midwest, and if you blinked twice you might have missed it. Over the years, it’s grown by leaps and bounds. My past career has been a Director of Regulatory Affairs for Pharmaceutical Research for four hospitals, and a Contract Manager for a commercial architectural/construction firm. Sounds a little boring – but it was fun!

Molly Jebber, the Author

Now I write while living in the Midwest and Florida, unless my husband and soulmate, Ed, offers to take me to dinner or a movie or to golf. I can’t turn down my daughter, Misty, or my friends, to go shopping or have girl chats. Hence, I write very early in the morning or late at night on these days! I love to speak for Women’s Christian Connection, book clubs, historical societies, women’s groups, and libraries across the United States about the Amish and their lifestyle and traditions.

Also I work out at a local fitness center, and I always like coming out of the gym rather than going in! I love to swim, read, golf and visit Amish communities. I’ve swam with dolphins and parasailed and loved doing both! I look forward to doing these same things again! I love vanilla cupcakes, anything seafood, and M&M’s! No thank you, oatmeal, coconut, and sauerkraut!



Molly’s Debut Experience

The first day I decided to write, I typed in the browser on my computer, “I want to write. Where do I start?” (Tweet That!) I clicked on an article. It said to eat popcorn and watch my favorite movie instead. I kept reading, and it said if I insisted on writing, I better have thick skin, patience, and time. The editor suggested I read books on writing and publishing, join author groups, and obtain critique partners. At the end, this editor said to never give up. His humor and good advice inspired me to write Change of Heart, Grace’s Forgiveness, and Two Suitors for Anna.

Some nights, I wake up with an idea, blindly reach over on my nightstand and scribble it in the dark on paper. Thankfully, I’ve been able to read them so far!

For four years, I attended conferences, and learned how to write fiction. Then I submitted my first book, Change of Heart to agents and got rejected. I worked harder to edit and rewrite Change of Heart. Then I submitted to an agent and prayed she’d take it. She called me to offer representation. I did the happy dance throughout the house after talking with her. Then I knelt and thanked Jesus Christ for blessing me. (Tweet That!) Without Him, it wouldn’t have happened. If I’d have had a ladder, I would’ve climbed on the roof and shouted the news like a crazy person!

My agent called about two weeks later, and said she’d sold my book to a big New York publisher, Kensington Publishing Corp. The editor-in-chief offered me a contract for not one but a series of three books! I cried happy tears! My agent and editor-in-chief have been good to me. I’ve been fortunate to have their support and guidance.

What’s Coming up for Molly Jebber

I just signed a contract for a new Amish Historical Romance series and short story to roll out in 2018. My books are available in most stores and on-line in print and ebook.

Amish Brides will release in stores and ebook on May 30th.

A Tidbit or Two Molly Jebber Has Learned as an Author

Many people told me I would never get an agent or publisher due to the overwhelming competition. My family and friends encouraged me to never give up. Neither should you! The ups far outweigh the downs!

The best reward for me is meeting and hearing from readers. I wish I could fill a room with all the readers who I interact with on social media and hug each one and tell them how thankful I am for them. Thank you, readers!

Molly’s Books

My Keepsake Pocket Quilt Series: Change of Heart, Grace’s Forgiveness, and Two Suitors for Anna have garnered a boatload of media attention. Change of Heart was on Publisher’s Weekly’s Top Ten List Spring of 2015, and USA Today HEA featured it with an article that same year. Romantic Times has given my books near excellent ratings.

Two Suitors for Anna released on January 31st. In 1903, Berlin, Ohio, a young Amish woman must choose between the life she has long planned for and a new, very different future. Anna Plank is thrilled when her beloved Noah proposes, but Noah has a surprise for Anna. Once they’re married, he wants them to travel and live in other communities. Anna, who loves her home and her job at the quilt shop, is distraught when he takes her hesitation as rejection—and leaves.

Daniel Bontrager’s arrival adds to Anna’s confusion. Since taking over his late brother’s farm, the handsome roofer has offered friendship and gentle attentions. Yet the pull of first love is strong and deep, especially when Noah returns. Through each revelation, Anna must search her faith for guidance, knowing she is choosing not just a husband, but a life to nurture and to share.

Contacting Molly Jebber

Please sign up for my newsletter by sending me an email at mollyjebber@yahoo.com or on my website at http://www.mollyjebber.com for where I’ll be speaking, giveaways, Amish tidbits, book releases, recipes, and more!

Thank you, Molly Jebber

We’re so happy you joined us this week, Molly. Yours is truly a success story. And an inspiration to other aspiring authors, I’m sure. 

~ ~ ~

Oh, Lord, how sweet You are to Your children. You’ve brought Molly through her initial struggles in learning and growing as a writer and through potential discouragement to a place of fulfillment and success. We pray your righteous hand of blessing on her in future years. May her words reflect Yours. ~For Jesus’ sake

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