"In Honor Bound" by Deanna Dodson

Clash of the Titles, Where Authors Compete and Readers Judge

DeAnna Dodson and her novel In Honor Bound

From medieval prince to 21st century man-eater, Clash of the Titles (http://www.clashofthetitles.com/) saw a gamut of interesting characters pass through its arena in January. The first half of the month we celebrated new life in Christ. In the second half, we grieved with our characters in their moments of loss. No matter the genre or theme, there’s always something exciting going on at COTT.

DeAnna Dodson joined us during our Most Gut-wrenching Clash. Her book In Honor Bound (http://www.amazon.com/Honor-Bound-DeAnna-Julie-Dodson/dp/0891079092) is an incredibly moving story of loss and betrayal, forgiveness and love. Prince Phillip’s father will stop at nothing—even murder—to keep the royal bloodline "pure." Prince Philip Chastelayne burns the bridges of his life, and finds one woman, Rosalynde, his loyal wife, who will show him that he needs God's forgiveness.

And it’s now available on Kindle! (http://www.amazon.com/Honor-Bound-Chastelayne-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B004LX09DA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1297453647&sr=8-1)

DeAnna explains the title of her book: Philip is a man of honor, a man who will “swear to his own hurt and change not.” He wants desperately to do what’s right. That’s his greatest strength and his greatest weakness. He’s so proud of his “rightness” that he almost loses sight of what really is right. He truly is bound up in his honor.

Here a tiny peek at DeAnna’s excerpt:

Philip sat numbly in the corner of his cell, oblivious to the dawn light that had filtered into his bleak surroundings. His mind was fixed on his last sight of his young wife, looking scared and small, flanked by soldiers, forbidden to speak to him. He knew it would likely be the last time he ever saw her.

It still astounded him that he was even here in his father's prison, forbidden to communicate with anyone. His father thought him mad or bewitched and would not hear him. Katherine was doomed, he could feel it in the cold dread that sat heavily in the pit of his stomach, and he could do nothing.

For the full excerpt, click HERE. (http://www.clashofthetitles.com/2011/01/most-gut-wrenching-scene.html)

It was an amazing Clash as authors and readers shared their favorite scriptures and rejoiced in God’s mercy and grace. Join us this month as we turn the focus from God’s love toward man to that between hero and heroine during back-to-back Most Romantic Moment clashes.

April W Gardner (http://www.aprilgardner.com/) is the senior editor of Clash of the Titles and best-selling author of Wounded Spirits. (http://www.amazon.com/Wounded-Spirits-April-W-Gardner/dp/0981989616/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1297021817&sr=1-1)

"In the Manor of the Ghost" by Tina Pinson

Clash of the Titles, Where Authors Compete and Readers Judge

Tina Pinson and her novel In the Manor of the Ghost

From medieval prince to 21st century man-eater, Clash of the Titles (www.clashofthetitles.com) saw a gamut of interesting characters pass through its arena in January. The first half of the month we celebrated new life in Christ. In the second half, we grieved with our characters in their moments of loss. No matter the genre or theme, there’s always something exciting going on at COTT.

Tina Pinson (http://www.tinapinson.com/) joined us during our Most Gut-wrenching Clash. Her book In the Manor of the Ghost (http://www.amazon.com/Manor-Ghost-Tina-Pinson/dp/0595195911/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1297022986&sr=1-1) took home our cyber-laurel. Congratulations, Tina!

There’s a ghost in the manor? Really? I definitely need to know more!

About the book: It's the 1870's and those who dwell in Clayborne Manor seemed trapped in time. Trapped amid the whispers of failure and sorrow; whispers of longing and defeat. Caitlin hears them clearly at night. But what ghosts really haunt Clayborne Manor? The ghost that restlessly walks the halls in the night? Or the ones that plague the minds and spirits of those residing there?

Here a tiny peek at Tina’s excerpt:

Kaitlin slipped past the barricades and pushed through the crowds. Heavy smoke made it hard to catch her breath. Nothing could stop her scream when she saw her apartment building engulfed in flames.

She scanned the lines of blackened faces. Her family wasn't there. Her gaze was drawn to the building, to the raging mingling of fire and life. Kaitlin prayed her family would come out. No one exited -- the agony of her thoughts cut her like a well-sharpened saber. Looking up, her thoughts became flesh.

Jean Marc stood in the upstairs window holding a bundle. Kaitlin knew, with another slice to her soul, the bundle was Simone.

For the full excerpt, click HERE. (http://www.clashofthetitles.com/2011/01/most-gut-wrenching-scene.html)

It was an amazing Clash as authors and readers shared their favorite scriptures and rejoiced in God’s mercy and grace. Join us this month as we turn the focus from God’s love toward man to that between hero and heroine during back-to-back Most Romantic Moment clashes.

April W Gardner (http://www.aprilgardner.com/) is the senior editor of Clash of the Titles and best-selling author of Wounded Spirits. (http://www.amazon.com/Wounded-Spirits-April-W-Gardner/dp/0981989616/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1297021817&sr=1-1)

"Yesterday's Promise" by Delia Latham

Clash of the Titles, Where Authors Compete and Readers Judge

Delia Latham and her novel Destiny’s Dream

From medieval prince to 21st century man-eater, Clash of the Titles (www.clashofthetitles.com) saw a gamut of interesting characters pass through its arena in January. The first half of the month we celebrated new life in Christ. In the second half, we grieved with our characters in their moments of loss. No matter the genre or theme, there’s always something exciting going on at COTT.

Delia Latham (http://www.delialatham.net/ ) joined us during our Conversions Scenes week. Delia’s book Destiny’s Dream (http://www.amazon.com/Destinys-Dream-Delia-Latham/dp/1611160456/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1297022048&sr=1-1) took home our cyber-laurel. Congratulations, Delia!

So, what exactly is heroine Destiny’s dream, and why should we root for her to achieve it?

Delia: When her mother dies, she leaves Destiny an awesome spiritual legacy, and Destiny is spurred to pursue the dream she’s fostered for so long – to open a Christian dating agency. Throughout the course of the book, Destiny faces enormous obstacles…and wonderful, spine-tingling miracles. Through it all, she maintains a steadfast faith in God’s calling. How can one help cheering her on?

Since the Clash’s theme was Conversion Scenes, I asked Delia what her character’s hold-up was for trusting Christ.

Delia: Destiny has no problem trusting Christ—she is completely in sync with Him and His will. Clay, however, has wandered from his childhood faith. He’s uncomfortable when Destiny talks about God as if He’s a dear, personal Friend. It was a great joy for me to bring Clay full circle back to Christ, and teach him that something deeper than he’d ever known was there for the asking.

Here a tiny peek at Delia’s excerpt:

As Pastor Paul Porter extended an altar invitation, Destiny sneaked a peek at Clay’s face. His hands had been fisted into white-knuckled balls for the past twenty minutes. Now a muscle worked in the strong line of his jaw as the familiar, sweet notes of “Softly and Tenderly” played in the background.

Miss Willard was consistent in her preference for the old hymns.

Right now, Destiny had no objection.

She laid a gentle hand over one of Clay’s hard fists. He opened his eyes and slanted a misty look her way even as he unfurled his fingers to wrap them around hers. Without a word, he nodded, and they stood. Destiny walked with him toward the front of the church, joyous tears dimming her vision.

For the full excerpt, click HERE. (http://www.clashofthetitles.com/2011/01/conversion-scenes-excerpts.html)

It was an amazing Clash as authors and readers shared their favorite scriptures and rejoiced in God’s mercy and grace. Join us this month as we turn the focus from God’s love toward man to that between hero and heroine during back-to-back Most Romantic Moment clashes.

April W Gardner (http://www.aprilgardner.com) is the senior editor of Clash of the Titles and best-selling author of Wounded Spirits. (http://www.amazon.com/Wounded-Spirits-April-W-Gardner/dp/0981989616/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1297021817&sr=1-1)

"My Mother the Man-eater" by Tracy Krauss

Clash of the Titles, Where Authors Compete and Readers Judge

 

From medieval prince to 21st century man-eater, Clash of the Titles (www.clashofthetitles.com) saw a gamut of interesting characters pass through its arena in January. The first half of the month we celebrated new life in Christ. In the second half, we grieved with our characters in their moments of loss. No matter the genre or theme, there’s always something exciting going on at COTT.

Tracy Krauss (http://www.tracykraussexpressionexpress.com/) joined us with her book My Mother the Man-eater, (http://www.amazon.com/Mother-Man-Eater-Tracy-Krauss/dp/1609765850/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1297021598&sr=8-1) where “hunting never looked so good.”

With a title like that, my first question was—What kind of fascinating character would be given such a label? So I asked the author. Apparently, heroine Joleen Allen is on the hunt. For a man, that is. Unfortunately, every time the mother of five meets a prospect, he falls for one of her daughters instead!

“Joleen’s life has not been an easy one,” Tracy says about the book’s heroine, “but she is a fighter. The fact that Joleen is so tenacious, despite almost insurmountable hardship, makes her somebody to root for, I think. Also, she portrays the kind of confidence and penache that makes her stand out, although most of it is a coping mechanism.”

Since the Clash’s theme was Conversion Scenes, I asked Tracy what Joleen’s hold-up was for trusting Christ.

Tracy: Deep down she doesn’t feel like she deserves it. She can’t accept the fact that God could forgive her for the multi-layered sins of the past, nor can she believe God could change her penchant for ‘sin’ in the present.

Here a tiny peek at Tracy’s excerpt:

“If he loves me so much, why did he let so many bad things happen in my life?” Joleen asked.

“I can’t answer that for sure,” William replied. “All I know is, what Satan meant for harm, God can use for good. Will you let him? Take the pieces of your life and turn it into something good?”

For the full excerpt, click HERE. (http://www.clashofthetitles.com/2011/01/conversion-scenes-excerpts.html)

It was an amazing Clash as authors and readers shared their favorite scriptures and rejoiced in God’s mercy and grace. Join us this month as we turn the focus from God’s love toward man to that between hero and heroine during back-to-back Most Romantic Moment clashes.

April W Gardner (http://www.aprilgardner.com) is the senior editor of Clash of the Titles and best-selling author of Wounded Spirits. (http://www.amazon.com/Wounded-Spirits-April-W-Gardner/dp/0981989616/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1297021817&sr=1-1)

Victoria Burks' "A Legacy of Love"

We're happy to have Victoria Burks with us today talking about her book A Legacy of Love. To learn more about Victoria and her book, read on!

Title: A Legacy of Love
Publisher: Tate Publishing

Cover blurb: Please see attached New Release notice.

1) How did this story come to you?
While bedridden, recuperating from a severe back injury a few years ago, I dreamed the basic plot for my novel, “A Legacy of Love.” Not one to dream often, the next morning, I asked God, “Why did I dream a dream like that. Inside my heart I heard the words, “Write the book.” I informed God I was sure he had the wrong address; that surely he’d intended to go to the home of Victoria Holt, not the residence of Victoria Burks. However, the inclination to “write the book” would not leave my mind or heart. Therefore, I sent my daughter to purchase writing pads and pens; and in the weeks ahead, while lying flat on my back, I held each of those tablets along with a pen above my head recording the story I had envisioned in my dream. Later, after receiving a miracle of healing, I began the process of transferring the story into my computer.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
Once I realized that God had placed this unquenchable desire to write inspirational romantic suspense in my heart, I began to attend writing conferences, purchase “how to” books on writing, and in the course of time met a popular Christian magazine editor who tutored me in writing for about two years.

During one of the Christian writing conference I attended, Francine Rivers read the first three chapters of my novel and encouraged me to continue the work. In that same year, one of our sons died in a truck/train accident and I laid my project aside for a few years. And then, in September of 2009, God spoke to my heart in church one Sunday morning and said it’s time for you to get back to writing. I took out the manuscript, did some updating, and e-mailed it to Tate Publishing. Seven weeks later, I received an e-mail from Tate stating they wanted to publish my book. A Legacy of Love was released November 9, 2010.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
1. I have 11 children, 31 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren.
2. I have driven trucks to deliver U. S. Mail.
3. I have two children that were born on the same day, but not twins and two grandchildren that were born on Christmas Day.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
My novel, “Bittersweet Justice” will be released this coming fall and my WIP is entitled, “Forbidden Garden”.

5) Parting comments?
I would like to encourage everyone who has a God-given dream in their heart to never let it go. Do everything you can with His guidance to fulfill that dream. Yes, you will get discouraged along the way, but look to Christ, “who is the author and finisher of our faith.”(Hebrews 12:2) Also, when we seek His kingdom and His righteousness first in our lives, “all these other things will be added to us.” (Matthew 6:23) And, too, God declared he would “perform (or make happen) that which concerns us.” And, that includes bringing to pass those plans he has made for us. (Jeremiah 29:11-12.) To God be the eternal glory!

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
You can find me at http://victoriaburks.tateauthor.com/, on Facebook and Twitter as Victoria Burks, Author.

April Gardner's "Wounded Spirits"

We're happy to have April Gardner with us today talking about her book Wounded Spirits. To learn more about April and her book, read on!

Title: Wounded Spirits
Publisher: Vinspire Publishing, 2010

Cover blurb:On the frontier, Adela McGirth’s life is simple, rugged, and exactly to her liking. Her greatest concern is whether to marry the settlement’s most eligible young officer. When a distant war among the Natives spills over into a nearby skirmish, life takes a perilous turn. Deep in enemy territory Adela must choose between the man she loves and a baby that has yet to be born.
A peace-loving yet loyal Creek warrior, Totka is forced to align with the extremist Red Stick faction whose purpose is to eradicate the Whites from Creek soil. In the midst of battle, Totka is assigned to protect those he is expected to hate–and kill. Life was simpler before his enemy became a beautiful face with a quiet strength and dignity he cannot resist.

1) How did this story come to you?
I came across the lives of the Creek Indians and the McGirths on the pages of history books and felt a burning need to know these people better, to understand how they might have reacted and dealt with the circumstances thrust upon them. There’s a certain mysterious and regal quality to our country’s Natives that lures me. They had nearly perfected the true sense of community, selflessness, and passion. I just needed to live in their moccasins for a while.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I broke my “writing teeth” on book reviews six years ago. Writing and publishing reviews gave me the confidence I needed to put the story of my heart onto paper. But it was a single book review that prompted my relationship with Vinspire, my publishing house. Vinspire author Suzanne Woods Fisher thanked me for a review I’d written of her first book Copper Star (great book, by the way!). For some reason still unknown to me (besides the obvious—that she’s a super-cool gal) she took it upon herself to encourage me to submit my writing to Vinspire. Without her belief in me, I never would have had the confidence to do it. Thanks, Suzanne!

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I backed into my husband’s car, crunching the bumpers of both vehicles. Twice. In three months.
I’m a self-proclaimed ditz. (Why deny the obvious, right?)
I collect antiquarian books.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I’m currently writing Warring Spirits, book two in the Creek Country Saga. Here’s a sneak peak at the working back cover blurb:
In 1816 Georgia, a fort controlled by runaways looms over the white population, threatening everything they hold dear. But to Milly—neither white nor black—it is a refuge. Major Phillip Bailey has orders to subdue the uprising at any cost, but a devastating event drives the price higher than they expected to pay. Neither imagines that where blood is split unexpected love can bloom.

5) Parting comments?
Thanks for having me today! I’m honored to have Wounded Spirits counted among the many wonderful books that have passed through your literary halls.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
www.aprilgardner.com
http://www.facebook.com/#!/april.gardner1

Teryl Cartwright's "Courting Constance"

We're happy to have Teryl Cartwright with us today talking about her book Courting Constance. To learn more about Teryl and her book, read on!

Title: Courting Constance
Publisher: Vinspire Publishing LLC

Cover blurb: “I will make him love me again.” With this vow, Constance Alford, realizing she may have lost the only love of her life, pursues her former fiancé relentlessly. She isn't surprised to discover Sir Geoffrey isn't at all interested his not so “secret” admirer. And when her creative attempts to win him back fail, Constance began to think that her best, most daring plan of all still won't be enough.
Still suffering from the sting of Constance's earlier rejection, Sir Geoffrey also has a plan for the resourceful Miss Alford, although his ideas revolve more around revenge. She would pay for trifling with the love he once offered her. He would make her truly love him and then walk away from her, finally and forever. But his heart gets in the way of his ideas and he soon finds himself at the mercy of his own plans.

1) How did this story come to you?
When I started dating and even after I married, I got very creative in my gift giving to my husband. I had accordion player serenade him, got him an autographed book by his favorite coach, wrote poetry and set up scavenger hunts, etc.—you name it. The story of Courting Constance came when I asked myself what would happen if something went wrong every time a creative gift idea was tried out? What if the serenade was more earsplitting than romantic? What if the recipient was allergic to the food? So you can imagine the fun I had writing this book for a very persistent, creative heroine and her victim (I mean the hero) who learns to have a sense of humor and a bit of patience.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
Like my first book, Courting Constance was a “Nano-book”, a fifty thousand word first draft that was written in a month in a Nanowrimo.org contest a few years ago. I then had to do a lot of research to make sure the Regency was accurate for Bath, England which helped add another 20 thousand words. This research meant going to the internet for pictures and even having a librarian from Bath help me find books with maps and more history. When I submitted the revised manuscript to Vinspire Publishing and got accepted I went through several edits. Although I had been through two and a half with one editor, when another took over, I had to go through a few more since each editor is different in their preferences and editing style. It took around two years from first draft to its publication.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
1. I was crazy enough to go to Hollywood to pitch my first book for movie producers—and I’ll be back when better prepared!
2. I’ve written stories in many genres from sci-fi to satire, but have only been published in romance, drama and curriculum thus far.
3. I like to sneak inside jokes into my books—such as picking on stereotypes and putting in favorite author names as well as some street names where I live. I’ve even tucked in a reference to an actor I admire just for fun.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I’m working on a historical romance is called Scottish Made which is about what happens when a girl has amnesia and doesn’t know who to trust with this secret in an intrigue filled society of highland and lowland Scots. The other book I've started is nonfiction, Dramatic Sunday School for Adults, which focuses on how to use drama in class as an special way to experience scripture.

5) Parting comments?
God is at work in so many wonderful ways; we just have to be looking, asking for and recognizing these blessings. While we writers inspire each other, you, as a reader, do this too. You'd be surprised how much a comment can make someone's day, because we really do appreciate the connections that are made. Writing is not a solo endeavor, there are editors, researchers, mentors and readers involved. Thanks for reading--you make our books stay alive!

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
www.terylcartwright.com

Vicki Hinze's "Deadly Ties"

We're happy to have Vicki Hinze with us today talking about her book Deadly Ties. To learn more about Vicki and her book, read on!

Title: Deadly Ties
Publisher: Multnomah

Cover Blurb: Her enemy will stop at nothing for control…and everything is not enough
A horrific crime shatters Lisa Harper’s idyllic childhood. Her father is dead and her desperate mother, Annie, quickly marries Dutch Hauk, an abusive monster who soon reveals his hatred for Lisa. To protect her, Annie defies her ruthless husband and forfeits custody to a trusted friend. Enraged, Dutch vows to keep Annie and Lisa apart—and he does. Years later, though keenly aware of Dutch’s evil intent, Lisa and her mother seize a chance to be a family, safe in a home where love dwells. But they fail to fathom how far Dutch will go to keep his vow.
Determined to control his women, Dutch proves resourceful. His associates in crime are feared at the highest levels across the globe—and for Lisa they plan a fate worse than death. Yet she too has formidable connections: ones like former Special Operations officer Mark Taylor. Burdened by his own traumatic past, Mark has loved Lisa from afar. Now, for Lisa and her mother to survive, Mark must risk his life—and even more difficult for him, he must trust God—as one question haunts them all: Can Mark and Lisa untangle these deadly ties before it’s too late?

1. How did this story come to you?
I’ve been studying human trafficking for some time. Actually, the impact of it on the people abducted. I ran across a twist on it that was new to me and then discovered that it was more common than first believed, and I wanted to write about it to raise awareness. I wanted to write the story of faith getting people through even the most difficult of circumstances when those victims adopt the attitude of not letting an incident in their past rob them of their present and future. You know what I mean. We’ve all known people who had something bad happen and they got stuck on it, unable to let it go, unable to move beyond it. I wanted to write about a woman who was vulnerable and as average and normal as the rest of us who summoned the courage to reclaim her life.

2. Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
It was hard to write, but my editor immediately grasped what I was trying to accomplish in writing it and shared the vision. That’s such a blessing when it happens, and watching Lisa and Mark confront their fears and challenges and overcome them… well, it was moving. Very moving.

3. Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
This is a hard question. I feel as if I reveal the deepest parts of me in my books, so I’m reading this wondering what’s left? Smiling here. Okay, I’ll try:
1. I hate mirrors. I had to have a series of eye surgeries that totally changed the way I look. So when I see me in a mirror, I see a stranger’s face.
2. I can’t yell. So to signal my family I was unhappy, I used to dye my hair red. The more upset I was, the darker the red. It got to the point where I just had to buy a box of red hair dye and sit it on the kitchen counter. They’d all toe the line to keep me from going red. Redheads tolerate no guff.
3. When something truly wonderful happens that I want to celebrate, I go to Baskin & Robbins and get two scoops of chocolate ice-cream in a waffle cone. That’s the only time I eat it, and it’s saved for the seriously wonderful events. Forget glamorous stuff, and fine dining with roses and all that. This is my special and truly meaningful celebration. It started with my mom and me, celebrating the sale of my first book. My daughter and I continue it.

4. What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I’m working on the next Crossroads Crisis Center book—Beth and Joe’s story, Not This Time. The opening scene scared me right out of my socks. That’s an excellent sign. 

5. Parting comments?
What a privilege it is to visit with you here. Thanks so much for your interest and the support you’ve shown for the series with FORGET ME NOT. These books mean a great deal to me, and I appreciate it that you’ve embraced them.

6. Where can fans find you on the internet?
My website is at http://www.vickihinze.com/. And I’m on Facebook, Twitter and Shoutlife. I visit often and really enjoy chatting, so I hope you’ll drop by.

C.M. Jones' "He Left Me"

We're happy to have C.M. Jones with us today talking about her book, He Left Me. To learn more about C.M. and her book, read on!

Title: He Left Me

Publisher: HortonJones, Inc.

Cover blurb: “I need ice, coffee, and milk, and don’t forget the chopper, Jessu.” It’s the middle of the summer in Ghana, West Africa and boy is it hot today. It’s almost 38°C. Although, yesterday wasn’t so bad, it was only 32°C. I made coffee cakes early this morning before the sun became too hot and boy am I glad that I did. More than that, I’m fortunate that at 32 years old, I am so skilled in the kitchen. Not because it’s uncommon amongst my people, because in Africa before you become a married woman, with five children such as myself, cooking is only one of the many things that you’re able to do well. I’m fortunate however because my mother passed away when I was 13 years old, she had AIDS.

1) How did this story come to you?

I first wrote it as a short story for a writing contest. When I saw the contest I spoke with my husband/manager about the idea that I had for the story and he said, “write about something that will take the readers by surprise, infidelity is so common,” and so I did. After all, the destruction of marriage is not always about infidelity. The readers of the short story loved it so much that I decided to turn it into a novel.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
 This is my third published book and I have to say by far it was the most difficult but only because I seemed to have so many other things going on. Also, I lost my uncle, my father’s brother who helped to raise me when my father passed on, right at the time when I was supposed to do the final edit. With so much going on I pushed the date back to February 25 which is my father’s birthday and symbolic of the relationship that I had with my uncle. I can only attribute all of the obstacles to the impact that God must have planned for this book to change people’s lives because that is why I write in the first place. It is my mission to help change lives through the power of Jesus Christ.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
My family owns HortonJones, Inc., an independent publishing company, I live in Germany on a military base and I’m a high school teacher.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
Well I have quite a few manuscript ideas but I am getting ready to take a break from writing to work on my Doctorate degree. While working on my doctorate I will continue to promote the three books that are published and maybe write a poetry e-book.

5) Parting comments?
To all aspiring authors, keep writing! Your dream is only a few keystrokes away. Also pick up a copy of my first two books, I Still Do and Nothing Is Too Hard For God. It’s a series that you will love. The books are available in a few U.S. bookstores and libraries as well as www.Amazon.com and www.Barnesandnoble.com

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
http://www.cmjonestheauthor.com/ and www.facebook.com/cmjonestheauthor

Donna F. Crow's "A Very Private Grave"

We're happy to have Donna Fletcher Crow with us today talking about her book A Very Private Grave. To learn more about Donna and her book, read on!

Title: A VERY PRIVATE GRAVE, Book 1 The Monastery Murders
Publisher: Monarch Books

Cover blurb:
Felicity Howard, a young American studying at the College of the Transfiguration in Yorkshire, is devastated when she finds her beloved Fr. Dominic bludgeoned to death and Fr. Antony, her church history lecturer, soaked in his blood. . .
A VERY PRIVATE GRAVE is a contemporary novel with a thoroughly modern heroine who must learn some ancient truths in order to solve the mystery and save her own life, as she and Fr. Antony flee a murderer and follow clues that take them to out-of-the-way sites across northern England and southern Scotland. The narrative deftly mixes detection, intellectual puzzles, spiritual aspiration, romance and the solving of clues ancient and modern.

1) How did this story come to you?
I have wanted to tell St. Cuthbert’s story every since I encountered him at Durham Cathedral some twenty years ago. When my daughter went to study in a monastery in Yorkshire the story came together for me.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
And what a journey it’s been! I had been offered three previous contracts for this book but something always got in the way, such as another story seeming more urgent. Then, after publishing 30 novels, My career flat-lined and I was out of the publishing loop for 10 years, although I was still writing. Things came together for me when I finished this book and my agent Janet Benrey took it to Tony Collins at Monarch Books. Truly a case of “all things working together for good.”

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I am a former rodeo queen and runner-up for Miss Rodeo America.
I will do anything for research, including rappelling into a lava cave.
I have no sense of direction and maintain that I should be allowed to park in handicapped spaces because it’s a form of internal blindness.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I am organizing the research for Book 3 in the Monastery Murders while my publisher prepares Book 2, A DARKLY HIDDEN TRUTH for publication. Book 3 will be set in Wales and involves Antony and Felicity directing a Youth Walk to Welsh pilgrimage sites. For preparation I will visit these sites in Wales, then join a Youth Walk from London to Walsingham (126 miles) as an overage pilgrim.

5) Parting comments?
I am so thankful to be able to live out my passion by telling stories of the Christian history of Britain. I pray that my readers will catch a new vision of the treasured heritage that is ours to live and to share.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
My webpage: http://www.donnafletchercrow.com/ to see my book trailer and pictures of my research trips and my garden; http://ning.it/ia9SMY for my Amazon page; or http://ning.it/eLjgYp  on Facebook for Donna Fletcher Crow, Novelist of British History.

Julie Bell's "A Place of Abundance"

We're happy to have Julie Bell  with us today talking about her book  A Place of Abundance. To learn more about Julie and her book, read on!

Title: A Place of Abundance
Publisher: Tate Publishing
Cover blurb:
“Look!” a voice in the train car rang out. Richard looked out the window to see five horses riding alongside the train. Oh God, Richard inwardly cried, What are we going to do? Richard heard the sound of guns fired and slid his eyes shut. His last thought was of home.

Three years later, eighteen-year-old Alicia Barnes is still dealing with the death of her father. When she suddenly loses her mother in an unfortunate accident, Alicia is devastated and promises to never trust God again. She decides to start a new life in a new town as a schoolteacher. There she meets Caleb Carter, a young ranch owner whose parents were killed three years ago. As Alicia begins to make friends with Caleb and his younger sister, Claire, she wonders how a loving God could allow terrible things to happen to good people. Then, an unwelcome band of outlaws appear in town, and Alicia is faced with two choices – holding onto a bitter heart or accepting the peace of forgiveness. Will Alicia learn to trust God and allow him to bring her to A Place of Abundance?

1) How did this story come to you?
For a while I had a rough outline of a story rolling around in my mind. One day I was sitting in bumper to bumper traffic and we weren’t moving at all. I had a notebook in the passenger seat, grabbed it, and starting writing down the story. Once I got home, I wrote a more detailed outline and five months later I had finished the first rough draft.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I wrote the first rough draft five years before I really began to pursue publishing. I did some online research and sent my manuscript to Tate Publishing. After reviewing my manuscript they offered me a contract.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I speak French (I’m a French teacher) but I also studied American Sign Language in high school and used to interpret in the deaf ministry at the church I went to as a youth. I love to ride horses. I sang the National Anthem at a minor league baseball game in 2009.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I’m currently in the editing phase of my second novel, a sequel to the first, which will release this fall.

5) Parting comments?
I have been influenced and inspired by many Christian fiction authors throughout the years. I hope and pray that you will enjoy A Place of Abundance and that it will inspire you the way that the writings of my favorite Christian authors have inspired me.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
Readers can email me at juliebell2000@gmail.com, check out my website at http://juliebell.tateauthor.com/, and find me on Facebook under Julie Bell, Novelist.

Lyle A. Way's "Edge of Disaster"

We're happy to have Lyle A. Way with us today talking about his book Edge of Disaster. To learn more about Lyle and his book, read on!


Title:Edge of Disaster.
Cover blurb: Arastoo Faridoon wants to resurrect the Persian dynasty so he con rule the world as king, and he won’t let anything stand in his way – not his own people, not his own family, and most of all, not the great power in the West, the United States of America.
Fueled by his hatred of the U.S., he devises a plan to ruin its economy with a strain of bacteria that will destroy the country’s grain supply. As a result of the outbreak, the country’s economy spirals downward. The housing market hits rock bottom. The stock market sinks to an all-time low. Bread, cereal, beef and chicken become too expensive to eat.
One of Faridoon’s foes emerges unexpectedly moments before he is to launch his final assault on the U.S. But will they arrived in time to stop him for executing his diabolical plan? And does Faridoon have enough fear to take them seriously? *not included by vitally important is the fact that the CIA sends its best agent to Iran, to try and uncover this plot. The military is involved as well as secret cells in Tehran, providing lots of excitement and intrigue.



1. How did this story come to you?
It came to me while watching the news and the Iranian Presidents tirades against the United States.

2. Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I had my share of rejections before sending the manuscript to Creation House, who decided to publish it.

3. Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
A. I am a retired CEO of the largest retirement center in Lubbock.
B. I love writing books about the CIA and my favorite agent who was born in my imagination, Aristotle Tucker, known as “Tuck”.
C. I received a Bachelor of Theology degree during my 60th year on this globe.

4. What are you working on now and what’s next for you?
I have a new book in the publishing process now, titled “Wake of the Golden Gryphon” a story about a smuggler in the South China Seas. It will also become an E book, which will require my cutting approximately 15,000 words from the story. For an author who cherishes every word in his work, this is a daunting task.

5. Parting comments?
I know that E books are the fast growing future in the publishing business, however, I still love the look and feel of a book in my hands, so I think there will always be traditional publishing.

6. Where can fans find you on the internet?
My email address is lway@windstream.net and website and blog are located at http://www.lyleaway.com/

Christine Sunderland's Hana-lani

We're happy to have Christine Sunderland with us today talking about her book Hana-lani. To learn more about Christine and her book, read on!

Title: Hana-lani
Publisher: OakTara

Cover blurb:Only opening their hearts will keep them from plunging into the dark abyss. Old Nani-lei lives in Hana-lani, her family home in rural Hawaii. She looks after her grandson Henry, 52, and his daughter Lucy, 6, who have returned to Maui from Berkeley after the death of Maria, Henry's wife. Henry and Maria, both professors, had been working on A History of Ethics, and now the grieving Henry struggles to finish it.
City girl Meredith Campbell, 36, fast-paced, self-centered, and beautiful, believes her body will ensure her happiness. After losing her job and finding her lover unfaithful, she flies to Maui, sure he will follow…but her plane crashes near Hana-lani.
As their worlds collide in a natural world both beautiful and dangerous, Henry will be forced to act on his words, and Meredith will come face-to-face with her own life choices.
A poignant journey that unravels T.S. Eliot’s “permanent questions”—what is goodness, truth, and love?

1) How did this story come to you?
I have had the wonderful opportunity to visit Hana, Maui and the Hawaiian Islands and have been impressed with their culture of family, faith, and history. I have also been troubled by the general trend in American culture away from family, faith, and history. I wanted to write a "good read," fast-paced but with serious themes, and thought this setting would be a perfect location. Douglas R. Cobb of Bestsellersworld.com called it "sexy, sweet, and touching… beautifully written…" so I think I did!

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
Once Hana-lani was fleshed out and edited with the help of local readers and editors, I sent it to my publisher, OakTara (who published my first three novels, Pilgrimage, Offerings, Inheritance, set in Western Europe) and they loved Hana-lani. We went into final edits in November and it was available on Amazon in early December 2010.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
First, I'm the daughter of a Presbyterian pastor, left the church in my college days, and returned as an enthusiastic Anglo-Catholic. Second, I never planned to become a writer and didn't begin writing novels until I was fifty and had time to reflect on life. Third, it took six years of submissions to agents and publishers and only one acceptance (OakTara), which to me, is clear evidence of miracles.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I enjoy writing my blog, which is a travel journal when away and a spiritual journal at home. I've just finished the first draft of a fifth novel, The Magdalen Mystery, set in the present about a quest to find the real Mary Magdalene in Rome and Provence, about discerning historical truth. After that, if my fingers still work, I'll pick something from my idea list and jump into the sixth novel.

5) Parting comments?
I love words, and I've found being older (sixty-three) gives me more life experience to draw upon when I write. I have many folks read my drafts and I study authors I admire (P.D. James). I have found that workshops and local writers clubs essential to improving my craft.
Thanks so much for having me visit. I appreciate the opportunity.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
http://www.christinesunderland.com/; http://mytravels.christinesunderland.com/; Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Authorsden, Scribd, and many others…

Anne Greene's "Masquerade Marriage"

We're happy to have Anne Greene with us today talking about her book Masquerade Marriage. To learn more about Anne and her book, read on!

Title: Masquerade Marriage
Publisher: WhiteRosePublishing.com

Cover blurb: Attached as A Secret List
A SECRET LIST
He was born to a clan of noted warriors and musicians. Yet to protect his loved ones and escape the dark fate of his brothers, he abandons his identity. Hiding from relentless soldiers who want him dead, he vows to protect the woman he loves more than life, more than freedom, more than Scotland. But his presence throws her into
A VOW HONORED
She weds a stranger to save his life. But do vows make a marriage? When does a marriage become a marriage? What if she holds a different love inside her heart?
A SACRIFICE MADE
Steeling himself against the pain, he condemns himself to a life of heartbreak without her. Wanting her desperately, knowing he can’t have her, he surrenders her and heads alone to certain death. Outlawed, with a price on his head, does she love him enough to give up castle, lands, and family, and risk the agony of surrendering her heart a second time?

1) How did this story come to you? 
During a long visit to the Highlands and Lowlands of Scotland I became intrigued with why Highland Clans no longer occupied the Highlands. You’ll find the surprising answer in my book Masquerade Marriage. I’m of Scottish ancestry as are so many Americans, and bagpipes music makes my heart sing. I fell in love with the awesome country and the friendly, complex people. So, being a writer, of course I had to write of what I knew. I love the clear fresh air, the handsome people, the amazing openness of the country, the castles, and the Scots violent, adventurous history. In the next few years I plan to add Cailin and Fiona’s love stories to Megan’s legendary love.
I also write contemporary suspense novels. I have a sassy detective novel, a modern day cowboy suspense, and a Coast Guard mystery, all set in my home state of Texas in the works. Did you know parts of the Civil War were fought in the west? I have a novel in the pipes that is a second book of a family saga which occurred in Talaquah, Oklahoma. I also have a World War 11 Women Pilots love story. I’d love to know if you prefer historical novels to contemporary novels. I’m taking a poll, so could you leave a comment?


2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
My editor was one of the judges in the Finally A Bride Contest. A writer can only enter this contest if she has won or placed in another contest. The judge for the finalists, my editor to be, Nicola Martinez, asked for the full manuscript and sent me a contract.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I’d rather stay home and read or write then go to a large party. I like small parties. I’m very active, I’d rather participate in a sport than watch one. I like tennis, swimming, golf, horseback riding, and sailing. Because I sit behind a computer six to eight hours a day, I constantly fight weight gain.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I’m always working on three or more books at once. I have a lady detective book I have every hope of seeing published soon, I’m working on a sequel to Masquerade Marriage, I’m working on a woman test pilot in WW11 book, and several proposals for novellas.

5) Parting comments?
I’ll hope you’ll love Masquerade Marriage, my debut book with WhiteRosePublishing.com. I’ve had twelve five star reviews and heard back from fans who loved it and want more. I’d love to hear from you.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
http://www.annegreeneauthor.com/

Andrea Boeshaar's "Unexpected Love"

We're happy to have Andrea Boeshaar with us today talking about her book Unexpected Love. To learn more about Andrea and her book, read on!

Title: Unexpected Love
Publisher: Realms/Strang Book Group

Cover blurb: Nurse Lorenna Fields has always taken her job at Chicago's Mercy Hospital seriously, determined never to become personally involved with her patients. But when a mysterious man with eyes like onyx is admitted after a shipwreck on Lake Michigan, she develops a connection with him that she can’t deny.
Slowly her patient regains consciousness, but to Renna’s dismay he has lost both his sight and his memory. Dubbed “Mr. Blackeyes” by her, the two build a strong, trusting friendship as they search for clues to his past. But part of her dreads the day of his recovery, convinced that his memories will take him away from her and his regained sight will reveal a secret about herself that Renna has been trying hard to hide.

1) How did this story come to you?
As I wrote its prequel, Uncertain Heart, I realized I needed to tell Captain Brian Sinclair’s story too.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
A version of this story was published about ten years ago by Heartsong Presents. After the rights for this book reverted back to me, I asked my agent to shop it around because I still believed in it – and in this entire series. When Realms/Strang Book Group expressed interest, I was elated. The company ended up buying the series, renaming it to Seasons of Redemption. However, I must say, the stories in this series are much different than what Heartsong Presents first published. For one, I added another 30,000 words to each book and created new characters and plot twists. So readers who read the original versions will not be bored or disappointed with these updated and re-created stories!

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I’m a little bit shy – and growing shyer as I get older.
I want to learn to do needle point.
I have a 65 lb, 8 month old yellow lab named Miley who thinks she’s a lap dog. 

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I am anticipating the release of Book 4 in my Seasons of Redemption series. It’ll release in May 2011. And this month (Jan ’11) I’m beginning to write a brand new series called Fabric of Time. It’s a 3-book historical romance series about a Norwegian family that migrates to Brown County, Wisconsin. The first book is set to release in November 2011.

5) Parting comments?
Be sure to leave a comment so you’re in the drawing for a FREE, autographed book.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
http://www.andreaboeshaar.com/