Amanda Stephan's Blog: God is Good, God is Great, page 69
August 12, 2011
Meet Christian author Lisa Lickel
Join me as we welcome Lisa Lickel, author of Healing Grace, Award winning Meander Scar, and The Gold Standard ~
Where are you right now (LVR, DR, Bathroom) and what are you wearing? (You have to tell the truth.) :)
Jeepers, caught me wearing clothes for a change! I'm at my desk in the Living Room, in a floppy tee and antique jean capris and flipflops, listening to the Brewers. And my hair is brushed. It's always a good day when my hair is brushed before noon.
Many writers will say they see stories all around them. Is there any place unusual you've found a story?
Yes! In the tree stump of the former parsonage in a small hamlet where I'm active in a historical society. The owner wanted to know if we could help identify who carved initials in the tree, and the story behind it. It took a couple of years, but we eventually did. The pastor's son had a crush on the girl who lived in the historic home we're trying to restore. The girl, now in her golden years, recognized it and laughed at the memory, after we figured out the era from the names of the pastors who lived in the parsonage. The story stayed in my mind and eventually turned into a subplot in my mystery, The Gold Standard.
If you could be any character in any literary book who would you be and why?
I have always wanted to be Melanie Wilkes from GWTW. She's so kind and sees the good in everyone, although I wondered what went on inside her.
What is something that very few people know about you?
I somehow got mixed up with learning left and right as a kid, and now I could literally get lost in a box. My youngest son finally taught me the "L" thing with one of my hands, so if I have time and remember, I can figure out left…sometimes.
What do you do to unwind and relax?
If I'm too tired to read, I love to toss in a movie, either at home or with friends. I'm pretty eclectic – love musicals and fantasy/sci fi and romantic comedy and thrillers.
What are your expectations for your book?
I write fiction mostly to entertain, so I hope my readers have a good experience, maybe learn some factlet or ponder over some idea while not feeling they've wasted their time or money.
Do you remember how your interest in writing originated?
I always enjoyed writing, but never gave it much thought to go professional until I was writing articles and press releases for our historical society. One of the members, a former school teacher, told me she thought I should be a writer. I took a course from the Christian Writers Guild and kept on going.
Would you like to share a little about your current work in progress?
As of this interview, I will be finished with a proposal with two other writers for a generational romance focusing on the Cajuns, starting in the eighteenth century in Canada, and continuing to present day in Louisiana. Each story is about love and choices, as told to a young woman contemplating marriage in contemporary times. The book will include recipes and some traditions.
Where can people find you?
My web site, http://www.lisalickel.com, has portals to all of my social networking sites, such as goodreads, shewrites, Shoutlife, both my personal and professional Facebook pages, Favorite PASTimes and my various blogs.
Friends, Lisa has graciously offered to giveaway one copy of The Gold Standard to one lucky winner!
1 entry = comment below
+1 entry = follow my blog
+1 entry = tweet this post
+1 entry = follow me on Twitter
The Gold Standard (First Chapter Excerpt)
Excerpt From Chapter One of Lisa Lickel the Gold Standard
Healing Grace (through December 2011 only):
Amazon.com print
Amazon.com Kindle
Barnes & Noble.com
Fictionwise
Meander Scar:
Amazon.com print
Amazon Kindle
Barnes & Noble
The Gold Standard, while copies last:
Amazon.com
Barnes and Noble.com
Buried Treasure cozy mystery series
The Gold Standard originally released in 2009 from Heartsong Presents: Mysteries and was recently picked up by MuseItUp, a fast-growing Canadian publisher. The Map Quilt is currently scheduled for release in April 2012.
The Gold Standard: School teacher Judy Winters sets out to solve the mystery surrounding her only living relative's murder back on the farm where Aunt Louise grew up. She encounters Hart Wingate, a young man renting the adjoining farm who had helped Aunt Louise with farm chores. Midnight visitors, a job offer, and new friends, along with one special old one—Carranza, the opinionated cat—all figure into Judy's dilemma. Meanwhile, Judy learns that a former friend of Louise's father, Bryce, lost a treasure of gold somewhere on the farm. As Judy and Hart look for clues to the cause of Louise's death and Bryce's missing treasure they develop a close friendship. As Judy explores the house, she finds and follows clues in Louise's mother's diary to unearth the buried treasure. But was it the treasure that might have been behind Louise's murder?
Continue the story with The Map Quilt: A colleague found dead after a mysterious barn fire in rural eastern Wisconsin is only the beginning to chaos in Robertsville. What do a stolen piece of revolutionary agricultural equipment, a long-buried skeleton in the yard, and an old quilt with secrets have in common? Hart and Judy Wingate, who met in The Gold Standard, are back again with a great new cat, Poncho Villa, to solve the mystery of The Map Quilt. Hart's new battery design could forever change the farm implement industry. But after the death of Hart's most confrontational colleague in a fire that destroyed Hart's workshop, the battery is missing. Throw in a guest speaker invited to Judy's elementary classroom who insists she owns the land under Hart's chief competitor's corporate headquarters, and a police chief who's making eyes at Hart's widowed mother, it's no wonder Hart is under a ton of pressure to make sure his adventurous pregnant wife stays safe while trying to preserve his company and his reputation.
Coming, October 2011 – from Black Lyon books, as yet untitled:
A new love story of one unforgettable summer of renewed purpose, faith and strength in family. Set on a farm in a small Wisconsin community, a family rediscovers the meaning of trust, loyalty, and letting go. In the beautiful rolling hills of Oakville, a family is torn by the impending loss of their heritage. Told in layers by each of the four, Tessa Hasmer Murphy faces divorce when the man of her dreams walks back in her life and forces her to choose between what could have been and what is. Tessa's daughter Lindsay finds a way to save the family farm, but it may cost her the only man that she has ever loved. Art Hasmer must face his ghosts and come home in time to be a parent to his son or risk losing the woman who has waited for him since high school. And when Andy, Art's son, discovers the meaning of forgiveness, he must learn to accept it as well as give it in order to receive sweet Ella's love.
~with co-author Shellie Neumeier
From The Gold Standard:
Hart's Focaccia Bread
By Hand:
1 c. warm water
1 pkg dry yeast
Let these two work until bubbly
Add: 3 1/4 cups flour, more or less, to make dough
1 T sugar
1 tsp salt
2 T. Extra virgin full fat olive oil
Variations: add ¼ cup dried tomato to the dough, and/or flaked onion, or dried chili peppers to taste.
Knead 12-15 minutes until elastic – pinch of dough doesn't break from ball.
On a greased cookie sheet, press dough into a firm, flat 12-inch circle. Let raise 20 minutes.
The topping:
Focaccia can be flavored with various herbs and cheeses. The key is to use a good olive oil base.
To approximately ¼ cup olive oil, add your choice of herbs to taste. Some variations include 2 T. grated Parmesan or Romano, or finely grated yellow cheeses, minced garlic clove, up to 2 tsp. rosemary or other herbs such as oregano and basil as desired.
Poke holes evenly across the top of the circle, approximately at one-inch intervals, using the round handle of a wooden spoon. Brush your olive oil mixture thickly over the top.
Bake in preheated oven set to 400 degrees for about 15 minutes, until browned.
The dough can also be made in a standard bread machine:
7 ½ ounces warm water, 3 cups bread flour, 2 T. dried milk, 1 T. sugar, 1 tsp. salt, 3 tsp. margarine or butter, 2 tsp. dry yeast.
When dough cycle is finished, remove from pan, knead on a floured surface a couple of minutes, and proceed as above.
Where are you right now (LVR, DR, Bathroom) and what are you wearing? (You have to tell the truth.) :)
Jeepers, caught me wearing clothes for a change! I'm at my desk in the Living Room, in a floppy tee and antique jean capris and flipflops, listening to the Brewers. And my hair is brushed. It's always a good day when my hair is brushed before noon.
Many writers will say they see stories all around them. Is there any place unusual you've found a story?
Yes! In the tree stump of the former parsonage in a small hamlet where I'm active in a historical society. The owner wanted to know if we could help identify who carved initials in the tree, and the story behind it. It took a couple of years, but we eventually did. The pastor's son had a crush on the girl who lived in the historic home we're trying to restore. The girl, now in her golden years, recognized it and laughed at the memory, after we figured out the era from the names of the pastors who lived in the parsonage. The story stayed in my mind and eventually turned into a subplot in my mystery, The Gold Standard.
If you could be any character in any literary book who would you be and why?
I have always wanted to be Melanie Wilkes from GWTW. She's so kind and sees the good in everyone, although I wondered what went on inside her.
What is something that very few people know about you?
I somehow got mixed up with learning left and right as a kid, and now I could literally get lost in a box. My youngest son finally taught me the "L" thing with one of my hands, so if I have time and remember, I can figure out left…sometimes.
What do you do to unwind and relax?
If I'm too tired to read, I love to toss in a movie, either at home or with friends. I'm pretty eclectic – love musicals and fantasy/sci fi and romantic comedy and thrillers.
What are your expectations for your book?
I write fiction mostly to entertain, so I hope my readers have a good experience, maybe learn some factlet or ponder over some idea while not feeling they've wasted their time or money.
Do you remember how your interest in writing originated?
I always enjoyed writing, but never gave it much thought to go professional until I was writing articles and press releases for our historical society. One of the members, a former school teacher, told me she thought I should be a writer. I took a course from the Christian Writers Guild and kept on going.
Would you like to share a little about your current work in progress?
As of this interview, I will be finished with a proposal with two other writers for a generational romance focusing on the Cajuns, starting in the eighteenth century in Canada, and continuing to present day in Louisiana. Each story is about love and choices, as told to a young woman contemplating marriage in contemporary times. The book will include recipes and some traditions.
Where can people find you?
My web site, http://www.lisalickel.com, has portals to all of my social networking sites, such as goodreads, shewrites, Shoutlife, both my personal and professional Facebook pages, Favorite PASTimes and my various blogs.
Friends, Lisa has graciously offered to giveaway one copy of The Gold Standard to one lucky winner!
1 entry = comment below
+1 entry = follow my blog
+1 entry = tweet this post
+1 entry = follow me on Twitter
The Gold Standard (First Chapter Excerpt)
Excerpt From Chapter One of Lisa Lickel the Gold Standard
Healing Grace (through December 2011 only):
Amazon.com print
Amazon.com Kindle
Barnes & Noble.com
Fictionwise
Meander Scar:
Amazon.com print
Amazon Kindle
Barnes & Noble
The Gold Standard, while copies last:
Amazon.com
Barnes and Noble.com
Buried Treasure cozy mystery series
The Gold Standard originally released in 2009 from Heartsong Presents: Mysteries and was recently picked up by MuseItUp, a fast-growing Canadian publisher. The Map Quilt is currently scheduled for release in April 2012.
The Gold Standard: School teacher Judy Winters sets out to solve the mystery surrounding her only living relative's murder back on the farm where Aunt Louise grew up. She encounters Hart Wingate, a young man renting the adjoining farm who had helped Aunt Louise with farm chores. Midnight visitors, a job offer, and new friends, along with one special old one—Carranza, the opinionated cat—all figure into Judy's dilemma. Meanwhile, Judy learns that a former friend of Louise's father, Bryce, lost a treasure of gold somewhere on the farm. As Judy and Hart look for clues to the cause of Louise's death and Bryce's missing treasure they develop a close friendship. As Judy explores the house, she finds and follows clues in Louise's mother's diary to unearth the buried treasure. But was it the treasure that might have been behind Louise's murder?
Continue the story with The Map Quilt: A colleague found dead after a mysterious barn fire in rural eastern Wisconsin is only the beginning to chaos in Robertsville. What do a stolen piece of revolutionary agricultural equipment, a long-buried skeleton in the yard, and an old quilt with secrets have in common? Hart and Judy Wingate, who met in The Gold Standard, are back again with a great new cat, Poncho Villa, to solve the mystery of The Map Quilt. Hart's new battery design could forever change the farm implement industry. But after the death of Hart's most confrontational colleague in a fire that destroyed Hart's workshop, the battery is missing. Throw in a guest speaker invited to Judy's elementary classroom who insists she owns the land under Hart's chief competitor's corporate headquarters, and a police chief who's making eyes at Hart's widowed mother, it's no wonder Hart is under a ton of pressure to make sure his adventurous pregnant wife stays safe while trying to preserve his company and his reputation.
Coming, October 2011 – from Black Lyon books, as yet untitled:
A new love story of one unforgettable summer of renewed purpose, faith and strength in family. Set on a farm in a small Wisconsin community, a family rediscovers the meaning of trust, loyalty, and letting go. In the beautiful rolling hills of Oakville, a family is torn by the impending loss of their heritage. Told in layers by each of the four, Tessa Hasmer Murphy faces divorce when the man of her dreams walks back in her life and forces her to choose between what could have been and what is. Tessa's daughter Lindsay finds a way to save the family farm, but it may cost her the only man that she has ever loved. Art Hasmer must face his ghosts and come home in time to be a parent to his son or risk losing the woman who has waited for him since high school. And when Andy, Art's son, discovers the meaning of forgiveness, he must learn to accept it as well as give it in order to receive sweet Ella's love.
~with co-author Shellie Neumeier
From The Gold Standard:
Hart's Focaccia Bread
By Hand:
1 c. warm water
1 pkg dry yeast
Let these two work until bubbly
Add: 3 1/4 cups flour, more or less, to make dough
1 T sugar
1 tsp salt
2 T. Extra virgin full fat olive oil
Variations: add ¼ cup dried tomato to the dough, and/or flaked onion, or dried chili peppers to taste.
Knead 12-15 minutes until elastic – pinch of dough doesn't break from ball.
On a greased cookie sheet, press dough into a firm, flat 12-inch circle. Let raise 20 minutes.
The topping:
Focaccia can be flavored with various herbs and cheeses. The key is to use a good olive oil base.
To approximately ¼ cup olive oil, add your choice of herbs to taste. Some variations include 2 T. grated Parmesan or Romano, or finely grated yellow cheeses, minced garlic clove, up to 2 tsp. rosemary or other herbs such as oregano and basil as desired.
Poke holes evenly across the top of the circle, approximately at one-inch intervals, using the round handle of a wooden spoon. Brush your olive oil mixture thickly over the top.
Bake in preheated oven set to 400 degrees for about 15 minutes, until browned.
The dough can also be made in a standard bread machine:
7 ½ ounces warm water, 3 cups bread flour, 2 T. dried milk, 1 T. sugar, 1 tsp. salt, 3 tsp. margarine or butter, 2 tsp. dry yeast.
When dough cycle is finished, remove from pan, knead on a floured surface a couple of minutes, and proceed as above.
August 8, 2011
Simply Salsa ~ a HOT new release from Janet Eckles!
When Tough times touch our lives, God's hand whispers comfort, His power ushers peace and His promise makes all things possible. Blindness and other tragedies didn't stop this author from helping you see the best of life. In Simply Salsa: Dancing Without Fear at God's Fiesta J.P. Eckles brings you inspiration to soothe your soul, insights to encourage you and boldness to claim God's triumph .
Win a $100 American Express gift card or an airline ticket and much more when you place your order of Simply Salsa on Tuesday, August 9 through amazon.com. Watch this video for details:
http://bit.ly/peQ9n2
August 7, 2011
John 3:16 Book Tour Guest - Lisa Lickel
Join me as we welcome Lisa Lickel, author of Healing Grace, Award winning Meander Scar, and The Gold Standard ~
Where are you right now (LVR, DR, Bathroom) and what are you wearing? (You have to tell the truth.) :)
Jeepers, caught me wearing clothes for a change! I'm at my desk in the Living Room, in a floppy tee and antique jean capris and flipflops, listening to the Brewers. And my hair is brushed. It's always a good day when my hair is brushed before noon.
Many writers will say they see stories all around them. Is there any place unusual you've found a story?
Yes! In the tree stump of the former parsonage in a small hamlet where I'm active in a historical society. The owner wanted to know if we could help identify who carved initials in the tree, and the story behind it. It took a couple of years, but we eventually did. The pastor's son had a crush on the girl who lived in the historic home we're trying to restore. The girl, now in her golden years, recognized it and laughed at the memory, after we figured out the era from the names of the pastors who lived in the parsonage. The story stayed in my mind and eventually turned into a subplot in my mystery, The Gold Standard.
If you could be any character in any literary book who would you be and why?
I have always wanted to be Melanie Wilkes from GWTW. She's so kind and sees the good in everyone, although I wondered what went on inside her.
What is something that very few people know about you?
I somehow got mixed up with learning left and right as a kid, and now I could literally get lost in a box. My youngest son finally taught me the "L" thing with one of my hands, so if I have time and remember, I can figure out left…sometimes.
What do you do to unwind and relax?
If I'm too tired to read, I love to toss in a movie, either at home or with friends. I'm pretty eclectic – love musicals and fantasy/sci fi and romantic comedy and thrillers.
What are your expectations for your book?
I write fiction mostly to entertain, so I hope my readers have a good experience, maybe learn some factlet or ponder over some idea while not feeling they've wasted their time or money.
Do you remember how your interest in writing originated?
I always enjoyed writing, but never gave it much thought to go professional until I was writing articles and press releases for our historical society. One of the members, a former school teacher, told me she thought I should be a writer. I took a course from the Christian Writers Guild and kept on going.
Would you like to share a little about your current work in progress?
As of this interview, I will be finished with a proposal with two other writers for a generational romance focusing on the Cajuns, starting in the eighteenth century in Canada, and continuing to present day in Louisiana. Each story is about love and choices, as told to a young woman contemplating marriage in contemporary times. The book will include recipes and some traditions.
Where can people find you?
My web site, http://www.lisalickel.com, has portals to all of my social networking sites, such as goodreads, shewrites, Shoutlife, both my personal and professional Facebook pages, Favorite PASTimes and my various blogs.
Friends, Lisa has graciously offered to giveaway one copy of The Gold Standard to one lucky winner!
1 entry = comment below
+1 entry = follow my blog
+1 entry = tweet this post
+1 entry = follow me on Twitter
The Gold Standard (First Chapter Excerpt)
Excerpt From Chapter One of Lisa Lickel the Gold Standard
Healing Grace (through December 2011 only):
Amazon.com print
Amazon.com Kindle
Barnes & Noble.com
Fictionwise
Meander Scar:
Amazon.com print
Amazon Kindle
Barnes & Noble
The Gold Standard, while copies last:
Amazon.com
Barnes and Noble.com
Buried Treasure cozy mystery series
The Gold Standard originally released in 2009 from Heartsong Presents: Mysteries and was recently picked up by MuseItUp, a fast-growing Canadian publisher. The Map Quilt is currently scheduled for release in April 2012.
The Gold Standard: School teacher Judy Winters sets out to solve the mystery surrounding her only living relative's murder back on the farm where Aunt Louise grew up. She encounters Hart Wingate, a young man renting the adjoining farm who had helped Aunt Louise with farm chores. Midnight visitors, a job offer, and new friends, along with one special old one—Carranza, the opinionated cat—all figure into Judy's dilemma. Meanwhile, Judy learns that a former friend of Louise's father, Bryce, lost a treasure of gold somewhere on the farm. As Judy and Hart look for clues to the cause of Louise's death and Bryce's missing treasure they develop a close friendship. As Judy explores the house, she finds and follows clues in Louise's mother's diary to unearth the buried treasure. But was it the treasure that might have been behind Louise's murder?
Continue the story with The Map Quilt: A colleague found dead after a mysterious barn fire in rural eastern Wisconsin is only the beginning to chaos in Robertsville. What do a stolen piece of revolutionary agricultural equipment, a long-buried skeleton in the yard, and an old quilt with secrets have in common? Hart and Judy Wingate, who met in The Gold Standard, are back again with a great new cat, Poncho Villa, to solve the mystery of The Map Quilt. Hart's new battery design could forever change the farm implement industry. But after the death of Hart's most confrontational colleague in a fire that destroyed Hart's workshop, the battery is missing. Throw in a guest speaker invited to Judy's elementary classroom who insists she owns the land under Hart's chief competitor's corporate headquarters, and a police chief who's making eyes at Hart's widowed mother, it's no wonder Hart is under a ton of pressure to make sure his adventurous pregnant wife stays safe while trying to preserve his company and his reputation.
Coming, October 2011 – from Black Lyon books, as yet untitled:
A new love story of one unforgettable summer of renewed purpose, faith and strength in family. Set on a farm in a small Wisconsin community, a family rediscovers the meaning of trust, loyalty, and letting go. In the beautiful rolling hills of Oakville, a family is torn by the impending loss of their heritage. Told in layers by each of the four, Tessa Hasmer Murphy faces divorce when the man of her dreams walks back in her life and forces her to choose between what could have been and what is. Tessa's daughter Lindsay finds a way to save the family farm, but it may cost her the only man that she has ever loved. Art Hasmer must face his ghosts and come home in time to be a parent to his son or risk losing the woman who has waited for him since high school. And when Andy, Art's son, discovers the meaning of forgiveness, he must learn to accept it as well as give it in order to receive sweet Ella's love.
~with co-author Shellie Neumeier
From The Gold Standard:
Hart's Focaccia Bread
By Hand:
1 c. warm water
1 pkg dry yeast
Let these two work until bubbly
Add: 3 1/4 cups flour, more or less, to make dough
1 T sugar
1 tsp salt
2 T. Extra virgin full fat olive oil
Variations: add ¼ cup dried tomato to the dough, and/or flaked onion, or dried chili peppers to taste.
Knead 12-15 minutes until elastic – pinch of dough doesn't break from ball.
On a greased cookie sheet, press dough into a firm, flat 12-inch circle. Let raise 20 minutes.
The topping:
Focaccia can be flavored with various herbs and cheeses. The key is to use a good olive oil base.
To approximately ¼ cup olive oil, add your choice of herbs to taste. Some variations include 2 T. grated Parmesan or Romano, or finely grated yellow cheeses, minced garlic clove, up to 2 tsp. rosemary or other herbs such as oregano and basil as desired.
Poke holes evenly across the top of the circle, approximately at one-inch intervals, using the round handle of a wooden spoon. Brush your olive oil mixture thickly over the top.
Bake in preheated oven set to 400 degrees for about 15 minutes, until browned.
The dough can also be made in a standard bread machine:
7 ½ ounces warm water, 3 cups bread flour, 2 T. dried milk, 1 T. sugar, 1 tsp. salt, 3 tsp. margarine or butter, 2 tsp. dry yeast.
When dough cycle is finished, remove from pan, knead on a floured surface a couple of minutes, and proceed as above.
Where are you right now (LVR, DR, Bathroom) and what are you wearing? (You have to tell the truth.) :)
Jeepers, caught me wearing clothes for a change! I'm at my desk in the Living Room, in a floppy tee and antique jean capris and flipflops, listening to the Brewers. And my hair is brushed. It's always a good day when my hair is brushed before noon.
Many writers will say they see stories all around them. Is there any place unusual you've found a story?
Yes! In the tree stump of the former parsonage in a small hamlet where I'm active in a historical society. The owner wanted to know if we could help identify who carved initials in the tree, and the story behind it. It took a couple of years, but we eventually did. The pastor's son had a crush on the girl who lived in the historic home we're trying to restore. The girl, now in her golden years, recognized it and laughed at the memory, after we figured out the era from the names of the pastors who lived in the parsonage. The story stayed in my mind and eventually turned into a subplot in my mystery, The Gold Standard.
If you could be any character in any literary book who would you be and why?
I have always wanted to be Melanie Wilkes from GWTW. She's so kind and sees the good in everyone, although I wondered what went on inside her.
What is something that very few people know about you?
I somehow got mixed up with learning left and right as a kid, and now I could literally get lost in a box. My youngest son finally taught me the "L" thing with one of my hands, so if I have time and remember, I can figure out left…sometimes.
What do you do to unwind and relax?
If I'm too tired to read, I love to toss in a movie, either at home or with friends. I'm pretty eclectic – love musicals and fantasy/sci fi and romantic comedy and thrillers.
What are your expectations for your book?
I write fiction mostly to entertain, so I hope my readers have a good experience, maybe learn some factlet or ponder over some idea while not feeling they've wasted their time or money.
Do you remember how your interest in writing originated?
I always enjoyed writing, but never gave it much thought to go professional until I was writing articles and press releases for our historical society. One of the members, a former school teacher, told me she thought I should be a writer. I took a course from the Christian Writers Guild and kept on going.
Would you like to share a little about your current work in progress?
As of this interview, I will be finished with a proposal with two other writers for a generational romance focusing on the Cajuns, starting in the eighteenth century in Canada, and continuing to present day in Louisiana. Each story is about love and choices, as told to a young woman contemplating marriage in contemporary times. The book will include recipes and some traditions.
Where can people find you?
My web site, http://www.lisalickel.com, has portals to all of my social networking sites, such as goodreads, shewrites, Shoutlife, both my personal and professional Facebook pages, Favorite PASTimes and my various blogs.
Friends, Lisa has graciously offered to giveaway one copy of The Gold Standard to one lucky winner!
1 entry = comment below
+1 entry = follow my blog
+1 entry = tweet this post
+1 entry = follow me on Twitter
The Gold Standard (First Chapter Excerpt)
Excerpt From Chapter One of Lisa Lickel the Gold Standard
Healing Grace (through December 2011 only):
Amazon.com print
Amazon.com Kindle
Barnes & Noble.com
Fictionwise
Meander Scar:
Amazon.com print
Amazon Kindle
Barnes & Noble
The Gold Standard, while copies last:
Amazon.com
Barnes and Noble.com
Buried Treasure cozy mystery series
The Gold Standard originally released in 2009 from Heartsong Presents: Mysteries and was recently picked up by MuseItUp, a fast-growing Canadian publisher. The Map Quilt is currently scheduled for release in April 2012.
The Gold Standard: School teacher Judy Winters sets out to solve the mystery surrounding her only living relative's murder back on the farm where Aunt Louise grew up. She encounters Hart Wingate, a young man renting the adjoining farm who had helped Aunt Louise with farm chores. Midnight visitors, a job offer, and new friends, along with one special old one—Carranza, the opinionated cat—all figure into Judy's dilemma. Meanwhile, Judy learns that a former friend of Louise's father, Bryce, lost a treasure of gold somewhere on the farm. As Judy and Hart look for clues to the cause of Louise's death and Bryce's missing treasure they develop a close friendship. As Judy explores the house, she finds and follows clues in Louise's mother's diary to unearth the buried treasure. But was it the treasure that might have been behind Louise's murder?
Continue the story with The Map Quilt: A colleague found dead after a mysterious barn fire in rural eastern Wisconsin is only the beginning to chaos in Robertsville. What do a stolen piece of revolutionary agricultural equipment, a long-buried skeleton in the yard, and an old quilt with secrets have in common? Hart and Judy Wingate, who met in The Gold Standard, are back again with a great new cat, Poncho Villa, to solve the mystery of The Map Quilt. Hart's new battery design could forever change the farm implement industry. But after the death of Hart's most confrontational colleague in a fire that destroyed Hart's workshop, the battery is missing. Throw in a guest speaker invited to Judy's elementary classroom who insists she owns the land under Hart's chief competitor's corporate headquarters, and a police chief who's making eyes at Hart's widowed mother, it's no wonder Hart is under a ton of pressure to make sure his adventurous pregnant wife stays safe while trying to preserve his company and his reputation.
Coming, October 2011 – from Black Lyon books, as yet untitled:
A new love story of one unforgettable summer of renewed purpose, faith and strength in family. Set on a farm in a small Wisconsin community, a family rediscovers the meaning of trust, loyalty, and letting go. In the beautiful rolling hills of Oakville, a family is torn by the impending loss of their heritage. Told in layers by each of the four, Tessa Hasmer Murphy faces divorce when the man of her dreams walks back in her life and forces her to choose between what could have been and what is. Tessa's daughter Lindsay finds a way to save the family farm, but it may cost her the only man that she has ever loved. Art Hasmer must face his ghosts and come home in time to be a parent to his son or risk losing the woman who has waited for him since high school. And when Andy, Art's son, discovers the meaning of forgiveness, he must learn to accept it as well as give it in order to receive sweet Ella's love.
~with co-author Shellie Neumeier
From The Gold Standard:
Hart's Focaccia Bread
By Hand:
1 c. warm water
1 pkg dry yeast
Let these two work until bubbly
Add: 3 1/4 cups flour, more or less, to make dough
1 T sugar
1 tsp salt
2 T. Extra virgin full fat olive oil
Variations: add ¼ cup dried tomato to the dough, and/or flaked onion, or dried chili peppers to taste.
Knead 12-15 minutes until elastic – pinch of dough doesn't break from ball.
On a greased cookie sheet, press dough into a firm, flat 12-inch circle. Let raise 20 minutes.
The topping:
Focaccia can be flavored with various herbs and cheeses. The key is to use a good olive oil base.
To approximately ¼ cup olive oil, add your choice of herbs to taste. Some variations include 2 T. grated Parmesan or Romano, or finely grated yellow cheeses, minced garlic clove, up to 2 tsp. rosemary or other herbs such as oregano and basil as desired.
Poke holes evenly across the top of the circle, approximately at one-inch intervals, using the round handle of a wooden spoon. Brush your olive oil mixture thickly over the top.
Bake in preheated oven set to 400 degrees for about 15 minutes, until browned.
The dough can also be made in a standard bread machine:
7 ½ ounces warm water, 3 cups bread flour, 2 T. dried milk, 1 T. sugar, 1 tsp. salt, 3 tsp. margarine or butter, 2 tsp. dry yeast.
When dough cycle is finished, remove from pan, knead on a floured surface a couple of minutes, and proceed as above.
August 5, 2011
Non-Fiction Book Tour Coming
for Janet Perez Eckles
Super, super exciting news!
You're invited to the launch celebration of Simply Salsa: Dancing Without Fear at God's Fiesta on Tuesday, August 9, 2011.
Simply Salsa
To join the fun, please follow these simple steps:
1. On Tuesday, August 9 place your order for Simply Salsa through Amazon.com.
2. Retrieve the invoice number from your order.
3. Then here comes the fun. Visit the "landing page" to discover all the gifts that can be yours. (URL to be announced on August 7.)
4. Once on the landing page, choose all the free gifts you like. And don't forget to enter the contest to win fabulous prizes including a $100 American Express gift card or round-trip airline ticket. (Some restrictions apply and you must be 18 or older to enter.)
Note: Gifts and prizes are available only on August 9 when ordering through Amazon.com.
Janet Perez Eckles
Super, super exciting news!
You're invited to the launch celebration of Simply Salsa: Dancing Without Fear at God's Fiesta on Tuesday, August 9, 2011.
Simply Salsa
To join the fun, please follow these simple steps:
1. On Tuesday, August 9 place your order for Simply Salsa through Amazon.com.
2. Retrieve the invoice number from your order.
3. Then here comes the fun. Visit the "landing page" to discover all the gifts that can be yours. (URL to be announced on August 7.)
4. Once on the landing page, choose all the free gifts you like. And don't forget to enter the contest to win fabulous prizes including a $100 American Express gift card or round-trip airline ticket. (Some restrictions apply and you must be 18 or older to enter.)
Note: Gifts and prizes are available only on August 9 when ordering through Amazon.com.
Janet Perez Eckles
July 31, 2011
John 3:16 Book Tour Guest ~ Tracy Krauss
Tracy Krauss is an author, artist, playwright, director, worship leader, and teacher. Originally from a small prairie town, she received her Bachelor's Degree at the University of Saskatchewan. She has lived in many places in northern Canada with her husband, a pastor, and their children. They currently live in Tumbler Ridge, BC.
What is one of the most interesting things you've learned when researching a story?
I learned a TON of interesting stuff when researching my first book AND THE BEAT GOES ON. This book deals with the creation vs. evolution debate, so I learned all kinds of cool evidence for Intelligent Design that I hadn't known about before. I also learned how the scientific community is very closed minded in regard to the topic.
Many writers will say they see stories all around them. Is there any place unusual you've found a story?
I thought of some scenes for a story while curling once. (On ice, as in the sport…) My book MY MOTHER THE MAN-EATER was inspired while playing the Sims.
What do you do to unwind and relax? I write. Beyond that, I paint. I also find that playing the piano relaxes me.
What dreams have been realized as a result of your writing?
It is a dream to have a book in print. At one point, my dream was to get published by a certain age. (Not telling what that age is!) Since that happened a few years early, I changed my goal to 'write full time' by that certain age. I'll let you know in two years time …
Do you remember how your interest in writing originated?
I started writing after I had my first child. I always had stories swirling around in my head before that. Sometimes I'd draw pictures to represent them, other times, I'd scratch stuff down in a notebook. But when I finally borrowed my mom's old typewriter and started banging them out on paper – that's when it really jelled for me. She is turning 26 this year, so that was a long time ago. I haven't stopped writing since. It's almost like a compulsion, I guess. I'd be writing with or without publication.
About her writings:
MY MOTHER THE MAN-EATER was originally inspired when she was playing the Sims! The characters and interaction mushroomed into the idea for this book – a forty something cougar on the quest for fulfillment.
Other published works include a play and her debut novel AND THE BEAT GOES ON, a romantic suspense with an archeological and creationist twist.
MY MOTHER THE MAN-EATER
What's a girl to do? Joleen Allen is on the hunt. For a man, that is. Unfortunately, every time the mother of five meets a prospect, he falls for one of her daughters instead!
Meanwhile, her ex-husband, Harold, is back in the picture after a stint in prison, and he's looking for revenge. He'll do anything to see Joleen's reputation and her relationship with their children ruined. Harold has devised an elaborate plan to slander Joleen and ruin her financially, and will stop at nothing – even murder – to see it through.
At forty-four, Joleen has seen a thing or two. She became a mother at sixteen, and her five highly independent children are now grown. Jasmine is a successful ad executive, but has a drinking problem. Jill is a tough cop, while middle child Jennifer surprises them all with her tenacity. Jinger is a self-centered glamour girl, and the baby of the family, Jade, is utterly spoiled.
All the interesting men they meet get tossed around by this pack of barracudas. Adding to the mix are some drug deals, a kidnapping, insurance fraud, and secrets from the past, making life very complicated, indeed.
With grit, humor, action, intrigue and romance, My Mother the Man-Eater is a redemptive story about a woman whose search for meaning in life sends her straight into . . . the arms of God.
AND THE BEAT GOES ON
A story of mystery and intrigue set in Africa, Canada and the USA. Archeologist Mark Graham finds pterodactyl and human remains buried together in the mountains of Zimbabwe which seem to suggest the existance of the mythical race called 'Nephilim' mentioned in the Bible. Despite Mark's skepticism, the find also seems to favor a creationist model of the universe and the probability of a world wide flood. Sabotage, discreditation and even murder follow, leaving Mark and his team scrambling to preserve the evidence and make their find public before would be conspirators ruin the site and their reputations. Loaded with action, plot twists and a touch of romance, And The Beat Goes On is sure to spark debate, no matter one's religious views.
Be sure to connect with Tracy at these places ~ and tell her Amanda sent you!
Website: www.tracykrauss.com
Blog: www.tracykraussexpressionexpress.com
FB : http://tinyurl.com/Tracy-Krauss-Author-Fanpage
Twitter: www.twitter.com/TracyKrausswrtr
Amazon: www.kraussamazon.com
July 29, 2011
QR Codes and What They Can Do for You
QR simply means 'Quick Response'. What can they do for you?
Short answer ~ Lots! As an author, I have to have many business cards printed out. Yes, there are some great companies to order from, my personal favorite being Vistaprint. (I just haven't found anyone to beat their quality nor their prices.) But usually it's not a free service to have the backside printed. Yes, I've splurged and had cute little pocket calendars printed, and they look great, but it tells you absolutely nothing about my books.
My second Christian romance novel comes out in October and I need to get that information out to as many people as I possibly can. Chances are, when you hand someone a business card, they'll take it, maybe smile a little, and hide it away in their wallet only to toss it out later. Drat!
Now, let's take things to the next step and make things a little more exciting. Chances are you know someone who has a smartphone. And they like it. And they like USING it...see where I'm going with this? Take your ordinary business card, slap a QR label on the back, (QR labels are available from Avery), and now all of a sudden, people with smart phones will be opening up your website. Or a personal message from you.
You're really only limited by your imagination. Work some up for T-shirts, coffee mugs, hats, brochures, etc.
Here's some places to play around and make your very own QR Codes ~ QR Stuff & QR-Code Generator
Then, come back here and share your label. So I can scan it... ;)
July 24, 2011
July 23, 2011
Non Fiction Book Review
Easy & Elegant Beaded Copper Jewelry
I must admit, I'm a novice when it comes to wire working. I have tried bending wire into paperclips and am dreadfully challenged. Yet this book was so beautifully done and the projects so very appealing, I found myself staying up past 2 am to finish my latest attempt to enhance my skills.
The projects are marvelous and inspiring, the directions are clear and easy to follow, and one of my favorite features is that the author uses simple, household items to form many of the bends. This book is a keeper and well worth both the money and the time you spend completing the projects.
I must admit, I'm a novice when it comes to wire working. I have tried bending wire into paperclips and am dreadfully challenged. Yet this book was so beautifully done and the projects so very appealing, I found myself staying up past 2 am to finish my latest attempt to enhance my skills.
The projects are marvelous and inspiring, the directions are clear and easy to follow, and one of my favorite features is that the author uses simple, household items to form many of the bends. This book is a keeper and well worth both the money and the time you spend completing the projects.
July 17, 2011
John 3:16 Book Tour Guest ~ Bernard Boulton
Join me as we welcome Bernard Boulton, author of
Do You Wanna Be Made Whole?
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Bernard, what is your favorite part of writing?
My favorite part of writing is writing the end.
What is your favorite material item that you own?
My favorite material item is my Blackberry, it has been my dream phone and I finally purchased one last October. However I'm not to crazy about the provider. <---- I can completely empathize with you!
What do you do to unwind and relax?
I read to unwind. I also watch television, I love old reruns.
While you were writing, did you ever feel as if you were one of the characters? No.
What are your expectations for your book?
I want my book to glorify God and encourage and entertain readers. <--- Excellent, Bernard!
What dreams have been realized as a result of your writing?
The dream of being a published writer has been realized. Now I'm dreaming about success in terms of having a loyal audience of readers who are blessed by my books and continue to support them.
If you could leave your readers with one bit of wisdom, what would you want it to be?
Live for God and pursue your dream by discovering your purpose and living it every day.
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your book?
No.
Do you remember how your interest in writing originated?
When I was a little boy I loved reading and my interest in writing came from there.
Would you like to share a little about your current work in progress?
One of the characters in my first book was named Theo. In my second novel I am doing a story that has Theo playing a role, not as prominent as in the first one, and Theo's sisters, Crystal and Tijuana. They are not Christians but one of them will become one in the story. One of the themes that I carry over from the first is relationships between men and women.
Where can people find you?
People can find me at my website
My blog
At Face book
At twitter
Friends, Mr. Boulton has graciously offered one eBook to one lucky commenter! Leave a comment below for your chance to win ~ drawing ends July 23rd.
As always, here are a few extra entries:
+1 = tweet this interview/giveaway
+1 = follow this blog through GFC
+1 = follow me on Facebook
Just leave a comment telling me all your entries!
In Do You Wanna Be Made Whole? Author Boulton brings the reader face to face with the option of choice. Through the written word he exposes the woes of three men who turn to their spiritual leader for guidance in their time of need. Ultimately they will learn what is necessary to achieve what they so desperately seek.
Do You Wanna Be Made Whole? Serves as a reminder of our need to examine ourselves before blaming others and/or expecting others to take responsibility for what we should own.
~ taken from Amazon.com
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Bernard, what is your favorite part of writing?
My favorite part of writing is writing the end.
What is your favorite material item that you own?
My favorite material item is my Blackberry, it has been my dream phone and I finally purchased one last October. However I'm not to crazy about the provider. <---- I can completely empathize with you!
What do you do to unwind and relax?
I read to unwind. I also watch television, I love old reruns.
While you were writing, did you ever feel as if you were one of the characters? No.
What are your expectations for your book?
I want my book to glorify God and encourage and entertain readers. <--- Excellent, Bernard!
What dreams have been realized as a result of your writing?
The dream of being a published writer has been realized. Now I'm dreaming about success in terms of having a loyal audience of readers who are blessed by my books and continue to support them.
If you could leave your readers with one bit of wisdom, what would you want it to be?
Live for God and pursue your dream by discovering your purpose and living it every day.
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your book?
No.
Do you remember how your interest in writing originated?
When I was a little boy I loved reading and my interest in writing came from there.
Would you like to share a little about your current work in progress?
One of the characters in my first book was named Theo. In my second novel I am doing a story that has Theo playing a role, not as prominent as in the first one, and Theo's sisters, Crystal and Tijuana. They are not Christians but one of them will become one in the story. One of the themes that I carry over from the first is relationships between men and women.
Where can people find you?
People can find me at my website
My blog
At Face book
At twitter
Friends, Mr. Boulton has graciously offered one eBook to one lucky commenter! Leave a comment below for your chance to win ~ drawing ends July 23rd.
As always, here are a few extra entries:
+1 = tweet this interview/giveaway
+1 = follow this blog through GFC
+1 = follow me on Facebook
Just leave a comment telling me all your entries!
In Do You Wanna Be Made Whole? Author Boulton brings the reader face to face with the option of choice. Through the written word he exposes the woes of three men who turn to their spiritual leader for guidance in their time of need. Ultimately they will learn what is necessary to achieve what they so desperately seek. Do You Wanna Be Made Whole? Serves as a reminder of our need to examine ourselves before blaming others and/or expecting others to take responsibility for what we should own.
~ taken from Amazon.com
July 14, 2011
Facebook War
It's official. I'm at war on Facebook.
Meet The Good Side: Amanda Stephan - homemomma
(current likers at the start of the war = 119)
where you'll get lots of money saving tips and techniques, as well as rambling chit chat (and silly pictures). And don't forget blog post updates.
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And Here's The Dark Side: The Price of Trust
(current likers at the start of the war = 252)
Where there's lots of book chatter, silly pictures, and, of course, because it's the dark side, cyber cookies.
Now here's the deal ~ whichever side gets the most new likers (and stayers) will have a drawing (and a cyber pizza party) with two winners chosen from that team.
One Grand Prize - $25 Amazon.com Gift Card
Runner up - $15 Starbucks Gift Card
(winners will be chosen using Random.org on July 30th)
Tell your friends, the dark side is growing...
Meet The Good Side: Amanda Stephan - homemomma
(current likers at the start of the war = 119)
where you'll get lots of money saving tips and techniques, as well as rambling chit chat (and silly pictures). And don't forget blog post updates.
[image error]
And Here's The Dark Side: The Price of Trust
(current likers at the start of the war = 252)
Where there's lots of book chatter, silly pictures, and, of course, because it's the dark side, cyber cookies.
Now here's the deal ~ whichever side gets the most new likers (and stayers) will have a drawing (and a cyber pizza party) with two winners chosen from that team.
One Grand Prize - $25 Amazon.com Gift Card
Runner up - $15 Starbucks Gift Card
(winners will be chosen using Random.org on July 30th)
Tell your friends, the dark side is growing...
God is Good, God is Great
A little of this, a little of that. I love doing many different things, but I'm going to share my love of good books, fun crafts, freebies, contests, and scrapbooking with this blog. Enjoy!
...more
- Amanda Stephan's profile
- 110 followers
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![[image error]](http://picturesofsmileyfaces.net/big-smiley-face.jpg){kind=link}