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Friday, October 30, 2009

To Boo or Not to Boo....That is the Question....

I recently read a post by a friend and fellow author, Brandilyn Collins, about Halloween and her family's traditions. It sparked or re-ignited a passion in me that is completely against this day and just about everything that surrounds it.

Just this past Saturday, my husband and I attended a "Boo at the Zoo" event with our daughter here in the Springs. It was full of people dressed in some amazing costumes, local vendors advertising their businesses, coupons, giveaways and of course, candy! :) Since our daughter is only 6 months old, all the candy went to us. LOL!

But I don't celebrate Halloween at all. Haven't since I was 5 years old and really haven't missed it. Our church always had a harvest festival with pies, apples, corn, fruits of the harvest, etc. And we all dressed as Bible characters.

Back in college, I once researched the history behind the day. What I learned turned me away from Halloween forever. I have nothing against the costumes, or celebrating the harvest, or even the candy, but the rest of evil origins, I can do without. There is already enough evil in the world. Why celebrate it and encourage the focus on death, blood and gore? Why not celebrate the harvest instead and keep the atmosphere light instead of dark? God sent His Son to shed light in a dark world. I see no reason to return to the dark.

For 25 years, my family closed the doors, turned off the lights, and was "not home." Inside, however, we would always watch movies together and cook some popcorn. Our candy came the day after when everything was 50-75% off. :) If the day fell on a Friday or Saturday, we would be out at the church.

Tonight, it's a harvest festival at church with Trunk or Treat where families decorate their trunks and the costumed kids come to the cars in the parking lot to get their candy. I'm looking forward to it.

So, what about you? Do you have any traditions around this time of year? Something different or unique that you do? Share your stories or your thoughts with all the readers.

And Happy Harvest!

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Spotlight on Maggie Brendan and The Jewel of His Heart

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

MAGGIE BRENDAN is a member of the American Christian Writers (ACW) and the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). She was a recipient of the 2004 ACW Persistence Award.

Maggie can be found on her blog, http://southernbellewriter.blogspot.com and is a resident blogger on http://bustlesandspurs.blogspot.com. Her first book, No Place For a Lady, the first book in the Heart of the West series, was released in January 2009 and received a 4.5 star review from Romantic Times. The Jewel of His Heart, book 2, will be released October of 2009, and received a 4 star review from Romantic Times. A Love of Her Own is scheduled for release in June 2010.

She has begun writing another historical series called The Blue Willow Brides. Maggie is also quoted in, Word Weavers, The Successful Writer’s Critique Groups, that was released in June 2008. She has led a writer’s critique group for the last six years. A TV film version of No Place for a Lady is currently in development for possible movie production.

She recently spoke at a Regional Church Bookstores and Libraries conference in Marietta about The Value of Christian Fiction. She has participated in two of LifeWay Christian Store’s Annual Fiction Event Day.

Maggie is married with two grown children and four grandchildren. When she is not writing, she enjoys reading, singing, painting, scrapbooking and being with her family. She lives in Marietta, GA.

THE JEWEL OF HIS HEART
by Maggie Brendan
Published by Baker/Revell

ABOUT THE BOOK

Romance readers have taken to Maggie Brendan's softer romantic style that perfectly captures life on the American frontier, introducing them to rugged, independent souls and their inner spiritual struggles, and the quest for love that makes for a satisfying read every time. Set in 1890s Montana, The Jewel of His Heart finds Juliana drawn to a handsome, gentle sheepherder--but sparks fly when he considers mining, the occupation that lured her father away from his family. Both Josh and Juliana must make a choice--the world's riches and promises, or the eternal value of love.

Readers, buy your copy of The Jewel of His Heart today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

The idea for this story came about after my brother, Jess McCreede (Jerry O’Neal) died, suddenly. He was a western writer and was Deputy Superintendent of Glacier National Park. About six months after he died, I attended the ACFW Denver conference and then traveled on to Montana to see his writing cabin. After exploring the historic nearby towns, I kept seeing Yogo sapphires in many of the shops windows. My husband bought me a pretty Yogo ring. Later I saw the book about the history of the Yogo and thought it’d be fun to create a story around the time of their discovery.

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

Josh’s sense of adventure would be one thing that we have in common. I enjoy traveling to other places and learning new things, which is what my hero does. I consider writing an adventure because it’s like sticking your neck out there and hoping that someone will love your stories. But Josh tends to think he knows what others are thinking about him, and I try to be just the opposite. Until the book was finished and my critique partner pointed it out to me, I didn’t realize that Juliana’s life of growing up without her father may have mirrored mine. However, Juliana is a lot more cautious than I am. I tend to be too trusting in most cases.

3. If your hero/heroine were an ice cream flavor, what would he/she be and why?

Josh would be vanilla since I see him as calm, loyal and steady. Juliana might be butter pecan since her life has been filled with a lot of hard spots to deal with.

4. Are there any themes in The Jewel of His Heart that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the stories progressed?

I’d say the theme is finding out what is more desirable?—the love for the jewels of this world and what they can buy or finding the more eternal jewel—the true value of a woman’s love.

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

That would be the really big conflicts between the hero and heroine. I want to make them as genuine as possible to reflect real life. My favorite without a doubt is describing the outdoors. I love nature and being outside and learning the landscape of the different states is so enjoyable to me.

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

My next book is A Love of Her Own, the last in Heart of the West series and will be released June, 2010. It’s the story of April McBride, Josh’s sister, who travels to Montana to visit him. She’s used to having the world revolve around her with little regard to others. In Montana she finds more than she bargained for in the form of a contrary cowpoke named Wes, who’s a bit rough around the edges. When their paths cross, they mix like water and oil. It’s a face-paced story and character growth for both of them.

* * * * *

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of The Jewel of His Heart.

Make sure you also leave your email address (name at domainname dot.com/net). You won't be entered in the drawing without it. If you wish to comment but don't want to be entered, say so when you post.

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 the winners are announced each time.

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

Monday, October 26, 2009

Come See the Work at Home Girls!

Last week, I posted information about the Work at Home Girls. And I'm back again to share some more. Their teleseminars are fantastic, so even if you've missed the first ones, you can still purchase all 4 for just $50 and get the previous ones through download. Click here to do that.

Introducing The Work at Home Girls!

Let's face it: a lot of people want (and in some cases need) to set their own hours and work from home. Are you one of those people? What's stopping you? If you're serious about making money from home, you'll do what it takes - including investing in your own learning-either to get your company off to a strong start or to help you move to the next level more quickly. Work at Home Girls is designed to help you.

The Work at Home Girls is the brainchild of Jill Hart and Mary Byers, two successful work at home moms and authors. They've teamed up to offer help, ideas, challenges and mentorship from for women that work at home. Jill and Mary have over 20 years combined experience running a business from home. One is a techie (Jill, founder of Christian Work at Home Moms and author of So You Want to be a Work-at-Home Mom) and the other is a wordsmith (Mary, freelance editor and author of five books, including Making Work at Home Work).They've teamed up to share what they wish mentors had shared with them when they started their businesses over a decade ago. The Work at Home Girls share their Simple Secrets to make your business a SUCCESS -

Traits of Successful Work-at-Home Business Owners
By Mary Byers and Jill Hart

While many people like the idea of working in their pajamas and having a minute-commute down the hallway, not everyone is cut out to work from home. Those who do so successfully have the following traits:

Passion. It’s essential to love what you do and do what you love when working from home. Passion will keep you going even when the going gets tough, as it does in even the best of jobs.

Self-Motivation. It’s important that you’re a self-starter, especially when you are your own boss. There’s no one to motivate you other than yourself when you are self-employed.

Resourcefulness. Work -at-home CEOs aren’t just the head of the company, they ARE the company. That means being the janitor, the technology guru, the marketing manager, and the brains behind the operation. Often, this requires skills you don’t possess. But when you’re resourceful, you’ll be able to find the knowledge you need to keep your business moving forward.

Confidence. It takes guts to run your own enterprise and confidence to manage it effectively. Though there will be times you experience self-doubt, overall you need to have the confidence that you can, and will, figure things out when you run into obstacles.

Like this? Want more? Join the most recent teleseminars!

* Making Your Business Work for You: How to Choose, Launch and Run a Winner (available soon as a download)

* Realistic Expectations: What You Need to Know About Working from Home Successfully (available soon as a download)

* Marketing Your Business Online (October 26)

* The Business of Business: Rev Up Your Profit! (November 2)

Work at Home Girls give you specifics, examples and personal business experience that you won't find anywhere else! Check them out today!

Friday, October 23, 2009

Spotlight on Allie Pleiter and Bluegrass Christmas

Today, I bring you another Christmas book and one of my favorite authors to host here on my blog. :)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

ALLIE PLEITER is an avid knitter, coffee junkie, and devoted chocoholic, who writes both fiction and non-fiction. The enthusiastic but slightly untidy mother of two, Allie spends her days writing books, doing laundry, running carpools, and finding new ways to avoid housework. She grew up in Connecticut, holds a BS in Speech from Northwestern University, spent fifteen years in the field of professional fundraising, and currently lives in suburban Chicago, Illinois. The “dare from a friend” to begin writing nine years ago has given rise to a career spanning two parenting books, eight novels including the multi-nominated MY SO-CALLED LOVE LIFE, and various national speaking engagements on faith, women’s issues, and writing. Visit her website at www.alliepleiter.com or her knitting blog at www.DestiKNITions.blogspot.com

BLUEGRASS CHRISTMAS
by Allie Pleiter
Published by Steeple Hill/Love Inspired

ABOUT THE BOOK

An Old Fashioned Christmas...

That’s what led new believer Mary Thorpe to start over in quaint Middleburg, Kentucky. As director of the church’s Christmas pageant, Mary’s job is to bring the townspeople together, to remind them what the season is really about. But everyone is all riled up over one very handsome man: the man daring to run against Middleburg’s popular long-stnding mayor. Mac MacCarthy wants change. Mary wants things to stay as they are. Is there a happy medium? Both Mac and Mary are in for one very big Christmas surprise.

Readers, buy your copy of Bluegrass Christmas today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

I knew I wanted to give Mac MacCarthy the story--readers met him in Bluegrass Hero--and I knew it was going to be a Christmas book. So I began to think about Mac’s character and what would get under his skin, what could challenge him in ways that would make an interesting story. At some point during my pondering, a toy commercial came on the television and I got to thinking about the annoying song in the commercial and who was behind all that Christmas frenzy marketing. After that, it was an easy recipe for holiday mayhem.

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

Well, I’ve been known to botch a holiday gift or two. There’s the Lego incident we no longer discuss in our household. And I’ve been the recipient of a fair number of odd gifts, so there was plenty to draw upon there. But the stresses of finding the “perfect holiday” are universal, so they were easy to instill in my characters. I craft my characters pretty much on instinct--I get into trouble when I try to over-think the processes. I did want a cockatoo, once, but never got one. My husband is a huge enthusiast for Nissan Z cars, so there was no question it would be Mac’s sportscar of choice.

3. If your hero/heroine were an ice cream flavor, what would he/she be and why?

Mac would be mint chocolate chip, but for the life of me I don’t have a reason why. Maybe it’s the biscotti Dinah offers him in the opening chapter. Mary, well, I see her as a rocky road kind of girl.

4. Are there any themes in Bluegrass Christmas that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the stories progressed?

I never really know my theme until the story’s complete. Again, I don’t start out with a theme in mind...it’s a developmental process for me. Bluegrass Christmas is about the size of secrets, though, and how we misjudge ourselves, our secrets, and our neighbors. Lots of people make whopping mistakes in the book, and still Christmas redeems itself because redemption is the core of the Christmas message.

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

I love to write arguments, mostly because I’m so dialogue driven. And people usually blurt out truths they’d rather not have shared when they’re in the middle of a good row, so it’s fun for plot development. I wrote the scene in the steeple several times before I got it right, because that one was so pivotal and it was so important to me that it be authentic. The big crowd scenes--where the whole town is wrestling with an issue--are technically challenging, too.

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

Middleburg gets one last visit with “Bluegrass Easter” my Easter novella in Steeple Hill’s March release Easter Promises.

* * * * *

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Bluegrass Christmas.

Make sure you also leave your email address (name at domainname dot.com/net). You won't be entered in the drawing without it. If you wish to comment but don't want to be entered, say so when you post.

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 the winners are announced each time.

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

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Blog Spotlight Winners -- August through October

First, let me offer my sincere apologies for allowing so many weeks to pass without choosing winners from my spotlights. I book so far in advance and schedule so many weeks ahead for the spotlights to post, when life gets hectic, I sometimes forget to come back here to select winners.

But I'm SO embarrassed that so many spotlights have gone without winners. Thank you for continuing to leave comments though. I truly appreciate your support.

And now, I'm making up for my lapse by listing all the winners here:

Mary Connealy's MONTANA ROSE
Emma - augustlily

Kimberley Woodhouse's WELCOME HOME
Jo - ladijo40

Debbie Fuller Thomas's RAISING RAIN
Crystal - crystalfulcher

Christina Berry's FAMILIAR STRANGER
Karen K - kmkuka

Laura Frantz's FRONTIERSMAN'S DAUGHTER
Mark - marcus802001

Tracie Peterson's DAWN'S PRELUDE
Aaron - almccarver

Janice Thompson's FOOLS RUSH IN
Lori - sugarandgrits

Lynette Eason's A SILENT FURY
April - tarenn98

Michelle Sutton's IT'S NOT ABOUT HIM
adge - gasweetheart

Jenness Walker's DOUBLE TAKE
lindawn

Mary E. DeMuth's SLOW BURN
Joan - joancwebb

Kathryn Cushman's LEAVING YESTERDAY
Casey H - libraryhelper

And that's all folks...for now. Another winner next week. I believe I contacted all of you, but if you see your name here and did NOT receive an email from me, let me know.

Congratulations to all the winners. Would that we could have more than 1 winner for each spotlight. But keep coming back and leaving comments. You just never know when the next win will be you!

Thanks so much for your continued support.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Spotlight on Winnie Griggs and The Christmas Journey

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

WINNIE GRIGGS is a small town girl born and raised in Southeast Louisiana’s Cajun Country who grew up to marry a country boy from the piney hills of Northwest Louisiana. Though her Prince Charming (who often wears the guise of a cattle rancher) is more comfortable riding a tractor than a white steed, the two of them have been living out their own happily-ever-after for 30+ years. During that time they raised four proud-to-call-them-mine children and a too-numerous-to-count assortment of dogs, cats, fish, hamsters, turtles and 4-H sheep.

Winnie has a BS degree in mathematics and has held a job in the electric utility industry for more years than she cares to contemplate.

Her favorite activities, outside of writing and reading, are cooking, exploring flea markets and pretending the growing army of dust bunnies who have invaded her home will disappear if she just ignores them long enough.

THE CHRISTMAS JOURNEY
by Winnie Griggs
Published by Love Inspired Historical

ABOUT THE BOOK

Philadelphia lawyer Ryland Lassiter is everything Josephine Wylie wants--for a brother-in-law! As the sole supporter of her family, Josie's plans for herself have always had to wait. But Ryland will be ideal as the new head of the Wylie clan...once he finally realizes how perfect he is for Josie's sister.

Ry knows it's time to settle down. The newly appointed guardian to a friend's daughter, he's ready for a home and family. All he needs is a bride...and Josie's sister is not the Wylie who has caught his eye. If only Josie would see the truth--that the only Christmas present he needs is her love.

Readers, buy your copy of The Christmas Journey today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

Actually, the idea came from that great movie classic It’s A Wonderful Life. It’s always been one of my favorite holiday flicks and at one point I began toying with the idea of taking the story and twisting it slightly – change the George Bailey role to that of a woman and set it in the nineteenth century. Thus Josie Wiley was born – a woman who longs to see the world outside the confines of her small backwater town but is held prisoner there by her own sense of duty, responsibility and deep love for her family. And the perfect hero for her, of course, is a man who’s already seen all he cares to of the world ‘out there’ and wants nothing more than to find a place to settle down.

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

I think every writer puts a bit of herself in her stories, whether consciously or not. My stories, at their center, are all about searching for a place to belong, about craving a sense of family. That is a very core need of mine as well. But the particular circumstances my characters come from, the form those longings take, are uniquely theirs.

3. If your hero/heroine were an ice cream flavor, what would he/she be and why?

My heroine, Josie, would be Rocky Road – her life up to the point my story opens has been a very rocky road indeed.

My hero, Ry, would be Neapolitan – his life has been compartmentalized into distinct sections and he is trying to bridge the various pieces.

4. Are there any themes in The Christmas Journey that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the stories progressed?

As I stated earlier, most of my stories are about trying to capture a sense of belonging and about discovering the true meaning of family. But in addition to that, this story has a layer in it of recognizing that sometimes the best answer to even the most heartfelt of prayers can be ‘No’.

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

The most difficult parts to write were the scenes with Ry and his siblings. I had a hard time really nailing down their relationships with each other. I hope I succeeded in the end.

My favorite parts were the early scenes where Ry and Josie were getting to know each other, feeling that tug of attraction, but realizing they have different goals and dreams for their futures.

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

The Heart’s Song comes out in June 2010 and it is my first foray into the world of contemporaries. It’s set in my home state of Louisiana in a fictional town located in the central part of the state where the Cajun culture and north Louisiana cultures sort of come together. The heroine is trying to start up a community handbell choir and enlists the reluctant help of her new neighbor, a former choir director who feels betrayed by God. Reeny and Graham’s story has been with me for quite sometime and I’m very excited to finally get it written.

* * * * *

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of The Christmas Journey.

Make sure you also leave your email address (name at domainname dot.com/net). You won't be entered in the drawing without it. If you wish to comment but don't want to be entered, say so when you post.

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 the winners are announced each time.

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

Monday, October 19, 2009

Join the Work at Home Girls!

If you read my bio or have seen any interviews I've conducted, you'll know I'm a work-at-home-mom with a business as a web designer and marketing consultant along with my career as an author. It hasn't been easy building this business for the past 10 years, and I wish someone had been there to coach me when I began.

Well, now there is!

If you are thinking about starting an at-home business or already have one and struggle to keep it productive or successful, these ladies are here to help.

Jill Hart, founder of Christian Work at Home Moms (www.cwahm.org) and the author of So You Want to Be a Work at Home Mom? and Mary Byers (www.marybyers.com), author of Making Work at Home Work, have joined forces to create The Work at Home Girls. They have developed a teleseminar series for moms who work from home.

WAHG Affiliate button



Tonight was their second live program that lasted for an hour. But don't worry. If you missed them, the two previous sessions are available via podcast and the handouts will be sent to you when you buy the 4-set package.

Tonight's topic was "Realistic Expectations: What You Need to Know about Working from Home Successfully."

From this session, you'll learn:
*The Toughest Thing about Working From Home
*Developing an At-Home-CEO Mentality
*6 Childcare Strategies to Lighten the Load
*Setting Policies to Insure Your Success
*Adopting the Seasonal Approach to Growing Your Business

If you'd like to learn more, or register for the program, go to http://www.theworkathomegirls.com/. If you register for all four sessions, you'll get the first two programs in a MP3 format so that you won't miss anything. Hope you'll join!

YOU Choose the Next Book to Be Published!

Some of you might know that my husband's first book was published through Marcher Lord Press earlier this year. This publisher is a relatively new yet innovative company that is making quite a name for itself right out of the starting gate. The books under its name are top-quality fantasy and science fiction for the Christian readers. Many say "it's about time!" and I couldn't agree more.

Now, continuing in that pattern, MLP is inviting the participation of its readers to choose the next book to be published. Take a look!

* * * * *

Check Out this event from Marcher Lord Press where YOU can have a say in one of the books that will get published in the April 2010 List!

Think of this as an American Idol style contest for novels. ;)

Check it out here: http://wherethemapends.proboards.com/index.cgi?

----

October 19, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Marcher Lord Press Announces Marcher Lord Select

(Colorado Springs, CO)--Marcher Lord Press, the premier publisher of Christian speculative fiction, today announced the debut of a revolution in fiction acquisitions.

"Marcher Lord Select is American Idol meets book acquisitions,

" says publisher Jeff Gerke. "We're presenting upwards of 40 completed manuscripts and letting 'the people' decide which one should be published."

The contest will proceed in phases, Gerke explains, in each subsequent round of which the voters will receive larger glimpses of the competing manuscripts.

The first phase will consist of no more than the book's title, genre, length, a 20-word premise, and a 100-word back cover copy teaser blurb. Voters will cut the entries from 40 to 20 based on these items alone.

"We want to show authors that getting published involves more than simply writing a great novel," Gerke says. "There are marketing skills to be developed--and you've got to hook the reader with a good premise."

Following rounds will provide voters with a 1-page synopsis, the first 500 words of the book, the first 30 pages of the book, and, in the final round, the first 60 pages of the book.

The manuscript receiving the most votes in the final round will be published by Marcher Lord Press in its Spring 2010 release list.

No portion of any contestant's mss. will be posted online, as MLP works to preserve the non-publication status of all contestants and entries.

Participating entrants have been contacted personally by Marcher Lord Press and are included in Marcher Lord Select by invitation only.

"We're also running a secondary contest," Gerke says. "The 'premise contest' is for those authors who have completed a Christian speculative fiction manuscript that fits within MLP guidelines and who have submitted their proposals to me through the Marcher Lord Press acquisitions portal before October 29, 2009."

The premise contest will allow voters to select the books that sound the best based on a 20-word premise, a 100-word back cover copy teaser blurb, and (possibly) the first 500 words of the book.

The premise contest entrants receiving the top three vote totals will receive priority acquisitions reading by MLP publisher Jeff Gerke.

"It's a way for virtually everyone to play, even those folks who didn't receive an invitation to compete in the primary Marcher Lord Select contest."

The premise contest is open to anyone with a completed Christian speculative fiction manuscript that meets MLP guidelines for length, content, genre, worldview, audience, etc. To enter, authors must complete the acquisitions form found at the Marcher Lord Press site and supply all the components listed below on or before October 29, 2009.

Marcher Lord Select officially begins on November 1, 2009, and runs until completion in January or February 2010. All voting and discussions and Marcher Lord Select activities will take place at The Anomaly forums in the Marcher Lord Select subforum. Free registration is required.

"In order for this to work as we're envisioning," Gerke says, "we need lots and lots of voters. So even if you're not a fan of Christian science fiction or fantasy, I'm sure you love letting your voice be heard about what constitutes good Christian fiction. So come on out and join the fun!"

Marcher Lord Press is a Colorado Springs-based independent publisher producing Christian speculative fiction exclusively. MLP was launched in fall of 2008 and is privately owned. Contact: Jeff Gerke; www.marcherlordpress.com.

Friday, October 16, 2009

CFBA Blog Tour - Kathryn Cushman and Leaving Yesterday

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Leaving Yesterday
Bethany House - October 1, 2009)
by Kathryn Cushman


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

KATHRYN CUSHMAN: I graduated from Samford University with a degree in pharmacy, but I’ve known all my life that I wanted to write a novel “some day”. For me, “some day” came about five years ago, when I started writing and never looked back.

My third attempt became my first published novel.

A Promise to Remember was a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers Book-of-the-Year in the Women’s Fiction category, and Waiting for Daybreak was a finalist in Women’s Fiction for the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award. Leaving Yesterday just arrived on scene and I’m very excited about it!

On the homefront, I’ve been married to the wonderful and handsome Lee for over twenty years now, and our two daughters are currently braving the worlds of elementary and high school. We’ve lived in Santa Barbara for the last seventeen years. When I’m not writing or reading or braving seventy degree holidays, you’ll find me watching the younger daughter play softball, or the older daughter building amazing high school theater sets.

LEAVING YESTERDAY
by Kathryn Cushman
Published by Bethany House

ABOUT THE BOOK

Alisa Stewart feels like she's lost two sons: her youngest to a terrible tragedy and her eldest, Kurt, to a life ruined by addiction. But now Kurt has checked himself into rehab and found a healing faith that seems real. It's like he's been raised from the dead.

But then a detective arrives at Alisa's door asking questions about a murder--the death of a drug dealer before Kurt entered rehab. Alisa fears losing her son again, and when she finds evidence linking him to the killing, she destroys it. Her boy is different now. He's changed and deserves a second chance.

But when another man is charged with the crime, Alisa finds herself facing an impossible choice: be silent and keep her son or give up everything for the truth.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Leaving Yesterday, go HERE.

Readers, buy your copy of Leaving Yesterday today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Disclaimer from Katie: Let me say upfront, it is very difficult to discuss much of this book without giving spoilers. I’m going to answer to the extent I can, but I’ll be vague where necessary.

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

I had actually written a completely different story originally. Since I was about to be at the same conference as my editor, I sent him an early draft so that we could discuss it. He didn’t like the story nearly as much as I did J. So, we sat there and talked for over an hour, and neither one of us could understand the other’s point of view. As we were wrapping up the meeting in frustration, I said something about a minor scene in the book. My editor laughed and said, “That would be a really dark place to end a book. That scene, then nothing.” Then he got this gleam in his eyes and said, “That would actually be a great place to start a book.” Twenty-four hours later (after much prayer and angst) I set aside the manuscript I’d written and started all over with the new idea.

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

Thankfully, the experiences were the characters’ alone, and not mine. I’m perfectly happy living a dull and uneventful life. I did spend a lot of time asking “What would I do?” and “What would it take to make me do something else?” kind of questions. Alisa lives in a neighborhood similar to mine, the Templeton setting is very near where my in-laws live, so there were some similarities, but mostly at surface level.

3. If your hero/heroine were an ice cream flavor, what would he/she be and why?

She would be rocky road, but covered in chocolate syrup. She wants to look smooth and put together on the outside, but inside there are plenty of bumpy issues she’s trying to cover up.

4. Are there any themes in Leaving Yesterday that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the stories progressed?

The main theme is that one wrong decision makes the next wrong decision just a little easier. There are several lesser themes, but they all really stem from that one.

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

As a mother, there were a lot of scenes that were difficult for me in this book. One particular scene toward the end between the mother and her young daughter (can’t be specific due to spoilers), I intentionally left off-camera because I didn’t want to face it. Of course, my editor said, “You need to show that scene.” I did, and I really liked the way it turned out, but I cried my way through the writing of it.

My favorite scenes were any of the scenes with Lacey. I enjoyed spending time with her.

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

Desire of Heaven will be out in August 2010. It’s the first of a trilogy I am co-writing with Sheila Walsh (Women of Faith) about one woman’s growing awareness of the presence of angels. The romantic series will highlight the protagonist’s transforming encounter with God’s truth and grace.

* * * * *

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Leaving Yesterday.

Make sure you also leave your email address (name at domainname dot.com/net). You won't be entered in the drawing without it. If you wish to comment but don't want to be entered, say so when you post.

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 residents only.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Spotlight on Mary E. DeMuth and Slow Burn

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

MARY E. DEMUTH is the author of three parenting books and four novels, and she helps readers turn their trials into triumphs. Mary has spoken at several national writers conferences and has had the privilege of teaching in the US, Europe, and Africa for various churches and church planting ministries. She’s appeared on national TV in Canada, and WFAA’s Good Morning Texas. Mary and her husband, Patrick, reside in Rockwall, Texas with their three children. They recently returned from breaking new spiritual ground in Southern France, where they planted a church.

SLOW BURN
by Mary E. DeMuth
Published by Zondervan

ABOUT THE BOOK

"Beautifully and sensitively written, her characters realistic and well-developed. Mary DeMuth has a true gift for showing how God’s light can penetrate even the darkest of situations." – Chuck Colson

She touched Daisy’s shoulder. So cold. So hard. So unlike Daisy.

Yet so much like herself it made Emory shudder.

Burying her grief, Emory Chance is determined to find her daughter Daisy’s murderer—a man she saw in a flicker of a vision. But when the investigation hits every dead end, her despair escalates. As questions surrounding Daisy’s death continue to mount, Emory’s safety is shattered by the pursuit of a stranger, and she can’t shake the sickening fear that her own choices contributed to Daisy’s disappearance. Will she ever experience the peace her heart longs for?

The second book in the Defiance, Texas Trilogy, this suspenseful novel is about courageous love, the burden of regret, and bonds that never break. It is about the beauty and the pain of telling the truth. Most of all, it is about the power of forgiveness and what remains when shame no longer holds us captive.

Readers, buy your copy of Slow Burn today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

I wanted to explore what it would be like for a neglectful mother to really come to terms with her own depravity. What do you do with extreme mother guilt and brokenness? What was interesting: I started the story not liking Emory very much, but as I wrote the story, I started developing empathy for her. By the end, I loved her dearly.

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

With Emory Chance, the heroine of the book, I had little to pull from other than conjecture. Like every mom, I experience guilt, but hers was fairly extreme. I hope I’m like Hixon, but I’m often not. I am selfish and needy and absorbed in my own life. He sacrifices. He looks outside himself. He loves others when others don’t seem to deserve it. I want to be like him when I grow up.

3. If your hero/heroine were an ice cream flavor, what would he/she be and why?

Emory would be licorice, an unsightly flavor, the kind that gets shunned and uneaten (Sorry for those of you who like licorice). Hixon would be something surprising like lavender mint—the kind of ice cream you wouldn’t choose, but once you tried it you couldn’t get enough of.

4. Are there any themes in Slow Burn that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the stories progressed?

That you’re never too far from God’s grasp. That sacrifice is a noble trait, the primary trait of Jesus. That loving people is just plain hard. All those themes developed throughout the book. I didn’t set out to write about them, but they emerged. I’m glad they did.

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

It was hard trying to imagine what it would be like to have the lure of addiction. I personally am pretty freaked out by drug abuse, so absorbing myself in a drug abuser’s mindset wasn’t easy. I loved writing about Hixon and his wrestling with God’s calling him to love the unlovely.

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

Next book is Thin Places, my memoir. It releases in January. The next novel, Life in Defiance, wraps up the Defiance, TX series and releases late next spring.

* * * * *

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE copy of Slow Burn.

Make sure you also leave your email address (name at domainname dot.com/net). You won't be entered in the drawing without it. If you wish to comment but don't want to be entered, say so when you post.

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 the winners are announced each time.

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

Wednesday, October 07, 2009

Spotlight on Jenness Walker and Double Take

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JENNESS WALKER fell in love with books before she could even read them. Growing up, she read while she walked in line, ate lunch, played the clarinet, showered and brushed her teeth. Unfortunately she still hasn’t figured out how to clean the house with a book in hand. Blessed with a vivid imagination—sometimes too vivid—Jenness loves to create her own stories as well. Her writing journey has spanned over twenty years so far, from the contest she lost in first grade to the creative writing correspondence course she took through high school and the first novel she penned in college. Now Jenness lives in Florida with her beloved Web site–designer husband and almost-equally-beloved laptop.

DOUBLE TAKE
by Jenness Walker
Published by Love Inspired Suspense

ABOUT THE BOOK

Cole Leighton can barely believe his eyes. A woman on his bus has just been abducted—in an exact reflection of a scene from the bestselling novel he's reading. Someone is bringing the book to life…and isn't above forcing an innocent woman to follow the story to its tragic end. Using the novel as his playbook, Cole catches up with the beautiful victim—but rescuing Kenzie Jacobs doesn't keep her safe for long. The killer is writing his own ending, and none of the twists and turns lead to happily ever after.

Readers, buy your copy of Double Take today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. This is your debut novel. Congratulations! What gave you the inspiration for this story?

I’m not really sure what inspired it. I’d just read an interview about a book cover model and thought it was pretty interesting. Then I was mulling a couple plots that had been done before and I was trying to come up with something that combined elements of the two. The result was Double Take although it really doesn’t have anything to do with the ideas I’d been brainstorming in the first place. :)

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

Usually my friends and family can pick out bits and pieces of me (or even them) in my characters. This time, not so much. Kenzie is afraid of storms. I love them. Kenzie knows how to whittle. I would slice off my finger if I tried, so I just watched a few tutorials on YouTube. Cole can draw…well, I tried at one point in my life.

3. If your hero/heroine were an ice cream flavor, what would he/she be and why?

Kenzie would be cake batter flavored, because deep inside her is a child who grew up too fast, so sometimes she just needs to lick the spatula and reclaim a bit of her innocence. :)

4. Are there any themes in Double Take that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the stories progressed?

I hope readers see that no matter who they are, God loves them. And no matter what they’ve done, His grace can wash them clean. I didn’t necessarily sit down and plan to work specific lessons into the story, but these just sort of flowed out of what the hero and heroine were struggling with internally.

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

Honestly, I had a hard time with the kissing scenes, even though they were very brief. Lol. It’s hard to be original and not lame. I’m not into the whole birds singing or violins playing bit. My favorite part to write was probably the pseudo-Psycho scene. You know how misery loves company? Well, Kenzie was my company to bestow one of my childhood fears upon. :)

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

I don’t have a second contract yet, but I’m reworking my first novel to send to Steeple Hill. It’s about a man who’s lost everything, the woman who tries to bring him back to life, and the killer who wants to destroy them both.

* * * * *

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Double Take.

Jenness is also giving away a free book to the first person who emails her a picture of her book on a store shelf. As in...you see it there, not plant it there. :) You can learn more about that on her website by clicking on the contests link.

Make sure you also leave your email address (name at domainname dot.com/net). You won't be entered in the drawing without it. If you wish to comment but don't want to be entered, say so when you post.

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 the winners are announced each time.

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

Thursday, October 01, 2009

October New Releases in Christian Fiction!

Here are your October New Releases. Congratulations!

1. A Star Curiously Singing, The DarkTrench Saga, Book 1, by Kerry Nietz from Marcher Lord Press. An augmented human programmer is sent to space to solve the mystery of a bot’s destruction.

2. Double Take, by Jenness Walker from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. When a stalker becomes obsessed with a woman, the key to stopping him lies in a best-selling thriller…until he stops going by the book.

3. Dreaming of Home, by Glenna Kaye from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Two wounded hearts must learn to trust that God's dreams for them far exceed any they may have for themselves.

4. Eternity Falls - A Rick Macey Cyberthriller, Book 1 of the Rick Macey Cyberthriller series, by Kirk Outerbridge from Marcher Lord Press. A cyber-enhanced detective must stop a religious zealot from destroying a serum for eternal life.

5. Gripped By Fear, Chicago Warrior Thriller Series, 2nd book, by John M. Wills from Total Recall. Chgo Detectives hunt a serial rapist in the mean streets of Chicago in the midst of personal struggles.

6. Leaving Yesterday, by Kathryn Cushman from Bethany House. A mother rejoices at the return of her prodigal, but is faced with an impossible decision as evidence from his past refuses to stay buried.

7. Loves Finds You in Bethlehem, New Hampshire, by Lauralee Bliss from Summerside Press. Set in the Guilded Age within the beauty of New Hampshire's White Mountains, successful artist Tom Haskins and penniless Sara McGee discover through their circumstances that the most precious gifts of life and love don't always come as they're expected.

8. Love Finds You in North Pole, Alaska, by Loree Lough from Summerside Press. A story that's sure to warm your heart, despite the icy Alaskan setting!

9. Love is a Battlefield, Book One in the Walk in the Park series, by Annalisa Daughety from Barbour Publishing. War rages again at Shiloh, but this time it’s a battle of the heart.

10. Seaside Letters, by Denise Hunter from Thomas Nelson. Sabrina Kincaid didn't intend to fall for Nantucket native Tucker McCabe, the man she serves coffee to every morning-a man tied deeply to a past she deeply regrets. But she has. And she's fallen hard. But she's kept this a secret from her handsome customer. And now Tucker wants to hire Sabrina to help locate his friend "Sweetpea"-the mysterious woman he's falling in love with online. Sabrina is not inclined to help, but if Tucker hires someone else, it could spell disaster. Because if someone else sifts through the emails and figures out the truth-then Tucker will discover that the person he's trying to find is . . . her.

11. Soldier Daddy, Wings of Refuge Series-book 5-all standalones, by Cheryl Wyatt from Steeple Hill. A USAF Pararescue Jumper searches for a nanny for his twins and instead finds a future with a woman harboring a secret tied to his past.

12. The Case of the Mystified M.D., Book 2, Bouncing Grandma Mysteries, by A.K. Arenz from Sheaf House. First a foot, now a hand--what body part is next?

13. The Christmas Journey, by Winnie Griggs from Steeple Hill Love Inspired.

14. The Jewel of his Heart, Heart of the West Series, by Maggie Brendan from Revell. Discover the classic struggle between the world's wealth and the lure of eternal love in this Western story of elegance and survival.

15. The Matchmaking Pact, After the Storm #4 , by Carolyn Aarsen from Steeple Hill Love Inspired. A single father and a single mother have to deal with matchmaking children.

16. Thirsty, by Tracey Bateman from Waterbrook. “Deep, cutting, an intoxicating blend of human and supernatural, of characters scarred by the past, drained by life. This is the book I’ve waited for.”

17. Trial By Fire, by Cara Putman from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. When an arsonist targets her family, Tricia has to find him before harm is done without losing her heart to a fireman.