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Monday, November 29, 2010

Baby Stockton #2 Countdown - Week 21, 19 to Go!

Well, we've made it to the halfway point and beyond. Sorry I didn't post last week. Thanksgiving and traveling to see my family back East sort of took it all out of me. But now, we're at 4-3/4 months to go if this baby comes on time. It never ceases to amaze me I'll be holding my second little one and falling in love all over again in just a matter of months. :)

And as of week 21, here is the update:

Our first ultrasound is scheduled for this coming Thursday, December 2nd. My husband will be there with me. My mother-in-law is sick and doesn't want to risk bringing the sickness with her. She caught it from my niece and nephew over the holidays. Gee, what a great "gift." I'd love to take my daughter too, but it's right in the middle of her naptime. (sigh) She'll just have to be happy with feeling the baby kick and seeing Mommy's tummy get bigger and bigger.

I'm continually feeling movement and the kicks several times a day. Haven't seen any visible evidence yet, but I sure do feel it. I've noticed this one doesn't like it when I lean forward or when my daughter sits on my belly. Can't imagine why! :) Doc said I should definitely experience my first real kick about mid-December, which is coming up fast!

Belly hasn't gotten much larger, and I'm glad! I haven plenty of room in there. This tyke is swimming happy and probably doing the backstroke, reveling in all the freedom to move. Better enjoy it now, as it won't last long.

My beautiful little miracle-gro baby will be putting on a full ounce and a half this week (and weighing up to 16.5 ounces), but that’s just the beginning! Within the next five weeks, they’ll really be packin’ it on! For now, I'm pleased to report the addition of rapid eye movement (REM): a key component to any healthy baby’s sleep schedule.

While in the dermatology department: this little one's thin soft skin is very red, rather translucent, and a bit wrinkled. No worries, it’s not a premature aging disease. It's just his/her clever little body setting them up with extra space that will smooth out once this little one starts packing on the baby-fat. That won’t be for a few more weeks, though.

So for the time being, my munchkin is still a little lean mean growing machine! The beginnings of what is commonly called “brown fat” is just starting to fill in to help my baby retain some body heat, which is crucial as he/she's not yet capable of regulating their own body temperature. Sure is keeping me warm though! And winter's coming, so I don't mind a bit. :)

That's it for now. Next week, I'll be able to share pictures from our ultrasound and I hope I can also say whether we're having a boy or a girl. Tune in each week for the latest. And if you want to receive an email each time I post an update, subscribe using the form over there at the top right.

Thanks for coming along this journey with me...some of you for the second time.

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Spotlight on Susan Meissner and Lady in Waiting

Don't forget the rules of the spotlights here. Answer the random question associated with this spotlight in the comments in order to be entered in the drawing.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


SUSAN MEISSNER is the author of 12 novels, including The Shape of Mercy, named by Publishers Weekly as one of the Best Books of 2008. When she is not working on a new novel, she is directing the small groups ministries at The Church at Rancho Bernardo. She also enjoys teaching workshops on writing and dream-following, spending time with her family, music, reading great books, and traveling. She lives in southern California with her pastor husband and their four grown children.

LADY IN WAITING
by Susan Meissner
Published by Waterbrook Press

ABOUT THE BOOK

Manhattan antique shop owner, Jane Lindsay is jolted into a new reality when she suddenly has to face the fact that her marriage is crumbling. While she grapples with her husband’s abandonment, she comes across an ancient ring that may have belonged to Lady Jane Grey. As she traces the origins of the ring and Lady Grey’s story, Jane has to decide whether she will default to habits of powerlessness or whether she will take the first steps towards real truth and happiness.

Readers, buy your copy of Lady in Waiting today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

I have long been intrigued by the historical account of Lady Jane Grey and have mulled writing a novel that blended her story with contemporary tale for quite awhile. She lived during a time when women had few opportunities to make their own choices, especially women of noble birth. We live in a culture today, especially in the Western world, where women can and do make many choices but sometimes life deals us a hand that seems to leave us unable to choose what will happen next. That was the question I wanted to explore: are you ever truly without choice? I created a contemporary fictional character named Jane Lindsay to consider this question. She is an antique store manager in Manhattan and one day she finds a very old ring hidden inside the binding of an ancient prayer book. Her first name is engraved inside: Jane. But she doesn’t know whose it was or how it ended up hidden inside an old book. The ring then becomes our gateway to the past.

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

I can honestly say I am nowhere near as passive as my present day Jane Lindsay. She is someone who likes to defer and I am someone who doesn’t. She was a hard character to make likeable, at least for me, because of that. I had to find a way to forge out of her weakness a likeable strength. Passive people tend to be forgiving; that’s certainly a likeable trait! However I do love some of the things present-day Jane loves, like old books and train rides and French press coffee. I also loved the three years I lived in England when I first heard Lady Jane’s story. We were stationed there during the years my husband was active duty. I visited the castle that appears in the first section narrated by Lucy and absolutely fell in love with it, even though sad things happened there.

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

My present-day Jane would probably come across at first glance as vanilla but I hasten to add there’s a lot you can do with vanilla ice cream. Imagine pistachio or marble fudge on apple pie...Just not the same. Vanilla ice cream didn’t get to be so popular because no one likes it!

My 16th century Jane would be something European and expensive-tasting, like maybe a lemon sorbet with hints of mint.

4. Are there any themes in Lady in Waiting that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

This story is a blending the historical account of a 16-year-old queen pushed to marriage and the throne by power-mongers with a fictional contemporary woman - of the same name - whose husband becomes disillusioned with their marriage and walks out. Both women appear to be victims of other people’s decisions, but I hope readers will see that things aren’t always what they seem.

My modern-day Jane, who finds an ancient ring that she believes belonged to Lady Jane Grey, sees parallels in her life and Lady Jane’s, especially when it comes to finding the courage to make a tough decision rather than defer. Through contemporary Jane, who is the collective “us” in the story, I want to convey that we can’t always choose our circumstances but we can always choose how we will respond to them.

As for themes that developed, I found as I wrote that my modern day Jane was becomingly increasingly aware no one is responsible for someone else’s happiness. A person chooses to be happy. We can only attempt to love them as we love ourselves. But they are the ones who will choose – for themselves - happiness over discontentment.

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

As I mentioned earlier, uncovering modern-day Jane’s virtues tasked me. Her flaws – she’s passive, deferential, and supremely non-confrontational – were obvious but I had to work at exposing her virtues of compassion, forgiveness and loyalty. I loved writing about Lucy and Jane both falling love, even though I knew what would eventually happen.

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

My 2011 release is entitled A Sound Among the Trees. The story is set in Fredericksburg, Virginia, in a 160-year-old house that survived one of the more horrific battles of the Civil War. The family living in the house, called Holly Oak, includes a matriarch-type gal whose great-great grandmother was accused of being a spy and hiding Union soldiers. The current-day family also includes the matriarch’s grandson-in-law, who is a newly remarried widower who has just brought his second wife to live at Holly Oak, which is, of course, his deceased first wife’s home - an interesting little situation for this new bride. At the new wife’s wedding reception there is talk that there is a ghost at Holly Oak, which is quickly discounted. But still, the house seems to project an aura of regret, like it can’t forget what happened within its walls during the war. And here is this new bride, trying desperately to fit in...

* * * * *

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

ENTRY RULES Readers, answer the question associated with the spotlight in the comments, then leave your email address for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Lady in Waiting. If you do not answer the question, you will not be entered.

Question: Lady Jane Grey, who seemingly had no choices left to her, had one remarkable moment to make a definitive decision that was all on her own. I won’t spoil anything for anyone but she actually was not a helpless puppet the entire time. Not the entire time. I found that one moment quite remarkable. It’s in the book! ... Have you ever had a moment like that, where a decision you made could make or break a given situation? If so, what was it? Do you feel you made the right decision? Why or why not?

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.

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

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Spotlight on Kim Vogel Sawyer and Courting Miss Amsel

Don't forget the rules of the spotlights here. Answer the random question associated with this spotlight in the comments in order to be entered in the drawing.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


KIM VOGEL SAWYER is the author of seventeen novels, including several CBA and ECPA bestsellers. Her books have won the ACFW Carol Award, the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, and the Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Kim is active in her church, where she leads women's fellowship and participates in both voice and bell choirs. In her spare time, she enjoys drama, quilting, and calligraphy. Kim and her husband, Don, reside in central Kansas, and have three daughters and six grandchildren.

COURTING MISS AMSEL
by Kim Vogel Sawyer
Published by Bethany House

ABOUT THE BOOK

Edythe Amsel is delighted with her first teaching assignment: a one-room schoolhouse in Walnut Hill, Nebraska. Independent, headstrong, and a firm believer in a well-rounded education, Edythe is ready to open the world to the students in this tiny community. But is Walnut Hill ready for her?

Readers, buy your copy of Courting Miss Amsel today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

As a former school teacher, I've always thought it would be fun to feature a schoolmarm in one of my stories. A snippet from an article about women's suffrage--it mentioned that if Nebraska had approved the right-to-vote amendment, it would have been the first state in the U.S. to give voting rights to women--planted a seed, and Edythe Amsel was born. Edythe is a very progressive schoolmarm for 1882, and Walnut Hill, Nebraska, will never be the same once she sweeps through.

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

I had a lot of fun incorporating some of my own teaching methods (tweaked, of course, for a different century) into the story. Like Edythe, I wanted my students to expand their thinking--to grow personally as well as academically. I hate to confess, but I also share a tendency toward stubbornness with Miss Amsel. lol Of all the heroines I've written, I probably related most closely to Edythe because of the teaching aspect and some of her personal traits (stubborn, independent, wanting to make a difference...). But she's a lot spunkier than I ever thought about being! I'm not one to instigate or stand up very well against conflict.

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

Hm, Joel is such a steadfast, dependable fellow, he would probably be something that can stand alone and still blend well with others. So I'd say vanilla with real vanilla beans for an added burst of flavor. As for Edythe, since she has a penchant for "standing out," she'd be a much more exotic flavor...cinnamon with dark chocolate chips.

4. Are there any themes in Courting Miss Amsel that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

When the story originally formed in my mind, I expected a theme about being true to one's convictions to be the underlying take-away. But as I got to know Edythe better, I realized she had a real problem with letting go of control and leaning into someone else's strength. This impacted her earthly relationships, but also interfered with developing a trust in her heavenly Father. Edythe had as much growing to do as some of the children under her tutelage. Thankfully, God is a patient teacher. :)

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

The most difficult parts concerned the historical aspects--making sure the details were right for that part of the country in that time period. Farming methods have changed greatly in the last 100 years! I scoured every resource I could find, and an 1882 Farmers' Almanac proved the most helpful. As for my favorite parts...any of the classroom scenes. Writing about Edythe relating to her students brought back so many pleasant memories of my own teaching days.

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

The next release is titled A Whisper of Peace, set in Alaska (near Denali) at the turn of the century. I'm not sure of the release date (spring or fall?), but it will definitely be out in 2011. I'm very excited about this story--it features an Athabascan Indian heroine and a pair of missionaries, and was inspired by my visit to Alaska in 2008. It is different from my others historical stories (not a prairie in sight!), but I hope my readers will enjoy getting to know Lizzie, Vivian, and Clay.

* * * * *

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

ENTRY RULES Readers, answer the question associated with the spotlight in the comments, then leave your email address for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Courting Miss Amsel. If you do not answer the question, you will not be entered.

Question: Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school, and why?

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.

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

Monday, November 15, 2010

Baby Stockton #2 Countdown - Week 19, 21 to Go!

Only 1 more week to the halfway point. That's 4-1/2 months to go if this baby comes on time. It never ceases to amaze me I'll be holding my second little one and falling in love all over again in just a matter of months. :)

And as of week 19, here is the update:

Our first ultrasound is scheduled for December 2nd. My husband and mother-in-law will be there with me. I'd love to take my daughter too, but it's right in the middle of her naptime. (sigh) She'll just have to be happy with feeling the baby kick and seeing Mommy's tummy get bigger and bigger.

I started feeling movement about a month ago and have been feeling flutters or bubbles every day since. I've noticed this one doesn't like it when I lean forward or when my daughter sits on my belly. Can't imagine why! :) Doc said I should definitely experience my first real kick about mid-December.

Belly hasn't gotten much larger, and I'm glad! I haven plenty of room in there. This tyke is swimming happy and probably doing the backstroke, reveling in all the freedom to move. Better enjoy it now, as it won't last long.

My amazing little baby is now around 10 inches in length! If this seems a bit shocking, it's actually because his/her little legs are now straight enough to be measured. This is when doctors begin measuring fetal growth from head to toe, (no longer “crown to rump” or CR). Lanugo (little hairs) covers my little one's whole body now, trapping that charming cheese-like vernix caseosa (see week 18) to the surface to the skin.

This week my baby will start on an appetizing diet of amniotic fluid which he/she is now capable of swallowing, digesting, and passing the fluid as far as their tiny “large” intestines. Fortunately for me, this nice little lump of baby-poop won’t be coming out while the baby is still in my womb. Some time shortly after birth, though, this fun lump will become the first in a long line of baby poops. Oh yay, that black, sticky stuff again. *winks* At least we're given advance warning about what it will look like and how to get it off.

That's it for now. Next week, we'll be back East visiting family for Thanksgiving. So, the next 2 weeks will be "on location" out there. Tune in each week for the latest. And if you want to receive an email each time I post an update, subscribe using the form over there at the top right.

Thanks for coming along this journey with me...some of you for the second time.

Friday, November 12, 2010

Spotlight on Margaret Daley and A Daughter for Christmas

Don't forget the rules of the spotlights here. Answer the random question associated with this spotlight in the comments in order to be entered in the drawing.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


MARGARET DALEY is an award winning, multi-published author in the romance genre. One of her romantic suspense books, Hearts on the Line, won the American Christian Fiction Writers’ Book of the Year Contest. Recently she has won the Golden Quill Contest, FHL’s Inspirational Readers’ Choice Contest, Winter Rose Contest, Holt Medallion and the Barclay Gold Contest. She wrote for various secular publishers before the Lord led her to the Christian romance market. She currently writes inspirational romance and romantic suspense books for the Steeple Hill Love Inspired lines, romantic suspense for Abingdon Press and historical romance for Summerside Press. She has sold seventy-five books to date.

Margaret is currently the Volunteer Officer for ACFW. She was one of the founding members of the first ACFW local chapter, WIN in Oklahoma. She served as vice-president for two years in WIN-ACFW and is still on its board as an advisor. She has taught numerous classes for online groups, ACFW and RWA chapters. She enjoys mentoring other authors.

Until she retired a few years ago, she was a teacher of students with special needs for twenty-seven years and volunteered with Special Olympics as a coach. She currently is on the Outreach committee at her church, working on several projects in her community.

You can visit her web site at http://www.margaretdaley.com and read excerpts from her books and learn about the ones recently released and soon to be released.

A DAUGHTER FOR CHRISTMAS
by Margaret Daley
Published by Steeple Hill/Love Inspired

ABOUT THE BOOK

Dr. Max Connors had no idea he'd fathered a child thirteen years ago. Or that his baby girl had been given up for adoption. He locates his daughter in a small Oklahoma town and moves there, hoping to become a part of her life. But when he meets her widowed mother, Max is unsure how to reveal his identity. As he helps Rachel Howard with her plans to homeschool the girl, he's welcomed into the family. But with the holidays approaching, Max must tell Rachel who he really is. Can he make his dreams of family come true by Christmas?

Readers, buy your copy of A Daughter for Christmas today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

I have always liked books about secret babies. This is a secret baby with a twist.

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

In a lot of my characters I have bits and pieces of myself. In this book Rachel’s daughter, Taylor, is diagnosed with attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity. As a teacher I have dealt with many children with ADHD. Some of my experiences working with these children are illustrated in this story.

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

Rachel’s ice cream flavor would be cookie dough while Max’s ice cream flavor would be fudge chocolate. Max has a sweet tooth and loves ice cream. I see him combining his love of chocolate with ice cream. I gave Rachel my favorite ice cream, cookie dough.

4. Are there any themes in A Daughter for Christmas that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

The main theme is forgiveness. I use this theme in stories because I think it is so important in life.

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

The most difficult part to write was when Max had to tell Taylor he was her biological father. My favorite scene to write was when Max’s outdoor Christmas decorations ended up blowing down the street.

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

My next book after this one comes out in December 2010 called Christmas Bodyguard, a Love Inspired Suspense. This is the first in a series about female bodyguards.

* * * * *

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

ENTRY RULES Readers, answer the question associated with the spotlight in the comments, then leave your email address for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of A Daughter for Christmas. If you do not answer the question, you will not be entered.

Question: Max couldn’t forgive Alicia for what she had done to him. Have to you ever been unable to forgive someone? Why?

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.

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

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Spotlight on Sarah Sundin and A Memory Between Us

Don't forget the rules of the spotlights here. Answer the random question associated with this spotlight in the comments in order to be entered in the drawing.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


SARAH SUNDIN lives in northern California with her husband and three children. When she isn’t ferrying kids to soccer and tennis, she works on-call as a hospital pharmacist and teaches Sunday school. She belongs to American Christian Fiction Writers and Christian Authors Network. She is the author of the Wings of Glory series—A Distant Melody (Revell, March 2010), A Memory Between Us (September 2010), and Blue Skies Tomorrow (August 2011).

A MEMORY BETWEEN US
by Sarah Sundin
Published by Baker/Revell

ABOUT THE BOOK

Major Jack Novak has never failed to meet a challenge—until he meets army nurse Lieutenant Ruth Doherty. When Jack lands in the army hospital after a plane crash, he makes winning Ruth's heart a top-priority mission. But he has his work cut out for him. Not only is Ruth focused on her work in order to support her orphaned siblings back home, she also is determined not to give her heart to any man. As the danger and tension of World War II rise to a fever pitch, Jack and Ruth will need each other more than ever. Can Jack break down her defenses? Or are they destined to go their separate ways? From the English countryside to the perilous skies over France, A Memory Between Us takes you on a journey through love, forgiveness, and sacrifice.

A Memory Between Us is the second book in the Wings of Glory series, which follows the three Novak brothers, B-17 bomber pilots with the US Eighth Air Force stationed in England during World War II. Each book stands alone.

Readers, buy your copy of A MEMORY BETWEEN US today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

My first novel, A Distant Melody, was originally meant to be a standalone, but while doing research, I became enamored with the Eighth Air Force during World War II and wanted to tell the full story to V-E Day. Since my hero had two pilot brothers, I decided to write a trilogy, with each book focusing on one brother. About this time, the character of Lt. Ruth Doherty came to me—what if a poor girl made a bad decision in order to feed her family? What kind of girl would make such a decision? What would she be like when she grew up? I mentally put Ruth in the same room with Jack—and sparks flew!

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

That’s hard to tease out. Like my heroine, Ruth, I’ve also dealt with shame (although for different reasons), so I was able to follow her on that journey. In general, I try to think like my characters do, so a bit of me goes into each one. I may never have experienced what my characters go through, but I know what it’s like to feel rejected, joyful, angry, terrified, ashamed, or content. However, I’m careful not to make my characters just like me. How boring would that be?

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

Maj. Jack Novak would be coffee ice cream—he’s energizing and dynamic. Lt Ruth Doherty would be deep-fried ice cream—a hard shell on the outside, soft and melty on the inside.

4. Are there any themes in A Memory Between Us that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

I didn’t write with a theme in mind, but the themes developed from the characters and story. I had named my heroine Ruth because it’s a great period name and one I’ve always loved. Then I re-read the book of Ruth in the Bible and was struck by some inadvertent parallels between the women—which I then chose to develop (isn’t God fun?). I also discovered my theme verse when Boaz praises Ruth for coming to trust under the Lord’s wings. I think I jumped up and down and screeched. I realized both Jack and Ruth needed to learn to trust—and the “wings” reference was perfect for a book about a pilot.

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

The most difficult scene to write was near the end when Ruth had to face her great ordeal. The poor thing had been through so much in the story, and I found myself wanting to back off and resolve the scene early. But I couldn’t. I had to keep pushing the scene and pushing Ruth to the brink, because I knew only when she faced her darkest moment would she see the truth she needed. Argh. I think the Lord must have similar feelings when we go through trials. He knows the lessons we’ll learn, which is why He lets us stay there, but it must grieve Him.

I had many favorite parts. So much of this story wrote itself. Any time I put Jack and Ruth in the same room, the banter flew. I just transcribed their dialogue. It was a lot fun.

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

The third book in the Wings of Glory series, Blue Skies Tomorrow, comes out August 2011.

Lt. Raymond Novak prefers the pulpit to the cockpit, but at least his stateside job training B-17 pilots allows him the luxury of a personal life. As he courts Helen Carlisle, a young war widow and mother who conceals her pain under a frenzy of volunteer work, the sparks of their romance set a fire that flings them both into peril. After Ray leaves to fly a combat mission at the peak of the air war over Europe, Helen takes a job in a dangerous munitions yard and confronts an even graver menace in her own home. Will they find the courage to face their challenges? And can their young love survive until blue skies return?

* * * * *

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

ENTRY RULES Readers, answer the question associated with the spotlight in the comments, then leave your email address for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of A Memory Between Us. If you do not answer the question, you will not be entered.

Question: Your turn—what flavor ice cream would you be? Or a chicken-out question—what’s your favorite flavor?

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.

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

Monday, November 08, 2010

Christmas Giveway Contest!

I originally put this in my email newsletter over the summer, but I only had a 2-3 participants. So, now, I’m opening up the contest to anyone and everyone. This will also be posted on my Facebook Readers page. And you can forward this blog post to anyone you think might be interested. I’m looking to hit all available markets and avenues from teens up to our beloved grandparents or great-grandparents. :)

All right. Now for the contest. It's two-fold.

LEVEL ONE

1. Write a Review

Review any or all of my books. I've received dozens of reviews from readers, but they've all been sent privately to me. Some I’ve featured on my web site, and others I’ve shared on my blog. Now, I'd love to see some of these great words appear online for everyone else to read too!

2. Post Your Review Online at any review site such as Amazon.com, Christianbook.com, Barnes&Noble.com, etc.

3. Email Me the Link (or tell me the web site where you posted it and the book you reviewed. Any site that features book reviews will count, not just the ones I’ve listed above.

4. You will receive one entry in the giveaway contest for each book you review and post (but posting the same review to multiple sites only counts once).

Reviews count toward my overall marketing summary for my career. It's great when I can provide reviews to those who ask for them, but it's better when others can find them without asking.

LEVEL TWO

1. Forward this email to other reviewers.

Do you know someone who loves to write reviews, or someone who has read one of my books and might be willing to review it? If so, forward this email and ask them to follow the rules in Level One.

2. Have your friends say you referred them by providing your name and email address.

3. You will receive one entry for each friend who posts a review and gives your name as referrer.

BONUS LEVEL

1. Buy one of my books between August 1st and December 15th, 2010.

My books make fun gifts for the book lover in your circle of friends or family. If they love history and romance, they'll love my books. Buy one for yourself, a friend, a family member, or any other occasion.

2. Email me with the order confirmation # and web site where you purchased the book. No personal information, please. Protect your privacy.

3. You will receive two bonus entries for each book you buy.

EXTRA CREDIT

I didn't want to leave out anyone who might not write reviews, or anyone who hasn't yet read one of my books. So, this section is for you.

1. Refer subscribers to my quarterly newsletter.

2. Forward this email to your friends.

3. Ask your friends to put your name and email address as referrer when they subscribe.

4. You will receive one entry for every 2 people who subscribe.

PRIZE TIME!

And now it's time to tell you what you have a chance of winning. Winners will be drawn and announced on December 15th, 2010 via my newsletter, my web site, my blog, and Facebook, as well as Twitter.

GRAND PRIZE
  • Complete autographed set of all 8 of my currently available books.
  • Advance copies (autographed) of each future book through the end of 2012 (6-8 books currently expected).
  • Your review(s) featured for one year on my web site.
  • Autographed copy of your choice of either a Tracie Peterson novel or a Tamera Alexander novel.
SECOND PLACE
  • Complete autographed set of all 8 of my currently available books.
  • Your review(s) featured for 1 year on my web site.
THIRD PLACE
  • Autographed set of one series plus the repack. Your choice. Liberty's Promise (Delaware Brides) set, Michigan Brides set, or the brand new Delaware series releasing in 2011. (4 books each)
And that's all there is to it. The more you do, the more chances you have to win. Leave a comment with any questions you might have.

Baby Stockton #2 Countdown - Week 18, 22 to Go!

Wow! When I type out that post title, it makes everything hit home real hard! I can't believe I'm already nearing the halfway point and only have about 5 months left. It's amazing to even think that in just 5 short months, I'll be holding my second little one and falling in love all over again. :)

Oh, and for those who hadn't heard or read it yet....SURPRISE! I'm pregnant again and expecting another wee one on April 8th, 2011. It's posted in several places on this blog, my web site, and Facebook, but easy to miss if you're not looking for it.

Anyway, if you were around in 2008-2009, you know on Mondays I posted weekly updates toward the countdown of my first baby's arrival. Well, I heard so many great comments and received so much feedback, I figured it'd be a great idea to do that again. I began in week 22 then, so I'm getting a few weeks' early start this time around.

And as of week 18, here is the update:

We have had 4 appointments so far, and our first ultrasound is scheduled for December 2nd. This time, we're going to find out if we're having a boy or a girl. No surprises. And this is it for us too. Only two children. I'm getting too old and too close to 40 to have anymore. :)

I started feeling movement about 3 weeks ago and have been feeling flutters or bubbles every day since. Doc said I should definitely experience my first real kick about mid-December.

Other than that, we're doing great. I had a belly at about 6 weeks, believe it or not. I'd heard with a second baby, your body remembers, but I didn't believe it until it happened. With my daughter, I didn't need maternity clothes until nearly 6 months. This time, I was scrounging for my maternity clothes, worried I'd packed them somewhere I'd never find, or worse, that I'd put them in a large garbage bag that got thrown away. We've been preparing to move from our condo to a house this year, so there are a lot of boxes. Thank God, I looked in a tub in my daughter's closet and TADA! I found them. Phew! :)

Anyway, this is the week when my baby's inner ear and the nerve endings from the brain have developed enough so that he/she can probably detect sounds clearly. One of the most comforting sounds is probably my heartbeat. My baby may also hear my voice, my stomach rumbling, and the sound of blood moving through the umbilical cord to and from the placenta, which is now almost as big as my baby.

So, I guess it's good to start singing and talking to the wee one I'm carrying. :)

And....we have two more ounces! My litte "getting bigger-n-better by the minute baby" is already up to 7 ounces and 6 inches! This is also a big week for their baby skin. There are now two distinct layers—the epidermis (or the surface skin) and dermis. Currently, his/her skin is covered with a greasy, waxy, cheese-like substance, known as vernix caseosa. Sure, it sounds pretty nasty, but this mixture of fatty secretions covering my little swimmer from head to toe is the best way to protect their oh-so-thin skin from bruising and abrasions as well as chapping caused by amniotic fluid exposure (and my little one is swimming in that stuff!).

My baby is also starting to swallow and may even feel thirsty sometimes. Some experts think thirst may trigger a baby to swallow, and since amniotic fluid is constantly being produced, my baby’s swallowing of excess fluid helps keeps the fluid at a constant level. This little one can also mimic breathing. The little chest will continue to move up and down to mimic breathing, but my baby isn't breathing air—just swallowing and inhaling amniotic fluid.

That's about it for now.

Tune in next week for the latest. And if you want to receive an email each time I post an update, subscribe using the form over there at the top right.

Thanks for coming along this journey with me...some of you for the second time.

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Wednesday, November 03, 2010

Spotlight on Vannetta Chapman and A Simple Amish Christmas

Don't forget the rules of the spotlights here. Answer the random question associated with this spotlight in the comments in order to be entered in the drawing.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR


VANNETTA CHAPMAN has published more than 100 articles in Christian family magazines. She discovered her love for the Amish while researching her grandfather’s birthplace in Albion, Pennsylvania. Vannetta is a multi-award-winning member of Romance Writers of America. She currently teaches in the Texas hill country. A Simple Amish Christmas, her debut novel, released on October 1st. It is now in its 3rd printing and is a CBD bestseller. Chapman is hard at work on a three book Amish murder mystery series set in Shipshewana, Indiana. Written for Zondervan (a division of Harper Collins), these cozy mysteries will begin releasing in 2011.

A SIMPLE AMISH CHRISTMAS
by Vannetta Chapman
Published by Abingdon Press

ABOUT THE BOOK

Annie Weaver always planned to return home, but the 20-year-old RN has lived in Philadelphia for three years now. Her time of rumschpringa is about to come to an abrupt end, bringing for Annie an overwhelming sense of loneliness as the Christmas season is in full swing. She returns home and finds herself face-to-face with a budding romance with an Amish farmer. Her passion for healing has caught widower Samuel Yoder's attention. Will she also capture his heart? Annie has several important choices to make, all on the morning of A Simple Amish Christmas.

Readers, buy your copy of A Simple Amish Christmas today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

My agent specifically asked me to write an Amish story, which I hadn't done before A SIMPLE AMISH CHRISTMAS. But the inspiration for this particular story came from two places--my grandparents, who I've discovered lived in Pennsylvania during the early 1900s and then the conviction that many Amish women must struggle with the same problems that you and I do.

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

I always bring something of myself to a story, at least in its inception. Although Annie loves her community as well as her Amish faith, she has an insatiable desire to learn. This becomes a bit of a problem when her schooling ends after the 8th grade. She's a bit adrift and dissatisfied with her employment prospects. I didn't attend college full time after high school, and I definitely was not satisfied with the secretarial work I was doing. Like Annie I've always had a desire to learn more that is never quite satisfied.

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

I think Annie would be Neapolitan--homemade vanilla because she has that basic goodness about her, rich chocolate to represent the more daring side of her personality that is willing to take risks, and then of course strawberry to represent the fun teasing side of her that does tend to land her in trouble occasionally.

4. Are there any themes in A Simple Amish Christmas that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

I suppose every book has multiple themes, but the one theme that I consciously tried to develop was a focus on God's grace. Annie is young and hasn't learned to fully accept that yet. Samuel, on the other hand, knows God's grace intellectually - but part of his heart has suffered so that he no longer can embrace it. Which is why God has brought them together.

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

The most difficult part for me was probably the home birthing scene, since that's something I've never seen personally. However, I was present for the birth of my dear friend's daughter in a hospital room, and that was one of the most precious, blessed events I've ever witnessed. So maybe this was my most difficult and most favorite scene rolled into one.

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

I have a 3 book series from Zondervan which will begin releasing next year. Shipshewana Amish Mystery Series is set in Indiana and involves two women (one Amish, one English), a quilt and a dead body. I'm currently working on book two and love, love, love these ladies. Watch for the cover on my webpage and blog.

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

ENTRY RULES Readers, answer the question associated with the spotlight in the comments, then leave your email address for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of A Simple Amish Christmas. If you do not answer the question, you will not be entered.

Question: I was surprised to learn my grandparents were born and raised in Albion, Pennsylvania. Where were your grandparents raised?

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.

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

Monday, November 01, 2010

November New Releases in Christian Fiction

If you're looking for some new fiction to read, or perhaps shopping for some new books for Christmas for friends or family, take a look at these for November.

1. A Daughter for Christmas; Helping Hands Homeschooling Series by Margaret Daley -- A Romance from Steeple Hill. Can Dr. Max Connors make his dream of a family come true when he must tell the widowed mother of the daughter he never knew he had who he really is?

2. A Suitor for Jenny; Rocky Creek #2 by Margaret Brownley -- A Historical from Thomas Nelson. Jenny Higgins is determined to find husband for her two younger sisters and nothing, not even a handsome marshal, will stand in her way.

3. Behind the Scenes; Tabor Heights, Ohio Series by Michelle Levigne -- A Romance from Desert Breeze. Surrounded by crises, best friends transition to life partners, to their own surprise and the amusement of those who love them most.

4. Betrayal in the Badlands by Dana Mentink -- A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Steeple Hill. Isabel Ling and Logan Price must battle an enemy more deadly than the mighty Badlands.

5. In All Things, Sequel to “No Other” by Shawna K. Williams -- A Historical from Desert Breeze. Jakob and Meri never imagined that the tragedies of their past would one day be transformed into something wondrous and beautiful.

6. Lassoed in Texas by Mary Connealy -- A Romance from Barbour. A three-in-one of romantic comedy with cowboys.

7. Long Time Coming by Vanessa Miller -- Women's Fiction from Abingdon. Two women from different worlds find hope together in this heart gripping story of faith, forgiveness and reconciliation.

8. Mail Order Cowboy; Simpson Creek Brides by Laurie Kingery -- A Historical from Steeple Hill. A small-town Texas spinster finds love with an unlikely mail order groom.

9. Masquerade Marriage by Anne Greene -- A Historical from White Rose. When Lady Megan MacMurry chooses a husband from a secret list, she opens her broken heart to a Highland warrior's fight for life.

10. Soaring Home by Christine Johnson -- A Romance from Steeple Hill. A small-town girl plans to be the first woman to fly across the Atlantic.

11. Tales of the Dim Knight by Adam Graham and Andrea Graham -- A Sci-fi/Fantasy/Futuristic from Splashdown Books. Mild-mannered janitor and superhero fanboy Dave Johnson gets all his wishes at once when an alien symbiot gives him supernatural powers.

12. The Blacksmith's Bravery; #3, Ladies' Shooting Clubby Susan Page Davis -- A Historical from Barbour. A former saloon girl proves she can drive a six-horse hitch--and drive her boss crazy.

13. The Silent Order by Melanie Dobson -- A Historical from Summerside Press. A Cleveland detective pursues the Mafia family responsible for murdering the woman he loved until he meets an Amish woman with a secret that changes his life.