Anne Patrick's Blog, page 12
December 17, 2011
JoAnn Carter's Hidden Paths
Well, here we are it's almost Christmas. Not only are we preparing to celebrate the birth of Christ, but I have the privilege and joy of releasing Hidden Paths, a young adult inspirational romance that readers of all ages can enjoy. Can a holiday get any better? :) Thank you, Anne for letting me share a bit about this story here on your blog! I hope you won't mind if I start with the note that I wrote to the readers at the end of Hidden Paths. It's my prayer that this will be a blessing and encouragement to your blog followers...
Well, here we are at the close of another story... Hidden Paths. I have to chuckle a bit at the irony of the situation. You see, that's the perfect title for my own personal journey that the Lord has been guiding me through.
Although I have other books in circulation, this was the very first story I ever drafted fifteen years ago. I started writing on a whim. Don't ask me why. In fact, have you ever watched Night at the Museum? The first time we saw that movie I cracked up. I am so like that museum director. Some days it seems as if I can't put a complete thought -- let alone sentence -- together to save my life. Couple that with dyslexia and grammar and spelling that would make any English major cringe and... yup, that's me. Yet, here I find myself, walking down the path that once seemed so elusive and hidden to me.
Quite a few years after I wrote this book, I went to a writer's retreat. I prayed and prayed that God would show me what He wanted me to do and give me direction. I knew writing was something I enjoyed but was this what God wanted me to do? I struggled with that, and to be honest, still do on occasion.
I walked away from that weekend with as many questions as I arrived with. I was so discouraged. Didn't God hear me? I wanted to follow His will for my life, yet felt like He was far away and unwilling to give me the direction I so desperately craved.
He had heard my prayers, yet I was too close to the situation to see that He had been, was, and still is guiding me. I stand amazed as I think about this now... God has led me to friends who had a passion for the craft of writing and the gift of encouragement. I've been blessed with a family who supports my writing endeavors, and I've learned a ton of stuff along the way... I could go on, but I'm sure you get the gist.
What I've come to realize is I don't need to have everything figured out. I serve an awesome God who knows what's best for me. Sometimes I may not particularly care for what needs to be done. The road may seem long and hard and the mountains too big to scale. Yet, God loves me too much to let me settle for the easy road where I would forget where true strength is found.
Perhaps like me, you have been struggling with direction in your own life. I would like to challenge you to place your hand (and your life) in God's hands and allow Him to plot your course. You might find yourself in for a crazy ride -- on a path, like Julie, that you would have never imagined.
And that, my friends is my Christmas prayer for you. That you would follow the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul and strenght. Have a wonderful holiday season!
Hidden Paths a Young Adult/Adult Inspirational Romance
Purchase link: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.... or at amazon.com and Barnes and Noble as well as other e-book retailers.
Blurb:
Staying in Vermont on the family farm wasn't what JULIE HEMMINGWAY had envisioned for her life. After all, she had just spent two years at the community college in preparation to join a mission agency to use her nursing skills overseas. However, those plans quickly change when her father suffers a massive heart attack and dies. Out of necessity, she stays at home to help her mom manage the farm.
To help make ends meet, Julie accepts a new job at a construction company where many unexpected things happen, including working with the handsome, ADAM JACOBS. Will Julie learn that she can trust in God and the path He has planned for her life – even when it looks totally different than what she expected?
EXCERPT:
Julie Hemmingway's thoughts centered on one thing -- and one thing only -- the letter which had arrived yesterday. Her dreams were coming true at last. She hummed a little Christmas tune and pushed her cart to the return rack. Scooping up her bags, Julie turned to walk out of the grocery store. The next thing she knew, her face was planted against a wool sweater and a coat's zipper. The paper bag filled with groceries crushed against her midsection with a sickening crunch. Thankfully, with a firm grip, she somehow managed to hold onto the second bag. She stood stunned for a moment. Please tell me I didn't just run into the person behind me.
"Are you okay?" His warm bass voice vibrated through his chest and beat against her cheek.
So much for that wish.
Julie wrapped her arm tighter around the bag resting between them to prevent it from plummeting to the floor and pushed herself back.
The guy gently gripped her forearms to steady her. "I'm sorry. I should have been paying closer attention to where I was going." He pointed with his thumb toward the colored lights twinkling merrily in the window. "I was looking at the decorations. They're amazing."
Julie let her gaze travel up until she met his blue eyes. The second bag, which had managed to escape the fiasco, slipped out of her grasp. She looked down in horror at the mess on the floor. "Oh man, it looks like I just did some decorating of my own -- but not the pretty or festive kind." She groaned. "I think that bag had my eggs."
"If that's the case, they're now scrambled." He took the bag, with lettuce spewing over the side, away from her and stepped back to assess the damage. "Or at least, sunny-side up."
Julie grinned at his quick wit as she kicked loose coffee beans off the top of her shoe.
With a crooked smile, he introduced himself. "I'm Adam." Before Julie could tell him her name, he plucked a piece of lettuce draped over her sleeve like a scarf. "I must say, these lovely, um... accessories, don't do your beautiful coat justice."
Julie, caught between his humor and her self-consciousness, tried to think of something -- anything -- to say. Unfortunately, her mind was as blank as a school chalkboard over summer vacation. If only she could attribute this temporary loss of words to the near fall. However, that wouldn't be totally honest.
Perhaps it was his disposition, his good looks, or ease with himself, but something about him intrigued her. The man seemed larger than life and although the groceries had been smashed between them, no food clung to his clothes as they did to hers. In fact, he looked like he could have stepped out from a magazine page.
"Let's get this stuff picked up." He stooped to retrieve a can of soup that had rolled toward the door.
"Let's." That was better than the alternative -- to stand and stare at him. The sooner this mess was cleaned up, the sooner she could leave and move on with the dream which had, up until the last few moments ago, been her sole focus. Once again, her heart galloped at thought of the acceptance letter. Her desire to become a missionary was nothing new. Rather, her heart and imagination were captured ever since a speaker, who worked in Africa, gave a presentation at her church when she was twelve. Now she was close to seeing it come to fruition.
Julie sighed. She couldn't wait to share the news from New Hope Missions with her grandmother, who was visiting for the holidays. She sank her teeth into her lower lip, hoping to hide the goofy grin that threatened to escape.
Adam turned, and whack! -- they collided again. She rubbed her head.
That's what I get for daydreaming.
The whole situation suddenly reminded her of an episode of one of her father's favorite old-time television shows with one guy bopping another on the head.
Adam winked. "Jinx."
Mirth bubbled in the pit of her stomach until she couldn't help but laugh. She shook her head and stuffed a cantaloupe into a bag. "I am so sorry. My bad this time. I was thinking about something else." She narrowed her eyes. "I didn't hurt you, did I?"
"Nah, I have a pretty hard head." He reached for another bag and began to fill it with the groceries. "But I guess you found that out for yourself."
Julie rubbed her scalp. "I guess I did... the hard way," she chuckled.
The store manager rushed over with new bags and began to help pick up the groceries as well. "I saw it happen. Are you two all right? We need to hang a mirror or something over the door. This isn't the first time this has happened."
Adam gave a teasing grin. "You mean she does this all the time?"
Julie's jaw dropped, and the manager laughed. "No, no. Of course not. Other customers have had similar run-ins." He gave them both the once-over.
"You sure you're all right?"
Nodding toward Julie, Adam answered for both of them. "We're fine."
"Follow me to the courtesy counter," the manager motioned. "I'll replace or reimburse you for the broken eggs and whatever else has been damaged."
How much does pride cost?
Julie ducked her head.
The manager continued, "What would you prefer?"
Julie had no idea what she looked like, but she knew how she felt -- a big, sticky, eggy mess, albeit a mess who was impatient to get home. "I think I'll just stop back later if that's okay."
"Sure. Just don't forget your receipt."
"Got it." Julie nodded toward Adam, "Thank you for helping me corral my groceries."
"My pleasure."
She turned and ran out the door, leaving traces of egg to mark her path. As she raced through the parking lot, she couldn't help but think about how she had clung to the stranger's arm and then whacked him in the head. Some days it felt like she could tackle anything the world sent her way, and other days -- well, it made her realize how woefully inadequate she still was.
Julie had been so sure of everything when she opened the letter this morning. But now that her elusive dream was about to become a reality, doubts about her future whispered and wrapped long, spindle-like bands around her heart. She wasn't quite twenty yet -- fresh out of community college. Did she really think she was prepared to join others of great faith in the mission field?
Yet, the light of her hopes and dreams flickered again then set ablaze the shadows that threatened to lurk. She pushed back her shoulders.
Guatemala, here I come!
--
JoAnn Carter writes stories that will encourage your faith through her inspirational romances. She resides in Vermont with her wonderful husband and four children. JoAnn is available for speaking engagements to book clubs, reader groups, library groups, women's ministry events, school events and church retreats.
You can visit her webpage at http://home.comcast.net/~jo.glenncart...
Well, here we are at the close of another story... Hidden Paths. I have to chuckle a bit at the irony of the situation. You see, that's the perfect title for my own personal journey that the Lord has been guiding me through.
Although I have other books in circulation, this was the very first story I ever drafted fifteen years ago. I started writing on a whim. Don't ask me why. In fact, have you ever watched Night at the Museum? The first time we saw that movie I cracked up. I am so like that museum director. Some days it seems as if I can't put a complete thought -- let alone sentence -- together to save my life. Couple that with dyslexia and grammar and spelling that would make any English major cringe and... yup, that's me. Yet, here I find myself, walking down the path that once seemed so elusive and hidden to me.
Quite a few years after I wrote this book, I went to a writer's retreat. I prayed and prayed that God would show me what He wanted me to do and give me direction. I knew writing was something I enjoyed but was this what God wanted me to do? I struggled with that, and to be honest, still do on occasion.
I walked away from that weekend with as many questions as I arrived with. I was so discouraged. Didn't God hear me? I wanted to follow His will for my life, yet felt like He was far away and unwilling to give me the direction I so desperately craved.
He had heard my prayers, yet I was too close to the situation to see that He had been, was, and still is guiding me. I stand amazed as I think about this now... God has led me to friends who had a passion for the craft of writing and the gift of encouragement. I've been blessed with a family who supports my writing endeavors, and I've learned a ton of stuff along the way... I could go on, but I'm sure you get the gist.
What I've come to realize is I don't need to have everything figured out. I serve an awesome God who knows what's best for me. Sometimes I may not particularly care for what needs to be done. The road may seem long and hard and the mountains too big to scale. Yet, God loves me too much to let me settle for the easy road where I would forget where true strength is found.
Perhaps like me, you have been struggling with direction in your own life. I would like to challenge you to place your hand (and your life) in God's hands and allow Him to plot your course. You might find yourself in for a crazy ride -- on a path, like Julie, that you would have never imagined.
And that, my friends is my Christmas prayer for you. That you would follow the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul and strenght. Have a wonderful holiday season!
Hidden Paths a Young Adult/Adult Inspirational RomancePurchase link: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.... or at amazon.com and Barnes and Noble as well as other e-book retailers.
Blurb:
Staying in Vermont on the family farm wasn't what JULIE HEMMINGWAY had envisioned for her life. After all, she had just spent two years at the community college in preparation to join a mission agency to use her nursing skills overseas. However, those plans quickly change when her father suffers a massive heart attack and dies. Out of necessity, she stays at home to help her mom manage the farm.
To help make ends meet, Julie accepts a new job at a construction company where many unexpected things happen, including working with the handsome, ADAM JACOBS. Will Julie learn that she can trust in God and the path He has planned for her life – even when it looks totally different than what she expected?
EXCERPT:
Julie Hemmingway's thoughts centered on one thing -- and one thing only -- the letter which had arrived yesterday. Her dreams were coming true at last. She hummed a little Christmas tune and pushed her cart to the return rack. Scooping up her bags, Julie turned to walk out of the grocery store. The next thing she knew, her face was planted against a wool sweater and a coat's zipper. The paper bag filled with groceries crushed against her midsection with a sickening crunch. Thankfully, with a firm grip, she somehow managed to hold onto the second bag. She stood stunned for a moment. Please tell me I didn't just run into the person behind me.
"Are you okay?" His warm bass voice vibrated through his chest and beat against her cheek.
So much for that wish.
Julie wrapped her arm tighter around the bag resting between them to prevent it from plummeting to the floor and pushed herself back.
The guy gently gripped her forearms to steady her. "I'm sorry. I should have been paying closer attention to where I was going." He pointed with his thumb toward the colored lights twinkling merrily in the window. "I was looking at the decorations. They're amazing."
Julie let her gaze travel up until she met his blue eyes. The second bag, which had managed to escape the fiasco, slipped out of her grasp. She looked down in horror at the mess on the floor. "Oh man, it looks like I just did some decorating of my own -- but not the pretty or festive kind." She groaned. "I think that bag had my eggs."
"If that's the case, they're now scrambled." He took the bag, with lettuce spewing over the side, away from her and stepped back to assess the damage. "Or at least, sunny-side up."
Julie grinned at his quick wit as she kicked loose coffee beans off the top of her shoe.
With a crooked smile, he introduced himself. "I'm Adam." Before Julie could tell him her name, he plucked a piece of lettuce draped over her sleeve like a scarf. "I must say, these lovely, um... accessories, don't do your beautiful coat justice."
Julie, caught between his humor and her self-consciousness, tried to think of something -- anything -- to say. Unfortunately, her mind was as blank as a school chalkboard over summer vacation. If only she could attribute this temporary loss of words to the near fall. However, that wouldn't be totally honest.
Perhaps it was his disposition, his good looks, or ease with himself, but something about him intrigued her. The man seemed larger than life and although the groceries had been smashed between them, no food clung to his clothes as they did to hers. In fact, he looked like he could have stepped out from a magazine page.
"Let's get this stuff picked up." He stooped to retrieve a can of soup that had rolled toward the door.
"Let's." That was better than the alternative -- to stand and stare at him. The sooner this mess was cleaned up, the sooner she could leave and move on with the dream which had, up until the last few moments ago, been her sole focus. Once again, her heart galloped at thought of the acceptance letter. Her desire to become a missionary was nothing new. Rather, her heart and imagination were captured ever since a speaker, who worked in Africa, gave a presentation at her church when she was twelve. Now she was close to seeing it come to fruition.
Julie sighed. She couldn't wait to share the news from New Hope Missions with her grandmother, who was visiting for the holidays. She sank her teeth into her lower lip, hoping to hide the goofy grin that threatened to escape.
Adam turned, and whack! -- they collided again. She rubbed her head.
That's what I get for daydreaming.
The whole situation suddenly reminded her of an episode of one of her father's favorite old-time television shows with one guy bopping another on the head.
Adam winked. "Jinx."
Mirth bubbled in the pit of her stomach until she couldn't help but laugh. She shook her head and stuffed a cantaloupe into a bag. "I am so sorry. My bad this time. I was thinking about something else." She narrowed her eyes. "I didn't hurt you, did I?"
"Nah, I have a pretty hard head." He reached for another bag and began to fill it with the groceries. "But I guess you found that out for yourself."
Julie rubbed her scalp. "I guess I did... the hard way," she chuckled.
The store manager rushed over with new bags and began to help pick up the groceries as well. "I saw it happen. Are you two all right? We need to hang a mirror or something over the door. This isn't the first time this has happened."
Adam gave a teasing grin. "You mean she does this all the time?"
Julie's jaw dropped, and the manager laughed. "No, no. Of course not. Other customers have had similar run-ins." He gave them both the once-over.
"You sure you're all right?"
Nodding toward Julie, Adam answered for both of them. "We're fine."
"Follow me to the courtesy counter," the manager motioned. "I'll replace or reimburse you for the broken eggs and whatever else has been damaged."
How much does pride cost?
Julie ducked her head.
The manager continued, "What would you prefer?"
Julie had no idea what she looked like, but she knew how she felt -- a big, sticky, eggy mess, albeit a mess who was impatient to get home. "I think I'll just stop back later if that's okay."
"Sure. Just don't forget your receipt."
"Got it." Julie nodded toward Adam, "Thank you for helping me corral my groceries."
"My pleasure."
She turned and ran out the door, leaving traces of egg to mark her path. As she raced through the parking lot, she couldn't help but think about how she had clung to the stranger's arm and then whacked him in the head. Some days it felt like she could tackle anything the world sent her way, and other days -- well, it made her realize how woefully inadequate she still was.
Julie had been so sure of everything when she opened the letter this morning. But now that her elusive dream was about to become a reality, doubts about her future whispered and wrapped long, spindle-like bands around her heart. She wasn't quite twenty yet -- fresh out of community college. Did she really think she was prepared to join others of great faith in the mission field?
Yet, the light of her hopes and dreams flickered again then set ablaze the shadows that threatened to lurk. She pushed back her shoulders.
Guatemala, here I come!
--
JoAnn Carter writes stories that will encourage your faith through her inspirational romances. She resides in Vermont with her wonderful husband and four children. JoAnn is available for speaking engagements to book clubs, reader groups, library groups, women's ministry events, school events and church retreats.
You can visit her webpage at http://home.comcast.net/~jo.glenncart...
December 12, 2011
Judging A Book By Its Cover
*by Michelle Massaro
Last week Clash of the Titles held their first ever Clash of the Covers. This fast-paced clash was different than their usual fare, because instead of judging the author's story, we judged how well their cover designs matched their theme or made us want to pick up the book. There were four books to vote on, from authors Cathy, Erica, Lacy, and Maggie. The books were Marrying Miss Marshal, Spring For Susannah, A Bride's Portrait, and Deeply Devoted.
It was a VERY CLOSE race and it saw enough voter participation to max out the scoreboards!
Some of the comments included:
Spring for Susannah - Susannah is aware of the man but she looks as though she could turn away, or turn towards him.
Marrying Miss Marshall seems to speak volumes about the heroine--just in her position.
The cover of A Brides Portrait, really sells the title by having the woman with a camera on it. Caught my attention.
I love cover C...looks like the "old west"!!!
Marrying Miss Marshal. Hmm, with that rifle laid across her lap, one wonders who's daring enough to approach her, much less marry her. Intriguing.
I loved A Bride's Portrait of Dodge City - it added so many components of the story into the cover besides just a profile :)
Love this (A) - it's intriguing. I'm not sure from the picture whether she's toting for justice, revenge, or protection. Makes me curious.
The Champion Book that was voted
BEST SETTING THAT CAPTURES THE MOOD OF THE TITLE:
Springtime For Susanna, by Catherine Richmond
This week, COTT is sporting a holiday/winter theme with host Gail Pallotta. We expect it to be another huge turn-out so please join us. We'll cozy up to the virtual fireplace, egg nog in hand, and browse for books. In this case, it's okay to judge the cover. =)
We'll be taking a break December 26 – January 6
And then come right back on January 9 with a new clash that will – literally – take your breath away! If you're an author, don't forget to check upcoming open clashes and submit
Last week Clash of the Titles held their first ever Clash of the Covers. This fast-paced clash was different than their usual fare, because instead of judging the author's story, we judged how well their cover designs matched their theme or made us want to pick up the book. There were four books to vote on, from authors Cathy, Erica, Lacy, and Maggie. The books were Marrying Miss Marshal, Spring For Susannah, A Bride's Portrait, and Deeply Devoted.
It was a VERY CLOSE race and it saw enough voter participation to max out the scoreboards!
Some of the comments included:
Spring for Susannah - Susannah is aware of the man but she looks as though she could turn away, or turn towards him.
Marrying Miss Marshall seems to speak volumes about the heroine--just in her position.
The cover of A Brides Portrait, really sells the title by having the woman with a camera on it. Caught my attention.
I love cover C...looks like the "old west"!!!
Marrying Miss Marshal. Hmm, with that rifle laid across her lap, one wonders who's daring enough to approach her, much less marry her. Intriguing.
I loved A Bride's Portrait of Dodge City - it added so many components of the story into the cover besides just a profile :)
Love this (A) - it's intriguing. I'm not sure from the picture whether she's toting for justice, revenge, or protection. Makes me curious.
The Champion Book that was voted
BEST SETTING THAT CAPTURES THE MOOD OF THE TITLE:
Springtime For Susanna, by Catherine Richmond
This week, COTT is sporting a holiday/winter theme with host Gail Pallotta. We expect it to be another huge turn-out so please join us. We'll cozy up to the virtual fireplace, egg nog in hand, and browse for books. In this case, it's okay to judge the cover. =)
We'll be taking a break December 26 – January 6
And then come right back on January 9 with a new clash that will – literally – take your breath away! If you're an author, don't forget to check upcoming open clashes and submit
December 7, 2011
Theresa Stillwagon's Renovations
Blurb for Renovations --Was she making a big mistake?
Megan Callaway now owned Green Oaks Plantation, with all of its outbuildings and forest of trees and grass – and problems. She planned on changing it into a bed and breakfast. Yet she didn't have complete control. She would have to agree on everything with Andy Perry, the president of the local historical group.
The man didn't want to see anything change on the property.
Megan wanted to demolish all the outer buildings except an old-fashion outdoor kitchen.
Sparks fly every time the two get together.
But it's not until her past starts catching up to her, things get interesting.
Would Megan really be able to let go?
Excerpt --
A slight grin lifted his lips as if saying, Why are you hiding from me? She fisted her hands together, forcing her fingers away from her glasses.
His grin faded. "Look, I'm trying to tell you I'm sorry for how I acted the other day."
"I accept your apology."
He stepped past her on the stairs, stopping her halfway down them. Eye to eye, she was forced to look directly in to his astonishing brown ones. She'd never seen eyes the color of this man's before, brown with little hints of caramel coloring reflecting brilliant in the harsh light of the stairwell. A woman could never be safe with a man with eyes like his. Mysterious, full of promises. She suddenly wanted to agree to those promises.
No, no, no.
"You're not acting like a woman who has just accepted a man's apology."
Pulling her gaze from his, she slid past him and raced down the stairs.
"Hey?"
Oh, how foolish could one woman be? Part of the reason she'd driven eight hundred miles was to get away from a man who'd promised her the world. She definitely didn't plan to get involved in any way with another one for the same reasons.
She heard him calling her name, but she ignored him. The front entrance came into view as she swallowed bitter tears. Before she reached it, a hard hand stopped her. She jerked out of his grip and turned toward him.
"Are you okay?"
Megan couldn't talk as she fought her tears.
He dropped his hands and backed away from her. "Now I've made you cry."
"No."
His eyes widened at her negative answer. "Then why are you?"
"I don't..." She didn't know what to tell him because she wasn't sure why. "Sometimes women just... need to cry." What the hell is wrong with me anyway? "I'm overwhelmed by all that's happening now."
He looked chastised. "My attitude certainly isn't helping you, is it?"
"No." She blew out a relieving breath. "But I'll be all right."
His steady glance told her he didn't quite believe her.
Buy links
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing....
http://www.amazon.com/Sisters-Callawa...
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-s...
Just Romantic Suspense Giveaway – Over Twenty Five Books!
Now I know you like romantic suspense or you probably wouldn't have dropped by, so check this out. ONE insanely lucky person will win all these books on the night of December 19th. That's right, over twenty-five romantic suspense books! To visit Just Romantic Suspense's blog, just click on the graphic in my side bar. You can enter the drawing Dec 16th – 19th.
Here are some of the titles included in the drawing:
Dee J Adams – Dangerous Race
Becky Barker – Cade's Challenge
Anne Marie Becker – Only Fear
Allison Brennan – Love Me to Death
Lorelei Confer – Deadly Revenge
Wynter Daniels – Sizzle At Sea
Lena Diaz – He Kills Me, He Kills Me Not
Marcelle Dube – On Her Trail
Misty Evans – Operation Sheba
Adrienne Giordano – Risking Trust
Angela Henry – Paris Secret
Rita Henuber – Under Fire
Betsy Horvath – Hold Me
Victoria Howard – Ring Of Lies
Autumn Jordan – In The Presence Of Evil
Sylvie Kurtz – A Little Christmas Magic
Gennita Low – Hunter
Kat Martin – Tin Angel
Dana Marton – Guardian Agent
Julie Miller – The Shadow Of The Hawk
Maureen A. Miller – Endless Night
Terry Odell – When Danger Calls
Anne Patrick – Fire and Ash
Patricia Rasey – Deadly Obsession
Christy Reece – Sweet Justice
Jaime Rush – Unforgivable
Carol Stephenson – Courting Death
Carla Swafford – Circle Of Desire
Debra Webb - Obsession
Norah Wilson – Guarding Suzannah
HAVE FUN AND GOOD LUCK!
Here are some of the titles included in the drawing:
Dee J Adams – Dangerous Race
Becky Barker – Cade's Challenge
Anne Marie Becker – Only Fear
Allison Brennan – Love Me to Death
Lorelei Confer – Deadly Revenge
Wynter Daniels – Sizzle At Sea
Lena Diaz – He Kills Me, He Kills Me Not
Marcelle Dube – On Her Trail
Misty Evans – Operation Sheba
Adrienne Giordano – Risking Trust
Angela Henry – Paris Secret
Rita Henuber – Under Fire
Betsy Horvath – Hold Me
Victoria Howard – Ring Of Lies
Autumn Jordan – In The Presence Of Evil
Sylvie Kurtz – A Little Christmas Magic
Gennita Low – Hunter
Kat Martin – Tin Angel
Dana Marton – Guardian Agent
Julie Miller – The Shadow Of The Hawk
Maureen A. Miller – Endless Night
Terry Odell – When Danger Calls
Anne Patrick – Fire and Ash
Patricia Rasey – Deadly Obsession
Christy Reece – Sweet Justice
Jaime Rush – Unforgivable
Carol Stephenson – Courting Death
Carla Swafford – Circle Of Desire
Debra Webb - Obsession
Norah Wilson – Guarding Suzannah
HAVE FUN AND GOOD LUCK!
December 5, 2011
Clash of the Titles Allliance Members
by Delia Latham
Christine and Pamela!
A huge welcome to blogger and author Christine Lindsay! Christine is another extraordinary member of the COTT Blog Alliance. On Wednesdays she posts the COTT weekly article, and on Fridays she posts either an editorial/devotional or a review on a book.
What's her blog like? Christine wants her blog to be somewhere a reader can find a true inspirational story to encourage their faith. For example, on her blog she has in book-length the entire story of her experience as a birthmother. From the moment she found out she was pregnant, to the relinquishment of her child, and to their reunion 20 years later.
Do not miss this testimony. Her birth-daughter, Sarah, modeled for the cover of Shadowed in Silk. Take a look at how it all came together—it's well worth the read.
I asked Christine who she is outside the realm of writing and publication and all that jazz.
"I am so ordinary, it's hilarious. I used to be an administrative assistant, going off to work in suits, high heels and makeup. Now that I'm following the labor of my heart (writing) I work in my home office and wear the closest thing I can get to pajamas—sweat pants and a sweat shirt.
"But there are times I have to go out and leave my beloved laptop behind along with my cat. Then I slap on some mascara, whip a comb through my hair, put on some decent slacks and head out the door with a cup of tea in my hands. I can drive with one hand and drink my tea with the other."What "ordinary"? That's multi-tasking! Why is she willing to give COTT space on her blog every other week?I find the COTT alliance an energetic group of writers that inspire me. I love the fun and camaraderie with the clashes," she said. "And it gets the word out to readers of all the great Christian fiction that's available. They are a great group of people to be affiliated with. I consider it an honor."
The feeling is entirely mutual!
Christine's blogChristine's website
Book trailer
Meet Pamela S. Thibodeaux:
Award-winning author, Pamela S. Thibodeaux is the Co-Founder and a lifetime member of Bayou Writers Group in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Multi-published in romantic fiction as well as creative non-fiction, her writing has been tagged as, "Inspirational with an Edge!" ™ and reviewed as "steamier and grittier than the typical Christian novel without decreasing the message."
Website address: http://www.pamelathibodeaux.com Blog: http://pamswildroseblog.blogspot.com
Bayou Writers Group: http://bayouwritersgroup.com
A great big welcome to Blog Alliance Partner Pamela S. Thibodeau. We're so pleased to have her aboard.
I asked this author and blogger where she finds inspiration for her blog, Pamela S. Thibodeaux—Blog.
"I must admit that, personally, I'm pretty burned out on topics…but I love showcasing other authors on Saturday Spotlight and hosting their virtual book tours. This helps me fill in when I can think of nothing to talk about. LOL!"
Honesty…I love it! (Also really glad to know I'm not the only blogger with this kind of problem…)
I'm always interested in why our Blog Alliance members choose to be members. Here's Pam's reason:
"I believe in what COTT is doing and frankly, any website that helps promote Christian authors—especially those who are new, unknown, small press or independently published—is a place I try to support. Doing regular posts for COTT helps me do just that."
Pamela's newest release, The Visionary, is an absolutely wonderful book, one I can whole-heartedly recommend. Without being offensively graphic, it deals with some pretty heavy issues of child abuse and its aftermath.
What are some of the challenges you face as an author?
The biggest challenge I face is not having my work accepted by the "Christian" publishers. As one reviewer said, "Though undeniably Christian, it is never dogmatic or insular; offering faith rather than religion." (From Elizabeth Burton's review of Tempered Dreams for Blue Iris Journal) My books deal with issues in a way that is unacceptable in the traditional CBA market. Now that is not saying that my books are better than those published through traditional CBA publishers, only different. As I've said many times, everything that gives God glory deserves to be praised!
So true. And all I can think to say in response is a very sincere, "Amen!"
Christine and Pamela!
A huge welcome to blogger and author Christine Lindsay! Christine is another extraordinary member of the COTT Blog Alliance. On Wednesdays she posts the COTT weekly article, and on Fridays she posts either an editorial/devotional or a review on a book. What's her blog like? Christine wants her blog to be somewhere a reader can find a true inspirational story to encourage their faith. For example, on her blog she has in book-length the entire story of her experience as a birthmother. From the moment she found out she was pregnant, to the relinquishment of her child, and to their reunion 20 years later.
Do not miss this testimony. Her birth-daughter, Sarah, modeled for the cover of Shadowed in Silk. Take a look at how it all came together—it's well worth the read.
I asked Christine who she is outside the realm of writing and publication and all that jazz.
"I am so ordinary, it's hilarious. I used to be an administrative assistant, going off to work in suits, high heels and makeup. Now that I'm following the labor of my heart (writing) I work in my home office and wear the closest thing I can get to pajamas—sweat pants and a sweat shirt.
"But there are times I have to go out and leave my beloved laptop behind along with my cat. Then I slap on some mascara, whip a comb through my hair, put on some decent slacks and head out the door with a cup of tea in my hands. I can drive with one hand and drink my tea with the other."What "ordinary"? That's multi-tasking! Why is she willing to give COTT space on her blog every other week?I find the COTT alliance an energetic group of writers that inspire me. I love the fun and camaraderie with the clashes," she said. "And it gets the word out to readers of all the great Christian fiction that's available. They are a great group of people to be affiliated with. I consider it an honor."
The feeling is entirely mutual!
Christine's blogChristine's website
Book trailer
Meet Pamela S. Thibodeaux:
Award-winning author, Pamela S. Thibodeaux is the Co-Founder and a lifetime member of Bayou Writers Group in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Multi-published in romantic fiction as well as creative non-fiction, her writing has been tagged as, "Inspirational with an Edge!" ™ and reviewed as "steamier and grittier than the typical Christian novel without decreasing the message." Website address: http://www.pamelathibodeaux.com Blog: http://pamswildroseblog.blogspot.com
Bayou Writers Group: http://bayouwritersgroup.com
A great big welcome to Blog Alliance Partner Pamela S. Thibodeau. We're so pleased to have her aboard.
I asked this author and blogger where she finds inspiration for her blog, Pamela S. Thibodeaux—Blog.
"I must admit that, personally, I'm pretty burned out on topics…but I love showcasing other authors on Saturday Spotlight and hosting their virtual book tours. This helps me fill in when I can think of nothing to talk about. LOL!"
Honesty…I love it! (Also really glad to know I'm not the only blogger with this kind of problem…)
I'm always interested in why our Blog Alliance members choose to be members. Here's Pam's reason:
"I believe in what COTT is doing and frankly, any website that helps promote Christian authors—especially those who are new, unknown, small press or independently published—is a place I try to support. Doing regular posts for COTT helps me do just that."
Pamela's newest release, The Visionary, is an absolutely wonderful book, one I can whole-heartedly recommend. Without being offensively graphic, it deals with some pretty heavy issues of child abuse and its aftermath.
What are some of the challenges you face as an author?
The biggest challenge I face is not having my work accepted by the "Christian" publishers. As one reviewer said, "Though undeniably Christian, it is never dogmatic or insular; offering faith rather than religion." (From Elizabeth Burton's review of Tempered Dreams for Blue Iris Journal) My books deal with issues in a way that is unacceptable in the traditional CBA market. Now that is not saying that my books are better than those published through traditional CBA publishers, only different. As I've said many times, everything that gives God glory deserves to be praised!
So true. And all I can think to say in response is a very sincere, "Amen!"
December 3, 2011
What Does Christmas Mean to You?
Guest post by Marlayne Giron
I didn't get to experience the "magic" of Christmas until I was 37. As a Jewish child growing up in a nominally religious home; my mom steadfastly refused to get a Christmas tree (or Chanukah Bush) for the holidays. Each year of my childhood Christmas would come and go and I often remember wishing that Santa Claus would overlook the fact that I was Jewish and just once come down our chimney and bring a tree, stockings and presents. When I became a believer in Jesus at the age of 17, Christmas took on an entirely new meaning. I was outraged, outraged at the rank commercialism of it all! And I told my fellow employees at a shipping company near LAX on my temp job so in a single-spaced, page-long diatribe (typed on my break then photocopied and distributed throughout the office). Needless to say, my supervisor was not pleased. My first few Christmases as a believer were much more meaningful but also lonely. I had moved out when I was 19 and lived on my own. I didn't have enough time off at my job to join my parents at my sister and brother-in-law's home when I was 21 during Christmas and having no friends, I spent one of the most pathetic nights one Christmas Eve crying myself to sleep on my couch with only a candle and the Lord to keep me company.
I got to experience my first real Christmas was when I was 22 and had begun dating a nice young man who later turned out to be my husband. I was invited to sleep over his parents home on the pull-out couch and when he thought I was asleep (I wasn't) he snuck downstairs and filled a stocking for me on behalf of Santa Claus. For the next 15 Christmases, we celebrated with his family but in December of 1997, I got to experience the full magic of Christmas for it was on this Christmas Eve that God gave us our daughter, Karina. She was 3-1/2 at the time and experiencing Christmas with a family of her own for the very first time. We took her around the block to show her the Christmas lights; her proud (and scared) new daddy carrying her on his shoulders while she shouted, "It's the Kwissmass!" over and over again with delight. We had the tree, a Candy Cane stocking I had gotten just for her and presents from us (and Santa Claus). What we also had was the flu bug, which had grown to epidemic proportions in Orange County. Our entire family and extended family got hit with it and we were not able to share Christmas morning with anyone until a full week later when we were all well. At the Christmas family reunion two weeks later, we introduced our daughter as a surprise to the entire family.
Having felt "deprived" as a child, I was bound and determined to give my new daughter both the spiritual significance of Christ's birth as well as the full magic of Christmas for as long as humanly possible. I wrapped her gifts from Santa in different paper (no bows - they would get squished in the sleigh) and used different handwriting. When she mailed off a letter to the North Pole, I made sure she found a reply in her stocking. I was so good at the Santa Claus thing that I almost had myself convinced that Santa Clause was real and had my daughter believing in it up to the ripe old age of 12 (yes 12!!). The year after the movie "Polar Express" came out. She decided to test the waters (she was 11). I just happened to see her writing a note to leave on the coffee table in the "Christmas room" and when I looked, I discovered it was a letter to Santa asking him for a bell off his sleigh. It was 4:00 pm on Christmas Eve! I ran out the door in a panic, raced to my nearest Michael's Craft Store and nabbed the last container of giant sized jingle bells. I found a little drawstring pouch and ribbon that said, "Believe" on it. She opened it the next morning with delight and I breathed a sigh of relief; safe for another year! To be quite honest I was actually amazed that she still believed and wondered if she wasn't just doing it for my benefit. I couldn't believe that none of her friends at school hadn't spilled the beans yet. In the end; she found out the following Christmas by going into my closet behind my clothes and discovered where I hid all the gifts before wrapping. She took in all in stride but I was devastated. No more Santa Claus. I had only gotten to experience him through the eyes of my daughter for nine short years. It still bums me out.
Christmas is still a blessed time. We have created our own traditions such as listening to The Gift on Christmas Eve in front of the fire and tree while my honey and I cuddle on the couch. Most of all; I have grown to increasingly appreciate the true miracle of Christmas. The fact that the infinite, omnipotent, omnipresent God of the Universe deigned to come in the most helpless of forms and chose to be born in the most lowly of circumstances without even the benefit of modern medicine. I still find it hard to wrap my head around it. Jesus submitted himself not only to the womb and birth but had to endure years in which he could not even vocally express himself; soiled himself until potty trained and then was raised by fallible humans. He didn't have to do it. He could have chosen to been born into a palace; but he chose to identify with us in all of our sufferings and helplessness. Thank you, Lord, for the most precious gift of all...Your Son.
Marlayne's Bio -
Marlayne Giron is a Messianic Jew who found Christ as her Messiah at the age of 17 while watching Franco Zefferelli's "Jesus of Nazareth" on television in 1977. After coming to faith, she began to read the Old Testament for the first time and was amazed to discover that believing in Jesus was a very Jewish thing to do and not a betrayal of her Jewish religion as she had been taught by her parents and the rabbi's in her synagogues.
In the course of her life she has had many small "miracles" occur; the first major one being coming to faith in Christ when she hadn't even been looking for it and with a built-in bias against Him. The second was meeting and marrying her future husband Michael whom she had prayed for by name as well as writing and illustrating a story (with his image in it) five years before meeting him. The third is the publication of The Victor after almost 30 years with no previous publication credits to her name. All three of these significant milestones in her life occurred on the Easter holidays. The fourth was becoming a mother of an adopted daughter on Christmas Eve in 1997.
Marlayne Giron is a full-time career secretary, wife and mother who likes to read, cook, entertain, draw and scrapbook. She is the author of "The Victor, A Tale of Betrayal, Love & Sacrifice"; "Make a Wish (Stories Written for Real People Where They are the Star)"; and "In Plain Sight"; her first Amish fiction.
http://marlaynegiron.blogspot.com/p/my-books.html
Thank you for allowing me to share your story, Marlyane. I was inspired by it and I'm sure others will be too.
I didn't get to experience the "magic" of Christmas until I was 37. As a Jewish child growing up in a nominally religious home; my mom steadfastly refused to get a Christmas tree (or Chanukah Bush) for the holidays. Each year of my childhood Christmas would come and go and I often remember wishing that Santa Claus would overlook the fact that I was Jewish and just once come down our chimney and bring a tree, stockings and presents. When I became a believer in Jesus at the age of 17, Christmas took on an entirely new meaning. I was outraged, outraged at the rank commercialism of it all! And I told my fellow employees at a shipping company near LAX on my temp job so in a single-spaced, page-long diatribe (typed on my break then photocopied and distributed throughout the office). Needless to say, my supervisor was not pleased. My first few Christmases as a believer were much more meaningful but also lonely. I had moved out when I was 19 and lived on my own. I didn't have enough time off at my job to join my parents at my sister and brother-in-law's home when I was 21 during Christmas and having no friends, I spent one of the most pathetic nights one Christmas Eve crying myself to sleep on my couch with only a candle and the Lord to keep me company.
I got to experience my first real Christmas was when I was 22 and had begun dating a nice young man who later turned out to be my husband. I was invited to sleep over his parents home on the pull-out couch and when he thought I was asleep (I wasn't) he snuck downstairs and filled a stocking for me on behalf of Santa Claus. For the next 15 Christmases, we celebrated with his family but in December of 1997, I got to experience the full magic of Christmas for it was on this Christmas Eve that God gave us our daughter, Karina. She was 3-1/2 at the time and experiencing Christmas with a family of her own for the very first time. We took her around the block to show her the Christmas lights; her proud (and scared) new daddy carrying her on his shoulders while she shouted, "It's the Kwissmass!" over and over again with delight. We had the tree, a Candy Cane stocking I had gotten just for her and presents from us (and Santa Claus). What we also had was the flu bug, which had grown to epidemic proportions in Orange County. Our entire family and extended family got hit with it and we were not able to share Christmas morning with anyone until a full week later when we were all well. At the Christmas family reunion two weeks later, we introduced our daughter as a surprise to the entire family.
Having felt "deprived" as a child, I was bound and determined to give my new daughter both the spiritual significance of Christ's birth as well as the full magic of Christmas for as long as humanly possible. I wrapped her gifts from Santa in different paper (no bows - they would get squished in the sleigh) and used different handwriting. When she mailed off a letter to the North Pole, I made sure she found a reply in her stocking. I was so good at the Santa Claus thing that I almost had myself convinced that Santa Clause was real and had my daughter believing in it up to the ripe old age of 12 (yes 12!!). The year after the movie "Polar Express" came out. She decided to test the waters (she was 11). I just happened to see her writing a note to leave on the coffee table in the "Christmas room" and when I looked, I discovered it was a letter to Santa asking him for a bell off his sleigh. It was 4:00 pm on Christmas Eve! I ran out the door in a panic, raced to my nearest Michael's Craft Store and nabbed the last container of giant sized jingle bells. I found a little drawstring pouch and ribbon that said, "Believe" on it. She opened it the next morning with delight and I breathed a sigh of relief; safe for another year! To be quite honest I was actually amazed that she still believed and wondered if she wasn't just doing it for my benefit. I couldn't believe that none of her friends at school hadn't spilled the beans yet. In the end; she found out the following Christmas by going into my closet behind my clothes and discovered where I hid all the gifts before wrapping. She took in all in stride but I was devastated. No more Santa Claus. I had only gotten to experience him through the eyes of my daughter for nine short years. It still bums me out.
Christmas is still a blessed time. We have created our own traditions such as listening to The Gift on Christmas Eve in front of the fire and tree while my honey and I cuddle on the couch. Most of all; I have grown to increasingly appreciate the true miracle of Christmas. The fact that the infinite, omnipotent, omnipresent God of the Universe deigned to come in the most helpless of forms and chose to be born in the most lowly of circumstances without even the benefit of modern medicine. I still find it hard to wrap my head around it. Jesus submitted himself not only to the womb and birth but had to endure years in which he could not even vocally express himself; soiled himself until potty trained and then was raised by fallible humans. He didn't have to do it. He could have chosen to been born into a palace; but he chose to identify with us in all of our sufferings and helplessness. Thank you, Lord, for the most precious gift of all...Your Son.
Marlayne's Bio -
Marlayne Giron is a Messianic Jew who found Christ as her Messiah at the age of 17 while watching Franco Zefferelli's "Jesus of Nazareth" on television in 1977. After coming to faith, she began to read the Old Testament for the first time and was amazed to discover that believing in Jesus was a very Jewish thing to do and not a betrayal of her Jewish religion as she had been taught by her parents and the rabbi's in her synagogues.
In the course of her life she has had many small "miracles" occur; the first major one being coming to faith in Christ when she hadn't even been looking for it and with a built-in bias against Him. The second was meeting and marrying her future husband Michael whom she had prayed for by name as well as writing and illustrating a story (with his image in it) five years before meeting him. The third is the publication of The Victor after almost 30 years with no previous publication credits to her name. All three of these significant milestones in her life occurred on the Easter holidays. The fourth was becoming a mother of an adopted daughter on Christmas Eve in 1997.
Marlayne Giron is a full-time career secretary, wife and mother who likes to read, cook, entertain, draw and scrapbook. She is the author of "The Victor, A Tale of Betrayal, Love & Sacrifice"; "Make a Wish (Stories Written for Real People Where They are the Star)"; and "In Plain Sight"; her first Amish fiction.
http://marlaynegiron.blogspot.com/p/my-books.html
Thank you for allowing me to share your story, Marlyane. I was inspired by it and I'm sure others will be too.
Two Free Reads
Enjoy my friends!!!
Christmas with Hope - A Companion piece to my WOUNDED HEROES series:
Penned down under heavy fire, the sound of the Blackhawk chopper is one of the sweetest sounds a ranger will ever hear. Then to discover an attractive female at the stick has the sparks flying.
Hope Erickson, a Blackhawk pilot, and Nick Cunningham, an army ranger, renew their acquaintance on the battlefields of Iraq. Will they risk their hearts to one another or does fate have other plans in store for them?
Download link: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing....
And
Dangerous Deception - Journalist Gwen Jacobs thrived on dangerous assignments. That is until her ambition led to the massacre of an entire African village. Now, a year later, she’s been offered a chance at redemption and the opportunity to expose the men behind the slaughter.
Unaware of the secrets she carries, or the danger they could bring if exposed, philanthropist Jack Peterson and his small group of humanitarians welcome Gwen on their journey of hope with the understanding she will tell the world of the atrocities taking place amidst a civil war.
But when Gwen’s deception is uncovered and a rebel commander learns who she is, not only is Gwen’s life on the line, the whole group may die.
Download link: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/...
Christmas with Hope - A Companion piece to my WOUNDED HEROES series:
Penned down under heavy fire, the sound of the Blackhawk chopper is one of the sweetest sounds a ranger will ever hear. Then to discover an attractive female at the stick has the sparks flying.
Hope Erickson, a Blackhawk pilot, and Nick Cunningham, an army ranger, renew their acquaintance on the battlefields of Iraq. Will they risk their hearts to one another or does fate have other plans in store for them?
Download link: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing....
And
Dangerous Deception - Journalist Gwen Jacobs thrived on dangerous assignments. That is until her ambition led to the massacre of an entire African village. Now, a year later, she’s been offered a chance at redemption and the opportunity to expose the men behind the slaughter.
Unaware of the secrets she carries, or the danger they could bring if exposed, philanthropist Jack Peterson and his small group of humanitarians welcome Gwen on their journey of hope with the understanding she will tell the world of the atrocities taking place amidst a civil war.
But when Gwen’s deception is uncovered and a rebel commander learns who she is, not only is Gwen’s life on the line, the whole group may die.
Download link: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/...
December 1, 2011
Theresa Stillwagon Interview & Giveaway
Theresa's Bio: Theresa Stillwagon has been writing most of her life. Since one of her teachers praised a poem she wrote for a class assignment, she's been putting words together in the hopes of seeing them in print. Not caring if anyone other than herself ever read them. Her dreams came to reality in 2008 when she signed her first writing contract. She's now just signed her fourth one and isn't looking back.
A former resident of the state of Ohio, Theresa now lives in her RV in the sunny city of Savanah, Georgia with her husband of twenty-seven years, Mike, and her two cats, Fred and Barney. She's currently seeking for a job while still hard at work on her next romance.
[Anne] Name one of your favorite books as a child.
[Theresa] I really can't think of one. It's been so long since I've been a child. One book that comes to mind is The Little Engine that Could.
[Anne] Do you have a favorite author?
[Theresa] Not really. I love reading and have a lot of them.
[Anne] Out of all the books you've read, which one comes immediately to your mind? If there is a favorite scene you remember, please share.
[Theresa] Salem's Lot. And the scene is the one where the kid is scratching at the other boy's window. I read this many, many years ago, and I still remember how scared I was after reading that scene. Late at night, with the wind blowing, I had scratching at the window. Believe me, I stopped reading.
[Anne] Your favorite vacation spot (whether you have been there or not)?
[Theresa] I love Gettysburg, PA. I've been there a few times, hoping to experience some ghostly residence, but no such luck. Love the place.
[Anne] Which would you rather have: A custom closet or a custom kitchen?
[Theresa] A kitchen, even though I'm not much of a cook. I like shopping for new clothing even less.
[Anne] It's Saturday afternoon and you're home alone. What are you wearing? And yes, you must have clothes on.
[Theresa] A comfortable long t-shirt and a pair of green socks.
[Anne] What's your favorite dish?
[Theresa] Spaghetti.
[Anne] Other than writing, what do you enjoy doing?
[Theresa] Reading, messing around on line, or playing an online game called My Free Farm. It's amazing I get anything done.
[Anne] You've just landed a multi-book contract with a major publisher! Which vehicle would we be more likely to see you driving after you've collected your huge advance: a Hummer, RV, truck, muscle car, or BMW?
[Theresa] A BMW. A friend had one, and I loved riding in it.
[Anne] What's your favorite television show? Movie?
[Theresa] NCIS. (Love those guys.) I don't really have a favorite movie. I love The Mummy and Lord of the Rings series, though.
[Anne] You've won a talent show! What act did you perform?
[Theresa] I've thought and thought on this and can't come up with anything. I've decided I'm the most untalented person around. I have sung in a choir before, and nobody told me to shut up, so I guess I sang. (With a choir of voices behind me.)
[Anne] Would you rather have the power to be invisible or be able to fly, and why?
[Theresa] I want both but if I have to choose only one I'll say to fly. I'll be able to get places without standing in a long line at the airport. Plus I'll get to my destination quicker.
[Anne] What was one of the most surprising things you learned during your journey to publication?
[Theresa] I think the most surprising thing I learned was that I could actually write. I'd finally found something that I could do reasonably well.
[Anne] What was the most interesting research you did for a book?
[Theresa] I research flying for one of my released books. I enjoyed that.
[Anne] Where do you go when you need to get inspired to write?
[Theresa] Someplace quiet where I can be alone. I can't write with any kind of noise or people around me.
[Anne] Do you have any writing quirks?
[Theresa] Not really. Other than having a pot of coffee nearby, and quietness, I'm fine.
[Anne] What do you think makes a good story?
[Theresa] Well-rounded, real characters and a believable conflict. The more damaged the character the better.
[Anne] What are you working on now?
[Theresa] I'm actually working on two things now. The third book in The Sisters Callaway, A Difficult Choice, and the second book in my paranormal series with Beachwalk Press, The Dressmaker's Dilemma. I can do two at once because they are so different. I'm trying to finish The Dressmaker's Dilemma now.
[Anne] Complete this scene: It was raining. The man came out of nowhere, and before I knew it....
He grabbed me up and twisted me toward the wall. I screamed and fought against his tight hold, kicking the sharp heel of my shoe into his calf. He groaned out my name.
"Didn't I worn you I'd hurt you if you touch me again?"
He groaned again.
I kicked out my foot once again, hard, connecting with his right knee. Pleasure raced through me as he loosened his hold and dropped me to the ground. "That's what you get for not believing me."
Great job, Theresa! I loved your answers. Folks, be sure to comment throughout the month on one of Theresa's posts for the chance to win one of her ebooks.
A former resident of the state of Ohio, Theresa now lives in her RV in the sunny city of Savanah, Georgia with her husband of twenty-seven years, Mike, and her two cats, Fred and Barney. She's currently seeking for a job while still hard at work on her next romance.
[Anne] Name one of your favorite books as a child.
[Theresa] I really can't think of one. It's been so long since I've been a child. One book that comes to mind is The Little Engine that Could.
[Anne] Do you have a favorite author?
[Theresa] Not really. I love reading and have a lot of them.
[Anne] Out of all the books you've read, which one comes immediately to your mind? If there is a favorite scene you remember, please share.
[Theresa] Salem's Lot. And the scene is the one where the kid is scratching at the other boy's window. I read this many, many years ago, and I still remember how scared I was after reading that scene. Late at night, with the wind blowing, I had scratching at the window. Believe me, I stopped reading.
[Anne] Your favorite vacation spot (whether you have been there or not)?
[Theresa] I love Gettysburg, PA. I've been there a few times, hoping to experience some ghostly residence, but no such luck. Love the place.
[Anne] Which would you rather have: A custom closet or a custom kitchen?
[Theresa] A kitchen, even though I'm not much of a cook. I like shopping for new clothing even less.
[Anne] It's Saturday afternoon and you're home alone. What are you wearing? And yes, you must have clothes on.
[Theresa] A comfortable long t-shirt and a pair of green socks.
[Anne] What's your favorite dish?
[Theresa] Spaghetti.
[Anne] Other than writing, what do you enjoy doing?
[Theresa] Reading, messing around on line, or playing an online game called My Free Farm. It's amazing I get anything done.
[Anne] You've just landed a multi-book contract with a major publisher! Which vehicle would we be more likely to see you driving after you've collected your huge advance: a Hummer, RV, truck, muscle car, or BMW?
[Theresa] A BMW. A friend had one, and I loved riding in it.
[Anne] What's your favorite television show? Movie?
[Theresa] NCIS. (Love those guys.) I don't really have a favorite movie. I love The Mummy and Lord of the Rings series, though.
[Anne] You've won a talent show! What act did you perform?
[Theresa] I've thought and thought on this and can't come up with anything. I've decided I'm the most untalented person around. I have sung in a choir before, and nobody told me to shut up, so I guess I sang. (With a choir of voices behind me.)
[Anne] Would you rather have the power to be invisible or be able to fly, and why?
[Theresa] I want both but if I have to choose only one I'll say to fly. I'll be able to get places without standing in a long line at the airport. Plus I'll get to my destination quicker.
[Anne] What was one of the most surprising things you learned during your journey to publication?
[Theresa] I think the most surprising thing I learned was that I could actually write. I'd finally found something that I could do reasonably well.
[Anne] What was the most interesting research you did for a book?
[Theresa] I research flying for one of my released books. I enjoyed that.
[Anne] Where do you go when you need to get inspired to write?
[Theresa] Someplace quiet where I can be alone. I can't write with any kind of noise or people around me.
[Anne] Do you have any writing quirks?
[Theresa] Not really. Other than having a pot of coffee nearby, and quietness, I'm fine.
[Anne] What do you think makes a good story?
[Theresa] Well-rounded, real characters and a believable conflict. The more damaged the character the better.
[Anne] What are you working on now?
[Theresa] I'm actually working on two things now. The third book in The Sisters Callaway, A Difficult Choice, and the second book in my paranormal series with Beachwalk Press, The Dressmaker's Dilemma. I can do two at once because they are so different. I'm trying to finish The Dressmaker's Dilemma now.
[Anne] Complete this scene: It was raining. The man came out of nowhere, and before I knew it....
He grabbed me up and twisted me toward the wall. I screamed and fought against his tight hold, kicking the sharp heel of my shoe into his calf. He groaned out my name.
"Didn't I worn you I'd hurt you if you touch me again?"
He groaned again.
I kicked out my foot once again, hard, connecting with his right knee. Pleasure raced through me as he loosened his hold and dropped me to the ground. "That's what you get for not believing me."
Great job, Theresa! I loved your answers. Folks, be sure to comment throughout the month on one of Theresa's posts for the chance to win one of her ebooks.
November 30, 2011
An Early Christmas Gift for You!
To show my appreciation of all the support you've given me this year, I'm giving away two short stories. Enjoy my friends!!!
Christmas with Hope - A Companion piece to my WOUNDED HEROES series:
Hope Erickson, a Blackhawk pilot, and Nick Cunningham, an army ranger, renew their acquaintance on the battlefields of Iraq. Will they risk their hearts to one another or does fate have other plans in store for them?
Penned down under heavy fire, the sound of the Blackhawk chopper is one of the sweetest sounds a ranger will ever hear. Then to discover an attractive female at the stick has the sparks flying.
Hope Erickson, a Blackhawk pilot, and Nick Cunningham, an army ranger, renew their acquaintance on the battlefields of Iraq. He was a bully while she was the chubby girl with braces he and his friends picked on in school.
Hope has changed though, and Nick wants a chance to convince her so has he. Will they risk their hearts to one another or does fate have other plans in store for them?
Download link: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-239/Wounded-Heroes-Christmas-with/Detail.bok
Dangerous Deception - Journalist Gwen Jacobs thrived on dangerous assignments. That is until her ambition led to the massacre of an entire African village. Now, a year later, she's been offered a chance at redemption and the opportunity to expose the men behind the slaughter.
Unaware of the secrets she carries, or the danger they could bring if exposed, philanthropist Jack Peterson and his small group of humanitarians welcome Gwen on their journey of hope with the understanding she will tell the world of the atrocities taking place amidst a civil war.
But when Gwen's deception is uncovered and a rebel commander learns who she is, not only is Gwen's life on the line, the whole group may die.
Download link: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/109846
Christmas with Hope - A Companion piece to my WOUNDED HEROES series:
Hope Erickson, a Blackhawk pilot, and Nick Cunningham, an army ranger, renew their acquaintance on the battlefields of Iraq. Will they risk their hearts to one another or does fate have other plans in store for them?
Penned down under heavy fire, the sound of the Blackhawk chopper is one of the sweetest sounds a ranger will ever hear. Then to discover an attractive female at the stick has the sparks flying.
Hope Erickson, a Blackhawk pilot, and Nick Cunningham, an army ranger, renew their acquaintance on the battlefields of Iraq. He was a bully while she was the chubby girl with braces he and his friends picked on in school.
Hope has changed though, and Nick wants a chance to convince her so has he. Will they risk their hearts to one another or does fate have other plans in store for them?
Download link: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-239/Wounded-Heroes-Christmas-with/Detail.bok
Dangerous Deception - Journalist Gwen Jacobs thrived on dangerous assignments. That is until her ambition led to the massacre of an entire African village. Now, a year later, she's been offered a chance at redemption and the opportunity to expose the men behind the slaughter.
Unaware of the secrets she carries, or the danger they could bring if exposed, philanthropist Jack Peterson and his small group of humanitarians welcome Gwen on their journey of hope with the understanding she will tell the world of the atrocities taking place amidst a civil war.
But when Gwen's deception is uncovered and a rebel commander learns who she is, not only is Gwen's life on the line, the whole group may die.
Download link: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/109846
November 29, 2011
Christina Freeburn's Writing Process
Over the years, my process has changed. I used to be a solely seat-of-the-pants writer, which meant I sat at the computer knowing the heroines and hero, the basic plot, and an idea of who did it and told myself 'Start'. I did get books completed that way but spent a lot of time reworking them. I always had to go back to begin and do a total rewrite because the beginning never went with the editing as the whole plot shifted and twisted away from me.
I'm trying to 'write smarter' as I have a couple of books a year I need to get done so have started outlining. Now, not the high school kind of outline because ... well ... that seems like 'work' to my brain and then the creative portion doesn't want to cooperate. A few years ago, I started using a software program called The Snowflake Pro. I love it. It gives me a wonderful balance to the seat-of-the-pants style that encourages my creativity and an outline which helps me to focus.
When I find myself stuck at a point in my manuscript, I've learned it means there's something I got wrong. If I go back a few chapters, I'll find the problem and once fixed can move forward. Usually it's the fact that I had the hero or heroine behave in contrary to what I've established and need to either change the action or dialogue, or make the motivation clear.
The biggest help for me in taking writing seriously was how I talked about writing a book. Instead of saying "I dream of writing a book", I started saying "My goal is to write a book". It's funny, but once I used goal instead of dream, I found myself spending more time writing and working toward it. For the most part, dreams happen to us while goals are what we actively work to achieve.
Deciding to write a novel can seem daunting so break up the steps needed to complete your dream into mini-goals. When I was having trouble getting started on a recent book, I went back to this method and found the process easier and more doable. Even after writing a few books, I still at times wonder if I'm able to do it again. The first thing I do is decide what type of book I'm writing. Okay, that's easy right now as I'm writing romantic suspense.
Next, is the theme ... or heart ... of the book. What will be biggest struggle for my characters? Usually once I figure out the 'heart' pains (the romance conflict) the hero and heroine are either working through or clutching for dear life, the suspense part of the plot naturally comes from or weaves into the romance. After that comes the title, as I'm a 'title' girl and need to have one in order to start the book. The title sets the theme and mood for the story so I'll go through a couple before a find the right one. By the time I type Chapter One, I've already completed four steps and find those small 'victories' to give me a boost to go on to the next part.
Turning each chapter into its own separate goal also helps when I'm struggling. Even with an outline, it can seem like an endless task to get to the end of the novel but taking on each chapter as it comes makes the process easier and more doable. I know I can finish the chapter even if I doubt if I can finish the book.
I hope in the New Year everyone who has the dream of writing a book or a short story starts down their path to completing their goal. I can't wait to read your story!
I'm trying to 'write smarter' as I have a couple of books a year I need to get done so have started outlining. Now, not the high school kind of outline because ... well ... that seems like 'work' to my brain and then the creative portion doesn't want to cooperate. A few years ago, I started using a software program called The Snowflake Pro. I love it. It gives me a wonderful balance to the seat-of-the-pants style that encourages my creativity and an outline which helps me to focus.
When I find myself stuck at a point in my manuscript, I've learned it means there's something I got wrong. If I go back a few chapters, I'll find the problem and once fixed can move forward. Usually it's the fact that I had the hero or heroine behave in contrary to what I've established and need to either change the action or dialogue, or make the motivation clear.
The biggest help for me in taking writing seriously was how I talked about writing a book. Instead of saying "I dream of writing a book", I started saying "My goal is to write a book". It's funny, but once I used goal instead of dream, I found myself spending more time writing and working toward it. For the most part, dreams happen to us while goals are what we actively work to achieve.
Deciding to write a novel can seem daunting so break up the steps needed to complete your dream into mini-goals. When I was having trouble getting started on a recent book, I went back to this method and found the process easier and more doable. Even after writing a few books, I still at times wonder if I'm able to do it again. The first thing I do is decide what type of book I'm writing. Okay, that's easy right now as I'm writing romantic suspense.
Next, is the theme ... or heart ... of the book. What will be biggest struggle for my characters? Usually once I figure out the 'heart' pains (the romance conflict) the hero and heroine are either working through or clutching for dear life, the suspense part of the plot naturally comes from or weaves into the romance. After that comes the title, as I'm a 'title' girl and need to have one in order to start the book. The title sets the theme and mood for the story so I'll go through a couple before a find the right one. By the time I type Chapter One, I've already completed four steps and find those small 'victories' to give me a boost to go on to the next part.
Turning each chapter into its own separate goal also helps when I'm struggling. Even with an outline, it can seem like an endless task to get to the end of the novel but taking on each chapter as it comes makes the process easier and more doable. I know I can finish the chapter even if I doubt if I can finish the book.
I hope in the New Year everyone who has the dream of writing a book or a short story starts down their path to completing their goal. I can't wait to read your story!
