Butterfly Journey

Five Book Giveaway!!

2012-02-29T15:59:00.007-08:00

I love to do these giveaways. I remember when I first discovered blogs and giveaway books. I couldn't get enough of them. As much as I love to read and to be able to learn about the author and then have a chance to win one of their books was a little bit of heaven on earth.

Then I discovered the other side of blogging. That is having the books for giveaways. It is so much fun having books that someone might win and if so discover a new author. So it is with this in mind that I'm now having a five book giveaway with five different winners.

TO SEE THE SUN by Peggy Blann Phifer

Erin Macintyre never expected to be a widow and a new mother in the same year, any more than she expected mysterious notes, threatening phone calls, and a strange homeless man who seemed to know all about her. The thought of raising a child without a father is daunting enough - - worse when you have no idea who might want to harm you. Put an old flame into the mix, and her life began as a tailspin into a world she never knew existed. When P. I. Clay Buchanan stumbles upon Erin at her husband's grave site, he is totally unprepared for her advanced pregnancy. Her venomous reaction at seeing him, however, is predictable. But Clay can't let her distrust, or his guilt, get in the way --not when he has evidence that proves Erin's life is in danger. With a few options left, air and begrudingly accepts Clay's help... And it just might be her undoing.

About: Peggy Blann Phifer is a retired executive assistant after working 21 years in corporate America. She resides with her husband of almost 25 years in Clark County, Nevada. Peg is also an avid reader who has been known to panic if she doesn't have a book to read. She enjoys hand crafts of all kinds and her home shows off some of her work. To See the Sun is Peg's debut to the world of fiction writing.

Deeply Devoted by Maggie Brendan

When Catharine Olsen leaves Holland for Wyoming as a mail order bride, she brings some extra baggage with her: Two sisters, her mother's set of Blue Willow china, and a tragic past. As she steps off the train, Peter Anderson is glad to see that she is everything her letters showed her to be. But he has a bit perturbed by her unexpected companions. How will he support them all? And what other secrets might Catharine be keeping from him?

Filled with sweet romance and vivid characters, Deeply Devoted, highlights a clash of cultures as a highborn European and a simple wheat farmer learn to love one another and trust God with the past - -and the future.

About: Maggie Brendan is the author of No Place for a Lady,The Jewel of His Heart, and A Love of Her Own. A member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, Romance Writer's of America, and Georgia Romance Writers, Maggie lives in Georgia.

Rest In Peace by Frances Devine

In Cedar Chapel, where Victoria Storm runs a Senior boarding house, things are quiet. That is, until she enters the local pet store and finds the owner dead and his parrot, Whatzit, frantically schreeching. What clues will this bird reveal regarding a murder most foul? Unable to resist a mystery, Victoria, her fiance, Benjamin, and her senior coherts begin their own investigation, landing them headfirst in a dangerous adventure. When their friend Miss Aggie disappears, leaving a blood-stained trail, no one seems safe. Will Victoria live long enough to unravel the clues and tie the knot?

About: Frances Devine the mother of seven children and fourteen grandchildren lives in southwest Missouri wrote her first novel at nine.

Sarah's Graden by Kelly Long

Tucked into the majesty of Pennsylvania's Allegheny Mountains is a garden Sarah King has been nurturing for years. She never feels more alive than when she is along with her thoughts and her Creator among the delicate rows of plants. But then duty calls her away from her beloved garden and into a world she knows little about.

Grant Williams, a handsome young veterinarian, has left the city to open a rural practice among the Amish. Within minutes of meeting shy but fiesty Sarah King, he is captivated by her.

As their feelings grow for one another, Sarah insist they can never be together. Marrying Grant would mean being uprooted from her home, her family, and her community. Throughout the cold Pennsylvania winter, with her garden tucked away until spring, Sarah begins crafting a quilt that illustrates her pain. Can anything lasting blossom from a love that's forbidden?

About: Kelly long is the author of Sarah's Garden, the first novel and a Patch of Heaven series. She was born and raised in the mountains of Northern Pennsylvania. She's been married for nearly 25 years and has five children.

Maple Notch Brides by Darlene Franklin

Sally Reid and her family of Patriots are in a dangerous spot after the Tories of Maple Notch Vermont, force them off their land in into hiding. Joshua Tuttle discovers their secret, but can Sally trust this Tory's son when he offers to help?

Beatrice Baily's father is not about to let his only daughter marry a farmer. But Beatrice only has eyes for Calvin Tuttle, a young farmer full of innovative ideas. But Calvin and Beatrice trust that God will have his way in their lives -but how will they ever build a bridge to love?

While other women in Maple Notch are focused on marriage and raising children, Clara Farley is resigned to be a spinster and devoted to opening an academy for girls. But when Clara attracts the attention of a wounded soldier, will the two keep love at arm's length or fall to love's raid?

How will God work to His glory in the lives of these Vermonters?

HERES HOW TO ENTER:

1) BE A FOLLOWER OR SIGN UP AS A NEW FOLLOWER

2) SIGN UP TO FOLLOW MY BLOG (ON THE TOP OF MY BLOG ON THE RIGHT)

3) LEAVE AN EMAIL ADDRESS SO I CAN CONTACT YOU

4) ENTER TO WIN ONE OF MY BOOKS ON GOODREADS (AT THE TOP OF MY BLOG ON THE RIGHT)

5) LEAVE A COMMENT AND LET ME KNOW IF YOU'VE ARE FAMILIAR WITH ANY OF THESE AUTHORS AND IF YOU'VE READ ANY OF THIER BOOKS.

HAPPY READING

Meet Tracy Krauss author of "Play it Again"

2012-02-19T17:07:00.003-08:00

Tracy Krauss, author of ‘edgy
inspirational fiction’, is launching her book PLAY IT AGAIN on Feb. 21. You
can help her achieve ‘best seller’ status by purchasing the book at amazon.com
TODAY – and receive all kinds of cool free gifts while you’re at it!

Here’s how:
1. Go to the Landing
Page on Tracy’s Website
2. Buy the book at amazon.
3. Go back to the Landing Page
and fill in the form with your name, email and purchase number
It’s that easy! You’ll be directed to your free gifts and all you have to do
is choose which ones you want.

About the book:
An unlikely duo meet in
Play It Again, a story of love, life and faith. Sparks fly when an
ex-rock and roll junkie and a stuffy accountant rendezvous at a local resort,
but neither are prepared for the emotional entanglements, family complications,
and threat from the past that unexpectedly resurfaces. Set in the 1980s, this
story brings two opposing forces together in a clash of romance and danger,
while its musical undertones highlight the theme that God can turn anything
into beautiful music. Play It Again is the much anticipated prequel to
Tracy’s debut novel And the Beat Goes On. Find out where Mark Graham’s
journey began in this, the story of his parents.

What others are saying about PLAY IT AGAIN:
“This is one of the best contemporary novels I've read all year. . . Not
only was it well-written, but it was edgy in that the story dared to be honest.
. . I can see this touching a lot of people who have thought about God but have
been afraid to move forward.”
- Michelle
Sutton, author of more than a dozen inspirational novels
“This book is hot property, and grabs your interest from page one.”
- Yvonne
Pat Wright, author of From Spice to Eternity

Author bio:
Tracy Krauss is a high school teacher by profession, and a
prolific author, artist, playwright and director by choice. She received her
Bachelor’s degree from the University of Saskatchewan and has gone on to teach
Art, Drama and English – all the things she is passionate about. After raising
four children, she and her husband now reside in beautiful Tumbler Ridge, BC
where she continues to pursue all of her creative interests. Her first two
books were both nominated for the ‘Indie Excellence Book Awards’ for religious
fiction in 2011.

FREE STUFF:
Here’s just a sampling of the FREE e-gifts from generous supporters:
-
An e-copy of Lisa Lickel’s award winning novel Meander Scar
-
Sample chapters from The Promise of Deer Run by Elaine
Cooper, Warring Spirits by April Gardner, and The Right
Person by Stacy Padula
-
Beautiful downloadable art cards by author and artist Brenda Hendricks
-
A free subscription to ‘PixApple’
-
You copy of Frazzled No More by Shelley Hitz
-
A cool ‘Daily Scheduler’ developed by author Janalyn Voigt
-
And much more!
All if you buy your copy of PLAY IT AGAIN at amazon.com on Feb.
21! All links will be operational on the ‘Landing Page’ at www.tracykrauss.com/

DISCLAIMER: This ‘Best Seller book launch’ has been
coordinated with the help of the ‘John 3:16 Marketing Network’ and many other
generous supporters. The free gifts are deliverable electronically over the
internet or by email by individual authors and supporters. They are not in any
way associated with, nor deliverable by, amazon.com

Death in Dahlonega Giveaways

2012-02-08T15:29:00.000-08:00

BLOGS WHERE "DEATH IN DAHLONEGA" IS BEING HOSTED COME ON OVER AND CHECK IT OUT. THERE WILL BE GIVEAWAYS WITH SOME OF THE POSTS.

http://lorilynroberts.blogspot.com/

http://www.tracyruckman.com/

www.ramblingsofacrowdedmind.wordpress.com

pentalkcommunity.blogspot.com

Review and Giveaway of "Blue Moon Bay" by Lisa Wingate

2012-01-23T16:42:00.000-08:00

SUE HARRISON IS THE WINNER OF LISA'S "BLUE MOON BAY"

CONGRATULATIONS SUE!!!!!!

EVERY ONCE IN A BLUE MOON YOUR HEART WAITS AT A CROSSROADS

For Seattle architect Heather Hampton, a trip back to tiny Moses Lake, Texas, is hardly in the plan. Yet because a promotion hinges on the sale of the family farmland, Heather heads to the last place she wanted to go. She's determined to return home, signed contract in hand, the next day.

But the currents of Moses Lake take visitors on unexpected journeys. As Heather's stay lengthens, she discovers a family steeped in secrets and an unexpected connection to local banker, Blaine Underhill, despite his opposition to Heather's project. With each new revelation and question, Heather can't help but wonder if the handsome banker - and the family she has come to know again - are crooks or crusaders. Somehow she must find out the truth before she looses everything she has worked for and everything she's found on the shores of Moses Lake.

LISA WINGATE is a popular inspirational speaker and national bestselling author of several books, including Dandelion Summer, Larkspur Cove, and Never Say Never, which won ACFW's 2011 Carol Award for Contemporary Fiction. She lives in Central Texas with her family.

MY TAKE: I've read several of Lisa's books before and have always liked them. This one was no different. I was surprised to receive a copy of "Blue Moon Bay" in the mail from the publisher to review. When this happens and I don't like a book then I just don't review it. I didn't have to worry about that with "Blue Moon Bay." Heather, the main character, is working in a high stress job with a large architectural firm. She is desperate for her family to sell the old farmplace so she can land a big job.

When she gets home she finds they don't want to sell the land anymore. Heather sees this as a disaster to her future. She doesn't understand why everyone is so secretive about what is going on and why they suddenly don't want to sell. Not only does she have to deal with secrets her family are keeping from her now there are old family secrets lurking on the family farm that Heather is afraid to face - but face them she must. In the end she finds out that work and a high stress job is not all there is in life.

I really enjoyed this story and I couldn't wait to get back to the book when I had to lay it down to do other things. The only thing I would say is that there are times when the book moves kind of slow and I wanted to get to other scenes a little faster. But this is a book well worth reading - you won't be sorry.

TO BE ENTERED TO WIN A COPY OF "BLUE MOON BAY" PLEASE:

1) Must be a follower and subscriber of Butterfly Journey.

2) Leave an email address so I can contact you if you win.

3) Tell me if you've read any of Lisa's books and if so which one?

4)Contest will run through Feb. 12th.

HAPPY READING!

Giveaway and Interview for "Death in Dahlonega"

2012-01-19T14:57:00.000-08:00

Please stop by Trish Perry's blog at trishperry.blogspot.com. She has an interview with yours truly - me. Follow her instructions to leave a comment for a chance to win an autographed copy of "Death in Dahlonega." I'm happy to say that I'm also on Casey Herringshaw's blog and she is offering a free copy of "Death in Dahlonega", too. Hope to see you there!

Giveaway for "Death in Dahlonega"

2012-01-08T12:03:00.000-08:00

Please take a few minutes to visit Tom Blubaugh's blog and leave a comment to be entered for a chance to win a copy of my debut novel "Death in Dahlonega." There is also an interview with yours truly - me! Here is the link: http://www.tnblu.com/TheWriteTrailBlog/2012/01/03/deborah-malone/#more-109

2011-12-19T23:43:00.000-08:00

CONGRATULATIONS!

TO THE WINNERS OF THE FIVE BOOK GIVEAWAY!

DEBBIE - "BEGUILED"

JAMIE - "THE LAND OF DARKNESS"

WFNREN - "THE MERCHANT'S DAUGHTER"

JACKIE S. - "DRY AS RAIN"

MARISSA - "THE BLACKBERRY BUSH"

THIS WINNERS WILL HAVE ONE WEEK TO RESPOND!

Five Book Giveaway!

2011-11-30T19:19:00.000-08:00

It's December and Christmas is around the corner. I'm in the giving mood. I'm going to give away five - yes that is five books. Here is what you need to do:

1) Let me know if you are a new or old follower. Leave an email address.

2)Leave a comment and let me know if you are familiar with any of these authors.

3)What is your favorite Christmas movie?

Here we go. Let me introduce you to the books and remember you have a good chance of winning one of the five books!

"The Merchant's Daughter" by Melanie Dickerson.

"Beguiled" by Deeanne Gist and Mark Bertrand

"Dry as Rain" by Gina Holmes

"The Blackberry Bush" by David Housholder

"The Land of Darkness" by C.S. Lakin

2011-11-19T21:22:00.000-08:00

Please take a few minutes to stop by the F.A.I.T.H. Girls blog at www.thefaithgirls.com and leave a comment to win a copy of my debut cozy mystery "Death in Dahlonega." The giveaway ends Sunday the 21st, so hurry on over. I'll keep you posted when I have an interview on someone's blog.

Double Giveaway/Another Hour to Kill and Another Stab at Life by Anita Higman

2011-11-09T19:38:00.000-08:00

AND THE WINNERS ARE:

"ANOTHER STAB AT LIFE" IS JO

"ANOTHER HOUR TO KILL" IS KAREN K

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO TOOK THE TIME TO STOP BY AND LEAVE A COMMENT!

It has been a busy time for me with the birth of my debut novel "Death in Dahlonega." I'm proud to say it made the top 10 best seller list for women sleuths category on Amazon.com. I hope my followers will read it at some time. Now for our double giveaway. Anita Higman, another cozy writer, has brought back two of her books in ebook form and she is trying to get the word out. We are lucky to have two signed copies of her paperback books, they are "Another Stab at Life" and Another Hour to Kill." I read both of these and thoroughly enjoyed them.

Baily has survived the mysteries of Volstead Manor, but her latest threats are more ominous than ever. Did her neighbor B.J. die of natural causes? Or was he murdered? And why does the new neighbor, Vlad Tepes, seem to always be watching her?

While searching for a lost treasure and planning a wedding the size of an amusement park, Bailey must discover what monster is still lurking in the neighborhood. Will she unravel the puzzle in time, or will Bailey merely provide the villain with "Another Hour to Kill?"

She has nowhere to go except the dilapidated mansion she's just inherited from her granny Minna. Unfortunately, Bailey discovers that the house has a history as shadowy as its hidden passages and finds the neighborhood overflowing with some rather quirky folks - as well as one particularly appealing bachelor. Bailey feels like she's trapped inside the pages of a gothic novel but with a comedic twist. In order to honor her grandmother's wishes and stay at Volstead Manor. Bailey must unravel a string of mysteries and secrets, which all seem determined to stay happily ever buried.

About Anita: Anita Higman is an award-winning author of nineteen books. She enjoys hiking with her family, visiting show caves, and cooking brunch for her friends. Please drop by her book cafe for a cyber visit at www.anitahigman.com

To Enter The Giveaway:

1) Be a follower or become a follower

2)Leave a comment. Do you know what a cozy mystery is? Have you ever read one?

3)Leave your email so I can contact the winner.

4)Visit Anita's website.

5) The contest ends on November 20th, 2011.

HAPPY READING!!

My debut novel "Death in Dahlonega"/Please celebrate with me

2011-11-01T17:26:00.000-07:00

Please celebrate with me. My debut cozy mystery "Death in Dahlonega" is now available for purchase. I would like to ask all of my friends and followers who are interested in buying a copy to please wait until November 8, to purchase a copy from Amazon.com. This will help increase my rating at Amazon.com. If you do, and when you finish reading it if you would please post a review on Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.

I will be hosting a launch party on November 19th in my home town. I wish all the out-of-towners would be able to come and celebrate with me. I want to thank each and every one of my followers for your support over the years.

Historical writer Trixie Montgomery is asked to cover Gold Rush Days in the picturesque Georgia mountain town, Dahlonega. Trixie seizes the chance to mix business with pleasure and asks her best friend, Dee Dee to tag along.

Their well laid plans go awry when Dee Dee is discovered standing over the lifeless body of prominent citizen, John Tatum – the very man she’d had a run in with earlier that day – holding a bloody pickax in her hands.

Can Trixie find a way to finish her assignment and keep Dee Dee out of the slammer? Winner in American Christian Fiction Writers’ Category Five writing contest!

REVIEW AND GIVEAWAY FOR "OAK LEAVES" BY MAUREEN LANG

2011-09-26T15:11:00.001-07:00

THE WINNER OF "THE OAK LEAVES"

IS LINDA

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO LEFT A COMMENT!

I have a treat for my followers. I've mentioned before that I don't review books that I can't get through or just don't like, so if you see a book on my blog you know I liked it. I don't just hand out five star ratings - they earn it. Here is a book that has earned its five star rating. "Oak Leaves" is about a family that has a legacy of children who have Fragile X Syndrome in their families. As you read on you will learn that Maureen has such a child of her own which lead her to write this story. I, too, have a daughter who is severally disabled which made it easy for me to relate to the story. It is written in the present, but goes back to the past in the form of a diary. This is hard to pull off and Maureen has presented this brilliantly.

Maureen has graciously offered a free copy of "Oak Leaves" to one of the followers who leave a comment. This book is out of print so it is a treat that Maureen has some copies she has stored away. Maureen thank you so much for visiting with us! Without further ado lets learn more about Maureen and "Oak Leaves".

Back Cover: Talie and Luke Ingram have everything they want in life--a good marriage, a wonderful baby boy, and financial stability. When Talie discovers a journal that belonged to an ancestor from Ireland in the mid-nineteenth century, she is intrigued. But when the journal reveals some frightening things about a family "curse," Talie hides it away, refusing to deal with the past. But could the past be affecting the present--her baby boy?

Born and raised in Ireland, though she is half English, Cosima Escott is affected by the curse and has sworn she'll never marry. When a proposal is made by Reginald, an Englishman, Cosima's parents believe the future of the family is redeemed. Cosima travels to England with Reginald, though she refrains from giving an answer to his proposal. Here she meets Lord Peter Hamilton and his family. Although she begins to fall in love with Peter, because he is in line to receive his father's title, Cosima knows she could never marry him and possibly bring the "curse" upon his family for future generations.

Will Talie and Luke be strong enough to face the truth about their son? Will Cosima be able to overcome the fears about her curse and accept Peter's love? How can God bring good through circumstances that seem so bad?

INTERVIEW WITH MAUREEN LANG

1. Maureen could you tell us a little about yourself? Do you have any hobbies you like to do when you aren't writing?

I’ve been blessed with a wonderful family! They keep me busy when I’m not writing, so once they’re all out the door on weekday mornings I sit down to write. My middle child is sixteen and has Fragile X Syndrome, a form of genetic mental retardation, so there are some added challenges. But those challenges come with his irresistible smile, so life is good!

As far as hobbies, I used to love painting ceramics. You know, those cute little holiday decorations or kitchen accents? (At least those were my favorites!) But unfortunately I haven’t been able to find the time to indulge myself in painting anything for quite a while. Here’s a picture of some of my old favorites, though!

2. Have you always liked to write. When did you start writing seriously? Was the process hard for you to get published?

I’ve always, always loved to write! I’m one of six kids, and when I was very young I heard my father mention to a neighbor that I was “the creative one.” I think I’ve been trying to live up to that description ever since.

I started writing seriously when I was in my early twenties. I joined what was then a new organization called Romance Writers of America, and began honing my craft through critique partners and writing groups, conferences and lots and lots of reading. My first three books were published in the secular world, and that whole process of working hard toward the goal of publication took a few years. But after my third secular book I went through some personal challenges—a divorce, single parenthood, returning to the working world—and so I just didn’t have the energy or the time to write any more. I stopped for about fifteen years, but the best thing happened along the way. I rededicated my life to Christ and knew if I ever found a way to write again, it would be something He would want to read. It took every bit of those fifteen year to get back to writing, but God brought me to a place where storytelling seemed like the most natural thing in the world. My second path to publication took about four years, from the day I sat down to write again, on to joining ACFW, critique groups, etc., until I received my first contract from a Christian publisher. The journeys weren’t all that different: write consistently, read for inspiration and learning, get unbiased feedback from others trying to hone their own writing skills, rejection, conferences for the opportunity to meet agents and editors, contests, and eventual success. It takes as much perseverance as talent.

3. Your book is about children with Fragile X Syndrome. Could you explain why you decided to write on this subject?

The Oak Leaves is such a special book to me. While it’s not a memoir by any stretch of the imagination, it does have a lot of me in it. As I mentioned, my sixteen year old has Fragile X Syndrome. Learning it was a genetic disorder and that it came from me was absolutely devastating, because he was so young when we learned his life would be one of limitations. I knew “someday” I’d write about the experience, first to explore my own emotions and see if there was anything positive to learn, and secondly to write something other moms of special needs kids might take comfort in, some voice to help define a few of the emotions that seem almost universal. Of all of my books, The Oak Leaves is the one that generates the most response from others, particularly from moms who are on similar journeys. I’m always so grateful to hear the book has helped someone articulate some of what they’ve experienced in their own life. The Oak Leaves is one of my older titles (2007), so these days it’s only available for electronic readers, or at the library, but it remains one of my favorites to this day.

4 You mix the past with the present in "Oak Leaves" why did you decide to do this?

The contemporary thread is a reflection on my own journey through finding out my son has a disability. It’s not exactly a “picker-upper” so I knew in order to entertain my reader, and get through the process of reliving the diagnosis myself, I’d have to lighten up the tone of the book. So I imagined what it must have been like to have a genetic disorder back in Victorian times, before we knew very much about genetics or even about how the brain works. Again, not exactly a cheery topic—but this second thread gave me the opportunity to include a romance. Romance is always fun! This one has its challenges, of course, romantic stories always do, but it allowed me to enjoy the entire book because I knew there was love and hope along with the more serious elements.

5. Last, do you have any advice for writers who dream of being published someday?

The best advice I can give is to keep reading. Reading taught me how to write. That, and getting unbiased feedback from others who read like a writer—with more attention to detail, to both the big picture (how the plot/character/goal/motivation/conflict work) and the details (how grammar, story structure, voice and clarity work). Find someone to share the writing journey, because writing can be a solitary occupation until you find a publisher and it becomes a team effort. A positive critique partner can go a long way to helping improve—just make sure that voice is honest but encouraging, someone who genuinely loves your work and wants to see you succeed every much as they want to succeed themselves.

My next book is titled Bees In The Butterfly Garden and releases from Tyndale House in June of 2012. It’s a very fun, romantic tale of a young lady raised in New England during the Gilded age. When she learns her father made his living as a thief, she decides to take up a legacy he never meant for her to share. My most fun book to date!

Thanks for having me visit!

FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A COPY OF "OAK LEAVES" PLEASE:

1. BE A FOLLOWER OR BECOME A FOLLOWER

2. GO TO MAUREEN'S WEBSITE AND CHECK IT OUT

3. DO YOU HAVE ANYONE IN YOUR FAMILY WHO IS DISABLED OR DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS?

4. LEAVE AN EMAIL ADDRESS SO I CAN GET IN TOUCH WITH YOU.

5. CONTEST WILL END ON OCTOBER 20TH.

GOOD LUCK AND HAPPY READING!

Giveaway for "Children of Dreams" by Lorilyn Roberts

2011-09-02T16:12:00.000-07:00

THE WINNER OF "CHILDREN OF DREAMS"

TRACY KRAUSS!

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO LEFT A COMMENT!

"Children of Dreams" is borne out of Lorilyn Roberts shattered dreams. The inspiring story of turning stolen dreams into life-changing hope not only for her but two destitute children will bring tears to the reader as he identifies with her feelings of insecurity and fear. The timeless theme of God's faithfulness - the stuff out of which God brings redemption - will leave the reader riveted to the pages of this book.

"Children of Dreams" is more than an adoption story set in the remotest regions of the planet. Facing insurmountable odds - communist blockades, life-threatening illness, betrayal and deceit - Lorilyn Roberts' courage and determination never to give up will touch the reader.

Despair transformed into heavenly joy and evil overcome by God's redemptive love will inspire even the most skeptical to believe in miracles. "Children of Dreams" resonates with Biblical truth at a deep level and in a sense is everyone's story. Timeless in nature, "Children of Dreams" is sure to be a favorite adoption story for years to come.

Ms. Roberts is intimately familiar with adoption, having also been adopted as a child, and is able to present the spirit of adoption, as never before captured, in this tender story. Comparing the adoption of her daughters to her adoption by the heavenly Father throughout the story flows naturally.

My Take: When I received my copy of "Children of Dreams" in the mail I thought I would just open it and take a look. Before I knew it, I was on Chapter Eight and looking forward to reading the rest of Lorilyn's story. Even though this is a non-fiction book it reads like fiction. Lorilyn has put so much detail into her story you feel like you've been transported to the far regions of Nepal and Vietnam along with her. She tells of her trials and hardships she endured to adopt her children Manisha and Joy. Throughout the book she relates the process of adoption with our adoption by our heavenly Father. You will not look at adoption the same after you read Loyilyn's book. You will not be sorry you read "Children of Dreams" whether you are adoptive parents or not.

To win a copy of "Children of Deams" please:

1. Be a follower or become a follower

2. Go to Lorilyn's website and check it out at: http://www.lorilynroberts.com/

3. Leave a comment

Don't miss this Giveaway! "Over the Edge" by Brandilyn Collins

2011-07-31T19:44:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO AMANDA WINNER OF "OVER THE EDGE"

First - please scroll down and leave a comment to win a copy of "Redeeming Love" by Francine Rivers

There is a reason Brandilyn's book's are known as "seatbelt suspense" read on to find out why! This book will keep you turning page after page w/o stopping. You will never think of ticks the same after reading this book!

Grief. Anger. Hatred. The perfect ingredients for revenge.

Janessa McNeils life looks perfect. Her husband, Dr. Brock McNeil, is a renowned researcher and professor at Stanford University's Department of Medicine. They have a beautiful home and can give their daughter everything she needs. Theirs is a life others envy.

But nothing is as it seems.

Forces are at work that will shatter everything - Janessa's marriage, her way of life, even her safety. For her husband's highly respected assertion that chronic Lyme disease doesn't exist has done more than inform medical and insurance professionals. It's ruined lives. One man's life in particular.

Now it's time to make Dr. Brock McNeil face the truth. To make him see the devastation Lyme disease causes - up close and personal. And this bitter man was found the perfect tools to exact his revenge... Janessa and her daughter.

Brandilyn Collins is a best-selling novelist known for her trademark Seatbelt Suspense. She is a three-time American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year Award winner and has also received Inspirational Readers' Choice and Romantic Times Reviewers Choice honors.

Her newest novel Over the Edge, is a thriller that fuses the ongoing medical debate over treatment of Lyme disease with her own struggle to overcome the debilitating illness.

If you want to win a copy of "Over the Edge" please:

1) be a follower or sign up as a follower

2) leave an email address so I can notify you if you win

3) have you read any of Brandilyn Collins books? Have you heard of Lyme disease?

4) to have an extra chance to win please send someone over to sign up as a follower and have them leave your name as the person who sent them

5)contest will run through the 15th of August

HAPPY READING!

Review and Giveaway of "Redeeming Love" by Francine Rivers

2011-07-27T18:03:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO ANN WINNER OF "REDEEMING LOVE"

Most people have probably heard of Francine Rivers and many have read "Redeeming Love". I am excited to be able to present this book as a giveaway.

Back Cover: California's gold country, 1850. A time when men sold their souls for a bag of gold and women sold their bodies for a place to sleep.

Angel expects nothing from men but betrayal. Sold into prostitution as a child, she survives by keeping her hatred alive. And what she hates most are the men who use her, leaving her empty and dead inside.

The she meets Michael Hosea. A man who seeks his Father's heart in everything, Michael obeys God's call to marry Angel and to love her unconditionally. Slowly, day by day, he defies Angel's every bitter expectation, until despite her resistance, her frozen heart begins to thaw.

But with her unexpected softening come overwhelming feelings of unworthiness and fear. And so Angel runs. Back to the darkness, away from her husband's pursuing love, terrified of the truth she no longer can deny. Her final healing must come from the One who loves her even more than Michael does...the One who will never let her go.

A powerful retelling of the book of Hosea, Redeeming Love is a life-changing story of God's unconditional, redemptive, all-consuming love.

To win a copy of Redeeming Love please:

1) Be a follower or sign up as a follower

2) Leave an email address in case you win

3) Send someone else to sign up and tell them to let me know who sent them and you will get a second chance to win

4) Have you read any of Francine Rivers books. Did you know she wrote romances for the secular market, before she started writing Christian fiction?

HAPPY READING!!!!

Giveaway for "Fresh Start Summer" by Beverly Nault

2011-07-01T12:44:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO

KAREN

WINNER OF FRESH START SUMMER!

Back Cover: Friendships, old and new, find fresh beginnings when Cherryvale's extreme makeover transforms the peaceful town to an exciting movie location.

Grace Harkins, a muffin-making, bike-riding, retired teacher can't wait to be an extra for the movie filming in Cherryvale. But when outspoken Maggie protests the "biz" invading, suspicious fires break out, strangers lurk and threatening phone calls force Grace to choose between her carefree retirement and saving a friendship in real danger.

About Beverly: Beverly writes from Southern California where she lives with her husband, Gary. They have two grown children. Beverly also writes nonfiction. She co-authored "Lessons from the Mountain, What I Learned from Erin Walton." The book describes Mary McDonough's memories playing Erin on the award winning television drama, "The Waltons."

My Take: This is a sweet, low-keyed pleasant read. The setting is Small Town, America aka Cherryvale. Reading "Fresh Start Summer" took me back to my youth when times were simpler and neighbors knew and cared about each other. But Beverly has entwined her story with a touch of realism. Everything in Cherryvale isn't a bowl full of cherries. The characters are real with real problems that need to be solved.

When a movie crew comes to town to film a movie there are conflicting feelings about the onslaught of those "Hollywood" people invading Cherryvale. The very outspoken Maggie finds herself in a heap of trouble. She is building a refuge for unwanted animals and everything begins to go wrong. Her buildings are being set on fire and she blames it on those movie people getting revenge because she spoke against them. There is more to this mystery though than meets the eye. You will need to read it to find out what happens!

Just as I finished reading "Fresh Start Summer" it was announced in a small town bordering where I live a film crew would be arriving to film a move. The small town of Cedartown welcomed Billy Bob Thornton and Robert Duvall who would be playing in the movie "Jane Mansfield's Car." There was a big to do for a couple of weeks while they were filming. So let me tell you right now the story of Cherryvale in "Fresh Start Summer" can really happen - and it did.

To enter to win a copy of "Fresh Start Summer"

1. You must be a follower or sign up as a new follower

2. Leave an email address so I can contact the winner

3. Visit Beverly's website and look around

4. Did you grow up in a small town? Do you remember the feeling of community?

5. Contest ends July 20th.

Thank you to Lamp Post Publishing for a copy of "Fresh Start Summer" to review.

HAPPY READING!

Two Reviews! "Her Best Catch" by Lindi Peterson and Montezuma Intrigue by Linda Weaver Clarke

2011-06-15T16:17:00.000-07:00

Back Cover: Allison Doll's mother is rebelliously turning fifty, her two best friends have started dating and a gorgeous injured relief pitcher named Ashton Boyd has joined her Sunday school class, rocking her world into confusion, heartache and temptation, places she hasn't visited in a long time, much less all at once.

But with the help of family, old friends she really hasn't lost, a new friend she can really count on, and God, she begins to find out whether she'll always be a girl waiting for life to happen or a woman who's ready to commit to her best catch.

About: Lindi Peterson definitely believes happy endings are just the beginning. She lives out her real life romance with her husband in a small Georgia town. When she's not writing, she loves to read, bowl and spend time with her family.

Here is what Ane Mulligan, editor of Novel Journey, has to say about "Her Best Catch."

The cover is captivating and reminiscent of Breakfast at Tiffany's (in my opinion). And the story is dynamite! I read it in two sittings, and only put it down the first night because the hubs made me. Allison Doll is fun to be with, and I'm sure I saw a couple of her friends at my church. There is much more to this story than just romance, but with a hot hunky hero and a funny heroine that makes you laugh out loud, you might want to read it more than once. I do. Novel Journey and I give Her Best Catch our highest recommendation. It's a 5-star read.

Montezumas treasure, mysterious events, family secrets, and the importance of learning about your ancestors are themes in Montezuma Intrigue. When a leather parchment of Montezuma s map is found in great-grandfather Evans old chest, April and the twins know this summer is going to be a memorable one. With Julia s help, she and the girls convince John to go on a treasure hunt. Is Montezuma s treasure a legend or reality? Whatever the case, John insists on keeping their little treasure hunt a secret. If certain people find out about it, the family could be in danger.

Linda Weaver Clarke travels throughout the United States, teaching a “Family Legacy Workshop” at libraries, encouraging others to write their family history and autobiography. Clarke is the author of the historical romance series, “A Family Saga in Bear Lake, Idaho” and a new mystery series, “The Adventures of John and Julia Evans.” E-mail Linda at: linda@lindaweaverclarke.com

Celebrating the Book Launch of Montezuma Intrigue

In celebration of the official Book Launch for Montezuma Intrigue, Linda Weaver Clarke is having several Book Give-Aways from June 27 - July 7: Win a mystery/adventure novel with a touch of romance, at http://lindaweaverclarke.blogspot.com.

Adventure, suspense, romance, intrigue, humor, the search for Montezuma's treasure, family secrets, and a good-looking rogue!

When a leather parchment of Montezuma’s map is found in great-grandfather Evans’ old chest, April and the twins know this summer is going to be a memorable one. The girls want to search for it but their father is against it for some mysterious reason. With Julia’s help, she and the girls convince John to go on a treasure hunt. Is Montezuma’s treasure a legend or reality? Whatever the case, John insists on keeping their little treasure hunt a secret. If certain people find out about it, the family could be in danger.

But that’s not all! There will be more gifts for you! You may also be eligible to receive 6 free books as part of this contest: a fantasy by Serena Clarke, children’s books by Sherrill S. Cannon and Lorilyn Roberts, and more.

Here is what Amazon.com reviewer had to say about Montezuma Intrigue:

The whole Evans family is back for another wild and dangerous adventure. This time they have Grandpa along for the ride. When John and Julia's three daughters discover a hidden family treasure map, they convince their parents to conduct their own search for the fortune. They run into all sorts of danger along the way - including an enemy of Julia's who is intent to make her pay for their past troubles.

Julia's daughter, Faith, meets up with a handsome archaeologist who seems just a bit too interested in their hunt for the treasure. Faith is sure the guy's only interest is in her, but her friends and family fear he has ulterior motives.

As the search begins, Julia's father tells the family of how he met their grandmother. A story he never told anyone before, not even Julia. The family is enraptured by his tale and eager to learn more about their family's history, but the story comes to a crashing halt when their lives are threatened by treasure seekers.

This story mixes adventure, suspense and romance into one captivating story. The addition of Julia's parents' romance makes a nice backdrop to the mystery surrounding the hidden treasure. Readers will be enchanted by the entire family, as well as gripped by the terror inflicted on them by the bad guys.

I do hope we will visit with the Evans' family again. They are so enjoyable to get to know.

To order either book just click on the book on the right side of my blog. It will take you directly to Amazon.com.

HAPPY READING!

The Character Therapist

2011-06-12T18:49:00.001-07:00

Please help me welcome a new website for readers and especially writers. Here is all the information you need to learn more about The Character Therapist!

BIO: Jeannie Campbell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. She is Head of Clinical Services for a large non-profit and enjoys working mainly with children and couples. She has a Masters of Divinity in Psychology and Counseling and bachelors degrees in both psychology and journalism. Two of Jeannie’s “therapeutic romance” manuscripts have garnered the high praise of being finalists in the Genesis Contest for unpublished writers, sponsored by the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), of which she is an active member. She writes a popular monthly column for Christian Fiction Online Magazine and has been featured in many other e-zines, newspapers, and blogs.

WHAT IS CHARACTER THERAPY:

Character Therapy is what I do when I use my professional training and experience as a licensed clinician to evaluate and diagnose fictional characters.
How can you—a published or aspiring writer—benefit?

1) Write characters more realistically.
Using a search engine to find out information about a mental disorder yields a very different result than asking a therapist who has treated those same problems in real life. Instead of getting a bunch of stale facts, I can help you breathe life into your characters while taking into consideration your unique story world.

2) Plot more feasibly.
Plotting the external conflict around your character’s internal conflict is essential to create tension on every page. Understanding the character’s driving goals and motivation in relation to their emotional state will help you figure out what plot points need to occur to maximize the character’s arc to its fullest potential.

3) Avoid clichéd or incorrect depictions of mental disorders.
My passion is helping those not afflicted with mental disorders understand those who are. Since one in four adults have a mental disorder, the likelihood of one of your characters having one is pretty high. But you want every nuance to ring true about the character, not feel cardboard cutout or stereotyped. So pick my brain instead of yours to avoid pitfalls of re-writing later.

PLEASE CONTACT JEANNIE OR VISIT HER WEBSITE FOR MORE INFORMATION.

HAPPY READING!

Review and Giveaway of "Night of the Cossack" by Tom Blubaugh

2011-05-29T14:13:00.000-07:00

AND THE WINNER IS!

JOY

CONTRATUALTIONS!

"In "Night of the Cossack", Tom Blubaugh has created an interesting fictional account of a young boy facing a series of tough life-or-death decisions when forced into the life of a Cossack soldier. Readers are sure to be entertained by this tale of Nathan Hertzfield's life, his struggle to maintain the upstanding character and morality set forth by his mother."

-Michelle Buckman, Christy Award Finalist

"Tom Blubaugh takes the reader to a neglected time and place in this touching exploration of his own roots. An encouraging story that should inspire appreciation of one's own family heritage.

-J.B. Cheaney, author of The Playmaker and The Middle of Somewhere

Tom Blubaugh, author of "The Night of the Cossack", is a freelance writer. He has written nonfiction most of his adult life. He resides with his wife Barbara in Southwest Missouri where he is currently writing fiction. Tom and Barbara have six children and fourteen grandchildren. In addition to writing, Tom loves macro photography. He is president of Jericho Commission,Inc. Tom believes his retirement is about continuing to fulfill God's purpose.

I'm thrilled to have Tom as a guest on Butterfly Journey and I've asked Tom a few questions. He's be gracious enough to answer them for us.

1) Can you tell us about your writing journey?

I started writing poems when I was in my early teens—hoping to convert them to song lyrics. This didn’t happen and my writing was set aside until I was nearly thirty. I started writing nonfiction successfully. Night of the Cossack is my first fiction work.

2) What is a Cossack (for those who have not read the book) and how did you come up with the title "Night of the Cossack"?

A Cossack would be called a mercenary soldier today. The word means “freeman”. The hired out to different authorities such as the tsar of Russia. They were taken over by the Russian army in the early 1900’s. The title, Night of the Cossack, came as a result of what happens in the first three chapters of the book. To fully answer this would give away a key part of the book.

3) What genre would you place "Night of the Cossack?"

Historical fiction—Young Adult although it has been read by those as young as ten and as old as 80.

4) I can see how you book would appeal to all ages, young adult to seniors. Did you plan for this?

The book is about my grandfather who died before I was born. I wrote the story for myself first and then for my children and grandchildren. I wasn’t writing to be published. My oldest son is forty-two and my youngest grandchild is two. It doesn’t surprise me that it covers a wide audience.

5) Do you have any books planned for the future?

I am writing a sequel. I also have some children’s books in the works.

Thank you Tom! Tom is offering a copy of "The Night of the Cossack" as a giveaway. Here is what you need to do:

1) You must be a follower or sign up as a new follower.

2) Leave a comment about YA books. Have you read any?

3) For an extra chance to win send a new follower my way and come back and tell me they signed up.

4) Leave an address where I can contact you if you win.

5) The contest ends June 15th, 2011.

HAPPY READING!

Come Celebrate With Me! Giveaway

2011-05-14T15:02:00.000-07:00

AND THE WINNER IS!!!!

LADYJO

CONGRATULATIONS

LADYJO!

AND THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO ENTERED!

PLEASE TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO CELEBRATE WITH ME. IF YOU'VE KEPT UP WITH MY BLOG YOU WILL KNOW THAT I'VE BEEN WORKING ON A COZY MYSTERY "DEATH IN DAHLONEGA" FOR SEVERAL YEARS. I'VE SIGNED A CONTRACT WITH LAMP POST PUBLISHING AND IT WILL BE OUT THIS FALL.

I AM SO EXCITED TO BE A PART OF THE LAMP POST FAMILY AND WHAT THEY STAND FOR. IT HAS BEEN MY DREAM TO WRITE CHRISTIAN FICTION AND NOW THAT DREAM IS COMING TRUE AND I WANT TO SHARE MY EXCITEMENT WITH YOU. I AM OFFERING THIS BASKET OF BOOKS TO ONE OF MY FOLLOWERS OR TO A NEW FOLLOWER. ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS BE A FOLLOWER OR SIGN UP AS A FOLLOWER, AND LEAVE A COMMENT ABOUT THIS POST AND GO CHECK OUT LAMP POST.

TO TOP THE GOOD NEWS OFF MY BIRTHDAY IS MAY 25TH, JUST ANOTHER REASON TO CELEBRATE. AND LET'S DON'T FORGET SUMMER IS ALMOST HERE. SO MANY REASONS TO CELEBRATE AND I WANT TO SHARE THE EXCITEMENT WITH YOU.

PLEASE STAY TUNED AND I WILL KEEP YOU UPDATED ON "DEATH IN DAHLONEGA" AS IT GOES THROUGH THE PUBLISHING STAGES. THANK YOU AGAIN FOR YOUR SUPPORT.

HAPPY READING!

Giveaway and Review of"Judgement Day" by Wanda Dyson

2011-04-27T13:20:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Anne

Winner of Judgement Day!

The weekly cable news show Judgment Day with Suzanne Kidwell promises to expose businessmen, religious leaders, and politicians for the lies they tell. Suzanne positions herself as a champion of ethics and morality with a backbone of steel-- until a revelation of her shoddy investigation tactics and creative fact embellishing puts her in hot water with her employers, calling her credibility into question and threatening her professional ambitions.

Bitter and angry, Suzanne returns home one day to find an entrepreneur she is investigating, John Edward Sterling, unconscious on her living room floor.before the night is over, sterling is dead, she has blood on our hands, and the police are arresting her for murder. She needs to help to prove her innocence, but her only hope, private investigator Marcus Crisp, is also her ex-fiancé -- the man she betrayed in college.

Marcus and his partner Alexandria Fisher-Hawthorne reluctantly agreed to take the case, but they won't cut Suzanne any slack. Exposing her lack of ethics in the lives she's destroyed in her fight for ratings does little to make them think Suzanne is innocent. But as Marcus digs into the mire of secrets surrounding her enemies, he unveils an alliance worth killing for. Now all he has to do is keep Suzanne and Alex alive long enough to prove it.

Wanda L. Dyson lives on a working horse farm in Maryland, boarding and keeping a menagerie of critters. She is the author of four acclaimed suspense novels, including Shepherd's Fall, and she is the co-author of Why I Jumped, the true story of Tina Zahn.

My Take: Short and sweet. If you love suspense you will love "Judgement Day." It is a page turner from the first page to the last page.

To Enter To Win A Copy:
1) Be a follower or sign up as a follower
2) Leave an email address so I can contact the winner
3) Tell me what your favorite genre is. Do you read outside your genre?
4) Visit Wanda Dyson's web site and learn more bout her books.

The contest will end on May 15th, 2011.
This book was provided by WaterBrook Press for review.

HAPPY READING!

Treasures in the Woods

2011-04-24T20:22:00.000-07:00

I hope you enjoy the pictures of these treasures I found on a trail in the North Georgia Mountains. The Lady Slippers are a rare wild flower that bloom only a short time in the Spring. I was thrilled to find these. Trillium (not sure if that is spelled correctly) is also a rare flower that grows in the wild - although it is not as rare as the Lady Slipper. This particular patch of Lady Slippers have been featured in Southern Living Magazine.

LADY SLIPPER

LADY SLIPPER

LADY SLIPPER

TRILLIUM

TRILLIUM

Giveaway and Review of "Mine is the Night" by Liz Curtis Higgs

2011-04-07T18:45:00.000-07:00

AND THE WINNER IS!

JEANNIE

CONGRATULATIONS JEANNIE!

Stepping from a battered coach on a rainy April evening, newly widowed Elizabeth Kerr must begin again, without husband or title, property or fortune. She is not afraid of work and gifted with a needle, but how will she stitch together the tattered remnants of her life? And who will mend her heart, torn asunder by betrayal and deception?

Elizabeth has not come to Selkirk alone. Her mother-in-law, Marjorie Kerr, is a woman undone, having buried her husband, her sons, and any promise of grandchildren. Dependent upon a distant cousin with meager resources, Marjorie dreads the future almost as much and she regrets the past. Yet joy still comes knocking, and kindness is found in unexpected places.

Then a worthy hero steps far word, rekindling a spark of hope. Will he risk his reputation to defend two women labeled as traitors to the Crown? Or will a wealthy beauty, untainted by scandal, capture his affections?

The heartrending journey of the Kerr women comes to a glorious finish in Mine is the Night, a sparkling gem of redemption and restoration set in 18th century Scotland.

Liz Curtis Higgs is the author of 28 books and 3 million copies in print, including her armchair travel guide to Scotland.

My Take: I will make it short and sweet. If you love to read books written with the Scottish brogue then you will love "Mine is the Night" you ken? I found myself wanting to go around talking like the Scots of auld. This is a love story that makes you smile at the end! There is a dictionary of Scottish words in the back of the book to help out with some of the definitions.

How to sign up for the giveaway:

1. Be a follower or become one.

2. Leave a comment? Have you ever read a book that uses a Scottish brogue?

3. Leave your email address so I can get in contact with the winner

4. Contest ends April 20th, 2011.

This books has been provided by Waterbrook Multnomah for review.

HAPPY READING!

JUST READ A GREAT BOOK!

2011-03-29T20:50:00.000-07:00

Product Description

Underwater archeologist Shiloh Blake is consumed with passion for the water and inflamed at the injustices of life. When her first large-scale dig traps her in the middle of an international nuclear arms clash, she flees for her life. When she spots a man trailing her, the questions are, Who is he? and How is he always one step ahead? Reece Jaxon is a former Navy SEAL and now serves his country as a spy. His life is entangled by the beguiling Shiloh Blake as he hunts down the sources to a nuclear dead drop in the Arabian Sea near Mumbai, India. The only way to end this nightmare and prevent a nuclear meltdown is to join forces with Reece. Will Shiloh violate her vow to never become a spy?

About the Author

Ronie Kendig holds a B.S. Degree in Psychology and is a wife, mother of four, and an avid writer. An active member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Ronie is the Book of the Year coordinator. She also serves on the ACFW Think-Tank committee for the national conference, and as the assistant to the conference appointment coordinator. Ronie is co-owner of Double Crit Editorial Services and a monthly columnist with the widely recognized blog Novel Journey. She currently lives in Dallas, Texas. This is her debut novel. Find Ronie on the web at roniekendig.com

I just finished "Dead Reckoning" by Ronie Kendig. This was her debut novel and let me tell you it was great! I am not much into spy books, but I couldn't put this one down. From the first page to the end you will be taken on an adventure where you find yourself holding your breath more than once. If you like spy thrillers you will love this one. If you like suspense you will also enjoy reading Dead Reckoning. Be sure and put this on your TBR list. Great job on your first book Ronie!

HAPPY READING!

Spring Has Sprung

2011-03-28T19:26:00.000-07:00

The Waterwheel at Berry College. Berry was founded by Martha Berry for the poor
in the area. It has more acreage than any other college in the US.

Some pretty flowers blooming by some of the old houses in the downtown area.

The old water tower which is now known as the "Clock Tower". On the front lawn of the tower is where a school used to be many years ago.

The statue of Romulus and Remus was a gift from Mussolini to our city.

I love Spring and I love Summer even better. The warm days and sunshine make me feel so much better. It is my favorite time of year. I thought I would take some pictures of points of interest in our little town in Northwest Georgia. I hope you enjoy them, too.

Spring Is On Its Way in the North Georgia Mountains

2011-03-13T18:19:00.000-07:00

An "Indian Tree". The Indians used them for signs and directions.

A beautiful bird I was lucky to capture. I don't know what kind it is.

A "blind" where you can be hidden and watch the wildlife.

The trail head

Blaines Country Store where you turn to go to Carter's Lake. A rare find!

I live about 60 miles north of Atlanta and this is considered part of the Appalachian Mountains. Saturday the weather was beautiful - almost 70 degrees with a slight breeze blowing. About 50 miles north of us between Jasper, Georgia and Ellijay, Georgia is Carter's Lake Recreations Area.

I've heard of Carter's Lake many times, but have never been. This weekend my fiance and I went on an adventure to find Carter's Lake. That we did! We also found hiking trails and a short birding trail - just right for me and my fibromyalgia. I want to share some of the pictures I took on this birding trail. Hope you enjoy them. I know everyone is looking forward to Spring and I found some sure signs it is on its way!

HAPPY READING!

Review and Giveaway for "Bound by Guilt" by C.J. Darlington

2011-03-07T19:02:00.001-08:00

THE WINNER OF "BOUND BY GUILT" IS MEREDITH!
CONGRATULATIONS!

Back Cover:Roxi Gold is a throwaway, shuttled from one foster on to another for most of her life. She longs for a family and will do anything to fit in -- even if it's against the law. Soon she's traveling the country stealing rare books from unsuspecting bookstores, until a first edition of The Great Gatsby catches up with her.

Police officer Abby Dawson has seen the worst of society, and not just at work. The job she has loved has become a chore, the world isn't any safer, and there's no joy in her life. One fearful night a man's innocent blood changes both Roxi's and Abby's lives forever. One searches for justice; the other finds herself on the run. Will the power of forgiveness set them free, or will they both remain bound by guilt?

About: C. J. Darlington and is the winner of the 2008 Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writers Guild Operation First Novel contest for Thicker Than Blood. She has been in the antiquarian bookselling business for over a decade, scouting for stores similar to the one described in the Thicker Than Blood series before cofounding her own online bookstore. She also cofounded the Christian entertainment Web site Title Trakk.com. A home school graduate she lives in Pennsylvania with her family. Visit her website at cjdarlington.com.

My take: I really enjoyed this book right from the start. I received this book during a time that was really busy for me so I couldn't just sit down and read it. However, I found myself coming back and picking it up every chance I got. I had to find out what was going on. It is not a suspense or a mystery, but I found myself turning the pages as if it were a suspense - just waiting to find out what was going to happen next. You will not be disappointed if you choose to read this book. I also want to go back and read the first book of the series - the story of one of the characters in this book.

To enter for a chance to win "Bound by Guilt":
1. you must be a follower or sign up as a follower
2. leave a comment
3. leave an email address so I can get in touch with the winner
4. contest will end on March 15th

HAPPY READING!

2011-03-02T13:06:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share that an article I've written on the Goat Man is now out in the Spring issue of the magazine "Georgia Backroads". If anyone grew up in the South during the 50's and 60's you've probably encountered the Goat Man (and his goats) whose real name was Ches McCartney. I was always fascinated by him and was thrilled when I was able to write about his real life and times. Jimmy Hammet of Atlanta is a historian on Ches and helped me tremendously with this article so I want to give him much of the credit on my research. He has a facebook page on the Goat Man and there are nearly 1,500 followers who all have stories to tell about seeing him and his goats as a child. He also has two documentaries out with interview w/Ches and his son Albert Gene. Please pick one up a copy of "Georgia Backorads" at any bookstore and read about this unique character of times gone by. This was during a time when life was so much simpler.

HAPPY READING!

Winners!

2011-02-28T12:29:00.001-08:00

Congratulations Winners:

Jan Cline won "The Me Project" by Kathi Lipp

Pegg Thomas won "Larkspur Cove" by Lisa Wingate

and

Virginia Rush won The Box of Books

I want to thank everyone who stopped by and left a comment on any of these posts. I appreciate the support all of my followers have show since I've started my blog. I ask that everyone keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I continue my journey to become a published author.

HAPPY READING!

Giveaway "The Me Project" by Kathi Lipp

2011-02-20T16:07:00.000-08:00

Back Cover: Have daily demands caused you to set aside your goals and dreams? How might your life be different if you took a few minutes every day for 21 days to put your dreams on "project status"?
The Me Project provides fun, creative, and doable daily steps for you to actually live out the dreams God has planted in your heart. Kathi Lipp's warm tone and laugh-0ut-loud humor will motivate you to take action each day toward bringing purpose into your life. And it will give you the confidence you need to accomplish your dreams in the midst of your already busy schedule.
You will learn to:
discover or rediscover the unique plan God has for your life
connect with a group of like-minded women who want to make their goals a priority
change your attitudes toward your roles in life, as well as how you approach those goals
If you're ready to take on the challenge of living the life you've always wanted, The Me Project is your place to begin.

About: Kathi Lipp is a busy conference and retreat speaker, currently speaking each year to thousands of women throughout the United States. She is the author of The Husband Project and The Marriage Project and has had articles published in several magazines, including Today's Christian Woman and Discipleship Journal. Kathi and her husband, Roger, live in California and are the parents of four young adults.

TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:
YOU MUST BE A FOLLOWER OR SIGN UP AS A NEW FOLLOWER
LEAVE AN ADDRESS SO I CAN CONTACT THE WINNER
VISIT KATHI LIPP'S WESITE AND LEAVE A COMMENT
THE CONTEST WILL END FEBRUARY 28TH

HAPPY READING!

"Larkspur Cove" by Lisa Wingate Giveaway

2011-02-13T13:17:00.000-08:00

After surviving the worst year of her life, Andrea Henderson move home to sleepy little Moses Lake, Texas, to recover her shattered faith and build a new life for herself and her son.

Game Warden Mart McClendon finds himself in Moses Lake for a different reason: to forget a tragedy for which he can't forgive himself.

But when a mysterious little girl is suddenly seen with the town recluse, these two unlikely allies are drawn together in a search for her identity. As wounded pasts collide, will thier quest bring the redemption and hope they need - or consequences neither of them expected?

Lisa Wingate is a popular inspirational speaker, magazine columnist, and national bestselling author of several books, including Tending Roses, A Month of Summer, and The Summer Kitchen. Lisa and her family live in Central Texas.

My take: I read this book and was not surprised that I enjoyed it. I've read Lisa's books before and this one did not disappoint me. I would say that I have been used to reading suspense lately so this one moved a little slow in the beginning for me, but it packed a wallop towards the end. It is worth reading just to get to the ending.

TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY JUST BE A FOLLOWER OR BECOME A NEW FOLLOWER AND LEAVE A COMMENT WITH YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS SO I CAN CONTACT THE WINNER. THE CONTEST WILL RUN THROUGH FEBRUARY 28TH. DON'T FORGET TO SIGN UP FOR THE BOX OF BOOKS GIVEAWAY!

HAPPY READING!

Woo-hoo Box of Books Giveaway!!!!

2011-02-13T13:12:00.000-08:00

It's that time again. Spring is getting near and I'm just in the mood to have another giveaway for a box of books. All you have to do is leave a comment on this post or the post on Lisa Wingate's "Larkspur Cove" giveaway. If you leave one on both you will be entered twice. This is a thank you for all of my great supporters! I can't wait to make it to 200! Contest will end February 28th.

HAPPY READING

A FUN DAY AT THE MALL

2011-02-12T12:56:00.000-08:00

We have a store in our mall, Christopher and Banks, that I enjoy shopping at. Every once in a while they will have a day where some women model the clothes. I was asked to model this Saturday and when you do you also get a percentage off of the clothes. Icing on the cake. Here are some pictures from my great modeling adventure. Hope you enjoy them!

2011-02-10T19:49:00.000-08:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO:

EDWINA FOR WINNING "SHOOT THE WOUNDED"

AND

JAN MARIE FOR WINNING "HEAL THE WOUNDED"

THANK YOU EVERYONE FOR LEAVING A COMMENT!

HAPPY READING!

2011-01-25T20:44:00.000-08:00

PLEASE TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO SCROLL DOWN TO THE NEXT POST FOR THE DOUBLE GIVEAWAY OF LYNN DOVE'S "SHOOT THE WOUNDED" AND "HEAL THE WOUNDED". YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THESE YOUNG ADULT BOOKS (VERY RELEVANT TO ADULTS, TOO).

NOW ENJOY THE PICTURES OF THE JANUARY SOUTHEAST ACFW MEETING (WORD)

ON THE LEFT IN THE BLUE SWEATER IS OUR SPEAKER FOR THE NIGHT
LYNETTE EASON WHO IS THE AUTHOR OF 19 BOOKS

SOCIALIZING AT THE MEETING

HAYWOOD SMITH WAS A GUEST AT OUR MEETING TONIGHT!
HAYWOOD IS A WELL KNOWN ATLANTA AUTHOR

HAVING FUN AT THE JANUARY SOUTHEAST WRITERS GROUP (WORD)

Double Giveaway for "Shoot the Wounded" and "Heal the Wounded" by Lynn Dove

2011-01-18T18:52:00.001-08:00

Heal the Wounded is a sequel to Shoot the Wounded. Don't let the title's deter you from reading these books. I read both books in three days. I could not put them down. Lynn has taken the characters in Heal the Wounded and brought them to life. Although these books were written for Young Adults the lessons learned in these two books can be applied to anyone. I've loved to read since I was a child and I would have given anything to have been able to read books like this when I was in High School. Lynn addresses the unique challenges that teens and young adults will inevitably face. As adults sometime we forget what it was like during our teen years and find it hard to relate to our teen children. Lynn has found a
way to do just that through her books Shoot the Wounded and Heal the Wounded. If you have a teenager or know of someone who is in their teen years then this is a must have book to give them as a gift.

An Interview with Lynn Dove – author of the “Wounded Trilogy”

Lynn Dove is a graduate of the University of Calgary, where she earned her Bachelor of Education degree in 1981, she has spent the last thirty years teaching children in the private and public school settings. In 2007, she earned a Masters of Religious Education degree from the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary, in Cochrane, Alberta, Canada.

Tell me something about yourself?

I am a Christ-follower, a wife, a mom, a soon-to be grandmother, a teacher and a writer (in that order). I wear so many different “hats” that I find prioritizing them tends to focus me better. I have been married to my best friend, Charles for 32 years and we have three wonderful children: daughter, Laurelle (husband, Matt) are expecting our first grand baby in February, and we have two live-at-home teenagers, Brett and Carmen. I have been a teacher most of my adult life, and I still substitute from time to time at the private Christian school my teenagers attend. I love volunteering and working closely with the youth in our church as well. Lastly, when I’m not writing, I’m reading. I love to blog and when I’m not blogging, I’m working on my next book.

Do you have a life verse that you have claimed and why is it so meaningful to you?

My husband, Charles and I have claimed this life verse: “In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” Proverbs 16:9 Through our nearly 32 years of marriage, this verse has sustained us through all the ups and downs of life knowing we may make our plans but God is always in control… AND He allows U-turns!

What led you to write your “Wounded Trilogy” books? Why did you target youth with these books?

Having been an educator for over thirty years, and I discovered that there are still very few good contemporary Christian books for a young adult audience.

Youth today are under such a spiritual attack from the enemy. He wants to destroy their spirit and he does it subtly by surrounding them with worldly messages that make them question their looks, their intelligence, as well as their hope for tomorrow. I wanted to write books that deal with relevant themes, but with a definitive Christian message running throughout: the hope in Jesus Christ.

I also wanted my young readers to know that everyone makes mistakes; Christians are not excluded from that. Scripture teaches us to “love one another” even when they make mistakes, however our actions speak louder than our words at times. I have seen wonderful young people crumble from the constant barrage of cyberspace bullying, malicious gossip and innuendo. Insensitive words and blatant lies can lead to deep emotional scarring sometimes with tragic consequences. My books deal with gritty topics such as “cutting”, bullying, gossip, family violence and cancer. We are not excluded from tough situations just because we are Christians, on the contrary it is exactly in those tough times that God comes alongside us and helps us. I want my young readers to understand that they are never alone; God is their ever present comfort and strength in everything they are going through.

Could you tell us a little bit about your books?

Shoot the Wounded, the first book of the Wounded Trilogy, is written for youth and young adults. It addresses how lies and gossip destroy a person's spirit and speaks to the heart of relevant themes such as bullying, teen pregnancy and family violence. The story points the characters, and ultimately the reader, to hope in Jesus Christ. STW was a finalist in the 2010 Readers Favorite Book Awards.

Heal the Wounded, is the much-anticipated sequel to STW and the second book of the Wounded Trilogy. HTW delves even deeper into the real world of teenagers trying to live out their faith in the midst of upset and struggle. Heal the Wounded, continues to follow the characters, Jake, Leigh, Mike (Jake's best friend), and Tim (Ronnie's brother) each of them dealing with the aftermath of their friend’s death in the first book. Jake is especially dealing with a variety of disappointments (“Job” experiences I call them) that cause him to question why God allows bad things to happen to good people. A new character is introduced into the story, Cassidy, a young cancer patient whose unquenchable spirit and faith impacts Jake, Leigh, Mike and Tim in a way that allows them all to experience God's grace and the power of His healing in each one of their lives.

Both STW and HTW have been selected as helpful resources on the world’s largest anti-bullying website: www.bullying.org

I hope to have Love the Wounded, the final book in the trilogy published next year. I am also writing an autobiographical account about my experiences and personal battle with breast cancer, and I am working on putting that book proposal together to submit to prospective publishers next year.

What advice would you give to young writers who are thinking about becoming published authors?

I have been asked often to give advice to young writers and truly the best advice I could give is this:

Write!

I believe everyone has a story inside of them. As a teacher, I encourage my students to write poetry, journal, write short stories and novellas. The more one writes, the more you improve and polish your craft. Write about things that appeal to you, write from the heart and write from experience. Much of my writing is based on my personal experiences and I believe God allows us to go through these experiences for a reason. Writing allows us the opportunity to share our life lessons with others. If God has called you to write…just WRITE!

I actually wrote Shoot the Wounded well over ten years ago. It started out as a short story and after I had written one hundred pages I knew I couldn’t consider it a “short” story any longer. Then the manuscript literally (hahaha) took up space on the hard drive of my computer for ten years. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2001 and battled the disease for two years. My family and I experienced God profoundly through that time and certainly to many I am considered a “survivor” today but I hope I have done much more than survive, I hope I have “thrived”!

I wanted to share part of that experience with my readers, so in Heal the Wounded, the main character’s mom is going through breast cancer and I write about how a family copes with that in the book.

The next piece of advice to young writers is:

Read!

I don’t think it is possible to be a writer if you don’t like to read. I read all genres and because I write primarily for young adults and teens I try to read all the books that they may be interested in.

Do you have any publishing and/or marketing advice for new writers?

I am still a “rookie” for all intents and purposes when it comes to publishing and marketing a book. For me, I find that writing a book is a relatively simple thing, but marketing a book can be extremely challenging, time-consuming, occasionally frustrating and discouraging. I have learned over this year to network with other authors, especially Christian authors who have experience with publishing, and those like me who are new to it. Some online social networking sites have given me the opportunity to meet some wonderful writers and authors who have been more than willing to share their expertise, their successes and failures with me. I have learned that book signings can be fun, only if you go into them with the attitude that you might not sell one book, but you’ll meet lots of interesting people.

One thing I would tell new authors is to not feel shy about purposefully promoting yourself in the marketplace. I think that was one of the hardest things for me to do initially. As Christians, we value a humble attitude, but as authors the louder and bolder we are in promoting ourselves to our readers the more books they will buy and read. Some self-published or POD (print on demand) authors are quite content to write for a select audience, family and friends, but for those of us who want to reach a larger, more world-wide audience, we need to be prepared to create a “buzz” about the book. The only way to do that is to get people talking about it. Word of mouth is huge!

That said, I think it is also important to ask yourself the questions ahead of time about what your personal goals are with publishing a book. I applaud my publisher, Word Alive Press for asking some pointed questions up front in their publishing questionnaire. One question in particular prompted me to prayerfully consider my personal goals: “What is the one thing, (the most important thing) you would like to accomplish with your manuscript (book)?” I remember I wrote, “My hope is that teenagers and young adults who read this book will be touched by the message in the story and ultimately that this book and any others I write will bring Glory to God.”

Other:

To celebrate the launch of Heal the Wounded, Lynn will be hosting a contest on January 25^th on her blog, Journey Thoughts http://lynndove.wordpress.com/ Just click on the picture for details!

HOW TO ENTER BUTTERFLY JOURNEY BLOG GIVEAWAY:
(THERE WILL BE TWO WINNERS)
1. BE A FOLLOWER OR SIGN UP TO BE A FOLLOWER
2. LEAVE AN EMAIL ADDRESS SO I CAN GET IN TOUCH WITH THE WINNER
3. LET ME KNOW IF YOU HAVE READ ANY YOUNG ADULT BOOKS AND FOUND THAT THEY NOT ONLY APPLY TO YOUNG ADULTS BUT TO ADULTS AS WELL.
4. VISIT LYNN'S WEBSITE AT: http://www.shootthewounded.org/
5. THE CONTEST WILL END FEBRUARY 10, 2011.

January 25th - Guest Author Lynn Dove

2011-01-09T20:13:00.000-08:00

January is going to be a very busy month for me, but I wanted to let you know to be on the lookout for an interview and review. The interview will be with Lynn Dove who has written two wonderful Young Adult books. They are Shoot the Wounded and Heal the Wounded. I've read both and you won't be disappointed with the reviews. Please remember the date January 25th when I will be interviewing Lynn!

Thank you to all my supporters!

Deborah

BOX OF BOOKS GIVEAWAY

2010-12-18T14:18:00.001-08:00

AND THE WINNER IS:
MISSKALLIE

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO ENTERED THE GIVEAWAY FOR THE BOX OF BOOKS. I LOVED DOING THIS. I THINK IT IS SOMETHING THAT I MIGHT BE ABLE TO DO A FEW TIMES A YEAR SO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR MORE OF THEM. ALSO, ON JANUARY 25TH I WILL BE POSTING ABOUT THE REVIEW AND GIVEAWAY OF THE YOUNG ADULT BOOKS "SHOOT THE WOUNDED" AND "HEAL THE WOUNDED" BY CANADIAN LYNN DOVE. THESE ARE GREAT BOOKS AND YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THE LAUNCH OF "HEAL THE WOUNDED".

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Hi Folks,

It's time for another giveaway of a box of books. Some of them are new and some are gently used. All you have to do is to have signed up on this post or the previous three posts in December. There will be only one entry so you don't need to sign up for each post - just one of them.

Christmas is around the corner and I hope that each and every one of my followers have a great time during the season. Christmas can also be a sad and lonely time for different reasons - the loss of a loved one, depression, going through a divorce, being lonely. Please remember that this too shall pass and the New Year can bring better things your way. I know because I have spent more than one sad Christmas season.

Anyway, just be a follower or sign up as a new follower and leave a post with your email and you will be entered into the drawing. I'm on my way to 200 followers and hope to make it some time in 2011. Thank you for all of your support over the past couple of years.

Your friend,
Deborah (Debbie)

REVIEW OF PATRICIA HICKMAN'S "THE PIRATE QUEEN" AND GIVEAWAY

2010-12-14T20:32:00.000-08:00

And the winner is: Wendy!!! Thanks Wendy for entering the contest and I will be getting in touch with you very soon. I also want to thank Waterbrook Press for offering a copy of "The Pirate Queen" for this giveaway. I hope you enjoyed this review and be sure and look for the review and giveaway of Young Adult Books " Shoot the Wounded" and "Heal the Wounded" by Canadian Lynn Dove. You don't want to miss this one. Be on the lookout for the launch of "Heal the Wounded" on January 25th.

was not able to copy a picture of the book cover or a picture of Patricia. If you go to the Waterbook Press site you can find both of them.

Back cover: The envy of all her friends, wife and mother Saphora Warren is the model of southern gentility and accomplishment. she lives in a beautiful Lake Norman home, and has raised three capable adult children. Her husband is a successful plastic surgeon - and a philanderer. It is for that reason that, after hosting a garden party for Southern Living magazine, Saphora packs her bags to escape the trappings of the picturesque-but-vacant-life.

Saphora's departure is interrupted by her husband Benders early arrival home, and his words change her life forever: I'm dying. Against her desires, Saphora agrees to take care of Bender as he fights his illness. The relocate, at his insistence, to their coastal home in Oriental - the same house she had chosen for her private getaway. When her idyllic retreat is overrun by her grown children, grandchildren, townspeople, relatives, and a precocious neighbor child, Saphora's escape to paradise is anything but the life she had imagined. As she gropes for evidence of God's presence amid the turmoil, can she discover that the richest treasures come in surprising packages?

About Patricia Hickman: Patricia Hickman, author of the acclaimed novel Painted Dresses, is an award-winner, speaker, and humorist who has won two Silver Angel Awards for Excellance in Media as well as a Romantic Times Reader's Choice Gold Award for her novel Katrina's Wings. Patricia holds a master's degree in creative writing from Queens University and enjoys biking, hiking, and mapping out the Southern towns where her novels are set.

My Take: Four Stars: I wasn't sure what "The Pirate Queen" would be like. I wondered what the title meant. Now that I've read the book I know what it means. I'm not going to tell you though, so you can read the book and find out for yourself.

Saphora Warren is the main character. She has been married more than thirty years to a Doctor who has a personality bigger than life. He has also been a philanderer most of the marriage. Saphora has lost who she is and is just about to leave Bender when he comes home and tells her he has a life threatening illness.

What should she do? Leave or stay. She chooses to stay and take care of him during his last months of life. This might seem far-fetched, but I've heard of several women who have even taken care of their ex-husbands during their terminal illness. It is real life and could happen to anyone.

The story is about her journey taking care of him during his last days. It also probes the in and outs of their family dynamics and how this effects them.
It is a story of a family in crisis and then a time of healing.

I enjoyed reading "The Pirate Queen", but I found it hard to stick with sometimes. The pace was slower than I would have liked for it to be.With that said I am glad that I chose this book to review and believe anyone who reads it will not be sorry.

To enter the giveaway please follow the instructions:
1. Be a follower or sign up as a new follower
2. Leave an email address so I can contact the winner
3. Visit Waterbrook Press and check out their books and authors.

Contest will end on December 30th.

Interview and Giveaway with Cathy Bryant!

2010-12-01T18:55:00.001-08:00

AND THE WINNER IS:
DEBRA

Thanks to all of you who entered. You will be automatically entered to win the Box of Books I will be drawing for at the end of December. Cathy thank you for being my guest and keep up the good work! Thank goodness for self-publishing!

BE SURE AND SCROLL DOWN TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY FOR SHAWNA K. WILLIAMS "IN ALL THINGS."

Cathy thank you so much for being a guest on my blog. Cathy has offered to give away a copy of her book "A Path Less Traveled" in book form or ebook form. Here we go:

About Cathy: Greetings from East Texas! I live in a century-old farmhouse (complete with a front porch and white picket fence) with one amazing husband, a phobia-ridden cat, and a garden full of flowers, hummingbirds and butterflies. (I'll leave out the giant mosquitoes!)

I'm the proud mother of two wonderful sons, and (as of the summer of 2007) the daughter of my prayers. In 2009, I experienced the joy of all joys and became a Nana to the most beautiful grandson the world has ever known. A teacher by profession, I'm currently teaching private voice and piano and pursuing my lifelong dream of being a writer.

My first novel, Texas Roads (Book 1 in the Miller's Creek novels) was chosen as a finalist in the ACFW 2009 Genesis contest in the Contemporary Romance division. The second book in the Miller's Creek novels, A Path Less Traveled, was released in November 2010.

I've also written several devotions for online sites, books, and magazines. In my spare time (ha!) I enjoy walking, bike riding, gardening, watching movies or reality TV, and of course, reading.

Back Cover:Trish James is tired of being rescued. When a spooked horse claims her husband's life, she’s determined to blaze a path for herself and her traumatized son without outside help. But will that mean leaving the place etched on her heart?

Andy Tyler has had to struggle for everything, and starting a new law practice in Miller's Creek, Texas is no different. Though prepared for business challenges, he's not prepared for falling in love--especially with yet another woman who will probably abandon him for her career.

Will Andy and Trish be able to see past their limited human understanding to take a path less traveled?

My Take: Great book! Very realistic. I could really relate to many of the things the main character was going through. I think you might could as well. I think I enjoyed this book even more than the first one. It was very easy to read - very smooth. I give both books a five star rating.

INTERVIEW WITH CATHY

1. Have you always wanted to write. Cathy how did you come up with this series and how long did it take you to finish your first book - including editing.
I've been writing since I was a child. I loved stories, whether written by me or someone else. The series really flowed from my experiences of growing up and living in small towns across Texas. From concept to finished book on Texas Roads, the book took me about three years.

2. I really enjoyed "A Path Less Traveled" the second in a series. How did you come up with the plot?
The plot kind of evolved from the spiritual lesson I wanted in the book (trusting God no matter what). I also wanted to keep the flavor of Miller's Creek, but with new characters. I needed two characters that were introduced in book one, Texas Roads, so it only made sense to choose Trish James and Andy Tyler.

3. What do you have planned next?

I'm currently working on the third book in the series, entitled The Way of Grace. It tells the story of a young woman who struggles with perfectionism, to the point that she becomes spiritually proud and legalistic.

4. Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?

My advice is to 1) study the craft of writing fiction; 2)seek God's will for you and your writing; and 3) read voraciously.

THINGS TO DO TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

1. BE A FOLLOWER OR BECOME A NEW FOLLOWER. LEAVE AN EMAIL ADDRESS SO I CAN CONTACT YOU IF YOU WIN.

2. VISIT CATHY'S WEBSITE AT:

http://www.catbryant.com/2009/08/inspirational-stories-with-touch-of.html

3. Cathy has chosen to self publish her books. I for one am glad she did. Does it matter to you whether a book is self-published or not?

4. Giveaway ends December 20th, 2010.

HAPPY READING!

INTERVIEW AND GIVEAWAY! SHAWNA WILLIAMS

2010-12-01T18:29:00.000-08:00

AND THE WINNER IS:
EMMA

Thank all of you who entered the contest for Shawna's book. You will automatically be entered o win the Box of Books I will be drawing for at the end of December. Thank you Shawna for being my guest and keep up the good work. I'm looking forward to reading your next book!

I am excited to host Shawna this month for an interview and giveaway. I hope that you enjoy it, too. Shawna has been kind enough to offer a PDF file of her book "No Other" or "In All Things"and a freshwater pearl bracelet. Without further ado here we go:

SHAWNA WILLIAMS

ABOUT SHAWNA: I'm a lot of things: a Christian, wife, mother, friend, author, artist, rock hound, science geek and animal lover. The first four take priority. The rest tend to jostle for my attention. Since I'm always a dreamer, author usually wins.

Indeed, my first two books are the result of a dream -- an actual dream. It nagged me for six months as I mentally tried to fill in all of the gaps. I finally had to write it down. Since then, God has continued to bless with me inspiration at times of His choosing.

Technically, I'm an Inspirational Romance writer. But I like to think that romance includes more than the relationship between two people. It can also be about the era or place, or even a single moment in time, when an elusive whisper reaches inward and ever so gently taps the soul, saying, "This. Remember this."

It's my desire that my stories create such a moment.

Some of my methods for filling my creative reservoir are reading about the histories of small towns, pouring over old photos in antique shops and people's homes (if I'm at yours, I'll ask to see your picture albums) and asking prying questions about your best family stories. Oh! And if you ever see a lady on the side of the road, taking pictures of old, dilapidated houses and buildings, it's probably me.

MY TAKE: This is the second book in a series. The first book was "No Other" that I have reviewed in the past. The first one is set during WWII and is about the internment of Germans. The second book is more about the life of a married couple who have left their little town for Hollywood so the wife can make it as a movie star. Though I liked both of the books very much, I must say that I liked the first one better. I would rate the first one a five star and then rate "In All Things" four stars. Not that the writing wasn't very good, but there was a lot of "angst" as Shawna put it and it was hard to read. I will say the ending is worth reading to the end!

INTERVIEW WITH SHAWNA

1. Have you always wanted to write. Shawna how did you come up with this series and how long did it take you to finish your first book - including editing.

In All Things and No Other are linked very closely. In fact, the original version of both books was one story. That story was inspired by a dream, and before that dream I had never intended to be a writer.

The dream was really profound, like scenes from a movie. I found myself thinking about it constantly for the next six month, trying to fill in the details between scenes. It eventually became so complicated that I had to start writing it. At first it was to satisfy my own curiosity, but over time I grew to love the characters, love their story, and love writing.

This story actually took about eight years to mature into its finished form. When I started it my kids were very small, so it took me about two years to complete, and it was dreadfully long and horribly written. I made several attempts to revise it, but I hadn't taken the time to really learn what I was doing, so I pretty much just revised it from one terrible book into another terrible book.

When I did decide to get serious about writing, I spent some time just learning before I really dug in to make the book the story I knew it could be. I realized immediately that it wasn't one book, but two. I wrote No Other first, and it took about six months. A lot of the editing came as I wrote, and more edits through the publisher after it was under contract.

Desert Breeze went ahead and contracted In All Things even though it wasn't revised and rewritten into its own book. Writing In All Things was quite an experience. I worked on it for nine months before it was due, but the final story didn't really form until the last four. The previous five months I kept starting new drafts, and I'd get 2/3rds of the way through and feel like the whole thing was slipping away from me. Part of the problem had been that I was trying to hold onto some elements and a character from the original that no longer had a place in the new book. Once I let that go, everything fell in place. I wrote the last thirty thousand words in the three weeks before the due date. I had a friend and my hubby read as I wrote to help catch typos and poor phrasing, but it was edited by the publisher after I turned it in.

2. I really enjoyed "In All Things" the second in a series, but it was a little different from "No Other". How did you come up with the plot? By the way, I loved the ending.

Well, I always knew that Jakob and Meri's story wasn't complete in No Other. No Other is about their romance, but their underlying struggles are still there. I think by the end of No Other they were more aware of them, but dealing with them doesn't come so easily. Knowing that one needs to rely on God isn't as easy as actually doing it. And their path was complicated by past events. I wanted to explore how those things might have played out in later years, not just between Jakob and Meri, but with other members of both families.

In All Things is ten years later. It's actually more of a character journey than a romance. I also wanted to write about a mature marriage. So many stories end with the guy and girl getting together and life being happily-ever-after, but marriage takes work. Sometimes couples really struggle. I wanted to write about that, too. The main idea of the story, though, was to complete the journey from No Other, with all things coming together in healing.

3. What is next in the series, and do you have anything planned after this series?

I'm currently working on a spin off about Roger. I'd like to write about his journey from the snotty, kiss-up, wannabe son-in-law to the district attorney. I have a feeling he's going to be going after Meri's dad for his involvement with the mob. I'm even planning on bringing in that character I had to cut from the original. I also plan to include Esther, Jakob's sister, in this story. No romantic involvement; she's way too young for Roger, but there'll be a link between her, Ralph, Ralph's sister and Roger. I haven't signed a contract for this yet because I'd like to be further along before I commit to a deadline.

4. Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?

You always hear the phrase 'write what you know' but I think it's equally important, if not more-so, that an author writes who they are. Yes, we have to learn the craft, pay attention to trends and whatnot. Those things are important. Just be sure that in doing so you don't lose yourself. God gave us this calling because of who we are, and the best stories come from a sincere heart.

We start off with this dream to write because of this passion deep inside, and of course we want to get published, but I hope beginning writers will ask themselves which is more important; to write what you love, or to write to get published. There's a difference. I'm not saying that they are exclusive of each other because obviously they aren't. It's just that it's a tough journey and the reason for writing can be easily obscured.

Do you have anything you want to donate for a giveaway?

I'd love to give away a pdf copy of either In All Things or No Other and a freshwater pearl bracelet.

THINGS TO DO TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

1. BE A FOLLOWER OR BECOME A FOLLOWER. LEAVE AN EMAIL ADDRESS SO I CAN CONTACT THE WINNER.

2. VISIT SHAWNA'S WEBSITE AT http://shawnakwilliams.com/Home_Page.html. THE PICTURE OF THE HOUSE PLAYS A SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN HER BOOKS.

3. TELL ME WHAT YOU THINK OF EBOOKS. DO YOU HAVE AN EREADER (NOOK, KINDLE, ETC) OR ARE YOU INTERESTED IN GETTING ONE. WHAT PART DO YOU THINK THEY WILL PLAY IN THE FUTURE OF BOOKS.

4. The Giveaway ends December 20th, 2010,

HAPPY READING!

ANOTHER WINNER

2010-11-28T19:16:00.000-08:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO ANN WHO IS THE WINNER OF

ALICE K ARENZ "MIRRORED IMAGE".

AND THE WINNER IS !!!!!!!

2010-11-21T09:01:00.000-08:00

THE WINNER FOR VICKI MCDONOUGH'S A BRIDE BEFORE CHRISTMAS IS

JAN CLINE

CONGRATUATIONS JAN!

Review And Give Away for Mirrored Image by Alice K. Arenz

2010-11-10T12:23:00.001-08:00

Another great interview and give away for the month of November. I want you to welcome Alice K. Arenz as a guest on my blog. Alice has written several cozy mysteries The Case of the Bouncing Grandma and The Case of the Mystified M.D.

Today we are going to be talking about Alice's latest book Mirrored Image, a romantic suspense. First let me tell you a little bit about Alice:

2010 ACFW Carol Award winning author, Alice K. Arenz author of October 2010 suspense Mirrored Image has been writing since she was a child. Her earliest publication was in a small, family-owned newspaper where her articles, essays, and poems were frequently included. In the mid-90s, her writing earned her a stent with a well known New York literary agency, and although it failed to produce the hoped for results, her determination to become published eventually led her to Sheaf House Publishing.

Arenz also writes cozy mysteries under A. K. Arenz. The Case of the Bouncing Grandma,was a finalist in the 2009 American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year contest. the second in the Bouncing Grandma Series, The Case of the Mystified M. D., won the 2010 ACFW Carol Award for mystery. She lives in Missouri with her husband and two Himalayan cats.

Back Cover of Mirrored Image: Their faces were the same. Will their fates be as well. The uncanny resemblance between eccentric newspaper columnist Cassandra Chase and a murder victim gives Detective Jeff MacMichael's the haunting suspicion that there is a link between the two women. As he is increasingly drawn to Cassie, a rash of attacks leads him to conclude she was the murderer's real mark -- and to wonder if he can keep her alive.

My take: For those of you who have read my blog in the past you know that my favorite genre is mysteries. Out of the genre of mysteries cozies would be my favorite. Next and certainly not least would be romantic suspense. Just by reading the back cover of Mirrored Image you get a sense of tension and suspense. I think Alice did a wonderful job jumping from writing cozy mysteries to writing a fast-paced suspense. Anyone who decides to read Mirrored Image will not be disappointed.

Alice thank you so much for be a guest on Butterfly Journey.

1. I know you have written Christian Cozies in the past. What made you decide to try Suspense this time. Actually, I’d always written mystery/suspense. It was the cozies that were the “new” thing for me---and the one that got my foot in the door of Sheaf House.

2. How did you come up with your plot and your characters for "Mirrored Image"?

I don’t really have an answer for that other than God. I don’t consciously look for a plot or characters---I’m totally a seat-of-the-pants author. Um . . . that might be better explained as a listener/obeyer (is that a word?) writer. I’ve always felt that God – through the Holy Spirit – reveals bits and pieces of plot and character. After they rumble around in my head for a while, they start demanding to be let out. That’s when the writing starts – and the surprises.

I know that doesn’t answer your question, but it’s the way it happens for me.

3. What is your next novel about (and title)? An American Gothic

You told me there is a butterfly theme in your upcoming novel, can you tell us a little about this or will we just have to wait and see? I believe that butterflies are a very unique and wonderful creature. Beyond that, I wouldn’t want to spoil the story.

4. As an aspiring/struggling writer would you please give some advice to all of us with a goal of being published someday?

I always say that the best advice is to be sure this is really something you not only want to do, but that you truly feel that God is leading you to write. If the answer to both of these is “yes,” then go for it. Learn all you can, read everything in the genre(s) you want to write, attend conferences and meet authors and others waiting to be discovered, and pray. Above all, pray. It’s not an easy road. Even after you get published, there may be bumps and bruises along the way. But if this is where God is calling you to be, and you feel it deep inside, then never, ever give up. And you know what? I continue to remind myself of this every single day.

Now to enter the giveaway:

1. You must be a follower or sign up as a new follower. Also, this giveaway is limited to those living in the US. Please leave an email address.

2. Have you read sub-genres in mysteries such as cozies, romantic suspense, suspense, thriller, etc.

3. Visit Alice's website and check it out.

4. The contest will end on 11/28/2010.

HAPPY READING

Giveaway from Vicki McDonough

2010-11-02T13:07:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to have as a guest on my blog for November, Vicki McDonough, author of Anonymous Bride and Second Chance Brides as well as many other books. I have read both of these books and throughly enjoyed them. There were many times I laughed out loud at the antics taking place. I think you will, too.

Vicki has graciously donated one of her books A Bride by Christmas as a giveaway. With Christmas just around the corner this will be a great read. Lets get started with the interview:

1. Can you tell me how you decided on this series? I was trying to come up with an idea for a new book and started asking "what if" questions. The one that stuck in my mind was: What if a mail-order bride arrives in town to marry a man who never ordered a bride? Then I wondered how I could take that situation and make it worse, so I ask myself: What if three mail-order brides showed up in town expecting to marry the same man, only he hadn't ordered a bride. I wondered how something like that could happen and if it did, what would the man do about it? The wheels of my mind kept turning--and I brainstormed ideas with my critique partners--and that's how The Anonymous Bride was born.

What about the characters and plot? I knew that there would need to be some "sidekick" characters in this book--the ones who actually ordered the brides and decided they would be my hero's cousins, two men who grew up with him in the same small Texas town. I wanted a hurting hero who'd been jilted big time and was now skittish toward women. And then I set up the poor guy with more brides than he could use. It was a lot of fun. :)

2. Is there going to be another book in the series after "Second Chance Brides"? Yes, Finally A Bride is the third and final book in the Texas Boardinghouse Brides series. It tells the story of Jack, the tomboy girl whose story thread runs through the first two books. She is now grown up but that doesn't keep her from making impulsive choices that backfire and get her into all kinds of weird circumstances. Enter the man who has the guts and where-with-all to tame her. Readers will also see the return of a past character or two from previous books. Finally A Bride releases in April.

Are you working on anything else? Yes, I'm currently writing the second book in a historical series set in South Carolina. The first book, Mutiny of the Heart, releases in December. It's the story of a woman who travels from Canada to deliver a young boy(after the boy's mother has died) to his father--a wealthy Charleston ship builder--but the man never knew of the boy and claims it's impossible for the child to be his.

Also, here's some exciting new news--I'll be writing a prairie romance series for Guideposts called Whispers on the Prairie. This will be for a new line of books, and the first book, Light of a Silent Dawn, will release next fall.

3. I love the humor in your books. What made you decide to use humor? Humor comes natural to me. My dad was a big joker and loved to tease and pull pranks on people. He loved to laugh, and I'm glad that I inherited part of his funny bone. I think it's taken me a while to catch my stride in writing and learning to use humor. It's a hard thing to write, because humor is very selective. What one person sees as funny might just offend someone else. But I love to read funny things in books and try to give my readers something to laugh at in each story I write.

4. As an aspiring author I always like to ask guest authors what advice they have for us still plugging along on our manuscripts. Take the time you need to develop your craft and don't be in a rush to get published. I'm using parts of the third book I ever wrote in a story I'm now working on. It's roughly the same concept--a story about a man who has been raised to believe that family is the most important thing next to God. It's so important to him that he would deny himself the love of his life because he fell for the woman his brother is engaged to. When I first wrote this book, I thought it was fabulous I just knew an editor was going to scoop it up the minute it came across his/her desk. Well, not so. It got rejected and never found a home. Six years later, I realize this plot is perfect for the story I'm now wanting to write. So, I thought I'd polish it up a bit and viola! I have an easy book. Not so. My stomach is turning as I re-read it. The romance is so gushy, the dialogue so immature, the descriptions so over-the-top. It was a real eye-opener. I've grown so much as a writer since I wrote this that my own story was nauseating. If I judged this book in a contest, it would have gotten a mediocre score. The plot was good, but the writing definitely needed work. Looking back, I can see how God protected me in not letting this book get published back then, but at the time, I was heart broken. It's interesting how our perspective can change over time. What I though was the next great novel--wasn't. Only writing and more writing and studying the craft can make you a better writer. You only got one shot to pitch your book to an editor, so don't get in a hurry and take the time you need to develop your craft.

Thanks so much for having me as a guest today!

Vickie McDonough

Thank you Vicki for being our guest. Now here are a few housekeeping things you need to do to enter for the book:

1. Be a follower or sign up as a follower. Please leave an email address so I can contact you if you win.

2. What time period do you like to read about the most?

3. Do you enjoy humor in the books you read?

4. Now, go on over to Vicki's website and check out all of the fantastic books she has written and learn a little more about Vicki.

The giveaway will end on November 20th.

Thank you to all of my followers. I appreciate your support more than you know!

Deborah

HAPPY READING!

- Show quoted text -

Queen of the Castle Devotional

2010-10-29T19:38:00.000-07:00

I found this post over at Colletta's Kitchen Sink. I think it is a wonderful idea and I plan to follow along with the devotion beginning in January. I ordered the book from Amazon for .89. You can't beat that price. I will have it listed on My Amazon Bookstore on the right side of my blog. All you have to do is click on the book and it will take you to the site. Here is Colletta's post.

I wish I would have known when she started so I could follow along but she did inspire me to get the book and blog about my week-by-week study of it on my own.

The book contains "52 weeks of encouragement for the uninspired, dometically challenged or just plain tired homemaker."

Does this sound like you? Would you like to do this study with me?

Here's the book description from Amazon:

Being a keeper of the home demands that women possess a wide range of skills, from knowing what to do with a pound of ground round to being able to corral a rampant toddler and manage the carpooling schedule. Says author Lynn Walker, "By the time most of us realize we're a few towels short of a load in our homemaking skills, we're up to our thighs in dirty little soccer uniforms and don't have time to read a different book for each part of the job." Now the training, skills and tips every woman needs are all here in one delightful-to-read volume. From mothering to marriage, gardening to grilling, family vacations to flea markets, time management to Thanksgiving meals, chores and chocolate breaks, spiritual reminders and stress relievers, Walker presents "I've been there, sister" advice, recipes, ideas and funny stories for every woman who, like her, is NOT Homemaker of the Year. Five minutes a day, 52 weeks a year is all a woman needs to get the most of this inspiring, helpful read.

A few chapter titles are "Housework, Done Correctly Can Kill You" and "Trippity Doo-Dah: The Family Vacation".

I've paged through the book and it looks great! It contains quotes, specific prayer ideas, and key Bible verses. There are even "Chocolate Breaks"!

I'm really excited about this book and am going to find it hard to wait until January to start but I want to stick with the flow of the book and it starts with January.

What do you think? Are you in? Do you want to be the Queen of Your Castle? I know I do.

Where is your office?

2010-10-24T20:39:00.000-07:00

As I sat on my couch I wondered where other writers had their office. I don't have an offical office, but I do have a regular desk in a corner of my bedroom. When I write at my desk it makes my shoulders hurt after a short time at the computer. The desk is just too high. I've found it is much more comfortable to sit on the couch with my computer on my lap. My brother bought me a portable lap top desk the other day and I really like it too. I can sit on the couch and use it, but it is still more comfortable with it in my lap.

Do you have a favorite writing place. I would love to hear your story.

HAPPY READING!

Part Four in Big 4 Genres: Christian Suspense/Mystery

2010-10-19T20:23:00.000-07:00

This is the last section of the Big Four Genres in Christian fiction by Ron Benrey from "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing Cristian Fiction." It is also my favorite genre. I hope you've enjoyed reading about these four genres.

Christian Suspense/Mystery

Christians suspense and Christian mystery novels both focus on crime, but in different ways. Sometimes novels keep the reader guessing, wondering if the lead character, usually the heroine, will survive the onslaught of evil deeds directed against her. Mystery novels pose a puzzle, challenging the reader to figure out "who done it?" as the detective -- the heroine or hero -- works to identify the perpetrator. Both kinds of novel ratchet up the tension with each passing chapter.

Suspense and mystery novels typically have highly "internal" voices -- readers experience the heroines fear, uncertainty, in a race against time, and participate in the detectives thought processes as she solves the crime.

Both suspense and mystery of popular genres in their own right, and both have important subgenres:

* romantic suspense

* romantic mystery

* cozy mystery

The romantic suspense and romantic mystery sub genres don't need much explanation. they are novels that have fully developed romances as part of their plots. Cozies are "kinder, gentler" mysteries were clever plot twists are more important than graphic, in-your-face violence, where action takes place in an unusual setting that's fun to read about, where cats, dogs, and other pets are significant characters, and which may involve an elaborate MacGuffin, a bout a detail rich topic such as Bell ringing, fishing, painting, sailing, were museum management.

There seems to be a growing interest in the cozy mysteries, with some Christian publishers actually starting new cozy lines. However, Christian cozies face an interesting challenge: they must compete with mainline cozy mysteries, which are typically gentle radiance that meet most of the rules and conventions of Christian fiction. They don't carry explicit Christian messages, but they can be read without offense by most Christian readers.

As all writers of suspense and mystery novels know, it's often easier to put your characters in hot water than to get them out. Christian novelist are sometimes tempted to resolve plotting difficulties via improbable miracles, astonishing answered prayers, or other last-minute acts of God. This approach is often nothing more than a Christian variation on the ancient Greek dramatic technique of introducing a well-known god into the story at the end to untangle difficult plot problems. a pulley system lowered the gods statue to the stage and into the action. The term deus ex machina -- god from the machine-- is now used to label all artificial or improbable plot devices that miraculously resolve problems and bring a story to a close.

God must play an important role in every Christian novel, but readers of suspense and mystery novels expect the hero and heroines to get out of hot water mostly by their own devices. A bit of Gods help is fine--but God should not do their work for them.

Suspense and mystery novels all for a reasonable chance of success to the first-time novelist. Most Christian publishers have a few in their catalog, and some publishers produce several each year. length depends on publisher and sub genre, and can range from 55,000 words to about 95,000 words.

Among the most popular secular mystery novels are "police procedurals" -- stories that depict the gritty realities of police work-- and hard boiled private eye novels-- stories about knight-like private detectives who walked the main streets alone.a few Christian novels in these categories are published each year, but they appeal mostly to male readers. a first-time novelist won't find it easy to break in. Still, it can be done -- if you have highly polished writing skills.

Christian thrillers are often treated as sub genres of suspense, and like suspense novels, they keep the hero and heroine and continuous peril. The difference is that the stakes in a thriller are usually much higher. The protagonist is driven to do more than save himself -- or herself -- the storyline may involve a threat to the country, to our way of life, to Christianity, or even to the whole world.

Legal thrillers are thrillers set in courtrooms, or involving strong legal themes. They probably should be called legal suspense novels, because many revolve around the legal challenges faced by one character. Similarly, medical thrillers build suspense in a hospital or laboratory setting. Christian intrigue is a fairly small category that is often grouped with suspense. This is the time of the spy novel -- and similar fights of fancy --set in international locations and filled with secret agents and derring-do.

Because there are several successful Christian thriller writers, and because the market is limited, I don't recommend first-time novelist tackle the sub genre -- unless you are confident that you have especially good writing skills and can tell an extra compelling story.

Once again, I hope you've enjoyed reading about the different genres and what makes them the genre they are. I ask for forgiveness if any of the words come out misspelled or crazy sounding as I sometimes use my Dragon Naturally Speaking and it doesn't always understand my Southern accent. LOL

HAPPY READING!

Part Three in Big 4 Genres: Christian Romance

2010-10-18T20:35:00.000-07:00

This is part three in the "Big Four Genres" written in Ron Benrey's "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing Christian Fiction". Stayed turned for part four - my genre "Christian Suspense and Mystery".

Christian Romance

Half of the mass-market paperback novels sold each year are romances and -- secular and Christian. romances are so popular, in fact, that most Christian publishers produce some -- and a few make romance novels the heart of their offerings.

All romance novels are about love, but some might not be considered traditional love stories. The vital distinction is that many of stories have sad endings -- think Romeo and Juliet or the movie Casablanca -- while romance novels and happily and optimistically, with a live hero and heroine, in a fully realized romance. If the pair aren't married by the end of the novel, the reader feels confident that they're on their way to the altar.

Christian romance may well be the easiest genre for a first-time novelist to enter,because romance publishers have a voracious appetite for manuscripts. Some will still consider unagented manuscripts. Also, so-called "category romances" are only 45,000 to 60,000 words long, depending on the publisher. Many romance novelist report that they are easier to write than the longer novels demanded by other popular genres. Category romances are published in a variety of sub genres, or categories -- such as romance, romantic suspense, romantic intrigue, and historical romance. Publishers of category romance produce a few brooks in each category each month. The books are often numbered for easy identification and are available for a short period of time -- typically until next month's romances push them off the shelf. The two leading Christian category romance publishers are Steeple Hill(an imprint of Harlequin) and Barbour Books.

No other Christian genre has more sub genres and romance. The list includes historical romance, Gothic romance, romantic suspense, romantic mysteries, prairie romance, Western romance, fantasy romance, humorous romance, mature romance, and ethic romance -to name a few possibilities. Full-length romances range from 75,000 to 95,000 words.

There are conventions and the romance genre that are important for you to recognize:

* Because most readers are women, stories are usually towed from the heroine's point of view (or at least begin and end from her point of view).

*The hero and heroine meet in the first chapter-- this is the romance novel equivalent of beginning the story in media res, in the middle of things.

*The shifting relationship between hero and heroine is the heart of the story(the reason why readers read romance novels); readers don't appreciate back story or extraneous detail that gets in the way.

*The lead characters are often stereotypes-- the beautiful female with a mind of her own, the handsome alpha male used to getting his own way.

* The story takes place over a compressed time period -- a few days or weeks, which means that the heroine and heroes relationship must develop more quickly than a real relationship.

Most Christian romances follow a well-known story plan: girl meets boy, girl falls for boy, girl loses boy, girl gets boy again -- where some sort of misunderstanding, personality conflict, or external force drives them apart after their relationship has begun. This storyline is so familiar that it may strike you as a cliché. In fact, it can serve as the frame for an unlimited number of different stories, because there are so many possible variations for each one of the elements

Winner for "And the Beat Goes On" by Tracy Krauss

2010-10-17T19:08:00.002-07:00

AND THE WINNER IS: BARB - BARJAN

THANK EVERYONE FOR PARTICIPATING AND FOR YOUR COMMENTS. I HAVE ENJOYED READING ALL OF THE COMMENTS ABOUT "EDGY" CHRISTIAN FICTION. SOME OF YOU HAD HEARD THE TERM AND OTHERS HAD NOT. BUT I BELIEVE EDGY CHRISTIAN FICTION IS HERE TO STAY. I THINK THE BOTTOM LINE IS THAT IT TRIES TO REPRESENT THE CHALLENGES AND REALISTIC TRIALS THAT CHRISTIANS FACE EVERY DAY. AND A SPECIAL THANK YOU FOR TRACY FOR BEING A GUEST ON MY BLOG!

I APPRECIATE EACH AND EVERY ONE OF MY FOLLOWERS/SUPPORTERS. BE ON THE LOOK OUT FOR TWO NEW GIVEAWAYS NEXT MONTH. "SECOND CHANCE BRIDES" BY VICKIE MCDONOUGH AND "MIRRORED IMAGE" BY ALICE K. ARENZ. YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THESE TWO BOOKS.

HAPPY READING!

Tune Up

2010-10-16T04:24:00.000-07:00

I will be out of commission for a couple of days. I'm taking my computer in for a tune-up. Looking forward to getting back a more efficient computer.

HAPPY READING!

Christian Historical Fiction

2010-10-14T19:09:00.000-07:00

Part II in The Big Four Genres:

Christian Historical Fiction

Historical fiction, one of the most popular Christian fiction genres, tells stories set in the past. The dividing line used by many publishers as 1950; anything later is considered contemporary fiction.

Almost any historical time is fair game, but certain eras seem to intrigue readers-and editors -- in the United States: Civil War, post -- Civil War, Ragtime era(1895 to 1900), the Great Depression, and World War II. In Great Britain: Tudor( 1495 -- 1603) and Elizabethan (1558-1603), Regency

( 1811 -- 1820), Victorian( 1837 -- 1901), and 18th century Scotland.

Some historical novels include actual historical events in making famous people of the day cameo roles in the story. Others tell a story divorced from actual history; the historical times and places serve as stage sets that enable purely fictional characters to interact with each other. In either case, readers take a trip through time and enjoy the opportunity to experience a vivid sense of life in a different era. Depending on the publisher the length of Christian historical's ranges from 75,000 to more than 100,000 words.

Many first-time authors who set out to write Christian historical novels discover a more challenging task than they expected. Getting the details of history right demands extensive research to learn what historical figures wore, what they ate, how they dressed, how they talked, how they lived, how they thought, and how they prayed -- there's no end in sight to the myriad of information a successful historical may demand.

Planning an historical novel can also be a thorny task. You must find a compelling way to "retell" historical events that are significant, but may lack the dramatic tension of a good storyline. You must create subplots that fit into the chronology of events that history gives you. You must present real people of the day accurately and realistically. And you must invent fictional characters who are credible participants in a significant historical event.

I hope you enjoyed reading part two of the big four genres. Once again I must give credit to Ron Benrey and his book "The Idiot's Guide to Writing Christian Fiction." Stay tuned for part three:

Christian Romance.

HAPPY READING!

THE BIG FOUR GENRES

2010-10-13T20:23:00.000-07:00

I've been reading "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing Christian Fiction" by Ron Benrey. We I read some of the information I think that would be great for my blog. So giving all the credit to Ron Benrey I'm going to take a genre each day and write what he has to say about each one.

CHRISTIAN CONTEMPORARY FICTION

Christian contemporary fiction is, like "general fiction," a broad category that encompasses novels that don't fit specific genres. I want to emphasize at the start that contemporary fiction is not a catchall category for jumbled genre books. Rather, it is the grouping for "uncategorized" novels that do not follow the conventions of well defined genres such as romance, mystery, suspense, or historical.

Christian contemporaries are usually full -- length novels, typically between 85,000 and 110,000 words. In fact, few 110,000 were Christian novels are published these days; the practical maximum work count is closer to 100,000 words. Publishers seem to prefer smaller books, perhaps because the cost less to produce. Many Christian contemporaries are reviewed by mainstream publications, and some become crossover gobbles with significant sales to secular readers.

"Christian women's fiction" is often considered part of contemporary fiction. You'll sometimes see "contemporary/women's fiction" as the name of the category. These are contemporary novels that deal with issues of special interest to women, including such angst filled topics as poverty, spousal abuse, child abuse, family breakdown, and abortion. They often contain love stories, but present romantic elements more introspectively and possibly less optimistically that a romance novel.

Sprawling categories like contemporary fiction will often have "subgenres" -- smaller groupings carved out of the main genre. For example, "Christian chick lit" is a recently developed contemporary sub genre that tells humorous stories of twenty something and possibly 30 something unmarried women. Because the plots typically revolve around their heroines efforts to get married, some observers view chick lit as a sub genre of the romance category. Others don't, first because a chick lit story doesn't necessarily lead to a "fully realized" romance and wedding, and second because chick lit often invites readers to laugh at other issues shared by single women, including their careers and their family relationships.

Chick lit started as a secular sub genre that often includes fairly loose -- living heroines who think materialistic, drink a lot, and engage in recreational sex. these elements are not included in Christian chick lit.

Another contemporary fiction subgenre -- one that waxes and wanes in popularity -- is the so-called "Christian character novel." The hallmark of a character novel is that the characters are more important than the plot. The actual story will be simple; so simple that some readers might say, "nothing happens as the story unfolds." In fact, one or more of the characters is changing -- usually in response to a combination of external and internal forces.

The next post will be on Christian Historical Fiction and it is very interesting. I learned a lot from this next section. Stay tuned!

HAPPY READING!