Author Interview Janice Thompson and I Must Decrease

Today, I'm featuring an interview and special post from friend and fellow author, Janice Thompson. She's offering an amazing and humorous book full of tips, devotionals, scriptures, clever tricks and snack ideas, and great encouragement for those looking to shed the pounds. Here's what she has to say:

Happy mid-February, when all of those dieting promises you made on January 1st seem like a distant memory! I'm popping in today to tell you about the release of my light-hearted Christian dieting book, I MUST DECREASE, which is free on kindle for the next five days. Below, you will find a Q & A telling you all about it. Snag it while you can, and feel free to use the Q & A on your blog to help me spread the word. May HE truly increase as we decrease together!

Janice, can you tell us a little about your non-fiction e-book book, I MUST DECREASE?

Sure! As a comedic author, I usually write light-hearted stories. I'm known as the funny girl. I get the giggles and chuckle my way through most situations. Not everything is funny, however. When it came to my weight, however, I had very little to laugh about. Most of my readers didn't realize the health crisis I was facing as a result of the added pounds. I needed to get things under control, so I started counting calories and watching what I ate. Out of that came my non-fiction book, I MUST DECREASE (which released in paperback in 2005). The book is set up in a daily devotional format and it meant to bring humor (as well as dieting tips) to Christians who need/want to lose weight.

Can you tell us about the layout of the book?

Each day's devotion offers the following:

• Ticklers: A humorous quote or "thought for the day" to tickle your funny bone.
• Tidbits: A "Did You Know?" area offering tidbits of information from multiple sources.
• Traps: Common misconceptions and/or food "traps" we often fall into
• Tricks: "Tricks of the trade" to help you stick with your plan
• Treats: Clever snack and food ideas for the healthy eater
• Testimonies: Personal testimonies of others who've faced the weight loss challenge and won (including some prominent personalities)
• Treasures: Daily scripture reference
• Tips: Devotional for the day, based on the daily scripture above
• Turning Your Focus: A variety of ways you can reach out to others
• Today's Food Choices: A reminder to write down your daily food choices
• Thoughts on Paper: Encouragement to keep a daily journal entry

Why did you choose the title I MUST DECREASE?
The title came as a result of a prayer time at church. I'd gone up for prayer and the gentleman praying for me used the scripture (John 3:30) as he prayed for me:
"He must increase, but I must decrease."
For whatever reason, it got me tickled. I'd never thought about that particular scripture having anything to do with dieting before, but it suddenly felt right as a title for the book.



Why did you choose the humorous approach?
Being overweight is nothing to laugh at, but most people who want to lose weight are tired of the serious, "Thou shalt not" approach. Many are ready for a lighthearted look at weight loss, so I created a practical but fun devotional that offers scriptural advice in a way that encourages and never condemns. I decided to share light-hearted ways that dieters could lose weight and still keep their humor intact. This way I could keep my funny bone engaged while losing weight.


I MUST DECREASEcontains tips and testimonies from several well-known (and much-loved) Christian authors, including Mary Connealy, Lena Nelson Dooley, Martha Rogers, Kristin Billerbeck, Laurie Alice Eakes, Carrie Turansky, Marcia Gruver, Deb Ullrich, Gina Bishop, Pam Hillman and Lynette Sowell. I adore these ladies and am so grateful for their input.


Who can benefit from this book?


I would say that anyone concerned with his or her weight (or the weight of a loved one) could benefit from reading. Whether you want to drop five pounds or 150 pounds, this is the book to help you achieve that goal.



Can you tell us about the special feature?


This e-book version of my devotional contains a few of my favorite low-cal recipes. Bon Appetite!


What do readers think about I MUST DECREASE? Here's what one Amazon reader had to say: "This Book Works! I loved this book. As soon as I started reading I was not only motivated to lose weight, but inspired that I actually could this time. I lost 39 lbs and feel free from the bondage that food can put you in. This is a lite-hearted book with biblical principals as well as helpful hints to rid yourself of unwanted pounds without "Dieting" or "Dieing" to eat. The journal pages have been so instrumental to my progress, do not read the book without using the journal section daily!" May 26, 2011 (by megamomma)


Why did you decide to offer the book for free for the first five days?
I love the kindle select program and thought it would be fun to jump-start the process by giving away the book from February 22nd - February 26th. Readers can download the book for free by following this link to I MUST DECREASE.


Can you tell us about your I MUST DECREASE Facebook group?
I would love to! More than a year ago I started a private group on Facebook for a handful of ladies (like myself) who wanted to have the camaraderie of fellow Christian dieters. The group has since grown! Men and women are welcome to join us, but if you do, be prepared to share recipes, fun tips and tidbits from your personal journey. What happens in I MUST DECREASE stays in I MUST DECREASE! That's why the group will always remain private. To apply to the group, follow this link to I MUST DECREASE.


What happens when the "freebie" days end?
The book will still be available for purchase on Amazon (and eventually on Barnes and Noble).


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Award-winning author Janice Thompson also writes under the pseudonym Janice Hanna. She has published nearly eighty books for the Christian market, crossing genre lines to write cozy mysteries, historicals, romances, nonfiction books, devotionals, children's books and more. She particularly enjoys writing light-hearted, comedic tales because she enjoys making readers laugh. In addition, she enjoys public speaking and mentoring young writers. Janice is passionate about her faith and does all she can to share the joy of the Lord with others, which is why she particularly enjoys writing. Her tagline, "Love, Laughter, and Happily Ever Afters!" sums up her take on life.

Welcome Janice Thompson and What Would God Have Us Do?

Please interact with our guest authors by answering the question they provide.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JANICE HANNA THOMPSON is the author of over sixty books for the Christian market. She writes for Revell, Summerside and Barbour. Janice plans to spend as much of 2011 on her knees as she possibly can.

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

2011: What Would God Have us Do?
By Janice Thompson

Janice Hanna Thompson here. Let me start by saying “Thank you” to Tiff for having me on her blog. What a dear friend you’ve been over the years, sweet girl! (*note from Tiff - You've been an inspiration

I want to spend a few minutes conveying something the Lord has laid on my heart for 2011. I shared this teaching at our local ACFW group five weeks ago and our members gave it a hearty “Amen!” Think about the number “2” in 2011. As I consider that number, I see a picture of a believer on his/her knees, bowed in reverence.

Bowing (physically or emotionally) is an act of reverence: a feeling or attitude of deep respect tinged with awe; veneration. (We’re not revering those who can help our career along, or even the readers who buy our books. We’re not revering our stories, books ideas, or even our talents. We revere only one…God.)

Psalm 95:6 We’re taught that bowing is a natural posture for the believer: O come, let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before Jehovah our maker.

So, what does it mean to bow the knee?

• To submit to God’s will, not our own. (Can we do this with our writing in 2011?)
• It is a sign of respect. (In many countries people kneel before a king.) It’s time to stop talking about God in such a glib way. We’ve got to be careful how we use his name or talk about him.
• Bowing the knee means we’re humbled, not looking out for our own interests, but for God’s.
• Bowing is uncomfortable. It doesn’t come naturally. It’s not like sitting on our rears on the sofa, watching TV and eating potato chips. It’s not what we do to relax. It’s what we do – in spite of bad knees and arthritic hip joints.
• When we’re bowed, we’re not trying to plan anything, manipulate anything or fix anything. (It’s hard to plot a book in a bowed position, isn’t it!)
• There’s an old worship song: We fall down, we lay our crowns (anything we hope to gain) at the feet of Jesus. The greatness of His mercy and love at the feet of Jesus. Think about the wise men, bowing before the baby Jesus, giving him gold, frankincense and myrrh. That’s the posture we need to assume when we offer our books, stories, articles, and so on. All good gifts are given from God, and we cast them back at his feet, humbled that He was even willing to use us in the first place.

Final Note on bowing in reverence: If your career feels stuck, if you’re disgruntled because you’re not seeing the results you’d hoped for, assume the posture. Don’t cry out, “why me?” Instead, cry out praises.

Think about the number “0” in 2011. When I think of this number, I see a mouth open in awe of the things God has done.

We’re keenly aware that God’s ways are above our ways. . .even with our writing. We’re so limited by our finite thinking but He has plans that FAR exceed anything we could come up with. (Think about that for a moment as it pertains to your writing!) QUESTION: Are we truly awed by the everyday things in our writing life?

When we sit to write and words actually come? When the creative spark burns into flame. We need to stand in complete and total awe that the God of the universe chooses to speak to us, (and through us), in any small way. In 2011 we must begin to acknowledge His holiness, his vastness.

Psalm 65:8 The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders; where morning dawns, where evening fades, you call forth songs of joy. (The only way to understand his holiness is to spend time with him in worship. Writers must first be worshipers. If you’re not a worshiper, don’t write.)

As finite mortals, powered by flesh and imagination alone, we can do NO justice to a holy God through our writing. ONLY when we come to Him, bowed in reverence, handing our pens to Him and allowing Him to write through us can we describe His beauty, can we share what we do not fully understand, can we capture his magnificence and reveal His heart to our readers. It’s the breath of the Holy Spirit, stirring the waters, like in Genesis.

And – just as we would have marveled as we watched the world being spun into existence – we must marvel at the fact that He chooses to use us! If we’re not awed by Him, our readers won’t be, either. And if we’re trying to write in our own strength, we won’t truly represent Him through our mere words, no matter how hard we try, no matter how extensive our vocabulary. How could we possibly write “the divine” if we’ve not tasted of it?

Now think about the “11” in 2011. I see a picture of a person standing with both arms extended. We are called to surrender ourselves to His will.

Psalm 141:2 May my prayer be set before you like incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice.

Writers are worker bees. We’re blogging, marketing, networking, writing, learning, developing characters, plotting and so on. And those are all good things. But there comes a time when you’ve got to acknowledge that your strength, even on the best day, is not good enough. We serve a hands-off God, (meaning, He wants us to know that sometimes we have to let go…and let God).

Think of your toddler, running to you, arms extended. What’s your first instinct? To sweep him into your arms. Same thing with Daddy God. When you’re tired, when the stories won’t come, when you’ve lost your way, put those arms up in the air and watch Him lift you above your circumstances.

NOTE: If our plans aren’t surrendered to him, they’re just plans. If those dreams aren’t fully released into His hands, they’re just unfulfilled dreams.

CORPORATE PRAYER FOR 2011 (Please feel free to share this.)
In 2011 I submit my life and my work to a holy God, bowing before Him in reverence and casting all of my gifts, talents, and abilities at His feet. I’m prepared to be awed by the things He does in and through me (and my writing), but recognize that I must surrender so that He can take control. Lord, show me how to do what you’ve called me to do with heart bowed and hands extended. I can’t wait to see what you’ve got for me in this new year. May every bit of praise, honor and glory go to You, Lord. Amen.

* * * * *

Thank you, Janice, for sharing with us today.

Guest Question: What is one way you submit your work to God, whether it be writing, keeping house, tending to your children, being at a place outside the home, or any other work? Feel free to share more than one if you have it.

CFBA Blog Tour - Janice Hanna and Love Me Tender

This week, the
Christian Fiction Blog Alliance
is introducing
Love Me Tender
Summerside Press (September 1, 2010)
by Janice Hanna Thompson

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JANICE THOMPSON, an award-winning author who also writes under the pseudonym Janice Hanna, got her start in the industry writing screenplays and musical comedies for the stage. Janice has published over fifty books for the Christian market, crossing genre lines to write cozy mysteries, historicals, romances, nonfiction books, devotionals, children's books and more. In addition, she enjoys editing, ghost-writing, public speaking, and mentoring young writers. Janice currently serves as Vice-President of CAN (Christian Authors Network) and was named the 2008 Mentor of the year for ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers).

She was thrilled to be named the 2010 Barbour/Heartsong Author of the Year with three books on the top ten list for that house. Janice is active in her local writing group, where she regularly teaches on the craft of writing. Her online course, "Becoming a Successful Freelance Writer" has been helpful to many who want to earn a living with their writing. Janice is passionate about her faith and does all she can to share the joy of the Lord with others, which is why she particularly enjoys writing. She lives in Spring, Texas, where she leads a rich life with her family, a host of writing friends and two mischievous dachshunds. She does her best to keep the Lord at the center of it all.

LOVE ME TENDER
by Janice Hanna
Published by Summerside Press

ABOUT THE BOOK

As "Love Me Tender" plays in the background, Debbie Carmichael determines to salvage her family's restaurant, Sweet Sal's Soda Shoppe, when her father's health fails. Teen heartthrob Bobby Conrad agrees to perform at a fundraiser concert. But just two weeks before the highly publicized event, Bobby backs out of the benefit. Enter Johnny Hartman, a young, unknown singer to take Conrad's place. Debbie soon realizes the twists and turns leading up to the concert are divinely orchestrated. And it isn't dreamy Bobby Conrad who has stolen her heart - but the tender love of Johnny Hartman.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Love Me Tender, go HERE.

* * * * *

MY REVIEW

From the first words spoken, I was whisked away into a world of teeny-boppers, singing sensations, rock-n-roll, poodle skirts, and saddle oxfords. While I wasn't lucky enough to have lived during this truly delightful and fun time, my parents were, and they raised me listening to what is now termed "Golden Oldies." As if music like this could ever become "old"!

As soon as I heard of this new line from Summerside and saw Janice was one of its newest authors, I had to snag me a copy. And Janice doesn't disappoint. Every nuance, detail, and word is meticulously intertwined to provide you a story of fun and a reminder of why you should always "let the good times roll." And Sweet Sal's Soda Shoppe is a wonderful bonus! The simplicity and purity of the times is an appeal that Janice handles perfectly from beginning to satisfying end.

If you want to take a trip down memory lane and relive the rockin' good times of the 1950's, pick up a copy of Love Me Tender by Janice Hanna. I give it 5 out of 5 musical stars! And I loved how the story showed God using even Hollywood to broadcast His message across the AM radio airwaves.

* * * * *

Fiction Course Online - Interview with Janice Hanna Thompson

FICTION COURSE INTERVIEW

* Note from Tiff: Janice has been a friend and mentor for several years. I can personally attest to the fact that she knows her stuff. She's coached, mentored, guided, and encouraged countless other writers and authors over the years. So, I'd say this online course is right up her alley!

Janice, I understand you’ve debuted a new fiction course online. Why fiction? What is your background related to fiction writing?

Every writer hopes to one day write “The Great American Novel.” I started writing novels as a child, so the desire to craft “story” has always been inside of me. In the mid ‘90s I started writing with the desire to be published. After years of trial and error, my first novel hit the shelves in 2000. Since then, I’ve published over forty novels—everything from inspirational romance to cozy mysteries to Y.A. (young adult) to romantic comedies. It’s been a great run! I’ve noticed a trend in recent years. “Young” writers approach me, one after the other, asking the same questions and struggling with the same problems. I’ve worn myself out giving the same answers! (There are only so many times and ways you can say, “You’re head-hopping, honey!”) Because of that, I decided it would be easier to compile the information into a fiction course, which you can find at www.freelancewritingcourses.com. I can’t wait to see what novelists think of this exciting new course!

The first lesson in your course is on understanding the genres. Why did you choose that one to begin?

As mentioned above, I’ve been published in multiple genres. My first book was a suspense-thriller. I’ve since written historicals, contemporaries, children’s, young adult, romances, mysteries and much, much more. Because I’ve been able to successfully cross genre lines, I feel qualified to teach on the subject. Before writers can establish themselves as novelists, they must develop an understanding of the fiction genres/categories. Choosing the best genre (or genres) is critical to your success. But with so many categories to choose from, how do you know which is your best fit? This lesson will give writers a thorough introduction to genre writing and will provide them with the necessary information to choose the one(s) best suited to their literary style and voice.

Hmm, excellent point. I've spoken to a good number of writers whose first question usually IS what genre to write or what genre to use to classify their writing. You've also included a lesson on plotting. Is this based on your “Plot Shots” teaching, which you’ve offered at conferences?

Yes! I’m so tickled to finally be able to offer this teaching in a course format. I’ve become known as “that Plot Shots lady.” That’s okay. I can live with that! I’m a firm believer in laying out a great plotline. Why? Because every story needs a beginning, middle and end. Careful plotting will lead the reader on a satisfactory, realistic journey through each of those stages, creatively weaving in and out, up and down. The "Plot Shots" method gives writers the tools they need to plot their novel in twelve easy snapshots. It’s a fun and easy approach to plotting that won’t confuse or complicate the story.

Minimizing confusion. Sounds good to me! And along with plot-driven writing comes character-driven writing. Characterization is such an important component of fiction writing. Can you tell us more about your characterization lesson?

Years ago I developed a teaching that I call “Pandora’s Box.” It’s a layered approach to characterization, which uses the illustration of multiple boxes, one inside the other. In this lesson, I lay out the need for great characterization, then present the Pandora’s Box method. After presenting the method, I take the student through the process four times, using four fictional characters as a foundation. (Each character has a different personality, so the student learns how to apply the technique to the various personalities.)

Various personalities leads to various points of view. So many writers struggle with P.O.V. (point of view). Is that why you included a lesson on that very tough subject?

Point of View (P.O.V.) is a critical fiction component. Employing to your best advantage is tough! Most of the young writers I know struggle in this area. The head-hop. Oh, they don’t mean to. . .but they do! My detailed lesson on Point of View offers students a thorough teaching on the various P.O.V.s (omniscient, third person, second person, first person), and gives specific examples and tips so that writers can become P.O.V. purists.

P.O.V. Purists. Nice alliteration. :) Another "P" struggle is passive writing. What is that, and why have you included a lesson about it?

Many of the manuscripts I edit are written in passive voice. They’re loaded with passive verbs and include huge sections of “telling.” The author “information dumps,” which stops the flow of the story. Knowing the difference between active voice and passive voice is key to writing a great novel. Conquering the art of "showing" instead of "telling" will give writers an added advantage. This detailed lesson--filled with nuggets of wisdom from published authors--will give writers the tools they need to strengthen their stories and pull them into active voice.

Ack! Backstory! It’s so tough to add this to our novels. There's such a delicate balance between too much and not enough. Is that why you included a lesson on the subject?

Backstory. We all struggle with it, don’t we? In so many ways, it's critical to our story. After all, the reader needs to know where our primary character has come from--what she's been through--why she acts like she does. So, do you add the backstory or not? If so, can you do so without resorting to author intrusion? And where will you place it? At the beginning of the story? Elsewhere? Will it come out in lumps or snippets? This lesson offers students an intense look at backstory and includes tips for interjecting it without stopping the action.

Yet weaving that backstory in a creative manner usually comes down to a writer's style and voice. Many writers struggle with finding their “voice.” Can you tell us more about that?

A writer’s “voice” is her/her “stamp.” It’s the author’s “personality on the page.” And many young writers haven’t “found their voice” yet. This lesson delves into the topic, in detail, giving perspective on this very personal issue. The lesson (titled “Themes, Style and Voice”) also covers the various themes found in popular books, as well as style components.

All right, so those are the top fiction struggles. Now, can you tell us some of the top fiction mistakes?

Sure! After editing hundreds of manuscripts, I can point out some of the “top” fiction mistakes: Lack of a good hook. P.O.V. issues. Passive writing. Weak characterization. Poor plotting (no “belly of the whale” scene). Overuse of adverbs. On and on the list goes. Many writers simply don’t realize they’re making these mistakes until someone points them out. They wonder why the book keeps getting rejected. This lesson offers writers a thorough list, detailing the top twenty mistakes novelists make.

That will definitely prove useful, especially seeing them in action. So, you've covered a lot of the basics. Why did you decide to add a lesson on humor writing?

I’ve been writing comedies for years and have learned so much along the way. Humor writing is tough stuff! Some writers are born with an overactive funny bone. Others have to work hard to be funny. (Ironic, isn't it?!) If you're interested in adding a little har-de-har-har-har to your novel, then you've come to the right place. In this light-hearted lesson on humor writing, I share my top ten tips for adding humor to your writing. The bonus feature contains another twenty tummy-tickling techniques, so hang on for the ride!

And that ride usually ends with assembling a book proposal. (sigh) That's tough! What have you learned over the years?

Book deals are won or lost based on the proposal. If you've got a completed manuscript and you're ready to pitch it to an agent or editor, then this exciting lesson on query letters and book proposals will point you in the right direction, giving you all the confidence you need to submit, submit, submit! Students who use the information provided in this lesson can compose polished query letters and dazzling book proposals, sure to impress both editors and agents, alike.

Thanks so much for joining us, Janice. Where can people learn more about your courses? And where else can they find you on the web?

They can learn more at www.freelancewritingcourses.com. On that site, they will also find my “Becoming a Successful Freelance Writer” course, which many students have already taken. Folks can learn more about that one by clicking on this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-5IZSNaZFU. I offered a free webinar on the subject about six weeks ago, and it can be found here: http://www.freelancewritingcourses.com/?s=webinar. We’ll be adding to the course list every couple of months, so stay tuned for more announcements!

Other places to find me on the web:

My website: www.janiceathompson.com

My blog: http://janiceathompson.com/blog/?cat=1

My facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/jhannathompson

Spotlight on Janice Thompson and Fools Rush In

Two favorite authors in the same week? How'd I get so lucky? :) Today's spotlight author is not only a favorite but a great friend as well. She's been a wonderful mentor, encourager and given me great support in my career. It's my privilege to introduce her to you today.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JANICE THOMPSON is an award-winning author who also writes under the pseudonym Janice Hanna. She got her start in the industry writing screenplays and musical comedies for the stage. Janice has published over fifty books for the Christian market, crossing genre lines to write cozy mysteries, historicals, romances, nonfiction books, devotionals, children's books and more. In addition, she enjoys editing, ghost-writing, public speaking, and mentoring young writers. Janice currently serves as Vice-President of CAN (Christian Authors Network) and was named the 2008 Mentor of the year for ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers). She is active in her local writing group, where she regularly teaches on the craft of writing. Janice is passionate about her faith and does all she can to share the joy of the Lord with others, which is why she particularly enjoys writing. She lives in Spring, Texas, where she leads a rich life with her family, a host of writing friends, and two mischievous dachshunds. She does her best to keep the Lord at the center of it all.

FOOLS RUSH IN
by Janice Thompson
Published by Baker/Revell Publishing

ABOUT THE BOOK

Ever wonder how Italian sounds with a Southern drawl?

Bella Rossi's life is just starting to get interesting. When her Italian-turned-Texan parents hand over the family wedding-planning business, Bella quickly books a Boot-Scootin' wedding that would make any Texan proud. There's only one catch--she doesn't know a thing about country music. Where will she find a deejay on such short notice who knows his Alan Jackson from his George Strait? And will Bella ever get to plan her own wedding?

Fun, fresh, and full of surprises, this flavorful combination of Italian and Tex-Mex highlights the hilarity that ensues when cultures clash.

Endorsements

"I fell in love with the Rossi clan, who feel as passionately about their pizza as Texans do about chili. Add a hunky cowboy with a slow Southern drawl, and you've got a recipe for one terrific story."--Virginia Smith, author, Stuck in the Middle

"A charming tale about stumbling upon love and finding a bit of your true self along life's journey. This fun read makes you grateful for the truly important things in life."--Megan DiMaria, author, Searching for Spice and Out of Her Hands

MY REVIEW

Fools Rush In is a combination of My Big Fat Greek Wedding meeting a hilarious group of Italian Texans. Like the tagline says above. Ever wondered what a southern accent sounds like in Italian? :)

This book has it all -- a pizza-making uncle with ties to the mob, a woman who shouts in Italian while shaking a broomstick at unruly children, more cowboy boots than you could ever need, and a wedding planner with a penchant for misunderstandings.

And this is only book 1! If the rest of the books in this series prove to be as hilarious as the first, this series will find a favorite spot on my bookshelf. I know for a fact that the author is a previous wedding coordinator, and from the stories she's told, I'm sure some of them will end up in her books.

Readers, buy your copy of Fools Rush In today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

In the spring of 2007, I settled into bed with my laptop. . .not an unusual occurrence. I didn’t have a story in mind. In fact, I was on vacation at the time and wasn’t even thinking about writing. However, the moment I saw that empty white screen, I felt like typing. Don’t ask me why, but the words, “If Uncle Lazarro hadn’t left the mob, I probably wouldn’t have a story to tell” shot out of my fingertips. I stared at the screen, more than a little curious. Who was Uncle Lazarro, and why was he in the mob? Worse still, why was he bothering me in the middle of my vacation?

Those who know me know I’m a plotter. I usually plot out an entire story before writing a word. So, for this very “calculating” author to stare at those “inspired” words and not have a clue where she was going with them was unusual, to say the least. Terrifying, even. A normal person would have closed the laptop and rolled over, forgetting about the whole thing. But an inspired person? Well, an inspired person (a.k.a. writer) has no choice but to keep going, even when all of the signs point at impending doom. Or a really funny story.

I stared at the words awhile longer, this time praying for wisdom from on high. Was I really supposed to take these cryptic words and shape them into a story? If so, what would come next? I drew in a deep breath and waited. Moments later, my fingers started flying. Wonder of wonders! I typed blindly, without thinking. A couple of paragraphs later, I had all of my questions about Uncle Lazarro answered and found myself laughing hysterically as I typed. (By the way, this is how a comedy writer knows her words are not her own. Who among us is really that funny?)

About an hour later, I had written the entire prologue to the book that would become FOOLS RUSH IN. I’d not only introduced Uncle Laz, but the entire Rossi family. Best of all, I had a wacky new heroine, Bella, to wrap the story around. When I signed off of the computer that night, I had the strongest sense she would lead me through the rest of the tale.

Thank goodness, I was right. Bella Rossi—a quirky Italian wedding planner from Galveston Island—had quite a story to tell. And thankfully, she chose me to share it with. Through Bella, I learned that cultures can clash, families can squabble, chaos can reign, and weddings can rule the day. . .but in the end, true love always wins out.

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

Usually my own experiences play a huge role in my stories, but not this one. Bella and I don’t have much in common. She’s thin, young and gorgeous and I’m. . .well, I’m not. :) Her wacky Italian family is light-years away from my own, too. These things came from my somewhat overactive imagination! The only things about Bella’s story that ring true to my own life are the setting (Galveston Island, near my home in the Houston area) and the sequined church ladies. (Long story there. I don’t think your readers have the time or the energy for it.) As far as the role my own life experiences played in creating Bella, I would have to confess that I do have some of the same insecurities. I take on big challenges (much like she does in taking over the wedding facility), only to wonder later if I’ve bit off more than I can chew! Still, the Lord always manages to come through, in spite of my stumbles and bumbles!

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

Bella would be Rocky Road, no doubt about it. She’s got a lot of “stuff” in her life, and the path isn’t always smooth. But, oh! Talk about delicious, especially once D.J. (her love interest) enters the scene!

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

Fools Rush In has a wonderful family theme. The Rossi family is loud, fun and in your face. But they’re a terrific bunch. I hope that readers see a bit of their own family members in these quirky characters. As for themes that developed as the story progressed, I would have to say that “coincidences” (or “God incidences”) played a major role in the progression of the story. We often look at things as coincidence (or happenstance) when, in reality, God is giving up opportunities to try new things and meet new people.

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

I honestly can’t think of one part of the book that was difficult to write. I did spend an extra amount of time tweaking the prologue because I wanted it to be just right, especially Uncle Laz’s Damascus Road experience. One of my favorite sections to write is also found in the prologue:

How my uncle settled on Galveston Island is another story altogether, one that involves the untimely passing of my beloved Aunt Bianca, may she rest in peace. Upon her deathbed, she mumbled these strange and startling words: “Toss my ashes into the Gulf of Mexico.” At least we think she said the Gulf of Mexico. My mother insists she must’ve meant Galva Messio’s, her favorite shoe store. Then again, my mom is always looking for an excuse to shop.

Regardless, the entire Rossi clan ended up in Texas, a far cry from Atlantic City, not just in miles, but in personality. Transplanting the whole group of us—three adults and five children—was no small feat. And the little things nearly proved to be our undoing. For example, I spent the better part of my elementary years figuring out how to transition from “you guys” to “y’all,” something I thought would never come naturally. Now, I can “y’all” with the best of ‘em.

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

The second book in the WEDDINGS BY BELLA series is titled SWINGING ON A STAR and it releases in December. Here’s the synopsis:

Bella Rossi's life is nearing perfection. She's got the perfect guy, she's running a successful business, and she's about to plan her most ambitious wedding yet, a Renaissance-themed fairy tale come true, complete with period costumes and foods, horse-drawn carriages, and even a castle. There's just one hitch. The best man just happens to be Brock Benson, Hollywood's hottest and most eligible bachelor. Oh, and did we mention he's staying at the Rossi house to avoid the paparazzi?

With all the pressure surrounding this wedding, Bella's not sure she's going to make it through. Add her star-struck sister, her feuding aunt and uncle, and a trio of large, sequined church ladies with even bigger personalities, and you've got a recipe for disaster--and a lot of laughs. This hilarious romantic comedy is sure to delight both fans and new readers alike.

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Fools Rush In.

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.

Promises, Promises: Reviews and Book Club Feature

I am simply busting at the seams with excitement and joy and even tears.

Earlier this week, I received a CC (carbon copy) of an email sent to my editor from a friend/fellow author. She's also a member of ACFW. Janice Thompson offered to review my very first book, and she loved it so much that she actually emailed my editor to tell her! Of course, Janice also writes for the same line, but I was FLOORED! It brought tears to my eyes just reading it. I mean, I expected Janice to post a review on her new Double-Booked blog for book reviews and all kinds of awesome stuff, but I NEVER expected her to email my editor! Talk about the shock of the week!

Double-Booked Review of Promises, Promises

"Amber Miller is truly one of the strongest historical romance writers I've read in years. Sometimes historicals (as a whole) don't hold my attention, or the reader tries too hard to impress with historical lingo/tidbits. But in this case, I found myself caught up in the action right away and also found the story very believable. I could relate to both the hero and the heroine. As I mentioned, it's the perfect blend of story, history and biblical truth."

For the rest, you'll have to visit Janice's blog. :) It's a fantastic one. You really should check it out. AND, if you go there and leave a comment, you'll win a chance for a FREE copy of my book. So, run on over there and take a look at the great review site Janice has.

This next one is from a Heartsong Book Club reader:

"Your book was absolutely wonderful! Just finished it tonight and decided I would look you up online. I loved your story about Gustaf and Raelene. They seemed so real! I could especially relate to Raelene's feelings, because after I lost my dad in 2005 (he died a very hard death) - I went into a long period of depression. I had trouble trusting God, but now I realize that death will come to us all, sooner or later, and in some way or other. God decides. Even Jesus, God's Son, was allowed to suffer, and it had a purpose. That thought has comforted me. You have an amazing gift for expressing people's innermost feelings. Thank you so much for your exceptionally fine work! I look forward to your new titles coming soon!"

Isn't that just the sweetest comment and review? I was so touched. She read my book from the book club then took the time to find me online so she could email me.

This last one came from a dear friend and fellow newbie author, Debra Ullrick, whose first book, The Bride Wore Coveralls, also released with Heartsong this year:

"Oh my gosh, I loved your story! I finally got to read it and when I started, I couldn't put it down. I loved your characters, your writing, the plot, ah heck, I loved the whole thing! FANTASTIC! You're writing is awesome. I can't wait to read your next story."

She and I have shared so much as we both sold our books around the same time. It's been quite the journey.

Add those to the other reviews that have trickled in, and I'm one snoopy-dancing, honored and humbled new author. God is SO good, and His promises have truly been fulfilled in my life. That's one of the main themes in this book and it's taken from Romans 4:21. The reviews aren't overwhelming, but they're sincere and heartfelt, and reveal how this book has touched the readers' lives.

That's what this journey is all about. As I posted two weeks ago, I'll be having a blog tour in July where more feedback and reviews for Christianbook.com and Amazon.com and other online sites will start appearing.

But before that happens, my book is one of the two that is being featured THIS MONTH at the ACFW Book Club. If you haven't heard of this club, but you love reading and discussing great new fiction and even chatting with the authors, then this club is for you! Take a look.

The cover of my book is on the main page of the ACFW web site and listed with my buddy, Cheryl Wyatt's book on the club information page. You can see that here. Talk about fantastic publicity! The largest Christian fiction organization in the world, and my book is on the main page. Praise God! Woo-hoo!

I look forward to the discussion among book club members later this month...at least from those who read historicals. :)

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