The Next Big Thing

All right, so I'm still trying to play catch-up and get back into the swing of things with my weekly author guest blog posts. I'm woefully behind. (sigh)

As I'm getting my schedule lined up, though, I'll get this blog hop tour posted so all y'all will at least have something to read in the interim. :)

Credit for this "tag" goes to my friend, Shannon McNear, who signed her very first book contract in Dallas, Texas, in September last year at the annual ACFW Conference. I was there to witness this amazing experience with her and share in her joys. So I suppose I can humor her and participate in this blog hop. :)

The rules of the blog hop:

1. Mention who tagged you, and link to their post.
2. Give the rules.
3. Answer the ten questions below.
4. Link to at least 3 other people.

And now, here we go!

1) What is the title of your next book?
Antique Dreams

2) Where did the idea come from for the book?
This is book 3 in my Brandywine Brides series. I had already established the connection between the 3 novels to be a family heirloom book that first appeared in Promises, Promises, book 1 in my Liberty’s Promise series. The book was read by the heroine of that story to the hero, and it was passed down through the generations. Along the way, however, it was lost, and the heroine in Bound by Grace (book 1 in Brandywine Brides) located it again. In book 2, Stealing Hearts, the hero stole the book from the heroine's home then was sentenced to work for her family as penance. For book 3, I needed another way for that book to play an integral role in the meeting of the hero and heroine, and what better way than to have the hero acquire the book from the heroine's brother along with a promise to take care of his sister? The story took off from there.

3) What genre does your book fall under?
Historical Romance

4) What actors would you choose to play the part of your characters in a movie rendition?
Oh, wow. I almost never like answering this question, because I often can't think of anyone to fill the roles. So, instead of me stressing over it, I'm going to leave it to you. I'm including the cover, so you can see the characters how I wrote them. Click on it to see the full-size version. Who do YOU think would be good cast in the two lead roles?

5) What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?
Aaron Stone never imagined the depth of his commitment to fulfill the dying wish of his best friend until he meets his friend's sister, the lovely Lillian Bradenton, and his life takes an unexpected turn.

6) Will your book be self-published or represented by an agency?
My agent is Sandra Bishop with MacGregor Literary, so I suppose this means the book will be represented by them.

7) How long did it take you to write the first draft of the manuscript?
This is where most other writers want to wring my neck. I wrote this book from start to finish (including revisions) in three weeks. Of course, this doesn't include the copy edit and content revisions from the editor at my publishing house. It's only what it took me to get the book ready to submit to my editor.

8) What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?
Any historical titles in the Heartsong Presents line, along with the books in the Love Inspired Historical line. I'm not sure I can narrow down the focus to actual titles.

9) Who or what inspired you to write this book?
I came up with the premise a few years before the contract came, and when it came time to write the book, I had no idea I'd be writing it IN the month (April 2012) that was the 100th anniversary of the Titanic sinking back in 1912. The inspiration came as a result of research done on the setting and the initial premise of the series, but when all the news came out about the anniversary, my interest doubled, making it a lot of fun to show what happened AFTER the tragedy and that life could still be fulfilling beyond the loss.

10) What else about the book might pique the reader’s interest?
Although the focus isn't on The Titanic itself, it's a story of a Titanic survivor, so for those who enjoy stories about the one who lived to tell about that experience, this might be an enjoyable read.

Those I've chosen for the next next big thing:
Carla Laureano
Kelli Hughett
Jen Turner Turano

Let's get rolling!

Guest Blogger Carla Olson Gade and The Shadow Catcher's Daughter

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

CARLA OLSON GADE has been imagining stories most her life. Her love for writing and eras gone by turned her attention to writing historical Christian romance. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, and Maine Fellowship of Christian Writers. An autodidact, creative thinker, and avid reader, Carla also enjoys genealogy, web design, and photography. A native New Englander, she writes from her home in beautiful rural Maine where she resides with her “hero” husband and two young adult sons.

THE SHADOW CATCHER'S DAUGHTER
by Carla Olson Gade
Published by Heartsong Presents/Harlequin

ABOUT THE BOOK

Colorado/New Mexico, 1875: Eliana Van Horn aims to make her mark by joining her father as his photography assistant on an expedition to survey and document the placement of a marker at the intersection of four southwest boundaries. Living in the shadows of his native heritage, a half-Navajo guide, Yiska Wilcox, is thrown off course when The Shadow Catcher’s Daughter opens up the uncharted territory of his heart. As they travel through dangerous terrain in New Mexico and overcome barriers of culture, faith, ideals, and secrets that they both keep, they at last discover common ground and stake a chance on love.

Note: The Shadow Catcher's Daughter is not available via any online retailer, but it IS available from the Harlequin Reader Service and as an autographed copy directly from Carla through Signed by the Author.

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

Search for Significance

In my debut novel, The Shadow Catcher’s Daughter, the protagonist longs for significance. Eliana would like to make her mark in a world that does not value the talents this young woman possesses, nor are women given the same opportunities as men. But there is more. She understands that the marks people bear can be positive and negative. How hard she must strive to make her good impression and find a way to work around the obstacles in her way. Yiska has goals of his own. And as a half-breed Indian he is caught between cultures and it is difficult to find the place where he belongs and will be accepted.

Although the 19th century rural setting of this book makes it difficult for Eliana and Yiska to fulfill their dreams, I believe many of us can relate to the longings they have. We have our own obstacles to overcome. Sometimes we just can’t seem to get out of our own way. And often we are subject to the opportunities and events in our lives — positive and negative. How frustrating it can be when the opportunity, perhaps a talent you have and an event, becoming a caregiver for example, seem to keep you in a perpetual state of inertia. How do you realize your significance then? Is it knowing what you are capable of doing even though your talent remains hidden? Is it understanding the importance of what you are doing during that particular season in your life? These things can help, but to be frank, there are times in our lives that even these considerations can leave us unsatisfied. Why? Because they are based on what we do. So I ask you this, if Eliana and Yiska never achieve their goals are they significant persons? Are you?

As life would have it, irony seems to rule. I have worked very hard and prayerfully pursued my own goal of becoming a published author. Twenty years ago, when my sons were small, I had the first inklings of hope to become published someday. My boys were very close in age and I also suffered from serious health issues for many years. My life circumstances changed time and again. The timing wasn’t right for me, but the hope lived on and I wrote for enjoyment’s sake as I was able. Fast forward and my first novel is published. I am officially an author. An author who cannot write! I was in a car accident and broke my wrist at the time of my book’s release. I could not write, type, sign an autograph, work on my current book contract...nadda. Frustrated, yes. But I held on to the knowledge that my worth does not rest on my fleeting capabilities.

What I do is not who I am. Nor is what I do not, or cannot do. Although gratifying, writing is not what makes me significant. Being published or not does not change who I am in God’s sight. He is fulfilling His purpose for me in who I am as His child, shaping every facet of my being, not just what I do. Yes, I have dreams and goals. I pray they merge with His purposes. But I am fulfilled in trusting that he satisfies the deep desires of my heart. Sometimes the ones that I am unaware of that He later brings to light. My prayer is that you will find your significance in Him. Through Him. Just as Eliana and Yiska do.

* * * * *

Thank you, Carla, for sharing with us today.

Guest Question: What makes you feel significant?

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 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 US/Canada residents only.

CFBA Presents S. Dionne Moore and Promise Brides

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Promise Brides Barbour Books (November 1, 2011) by S. Dionne Moore
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

S. Dionne Moore resides in South Central PA with her family. She is a weekly contributor to The Borrowed Book where she posts tips on the writing life, recipes, and teaches on various writing-related subjects. In addition to writing cozy mysteries, she pens historical romances that bring strong focus to locales within her region of Pennsylvania as a way of indulging her passion for history. In Fall of 2011 her first of three romances set in Wyoming, A Sheepherder's Song, will release.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Love is the same, no matter when, no matter where—it never comes without sacrifice. Theodore risks capture for Ellie, but will their hope for a future together be defeated? Can Marylu trust Chester, or is she asking for another broken heart? Will Alaina and Jack find common ground, or will flood waters destroy any possible future? Enjoy three romances from the historic state of Pennsylvania.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Promise Brides, go HERE.

MY REVIEW

When I first met Sandra, we were both involved in the local ACFW chapter zone of the Mid-Atlantic states. Or, we might have first met at an ACFW conference. I'm not sure. Wherever it was, it didn't take long for us to form a fast friendship, full of laughter, fun stories, and camaraderie you don't find unless you share it with other writers. Our shared passion for history is another tying link. Since my first series was set in historical Delaware, a neighbor to Pennsylvania (and once 3 colonies belonging to that state), I knew I had to get this book.

And Sandra Moore does an amazing job with the historical detail of all 3 books in this collection. I was swept away by the Johnstown Flood story of Alaina and Jack, intrigued by the escape from slavery story of Marylu and Chester, and tugged into the north/south struggle of the war story of Ellie and Theodore. Each one brought unique facets of the history of Pennsylvania to light, and I read the book in 3 short sittings.

The characters all came to life and brought their unique backstory to the pages. If you're looking for some easy reading with some sweet, yet dedicated, love stories, plus a fun history lesson without feeling like you're in school, check out this book. You won't regret it.

*** I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for this review. No compensation was given or received.

Books for Sale! Fantastic Fiction at Bargain Prices

I shared here on this blog about a month ago about the Heartsong Presents book club closing at the end of this year. This has meant a big loss of expected income for me and our family between now and Christmas.

We're also enrolled in Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University right now, so we can attack our debt and get out from under this burden. Our goal is 3-5 years, and we'll be done with this. Sooner, if possible. And then, we can pass on a debt-free legacy to our two children. Show them the freedom of living financially responsible and without worry of debt.

One way to start doing that is to sell things. So, we've started with books. And since we'd love to see them go to a good home, we're promoting the list of items to those who read Christian fiction.

If you'd like to see the list, you can view it here. (http://www.amazon.com/shops/tiffany_amber_stockton)

All purchases will help us pay off our debt faster. Thank you in advance.

If you purchase more than 1 book, we'll refund part of your shipping, since we can save by packaging books together.

Please forward this post or the link to anyone you know who might be interested in buying some brand new books at a great price!

Heartsong Presents -- Countdown to Demise

It is sad news week, I'm afraid.

Yesterday, an official announcement went out stating as of the end of 2011, the Heartsong Presents book club will cease to exist. The book club is being canceled. After nearly 20 years and over 1,000 titles released, this club will see its last shipment in December of this year.

To say I was stunned when I heard this doesn't even begin to describe the feelings I've been experiencing. Not only does it mean book club members won't be receiving those wholesome romances they love (both to read and pass on to friends or young female readers), but it means I have to find another publishing house for my books and writing. Two of my books promised for contract are now not going to be contracted.

A lot of big-name Christian fiction authors got their start by writing for Heartsong Presents. Authors like Tracie Peterson, Colleen Coble, Kristen Billerbeck, Diann Hunt, Denise Hunter, Mary Connealy, Judith Miller, Donita K. Paul, and at least 20 others. I just can't think of their names right now. :)

I can't say I'm surprised, as I've seen the club numbers dwindle over the past 3-4 years. The world of publishing is changing, and unfortunately, this book club no longer fits the needs and buying habits of the average Christian romance reader. Mass-markets are going the way of the dinosaur, and those looking for value-priced books are migrating to e-books by the thousands!

I joined this club in 1992 when it first began, and this club gave me my first publishing contract. It is with bittersweet fondness that I begin the process of saying goodbye.

At least the 4-in-1 novella collections will continue. And they are going to continue doing the repacks of Heartsong books until they have released ALL Heartsong titles in a 3-in-1 repack. Barbour Publishing will also continue with the Romancing America line with the novellas, and they have trade-length BRIDE/WEDDING single title romances coming out starting this year. This is in addition to their standard trade-length single titles in the romance genre. Romance is still strong with them. It just won't be through Heartsong Presents anymore.

So, what about you? Any thoughts or comments?

Spotlight on Shannon Vannatter and White Roses

Don't forget the new rules of the spotlights here. Random questions will be inserted in each spotlight for you to find and answer in the comments in order to be entered. So, be on the lookout!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SHANNON VANNATTER is a stay-at-home mom/pastor’s wife/writer. When not writing, she runs circles in the care and feeding of her husband Grant, their eight-year-old son, and their church congregation. Home is a central Arkansas zoo with two charcoal gray cats, a chocolate lab, a dragonfish, and three dachshunds in weenie dog heaven. If given the chance to clean house or write, she’d rather write. Her goal is to hire Alice from the Brady Bunch.

Her series with Heartsong Presents launched in May with White Roses. White Doves follows in October, and White Pearls in January. Each book ships to a 10,000 member bookclub, then to stores six months later. All three books are set in Romance and Rose Bud, Arkansas. Brides and lovebirds take advantage of the re-mailing program to have wedding invitations and Valentines cards mailed from Romance with a unique postmark. Romance also hosts several annual weddings with Valentine’s Day the most popular.

Order White Roses at http://www.heartsongpresents.com/book/detail/9781602607552/. Learn more about Shannon and her books at http://shannonvannatter.com. Her new blog, The Inkslinger, features true love stories, inspirational author’s real-life romances, insight into the love lives of their fictional characters, book excerpts, romantic destinations, and weekly book giveaways at http://www.shannonvannatter.com/blog.

WHITE ROSES
by Shannon Vannatter
Published by Barbour Publishing's Heartsong Presents

ABOUT THE BOOK

Pastor Grayson Sterling loves his wife. The problem is, Sara was killed by a hit-and-run driver two years ago. Grayson knows he needs to move on, that the continuing depth of his grief is not healthy for him or his young son. Desperate, he convinces his church to hire Mark Welch as associate pastor to relieve him of some of his load. When Adrea Welch arrives at his church with her brother, Grayson cannot deny his attraction to her.

For years, florist Adrea Welch has been artfully arranging white roses for Sara Sterling. Now those flowers are carried to the cemetery by a faithful, grieving husband. How can Adrea be so attracted to a man still devoted to his dead wife? When secrets from Adrea’s past collide with their budding relationship, both she and Grayson must learn to lean on God’s abiding wisdom.

Readers, buy your copy of White Roses today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

My dad always sends me flowers or balloons on Valentine's Day. As he's gotten older, I've wondered how I'll feel the first time no gift comes. Then I turned it around, and wondered would happen if I die first. I decided he'd take them to the cemetery. It became a widowed pastor and the florist who did his wife's flowers and grew from there. I still have my dad. He's seventy and still works part-time as a ranch foreman.

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

Adrea is tempted to bite her nails when she's nervous, a habit I had as a kid. Grayson has panic attacks if anyone he loves is in danger or when an ambulance goes by. I lost a cousin in a car accident several years ago. For a long time afterward, I worried that someone I loved was in every ambulance I heard.

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

Adrea is Death by Chocolate, her choice when she's feeling down. Grayson is Chocolate Chip. Just because he's yummy handsome and that's my favorite flavor. So far, all my heroes have dark hair and green eyes like my hubby.

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

The theme is letting go of your fears and letting God handle life for you. A side theme that readers might not notice: Wade was a thorn in Adrea and Grayson's side.

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

The black moment was the most difficult because I hate being mean to my characters. My favorite was the happily-ever-after.

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

The next book in the series is White Doves and releases to the book club in October and stores in April. It's set in the Romance, AR post office. The heroine is the postmaster and the hero is the mail carrier.

* * * * *

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

NEW!! 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 White Roses. If you do not answer the question, you will not be entered.

Question: Since it's close to Father's Day:
1. What do you think I should do for my dad in return for all those gifts?
2. What's your favorite memory about your dad?

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 anyone worldwide.

Please Vote for Patterns and Progress

I've mentioned the ACFW Book Club on here a few times. And I have a link at the top of my books page directing you to subscribe if you love to read fiction and discuss books with others. I'll include that here as well.



This week, my 6th book, Patterns and Progress, is up for the ACFW Book Club vote for June reading. In fact, there is a fantastic list of books there by some of my friends and fellow Heartsong authors. Even a couple from friends writing for Love Inspired. I haven't yet cracked that book line yet, but I'm working on it. :)

Anyway, I'd love to have your vote for Patterns and Progress. The club is free to join (especially if you already have a Yahoo account) and a lot of fun. Discussion takes place at the end of each month, and there's a live chat with the author of the selected book following the close of the discussion.

It's an honor to have my book up there with the other titles. I'd love to see my book be selected and be invited to chat about it with the book club readers.

Thanks so much for your support.

Spotlight on Diana Brandmeyer and Hearts on the Road

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

DIANA LESIRE BRANDMEYER has a background in education and psychology. Her credits include My Devotions, The Metro East Family Gazette, Little Visits Family Devotions and The Lutheran Witness. She received her degree from Webster University. She is the author of Hearts on the Road, A Time to Dance, Mystery of the Smithton Necklace and The Trouble with Ralph. Recently voted Heartsong Presents Book Club Favorite New Author 2010. She lives in Southern Illinois where the corn grows at a rapid rate behind her home.

She’s married and has 3 grown sons all on their own now, each of them bringing someone special to join the family. Yay! Daughters-in-law!

Diana loves having pets, right now there is only one in the house, a cat named Wendell and an occasional granddog named Rusty. You can also visit her blog: www.pencildancer.com.

HEARTS ON THE ROAD
by Diana Brandmeyer
Published by Barbour Publishing / Heartsong Presents

ABOUT THE BOOK

Love cannot be trusted.

Abandoned by her father, betrayed by her fiancé, and forsaken by God, truck driver Randi Davis crisscrosses Wyoming with a broken heart, vowing never to love another man. Suddenly Matthew Carter, a pastor in search of a mobile ministry, is thrust into her life and into her cab. And there’s nothing she can do about it. Soon Randi and Matthew find themselves at cross-purposes. His life on the road has just begun. Her eight-year-old niece needs a parent to come home to every day. Is this the end of the road for Randi and Matthew’s romance? Which road leads to God’s ultimate plan?

Readers, buy your copy of Hearts on the Road today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

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

My husband and I were coming home from a trip in our fifth wheel and we stopped at a truck stop for fuel. A small pickup truck came into the parking lot pulling a trailer that said, “Truckers for Christ” on its side. That’s where the idea began.

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

It’s hard to separate what is the author and what is the character for me. We traveled around the states a lot and those experiences infiltrated some of the story. Driving through Wyoming was a lonely time for me and I think that influenced some of Randi’s choices. I would never want to drive a big rig, so that's all Randi.

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

Randi would be rocky road. She’s stumbling through life, thinking her obstacles are too big to get over. Matthew would be vanilla with that thin line of chocolate running through it. He’s security with a tiny bit of uncertainty.

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

Abandonment it the big theme. I do hope the reader sees that God never leaves us. The other theme would be forgiveness.

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

The technical parts of the book were hard because it’s not an easy career, truck drivers can be a bit rough to talk to and the true trucking side of the truck stops tend to make me blush. My favorite part? The loading dock scene.

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

Right now I’m under contract with Concordia Publishing House. I’m co-authoring a nonfiction book about blended families. It is scheduled to come out sometime in 2011.

* * * * *

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Hearts on the Road.

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

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

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

Spotlight on Erica Vetsch and The Bartered Bride

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

ERICA VETSCH is married to Peter and keeps the company books for the family lumber business. A home-school mom to Heather and James, Erica loves history, romance, and storytelling. Her ideal vacation is taking her family to out-of-the-way history museums and chatting to curators about local history. She has a Bachelor’s degree from Calvary Bible College in Secondary Education: Social Studies. You can find her on the web at http://onthewritepath.blogspot.com.

THE BARTERED BRIDE
by Erica Vetsch
Published by Barbour Publishing / Heartsong Presents

ABOUT THE BOOK

Duluth, Minnesota in 1905 boasts more millionaires than any other U.S. city. Tycoon Abraham Kennebrae intends to marry his grandsons off to three of the wealthiest heiresses in town and allow Kennebrae Shipping to gain control of Duluth Harbor.

Tempests rage, in the board room, the ball room, and on treacherous Lake Superior. Will hearts and helms survive? Will God prove Himself sovereign over wind, waves, and weddings?

Jonathan Kennebrae, oldest of the three Kennebrae brothers, finds himself backed into a corner. Marry heiress Melissa Brooke or lose his own considerable inheritance. Can he find a legitimate reason to avoid the wedding and still keep his fortune? But as the wedding day approaches, does he want to escape?

Melissa Brooke, only heir to her father’s empire, is bartered by her parents into a marriage contract to a man she’s never met. Can she trust him with her deepest secret? Can she trust him with her heart?

Readers, buy your copy of The Bartered Bride today!

MY REVIEW

Wow! As many already know, I love historical romance. As a historical author myself, though, I am often quite picky about the books I read. Erica has done an amazing job with her research of Minnesota and the little tidbits peppered throughout her book that help bring the reality of Duluth alive to the reader. And the premise of a grandfather who is looking to marry off his grandsons is fantastic! Jonathan and Melissa are rich in detail and quickly hook you with their respective plights. The supporting characters only add to the depth and make for a solid read. Be on the lookout for some great books coming from this author.

OTHER STOPS ON THE TOUR

Nov. 16th Myra Johnson http://myra.typepad.com/
Lisa Harris http://myblogintheheartofafrica.blogspot.com/

Nov. 17th Cindy Wilson http://cindyrwilson.blogspot.com/
Jamie Debree http://thevarietypages.blogspot.com/

Nov. 18th Lynda Schab, http://on-the-write-track.blogspot.com/

Nov. 19th Jamie Debree again http://thevarietypages.blogspot.com/

Nov. 20th Rachel Fernandes http://confessionsofaheadhopper.blogspot.com/
Mary Connealy at Seekerville http://seekerville.blogspot.com/

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

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

The initial idea came from a visit to Duluth MN and loving the setting so much I knew I wanted to write a story set there. Then came some research into the history of the city. And then one day I was sitting in church waiting for the service to start when the idea of a shipping tycoon wanting to marry off his grandsons came to me.

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

I can't think of anything specifically as far as character traits. I do know that I've prayed Jonathan's prayer before, that God would change someone else, when in reality, I was the one who needed changing.

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

Melissa would probably be strawberry since she loves pink. Jonathan, Cookies and Creme, smooth, creamy, and full of little surprises.

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

The theme of God's sovereignty is fairly overt. More subtle would be His trustworthiness. Not only is He in control, but He can be trusted to work things out for our good and His glory.

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

This book flowed really well. I wrote that first draft in about five weeks one summer. My favorite parts of this book to write were actually the most difficult as well. The ending provided lots of challenges, but I'm very pleased with how it came off.

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

My next book is The Marriage Masquerade, which is the story of Noah Kennebrae, Jonathan's brother. It comes out early next year.

* * * * *

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

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

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

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

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

Spotlight on Becky Melby and Dream Chasers

To all my regular readers, winners have been selected for all previous blog spotlights. Make sure you check out the spotlights all the way back to March 13th with J.M. Hochstetler's Wind of the Spriti.

Thanks so much for your patience. And now on to this week's spotlight.



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

BECKY MELBY has co-authored seven inspirational romances. Walk with Me, the first in a series of Heartsong Presents romances based in Minnesota, was chosen as the Heartsong Presents Editor's #1 Contemporary Pick for 2008. Dream Chasers is the second book. Stillwater Promise will be released later this summer and Pleasant Surprises, the first of an Illinois series, will follow. A three-in-one collection, Wisconsin Blessings, by Barbour Publishing came out in February of 2006 and a novella, Over the Wall in Race to the Altar by Barbour, released in September of 2007.

Parents of four sons and nine-going-on-ten grandchildren, Becky and her husband Bill live in Wisconsin. They host and lead a small group Bible study in their home and enjoy motorcycle rides and RVing.

http://beckymelby.blogspot.com/
http://www.melby-wienke.com/

DREAM CHASERS
by Becky Melby & Cathy Wienke
Published by Heartsong Presents/Barbour Publishing

ABOUT THE BOOK

April Douglas is determined to fulfill her sister's dream list—the things Caitlyn would have done if she hadn't died so young. Things like climbing a water tower and chasing a tornado.

April faces each challenge with feigned bravery to honor her sister and interest the small radio audience that's listening in on her adventures. But the man April blames for Caitlyn's death—TV weatherman and storm chaser Seth Bachelor—appears at inopportune times, forcing April to face strong fears and misconceptions.

Seth can't figure out why April resists him. When he learns of her devotion to the dream list, he offers to help April check them off and overcome her fears...only to be faced with his own shortcomings at every turn.

Just when April thinks Seth can be trusted, she learns he may not be the man she thought he was. What will it cost them—or gain them—to chase God’s dreams together?

Buy Your Copy of Dream Chasers today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

Contrary to the way it looks, this idea came to my writing partner, Cathy Wienke, and I long before "The Bucket List" came out. We were sitting in the Nashville airport after the 2005 ACFW conference when the idea for the first book in the series sprouted. Walk with Me begins with an apartment fire. We decided to make the series about three women who had some involvement with that incident. April Douglas in Dream Chasers is a reporter who covered the fire. We just started brainstorming about April and came up with a character who recently lost her teenage sister to leukemia complications and is now trying to fulfill her sister's "Dream List." To add inner conflict, we gave her an angry father who was more out than in her life. And then we brought in Seth Bachelor, one of the meteorologists she blames for her sister's death. The man has anger issues, at least in April's eyes. When she starts to see a gentle side to him, she's afraid to believe it can last.

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

Like April, I have a fear of heights. But that girl is determined to overcome her fear. The story opens with April climbing a water tower. Me? Never. She is far gutsier in the social and career realms, too. April is also terrified of storms. Unlike her, I would love to see a tornado at the closest possible safe distance. April has a problem with transference at times—she assumes Seth is going to react in anger the way her father did. I've been guilty of that too often. My co-author's childhood experience of being raise by grandparents for the first five years gave credibility to April's sense of loss over an absent father.

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

While April has a passion for Bridgeman's Wolf Tracks ice cream, if she were an ice cream flavor, she'd be Praline Pecan. She's in the process of finding an inner strength she didn't know she possessed and regaining the confidence and passion she lost when her sister died. There are lots of sweet surprising nuggets in the vanilla of her life.

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

Our theme verse for Dream Chasers is Psalm 37:4—"Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." April and Seth both have dreams they think will never be realized. Both discover that surrender to the Lord's plans brings peace. In my own life, God has shown me His faithfulness over and when I finally reach that moment of surrender. April's relationship with her parents unfolded as we were writing. Her father's anger and abandonment and her mother's depression have left scars. Throughout the book, she learns to accept what she cannot change.

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

While I often bog down just past the halfway point, this book was different. With forty-two things on the Dream List, there was a new adventure and setting at every turn. That kept things exciting while I was writing. The tornado scene was my favorite. In describing the storm I got to use all the senses, and sneaking in a bit of romance in the eye of a tornado was pure fun.

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

Stillwater Promise, the third book in this Minnesota series, will be this summer. This story was a challenge to write, but may just be my favorite.

It's about Sara Lewis, who was one of the residents in the apartment building where the fire broke out in Walk with Me. Sara has been separated from her husband James for two years. They have two little girls. She is struggling to balance work and home and working hard toward her dream of owning a bed and breakfast—all without any help from her husband. Suddenly, James shows up, claiming to be a changed person because of his faith in Christ. Cathy and I were excited about the opportunity to write about the difficulties of marriage, but we were afraid it might be difficult to generate enough romantic sparks between two people with so much history.

As it turned out, starting with a couple in gridlock was the perfect setup for lots of wonderful making up...after lots of additional road blocks, of course. Writing a story that encourages perseverance in marriage made me recommit to working at my own marriage and I pray it does the same for our readers.

* * * * *

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Dream Chasers.

Make sure you leave your email address (name at domainname dot.com/net), or your name won't be entered into the drawing. If you wish to comment but don't want to be entered, say so when you post.

You can also check the box that says 'email follow-up comments to:' when you leave a comment and any further comments will be sent to the email address associated with your blogging account. That way you'll know when I announce the winner.

This week, the contest is open to anyone worldwide.

CFBA Blog Tour -- ME! Follow the Tour!

Just a quick note to let y'all know that I'm being spotlighted on CFBA this week, December 8th-10th. The feature is my second book, Quills & Promises, and 54 other bloggers will be posting a spotlight on me and that book.

Some have interviews, some have book reviews, and some have book giveaway contests.

So, if you'd like to follow the tour, here's the list:

Stormi at Mystery, Suspense & God...Oh My!

Abi at lighter side
Amy at Simple Folk Schoolhouse
Andie at frommipov
Andrea at The Laughs Will Go On
Angela at One Baby, Seven Dogs, and a Mommy
April at Projecting A
Barbara at Victoria Hill Farm
Becky at Savvy Mom
Bonnie at Bonnie Writes
Brittanie at A Book Lover
Camille at There is a season
Carolyn at Serenity
Cheryl at Writing Remnants
Christy at Christy's Book Blog
Courtney at A Mom Speaks
Dave at The Plot Thickens
Dave at Novel Spotlight
Deborah at books, movies and chinese food
Deena at A Peek At My Bookshelf
Gina at Portrait Of A Writer
Janis at The Nearsighted Bookworm
Jendi at Jendi's Journal
Jeni at Allen Family Circus
Jenn at Adventures At Walden's Pond
Jennifer at Musings on This, That, & The Other Thing
Jenny at Come Meet AusJenny
Jill at Artistic Blogger
Kara at Ramblings-n-Writings
Karen at Mommy of Three
Kim at Window To My World
Kim at Rainy Day Diamonds
Krista at Welcome To Married Life
Kristy at I Need To Read
Laura at Laura William's Musings
Leah at Ponderings From My Heart
Linda at Mocha With Linda
Linda at Reading For His Glory
Lori at Noggin Bits
Michelle at Edgy Inspirational Author
Pam at Pam's Private Reflections
Pam at Daysong Reflections
Margaret at Creative Madness
Pattie at FreshBrewedWriter
Pepper at Great Christian Fiction
Ryan at loves to read
Sabrina at Hijinks From The Heartland
Shera at Froggy Reviews
Sherry at Everything Moms
Sunny at That Book Addiction
Takiela at Beauty 4 Ashes
Tara at Tara's View Of The World
Tiffany at Snapshots Of Life
Vanessa at Ramblings of A Texas Housewife
Victoria at Overlooked Orchid

Happy Touring!

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Heartsong Presents -- Vote for 2008 Annual Favorites

Do you know about the Heartsong Presents book club and Annual Reader Poll? Have you voted yet? If not, it's easy. And if you want to join, your first month is free. After that, for just $10.99 each shipment, you get 4 new books every 4 weeks, several months before they're released to the bookstores or online. If you have read any of the HP books this year and haven't voted, don't wait too long. Voting ends December 1st!

The 2008 Annual Reader's Poll is underway. You can cast your vote here for your favorite historical, favorite contemporary, favorite covers for both historical and contemporary, favorite author (me! *winks*), favorite new author (me! *winks*), and favorite overall theme included in the books.

I have been entered with the following options for me and my books:

Historical book: Promises, Promises and Quills & Promises
Historical cover: Promises, Promises and Quills & Promises
Author: Amber Miller
New Author: Amber Miller

Book 3 didn't make it, as they cut off this year's releases with the 4 right before the 4 where my 3rd book is included. Well, it'll be on next year's with the first 2 in my new series as well. :)

I'll confess. It's been a dream of mine for years to even be published with HP, and now that I am, I'm aiming for my next dream---to be voted a favorite new author and to one day be added to the Heartsong Hall of Fame after 3 years of being named a favorite author. We'll see if I can continue with the book releases to last that long. LOL!

If you'd like to help me get there, click here to vote. You can simply leave your name and email address. You don't need a member # unless you already have one and wish to be entered to win a free year's worth of books.

I'd greatly appreciate your help in this. The more votes received in general, the more Heartsong will know it still has a strong audience who loves their books. But, obviously, I'd love to see my name "in lights" as a winner, either as an author or for one of my books. :)

And after you vote, come back here and leave a comment, telling me that you did. I'll do a drawing from all comments left for the choice of 1 of my 3 books released so far. The drawing will take place on December 3rd -- as the voting closes on December 1st and I'll be out of town until the 2nd. :)

Spread the word to anyone else you know who reads these books. I'm sure I'm not alone in my desire to see them continue to be published.

Thank you so much for your help!

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Spotlight on Debra Ullrick and The Bride Wore Coveralls

Today, I'm pleased to introduce to y'all a good friend of mine and a fellow Heartsong Presents debut author this year. We received our contracts close to the same time, and it's been fantastic sharing this new publishing journey together. Not only that, but she lives in Colorado too!

I'm sure you'll love her and her book as much as I do!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Until a year ago, my husband of thirty+ years and I lived and worked on cow calf ranches in the mountains of Colorado. I have one daughter, who recently got married on 7/7/07 in Las Vegas. I am a ginormous fanatic of classic cars, mud-bog racing, monster trucks, hot rods, and mean-looking trucks. Give me a Manx cat and I'm a happy camper. Just ask my thirteen pound Manx, Tickles. At one time I had three Manx's. Boy, howdy, was that a riot. My passions/hobbies include, animals, strong Christian romance novels, drawing western art, collecting classic car models, playing with my Gravedigger RCC, watching Jane Austen movies, and of course writing.

THE BRIDE WORE COVERALLS
by Debra Ullrick
Published by Barbour Publishing / Heartsong Presents

ABOUT THE BOOK

Camara (pronounced Ca-mare-ah) Cole is a southern female mechanic, who loves to race and build bog trucks. But several of the jealous old fashioned men she competes against strive to make it extremely difficult for her—especially her long time rival Chase Lamar. Camara, a Chevy lover, and Chase, a Ford lover, have been bitter rivals for years. Not just in the mud pits either. Camara sets out to prove to Chase, and all the other men, that she's just as capable of building and racing bog trucks as they are. Her goal is to win the mud-bog racing championship at Swamper Speedway, and hopefully earn her fellow workers and competitors respect. When Chase becomes a Christian, Camara has a hard time believing he's a changed man. Just when she starts trusting him and even liking him, someone starts sabotaging her bog truck. And who else but Chase would do such a thing? After all, he's done it before. Chase Lamar is a changed man, but proving that to Camara is his biggest challenge. That, and overcoming a controlling father who hates the Coles. When his feelings for Camara begin to change, he tries desperately to win her heart. But Camara doesn't trust him. And he doesn't blame her.

Buy Your Copy of The Bride Wore Coveralls Today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. This is your first book. Congratulations! What gave you the inspiration for this book?

Thank you so much, Tiff. Er...um..Amber. *smiling*

Well, I've always loved any kind of racing. Except for NASCAR, that is. Not enough action for me there. Figure eight races, round track where there's no more than fifty laps, drag races, monster truck races, you name it, I love it. I'm especially hooked on mud bog racing—especially after riding with my nephew as he flew through that pit. That was the biggest rush ever. Woo Wee. I'll admit though, I was afraid to ride with him at first. Visions of me having to get out in the middle of a mid-thigh, overgrown mud puddle—oh my! The thought of the cable they pull the trucks out with coming undone about undone me. hehe. Not that they would have made me get out, mind you. Someone else would have, but the fear was there nonetheless.

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

Okay, confession time. Gulp. hehe. Pride is something I've always struggled with. Not the haughty kind per se, but always struggling to be someone or something I wasn't. Always trying to prove myself, but always falling short. While writing The Bride Wore Coveralls, God was speaking to me. I needed to hear what Camara had learned. While it's still hard for me to not compare myself to others and to prove my worth by what I do, instead of who I am in Christ, it is getting better because God is teaching me that we all have an anointing on our life. Some are anointed to be wives, mothers, fathers, carpenters, mechanics, racers, secretaries, CEO's, janitors, writers, etc. I've learned that if I find myself frustrated in what I'm doing to ask myself if I'm trying to do something that God hasn't anointed or gifted me to do. Camara was anointed to be a mechanic. God blessed her with those abilities. So if others were jealous and mad about it, that was their problem and not hers. And yet she struggled to prove to them that she was just as capable as they were. Her pride cost her.

As for the traits that were theirs alone. Well, I'm nothing like either one of them. Camara is the type of gal I would love to be—short in stature, messing around with vehicles, racing, no fear, sassy, feisty, and yet kind, generous, forgiving, and lovable. See, there's that comparison thingy again. *smiling* Hey, what can I say? I'm a work in progress.

As for Chase, well, his traits are a lot like my husband's. Tough yet gentle. Kind but bold. Owns up to his mistakes and works on them. Handsome. Well-built. Loves racing, classic cars, and trucks. But most of all—is very Godly. All the things I admire in a man.

Plus, Chase and Camara are people who rose to the challenges in their lives and overcame them. Those are the things that I want in my life. Those are the things that influenced me.

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

That it's okay to be yourself, and that you don't have to prove yourself to anyone. There will always be jealous people in this world. People who will put you down no matter how good you are or how hard you try. So embrace who you are, just the way you are, and don't let other people's opinion of you bring you down. And don't let anyone stop you from pursing your dreams. But mostly that foolish pride has consequences.

The theme of forgiveness wasn't apparent at first. God surprised me with that one. Pleasantly I might add. Judging was a biggy too. How quick we are to judge someone based on their past.

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

The whole story was difficult to write—except for the mud bog races. That was the easiest part to write. Well, that and the romantic segments. My hubby's an excellent teacher in that department.

My favorite part was—well—the whole thing. I must admit, however, that I especially loved writing it from chapter eighteen until the end. I can't say why though, or I'll give it away. You'll just have to buy the book to find out why. ~wink~wink~

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

I'm not sure when my next book is coming out. There are two sequels, but neither one has sold yet. Déjà vu Bride sat on my acquisition editor's desk since November of 2007, and she only just recently rejected it. The story is about monster trucks, patience, and forgiving yourself and God. The third and final book in the racing series is, Powder Puff Bride.

I'm also working on a historical titled, You Ordered What, and several other stories. So with a little luck and lots of prayer, I'll have another book coming out soon.

* * * * *

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of The Bride Wore Coveralls.

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 only.

* * * * *

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?"

* * * * *

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.

* * * * *

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 Cara Putman and Deadly Exposure AND Sandhill Dreams

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Cara Putman is an author, attorney, lecturer at a Big Ten university, women's ministry leader, and all around crazy woman. Crazy about God, her husband and her kids that is. Heartsong Presents is publishing a three book series of World War Two romances: Canteen Dreams (October 2007), Sandhill Dreams (May 2008), and Captive Dreams (September 2008). Love Inspired Suspense published her first romantic suspense Deadly Exposure in May 2008. Now she's working on the Complete Idiot's Guide to Business Law (don't ask!) and the first book in an Ohio World War Two series.

DEADLY EXPOSURE
by Cara Putman
Published by Steeple Hill Suspense

SANDHILL DREAMS
by Cara Putman
Published by Heartsong Presents

ABOUT THE BOOKS

How could a killer have struck in a crowded theater? That was the question plaguing TV news reporter Dani Richards. She'd been in the box next to the victim -- and hadn't heard or seen a thing. Now the very man who broke Dani's heart years ago is investigating the murder. And when her coverage of the story led the killer to stalk her, police officer and former flame Caleb Jamison insisted on protecting her. Dani was afraid to let Caleb close again. Yet she had no choice. The killer's sinister phone calls left no doubt that he'd come for Dani next.

Buy Your Copy of Deadly Exposure Today!

Lainie Gardner dreamed of becoming a nurse. Of serving her country. Of doing something important in the war. But rheumatic fever changed all that, and instead of running home, Lainie is determined to find a job at Fort Robinson in Nebraska's Sandhills. Tom Hamilton had dreams too. Dreams of preparing the horses at Fort Robinson for duty on the warfront. Instead, he is assigned to train war dogs and their handlers, meaning that each day he must face the fear he's had of dogs since he was bitten as a child. Lainie and Tom wonder why God seems to have denied them their dreams. But is it possible new dreams will bring them more joy than they ever imagined?

Buy Your Copy of Sandhill Dreams Today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this book?

For Deadly Exposure, I worked at a small town Nebraska TV station for a couple years in college, and loved the chance to resurrect my love for journalism with this book. And I set it in Lincoln, Nebraska, since I lived there two years in college and still visit at least a couple times a year. It's my idea of a perfect small city. Out of those two things, I brainstormed ideas with my husband since I knew I wanted a fast-paced suspense. Because it was published by Steeple Hill, it is also filled with romance. And I'm thrilled with the emotion and conflict that developed in it as I wrote. It's a fun read, filled with twists and romance.

Sandhill Dreams is the second book in my Nebraska World War Two series published by Heartsong Presents. I loved researching and writing this book, because it's a story that I don't think many people know about. World War Two was the first time that the United States made a concerted effort to use dogs in war. Half of those used during the war were trained at this little fort in the middle of nowhere, Nebraska. I'd visited once as a young teen and remembered that piece of history and after spending a day at the Fort with the museum curator knew it was perfect for this series.

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

Dani Richards, the heroine of Deadly Exposure, has strong shades of me. We're both independent, stubborn, sink our teeth into something and not let go kind of people. Add in the love of family, Lincoln, and journalism, and she's definitely got traces of me.

Lainie Gardner has some serious questions about how much God truly cares about her after things don't turn out the way she'd planned. I'd just experienced an excruciating test in my life when I started writing the proposal for this book, and the questions I was confronting color the spiritual thread Lainie lives. I say it was the time the candy coating came off my faith and I truly learned that I do believe everything I've always said I believed. Lainie lives through the same struggles.

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

For Deadly Exposure, the thread is that God is truly our refuge -- even when life is falling apart and we are confronted by our failures and need for Him. The theme verse is Psalm 62:5-6. The subtle theme is one of forgiveness and moving beyond the past mistakes. And the hero and heroine have a doozy!

For Sandhill Dreams, the theme verse comes from Isaiah 43:1. The hero and heroine both learn that God truly sees them and has called them by name. I think sometimes it is so easy to forget that when we are in the middle of trials.

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

In Deadly Exposure, I struggled to get the romance up to 50% of the story. One day I was sitting at my computer asking God what to do to make the romantic conflict believable. The suspense is incredibly fast-paced (one week from start to finish), so I needed something big but believable so they could realistically fall in love. God whispered the answer in my ear, and I sat there thinking, "Wow! That would be great. Will the publisher go for it?" I wrote it, since I couldn't come up with anything better LOL, trusting God with the results. My editor loved it!

Sandhill Dreams was actually fairly easy to write. It was just a matter of sitting down and doing it. I enjoyed the story, history, and characters. Lainie was constantly getting herself into trouble, and I think is a more layered character than Audrey was in Canteen Dreams -- though I loved her. And Tom was great!

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

Captive Dreams, book three in the Nebraska World War Two series, releases in September. Captive Dreams is the story of Anna Goodman and Sid Chance and the challenges they experience on the home front during World War II. Anna works at the Air Base in Kearney, but comes home each weekend to try and hold the family farm together. Since his appearance in Sandhill Dreams, Sid and a dog team have been assigned to Camp Atlanta, a Prisoner of War (POW) camp. Anna and Sid meet when Sid is overseeing a group of POWs who are providing farm labor for her father. Anna is incensed that they are there because she knows the family doesn't have the resources to pay the workers. Sid vows to pay extra attention to the Goodman farm and make sure everything is okay. Over the following months their tentative friendship builds into a romance that turns into love.

Thanks so much for hosting me. Now it's time to get back to writing!

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of either Deadly Exposure or Sandhill Dreams. If you have a specific one you'd like to win, please specify with your comment.

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 there is a way to contacvt you. Otherwise, you won't be entered. 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 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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