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Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Spotlight on Michelle Sutton and It's Not About Me

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

MICHELLE SUTTON is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, is Volunteer Officer on the ACFW Operating Board, the Editor-in-chief for Christian Fiction Online Magazine, and Sheaf House's Marketing Director. She is also an edgy fiction writer, book reviewer, avid blogger/alliance member, mother of two teenagers, wife, pet owner, social worker by trade, and follower of Jesus Christ.

IT'S NOT ABOUT ME
A Second Glances Novel #1
by Michelle Sutton
Published by Sheaf House Publishers

ABOUT THE BOOK

Annie has it all. But one night her safe world is destroyed. As she fights to put the pieces of her shattered life back together, she is caught in a war between two brothers who both claim to have her best interests at heart.

Who will Annie choose? And will she finally come to know the One whose love will never fail, even in her darkest hour? Will she learn the truth about life—that it's not about "me"?

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When a young woman's life is shattered by a brutal attack, she is torn between two brothers, both of whom claim to love her. She is attracted to both, but which one does she love? How can she choose when her decision may cause a permanent rift between them? And more important, will she give her heart to the One who will sustain her even when human love fails?

MY REVIEW

Michelle often claims to write "edgy" fiction. With this debut novel, she fits the bill! In her story, she explores the deep and often heartwrenching aspects of relationships from a wide variety of perspectives while hitting on the major issues facing today's teens. Her characters are true-to-life, multi-faceted and avoid the "cookie-cutter" label in their ups and downs, their struggles and triumphs. Many kudos to Michelle for tackling tough issues like premarital sex, abuse, alcoholism and the doubts about where God is during the dark times. She effectively conveys that He's right there, waiting to forgive and welcome us with open arms. Great job, Michelle!

Buy Your Copy of It's Not About Me Today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

I had a friend who was attacked in a similar way as Annie. I thought it would make for an interesting scenario, and then to have the boyfriend unable to handle the guilt made it all the more interesting. Bring in older brother and you have a love triangle. I love those types of stories and I love romantic tension in novels.

2. How much of your own experiences influenced your characters? What aspects became traits that are theirs and theirs alone?

My faith journey was very similar to Annie's, but I wasn't a "good girl" like she was. My childhood was tougher and so my experiences were different. Most of my characters' traits were uniquely theirs. I don't really have any characters in any of my books that are just like me. Similar in some ways, maybe, but not that much.

3. If one of your characters were an ice cream flavor, what he/she be and why?

My hero would probably Maple Walnut ice cream. He's sweet, but wholesome. Annie would be Rocky Road. Poor girl had it rough in so many ways.

4. What themes exist in It's Not About Me that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

Real love sticks with you through the hard times and doesn't abandon you in your time of need. Compromising never pays off. Friendship is essential to making it work. And God is a key ingredient to lasting love. Oh, and never shove a spoon in a blender when it's operating. (LOL!)

As for ones that weren't overt...hmmm...maybe that people aren't always what they seem and that you can never lose when you do things God's way.

5. What were your most difficult parts to write? Your favorite?

The hardest part to write? Probably the attack scene. It even scared me! And my favorite involves a botched banana milkshake. It's a yummy scene. :)

6. When is your next book coming out and what is the story?

The next story is It's Not About Him, which is Jeff and Susie's story. Jeff and Susie are essentially characters you'd love to dislike, but are still redeemable people.

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Thank you, Michelle, for being in the spotlight with us.

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE copy of It's Not About Me.

If you wish to comment but don't want to be entered, say so when you post. Make sure you also leave your email address (name at domainname dot.com/net). Wouldn't want you to miss out on winning a book. :)

And if you want to make certain you don't miss anything, check the box that says 'email follow-up comments to:' when you leave a comment and they'll be sent to the email address associated with your blogging account. That way you'll be notified of any comments and will know when I announce the winner.

This week, the contest is open to US/Canada only.

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10 comments:

windycindy said...

Hello, I always enjoy reading Michelle's interviews! Your blog site is one I go to everyday. Please enter me in your drawing for her book. Many thanks.....Cindi
jchoppes[at]hotmail[dot]com

Cherie J said...

Sounds really good! sounds like a book I would enjoy reading.

Unknown said...

great review for a great author! l would love to win a copy of this book for my son, a student at Liberty U! Priscillajdm at yahoo dot com

apple blossom said...

Loved the interview. Great job. Nice questions.

I'd love to win Miss Fortune. Sounds interesting just in name

apple blossom said...

opps I forgot to check the box the first time. Sorry. Not following directions too well.

squiresj said...

I would love to win this book. I enjoyed your blog. I pray you have a blessed day.
jrs362 AT hotmail Dot com

Janna said...

I haven't gotten a copy of Michelle's book yet, please enter me...

Janna
ryanx6 at msn dot com

Carolynn said...

I would love to read Michelle's book! Thanks so much for the chance to win!
carolynnwald[at]hotmail[dot]com

Anonymous said...

The interviews and video trailors I've seen of this book are intriguing. I would love a chance to win!

ldneuhof at hotmail dot com

Tiffany Amber Stockton said...

We have a winner from this drawing and that is:

PRISCILLA!

Congratulations! I've sent you an email for your mailing information to Sara so she can send out your book.

Others, check out the interviews on Sara Mills and Cindy Woodsmall to see if you've won.

As always, thanks to everyone for your continued support.