Heather Manning's Blog, page 11
June 4, 2014
New Orleans: The Rest of the Trip
Hey everyone! I am back to posting about my trip to New Orleans...this will probably be one of the last posts about the trip. Here are some pictures!
I loved all of the masks in New Orleans!
I had to eat a "poboy" while in NOLA..this one was roast beef with sweet potato fries. YUM!
The gorgeous cathedral on an evening stroll.
The beignets and coffee at Cafe Du Monde? Amazing!
The iconic Cafe Du Monde awning.
The next morning I went to the "How Sweet It Is!" Inspy breakfast and ran into Lenora Worth. She is so nice!
I then went to a workshop where one of the panelists was none other than FRANCINE RIVERS.
That night, I went to the Heather Graham Ball....the food was amazing!
The next day, I had lunch again at the amazing Ruby Slipper Cafe... bananas foster french toast.
And I went to a build-your-own tiara thing....I got carried away with the glitter glue...found a lot of it in my hair the next day....
That night, I was an author appearing at the Fantastic Day Party! It was so fun! I got to sign books for people and sit at the same table as authors Deeanne Gist and Wanda Brunstetter! So cool.
The next day, I made the flight back home. It is amazing to fly over the swamps of Louisiana!
And....I came home with ALL of these books!
I loved all of the masks in New Orleans!
I had to eat a "poboy" while in NOLA..this one was roast beef with sweet potato fries. YUM!
The gorgeous cathedral on an evening stroll.
The beignets and coffee at Cafe Du Monde? Amazing!
The iconic Cafe Du Monde awning.
The next morning I went to the "How Sweet It Is!" Inspy breakfast and ran into Lenora Worth. She is so nice!
I then went to a workshop where one of the panelists was none other than FRANCINE RIVERS.
That night, I went to the Heather Graham Ball....the food was amazing!
The next day, I had lunch again at the amazing Ruby Slipper Cafe... bananas foster french toast.
And I went to a build-your-own tiara thing....I got carried away with the glitter glue...found a lot of it in my hair the next day....
That night, I was an author appearing at the Fantastic Day Party! It was so fun! I got to sign books for people and sit at the same table as authors Deeanne Gist and Wanda Brunstetter! So cool.
The next day, I made the flight back home. It is amazing to fly over the swamps of Louisiana!
And....I came home with ALL of these books!
Bible Verse Wednesday: Be Joyful
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.Romans 12:12
June 2, 2014
Author Spotlight: Angie Brashear
Hey everyone!First of all, please note that my Swept to Sea Facebook Party starts TONIGHT! So please check it out and hit "Going" so I know to expect you!
So, I have something special for you today! An author spotlight on Angie Brashear.
Here's a little guest post from Angie herself:
“Tha-Reee!”
In recent weeks my sons have spent their evenings watching the NBA Finals, energetically cheering on the San Antonio Spurs. Most game nights, their animated antics interrupted me as I attempted to prepare for the release of my debut novel, Of the Persecuted. But it was difficult to get irritated with my handsome, blond blessings. This held especially true when they jumped off the couch screaming "Tha-Reee!" every time the San Antonio Spurs hit a long shot.
My boys love basketball. They appreciate fundamentals. Dribbling. Pivoting. Passing. Well-executed shots. Not traveling. Not double-dribbling. Not two-handed shots. Not selfish shots. They admire players who’ve gone down in history as executors of such fundamentals—Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Tim Duncan, and my own personal favorite, John Stockton.
Their love for basketball, and for three-pointers led me to think about the best "Tha-Reee!" of all time—the Trinity. One God, three distinct persons. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Like time, God represents past, present, and future. One is not separate from the other. He is a Father to the fatherless. He is a Savior for the lost. He is a Guide in prayer and truth. God’s plan for us is the best well-executed shot of all time, guided by His fundamentals outlined in scripture.
To non-believers, the Trinity may be a difficult concept to grasp. It certainly was for me before the Lord saved me in my early twenties. But it makes perfect sense when you open your heart to the One True God. Believe me. Seek Him and you will seek no more.
So while the NBA Finals are in full swing, the best "Tha-Reee!" of all time dominates all of our seasons. And we are grateful.
Now, a little about her book, Of the Persecuted.Laila Pennedy awaits death by hanging. For the Rendow Clan rules the Woodlands Region, aiming to slaughter the Faithful. And she deserves to die. But Lars Landre, the man destined to lead the Faithful out of persecution, has other plans hidden behind his rare and mysterious blue eyes. Rescue.Following the daring escape, Laila seeks the path of a warrior and vows revenge against the Rendow Clan. She embarks on a dangerous journey with Lars, one in which they endeavor to reach the promised safety of a magical village, to train for battle, and to ultimately assure freedom for those with faith in the Maker.Clashes of weapons and souls. Brutal loss of lives. Unrequited love. How in all the Woodlands will Laila survive?Order Of the Persecuted at:http://www.amazon.com/dp/0692214712
Author Bio: When Angie Brashear isn’t working or taking care of her family, she writes. Usually at night after her kids fall asleep. She’s a fan of speculative fiction and an avid runner, both of which perplex her nonfiction-reading, football-loving husband. Saved in her early twenties, Angie is grateful for the Lord’s presence in all aspects of her life. She is originally from Rockland, Maine and currently resides in Cameron, Texas with her husband and three children. Follow her at http://facebook.com/AngieBrashearAuthor , https://twitter.com/AngieBrashear , and http://angiebrashear.com .
Be sure to check this book out! I can't wait to read it. :)
June 1, 2014
Book Monday: Fair Play Review
Hello everyone!
*FIRST OF ALL*
I wanted to let you know I have a Facebook Party scheduled to celebrate Swept to Sea's Six Month Anniversary!
It is tomorrow night and you are all invited! There will be prizes, giveaways, and fun, so don't miss it.
Also, I'll ask everyone who told them about the party. Whoever's name gets mentioned the most gets a prize, so be sure to invite your friends.
You can join here.
Deeanne Gist and I. :)While I was in New Orleans, I met the fabulous Deeanne Gist!
I had met her last year, but is was great to be able to see her again. She also did a really cool workshop explaining how book covers are made.
Anyway, on the plane ride I was reading her latest release, Fair Play, which is what I am going to review for you today.
About the Book:
"From the bestselling author of It Happened at the Fair comes a historical love story about a lady doctor and a Texas Ranger who meet at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.
Saddled with a man’s name, the captivating Billy Jack Tate makes no apologies for taking on a man’s profession. As a doctor at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, she is one step closer to having her very own medical practice—until Hunter Scott asks her to give it all up to become his wife.
Hunter is one of the elite. A Texas Ranger and World’s Fair guard specifically chosen for his height, physique, character, and skill. Hailed as the toughest man west of any place east, he has no patience for big cities and women who think they belong anywhere but home…
Despite their difference of opinion on the role of women, Hunter and Billy find a growing attraction between them—until Hunter discovers an abandoned baby in the corner of a White City exhibit. He and Billy team up to make sure this foundling isn’t left in the slums of Chicago with only the flea-riddled, garbage-infested streets for a playground. As they fight for the underprivileged children in the Nineteenth Ward, an entire Playground Movement is birthed. But when the Fair comes to an end, one of them will have to give up their dream.
Will Billy exchange her doctor’s shingle for the domesticated role of a southern wife, or will Hunter abandon the wide open spaces of home for a life in the “gray city,” a woman who insists on being the wage earner, and a group of ragamuffins who need more than a playground for breathing space?"
My Thoughts:The Idea:I expected nothing less from a Deeanne Gist Book. I have read all of her novels and plan to always do so. she is up there with my other two favorite authors: Mary Connealy and MaryLu Tyndall. These three have been my favorites ever since I discovered this genre.Now, about the book. I. Loved. Everything. About. This. Book. First of all, look at the cover. It is breathtaking. Now, on to the idea. This is about a female doctor working at the Chicago World's Fair in a time where female doctors rarely existed. Also, it just so happens that she has a male name. Billy Jack Tate. Hunter is a Texas Ranger working as a guard at the fair. Eventually, they must work together when they find an abandoned baby. They work to create a playground in West Side Chicago for the less fortunate children that live there. The Characters: THEY WERE AWESOME. Billy Jack Tate is a female doctor struggling to keep her business running. Hunter Scott is a Texas Ranger working as a guard at the World's Fair. He was charming. She was talented. I loved them together.The Plot:
Okay. Some parts of this book were incredibly sad and I just wasn't quite prepared for it. But I won't give them away. Just don't expect all fun swinging on swings like the cover shows.
But the plot was incredible. I think I read it in record time.
The Setting:
At the Chicago World's Fair! I loved it. Dee really researches alllll of her history and includes so much in her writing.
Overall:
This was a fantastic book. I will put it on my "favorites" shelf forever.
About the Author:
Deeanne Gist—known to her family, friends, and fans as Dee—has rocketed up bestseller lists and captured readers everywhere with her very fun, very original historicals. She has received numerous RITA nominations, two consecutive Christy Awards, and rave reviews. Deeanne has a background in education and journalism and a degree from Texas A&M. She has written for People,Parents, and Parenting. She lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband and has four grown children. She has a very active online community on her website at IWantHerBook.com and at Facebook.com/DeesFriends.
*FIRST OF ALL*
I wanted to let you know I have a Facebook Party scheduled to celebrate Swept to Sea's Six Month Anniversary!
It is tomorrow night and you are all invited! There will be prizes, giveaways, and fun, so don't miss it.
Also, I'll ask everyone who told them about the party. Whoever's name gets mentioned the most gets a prize, so be sure to invite your friends.
You can join here.
Deeanne Gist and I. :)While I was in New Orleans, I met the fabulous Deeanne Gist!I had met her last year, but is was great to be able to see her again. She also did a really cool workshop explaining how book covers are made.
Anyway, on the plane ride I was reading her latest release, Fair Play, which is what I am going to review for you today.
About the Book:
"From the bestselling author of It Happened at the Fair comes a historical love story about a lady doctor and a Texas Ranger who meet at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.
Saddled with a man’s name, the captivating Billy Jack Tate makes no apologies for taking on a man’s profession. As a doctor at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, she is one step closer to having her very own medical practice—until Hunter Scott asks her to give it all up to become his wife.
Hunter is one of the elite. A Texas Ranger and World’s Fair guard specifically chosen for his height, physique, character, and skill. Hailed as the toughest man west of any place east, he has no patience for big cities and women who think they belong anywhere but home…
Despite their difference of opinion on the role of women, Hunter and Billy find a growing attraction between them—until Hunter discovers an abandoned baby in the corner of a White City exhibit. He and Billy team up to make sure this foundling isn’t left in the slums of Chicago with only the flea-riddled, garbage-infested streets for a playground. As they fight for the underprivileged children in the Nineteenth Ward, an entire Playground Movement is birthed. But when the Fair comes to an end, one of them will have to give up their dream.
Will Billy exchange her doctor’s shingle for the domesticated role of a southern wife, or will Hunter abandon the wide open spaces of home for a life in the “gray city,” a woman who insists on being the wage earner, and a group of ragamuffins who need more than a playground for breathing space?"
My Thoughts:The Idea:I expected nothing less from a Deeanne Gist Book. I have read all of her novels and plan to always do so. she is up there with my other two favorite authors: Mary Connealy and MaryLu Tyndall. These three have been my favorites ever since I discovered this genre.Now, about the book. I. Loved. Everything. About. This. Book. First of all, look at the cover. It is breathtaking. Now, on to the idea. This is about a female doctor working at the Chicago World's Fair in a time where female doctors rarely existed. Also, it just so happens that she has a male name. Billy Jack Tate. Hunter is a Texas Ranger working as a guard at the fair. Eventually, they must work together when they find an abandoned baby. They work to create a playground in West Side Chicago for the less fortunate children that live there. The Characters: THEY WERE AWESOME. Billy Jack Tate is a female doctor struggling to keep her business running. Hunter Scott is a Texas Ranger working as a guard at the World's Fair. He was charming. She was talented. I loved them together.The Plot:
Okay. Some parts of this book were incredibly sad and I just wasn't quite prepared for it. But I won't give them away. Just don't expect all fun swinging on swings like the cover shows.
But the plot was incredible. I think I read it in record time.
The Setting:
At the Chicago World's Fair! I loved it. Dee really researches alllll of her history and includes so much in her writing.
Overall:
This was a fantastic book. I will put it on my "favorites" shelf forever.
About the Author:
Deeanne Gist—known to her family, friends, and fans as Dee—has rocketed up bestseller lists and captured readers everywhere with her very fun, very original historicals. She has received numerous RITA nominations, two consecutive Christy Awards, and rave reviews. Deeanne has a background in education and journalism and a degree from Texas A&M. She has written for People,Parents, and Parenting. She lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband and has four grown children. She has a very active online community on her website at IWantHerBook.com and at Facebook.com/DeesFriends.
May 31, 2014
Cover Reveal!
Hey everyone! I have a special surprise for you today...a cover reveal from Anne Elisabeth Stengl!
Here's some info from her:
Rooglewood Press is delighted to introduce their second fairy tale novella contest—Five Enchanted Rosesa collection of “Beauty and the Beast” storiesThe challenge is to write a retelling of the beloved fairy tale in any genre or setting you like. Make certain your story is recognizably “Beauty and the Beast,” but have fun with it as well. Make it yours!Rooglewood Press will be selecting five winners to be published in the Five Enchanted Roses collection, which will be packaged up with the gorgeous cover you see displayed here. Perhaps your name will be one of the five displayed on this cover?All the contest rules and information (how to enter, story details, deadline etc.) may be found on the Rooglewood Press website. Just click HERE and you will go right to the page.
Rooglewood Press’s first collection, Five Glass Slippers, is available for pre-order now and will be released on June 14. Do grab yourself a copy and see what these talented writers have done with the timeless “Cinderella” tale!
Cover Illustration Credit: This cover illustration was rendered by Julia Popova, “ForestGirl.” You can find out more about this gifted artist on her website: www.forestgirl.ru
Thanks for stopping by! This contest looks really cool!
Here's some info from her:
Rooglewood Press is delighted to introduce their second fairy tale novella contest—Five Enchanted Rosesa collection of “Beauty and the Beast” storiesThe challenge is to write a retelling of the beloved fairy tale in any genre or setting you like. Make certain your story is recognizably “Beauty and the Beast,” but have fun with it as well. Make it yours!Rooglewood Press will be selecting five winners to be published in the Five Enchanted Roses collection, which will be packaged up with the gorgeous cover you see displayed here. Perhaps your name will be one of the five displayed on this cover?All the contest rules and information (how to enter, story details, deadline etc.) may be found on the Rooglewood Press website. Just click HERE and you will go right to the page.
Rooglewood Press’s first collection, Five Glass Slippers, is available for pre-order now and will be released on June 14. Do grab yourself a copy and see what these talented writers have done with the timeless “Cinderella” tale!
Cover Illustration Credit: This cover illustration was rendered by Julia Popova, “ForestGirl.” You can find out more about this gifted artist on her website: www.forestgirl.ruThanks for stopping by! This contest looks really cool!
May 29, 2014
Catch-Up Friday
This has been a crazy week!
So much has happened.
Last weekend, I got a lot of writing done. I passed 60, 000 words in Carried Home, Swept to Sea's sequel! That means my first draft should be finished pretty soon.
I hit 60k!
Then, I did something fun...
I made all of my couples from my series as "Frozen" characters.
Eden and Caspian, Ivy and Gage, and Aimee and Matthew!Aren't they cute? I just love them.
Currently, I am meticulously planning a Facebook Party for Swept to Sea's Half Anniversary!It is going to be so much fun, and there will be a lot of giveaways, so be sure to go and invite your friends! I can't wait to see you there.
These are some of the Half Anniversary Party Giveaways!
Well, I'm going to go get some writing done. See you Monday!
So much has happened.
Last weekend, I got a lot of writing done. I passed 60, 000 words in Carried Home, Swept to Sea's sequel! That means my first draft should be finished pretty soon.
I hit 60k!Then, I did something fun...
I made all of my couples from my series as "Frozen" characters.
Eden and Caspian, Ivy and Gage, and Aimee and Matthew!Aren't they cute? I just love them.Currently, I am meticulously planning a Facebook Party for Swept to Sea's Half Anniversary!It is going to be so much fun, and there will be a lot of giveaways, so be sure to go and invite your friends! I can't wait to see you there.
These are some of the Half Anniversary Party Giveaways!Well, I'm going to go get some writing done. See you Monday!
May 28, 2014
Music Thursday: A Whole New World
Guys! I found Hadley Fraser singing "A Whole New World." Sorry there isn't a video you can watch, but at least you can hear it, right? Enjoy!
In case you didn't know, this song is from Aladdin.
In case you didn't know, this song is from Aladdin.
May 27, 2014
Bible Verse Wednesday: Love
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.John 15:13
May 26, 2014
Newsletter
Subscribe to my every-once-in-a-while newsletter to receive occasional updates including events, new releases, and exciting opportunities. Subscribers will be the first to know about some giveaways, so be sure to enter your name! :)
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May 25, 2014
Book Monday: Through the Deep Waters Review
Hello everyone! I am hopefully finally back in the swing of a normal schedule. However, you can expect more posts to come about New Orleans and the Romantic Times Convention.
*FIRST OF ALL*
I wanted to let you know I have a Facebook Party scheduled to celebrate Swept to Sea's Six Month Anniversary!
You are all invited! There will be prizes, giveaways, and fun, so don't miss it.
Also, I'll ask everyone who told them about the party. Whoever's name gets mentioned the most gets a prize, so be sure to invite your friends.
You can join here.
Anyway, today I have a review of Through the Deep Waters by Kim Vogel Sawyer.
About the Book:
"Born to an unloving prostitute in a popular Chicago brothel, timid seventeen-year-old Dinah Hubley was raised amidst the secrets held in every dark, grimy room of her home. Anxious to escape, Dinah pursues her dream of becoming a Harvey Girl, waiting tables along the railroad in an upscale hotel. But when she finds out she isn't old enough, her only option is to accept a job as a chambermaid at the Clifton Hotel in Florence, Kansas. Eager to put everything behind her, Dinah feels more worthless than ever, based on a single horrible decision she made to survive."
My Thoughts: The Idea:I picked up this book because I was very interested in the concept of Harvey Girls. I have always loved the idea. But this book is more about a young girl who wants a job as a Harvey Girl. This is about Dinah, a girl running from her terrible past, where she was born to a prostitute and raised in a brothel. She wants nothing more than to work her way to a point where she feels worthy of the people around her at the respectable hotel, but she learns that she shouldn't be judged by her past or how hard she can work. All that matters is that God loves her as his child. It was an inspiring read.The Characters:I really liked Dinah. She seemed very realistic and although she had faced many struggles she worked hard to try to make a better life for herself. I also liked Amos, the crippled chicken farmer who desperately wants a wife and children. I loved following their story.The Plot:Definitely great. I couldn't put the book down.The Setting:I really liked it! Especially because part of it was set in Kansas City....this book is near me! HahaOverall:A very inspiring read following the journey of a young woman pursuing a good life and learning that God's love is all she needs to feel better.
About the Author:Kim Vogel Sawyer is a best-selling, award-winning author highly acclaimed for her gentle stories of hope. More than one million copies of her books are currently in print. She lives in central Kansas where she and her retired military husband, Don, enjoy spoiling their ten granddarlings.
Web siteFacebookMore InfoRead Chapter One
*FIRST OF ALL*
I wanted to let you know I have a Facebook Party scheduled to celebrate Swept to Sea's Six Month Anniversary!
You are all invited! There will be prizes, giveaways, and fun, so don't miss it.
Also, I'll ask everyone who told them about the party. Whoever's name gets mentioned the most gets a prize, so be sure to invite your friends.
You can join here.
Anyway, today I have a review of Through the Deep Waters by Kim Vogel Sawyer.
About the Book:
"Born to an unloving prostitute in a popular Chicago brothel, timid seventeen-year-old Dinah Hubley was raised amidst the secrets held in every dark, grimy room of her home. Anxious to escape, Dinah pursues her dream of becoming a Harvey Girl, waiting tables along the railroad in an upscale hotel. But when she finds out she isn't old enough, her only option is to accept a job as a chambermaid at the Clifton Hotel in Florence, Kansas. Eager to put everything behind her, Dinah feels more worthless than ever, based on a single horrible decision she made to survive."
My Thoughts: The Idea:I picked up this book because I was very interested in the concept of Harvey Girls. I have always loved the idea. But this book is more about a young girl who wants a job as a Harvey Girl. This is about Dinah, a girl running from her terrible past, where she was born to a prostitute and raised in a brothel. She wants nothing more than to work her way to a point where she feels worthy of the people around her at the respectable hotel, but she learns that she shouldn't be judged by her past or how hard she can work. All that matters is that God loves her as his child. It was an inspiring read.The Characters:I really liked Dinah. She seemed very realistic and although she had faced many struggles she worked hard to try to make a better life for herself. I also liked Amos, the crippled chicken farmer who desperately wants a wife and children. I loved following their story.The Plot:Definitely great. I couldn't put the book down.The Setting:I really liked it! Especially because part of it was set in Kansas City....this book is near me! HahaOverall:A very inspiring read following the journey of a young woman pursuing a good life and learning that God's love is all she needs to feel better.About the Author:Kim Vogel Sawyer is a best-selling, award-winning author highly acclaimed for her gentle stories of hope. More than one million copies of her books are currently in print. She lives in central Kansas where she and her retired military husband, Don, enjoy spoiling their ten granddarlings.
Web siteFacebookMore InfoRead Chapter One
