Spotlight on Nancy Mehl and In the Dead of Winter

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nancy Mehl's novels are all set in her home state of Kansas. Although some people think of Kansas as nothing more than flat land and cattle, she believes they really are quite interesting. Nancy is a mystery buff who loves the genre and is excited to see more inspirational mysteries becoming available to readers who share her passion. Her "Ivy Towers Mystery Series" combines two of her favorite things – mystery and snow. Unfortunately, the past several winters have been pretty dry. She enjoys writing fiction because she can make it snow as much as she wants!

Nancy works for the City of Wichita, assisting low-income seniors and the disabled. She also spends time with her volunteer group, Wichita Homebound Outreach. She lives in Wichita, Kansas with her husband of thirty-five years, Norman. Her son, Danny, is a successful graphic designer. He designed covers for several of her previous books.

IN THE DEAD OF WINTER
by Nancy Mehl
Published by Barbour Publishing / Heartsong Presents Mysteries

ABOUT THE BOOK

College student Ivy Towers reluctantly returns to Winter Break, Kansas to settle the estate of her late, great-aunt Bitty Flanagan, owner of Miss Bitty's Bygone Bookstore. Bitty's fall from a library ladder seems suspicious to Ivy, and items are missing from the store. An anonymous note confirms Ivy's worst fears. Someone in Winter Break murdered Aunt Bitty. But why? Ivy and her former boyfriend, Deputy Sheriff Amos Parker, search for the truth about Bitty's death and discover dark secrets that are worth killing for. As harsh winter weather rages all around Winter Break, another storm brews deep in Ivy's heart. Everything she believes will be tested, and in the end, she will discover that love lurks in the most unexpected places.

Buy Your Copy Today!

In the Dead of Winter will be available on Amazon sometime this month. For anyone who is interested in purchasing a copy, you can e-mail me at nancymehlbooks [at] hotmail.com, and I will notify you when it's available.

One important note: Cozy in Kansas is already available for preorder on Amazon and on Christianbook.com. Cozy will contain the first three Ivy Tower mysteries: In the Dead of Winter, Bye, Bye Bertie, and For Whom the Wedding Bell Tolls. It will be released in December.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this your story in this anthology?

Believe it or not, I think it began with frustration over the lack of snow one winter. My agent told me Barbour's new mystery book club was accepting proposals for cozy mysteries. So I sat down at the computer and started typing. I created a place in Kansas where it snowed more than anywhere else in the state. A place where "winter comes early and stays late." Truth be told, Winter Break, Kansas is my perfect town. The place I'd live if it existed. The rest of the story evolved from there.

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

I truly believe authors transfer some of their own traits to their characters. To create characters with depth, you must be able to understand them. Some authors who craft particularly villainous individuals may not admit to this, but all of us have had selfish motives and desires in our lives. Perhaps we would never go to the extent our antagonists go – but we understand the drive behind their deeds.

In reference to In the Dead of Winter, I related to Ivy in many ways. Her desire for a simpler life in a small town is mine. Her attraction to old Victorian houses comes from me, along with her enjoyment of books. Her love for God and her desire for justice stems from me. Unfortunately, her nosiness and impatience are mine also. One of my friends said that when she read In the Dead of Winter, she just envisioned me as Ivy. Nice to hear since Ivy is in her twenties and I'm in my...(cough, cough).

As far as traits that belong to my characters that are not mine: I would never tackle a one pound cheeseburger like the one made by Ruby in Ruby's Redbird Diner. (Maybe one half now and one half later!) I find a pound of meat a rather unsettling proposition. Also, I think Ivy is a little braver than I am. She spends time alone in a funeral home because it's the only place where she can use a computer. I don't think you'd ever find me doing the same thing. When she hears a noise, thinking someone is in the mortuary who shouldn't be there, she tries to escape out the front door. I would either be crouched in a fetal position inside a locked room – or passed out on the floor – making myself a much easier target!

3. What themes exist in In the Dead of Winter that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

There are a few things. First of all I want everyone who reads my books to come away with something more than a good story. I certainly want them to enjoy themselves and get away from life for a while, but I also want to let them know that God loves them. In the Dead of Winter is about a girl who discovers that God has a plan for her life. And even though it looks different than the life He has for her parents, she finds out that it's just as important. God has a plan for all of us. To me, one of the saddest things in life is to find someone who feels like a "generality" instead of a "specific" – someone who has a purpose. We all have "the mark of the high calling" to achieve. We're all important to God. Whether we feel purposeless or whether we've cut God out of our future with our own plans and purposes, it’s important to bring our lives and lay them down at His feet, asking Him to put us on the "ordered path" he has for us. Our true fulfillment lies in this.

Also, there is a theme of forgiveness in my book. Forgiveness is the greatest gift you can give yourself. Forgiving others and forgiving yourself will set you free to be everything God has called you to be. Holding on to resentment, jealously or self-pity will stop you in your tracks. These things are life-killers. The idea of forgiveness did tend to grow as the story progressed, even though I did plan to address it. In the end, it became very important to the plot.

There is one truth that I have determined to always make a theme in everything I write. It is the fact that God is good. In In the Dead of Winter, Pastor Taylor says over and over, "The goodness of God gives me strength." It's important for everyone to know God for who He truly is. This is where our strength and our comfort come from. There is an unfortunate perception in the world (and in some parts of the church) that God is going around giving people diseases or taking loved ones from them. This is absolutely false. God is a good God. He is loving, kind, and merciful. He gave His most precious gift to a sinful world to bridge the gap between sin and holiness. He has made it clear that His love never changes, and it is to be trusted above everything. I've promised God that I will never, ever write anything that compromises that truth.

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

Actually, I enjoyed writing all of it. It's the editing that gets to me! When I find that I've repeated words or used the same non-verbal actions ten times in one scene – I get very frustrated. In one part of the story, I had Ivy touching people so often, she appeared to be in need of some kind of counseling!

In the Dead of Winter was my first cozy mystery. My other books had more suspense. In cozies, humor is a part of the story. I had a blast trying out my "funny side, not only in dialogue but in creating quirky characters. I've had more fun writing these cozy mysteries than anything else I've ever done.

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

Bye, Bye Bertie has already been released to the book club. It will available to the public in six months. In Bertie, Ivy finds a map she thinks will lead to a treasure. Instead, she finds something much different. Also, Ivy and Amos (the local deputy sheriff) will take an important step in their relationship. And a new character will be introduced. Someone who has been missing a long, long time. Can't say anymore because it will give the plot away!

There are two more in this series, For Whom the Wedding Bell Tolls, and There Goes Santa Claus.

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of In the Dead of Winter.

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

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

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

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Spotlight on Kathleen Kovach and Florida Weddings

Today, I have the honor of spotlighting a friend and now Zone Director of the Rocky Mountain Zone for ACFW. But the best part about her story in this anthology featured is that I helped her with some of it and even received an acknowledgment in the book. I was tickled pink when I saw that. So, without further ado, here's Kathy and her book, Merely Players, as part of the Florida Weddings anthology.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kathleen Kovach (known as Kathy by her friends) believes that if they'd done an ultrasound on her mother while she was with child, they'd have found a writing instrument clutched in her tiny hand.

After a lifetime of writing short stories, plays, and poems, God finally released Kathy to write as a career in 2002. This happened at the Colorado Christian Writers Conference where she won first place in the unpublished writers contest for her article "If Anyone Hears My Voice." She also met her editors, Jim and Tracie Peterson from Barbour's Heartsong Presents, who became intrigued with her heroine's profession, a dolphin trainer. By 2006, that novel, Merely Players, became published and went on to place second in the Inspirational Readers Choice Contest (IRCC) 2007. Then in May of this year it was bundled with two other stories by Lynn Coleman and Kristy Dykes under the title, Florida Weddings. In 2007, Kathy teamed up with Mary Davis, Sally Laity, and Jeri Odell for Love Letters, a Barbour novella collection about unique expressions of love, (hers takes place through fortune cookies.) Heartsong holds a readers poll every year, and in 2008, Kathy placed in the upper five of the Favorite New Author category.

After her contest win at CCWC, Kathy became leader of her local critique group, JOY Writers. She joined a local association, Colorado Writers Fellowship, and also a national organization, American Christian Fiction Writers, www.acfw.com. Her affiliation with ACFW eventually led to a position as the Colorado Coordinator, and she just recently moved up as the Rocky Mountain Zone Director.

Kathy lives in northeast Colorado (out where the buffalo roam) with her husband of 30+ years. She has two sons, three grandchildren, and two grandpets - all of whom, at one point or another, have taken advantage of the revolving door on her empty nest.

FLORIDA WEDDINGS
by Kathleen E. Kovach
Published by Barbour Publishing

ABOUT THE BOOK

Contemporary Romance: These fast-paced, simmering Florida romances are the perfect read while relaxing on the beach or reclining on the couch. Here you'll encounter the stories of three very different women. Renee Austin, accused of crimes she didn't commit, finds her relationship and reputation in jeopardy. Jeris Waldron and her wounded heart seem unprepared to take on a ready-made family. Bethany Hamilton, haunted by death and loss, cannot seem to escape her past, no matter where she hides. Do these three females have the faith and the fortitude to follow their hearts under the Floridian sun?

Buy Your Copy Today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this your story in this anthology?

My husband and I lived in Fort Walton Beach, Florida for ten years before he retired from the Air Force and we moved back to Colorado. While there, we visited the Gulfarium, a small aquarium along the Gulf coast. I loved all the marine mammal shows, but what sparked the idea for a story was the dolphin therapy they offered. Dr. Janet Flowers started this program several years ago to help children with special challenges enhance their therapies already in place. In essence, when they complete a behavior they are rewarded by being allowed to motion a sign to the dolphin so she will do tricks for them. Sometimes they're allowed to get in the water with the dolphin. I've showed both of these techniques in Merely Players, my story in Florida Weddings.

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

I've always been fascinated with acting and did a little bit in high school. I took my love of the art to the extreme and created my characters to be actors. Brick is a movie star and Bethany is involved with community theater. My son, Joey, has been a stage actor since high school. With his experience and mine combined, I had no trouble creating scenes for my characters. As the book progressed, Brick and Bethany became much better actors than I ever dreamed to be. I think I'd rather write about acting now.

3. What themes exist in Merely Players that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

The theme springs from Psalm 139:1 "O Lord, Thou hast searched me, and known me." No matter how much you want to hide from God, he always knows where you are, and more importantly, who you are. The theme became "trust." Bethany has to learn to trust that her feelings toward Brick are God-breathed. She also must trust that God is in her future, and has it all planned out. Brick's trust issues run deeper. After growing up with an abusive father, he has trouble trusting himself with relationships. For the ten years he was away from Bethany, he went from one woman to another, never committing. When he reconnects with Bethany's family, he starts the road back to trusting others. He and I both had an epiphany when I wrote the scene where he realizes he had substituted father figures throughout his life.

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

The hardest were the Gulfarium scenes. This was a foreign world to me and I had to do a lot of research, a fraction of which made it into the book.

My favorite were the theater scenes. They gave me the chance to "become" an actor. The best part was that I didn't have to memorize any lines. *g*

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

I have other romance proposals in to editors but nothing contracted right now. While waiting on those, I'm writing a cozy mystery series about two sisters, possible descendants of the Brothers Grimm, who solve mysteries using their unique knowledge of fairy tales. In the first book, Big Bad Wolf, a girl in a red hoodie is missing and the sisters believe a chef named Wolf is responsible.

Thanks, Tiff, for the opportunity to talk about my book, Florida Weddings -- and specifically Merely Players, the third story in the compilation. The other two stories are by Lynn Coleman and Kristy Dykes. Here's something from the back cover: "The past casts a shadow upon the lives of three Florida women. Can these women find the strength to escape the past and the faith to embrace the future?"

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Thank *you*, Kathy, for being in the spotlight with us.

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Florida Weddings.

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

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

This week, the contest is open to anyone worldwide.

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Promises, Promises Blog Tour Starts Today!

I'm so excited to share with you the amazing schedule of stops I'll be making along this tour. For the next 3 weeks, I have over 30 stops with a fantastic group of blogs and web sites. I'll be doing everything from guest blogging and interviews to answering unique questions and being part of the CFBA Blog Tour from the 21st to the 23rd.

The focus of this tour will be my first book--in honor of it appearing on Amazon.com, Christianbook.com, Parable sites, Barnes & Noble and other retailers online.

** ADDED NOTE (7/10/08): I just learned the links won't be live until August. So, for now, use the links on the books page of this site for ordering. You can get it from Heartsong Presents or Signed by the Author. Your choice.

PLUS, my second book just released on the first, so you'll get to learn a little more about that one as well. It's entitled Quills & Promises, and picks up with the daughter of the main characters in book one. Ordering information can be found on my books page.

And now, without further ado, here is the schedule of stops. I hope to see you there!

BLOG TOUR SCHEDULE

Shirley Connolly (July month-long feature) - http://apenforyourthoughts.blogspot.com/

July 7
Margaret Daley (bio)
Dawn Kinzer at From Dusk 'Til Dawn, Musings of a Night Owl
July 8
Donna Moore at Write by Faith
Kim Woodhouse at God's Grace, Love & Forgiveness
July 9
Margaret Daley (interview)
Amy Riley at The Friendly Book Nook
Book Lover News by Cindy Woodsmall
July 10
Jenny Blake at Come Meet AusJenny
July 11
Rose McCauley
Shauna Sturge at The Coffee Stop
Long and Short Reviews
July 12
Carolyn Strawder at Quiet Time with Carolyn
July 14-19
CAN! blog spotlight at You've Got Books! Fiction
July 14
Martha Rogers at Martha Writes
July 15
Leslie Sowell at A Little Bit of Sunlight
July 16
CFBA blog tour (various blogs) at CFBA
Novel Journey / Novel Reviews
July 17
CFBA blog tour (various blogs) at CFBA
Eileen Astels at A Christian Romance Writer's Journey
Cheryl Wyatt at Squirrel's Treehouse
July 18
CFBA blog tour (various blogs) at CFBA
Cara Putman at Cara's Musings
Tyora Moody at CB Reviews
July 19
Stacy Johnson at Vader's Mom
July 21
Camy Tang at Camy's Loft
Jennifer AlLee at Musings on This, That & The Other Thing
Trish Perry Reading, Writing and the Stuff In-Between
July 22
Cindy Woodsmall at the Plain Talk Blog
July 23
Delia Latham at The Melody Within (review/interview)
July 24
Margaret Chind at Creative Madness
July 25
Delia Latham at The Melody Within (guest blogger)
Christa Allan at Fictionary
July 26
Paula Moldenhauer at Grace Reign

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Spotlight on Vickie McDonough and Virginia Brides

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Vickie McDonough is an award-winning inspirational romance author. She has written six Heartsong Presents novels and six novellas, with more books coming out later this year and next year. Her third Heartsong book, The Bounty Hunter and the Bride, placed in third in the Top Ten Favorite Historical Romance category in Heartsong's 2007 annual contest. Her stories have also placed first in several prestigious contests, such as the ACFW Noble Theme and Book of the Year contests, the Inspirational Readers Choice Contest, and the Texas Gold contest. She has also written books reviews for over six years and enjoys mentoring new writers.

Vickie is an Oklahoma native, wife of over thirty years, mother to four sons, and has a two-year-old granddaughter. When she's not writing, Vickie enjoys reading, gardening, watching movies, and traveling. Vickie loves hearing from her readers at vickie [at] vickiemcdonough [dot] com.

VIRGINIA BRIDES
by Cathy Marie Hake, Vickie McDonough and Susan Page Davis
Published by Barbour Publishing

ABOUT THE BOOK

Historical Romance: The Shenandoah River Valley is full of romantic history that you will enjoy exploring along with the fictional Walsh family. Meet Garnet Wheelock whose indenture has been sold to a respectable widower. Sympathize with Amy Rogers who has lost all her family only to gain motherless children. Ride along with Sadie McEwan as harbored secrets bar the road to love. You relive a gentler time as love and faith are rooted in Virginian soil.

Buy Your Copy Today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for your story in this anthology?

I can't say any one thing gave me the inspiration for Spinning Out of Control, which is the second book in Virginia Brides. It was more a thing of playing "what if." What if a young, destitute woman had to beg sanctuary from her only living relative, a cousin? What if said cousin was in the middle of a rough childbirth when my heroine arrives? What if the cousin dies, leaving the heroine to care for a newborn and a three-year-old? What if the cousin's husband is nowhere to be found? Something like that. I tried to put my heroine in a tough situation and then made it worse.

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

I don't know that any of my experiences influenced my heroine in Spinning Out of Control, except that I've been the mother of four boys. I know the difficulties of raising young children and having to keep a home.

Amy, the heroine in Spinning Out of Control, doesn't trust men. Her father abandoned her and left her and her sickly mother without support. So, when her cousin's husband fails to show up at first, Amy immediately distrusts him and thinks badly about him.

3. What themes exist in Virginia Brides that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

That no matter how bad your situation is, God can help you if you turn to Him.

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

It was hard to kill off the cousin, Kathryn. I think she is the first good person I ever killed in a story. But Kathryn's death was crucial to the plot. Here's something funny. At first, I named Kathryn after Kathleen, a close friend of mine. When my friend found out I killed off her character I could tell she was upset, so I changed the name to Kathryn.

My favorite part of the story was watching the romance develop between Micah and Amy. Micah felt like a failure because he wasn't around when his wife died. At first, he thought his own newborn daughter was Amy's child. He grew a lot and had to overcome his feeling of feeling like Amy was an intruder in his home. Writing Rosie, the three-year-old daughter was fun, too.

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

My next book is a Barbour anthology called A Bride by Christmas. Four people must marry by Christmas to avoid some awful things happening. Also coming out is Oklahoma Brides. This is a repackaging of my three Oklahoma historicals published by Heartsong. Last, is Wild At Heart. This is the first book in a historical series set in North Dakota.

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Virginia Brides.

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

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

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

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Spotlight on Janet Lee Barton and Mississippi Weddings

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Janet Lee Barton has lived all over the southern U.S., but she and her husband plan to now stay put in Oklahoma. With three daughters and six grandchildren between them, they feel blessed to have at least one daughter and her family living in the same town. Janet loves being able to share her faith through her writing. Happily married to her very own hero, she is ever thankful that the Lord brought Dan into her life, and she wants to write stories that show that the love between a man and a woman is at its best when the relationship is built with God at the center. She's very happy that the kind of romances the Lord has called her to write can be read by and shared with women of all ages, from teenagers to grandmothers alike.

MISSISSIPPI WEDDINGS
by Janet Lee Barton
Published by Barbour Publishing

ABOUT THE BOOK

Contemporary Romance: Once you reach the shores of Magnolia Bay, you'll never want to leave. Here you'll find Meagan Evans, a woman torn between her old flame, Nick Chambers, and the man who waits for her back in Texas; the recently widowed Ronni Melrose, whose determination never to open her heart again is tested by Cole Bannister; and Dani Phillips, who loves her job as city manager but begins to see red when Thad Cameron is hired to help save Magnolia Bay's flagging economy. Let yourself be swept away in these tales of three southern belles who take the "Miss" out of "Mississippi."

Buy Your Copy Today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. This is a compilation of your 3 contemporary Mississippi books. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

I fell in love with the quaintness of the Mississippi Gulf Coast long before Katrina devastated it, and I knew I wanted to set a series in that area. The inspiration for the series was about how a quaint small town could be in danger of having it's charm taken away if it let casinos in it's boundaries--and how it was in danger of dying if it did not. The series is about how one town chose to fight for it's life without giving away its soul. All the stories take place in the same fictional town of Magnolia Bay, MS and include characters from the other stories. They are stories are about friends and families who are there for each other and the town they love--and who turn to the Lord to guide them in their fight for right.

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

Hmm. I think our life experiences are always reflected in our writing because we draw from what we know. But there isn't any one thing about my life that is in these characters except to say that they sometimes struggle with things I, and most of us, have struggled with at times in our lives. They struggle with forgiving themselves and others at times. As they grow they learn that its in trusting the Lord to help us through life's ups and downs that we gain real contentment and peace.

3. What themes exist in Mississippi Weddings that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

In Unforgettable, Meagan must learn to forgive and trust in the Lord to guide her. She must put the past where it belongs so that she can look forward to the future.
In To Love Again, Ronni must let go of the pain of betrayal and learn to trust before she can give her heart to another.
In With Open Arms, A whole town learns to trust each other and especially the Lord to help them through a crisis

I believe the overall theme in the series is trusting in the Lord to help us do His will in all areas of our lives.

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

With Open Arms was very hard to write because it had been proposed before Katrina and had to be written after. I saw what the devastation was and knew that the town I'd fashioned Magnolia Bay after was almost wiped away. It is not Katrina's story, although I hope to write about that one day. But it is the story of what can happen along the Gulf Coast in any given year and how people live with the threat of hurricanes from June to November each and every year along the Gulf Coast and anywhere there are hurricanes.

My favorite part was in showing how depending and trusting in the Lord is what brings us peace and joy. And in showing how close friends and small towns come together to help each other in times of need.

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

The next book out is NEW MEXICO WEDDINGS: a compilation anthology of 3 of my contemporary New Mexico stories: Family Circle, Family Ties and Family Reunion.
These stories are what I refer to as my 'family series' because it's about one big loving family who is there to help each other when needed....and they LOVE to play matchmakers--even when not wanted!

It will be released in July. In September there will be a novella, The Cookie Jar, in Connecticut Christmas, a collection with Diane Ashley, Rhonda Gibson and Gail Sattler. In January 2009 look for the first book in the historical Arkansas series, called A Love for Keeps. It takes place in Eureka Springs in 1886.

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Mississippi Weddings.

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

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

This week, the contest is open to anyone worldwide.

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Spotlight on S. Dionne Moore and Murder on the Ol' Bunions

I'm thrilled to introduce to you a great new author who actually sold her book a full year before I did, but due to publisher delays, the book club released occurred one year later. Despite the frustration for her, I'm thrilled because it means our first books released at the same time.

And now, here's Sandra:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

S. Dionne Moore is a bunion-free super mom, able to leap piles of homework and loads of laundry in a single bound. Not only does she write, homeschool her daughter, and help her pastor-husband, but she also plays piano, loves to garden, and encourages other writers.

MURDER ON THE OL' BUNIONS
by S. Dionne Moore
Published by Heartsong Presents Mysteries

Join the Club Today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. This is your first novel with the newly released Heartsong Presents Mystery Club. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

So many things, really. My love of laughter--too many people take life and themselves too seriously--; an agent's comment that she enjoyed my strong, mature women characters; a passion for good mystery; and, not least of all, knowing the Barbour was getting ready to release a new mystery line. I decided to combine a mature woman heroine with a sidekick husband who complements her perfectly, set them in a small town, and have her stumble upon the body of her former employer. The fact that LaTisha Barnhart is an African American is extra fun! By the way, LaTisha is modeled after one of my dear friends, attitude and all!

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

As I'm sure you can imagine, there is a little of me in all of my characters. LaTisha and Hardy enjoy a deep respect for each other that belies their humorous, and often times blunt, interactions with each other, reminiscent of my husband and I. Marion Peters is the woman you love to hate. We all have some of those in our lives. But most of my characters have traits of people I know and love.

3. What themes exist in Murder on the Ol' Bunions that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

Don't take yourself too seriously. Love and laugh. Showing a couple with deep respect for each other, who could also have a lot of fun together was really important to me. So many couples never connect on a level where they learn to respect and trust each other, and it sets them up for a rough time in their marriage.

I also wanted to show life after children. As a mother, it's so easy to become entangled in the accomplishments of your children, that you lose yourself. Though LaTisha misses her children, she must learn to fill the void.

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

My fav parts to write are the fun scenes between LaTisha and Hardy. They are so real to me. So quirky and fun, and so aware of each other on so many levels. My least favorite part of writing is editing. Ugh!

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

Polly Dent Loses Grip is the second book in the LaTisha Barnhart Mystery series. Polly Dent Loses Grip on the treadmill and takes a fatal spill that's ruled an accident. Helping her mother-in-law move into Bridgeton Towers Assisted Living, LaTisha picks up on the residents' gossip that reveals all kinds of motives for murder. Gertrude Herrman is out looking for love in the form of Thomas Philcher's fat wallet, and Polly's fall eliminates her competition once and for all. Otis Payne, the venerable director of Bridgeton Towers, is over a barrel when his wife demands cash or she'll carry on without him. Mitzi Mullins' penchant for rhyme puts her in direct line as perpetrator of the crime, and and Sue Mie's mistake seals Polly's fate.

It releases in March of 2009. Join the book club and make sure you don't miss a single cozy mystery!

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Murder on the Ol' Bunion.

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

And if you want to make certain you don't miss anything, check the box that says 'email follow-up comments to:" when you leave a comment and type the email address where you'd like them sent. That way you'll be notified of any comments and will know when I announce the winner.

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

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Spotlight on Mary Hawkins and Return to Baragula

Today, I have the privilege of sharing with you an author who was a favorite of mine during the early years of the Heartsong Presents book club. Her stories about Australia (all 8 of them, the Search and the Southland series') hooked me right from the start and kept me looking forward to the next one in the series. I fell in love with her characters, and even today, they resonate in my mind with fond remembrances.

Now, Mary is back with a brand new book. Enjoy!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

After growing up on the Darling Downs in Queensland, Mary became a double certificated registered nurse before studying at the Church of Christ Bible College in Sydney. There she met her husband and together they enjoyed pastoral ministries in New South Wales and Queensland. This included successfully planting two new churches. They have also been privileged to go on three short term ministry and study team trips to Africa in Zambia, Nairobi and Ghana. After officially "retiring," they ministered for two years at a church in England before settling in Tasmania, Australia. Mary and Ray have three adult children and four grandchildren.

Mary’s dream of becoming a published novelist became true in 1993 with the release of her first book. Since then 16 titles have sold over three quarters of a million books world-wide, with "Australia", a collection of contemporary Christian romance novels becoming a best-seller. More information on her website: http://www.mary-hawkins.com/

RETURN TO BARAGULA
by Mary Hawkins
Published by Ark House Press

Buy Your Copy Today!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Emily Parker's actions as a teenager not only impacted her own life but the lives of many others.

Now, six years later, she returns reluctantly to her home town of Baragula only to discover the man at the heart of those actions, Matthew Davidson, is the community's respected doctor.

While Emily's faith is now severely weakened by all that has happened, Matthew's life has completely turned around since he committed his life to Christ. His personal relationship with God is tested when he discovers how his behaviour when a non-believer hurt so many, especially Emily, and feels responsible for her hardness of heart towards the Lord.Disease attacks the community while danger from another source threatens Emily and her family. Through it all, will Matthew and Emily's faith be strong enough to forgive each other and put the past behind them?

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. It's been a long time coming since you've been on the publishing scene as a best-selling author. Welcome back! What kept you away, and what gave you the inspiration for this story?

Thanks for the welcome, but I really don't feel as though I've been away! The last few hectic years have flown by with ever increasing speed. It is hard to realise my Australia 4-in-1 collection of contemporary Heartsong Presents novels was that best-seller released way back in 2000. Since then, unfortunately life led us along a few different and unexpected paths until we could settle in our new home here in beautiful Tasmania.

I had another historical Heartsong released mid 2002 and then Barbour released my four Great Southland historicals in another collection late 2003-–Australian Outback. During the last six years, selling our home, ministering overseas and then back here to a little retirement home has been very unsettling for a writer-- this one anyway. My husband officially "retired" in 2001 from full-time ministry here in Australia, but immediately afterwards we left for a ministry in England via our third short-term mission and study trip to Africa. We returned to Australia in 2003 to try and settle down at last in our little retirement home in a very beautiful part of Tasmania.

It hasn't always been easy adjusting to different lifestyles, much colder climates and now living near our beautiful grandchildren (much self-discipline required there!). Although not involved now in full-time pastoral ministry I have discovered how distracting and time-consuming house renovations can be. Over these unsettled years I ventured out into writing these longer inspirational romances and until now have had to go through the submission and rejection period once more.

The inspiration for Return to Baragula? One day, in a beautiful quiet place, I tossed a large rock into still water. A large splash disturbed the peace. Large ripples surged and then circled away. They spread and spread, disturbing the surface, lapping at the sides of the pond. A few small fish shot past me. Screeching it's displeasure, a water bird took off. Thoughtlessly I'd disturbed that peaceful scene. So often we don't realise just how much our sin can affect others, how far those ripples may spread, how one act of disobedience may change not only our own lives but many others, including our church family as well as our immediate family.

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

Over the years I have known too many Christian young women who have yielded to sexual temptation and thus disturbed not only their own peace and relationship with God but that of many others. I long for these young people to come to know that even when their sin is forgiven, there may be consequences that still have to be dealt with.

I am a fully trained, registered nurse and thus Emily and Matthew have medical backgrounds. Outside of that, their traits are all their own!

3. What themes exist in Return to Baragula that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

I hope parents may be encouraged to love their children unconditionally, even when they make unwise choices. Although I know a church can be hurt when they see any of their young people sin, I pray that church congregations, while never condoning sin, will still love the sinner and be kind and tender – as Jesus is.

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

The prologue. I wanted to adequately show the feelings of a Christian young woman and the worldly attitude of a non-believing young man.

My favourite has to be those last few pages – and no, I'm not going to spoil the story by saying anymore!

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

Return to Baragula is Book One in the Baragula series and Ark House Press has asked me to send them Book Two, Outback from Baragula in June, so I am hoping this one will be out perhaps before Christmas.

This story is set on a cattle station in western New South Wales and is the story of two characters introduced in Return to Baragula. She is the daughter of rich graziers – even flies a helicopter to the dismay of the hero. The biggest problem he has to face is that he is falling in love with someone who is not a Christian. His family background particularly makes this a big issue for him but she believes he thinks her simply "not good enough" for him. There is danger, a mystery to solve and of course they get to know each other, and the Lord Jesus much better as they face it all together with Him.

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Thanks, Mary, for being in the spotlight with us.

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Return to Baragula.

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

And if you want to make certain you don't miss anything, check the box that says 'email follow-up comments to:" when you leave a comment and type the email address where you'd like them sent. That way you'll be notified of any comments and will know when I announce the winner.

This week, the contest is open to anyone worldwide.

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Spotlight on Darlene Franklin and Gunfight at Grace Gulch

Today, I have a new author to cozy mysteries introduce to you. And as I look at my list of upcoming, I've noticed there are a LOT of debut author in the coming weeks. I hope you enjoy them! Darlene isn't new to publishing, but she is new to this genre.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Award-winning author and speaker Darlene Franklin resides in the Colorado foothills with her mother and her lynx point Siamese cat, Talia. She has two grown children and two grandchildren. She loves music, reading and writing. She has published one book previously (Romanian Rhapsody, Barbour, 2005), as well as numerous devotions, magazine articles, and children's curriculum. Gunfight at Grace Gulch is the first book in the "Dressed for Death" series. Visit Darlene's website at http://www.darlenehfranklin.com/.

GUNFLIGHT AT GRACE GULCH
by Darlene Franklin
Published by Barbour Publishing / Heartsong Presents Mysteries

ABOUT THE BOOK

The feud between the Graces and the Gaynors is still going strong more than a century after its inception in the 1891 Oklahoma land run. Newspaper editor Penn Hardy is murdered during the reenactment of the most famous gunfight in the history of Grace Gulch, Oklahoma. Cici Wilde, owner of a vintage clothing store, feels compelled to investigate when police suspect people close to her. She soon discovers her talent for sleuthing equals her flare for wearing period clothing. Theater director Audie Howe never expected the reenactment to end in a real murder. He cares too much for the future of the Magda Grace Mallory Theater - and the charming Cici Wilde - to let her face danger alone. Cici and Audie take a dangerous gamble to nail the killer - and lay their lives on the line.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. This is your first cozy mystery and part of a brand-new line with Heartsong Presents. It's also the first in your "Dressed for Death" mystery series. What gave you the inspiration for this story? "

Since I once lived in Oklahoma, and my son lives there now, I decided to take advantage of the centennial of Oklahoma statehood. I missed it by three months, but I trust God's timing!

I came up with the idea of Gunfight at Grace Gulch because I wanted to tie Oklahoma's unique history of land runs into my contemporary mystery. Accusations of cheaters and "sooners" stirred a lot of bad feelings. In my story, the land run started a feud that resulted in a gunfight. Present-day descendents reenact the gunfight, only one of them dies.

My sleuth, Cici Wilde, sprang into mind complete with her dandelion 60's style hair and long gauze skirts when I read a newspaper article about a vintage clothing store.

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

As I mentioned above, I lived in small town Oklahoma for several years, so I drew from that experience in creating the mythical town of Grace Gulch. Cici's self doubts very much reflect me. My son's acting career in high school gave me insights into the theater.

Having said that—Cici and Audie draw a lot less from my personal experience than do the characters in my first book, Romanian Rhapsody. I traveled with a Christian music group through college and know the experience well!

I don't know fashion all that well, but it's Cici's passion. I have never lived on a ranch. Unlike Audie, I don't read a lot of Oscar Wilde, and Proverbs may be my least favorite book of the Bible. Well, that’s not true, but I don't have it memorized chapter and verse the way he does.

3. What themes exist in Gunfight at Grace Gulch that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

I hope that, like Cici, my readers learn to accept themselves as unique and special just the way God created them. To stop wanting to be someone different.

Other themes cropped up in telling the story, of course. Settler Bob Grace struggled with his conscience during the land run—should he cheat and become a "sooner" or trust God and make the run for the land with everyone else? History tells us that three times as many people made the land runs as there was land available; he couldn’t be sure of staking a claim.

Also, evangelism often crops up in my stories. One of the murder suspects becomes a Christian. I won't spoil the surprise by telling you which one.

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

In a way, writing the ending was the most difficult. I wanted to FINISH the book and tended to hurry. My favorite part was probably the reenactment of the gunfight and the letters from Bob Grace to his fiancé. I got to throw a bit of history into a contemporary story.

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

The second mystery featuring Cici and Audie, A String of Murders, is due out in December. Pearls belonging to Magda Grace Mallory, Grace Gulch's leading patron of the arts, are found at a murder scene. Which just happens to be Cici’s store. So once again Cici is on the trail of a murderer. Before A String of Murders, however, my first historical novella Dressed in Scarlet will appear in Snowbound Colorado Christmas. The biggest snowstorm in Denver's history dumped almost four feet of snow over a six day period in December 1913. My heroine, heiress Natalie Daire, gets into a car accident trying to drive home and she ends up staying at the Brown Palace Hotel. Fabrizio Ricci fixes her car, and romantic sparks flare. Can the heiress and the immigrant find true love?

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Thanks, Darlene, for being in the spotlight with us.

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Gunfight at Grace Gulch. Because Darlene is still waiting for her author copies, the book might not ship until the middle of March.

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

And if you want to make certain you don't miss anything, check the box that says 'follow comments to" when you leave a comment. That way you'll be notified of any comments and will know when I announce the winner.

This week, the contest is open to anyone worldwide.

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Spotlight on Anita Higman and The Love Song

Today, I have the privilege of introducing a fellow Heartsong Presents author who is new to the adult fiction scene after a string of successes in published books for other genres. Enjoy!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Award-winning author, Anita Higman, has twenty books published for adults and children, and has five novels coming out. She has been honored in the past as a Barnes & Noble "Author of the Month" for Houston. Anita has a B.A. degree from SNU combining speech communication, psychology, and art. She lives with her family near Houston, Texas.Some of Anita’s favorite things are reading, going to the movies, public speaking, and cooking brunch for her friends. She’d love for you to visit her website at http://www.anitahigman.com/.

THE LOVE SONG
by Anita Higman & Janice A. Thompson
Published by Heartsong Presents / Barbour Publishing

BUY YOUR COPY TODAY

ABOUT THE BOOK

Clumsy. Invisible. Ugly. This is how Clair O'Neal would describe herself on a good day. Coming from an abusive childhood, she is painfully shy and sees herself as a misfit. So when she promises her boss she'll represent her company at a high-society event, she finds herself completely out of her element. Image coach Glenn Yves urges Clair to join the party, seeing something in her she cannot see herself. Musician Hudson Mandel rescues her from a moment of likely humiliation. Both men find themselves drawn to Clair's unassuming presence, her inner beauty, and maybe even her vulnerability. Can Clair trust their interest and their motives? After so many years without love, would God really bring two men into her life and maker her choose between them?

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. This is the second novel that you've cowritten with Janice. The first helped you earn the award of favorite new author with Heartsong Presents. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

In The Love Song, the heroine, Clair O'Neal feels ugly, clumsy, and invisible. Haven't we all felt that way from time to time? I know I have, which is probably how the character started to form in my head. For instance, those times when I wake up in the morning and wonder how in the world I'm supposed to make myself look presentable. Yet again. And those times when I've tripped in front of someone I was trying to impress, or worst of all, when I've been in a crowd and felt totally ignored. Totally Invisible. So when you put those passionate life-experiences together, you have one scared female. Perhaps a character like Clair O'Neal. I hope the readers enjoy her, laugh with her, and I hope they'll be inspired as she matures as a Christian.

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

The two main characters, Clair and Hudson, both have self-esteem issues. And since I've had my own similar struggles, it was easy to create these types of personalities. The traits that are theirs alone are their musical talents. Hudson plays the guitar and sings, and Clair has an amazing voice. I tried learning to play the guitar once and failed at it. Miserably. And I'm not a trained singer. So, when it comes to those particular qualities of my characters, I'm merely a Clair and Hudson wannabe.

3. What themes exist in The Love Song that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

The main theme is that God is watching over us, and He cares for us deeply. That even when we feel worthless and unworthy, He has a great plan for us. To help us and not to harm us. Even if a little of that theme trickles down to the reader then I’ll feel satisfied as a writer. A more subtle theme may have come about when the eclectic character, Mrs. Plow, suddenly showed up in my imagination. She encourages Clair on her journey. That seems to be the way God works in real life—He sends people across our paths when we need them—to encourage us and challenge us and love us.

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

I enjoyed writing the scenes every time Glenn Yves showed up. They weren't easy scenes to work out, but they were fun. Probably because Glenn became so real to me. Writers really can get attached to their characters. We take them seriously enough that sometimes we wish we could call them up and have them come over for dinner. But since that's impossible, the next best thing is to relish in their lives on the page—in their dialogue and action and internal thoughts. Unfortunately I never wrote from Glenn's point of view, but I did feel like I knew what was going on inside his head.

The most difficult parts to write are the scenes when the hero and heroine express their affections for one another with a kiss. I'd hate for the reader to skip those parts because they thought they were too flowery or hackneyed. My goal is to keep those scenes astonishing and affecting. And amusing too, if the scene calls for it.

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

The last Heartsong in the Arkansas series (also coauthored with the wonderful Janice A. Thompson) will be Castles in the Air, which will come out sometime this year. This novel isn't as dramatic as The Love Song, but it does deal with the heavy issues of divorce and obsessive compulsive disorder. However, Castles does have quite a few comedic moments, which I'm hoping will keep the reader turning the pages.

Castles in the Air is a story about a woman who has spent her life dreaming of the perfect wedding—hers. There's one problem. There's no groom, and she's not even dating anyone. The man next door, a geek, adores her, but the last thing on earth she wants to do is spend her life watching Star Trek Marathons and eating prunes alamode. Bottom line—could Nori actually fall in love with a nerd?

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Thanks, Anita, for being in the spotlight with us.

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of The Love Song. If you wish to comment but don't want to be entered, say so when you post. Make sure you also leave your email address (name at domainname dot.com/net) or that it's available for viewing in your blogger profile. Wouldn't want you to miss out on winning a book. :)

And if you want to make certain you don't miss anything, subscribe to the posts on this blog. That way you'll be notified of any comments and will know when I announce the winner.

This week, the contest is open to anyone worldwide.

* * * * *

Promises, Promises is Here!! Purchase Today!

I am so excited, I can hardly sit still.

I just received word that my book is now available through the Heartsong Presents web site.

If you are a Heartsong Club member, you will be receiving your February shipment shortly which will include my book with the other 3. If you are not a member and would like to join, just visit the web site for club information.

You can also purchase my book through this site using the Signed by the Author link below my book. The only 'drawback' to that option is that it does not count toward my total sales as I have to purchase the book myself through the publisher.

www.ambermiller.com/books.html

Look on this page for the updated information and both options for purchasing my first book. The first through Heartsong Presents will not provide you with an autographed copy. But you can send your book to me and request an autograph. I only ask that you include a postage-paid envelope for return shipping. Use the Contact Form to inquire about the address once you have a copy of my book that you would like signed.

The second option of SignedbytheAuthor.com provides you with an autographed copy. The cost of the book is higher because I have to provide the packaging.

So, 2 ways to order, and 2 easy ways to get an autographed copy of my book. Come May or June, the book will also be available on Amazon.com.

And now I have to figure out a way to get some sleep tonight while I finish working on my book 3 deadline. It won't be easy with my wanting to dance for joy and shout thanks to God for this dream come true!

It will only get better!

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My First Book - Hot off the Press & Cover Flats!!

I'm just dancing with joy today! All right, so I'm STILL dancing with joy after a great experience this past Tuesday.

A fellow newbie Heartsong Presents author, Deb Ullrick, shared with our ACFW email loop about receiving the PDF file of her cover for her first novel. In the midst of celebrating with her, I opened the mail Tuesday to find 45 cover flats of my VERY FIRST BOOK along with a 'hot-off-the-press' copy of MY VERY OWN!!

Oh, it thrills me to even say that, let alone to look at it. I wondered how I would ever get anything done that night. All I wanted to do was sit there and hold the book in my hand and stare at it. It's finally come true. It really is happening.

Now, I just have to wait for my author copies to arrive and figure out how I'm going to work my blog tour since there's a time lapse from book club release to online retailer and bookstore arrivals for my book. Been chatting with other HP authors to see how they've worked it in the past. Still working out a plan. So far, it'll be a small one in February and a full-scale one in late spring when it officially hits stores.

I had to share with all y'all who visit here and read my blog because I would never have reached this point had it not been for those who have encouraged me and supported me along the way. I only wish I could have gotten the dedication page to the publisher in time. :( Alas, it's nonexistent in the first book. I'm going to make double certain it gets into book 2, though. That comes out in July this year.

You can see the cover in the left column and read about the book on the books page. I'll have more information on ordering as soon as it's available, plus a sneak preview of chapter one very soon! Stay tuned.

Praise the Lord!

Family Photos, Christmas and Snow!

I know I'm a little late with these, but some folks are still feeling the leftover remnants of the Christmas spirit, so I'm going to share these while it's still timely.

My family visited last week for 5 days so some of these pix are of them. The others from Christmas are of my in-laws, or second family. Gotta admit, having an extended family here in Colorado has made the move and transition after marriage so much easier. It's like I didn't lose anything, only gained, when I moved.

Christmas this year was a WHITE one. The first white Christmas I've seen in probably 15 years. Sure, it's snowed near the day, but not ON the day. This year, we got about 6 inches and it fell at varying speeds almost all day. Provided some very nice pictures as you can see:

Here is the direct link to view the full album online:

Colorado Christmas 2007

For the family visit, we toured the Royal Gorge in Canon City, Colorado, spent time touring new homes as part of the search upon which Stuart and I are embarking, visited Denver to see Invesco Field at Mile-High as well as the Aquarium and took the Cog Railway to the top of Pike's Peak. Here are some pictures from those adventures.

Family Visits Colorado

I guess that's all for now. My first book releases in February, so I'm gearing up for a short blog tour on many other web sites. I'll also be starting monthly giveaways to those who enter the contests starting in February, so stay tuned for lots of new and exciting things coming down the pike...in addition to the continuation of weekly blog spotlights with FREE book giveaways.

Thanks for your continued support. I wouldn't be where I am without you!

Whodunnit, Anyone? Cozy Mysteries are Here!

Calling all Nancy Drew's, Doc Sloan's (Diagnosis Murder), Agatha Christie's and Jessica Fletcher's (Murder She Wrote). A brand new bookclub line has just released, and it's waiting for you to solve the crimes.

Barbour's new Heartsong Presents--MYSTERIES! book club is now accepting subscription orders, and the first books will ship to customers before January comes to an end.

Great books and a bargain to boot! Subscribers receive four FREE books in addition to the four they receive in their first month's shipment and there are no commitments to sign. You pay as you go on a monthly basis and can return any books at any time to cancel your subscription.

Check out the details and subscribe NOW at: www.heartsongmysteries.com. Then, help spread the word!

Several of my writing buds have books coming out in this line. They've been waiting a long time, and their turn to see their name on the cover of a book is finally here. You'll even be seeing some of these books appear in spotlight features this year. So, stay tuned!

If you like cozies, join now, then share this news with any other readers you know who like to solve the crimes and play those guessing games.

My First Book Update!

The time is drawing near. My very first solo book releases in February of 2008. That's just 2 months away. *bites nails* How am I ever going to get everything done in time? There's marketing, publicity, edits on book 2, cover information on book 3, finishing book 3, getting through the Christmas season, hosting my family visiting in January and starting to look for a new house with my husband.

Yikes!

Days like these make me wonder about being an author, but then I recall the joy I get from crafting a story with words and bringing life to characters through the written word so that others might enjoy them. That along with knowing that I might make readers smile, cry, laugh or have a turning point in their lives because of something I wrote...and it's all worthwhile -- even the pressure and stress. :)

Another part that's fantastic is getting interviewed and spotlighted, just like I spotlight so many authors here. My turn is coming. Patience and perserverance have paid off.

The first of my interviews has been posted, with more to come:

My Interview in the ACFW e-zine Afictionado
http://www.acfw.com/ezine/cgi-bin/nov07.pl?record=4

But most importantly....

I HAVE A COVER!

The book releases in February to the Heartsong Presents book club. That's a guaranteed reader base that's almost worldwide. From there, it makes its way into the databases of Amazon.com, Christianbook.com, retail stores and many other outlets for sale. That will happen in April or sooner if my publisher can get the information circulating in time.

Thanks to fellow authors, I am going to be involved in a multi-author booksigning the first part of next year, then I fly back East toward the end of the year for another signing there, where my books are set.

This is going to change my life, but it's a welcome change. Before long, and once we're in our new house, I might have another change that involves a little addition...but we'll see what happens. :) For now, I have more than enough to keep me out of trouble -- or in trouble -- whatever the case may be!

Spotlight on Elizabeth Goddard and Seasons of Love

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Elizabeth Goddard obtained her Bachelor of Science degree from North Texas State University in Computer Science. After spending several years in high-level software sales, Beth retired to become a full-time mother. She has since discovered that her job as a home schooling mom of four is much more stressful than anything she encountered in the corporate world.

When she's not writing or home schooling, she's serving with her husband as he pastors a local church in Southern Oregon. She enjoys hiking in the Redwoods or camping on the Oregon coast with her family. Be sure to visit her website.

Seasons of Love
By Elizabeth Goddard
Published by Heartsong Presents
Search by book #777 or view the authors and find Elizabeth Goddard in the alphabetical listing. Book will be on Amazon.com in about 3 months.

SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW

1. This is your very first book! Congratulations! It's full of suspense, intrigue, questions and mystery. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

The inspiration for this story really began with the setting. Several years ago I saw a news clip about a cranberry farm. It was then I learned a little about the process of flooding the bogs to cause the fruit to float. That fascinated me and since then, I’d always wanted to set a story on a Cranberry farm. I’m not sure I could ever write a book without suspense so couple that with my computer science background and you have the search for a clue to find the decryption key—a password to unlock hack-proof code—before it’s too late.

2. How much of your own experiences influenced the characters of Riley and Zane?

My own experience in the corporate world greatly influenced both Riley and Zane. Riley is searching for contentment and discovers that she can’t find that in the endless battle to climb to the top of her company. Zane is trying to grow a company, but learns that nothing he does matters if he doesn’t have God in his life. Those were two very important things that I learned during my time in corporate America. Honestly, there are so many things about Riley that are like me I can't think of traits that belong to her and not me. But Zane grew up in a very wealthy family, he's an investor and entrepreneur, and throughout the story, he struggles with believing that God is interested in our daily lives. He doesn't have a personal relationship with God, but still call himself a Christian simply because he believes there is a God and Jesus is His son.

3. What themes exist in Seasons of Love that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

The main theme I based the story on was Riley's search for contentment. We can know Jesus and have that relationship, but still not feel satisfied, or feel His peace until we go deeper with Him. Riley moved across the country and began a new life, hoping to find inner peace. Something I hadn't intended, but that grew out of the story as it developed was that Zane considered himself a Christian but yet he had no relationship with God. We have to remember that even Satan and his demons know God and that Jesus is His Son, but that doesn't make them Christians, obviously, so believing there is a God isn't enough.Walking daily with the Lord and trusting our lives to Him makes the difference. Zane realized that nothing he did in life would matter much, if he didn't have a relationship with God.

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

I enjoyed learning about growing cranberries and the harvest season, but the research and getting it right wasn't easy. The same is true for learning about encryption technology and how that could work in my story. I spent countless hours researching and discussing this with an encryption specialist. Although I do love the research, I love writing more so my favorite part was getting it all down on paper. Satisfaction comes in getting it right.

5. What are you working on now?

The problem I have with writing is that I have too many stories and not enough brain (or time). I’m working on various proposals for stories I've been brewing for a while. When I get those sent out my plans are to write the "big one" and look for an agent.

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Thank you, Beth, for being in the spotlight. Readers, leave a comment for your chance to be entered in the drawing for a FREE copy of Seasons of Love. If you don't wish to be entered, but still wish to comment, say so when you post. Beth will be dropping by to reply to comments you wish to leave for her.

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

Spotlight on Lisa Harris and A Matter of Trust

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lisa Harris and her husband, along with their three children, have been working the past four years in Southern Africa as church planters. She speaks French and is currently learning Portuguese for their move into Mozambique next spring. Life is busy between ministry and home-schooling, but she loves her time to escape into another world and write, and sees this work as an extension of her ministry. She's currently working on an international suspense series set in Africa that mixes suspense and romance into a fast-paced adventure across Africa.

Besides writing, Lisa loves to travel. She and her husband have visited over twenty countries throughout Europe and Africa. She's also spent time in Japan and Brazil. One of her favorite pastimes is learning to cook different exotic dishes from around the world.

http://myblogintheheartofafrica.blogspot.com

A MATTER OF TRUST
By Lisa Harris
Published by Heartsong Presents

SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW

1. Your hero has lost his love and now has to win her back. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

I wanted to have a story where the hero and heroine had a past that they had to work through, and Ty and Kayla definitely have some serious matters to work through. Once engaged to be married, Kayla found out that Ty wasn't the person she thought he was. Then a year later, he returns to her home town claiming to be a changed man wanting to win her back. But when the law steps in and fraud charges are brought up, Kayla has to decide who's telling the truth.

This was actually one of the first stories I ever wrote, and DiAnn Mills graciously helped me. As a new writer, though, I still had so many things to learn. A few years later, Lena Dooley, Beth Goddard, and I decided to turn in a proposal to Barbour's Heartsong Presents line. I still loved this story line and decided to rework the story for the proposal. I added a stronger suspense line and strengthened the story over all.

2. How much of your own experiences influenced the characters of Kayla and Ty?

I think it's impossible not to put some of who I am into a story, but I work hard to make each character unique. I've never gone through what Ty and Kayla experience, but I have had to come to the point where, like Ty, I had to make a conscious decision of whether or not I truly believed that God was in control of every part of my life. Even when things went very wrong.

3. What themes exist in A Matter of Trust that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?

Like the title suggests, for both Ty and Kayla, it becomes a matter of trust for them. Spiritually, the stakes are high as well. When Ty's life begins to unravel, he's forced to question his faith like I mentioned above. We all have had to wonder at some point why bad things happen to good people. And why God allows these things to happen.

I want the reader to walk away from the book with a deeper assurance that God is in control no matter what is happening to them around them. It's a matter of faith. Of trusting God no matter what happens. A tough lesson sometimes to learn, but one I know is crucial.

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

Writing is a lot of work, there's no way around it. But as I work to put down on paper the story and characters that are running through my mind, the difficult process becomes worth it. I love the happy ever after endings, the spiritual victories, and simply trying to write an unforgettable story that impacts the reader long after the book is put away.

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

My next book is titled Recipe for Murder, a cozy mystery coming out with Barbour's new line. In this new series, Pricilla Crumb's guest list has just turned into a suspect list...for murder. Pricilla never expected to be involved in a real life mystery, but that's exactly where she finds herself when she joins her son at his hunting lodge in the beautiful Colorado mountains. Laced with a spiritual message and a sprinkle of romance, Pricilla follows one lead after another, dishing up laughter and suspense along the way.

This is book one in a three books series. I also have a Love Inspired Suspense coming out later in the year about internet scams.

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Thank you, Lisa, for being in the spotlight. Readers, leave a comment for your chance to be entered in the drawing for a FREE copy of A Matter of Trust. If you don't wish to be entered, but still wish to comment, say so when you post. This week, the contest is open to anyone worldwide.