Welcome to the Diva NashVegas Blog Tour

Once again I'm privileged to welcome my good friend Rachel Hauck to the blog. I hope you've already read Lost in NashVegas. You'll want to get right into Diva NashVegas.

Rachel Hauck lives in sunny central Florida with her husband, Tony, a pastor. They have two ornery pets. She is a graduate of Ohio State University and a huge Buckeyes football fan. Rachel serves the writing community as Past President of American Christian Fiction Writers and a member of the Advisory Board.

Visit her blog and web site at www.rachelhauck.com. Leave a comment on her blog at her web site and be eligible to win a $25 gift certificate to Starbucks or Barns & Noble. Two names will be drawn.

Remember that if you leave a comment on this blog, your name will be in a drawing for a copy of Diva NashVegas.

Rachel, why do you write the kind of books you do?

I like to write fun, feel good books that have a subtle deeper message. Chick Lit/Romance is a good way to accomplish both. Also, chick style is my best writing voice.

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

Well, I’ve had many happy days. Graduating from Ohio State, marrying my husband Tony, family weddings and births. But, there is a day that stands out in my mind. I was in the right place at the right time to lead my hairdresser to the Lord. It’s a long story, but after she prayed, giving her life to Jesus, I drove home literally feeling like, “My earthly job is done. I can go home now.” It was a great day.

I can see why. How has being published changed your life?

Mostly, I work at home now instead of an office. (snicker) Writing and being published really satisfy a deep part of me I didn’t know existed. There are hard days. Writing is solitary. Writing is competitive. Writing is fun. Writing is hard. Yet, I know it’s what I’m called to do. So, in that sense, it changed my life because I really believe it’s what God gave me to do in this life.

What are you reading right now?

I am reading Tracey Bateman’s Claire Knows Best.

What is your current work in progress?

My current book which comes out in March 2008 is Sweet Caroline, a chick lit set in the South Carolina lowcountry. Caroline is a little lost in life, not sure what to do with herself. And then one day a man dies and causes her to take a long hard look at her life.

What would be your dream vacation?

South Pacific beach with my hubby, a pile of good books, my iPod and a bottle of Copper Tone.

Sounds good to me, too. How do you choose your settings for each book?

I started out choosing familiar settings. But when I started writing for Thomas Nelson, I wanted to keep with a southern flavor, and my editor agreed. So, I pick southern settings. I look for popular locales, places in the news, interesting areas.

If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?

I know this is nuts, but I’d really love to spend an evening with country artist, Keith Urban. I’d like to talk to him about his life, music, and Jesus.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I love sports. I go to the gym for Spinning classes and to lift weights. I also love a good prayer and worship meeting.

What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?

Getting started. I can think of a good idea, work out some plot points, but getting to know the character and setting is very hard for me. I write and rewrite. One thing I like to do is weave the setting into the plot with the character. All of us are effected by our environment. How can I make my protags environment be it a job, a city, a family dynamic, motivate or cause conflict for my character? So, it’s more than just knowing the character or researching the setting. They have to work together.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Know this is something you really want to do. Being published is a difficult first hurdle. But there are many to follow. Marketing and promotions. Writing on a tighter deadline. Rewrites and edits. Competition with other writers. Heed the Bible’s words to not compare ourselves to others. It can be devastating. Keep your eyes on Jesus and His destiny for you, not on what other writers are doing.

After that, the best advice I can give is “backside in the chair.” (grin)

What inspired Diva NashVegas?

The idea to write about a singer came from a conversation with my editor, Ami McConnell. At first, I created the Diva to be a wanna-be star, but after thinking the story through, I decided she had to be an established artist, a superstar.

How do you research a diva?

Not easy. I read a lot of bios, and spent time with Christian artist, Kim Hill. She was a blast and a great help. I loved hanging out with her. I also got some inside scoop from record producer and fellow Thomas Nelson author, Matt Bronleewe.

I talked to an entertainment lawyer and searched music business forums for answer to some of my questions. The hardest detail to find was about artist and record label disputes. We all know it happens, but why? The only reason I could find was “creative differences.” This answer did not cover enough detail for me. I couldn’t create a legitimate scene with Aubrey and her record label President arguing over “creative differences.”

Thankfully, I found a forum on the internet and a kind gentleman gave me eight detailed reason why an artist would enter into a dispute with her label. Saved the day!

I also researched foster care and television production for elements of the story. Kelly Sutton and Molly Day, a TV personality and producer respectively in Nashville were enthusiastic resources.

After that, I only had my imagination.

Tell us about the book.

Diva NashVegas is a wonderful story about a country superstar who must realize her future by dealing with her past. Aubrey James is the daughter of Gospel music icons who are killed when she is young. The story drops in on Aubrey as she turns thirty and realizes the life she’s living isn’t really the life she loves.

While Aubrey tells her story to Inside NashVegas reporter, Scott Vaughn, we also see Aubrey through Scott’s eyes. And he’s falling fast.

I really think Aubrey is a character who will stick with readers long after the last page is read.

What do you want readers to take away from the book?

First, a great read. I hope they can be transported into Aubrey James’s world. Next, a message that life isn’t always fair, but we have the power of choice in our response. God is always there for us, even when we don’t feel He is.

Rachel, thank you for spending this time with us. The book sounds awesome, and it's on the top of my to-be-read pile. I can hardly wait to get to it.

Wow, readers, I know you'll want a chance to win this book, but if you don't, you'll want to get a copy.

Meet My Friend, Carol Cox

I've known Carol for several years. We both have written for the same publisher. You can read all about her books at: www.carolcoxbooks.com

Here's a picture of Kim Sawyer, Cathy Marie Hake, and Carol with me at the American Christian Fiction Writers national conference in Dallas last year. They shared my joy with me.

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

Evidently, even more than I think! Quite often, people who know me will say they recognized me in my characters. The odd thing is, the qualities they claim to see—spunkiness, determination, and self-reliance—aren’t traits I would use in describing myself. I deal with the same doubts and issues many of my characters face and possess some of their more quirky attributes as well. But I’m not sure I’m ready to admit which quirks are based on my traits and which are strictly products of my imagination. :-)

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

How about letting my husband talk me into getting involved with Cowboy Fast Draw? Yes, you read that right. Fast draw, as in Gunsmoke, as in Bonanza, as in “let’s see who can hit the target first.” The transition from mild-mannered author to pistol-packin’ pastor’s wife isn’t quite as bizarre as it sounds when you know that in addition to pastoring two churches, my husband also owns a saddle shop. In recent years, he has become well-known for making historically accurate gun rigs for men and women involved in Cowboy Action Shooting, one of the fastest-growing sports today. From there, it wasn’t too big a step for him to want to compete himself. Then he decided it would make a wonderful family activity. . .and the rest is history. While other families decide what DVD to watch, we work on ways to lower our reaction time. And I have to say I love it all, from the friendly competition of the meets to creating an Old West persona and dressing the part.

Wow, Carol, I had no idea. What fun! When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I have wanted to write ever since I was a small child, from the moment I realized someone got to make up those wonderful stories I loved to read. The first inkling that I might actually be able to carry it off came in seventh grade, when I started writing books during English class. Unfortunately, the teacher saw my foray into literature as a lack of attention rather than budding genius, so I was forced to produce smaller works. I mean really small. I wrote in tiny print on paper folded into squares a couple of inches across. But the results were worth it. My friends started reading my deathless prose during recess and clamored for further installments. They liked the stories, they laughed in all the right places--what more could an aspiring author ask for? I was hooked!

I hope you still have a few of those for momentos. Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

I read in most fiction genres—everything from cozy mysteries to westerns to romantic suspense to sci-fi. I love learning about new things, so I devour non-fiction books as well. Now that I’m writing full-time, I have far less time available for reading than I used to. My reward for finishing a deadline is to dive into the stack of books waiting to be read. It’s a wonderful opportunity to catch my breath until it’s time to get back to work again.

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

I’ve written eight titles for Heartsong Presents and eleven novellas in collections published by Barbour. I’m currently working on the last book of the A Fair to Remember series, set in Chicago during the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893, and have just completed a book for a new series from Guideposts, called Mystery and the Minister’s Wife. The list includes both historical and contemporary titles, and I’ve loved doing both!

I know what you mean. I do, too. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

It’s all about priorities and seeing what is really important. Recently, God has been reminding me of Jeremiah 29:11, with its promise that His plans are to give me a future and a hope—not to burden my life and overwhelm me. He has to be my number-one priority, or everything else falls apart!

Amen to that. How do you choose your characters’ names?

More often than not, they wind up introducing themselves to me before I have a chance to have any say in the matter. LOL Take Ethelinda Purvis, the landlady in the A Fair to Remember series, for instance. She waltzed up to me one day, with those iron-gray curls bobbing around her face, and informed me she was far more than a mere bit player in the books. Was I going to argue with a woman named Ethelinda? I don’t think so.

You're so funny. What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

My family. My husband and I have been married nearly 33 years. We have two wonderful kids, the daughter-in-law of our dreams, and our first grandchild is due any day now. Calling this an accomplishment isn’t a pride issue over anything I have done—it’s utter gratitude that God has blessed me by putting them all in my life.

Readers, that grandbaby arrived before this interview went up on the site. I've seen a picture of Carol with her, and she's a real cutie. Let's digress a little, Carol. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

What a great question! If I could trade places with an animal for a day, I’d take a turn at being Max, our black Lab. Max’s mission in life is to please and offer unconditional love to his family, asking only for regular meals and a bit of affection in return. He’s happy just to be around us, and loves hopping into the minivan whenever we leave home. It doesn’t matter where we’re going; his whole goal is simply to be with us. Watching him reminds me of the way I should relate to God—with total trust, total contentment, and utter joy in His presence.

That's a good analogy. Now a subject dear to all our hearts. What is your favorite food?

You mean besides chocolate? Wait a minute, is there anything besides chocolate? Speaking of which, I just want to say how vindicated I feel by the recent studies showing that dark chocolate may actually be a good addition to a heart-healthy diet. After all these years of standing fast in my chocolate loyalty despite the doom-and-gloom naysayers, I think I deserve a few bonus points. (Or should that be brownie points?)

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

Two things—lack of confidence and poor time management. Trying to run in a dozen different directions at once drained my time and energy and sapped my confidence in myself and my writing. It took moving the focus away from myself and onto the Lord to get things back into perspective. Believing that writing is something He wants me to do, I see it as a calling, not a hobby or “just a job.” And because of this, I can put my confidence in Him rather than in my own efforts. As to time management, I knew the right things to do, but I needed to put them into practice. And as these issues have been resolved, I have more time to concentrate on what I’m supposed to do and feel better about what I accomplish.

Everyone could gain wisdom from you on these two things. What advice would you give to an author just starting out?

Be patient. Prepare to learn and gear yourself mentally for a marathon, not a sprint. The learning process takes time.

Read in a wide variety of genres to discover which holds the most appeal for you. Your writing will show far more depth and passion if you’re working in a genre you love.

Study the craft of writing. There are excellent books available, covering everything from basic grammar to character development to plot and structure and much more. Organizations like American Christian Fiction Writers offer teaching, encouragement, and support (as well as wonderful mentors like Lena!) to their members. And writers conferences are held all around the country. Attending conferences is a wonderful way to build on your knowledge as well as getting to know others who share your passion for writing.

Develop a teachable attitude. The more I write, the more I realize how much more there still is to learn. There is always the joy of growing, of improving my skills, of learning to be a “workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” (from 2 Timothy 2:15 NIV)

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

I’ve had a great time writing this series, where I was able to combine my favorite elements of history, mystery, and romance. An intriguing setting is often the catalyst that gets my creative juices going, and the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair is a setting like no other. It was a pivotal point in U.S. history, a moment in which the nation felt itself on the brink of major change, with all the excitement and anxiety that implies.

As if that weren’t enough, I discovered rich story fodder beyond the gates of the fairgrounds. Inspired by the knowledge that people from all over the world would be flocking to Chicago, D. L. Moody planned a six-month evangelistic campaign to coincide with the fair. I had already decided on Seth Howell, a young preacher, as the hero of Fair Game. After reading about Moody’s campaign and the results it brought, I knew Seth would have to be a part of that.

Then I learned about the many disappearances that took place during the fair. Chicago police were so swamped by missing persons reports, it was impossible for them to look into them all, and that planted the seed for a very important aspect of the story. I have one more book to write about this amazing fair. I am looking forward to revisiting a period and place I have come to love, but I hate the thought of saying goodbye to the setting and the characters once it comes to an end.

Thanks so much for inviting me to your blog, Lena. I’ve enjoyed the questions and the visit!

The time with you, Carol, has been fun and informative. I'm sure the readers will agree.

Now, Readers, be sure to leave a comment on Carol's interview for a chance to win a copy of Fair Game.

The next interview will be with Rachel Hauck, so come on back soon.

We Have Another Winner

Kathleen Morphy, you are the winner of One Prayer Away by Kendra Norman-Ballamy. Please contact me with your mailing address, so your book can be sent.

I just love choosing winners, because I know they will soon be enjoying some of the best in Christian fiction. You could be one of those winners, too. All you have to do is leave a comment on an interview for your chance.

There's still time to leave a comment on Jeanie Smith Cash's interview for a copy of her first book Christmas in the Country.

Be sure and come back often. We have an outstanding lineup of authors coming up.

Woo!! Hoo!!! Two Winners!!!!!

Diane, you are the winner of Lightning and Lace by DiAnn Mills. Please contact me with your mailing address.

Carolyn W., you are the winner of The Measure of a Lady by Deeanne Gist. I also need your mailing address.

Every week we have at least one winner. Sometimes more. You could be that winner if you leave a comment on any, or all, of the interviews.

Introducing Jeanie Smith Cash

Jeanie and I have been friends for several years. We've been in a critique group together. I was really excited when her first book sold.

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

I think there is probably a little of me in all of my characters, since with the Lord’s help I create them. :-)

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

My daughter and I went to a grand opening for a new store from 10pm to midnight one night. I adore my daughter and love to spend time with her. We had a great time shopping. When we headed out to the car with the basket where we parked was all gravel. We started across it with the basket full of items we’d bought, and it got stuck. We tried everything to get it out but it wouldn’t budge. We got so tickled we laughed until we had tears running down our faces. If anyone had come out of that store, they would have thought we were crazy. It was midnight and here we were stuck in the middle of the parking area with this basket full of stuff, laughing our heads off. We finally ended up carrying all of the items to the car a little at a time. We literally had to lift that basket and carry it back to the store once it was empty. My advise, don’t ever try to push a basket across gravel it doesn’t work well. LOL

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

A friend gave me a box of romance novels when I was visiting with her one afternoon. I started reading them and by the time I had finished the last book. I thought humm, I think I can do that. I just kind of played with it for a while writing by hand. Then my sister and brother-in-law bought a new computer and gave me theirs. I learned how to use it, but I was working so I didn’t have a lot of time. A couple of years later we moved from Central California to Missouri, and I felt the Lord calling me to write Christian romance. My husband bought me a new computer, and I started looking into any information I could find, to teach me the fundamentals of writing a manuscript. I also prayed a lot for guidance.

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

I love romance books, especially medical romance. I also love romantic suspense.

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

Two Anthologies, A Change of Heart, and Dr. St Nick are submitted to Barbour. Dolls and Diamonds and Dr. Braxton’s Kentucky Bride are submitted to Barbour Heartsong Presents. I have two more Anthologies I’m working on. I plan to submit them to Barbour in the next month or so and a three book series I plan to submit. There are a few others I’m working on, but most of them don’t have titles yet.

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

With my prayer journal, Bible, and devotional book. I find that prayer and God’s word is the best way to get through the things that happen each day. The Lord is always there to lift me up when I feel overwhelmed. I’m blessed with a wonderful family and a lot of good friends that I can go to for prayer and support. I include you in that list of friends, and I really appreciate you and all of the help you’ve given me. :-)

It has been a joy and pleasure to know you and help you, Jeanie. How do you choose your characters’ names?

I have a baby book of names I use and sometimes I go into the internet. For last names, I usually use ones I’ve heard that I like. Sometimes I’ll go through old books I’ve read. My last character I used the phone book and found one I liked that fit.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

I have a Christian husband and with the Lord’s help, we have raised our children in a Christian home. Our daughter has also raised our grandchildren in a Christian home. Now our children and grandchildren are all born-again Christians. I can’t think of any greater accomplishment for us than knowing our children and grandchildren are all saved and going to heaven when the Lord returns for us. It’s wonderful to have the sweet assurance that we’ll all be there together.

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

Well, I guess since the Lord made me and has something for me to accomplish, I probably better stay being me. We have two very spoiled pampered kitties in the barn, and I love them, but I don’t think I’d want to be one. :-)

What is your favorite food?

I love Mexican food and Chocolate.

A woman after my own heart.

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

It’s a Christmas story set in Pierce City, Missouri, in the middle of the Ozarks.

Abby is trying to get home in time to spend Christmas with Granny Forrester. Which has been a tradition since she was a child. But she runs into all kinds of obstacles on the way, including her ex-fiancé Dr. Nicholas Creighton.

It was a fun story to write. I hope everyone enjoys reading it as much as I did writing it. Thank you, Lena. I appreciate you inviting me to do this interview. :-)

And I enjoyed interviewing you, Jeanie.

Okay, readers, leave those comments for a chance to win an autographed copy of the book. You'll love it. I did.

There's still time to leave a comment on Kendra Norman-Ballamy's interview for a chance to win a copy of her book, too.

The Winner of Ransomed Dream

Ang won Amy Wallace's book. Way to go, Ang.

Want to be the next winner? Just leave a comment on Kendra's, DiAnn's, or Deeanne's interviews.

Someone wins. It might as well be you!!!

Kendra Norman-Ballamy

I'm really late with posting this week. I had a writer's retreat with my critique group, then storms pounded across our area most of yesterday.

What a blessing to be able to introduce you to another of my American Christian Fiction Writers friends.

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

Quite a bit, actually. A lot of my personality, my interests, my likes and dislikes, etc. are sprinkled throughout my female characters; most often, my leading lady.

I'm sure that's true with many of us. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I don’t consider myself an eccentric person, so I don’t do a lot of things that would be considered quirky. I’m generally very conservative and predictable. I’d have to say that the most adventurous that I’ve been is the time I went out in the ocean on a speed boat along with some friends of mine who were going parasailing. I don’t have the foggiest idea how to swim! I don’t know if that was quirky or just plain stupid. LOL!

I'm just glad you didn't have any kind of mishap. When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I started writing poetry as a ten-year-old, but even then, I had no idea that I had a talent for writing. I wrote verse simply because I enjoyed doing it. I did it for years before I ever embarked on crafting novels. I wrote my first full length manuscript in 1999, but it wasn’t until many manuscripts later that I came to the realization that what I was doing was more than a hobby to pass the time. God had gifted me to write for Him, but it was 2002 before I came into the full realization of that.

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

I enjoy poetry very much. I still write it on occasion, but I do more reading of other people’s poetry now than writing my own. Maya Angelou is my best loved poet. I think writing verse is such a wonderful and beautiful way of expressing emotions and viewpoints. As far as novels are concerned, Christian fiction is my favorite genre. There are so many gifted Christian writers represented on our bookshelves now and I think that’s a wonderful blessing. I also enjoy contemporary fiction, including mysteries and romance. As long as it is not saturated with profanity or sexual innuendos, I can enjoy almost any genre. I can’t read horror, though. I’m a scardy cat, and I admit it.

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

I’m the author of eight published novels, to date. The most recent one is One Prayer Away, released through Moody Publishers. My other titles (in order of release) are: A Love So Strong, For Love & Grace, Crossing Jhordan’s River, Because of Grace, Three Fifty-Seven A.M., Thicker Than Water and More Than Grace.

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

I’m an advocate for healthy living, and I exercise regularly. I think that exercise keeps the mind clear and the body purged of stress. My routine calls for me to walk twenty miles per week (five miles per day, four days per week) and that allows for me to release any tension that may build during the day. Aside from that, I write! Writing is so therapeutic and relaxing for me. I write every single day and I honestly think it helps to keep me focused and of a sound mind.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

When I first starting my writing career, I chose names that I liked for my “good” characters and if there were any villains in the story, I gave them names that were not favorites of mine. It was a very elementary formula to use, but it worked for me. Now, when I’m writing a story, I research online sites that give baby names and search through the lists until a name jumps out at me. When I find the perfect name for whatever character I’m creating at the time, I know it.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

God has blessed me immensely in my career as a writer. I’ve set goals for myself and through prayer, God has allowed me to attain and even exceed most of them. I’ve gotten much recognition and won numerous writing awards. I reached national bestseller status and that was a remarkable accomplishment for me. But I’d have to say that I’m most proud of the fact that a woman in prison read one of my novels (Three Fifty-Seven A.M.) and was led to Christ. There’s nothing more humbling than to know that I was used by God, through my gift of fiction writing, to someone to the foot of the cross. I now communicate with several women in prison and I’ve taken on a mission to try and stock as many prison libraries with my books as I can. God has given me a prison ministry and I’m honored that He chose me.

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

A dove. It must be an incredible thing to be able to soar into the heavens. In addition, my image would be the one that is universally used, not only to represent peace, but also the Holy Spirit.

What is your favorite food?

I love seafood. My favorites are shrimp, salmon, catfish, crab legs, and tilapia.

I love your cover, Kendra. What would you like to tell us about the featured book?

One Prayer Away is the story of one man’s emotional journey from alcoholism and abusiveness to sobriety and salvation. Family tragedy drove Mitchell Andrews to begin a drinking habit that eventually caused him to lose everything, including Virtue, the wife he loved. After seven years, their paths unexpectedly cross for the first time since he drove her away from their home in a drunken rage. Mitchell embarks on a mission to gain the forgiveness he desperately needs for his own peace of mind. But all outward indications are that it’s too little, too late. Virtue still fears Mitchell and wants nothing to do with him despite his life change and Mitchell comes to the realization that more than ever, he must depend upon the power of prayer to help him keep the faith that he can somehow reach her heart. Not only to forgive him, but to love him again.

Thank you, Kendra, for visiting with us. I'm sure many of the people who come to this blog will want to read this book.

Readers, remember that if you leave a comment you'll be included in a drawing for a free copy.

Also, there's still time to leave a comment on the interviews with DiAnn Mills and Deeanne Gist for a chance to win copies of their books. If you don't want to miss the announcement of your winning a book, sign up with feedblitz. The announcement will come to your e-mail box, but only for the blogs you sign upfor.

LIGHTNING AND LACE by DiAnn Mills

Once again, we're talking with my special friend, DiAnn Mills. I've known her for many years, and I love all of her books. I believe you will, too. Her newest book is Lightning and Lace, book three in the Texas Legacy series. I've read all three books, and they are marvelous.

DiAnn Mills has sold over a million copies of her combined seventeen novels, fourteen novellas, and non-fiction book. Six of her anthologies have appeared on the CBA Best Seller List. Three of her books have won the distinction of Best Historical of the Year by Heartsong Presents, and two of her books have won short historical of the year by American Christian Romance Writers 2003 and 2004. She is the recipient of the Inspirational Reader's Choice award for 2005 in the long contemporary and novella category. DiAnn is a founding board member for American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Inspirational Writers Alive, Chi Libris, and Advanced Writers and Speakers Association.

DiAnn Mills concludes her Texas Legacy series with Lightning and Lace, a gritty novel that is part thriller and part romance. The year is 1898 when Travis Whitworth steps onto the train platform in Kahlerville, Texas. As he has a good look at the small, dusty town, he is determined to face life again and return to preaching. Having lost his last church because of a scandal involving a brothel, he is equally determined to avoid women altogether. But within an hour of his arrival, he finds himself caught in the affairs of Bonnie Kahler, an attractive, young widow whose unruly son is headed for a future of crime unless someone can reach him.

Like Travis, Bonnie also intends to face life again by rising from her grief and returning to her responsibilities. Staring over is proving hard though. Her oldest son has already been arrested once and is now living with the new preacher, and the married banker who supplied her with wine during her mourning 'to help her sleep at night,' is now threatening to reveal that she's been drinking if she crosses him. When she refuses the banker's advances, she ignites a storm of wrath that engulfs her and her family in rumors that threaten to destroy them. Her strongest ally becomes the new preacher who is hiding secrets of his own.

Are the characters from Lightning and Lace taken from real-life people?

No. They are simply characters that jumped into my mind.

Are they compilations of people you know, and if so, will those people recognize themselves? If your characters are purely make-believe, how do you develop them?

Developing characters takes more time than any other aspect of writing--for me. I live with them. I give them personality tests. I interview them. I question their motivations. I put them in uncomfortable situations to see how they respond.

Which character is most like you, and why?

None of them and all of them. I strive to make sure that every character does not resemble me, but that is impossible. I believe all of my characters have a little of "me" simmering inside.

Can you share something with our readers about what God has been teaching you lately?

This began while I was in Sudan, and it's all about forgiveness. We all have people who have hurt our feelings, wronged us in some way. But I met people in Africa who had watched their families and friends murdered, and still many of them have been able to forgive. God not only instilled in my heart to forgive but to push for reconciliation with anyone who has wronged me or I have wronged them. I don't want to stand before God and have Him ask me why I didn't help someone through the forgiveness process. Besides, He'll have lots of other things to ask me about. :-)

How do you deal with your other obligations (family, church, etc.) when it's crunch time near deadlines?

I list everything that has to be done with a due date and the approximate amount of time that the obligation will take to complete. For my writing project, I divide the number of words by the days left to complete it and make sure I don't go to bed until the word count is completed.

What's your favorite worship song, and why?

"These are the Days of Elijah." I guess because it speaks of hope, the hope since the Old Testament times when those who loved God looked for the Messiah and on to current times when we look for Christ's second coming.

What book are you currently reading?

The Count of Monte Cristo. I also went back to school for a Biblical Studies degree, so I'm knee-deep in several books. :-)

What book project are you working on now? Can you give us a sneak-peak of the storyline?

I'm working on a novella set during the Depression in Missouri. The hero and heroine were married just before he left for the Great War. But he lost his leg and could not forgive himself for the horrors of what he'd done as a soldier. He couldn't bring himself to return home. Now it's the Depression, and he has to see her one more time. She doesn't recognize him, but there is something familiar. . .

If Lightning and Lace was turned into a movie, who would you like to play the main characters?

LOL I have to think about that a moment. I suppose Reese Witherspoon for Bonnie and Matt Damon for Travis.

Do you plan the plot of your story in advance, or does it develop as the story plays out?

I do both. I have some major scenes in my mind and then I fill in the blanks, according to character, as I go along.

What did you do to ensure the authentic feel of Lightning and Lace? What sort of research was necessary?

Texas research. Historical culture: dress, food, speech, politics, church life, school, and visit the places where I want the story to unfold.

How long did it take you to write Lightning and Lace?

Three months, start to finish.

What would most surprise us about you?

This is a tough question! Perhaps that I would one day like to teach creative writing on a college level.

Give readers one good reason why they should read Lightning and Lace.

It's real life today with issues of alcohol, single parenting, and deceit in a historical setting. It's also an unlikely romance and a story of God's redeeming love.

Thank you for spending this time with us, DiAnn.

Readers, I urge you to read all three of these books. Remember, if you leave a comment, you'll have a chance to win a copy of Lightning and Lace. Also there's still time to leave a comment on Deanne Gist's and Amy Wallace's interviews.

THE MEASURE OF A LADY by Deeanne Gist

Deanne Gist burst onto the Christian fiction scene with her first novel. I'm happy to introduce her to you with her second novel. Always glad to promote a fellow Texas author.

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

I’m sure they reflect me in some ways. I don’t see how they couldn’t, but I don’t intentionally make them personal. I couldn’t even pick out what parts of the novels are personal and what parts aren’t. I’m simply not aware of it. If you were to ask my sister, though, she would probably be able to tell you. On second thought, let’s not ask my sister. That could be dangerous.

Where is it that your sister lives? Just kidding. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I confess I do quirky things all the time. Not on purpose. It just sort of happens. Trying to pick one instance over another is pretty tough. I suppose one that always seems to come up at family gatherings is when I was trying to learn how to rollerblade (at age 43 as I recall), but I couldn’t master the art of stopping. So, I went to Home Depot, bought some PVC pipes and elbows and made myself a walker on wheels so that when I drug my left foot behind my right (to stop), I had something to hold on to and therefore wouldn’t lose my balance and fall down. Anyhoo, it wasn’t uncommon to see me skating down the sidewalk in kneepads, elbow pads, wrist guards and helmet while pushing my homemade “walker.”

My son saw me heading out of the driveway once and said, “If you say ‘hi’ to me while you’re using that thing, I’m gonna say, ‘Who is that woman?’”

The mother of one of his friends was standing there at the time. She said, “Actually, Dee, don’t say ‘hi’ to me either. Okay?’”

Sad thing about it is: I never did learn how to stop and have hung up my blades for good (much to the relief of my family and friends). :-)

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

My parents had always told me I could write, but they were my parents. It wasn’t until I was in sixth grade and got a “Delightful A” on my kumquat short story--and A’s were hard to come by in Mrs. Barnes’ class--that I began to believe that maybe, just maybe, I had some ability in this area.

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

I love my Bible. I’ll read a “how-to” book if I need to. But as far as fiction goes, romances are my favorites. Always have been. I enjoy historical romances the most, but don’t particularly have a favorite time period. I do prefer American historicals over some of the others, but really I like them all.

My all time favorite book (which, ironically, isn’t a romance) is To Kill A Mockingbird.

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

My first manuscript stunk, but I learned a lot between the prologue and the epilogue. A Bride Most Begrudging was the second manuscript I had ever written.

And it is a thoroughly delightful story. Let's switch gears now. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

By keeping my eyes focused on the Lord. Spending time with Him is my best defense against succumbing to worldly ideals, stresses and schedules. I love His Word. I listen to Christian music 99% of the time. I talk to Him, listen to Him, praise Him and pray to Him. Ain’t nothing better.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

I wish I could say I go through some intense, scientific process, but you know what's embarrassing? I choose names that I like and that my husband wouldn't let me use when naming our kids. Ha!

Works for me. What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

I remember typing “The End” on that first manuscript (awful though it was). That night I told my husband. He nodded and said, “That’s nice.”

I smiled, thinking he was kidding. Then realized he was serious. So I tried again. “Honey, I said I finished the book, not a chapter.”

He immediately froze. “Oh! I’m supposed to say something, aren’t I?”

Yep. It was a big moment for me. ;-)

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

I don’t think I’d make a very good animal of any kind, but I’ve always wanted to sing and I’ve always thought it would be neat to fly. So, I guess I’ll say a song bird.

What is your favorite food?

Chocolate. Hands down.

I know a place near the hotel where the conference will be held that has wonderful chocolate things. Maybe we can go get something then.

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

The Measure of a Lady, after it released quickly hit #14 on the CBA Bestseller List and #4 on the CBD Bestseller List. Rachel Van Buren reaches San Francisco in 1849 to discover she is the first “real” lady to establish a home in this town full of adventure-seeking, rowdy men. Cloaking herself with a mane of respectability, she takes on the task of civilizing them ... and has a wee bit of trouble.

A Bride Most Begrudging won the Christy Award in the “Best Romance of the Year” category and has been nominated for “Best Long Historical” in the Book of the Year contest sponsored by the American Christian Fiction Writers Association.

Deeanne, thank you for spending this time with us.

Readers, for more information about Deeanne, visit her web site at http://www.deeannegist.com . Don't forget to leave a comment for a chance to win an autographed copy of The Measure of a Lady.

Two Winners This Week

Alexis Jacobs is the winner of Minnesota Brothers by Lena Nelson Dooley (me).

Rose McCauley won A Valley of Betrayal by Tricia Goyer.

You both need to email me with your snail mail address, so we can get the books out to you.

There's still time to leave a comment on Amy Wallace's interview for a chance to win Ransomed Dreams.

To guarantee that you receive notification when you win a book, sign up in the right hand column for Feed Blitz. You won't miss a single posting.

Ransomed Dreams by Amy Wallace

I know Amy through American Christian Fiction Writers. We're excited to introduce her first published novel, Ransomed Dreams.

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

A great deal! Little character tidbits from wedding anniversaries to favorite colors reflect facts about my life and my family. Then there are the deeper things like what the characters struggle with and how they view life. In those I often see myself as in a mirror. I don’t intend to write myself into the story, but when I read over my work for the day I sometimes see me reflected back. That’s both frightening and fun. Scary in the sense that deep parts of me are out there for all the world to see, but fun in that, unless you know me, it’d be hard to guess which character I most resemble.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

Become a writer. :-) And in that admit to friends and acquaintances that I really do hear voices in my head and enjoy spending untold hours living in other worlds.

I’ve also danced in a mountain stream and been very glad that it was just God there to experience that sight.

I know what you mean. This morning at breakfast, I said something to my husband, and he said, “Writers are crazy.” However, this man is very supportive of what I do. Amy, when did you first discover that you were a writer?

When I won a writing contest in fifth grade for a book my oldest daughter now thinks is a hoot. Ever since I can remember writing has been a large part of who I am. Writing is how I work out my salvation and keep my sanity. It’s through written words that life makes sense to me and often how I “get it” when God is speaking to my heart.

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

I love reading books that make me laugh and teach me something about God. One of my favorite things about homeschooling my girls is that I get to read all sorts of great classics and amazing Biblical fiction too. But even though I read a lot of different genres, the stories I always come back to and most enjoy are books like the SisterChicks series.

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

I’ve written a fairy tale for my girls, two chick lit novellas, and two full-length moms lit novels.

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

I’m not quite sure that I do. :-) The key for me is to know who I am and accept that. I’m one of those people who like the quite and thrive in an ordered routine. But I’ve learned over the years that God is God and regardless of what I might deem best for my life, He KNOWS what’s best. Sometimes that includes getting out of my comfort zone and finding myself with so many plates spinning that I feel like the Cat in the Hat wondering when they’re going to come tumbling down. That “sometimes” isn’t all the time though. I guard my family time like a mama bear over her cubs. I also guard my time with God in the mornings. And my husband and I work hard to keep our outside commitments to what we know God has put in our lives. Often that means saying no to a lot of “good” things so that we can give our best to what God says is the “best” thing for us.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

I choose a good deal of my characters’ names according to their meanings. Name websites are especially helpful if I have a specific trait or something about a character that stands out in my mind. But most of the time the names come as I’m praying about a particular story and they seem to “fit” right from the start.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Being the mommy of three precious girls who remind me every day of what an awesome God I get to call my Daddy.

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

A wolf. I’ve always loved the mysterious grace and loyalty that defines these animals. Not sure I’d call myself graceful, but I am very loyal and I think often I’m a mysterious mix of so many dichotomies that I baffle my longsuffering husband and kids.

What is your favorite food?

That’s easy… chocolate!

It's interesting to me how many authors love chocolate.

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

That Ransomed Dreams was an amazing journey for me. It started as an action-packed dream and became a novel before I had any idea what I was doing. Good thing God knew exactly what He was doing! This story has challenged me personally and professionally and taught me to cling to the Lord because He is amazing at taking shattered dreams and wounded hearts and making all things new.

Sounds like a book I want to read. Thank you for spending this time with us, Amy.

Readers, be sure to leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Ransomed Dream.

And Happy Easter tomorrow.

Four Winners!!!!

It's time to choose the winners of The Spinster Brides of Cactus Corner. (Drum roll, please.)

And the winners are. . .Susan (happyendings). . .Cara Putnam. . .Cecilia Dowdy. . .Arlin.

Ladies, please send me your mailing addresses so we can get the books to you.

Readers, remember there's still time to leave a comment on Tricia Goyer's interview for a chance to win A Valley of Betrayal and on my interview for a chance to win Minnesota Brothers.

Minnesota Brothers by Lena Nelson Dooley

You're getting a bonus this week. Someone challenged me to do an interview with myself for one of the posts. So here it is.

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

I suppose occasionally I include something in a character that comes from me. I have had a couple of school teachers. I've written about seamstresses, and I sew. And sometimes my characters have to deal with problems I've had in my own life. However, I really believe almost all authors do this.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I decided to change this answer. While I was in college, a couple of friends and I went hiking in the area around campus. At one place a pipe about a foot in diameter crossed a deep chasm. I walked across the chasm on that pipe. Only after I was on the other side did I realize that I would have been killed if I had fallen.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I didn't know people didn't write. I just thought it was part of life until I married a man who didn't read or write. He wasn't illiterate. He just didn't like to read or write. He still doesn't write, but he has read all my books, except one, and he's starting on that now.

I didn't even consider being a professional writer until May of 1984. You can read the testimony at the bottom of the main page of my web site: www.LenaNelsonDooley.com

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

I like to read almost anything. If I don't have anything else available, I'll read everything on the label of the cereal box while I eat breakfast--if I'm eating alone. I prefer fiction, but sometimes I'll get a really good non-fiction, too. I like every kind of fiction, except horror. Romance, adventure, suspense, mystery, futuristic, almost all kinds.

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

Home to Her Heart, The Other Brother, His Brother's Castoff, Double Deception, Gerda's Lawman, Mother's Old Quilt in Scraps of Love, Pirate's Prize, Windswept Weddings, Never Say Never, A Daughter's Quest have all been published, and some of them have won awards. The Spinster and the Cowboy in The Spinster Brides of Cactus Corner, Can You Help Me? in Carolina Carpenter Brides, Christmas Confusion in Montana Mistletoe, and Who Am I? will all come out in 2007. And I have one book that has never sold.

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

First, I'm centered on the Lord, seeking what He wants me to do, not what other people want me to do. Also, my husband helps me remember what is really important. That's probably one of the reasons the Lord gave him to me.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Sometimes the names just come to me. Other times I search databases, especially for foreign names during a specific historical period.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Probably finally learning to hear God's voice, knowing that He will lead me where I should go.

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

Okay, this is a crazy answer, but I'd like to be a giraffe. I've been short all my life. I'd like to see the world from that vaulted perspective.

What is your favorite food?

I didn't realize how hard this one was to answer either. I love most anything chocolate, except Flan. When they started making Chocolate Flan in the US, I hated it. I prefer the kind I learned to love in Guadalajara, Mexico. I also love Key Lime Pie, avocado enchiladas, queso (if it's not too hot), prime rib. My list could become very long if I continued.

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

At first, I would do an information dump, especially description. Tracie Peterson helped me know that this type of information had to be woven in bits through the story. I love to create a strong sense of setting, but now I don't dump it all at once. Another thing that took a while was the difference between showing and telling. I quickly learned the difference, but there are so many nuances of this, and once again Tracie Peterson, as my editor, helped me learn the depths of them.

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

Learn from those who've gone before you. Listen to their sage advice. Don't cling to your pet phraseology. And remember that only those authors who submit get published.

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

Minnesota Brothers is a repackage of my second, third, fourth, and fifth novels. The Other Brother, His Brother's Castoff, Double Deception, and Gerda's Lawman make up a series of historical novels about immigrants who came to Minnesota in the 1890s. They were first published by Heartsong Presents. Barbour Publishing put all the books in one volume. The good thing about this is that you get the whole series without starting to read them and then having to go find the next one.

This book is my first book to go into Walmart stores as well as Christian bookstores and other major chains.

Leave a comment on this interview for a chance to win a copy of Minnesota Brothers. These books were fun to write, and they've been well received by readers.

Valley of Betrayal by Tricia Goyer

This feature is different from the usual interviews I post. We're part of Tricia's blog tour for the release of her newest book.

I've known Tricia through ACFW for a long time. She's a wonderful storyteller who really pays attention to the details in history. Her books are richer for her efforts.

The Story Behind the Novel:

A few years ago when I was researching for my fourth World War II novel, Arms of Deliverance, I came across a unique autobiography. One B-17 crewmember I read about claimed to make it out of German-occupied Belgium after a plane crash due, in part, to his skills he picked up as a veteran of The Spanish Civil War. Reading that bit of information, I had to scratch my head. First of all, I had never heard of the war. And second, what was an American doing fighting in Spain in the late 1930s? Before I knew it, I uncovered a fascinating time in history—one that I soon discovered many people know little about. This is what I learned:

Nazi tanks rolled across the hillsides and German bombers roared overhead, dropping bombs on helpless citizens. Italian troops fought alongside the Germans, and their opponents attempted to stand strong—Americans, British, Irishmen, and others—in unison with other volunteers from many countries. And their battleground? The beautiful Spanish countryside.

From July 17, 1936-April 1, 1939, well before America was involved in World War II, another battle was fought on the hillsides of Spain. On one side were the Spanish Republicans, joined by the Soviet Union and The International Brigade—men and women from all over the world who have volunteered to fight Fascism. Opposing them, Franco and his Fascist military leaders, supported with troops, machinery, and weapons from Hitler and Mussolini. The Spanish Civil War, considered the “training ground” for the war to come, boasted of thousands of American volunteers who joined to fight on the Republican side, half of which never returned home.

Unlike World War II, there is no clear line between white and black, good and evil. Both sides committed atrocities. Both sides had deep convictions they felt worth fighting and dying for.

Loyalists—also know as the Republicans were aided by the Soviet Union, the Communist movement, and the International Brigades. If not for the weapons and volunteers from these sources their fight would have ended in weeks rather than years. While many men fought side by side, their political views included that of liberal democracy, communism and socialism. The Catholic Basque Country also sided with the Republic, mainly because it sought independence from the central government and was promised this by Republican leaders in Madrid.

Nationalists—or Francoists were aided mainly by Germany and Italy. The Nationalist opposed an independent Basque state. Their main supporters were those who believed in a monarchist state and fascist interests. The Nationalist wished for Spain to continue on as it had for years, with rich landowners, the military, and the church running the country. Most of the Roman Catholic clergy supported the Nationalists, except those in the Basque region.During the Spanish Civil war, terror tactics against civilians were common. And while history books discuss the estimated one million people who lost their lives during the conflict, we must not forget that each of those who fought, who died, had their own tales. From visitors to Spain who found themselves caught in the conflict, to the communist supporters, Basque priests, and Nazi airmen . . . each saw this war in a different light. These are the stories behind A Valley of Betrayal.

The premise of the book sounds intriguing. We're giving away a free copy of the book to one of the people who leave a comment. Someone will win. It might as well be you.

To find out more about Tricia's other books, visit her website at www.triciagoyer.com

The Winner of Why I Jumped

. . .is :-)ronie. Ronie, please send me your mailing address so we can get this book to you. Congratulations.

Readers, there's still time to leave a comment on the interview with the authors of The Spinster Brides of Cactus Corner. Remember, we'll pick four winners next weekend.

If you want to be sure to know whether you won or not, just sign up with Feedblitz under my picture, and you'll know when a new post goes up and what it's about.

The Spinster Brides of Cactus Corner

Announcing the release of a new novella collection by Frances Devine, Vickie McDonough, Jeri Odell, and me. We're really excited about this book.

And to celebrate, we're giving away 4 copies of the book, not the usual one, so you have a better chance to win--if you leave a comment.

Here's Vickie McDonough. Her web site is www.vickiemcdonough.com .

This is Frances Devine. She doesn't have a personal web site yet, but you can find out more about her at www.barbourbooks.com/author/detail/frances-devine .

Here's Jeri Odell at Lake Tahoe. Her web site is www.jeriodell.com

I'm interviewing all three of these women for you.

How did your story for Spinster Brides come about?

Vickie: My heroine is gung-ho about expanding the orphanage mentioned all through the book. I got to thinking what if she wanted to buy the same piece of property that someone else wanted. I could see that would create some good conflict and created my story around that issue.

Frances: To be honest, I’m not sure. It was just there.

Jeri: I’d actually had this story in mind for several years. My youngest son was in law school at the time, so I did a little research on early women lawyers. The story grew from there.

Lena: My answer is similar to Vickie's. I knew in that time period, women weren't often owners of ranches, especially young women. If her father had asked for a man to check on her, conflict would flare.

What are you reading right now.

Vickie: Reluctant Runaway by Jill Nelson

Frances: I’m re-reading Bodie Thoene’s Zion Covenant books for the umpteenth time.

Jeri: Fireworks by Elizabeth White

Lena: Caught in the Middle by Gayle Roper

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

Vickie: Heartsong Presents books: Sooner or Later, Spinning Out of Control, The Bounty Hunter and the Bride, A Wealth Beyond Riches Anthologies: A Stitch in Time, Brides O’ the Emerald Isle, Lone Star Texas, Kiss the (Cook) Bride

Frances: Miss Aggie’s Gone Missing for Heartsong Presents Mysteries

Jeri: I’ve written six novellas in various collections by both Barbour and Tyndale, and I’m now in the process of writing my fifth Heartsong with two more to follow. I also wrote a non-fiction book a few years back titled Spiritual Single.

Lena: I've written nine Heartsongs and five novellas. You can find out all about them on my web site www.lenanelsondooley.com

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

Vickie: Working with an anthology team is a great way to build new friends and strengthen friendships you already have. It’s a big give and take, where you have to be willing to let go of some of your ideas and accept ideas from your teammates.

Frances: It gave me confidence and fulfilled a life-long dream.

Jeri: I loved working with each of these gifted women. Vickie is a wonderful writer and is the brains behind the book. Lena has so much experience and expertise. And Francis, being in the early stages of her career, brought so much excitement and enthusiasm to the process.

Lena: This was a very good team to work with. You'll find that helped create an interesting book.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Vickie: Usually I pick a name I like. I sometimes have to do a search on surnames or baby names to get ideas, but often, I just have a good idea of what a certain character should be called.

Frances: Sometimes they’re just there. Sometimes I look through lists of names.

Jeri: I keep a list of names that I hear and like. When naming a character, I go over the list, check meanings, and chose one that fits.

Lena: I could say, "All of the above." In addition, I've even had characters insist I change their name while I'm writing. Each time I've had to change it in the whole book, because I kept typing the wrong one.

What did you want the reader to “get” from your story?

Vickie: I want my readers to be entertained with a fun, clean story and to be inspired in their walk with God.

Frances: I want them to enjoy the story, but also to be reminded that sometimes we have preconceived ideas about others that prevent us from offering compassion.

Jeri: That we don’t all, as Christians, have to see eye to eye on every subject, and often some of our preconceived ideas are actually misconceived.

Lena: I want them to enjoy the story, but also understand that if we compromise, everyone wins.

Why are you a member of American Christian Fiction Writers?

Vickie: ACFW helped me get published. I met authors on the loop who liked my writing and gave me a chance to work with them, which is how I first got published. I’ve learned so much about writing through ACFW’s online classes, their e-zine, and best of all, the ACFW annual conference, which is the best fiction writers conference in the U.S.

Frances: It’s a wonderful group that offers fellowship and communication with other writers while also providing many writing helps.

Jeri: Encouragement, fellowship, and wisdom. They also have a great annual conference that stretches me, challenges me, and improves me as a writer.

Lena: Another all-of-the-above moment. See why we worked so well together. However, it probably is the best Christian fiction writers conference in the whole world.

Will you be at the conference in Dallas in September?

Vickie: You betcha!

Frances: I hope to be

Jeri: I hope to be. I’ve attended the past four years in a row.

Lena: Since's it's in Dallas, and I live near there, I'll for sure attend. I have been at all five nationals and the two regional conferences.

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

Vickie: Study your craft and keep writing. It takes persistence to get published.

Frances: Stay teachable and don’t fall in love with your words.

Jeri: God is sovereign over my writing ministry, so whatever is happening, trust Him.

Lena: All good advice. Maybe another piece of good advice is: Don't compare your writing or your success to anyone else's. This fits with Jeri's. Let God work His will and His timing in your writing.

Vickie, Frances, Jeri, thank you for spending this time with us. I think we all have book signings coming up in the next couple of weeks. If you're near southwestern Missouri; Tulsa, Oklahoma; Tucson, Arizona; or Hurst, Texas, please come to the signings. Mine is Sauturday, March 31, at Walmart on the corner of Harwood Road and Precinct Line. Be sure and tell me you read about it here.

Also, sign up for one of the 4 free copies.

Winner of Too Good to be True by Trish Perry

Anicz, you are the blessed person.

There's still time to leave a comment on Wanda Dyson's Interview for a chance to win a copy of Why I Jumped.

To ensure that you won't miss the post announcing you as a winner, sign up on the right hand column to receive notification of the posts by Feedblitz. You won't be sent any spam because of signing up.

Introducing Wanda Dyson

I first became acquainted with Wanda Dyson as a reader. I just love her suspense three-book series: Abduction, Obsession, and Intimidation. Actually, I connected with her on the Internet before the third book came out. They are wonderful. Then in 2006, I was privileged to meet her in person and spend some time with her at the national American Christian Fiction Writers conference. Now she has a bestselling nonfiction book.

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

It’s different for each character, but they all carry a little something of me. I suppose they have to since they are my creation. But usually when I create a character (or they create themselves) their story reminds me of someone I know and so there is probably more of their fears, their hopes, their dreams, and their victories in that character than mine.

I can see how that would happen. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

That is now an easy question to answer. At the ACFW conference booksigning, I sat down at my table and realized that everyone around me had these beautiful displays with bookmarks and candy and buttons and pens and I had left all those goodies with my books in the bookstore and they were all gone. Not to be left out, I turned into (drum roll please) EveryWriter!... I ran around from table to table, scooping up a little bit of something from everyone’s display and brought it back and made a display that included everyone there… I even told people that picked up a book mark from say… Susan May Warren… that I would be glad to sign that for her. I had everyone in stitches as I pretended to be “Every Writer.”

Oh yes, she was even Lena Nelson Dooley. What fun! When did you first discover that you were a writer?

When I was in junior high school, I was maybe 13 or 14 years old and our English teacher gave us assignment to write the first chapter of a book. I wrote mine and turned it in, not thinking anything of it. Not only did it get the highest score in the class, but everyone wanted a copy and then I was begged to keep writing more chapters by other students. So I did. And each time I would come in with another chapter, it would get passed around the school.

A built-in reader base. Good job! Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

I have an extensive library of reading material since I hate to get rid of books. There are probably close to a thousand titles on those shelves. I have fantasy, romantic suspense, thrillers, women’s fiction, theology, Christian living, writing craft, biographies, Hebrew prayer books, and of course… SUSPENSE, suspense, and more suspense.

I'm finding that I've been choosing more and more suspense books to read. Maybe I should try my hand at writing one. What other books have you written, whether published or not?

Abduction, Obsession, and Intimidation are the three suspense titles published. Why I Jumped is the true story that came out last October. And sitting in my filing cabinet are: Legacy of Love and Legacy of Grace (circa 1995-6) The Restoration (circa 1999), Shadow of Death (Circa 1997), On a Wing and A Prayer (Circa 1998).

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

When it all starts to get to be too much, I grab my IPOD loaded with worship music and walk down to the pasture and wander out there with the horses, worshipping as I watch the horses graze, the hawks circling the treetops, the deer skittering along the edge of the woods, the fox peering out from the brush, and the groundhogs disappearing in their underground lairs. If it’s a cool enough day, I’ll saddle up Grace or Pawnee and take a ride around the property, just relaxing to the music, the creak of the leather, and the occasional whinny of someone in the herd that’s missing his buddy.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

For the most part, they tell me their names. Sometimes, they only give me a first name and then I’ll page through one of the many phone books I keep around until I land on a last name I think fits their personality.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

In spite of only having a ninth grade education (I had to quit school and help raise my siblings) I’ve gone on without any diplomas or formal education to become the marketing director of an international company, then an ordained minister, and finally a published author. Actually, I shouldn’t say “finally” because there’s no telling what Father will have me accomplish next.

Quite a list of accomplishments, Wanda! If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

Probably a horse. Duh, right? But not because I love them as much as I do. I’d be one because I’ve always loved to run free, wander at will, and maintain my independence…until the Lord put a bit in my mouth and taught me to bend at the poll and yield to His gentle hand in guiding me in where I needed to go.

What is your favorite food?

Fattening. No. Really. Mashed potatoes, hot bread with butter, French crullers, pound cake. But #1 is prime rib. Yep. Fattening again.

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

Why I Jumped is the true story that was captured as it unfolded in Green Bay Wisconsin. A young mother, in the throes of depression, led the police on a high speed chase to the top of the Tower Drive Bridge, calmly got out of her car, walked over to the edge and jumped. A State Police officer (off duty) heard the call and had been on her bumper for about ten miles. He scrambled out of his car, ran to the edge, and just as she started her downward plunge, reached out and snagged her by the wrist, nearly being pulled over himself. If that were the whole story, that would be exciting enough. But what no one knew was that behind the scenes, for weeks, twelve young women had felt a burden to pray for this woman and every Wednesday night, faithfully, they came together to pray. There are several incidents like that in this book that show that God’s hand was the one that reached out and held on to that woman…and how He’s worked in her life since that day to bring about healing and restoration.

What Wanda didn't say is that the book was featured on Oprah and Good Morning America. I think you'll find it interesting.

Remember to leave a comment for a chance to win a copy, but if you don't win the free book, you'll want to get a copy and read this marvelous true story.

Wanda, thank you for spending this time with us.

The winner of The Bachelor Club

. . .is Cindy Woodsmall. Please send me your mailing address so we can get the book out to you right away.

Congratulations!

Readers, you could win a free book on this blog if you leave a comment on the interviews. There's still time to leave one on Trish Perry's interview.

Our Newest Winner

Sheryl is the winner of Through Every Storm by Sharlene Maclaren.

Sheryl, click on the link to my e-mail address and send me your mailing address so we can get the book out to you.

Too Good to be True by Trish Perry

As I've often told you before, I'be known Trish Perry as an online friend for a long time. That's one of the wonderful perks of networking with other authors. She's also in ACFW. Now she's had her first two books published in less than a year. Way to to, Trish.

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

Oh, Lena, I’m a mess. When my characters behave badly, that’s pretty much me. I have such an easy time writing their embarrassingly human moments, because I’ve been there—not in the exact circumstances they face, but in some of their truly stupid reactions to other humans. And some of the more smarty-pants comments are much like me. Good grief, I don’t sound like a very good egg, do I?

But you sound completely human. Our readers need to know that about us. We're just flawed human beings, who happen to write novels. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I have a thing about locking the door to the house. I saw an episode of "America’s Most Wanted" about ten years ago, and it freaked me out to no end, the way the bad guy sneaked into the house while the wife was outside waving goodbye to her hubby. So, when my son was just a wee one and my hubby was in the hospital with appendicitis, I wanted to mow the lawn for him, using his riding mower. My son was inside, napping. I locked the door and mowed a small patch of grass. Then I left the mower idling to dash in and check on my son. As I fiddled with unlocking the door, I saw the lawn mower speed happily across the driveway and toward our pond. I actually took the time to make sure the door was locked before I took off running after the mower. It took out an entire flowering hedge, but when I cried out, “Oh, Lord, please help me!” the mower suddenly slowed, turned to the left and waited for me to come drive it back to the garage, where it stayed until hubby came home. I still lock the door religiously, regardless of what’s going on outside.

That's very funny, but it also shows that God answers prayer, Trish. When did you first discover that you were a writer?

Although I didn’t take myself seriously as a writer until 1994 or so, there was a moment when I first got that joy of having written something lovely. I was in the sixth grade, and our teacher gave us the assignment to clip a picture from a magazine and write a poem to go with it. I chose a picture of an English garden with an open gate and a stream. I still remember the short poem that came to me. More vividly, I remember my older brother (now an English Professor at Santa Clara University) reading the poem and saying, “You know, that’s pretty good.” I loved the feeling I got with that affirmation; loved writing the poem. That may have been the first time I discovered that writing was for me.

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

Wow. I’m definitely an equal opportunity reader. I avidly read both Christian and secular novels. (I’m going to assume you mean fiction reading.) I’ll read something ultra-serious then pick up chick lit and enjoy it just as much—I deliberately follow one type of story with something drastically different. So after Scott Simon’s Pretty Birds, about the Bosnian war, comes Lisa Samson’s Women’s Intuition, an excellent Women’s Fiction novel. Then Philippa Gregory’s The Other Boleyn Girl, about the gal who lost her head (literally), followed by Kristen Billerbeck’s She’s Out of Control, about the gal who lost her head (figuratively). Back and forth from secular to Christian, up and down from light to heavy.

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

The first book I wrote, Only One, is yet to be published. As soon as I finished it (at least I thought it was finished), I wrote The Guy I’m Not Dating and its follow-up, Too Good to Be True (releasing this month). Only One is a spiritual warfare story, about Shawna Callahan, a young unsaved woman who experiments with hypnosis and thinks she’s discovered a past life. Her misguided beliefs lead her into spiritual danger and manipulation. The Lord graciously surrounds her with believers who might seem ineffective individually but who collectively lead Shawna to the Truth, just when all appears lost.

I’m now writing a third (and final) novel in my current chick lit series, tentatively titled ‘Til Depth Do Us Part. The hero and heroine are characters who were prominent in, and popular with readers of, the first two novels.

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

I may have to check back with you on that, Lena. I often feel like a woman on the verge—I make no guarantees about my status in, say a week. But the ever-patient Lord rushes in to calm me so often, to assure me that, as I’ve heard others say, “‘Important’ matters are seldom urgent, and ‘urgent’ matters are seldom important.” The way He keeps my sanity intact is by reminding me that I can only get done what I get done each day. If I lean on Him and work to honor Him, it’s all good! Deadlines help me prioritize, and my understanding family members help me cope, even when they don’t have clean socks and underwear.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

I often do the Dickens thing, but not as overtly or specifically as he did. I give my spunky heroines short snappy names, while the more vulnerable, feminine gals have softer names, like sighs. My heroes often get melodic names or strong, Biblically based names. My bad guys get sharp, hard-edged names, and the mean girls get the flip-sounding names I associate with spoiled, slightly dense types. The downright evil guys get names with a mysterious feel to them. I’m not always aware of those parameters when I choose names, but I certainly feel around for the name that fits the image I want to portray. I doubt I’ll ever have an evil genius named Floyd or a chick lit heroine named Bertha, you know?

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

I know this might sound trite, but the role I played in my two kids’ coming to Christ is the greatest joy in my life, next to my relationship with my Savior. I wasn’t even the one who led either of them to Him, but I know I was an important part of the process. What a privilege. And now I have a grandson . . .

Yes, the spiritual role of a grandparent is so important, and one my husband and I take seriously. Now on a lighter vein, if you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

What a fun question! The first critter that came to mind for me was a bird, of course—a mighty eagle or cooing dove, because flying has got to be one awesome experience. But let’s all stifle a yawn on the creativity angle of that answer. Anyway, I figure we’ll get to fly when we get our eternal bodies, so I’m going with the seahorse. All right, it’s a fish. Perhaps I should aspire to greater things than fishdom, but are seahorses cool or what? I know the Lord had fun with that one. Just the cutest. And the male births the babies—need I say more?

I know what you mean. I will interject that I've been enjoying hearing the doves coo in the morning lately. Ah, spring! What is your favorite food?

How much time do you have? By all rights, I should be listed in the Guinness Book under some pro-food category. I love food. How about I tell you what food I don’t like? That would be cooked celery. Everything else is my favorite food.

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

Too Good to Be True is a romantic comedy—chick lit—about Rennie Young, a young elementary schoolteacher whose husband left and divorced her more than a year ago. On the anniversary of that divorce, she learns that the adoption she and her ex began has fallen through. And the child they planned to adopt is one of her students, whom she loves dearly. The upshot of all of this stress? Ren faints, face first, in the boys’ department at her local Wal-Mart.

Truman Sayers, a handsome labor-and-delivery nurse, comes to her rescue, and the romance is on. Or is it?

Tru seems perfect, but both he and Ren bring their share of baggage on this trip down lovers’ lane, not the least of which is each of their meddlesome mothers. Add numerous siblings, well-meaning friends, old hurts and new insecurities, and Ren wonders if she isn’t hoping for something that’s too good to be true.

I hope readers have fun with the book. I like stories about the human struggle to behave in a divine fashion. We’re so bad at it! See? Christians behaving badly—that’s me!

Sounds wonderful, Trish. It's on my to-be-read pile waiting for me to finish the rewrite on my book that comes out this fall. Thank you for spending this time with us.

Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of Too Good to be True. There's still time to leave a comment on Rhonda Gibson's interview for a chance to win The Bachelor's Club.

DFW Ready Writers - March 10, 2007

Speaking at WIN in Tulsa

The Bachelor's Club by Rhonda Gibson

I've known Rhonda for a long time. Actually, her first sale was for the novella collection Scraps of Love. I was on that writing team. I've loved knowing her. You will, too.

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

I’d say that a small part of myself goes into each heroine. Her likes/dislikes, hobbies, beliefs, and some mannerisms.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I guess you could call bursting out in song quirky. I do that all the time and sometimes it’s just embarrassing. Especially when it was in front of my children’s youth director, in my nightclothes, waving a wand, and the song is, “J.C. Pennies, donin' it right!” Email me, and I’ll tell you all about it, if your interested. Rgib2001@yahoo.com

That invitation should flood your mailbox with mail. When did you first discover that you were a writer?

The first time I picked up a Hardy Boys novel. I fell in love with them and wanted to write one of their stories. I wrote a 400 page handwritten Hardy Boys book when I was 12 years old. It’s been lost over the years but it was a great beginning for me!

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

I enjoy romance, mystery, childrens/tween books, westerns, fantasy, and some sci-fi. Horror isn’t something I enjoy. I’m a chicken at heart.

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

Published: I have written both contemporary and historical romance. Plus, God allowed me to contribute to a non-fiction book. Feel free to check out the titles at www.rhondagibson.com

Unpublished: Cozy romantic mysteries, contemporary and historical romance, a tween book, and a cookbook.

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

I spend time in the Word that alone makes any day run smoother. I also have a schedule I try to stay within.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Some of my characters come with names. For the others, I have been known to look online for popular names of certain time periods. I have a baby name book that I can refer to, and I chose family members names.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Without a doubt my children, they are both men and women of God, and for that I am most thankful!

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

A dolphin. They swim in cool water all day. Play and have fun and can eat whatever they want. Best of all, they bring joy into peoples lives. That’s what I’d like to do.

What is your favorite food?

Mexican. I love hot, spicy meals.

I love Mexican food, too, but probably not as hot as you do. What would you like to tell us about the featured book?

The Bachelor Club is a special book. The group of authors who wrote this book with me, Bev Huston, Janet Spaeth (a very special friend), and Kathleen Y’Barbo allowed me to pattern one of the main characters, Willard Lovelace, after my dad, Willard McConnell. So it is very special to me. The Bachelor Club is a book about a game four little boys started and how it turned into a competition to see who would wait the longest to get married. This is a fun book set in my home state of New Mexico.

Rhonda, thank you for spending this time with us. We'll be on the lookout for all your books.

Readers, remember to leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of this fun book.

Winner of A Merry Heart By Wanda Brunstetter

Kristy Dykes, your name has been chosen. You'll be blessed by the book. Please e-mail me your snail mail address, so Wanda can get the book to you.

Remember, Readers, there's still time to leave a comment on Sharlene Maclaren's interview for a chance to win a copy of Through Every Storm.