Brenda S. Anderson's Blog, page 22

Easter Artist Fiesta!

Many thanks to book and entertainment blogger, Miranda A. Uyeh, for a meet-the-artist Easter Fiesta! I was on vacation last week, so I’m a few days late in posting this, but you still have several days to talk with authors-actors-screenwriters and more! I’ll be chatting live on Sunday, March 20 along with author K. Victoria Chase ~ we’d love for you to join us!

Want to join us? Here’s the link: https://www.facebook.com/ToBeAPerson/

Schedule:

(If you missed the live chat, you can still read through the discussions on FB)

March 17th ~ 2:00-3:00pm Pacific Time – Julie Lessman, Cheryl McKay, Rene Gutteridge

March 18th ~ 2:00-3:00pm PT – DiAnn Mills, Michelle Griep

March 19th ~ 3:00-4:00pm PT – Rich Swingle, Kirk Fernwood

March 20th ~ 2:00-3:00pm PT – K. Victoria Chase, Brenda Anderson

March 21st ~ 2:00-3:00pm PT – Heather Manning, Melica Niccole

March 22nd ~ 2:00-3:00pm PT – Bill Ewing, Doc Benson

March 24th ~ 5:00-6:00pm PT – Rebekah Cook, Katie Pavao

March 25th ~ 2:00-3:00pm PT – Jody Thomae, Juli Tapken, Stacey Bradshaw

March 26th ~ 2:00-3:00pm PT – Francine Locke, Bronwyn Angley, Apolonia Davalos

March 27th ~ 7:00-8:00pm PT – Irene Santiago, Sharon Wilharm

Getting to Know Michelle Massaro + Giveaway!

Many of you know Michelle Massaro from the fun and popular Clash of the Titles blog where authors face off with their newest release and readers vote for which book they find the most worthy.

Michelle has just released her debut novel, Grace in the Flames, and has graciously stopped by to answer a few questions. She will be giving away an ebook copy of Grace. To enter, see contest rules below.

Congratulations, Michelle, on your debut release! How exciting! And welcome to my blog. Can you tell my readers about Grace in the Flames? What inspired this book?

A deadly fire, a dangerous temptation, a desperate heart. When three lives intersect, God asks them to do the impossible. To love Him even if…  That’s the log line for Grace in the Flames and I think it does a good job of giving you a hint of the flavor and substance you find in the book. As each character responds to the challenges they face—homelessness, loss of life, a sense of betrayal by God—their paths intertwine into a messy, beautiful story of grace and surrender.  That last sentence of the log line above, to love Him even if, was the idea behind the inspiration for this book. Would I still love God if I were to suffer like Job? If the unthinkable happened in my life, would my faith survive? Could I hold onto those I love with an open hand, ready to release them should He require it of me? I wrestled with these questions as I wrote the story and felt God stretching my faith in the process.

What a great concept, one that many of us can relate to. Could you tell us about your journey to publication?

The idea for Grace in the Flames sprouted years ago, probably about 2005 or 2006. Back then the idea of writing a story was a lofty dream. I made half-hearted attempts to develop the concept—at one point it was going to be a historical set somewhere in Europe—but I never got very far, and I never told anyone. It was in 2007 I believe, when I was inspired by Stephanie Myers’ story of writing her books during her kids’ swimming lessons that I sat down at my screen determined to get an entire story written. I had no clue where to start such a monumental task so I started searching online for guidance. I ended up finding a NaNoWriMo board, and the Snowflake Method, both of which were so helpful in those early days. I wrote and rewrote this story multiple times over the next 8 years, learning the craft, attending conferences, finding mentors and critique partners. In 2012 the manuscript was a Genesis finalist under the original title, Beauty for Ashes. I rewrote the story again, sent it around to the big pub houses, and got great feedback. But it was not ultimately picked up. I finally decided last year to go ahead and release my baby on my own. Ultimately, I think this was the best choice for me for this title. It’s so near to my heart that I’m glad I have all the control in the final manuscript, the cover, etc. and it was time.

I was also a Genesis finalist in 2012, and you probably don’t remember, but we sat at the same table for the awards gala. So glad you’re bringing that book to print! What are you working on right now?

I’m about to release my second novel, a fun dual-genre story I co-wrote with the amazing April W Gardner called Better than Fiction. It’s Women’s fiction wrapped around a historical romance set in 1916 Corona during the height of its auto racing glory. The short description is: While creating a fictional romance between her 1916 heroine and a reckless racecar driver, a novelist falls prey to an emotional affair with the man who inspires her handsome hero. Corona, California is my hometown and it’s been a blast to dig into our rich history. The release will coincide with the town’s 100th anniversary of the final race, and we are so excited! We have a Facebook page set up for the book: www.facebook.com/betterthanfiction2016 and will be offering a free digital copy to subscribers, so check that out!

When you’re not writing, what do you enjoy doing?

I love musical theater and old Rogers and Hammerstein movies, hanging out with my teens watching Once Upon A Time (though it isn’t what it used to be, we’ve bonded over the show. Plus, everyone says that my husband looks like Neal Cassidy [Michael Raymond James],)  and I recently WON a karaoke contest singing What I’ve Been Looking For from High School Musical with my hubby at our church’s Valentine’s Day dinner. =)

Oh I love Rogers and Hammerstein musicals and Once Upon a Time (a family favorite!) Your husband does resemble Neal.

And the most important question: milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate, or no chocolate?

You forgot the correct answer: ALL OF THE ABOVE.

Either / Or

Loud or Quiet? Quiet

Milk Chocolate or Dark Chocolate? Milk

City or Country? City

Cat or Dog? Both

Book or Movie? Both

Introvert or Extrovert? Introvert

Thanks again, Michelle, for dropping by today! It was a joy getting to know you!

About Michelle Massaro ~

MICHELLE MASSARO writes contemporary fiction soaked in grace. She makes her home in Southern California with her husband of over two decades and their four children. She’s dabbled in homeschooling, teaching Creation Science, and leading worship. When she isn’t tinkering with words, Michelle enjoys old Rogers and Hammerstein movies, making kefir, and Sudoku. A new lipstick and a good French roast always make her happy.

Find Michelle at ~

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website | Better Than Fiction Facebook Page

About Grace in the Flames ~

Three people. One God of grace.

John Douglas thought he knew the future God had for him–raise a family and grow old with his bride, Hannah. But then a deadly house fire incinerates his faith, destroying the man he’d been.

Worship leader Jenni Dupont conquered her demons years ago and has the scars to prove it. But temptation strikes when her world is shattered, and this time she’s not sure if God can carry her through.

Bar waitress April Johanson lives with the secret trauma of an abusive past. Desperate to stay off the streets of Vegas, she’ll do whatever is necessary to pay the rent.

When their lives intersect, God will ask them to do the impossible. To love Him even if…

Purchase Grace in the Flames ~ http://amzn.to/1Y8EcPA

Links embedded in author answers:

April Gardner:  http://www.facebook.com/AprilGardnerB...

Karaoke:  https://candy.wistia.com/medias/pl57k...

Hubby’s lookalike:  http://bit.ly/1QHPgBI

Book Giveaway

Michelle has graciously offered to give away one ebook copy of Grace in the Flames. To enter, in the comments below answer the same Either/Or questions Michelle answered above.
This contest ends Sunday, March 20, 2016 at 11:59 pm CST. I will post the winner on Monday, March 21, 2016. Winner will be chosen via Random.org.

What’s Up Next?

Now that the Coming Home series is complete a lot of you have asked, “What’s up next?” Well, until recently, I wasn’t certain of that myself, but I now have a plan. We all know that plans can go awry, but I’ll do my best to stay on schedule.

I have a couple of books written in a new series (Where the Heart Is) and am working on the third. My original intent was to release book #1, Risking Love, this coming May, but that never felt right. Risking Love needs to come out around Valentine’s Day–it just fits, so I’ve decided to hold off until 2017. This new series is nothing like my first series in that the focus is on romance, and each book spotlights different characters rather than follow one couple. It’s not nearly as gritty as the Coming Home series either, but I don’t shy away from reality.

Also, a number of readers have told me they want more from subplot characters from the Coming Home Series, and that gave me some inspiration. While I have no plans to write another full-length novel in that series, I’ve decided to write four novellas, each spotlighting a different character, and each story will have strong romantic elements.

Thank you all for following my writing journey! I hope you enjoy the new stories!

My Tentative Book Release Schedule:

(Novella titles yet to be decided)

August 2016 – Lauren’s Story (Coming Home Series novella) – You first met Lauren in Memory Box Secrets.

December 2016 – Nathan’s Story (CHS novella) – Richard Brooks’ nephew

February 2017 – Risking Love (Where the Heart Is) – formerly titled Hearts at Risk. This book was a Genesis finalist.

February 2017 – Lee’s story (CHS Novella) – Debbie Brooks Verhoeven’s friend from Pieces of Granite

May 2017 – Brittany & Austin’s story (CHS Novella) – the homeless and foster kids from Hungry for Home

June 2017 – Capturing Beauty (Where the Heart Is)

October 2017 – Finding Jessie (Where the Heart Is) – tentative title

It’s Not About Me

Last week at church, we discussed Acts Chapter 14:8-19 which tells about Paul and Barnabas healing a man in Lystra. This man was crippled and had never walked before, so those who witnessed the miracle were very much in awe.

Too in awe, though, as they started worshiping Paul and Barnabas and wanted to offer sacrifices to them. The apostles immediate response was this:

But when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, understood what the people were doing, they tore their own clothes. Then they ran in among the people and shouted to them: “Men, why are you doing this? We are not gods. We are human just like you. We came to tell you the Good News. We are telling you to turn away from these worthless things. Turn to the true living God, the one who made the sky, the earth, the sea, and everything that is in them.”

Acts 14:14-15

They didn’t want the glory that the people heaped on them, rather they insisted they were mere humans and that all glory goes to God.

Think about that in your own life. Would you have been so quick to deny the praise, to drink in the flattery? Who doesn’t like to be built up and be celebrated? What about those running for President right now? How many of the candidates would rip their clothes and fiercely rebuff the accolades? What about the Hollywood stars who took home awards on Sunday night?

As a writer, when I experience a success, do I really credit God? Admittedly, not always. To become “successful” as the world sees it, the author needs big numbers–sales, followers, royalties, reviews. When approaching agents and editors, they insist on seeing those big numbers. But when we center so much of our efforts on building those numbers, soon our focus isn’t on writing for God, but writing for numbers, and then suddenly when those numbers grow big, it’s easy to say, “Look what I did! Look how great I am!”

I might verbally proclaim my success is all about God, and even write that all glory goes to Him, but if I’m honest, my heart doesn’t always agree with my words.

So, how do we balance building our platform while pointing to God? How do we spend a great deal of time marketing our work, telling people how great we are and how awesome are books are, yet remain clothes-tearing humble like Paul and Barnabas? How do we build numbers, and still keep our eyes fixed on God?

When it’s our goal to make people see how fabulous we are, is it really “not about me?”

Honestly, I don’t have a cure-all answer as this is an issue I’ve constantly struggled with in the writing-to-be-published life as opposed to the writing-for-hobby life. So I begin everyday with prayer, asking that I become more focused on Him, less on me. I pray that the desires of my heart will match His will for my life.

Right now, I’m definitely a work-in-progress.

How do you balance working for success while giving all the glory to God?

A True Love Story

I’m over at Inkspirational Messages today, talking about a True Love story – my parents. I’d love it if you’d click on over.

True Love

 

Simple Book Reviews

It’s no secret that authors love book reviews, and finding a new 5-star reviews, especially on Amazon and Goodreads, always makes their day. The problem can often be encouraging people to write those reviews for us. As authors know, it’s a scary thing to put your words out there for everyone to see.

But honestly, it’s not difficult. I’ve received reviews that are as basic as “Good read.” to reviews that are several paragraphs long. I like both.

So for those of you who want to support your favorite authors by writing reviews, here’s a simple format to follow:

Read the Book!

I liked this book because …

I would recommend this book to …

Rate the Book

Let me break that down a little more.

Read the Book! … Sounds obvious, I know, but you’d be surprised how many people write reviews for books they never read.

I liked (loved!) this book because …

Consider plot, characters, setting, prose, story pace, message, relevance, your emotional response, character arc, or any other reason that comes to you. It’s all valid.

I would recommend this book to …

Who is this book’s target market? Teens? Fantasy readers? Women’s fiction … romance … historical … family drama … etc.

Rate the book … Keep in mind that ratings on different book review sites mean slightly different things.

Amazon

5* – I love It

4* – I like it

3* – It’s okay

2* – I don’t like it

1* – I hate it

Goodreads

5* – It was amazing!

4* – Really liked it

3* – Liked it

2* – It was okay

1* – Did not like it

Other tips & possible inclusions:

Add story summary. One to two sentences summarizing the book’s hook, not the entire story. In my opinion, this isn’t necessary as the reader can look at the story description. ***Do Not Give Spoilers!***

Improvements. What you didn’t like about the book. What could be improved.

Include Impact. A moment in the story that really made an impact on you

Characters you’d like to learn more about

Use words authors love (favorite words used in Chain of Mercy reviews): page-turning, gripping, unforgettable, mesmerizing, Wow!, exceptional, authentic, well-written, captivating, heart-warming, could not put down, powerful, must-read.

Be honest

Do Not Give Spoilers! I know I said this above, but it’s worth repeating. The (typical) reader wants to be surprised by plot twists and the ending.

Have you ever written book reviews? What additional tips would you give for writing reviews?

In Him …

Business-wise, this past week has been a good one for me. My first release, Chain of Mercy, was accepted for a BookBub ad (the queen-maker of book promotion sites) and that ad ran last Tuesday. Since then all of my books have been selling–a lot!–and most of them have made Amazon’s Top 100, even Top 10, of various categories. Chain of Mercy even stayed at #1 in several categories for a few days. In this past week, I’ve made almost as much money as I earned all of last year.

So yeah, it’s been good, and there’s a good part of me that’s rejoicing, telling myself “I’ve finally made it!”

But have I? Is a good sales week what defines me? Is good sales equivalent to success?

This morning I read the first passage in A Sudden Glory by Sharon Jaynes, a passage that could easily have been about me, and one Bible verse stuck out:

“For in him we live and move and have our being.”

Acts 17:28

In Him.

We don’t discover who we are in book sales. Or in sales rankings. Or in worldly fame. But In Him. We live in Him. We move in Him. We have our being–we breathe!–in Him. He defines me. Remaining in Him makes me a success. Everything else is fluff.

Love, Sweet Love Book Giveaway

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, here’s the perfect book giveaway for the romance reader. I’ve joined with nine other fabulous authors to give away twelve clean romance ebooks. Enter using the Rafflecopter form below.

Prize package includes:

The Land Uncharted and Uncharted Redemption by Keely Brooke Keith

Chain of Mercy by Brenda S. Anderson

God’s Daughter by Heather Day Gilbert

Reverie and Reliance by Christina Yother

Falling for Alaska by Shannon L. Brown

Finding Beth by Linnette R. Mullin

Unraveled by Heidi McCahan

Blue Hydrangeas by Marianne Sciucco

Her Imaginary Husband by Lia London

Finding Peace by Melanie D. Snitker

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Official Rules here: http://keelybrookekeith.blogspot.com/2016/02/love-sweet-love-giveaway.html

Coming Home Series Box Set Now Available!

After months of sitting on the back-burner due to life happening, the Coming Home Series ebook box set is finally available! And it’s only $9.99! That’s all four books in one set for a super-low price! Perfect reading for these snowy winter days, right?

Purchase the ebook set >here

I’d dearly love it if you helped spread the word. Thank you!

*Right now the set is only available for Kindle, but I plan to offer it for Nook down the road.

2016 Movie Anticipation

It’s no surprise to my loyal readers that I love going to movies. Those two-plus hours are stress-free with no phones ringing (usually, anyway!), no house to clean up, nothing else demanding my time. So I get to sit alongside family and friends, relaxing (in some theaters, reclining!) with a bowl of popcorn and a beverage, and turn off my brain.

And every year, my calendar gets scheduled with must-see movies. My favorite movies are usually action- or kid-related. Romances tend to have more lust than romance and comedies are often raunchy. I do go see many of the Christian-geared films, but their quality isn’t quite there yet–but it’s definitely improving.

Anyway, here’s my list for 2016.

Are any of these movies on your must-see list?

What movies do you want to see that I haven’t listed?

The Finest Hours

January 29

Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice

March 25

The Huntsman Winter’s War

April 22

Captain America: Civil War

May 6

X-Men Apocalypse

May 27

Finding Dory

June 17

Independence Day: Resurgence

June 24

Star Trek Beyond

July 22

Doctor Strange

November 4

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

December 16