A New Voice in Christian Fiction -- Nancy Jo Jenkins

When I first heard about Nancy's book Coldwater Revival, I must confess that I didn't buy into all the hype. The word lyrical was often bandied around. Well, when my book arrived and I started reading it, I finally understood. The book has a literary/lyrical voice, and the story is intriguing. I loved it. I've know her online for quite some time, and I'm looking forward to meeting Nancy Jo face-to-face.

Nancy, how much of yourself do you put into your characters?

There is something of me in all of my characters. But my characters are mainly made up of composites of people I know and have known over the years. Creating characters isn't a conscious thing I do. I just see my character, and know his/her feelings and thoughts. This, along with everything else about my writing, comes to me as a gift from our Heavenly Father.

I know what you mean. Isn't it wonderful when He introduces us to these people? What is the quirkiest thing you've ever done?

I have done so many quirky things in my life, it's hard to pinpoint just one. But what immediately comes to mind is the way I tend to mismatch my stockings with my outfits. For twenty-one years I taught school. I would get up in the predawn and dress, but when I got to school and looked down at my feet, my hoisery/sock/stockings often clashed with what I was wearing. That's what comes to mind, but perhaps I'm just too embarrassed to mention the many other ways I am quirky.

When did you first know that you were a writer?

I knew I was a storyteller from grade-school on. I told stories to my sisters, later my children, my students, and now my grandchildren. I love to tell stories. But I didn't discover that I was a writer until about 5 1/2 years ago. Once I began writing, that was it. I knew then that I was meant to write. I feel writing is one of God's purposes for my life, and I pray I'll be able to write for Him for many more years to come.

What is the range of kinds of books you like to read?

I enjoy reading most fiction, especially historicals, romance and contemporary novels. But if a book has a good story, I'll read it, no matter the genre. Mysteries and time travel also intrigue me.

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

Coldwater Revival is my only completed novel. But I wrote for a long time on my first novel, and then spent some time on a second novel. I completed neither, but I learned so much as I practiced on those two books. I've also written several childrens' books, and hope to get them published someday.

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

It's difficult to hold onto your sanity and keep pace with the demands of life. But I found out early on in my writing that I HAD to seek God before I could attempt any mission or ministry for Him. On the days I don't have my quiet time with God, and don't delve into His Word, then I feel totally lost the entire day. So I make that a priority and He somehow stretches the minutes and hours so that I can keep up with life's demands. My husband helps me a lot, also.

How do you name your characters?

Do you recall the vacuum tubes at the drive-in window of a bank? That's how my characters' names seem to come to me. It's like I put my request for a name in a tube and send it up the way, and it shoots right back down to me - straight from God. I don't always get the name I need the very day I send up my request, but when the names DOES arrive, I have no doubts from Whom it came.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?

Of the accomplishments I have achieved, I am most proud of my family. My husband, our joined family of children, and our precious grandchildren. Our families are a lasting heritage. Many other accomplishments last but for a short time. But our families just "keep on going" like the bunny in the commercial.

If you could be any animal, which one would you want to be?

I would choose to be a doe. Deer are graceful, beautiful, sure-footed and live together in small herds. And I know that does protect their fawns. So, a doe sounds just like the sort of animal I would choose to be if that were my choice.

What is your favorite food?

I love Tex-Mex food and so does my husband. We eat it a least once a week, and usually more often than that. I lived in El Paso for six years. There the Mexican food is more identifiable to the interior of Mexico. I learned to love that kind of Mexican food also. But Tex-Mex is my favorite.

What would you like to tell us about the featured book?

Coldwater Revival is a work of love. I gleaned memories from my childhood, worked with them until they were so deeply embedded in my heart that I felt I was part of the Falin family, of which I wrote. Coldwater Revival is a true-to-life story, with elements of grief-shattering loss, doubts, and a young lady's devastating guilt and shame. But it's also a story of victory, forgiveness and unforgettable restoration for Emma Grace Falin and her family. And it has a very satisfying conclusion.

Thank you for spending this time with us, Nancy. I look forward to your next book.

Remember, Reader, all you have to do is leave a comment on this post for a chance to win a copy of Coldwater Revival. Someone wins a book every week. It might as well be you.

Also, there's still time to leave a comment on Gail Sattler's interview for a chance to win Kentucky Keepers.

Winner of Nancy Lavo's book

. . .Miss Menace is Debbie C. Please click on the e-mail link under my profile and send me your mailing address, so we can get the book out to you.

There's still time to leave a comment on Gail Sattler's interview.

By the way, who wants to guess what color Gail's hair will be at the American Christian Fiction Writers national conference in Dallas in September?

For more info on the conference, go to www.americanchristianfictionwriters.com .

Gail Sattler. . .

. . .and I have been friends since sometime in the early 1990s. We both have written for Heartsong Presents since then. Actually, Gail was chosen favorite author by the readers of Heartsong five years in a row, so she's in the Hall of Fame. Way to go, Gail. I know that when one of her books comes out, I read it as soon as I can. That girl can really spin a yarn!

Be sure to leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of her featured book Kentucky Keepers.

Gail, tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

It varies. Sometimes a little, sometimes a lot, and sometimes none. Each character is an individual, just like in real life, each person is an individual

Well said, what is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I once ordered a custom designed screen for the bay window in my living room, which is on the 2nd story and opens onto the roof, to have a special opening for my dog. Over a period of about 10 years I allowed our dog, a Standard Schnauzer to jump out the window onto the roof to watch the neighborhood and let the day go by. It was her favorite pastime. We've had people stop their cars and point. People who were out walking stopped and stared, then jumped in shock when the dog moved, because they didn't think she was real. Strangers have knocked on our door to ask if we knew our dog was on the roof. The only times I didn't allow her to go onto the roof was when it was raining or if it was too hot out there.

I've seen pictures of that. When did you first discover that you were a writer?

February 1995. A few months before that I had lost my job when the company I worked for closed. A friend gave me a bunch of books to read, which I really enjoyed because up until that time, I didn't have the time to read like I used to. When I was reading, the thought struck me that I wanted to try to write a book, too, and the rest is history.

Wow, that's very time specific. Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

Mostly I enjoy romantic comedy, which is why that's what I write. I also enjoy cozy mysteries, because I don't want to read anything violent. In a cozy mystery, any violence happens offscreen, and I like it that way. I also enjoy women's fiction.

Kentucky Keepers has quite a lineup of wonderful authors. What other books have you written, whether published or not?

So far I've had over 30 category romance novels and/or novellas published. What hasn't been published so far is one cozy mystery, which isn't finished, and one mainstream fiction, which also isn't finished.

Readers, you can see all her books at www.gailsattler.com. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

When I need a break, I take one. No one will fall down and die if the housework isn't done, and I'm on a first name basis with the people at the local pizza take-out joint. When I need a break, I read something that someone else wrote that I don't have to comment on.

Sounds like a good plan to me. How do you choose your characters’ names?

I have no pattern or formula. The names just come when I'm thinking the story through as I'm setting out my plot. I look in my local phone book for last names.

I never realized how many authors use the phone book that way. Now why didn't I think of that? What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

That one's easy. My biggest accomplishment is being a multi-published author. It's a lot of work, but it's fun work.

Here are some fun questions. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

This isn't mine, I copied this off the internet somewhere, I don't have the source – I wanna be a bear. If you're a bear, you get to hibernate. You do nothing but sleep for six months. I could deal with that. Before you hibernate, you're supposed to eat yourself stupid. I could deal with that, too. If you're a bear, you birth your children (who are the size of walnuts) while you'resleeping and wake to partially grown, cute cuddly cubs. I could definitely deal with that. If you're a mama bear, everyone knows you mean business. You swat anyone who bothers your cubs. If your cubs get out of line, you swat them too. I could deal with that. If you're a bear, your mate EXPECTS you to wake up growling. He EXPECTS that you will have hairy legs. Yup..... I wanna be a bear.

Don't we all? What is your favorite food?

Chocolate. And don't think chocolate isn't a food, because it is. It's soul food.

I totally agree. It especially must be soul food for authors. A lot of them have mentioned chocolate as a favorite in these interviews. Thank you, Gail, for spending time with us today. Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win this book. If you don't win it, go out and buy a copy. You won't be sorry.

Judy G, You Are the Winner

. . .of Andrea Boeshaar's book Always a Bridesmaid. Please click on the e-mail link below my profile and send me your mailing address.

Thanks to everyone for your comments. You still have time to leave comments on Nancy Lavo's interview for a chance to win a copy of Miss Menace.

What is an Alli-Bag? A writer friend of mine, Diane Moody, is also the creator of Alli-Bags. She has created a Lena Nelson Dooley signature bag.

The picture doesn't do it justice. It is beautiful. You can order bags at www.alli-bags.com . For the signature bags, click on the button on the left of the website. There are several bags that have been created for authors. She also has several bags that are on clearance where you can pick up a bargain.

These bags are well-made and sturdy, but every Alli-bag also has a pearl sewn in, because every woman needs a pearl.

A Lena Nelson Dooley signature Alli-bag filled with my books will be featured in the Silent Auction at the American Christian Fiction Writers national conference in September. Where else but in Dallas, Texas? Get all the information on the conference at www.americanchristianfictionwriters.com .

My Friend -- Nancy Lavo

I'm really happy to introduce a long-time friend to you. Nancy and I went to the same church years ago when we each sold our first books to Heartsong. Over the years we've both grown in friendship and as authors. Her most recent book is Miss Menace, published by Heartsong. I loved this delightful contemporary comedy. Remember, if you leave a comment, you'll have a chance to win a free copy of this book.

Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.
I don’t consciously put any of myself into my characters. Having said that, I’m certain it’s impossible to filter out my experiences and perceptions from my work. I’m guessing that a bit of me creeps in undetected.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?
I don’t think I do quirky things, which could mean one of two things. Either I’m a very staid individual or I’m so weird that quirky seems normal to me.

Should I tell them which I think it is? Maybe I'll let them guess. When did you first discover that you were a writer?
My kids gave me an inspirational romance novel for Mother’s Day one year. After I read it, I said, “Hey, I can do that!”

And you do it very well. Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.
Romance, romance, romance. Not much of a range, huh? Occasionally I’ll stray from romance and pick up a popular fiction title or a mystery, but they rarely satisfy like a good romance. I think it’s the guaranteed happy endings of romances that keep me coming back.

What other books have you written, whether published or not?
I’ve written five books for Heartsong, and one for Silhouette Romance. I have a couple more completed books collecting dust under my bed.

Well, pull those out, dust them off, do a re-edit, and get them out there. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?
I walk three miles every day. The fresh air and exercise are a terrific antidote for stress. More importantly I spend time with the Father in prayer and in His word. No matter how crazy things get, He keeps me grounded.

How do you choose your characters’ names?
From the phone book. No kidding. I can come up with first names without any trouble, but last names always stump me. So I flip open a phone book and skim along until I find a name that strikes my fancy. I have been known to borrow my friend’s names for secondary characters.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?
My precious family. By the grace of God my husband and I have raised three wonderful children who love God and one another. Now that’s what I call an accomplishment!

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?
Probably a parrot. I talk a lot and favor bright plumage.

I like that. What is your favorite food?
Anything chocolate.

What would you like to tell us about the featured book?
I had a great time writing it.

And the readers enjoy reading it. Thank you for giving us this peek into your life, Nancy.

Remember to leave a comment, and there's still time to leave a comment on Andrea Boeshaar's interview.

Alison Strobel Morrow

. . .is the winner of Carrie Turansky's book Along Came Love. Please click the e-mail link on the left column and leave me your mailing address.

There's still time to leave a comment on Andrea Boeshaar's interview. I'm reading her book right now, and it's very good.

A new interview will go up tomorrow.

Introducing Andrea Boeshaar - Author and Agent

I've known Andrea online as long as we both have been in American Christian Fiction writers, and getting to see her in person at the national conferences is such a pleasure. She a sweet, kind person with a lovely smile and big heart. It's with pleasure that I present her to you. Remember to leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Always a Bridesmaid.

Andrea, tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

I think there is a little bit of me in all my characters.

I know what you're talking about. How can we not write what we know, and who do we know best? What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I wrote a letter to Laura Bush – because I admire her very much. I think she’s an intelligent and dignified woman and a devoted wife and mother. She’s an incredible role model for American women. I also sent her my novel Broken Things – just for fun. Some of my family members chuckled. But then I received a handwritten letter back from Mrs. Bush in which she thanked me for sending my book and she mentions my two sons who serve in the military. It’s a real letter! I’ll always cherish it. (Guess it wasn’t so quirky after all!)

Sounds wonderful to me. When did you first discover that you were a writer?
I’ve loved to write ever since I was a little girl. Then in 1984 I began writing with the intent to be published. I wanted to be the next Danielle Steele. But God took hold of my heart (and my life) and changed my course in 1991 and I dedicated myself to write for His glory.

I'm glad He did. I love your books. Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

I enjoy Christian fiction, ranging from the more literary, like Jamie Langston Turner’s novels to category romance, such as Heartsong Presents and Love Inspired books. I also enjoy some of Joyce Meyers’ nonfiction. Also in my bookshelf are books by Bill O’Reilly and Sean Hannity. And then there are all my “how to” writing books!

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

I’m presently writing my 19th novel. I have a list of all my titles on my web site at: http://www.andreaboeshaar.com/

I know those who visit this blog will be glad to go there and check them out. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

It’s not easy!! But whenever things get tough, God draws me to His word. It’s there, in the Bible, where I’m reminded of His many promises and how God gives us that “peace that passes all understanding” when our world spins out of control.

So true. How do you choose your characters’ names?

Various ways. Sometimes I’ll hear the name and it plucks a chord in my creativity. Sometimes I go to my “Character-Naming Sourcebook” (WD Books) and search through the pages until I find one that suits my character.

I know what you mean about a name striking a chord. I have numerous sticky notes on the credenza above my computer with names on them. What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

My three sons. They are handsome, smart, responsible, capable Christian men. They all chose wives whom I adore. I now have three daughters too (and a 4 month old granddaughter). I guess my sons are more blessings (and gifts from God) than accomplishments. Nevertheless, I’m very proud of my family.

How blessed you are! I didn't get my boys until grandsons. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

I don’t know. God made me a human being and I have honestly never had the desire to be an animal.

What is your favorite food?

Cheetos (really bad for me, I know!!!!)

Thank you, Andrea. Readers, she mentioned sending Broken Things to Mrs. Bush. I highly recommend that you read that complete three-book series. They're wonderful.

Cherie Japp

You are the winner of Wish I'd Known You Tears Ago by Stephen Bly.

Click on the e-mail link under my profile in the right column and send me your mailing address, so we can get the book out to you right away.

There's still time to leave a comment on Carrie Turansky's interview for a chance to win Along Came Love.

Two Other Blogs Feature Me This Week

You might want to visit them.

http://www.maryanndiorio.com/blog/archives/general/000307.php

Glimpses

Along Came Love by Carrie Turansky

It is with great pleasure that I introduce you to my friend Carrie Turansky. I've known her for several years in American Christian Fictions Writers, and I was so pleased when she sold her first book. Along Came Love is delightful. You won't want to miss reading it. Be sure and leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Along Came Love and check for the two novella collections in your favorite bookstore.

Carrie, tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

I think every writer pulls from the well of their own experience. That is certainly true for me. When I create characters I naturally drift toward occupations, strengths & weaknesses, and personality types that I am familiar with…including my own. In Along Came Love the heroine, Lauren Woodman, has a fine arts degree but found it difficult to get a job. That came from my own experience. I also hope I give wise advice and I am a good cook like Aunt Tilley in that story. In Wherever Love Takes Us my novella in Wedded Bliss? I wrote about a couple approaching their 25th wedding anniversary. Those characters seemed easier to write about, because that it the stage of life I am currently passing through. So you’ll see a lot of me in that story.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

The dictionary says quirky is “unpredictable, strange or unexpected behavior.” So I suppose spending a year in Kenya would qualify. That sounds strange and unexpected to some people, but it was one of the best experiences of my life! We took all five kids and had a wonderful time serving on staff at Moffatt Bible College in Kijabe. We met many wonderful Christians and loved the unique beauty of Kenyan countryside and wildlife.

Wow, Carrie, I didn't know about that part of your life. How wonderful! When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I wrote my first book when I was 13 called Passport to Paris. Thank goodness it has disappeared and will never be found. My focus shifted to art through high school and college, though I always loved to read and write. When we returned from Kenya in 1997, I missed Africa so much I decided to write a book set there to relive some of my experience. Soon after that, I joined a local writer’s workshop and ACFW.

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

I love to read and enjoy many types of CBA fiction and non-fiction and classics. I also enjoy missionary biographies, both historical and contemporary. My husband write parenting books, so I try to keep up with that category as well. This past month I read, Daughters of Hope, by Michelle Ricket (stories of Christian women suffering persecution in various countries around the world); Love and Respect by Dr. Emmerson Eggerichs; Expect the Sunrise by Susie Warren; Double Vision by Randall Ingermanson; and On Wings of Deliverance by Elizabeth White.

I've read those last three and enjoyed them very much. What other books have you written, whether published or not?

I have written Kenya Calling, In the Shadow of His Wings, Coincidentally Yours, and Garden of Secrets. These are all unpublished novels. Along Came Love is my first published novel. My first published novella is Wherever Love Takes Us in Wedded Bliss? I also have written another novella Tea for Two which comes out this September in Kiss the Bride.

I love the titles of the unpublished ones, too. I will pray that they will soon sell. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

I do several things to guard my schedule and check what I allow in my heart and home. When my husband and I were married twenty-seven years ago, we were counseled not to get a TV for 6 months so that we would spend time talking and being together in the evenings. That was a great advice, and we have stuck with it. We do watch videos and DVDs, but we have to really think about and plan what we will watch. This gives us more time for other things like reading and interacting with the kids, and it also keeps the noise and distraction level more manageable. It has been great for the whole family. I also like to listen to praise and worship music at home and in the car. I try to get out and walk around the lake near our home several times a week. I listen to Scripture songs while I walk, and that helps me keep my focus on the right things. I make lists of things I need to do. I try to go to sleep at the same time each night so I can get up on time and have energy to get in the Word and pray first thing.

Very wise decisions. We should all be more like that. Now back to the subject of writing. How do you choose your characters’ names?

I have a name book I look through. I also keep a running list of names that I like. Sometimes I will start out with one name for a character, but by the time I have finished the synopsis, I realize I need to switch to a new name that fits better.

I've had that happen, too. What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Raising five great kids and being married to Scott for twenty-seven years. Those relationships are so rewarding and important to me!

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

I’d love to be an African gazelle. They are so beautiful when the run and leap. I am definitely not very athletic, but I can always dream!

What is your favorite food?

Chicken Enchiladas! I used that recipe in Along Came Love, and I posted it along with some other recipes from the book on my website www.carrieturansky.com.

Thanks, Lena! It’s been fun to chat with you!
Carrie

And it was a blessing to spend this time with you. I look forward to seeing you at the conference in Dallas in September.

And the Winners Are. . .

Dineen A. Miller won the other copy of Tracey Bateman's book Claire Knows Best.

Staci Wilder won the copy of M. L. Tyndall's pirate book The Redemption.

Please send me your mailing addresses, so we can get the books out to you.

Everyone, whenever you leave a comment and will be in the drawing for a winner, why don't you also subscribe to the FeedBlitz service in the right column? All that will happen is that you will be notified when I do a new post. You won't miss the information when you are a winner of a book.

ACFW Conference

It's only eight weeks until the national American Christian Fiction Writer's conference in Dallas. If you are a writer, you need to go. But if you're a reader, you need to know about it, too.

On Saturday, September 23, at 4:30 p.m., there will be a book signing open to the public. This is the time to get to meet some of your favorite authors. If you live within driving distance, plan on being there.

All the information is at: www.americanchristianfictionwriters.com

If you click on the conference button on the left side, you can look at the faculty. Those authors will all be there, and more. What an opportunity!!!

The new Lena Nelson Dooley Signature Alli-bag

. . .is now up at this site.

http://www.allibags.com/

Click on the Signature Bags button to see it and other new Alli-bags.

Another Free Book from Tracey Bateman

Somehow, the e-mail I sent telling Tracey that her interview was up didn't reach her. She contacted me telling me that she was so sorry she didn't answer your comments, so she offered another free book. I'll do that drawing this Saturday with MaryLu's pirate book. You still have time to leave a comment on either Tracey's interview or MaryLu's interview for a free copy of their books.

Feedblitz Has Arrived!!!

If you want to be reminded when this blog is updated, just subscribe to Feedblitz in the other column. Your subscription will be used for no other purpose.

The Winner of Claire Knows Best is. . .

. . .Ronie Kendig. Be sure that I have your address, so you can receive your book.

You received a present on my daughter's birthday. Happy birthday, Jennifer.

Stephen Bly -- More Than a Minister

Today, I want to introduce you to Stephen Bly--an author, minister, cowboy. I haven't met Stephen yet, but I hope to. Through my association with Glass Roads PR firm, I have come to know a lot about him. I'm really looking forward to reading his new book Wish I'd Known You Tears Ago published by Broadman & Holman. I just started reading it today. In the meantime, let's get to know Stephen together.

Stephen, thank you for appearing on my blog. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

I used to say only a few of the characters reflected my image. . .most of my close friends say my character, Stuart Brannon, is just like me. My wife pointed out, after the books were in print, that I even used my initials S.B. for his name (I was unaware of it at the time.) So for the next series I avoided that. I named the protagonist Brady Stoner instead! But, over the years I realize there is a little of me in every character. I’m able to live inside the mind of all the people (no matter how minor their role.) There is an attachment to each that goes beyond computer screen. They become family. . .even the rascals.

Interesting. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

Absolutely nothing that a fiction writer does should be considered quirky. We are not a normal breed. So. . .it’s tough to tell what’s unusual. If my mind is starting to wander while writing a western, I’ve been known to sit in the saddle and type for a day. I’ve laid in the dirt on the prairie a couple hundred yards from a buffalo herd just to get the smell of the grass and the rumble of the earth. I’ve climbed up on White Rocks behind Deadwood before daylight just to watch the sunrise on the Dakota Plains. I’ve built a false front western town next to our house. I sat on a butte in the middle of Nevada for four hours and never saw a person, a car, a house, a fence or a cow. But, like I said. . .I’ve never done anything really quirky.

I love it. When did you first discover that you were a writer?

In December of 1976 I went to the mailbox and found two envelopes from publishers with checks made out to me for articles to be published. I suppose that was the day I decided I could write. Another turning point was when editors called me and asked for book proposals. Then when my first western novel was read, chapter by chapter, on network radio. . .that helped confirm my writing. Other affirmations were when I got a positive review in Publisher’s Weekly . . . when I received a Christy Award. Maybe the best affirmation are the letters and emails from readers on how my books have impacted them. Nothing is more exciting than that.

The more I hear from you, the more anxious I am to meet you. Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

Most of my reading is non-fiction book. Books for my soul and spirit. . .and then a ton of books for research. When I get a change to read some fiction, I’ll go back to some old dead guys like Steinbeck, Saroyan, Hemmingway, and Russian novels. If I read modern westerns, I like Elmer Kelton.

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

With over a hundred books in print, there’s no place to start. Any that are interested can email me for a complete list. BUT if they are interested in writing, they need to read Paperback Writer. It will give the reader an inside look at the mind of a novelist.

Actually, we don't have your e-mail address in this interview. I hope you check it out online and leave a comment with that contact information.

Now for another question, how do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

I run. Actually, I get up extremely early. . .and run a few miles to clear my head. But one of the fortunate things about being a fiction writer is that we are not required to keep our sanity. Besides being a full-writer. . .I pastor the only church in town on the weekends, and serve as mayor (Winchester, Idaho, pop. 308). Actually, the diversity of activities help keep me in touch with real people and real relationships. That helps the writing.

Readers are often interested in this. How do you choose your characters’ names?

After 100 books, I try to find a name I’ve never used before. I want a name that was common to the historical era in which it was set, so I study newspapers and journals. Also, I like some names to be unusual. . .so I invent names like Tap (Tapadera) Andrews. . .or No-Neck Mowrey, etc. I usually build the character before I name him/her. I want the name to be consistent with the personality. Sometimes it’s just chance. I had a protagonists name Elizabeth. . .and I decided to call her Liz. . .but every time I typed Liz, it came out Lix. . .I just couldn’t find the z. I decided not to fight it, and gave her the nickname of Lixie.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

On June 14th of 1963 (at age 18), I married Janet Rae Chester. She is still the absolute joy of my life, and that was, hands down, the greatest achievement of my life.

Words a romance writer likes to hear. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

A porcupine. They are slow and ugly, but everyone and everything respects them.

I like that answer. What is your favorite food?

I only get one? What kind of deal is that?

Many of the authors have mentioned more than one. You could have, too. What would you like to tell us about the featured book?

I’m guessing that the featured book is Wish I'd Known You Tears Ago—my latest in the Horse Dreams series. The struggle that Develyn Worrell goes through. . .with her grown daughter, with her regrets from the past, with her relationship with her mother, with her uncertainty about her future. . .are all real dilemmas that, in some way, all of us face.
There are not easy answers, but there are answers. Her change in environment for the summer doesn’t let her escape the struggles, but helps her tackle them with renewed strength. It’s a book that will make you laugh, make you cry. . .you’ll say. . ., “Yeah, I’ve been there, too,” and in the end, you’ll want to say, “Go, Girl!”

Once again, thank you, Stephen, for spending this time with us. Your answers are interesting and make me want to look up more of your books. So be sure to leave a comment with your e-mail address, so visitors to the site can contact you.

And remember, readers, to leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Wish I'd Known You Tears Ago. I'll choose a winner on August 5.

Shiver me timbers, a fierce wind is blowing!!!

It's my great pleasure to introduce you to M. L. Tyndall and her book The Redemption. I know some of you have already visited blogs with her on them, but as you know, my interview questions are different from the others. You'll find out other things about MaryLu as a person. She's one of my newer friends, but there are several reasons I really like her. First, she is published by my publisher, so we're work companions of sorts. Anoter reason is that I, too, have written a pirate book, Pirate's Prize, that was released to bookstores in June of this year. Our books are vastly different. Hers is a trade paperback which is much longer than my mass-market size, so hers is much more involved. Another important reason is that she's a wonderful writer, and I loved the book. It's intriguing, visually and historically accurate, with a story that keeps the reader turning pages.

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

It’s hard to avoid writing a character that doesn’t have at least some part of me in him or her. It depends on which character, of course. Usually the heroine in the story carries more of me in her personality than the other characters, most often in her weaknesses, but when it comes to her heroic qualities, often those are the ones I wish I had. For instance, would I have the courage to confront a band of ruffians and take over a pirate ship? I think not. But it would be really cool if I did.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I went and saw the Pirates of the Caribbean movie in the theaters with my daughter thirteen times (yes you heard it right).

Hey, call it professional research, and it doesn't sound too quirky. When did you first discover that you were a writer?

As a teenager, I often found myself spending my spare time writing poems and stories that popped into my head. I wrote my first full-length novel at sixteen and had a poem published in the high school yearbook.

That's interesting. My first publishing credit was in the college literary magazine my freshman year.

I love this cover. Aren't you pleased with the design company Barbour uses? I've loved all of my covers from them. Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

I love reading all types of fiction. Historicals are my favorite, but I also enjoy fantasy, science fiction, and suspense, or anything involving a romance.

Good. You might like my books, too. What other books have you written, whether published or not?

Book 2 of the Legacy of the King’s Pirates series: The Reliance
Currently working on Book 3: The Restitution
I have also written an unpublished science fiction novel, Forgotten Freedom.

I hope you find a home for the science fiction novel, too. I know I'd read it. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

I spend an hour each morning with God. I read the Bible and pray, and it sets the tone for the day. Also during the day, I keep a running conversation open with Him which helps keep me calm on those days when I feel like pulling my hair out. I also take care of myself by eating right and exercising, and I set reasonable goals for each day, allowing for times of rest.

Very wise. I'm not as good at those last couple of things as I should be. How do you choose your characters’ names?

I try and find names with meanings that match my character’s personality. If I don’t like any of those names, I choose a name that I’ve heard before in a book or movie or simply a friend’s name that I really like. For instance, the hero in The Redemption, is named Captain Edmund Merrick. I chose Edmund from The Count of Monte Cristo, and Merrick from a character in a movie called Timeline. But in the book I’m currently working on the heroine’s name is Isabel, which I chose because it means God’s promise.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

My two children, Joshua and Crystal, are by far my most precious and worthwhile accomplishments. I thank God every day for them.

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

I’d like to say I’d be a lioness or a jaguar, an animal that is sleek, powerful, brave, yet gentle when necessary, but alas, in reality, I’m more like a deer, skittish, shy, and someone who definitely freezes in the headlights (or spotlights).

What is your favorite food?

Tough question. I like so many different foods. I’d have to say chocolate, of course, popcorn and BLTs (yum).

What would you like to tell us about the featured book?

The Redemption was borne not only out of my interest in pirates and my love of the tropics, but from my own personal search for a father’s love. I grew up in a divorced home and had no contact with my father. I spent much of my life searching for the protective, unconditional love that only a father can give, and wasted many years looking for it in all the wrong places—with dire consequences. Not until my late thirty’s did I discover that only God’s love can truly fill that empty hole in my heart. In my novel, the heroine, Charlisse, escapes from an abusive childhood to search for her father. She has rejected God, as I did when I was young, and must go through a similar process to find the true Father’s love. The Redemption is also filled with grand adventures: a shipwreck, tavern brawls, ship battles, pirating, a mutiny, a prison break. I guarantee that it will keep you enthralled page after page. If you like romance, you’ll enjoy the relationship that develops between Charlisse and Captain Merrick. He is a fierce pirate captain who has only recently given his life to God and become a privateer for England. Struggling with a sordid past and trying to resist the beautiful lady he has taken aboard his ship, he discovers the father she searches for is his arch enemy and the most evil pirate on the Caribbean.

What's that sound I hear? I think it's many feet rushing out to buy this wonderful book. I can hardly wait for the next book in the series. Thank you, MaryLu, for spending this time with us today. I look forward to meeting you in person. Hope you'll be at the ACFW conference in Dallas in September.

Don't forget to leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of The Redemption.

A New Winner. . .Heather Diane Tipton

You are the winner of The Secret Life of Becky Miller by Sharon Hinck. When I receive your mailing address, it will get it to Sharon so she can send you her book.

Everyone has another week to sign up for Tracey Bateman's book Claire Knows Best. Someone will win a free copy. It might as well be you.

Tracey knows best

I've know Tracey Bateman for many years. She's a good friend and a wonderful writer. For the last couple of years she has served as the president of American Christian Fiction Writers, and she's done a marvelous job of juggling her family, her writing, and that office. It is with pleasure that I interview her.

Remember that when you leave a comment, you will be included in the drawing for a free copy of her new book Claire Knows Best.

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

Depends on the book. With Claire, there is quite a bit of my personality.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

Since there was no answer to this one, I assume Tracey's trying to say the ashe hasn't done anything quirky. I find that hard to believe. After all, she's a writer. Aren't we all quirky?

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I really started writing stories in grade school. By the time I was 12 I knew I wanted to write. I never really thought I would though until I was in my late 20s.

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

Romance, chicklit, historicals, I love authors like Lisa Samson who makes me think, and Francine Rivers who makes me want to be better, Karen Kingsbury, who makes me cry. Kristin Billerbeck who makes me laugh. I also love to read Jodi Picoult an ABA author.

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

A lot for Heartsong Presents and Barbour. The Claire series with Warner Faith, A suspense series for Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense.

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

I’m not sure I do keep my sanity. I do know that I keep going. I just know I have certain responsibilities. My kids have to be taken care of, they have to eat, I have to write, etc. Sanity is highly overrated anyway.

That's very true. How do you choose your characters’ names?

I chose Claire during an election year when one of our candidates for State auditor was named Claire. I don’t have a method of choosing.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

My marriage. I have a strong marriage to a great guy who still loves me after 18 years.

Yes, that is wonderful. Mine still loves me after 41 years. What would you like to tell us about the featured book?

Claire Knows Best is the second in the Claire Everett Series. Just when she thinks things are going great, a tornado hits her house and leaves her and the kids homeless for a while. It’s funny, but I also wanted to drive home the thought that just when we think we have things figured out anything can happen. The rain falls on the just and the unjust according to the word and we have to be able to trust God even when our lives don’t follow the path we thought they would.

That's a good thing for all of us to remember. Thank you, Tracey, for sharing part of your life with us. We look forward to seeing lots more of your books. By the way, I just loved the Love Inspired Suspense series, too.

Remember, you still have intil this Saturday, July 17, to leave a comment on Sharon's post for a chance to win The Secret Life of Becky Miller.