JoAnn Carter's "Teacher's Plans"

We're happy to have JoAnn Carter with us today talking about her book, Teachers Plans. To learn more about JoAnn and her book, read on!

Title: Teacher's Plans
Publisher: White Rose Publishing

Cover blurb: When Amanda Manning, an exhausted, short-handed special education teacher, is given an assistant, things don't turn out as she planned. Her new assistant is anything but what Amanda expected—most strikingly, a male.

Tracy Atkins secured a job as a teacher's assistant, but will he be able to secure the hand of the woman he is falling in love with? Especially when she finds out about the secret he is hiding? Come join their adventure as both Amanda and Tracy learn that God's plans are far better than their own. (Jeremiah 29:11)

1) How did this story come to you?
Have you ever been in what you thought was a disastrous situation—only to turn out to be one of the biggest blessings in your life? As I thought about that, this story started to coming to life for me. Truly, God's ways are higher than ours. This book was a fun outlet for me to share and explore just one way that we could see that come to be.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I held a contract for this story with a small e-publisher called, By Grace Publishing. However, before this book was published, the company went out of business. After a bit of searching for publishers who accepted Inspirational Romance, and praying, I found out about White Rose Publishing. (At the time, WRP was part of a larger group called The Wild Rose Press.)
I sent them a query. At first it came back rejected, but with suggestions for some revisions. I deeply appreciated their comments and knew I'd love to work with them so I could grow in the craft of writing. After working through the rewrites, I sent the manuscript back in, and the rest is history.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I'm not sure how surprising this is, but did you know my husband and I have been married for 18years? We have four boys ranging in age from 14-10. One of my favorite activities is walking. There's nothing like getting outside to see the flowers, snowflakes, birds, and other beautiful things in nature, up close and personal.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I'm working on a historical series set in 1923. The first book, The Floating Palace will be released July 15, 2011 from Desert Breeze Publishing. It's been a real blast and I'm enjoying every moment of this project! If you'd like to see the book trailer, please go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zDcuTF8v9bg

5) Parting comments?
If anyone is interested in purchasing Teacher's Plans (or any of my other titles) they are available @ http://www.whiterosepublishing.com/Teacher39S-Plans, White Rose Publishing, Barnes & Noble.com, Amazon.com, CBD, and other e-book retailers.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
Visit JoAnn's Web site: http://home.comcast.net/~jo.glenncarter/site/
Email JoAnn: glenncarter@yahoo.com
Connect with JoAnn on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JoAnnDavisCarter

Maurice Gray's "Home Again"

We're happy to have Maurice Gray with us today talking about his book, Home Again. To learn more about Maurice and his book, read on!

Title: Home Again: Stories Of Renewed Relationships
Publisher: Micah 6:8 Books, LLC

Cover blurb: “Home Again is a compelling journey into the relationships that matter most: family, friends and self. Each story is founded on natural love, but will require the Father’s love to heal the brokenness. Travel with husbands and wives, brothers, sisters, friends and families as they maneuver through life’s hurts and betrayals while leaning on a power greater than themselves.”

1) How did this story come to you?
When I was invited to submit a story, the publisher told me about the book’s theme, restored relationships. At the time, I was working on my next novel, and it occurred to me that my lead character in the novel needed more of a family history than I’d given him. I decided to explore that via my contribution. Family Matters is about Erik Dawson, who is estranged from his mother CC. Neither of them is sure how to end their conflict until a brutal accident forces them to reevaluate the entire situation.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I met the head of the publishing company through an online writers group in which we both participate and then met her in person on a Christian cruise about three years ago. She invited me to contribute to the anthology, and, when I thought I didn’t have the time to do it, she wouldn’t take no for an answer.  My submission was accepted, and the anthology released on schedule.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
1) I am a member of Toastmasters International, and have won or placed highly in several local speech competitions in my five plus years as a member.
2) I am an avid fan of both Star Trek and Lost
3) I once did standup comedy on a cruise ship

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
My next novel, Female Problems, is set to release in April 2011. This novel features my character Erik Dawson from Family Matters and deals with the bond of friendship between three Christian men and how it helps them deal with the ups and downs of life.

5) Parting comments?
If you enjoy Home Again, you will also enjoy individual works by the other contributors. Aside from myself, Linda Beed, Bernard Boulton, Wanda B. Campbell and Dijorn Moss have also written novels, and the others (Tavares Carney, Shenette Jones, Tyora Moody and Trinea Moss) have projects in the works. There is more information about each contributor on www.micah68books.com.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
I can be found at http://www.mauricemgrayjr.com/, on Facebook, Shoutlife and Shelfari.

Marilyn Meredith's "Invisible Path"

We're happy to have Marilyn Meredith with us today talking about her book, Invisible Path. To learn more about Marilyn and her book, read on!


Title: Invisible Path
Publisher: Mundania Press

Cover blurb: A popular young Indian man is found dead near the recovery center at the far end of the Bear Creek Reservation. While investigating, Deputy Tempe Crabtree learns the victim wasn’t quite what he seemed, and she crosses paths with a militant para-military group who piques her curiosity and ends up being a threat.

1) How did this story come to you?
Because I live near the reservation I base a lot of my story on, learning about the recovery center started the idea. I also had a contest asking folks to come up with a plot for the story. Though I got a lot of ideas, none quite fit the bill but pieces did.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
This one wasn’t difficult as Invisible Path is part of an ongoing mystery series and Mundania has been supportive about publishing the last few.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
Perhaps that I’m a great grandmother and family is extremely important to me. At one time I wanted to be an artist as well as a writer, but I realized to do a good job I had to choose between one or the other and writing won. I grew up during World War II and had a great time imagining that I would be asked to be a spy.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I write two series and at the moment am finishing up my next Rocky Bluff P.D. crime novel. The next one in that series will be out sometime after the beginning of the year and is called Angel Lost.

5) Parting comments?
The characters in my Deputy Tempe Crabtree series are as real to me as any of my friends and family—and I know how the characters think, not something I know about the flesh and blood folks in my life. I keep writing about Tempe because I want to know what’s going to happen to her next and I hope that’s why readers will continue on with the series.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
My webpage is http://fictionforyou.com, my blog is http://marilynmeredith.blogspot.com and every Tuesday I make an appearance at http://thestilettogang.blogspot.com . I’m also on Facebook and Twitter.

Elizabeth Goddard's "Praying for Rayne"

We're happy to have Elizabeth Goddard with us today talking about her book, Praying for Rayne.To learn more about Elizabeth and her book, read on!

Title: Praying for Rayne
Publisher: Heartsong Presents

Cover blurb:Water speaks to Rayne like nothing else on the planet.
Which is why she cannot simply stay on the farm and marry Paul like everyone expects. Her job designing and choreographing magnificent fountains is a dream come true—so why does it seem that no one who says they love her can understand her need to create, to express the beauty she sees?
When Jack comes to FountainTech to manage its team of creative designers, he is amazed at the high level of talent he finds there. Expecting to challenge his team, he soon finds his own ideas being challenged, too—professionally and personally. When charges of corporate espionage and theft arise, will the blossoming love between Rayne and Jack survive, or will it shrivel and die like a plant on the vine?

1) How did this story come to you?
I knew the title and I knew I needed corporate espionage. One night I watched a program about incredible water sculptures and the people who create them and I immediately knew that would fit perfectly for this story.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
 Praying for Rayne is the third book in a series for Heartsong Presents that will be repackaged into Barbour’s Romancing America, this one set in North Dakota. I’m not sure of that title yet. But the proposal was with my editor for two years before she bought it.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
 Since I’ve answered this question several times here and on other blogs, I’m not sure I have anything left! But I’ll give it a try. I’m a member of a creative family, both musically and artistically. I used to be in high-level software sales. My husband’s family are ranchers in Montana.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I’m working on two deadlines right now. Under the Redwood Tree, a contemporary romance for Heartsong Presents, and Freezing Point, a romantic suspense for Love Inspired Suspense. Both titles release in October 2011. Next will be the second book in my three book Heartsong Series called Redwood Coast (the series title), and hopefully, something more for Love Inspired Suspense.

5) Parting comments?
I hope readers continue to enjoy my stories because I love putting them on paper. Also releasing this month is The Camera Never Lies, a mystery romance with Barbour Publishing.

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

Sandra Robbins' Yuletide Defender

We're happy to have Sandra Robbins with us today talking about her book, Yuletide Defender. To learn more about Sandra and her book, read on!


Title: Yuletide Defender
Publisher: Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense
Cover blurb: Is a vigilante responsible for the murders of Lake City gang members? According to reporter Rachel Long’s anonymous source, yes. The goal is to trigger a gang war—and her investigations lead Rachel to the heart of the battlegrounds. Which is where she finds handsome officer Matthew Franklin. The protective cop wants her out of harm’s way. But she needs the raise from a big story to secure care for her special-needs sister. Rachel won’t walk away, even though the vigilante is now aiming at a determined reporter—and a tailing cop—for a showdown just in time for Christmas.

1) How did this story come to you?
The idea for the book popped into my head one day. I think I’d read something about a reporter not wanting to reveal a confidential source, and I thought that would make a good plot. As I thought about it more, the idea of gang murders came to mind, then the vigilante. After I sent the proposal to my editor, she asked if I could incorporate a Christmas theme. I really enjoyed writing my characters into situations that seemed so opposite to all the Christmas cheer that surrounded them.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
This is my third book with Love Inspired Suspense, so I’ve learned what the ediors liketo see in a proposal. I think that understanding the kind of stories that the publisher you’re targeting helps a writer.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I love to play all kinds of board and card games.
When a friend and I were visiting San Francisco once, we hired a limousine and driver to take us on a tour of the city.
I am a big fan of Broadway musicals and was thrilled when I got to attend the London production of Cats.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I am working on two books that are sequels to my Love Inspired Suspense that will release next July. The three books are set on Ocracoke Island, North Carolina. I am also working on a historical romance set in the Tennessee Smoky Mountains in 1894.

5) Parting comments?
It’s been a pleasure to be a guest again, and I hope readers will enjoy Yuletide Defender. It releases December 7.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
For more information about me and my books, go to my website at http://sandrarobbins.net/. I always enjoy hearing from my readers at Sandra@sandrarobbins.net

E.G. Lewis" "Witness"

We're happy to have E.G. Lewis with us today talking about his book, Witness. To learn more about E.G. and his book, read on!

Title: WITNESS
Publisher: Cape Arago Press

Cover blurb: WITNESS — an old story told in a new way. Young shepherd girl, Rivkah, accompanied her father to a Bethlehem stable and held the baby Jesus…and years later she watched him die on a cross. Meet Shemu’el, the man God destined for Rivkah. Experience a love so strong that neither Caesar's might nor Herod's cruelty could crush it. Witness it all through the eyes of one who lived it.

1) How did this story come to you?
 In 2006, while singing Carols during a Christmas service, I began to imagine a young shepherd girl accompanying her father to the stable that first Christmas. I immediately knew she’d want to hold the baby Jesus. I sat down to write this short, sweet Christmas tale knowing only two things; her name was Rivkah, the Aramaic form of Rebecca, and she’d held the Christ child. In no time at all, my little story grew into a full blown book and that single book became The Seeds of Christianity™ Series.

2)Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
 When I completed WITNESS I went through the usual query process and, just when I was about to give up, found an agent who loved Rivkah almost as much as I did. Still, Biblical fiction is never an easy sell and the Christian publishers weren’t interested, so my agent decided to run it by the New York trade houses instead. They eventually passed, but by then several CBA editors expressed interest. Through two more rounds of submissions WITNESS garnered lots of praise and no offers. My agent released the book back to me, suggesting I try to place it with a small publisher. About six months later a local publisher, Cape Arago Press, took on the series.

3)Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
The main characters in most of my books have been women; with a wife, three adult daughters, and five granddaughters, I suppose it comes naturally. Also, my books are Biblically and historically accurate. What happens to Rivkah and Shemu’el could, and did happen to people of that era. I once wrote and directed corporate training films. It surprised me, I’d never worked with scripts and sets before.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
The second book DISCIPLE, was released this past June. Right now, I’m hard at work on the next one in the series, APOSTLE, which has a February deadline. There’s one more after that and then I can turn to some other ideas I have squirreled away.

5) Parting comments?
I want to thank you for this opportunity to connect with your readers and tell them about Rivkah, WITNESS and The Seeds of Christianity Series™. Writing and researching these books has been a journey of faith.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
My blog, Sowing the Seeds – The Life and Times of the Early Christians, has lots 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, at http://www.capearagopress.com/

Lyle A. Way's "The Day of the Lord"

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

Title: The Day of The Lord
Publisher: Biblemystery.com Publishing

Cover blurb: The evil Abaddon, of Revelation 9:11, drools with desire for his release from the abyss and his makeshift throne room deep in volcano Sharat Kovakab in Syria. His hoards of scorpion tailed locusts lust for escape from the pit to torture mankind.

1) How did this story come to you?
The person who co-authored this work, Dr. Terry Gage, is an expert in eschatology. He asked me to write the novel with his notes about the end of days and Biblical references. The Day of the Lord is mentioned in Joel 2:31 which says “The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, in the presence of the great and terrible day of the Lord…” The novel is based on the events leading up to and including that great and terrible time which will take place at the end of days.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
That journey was simple. Dr. Gage has a publishing business, so we used his.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
1. I have been both a Deputy Sheriff and have done full time missionary work. 2. I received my Bachelor of Theology degree when I was 60 yrs old. 3. I have published 5 other novels for the Christian mystery lover.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I am working on a novel that deals with some of the great events in the Bible from an angel’s point of view. I have a sea novel at the publisher now. It’s an adventure describing events in the life of a smuggler in the South China Seas. I think I will write a sequel to that novel.

5) Parting comments?
I love writing mysteries for Christians who enjoy the excitement and adventure in a good mystery, but dislike the profanity and obscene events that other writers surprise them with.

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

Cheri Hardaway's "Worth Every Tear"

We're happy to have Cheri Hardaway with us today talking about her book, Worth Every Tear. To learn more about Cheri and her book, read on!

Title: Worth Every Tear ~ Forever and for Always
Publisher: Xulon Press.


Cover blurb: Most parents have heard of the prodigal son, but few expect their precious child – the one who wraps himself around their hearts and them around his little finger – might one day make them doubt themselves at every turn.
This book is for any parent who has ever gazed into a child’s eyes and fallen in love . . . who has poured heart and soul into that child, that he might have the best in life. It is a book for parents who have stared into their own tortured eyes in the mirror and asked, “Why?”

“In a day when ‘expert’ advice about parenting abounds, Cheri Hardaway’s Worth Every Tear is a gem. It’s an honest story of Christian parents who try hard and feel failure. Yet God leads them back, so beautifully, to an understanding that He is as sovereign in the lives of their children as He is in their own. Worth Every Tear will bring tears to your own eyes, as it encourages parents who struggle with doubt and disappointment.”
—KAREN DEIKUN, fellow parent and contributing author to FaithWriters anthologies

1) How did this story come to you?
Five years ago, in an interview with FaithWriters, I stated that I felt like I was born with a pen in my hand. I’ve kept a journal for as long as I can remember; writing is my way of processing life’s ups and downs. Fifteen years ago, I had the distinct impression that God had a purpose for my writing, and that one day I would write something for Him. As the years of our lives unfolded and we lived our story, my husband and I had a growing conviction that we were supposed to share our testimony with other parents, to share with them the same hope and love God had so graciously poured into our family. Worth Every Tear is the culmination of that conviction, the true story of our family’s journey with God. Though the book is non-fiction, I chose to write it like a novel, changing the characters’ names for privacy’s sake. Readers have shared that they were hooked by the story line and found the book difficult to put down. For a sneak preview of the prologue and Chapter One, you can go here: http://blog.cherihardaway.com/p/our-book.html.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
As I worked on the book, I also researched publishing options. The market for memoirs is a bit different than most; the plain fact is that traditional commercial publishers are reluctant to take a chance on an author who is relatively unknown. I did learn, however, that little known authors have been known to find a traditional commercial publisher, if they have a remarkably unique story. I struck out on both counts; I’m not well-known, and a family impacted by drug addiction isn’t a new or unique phenomenon in this day and age. Yet, every person has been created a unique individual by God, with a purpose in life and a story to tell. And my husband and I still had the conviction that our story needed to be told. For that reason, we researched the avenues of subsidy and self-publishing and chose to publish our own book with Xulon Press, trusting that God would see that it gets into the hands of those readers who need to hear His message of grace and hope.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
1.) I hate to be the center of attention, yet I’ve written an entire book which shares the intimate details of my life.
2.) I am actually a fan of the “blind date,” having met my husband on one. In fact, my daughter met her husband on a blind date arranged by me and “his” mom.
3.) During my college years in Texas, weekends usually found me in a “kicker” club, garbed in cowboy hat and boots, two-stepping to the latest country-western hits.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
In December 2008, while the writing of Worth Every Tear was in progress, my husband and I began a blog called Glass House Ministries, as a vehicle to connect us with others who could use some hope and encouragement. As the blog has grown, God has also used it to develop a ministry of prayer. My current focus is on keeping the blog up-to-date and on being faithful to wherever else God may take the Glass House ministry. At some point, if God opens the doors, hubby and I are open to accepting invitations for speaking engagements; our desire is to pass along to others the same hope and peace we’ve found with God.

5) Parting comments?
God is faithful. If you are feeling hopeless, He can bring hope to the bleakest of circumstances. During the writing of my book, I had several titles in mind. During my quiet time one morning, I came across Psalm 126:5: “Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy.” As I meditated on the Scripture, I found myself thanking God for the path we’d taken as a family, telling Him that it was “worth every tear” to be where we are today. It was then that He whispered to my heart that He had just given me the title for my book. My life’s journey as a woman … as a wife … and as a parent has forever etched the hope and love of God in my heart, and it’s my desire to share that hope and love through the pages of Worth Every Tear.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
I can be found on my website: www.cherihardaway.com, or on the Glass House Ministries blog: http://blog.cherihardaway.com/. I’m also on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/people/Cheri-Hardaway/728073316, and Worth Every Tear has a fan page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Worth-Every-Tear/343241642931.

Susan Sleeman's "Nipped in the Bud"

We're happy to have Susan Sleeman with us today talking about her book, Nipped in the Bud. To learn more about Susan and her book, read on!

Title: Nipped in the Bud


Publisher: Barbour Publishing

Cover blurb: Paige Turner has secured her first landscaping contract, sprucing up the city park for the upcoming Pickle Fest. But after a confrontation with the city manager, she finds him dead in a mound of mulch. With no alibi for the time of death and, according to the police chief, with plenty of motive to carry out the murder, Paige must dig her way out of the mess by finding the real killer. Attorney Adam Hayes aids in her search as he works hard to keep her out jail—and his heart.

1) How did this story come to you?
I love to garden and I love to kill people—on paper that is, LOL—so it was only natural for me to combine both together in Nipped in the Bud. I also wanted to share gardening tips in a humorous format a cozy mystery like Nipped in the Bud is a perfect format to do so.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
Wow, that’s a story. I was awarded my contract for Nipped in the Bud at the American Fiction Christian Writer’s conference in September of 2008 for Barbour’s Heartsong Presents Mystery imprint. Then in January, the line folded and my dreams died. Or so I thought. But a year later Barbour decided to publish the contracted mysteries in a new single title line called Hometown Mysteries and they selected Nipped in the Bud to release in the first six mysteries.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
Hmm, let’s see. I have lived in nine states, one twice. But that was Texas and it’s such a big state you have to live there twice, LOL. I used to teach computers to kindergartners through eighth graders and that job also included doing hardware repair for the computer lab. One day, in my younger years, my husband went to work and I decided to take down all of the walls in the second story of our house to open up the rooms. He came home and all that was left were wires hanging from the ceiling. FYI, we were planning to this, I just got a head start.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I am working on the edits for Behind the Badge, a romantic suspense book releasing in June with Love Inspired Suspense and writing Relentless Pursuit another romantic suspense book releasing in the fall of 2011 also with Love Inspired Suspense

5) Parting comments?
Thank you for having me here, today and I’d like to say a special thank you to all the readers who have bought both High-Stakes Inheritance and Nipped in the Bud this fall. I am so appreciative of all the kind readers out there.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
I love to connect with readers and here are a few places I can do that.
http://www.susansleeman.com/ Personal website
http://www.thesuspensezone.com/ Book review website
http://hometownmysteries.com/  Hometown Mystery Website
http://www.twitter.com/susansleeman Twitter
http://www.facebook.com/susan.sleeman Facebook friend’s page
http://www.facebook.com/SusanSleemanBooks Facebook fan page
http://www.loveinspiredauthors.com/ Love Inspired Authors

M. Ann Ricks' "The Son"

We're happy to have M. Ann Ricks with us today talking about her book, The Son.  To learn more about Ann and her book, read on!



Title: The Son
Publisher: Leading Lady Publications.

Cover blurb: Daniel Manders has been dubbed the “chosen one”.
Since childhood, he has always been the one that was admired and called upon to do the right thing especially when it involved rectifying a situation for his family. Choosing to leave home to escape the pressures of family, he lived his life without worrying about rescuing his brothers from themselves. While living the life he thinks he wants, Daniel finds himself in a situation that only the Lord can get him out of. When finally acknowledging that he’d been shirking his responsibilities and a divine calling, a way of escape is provided. He decides that he can run no longer and promises to return to the home of his youth. Upon his return, he meets Melina; a woman that seems to be made just for him. While trying to be the man he feels he needs to be and reassemble the puzzle that he calls his family, Daniel’s purpose becomes clear but God’s desire and destiny for his family is challenged.

1) How did this story come to you?
It was impressed upon me that there are so many people that know who God is but are either afraid of being who God has called them to be or don’t think that they can handle the responsibility of being a “true and uncompromising” child of the Most High God. Many sometimes let their fear, families and relationships keep them from the future that God has destined for them. God has gifted so many of us, with the intelligence and “know how” to do so many awesome things. Men, as they relate to the novel, are born leaders. They simply have to acknowledge it and stop running from who they are and who they were made to be. The path may not be easy nor is it always convenient, but if we seek Him first, everything else will be added. Additionally, and contrary to the popular consensus, we ARE our brother’s keeper. Sometimes our family will be our hardest obstacle but we must be obedient. We need to be obedient to the will of God and be that man or woman of God who can show them how to live a life of freedom and liberty through Jesus. Someone’s life is depending on it. Your brother or sister…. Our families and those connected to us are depending on it! Stand fast and believe God regardless of what the enemy throws your way. We have the power to thwart each arrow of adversity because God promises all of us who believe in Him that we’d receive our expected end.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
It seems my journey to get this novel published was riddled with obstacles. I was under the impression that because I had one novel published; Awesome Wonder: The Gift of Remembrance, a second novel would be easier. That was not to be. I believed the subject-matter was God-ordained and that the novel would bless those who read it, as many, I’m certain, can identify with the premise, but initially I struggled with the content and writing from a man’s perspective. I knew that I had to saturate The Son with the word of God as it always makes the difference but some viewed it as deterrent. As a result, finding a publisher and getting it out to the masses seemed to be a challenge. I was very happy to finally find a publisher that believed in my story and its relevance and that is when one stumbling block was removed. Getting it into the stores, however, was yet another faith fight. I really had to trust that God had and has everything under control… (BIGGEST Lesson learned!) Thankfully the journey to publication ended victoriously as many who have read The Son have nothing but wonderful things to say about it as it has done exactly what God said it would do… encourage hearts, provide revelation and confidence using His Word. It confirms that we are all called to impact the world with Jesus Christ!

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
Well… Let’s see!
1)I was in a music video back in the late 80’s with a group called FOREIGNER. While singing with the Youth Division of The New Jersey Mass Choir, I was part of day long video shoot of the song.., “I Want To Know What Love Is”. It was an awesome experience and a memory that I will never forget.
2) I’m a part-time Fitness Instructor and a real CARDIO junkie. I love STEP Aerobics and Cardio Dance and use Gospel House music to work-out and praise God at the same time. The crazy thing about it is that I absolutely LOVE cakes, cookies, etc. How can I be such a fitness junkie and a sweets junkie at the same time??? You tell me? That surprises me, if no one else!
3) Lastly, if someone would have told me that by age 40, I would have two novels and a third one on the way, I would have never believed them. Many readers think that I have been writing for my entire life and that is true to some extent but I wrote for school and my profession. Writing about the love of Jesus and sharing His word with the masses using fiction is an awesome surprise to me… It certainly goes to show us that God has a way of moving us into our destiny as He prepares us along the way. I love what I do and crazily enough, I couldn’t stop writing if I wanted to!

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I have completed my third novel: THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME. This novel took me the longest to write and has blessed me immensely. It is seasoned with the sensuality of love, the need for familial truth and deliverance as well as God’s promise of hope and redemption. Regardless of who you are; rich or poor and whatever you’ve done or what your family or people in your life have done to you, the blood of Jesus can make you a new creature because of its power. Many are living defeated lives, unaware that freedom and life in abundance is available. Set in present day, THE BLOOD DONE SIGNED MY NAME chronicles a woman’s desire for redemption. The novel will enlighten and encourage as we journey with the heroine, Honey Lamb. Because the story of her life is one of demoralizing circumstances, she questions why she is and who she is. Not realizing that God places people in our lives for His purpose, she reluctantly embarks upon a journey that will open her eyes and heart to a divine inheritance.

5) Parting comments?
I consider it an honor and privilege that K. Dawn Byrd Blog Spot would decide to spotlight me and my novel, The Son. This is truly a blessing. Thank You!!! Sharing stories of faith and His unconditional and unending love, will change lives and provide spiritual revelation thus augmenting the Kingdom of God. I believe this is what God has purposed for my life and I am determined to walk it. It has been made clear that my steps are divinely ordered and I am assured that God has purposed me to affect lives in a realistic way with messages that will birth “overcomers” in the Earth that will glorify God!

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
Please visit www.mannricks.net to read more what God has purposed for my life as well as events, workshops and dialogues that I have had the pleasure to facilitate. Interested readers can certainly purchase my novels Awesome Wonder, my debut novel as well as The Son . I am presently having a “READY for RAIN” Online Sale! Each novel is only $5.00!! Click on the “Christ IS” link to make your “READY for RAIN” purchase and the novel will be signed and shipped to your location.

Shawna Williams "In All Things"

We're happy to have Shawna Williams with us today talking about her new book, In All Things.To learn more about Shawna and her book, read on!

Your title: The title of my new book is In All Things. It's the sequel to No Other, my debut novel that was released in May.

Publisher: Desert Breeze Publishing is the book's publisher.

Cover blurb: Jakob and Meri's story continues...
     Meredith Louis's Hollywood career is at a point of transition. No longer under Majestic Studios' control, Meri is free to broaden her appeal as an actress and finally earn the recognition she desires.
     Meri and Jakob return to their hometown for the holidays where Meri hopes to reconcile with her parents after a decade of silence. But after a disastrous encounter, Meri is plunged into turmoil as old fears resurface in unexpected ways.
     Jakob, already dealing with unresolved family issues of his own, is further burdened by his inability to help his wife. Can he learn to step aside and trust God's plan.Will Meri recognize what she already has?
     In All Things is a story of faith and restoration, cemented in the belief, "...that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

1) How did this story come to you?
This story was inspired by the same dream that inspired No Other. Originally I had written both stories as one book, but a lot of changes were made since the original version – especially to In All Things. There is a nasty character in the story who represents who Meri could become, and in the original this person is who she actually did become. The published version is much better than the original.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
When I submitted No Other to Desert Breeze Publishing I mentioned that there was a sequel and DB was immediately interested. At that point all I had was the original version and an outline for turning the second part into a book of its own. I thought it wouldn't be difficult, but during the course of writing many new things crept in – things that deepened the story and broadened the theme. I also had grown to like Meri so much while rewriting No Other that I couldn't assign the fate from the original book to her. This book was a difficult write and I had a ton of freak out moments, but several months before its due date things started falling into place, and I love the way it turned out.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I'm boring, but I'll give this a try.
1) For my next birthday I want to go spelunking. Not cave exploring with a flashlight, but the whole underground with a light on my head kind of exploration.
2) I built the pantry in my kitchen, and I did a pretty darn good job.
3) I pick the marshmellows out of Lucky Charms, eat them, and feed the cereal part to my dog (in moderation).

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
Right now I'm trying to consider priorities. I've released three books in seven months, so I want to replenish a bit. Promotion is fun but also draining. I'm working on a possible spinoff story for a character in No Other and In All Things. I don't have a lot, just a rough synopsis and about 1,000 words in a first chapter, so I haven't pitched it to the publisher yet. I'd also like to try and get something ready to pitch at the ACFW conference. I have several story ideas and would love to have a completed manuscript by next September. I'm not sure which of these ideas will take priority. I'd love to have them both accomplished by next fall, but family has to come first.

5) Parting comments?
This is a message to aspiring writers that I've been saying a lot in my blog interviews during the promotion of In All Things, but I'll say it again. We've all heard that we should write what we know, and this is true, but I think it's equally important for an author to write who they are, from the heart. Readers can gauge the sincerity of a story – if it came from deep within. Don't be afraid to share yourself. It's the reason God called you to such a task.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
http://shawnakwilliams.com/
http://shawnawilliams-oldsmobile.blogspot.com/
http://twitter.com/shawnakwilliams
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1059888544#!/pages/Shawna-K-Williams/236629884245

Adam & Andrea Graham's "Tales of the Dim Knight"

We're happy to have Andrea Graham with us today talking about her book, Tales of a Dim Knight. To learn more about Andrea and her book, read on!

Publisher: Splashdown Books

Cover blurb: In Tales of the Dim Knight, mild-mannered janitor and superhero fanboy Dave Johnson gets all his wishes at once when an alien symbiot gives him supernatural powers. But what's he to do with them? Follow the zany adventures of the clueless custodian as he fights crime and corruption while trying to keep his family together and avoid being sued for copyright infringement.

1) How did this story come to you?
My co-author came up with the concept for this novel after reading Who Needs A Superhero? By H. Michael Brewer.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
We had shelved it as a novel, deciding against shopping it to a publisher, and opted instead to serialize it along side three other stories on our own website, Laser & Sword Magazine. A friend who happened to be a publisher read it, loved it, and asked to buy it.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
Not sure if anything would. I tend to be a fairly open book. I’ll try, though. I was on the drama team in high school and did great despite suffering terrible stage fright. I like yellow and pink more than I do purple. I love lavender and lilac, but prefer bright, light colors to dark and drab. One more. Uh—I’m an ENFJ (Extroverted, Intuitive, Feeling, Judging) with no sense of time. LOL.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I’m working on the fourth book of an unpublished low-tech sci fi series set in a alternate universe with a topsy turvy history as it wants to veer left when we veer right. Examples: historically matriarchal, the ark landed in the Rocky Mountains, Jesus was never born there (death came to them from our world, Pandora’s box style, so salvation does also), the Union of the Nations (i.e. the US) is an 1800 years old country rather than a young one, the dark-skinned race enslaved the light-skinned race, and the Union lost the civil war and the West. Due to the monarchy, sword and crossbow play, pet dinosaurs called dragons, etc., most who’ve offered an opinion regard it as fantasy.

Adam most recently has written a Sci Fi short story setting the parable of the unjust judge on a twenty-third century space station, casting the persistent widow as a gray-skinned hominoid alien with a frog-like tongue. I added the tongue in to distinguish her from Zolgron’s species in Tales of the Dim Knight. We help ourselves to each other’s work routinely. He also has ideas for two more books set in my universe as referenced above.

5) Parting comments?
 I hate goodbyes.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
I mouthed off with Christian advice and book reviews at my blog, Ask Andrea, and put out my for editor-for-hire sign along with free writing tips at http://www.povbootcamp.com/. You can read about Tales of the Dim Knight at Splashdown Books or preview the first four chapters on your ebook reader of choice at Smashwords. Or check out Adam’s blog or http://www.adamsweb.us/.

Stephanie Burkhart's "A Christmas Collection"

Christmas in Bayeux Tour

I'd like to thank K. Dawn for having me on the blog and allowing me to visit today. Just a little about me: I was born and raised in Manchester, NH. When I was 18, this New England Patriot fan joined the US Army for a great adventure and spent 7 years overseas in Germany. I met a fair-haired California boy and we were married in Denmark in 1991. Little odd fact: I enjoy eating pizza European style – with a knife and a fork. Now, the adventure over, I work for LAPD as a 911 Operator.

My short story, "Christmas in Bayeux," is included in A Christmas Collection, Stimulating by Victory Tales Press. I'd heard only good things about VTP and they were looking for stories for their Christmas anthologies. I sent Becky an email – can you have me? Becky said 'sure,' and I was on board to write a story. A note to visitors: "Christmas in Bayeux," is "sophisticated" in nature and does contain a love scene.
     Now I had to decide what type of story I wanted to write. I hadn't written a contemporary for quite some time. I'm a big fan of Mona Risk's international contemporaries so I said to myself, I'd like to write international contemporaries and with my experiences I felt confident enough to do so.
     Manchester, NH is the second largest French speaking city in the US and I took 3 years high school French. I love the language and in my studies, I grew to love the nation. France was the perfect setting for my story. I've been to Paris several times. I also visited Lembach, France in 1988 and that experience has been with me throughout the years. My experiences in Lembach made their way into the story.
     Lembach is a small town in the Alsace-Lorraine region of France just over the German/French border. I was dispatched along with a fellow soldier, Private East to pick up a squad of soldiers in Pirmasens, Germany. East and I took a detour and ended up in Lembach.
     Needless to say, we were an odd sight, walking around the town in our US Army military uniforms. The locals stared at us – hard. As we walked around the small town square an older man approached us. He spoke no English. I had my "French for Travelers" guide and my pronunciation was decent so I engaged him. He enthusiastically shook our hands. "Américains?" "Oui," I answered. He proceeded to thank East and I not only for our service, but also for the service of our grandfathers who liberated France from Germany.
     It was a moving experience that humbled both of us.
     It was lunchtime and East and I went to the local café for lunch. With my trusty "French for Travelers," I ordered our food – salad and sandwiches. We were quite the attraction in the café. Patrons stared at us. In fact, several of them approached us while we ate and thanked us. Before we left, the manager came to us. He told us our meal was free.
     East and I wouldn't have it. We had francs for the occasion. Between the manager's English and my French, I learned the residents of the town loved Americans. In World War II, we had indeed liberated them from Germany's occupation. We were still heroes to them – 40 years later.
     East and I were truly humbled by how the town embraced us. As we made our way back to our military van, we thanked God for this rare opportunity to visit France.
     This experience found it's way into my story. Enjoy the excerpt:

     She pushed two wooden double doors open and they walked into a wide open-spaced entrance hall. "Is this a museum?"
     "Oui. It houses our best known prize – the Bayeux Tapestry."
     "What is that?" His voice was laced in curiosity.
     "Dix Euros," said the clerk. He was in his mid-thirties and wore a blue uniform.
     Aiden put his hand over Noel's hand as she reached for her purse. "I'll get it."
     "Vous êtes Américain?"
     "Oui," said Aiden.
     The clerk held out his hand. Aiden slowly took it, surprised by the gesture. What was he doing?
     "Américains we like. World War II, yes? Merci – thank you," the clerk said in halting English.
     Aiden was stunned. Noel said this occurred, but he didn't think it would happen to him.
     "De Rein. Thank you, sir."
     "Non, Monsieur, merci. Keep your money."
     "Oh, I insist."
     "Oui, thank you, merci."
     Noel smiled at the clerk, thread her arm through Aiden's, and they walked into the museum. There were a few people milling about in the halls, but it wasn't as busy as he thought it would be. Maybe everyone was at the Christmas markets.
     He paused before they got far. "You said—"
     She gave him an easy smile. "You handled that well."
    
     BLURB: Aiden Seward is an Iraq war vet who has gone to the Beaches of Normandy to heal his wounded heart. Noel Rousseau was the girl he knew as an exchange student years ago. Can Noel help heal the ache in Aiden's heart?

Buy Links:
Amazon: (print) http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Collection-Anthology-Stimulating/dp/1456304410/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1289273692&sr=8-1
Ebook, Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/29148
Create Space, Print book: https://www.createspace.com/3494425
Victory Tales Press: http://victorytalespress.yolasite.com/online-store.php
Check out the Story Teaser on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-muZ0dhOvSE

Joshua Graham's "Beyond Justice"

We're happy to have Joshua Graham with us today talking about his book, Beyond Justice. To learn more about Joshua and his book, read on!

Publisher: Dawn Treader Press 2010

Cover blurb: THE DESCENT INTO HELL IS NOT ALWAYS VERTICAL…Sam Hudson, a reputable San Diego attorney, learns this when the authorities wrongfully convict him of the brutal rape and murder of his wife and daughter, and sends him to death row. There he awaits execution by lethal injection.
If he survives that long.
In prison, Sam fights for his life while his attorney works frantically on his appeal. It is then that he embraces the faith of his departed wife and begins to manifest supernatural abilities. Abilities which help him save lives– his own, those of his unlikely allies–and uncover the true killer’s identity, unlocking the door to his exoneration.
Now a free man, Sam’s newfound faith confronts him with the most insurmountable challenge yet. A challenge beyond vengeance, beyond rage, beyond anything Sam believes himself capable of: to forgive the very man who murdered his family, according to his faith. But this endeavor reveals darker secrets than either Sam or the killer could ever have imagined. Secrets that hurtle them into a fateful collision course.
BEYOND JUSTICE, a tale of loss, redemption, and the power of faith.

1) How did this story come to you?
After hearing a sermon on forgiveness illustrated by the story of Dennis Rader, the BTK serial killer, I felt moved to explore the nature and extent of human and divine forgiveness. I challenged many of my own beliefs and values in this book.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
It took a great deal of persistence. You have to learn to discern good counsel from useless criticism, take the good and discard the rest. And you can’t take rejections personally. When I learned about how many bestselling authors had faced numerous rejections before getting published, it gave me a better perspective on the matter. Interestingly, the work only just begins after your book gets published. Next comes all the promotion to let people know your book exists!

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
a) I am a classically trained musician (cellist) with a bachelors and masters degree form Juilliard and a doctorate from Johns Hopkins.
b) Before becoming a full-time writer, I worked in the IT field for over a decade. My last position was Director of Operations at an IT firm.
c) One of the odd jobs I had as a college student was as a sales representative selling new cars in one of the largest Honda dealerships in the United States.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I am currently completing a YA Fantasy (first in a series) which my six-year-old (at the time) son had asked me to write for him. Keep an eye on my website for the release of a collection of my short fiction in an anthology. I also have another suspense thriller DARKROOM, which I’m hoping to see released soon as well.

5) ) Parting comments?
Spend time with your loved ones every day. Treat each day as though it were your last on Earth. Because in the end, it’s the relationships and their love you carry with you into eternity.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
http://www.joshua-graham.com/
www.facebook.com/J0shuaGraham
www.twitter.com/J0shuaGraham
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B003UTNSZM
Barnes & Noble Page: http://tinyurl.com/39yjd88

BEYOND JUSTICE is an Amazon and Barnes & Noble bestseller and is available in trade paperback here.
It is also available for Barnes & Noble nook here and Kindle here.
You can also purchase it for the iPad, Kobo and SONY Reader at their respective stores, or at Smashwords.com

Shelia Lipsey's "My Son's Ex Wife: The Aftermath"

We're happy to have Shelia Lipsey with us today talking about her book, My Son's Ex-Wife. To learn more about Shelia and her book, read on!

Publisher: Urban Books

Cover blurb: The story of the Graham family continues in My Son's ex Wife. First Lady Audrey Graham is more than relieved when Stiles encounters the young, vivacious nutritionist Detria Mackey. Rena is equally captivated by recent divorcee, Robert Becton. Does the handsome, science teacher Robert Becton possess what Rena needs to give her life a much needed jump start? When Rena returns to Memphis for less than pleasant reasons, Stiles and Rena realize they still have deep feelings one another, but will their feelings overcome the past that severed their relationship? Will Audrey manage to come between them again or will other circumstances intervene that will give them cause to rethink their past and move forward to the future.

1) How did this story come to you?
It is the sequel to the novel My Son’s Wife

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I have been traditionally published with Urban Books since 2005. My Son’s Ex Wife:The Aftermath is another book I wrote under my publisher.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I love children, but there is an extra special space in my heart for boys. I am shy but I am never shy when it comes to speaking. I am the grandmother of ALL boys!

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I am working on the sequel to my novel Beautiful Ugly which will be released December 2011.

5) Parting comments?
I love what God has assigned me to do.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
Facebook, twitter, http://www.perfectstoriesaboutimperfectpeople.com/