Brenda S. Anderson's Blog, page 19

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Published on August 16, 2016 06:51

Spotlight on Shannon Taylor Vannatter and Lorna Seilstad

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Around eight years ago, shortly after I joined the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), I signed up to join a critique group. At that time, the organization assigned you to a small group according to a test you took to match up writing skills. Those assigned along with me? Shannon Taylor Vannatter, Lorna Seilstad, and Jerri Lynn Ledford. You could say I won the critique group lottery.

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Published on August 14, 2016 23:01

Spotlight on Jerri Lynn Ledford and Joseph Courtemanche

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Jerri Lynn Ledford and Joseph Courtemanche both write fabulous mystery/suspense/thriller novels, and both are working toward releasing book #2 in their respective series. I do wish they’d hurry up and release them!

I met Jerri around eight years ago shortly after I joined American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). She was assigned to my critique group along with Shannon Taylor Vannatter and Lorna Seilstad. I do believe God brought the four of us together. (Read more about Shannon and Lorna tomorrow.) Jerri was very instrumental in convincing me to publish my romance series, having worked on both Risking Love and Capturing Beauty. Without her keen insight, these books would still be languishing on my computer.

Once you meet Joe Courtemanche, you’ll never forget him as he’s definitely a larger-than-life personality! I met him through our Minnesota chapter of ACFW, and have grown to greatly respect him. Being a fabulous storyteller is only a small part of who he is. No one gives back to his community more than Joe, whether he’s working as Santa Claus, praying for all the children he meets, or serving hot meals to those down on their luck (and he does soooo much more!), Joe shines Jesus’ light. I am very privileged to know him.

About Jerri ~

Growing up a military brat meant Jerri Ledford traveled a lot, and read a lot. It was only natural that her love of reading would eventually turn into a love of writing. From the first play that she wrote for neighborhood kids while her family was stationed on the military base at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba to her career writing fiction and non-fiction, Jerri has always had a love affair with words. These days, Jerri spends much of her time as a Content Project Manager and fiction writer, but when she’s not pounding away at the keyboard, she spends as much time as possible with her grown children and Sampson, the 80 lb. Bull Mastiff rescue she fell in love with.

Connect with Jerri ~

Biloxi Sunrise | Biloxi Christmas

Jerri’s Novels & Novellas ~

About Joe ~

Joseph Courtemanche is a former Police Officer and Middle East/North Africa analyst. He is a distinguished veteran of the Naval Security Group of the United States Navy, and an Arabic linguist with training at the University of Minnesota and the Defense Language Institute (Honors Graduate).

Joseph’s debut novel, Assault on Saint Agnes, won the American Christian Fiction Writers 2015 Genesis award for best novel in the Mystery/Suspense/Thriller category. He has been published in Splickety magazine as well.

Joseph holds several military awards, including two flag letters of commendation for his work in providing real-time intelligence support to commanders in the field. His experience provides the background that’s crucial to his writing in the thriller genre. He is a graduate of the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, and holds degrees from two other colleges as well.

As a performer, he’s appeared on television in a variety of commercials, and does voice over work for both radio and television. He delights in doing his own audio books.

His greatest joy is working as a professional Santa for the last fifteen years, appearing in a number of television spots as the Jolly Old Elf.

He lives in Saint Paul, Minnesota with his wife and dog. Both of whom tolerate him fairly well.

Connect with Joe ~

Blog | Facebook | Twitter

Purchase Assault on Saint Agnes ~

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Question of the Day: Who is your favorite mystery/suspense/thriller author?

The post Spotlight on Jerri Lynn Ledford and Joseph Courtemanche appeared first on Brenda Anderson Books.

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Published on August 13, 2016 23:01

Spotlight on Sharon Hinck and Laura Frantz

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No matter what you do, it’s vital to have the support of those who’ve gone before you to lead, teach, mentor, and encourage you. In my writing career, I’ve had the privilege of meeting several established authors, but two have become more than the “I once-met-so-and-so”: Sharon Hinck and Laura Frantz.

I first met Sharon at a Minnesota Writers Guild meeting, back when Sharon’s first novel was releasing. It wasn’t long after that that she opened up her home for a writing / critiquing day. An opportunity to learn from a gifted, award-winning author? I’d have been a fool not to accept. Since then, Sharon has graciously continued to mentor me and several other authors, paying her gift forward. What I’ve learned from her, not just as a writer, but as a person, a child of God, is immeasurable. Sharon is one of the most genuine, thoughtful, Jesus-loving people I know. I’m so very thankful God placed her in my life!

As for Laura Frantz, I was introduced to her upon reading her debut novel, The Frontiersman’s Daughter. Usually, I’m not a big fan of historical fiction, but Laura’s symphonic prose captured me from the first sentence. Add in vivid settings, complex characters, and page-turning story, and she had a novel I couldn’t put down. I had to write her and let her know how I enjoyed her debut. To my surprise, she returned a gracious Thank You. Since then, every novel she’s written has captured me the same way, and I find myself hungering for the next work by Laura Frantz.

Then when my debut, Chain of Mercy, was coming out, I was seeking a few influencers already established in Christian fiction, and I contacted Laura. To my surprise, she gladly signed on, and then continued to support each book in my Coming Home series. That included writing a beautiful endorsement for my finale, Hungry for Home. To have an author of Laura’s caliber in my corner is very affirming … and humbling. Besides that, and perhaps more importantly, Laura is a genuinely kind, giving, encouraging, breath-of-fresh-air person whom I’m blessed to call friend.

About Sharon ~

Sharon writes “stories for the hero in all of us” – uplifting and entertaining novels about ordinary people called to extraordinary challenges.

She’s won several Carol awards for both contemporary Christian fiction and fantasy, and was a Christy finalist for The Restorer – a genre-blending adventure of a soccer-mom in an alternate world.

She holds an M.A. in communication, and worked for many years in arts ministry. In her various roles over the years as wife, mom, grandmother, church worker, choreographer, and writer, she has loved learning how God’s grace pours into our lives in the midst of our weakness.

When she isn’t wrestling with words, Sharon enjoys speaking to conferences, retreats, and church groups. She and her family make their home in the mid-western United States.

Connect with Sharon ~

Sharon’s Novels ~

About Laura ~

Award-winning author Laura Frantz is passionate about all things historical, particularly the 18th-century, and writes her manuscripts in longhand first. Her stories often incorporate Scottish themes that reflect her family heritage. She is a direct descendant of George Hume, Wedderburn Castle, Berwickshire, Scotland, who was exiled to the American colonies for his role in the Jacobite Rebellion of 1715, settled in Virginia, and is credited with teaching George Washington surveying in the years 1748-1750. Frantz lives and writes in a log cabin in the heart of Kentucky.

According to Publishers Weekly, “Frantz has done her historical homework.” With her signature attention to historical detail and emotional depth, she is represented by Janet Kobobel Grant, Literary Agent & Founder, Books & Such Literary Agency of Santa Rosa, California.

Readers can find Laura Frantz at www.laurafrantz.net

Connect with Laura ~

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

Laura’s Novels ~

Question of the Day: If you had the opportunity to have lunch with any novelist, who would you choose?

The post Spotlight on Sharon Hinck and Laura Frantz appeared first on Brenda Anderson Books.

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Published on August 12, 2016 23:01

Spotlight on Stephanie Prichard + Giveaway

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I first met Stephanie Prichard and her husband Don several years ago at the Colorado Christian Writers Conference. We were both just starting out, just beginning to traverse the long and seemingly circuitous writing road. Then a year or two later we met again at the Colorado conference, this time in an advanced continuing ed class led by Angela Hunt and Nancy Rue. Since then we’ve become critique partners–goodness, has she taught me a ton!–encouragers and best of all, friends. I’ve had so much fun watching the success of Stranded, her debut novel co-written with her husband, Don, which is nearing 1000 reviews on Amazon! No, that’s not a typo. All I can say is WoW! And I’m ecstatic with 100! If you haven’t read Stranded yet, go get it right now. You’ll love it!

About Stephanie & Don Prichard ~

Stephanie and Don Prichard are co-authors of this exciting debut novel. Don is a retired architect and U.S. Marine Corps reservist. Stephanie wrote as a columnist in several online Christian magazines, and is now dedicated to writing suspense with her heart-pounding storytelling husband. They live in Indianapolis, IN, where they raised their three children and at last get to relax and spoil their grandchildren.

Connect with Stephanie & Don ~

Books by Stephanie & Don ~

Stranded

Question of the Day: If stranded on a deserted island, besides the Bible, which book would you like to have with you?

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Published on August 11, 2016 23:01

Spotlight on Nicole Petrino-Salter + Giveaway

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I “met” Nicole Petrino-Salter several years back via her excellent blog, Into the Fire. Here was a fellow author who shared many of the same thoughts I did about the state of Christian fiction. She’s also a huge fan of one of my favorite authors, Vince Flynn. Since meeting her, Nicole has become a dear friend, one whom I can share my praises and complaints with, a friend who is a tremendous encourager and prayer warrior. Someday I hope to meet her in person!

About Nicole ~

Nicole Petrino-Salter writes love stories with a passion. After spending over 30 years in Thoroughbred horse racing, she wrote her first novel Hope of Glory about racing and life on the track. Since then she has written several books. Nicole lives just south of Seattle, Washington, and is devoted to the Lord Jesus Christ, her family, friends, pets, and writing novels for His glory. You can find her most days at hopeofglory.typepad.com.

Connect with Nicole ~

Blog | Twitter

Nicole’s Novels ~

Sweet Release | Destination | The Famous One | Breath of Life | Hope of Glory

Question of the Day: Do you prefer paperback, hard cover, or ebook?

The post Spotlight on Nicole Petrino-Salter + Giveaway appeared first on Brenda Anderson Books.

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Published on August 10, 2016 23:01

Spotlight on Stacy Monson + Giveaway

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I’m the first to admit this writing journey hasn’t been an easy one, but when you have friends, family, peers encouraging you along the way, it make it much easier taking the next step. One of my biggest supporters has been Stacy Monson. She has cheered me on, empathized with me, listen to my whining without criticizing. She’s been that strong presence I’ve needed to push me along when I wanted to stop. I am so very grateful God placed Stacy in my life!

About Stacy ~

An award-winning author, Stacy writes stories that show an extraordinary God at work in ordinary life. A member of ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers), she is the current secretary and past president of MN-NICE, as well as the area coordinator for Minnesota. Residing in the Twin Cities, she is the wife of a juggling, unicycling physical education teacher, mom to two amazing kids and two wonderful in-law kids, and a very proud grandma. You can learn more about Stacy and her books at www.stacymonson.com.

Connect with Stacy ~

Shattered Image | Dance of Grace

Stacy’s Books ~

Question of the Day: What are you reading right now?

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Published on August 09, 2016 23:01

100 Review Celebration!

Two weeks ago my debut novel, Chain of Mercy, eclipsed the 100 Review mark on Amazon! Not too bad for a marking-averse, small-pub-turned-indie author. I promised a celebration and a giveaway when that happened, so here it is:

I’m giving away a 7″ Display Kindle Fire loaded with books! All my books including the soon-to-be-released Risking Love, plus books by nine authors who have mentored me, who’ve been critique partners, prayer partners, and encouragers on this writing journey.

Kindle Books included in giveaway:

The entire Coming Home Series by Brenda S. Anderson: Pieces of Granite, Chain of Mercy, Memory Box Secrets, and Hungry for Home
Risking Love, a Where the Heart is romance, by Brenda S. Anderson
Shattered Image by Stacy Monson
The Famous One by Nicole Petrino-Salter
Stranded by Stephanie & Don Prichard
The Restorer by Sharon Hinck
Assault on Saint Agnes by Joseph Courtemanche
Rodeo Dust by Shannon Taylor Vannatter
Courting Morrow Little by Laura Frantz
Biloxi Sunrise by Jerri Lynn Ledford
When Love Calls by Lorna Seilstad

Starting tomorrow, I’ll be spotlighting up to two of those authors every day for the next week. You may enter once a day by answering the question of the day in the comments. The contest ends August 16 at 12:00 am CST. Enter using the Rafflecopter form below.

Question of the Day: Who is your all-time favorite author?

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Published on August 09, 2016 06:34

RISKING LOVE Pre-Order Sale!

Pre-Order Sale!!! Only two months left until Risking Love is available to the public, and to celebrate, I’ve lowered the pre-order Kindle price by $3.00, making the Kindle pre-order version only $2.99! That’s half off the official retail price! If you’ve already pre-ordered, don’t worry, you will also receive the sale price as well. But make sure you place your order before the official release date as the price will return to the original $5.99 on October 4, 2016. All pre-orders will arrive on your Kindle on October 4, 2016.

Pre-order on Amazon: http://amzn.to/29M8HbL

About Risking Love ~

Bank employee Lissa Morgan likes all the columns of her life to add up. From her job to romance, every major decision is planned out. But before she can go out on a date with Mr. Perfect, she attends a charity auction with her meddling mom who wins Lissa a date with thrill-seeker Caleb Johnson.

Caleb lived for adventure until heart disease stole his wife’s life. Then debt closed his business and now threatens to take his home. With a toddler to raise, he vows that his risk-taking days are over. But then he meets the cautious yet curious Lissa Morgan and decides it’s time to take one more risk—this time on love.

When Lissa learns the extent of Caleb’s debt, she wonders if she can collect on his heart if she forecloses on his home. And why is she falling for the wrong man—one who challenges her to leap from her orderly life and into his waiting arms?

#RiskingLuv

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Published on August 01, 2016 23:01

Chain of Mercy Surpasses 100 Reviews!

Over the weekend, Chain of Mercy (Coming Home series #1) surpassed the 100 review mark on Amazon! Considering this is a small press-turned indie book, I’m thrilled to have eclipsed this important benchmark.

And to celebrate this occasion, I will soon be having a big giveaway of a Kindle Fire loaded with my books and books by friends, so stay tuned to the blog as I’ll be announcing that giveaway here.

THANK YOU to all my readers, reviewers, street team, book boosters, and anyone else who has helped spread the word about my books. You all make traveling this writing road a lot of fun to travel!

~ Purchase books by Brenda S. Anderson ~

Amazon | B&N

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