Christy Award Finalists Announced!

It's official! The prestigious Christy Award finalists have been announced! Join with me in congratulating all of the honored nominees!

Contemporary Romance

The Breath of Dawn

by Kristen Heitzmann

Bethany House Publishers

Lethal Legacy

by Irene Hannon

Revell

Wildflowers from Winter

by Katie GanshertWaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group

Contemporary Series, Sequels, and Novellas

Two Destinies

by Elizabeth Musser

David C Cook

You Don’t Know Me

by Susan May Warren

Tyndale House Publishers

Waiting for Sunrise

by Eva Marie Everson

Revell

Contemporary Standalone

The Air We Breathe

by Christa Parrish

Bethany House Publishers

Borders of the Heart

by Chris Fabry

Tyndale House Publishers

Not in the Heart

by Chris Fabry

Tyndale House Publishers

First Novel

Into the Free

by Julie Cantrell

David C Cook

Tangled Ashes

by Michèle Phoenix

Tyndale House Publishers

Wedded to War

by Jocelyn Green

River North Fiction

Historical

Flame of Resistance

by Tracy Groot

Tyndale House Publishers

Wedded to War

by Jocelyn Green

River North Fiction

A Wreath of Snow

by Liz Curtis Higgs

WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group

Historical Romance

Against the Tide

by Elizabeth Camden

Bethany House Publishers

Be Still My Soul

by Joanne Bischof

WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group

Love’s Reckoning

by Laura Frantz

Revell

Suspense

Downfall

by Terri Blackstock

Zondervan

The Last Plea Bargain

by Randy Singer

Tyndale House Publishers

Rare Earth

by Davis Bunn

Bethany House Publishers

Submerged

by Dani Pettrey

Bethany House Publishers

*This category includes four nominees due to a tie in scoring.

Visionary

Daughter of Light

by Morgan L. Busse

Marcher Lord Press

Soul’s Gate

by James L. Rubart

Thomas Nelson

Starflower

by Anne Elisabeth Stengl

Bethany House Publishers

Young Adult

Child of the Mountains

by Marilyn Sue Shank

Delacorte Press

Failstate

by John W. Otte

Marcher Lord Press

Interrupted: A Life Beyond Words

by Rachel Coker

Zondervan

Maureen Lang and All in Good Time

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

MAUREEN LANG writes stories inspired by love of history and romance. An avid reader since childhood, she started writing the stories she wanted to read. Before publication she won RWA’s Golden Heart and ACFW’s Genesis, and her published books have won the Inspirational Readers Choice Contest, a Holt Medallion, and have finaled in the Christy, Rita, and Carol Awards. She lives in the Midwest with her husband, children, and Labrador retriever. Visit with Maureen at www.maureenlang.com.

ALL IN GOOD TIME
by Maureen Lang
Published by Tyndale House

ABOUT THE BOOK

Dessa Caldwell has a dream:
to open Pierson House, a refuge for former prostitutes in Denver’s roughest neighborhood. But after exhausting all charitable donations, Dessa still needs a loan. Her last hope hinges on the owner of Hawkins National Bank.

Henry Hawkins has a secret:
he owns the most successful bank in town, but his initial capital came from three successful stage coach robberies. Though he’s Denver’s most eligible bachelor, to protect his past, he’s built a fortress around his heart that no one can penetrate . . . until the day Dessa Caldwell strolls into his bank requesting a loan.

Though he’s certain her proposal is a bad investment, Henry is drawn to Dessa’s passion. But that same passion drives her to make rash decisions about Pierson House . . . and about whom she can trust. One man might hold the key to the future of her mission—but he also threatens to bring Henry’s darkest secrets to light. As the walls around their hearts begin to crumble, Henry and Dessa must choose between their plans and God’s, between safety and love.

Readers, buy your copy of All in Good Time today!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

Reader's Choice

I recently listened to a debate about the merits of commercial fiction versus classic fiction. The defender of classics stated the richness of language, the depth of characterization, the detail of classic settings provided a much deeper reading experience than the shallow offerings of commercial fiction. Another way she described it was that classic fiction provided a symphony while commercial stories only offered “one note.”

While I do enjoy classics, I also enjoy a variety of commercial fiction—so obviously I disagreed with her either/or assessment. As a writer of commercial fiction, I was understandably offended. I’ve enjoyed so many commercial novels that may not go into the extensive detail of a classic, but nonetheless provides memorable characters, clever plots, vivid settings and evocative language.

On her behalf, I did understand what she was saying. I see a difference in the two writing styles—there does tend to be more time devoted to detail and exploration of settings and motivations in the classics, but I also know commercial fiction isn’t as flat as she wanted the audience to believe.

Her chance of winning an argument, at least with me, is even harder when I’m reminded that many readers today choose not to take the time to read the classics. They were, after all, written during an era when there were far fewer choices to fill whatever leisure time people could find. The classics defender admitted that her favorite, Jane Eyre, takes some time to “get into” but it is well worth the effort.

But that’s just it. In our microwave society, we want everything fast—including our entertainment. I’ve attended more than one writer’s workshop that attempted to teach us to open with a “hook.” Draw your reader in immediately, so they won’t put the book down. Today’s writer knows it’s a hard fight to keep a reader from choosing to do something else, or pick up another of the one-million-plus books that are on the market today, easily and instantly available. Readers can afford to be choosy, simply because there are so many choices—many at low cost or even free.

Our society offers to fill our leisure time in anything from movies to museums, sporting events to ballet. In my lifetime there’s been an explosion of leisure-time activities. Consider the differences in television viewing. I recall when I was a child that we had exactly four television stations, and one of those didn’t come in very well. Around midnight or shortly thereafter each channel played the Star Spangled Banner then signed off until dawn. Nowadays people have literally hundreds of 24-hour-a-day channels to choose from. I’m not sure that’s made the content any better, but it certainly does allow viewers to develop a wider taste.

As a parent, I learned that giving my kids choices made our days go a bit easier than just telling them what to eat or do. Of course, I had to make sure the choices they were given were healthy and wise, but I liked seeing them take a part in the decision. It was an exercise in free will in a good (albeit limited) way.

I celebrate that we have so many reading choices, particularly within the Christian market. Years ago, this wasn’t the case. It was a bit like watching television: we had the Bible (which remains a reading staple for growth and wisdom), non-fiction to support what we learned in the Bible, a few allegories to support biblical wisdom, and some very limited fiction choices (the classics among them). These days the Christian market offers every kind of genre imaginable, safe reads, at least, but hopefully with a nugget of spiritual wisdom as well.

Reader Questions (pick at least one): Do you take advantage of the extensive choices available these days? Do you lean toward the classics, or do you read commercial fiction as well? Do you read more than one genre—romance, mystery, contemporary, historical, etc.? Do you read only Christian fiction, or do you read some general market fiction as well?

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Thank you, Maureen, for sharing with us today.

ENTRY RULES Readers, leave your email address (name [at] domainname [dot] com) along with your answer to the question for your chance to win a free autographed copy of any one of Maureen's books (you can view them at her web site). If you do not answer the question, and your email address isn't provided, you will not be entered.

This week, the drawing is open to contiguous US residents for a print copy and international or Alaska/Hawaii residents for an eBook copy.

Guest Blogger Maureen Lang and Bees in the Butterfly Garden

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

MAUREEN LANG writes stories inspired by a love of history and romance. An avid reader herself, she’s figured out a way to write the stories she feels like reading. Maureen’s Inspirationals have earned various writing distinctions as a finalist for the Rita, Christy and Carol Awards, as well as garnering a Holt Medallion and winning the Inspirational Reader’s Choice Contest. In addition to investigating various eras in history (such as Victorian England, First World War, and America’s Gilded Age) Maureen loves taking research trips to get a feel for the settings of her novels. She lives in the Chicago area with her husband, children, and Labrador retriever.


BEES IN THE BUTTERFLY GARDEN
by Maureen Lang
Published by Tyndale House

ABOUT THE BOOK

Ian Maguire is determined to stop Meg Davenport from following in her father’s footsteps. He was, after all, a thief. But considering Ian learned everything he knows from Meg’s father, he may not be able to convince her otherwise, not even when they both end up over their heads in the biggest heist of Ian’s unlawful career. In trying to gain everything, will they end up losing it all?

Readers, buy your copy of Bees in the Butterfly Garden today!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

Is Reading A Good Book Like Falling In Love?

Not long ago I came across this quote on GoodReads:

There is no mistaking a real book when one meets it. It is like falling in love. —Christopher Morley

While that's no doubt a dramatic statement, to me it's at least slightly true. When I was falling in love with my husband, all I wanted to do was be with him (and I still count those as some of my best moments of the day!). Likewise, when I'm immersed in a good book, all I want to do is read.

When I'm reading a good book, everything around me fades into oblivion. I'm fascinated by getting to know the characters in a way that's reminiscent of when I was learning every little detail of my new love's life. When I'm reading a well-crafted book, I feel what the characters feel, I want what they want, I fear what they fear. If a novel captures my emotions, I'm there. Just as when I bonded with my husband: we took on the same or similar goals, we became a single unit.

Granted, some books that I've enjoyed over the years haven't lived up to this heart-stirring/wrenching/pulsating sensation. But enough of them have so that each time I start a new story, I hope for a repeat experience.

even read somewhere not long ago that when we're totally immersed in the experiences of a book, the effect on our brain is similar to actually having lived through such experiences. Perhaps that's why dreams sometimes take on details from the books we read.

This may be part of the reason I have something instantly in common with many other avid readers. Even if we don't like the same genre, we still have that basic understanding of what it's like to escape into another story world, a place that's separate from reality and yet believable enough to feel like we're living it.

I once read survey results that looked for personality differences between readers and nonreaders. Basically it concluded that nonreaders might be looking for higher stimulation activities, otherwise they wouldn't be reading about such things. They'd be doing them. On the other hand, avid readers tended to be the type looking for new ideas. They wanted to better understand the world and the people in it. Both are experiential, but one is obviously more hands-on than the other.

* * * * *

Thank you, Maureen, for sharing with us today.

Guest Question: What about you? Why do you love to read? Is your reading experience similar to mine, or do you have other reasons to love reading?

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 an autographed copy of the book featured above. If you do not answer the question, and your email address isn't provided, you will not be entered.

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

Welcome Pam Hillman and Stealing Jake

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

PAM HILLMAN is an award-winning author who writes inspirational fiction set in the turbulent times of the American West and the Gilded Age. Her debut book, Stealing Jake, won the American Christian Fiction Writer’s Genesis contest and was a finalist in Romance Writers of America’s prestigious Golden Heart contest. She lives in Mississippi with her husband and family.

Pam on the web:
My website: www.pamhillman.com
My personal blog: calicotrails.blogspot.com
My group blog: seekerville.blogspot.com

STEALING JAKE
by Pam Hillman
Published by Tyndale House

ABOUT THE BOOK

When Livy O'Brien spies a young boy jostling a man walking along the boardwalk, she recognizes the act for what it is. After all, she used to be known as Light-fingered Livy. But that was before she put her past behind her and moved to the growing town of Chestnut, Illinois, where she's helping to run an orphanage. Now she'll do almost anything to protect the street kids like herself.

Sheriff's deputy Jake Russell had no idea what he was in for when he ran into Livy--literally--while chasing down a pickpocket. With a rash of robberies and a growing number of street kids in town--as well as a loan on the family farm that needs to be paid off--Jake doesn't have time to pursue a girl. Still, he can't seem to get Livy out of his mind. He wants to get to know her better . . . but Livy isn't willing to trust any man, especially not a lawman.

Interwoven throughout is a group of street kids arrested in Chicago and sold as child labor. Leading this band of ragamuffins is young Luke, a scared, determined orphan intent on rescuing his little brother at any cost.

Readers, buy your copy of Stealing Jake today!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

Write Smarter, Not Harder

As a teenager, I made up stories. I had my favorite about a girl name Sylvia. Every night when I went to bed, I started at the beginning and let the scenes play out in my head. All these years later, I could probably write the opening scenes of that story easily. But there was one problem….I always fell asleep…oh…around chapter three or so.

And that’s what my readers will do if I don’t plan ahead. (Okay, I know there are plotters and pantsters. Plotters are the ones who plan everything out ahead of time, and pantsters write “by the seat of their pants”. There is no right way or wrong way. I’ve done it both ways and am still not sure what my natural inclination is. But I have found that plotting seems to work better with my limited writing time.)

When I do have an hour or two to write, I’ve found that I need to have a very detailed plot in place so I can get started quickly. I thought I was doing pretty good, but then I discovered that either I had mapped out the external thread of the story or the internal for some scenes, but hadn’t fully developed both areas.

By internal and external threads, I mean, "What needs to happen in this scene?" Sometimes my paragraph for a scene might be two or three sentences that focus on the internal. For other scenes they might focus on the external....so when I start to write the scene, I have to think about the one I didn't flesh out. And I discovered I really needed that information ahead of time. I can get discouraged and/or bogged down if it takes thirty minutes to work out the logistics of a scene and I only have an hour to write.

For instance, let’s say I have a scene ¾ of the way through the book where the hero finds out that the heroine is a crook and a swindler. Sounds pretty good, huh? So I sit down to write my scene, and I’m at a loss. What are the “stage props”? Where are they? Whose POV is the scene in? Is it cold, hot, raining? Is it day or night? Are there secondary characters in the scene?

In a plot driven scene, the external "stage props" are key, so I would develop that first, then develop the internal to go with in. But in the above scene, the internal thread is what will move the story forward (or rather in this case, drive a wedge between the hero & heroine). I could just as easily set the scene in a bank, a restaurant, or in a hotel lobby....or anywhere, I guess. What I'm saying is that their physical location wasn't as important in this scene as what they're thinking and saying. I would go so far to say that in a character driven book, the backbone of most scenes will be the internal thread, and in an action adventure, the external thread the most critical. Not that the other isn’t important, but one has to lead.

So, I’m making a concerted effort to plot more deeply, to know where my scenes are going ahead of time, internally and externally. Hopefully, I’ll be able to churn out twice as many words when I do have time to write.

I’d love to hear other people’s methods for writing smarter...not harder!

* * * * *

Thank you, Pam, for sharing with us today.

Guest Question: If you write in any way, what are some tips you employ for writing smarter...not harder? If you don't write, what tips do you have for *working* smarter, not harder, in order to accomplish your goals?

GIVEAWAY In lieu of a free book, Pam is instead giving away a FREE KINDLE. Check out the details here: http://pamhillman.blogspot.com/2011/07/pams-blog-tour-kindle-contest.html.

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

Welcome Maureen Lang and Springtime of the Spirit

Please interact with our guest authors by answering the question they provide. IF there is a book giveaway, your response will also enter you in the drawing for a free book.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

MAUREEN LANG is the bestselling author of eleven books, many of which have earned various writing distinctions including RWAs Inspirational Reader's Choice Award, A Holt Award of Merit and finaling in the Christies. She is also a four-time finalist in ACFWs Carol Awards. Her titles The Oak Leaves, On Sparrow Hill, My Sister Dilly and most recently her three-book Great War Series, all published by Tyndale House, have consistently received positive reviews from such places as Publisher's Weekly and Romantic Times. Her website is www.maureenlang.com and her Facebook page can be found at http://www.facebook.com/maureen.lang

SPRINGTIME OF THE SPIRIT
by Maureen Lang
Published by Tyndale House

ABOUT THE BOOK

The winter of an unjust war is over. A springtime of the spirit awaits.

Germany, 1918

Four years of fighting have finally come to an end, and though there is little to celebrate in Germany, an undercurrent of hope swells in the bustling streets of Munich. Hope for peace, fairness-the possibility of a new and better tomorrow.

It's a dream come true for Annaliese Düray. Young and idealistic, she's fighting on the front lines of Munich's political scene to give women and working-class citizens a voice in the new government. But she's caught off guard by the arrival of Christophe Brecht-a family friend, recently returned from the war, who's been sent to bring her home.

It's the last place she wants to go.

Christophe admires Annaliese's passion, unable to remember the last time he believed in something so deeply. Though he knows some things are worth fighting for, he questions the cost to Annaliese and to the faith she once cherished. Especially when her party begins to take its agenda to new extremes.

As the political upheaval ignites in Munich, so does the attraction between Annaliese and Christophe. When an army from Berlin threatens everything Annaliese has worked for, both she and Christophe face choices that may jeopardize their love, their loyalty, and their very lives.

Readers, buy your copy of Springtime of the Spirit (The Great War) today!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

Five Writing Myths Exploded

Facing 5 writing myths and staying realistic about getting published.

Since I’ve wanted to be a writer nearly my entire life, I’ve heard a lot of myths about the writing industry along the way. Thanks to Tiff’s invitation, I can share my thoughts here with you. Thanks for having me, Tiff!

(My pleasure, Maureen. And I LOVE the first myth...especially since I sold my first novel before I was 30 years old! I've since sold 11 novels and 1 novella, and I won't be 35 until August. Been receiving a lot of flack and scorn for it, though.)

Writing Myth #1 - You must be “mature” (i.e. old) to write a book.

While I do believe age enhances our experience level and can give us a broader perspective, I heartily disagree that one has to be over 35 to write a book and to do it well. What a writer needs is a perception radar system, one that picks up on what’s going on around them. Someone who can separate the chaff from the wheat of everyday life. An observant writer is one who is curious to know the reasons behind real-life activity, so they can add authenticity to their stories by understanding motivations and actions on a personal, universal level. If someone has this power of observation, this curiosity to understand the underlying reasons and can transfer this knowledge to create believable, interesting plots and characters, this kind of perspective can make up for years of experience.

Writing Myth #2 - Write What You Know.

When I was a young, aspiring writer this myth depressed me every time I heard it. I just wanted to tell an entertaining story, I didn’t have anything to say or an underlying agenda. Little did I know that in creating my entertaining stories, I was saying something anyway. I didn’t need to travel to ancient history to write about it, to feel first hand what it was like—but I did have to research my subjects, and learn to research thoroughly. As alluded to in Myth #1, the power of observation is vital to writers, so if we’re in tune to why people behave the way they do, or why certain things happen, coupled with a willingness to investigate everything that pertains to your novel, all of that equals writing what you know.

Writing Myth #3 - Writers can’t get published without an agent, and can’t find an agent without being published.

It seems like a catch-22, doesn’t it? But the truth is first-time authors break in somehow. A few gain writing credentials through writing articles, some create their own following by working to establish a popular blog or build a network around them that will allow them to get their work on an editor’s desk. All of that can work, but there are other ways of attracting agents and editors. Entering contests is relatively inexpensive, if you keep in mind the results are so subjective it may take as much persistence to gain notoriety through this route as it’ll take to get published. Going to conferences is another way to connect face-to-face with agents and editors, although it’ll take time out of your schedule and often cost more than a bit, particularly if there are travel and hotel fees added to the cost of the conference. I’ve heard of some success through The Writer’s Edge or online services like that, as well as the tried-and-true, old-fashioned way of a completely unpublished aspiring writer contacting agent after agent until finding a good fit. It can happen, just not overnight.

Writing Myth #4 - Writers make a lot of money.

There are just enough successful books out there to make everyone think all writers make a lot of money. The truth is, some polls suggest less than 10% of writers can even make a living at writing and as few as 1% make what is considered “a lot” of money. So don’t go into publishing for the love of money, but do go into it for the love of storytelling.

Writing Myth #5 - Being published will make you happy.

While having a dream come true does seem as though it should be fodder for happiness, happiness is a temporary feeling even when connected to long-held dreams. It’s true there are few more thrilling things than to hold your own book in your hands, but it’s also true that the publishing world is just unpredictable enough to bring challenges of its own. Between bad reviews, competition in the market place and worries over burnout, a wandering muse and sustaining or increasing sales there is still a hefty dose of reality connected even to this dream. But then, if this were the answer to happiness we really wouldn’t need God, would we?

So those are just a few of the writing myths I’ve come across. Have you heard any other myths associated with the publishing world you’d like to share? Or have you had experience with any of these you’d like to add?

* * * * *

Thank you, Maureen, for sharing with us today.

Guest Question: Have you heard any other myths associated with the publishing world you’d like to share? Or have you had experience with any of these you’d like to add?

ENTRY RULES Readers, leave your email address (name at domainname dot com/net) along with your answer to the question(s) 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.

Blog Spotlight - Gina Holmes and Crossing Oceans

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

GINA HOLMES began her career penning articles and short stories in 1998. In 2005 she founded the influential literary blog, Novel Journey. She holds degrees in science and nursing and currently resides with her husband and children in Southern Virginia. Her debut novel, Crossing Oceans released April/May 2010 with Tyndale House Publishers. To learn more about her, visit: www.ginaholmes.com or noveljourney.blogspot.com

CROSSING OCEANS
by Gina Holmes
Published by Tyndale House

ABOUT THE BOOK

Sometimes love demands the impossible

Nothing deepens a stream like a good rain . . . or makes it harder to cross. Jenny Lucas swore she’d never go home again. But life has a way of upending even the best-laid plans. Now, years after she left, she and her five-year-old daughter must return to her sleepy North Carolina town to face the ghosts she left behind. They welcome her in the form of her oxygen tank-toting grandmother, her stoic and distant father, and David, Isabella’s dad . . . who doesn’t yet know he has a daughter. As Jenny navigates the rough and unknown waters of her new reality, the unforgettable story that unfolds is a testament to the power of love to change everything—to heal old hurts, to bring new beginnings . . . even to overcome the impossible.

VIEW THE TRAILER



ENDORSEMENTS

"Beautiful and heartfelt."
Charles Martin, NYT bestselling author of Where the River Ends

"Poignant and unforgettable, CROSSING OCEANS will break your heart — and then put the pieces back together again. This is an uplifting and inspiring tale that reminds us to live every day as if it’s our last."
Tess Gerritsen, NYT Best-selling author

"Moving, heart-rending and poignant, a stunning debut. Holmes returns us to what matters in a too-short life—what it really is to come home."
Tosca Lee, author of Havah & Demon: A Memoir

"Gina Holmes explores the beauty, tenderness and tenacity of mother-love in Crossing Oceans with marvelous skill and insight. An outstanding debut from a gifted storyteller. Bravo!"
Susan Meissner, author of The Shape of Mercy

Readers, buy your copy of Crossing Oceans today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

I was writing suspense novels at the time I started, but no longer wanted to read suspense. I had discovered classics like Jane Eyre and Watership Down, and then had been reading Charles Martin, Lisa Samson, Tosca Lee, Claudia Burney, Francine Rivers, Memoirs of a Geisha, Kite Runner, and I fell in love with words all over again. I wanted to try something different.

The idea about a dying woman who never told her boyfriend she was pregnant just popped in my head. I was going through a divorce at the time. It was something I had prayed so long and hard for a miracle for, and that miracle never came. Instead my husband asked me for the divorce. I felt like I was dying. I think subconsciously I was working that out through my story.

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

Good question that only a writer would think to ask. Ha. My parents divorced when I was a baby and I was very much a mediator type like Isabella. I saw the good in everyone when I was that little, and in everything. So, she is somewhat based on me at that age, and pieces of my own children. She's a lot more sanguine than I am though. I have more melancholy, like Jenny.

Speaking of Jenny, she always tries to do the right thing, but that's not always her first reaction. She's sort of a knee-jerk reaction type at first, just the way I am. But, like me, give her a few minutes to think about it and she's able to make the right choices and see things through other's eyes. Though, I hope I'm a little more empathetic than she is. She's tougher than me that way.

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

Jenny would be ... okay, I have no clue. She's a dying woman, it's hard to assign a flavor to that.

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

The theme that as Christians, we don't need to fear death, is I guess the most obvious. In the Bible, God promises to those who have called on Jesus' name, streets of gold, no more tears, mansions, and His presence. The end of this human life is only a wonderful beginning.

A theme that took on a life of its self was the one of sacrifice. The twist near the end of the story where Jenny is asked to give even more than I'd planned when I started writing the book completely caught me off guard. I sat there with the idea of what she was going to be asked to do and my heart ached for her. It's too much, I told myself and yet I knew I had to write it.

In this life where everyone, including people in our churches, are using the platitude as though it's gospel of "you deserve to be happy," I wanted to show that personal happiness isn't always the right choice. Jesus deserved happiness more than you or I and what did he choose? And thank goodness He did. You and I don't deserve happiness. We're sinners, we deserve Hell. But because of Jesus giving up what He deserved, we ultimately will have happiness, if not in this life, than in Heaven.

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

The twist at the end where I ask Jenny to give more than I thought she would have to. I truly asked her to give something that seemed an impossible sacrifice. That killed me to write. It also was so difficult to write the scene at the ocean, where Jenny explains death to her daughter, using the ocean as a metaphor (thus the title of the book.) I cried every single time I read or edited it. I want to cry just thinking about it. As a mother, that's hard.

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

Dry as Rain is being written as we speak, well, after we speak. It's the story of a couple who let's assumptions cause an avalanche in their marriage that leads to infidelity and ultimately the choice of whether or not to divorce. It's supposed to release this time next year. I'm only two weeks away from that deadline. I'd appreciate prayers of those who would be willing. I need a small miracle to pull it together and finish it with a bang.

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

NEW!! Readers, answer the question below in the comments, then leave your email address for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Crossing Oceans. If you do not answer the question, you will not be entered.

Question: What one aspect of your life do you feel would be a good starting point for a story?

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

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

Spotlight on Kimberley Woodhouse and Welcome Home

NOTE: Kim's book has already gone into its second printing...and it hasn't even been released yet. :) Congratulations, Kim! Readers, you will be touched beyond imagination by this poignant, entertaining and heartwarming story. I'm many times blessed to count Kim as one of my dear friends, and once you finish this book, you'll feel like you know her too.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

KIMBERLEY WOODHOUSE is a wife, mother, author, and musician with a quick wit and positive outlook despite difficult circumstances. A popular speaker, she’s shared at more than 600 venues across the country. Kimberley and her family's story have garnered national media attention for many years, but most recently her family was chosen for ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, The Montel Williams Show, and Discovery Health channel’s Mystery ER. Welcome Home: Our Family’s Journey to Extreme Joy, releases from Tyndale House Publishers September first. In addition to her non-fiction, she also writes romantic suspense and children’s books. Kimberley lives, writes, and homeschools in Colorado with her husband and two children in their truly “extreme” home. www.kimberleywoodhouse.com

WELCOME HOME: OUR FAMILY'S JOURNEY TO EXTREME JOY
by Kimberley Woodhouse
Published by Tyndale House

ABOUT THE BOOK

Overwhelming trials . . . met with overcoming joy.

Kayla Woodhouse is not your typical twelve-year-old. Due to a rare medical disorder, she feels no pain, doesn’t sweat, and needs protective cooling gear just to go outside. With her restrictive lifestyle; countless hospitalizations, including brain surgery; and the resulting mountain of hospital bills, what’s a family to do?

How the Woodhouse family has faced seemingly impossible challenges is a story that has captured the hearts of America. Millions of people have experienced glimpses of their lives on Discovery’s Mystery ER, The Montel Williams Show, and Extreme Makeover: Home Edition (recently voted one of the show’s all-time best episodes!).

Now Kayla’s mom, Kimberley, takes readers behind the cameras to reveal their family’s journey as never before told. From medical sleuthing to cross-country moves, from freak fires to battles with insurance companies, Welcome Home proves that truth really is stranger than fiction. This candid life story reveals both success and failure and demonstrates how, even during tough circumstances, to shift your life from heartbreak to extreme joy.

Peak inside the Woodhouse family’s life (and their famous house) with a 16-page photo insert.

Readers, buy your copy of Welcome Home today!

MY REVIEW

I'm not one who is prone to tears, but I shed some while reading this book. I also laughed, smiled and was touched to the core by Kim's wit, wisdom, and poignant honesty as she shared her family's amazing journey that had led them to where they are today. Kim is straightforward, honest and sometimes blunt about their struggles and the truths surrounding the rising medical bills, as well as the fears of having a daughter with a rare life-threatening medical disorder. But through it all, the warmth, genuine love and Kim's characteristic sense of humor shine clear and bright. You'll go down in the depths of seeming despair and rise to the heights of triumph with Kim and her family as you read this heart-gripping story. I dare you to not be affected by the story.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. This is your first book. Congratulations! You've told your story so many times in so many different venues. What inspired you to write about it in this way?

The publisher asked me to write it. Originally, I had planned the book to be something else, but God’s plans are always better than our own. And we’d had thousands of people writing in through my website needing encouragement, I knew the Lord was leading in this direction.

2. What has been the most memorable aspect for you of this book's publishing journey?

Writing it in two and half weeks. It was crazy, gut-wrenching, uplifting, and special.

3. Are there any themes in Welcome Home that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the stories progressed?

Joy is the main theme. On this journey, I learned that God’s joy is always there, it can never be taken away. Another theme that I think it vitally important is to keep going. Don’t quit. When you feel like you are at the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and swing.

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

The most difficult parts were definitely during the stage when Kayla was not diagnosed and then later when she had to have brain surgery. I cried until I didn’t have any tears left. My favorite parts were going through all my journals and notes, remembering all the hilarious stories of my kids and times when they taught me invaluable lessons.

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

Be looking for more non-fiction and fiction. I can’t talk about the who’s and when’s yet – but keep watching my website www.kimberleywoodhouse.com.

6. Is there anything else you'd like to share with my readers?

Thank you! Thank you for having me here, Tiff. I love you, girl!

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Love you too, Kim! :) Thank you for being in the spotlight with us.

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Welcome Home: Our Family's Journey to Extreme Joy.

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

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

This week, the contest is open to anyone worldwide.

Spotlight on Candace Calvert and Critical Care

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

CANDACE CALVERT is an ER nurse who landed on the "other side of the stethoscope" after the equestrian accident that broke her neck and convinced her love, laughter--and faith--are the very best medicines of all. The inspirational account of her accident and recovery appears in Chicken Soup for the Nurse’s Soul, and launched her writing career.

The author of a madcap cruise mystery series in the secular market, Candace now eagerly follows her heart to write Christian fiction for Tyndale House. Her new medical drama series offers readers a chance to "scrub in" on the exciting world of emergency medicine, along with charismatic characters, pulse-pounding action, tender romance, humor, suspense--and a soul soothing prescription for hope.

Born in Northern California and the mother of two, Candace now lives in the Hill Country of Texas. She enjoys cruise travel, Bible study, bird watching, hiking, gardening, cooking, and being her husband’s biggest karaoke fan.

CRITICAL CARE
by Candace Calvert
Published by Tyndale House

ABOUT THE BOOK

After her brother dies in a trauma room, nurse Claire Avery can no longer face the ER. She’s determined to make a fresh start--new hospital, new career in nursing education--move forward, no turning back. But her plans fall apart when she’s called to offer stress counseling for medical staff after a heartbreaking day care center explosion. Worse, she’s forced back to the ER, where she clashes with Logan Caldwell, a doctor who believes touchy-feely counseling is a waste of time. He demands his staff be as tough as he is. Yet he finds himself drawn to this nurse educator . . . who just might teach him the true meaning of healing.

Buy Your Copy of Critical Care today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

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

Like my heroine Claire Avery, I was a long time ER nurse. I also acted as a peer counselor for Critical Incident Stress—part of a team trained to support medical and rescue workers in the emotional aftermath of catastrophic disasters such as 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. And with the less dramatic but no less harmful cumulative effects of “burnout.” Very much a concept of “healing the healers.” It bothered me that medical TV shows are so very popular but rarely address issues of faith when, in truth, countless prayers are sent heavenward from hospitals by patients, family members, and medical staff. I wanted to help "Grey’s Anatomy find its soul"!

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

My experiences in the ER (and as someone who has experienced grief, loss, and a renewal of faith) absolutely influenced the dramatic struggles that the characters face on the pages of Critical Care.

I’m a goal-oriented, list-making planner: which undoubtedly spurred Claire Avery’s unwavering drive to plot her entire future out on spread sheets—and expect God to give His stamp of approval. I was a jogger, and she’s always looking for that soothing endorphin rush that comes after her runs.

I like country music, and spent wonderful summers at Lake Tahoe in northern California: Dr. Logan Caldwell escapes stress by jumping on his Harley and heading into the Sierra Mountains. And he’s not half bad at the Texas Two Step.

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

Amazing question! Let’s see . . .

Nurse Claire Avery would be Neopolitan—perfect, parallel stripes of chocolate, vanilla and strawberry. Cautious and highly planned out. Because that’s the only way she feels safe.

Dr. Logan Caldwell would be Ben & Jerry’s "Willie Nelson’s Country Peach Cobbler"—eaten from a Styrofoam cup, with tongue depressor. On the go, mission accomplished and no excuses, STAT—because that’s what he expects from himself and his ER team.

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

The overall theme in is one of hope; that there is a loving plan in place to give us hope and a future. And in order for that to happen, we must be willing reach out in faith, accept help to face our fears and past hurts. The story utilizes symbols and motifs to support the overall theme.

For instance, Claire Avery has a cat named Smokey who lost an ear in a fight with a raccoon and is afraid to venture outdoors. His struggle is similar to Claire’s refusal to work in the ER after her brother’s death in a trauma room.

Dr. Logan Caldwell repeatedly takes an axe to the oak stump stuck square in the middle of his future home site—very much like his stubborn struggle with faith.

I hope that these elements combine to offer an enjoyable and spiritually uplifting read.

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

Strangely ( given my background in the ER) the intense medical scenes were likely most challenging. Not clinically; I know the subject. But when my (awesome) editors pressed me for "more emotion," I had to overcome my tendency to "protect" the reader from the tough realities of ER. Much the way I always protected my friends and family, I suppose. And I imagine that some of the scenes made me re-live those heart-wrenching moments.

On the other hand, I loved infusing warm humor and bits of quirky dialogue into the story. It tempers the highly emotive medical drama and makes the characters come alive for the reader. Dialogue is one of my favorite things to write, and I had such fun with the exchanges between Logan "McSnarly" Caldwell and Claire Avery. It was a hoot to have her nearly sit on a chicken, and for him to make a fool of himself dancing the "Watermelon Crawl" at children’s charity event.

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

The second book in the Mercy Hospital series, (working title) Disaster Status, is scheduled for release in January 2010:

ER nurse Erin Quinn (introduced in Critical Care) escapes personal turmoil to work at the peaceful California coast. But when a pesticide disaster brings dozens of victims to Pacific Mercy Hospital, she suddenly finds herself immersed in community panic—and at odds with ambitious fire captain Scott McKenna, a man who is no stranger to the toxic effects of tragedy.

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Critical Care.

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

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

This week, the contest is open to anyone worldwide.

Spotlight on Nicole Baart and The Moment Between

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

NICOLE BAART was born and raised in a small town in Iowa. She is the mother of two young sons and the wife of a pastor. After the adoption of their infant son, Nicole discovered a deep passion for global issues and is a founding member of a non-profit organization that works with a church and orphanage in Liberia. After the Leaves Fall and the sequel, Summer Snow, were Nicole's first books. Summer Snow is a 2009 Christy Award finalist for excellence in fiction. The Moment Between is her third book. The inspiration for Nicole's next novel was an unsolved murder near her hometown. Her fourth book is set for release in 2010. Nicole and her family live in Iowa.

THE MOMENT BETWEEN
by Nicole Baart
Published by Tyndale House

ABOUT THE BOOK

Abigail Bennett was completely in control of her life until tragedy pushed her to the brink of something she'd never experienced: obsession. Now, she's given up everything she's ever worked for to chase down the object of that obsession. His name is Tyler Kamp. As Abigail follows him across the border into Canada to a beautiful winery in British Columbia, her journey is awash in memories of family and childhood, especially those of her younger sister, Hailey. Dangerously beautiful yet indefinably needy, Hailey seemed to take all the risks Abigail avoided. Until now. But even as Abigail races into her future, her past continues to pull her back. Only when she is brought to the edge of her obsession will she be able to come to terms with the tragedy that ignited it.

A breathtaking story about the emotional risks of relationships, The Moment Between explores the cost of regret, the desire for revenge, and the redemptive power of forgiveness.

Buy Your Copy of The Moment Between today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

The idea for this book was sparked nearly a decade ago when I was a young, high school teacher fresh out of college. A teenager in our community committed suicide, and the ensuing shock and horror really affected my students. In dealing with the fall-out, I learned that many of my students believed that suicide is an unpardonable sin--that since your final act on earth is one you cannot repent of, God cannot forgive you and therefore your soul cannot be saved. Of course, suicide is never the right answer to any problem, but I believe that God is bigger than that. I believe his grace can abound in any situation. The Moment Between is really about grace in unbelievable circumstances.

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

The biggest part of me that shows up in this book is a love for British Columbia’s Thompson Okanagan. This setting will forever be one of my favorite places on earth. I feel a sense of home there, even though I’ve only ever vacationed there and will probably never truly call B.C.’s wine country home. Abigail’s growing love for The Summerlands and her sense of place there definitely came straight from my own affinity for the region.

But there are many things about Abigail that have nothing to do with me. She’s an accountant--I hate numbers and still add on my fingers. She has a very dysfunctional family and a messed-up relationship with her sister--my family is awesome and I only have a brother. She’s short and dark-haired and athletic--I’m tall and blonde and a complete klutz… I’ve never really thought about it before, but looking at my list I suppose she’s sort of my alter-ego.

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

Abigail Bennett would be a homemade vanilla gelato: simple, straightforward, and uncomplicated, but not without a certain exotic appeal--maybe hand churned with bits of vanilla bean throughout. :) There is much more to her than meets the eye, though you have to be willing to really savor her to realize all the many subtleties and nuances in her personality.

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

Forgiveness is a major theme that plays into The Moment Between from the first page to the very last. I read a number of books on this subject of communion in years past and have always struggled with what it means, who it is for, and why Jesus chose the symbols that he used to represent the ultimate gift of himself--this symbol of forgiveness and reconciliation. I think we often take the elements for granted, not bothering to struggle with the implications of what God was really doing for us with this often misunderstood sacrament. So blood, wine, and sacrifice are all big symbols that play into the theme of forgiveness in this book.

Mental illness, familial relationships, and finding a sense of place are also important. I’d have to say that there were no surprise themes in this book because it was so planned out in my head from the moment I started writing it. I don’t always know my book so well when I begin, but there was something special about The Moment Between from the very first time I put pen to paper and wrote the opening line.

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

The most difficult parts to write were definitely the suicide scenes. It was very hard to immerse myself in that sort of pain and try to imagine what it would be like to lose someone I love in such a violent manner. But for some reason I felt very compelled to go there--I wish I knew why. People always ask me why I chose to write about this topic, but the truth is, the topic chose me. It grabbed my heart and my mind and wouldn’t let go until I started writing.

My favorite parts to write were all the parts about the winery and Abigail’s growing relationship with the estate owner and vintner Eli Dixon. I love his character so much and I love what he was able to do for Abigail throughout the course of the book. He made all the sad stuff worth it.

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

My next book is coming out in the spring of 2010. I’m just putting the finishing touches on it right now and I’m so excited about it! I don’t have a title yet, but the story is part mystery, part love story, and part emotional drama. It’s about a small town doctor named Lucas Hudson who is called to act as coroner in a routine case when the real coroner is vacationing in Mexico. Everything seems run-of-the-mill until Lucas stumbles upon a second body. Suddenly, he’s pulled into a bizarre, decade-old murder mystery that catapults him from his lackluster existence. When a missing woman turns up unexpectedly, and Lucas does the unthinkable, things only get more complicated. He finds his careful life in shambles and his marriage crumbling around him.

This book was pure joy for me to write, filled with quick dialogue and fascinating events. The idea was planted when I was sixteen years old and a body was discovered in a ditch near my hometown. A young woman had been brutally murdered and her body wasn’t found until months after the horrific crime. She has always haunted me… And now I get to tell my version of her story. I’ve waited years to pen this one. :)

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

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

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

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

This week, the contest is open to anyone worldwide.

Spotlight on DiAnn Mills and Breach of Trust

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

DIANN MILLS is an award-winning author who launched her career in 1998 with the publication of her first book. Currently she has over forty books in print and has sold a million and a half copies. DiAnn believes her readers should "Expect an Adventure." She is a fiction writer who combines an adventuresome spirit with unforgettable characters to create action-packed novels.

Six of her anthologies have appeared on the CBA Best Seller List. Three of her books have won the distinction of Best Historical of the Year by Heartsong Presents. Five of her books have won placements through American Christian Fiction Writer's Book of the Year Awards 2003–2008, and she is the recipient of the Inspirational Reader's Choice award for 2005 and 2007. She was a Christy Awards finalist in 2008.

DiAnn is a founding board member for American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Inspirational Writers Alive, Romance Writers of America's Faith, Hope and Love, and Advanced Writers and Speakers Association. She speaks to various groups and teaches writing workshops around the country. DiAnn is also a mentor for Jerry B. Jenkins Christian Writer's Guild.

She lives in sunny Houston, Texas. DiAnn and her husband have four adult sons and are active members of Metropolitan Baptist Church.

BREACH OF TRUST
by DiAnn Mills
Published by Tyndale House

ABOUT THE BOOK

Paige Rogers is a former CIA agent who lost all she treasured seven years ago when her entire team was killed in a covert mission. She blames their leader—Daniel Keary—whom Paige believes betrayed them. Disillusioned and afraid for her life, she disappeared and started a new life as a small-town librarian. But when Keary announces his candidacy for governor of her state, he comes after Paige to ensure that she won't ruin his bid for office. He threatens everything she holds dear, and Paige must choose between the life of hiding that has become her refuge...or risking everything in one last, desperate attempt to right old wrongs.

Buy Your Copy of Breach of Trust today!

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?

While driving through rural Oklahoma, my "what-if" writer's mode kicked in. What if a CIA agent was forced to change identities and hide out in rural Oklahoma? What would she do? How would she change her looks? And more importantly, what would bring her out of hiding? I wanted my heroine to have found God among good people who showed her what following Jesus was all about. And I wanted her commitment to her new-found faith to guide her in all of the decisions she faced in bringing a corrupt politician to justice.

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

I'm not so sure anything prepared me for Paige's nightmare. What led me to research and write this story is that all of us have risky/unsafe dreams. Deep down, I would have loved to have been a part of the CIA. On the humorous side, I'm a church librarian and that part of Paige was fun. What aspects became traits that were theirs and theirs alone? The heroine's sixth sense and uncanny ability to detect signs that pointed to danger. Also, Paige is much smarter than I am. :) Miles gave the appearance of a good-old-boy: a high school football coach who had a crush on the local librarian. But he is so much more.

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

Once you read Breach of Trust, you will see that Paige is a vanilla gal. In fact, there is a scene with her preference for vanilla. Symbolically, she wanted the whole world to be a white/pure place for people to live, but she knew it wasn't possible.

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

All Christians are called to a purpose, a divine calling that others may not understand. The issue of trust is difficult topic for anyone who has ever been betrayed.

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

The most difficult was the research. I searched the CIA website, phoned the CIA in DC, read recommended books, and talked to others who were involved in other security organizations similar to the CIA. My favorite part was showing who Paige really was to Miles. Had to giggle through that. Of course there were some hard scenes between the two, and often the challenging scenes become my favorite.

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

Breach of Security is my next book in the Call of Duty series. Danika Morales is a Border Patrol Agent in McAllen, Texas. For two years she's looked for the murderer of her husband. What she discovers is a plot to destroy everything she believes in.

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

Readers, leave a comment for your chance to win a FREE copy of A Breach of Trust.

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

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

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