KATHRYN'S FOUNTAIN - David J Claassen - Free Book

This is a new author to me. Welcome, David. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

Most of the characters carry something of my DNA, some much more than others. In my novel Kathryn’s Fountain one of the characters, Ed, is an elderly pastor. I’m a pastor and seem to keep moving toward the elderly age range, so I think Ed’s much the kind of elderly pastor I’d like to grow into. Kathryn, my main character, deals with some of the same questions and self-doubts that I have.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I do it on a regular basis! I dabble in ventriloquism and have a little buddy named Ricky. Ricky and I regularly entertain (and seek to teach) the children of the church. In the process Ricky often pokes fun at me. Why I put up with him is beyond me!

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I never remember a time when I did not want to write. As a teenager I took our old Underwood typewriter (yes, it was already an antique back in the 60s) and sat at our picnic table under the shade tree on our Iowa farm and typed away. I received my first reject letter from a magazine publisher when I was still a teenager.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

I read mainly non-fiction in an effort to keep myself fed, mostly in the field of Christianity. I enjoy real “word crafters” such as Eugene Peterson, Calvin Miller, Philip Yancey, and Kathleen Norris. I also enjoy the devotional classics. I’m currently reading The Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis. Nowadays I tend to listen to fiction (while driving) more than read it. I just finished a Stuart Woods novel. I also enjoy Clive Cussler, Louis L’Amour, and Sue Grafton with her alphabet series. I like variety.

What other books have you written, whether published or not?

Object Lessons for a Year is a book of children’s sermons using common objects to illustrate the main point. It was published in 1986 and is still in print, having sold, to date, just over 60,000 copies. I was delighted when I found out it had been translated into Japanese a few years ago. Silent Words Loudly Spoken is a collection of over 700 outdoor church sign sayings and came out in 2005. I’ve also self-published, using a print-on-demand publisher, several other books including Journey to the Emperor’s Throne, a children’s story, and a couple of non-fiction books: Exploring the Christian Faith which is an overview of the Christian faith and The Comparison Game, which addresses the struggle we all have with comparing ourselves to others. I’m also re-writing a science fiction novel I started at least fifteen years ago titled Moon’s Mercy. There are several other manuscripts piled high in the closet including His Yoke - My Yoke, The Adventures of the Treeples, Hello from Bedford, and others that slip my mind at the moment.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

I take a walk every morning. It’s my prayer time. No matter what the weather (and it can get quite cold here in Michigan!) I’m out there walking. God’s creation not only helps me stay connected to God but it’s very comforting and restorative. I also have several hobbies including photography, raising white homing pigeons, and maintaining a planted aquarium and a small fish pond.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

It’s strange, but many times they just pop into my head. The character has to have that particular name. It feels as if I’ve not created the characters but only discovered them, having met them when they entered my story and so, of course, they already came with a name!

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

I’ve pastored the Mayfair-Plymouth Congregational Church since graduating from seminary in 1975. I’ve been amongst these people for over 33 years as their pastor.

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

An albatross! No bird can fly more effortlessly, and I would love to be able to fly.

What is your favorite food?

Apple pie ala mode – warm!

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

Finding time to write. I’m a full-time pastor, so I solved the problem years ago by determining to get up early Tuesday through Saturday and spend just forty-five minutes to an hour writing each day. I have to re-navigate this roadblock every morning when the alarm goes off at five and face the decision to get up or hit the snooze button. It’s amazing how many pages of material you can turn out over time when you write just an hour a day.

What advice would you give to an author just starting out?

You MUST rewrite and you MUST have someone, or a couple of people, read your material after you’ve rewritten it! My wife Diann and our church’s secretary, Susan, edit my writing. They make me look good!

Tell us about the featured book?

Kathryn, the main character, is a resident of an assisted living facility called Victorian Manor. Kathryn was resigned to living out her last days uneventfully. The fountain in the manor’s garden changes all of that.

The story unfolds with what appears to be a series of miraculous events that begin at the fountain. Kathryn finds herself involved in a plan to rescue a street child named Jasmine who is often left alone by a neglectful mother. A murder and a developing romance force Kathryn to make the most difficult choice of her long life. Love and sacrifice take on new meaning as she struggles to understand what she is called to do.

Kathryn’s Fountain takes the reader on a journey which explores the distance and alienation often separating people of different generations. I wrote it for all ages but believe the story will resonate in a particularly powerful way for those who find themselves marginalized from the normal activities of life because of their senior citizen status. The story celebrates the gifts the generations can bring to each other.

Another message of the novel is the unique contribution we each can make to the grand scheme of things. A character in the novel puts jigsaw puzzles together, and the imagery of a puzzle piece symbolizes this theme.

The novel also tackles the issue of miracles. I believe in the reality of the miraculous in our lives, but I also believe it often goes undetected. You could say God does miracles by stealth. They often fly under the radar of our daily observations.

I, too, believe in miracles. Please give us the first page of the book.

“Do you believe in miracles?”

Kathryn’s intense blue eyes were locked on mine. Without taking her gaze from me, she reached for the handkerchief that was always stashed beside her in the wheelchair and wiped her wet, arthritic hands. She replaced the handkerchief and waited for my reply.

When I had arrived moments earlier for one of my regular visits to Victorian Manor, I found her as usual in the garden by the fountain. She had just returned the day before from an extended hospitalization; she’d been treated for pneumonia and other pulmonary complications. It didn’t surprise me that she looked weak and frail as she leaned over the side of the fountain, a little lady almost lost in her large wheelchair. Her white hair seemed to glow; her face, etched with wrinkles, was lightly dusted with makeup.

I paused to consider. She wasn’t looking for a theological answer. She had been building up the courage to ask the question; I’d seen that as she swished her hand around and around in the fountain. Her question wasn’t really a question. She was probing, getting a sense of whether it was safe to say what she wanted to say. Could she trust me?

I leaned forward in the wrought iron chair, put my elbows on my knees, and folded my hands. “Yes, I believe in miracles.”

She shook her head. “Not just the miracles of the Bible; I know a preacher should believe in those. I mean…” She paused, nervously stuffing the handkerchief more deeply into the space between her hip and the chair. “Do you believe that miracles happen today?”

“Yes,” I said.

She gripped both armrests and leaned forward; her blue eyes sparkled with intensity. In a voice not much louder than a whisper, she said, “Then I have a story to tell you.”

And so began the unfolding of a tale that took several visits to be told. It is one of the most amazing accounts I have ever heard, in years of ministry, before or since.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My web site is located at http://www.daveclaassen.com/ and I also have a blog at www.blogsmonroe.com/faith

Thank you, David, for spending this time with us.

Readers, here's a link where you can order the book:

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won.

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Last August Winners

Abby (anonymous) is the winner of Rose House by Tina Forkner.

Jo (ladijo40) is the winner of Above All Things by Deborah Raney.

April is the winner of Her Inheritance Forever by Lyn Cote.

Marjorie (cenya2) is the winner of Fools Rush In by Janice Thompson.

To receive your book, all of you need to get your mailing address to me. You can click on View My Complete Profile and use the email link there, or you can go to my website www.lenanelsondooley.com and click on Contact Me. Either one will bring the information to my email Inbox.

A BLUE & GRAY CHRISTMAS - Vickie McDonough, Lauralee Bliss, Tamela Hancock Murray, Carrie Turansky - 3 Free Books

This is the second of the Christmas novella collections I'm featuring this year on the blog. And the writing team is a really strong one. This will be a wonderful collection. The first author we're featuring is Vickie McDonough.

Welcome, Vickie. How did your story for the collection come about?

I wondered what would happen if a soldier from the North unwittingly fell in love with a woman from the South. My heroine has laryngitis, and the hero develops feelings for her because of her kindness to his mother and then grows to care for her. He doesn’t learn of her heritage until he’s already fallen for her. Makes for a great scene when he does find out. :-)

What are you reading right now?

I’m reading a contemporary romance by Gail G. Martin

What other books have you written, whether published or not?

I’ve written 8 Heartsong novels and 8 novella collections. If you’d like more info about my books, please visit my website: http://www.vickiemcdonough.com/

Also coming out this fall is a Christmas novella collection called Wild West Christmas—but then you know about that, Lena, since you’re in it. :-)

Next April, my first long fiction book called The Anonymous Bride will be release.

Yes, we'll be hearing from Vickie again when I feature our novella collection. Vickie, what is the hardest thing about writing a part of a novella collection?

This collection was fairly easy because the stories aren’t tied together other than by the Civil War theme. Collections that have sibling stories or ones all set in the same town are much harder. You have to make sure the farmhouse or town setting stays the same in all stories, as well as the looks and personalities of the characters. Those kind are a challenge, but fun to do and to read.

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

I was able to deepen friendships with some ladies who I’ve worked with before.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

It varies. I look at their ethnicity sometimes. The location plays a factor. Where my character grew up is important. I wouldn’t name a hero from New York Billy Ray, but I might if he was from the South. Sometimes I just research an online Baby Name’s sight and search until I find a name that seems to fit the character.

What did you want the reader to take away from your story?

That God ordains our steps even when we can’t see it. He’s with us in the most difficult times and wants to comfort us, if we’ll just turn to Him.

Are you a member of American Christian Fiction Writers? If so, why?

Yes! Because it’s the greatest fiction writers group in the world!

What is the best piece of advice you received as an author?

I went to a conference once, and the speaker passed around a tin can filled with all kinds of buttons. She said the button was the key to becoming a good writer and had us each take one and save it until she was done talking. Then she told us, “The key to being a great writer is to keep your “butt on” the chair and write. If you don’t write, you won’t ever finish a project, and the more you write, the better your writing becomes.

Very good advice, Vickie. Now we're going to meet one of you teammates, Lauralee Bliss.

Welcome, Lauralee. How did your story in the collection come about?

It came from extensive research I had done many years ago on the Fredericksburg campaign and from my own personal interest in Civil War history, living here in Virginia. And from a personal belief in the importance of covenant within relationships.

What are you reading right now?

Home to Hart’s Crossing by Robin Lee Hatcher right now and other Christian fiction to come.

What other books have you written, whether published or not?

I have written over fifteen books in various genres, from contemporary romance to suspense to historical and yes, even a science fiction trilogy (yet unpublished). Beside this collection, my other book due out is a historical romance with Summerside Press – Love Finds You in Bethlehem, New Hampshire. http://www.lauraleebliss.com/

I'm looking forward to featuring the Summerside book. I have one comeing out in May. What is the hardest thing about writing a part of a novella collection?

Making sure that I do not disappoint the other members of the team. It is a team effort all the way, even if the stories are not related to each other, per se.

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

It made me aware of the gifts we each have, the different styles of writing, and the importance of a good critique.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Names just come to me.

What did you want the reader to take away from your story?

That no matter what happens or what trials we face, the covenant we make with our spouse is for life – until death do us part.

Are you a member of American Christian Fiction Writers? If so, why?

Yes. It is an invaluable place to network with other writers and grow in the writing ministry.

What is the best piece of advice you received as an author?

T

o never give up and to keep writing.

Now we're talking with Tamela Hancock Murray. Welcome, Tamela. How did your story for the collection come about?

I was challenged to write about the war from the Northern viewpoint even though I’ve lived in the South all my life. I felt led to write about a pacifist hero. Writing such a plot proved exciting and rewarding. Through Barry, I lived another viewpoint.

What are you reading right now?

I am reading MY SON JOHN by Kathi Macias. This is quite a compelling and moving story by a talented author.

What other books have you written, whether published or not?

I have written many books, and all are listed on my web site at http://www.tamelahancockmurray.com/. One of my recent titles is THE MASTER’S MATCH from Barbour Publishing, an historical story that one reader described as “part Cinderella and part My Fair Lady.”

What is the hardest thing about writing a part of a novella collection?

For me, it’s writing a story that fits in well with the rest of the collection while being unique. This aspect is always interesting and offers many opportunities for growth as a writer. For example, I had the privilege of writing a western for the BROTHERS OF THE OUTLAW TRAIL collection. And I doubt I would have proposed a full length story such as the one I wrote for A BLUE AND GRAY CHRISTMAS.

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

I felt privileged to collaborate with such a talented team of authors. Writing with them, and about this era in history, expanded my horizons. I learned much about different events that took place during the war as I read their stories.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

One of my favorite books for choosing historical names is NAMES THROUGH THE AGES by Teresa Norman. This is an excellent resource for writers and a great read for historians.

What did you want the reader to take away from your story?

Through Barry’s difficult relationship with his brother, I hope to show the value of loving the unlovable. Through Arabella’s stalwart devotion to Barry, I hope to encourage readers to stand by those they love. I also hope to show that pacifism isn’t necessarily cowardice.

Are you a member of American Christian Fiction Writers? If so, why?

Yes, I am a member of this wonderful organization. They offer sweet fellowship and support each other in an industry that isn’t the easiest career path.

What is the best piece of advice you received as an author?

That if you write 1000 words a day, you will have a complete book in three months.

Now I'm introducing the last member of the team. Welcome, Carrie. How did your story for the collection come about?

Back in 2004 I was reading a book about women in the Civil War for a homeschooling project I was working on with my kids. Those one-page vignettes really stirred up my interest in the time period. Up until that time I had only written contemporary stories. I did some more research online and became very excited about several story ideas based on real people and situations. I shared the ideas with my critique partners, Vickie McDonough and Tamela Hancock Murray and also author-friend Kristy Dykes.

We met with Rebecca Germany at an ACFW Conference and shared the ideas with her. She agreed to take a look at our proposal, so we worked on that and sent it in. Though she liked the idea, she held on to it for a few years before finally contracting it in 2008.

Kristy was fighting a very brave battle against cancer at that time and decided to step down from our team. We invited Lauralee Bliss to be our fourth co-author, and she did a great job. We turned in our novella on February 1, and A Blue and Gray Christmas releases in September.

What are you reading right now?

I just finished reading Tammy Alexander’s novel, The Inheritance and enjoyed it very much. Other recent reads I would recommend: The Baby Bond, by Linda Goodnight. (Great characterization). Snow Melts in Spring by Deborah Vogts. (Wonderful debut novel).

What other books have you written, whether published or not.

Carrie’s Published titles:
Along Came Love, Steeple Hill Love Inspired
Wherever Love Takes Us in Wedded Bliss? Barbour
Tea for Two in Kiss the Bride, Barbour
Moonlight and Mistletoe in A Big Apple Christmas, Barbour
A Shelter in the Storm in A Blue and Gray Christmas, Barbour
Home To Fairhaven, Steeple Hill Love Inspired 2010
Carrie’s Unpublished:
Kenya Calling
Promises
Garden of Secrets
Coincidentally Yours
Surrendered Hearts

What is the hardest thing about writing a part of a novella collection?

The first challenge is finding like-minded authors who are excited about the story ideas and willing to work together to develop complimentary novellas. I was very blessed to partner with Tamela, Vickie, Kristy, and Lauralee. Each woman is multi-published and very talented. I learned so much from working with them.

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

Working on this team challenged me to do my very best. We critiqued for each other as we were writing our novellas, and I think that made all of our stories stronger. I am very pleased with the final version that each author turned in. I’m confident our readers will enjoy this collection.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

I use baby books, and online lists. For historical books, I look at census lists from that time period. I also keep a running list of names I like.

What did you want the reader to take away from your story?

I hope readers of Shelter in the Storm will be reminded that God is constant strength and comfort when we go through the storms of life. He can be trusted to lead us and guide us, but we must turn to Him and trust Him each step of the way.

Are you a member of American Christian Fiction Writers? If so, why?

Yes, I have been a member of ACFW since 2000. I have learned so much from this wonderful group of writers! I don’t think I would be published if it were not for the friendships and knowledge I have gained from ACFW. I highly recommend it to all aspiring fiction authors.

What is the best piece of advice you received as an author?

Kristy Dykes encourage me to keep on writing and never give up. Her faith and trust in God and His goodness continue to inspire me even after her passing. Her example of balancing love for her husband and commitment to ministry as well as writing were also great examples that continue to impact me. I will always be thankful for her friendship and the way she mentored me in life and in writing.

Vickie, Lauralee, Tamela, and Carrie, thank you for spending this time with us.

Readers here's a link where you can order the featured book:

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

CHRISTMAS LOVE AT LAKE TAHOE - Lena Nelson Dooley, Jeanie Smith Cash, Jean Kincaid - 3 Free Books

I am blessed to be in two different Christmas novella collections this year. One contemporary, one historical. This is the contemporary one. How did your story for the collection come about?

When Jeanie Smith Cash first contacted me about being part of this collection, I thought about a ski lodge and what I’d want to do if I were working at one. I chose activities director. And if she didn’t really want to ski, who would be the best hero for there to be internal conflict between them. The results is my book No Thank You in Christmas Love in Lake Tahoe.

What are you reading right now?

Love Finds You in Revenge, Ohio, by my good friend, Lisa Harris. It’s a wonderful book. I highly recommend it.

What other books have you written, whether published or not?

This book and the other one that is releasing at the same time are book releases 24 and 25. Go to my web site to read about my other releases. http://www.lenanelsondooley.com/

What is the hardest thing about writing a part of a novella collection?

Keeping it to under 20,000 words but still including enough character development.

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

I had worked with Jeri Odell before and knew how to work with her. This was my first collection with Jeanie Smith Cash and Jean Kincaid. I really enjoyed working with them, especially our brainstorming session while we were at the ACFW national conference in Minneapolis last September.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Various methods. For this book, both the hero and heroine told me their names. I did, however, borrow the names of two of my grandson’s best friends for two of the young men who came to the ski lodge with my hero. (Thank you PJ and Big John.)

What did you want the reader to take away from your story?

That as a Christian, we can let go of our fears and really rest in the Lord.

Are you a member of American Christian Fiction Writers? If so, why?

Yes. I believe this is the premier organization for writers of Christian fiction. I recommend it to other writers all the time. As a matter of fact, I currently serve as the president of the local chapter, DFW Ready Writers, and I always either speak or do paid critiques at the national conference, or do both.

What is the best piece of advice you received as an author?

Keep writing and keep learning.

I'm really happy to introduce you to Jeanie Smith Cash, one of my good friends. Her idea was the catalyst for this collection. Welcome, Jeanie. How did your story for the collection come about?

I love Lake Tahoe area and the snow. I thought it would be fun to write about four young ladies fresh out of college, determined to concentrate only on getting their careers off the ground. But what happens to their career-first attitude when as they work at the ski lodge through Christmas and the winter season, they each one meet the man the Lord has chosen for them?

What are you reading right now?

Two Love Inspired Suspense, Guarded Secrets, by Leann Harris and A Silent Terror, by Lynette Easton. Both excellent stories.

What other books have you written, whether published or not?

I have three published, A Christmas Wish, in the 2-in-1 Christmas In The Country, Doctor St. Nick, in the 4-in-1 Wyoming Christmas heroes, and The Christmas Miracle, in the 4-in-1 Christmas Love At lake Tahoe. I wrote two suspense novels that aren’t published yet, one I’ve submitted and the other one I’m working on submitting.

What is the hardest thing about writing a part of a novella collection?

Making sure all of the information in each story coincides.

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

It was a real blessing working with you, Lena, Jeri Odell, and Jean Kincaid. It was exciting seeing these stories come together. I feel it brought us closer together as Christian friends and fellow authors.

I agree wholeheartedly with your last statement. How do you choose your characters’ names?

I’m always looking for a name I like. When I hear one that catches my interest, I tuck it away for future stories. When I’m ready, I use the one I feel fits my characters.

What did you want the reader to take away from your story?

The message of salvation. That we have a Savior who loves us and once we accept Him, He is always there for us. Hebrews 13:5 tells us, He will never leave us nor forsake us.

Are you a member of American Christian Fiction Writers? If so, why?

Yes, I am a member. The best thing I ever did for my writing career was to join ACFW. Another was meeting you, Lena, and several other authors as well as my editor, Becky Germany, that helped me to get my books published. I love the fellowship of other authors and the resources for writing the group offers. I love the prayer group and that we pray for each other when we have a need.

What is the best piece of advice you received as an author?

Always pray before you write a word and ask the Lord’s guidance. He is the true author; we are just the vessel He uses to write His story. We have no talent without Him. Don’t give up, keep writing and keep submitting until you get a sale. Trust the Lord that it will happen in His timing. He will take care of our needs. I strongly believe in the scripture, I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Phil 4:13

I'm really happy to intruduce you readers to Jean Kincaid. We've been friends for many years through ACFW. And Jean and her husband are missionaries. I have a deep love for missionaries. Welcome, Jean How did your story for the collection come about?

I visited several states this past year, courtesy of Time Share invitations and liked the concept. I thought it made an interesting job for a young person.

What are you reading right now?

Vacation Bible School Material, lol.

What other books have you written, whether published or not?

I co-authored the book, Shelter in Seattle, with Rhonda Gibson.

Yes, I featured that book on this blog, and I love the story. What is the hardest thing about writing a part of a novella collection?

Correlating the material for the stories.

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

I learn that communication is vital.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

By using family member names.

What did you want the reader to take away from your story?

That the Lord loves us unconditionally, especially when we feel no one else does.

Are you a member of American Christian Fiction Writers? If so, why?

Yes. ACFW has been the greatest schooling I’ve had concerning writing and publication.

What is the best piece of advice you received as an author?

Write what you know and put your rear in that chair every day.

Unfortunately, our fourth author, Jeri Odell, was unable to join us on this interview. You'll love her story in the collection, too.

Here's more info on the book:

Christmas Love at Lake Tahoe

Love Hits the Slopes at Christmastime

Four young women, fresh out of college, pursue their careers at a new ski lodge at Lake Tahoe's Incline Village during the winter season.

Bethany Stillman's resolve to focus on her RN career falters when she meets paramedic Cole Beckman. Cole wonders how long it will be before Beth realizes he's to blame for crippling her grandfather. Can a Christmas miracle forge a path to love and forgiveness?

Social director Scarlett McKaye loves planning things down to the last detail. But what she didn't count on was having to spurn the bold advances of a reckless suitor. How far will daredevil Derrick Greene go to cancel Scarlett's reservations?

Stephanie St. John is determined to make a go of the time-share program at Snowbird Lodge. But Darrin Hart seems to be undermining her efforts, her confidence, and her reputation. Will misunderstanding be resolved, or will Stephanie succeed in business only to lose at love?

A wounded-at-the-heart Michaela Christianssen has chosen a male-free existence. But her friends and an eleven-year-old girl have other ideas. Widower Jonas Bradley is content with his life as father and forest ranger, until he finds himself pining for Michaela. What will it take to fell her oppositions to romance?

Will these four women hear wedding bells chime this Christmas?

Readers, here's a link where you can order the book:

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

THE FAMILIAR STRANGER - Christina Berry - Free Book

This is Christina's debut novel. I love featuring debut novelists. Welcome, Christina. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

Denise and Craig’s story is based on the lessons of forgiveness God taught me when my marriage fell apart … the first time. Accordingly, many of the emotions Denise goes through correspond to what I felt, though our situations differ. However, I also wanted to really understand the male perspective, so Craig had parts of me in him as well.

The path away from God and following temptation is something we can all recognize and, unfortunately, identify with.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

Just before turning thirty, I decided to get my black belt in tae kwondo. I drove the instructor crazy by the time I advanced to the level of breaking boards. He would ask me to “get angry.” Somehow, I had trouble channeling any anger at an inanimate object, especially when I lived in near constant joy at all of God’s blessings in my life.

Once I tore my ACL—on the landing after breaking two boards with a reverse jumping side kick—I put the dream aside and contented myself with a first degree purple belt. I think I look better in purple than black anyway.

Still … don’t mess with me in a dark parking lot!

When did you first discover you were a writer?

In junior high, I penned melodramatic poems about boys I liked, but I didn’t identify myself as a writer until high school. My ninth grade English teacher read aloud in class an essay I had written. Glowing from the praise, I shared that I’d like to be a writer. He asked me to bring in a sample. What? You have to write if you want to be a writer???

It wasn’t until I graduated from college that my mother approached me about co-writing a novel. Nine years and forty-two rejections later, I signed my first contract, a solo project.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

I’ll read anything that’s well written. I love a mixture of genre, like Jane Kirkpatrick’s historicals with underlying themes of romance. Randy Alcorn’s novels incorporate so much truth with fantastic stories. James Scott Bell’s plots zoom along, and never in the expected direction. I have too many favorite authors to list, but they cover everything from Grace Bridges’ speculative fiction to Nancy E. Turner’s Arizona-based historicals.

I'm with you. I love many genres. What other books have you written, whether published or not?

My mother and I have written a novel, On the Threshold, that follows a mother and daughter through a heart-wrenching time of loss. We expect to begin a new project soon. I’m working on Unafraid, my next solo book, whose first chapter was so scary it freaked my critique group out and my dad had to read it with the all the lights on. :-) I also have several non-fiction proposals, including a humorous advice column collection with Mom, that have yet to make the rounds because my career began moving in the fiction direction.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

Sanity? Well, I ask all the voices in my head to each pick one thing to get done today. When we all work together, it’s fantastic how much gets accomplished!

No, really, I try to think about my priorities for the next day before I go to bed. I might jot a few notes of what MUST get done. Then I set out to please God first, while taking care of my family and work. Hopefully in that order, but family also has to understand there are times when work encroaches on their time because of deadlines. Ultimately, one goal of my writing career is to supplement the family income—however small of a supplement it might be!—so my writing time is still a focus on my family.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

The characters in The Familiar Stranger were named after people in my church who are close to the right age. Disclaimer: no other part of the characters are based on them! For Unafraid, I plucked my heroine’s name off the ACFW loop. As long as a name fits the character’s personality and generation, I’m not too particular.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

A day when I can fall asleep knowing I made my Savior proud. Doesn’t happen as often as I’d like, but there’s nothing more fulfilling.

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

A cat. Don’t you just envy the way they can drape themselves anywhere and fall asleep? If I could only master that nonchalant, cool, I-know-you-love-me-but-I’m-doing-you-a-favor-by-letting-you-pet-me look …

What is your favorite food?

Ice cream. There’s always room for it and so many delicious flavors to choose from!

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

As with most moms, it comes down to time. Apparently you actually need to grocery shop to have food in the house. And the house doesn’t keep itself clean. Add in fieldtrips, editing jobs, church activities, and substitute days and the only way to get the writing done is to force it in.

What advice would you give to an author just starting out?

Join local writing organizations, as well as national ones, such as ACFW. I was a member of Oregon Christian Writers for years before joining ACFW. Both groups provide various and complementary benefits.

Go to conferences or buy the audio from those you can’t attend.

Read, read, read! Write to authors you respect. Maybe a friendship/mentoring relationship will develop, maybe not. At the very least, you’re practicing the golden rule, because don’t we all want to get fan letters once we “make it?”

Tell us about the featured book?

The Familiar Stranger deals with lies, secrets, and themes of forgiveness in a troubled marriage. Though, as I said before, it was based on lessons I learned in my marriage five years ago, it proved prophetic of the death of my marriage early this year. When I was in the middle of the edits, my husband revealed some hidden issues and left our marriage of thirteen years. It became a strange cycle of life imitating art imitating life! I’ve had wise counsel that my next book should be about a woman finding true love and winning the lottery. :-) Yet the words I’d written as a happily married woman ministered to me in my singleness. What a mighty God we serve!

Here’s the description from Christianbook.com:

Craig Littleton has decided to end his marriage with his wife, Denise. But an accident lands him in the ICU with fuzzy memories. As Denise helps him remember who he is, she uncovers some dark secrets. Will this trauma create a fresh start? Or has his deceit destroyed the life they built together?

Please give us the first page of the book.

HIS

I wrapped a towel around my waist as Denise stalked into the bathroom. Avoiding her eyes, I wiped a clear spot on the steamy mirror and studied my reflection. A caged man, a Houdini, stared back at me. Bound inside a straitjacket, locked in chains, submerged in a tank, I could taste the metallic tang of the key hidden in my mouth. If I held my breath a little longer and waited for the right time to rip my shoulder from its socket, I would escape my stifling life.

“Did you wipe down the shower, Craig?”

What harm would happen if once, just once, I left droplets on the glass doors? I bit back my retort. “Of course, honey.”

“Good.” She peered into the brushed-sliver mirror hanging above the white marble countertop—a bathroom that had cost me a month’s wages—and added another layer to her lipstick. “Need to hurry if we’re going to be on time.”

“I’m not going.” I said it as if I didn’t care one way or the other what she thought of my bombshell.

“What are you talking about?” Her shoulders tightened into unnatural stillness.

I rubbed the scruff of my neck and scrutinized my image. A few wrinkles around the eyes. Two slight recessions on either side of the hairline. Not bad for a guy of forty-six.

“Craig, the deacons’ meeting in right after the service and you’ve missed the last two. Are you trying to sabotage your position?” Her reflected hazel eyes drilled into me.

For a second I thought of giving it all up, going to church with her and the kids, acting as though that was all I had planned for the day. Then the image faded and a pair of deep brown eyes replaced hers. No, I wouldn’t be setting foot in a house of worship this Sunday, or ever again.

I can hardly wait until my copy comes. How can readers find you on the Internet?

My mother and I love when readers come by http://www.ashberrylane.net/ and sign up for the infrequent, humorous newsletter. Every subscriber has the chance at the prize of their choice: a 4GB iPod Shuffle or free autographed books for the life of our writing careers. You can find me on facebook and shoutlife.

I blog a few times a week at http://www.authorchristinaberry.blogspot.com/, and run an editing business from http://www.christinaberry.net/ Basically, my goal is to be ANYWHERE you go.

Thank you, Christina, for spending this time with us.

Readers, here's a link where you can order a copy of the book:

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

BLAGGARD'S MOON - George Bryan Polivka - Free Book

Welcome to my blog, George. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

Well, in the most important sense I write all of me into my characters. By that I mean that I invest emotion and passion and pain and sorrow and fear and faith that I know very well. I believe this is what makes any fiction believable, and (when it’s done well) more true than non-fiction. In the less important sense, which would be investing personal characteristics into individual characters, I do that much less frequently than I did when I started out. I think it's a good way to learn the art, to learn how to write with vulnerability, but it is ultimately very limiting. Not to mention that it tends toward the narcissistic.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

The quirkiest thing I ever did with my writing was probably in the Trophy Chase Trilogy, where I entered the mind of my sea monster, the Firefish, and told those scenes from its perspective. That worked very well, I believe, because many people have told me that the Firefish is their favorite character.

Sounds interesting. When did you first discover you were a writer?

I don’t remember a time when I didn’t write, going all the way back to a story I wrote and illustrated in first or second grade. But that just means I knew I could write. I suppose I knew I was a writer when I won first prize for the fourth consecutive time in my college’s literary magazine. It was a blind competition, meaning submissions were judged without names attached. The staff was getting very tired of my poems winning every semester, and I knew it. So the fourth time out, I submitted a short story instead, my first since an English class assignment in high school. And I won again. At that point I knew not only that I could write, but that I should. And that I wanted to.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

I read historical chronicles almost exclusively. I love David McCollough and Stephen Ambrose. There are a whole lot of really good historical narratives out there right now, and I revel in them. I think it’s the attractiveness of the narrative, which pulls together the realistic grit and ambiguity and the odd details that I’d never have imagined. It pulls me into those time periods, the way people thought, the motives and travails of ordinary people in extraordinary times. I think it’s helped me write with a better feel for the time and place of my books (though Nearing Vast is entirely fictional).

What other books have you written, whether published or not?

Outside of the four books that take place in Nearing Vast (Blaggard’s Moon and the Trophy Chase Trilogy), I’ve written right around a dozen unpublished books. Two I would classify as devotional, the rest are novels. There is only one other that has a fantastic or fantasy bent, and it takes place in current times. The rest are adventures, typically fish-out-of-water stories. I consider them practice. They won’t see the light of day, unless I rewrite them from the ground up--an exercise that would take as long as writing a new one from scratch. Which why they likely won’t see the light of day. The devotional ones? Maybe. Someday.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

I don’t. It is kept for me, to the extend possible, by my family and the God I serve (however imperfectly).

How do you choose your characters’ names?

I don’t know. They come to me. It’s mostly feel. Sometimes they just roll out and I never look back. Smith Delaney, Conch Imbry, Packer Throme, and Panna Seline all fall into that category. They felt right, and said the right things to me. Then others I work on. I have changed a few characters names in the late stages of editing (I am very thankful for “Search and Replace”!) But a good name, for me, sounds like you’ve heard it before, or conjures up connotations that you can’t quite figure out consciously. Some of them you can puzzle out if you try. Stave Deroy, the beefy Royal Dragoon who helps Panna and then befriends Packer Throme in books two and three of the trilogy, is a name that essentially means “protect the king,” if you think about it. Well, alternatively, it could mean “keep the king away.” Both have application. But typically no one studies these things hard enough to unlock them. They just feel right. Some are easy, like Talon. Others not so much; they were just suggestive sounds I enjoyed saying. Like the Drammune commander Fen Abakka Mux, whose name I actually walked around the house repeating, I liked the sound of it so much.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

I suppose it’s winning the Emmy, which I did for writing a documentary in 1986. It was a good program, and while the production values haven’t held up, the story and its themes have. It chronicled the way black American athletes paved the way for civil rights by gaining fame and glory on the athletic field. It was one of the only paths actually open to African Americans to achieve, going back all the way to the slave ships. But it was a hard road to glory.

What was it called?

“A Hard Road to Glory.” I worked with Arthur Ashe, who co-wrote, and since I was the producer I also got to work with Lou Rawls and James Earl Jones, who narrated. I met and interviewed Muhammed Ali, Howard Cosell, and many others.

Quite a distinguished group of men. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

A dog. A family dog that sleeps a lot. Not very intimidating, unless there’s some serious threat to house and home, then it could be roused to ferocious, even vicious confrontation. But one that far prefers a nap by the fireplace.

What is your favorite food?

Barbecue. I mean really good, southern barbecue. Texas brisket, St. Louis ribs. I could go on and on.

Yum! What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

I think it was learning to give my manuscripts the last 10%. The final polish, the turn of phrase, the memorable image, that last little bit that makes it magic, that makes it sing. Often it’s leaving the obvious unstated. I think pretty much anyone can write a story without that. I wrote way too many of them, and quit on them too soon. The first time I really polished one, I got it published.

What advice would you give to an author just starting out?

Don’t be an author, be a writer. Learn to write really well, and don’t try to get something published until it’s among the best things you’ve ever read, much less written. If your highest goal isn’t to write magical, earth-shattering, soul-moving fiction, get out. Too many people want to be authors, because they like to imagine that as their identity. And too many authors aren’t writers, they’re published because publishers need fodder for their markets. Forget all that. Book signings are actually exercises in humility. Few have ever heard of you, and you end up feeling like a peddler pushing your own concoction of medicine water. If you’re a writer, and a good one, and your stuff is worth reading, God knows. If He wants it published, someone will find your manuscript in a trash can and hunt you down. If He doesn’t want you published, no amount of grim determination on your part will get you out there. Just write. And pray.

Tell us about the featured book?

Blaggard’s Moon is about confronting evil. The primary evil is in the form of piracy, which is rather more of a current topic than I had planned, given the news recently. The primary confronter of this evil is a young marine named Damrick Fellows, whose solution, when the government won’t act, is the obvious solution that occurs naturally to good, strong men everywhere. He takes up arms and fights them himself. And he does it with great success. But apparently simple choices often have unexpected consequences, and complications ensue when Damrick discovers that the love of his life, the beautiful Jenta Stillmithers, has become a fixture on the arm of a the most notorious, richest, and most powerful pirate of them all, Carnsford Bloodstone “Conch” Imbry.

Uniquely, I think, especially for Christian literature, the story is told primarily from the point of view of the pirates. The tale of Damrick and Jenta is recalled through the memories of Smith Delaney, an uncomplicated pirate left to die for the crime of showing mercy. It is through his vivid recall of the tale, as it was told after hours beneath the decks of his pirate ship, that the great battle between good men and the pirates of the world plays out. That story gets intertwined with his own, and its resolution will have a strong influence on the outcome of Delaney’s rather serious predicament.

Please give us the first page of the book.

“On a Post. In a pond.”

Delaney said the words aloud, not because anyone could hear him but because the words needed saying. He wished his small declaration could create a bit of sympathy from a crewmate, or a native, or even one of the cutthroats who had left him here. But he was alone.

It wasn’t the post to which he’d been abandoned that troubled him, though it was troubling enough. The post was worn and unsteady, about eight inches across at the top where his behind was perched, and it jutted eight feet or so up from the still water below him. His shins hugged its
pocked and ragged sides; his feet were knotted at the ankles behind him for balance. Delaney was a sailor, and this was not much different than dock posts in port where he’d sat many times to take his lunch. He was young enough not to be troubled with a little pain in the backside, old
enough to have felt his share of it. No, the post wasn’t the problem.

The pond from which the post jutted was not terribly troublesome either. It was a lagoon, really, less than a hundred yards across, no more than fifty yards to shore in any direction. He could swim that distance easily. He peered down through the water, past its smooth, still surface, and eyed the silver-green flash of scales, lit bright by the noonday sun.

The piranha, now, they were somewhat vexing.

“Nasty little fishies,” he said aloud. They were a particularly grumpy strain of the meat-eating little monsters. They were so grumpy that he wasn’t even sure they were piranha. Each one was about the size of a blue-gill, not much bigger than Delaney’s hand, and each boasted an impressive set of teeth. But where piranha were flat side to side, these were flat top to bottom. And while piranha had small mouths and a few sharp teeth, these had wide mouths, all the way around their heads, and their teeth were triangular and interlocked, like little bear traps. They could use them, too, as he’d just witnessed. That had been a gruesome show, put on by the pirate captain just moments ago. Now the irritable little critters were swimming around his post like angry bees. Wanting more.

But even the piranha were not the worst of his troubles.

Intriguing. How can readers find you on the Internet?

They can visit http://www.nearingvast.com/

Thank you, George, for spending this time with us.

Readers, here's a link where you can order Blaggard's Moon:

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

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FOOLS RUSH IN - Janice Thompson - Free Book

I rejoiced when Revell bought this wedding series from my special friend. Welcome, Janice. Tell us about your salvation experience.

I came to know the Lord at an early age (11) and was so anxious to follow him that I insisted the (visiting) pastor halt the service and baptize me that same day before anyone left the sanctuary! I always had a heart to follow the Lord. When I was twenty-five, I had a real “awakening” with Him. . .rededicating my life and truly falling head over heels in love with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. I’ve walked with Him ever since.

You’re planning a writing retreat where you can only have four other authors. Who would they be and why?

Well, YOU, of course, Lena. Having a writer’s retreat without you just wouldn’t do! (And I’m speaking from experience here, since we’ve “retreated” together in the past.) I would also invite Kathleen Y’Barbo (my best writing buddy), along with Linda Kozar. As for a fourth, I would love to have Nancy Jo Jenkins. There’s something about that sweet lady that just makes me smile. She’s a fabulous writer, (so I’d be able to glean a lot from her), but her gentle spirit is contagious, as well! (Can you even imagine the worship services the four of us would have?)

Totally dynamic, I'd say. Do you have a speaking ministry? If so, tell us about that.
I started speaking in 2004 just after the release of my book HURRICANE. I went all over south Texas, speaking about the Galveston hurricane of 1900. In fact, I became something of an expert on that storm! From there, my public speaking has really taken off. In fact, I’ve learned to tailor my speeches to whatever book I happen to be selling at the moment. (And speaking of which, if any of your readers would like a copy of my lesson “Becoming a Public Speaker 101” I’m happy to send it to them. Just email me at booksbyjanice@aol.com and I’ll send it!) I spoke at a reader’s group last Thursday night and had a blast. I’d love to do more of those.

She's very good. We've had her at our local chapter of ACFW, and then there were those Writer Spiritual Retreats you mentioned. What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you and how did you handle it?

Goodness, you would have to ask. I had my very first hot flash in the middle of a speaking gig. Yep. You read that right. I was in the middle of an interview in front of a roomful of strangers and all of a sudden my face heated up like a griddle and the room started spinning. I paused for about thirty seconds and, according to my writing friend, Sharen Watson, turned as red as a beet. Talk about humiliating. Worst of all, I was being interviewed by a man! So, I had to explain to him (after the fact) why I’d blipped out during the interview. He took it in stride, but it really threw me off!

People are always telling me that they’d like to write a book someday. I’m sure they do to you, too. What would you tell someone who came up to you and said that?

I would say, “What has the Lord laid on your heart?” If they could come up with a quick and ready answer, I would say, “Then take the time to learn the craft.” Though it might not seem very helpful advice, it’s actually the best advice. There are no shortcuts in this business!

That's the truth. I told an aspiring author that very thing in a meeting with her today. Tell us about the featured book?

Oh my, am I ever jazzed about this book! It’s a “diamond” to me. . .truly one of my favorite stories ever! The book is titled FOOLS RUSH IN and was published by Revell. Here’s the synopsis:

Bella Rossi may be nearing thirty, but her life is just starting to get interesting. When her Italian-turned-Texan parents hand over the family wedding planning business, Bella is determined not to let them down. She quickly books a "Boot Scoot'n" wedding that would make any Texan proud. There's only one catch—she knows nothing about country music because her family only listens to Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Where will she find a DJ on such short notice who knows his Alan Jackson from his Keith Urban?

When a misunderstanding leads her to the DJ (and man) of her dreams, things start falling into place. But with a family like hers, nothing is guaranteed.

Can the perfect Texan wedding survive a pizza-making uncle with mob ties, an aunt who is a lawsuit waiting to happen, and a massive delivery of 80 cowboy boots? And will Bella ever get to plan her own wedding? Book one in the Weddings by Bella series, Fools Rush In is fun, fresh, and full of surprises. Readers will love the flavorful combination of Italian and Tex-Mex, and the hilarity that ensues when cultures clash.

I hate to play favorites, but there’s just something about this book that makes me smile—inside and out. It’s a romantic comedy and it’s written in first-person. I love the dynamics of the two families (Bella’s and D.J.’s). They’re as opposite as can be—she’s a little bit Italian, he’s a little bit country—but Mama Mia. . .what a pair!

If your readers are interested in learning more about how I came up with the story idea for the book, they can check out the Romantic Times author spotlight here: http://www.rtbookreviews.com/stage/authors_spotprev.php?id=605

Please give us the first page of the book.

If Uncle Lazarro hadn’t left the mob, I probably wouldn’t have a story to tell.

Okay, so he wasn’t actually in the mob; he only sold vacuum cleaners to a couple of guys who were. In the 70’s. In Atlantic City, New Jersey. Before I was born.

But still, mob ties are mob ties, right? And we Rossi’s certainly know how to take a little bit of yeast and puff it up into a whole loaf of bread—which means we’ve managed to elevate Uncle Lazzaro’s story to folklore status. And, why not? As my Mama always says, “A little extra spice never hurts the sauce, just gives it more flavor.”

Depending on who you ask, it was a Damascus Road experience that did it. Uncle Lazarro swears he was blinded by a bright light that drove him backwards to the ground, just like the Apostle Paul in the book of Acts.

My Aunt Bianca, God rest her soul, told the story a little differently. In her version, Uncle Lazarro was hit by a passing bus on a city street late at night while walking home from a bar in a drunken stupor. She said the headlights came at him like two glowing snake eyes just before the kiss of death. She always exaggerated her S’s when she got to the word sss. . .snake, but that only made the story more exciting.

Afterwards, Aunt B. would lift her tiny silver crucifix to her lips, give it a kiss, then roll her eyes heavenward and mouth a silent prayer of thanks to the Almighty—not just for sparing her husband’s life, but for returning both his sanity and his religion.

Regardless of whose story you believed, Uncle Lazarro ended up at the Sisters of Mercy hospital in Atlantic City, New Jersey, where the nuns got a hold of him and led him to the Lord. He called it a Come to Jesus meeting, and his eyes filled with tears every time he spoke of it.

According to my dad, my uncle gave up selling vacuum cleaners that same night. From what I hear, he was never quite the same. . .and neither was anyone else in my family. Funny, how one event can change absolutely everything. In our case, it set the wheels in motion for the whole Rossi clan to end up in the most illogical of places—Texas.

Wonderful. I can hardly wait for my copy to arrive! How can readers find you on the Internet?

They can visit my website at: http://www.janiceathompson.com/

If they really want to see what I’m all about, they can track me down on my facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/jhannathompson?ref=name

Janice, thank you for spending this time with us. It was a lot of fun.

Readers, here's a link where you can order Fools Rush In:

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

HER INHERITANCE FOREVER - Lyn Cote - Free Book

This is my first time to have my friend Lyn Cote on the blog.


When Lyn Cote became a mother, she gave up teaching, and while raising a son and a daughter, she began working on her first novel. Long years of rejection followed. Finally in 1997, Lyn got "the call." Her first book, Never Alone, was chosen by Steeple Hill. Lyn has had over twenty-five novels published since then. In 2006 Lyn's book, Chloe, was a finalist for the RITA, one of the highest awards in the romance genre. Lyn’s brand “Strong Women, Brave Stories,” always includes three elements: a strong heroine who is a passionate participant in her times, authentic historical detail and a multicultural cast of characters. Now, Lyn spends her days writing books that show the power of divine as well as human love.


Lyn helped found two RWA chapters Heart of Iowa Fiction Authors in 1994 and Faith, Hope& Love Inspirational Chapter in 1997. She served as president of both. She is Pan Liaison of FHL now. Lyn has also written three articles for the RWR on Classic Romantic Conflicts and the inspirational romance market. Lyn has also taught regional and national workshops for RWA. Now she is an active member of the Wausau WI group of Wisconsin Romance Writers.


Welcome, Lyn. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I think that would be when I was a senior in high school. Before dawn one morning, I went with friends (who will remain nameless) to the Republican and Democratic Election Offices in downtown Waukegan IL and put "Ringo for President" Posters on their front window. We thought it was fun.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

I love reading cozy mysteries, fantasy, historical sagas and contemporary romantic suspense. I don't care for Thrillers or Horror and am leery of literary fiction though I did enjoy the Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd.

What other books have you written, whether published or not?

I've written over 30 books. To see them, drop by my website (ww.StrongWomenBraveStories.com) and click on Buy Books. All the published ones are there. I still have 2 of the 3 book I wrote first that have never been published but I have been thinking about getting them into print. They are stories that aren't as good a market fit as what I write now. But I still love those stories and they will come out sometime. The third, my first attempt at contemporary, I have let die a peaceful death saved on an old disk. Better left undisturbed.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

I use a baby name book. Once friends from out of town dropped in and took one look at the Baby Name book on the coffee table and asked if I was pregnant again. I laughed out loud and said, just starting another book, a different type of birthing. I go by the names meaning and it's sound and if it fits the story. Naming a character is very important to me because I can't write until I find a name that fits my hero and heroine.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Raising two children and staying married to the same man while doing so. Kids! Love 'em but they do push parents to their limits. At least mine did. When Dr. James Dobson wrote THE STRONG WILLED CHILD--he must have been peeking into our yard and windows!

Mine, too. I had one of those, but she's a wonderful godly woman now. What is your favorite food?

Watermelon-always and forever!

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

I am a big picture person, can't be bothered with details. I much prefer telling the story than making myself fiddle with the words. But I learned to go over every line and every word until it was exactly right. It nearly drives me nuts but I do it. If you drop by the Novel Journey Blog, I posted my Dramatic Sentences in Seven Steps there this year. http://noveljourney.blogspot.com/search?q=Lyn+Cote

Tell us about the featured book?

In 1836 Texas, Alandra Sandoval is the Tejano lady of Rancho Sandoval. She is determined to show the world of men that she, a woman, can run the ranch successfully without a male by her side. Yet she still longs for future love and a family.

Scully Falconer, a loner, is the top hand on a nearby ranch. He has given his loyalty to the Quinn family and doesn’t ask more than honest pay for an honest day’s work.

Alandra, the lady of Mexican descent, and Scully, the American cowboy, think they have very different paths set before them. But greedy relatives burst onto the scene, threatening to change their way of life. And when General Santa Anna crosses the Rio Grande and marches north to keep his rendezvous with destiny at the Alamo, Alandra and Scully’s lives will never be the same.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I'm on Shoutlife, Facebook, Twitter and have a website (link above) and blog http://strongwomenbravestories.blogspot.com/ where I post stories of strong women and other things of interest to women such as recipes. This month I'm collecting Mexican-Style Recipes in honor of my Latina heroine. And I will be putting them into a downloadable PDF recipe collection. I'm also giving away one copy of my latest book each week to women who comment and post recipes.

Researching Her Inheritance Forever, by Lyn Cote 2nd book in Texas Star of Destiny series,
Three generations, Three historic Texas Events 1821-1847

The more I researched Texas history for my Texas Star of Destiny series the more fascinating it became. When the second book takes place, Texas was a state of Mexico. I was especially interested in discovering a people that I had never known as a distinct group. I'm talking about the "Tejano" (the "j" is pronounced as an "h") community in Texas. The Tejanos were the descendants of the Spanish colonial settlers in Texas. The Tejanos then were and are Texans of Spanish descent.

My heroine Alandra Sandoval is a Tejano, not a Mexican as I had thought before I did enough research. At this time, the Americans who had immigrated to Texas still in the hands of the Mexican government called themselves "Texians." These were the two main groups of European descent in Texas at this time. A Tejano Lorenzo de Zavala served as the first vice president of the first Texian Republic government in 1836.
http://www.lsjunction.com/people/zavala.htm

Another prominent Tejano patriot in San Antonio was José Antonio Navarro http://casanavarro.org/(1795–1871) The Casa Navarro State Historic Site is nestled in downtown San Antonio at 228 S. Laredo Street, San Antonio, TX 78207.
http://www.thc.state.tx.us/hsites/hs_navarro.aspx?Site=Navarro
Casa Navarro is the only historic site in San Antonio dedicated to the interpretation of the Mexican history and heritage of Texas, as seen through the life of Navarro, a prominent San Antonio merchant, rancher and statesman.

Tejanos are still a vibrant part of modern Texas.

Thank you, Lyn, for spending this time with us.

Readers, here's a link where you can order Her Inheritance Forever:

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won.

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ABOVE ALL THINGS - Deborah Raney - Free Book

I'm always happy to interview my friend Deborah Raney. Welcome back, Deb. Tell us about your salvation experience.

I grew up in a Christian home and can’t remember a time that I didn’t love Jesus and believe in His saving grace. But as a teenager I went through a time of rebellion. God was very patient with me, but there came a time when I knew He was requiring me to “put my money where my mouth was” and follow Him in obedience. I lay in my bed one Friday night after coming home from a beer party, and I dedicated my life––body, mind, and spirit––to Christ. I’ve never looked back.

How did you and your husband meet?

One of the first things the Lord asked of me after I gave my life to Him, was that I break up with my current boyfriend, who was not a believer. I prayed a childish teenage prayer that God would put someone new in my life. He did that in a man named Ken Raney, the brother of my best friend’s boyfriend. We actually beat them to the altar by about a year, and celebrated our 34th anniversary in August. We’re aiming for the milestone Ken’s grandparents will celebrate in May, Lord willing: 80 years of marriage!

A worthy goal. I know you have a speaking ministry. Tell us about that.

When my first book came out thirteen years ago, my church asked if I would give a talk to the women’s group. Not about my book, but on the topic of Raising Rock Solid Children in a Slippery Slope World. A visitor the night I spoke asked if I’d give the same talk in her church, and I’ve been speaking steadily ever since. My focus has become more to writers––teaching at conferences, etc.––in the last few years, but I do occasionally keynote women’s retreats as well. I’m an extrovert and really enjoy the speaking part of my career that gets me out with people.

With a degree in Speech and Drama, I enjoy the speaking part, too. What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you and how did you handle it?

Speaking at an event for stay-at-home moms a few years ago, I was delighted to learn that over 800 women had signed up for one of my workshops! (That Rock Solid Kids one…) I spoke in a large auditorium and felt my talk went very well. But as I walked to another building to teach my next workshop, I overheard some women talking and was humbled (humiliated?) to discover WHY so many women had signed up for my class: they thought I was Barbara Rainey, wife of Family Life Today’s Dennis Rainey. J My husband and I actually get mistaken for that famous couple often. Though our last names are not spelled the same, Kenneth and Deborah Raney does sound a lot like Dennis and Barbara Rainey.

People are always telling me that they’d like to write a book someday. I’m sure they do to you, too. What would you tell someone who came up to you and said that?

I say “Go for it!” And I repeat the most encouraging advice anyone ever gave me: If you were to write just ONE page a day, at the end of a year, you would have 365 pages––and THAT’S a book! It’s like walking ten miles…you just put one foot in front of the other and take one step at a time. Writing happens one word, one paragraph, one page at a time.

Very good advice. Now tell us about the featured book.

Above All Things is the story of a woman confronted with a sin from her husband’s past that she must deal with in a very tangible way––in the form of his six-year-old biracial daughter. This book was my exploration of the subtle racial prejudices we all hold. I hope with all my heart that I am a part of racial reconciliation––that perhaps this book could even play a role in that cause. Since the election, our nation seems to have heightened awareness about such issues. But it was sobering to put myself in the place of my characters and realize that I have places where the Lord needs to create a clean heart within me. Above All Things released from Steeple Hill in June 2009.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is at http://www.deborahraney.com/ and there’s a link to email me on the home page. I’ve also recently become part of the Shoutlife community, and I’d love to make friends with readers there: www.shoutlife.com/debraney

Thank you, Deb, for spending this time with us.

Readers, here's a link where you can order Above All Things:

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won.

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ROSE HOUSE - Tina Ann Forkner - Free Book

Welcome back to my blog, Tina. Why do you write the kind of books you do?

I like to examine various issues through fiction. I write women’s fiction because it allows me to delve more deeply into the lives of my characters.

Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?

The day my daughter was born. From the moment I saw her, I was in love!

How has being published changed your life?

Some things are the same. I still have to clean house, run errands, be a mom, etc. My life has definitely gotten busier. Since I have been published, I have to fight harder for my writing time.

I was really glad when I could stop work and stay at home and write. What are you reading right now?

I just finished reading an ARC of A Slow Burn, by Mary E. DeMuth. It is a wonderful book. I’m also almost finished with The Time Traveler’s Wife, by Audrey Niffenegger, which really has an amazing premise. On my nightstand waiting to be read is Wyoming Brides, by Debbie MaComber. She is going to be the keynote speaker at the 2009 ACFW conference, so I want to read a few of her books before hearing her speak. As you can see, I read a wide variety of books. I really lean more toward literary books, but I also like historical fiction, some suspense and the occasional romance.

What is your current work in progress?

I am working on two specific novels right now, but they are secrets! I am one of those authors who doesn’t like to let ideas out before they are ready. I think they are like little birds. If you aren’t careful when you open the door, they will fly right past your hand and out of the cage and be gone forever.

What would be your dream vacation?

There really isn’t just one place I dream of going. I have never been to Italy, so I would love to go there, but I am not picky. Any vacation will do if it gives me an adventure.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

My settings are based on places I have been, and then I fictionalize them using the best parts of my memory. I have never set a full novel in a big city. I am more attracted to small towns and small-town people.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I really enjoy gardening, although I’m not very good at it. It’s difficult to garden in my part of Wyoming, but I do what I can. This is why I write a lot about gardeners. I love that in a novel I can make anything grow!

I hadn't thought of that. Maybe I could gain a green thumb that way, too. What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?

Confidence is definitely my biggest obstacle. I always feel like my writing isn’t good enough. There is nothing I can do to overcome it except to write, write, write for that audience of One. He is my only judge.

That is so true. What advice would you give to a beginning author?

To not worry about getting published and focus on the act of writing. Once publication becomes the sole goal in writing a story, the quality of writing becomes substandard. Beginning writers should focus on the joy that comes with writing stories.

Tell us about the featured book.

Here is a description from my publisher:

A vivid story of a private grief, a secret painting, and one woman’s search for hope. Still mourning the loss of her family in a tragic accident, Lillian Diamon finds herself drawn back to the Rose House, a quiet cottage where four years earlier she had poured out her anguish among its fragrant blossoms. She returns to the rolling hills and lush vineyards of the Sonoma Valley in search of something she can’t quite name. But then Lillian stumbles onto an unexpected discovery: displayed in the La Rosaleda Gallery is a painting that captures every detail of her most private moment of misery, from the sorrow etched across her face to the sandals on her feet.

What kind of artist would dare to intrude on such a personal scene, and how did he happen to witness Lillian’s pain? As the mystery surrounding the portrait becomes entangled with the accident that claimed the lives of her husband and children, Lillian is forced to rethink her assumptions about what really happened that day.

A captivating novel rich with detail, Rose House explores how the brushstrokes of pain can illuminate the true beauty of life

Wow. I can hardly wait to read it. How can readers find you on the Internet?

They can visit my website at http://www.tinaannforkner.com/. I would love to hear from them!
Thank you, Tina, for spending this time with us.

Readers, here's a link where you can order Rose House:

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com