Guest Blogger Mary Ellis and Living in Harmony

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

MARY ELLIS grew up near the Amish and fell in love with them. She has now written nine bestselling novels set in their communities. When not writing, she enjoys gardening, bicycling, and swimming. Before "retiring" to write full-time, Mary taught school and worked as a sales rep for Hershey Chocolate. Her debut Christian book, A Widow's Hope, was a finalist for the 2010 ACFW Carols.

LIVING IN HARMONY
by Mary Ellis
Published by Harvest House

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Tragedy…a Refusal…a Shunning
Will Their Young Love Survive?

Amy King—young, engaged, and Amish—faces life-altering challenges when she suddenly loses both of her parents in a house fire. Her fiancé, John Detweiler, persuades her to leave Lancaster County and make a new beginning with him in Harmony, Maine, where he has relatives who can help them.

John’s brother Thomas and sister-in-law, Sally, readily open their home to the newcomers. Wise beyond his years, Thomas, a minister in the district, refuses to marry Amy and John upon their arrival, suggesting instead a period of adjustment. While trying to assimilate in the ultraconservative district, Amy discovers an aunt who was shunned. Amy wants to reconnect with her, but John worries that the woman’s tarnished reputation will reflect badly on his beloved bride-to-be.

Can John and Amy find a way to overcome problems in their relationship and live happily in Harmony before making a lifetime commitment to each other?

Readers, buy your copy of Living in Harmony today!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

What I Did On My Summer Vacation

I just returned from researching the Amish and Old Order Mennonite communities of Kentucky to prepare me to write book three of the series, A Little Bit of Charm. I traipsed all over Barren and Casey Counties in search of horses and buggies and those who prefer a slower pace of life. I stayed at the home of my best friend in Somerset and took along her three grand-daughters to keep me company. They received a priceless education that surpassed anything found in textbooks. And having them with me opened more doors and lowered many people’s defenses. Who could resist three charming little girls?

Although I live within an hour of the largest population of Amish in the country, a writer truly needs to visit the area, since there are so many regional differences. For instance, in Waldo County, Maine, the setting of book one, Living in Harmony, the Old Order Amish allow no rumschpringe, no courting buggies, no youth socials (everyone is present for all get-togethers) and no working in the English world. However, their church services are in English, not Deutsch, to encourage “drop-ins” from the local community.

These Old Order Amish have an ecumenical outlook on Christianity, similar to New Order Amish (which makes up only ten percent of the population. And they built a meetinghouse to use for church, Sunday School (yes, they have it on “off” Sundays) weddings and fund-raising events, instead of meeting in each other’s homes. I find interesting stories in every community I visit.

Last fall I researched the Amish of Audrain, Randolph and Boone County, Missouri, in preparation to write book two of the series, Love Comes to Paradise. I found the Missouri Plain believers to be the most private and reserved of all I’ve met thus far. But one lovely wife and mother who ran an in-home bakery provided me with plenty of information and a few amusing tales. Just when you thought you had these fascinating people figured out…

I hope you will look for book one of the New Beginnings series, called Living in Harmony, just released.

Hurry and subscribe to my newsletter at www.maryellis.net by August 16. I will be giving away 10 free copies of Living in Harmony to newsletter subscribers.

* * * * *

Thank you, Mary, for sharing with us today.

Reader Question: What are you doing this year for vacation? Or if you've already gone, what did you do?

ENTRY RULES Readers, leave your email address (name at domainname dot com/net) along with your answer to the question for your chance to win a free autographed copy of the book featured above. If you do not answer the question, and your email address isn't provided, you will not be entered.

This week, the contest is open to anyone worldwide.

CFBA Blog Tour - Janelle Mowery and When All My Dreams Come True

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
When All My Dreams Come True
Harvest House (February 1, 2011)
by Janelle Mowery

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Beginning in 1998, Janelle Mowery coordinated and wrote for the Children’s Ministry of a Christian website called The Invisible Connection. When the holder of that site discontinued the ministry and website in the year 2000, she began writing inspirational fiction romance novels.

Janelle became a member of American Christian Fiction Writers in the year 2002 and is an active member and leader in one of their critique groups, which has provided many opportunities for growth and development. In 2003, she entered her first novel in the Noble Theme contest and was named one of the top ten finalists in the historical category. In 2004, she had a short story titled ‘A Fair Chance’ published in the e-magazine, Romancing the Christian Heart. In 2005, her third novel, entered in the San Gabriel Writers’ League ‘Writing Smarter’ Contest, won first place. Also, Janelle’s fifth novel made it to the top ten finalists in the Noble Theme contest.

In 2006, she signed her first contract with Barbour Publishing in their Heartsong Presents Mysteries line. The novel, Where the Truth Lies, which she co-authored with Elizabeth Ludwig, released in spring of 2008. The second and third mysteries of the series, Died in the Wool and A Black Die Affair, is set for release in 2011.

Janelle has signed with Harvest House for a historical series set in Colorado. Release of the first book is set for early 2011. She has also signed with Summerside Press. Her novel, Love Finds You in Silver City, Idaho, released in October 2010.

Janelle has been married twenty-one years and is the mother of two sons. She is a member of Sandy Point Bible Church and serves as Treasurer. She also assists in the church’s teen program.

When All My Dreams Come True (Colorado Runaway Series)
by Janelle Mowery
Published by Harvest House

ABOUT THE BOOK

Bobbie McIntyre dreams of running a ranch of her own. Raised without a mother and having spent most of her time around men, she knows more about wrangling than acting like a lady. The friendship of her new employer awakens a desire to learn more about presenting her feminine side, but ranch life keeps getting in the way.

Ranch owner Jace Kincaid figures the Lord is testing his faith when a female wrangler shows up looking for work. Bobbie has an uncanny way of getting under his skin, though, and he’s surprised when she finds a home next to his heart. But when his cattle begin to go missing and his wranglers are in danger from some low-down cattle thief, can Jace trust God, even if it may mean giving up on his dreams?

An adventurous novel of faith, hope, and love in the Wild West.

If you would like to read the first chapter of When All My Dreams Come True, go HERE.

* * * * *

MY REVIEW

I was excited to see my friend's book come out, and even moreso when I saw the setting in Colorado. As a resident of this magnificent state, books set here (especially historical) always appeal to me. I love reading how different authors cover the amazing history of Colorado. I am also a sucker for a good western, and this book has it!

It's a fast-paced book with action that never stops. Bobbie is shoved off a cliff, held at gunpoint, and accused of bank robbery. Talk about exciting! Throw in ranch troubles, a cowboy who isn't looking for love, and a persistent heroine who can out-shoot, out-ride, and out-wrangle any cowpoke on the ranch, and you've got an action/adventure worth reading. But hold on tight, because you're going to be taken on a wild ride. Amazing to see a heroine who wears pants and straps a gun to her hip. :)

Janelle was one of my first readers back when I began my publishing career. Her encouragement went a long way toward helping me keep moving forward. I love being able to read and review one of her new books, and I'm happy to support her in any way I can. Of course, with her skill in writing both the action and the romance, it's easy to lend my support.

* * * * *

Spotlight on Trish Perry and The Perfect Blend

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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Award-winning author, TRISH PERRY is an award-winning novelist who has written The Perfect Blend (2010), Sunset Beach (2009), Beach Dreams (2008), Too Good to Be True (2007), and The Guy I’m Not Dating (2006), all for Harvest House Publishers. Her monthly column, “Real Life is Stranger,” appeared in Christian Fiction Online Magazine during its inaugural year. She was editor of Ink and the Spirit, the newsletter of Washington D.C.’s Capital Christian Writers organization (CCW), for seven years. Before her novels, Perry published numerous short stories, essays, devotionals, and poetry in Christian and general market media. She will release several new books in 2011.

Perry holds a B.A. in Psychology, was a 1980s stockbroker, and held positions at the Securities and Exchange Commission and in several Washington law firms. She serves on the Board of Directors of CCW and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and Romance Writers of America.

The Perfect Blend
by Trish Perry
Published by Harvest House

ABOUT THE BOOK

Steph Vandergrift left everything to elope with Middleburg attorney Rick Manfred, who then stood her up at the altar. Too embarrassed to return home, Steph hopes to earn enough to get by until she can decide what to do next. Tea Shop owner Milly Jewel hires her and appreciates the extra help at the tea shop.

Also appreciative of Steph is Kendall James, one of the kindest, most eligible bachelors in the area. But by the time Steph feels able to consider dating again, her run-away fiancé returns and tries to win her back. Steph is wary, but she and Rick always blended so well.

Christie Burnham, the frank-talking equestrian from whom Steph rents a room, and her frillier sister Liz become fast friends and confidantes to Steph. Between the two sisters, there isn't much any man is going to pull over on Middleburg's newest bachelorette and tea shop employee.

Readers, buy your copy of The Perfect Blend today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

The series idea was planted by my editor at Harvest House while she and I brainstormed a year or so ago. The first thing I thought of for the series was Milly Jewell, the tea shop owner. I based her a little on my British mum—a version of her at my current age. And then for The Perfect Blend I wanted to create a young heroine who would have a reason to work for Milly while taking the reader on a tour of the town and its inhabitants. So Steph’s predicament—being stranded in a new town, struggling with independence and the need to feel accepted—evolved from that.

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

I think all of us, at one time or another, experience self-doubt and the need for assurance from others that we’re valued. I’ve certainly experienced that at points in my life. We all thrive on knowing we contribute in some way. These are the issues I’ve shared with Steph. The way she stumbles along, the disoriented state through which she sometimes acts, are all her. But I can imagine getting to the point she gets in the story, where your heartbreak and insecurity guide your decisions. Those decisions might be awful in real life, but they make for fun (and funny) reading!

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

Oh! I found the perfect flavor for Steph: Baskin-Robbins’ Acceptance Peach. It was a flavor back in 1976 during the Presidential election. It fits for Steph because she wants so much to feel accepted, and she really is such a peach. A total sweetheart, even though she’s a bit of a mess. I think I even described her creamy cheeks as being like ripe peaches when she smiles (which she does, more and more, as the story develops).

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

I never really zero in on a major theme when I first get started. I do allow one to develop as I go, and then I tweak during my rewrites to hone that theme. I’ve mentioned the natural human need for acceptance several times above, and that was what developed through Steph’s experiences. And the verse that came to mind as I finished the book was 1 John 4:19: “We love because he first loved us.” Regardless of how we interpret the attitudes of others, we can always embrace the fact that God accepted us so fully He sacrificed His most precious Child for us. You can’t be more accepted than that, can you?

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

The most difficult parts involved the hero’s teenaged brother, Chip, who has a disability. The boy has a fantastic attitude, as did my late sister, Noreen, who lived with a similar disability. But Noreen’s situation was much more dire than this boy’s, so life was harder for her. I know Chip’s ability to thrive was possible, because Noreen managed to live to the fullest until her health deteriorated. I think I wrote Chip’s life the way I wish it had been for my sister.

My favorite parts to write were the romantic exchanges between Steph and the hero, Kendall. They were playful with each other almost immediately, thanks to his personality. I love that.

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

I have a few releases coming up, but I think the next book to release will be the second book in The Tea Shop Series, Tea for Two, which releases April 1, 2011. Here’s the blurb:

Zack Cooper tries his best to raise his children, but he's losing his grip on them in their teen years. They've both had scrapes with the local law.


Tea Shop owner Milly Jewel has the perfect woman in mind to help Zack. Counselor Tina Milano meets weekly at the tea shop with her women's group. Milly encourages Zack and Tina to work together to draw the teens back before they get in even hotter water. Milly never thought things might heat up between Zack and Tina. Or did she?


Tina's connections with the Middleburg police department prove a mixed blessing for Zack and his kids. Both her best friend and old boyfriend are officers on the force.


And when Tina's women's group gets wind of her personal pursuits and clashes, they want to help. The group's meetings at the tea shop take on a slightly different flavor. Tina wonders who, exactly, is counseling whom.

* * * * *

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

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

Question: Do you struggle, or have you struggled, with feeling you aren’t accepted? How do you deal with that awful feeling?

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

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

Spotlight on Trish Perry and Sunset Beach

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

TRISH PERRY is an award-winning novelist who has written Sunset Beach (2009), Beach Dreams (2008), Too Good to Be True (2007), and The Guy I’m Not Dating (2006), all for Harvest House Publishers. She writes a monthly column, “Real Life is Stranger,” for Christian Fiction Online Magazine. She was editor of Ink and the Spirit, the newsletter of Washington D.C.’s Capital Christian Writers organization (CCW), for seven years. Before her novels, Perry published numerous short stories, essays, devotionals, and poetry in Christian and general market media.

Perry holds a B.A. in Psychology, was a 1980s stockbroker, and held positions at the Securities and Exchange Commission and in several Washington law firms. She serves on the Board of Directors of CCW and is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers group and Romance Writers of America. Perry lives in Northern Virginia with her teenaged son. She invites you to visit her at www.trishperry.com.

SUNSET BEACH
by Trish Perry
Published by Harvest House

ABOUT THE BOOK

Sonny Miller is tired of not knowing who she is. Soon she’ll begin graduate school to earn her masters in Psychology. But how can she counsel future clients about their identities when she isn’t even sure about her own? To that end she has cooked up a little meeting at a certain beach house in San Diego.

Sonny’s mother, classical soprano Teresa Miller, isn’t aware she’s about to be reunited at the beach house with her sister, Melanie Hines, after 25 years of estrangement. And Sonny isn’t aware her mother has invited a surprise guest of her own. Russian adoptee, Irina Petrova, finds herself dragged along on a trip so tumultuous she summons her handsome concert violinist brother for moral support.

The four women converge on the funky little beach house in San Diego, each with her own disappointments and hopes about family, identity, and love. For Sonny, the trip reveals all she expected and more than she ever dreamed.

Buy Your Copy of Sunset Beach today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

The setting was already a given. All of the books in the Beach House series are set at the same curious little beach house at Mission Beach in San Diego, with different characters and stories each time around. As I do before every book, I prayed and waited for inspiration before writing a single word. When I do that, tidbits just pop into my head at odd moments of the day. What came to me first for Sunset Beach were twins. When I wrote up a summary, I actually considered two sets of twins—one middle aged and American, one younger and of Russian descent. But as I bounced ideas off of my critique partners and listened to their guidance, I tweaked here and there to come to the characters now peopling the book. And my heroine was the connection between them all. Once I started thinking about her life goals and how they might be thwarted, the roles of the other characters took shape. The story simply came together from that point on.

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

My characters and I seldom have much in common, and that was the case with Sunset Beach, as well. That said, I must admit, if they do or say something embarrassing or reeking of human failure, there’s often a germ of reality there. But most of what my characters do, think, and say is, for me, like acting. I step into their heads and think as they do, not as I do. That enables me to come up with characters who are more than I am—more noble, more selfish, more vulnerable, more blunt, more romantic. My writing voice is a result of my own experiences, but my characters aren’t like me at all.

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

As a heroine with a true character arc, Sonny Miller changes flavor by the time the story ends. She starts out vanilla, with a slight ripple (we can make it fudge ripple); because she really knows so little about herself or her past, and she’s unnerved by that (that’s our ripple). But by the time the story ends, her flavor is more like Ben & Jerry’s “everything but the . . .” flavor. She learns more than she ever dreamed about her past and steps toward significant changes in her future, all of which could be quite overwhelming.

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

The overriding theme has to do with personal identity. Whether we do so consciously or not, we all base our identity on something, whether it’s our family history, our accomplishments, who we love, who loves us, or how we live today. The theme that developed in the telling of Sonny’s story was where our true identity lies, if we’re believers. When we strip everything else away, who are we, really? Should nothing else about us endure, what part of our identity will always endure?

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

The story itself came fairly smoothly—the relationship development and actual chain of events. The part that was the most difficult was the setting. I lived in California as a wee one, but I remember little of it. And I never lived in (or even visited) San Diego. So I had to do quite a bit of research and correspond with businesses and residents of the area to get myself grounded and familiar with where everything would happen. I’m not a big fan of research, which is one reason I don’t write historical. I fret about every detail, and that’s bad enough when you’re writing contemporary, let alone delving into history.

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

I don’t know what my next book will be, actually. I have six proposals floating around at the moment, and I’m due to get a seventh one finished and submitted. I don’t know which (if any) of those projects will be next. I’m just waiting on the Lord for that. The subject matters of the various proposals are varied, as are the characters involved. So I’ll either be writing older women or thirty-somethings, and they’ll be living in the Washington, D.C. area or North Carolina or in a small town somewhere. Or not! We shall see.

Thanks, Tiff!

* * * * *

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Sunset Beach.

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

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

This week, the contest is open to anyone worldwide.

Spotlight on Linore Rose Burkard and The House in Grosvenor Square

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

LINORE ROSE BURKARD creates Inspirational Romance for the Jane Austen Soul. Her characters take you back in time to experience life and love during the Regency England era (circa 1800 - 1830). Ms. Burkard's novels include Before the Seasons Ends and The House in Grosvenor Square. Her stories blend Christian faith and romance with well-researched details from the Regency period. Experience a romantic age, where timeless lessons still apply to modern life. And, enjoy a romance that reminds you happy endings are possible for everyone.

THE HOUSE IN GROSVENOR SQUARE
by Linore Rose Burkard
Published by Harvest House Publishers

ABOUT THE BOOK

England, 1813: As Ariana Forsythe plans her wedding, she must adjust to the realization that she will soon become the wife of an extremely wealthy man. She wonders if it's wrong to rejoice that her future husband is rich. But, she promises herself to use her new position to do what she can to aid the numerous street waifs she sees all too often in London. During a tour of her future home-the house in Grosvenor Square-Ariana impulsively makes plans to redecorate (just a little) according to her tastes . But when Philip arrives home later, he is informed that an expensive silver candlestick and a miniature portrait of George III have gone missing. Moreover, each time Ariana visits the house, another item disappears.

When Ariana suffers an abduction attempt by two villains, and other mysterious goings-on are unexplained, Mr. Mornay must unravel the mystery of who is after her, and why. He knows he has to prevent any harm from befalling his future bride, even if it means he must keep her under lock and key in his own house!

Romance, suspense, and a deft touch of humor are part of the wonderful story of Philip Mornay and Ariana Forsythe's march to the altar. Fans of Linore's first book, Before the Season Ends, will love this delightful addition to the Regency Inspirational Series, as will all readers of historical romance.

Buy Your Copy of The House in Grosvenor Square today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

They say that necessity is the mother of invention, and I guess you can apply that to writing, too. I didn't envision a sequel when I wrote the first book in the series (Before the Season Ends) but so many readers wanted one, that I agreed to write it. So my "inspiration" in this case, started with a need to continue the story. I was as surprised as anyone to discover that I wasn't ready to pick up after the wedding, and actually started book two almost exactly where book one left off. I had tried starting the story later, more than once, but it just wasn't working for me like I wanted it to. When I backtracked to where book one left off, I suddenly had this bustling, busy story to tell!

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

I always find questions like this tricky, because I really can't say how much of me is in my characters. I try to make my heroines emotionally smarter than me, if that makes sense. And Ariana's eyes, which sort of sparkle gold, or undergo changes to blue when she's upset, are totally her own--mine are green, and just stay green. Period.

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

Lol, I think someone asked me this before, but I can't remember what I answered. So, here goes: Mr. Mornay would have to be Rocky Road, but by the end of the book he might be something more like, Butter Pecan. If ice cream had rum flavoring, that'd be him. Ariana would be Velvety Smooth Vanilla.

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

The book has a few major themes that I hope are not easily missed. One is that sexual purity is possible, not to mention advantageous, even when people are in love. Another is that faith in God can make the most worrisome situations bearable. Both themes are present throughout the story, but the idea of being tempted sexually is heightened as it progresses, due to circumstances that occur; and of trusting God in danger, because the threats against Ariana increase as the book goes on.

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

It was difficult to keep track of the timeline. The whole book takes place in less than two weeks, the period prior to the wedding. And Mr. Mornay, especially, is called upon day and night to rescue his bride-to-be, or try to nab a bad guy, and my editor had to suggest at one point that I give the poor guy some sleep! There are portions when things are going on around the clock, so I had to go back many times and make sure I knew what time it had gotten to be, or, in some cases, what day it was! I was using a graph to help me keep track, but it still got very challenging.

A favorite scene of mine in this book is when Ariana confronts the first man who abducts her, giving him a scold for his useless life. Another is near the very end, when she is confronted by her new husband regarding the charities she has promised to help. Both situations are humorous, so I think those are the most fun for me to write.

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

Right now I'm working to meet a deadline for book three in the Regency Series for Harvest House, which is, The Country House Courtship. I don't jave a publish date for sure, yet, but I think either at the very end of this year, (like December) or early next year. Any reader wanting to be "in the know" regarding my future books should just get on my free mailing list. It includes a subscription to my monthly online magazine ("Regency Reflections") and always comes with a free download. I also post new book announcements or new contracts.

* * * * *

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of The House in Grosvenor Square.

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

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

This week, the contest is open to anyone worldwide.

Spotlight on Susan Page Davis and Inside Story

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SUSAN PAGE DAVIS is the author of 20 novels in the historical, mystery, and suspense genres. She is a Maine native, and uses her home state as the location for many of her stories. She's the mother of six and grandmother of five adorable children.

INSIDE STORY
by Susan Page Davis
Published by Harvest House

ABOUT THE BOOK

Claudia Gillette is a prize-winning journalist at a high-profile magazine. She prides herself in her cool independence—traveling the globe, beating the deadline. Landing the interview with Heidi Taber, the only female in an elite U.S. Navy special operations unit, is yet another rung on her ladder of career successes.

Lieutenant Bill White is not happy about the journalist standing in front of him in the midst of the Philippine jungle. He has no time for public relations campaigns—certainly not during a covert mission to rescue a well-known aerophysicist from terrorists.

As shells explode and tracer fire streaks the air, Claudia finds herself caught up in a danger she never expected...or wanted. With lives at stake, she fears her presence in the unit is their greatest detriment to survival. Will she find the strength to live through the nightmare…or has her ambition cost her her life?

Buy Your Copy of Inside Story today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

Readers begged to hear more about Pierre's family, and I decided to bring Marie's sister Claudia (book 2) together with Rachel's friend Bill (book 1). I'd also been reading about the communist and Muslim terrorism in the Philippines and decided it was a good location for a military adventure.

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

Well, I have sisters...Actually, Inside Story is pretty far from my actual experience, though I worked several years as a journalist (not nearly as upscale as what Claudia does, though).

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

Claudia would be Rocky Road, all the way.

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

Forgiveness is a big element here. Claudia not only seeks God's forgiveness, but must forgive herself for all the trouble she's caused. Bill, too, takes on a share of the guilt, especially for Stu's situation. Both must deal with those problems and set things straight with God.

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

Most difficult was putting a face to the villain, Cabaya. My favorite was Pierre's wrangling with Claudia.

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

On Feb. 1, On a Killer's Trail will release in the Love Inspired Suspense line. In this book, Detective Neil Alexander, in the Portland, Maine, P.D., investigates a Christmas Day murder. The girl who broke up with him six months ago shows up to cover the story for the local newspaper. Neil broke Kate's heart, but he's become a Christian since then. Will she—and her brother-in-law, who happens to be his boss—give Neil a second chance? And when a second murder occurs, will Kate's ideas blow their investigation and put her in danger?

* * * * *

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Inside Story.

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

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

This week, the contest is open to anyone worldwide.

* * * * *

Spotlight on Linore Rose Burkhard and Before the Season Ends

Today, we have not one, but TWO author spotlights. You get a bonus as we wrap up the year 2008 and get ready to ring in 2009. Praying you're all blessed as we move forward.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

LINORE ROSE BURKHARD creates Inspirational Romance for the Jane Austen Soul. Her characters take you back in time to experience life and love during the Regency England era (circa 1800 - 1830). Ms. Burkard's novels include Before the Seasons Ends and The House in Grosvenor Square (coming April, 2009). Her stories blend Christian faith and romance with well-researched details from the Regency period. Experience a romantic age, where timeless lessons still apply to modern life. And, enjoy a romance that reminds you happy endings are possible for everyone.

BEFORE THE SEASON ENDS
by Linore Rose Burkhard
Published by Harvest House

ABOUT THE BOOK

England, 1813: Romantic woes at home send Ariana Forsythe to her Aunt Bentley's town house in the fashionable Mayfair district of London. There she finds worse troubles than those that prompted her flight from home. Under her aunt's watchful eye, Ariana is soon steeped in high society--and at odds with Mr. Phillip Mornay, London's current darling rogue.

Then, unexpectedly, rumour of a scandal changes Ariana forever. Her faith and her future are at stake in an unexpected adventure that gains even the Prince Regent's attention.

Will Ariana's faith survive this test? And what about her heart? For it is Ariana's heart that most threatens to betray the truths she has always believed in. When she finds herself backed against a wall, betrothed to a man who cannot share her faith, how can it ever turn out right?

BOOK VIDEO TRAILER



Buy Your Copy of Before the Season Ends today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for these stories?

I'm not sure. I think Ariana and Phillip are both amalgamations of people I've read about and known. England in the 1800s is a world away from the 21st century.

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

It's hard to say how much of oneself goes into a character. I don't know if anything in my experience influenced my characters except knowing now how I WISHED I could have behaved at times in my past! Meaning, I think I made my heroine smarter than I was, or would have been, at her age, in her place. I hope that answers your question.

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

Oh, my goodness--this is not the way I think, but I'll try! Let's see--Ariana Forsythe would likely be a rich, creamy Vanilla--pure, lovely, pulls no punches, is up front and dependably true to her nature. "Flavour." The hero, Mr. Phillip Mornay? When we first meet him in the book, he is definitely "Rocky Road!" (Hey, maybe I DO think this way!)

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

Readers come away from my book with the feeling that God is involved in everyday life, and that happy endings are possible for everyone. A less obvious theme could be that "God works in mysterious ways," in that He leads us down paths that are scary and surprising, but which ultimately fulfill his highest plans for us.

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

I think for me the biggest challenge was to believe that I could write a novel in small increments. As a mom of five, four of whom are still home year-round (one is in college), having frequent interruptions is a fact of life. Writing takes a concentration so deep so that when I first started doing scenes, I would find myself getting woozy after standing up. I was shocked at the level of exertion it took to use my brain that hard, I guess! It happens less now--I guess I've grown accustomed to it. And I've learned to appreciate those small blocks of time. Ten minutes in a waiting room can yield a part of a scene I couldn't get done at home. Every little bit counts. I don't despise small beginnings. There are times when I'm in a deep level of involvement with a story or a character, and then getting interrupted can break the mood; but I'm getting better all the time at picking up where I left off, no matter how deeply I've got to dive to get back into the character or situation. For people like me with busy households, this is a must-have ability. I believe it can be the difference between making that deadline or not.

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

The House in Grosvenor Square will be out in April of 2009. It's a continuation (sequel) of Before the Season Ends. I don't want to give anything away, but Ariana gets in more scrapes, has two dastardly enemies, and there are strange goings-on in "The house in Grosvenor Square!"

Thanks so much, Tiff!

* * * * *

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Before the Season Ends.

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

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

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

* * * * *

Blog Tour - Trish Perry and Beach Dreams

I'm thrilled today to be part of the kickoff of a good friend of mine's 2-week blog tour. Her 3rd book, Beach Dreams, closes out a trilogy featuring an endearing cast of characters you'll grow to love from page 1. Combined with witty dialogue, comical yet true-to-life situations and Trish's characteristic sense of humor, this book is the perfect bookend to the "beach" series begun by Sally John as well as Trish's own books. If you love romantic comedy, you're going to love this one!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Trish Perry is an award-winning writer of The Guy I'm Not Dating and Too Good to Be True. She served for seven yeras as the editor of Ink and the Spirit, a quarterly newsletter of the Capital Christian Writers organization in the Washington DC area. She has published numerous short stories, essays, devotionals, and poetry in Christian and general market media, and she is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers group. She discovered her love of writing while earning a degree in Psychology. She switched career paths in 1997 and never looked back. Her debut novel placed second in the 2007 FHL Inspirational Readers' Choice Contest, and her second novel is a current finalist in the 2008 FHL IRCC.

Trish lives in Northern Virginia with her hilarious teenaged son, and has a gorgeous adult daughter and an amazing grandson. You can learn more about Trish at her website, http://www.trishperry.com/.

BEACH DREAMS
by Trish Perry
Published by Harvest House Publishers

ABOUT THE BOOK

Following up on Sally John's bestselling Beach House series (The Beach House and Castles in the Sand-nearly 45,000 in combined sales) is a brand-new Beach House book from veteran Harvest House novelist Trish Perry.

Tiffany LeBoeuf has a problem. She has lost her job, her mother has recently passed away, and she has zero social life. And then she meets Jeremy. But Tiff is a new Christian and knows she shouldn't be attracted to this unbelieving (but charming!) Brit. And then there's Eve. . . Jeremy's girlfriend. When Tiff reserves a cozy beach house in San Diego for a much-needed retreat, a mix-up causes a double-booking, and Tiff ends up sharing the beach house with Eve. When Jeremy arrives to surprise Eve, he surprises Tiff as well. As Jeremy settles in at the house next door, events and secrets unravel that surprise everyone.

A fun, contemporary romance about how God uses even our mistakes to bring about His divine purposes. Beach Dreams is the perfect get-away read.

Buy Your Copy of Beach Dreams Today!

Read an Excerpt

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this book?

My two lead characters, Tiff and Jeremy, have been kicking around with me for a few years, and my editor and I were dying to give them their own story. They were fun secondary characters in The Guy I'm Not Dating and Too Good to Be True. Jeremy is such a misguided sweety and Tiff has been the gal you love to hate for two novels now. So I thought it would be entertaining to throw them together and see what happened. The setting, San Diego, came along with the contract, as Beach Dreams is the third in The Beach House series, created by Sally John. So, although I originally planned for Tiff and Jeremy’s story to take place in the Washington, D.C. area, I sent them to the other side of the country. The circumstances of that trip made for some fun plot points!

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

There isn't a way to say this without making myself sound awful, but I hatch most of my characters' weaknesses out of my own experiences. Tiff's selfish nature, Jeremy's misjudgement about the motives of others, both of their struggles with giving control over to God, that kind of thing. And my characters have experiences such as living with an alcoholic, losing a loved one, going through breakups, and learning to love again that bear the markings of my own experiences. And then there's the gift of saying the wrong thing at the wrong time—they get that from me.

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

Last year at the American Christian Fiction Writers conference, Robin Jones Gunn talked about the fact that every Christian writer will eventually notice an overriding theme to her body of work. She said to watch for that, because that's the main message the Lord has put on your heart to share with others. I've discovered that the idea of leaning on God's guidance, above all else, is my overriding theme. So I think that's the part of me that eventually flavored my characters and influenced my plot line for Beach Dreams. Tiff can be selfish and manipulative because she forgets to seek His guidance. Jeremy makes all kinds of misjudgements about the motivations of others, because he's slow in trusting God’s guidance. Fortunately for me as a writer, some of these failings can lead to situations that are humorous to those not actually having to experience them!

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

I can't really say any of it was difficult (other than a very short deadline). But there is a scene between Tiff and her father (no spoilers here), for which I had to step away from the computer and completely immerse myself into Tiff's frame of mind, as if what was happening to her was actually happening to me. Until I did that, I wasn't aware of how she was going to react to him. But when I "became" the character, I broke down in tears and knew exactly how she would react. I have to say I loved how moving the experience was!

My favorite parts to write are the humorous moments of dialogue, especially between the hero and heroine or the heroine and her closest friends. My favorite parts of life are the humorous moments of dialogue too!

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

To date, I'm not sure which book will come out next. I'm talking with Harvest House about an idea I put together last week for a summer 2009 release, but I can't share anything about that yet. And I'm also working on a romantic comedy set in Washington, D.C., but I'm not sure about the status of that project, with regard to publication. I'm in a holding pattern at the moment, and since Beach Dreams just released two weeks ago, I'm giving it my focus right now. As soon as I know something definite about the next book, I'll be sure to post it on my blog at http://www.trishperry.com/ As always, I'm eager to jump into the next story!

CONTEST

In addition to a book giveaway, you can participate in a special contest related to Beach Dreams (prize: a beach bag filled with a few goodies) by posting a response to the following prompt: How has God used a mistake you made - big or small - for his purposes?

The example may be serious or funny, complex or simple, and you may or may not have realized he was even using it at the time it occurred. All entries must be received by 5pm CST on August 22. Trish will judge the entries and declare her favorite.

So, come on and play. Post your comment on this blog entry and Trish will include it with the others she'll be reading to select her favorite. You never know. It could be you!

* * * * *

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE copy of Beach Dreams.

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

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

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

* * * * *

Here is a link to the other bloggers participating in this tour. If you have more than one story to share, feel free to post on other bloggers' entries for more chances to win. Good luck!

http://blogtourspot.com/perry-blog-tour/perry-blog-tour-stops

* * * * *

Spotlight on Susan Meissner and Blue Heart Blessed

Today, I'm introducing an author with a standalone book that has already been set out to be a featured selection in a lot of bookstores across the country. Enjoy!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Susan Meissner is a multi-published author, speaker and writing workshop leader with a background in community journalism. A devotee of purposeful pre-writing, Susan encourages workshop audiences to maximize writing time by planning ahead, mapping the writing journey and beginning from a place of intimate knowledge. She is a contributing writer to the Christian Authors Network marketing blog and the leader/moderator of a local writer's group. When she's not writing, Susan directs the Small Groups and Connection Ministries program at her San Diego church.

BLUE HEART BLESSED
by Susan Meissner
Published by Harvest House

BUY YOUR COPY TODAY

ABOUT THE BOOK

Left standing at the altar, Daisy Murien, a wounded but hopeful romantic, opens a secondhand wedding dress boutique, hoping to soothe her broken heart while giving doomed wedding dresses a second chance at love. Her predictable days take a sharp turn, though, when the retired Episcopal priest who blesses the tiny, blue satin heart she sews into each dress falls ill.

When the priest’s brooding and recently divorced son arrives with plans to take his ailing father away, a contest of wills begins between two stubborn—and hurting—souls. While fighting to keep Father Laurent close by, Daisy finally begins to understand why she has routinely convinced potential buyers not to buy the one gown that started her business—her own: She doesn’t want to give up on the dream of a fairytale romance. This compelling story is about the magnificence of unconditional love and God’s impeccable timing in bringing it about.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

A couple years ago I was talking with a college-age student while we were on our way to see someone in the hospital. She told me she had just seen her roommate's wedding dress and she described how beautiful it was. I said something like, "It's too bad a dress as beautiful as that is only worn once." The minute I said that, an idea popped in my head. What if someone opened a secondhand wedding dress shop? What if there was a place for wedding dresses to go so they would be worn again? What kind of person would open a shop like that? By the time we reached the hospital I had Daisy (my quirky main character) fairly fleshed out in my head and I knew why she had opened a used wedding dress shop. She had a dress to sell; the dress she never got to wear because her groom caved 10 days before the wedding. And I knew it would take her 350 pages to finally be able to part with it.

2. How much of your own experiences influenced the character of Daisy? What aspects became traits that were hers and hers alone?

I'm happy to say I married a great guy who loves being married to me so I never had to recover from the kind of disappointment Daisy did. But I did make tons of bridal paper dolls when I was little, just like Daisy did. And I did plan my wedding's every tiny detail, just like Daisy did. I love gelato like Daisy does, I play piano, and so does Daisy. And I love "He Shall Feed His Flock," from Handel's Messiah, just like Daisy does! But Daisy has a hard time letting go of her past and I am usually okay with saying goodbye to things that have hurt me.

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

The theme I wanted to weave in more than anything was don’t hurry true love. The real thing is worth waiting for. It's not something you make happen. It happens while you are concentrating on others, not yourself. The more subtle themes are: 1. Assumptions are dangerous critters – don't assume anything about anybody! – and 2. The love of God will always be there for you, when all other loves fail. Always.

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

It was kind of hard to keep the two people I want to have get together in this book apart. They were perfect for each other, but I had to keep them apart until the end otherwise it would've been a really short book! I loved writing the scene where Daisy realizes the one she loves loves her and they kiss. :)

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

My next release is also a book with a romantic thread but there are a lot of other threads that make up the fabric of the plot. It deals with a college lit major, a reclusive 83-year-old librarian and the 400-year-old diary of a victim of the Salem witch trials. The story in a nutshell is this: the lit major, an only child who grew up in a very affluent family and feels pressured to live up to the family dynasty, agrees to transcribe the diary, which belonged to an ancestor of the librarian. The librarian has her own reasons for having the diary transcribed, and of course the victim of the Salem witch trials was innocent, as nearly all the people executed in Salem in 1692 were. So there are some sad, some poignant moments in this book. But I think we can learn from the past. We have to or we're doomed to repeat it, so the saying goes. So even though I don't race backward through time to save a girl who was falsely accused and executed for witchcraft, we learn from her. And that’s the next best thing. The book is called The Shape of Mercy and it will be released by WaterBrook in the fall of 2008.

* * * * *

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Blue Heart Blessed. 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, insert your email 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.

* * * * *