A WOODLANDS CHRISTMAS - Ramona Cecil, Darlene Franklin, Janelle Mowry, Tamela Hancock Murray - 3 Free Books

Today, we're talking to the authors of another Christmas novella collection--A Woodlands Christmas. First we'll talk to Ramona Cecil. How did your story for the collection come about?

I actually wrote the basic story several years ago. In 2005, it won first place in a novel contest sponsored by the East Texas Writers’ Association of Longview, Texas.

What are you reading right now?

The Overton Window, the new political thriller by Glenn Beck. Though quite a departure from the Christian romance novels I usually read, I’m finding the book both riveting and informative.

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

(A.) Larkspur, a romance set in an Indiana prairie settlement in 1835. It was published in 2006 by Vintage Romance Publishing after winning first place in their 2005 Vintage Inspirations Contest.
(B) Brooksbury, an unpublished romance novel set in 1505 England.
(C) London Holiday and Train To Eden, two unpublished contemporary romance novellas set in England.
(D) Orion’s Daughter, an unpublished Christian historical novella set on an 1859 whaling ship out of New Bedford, Massachusetts.
(E) Sweet Forever, Christian historical novel published in 2008 by Barbour Publishings’ Heartsong Presents line.
(F) Everlasting Promise, Christian historical novel published in 2008 by Barbour Publishings’ Heartsong Presents line.
(G) Charity’s Heart, Christian historical novel published in 2008 by Barbour Publishings’ Heartsong Presents line.
(E), (F), and (G) comprise Freedom’s Crossroad, Barbour Publishing’s three-in-one collection of Indiana historical romances just released in May.
(H) The Heritage, an unpublished full length Christian historical romance novel.
(I) The Healing, an unpublished full length Christian historical romance novel.

I’m presently working on another full length Christian historical romance novel set in 1870 and inspired by the history of the southern Indiana town in which I live.

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

In my case, it was rewriting my already written story to fit the theme of the collection. My story, which was originally set near Dallas, Texas, had to be rewritten to fit East Texas, which has a much different topography and history from the northern central part of the state. I also had to write into my story the character of Gabe Noell, the itinerate woodcarver/preacher who appears in all four stories of the collection and make sure my description of him coordinated with that of the other authors.

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

I really enjoyed it. It was fun to see how Darlene, Janelle, and Tamela wove their own Christmas stories around our common character, Gabe.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

My heroine’s name is Bridget O’Keefe. I knew I wanted her to be a petite red-head with green eyes and be of Irish heritage. I’ve always liked the Irish girl’s name, Bridget. I’m not sure how I came up with O’Keefe. I’m thinking I might have heard it on TV around the time I began plotting the story. My hero’s name is Seth. It’s a name from the Bible I have always liked, but had never used in one of my stories, so I thought this was a great place to use it. I wanted to give Seth a Germanic sounding surname because his backstory was inspired by the true story of the son of Goodleck Koozer of Henrietta, Texas.

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

That holding grudges enslaves the heart and spirit, while forgiveness is freeing. Also, don’t fight against God’s will, because He always wants the best for us.

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

Yes. I joined in 2002 because I knew I needed help and support if I was to ever realize my dream of becoming a published writer. As a writer of Christian fiction, ACFW was a no-brainer. I’m quick to testify that joining this group of wonderful writers—many of whom are now dear friends—was key in helping me on my road to publication.

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

Two, really; have an open, teachable heart, and never, never, never give up.

Thank you, Ramona. Now we're going to talk to Darlene Franklin. How did your story for the collection come about?

I was intrigued by the idea of an artist searching for a woman with Mary’s face—and character (I had worked on earlier proposal with the same theme). So when we decided that each story would include an itinerant woodcarver, I knew he would carve a nativity set and my hero would paint Mary’s face.

What are you reading right now?

I’m reading the other Carol finalists in the mystery category (My books, A String of Murders, is a finalist as well). So I’m reading The Case of the Mystified M.D. by A.K. Arenz. I’m also reading The Crimson Cipher by Susan Page Davis, Dakota Cowboy by Linda Ford and Slightly Bad Girls of the Bible by Liz Curtis Higgs. I’d say that a fairly representative selection. I read mysteries for fun; romances for fun and business; and nonfiction for edification.

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

I have several unpublished books, since I wrote about one book a year while waiting for that elusive first sale.

Heartsong Presents has published 3 of my romances so far:

Romanian Rhapsody (with the sequels, Plainsong and Knight Music, due out next year), all contemporary romance
Beacon of Love (one of three stories in the newly released Seaside Romance), a historical romance set in a Rhode Island light house during a hurricane.
Prodigal Patriot, the first of three historical romances set in Vermont. Books 2 (Bridge to Love) and 3 (Love’s Raid) are on their way.

Like Janelle, I had the privilege of writing for Heartsong Presents Mysteries. Two of the books have already been released: Gunfight at Grace Gulch and A String of Murders (the Carol award finalist). I’m hopeful that the third book, Paint Me a Puzzle, will come out next year.

I’ve also been in two previous novella collections: Snowbound Colorado Christmas and Wild West Christmas.

And I was in both of the last two collections with Darlene. What is the hardest thing about writing a part of a novella collection?

Working with other writers always involves adjusting to everyone’s schedules and writing styles. But that’s part of what is wonderful about it. Together, we make a dynamic team!

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

I was awestruck when I read our stories. Together, we have created a collection that will touch lives. It’s such a great way to invest in the lives of other writers.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Given my take on the story of Mary and Joseph, I chose rather obvious names. My hero is Joseph “Joey” Carpenter. I used the nickname Polly for my heroine, Mary Jessup.

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

I hope the readers will learn to look for character over outer beauty, and to seek to develop the qualities that set Mary apart for themselves.

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

I joined ACFW in 2005. I guess I waited to see if this upstart organization was going to take off, and oh, boy, it did! (I’ve been writing since 1991.) It provides an international fellowship of writers who support each other. I learn, I fellowship, and I keep up with trends in my profession. If you’re a writer of Christian fiction, you should belong to ACFW. It’s as simple as that.

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

Perhaps it’s to grow tough skin. Rejection and bad reviews are part of every writer’s life.

Thank you, Darlene. Janelle Mowry is coming up next. How did your story for the collection come about?

I had a story idea sketched out but had yet to start writing it. When we decided on our story theme, I adjusted the story to make it fit.


What are you reading right now?

LOL. Believe it or not, I’m reading Dwight Swain’s Techniques of the Selling Writer. I feel it never hurts to refresh one’s memory about proper writing techniques.

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

I’ve written a three book series, The Colorado Runaways, for Harvest House, the first titled When All Your Dreams Come True to be released Feb. 1, 2011. Books 2 and 3 of this series will also be released in 2011. I’ve also written Love Finds You in Silver City, Idaho, for Summerside Press to be released Oct. 1, 2010. I’ve also co-authored a three book mystery series, Massachusetts Mayhem Mysteries, with Elizabeth Ludwig. The first book, titled Where the Truth Lies, was published in 2008. Books 2 and 3, titled Died in the Wool and A Black Die Affair, will release in 2011. I’ve written three other stories, two of which will probably never see the light of day. The other may find its way back to my computer screen one day.

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

The hardest part for me was making sure the character who appears in each of our stories both looked and sounded the same. But the ladies I worked with are great and simplified the task.

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

They taught me how to write much tighter, how to find the sentences that weren’t necessary and delete them without too much pain. This was the first short story I’d ever written, so new lessons were involved for me. Tamela, Ramona, and Darlene were great to work with.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Sometimes I use names I’ve always loved. Other times, I try to make them sound like the region they’ve come from. For my heroine in this story, I wanted a southern-sounding name, which led to Emma Rose Pickett. It just seemed to fit.

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

I hope the readers will learn that anger and vengeance only hurts the one holding tightly to them. That walking in God’s will with a spirit of love and forgiveness brings freedom and healing.

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

I joined ACFW in 2002 after an author I’ve admired for years told me about the group. The authors taught me much and what I learned was a significant part of my journey to becoming a published author.

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

Besides the need to join ACFW? Never stop learning.

Thank you, Janelle. Now I'm going to talk Tamela Hancock Murray, one of my favorite people. How did your story for the collection come about?


I love how Gabe is present through the book, and I felt led to write about him as a long-lost grandfather. Often people inspired by great preachers don’t think about the fact that the ministers have family lives, too. Since Gabe is mysterious, I thought readers would be interested in learning more about Gabe and from whence he came, since for this set we had decided not to go with the “Is he really an angel?” route.

What are you reading right now?

In additional to my devotional reading, I’m one of those crazy people who reads several novels at once. I’m reading THE GLASSBLOWER by Laurie Alice Eakes, A PROMISE FOR SPRING by Kim Vogel Sawyer, and next on my list is BECOMING LUCY by Martha Rogers. I am proud to be a literary agent with Hartline Literary Agency, and I am blessed to represent all three of these authors.

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

My credits include many novels, novellas, and some Bible trivia bools. I invite you to find out about them at: http://www.tamelahancockmurray.com/. I am excited that two of my Bible trivia books, BIBLE SURVIVAL and LOST AND FOUND, have just been reissued as a set in one book. I am honored that my most recent Heartsong Presents novel, THE MASTER’S MATCH, was among readers’ top picks for the year. The cover also received recognition. I am grateful to the talented people who put together such beautiful artwork.

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

Writing about settings other than where you grew up or where you have travelled often presents a challenge to me. I want to be sure to make the setting as authentic as I can, at the very least including landmarks and appropriate plants, birds, and temperature. I have enjoyed visiting Texas but for me, writing the setting wasn’t as organic as writing about my home state of Virginia. For example, I’m cold-natured so my impulse when writing about winter is to have everyone bundled in heavy coats, maybe even fur, but the part of Texas in question here meant people dressed for moderate winters.

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

I am so blessed to be friends with all my collaborators. The set went quite smoothly. It’s great to work with professionals such as Ramona Cecil, Darlene Franklin, and Janelle Mowery.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

We chose the last name to fit the Christmas theme, and Gabriella is named after her grandfather, Gabe. I try to stay with the time period for all my characters. For example, if I am writing a story set in 1880, I try to find popular baby names for the year 1850 or 1860. I have several books to help me.

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

Gabe’s son wants to reconcile with him after years of unforgiveness. I hope that my story will encourage readers not to put off reconciliation, forgiveness, apologies, or simply contacting a long-lost person to be back in touch. All of us have someone in our lives we need to contact. As soon as you read the last two questions of this interview, please do so! :-)

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

Yes. They are a great organization comprised of many publishing professionals. I like that they welcome beginners as well as people who’ve been in the business for decades. Some organizations have such stringent rules for admission that gaining entry is next to impossible. Other organizations charge high fees for admission. Since so many CBA writers are in ministry, this can be a burden. I appreciate ACFW’s openness to all types of writers, and the fact that for most people, dues are affordable. I also appreciate that they run critique groups, a prayer loop, a main loop, and other loops and forums to help people who want to focus on a specific need or topic. They also run a top notch conference each year.

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

Write 1000 words a day. If you do, you will complete a trade-length novel in three months.


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.

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SEASIDE ROMANCE - Tamela Hancock Murray, Darlene Franklin, Lynette Sowell - 2 Free Books

I've been looking forward to featuring this book on the blog. All three of the authors are good friends of mine. Welcome, Tamela, I love your new picture. Did you enjoy working with the other authors in the collection?


Darlene, Lynette, and I have been friends for a long time. Since each novel stands alone and the stories aren’t interconnected, we didn’t work closely together on this particular collection. However, I am thrilled that my work is appearing in this collection with their stories!

I understand you have in-laws living in New England. Can you tell us about the region?

My husband was born in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. His father served as a minister for many years and they lived all over the region. We have visited my husband’s immediate and extended family often. The New England countryside is lovely, and of course their history is rich. My in-laws currently live in Connecticut near the Noah Webster House Museum, and we can easily reach the Mark Twain House and Museum as well.

New England is a special area, a wonderful region to visit when the opportunity arises. As you might imagine since they have a grand reputation for autumn leaves, I recommend a fall visit. If you go in winter, you’ll find plenty of snow. Lots of people love skiing in New Hampshire. Usually summers are mild, but they are having a hot one at present. Spring brings lush greenery to the region thanks to the generous snowfalls God sends in winter.

What do you like most about this collection?

I like that it centers in a region where Christian romances don’t often take place. Each couple in the set is special. I enjoyed writing mine, because it really is a Cinderella story. And who doesn’t love those?

I love Cinderella stories, too. What book are you currently writing?

Since I am a full-time literary agent with Hartline Literary, I write fiction very seldom at present. Perhaps I might be persuaded to write a novella in the future, but as of now, I have no novel brewing.

Tell us a little about your family.

I live in Northern Virginia with my hero, who doesn’t miss the harsh New England winters. Our teenager is still at home, and we are enjoying these precious last years with her before she strikes out on her own. Our eldest daughter will soon be returning to the U.S. from teaching English at an enrichment school. We look forward to seeing her.

What is the first page of your story in the collection?

Providence, RI
1835

Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. Proverbs 31:10

Prologue

Five-year-old Becca Hanham could not go home until she sold enough lucifers to buy bread. She pulled a ragged shawl around her tiny shoulders, but the motion did little to ward off the cold of a December evening in Providence. Standing by the White Horse Tavern, she heard piano music, laughter, and singing from within. No wonder each night Daddy escaped to the light and warmth of such a place. At home, Mommy always looked sad and Becca’s brothers and sisters filled their cramped rented rooms with yelling and crying. Still, Becca yearned to go back. Whistling in the night that hid secret dangers, wind bit her bare legs.

She peered down the familiar street of Providence, hoping for customers. At the first cross street, a tall man wearing a top hat and unblemished outer coat walked alongside a woman donned in a fur-trimmed cape. Looking into each other’s eyes, they laughed and talked as they approached.

“What would it be like to be so happy?” Becca wondered.

Soon the couple drew close enough to hear her. “Lucifers, sir?” Her hand shivered as she held the matches out to him.

He shook his head.

Knowing better than to pose her question to the lady, Becca set her gaze on the street and returned the lucifers to the small reed basket hanging from the crook of her arm.

“The poor little thing,” she heard the woman mutter as they kept strolling. “Oh, Thomas, can’t you buy some to help her? Your servants tend many fireplaces at your estate.”

“You are too kindhearted, Elizabeth. If I bought goods from every street urchin, I’d soon be living alongside them. And so would you, after we’re wed. You wouldn’t want that, would you?” Even his thick topcoat didn’t hide a shudder.

The woman glimpsed back at Becca. “No, I suppose not.”

The first time Becca heard similar observations, she felt a bite deeper than the cold, but since then she had grown too resilient to let such comments bother her. Why should anyone want to change places with her? A quick look at her reflection in a dark window confirmed that a washed face and clean clothes couldn’t conceal her ragamuffin status.

Another couple, this time appearing to be mother and son, approached. She held out her wares and offered them for sale, but they kept their gazes from touching her.

The little girl fought discouragement. “If I can sell but a few more, I’ll have enough money. Oh, it is so cold! Father in Heaven, please send me a buyer soon.” She peered at the matches in her basket. If only there were a fireplace with blazing logs nearby. Then she could keep warm. But the nearest fireplace burned in the tavern, and children weren’t welcome there.

Where can the readers find you on the Internet?

I can be found at http://www.tamelahancockmurray.com/  and also http://www.hartlineliterary.com/ . Hartline Literary has a blog at http://hartlineliteraryagency.blogspot.com/

Lena, thank you for this interview. I really appreciate your love and support concerning my career.

And I love having you on my blog. I can hardly wait to see you in Indianapolis in about a month.
 

And now we welcome, Darlene Franklin. Darlene and I have worked on several projects together. What contribution did your story make to the collection?


Beacon of Love is the first story in the collection, and the earliest historically.

Did you enjoy working with the other authors in the collection?

Yes. Our three manuscripts were due during a time that I was recuperating from knee surgery. I turned my manuscript in, and Tamela and Lynette picked up the ball and ran with it. Good co-authors and friends!

Did it take a lot of interaction?

Our stories each stand alone, so we didn’t need a lot of interaction.

Have you ever been to Rhode Island?

I’ve passed through there once or twice. Does that count? I have lived on Maine’s rocky coast, and I drew on that experience to describe the dangers the citizens of the island of Capernaum faced at sea.

How was the setting chosen?

We knew we wanted to write about Rhode Island for the Heartsong state series. I decided on my specific setting when I learned about the destruction of the Point Judith lighthouse during the Great Gale of 1815. Lighthouses! Hurricanes! Story ideas began dancing in my head.

What do you like most about this collection?

Rhode Island is the tiniest state in the Union, yet it is full of fascinating history. We could have written the entire series about the hurricane (flood waters reached the capitol city, Providence), but Lynette especially wanted to write about the gilded era in Newport.

What book are you currently writing?

I just finished the rough draft of my third Vermont book, Love’s Raid, inspired by the northernmost battle of the Civil War, St. Albans’ Raid. When robbers strike the bank in nearby Maple Notch, is it the work of Confederate soldiers—or a copycat crime? I’ll be editing the manuscript between now and first of next month, but I’ve set aside this week to develop two book proposals.

Tell us a little about your family.

Do I start with the losses (father, mother, and daughter) over the past two years, or with the birth of my grandchildren?! I moved to Oklahoma to be near my son; I love being a grandma to three beautiful girls and a baby boy on his way in September.

I also recently heard from a distant cousin that I didn’t know existed ... and learned I have a large number of “Sparks cousins” across the country. I look forward to getting to know them.

What is the first page of your story in the collection?

Waves taller than a man and blacker than midnight curled over Sam’s head and foamed white at the crest like a mad dog’s mouth, ready to devour anything in their path. One small wooden boat could not survive such a storm.

Papa knelt in the stern, holding his hand over his eyebrows as if to clear his vision of the rain that obliterated the shore near Capernaum.

Turn back. Sam wanted to shout the words, but no sound came out of his mouth.

“We’ve seen worse.” Papa placed his hand on Sam’s shoulder. “Join me on the oars.”

Sam sat next to Papa on the seat, hundreds of dead cod soaking his shoes, his oil coat, and his very skin with their smell. Why had Papa ever given up his farm for the sea? Because fish were abundant and New England summers short, that was why.

“Pull, son.” Sam strained at the oars. His puny, fourteen-year-old shoulders could not Papa’s. He wished he could drink an elixir of sea water that would grow him into a giant in an instant—a giant who could power the boat, walk through the ocean if need be to get them to safety.

But he remained his normal, gangly self, his body not yet accustomed to his newfound height, hands more acquainted with the quill of the schoolroom than a fishing boat’s oars. Nevertheless, he pulled with all his might.

Sam shut out everything except cycling the oars, dipping them in and out of the water, riding up the waves before crashing back into the sea. He couldn’t tell if they had rowed for ten minutes or an hour, if they were approaching the shore or riding out further into the sea. The storm colored the sky a constant gray, whether twilight or deepest night. Lightning spun through the clouds, stirring up the wind. Thunder cracked across the pounding waves. At the top of the next wave, lightning gave him a glimpse of the shore.

The treacherous, rocky shore that every sailor must avoid lay only yards from their little boat.

“No, Papa, no!”

Where can the readers find you on the Internet?

They can find me at my blog (http://darlenefranklinwrites.blogspot.com/ ), which includes monthly book giveaways. I also contribute to http:/thebookdoctorbd.blogspot.com .

Thank you, Darlene, for visiting with us again.
 

Now we welcome Lynette Sowell. What contribution did your story make to the collection?


All That Glitters is set in the Gilded Age of Newport, Rhode Island, among the mansions built by the barons of the Industrial Revolution, with names like Vanderbilt and Astor. It was quite addicting to research the Gilded Age, and especially fun to read The New York Times from 1895.

I also discovered a heroine who had all the material things she needed or could ever dream of, but her choices were very, very limited. My heroine, Francesca, faces her first summer “out” in society. With her scheming mother, the attentions of a French count, and an old friend’s return to Newport, it turns out to be a very eventful summer.

Did you enjoy working with the other authors in the collection?

I certainly did. I’ve known Darlene and Tamela for years. Not only are they talented authors, but they’re wonderful to work with. Preparing this book proposal was a joy, and even more so when we found out we’d sold the collection.

 Did it take a lot of interaction?

Not as much as in some collections, but I liked having the others’ input as we crafted our proposals. Our novels might be set in the same state, but our three heroines all lead very different lives. From a lighthouse keeper’s daughter, to a Providence housemaid, to a Gilded Age debutante, our heroines each face unique challenges of life, love, and faith.

Have you ever been to Rhode Island?

Yes, most of my family lives in New England, and my sisters are big fans of Newport, where my novel is set. The Newport mansions always have fascinated me, and the lives that their owners led.

I had a friend who went there when her husband had to go for business. She loved the mansions. How was the setting chosen?

For me, Newport was a natural choice with its mansions and unique history. I really enjoyed researching the historic homes and the families who lived in them during the summertime.

What do you like most about this collection?

Even though all three novels are set in Rhode Island, this collection has three very different stories in three very different settings, with three strong heroines. I think each book captures the flavor of Rhode Island as well.

What book are you currently writing?

I’m preparing another historical proposal, this time set in either Texas or Wyoming. I still have to work out a few kinks in that, but the characters have really captured my attention. The heroine is also a privileged young woman like my heroine in All That Glitters, but not quite as wealthy, and the hero is a bounty hunter. So far my working title is The Schoolmarm’s Impostor.

Tell us a little about your family.

I live in Central Texas with my husband of fifteen years. Our kids are both raised and have moved out on their own within the past year, so my husband and I have been getting used to the empty nest. It’s been an adjustment, but we’re learning to enjoy it.

I loved it when the last child got married. James and I enjoyed the freedom in the house, but all but one of my kids and grandkids live in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, so we see them often. What is the first page of your story in the collection?

Paris, May 1895

"Miss, I simply cannot do this.” Francesca Wallingford’s maid frowned at her hands, clad in Francesca’s second pair of silk gloves. “All will know I am not—”

“Nonsense.” Francesca glanced out the carriage window at the Paris evening. The gaslights beckoned them, and the party awaited. Stuffy, pretentious, and thoroughly uninteresting. Until they arrived, of course. “Elizabeth, you shall remember your lessons and be the pride of my heart this evening. Imagine, they will wonder who this most charmante mademoiselle is who appeared suddenly this season along with Miss Francesca Wallingford. And we shall laugh at them all later.”

“If I am discovered. . .” Elizabeth touched her throat.

“That will not happen. I assure you that your natural grace will be evident; and not everyone speaks French, so your limitations there should only prove the more engaging.” At last, the carriage drew near to the grand house where the latest in a series of balls would keep them dancing and frolicking like so many peacocks until dawn peeked through the tall windows of the ballroom. But tonight, Francesca would find a measure of interest in watching Elizabeth’s venture into society.

Elizabeth’s hair had never known the heat of an iron, much as the young woman had spent hours helping curl Francesca’s own tresses. And Francesca had no skill in curling hair, yet somehow she had managed to curl Elizabeth’s hair into a passable style. Although Francesca’s robin’s egg blue gown—of last season—had been too long for Elizabeth’s more diminutive frame, the two of them had managed to shorten the gown and transform it into this year’s fashion. No one would be the wiser, especially since Mother remained at home with yet another headache.

“Your mother will not approve,” Elizabeth said as if in response to Francesca’s pondering.

“Ah, but she knows my brother and his wife will be present this evening, and it is not scandalous in the least for me to travel with my maid.” She tried not to wince at the mention of Elizabeth’s true station in the Wallingford household.

Where can the readers find you on the Internet?

I have a web site, lynettesowell.com, but readers are also welcome to find me on Facebook where I enjoy commenting on writing and life in general. I love hearing from readers!

Thank you for coming by, Lynette. I loved the first page of your book.
 
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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.

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Tamela Hancock Murray - LOVE FINDS YOU IN MAIDEN, NORTH CAROLINA - Free Book

Readers, I apologize for being so late with the interview today. I had to take my husband to the ER yesterday at 4:30 pm, and I've been there all day today, too. I know this is later than usual, but this is a very special interview. I was privileged to read the book before it was published and write an endorsement for it. You'll find these words I wrote on the cover:

Love Finds You in Maiden, North Carolina, takes you back to a gentler time. I love the characters, the feel of the 1920s, and especially the romance in this book. It's a keeper.

Welcome, Tamela. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

I think it’s impossible for writers not to include something about themselves in their characters. My friends say they can hear me speak as they read my books because of the characters’ voice patterns. Most of my heroines display more patience than I do sometimes in real life. I write the type of women I can look up to. I hope my readers feel the same.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I convinced people to ride the Rebel Yell roller coaster at King’s Dominion in Ashland, Virginia, over and over until the park closed. The first time, I was a teenager spending the day with my best friend. The second time was about three years ago with my husband. I hope we can go back soon!

I'd love that, but James would be throwing up after the first trip. When did you first discover that you were a writer?

In fifth grade, when a classmate copied word for word a poem I wrote in third grade and passed it off as his own. He denied it, of course.

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

Because I’m a literary agent as well as a writer, I get to read a wide variety of books. I enjoy thought-provoking and inspirational nonfiction. I also love to read romance and romantic suspense. The different types of Bibles being released fascinate me. I think CBA is doing a great job in every category!

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

I’ve written many novels and novellas, plus Bible trivia for both children and adults. The complete list is on my web site, except for a couple of titles that have gone out of print. Like most writers, I have a couple of unpublished novels sitting on a computer somewhere. When I go back and read these long-ago attempts, for the most part I’m grateful to the editors who decided not to publish them.

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

A few years ago our wise pastor told the congregation that on Sundays, we shouldn’t shop or engage in other activities that aren’t God-centered. Inspired by him, we changed our habits and now Sundays are much more restful for us. I also try to limit my computer time on Saturdays, because our family spends time together then, both in accomplishing errands and in fun activities. I realize many writers hold down full-time jobs and this solution doesn’t work for them. However, I hope all writers will do everything possible to find at least one afternoon a week for some down time. You deserve it!

Well, my down time this week went down the tube. How do you choose your characters’ names?

When choosing, I try to assign the characters names with meanings that have some relationship to their role in the story. I have several baby name books I enjoy consulting. Some are out of print. I also consult Social Security listings and “most popular names of the decade” lists. However, most popular name listings aren’t especially inspiring to me because the same names appear too often on those.

In talking to publishing industry professionals, I find that some say, “Choose a name from the decade of the 1880s for your heroine and hero living in that decade.” Actually, you need to go back to the time when the characters were born.

That is so true. What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

That I have managed to convince my husband to stay with me going on 25 years now. I told him I’m aiming for 70 years since by then I’ll only be 91 and he will not have seen his 100th birthday. Anything after that will be pure gravy!

Speaking from the perspective if going on 45 years, I'm glad that as your youthfulness fades, so does his eyesight, so you still look really good to him. :-) If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

I would be a bunny, because everyone loves bunnies! We have a bunny family living in our yard and we love to see them hop about.

I also wouldn’t mind being a honeybee, because they are so important to humans. Besides, I like honey drizzled over Greek yogurt.

I love honey on lots of things. What is your favorite food?

Chateau Briand. I associate this dish with romance. It requires a relatively large piece of filet mignon and preparation of béarnaise sauce, so many restaurants only serve it for two. I love to share this dish with my husband. When we were dating and first married, on special occasions we enjoyed driving into Washington, D.C., and dining at Maison Blanche. This restaurant has since closed, but it was there that I first encountered and enjoyed Chateau Briand.

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

I started writing professionally when I was a young mother, so the greatest roadblock was finding time because I didn’t want to ignore my daughters. Not to mention, the irony of neglecting my husband so I could write romance novels didn’t escape me. Since I was in every club and on every committee in college, I used time management skills learned during school to organize my days so I could write while still dedicating time to my family. Of course, the occasional unplanned event happens, but I make a point of getting back on track as soon as possible.

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

Today’s new authors have an advantage I didn’t when I started, and that is the chance to use the Internet to network. Writing used to be a solitary profession. In some ways, it still is because there are big chunks of time when it’s just you and the blank computer screen. But now, writers can access huge numbers of friends who share a passion for writing. This is a priceless gift. Writing for God is about Him, but it’s also about people, and our relationships are really what matters.

Tell us about the featured book?

I loved writing LOVE FINDS YOU IN MAIDEN, NORTH CAROLINA. This story focuses on two cousins who are different in appearance, temperament, and upbringing, but are alike in that they want to be loved by a good man. But Selene is concealing a scandalous secret.

Like many eras, the 1920s brought about many important changes as technology advanced at an unheard of pace and values were reassessed and examined. The cousins’ worlds collide and each learns from the other.

To write this book, I visited Maiden with my family. This charming town provided a wonderful backdrop for the story to unfold. I have a special love for North Carolina because many of my relatives live in the state. I hope readers will enjoy this book as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Please give us the first page of the book.

October 1922

Chapter One

Hestia Myatt paused before knocking on the door of her aunt’s gray Victorian with white trim situated in the foothills of the Appalachians in Maiden, North Carolina. She would only be staying three weeks, giving her the chance to help her relative recover from a broken pelvis. During that time, Hestia hoped to collect her thoughts and make plans for a new life after a broken engagement.

A train whistled as it passed. The familiar sound always reminded Hestia of her aunt’s house. An afternoon autumn rain had left burnished leaves lying on thin grass and a musty smell in its wake. Loving the season, Hestia took a moment to invigorate herself with a breath of chilly air for a welcome respite. Aunt Louisa’s friend Mrs. Howard had picked Hestia up from the train station in her Model T and, after a harrowing ride thanks to her inexperience with the motorcar, had dropped Hestia at the end of the sidewalk and departed.

Undaunted, Hestia handled her two brown leather bags with ease. After composing herself, she rapped twice on the front door.

“Come on in.” Hestia could hear the familiar voice through the open window. It helped that her aunt’s bedroom was on the front left side of the modest house. “Door’s open.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I’m at: http://www.tamelahancockmurray.com/

Please stop by and drop me a line. I’d love to hear from you!

Lena, thank you for granting me the chance to appear on this blog. I appreciate this opportunity, and have been thrilled to spend time with you and your readers. Hugs, Tamela

And thank you, Tamela, for the visit.

Readers, you'll want to get your hands on this book. Tell your friends about the book and this interview. If you're having trouble finding the book, here's a link where you can order it.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy. The only way I'll contact you about winning will be in the announcement blog, so check back on Saturday in two weeks to see if you won.