Sarah Sundin's "Blue Skies Tomorrow"

Title: Blue Skies Tomorrow
Publisher: Revell

Cover blurb: Lt. Raymond Novak prefers the pulpit to the cockpit, but at least his stateside job training B-17 pilots allows him the luxury of a personal life. As he courts Helen Carlisle, a young war widow and mother who conceals her pain under a frenzy of volunteer work, the sparks of their romance set a fire that flings them both into peril. After Ray leaves to fly a combat mission at the peak of the air war over Europe, Helen takes a job in a dangerous munitions yard and confronts an even graver menace in her own home. Will they find the courage to face their challenges? And can their young love survive until blue skies return?

Blue Skies Tomorrow is the third book in the Wings of Glory series, which follows the three Novak brothers, B-17 bomber pilots with the US Eighth Air Force stationed in England during World War II. Each book stands alone.

1) How did this story come to you?
When I was researching A Distant Melody, the first book in the series, I grew to admire the US Eighth Air Force and decided to write a trilogy with a story for each brother. The oldest brother, Ray, is a true pastor with no inclination for combat. What would happen if he did fly a combat tour? And what could possibly induce him to volunteer? Also, young Helen Carlisle had been widowed in the first book, and I really wanted a happy ending for her. I mentally introduced her to Ray and the mutual attraction was strong. What I didn’t realize was how the romance would unearth something painful in Helen’s past.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I started writing in 2000 and churned out two awful contemporary romances. However, I learned through this process. In 2003 my critique partners said A Distant Melody was ready, so I submitted it at Mount Hermon Christian Writers’ Conference. I then began accumulating a stack of “good” rejection letters. They liked my writing, story, and characters—however, historicals weren’t selling. This continued through 2007. I often felt discouraged, but the Lord made it obvious He wanted me to finish the trilogy, so I plugged away. In 2008, the market flipped and historicals were in demand. And my trilogy was close to complete. I submitted to Vicki Crumpton from Revell at Mount Hermon and was offered a three-book contract.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
1. I wrote the rough drafts for all three of these books longhand, curled up on my couch. I’ve skipped that step with my next series.
2. During summer breaks in college, I worked as a ride operator at Knott’s Berry Farm. I knew how to jump on and off of a moving merry-go-round. Don’t ask to see it now.
3. My least favorite subject in school? Creative writing. Go figure.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I signed another three-book contract with Revell for a series that follows three World War II flight nurses in the Mediterranean Theater. I’m polishing the first book for its September 1 deadline (release date Fall 2012) and plotting out the second novel.

5) Parting comments?
Family stories from World War II fascinate me—combat, stateside, or Home Front. I’d love to hear yours!

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
Website: http://www.sarahsundin.com/
Blog: http://www.sarahsundin.blogspot.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/SarahSundinAuthor
Twitter: http://twitter.com/sarahsundin

Janet Nitsick's "Seasons of the Soul"

Title: Seasons of the Soul
Publisher: Tate Publishing and Enterprises

Cover blurb: "'Help!' said the eyes of my husband, Paul, as he stared glassy-eyed at me. He was submerged in the deep end of the hotel's swimming pool. Quickly, I swam over to him ... to pull my oldest autistic son, Brad, off of him. ..." This begins one personal story presented in Seasons of the Soul, a 20-short-story collection written by Janet Syas Nitsick. Change is a fact of life, and that change is experienced through each person's own seasonal, spiritual journey. Janet and Paul's spiritual walk includes two autistic sons. Seasons of the Soul, an inspirational book ... will make readers laugh, smile, cry and know God heals the hurting soul.

1. How did this story come to you?
"Autistic Sons Brings Struggles, Joy," a personal story detailing the trials and blessings of having two different autistic sons, and "This Day will Always be Special," describes my oldest autistic son's low-key graduation ceremony, both were published in a newspaper where I worked as a journalist. I was granted permission to run these highly-praised articles in my book. Other stories, such as my youngest autistic son running out of the plane before we took off for Boston, show how autistics react in stressful situations and highlights the small joys they bring into our lives. The book with its faith stories and personal accounts is similar to Chicken Soup for the Soul books.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
My reporter background provided me with good writing skills and gave me a leg up with the manuscript's professional appearance. This, I believe, helped secure it getting read and published not too long after its submission.

3) Tell me three things about you that would surprise your readers.
(1)My story, "The Silver Lining," placed 10th in the Writer's Digest short story competition in the mainstream/literary category last year. You can read this moving story by visiting my Web site: www.JanetSyasNitsick.com.
(2)You are the product of your environment, and this is the same for me. I am the daughter of late Nebraska State Sen. George Syas. He served in the Unicameral for 26 years and was distinguished in his knowledge of the state's constitution, fought for educational issues and was an advocate for conservation, game and wildlife. He became dean of the legislature. However, he was an average Joe. When the legislature did not meet from January through April or May, he was a machinist at the Union Pacific Railroad.
(3)I inherited my father's love of politics and am a political junky. I take a break from it on weekends but return to reading and listening to the news during my daily writing activity.

4.What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I finished my first novel, Sustaining Love: A Time Remembered, and this early-twentieth romance is scheduled for release the winter of 2012. The novel, in its early form, won honorable mention in the 2008 Writers Dream Contest. Now, I am writing an e-book, a prelude to Sustaining Love.

5) Parting comments?
Do not stop persevering toward your goals, find a critique group and take their advice.

6. Where can fans find you on the internet?
http://www.janetsyasnitsick.com/, JanNitsick on Twitter, Janet Nitsick on Facebook, Smashwords or visit my monthly blog: http://janetsinnerramblings.blogspot.com/2011/05/networking-scams.html

Gayle Ropers "Shadows in the Sand"

Book Title: Shadows on the Sand
Publisher: WaterBrook Multnomah

Cover blurb:
Carrie Carter’s small café in Seaside, New Jersey, is populated with a motley crew of locals…although Carrie only has eyes for Greg Barnes. He’s recovering from a vicious crime that three years ago took the lives of his wife and children—and from the year he tried to drink his reality away. While her heart does a happy Snoopy dance at the sight of him, he never seems to notice her, to Carrie’s chagrin.

When Carrie’s dishwasher is killed and her young waitress disappears, Greg finds himself drawn into helping Carrie solve the mysteries…and into her life. But when Carrie’s own painful past becomes all too present, her carefully constructed world begins to sink. She and Greg struggle with God’s help to find a way to keep the fragile relationship they’ve built from imploding under the weight of the baggage they both carry.

1. How did this story come to you?
Shadows on the Sand is the fifth story set in the Jersey shore town of Seaside, a fictitious version of Ocean City, NJ. The story came out of wanting to tell the story about Greg, the cop that showed up in the four preceding books. He is one of the things that ties the series together since each book has different lead characters. Clooney, the guy with the metal detector looking for treasure in the sand, reappears here too, as does Pastor Paul. But Carrie is new as are most of the other characters. (In other words, you don’t have to read 1-4 to understand 5)

2. Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I guess the journey began when I imagined the first four books which were sold under the Seaside Seasons series (say that four times fast!). Those titles were Spring Rain, Summer Shadows, Autumn Dream and Winter Winds. Since there were four seasons, there were four books. But my editor and I thought the setting and the peripheral characters were worth their own book. So here’s Shadows on the Sand showcasing Greg.

3. Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I just went white water rafting and loved it.
I’m getting ready to leave for France to teach at a camp for MKs.
I LOVE my Kindle.

4. What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I have a couple of novellas I’m working on, and a couple of novels looking for homes after the publisher that had contracted them decided not to do adult fiction after all. The novellas are set in Seaside and are something I’m doing just for fun. As for the two novels, I’m praying they find a home because I think the stories are great and the points they make about life are things we need to be reminded of all the time.

5. Parting comments?
Life is short. Love God. Love your family. Read books. And enjoy each day!

6. Where can fans find you on the internet?
My web page is http://www.gayleroper.com/. Come visit!

Bonnie Leon's "Wings of Promise"

Book title: Wings of Promise
Publisher: Baker Revell

Cover blurb: Her spunk has always gotten her through tough times. But does she have what it takes to go the distance?
Kate Evans may be a woman in a man’s profession, but as Alaskan bush pilots go, she is one of the best. If only her personal life wasn’t so complicated. Torn between her affection for fellow pilot Mike Conlin and doctor Paul Anderson, Kate longs for clarity in her heart. But when a terrible tragedy occurs, her mind may be made up for her.

1) How did this story come to you?
My mother is a native Alaskan, who spent many years on a remote homestead. She and her family depended on bush pilots for their mail, emergency supplies and an occasional lift into Anchorage.

My mother used to tell me stories of the pilots who kept them connected with the outside world. She had great respect and affection for them. Because my mind is always looking for a good story my mother’s history seemed a natural. And my imagination kicked in and I started to wonder what it would have been like to be a woman bush pilot back in the 1930’s. The story flowed from there.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
While this story was working its way through my mind so were a couple of others. I submitted three story ideas to my agent. She liked the Alaskan Skies best, thinking it was just right for these tough times. Although the books contain a good deal of drama they are also fun adventures with just enough romance for romance readers.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I feel the best thing that ever happened to me was becoming a mother. My children have made my life richer and more fun. But there was a time when I decided I’d never have children. I thought it cruel to bring them into such a harsh world. I’m so glad I changed my mind.

I had a dreadful speech impediment as a child. It was so bad people could not understand what I was saying. It was a devastating disability that broke my little girl’s heart and it took Christ to heal those wounds. I went to speech therapy for two years, which corrected it. And now I love to speak for readers groups and women’s groups and teaching writing workshops is always a blessing.

I live on a winding mountain road, and I truly hate these kinds of roads, they terrify me. Years ago when my husband and I looked at the property we eventually built on I told him there was no way I could drive this road. Over time, I’ve gotten used to it, but put me on an unfamiliar cliffside road and I reach for my Xanax.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I have two separate projects. One is a series placed in 1920’s USA, and though I usually have difficulty finding titles, this time I found the titles before the stories. If my publisher accepts them the titles presently are—A Square Peg, Susie Sunshine, and A Rose by Any Other Name. I’m looking forward to telling these stories. I also have another book I hope to write while I’m working on these. It is the story of my heart and very unlike anything I’ve written previously.

5) Parting comments?
I simply want to say thank you to my readers. I love to write and if it weren’t for you I wouldn’t be able to do that. So . . . keep on reading. : - )

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
My web address is easy. It’s http://www.bonnieleon.com/.

2 books and a tee shirt giveaway up on the sister blog at www.zoe-mack.blogspot.com

I appreciate your following this blog where we'll continue to give away great books every week. However, we need your support at the sister blog http://www.zoe-mack.blogspot.com/ also as we get it up and running. It's not just a blog for young adults, it's a blog for the young at heart. We'll give away some great books and we'll laugh, encourage, and maybe even shed a tear with young adults who share their stories.

AOL picked the Angel series as the Christian alternative to the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyers for their Top Ten Most Challenged Book List of 2010.

So, come on over and register to win Lisa Grace's Angels in the Shadows, my Mistaken Identity, and a Mistaken Identity tee shirt by leaving your comments at http://www.zoe-mack.blogspot.com/

Eden Morgan makes a list of six goals to accomplish in order to have the best summer ever. Getting a boyfriend, which is perhaps the most important goal, becomes complicated when she and her best friend, Lexi, fall for the same guy. Since Lexi is popular, gorgeous, and always gets her guy, Eden thinks she doesn't have a chance.

Channing Johnson is everything Eden's ever dreamed of and she can't believe he just moved in next door. When he starts showing interest in her, she's overjoyed...until she sees him out on a date with Lexi. He says Lexi talked him into it to repay her for tutoring him. Lexi says they're in love.

Eden doesn't know who to believe and is forced to choose between her best friend and the guy of her dreams. Nothing is as it seems and no matter who she chooses, someone will get hurt.

Jim Toner's "The Purity Ring Murders"

Title:The Purity Ring Murders

Publisher: Authorhouse

Cover Blurb: The murder of Marie Chauvet still haunts Gil Leduc three years later. The sixteen year-old accompanies his girlfriend Jan Barrio and her family to Toronto where Jan's father, a Niagara Falls police officer, attends a conference. Gil and Jan hope to spend time with April Ames, an aspiring model.

The two teens agree to meet her one morning at the North York Centre. Upon arrival they hear April scream. Someone dressed like a Shiite Muslim is ready to shoot April. Gil and Jan try to prevent the shooting, but the person shoots at them before shooting April.

Jan tries to save April, but it's too late. Soon another murder follows. As the teens search for the killer, they uncover a few battling questions: Why is Ramona Gonzales, a college friend of Jan's mother, not returning phone calls? Why is Peter Bartholomew, a teacher at the teens' high school who's been accused of inappropriate conduct with minors, really in Toronto? Who is the young man Gil has seen at both the murders of Marie Chauvet and April Ames? Will they find out before it's too late?

1) How did this story come to you?
The story came to me through reading about the modeling industry. It's an industry which promises much, but so many young models end up dead. It's a very competitive industry. I wanted to emphasize the message of sexual purity. The modeling industry is a difficult place for a young lady to remain sexually pure.

Also, we often read in the newspapers or see in the news these days about inappropriate conduct between teachers or coaches and their students. This novel also touches that topic.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I had previously written Under the Blood, which also features Gil Leduc and Jan Barrio. My readers wanted another book. While writing the book, I changed the title a few times. I also had help from two different writers at Write! Canada.

3) The three things that would surprise my readers the most are as follows:
a) I had a date with the lady who seven years later would get crowned Miss Buffalo 1995.
b) Aerosmith was once my favorite rock band.
c) In kindergarten I could name all presidents from George Washington to Richard Nixon in order.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I'm currently working on the third novel in the Gil Leduc series. I'm also writing some short stories.

5) Parting comments?
I wouldn't want to write any other type of fiction, but YA fiction. It's challenging, yet fun.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
My fans can contact me at JimToner6@aol.com. I'm also at www.filedby.com/JimToner  and www.Facebook.com/jim.toner1

Beth Trissel's "Into the Lion's Heart"

Title: Into the Lion’s Heart


Publisher: The Wild Rose Press, is debuting a new historical series this summer called Love Letters. Authors were invited to participate and my story will launch the line, so I’m doubly honored. The premise behind Love Letters is that a letter must be the cause of bringing–or throwing–the hero and heroine together.

Cover blurb: As the French Revolution rages, the English nobility offer sanctuary to many a refugee. Captain Dalton Evans arrives in Dover to meet a distant cousin, expecting to see a spoiled aristocrat. Instead, he's conquered by the simplicity of his new charge. And his best friend Thomas Archer isn't immune to her artless charm, either.

Cecile Beaumont didn't choose to travel across the Channel. And she certainly didn't expect that impersonating her own mistress would introduce her to a most mesmerizing man. Now she must play out the masquerade, or risk life, freedom – and her heart.

1) How did this story come to you?
The connection I feel to the past and those who’ve gone before me is the ongoing inspiration behind my work. I come from a lot of well documented English/Scots-Irish ancestors, with a smidgen of French in the meld, a Norman knight who sailed with William the Conqueror. One line of the family goes back to Geoffrey Chaucer, all fascinating and compelling to me. With Into the Lion’s Heart, my first English historical, I more deeply explored my British ancestry. I’ve also always had an interest in the French Revolution. I’m a big Scarlet Pimpernel fan.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
After my editor, Nicole Darienzo, the senior historical editor for The Wild Rose Press, asked me to contribute a story for Love Letters, I spent a lot of time at work on it. At 24,000 words, Into the Lion’s Heart is an easy but satisfying read and the required length for the line. However, I did as much research for it as I would a full novel.

2) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
If they follow my blog, little may surprise them. I’m an armchair adventurer, fascinated with authentic colonial muskets, tomahawks, and other weapons of that era, including swords. I want to write a pirate adventure, but don’t know when.

3) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
Right now, I’m writing the sequel to my Native American historical romance novel Through the Fire. This novel will be the third in my colonial frontier trilogy, assuming my editor likes it. The second is my Native American historical romance novel Red Bird’s Song. After that, I intend to finish the sequel to my light paranormal time/travel romance, Somewhere My Lass. My paranormal editor would appreciate my getting that done.  I write for two lines at The Wild Rose Press and have two editors.

4) Parting comments?
“Courage dear heart.” ~A quote by Aslan from C. S. Lewis’s The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, a favorite book. Looking for Narnia is what inspired my time travel ‘Somewhere’ series.

5) Where can fans find you on the internet?
My blog is the happening place and links you to my website: One Writer’s Way at: http://bethtrissel.wordpress.com/

Available August 17

Register to win a $10 Amazon gift card & reaching out to young adults...

Our new sister blog is now live. I'm honored to have Ashe Slattery as my first guest blogger. Come on over and visit and be sure and register to win a $10 Amazon gift card by naming the hero in my upcoming Zoe Mack mystery series. Visit us today at http://zoe-mack.blogspot.com/

Also, I'm looking for young adults to interview on the Zoe Mack blog. I'm open to anything they'd like to talk about from a Christian world view, including books, guys, or just life as a young adult in general. (I'm open to older bloggers who are young at heart.) Come join us today at Zoe Macks' blog and show sweet Ashe Slattery your support! http://zoe-mack.blogspot.com/

Dora Hiers' "Journey's End"

Title: JOURNEY’S END
Publisher: White Rose Publishing.

Cover blurb: Devastated after the brutal murder of her husband, Chelsea Hammond vows never to love another lawman. Intent on rebuilding her shattered life, she turns her focus to helping troubled teens. But when an angry father bent on retaliation, threatens her, Chelsea must turn to the one man she never thought to trust: Deputy U.S. Marshal Trey Colten.
Trey wants only to protect Chelsea, but she blames him for her husband’s death. Trey can relate. He blames himself, also. As danger lurks, Trey begs Chelsea to heed his warnings. He let down one Hammond. He won’t let down another—especially one who now holds his heart.
When Chelsea is snatched from her home, can she put aside her fear, and trust Trey with her life? Can she Forgive him for destroying her past and let him help to rebuild her future?
Where one journey ends, another begins…

1) How did this story come to you?
JOURNEY’S END germinated with a seed from a newspaper article about a mobster, finally convicted for his crimes years later. Intrigued, I played the “what if” game until I came up with the premise, which ended up nothing like the article.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
After dropping out of the workforce to taxi my two sons around (and to make sure one of them actually attended school, he had a slight problem with that!), the writing seed dug in, took root around my heart with the idea for JOURNEY’S END. I soaked up online writing courses and attended a writer’s conference. Joined American Christian Fiction Writers, Carolina Christian Writers, and a critique group.
A dear friend from Carolina Christian Writers directed me to White Rose Publishing and on New Year’s Eve in 2010, some five years after I started down this crazy writing road, White Rose Publishing offered me a contract for JOURNEY’S END, my first heart racing, God-gracing book in the Marshals of Journey Creek series. Can you think of a better way to end one year and to begin another? Who needs fireworks?

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I’m a family room sports fan. Why should I leave the comforts of my air-conditioned family room to enjoy NASCAR, football, and hockey?
No beaches for me. Give me the mountains! My favorite getaway consists of sipping coffee on a cabin deck tucked in the mountains.
I can be somewhat rebellious at times, like when it came to joining Facebook. So help a girl out, click on over, and “like” me. Dora Hiers Author

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I’m about 98% finished with JOURNEY’S EMBRACE. I’m praying that JOURNEY’S EDGE will find a home with White Rose Publishing. I’ve also submitted two romantic fiction articles to Woman’s World Magazine for consideration.

5) Parting comments?
Thanks so much, Dawn, for hosting me today. I’ve enjoyed visiting with you and checking out the fabulous authors featured here.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
On my website at http://www.dorahiers.com/
Blog with me at Heart racing, God-gracing Romance.
I’m also on Facebook ~ Dora Hiers Author

Shannon Vannatter's "White Pearls"

Title: White Pearls
Publisher: Heartsong Presents

Cover blurb: Shell doesn't have a good reputation...But no matter what everyone in Rose Bud, Arkansas, thinks of her, she's back in town with a job to do. She'll stick it out and make the best of things. But why does Ryler have to be the landscaper on this project? She was just getting her heart under control. Ryler has his own reasons for being in Rose Bud, and they don't include Shell. Spying on his birth family was going to be hard enough. He doesn't have time to worry about a woman who dumped him...even if his heart says otherwise.

1) How did this story come to you?
The heroine's character was mentioned in the first book of the series, White Roses, as the bleached-blonde clad only in a towel who broke up a pivotal relationship. From the moment I wrote that description of her, I wanted to explore Shell's character and understand why she was like that. After the second book, White Doves, I had a long-lost brother, so the hero in book three tied up all the loose threads.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
Once I got the offer from Heartsong Presents for White Roses, my editor asked if it could be a series. I felt like the bleached-blonde was too fresh in readers' minds for the second book, but by book three, they'd be ready for her conversion.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
1) I love jigsaw puzzles. The 1000 and up piece ones. They relax me, but I don't want to do anything else when I've got one going, like make supper or go to bed. I just want to do my puzzle and that's all.
2) My graduating class had 20 seniors and that was considered a large class for our small school. The school was consolidated a few years ago. Now it's just a bunch of empty buildings.
3) I often use names that I wanted to name our son, but my husband wouldn't agree to for hero names in my books.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I'm working on the 2nd book in a Texas rodeo series. The first book, Rodeo Dust will release to Heartsong book club members in October.

5) Parting comments?
It was kind of sad for me when White Pearls released because the series came to an end. I miss the characters and the setting. What better place to set a romance than in towns called Romance and Rose Bud, Arkansas?

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

Edward Lewis' "Apostle"

Title: APOSTLE
Publisher: Cape Arago Press

Cover blurb: Rivkah and Shemu’el continue spreading the good news. Tensions surface when Barnabus brings Paul to Antioch and some oppose his new role. This saga of the Early Church takes a troubling turn when their youngest son adopts a pagan lifestyle. Meanwhile, the city trembles in the grip of a serial killer and Shemu’el fears who knows who it is. Though surrounded by chaos, the church in Antioch grows in size and influence.

1) How did this story come to you?
The series began with the Gospel account of the birth of Christ. Book Two, DISCIPLE, and now Book Three, APOSTLE, extend that by following the events of Acts. As usual, most Biblical events occur off stage. Through the lives of Rivkah, Shemu’el, their family and friends, the series chronicles the life and times of the Early Christians…their successes and failures, their trials and tribulations, their loves and losses.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
Because it’s a series, my publisher, Cape Arago Press, has made a four-book commitment. My task now is to insure the Historic and Biblical accuracy of each book. This requires a tremendous amount of research not only into Early Church history, but also the life and times of the First Century Roman Empire. Whether it’s preparing a meal, firing a pot or building an aqueduct, I want to present the details to my readers in a factual manner.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I have a graduate degree in Economics and worked in Corporate Planning. Because of the Seeds series, people assume I trained in Ancient History or attended seminary. I also write Nonfiction. I have three eBooks dealing with specific topics I’ve encountered in my research. Despite my output — seven books in 18 months — I’m actually a rather slow writer.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
MARTYR, the fourth and final book of the series, is about 50% complete. I hope to have it finished by the end of this year. A commercial novel of mine, LOST, is with my editor. It should be out around August. I’m also developing a series of eBooks on the Roman World and expect to have the first one, The Art and Science of Rome, ready by fall. I’ve begun blocking out a new Christian novel, it’s too soon to say whether it will become a reality or not.

5) Parting comments?
I want to thank you for this opportunity to connect with your readers and tell them about APOSTLE and The Seeds of Christianity Series™. It’s been a pleasure to visit your a site again.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
My blog, Sowing the Seeds – The Life and Times of the Early Christians, has loads of interesting articles about the Early Church, Judaism, the Roman Empire, etc. http://seedsofchristianity.com/wordpress/. All of my books are available in hard copy or as eBooks from Amazon and most other internet booksellers, or direct from the publisher, Cape Arago Press, http://www.capearagopress.com/

"Fairer Than Morning" by Rosslyn Elliott

Rosslyn Elliot, author of Fairer Than Morning, competed in our Best Protagonist category. Her hero, Will Hanby, is based on a real historical person, just like her heroine, Ann Miller. “When I was ready to write my first nineteenth-century historical novel, I went to visit a local historic home in Ohio,” Elliot says. “While there, I watched a short video about the Hanby family who lived in that home. I knew right away that I had to write their amazing story of faith, love, and courage. William Hanby suffered through many trials as a young man, but his experience made him determined to free others who were in pain and bondage. In Fairer than Morning, Will Hanby and Ann Miller show us what is possible when we put faith into action.”

About the novel:
Ann dreams of a marriage proposal from her poetic suitor, Eli-until Will Hanby shows her that nobility is more than fine words.

On a small farm in 19th-century Ohio, young Ann Miller is pursued by the gallant Eli Bowen, son of a prominent family. Eli is the suitor of Ann's dreams. Like her, he enjoys poetry and beautiful things and soon, he will move to the city to become a doctor.

Ann travels to Pittsburgh, accompanying her father on business. There she meets Will Hanby, a saddle-maker's apprentice. Will has spent years eking out an existence under a cruel master and his spirit is nearly broken. But Ann's compassion lights a long-dark part of his soul. Through his encounters with Ann's father, a master saddler, Will discovers new hope and courage in the midst of tremendous adversity.

When the Millers must return to Ohio and their ministry there, Will resolves to find them, at any cost. If Will can make it back to Ann, will she be waiting?

What readers are saying:
“Rosslyn Elliott offers adventure, accurately-portrayed historical settings, romance, engaging characters, and beautifully-written prose in her debut novel Fairer Than Morning.”

“You will grow to love Ann and Will as they face and conquer their own weaknesses, and in the process, change the world around them. I can't wait to see what the future holds for these characters!”

“For Christians who enjoy Historical Fiction this is a must! Even if you're not a Christian, this is an inspiring story of courage and determination.”

Pick up your copy of Fairer Than Morning now! Then hop on over to Clash of the Titles (http://www.clashofthetitles.com/) to join the fun!

Find out more about Fairer Than Morning, Rosslyn Eliot, and her writing at http://www.rosslynelliott.com/.

Jennifer Slattery (http://jenniferslatterylivesoutloud.com/) is a novelist, freelance writer, and the marketing representative for the literary website, Clash of the Titles, where authors compete and readers judge.

In 2009 she won first place in the HACWN writing contest in the book category, placed second in the 2010 Dixie Kane, fourth in the 2010 Golden Pen and was a 2010 CWG Operation First Novel finalist.

She has a short piece appearing in Bethany House’s Love is a Flame (under a pen name), forwarded by Gary Chapman, another piece in Cathy Messecar’s A Still and Quiet Soul, and writes for Reflections in Hindsight, Christ to the World, Samie Sisters, The Christian Pulse, and reviews for Novel Reviews.

She’s also written for Granola Bar Devotions, Afictionado, The Christian Fiction Online Magazine, Romantic Times Review, Bloom, and the Breakthrough Intercessor.

"Fade to Blue" by Julie Carobini

Julie Carobini competed in Clash of the Titles’ Best Back Cover Blurb category with an endearing novel set in Northern California. She wanted to write a novel using the historic Hearst Castle as its backdrop for quite some time. “So much intrigue and mystery about that real castle on the hill overlooking the sea,” Carobini says. “Of course, novels are more than their location, so after writing the first two stand-alone books, Sweet Waters & A Shore Thing, I had an idea. Why not figure out what happens next for big-hearted Suz Mitchell from A Shore Thing? So... Fade to Blue is Suz's story.”

Her setting and plot choice was a hit!

About Fade to Blue:
How do you restore a soul? One brush stroke at a time...
Suz Mitchell is a determined dreamer, and won't allow her ex-husband's jail sentence to ruin their young son Jeremiah's life. An accomplished artist, Suz moves with her child across the country to California's central coast, and lands a job restoring priceless art for the historic Hearst Castle overlooking the sea.

But even dreams have shocking twists. To her surprise, a serious old flame, Seth, works at the castle and jumbles the new aspirations in Suz's heart. While sorting through their past and a palette of spiritual differences, an even bigger brush with yesterday awaits.

Suz must learn to let God be the true restorer of all that once seemed lost.

What readers are saying:
“Fade to Blue is an insightful contemporary Christian Otter Bay relationship drama. The cast makes the tale work especially Suz-Q whose belief in the Lord will soon be tested. With a profound underlying message that you can pray for others but like that proverbial horse not make them drink the water of faith. Readers will appreciate this strong drama.”

“I loved this book. It was a nice change from the normal everyday plots. Great characters and a wonderful style of writing will keep you enthralled in the pages of this book!”

“Julie has a gift for making characters and settings come alive… Julie offers a delightful summer read, full of more than romance to satisfy your yearning for a good story. Perfect to escape into the fun and the sun.”

Grab your copy of Fade to Blue (http://www.amazon.com/Fade-Blue-Otter-Bay-Novel/dp/0805448748/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1308957647&sr=1-1) now then head on over to Clash of the Titles (http://www.clashofthetitles.com/) to join the fun! And you can find out more about Fade to Blue, Julie Carobini, and her writing at http://www.juliecarobini.com/

Jennifer Slattery (http://jenniferslatterylivesoutloud.com/) is a novelist, freelance writer, and the marketing representative for the literary website, Clash of the Titles, where authors compete and readers judge.

In 2009 she won first place in the HACWN writing contest in the book category, placed second in the 2010 Dixie Kane, fourth in the 2010 Golden Pen and finaled in the 2010 CWG Operation First Novel Contest.

She has a short piece appearing in Bethany House’s Love is a Flame (under a pen name), forwarded by Gary Chapman, another piece in Cathy Messecar’s A Still and Quiet Soul, and writes for Christ to the World, Reflections in Hindsight, Samie Sisters, The Christian Pulse, and reviews for Novel Reviews.

She’s also written for Granola Bar Devotions, Afictionado, The Christian Fiction Online Magazine, Romantic Times Review, Bloom, and the Breakthrough Intercessor.

Interview with Pamela Thibodeaux

Award winning author Pamela Thibodeaux competed in our best protagonist category with her novel, Tempered Hearts. When crafting her protagonists, she creates characters that are identifiable by the reader, have good qualities to balance out the not-so-nice ones, and of course are open and willing to allow their best qualities show/develop by the end of the story.


Who’s her favorite protagonist as a reader? “Boy that's a tough one!” Thibodeaux says. “I absolutely love the protagonists in Nora Roberts and Julie Lessman novels - guess if I HAD to pick a favorite it would be Gray in Nora's Born in Ice (book 2 in the Born In trilogy).”

A bit about her book:
Rancher Craig Harris and veterinarian Tamera Collins clash from the moment they meet. Innocence is pitted against arrogance as tempers rise and passions ignite to form a love as pure as gold fresh from the crucible and as strong as steel.

Thrown together amid tragedy and unsated passion, Tamera and Craig share a strong attraction that neither accepts as the first stages of love. Torn between desire and dislike, they must make peace with their pasts and God in order to open up to the love blossoming between them. The first book in the Tempered Series is here! Tempered Hearts.

What readers are saying:
“Pamela wrote a wonderful, fast paced book with strong characters and a strong plot.”

“Tempered Hearts was written in a strong voice that spoke volumes to 'Christian' fiction. It was realistic and romantic, but without overwhelming us with too much 'morality checking'.”

“I would recommend this to anyone who wants a good book, with faith and a lot of zip. I would especially recommend Tempered Hearts to those teen readers on the verge of becoming adults. This is a perfect book to show love, without the physical act.”

“Tempered Hearts is a very inspirational and exciting book. A book you cannot put down when you start reading it. A JOB WELL DONE!!!!.”

Order a copy of Tempered Hearts (http://www.amazon.com/Tempered-Hearts-Pamela-S-Thibodeaux/dp/0976996022/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1308958217&sr=1-1) now! Then hop on over to Clash of the Titles to join the fun!

You can find out more about Tempered Hearts, Pam Thibodeaux and her writing at http://www.pamelathibodeaux.com/,  http://www.pamelathibodeaux.com/

Jennifer Slattery (http://jenniferslatterylivesoutloud.com/) is a novelist, freelance writer, and the marketing representative for the literary website, Clash of the Titles, where authors compete and readers judge.

In 2009 she won first place in the HACWN writing contest in the book category, placed second in the 2010 Dixie Kane, fourth in the 2010 Golden Pen and finaled in the 2010 CWG Operation First Novel Contest.

She has a short piece appearing in Bethany House’s Love is a Flame (under a pen name), forwarded by Gary Chapman, another piece in Cathy Messecar’s A Still and Quiet Soul, and writes for Reflections in Hindsight, Christ to the World, Samie Sisters, The Christian Pulse, and reviews for Novel Reviews.

She’s also written for Granola Bar Devotions, Afictionado, The Christian Fiction Online Magazine, Romantic Times Review, Bloom, and the Breakthrough Intercessor.

Starsongs Magazine

Title: Starsongs Magazine
Publisher: Written World Communications

Cover blurb: Although Written World Communications is a Christian publisher, Starsongs Magazine is a general market quarterly magazine for kids by kids ages 9-19. Starsongs accepts original short stories, poetry, essays, articles, photography and art work by young people in the above mentioned age group. Each issue of Starsongs contains a mentoring article about writing or photography by an adult writer. We also feature an interview with an extraordinary young person. These interviews to date include author Kayla Woodhouse, Olympic skater Rachael Flatt, manager and first violinist for the New World String Quartet Rebecca Phillips, and mulit-published teen author Riley Carney.

1) How did the idea for this magazine come to you? This magazine came into existence to inspire young people to express their creative talent through original writing, photography, and artwork. Our tag line is “voices of the future” and our goal is to inspire youth.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting the magazine in circulation.
The first issue of Starsongs became available in September of 2010. Starsongs staff is proud to have published over thirty young writers and photographers, many for the first time. Our publication is available in downloadable and print format. We will be celebrating our one year anniversary with our next issue, due to release in late August, so watch for some neat contests!

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
1) I have a son and daughter-in-law who live in the United Kingdom
2) I have an awesome granddaughter who was nominated for the softball all-star team
3) Even though I live in Colorado, I was born and raised in New York (not New York City!)

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
Lots! Starsongs will be launching a book imprint, general market YA books, for which we are currently soliciting manuscripts. As Vice President of Written World Communications, I also supervise our other two children’s publications, each of which have their own book imprints, which we plan to launch within the next few months. Untapped is a Christian YA magazine and book imprint. Patchwork is a Christian children’s magazine and book imprint.

5) Parting comments?
If you are or know a young person who likes to write, please get in touch with me. I am always looking for submissions and I love to work with and mentor young writers. Always be open to God’s plan for your writing life. My original goal was to write westerns! Even though that dream still lingers in the back of my mind, publishing young people brings me much more satisfaction than seeing my own book in print (if that ever happens) probably would.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
Starsongs is available at www.magcloud.com/browse/magazine/113497. Our Written World Communications web site is under construction but we can be reached at http://www.written-world.com/. Send Starsongs submissions to Patti Shene at starsongs.mag@gmail.com.