LOVE FINDS YOU IN DAISY, OKLAHOMA - Janice Hanna - One Free Book

Welcome back, Jamice. So good to have you again. I know you speak at various conferences and meetings. What do you have coming up in 2012?

Strangely, I haven’t scheduled many speaking engagements in 2012. I will be serving as a mentor at the ACFW conference, but my speaking calendar is fairly empty! These days I’m spending much of my time with online e-book sales. I’m also very focused on my deadlines, so I stay plenty busy. As much as I love speaking and teaching, it’s kind of nice to pull back once in a while.

If you were planning a women’s retreat, what would be the theme for it?

Oh, that’s easy! I’d call it “Lighten Up!” and we would spend the entire conference talking about ways to live a light-hearted life. I recently spoke at a women’s retreat on a similar subject and it went over well with the ladies.

Who would you want as speakers and why?

In my dream world, I would ask folks like Liz Curtis Higgs and (local Houston KSBJ deejay) Susan O’Donnell. Both are a hoot, but both also know how to pack at punch.

Where would you hold the retreat and why?

Galveston, girl! I recently stayed at a fabulous resort there called the Diamond Beach resort. Perfect spot for a retreat. The condos are awesome and the meeting rooms are nice, too. Most of the rooms have Oceanside views, and they’re lovely because they also look out on the pools. (I will attach a photo.)

Sign me up for that. I love Galveston. Do you read print books or ebooks? Or a combination of the two?

These days most of my reading is on the Kindle. I find it easier to hold and it’s easy on my eyes, as well. I love the ease of reading on an e-device, so I think we can safely say I’ve been pulled over to the dark side!

I love my Kindle for when I’m away from home. I’ve read a lot more books since I have one, but at home, I like holding a real book. That’s an interesting title. How did you come up with it?

Love Finds You in Daisy Oklahoma is part of the “Love Finds You” series from Summerside/Guideposts. I was assigned the town of Daisy. My mom and I drove up to Daisy a year and a half ago and had a wonderful time taking photos of the area.

So what is the book about?

Here’s the official synopsis:

Love blooms in unlikely places. In 1912, two years after a tornado left many children homeless, the town of Daisy, Oklahoma, needs help with its orphanage. Enter Rena Jewel, 38 years old and still single, who longs to do something important with her life. A lover of flowers, Rena believes the letter from Daisy to be a sign from the Lord, and she promises to help. Sheriff Gene Wyatt is a widowed father struggling to control 23 unruly orphans—and to keep his own two boys from burning down the town. So when he receives word that help is on the way, Gene rejoices. Until he meets Rena, that is—a genteel and far too pretty woman whom he assumes is not up to the challenge. And after meeting the children, Rena begins to agree with him! At her wits’ end, she helps the children plant a garden and slowly earns their respect and obedience. The new orphanage director arrives just as the garden begins to bloom, and Rena must decide whether she can leave the town, the children—and the man—she’s come to love.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Daisy, Oklahoma, 1912

The Atoka County jail housed no prisoners that Monday morning, unless one counted the local Sheriff. After the verbal thrashing he’d just received from Molly Harris, Gene felt like hiding out in one of the cells for the rest of the day.

He pulled off his Stetson and hurled it at the hat rack. “Crazy busybody. Who does she think she is, anyway?”

For a moment, he wondered what it would feel like to toss the town’s crankiest senior citizen into an empty cell and throw away the key. Wouldn’t that make a great article for the Atoka County Register? He could almost picture the headline now: Local Woman Rethinks Her Meddling Ways from Behind Bars. Surely the other residents of Daisy would back him up.

On the other hand, they might turn on him. Stranger things had happened of late. Folks who had once claimed to be his friends had turned a cold shoulder to him after hearing Molly’s repeated tirades about his boys. Many seemed to share her concerns.

Releasing a slow breath, Gene tried to calm down. Unfortunately, Molly’s words weren’t easy to shake off. They’d stung, worse than he cared to admit, but what could he do? His hands were already too full, what with raising the boys alone.

He made his way back to his dreary office, eased his way down into the chair behind his messy desk, and began to thumb through the mail, which he’d just fetched from the postmaster. Minutes later, he still found himself mulling over the elderly woman’s criticism of his two sons. Sure, William and Jacob were a handful—no denying that—but did she really have to call them hooligans? They were only ten and eight, after all. Far too young to be accused of such nonsense. And that comment about how they might one day end up serving time was way out of line.

He paused to think it through. The way things were headed they might very well end up going down the wrong road. If only they still had a mother to guide them, then maybe. . .

No, he wouldn’t think like that. The two years since Brenda’s death had been dreadful, but the pain of losing her lessened more with each passing day. No point in resurrecting it. The boys would be fine. He would see to it, if it was the last thing he did. In the meantime, he had work to do, and plenty of it.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I love to interact with readers in a variety of places, including:

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/JaniceHannaThompson

TWITTER: booksbyjanice

MY WEBSITE: www.janicehannathompson.com

MY BLOG: http://janiceathompson.com/blog/category/blog

So good to talk with you again, Janice. I can't wait until we're together again. We have so much fun together.

Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

LOVE FINDS YOU IN DAISY, OK - paperback
Love Finds You in Daisy, OK - Kindle


Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

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LOVE FINDS YOU IN GROOM, TEXAS - Janice Hanna - Free Book

It's always a great pleasure for me to feature Janice Hanna (Thompson) on my blog. In addition to being one of my very special friends, she's also a lot of fun and an amazing author. Welcome, Janice.

Please tell us three random things we might not know about you.

My dad was the president of the University of Houston Cougar Cagers Club, so my birthdays, holidays, etc. were spent at basketball games. Our family traveled to Mexico with the U of H Cougars to watch them compete, which was great fun. When I was eleven, I got to play (for fun, of course) with the Harlem Globetrotters, who came to Houston for a visit. To this day, I love a good basketball game.

I once lied to a fellow camper at church camp, telling her that my dad (Billy Hanna) was William Hanna of Hanna/Barbara (Flintstones) fame. That lie still haunts me, though, to his credit, my dad did eventually work as a movie producer on our co-authored movie, Liar’s Moon. (Yes, it’s true. I got to meet and work with Matt Dillon. Eat your heart out, girls!)

I occasionally bake wedding cakes. In 2009 I baked a lovely four-tiered white cake with strawberry filling and cream cheese frosting that toppled less than an hour before the wedding. I managed to piece together two very messy/ugly layers. Thankfully, the bride did not murder me. It made for a great scene in a later book. (Nothing ever gets wasted, not even a mashed piece of cake.)

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Love Finds You in Groom, Texas.

Always the groomsman, never the groom… It’s 1914, and Jake O’Farrell has gained an unusual reputation among the locals: He’s played the roles of groomsman and best man in all four of his older brothers’ weddings, but he’s never been able to find the woman to capture his heart. And now with the upcoming wedding of his best friend, Jake will become the last single man in the town of Groom.

Anne Denning has made the difficult decision to move with her sisters to Texas, but a train derailment forces them to seek shelter in Groom, near Amarillo. Mrs. O’Farrell, hopeful that Anne will catch her youngest son’s eye, invites the girls to stay at her home until the train is repaired and ready to pull out. Anne has no idea of the blissful chaos that lies ahead!

Why did you decide to write this story?

My editor at Summerside approached me with the name of the town because she knows I write a lot of wedding-themed stories. She wanted something lightweight/fun, and she knew me well enough to know I would enjoy a fun story. The only real question we had in the beginning stage was: “Should this be a historical or a contemporary?” We went with historical because I felt sure the story idea was better suited to the turn of the century.

Tell us something interesting about the town of Groom:

Groom boasts a nineteen-story high cross. More than 100 welders worked together to erect it in 1995. Now you can see why I toyed with the idea of writing a contemporary novel! I wanted to include the cross. Because I went with historical, I decided to give the heroine a small cross necklace to wear, one that symbolizes her faith (and alludes to the “bigger” cross to come).

What is your favorite memory of the Texas panhandle region?

Just one? I love, love, love Palo Duro Canyon, which is not terribly far from Groom. This breathtaking canyon always surprises visitors because you don’t see it coming! Look to your right and see nothing. Then, a few yards up the road, look to your right again and you see a crevice forming. That crevice deepens, then deepens some more until. . .lo and behold! You’re looking at one of God’s most magnificent “sweeps of a fingertip.” Truly glorious. One of my favorite memories was taking my daughters to see the play Texas in Palo Duro Canyon when they were little. We camped overnight in the state park, ate BBQ and saw the show. Amazing!

Groom is a wedding-themed book. Why do you write so many stories with a strong wedding theme?

I have four grown daughters—Randi, Megan, Courtney Rae and Courtney Elizabeth. Yes, I really have two daughters named Courtney. (Long story!) All four of my girls got married within four years of each other. We’re told to write what we know. I know weddings, trust me! I helped coordinate all four weddings and even worked as a wedding coordinator at my church for a season. I was also tickled to be the “Wedding Planner Examiner” for the city of Houston for a spell. What fun! You’ll see me writing about weddings for years to come, so hang on for the ride!

Why will readers enjoy your novel besides the hunky man on the cover?

In spite of the lead character’s tough situation, the story is filled with comedic elements. Anne’s two younger sisters are a hoot. So is Maggie (the hero’s mother). She’s an Irish spitfire! I think readers will appreciate the romance between Anne and Jake. It’s filled with all sorts of sweet and comic moments.

Why do you like writing comedies with strong take-aways?

Comedy is a great outlet. We comedians can get away with a lot more than authors who play it straight. Want the reader to walk away with a little nugget of truth? Couch it in something humorous. I’ve found that light-hearted writing not only suits my personality, it’s the perfect vehicle for sharing the gospel.

You’ve written other Love Finds You books in the past. Do you enjoy writing for this series? Why or why not?

I can’t say enough about this line of books. From the moment the first book released, I fell in love—with the authors, the covers, the stories, the settings. Most of all, I love the concept. Through these stories, the reader can travel all over the country, bouncing from town to town, city to city. Want a serious historical? You’ll find it in the Love Finds You series. Want a humorous contemporary? You’ll find that, too. Want a book set in a quirky, fun town? Yep. You’ll find it in the Love Finds You series. Want a story set in a remote, faraway place, filled with intrigue? You’ll find that, too.

And a side note to this answer, my Love  Finds You book, Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico, just won the Will Rogers Medallion Award for excellence in western fiction. 

What are you working on now?

I just turned in Love Finds You in Daisy, Oklahoma, a fun historical about a single woman in her late 30’s who moves from the Gulf Coast to the landlocked state of Oklahoma to become the director at an orphanage. It’s a love story, of course! She falls in love with the town sheriff, who has adopted two of the unruliest boys from the orphanage. I’m currently writing Wedding Belles, the first book in the Belles and Whistles series for Summerside/Guideposts.

What are your favorite things to do (besides writing)?

Honestly? I love hanging out with my grandbabies. They grow up so quickly and I don’t want to miss a thing! Maddy is four now. She’s the oldest. Avery is three. Peyton is three. Ethan is two. Boston is one and a half and baby Brooke turned one this week. I love them so very much. They keep me young (and give me plenty of fodder for books). 

And they're very cute, too. I notice you write under two names (Janice Hanna and Janice Thompson). Why? 

Those who’ve been reading my romances over the past several years know me as Janice A. Thompson. My joy is mixed with a smidgeon of sorrow as I explain the change in my last name for some of my current releases. In 2006 I lost my father to bone marrow cancer. His last name (Hanna) is my maiden name—and it’s a name that means even more to me now that he is gone. In memory of my father, I use the Hanna name in my historicals. My Revell books will still release under Janice Thompson. I hope you my readers will stick with me, no matter which name I use!

I understand you have a new VIP bookclub. Can you tell us about that?

Yes, I’m so excited about this, too! I came up with this idea several months ago: Why not create a “club” where members can get each new Janice Thompson/Janice Hanna book as it releases for a set price of $11, shipping included. Books are autographed and mailed out to club members before they ever hit the stores. I also encourage my VIP club members to leave reviews, as they are able, on amazon, christianbook.com and www.barnesandnoble.com. If people are interested in joining the club, all they have to do is shoot me an email at booksbyjanice@aol.com with the words “VIP bookclub” in the subject line and their address in the body of the email.

Anything else you want our readers to know?

Yes, I’m very passionate about my faith, which is why I write Christian books. I could no more leave out the faith elements than I could stop eating chocolate. They are integral…to my stories and my life. I’m a huge believer in stirring up the gifts that God has placed inside of us, which is what I hope to do through my teaching.  

Where else can readers find you online?

I love to connect with my readers at the following places:

www.janicehannathompson.com

www.freelancewritingcourses.com

www.facebook.com/jhannathompson 

Thanks for spending time with me! I had a blast!

And we loved having you stop by the blog.

Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

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. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

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

Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com 

LOVE FINDS YOU IN CAMELOT, TENNESSEE - Janice Hanna - Free Book

I'm thrilled to welcome my friend Janice back to this blog. So, Janice, how did you come up with the idea for this story?

I’ve been intrigued by the Camelot legend since my freshman year in college, when I played the role of a lady-in-waiting in the stage play. I attended college in East Tennessee, so I jumped at the chance to write a story set in the Knoxville area, just an hour and a half from my college. This story, like so many of my other comedies, is built around the premise that one person (in this case, a city planner) can make a huge difference in the lives of others. Of course, I had to add several comedic elements! A Janice Hanna (Thompson) story just wouldn’t be the same without ‘em!

That is so true. If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why?

Ooo! What a party that would be! I’d start by inviting Lisa Wingate and Sandie Bricker. Can you even imagine how much fun those ladies would be? I have so much in common with both of them. I’d also love to invite a few more light-hearted authors, so I’d include Robin Jones Gunn, Megan DiMaria, Trish Perry and Kristin Billerbeck. We’d probably stay up all night laughing, but I’m sure it would be quite a party!

I know that group would be a blast. Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why?

I’m going to be attending a retreat with several historical authors soon! (And I’m looking forward to seeing you there, Lena, so your name will be the first on my list!) I’d invite: Lena Nelson Dooley, Tracie Peterson, Kathleen Y’Barbo, Martha Rogers, Nancy Jo Jenkins and Cathy Hake.

I know the six of us would have a good time. And I can hardly wait to see you next week. Many times, people (and other authors) think you have it made with so many books published. What is your most difficult problem with writing at this time in your career?

My biggest problem, of late, is that readers tend to compare one book against another. My “Weddings by Bella” books were a hoot, so readers now expect all of my stories to be just as humorous. I’ll probably write funny stories forever, but occasionally like to throw in serious issues, as well. I do hope that readers will see me (and my stories) as unique.

Oh, they are totally unique. That's what I love about them. Tell us about the featured book.

Love Finds You in Camelot, Tennessee (Synopsis): Steve Garrison is the newly elected mayor of the tiny town of Camelot, Tennessee. When his childhood friend Amy Hart comes up with a plan to revive the town’s economy, he jumps onboard. The townspeople will perform the musical Camelot in the city’s park, drawing in nightly crowds. While excitement is high, talent is lacking. Amy casts several of the parts but is stumped when it comes to the role of King Arthur. In desperation, she turns to Steve. Will he pull the sword from the stone and save the day? Steve reluctantly agrees—on one condition. In exchange for his willingness to wear tights, Amy must play the role of Guinevere. And when a handsome newcomer cast as Lancelot takes an interest in Amy, the stage is set for a little tension—and perhaps love.

I can see it now! Please give us the first page of the book.

An early morning haze hung over the sleepy town of Camelot, Tennessee. Amy Hart squinted to get a better view of the road as she maneuvered her Jeep Liberty around a tricky bend. On a clear day, the journey into town would prove challenging. But on a morning like this—with the heavy sky pressing in around her—the curvy road seemed to slip away into a foggy mist. How many times had she imagined she could drive off into the dreamy haze and find herself in a world of knights and ladies, castles and kings?

Once she rounded the turn, Amy reached to flip on the radio then settled back against the seat as a familiar worship song came on. Perfect. Pretty soon the skies would clear and so would her mood. Just as soon as she arrived at work and shared her latest idea with Steve. Only then would the tightness in her chest dissipate. She lost herself in her thoughts as she pondered her best friend’s reaction to her latest plan. Likely he would think she’d lost her mind. Just like the last time. And the time before that. Oh well. She would prove him wrong. This time.

Amy made her way down Excalibur Drive and turned off onto Lancelot Lane, taking a shortcut to City Hall. Another turn to the right landed her on Camelot Court. She sighed as she caught a glimpse of the abandoned car lot to her right. As usual, nothing much stirred there. Or at the bank. Or at Gwen’s Grooming, Camelot’s only pet-friendly store. No, at this time of morning, not much fluttered but the birds. Well, the birds, and Lucy Cramden, who always walked her ferret, Fiona, at the crack of dawn. Strange sight, a ferret on a bright pink leash. Just part of the quirkiness that made Camelot...Camelot.

As Amy turned into the parking lot at City Hall, the sun peeked through the fog for one magical moment, taking her breath away. She took it as a sign. A confirmation, of sorts. Surely the Lord, Himself, had performed this wondrous act to boost her courage. She whispered up a prayer of thanksgiving and her spirits lifted immediately.

After pulling into her usual parking space, Amy turned off the car. Instead of heading for her office, she lingered in the car a few moments, watching the colors of the sky morph from dizzying gray to a pinkish blue. She used the extra time to get a handle on her thoughts. Last night’s town hall meeting had left her reeling, but this morning she’d awakened with the perfect plan, one she hoped others in town would go along with. In fact, it was such an amazingly simple idea she had to wonder why no one had thought of it before.

She glanced out over the bluff, the panoramic view mesmerizing her, as always. For as long as she could remember, Amy had always loved the dewy mornings in East Tennessee, and the changing of the seasons only made her love them more. Last fall when the leaves turned, the vibrant colors had proven spectacular. As a child, she’d believed her father’s tale that an artist’s paintbrush swept in across the bluff while she slept, leaving behind strokes of amber, hazy orange and brilliant gold. Of course, she’d believed all of her father’s tall tales as a kid, including the one about meeting King Arthur face-to-face and pulling Excalibur out of the rocky ledge near Bever Creek. But, who could blame her? Dad’s stories carried her away to a place deep in her imagination, and sometimes a girl just needed to travel.

Wonderful! How can readers find you on the Internet?

Website: http://www.janicehannathompson.com/
Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/jhannathompson
Twitter: booksbyjanice

Thank you, Janice for the fun interview.

Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.



Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

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. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

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/

LOVE ME TENDER - Janice Hanna - Free Book

I'm thrilled to have my good friend Janice Hanna Thompson on my blog again. And with her new book Love Me Tender, she's writing about the song that I think is the most romantic song ever written or sung. Welcome, Janice.

Note from Janice Hanna Thompson, author of LOVE ME TENDER:

Hi everyone! Thanks for stopping by to share in the excitement of LOVE ME TENDER, my latest inspirational romance. When I heard about the new “When I Fall in Love” line at Summerside, I flipped! Why? Because I love the ‘50s, and I love music! (The line is based on song titles from the 1930s to the 1970s.) I happen to be a playwright with a really fun musical comedy titled JOHNNY BE GOOD, a story that’s near and dear to my heart. I decided to put a twist on that stage play and turn it into a rockin’ romantic novel! With that in mind, I hope you enjoy this “Hollywood Heartthrob” interview with four of the main characters from the novel.

Hollywood Heartthrob, “Man About Town” Column

Welcome, readers! This is Sunset Sam, columnist for Hollywood Heartthrob magazine, here to interview several characters from LOVE ME TENDER, a new book by author Janice Hanna Thompson. I read the book in preparation for this interview and had a hip-hip hoppin’, be-be-boppin’ time reading about the characters down at Sweet Sal’s Soda Shoppe in Laguna Beach. I’ve been to Sweet Sal’s many times, of course. Everyone in Hollywood knows it’s all the rage. Where else can you get a big, thick cheeseburger, hot, salty fries and the thickest chocolate malts in the country? Now that I’ve enticed you with the food, let’s have a little chat with some of the key players in our story. We’ll start with Debbie Carmichael, daughter of the owners of Sweet Sal’s.

Debbie, could you tell us a little about what your day-to-day life is like?

Most of the girls my age are in college, but I decided to stay in Laguna Beach and help my parents out at our family run soda shop. I have the best life ever! I live across the street from the Pacific Ocean, and love spending time at the cliffs, watching the waves lap the shore. When I’m at the soda shop, the jukebox is always playing. I’m gaga over Elvis’s new song, “Love Me Tender.” It’s all the rage with teen girls right now. Of course, I’m also head over heels for Bobby Conrad, but don’t tell my friends, okay? They think I’m more mature than most of the other teen girls who hang out Sweet Sal’s. Of course, I’m a little distracted by that new guy, Johnny Hartman. He’s so sweet and handsome, and I hear he’s a great singer, too!

Johnny, I read in another article that you came all the way from Topeka Kansas to Hollywood to make it big. How does Hollywood compare to Topeka?

There’s really no way to compare Topeka to Los Angeles. People out here (in California) are more up on current styles, the hottest tunes and the hippest actors and actresses. Back home, folks are so grounded. That isn’t always the case here in L.A. I hope I don’t sound too stuck up when I say that back in Topeka, I was a big fish in a small pond. And because my dad’s a pastor, I had plenty of opportunities to sing in church. But out here in L.A. no one even knows who I am. My agent, Jim Jangles, is working hard to get me a gig on television. I’m auditioning for Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts soon. Say a little prayer for me!

Bobby, I understand you were slotted to sing at the fundraiser at Sweet Sal’s Soda Shoppe, but had to cancel. Could you explain your sudden departure?

Yes, I was scheduled to sing at the fundraiser, but just got word that I’ll be filming my new movie that same weekend. I was really disappointed to have to tell the Carmichaels the news, but hopefully they understand. I think it’s going to be okay, because my agent, Jim Jangles, is sending his latest prodigy—a kid from Topeka named Johnny Hartman—in my place. I hear he’s quite a singer.

Sal, could you tell our readers about some of the Hollywood stars you’ve met over the years?

First of all, thanks for including me in this interview! It’s been decades since I was a teen, but I still secretly read Hollywood Heartthrob magazine. (Shh! Don’t tell my husband, Frankie, or my daughter, Debbie!) I’m blessed to be the co-owner of Sweet Sal’s Soda Shoppe in Laguna Beach, and I’ve met a lot of stars who’ve come through on their way to places like Dana Point and San Diego. Here’s a list of some of my favorites: Doris Day, Gregory Peck, Frank Sinatra, Audrey Hepburn, Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Ozzie and Harriet. There are dozens more, of course. I want to personally invite all of your readers to stop by Sweet Sal’s Soda Shoppe so that they can see the photos on our walls! And while you’re here, why not enjoy a creamy chocolate malt?

Debbie, a little birdie told me that you and the other girls in Laguna Beach are gaga over Elvis, Pat Boone and Bobby Conrad. Now that you’ve gotten to know (and love) Johnny Hartman, what would you say sets him apart from the other great singers you’ve known?

Oh, no doubt about it. . .Johnny isn’t just a great singer, he’s got a heart of gold. I especially love his strong faith. Unlike so many of the other singers in town, he doesn’t put himself first. With Johnny, it’s God first. . .all the way! And when he sings. . .man! That voice! It’s a smooth as velvet. (And it doesn’t hurt that he’s so dreamy! Talk about handsome!)

Johnny, you’ve been asked to fill in for Bobby Conrad at the Laguna Beach fundraiser. Can you tell us how you’re feeling as you look forward to the big day?

I don’t mind admitting I’m a little nervous. Who wouldn’t be? Thousands of girls from Orange County and beyond are looking forward to seeing Bobby Conrad in person. Now I’ve been asked to fill in for him. I’ll be lucky if they don’t boo me off the stage or toss rotten tomatoes at me! Hopefully my new love song—the one I wrote for the gorgeous Debbie Carmichael—will win them over. I hope so, anyway!

Bobby, many Christians have a hard time hanging onto their faith once they achieve stardom. You seem so grounded. What’s your secret?

I always try to honor God in everything I do—whether it’s movies or songs for the radio. There’s a verse that I love, and it’s one I try to live by: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” The way I look at it, if I make a choice to put God first, He’s going to bless me above and beyond anything I could ever ask for, anyway. Even if He didn’t bless me, though, I would still serve Him. It’s really the only way to live a fulfilling life. (And trust me when I say that people out here in L.A. are looking for ways to live a fulfilling life!)

Sal, we were sorry to hear about your husband’s health problems. How is he doing now?

Praise the Lord, Frankie seems to be doing a little better. His heart attack several months ago really shook us up. And we got behind on the mortgage, which has made me a little nervous. Still, I choose to trust God. And now that everyone in town is banding together to put on the fundraiser to save the soda shop, I’m feeling more hopeful than ever!

Debbie, is there anything you’d like Hollywood Heartthrob readers to know as we end this interview?

Yes, I would like people to know that it is possible to live in Hollywood—to be a big star, even—and still be a person of faith. I’ve witnessed it in Bobby Conrad’s life, and in Johnny’s, too. I’d also like to share that putting your trust in God is really the only way to go. Some problems are just too big for us to handle on our own. When my dad got really sick, I made up my mind to try to “fix” the situation. What I’ve learned is this—only God can truly “fix” anything. And trust me when I say that His “fix” is far greater than anything we could ever dream up!

Thanks so much, folks! It’s been a great interview.

Well, there you have it, Hollywood Heartthrob fans. This is Sunset Sam, signing off for this week. See you next time!



Book can be purchased on my site at www.janicehannathompson.com or at www.amazon.com.


GIVEAWAY INFO: Janice Hanna Thompson is hosting a giveaway on her facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/jhannathompson). To enter, leave a comment on her page with the name of your favorite ‘50s star (movies or music) and explain why you liked him/her. The drawing to win the Be-Boppin’ ‘50s Basket (filled with great ‘50s memorabilia) will take place on the weekend of October 29th – 31st. Why? Because that’s the same weekend Janice is directing a local (Houston) production of JOHNNY BE GOOD the musical comedy that served as inspiration for LOVE ME TENDER.

Thank you, Janice, for introducing us to your characters this way.
 
Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)


Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

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. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

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/

OZARK WEDDINGS - Anita Higman & Janice Hanna Thompson - Free Book

I'm interviewing two of my friends to day. Welcome, Anita and Janice. Your Barbour Heartsong 3-in-1 collection is entitled, Ozark Weddings. Tell us a little bit about the three stories.

Anita: All three stories are set in Arkansas—Eureka Springs, Little Rock, and Hot Springs. Larkspur Dreams and Castles in the Air are romantic comedy, while the middle story, The Love Song, is more dramatic in tone.

Janice: Larkspur Dreams is a lighthearted, whimsical tale that will appeal to inspirational romance readers, particularly those with artistic leanings. The Love Song reaches into the depths of the reader’s soul, dealing with the topic of overcoming past hurts. Castles in the Air provides a humorous look at the way we are perceived by others, and teaches us that our prejudices (comical as they might be) often keep us from the very thing God has planned for us.

Anita, you and Janice co-authored the three stories in Ozark Weddings. How do writers go about co-authoring?

Anita: There are a number of ways to co-author a novel. One writer might do the research and the other writer may actually write the story. Or co-authors may each choose a character and write from that character’s POV. In the three novels, I guess you could say I wrote the body and wings of the stories, and Janice helped to make them fly. She has a gift for critiquing.

Janice: Working with Anita is a breeze because she conceives and fully plots the stories then lets me add my thoughts/tidbits to give them flavor. She is so quirky and fun to work with, and I am very proud of the stories we have co-produced.

Were there times when it was hard to work together?

Anita: Janice is not only talented, but easy to work with. There were a few times in one of the novels that I found myself writing in a way that strayed from the general concept of a Heartsong romance. Janice made some good suggestions, which steered me in the right direction.

Janice: I can honestly say that I’ve never worked with anyone who was so willing to accept critique and/or take suggestions as Anita. She is a precious friend and collaborative partner. I already knew she was talented (even before we began this project) but had no idea how gracious she would be. Since I’ve written for the Heartsong line for years, I was able to “teach her the ropes” (as it were) and she was a ready learner! That’s not to say she hasn’t taught me a thing or two. I’ve learned much from her throughout this process, particularly as it applies to romantic tension. She’s far better at that than I am, and I’m happy to admit it.

Why did you choose to be a writer?

Anita: Ever since I was a little girl, I had this need to express myself in some sort of artistic medium. I’ve tried a number of things: piano, painting, decorating, and acting. But I’ve never been very good at any these endeavors, except writing. I guess really then—writing chose me.

Janice: Like Anita, I’ve always been artistic. As a youngster, I sang, danced and played the piano. I was also very involved in theater as a young person. I’ve been writing since childhood. I wrote my first novella in 6th grade, then went on to write musical comedies for the stage before turning to books in the mid-90’s. Like Anita, I can truly say that I didn’t choose writing; it chose me. Or, perhaps I should say that God chose it for me, as a gift.

When did you have your first success as a writer?

Anita: After several years of writing, I had some gradual success—books for children, books of one-act plays, and nonfiction for women. These successes were enough to keep me going toward my ultimate goal, which was to write novels.

Janice: This may sound a bit silly, but my first real writing “success” happened my senior year in high school, when I was chosen to help write the senior production. I had a blast, and the scene I crafted (a 1930’s/Busby Berkeley-esque “The Show Must Go On” scene) was a huge success. I can’t tell you what fun I had, or how great it felt for people to respond as they did.

Do you have any special methods of getting into the writing zone, such as favorite scents, music, or certain foods?

Anita: In the past I used to go to a French café, order coffee and scrambled eggs, and then write a rough chapter. The noise, music, and bustle always energized me creatively. But now I’m more of a homebody, so I sit for long hours in my office, working on my stories.

Janice: An "ideal" writing situation for me would involve someplace like Starbucks (or otherwise) with a cup of my favorite hot beverage in my hand (to be discussed below). Ironically, when I'm at home, I can't stand having music going. I find it terribly distracting... something about the "beat" drives me nutty. Having the television on is okay, but it's often muted. Crazy, I know. I'm a fanatic about my Diet Dr. Pepper and several flavors of hot tea. I particularly love Earl Grey and Chai Latte, among others. And I'm nuts about hot chocolate in the wintertime. I'm also crazy about my puppies. I have two red mini-dachshunds named Sasha and Copper. They usually settle in next to me on the sofa, Sasha on my right, Copper on my left. When we're all in place (with a cup of tea or a Diet Dr. Pepper on the end table, depending on the season) I'm ready to begin. Of course, I usually have to weed through several emails (clearing a path) before I can actually start writing. Whew! Sounds like quite a process, doesn't it?! It's a wonder I get anything done at all!

What is your best advice for aspiring writers?

Anita: If you feel called to write, don’t let people discourage you. I’m sure they don’t realize the impact of their words, but negative remarks can undermine our courage and joy. Comments similar to: “Maybe you weren’t really meant to be published.” Or, “Are you making any money at this yet?” Perhaps you’ve heard, “Why can’t you write like my favorite author?” Honestly, I could go on and on here. Writing is a great and honorable profession—one that can challenge, inspire, and change people’s lives. If you love words and love arranging them into stories, then don’t let the battering influence of dispiriting comments shatter your dream. Keep pressing on!

Janice: I often say this to young/new writers: Learn the craft, but don’t necessarily write what the publishers/agents/houses tell you to write. Trends change. Stick with the stories God places on your heart and if He intends them to be published, He will find the right publishing house in the right time.

What are your writing plans for the future?

Anita: I’d love to just keep doing what I’m doing. But I think I’d also enjoy writing novels for the young adult market.

Janice: I’m open to whatever God wants (and I really mean that). If He shifts me in a new direction (women’s fiction, for example) I’m following His lead! If He asks me to lay the writing down for a season in order to accomplish a different task, I’m open to that, too.

We’d love for you to visit our websites at http://www.anitahigman.com/  and http://www.janiceathompson.com/ . If you’re interested in our Heartsong collection, Ozark Weddings, it can be purchased in bookstores or ordered online at http://www.amazon.com/ .

Thanks for inviting us to your blog!

It's always a pleasure to host each of you.

Readers, just a bit more information on Janice. She recently debuted an online fiction course. For more information, feel free to check out this link: http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs082/1103439157887/archive/1103480517933.html

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

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. You will have 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

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/

Here's a link to the book. By using this link when you order, you help support this blog.

LOVE FINDS YOU IN POETRY, TEXAS - Janice Hanna - Free Book

I'm pleased to have my friend Janice Thompson back on the blog with her first Summerside Press book. Welcome, Janice. What are some of the spiritual themes you like to write about?

I enjoy writing about flawed people. People who make mistakes. Lately, I’ve been writing about people who “get ahead of God.” I tend to do this a lot, and my characters do, too! I want readers to know that we’re all hopelessly flawed, but we have a God who loves us, in spite of our shortcomings. Readers will also notice another (major) theme in my stories, of late. I’ve been writing about weddings. . .a lot! Perhaps this has something to do with the fact that my four daughters, who are all in their late twenties, all got married over the past five years. (Writers are taught to write what we know. . .and I know weddings!)

What other books of yours are coming out soon?

I’m so excited to share the news about my upcoming Revell series: WEDDINGS BY BELLA. It’s pure romantic comedy—probably the funniest stuff I’ve ever written! The first book, FOOLS RUSH IN, is set to release next month! It’s a crazy, quirky story about an Italian wedding planner who has just taken over her family’s wedding facility. Bella (who is 29 and still single) is hosting her first themed wedding—a Boot Scoot’n Texas extravaganza. Only one problem. She doesn’t know anything about country western music and needs a deejay who does! The Lord provides exactly the right deejay, but there are a few bumps in the road to get him there!

The second book in the WEDDINGS BY BELLA series is titled SWINGING ON A STAR. In this story, Bella is coordinating a medieval/Renaissance wedding with a major Hollywood star as the best man. Talk about a paparazzi nightmare!

The third book is titled IT HAD TO BE YOU. In this final story, Bella is coordinating a 40th swing wedding, complete with a swing band. This series has been a blast to write, as you might imagine. Lots of room for antics! And perhaps you’ve already noticed that each book is actually a song title. Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin play a huge role in these stories. Folks who love good music, good food and great themed weddings will love the WEDDINGS BY BELLA series.

If you could spend an evening with one contemporary person (not a family member of yours), who would it be and why?

Lately, I’ve been really intrigued by Matthew West, the Christian singer. His song THE MOTIONS has stolen my heart. I think I would like to hang out with Matthew for a couple of hours and pick his brain. Ask him a few questions about how he came up with the song. Then ask him to pray with me about my work, so that I don’t ever find myself going through the motions in my writing life.

How long have you known that you wanted to be novelist?

I wrote my first book in 6th grade. No kidding! I’d read every Bobbsey Twins book and needed something else to read, so I used those characters to craft a story of my own. In high school I wrote a dramatic piece for a school production. Then, in college, my father and I wrote a screenplay, which was later made into a movie (Liar’s Moon). After that came several musical comedies for the stage.

I didn’t actually write my first “real” novel (DUTY TO DIE) until 1996. It was published in 2000. As you can see, my road to becoming a novelist was long and winding! If you don’t mind another plug here, DUTY TO DIE was based on the premise that the so-called “right” to die would eventually become the “duty” to die, if we weren’t careful. The book dealt at length with the “slippery slope” our country has been on since the 60’s. Never has this been more apparent than in recent weeks as our politicians contemplate the health reform bill. If your readers haven’t already read DUTY TO DIE, I would encourage them to pick up a copy (used) at amazon. It’s been out of print for years, but the story is hauntingly true to reality.

What can you tell authors who have been receiving only rejections from publishers?

Get used to it? Seriously, the rejection goes on and on, long after you have a book published. When you get your copy edits and the editor wants to pick apart your baby, it’s a form of rejection. When you get a letter from a person who didn’t like your published book, it’s a form of rejection. Rejection is a part of life. We have to learn to live with it and learn from it. Don’t let it weaken you. Make all of life’s rejections serve to make you stronger.

Such excellent advice. Tell us about the featured book?

I’m so excited to share about LOVE FINDS YOU IN POETRY, TEXAS (Summerside Press), which was written under the name Janice Hanna. (I should add that several of my books are now being written under my maiden name. I’m doing this as a tribute to my father, who passed away a couple of years ago.) This book, in many ways, represents my own journey as a writer. I conceived the idea for this historical romantic comedy in 2007 while I was in a wheelchair after a terrible accident. (Sounds crazy, doesn’t it? To write a comedy while going through a tragedy? But that’s how the Lord works in my life!)

The story is about a paid matchmaker in the tiny town of Poetry, Texas. For those who don’t know, Poetry is east of Dallas, near a town called Terrell. In 1904 only 200 people lived in Poetry (approximately).

My heroine, Belinda Bauer, works at the local mercantile with her aunt and cousin. She is hoping to “grow” her little town into a place of grandeur like nearby Dallas. To help God along in the process, she takes on the role of marriage broker (paid matchmaker), bringing countless women to the town to marry the men-folk. Only one problem. . .many (if not most) of her matches turn out to be mis-matches! Most of the women end up marrying the wrong men!

There’s one local man who’s particularly unhappy with her bumbling attempts: Georg, the town barber and her childhood friend. She just can’t seem to find his perfect match, though it’s not for lack of trying. Could it be that the Lord has someone else in mind for Georg? Someone who has been there all along, perhaps? In the end, Belinda learns some very “poetic” lessons about life, love and happiness. She also learns that the Lord didn’t really need her help, though He managed to take her bumbles and use them for His glory. (Can I get an amen?)

I had the time of my life writing this story. Many times, Belinda has to ask herself if she’s gotten ahead of the Lord. I know what that feels like, and I’m sure many readers can relate, as well. More than anything, I loved the light-hearted nature of the story. Those who know me know that I’m a light-hearted sort of girl. Perhaps it’s because I’ve faced so many challenges/obstacles in my own life. I need the humor to lift my spirits. And isn’t it wonderful how the Lord uses humor to heal us? He’s done that in my life so many times!

I'm intrigued. Please give us the first page of the book.

Poetry, Texas, 1904

“Belinda, I don’t want to hurt your feelings. Truly. But what in the world has possessed you? A marriage broker? Do you really think you’re...you’re...”

Belinda Bauer felt heat rising to her cheeks as she waited for her cousin to finish the question.

“...q–qualified?” Greta said at last, looking more than a bit dubious.

After drawing in a deep breath, Belinda dove into her rehearsed speech. “One does not have to be married in order to arrange marriages,” she explained. “These days, a good match is simply a matter of business. And science.”

“Science?” Greta did not look convinced. “What is so scientific about falling in love and getting married?”

Belinda gave a brusque nod and continued on undeterred. “In a town such as this—filled with lumbermen and farmers—women are in short supply. Elsewhere, women bow their knees at night, clutch their hands together...”—here Belinda dramatically clasped her hands as if in prayer—“and plead with the Almighty for husbands.”

Greta paled. “Yes, but what does that have to do with you?”

“I will make it my job to reconcile the one with the other. With the Lord’s help, of course.” Belinda released her hands, triumphant.

Surely Greta would see the good in this. And, in time, so would the others in the little town. After all, her goal to civilize the quaint town of Poetry, Texas, was a fine one. Once the women started arriving, the place would begin to blossom, possibly rivaling nearby Terrell. Or maybe—Belinda’s excitement grew as she thought about it—maybe even Dallas. Yes, once proper ladies started arriving, the area would become quite citified.

“You make it sound so...simple.” Her cousin paused to tie an apron around her broad waist, just as she did every morning before Poetic Notions, the town’s mercantile, opened. “But if finding a mate is really as easy as you say, then why, with men surrounding us on every side, do you and I remain unattached?”

Belinda swallowed hard and then chose her words with great care as she reached to straighten several jars on a nearby shelf. “I cannot speak for you, of course.” She turned to grasp her cousin’s hand and gave it a sympathetic squeeze. “To be quite honest, I do not understand why some handsome fellow hasn’t marched in here and swept you away to a life of marital bliss. You, of all people, would make the perfect wife and mother.”

“Thank you.” Greta let out a little giggle, and her cheeks turned pink.

Belinda released a sigh as she contemplated her own situation. “But I do believe, after much prayer on the matter, that I can answer the question about myself.” She stood straight and tall, taking full advantage of her height. “I have come to the conclusion that I was born for a greater purpose.”

I can't wait for my copy to arrive. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Readers can find me at my website: http://www.janiceathompson.com/. There, they can learn about these books and many more!

I spend a lot of time on facebook, and readers can link up to me there at http://www.facebook.com/jhannathompson?ref=name.

My Shoutlife page is another place to connect:
http://www.shoutlife.com/profile_view.cfm?uid=16611.

My book review blog (Double Booked) can be found here: http://doublebookedjanice.blogspot.com/

Finally (and this probably won’t come as a great surprise) I write on the subject of wedding planning for The Examiner, an online newspaper. Readers can find my wedding-themed articles online at: http://www.examiner.com/x-9237-Houston-Wedding-Planning-Examiner

Thank you, Janice, 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.

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/