Vicki Hinze's "Deadly Ties"

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

Title: Deadly Ties
Publisher: Multnomah

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

C.M. Jones' "He Left Me"

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

Title: He Left Me

Publisher: HortonJones, Inc.

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

1) How did this story come to you?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Julie Bell's "A Place of Abundance"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lyle A. Way's "Edge of Disaster"

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


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



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

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

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

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

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

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

Christine Sunderland's Hana-lani

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

Title: Hana-lani
Publisher: OakTara

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anne Greene's "Masquerade Marriage"

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

Title: Masquerade Marriage
Publisher: WhiteRosePublishing.com

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

Andrea Boeshaar's "Unexpected Love"

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

Title: Unexpected Love
Publisher: Realms/Strang Book Group

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kathryn Cushman's "Another Dawn"

We're happy to have Kathryn Cushman with us today talking about her book Another Dawn. To learn more about Kathryn and her book, read on!

Title: Another Dawn
Publisher: Bethany House Publishers

Cover blurb: When life gets complicated Grace Graham runs. She's left romantic relationships, friendships, and even her family after the death of her mother. But now her sister, Jana, is giving her one last chance: Come home and help care for their father--whom Grace still blames for her mother's death--or never show her face in Shoal Creek, Tennessee, again.
With her son, Dylan, in tow, Grace returns home from California. But is she returning for the right reasons? And when costly decisions from the past suddenly put her son's life and the lives of other children in town at risk, will she have the strength to stand strong and await Another Dawn?

1) How did this story come to you?
Through my editor. He sent me a link to a Public Radio documentary about a measles outbreak in San Diego. There were lots of valid points on both sides of the vaccine issue. We knew there was a story there.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
This is my fifth book, it was contracted a while back without a firm story idea in mind. The difficult part of this book was the actual writing, because I was dealing with an extremely ill teenage daughter and a terminally ill father. It was almost impossible to focus for any length of time.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I never read my books after they are published. Every time I read through my work, I find something I want to change. After it's printed and final, I can't bear to look at it.
I'm pretty bad at all things domestic (cooking, organizing, etc.), although I really wish I were good at them.
I was a pharmacist for 10 years before I "retired" to be a stay-home mother.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I've just started my next project, which should be out in Summer 2012. It's about a family who attempt to live "almost Amish" as part of a television show.

5) Parting comments? Thanks for letting me visit your blog!

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

Queen of Hearts & Killing Time

Thank you so much to all the faithful readers of my blog. I appreciate you so much.

Queen of Hearts
Daphne Dean is proud to be serving her country stateside during WWII as a reporter and an Office of Strategic Services operative. When the photograph she takes of the crowd at a murder scene places her on the mob's hit list, she's forced into hiding in a vacant mental asylum in the middle of nowhere with terrifying secrets of its own.
Daphne believed herself to still be in love with her ex-fiancée, Kenneth, until she spends several days locked away in the asylum with Vito, the mob boss' son. Can she put the terrifying events that occurred there behind her and allow herself to pursue a relationship with Vito? Or, will she return to Kenneth who has turned his back on his country by becoming a draft dodger and a black market racketeer? One thing's for sure, it won't matter if she can't escape the mental institution alive.




Killing Time
Mindy McLaurin, thinks it's the end of the world when she's incarcerated on trumped-up embezzlement charges. While in jail, she investigates the death of an inmate who allegedly died of an overdose. Mindy suspects foul play when her cellmate dies and she learns that both women had ingested the same drug. Mindy trusts no one, including Drew Stone, the handsome counselor she can’t stop thinking about. She faces many challenges, including constant interrogation by the Major and emotional abuse from the other inmates. Upon release, someone is stalking her and framing her for the murder. Can she prove to Counselor Stone that she’s innocent of all charges before she loses him forever?

James Rubart's "Book of Days"

We're happy to have James Rubart with us today talking about his book, Book of Days. To learn more about James and his book, read on!

Title: BOOK OF DAYS
Publisher: B&H Fiction

Cover blurb: God’s Book of Days.
A record of the past, present, and future of every soul. Some say it’s fable. Others are sure it’s real, hidden somewhere on Earth ... if Cameron Vaux can’t find it, he will lose everything. (Full back cover copy at the bottom.)

1) How did this story come to you?
In late 2000 my dad was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. I began to live the great sadness of seeing my father slip into the chains of Alzheimer's, and watched his memories fade away. I wondered where they were going. Was God catching them as they escaped his mind? Would they one day be restored to him? When I read Psalm 139:16 I realized God had already written down every moment of my Dad's life in His book.
After that I started to wonder—what if that book was on earth? And what if we could find it and see our past, and our future? And what if my protagonist had to find it to keep his own mind from slipping away? Out of those thoughts came BOOK OF DAYS.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
ROOMS (my first novel, released in April 2010) was rejected by all major publishers in the fall of ’06 so in early 2007 I started writing BOOK OF DAYS. I thought it would be published first, then if it found success ROOMS might be published.
But I ended up signing a contract for ROOMS in the fall of ’08, thinking I’d sign a contract for BOOK OF DAYS soon after. I didn’t get an offer for BOOK OF DAYS till mid December 2009, but fortunately I already had 70% of the novel written, so I finished the rest of it in a mad push in January of 2010.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
I’ve almost drowned—twice. But I still like to scuba dive. I’m an introvert (most people who meet me assume I’m a extrovert, because I love people and savor my relationships, but I DEFINITELY need my alone time. That’s how I get energized. As much as I love around my friend and meeting new people, it drains me.) And third, when I was one and a half, the fingers on my right hand were healed after a table saw fell on it.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I’m finishing edits on my third novel, The Chair which is about a young antiques store owner who is forced to confront his greatest fears and greatest failure when he’s given an artifact that might be a legendary healing chair made by Jesus Christ.
I’ve started brainstorming on my fourth novel, Backspace which will release summer 2012.
I’m developing a series of online marketing courses for novelist's who need to be more proficient and effective at marketing their novels.
And I’m working on an ancillary product tied into ROOMS that will release at the same time as The Chair.
As you can probably guess, I’m not sleeping much these days. But I’m loving all the projects.

5) Parting comments?
I followed my dreams and now I’m living it. So take the chance, take the risk, and take your wings to the air.
Thanks so much for having me!

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
http://www.jimrubart.com/
http://www.jameslrubart.com/
FB: James L. Rubart
Twitter: @jimrubart
http://www.jimrubart.com/

Delia Latham's "Destiny's Dream"

We're happy to have Delia Latham with us today talking about her book Destiny's Dream. To learn more about Delia and her book, read on!

Title: Destiny’s Dream
Publisher: White Rose Publishing, the first book in the Solomon’s Gate Series.

Cover blurb:
Is a little respect too much to ask at a parent’s funeral?
Apparently it is for Destiny May. Clay Gallagher is built like a small mountain and far more vocal than is fitting when he shows up late to her mother’s “going away party.” When it turns out he’s not even at the right funeral, Destiny demands retribution in the form of an escape from the day’s dreary proceedings. Spending time with a handsome stranger who makes her laugh is more therapeutic than fighting with her overbearing family.
Clay finds Destiny beautiful, charming...and intelligent. So why is she stubbornly determined to open a Christian dating service? Clay has little respect for such a frivolous profession, and doesn’t think the small, conservative town of Castle Creek will welcome such a progressive business. But when Destiny is threatened by an anonymous caller who deeply resents her and what she does for a living, Clay makes it his business to keep the saucy redhead out of harm’s way.
Trouble is, spending time in her company weakens his defenses, and Destiny may be the one thing Clay can’t escape...if he even wants to.

1) How did this story come to you?
I read a book about a woman who operated a dating agency several years ago…well, actually, it’s been a decade or more—before dating agencies became commonplace. The concept intrigued me, and I couldn’t help thinking how fun it would be to write a book about a Christian dating agency. From that, the storyline just evolved and grew and became Solomon’s Gate.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
I submitted the manuscript to two other publishers. The first one wanted either pure romance, or a heavier dose of intrigue. The second wanted some changes I wasn’t thrilled about making—I would have, of course, had that been my only option. But I decided to send it to one more publisher first, and pray that they would love it as it was. White Rose Publishing did love it, and asked for information on the two follow-up storylines as well. I wound up with contracts on all three books, which was so much more than I had dared to hope for.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
1. I used to sing in a Country and Western band, and actually made a couple of recordings during that time. I still love to sing, although an episode of asthma and pneumonia stole my breath and made it harder for me to sing for extended periods of time.
2. I married at age 16 and, thirty-seven years later, my husband and I still love each other.
3. Even though I write in the inspirational market, I do not read only inspirational books. Actually, my favorite book ever is Swan Song, by Robert R. McCammon. I also particularly enjoyed The Stand, by Stephen King. Neither book is inspirational, but both are epic tales of good vs. evil.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
I’m currently working on Gypsy’s Game, the third book in the Solomon’s Gate Series. The second book (Kylie’s Kiss) is in the hands of the editors. I’ve already seen the first galleys, and am expecting 2nd round edits any time.

5) Parting comments?
Along with my blog tour, I’m conducting a big, fun contest. I’m encouraging readers to check out the details and find out how to earn plenty of entries into the Daughters of Destiny Contest.

6) Where can fans find you on the internet?
Lots of places, the most obvious, of course, being my website. I also have a blog, where I conduct interviews with other authors and post reviews of books I’ve read.
Then there’s my bi-monthly newsletter, Facebook, Bebo, Twitter, and a bunch of other networking sites. I love hearing from my readers, so be sure to pop in and say hello!

Martha Rogers "Caroline's Choice"

We're happy to have Martha Rogers with us today talking about her book Caroline's Choice. To learn more about Martha and her book, read on!

Title: Caroline’s Choice
Publisher: Realms Fiction Division of Strang Communications

Cover blurb: Matthew Haynes enjoys working the ranch with his father. Caroline Frankston has had her eye on Matt since their school days, and has put off any advances from other young men. Now in her mid-twenties, she’s afraid she’ll never marry because Matt Haynes shows no interest in marriage, so she moves to the city to begin a new life. Matt misses her, but after seeing how happy she is with her new friends, he won’t pursue her. Two events, one happy, the other traumatic, work together to change hearts and bring love.

1) How did this story come to you?
It grew from the other books in the series. When I was asked to write the fourth book, I knew it had to be Matt and Caroline’s story.

2) Tell us about the journey to getting this book published.
It came about as the result of the first book in the series, Becoming Lucy. The publisher liked the first one and asked for three more.

3) Tell me three things about yourself that would surprise your readers.
That I once made all my own clothes when I taught Homemaking.

4) What are you working on now and what's next for you?
The second book of my new series, Seasons of the Heart. This one is Autumn Song. I have two more in this
series and then a Christmas novel is set for 2012.

5) Parting comments?
I’m excited about this new series, and I so appreciate all the love and support given me by my ACFW friends. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am with my books today.

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

Deb Kinnard & Clash of the Titles"Seasons in the Mist"

Clash of the Titles, Where Authors Compete and Readers Judge


Clash of the Titles got off to a strong start in the last quarter of 2010. With their new spin on book promotion within the Christian Fiction marketplace, you can't help but sit up and take notice. With us today is Michelle Massaro, Assistant Editor for COTT, to highlight another five featured authors.

Deb Kinnard joined the COTT family during Thanksgiving week as an Honorable Mention. This means that even though it hadn't made it into our previous Clashes, we at COTT felt her excerpt was just too good not to share with our readers.

Deb: I enjoyed the idea of going one-on-one against a passage from another writer in our market. I didn't anticipate enjoying it as much as I did!

About her book: SEASONS IN THE MIST is the story of an ambitious history grad student who inadvertently is yanked back to 1353 Cornwall. Challenges aplenty await her -- does the Lord intend for her to stay in the past, or return to her life and try to integrate her very strange experiences?

Just for fun, here's a snippit when the two main characters are busy falling in love by the holy well:

“The place has always been holy,” Michael was continuing. “The church in her wisdom assigned the spring to St. Aldhem, but we Cornish know better. St. Aldhem is but a nouveau arrivé. This well was sacred long before we Christians changed its name.”

“Sacred to whom?”

He loves this place. And its legends.



***

I look back over 2010 with a very full heart at all of the authors who have joined the COTT family. The Lord has been good to us. Readers and writers are being brought together, brothers and sisters are connecting, and I have made some good friends. I can't wait to see what's in store for 2011 and I sure hope you will join us- both as a reader and as a competitor. Authors can get information on participation at www.clashofthetitles.com/contact.html. Come take part in the website where authors battle and readers judge!

Michelle Massaro is the Assistant Editor for Clash of the Titles website and an aspiring novelist. She and her husband Mike live in Southern California with their four children, two dogs, two cats, ten guppies, and one rat. They attend Living Truth Christian Fellowship where they teach origins science to the youth and where Michelle is involved in the worship ministry.

Shawna Williams & Clash of the Titles "Orphaned Hearts"

Clash of the Titles, Where Authors Compete and Readers Judge


Clash of the Titles got off to a strong start in the last quarter of 2010. With their new spin on book promotion within the Christian Fiction marketplace, you can't help but sit up and take notice. With us today is Michelle Massaro, Assistant Editor for COTT, to highlight another five featured authors.

Shawna: My book, Orphaned Hearts, competed in the competition for Most Touching Christmas Scene. I enjoyed the opportunity to share this special part of my book with new readers. My book is an e-book with a small press that has been open for less than two years, so I especially appreciated the anonymity in which the competition is conducted. It keeps the focus on writing. I was astonished to find out that I had competed against a book from a very well known publisher and my book had won with 77% of the vote.




Orphaned Hearts is a historical romance set in Northwestern Arkansas during 1932. It's about a minister, David Langley, who had been severely burned in the same fire that killed his family when he was a baby. David's burns are concealed beneath his clothes, but he has always believed them to be the reason he was never adopted as a child, and the reason he will never have a family as an adult. Then Caleb, a six-year old orphaned boy, handicapped in the accident that claimed his family comes along. Only Sadie Miller, the town spinster, has a heart big enough to see past Caleb's disability. If David can find a home for Caleb, maybe there's hope for him, too.

Fun stuff about me? Hmm... I used to be heavily involved in competitive dance, and during the summer of 1988 I was given the title Miss Halftime USA. I don't think I could kick much higher than my knee nowadays. I still have a somewhat competitive spirit, just at slightly less physical activities, like card games.

***

I look back over 2010 with a very full heart at all of the authors who have joined the COTT family. The Lord has been good to us. Readers and writers are being brought together, brothers and sisters are connecting, and I have made some good friends. I can't wait to see what's in store for 2011 and I sure hope you will join us- both as a reader and as a competitor. Authors can get information on participation at www.clashofthetitles.com/contact.html. Come take part in the website where authors battle and readers judge!

Michelle Massaro is the Assistant Editor for Clash of the Titles website and an aspiring novelist. She and her husband Mike live in Southern California with their four children, two dogs, two cats, ten guppies, and one rat. They attend Living Truth Christian Fellowship where they teach origins science to the youth and where Michelle is involved in the worship ministry.