Welcome Sarah Sundin and Blue Skies Tomorrow

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SARAH SUNDIN lives in northern California with her husband and three children. When she isn’t ferrying kids to soccer and tennis, she works on-call as a hospital pharmacist and teaches Sunday school and women’s Bible studies. She is the author of the Wings of Glory series—A Distant Melody (Revell, 2010), A Memory Between Us (2010), and Blue Skies Tomorrow (August 2011). In 2011, A Memory Between Us was a finalist in the Inspirational Reader's Choice Awards and Sarah received the Writer of the Year Award at the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference. Her next series, Wings of the Nightingale, begins releasing in 2012.

BLUE SKIES TOMORROW
by Sarah Sundin
Published by Revell

ABOUT THE BOOK

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

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

Readers, buy your copy of Blue Skies Tomorrow (a Wings of Glory novel) today!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

Writing is a thrilling, exasperating, enchanting, and depressing profession. If you’ve been writing for any length of time, you’ve probably struggled with doubts. Before we’re published we wonder if we’ll ever be published, and we deal with discouragement from critiques, rejection letters, contests, and even friends and family. After we’re published we wonder why anyone in their right mind would read our books, and we deal with discouragement from editors, reviewers, disgruntled readers, and yes, friends and family.

I’ve been there. I still go there. And I’ll be there again.

For five years I tried to sell my historical fiction trilogy set in World War II. I accumulated a stack of “good” rejection letters. Editors and agents liked my writing, my story, and my characters—however, historicals weren’t selling. They wanted chick lit.

I didn’t want to give up on the series, because I loved my characters. However, in 2005 all doors to publication seemed closed and padlocked, and I wondered whether I had heard God correctly. Was I truly meant to write? Was I wasting my time when I could be doing something more productive?

That year at the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference, I went for a walk under the redwoods and stopped to admire a little white flower. I praised God for the flower and felt touched—had He made that flower just so I would praise Him? Then I looked around me. Hundreds of redwoods covered the hills, and thousands more out of my vision, all surrounded by white blossoms. How many of those flowers would ever cause someone to stop and praise God? Were they created in vain? Did the Lord waste His time creating them? Of course not. God is a creative Being, and He made us in His creative image. In His mercy, the Lord showed me that even if my writing was never seen by another human being and never caused anyone to praise Him, I did the right thing obeying His call to write. I was not wasting my time.

So I kept writing. I kept submitting. I kept praying. Then at Mount Hermon in March 2008, I heard, “We don’t want chick lit. We need historicals.” And my trilogy was close to complete. I submitted, and in September I was offered a three-book contract.

Mother Teresa said, “God doesn’t require us to succeed; He only requires that you try.” If God has called you to write for Him, measure your success through His eyes. Did you obey? Were you faithful? Did you persevere?

No matter where you are in your writing life, take courage. Whether you write for millions or for One, if you do it for Him, you’re not laboring in vain.

* * * * *

Thank you, Sarah, for sharing with us today.

Guest Question: What is one thing you feel God has called you to do? Did you answer and obey right away, or did it take a little while before you acted? How do you feel today about this call?

ENTRY RULES Readers, leave your email address (name at domainname dot com/net) along with your answer to the question for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of the book above. If you do not answer the question, and your email address isn't provided, you will not be entered.

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

Monday Mishaps with Mom - Toddler Woes

This week is for those moms who find the daily trials of parenting a toddler completely exhausting.

I just mentioned to my husband last night I feel I can never stay on top of the household chores AND the kids, as well as my at-home career. When we were in our condo, I seemed to have it under control. But now, in a house with two kids, it seems to have quadrupled. You add 1 child, and the universe flips its orientation. It's making my writing and my client work suffer.

Not only does my daughter love to go down into her brother's room during naptime and get into the crib with him or dump stuffed animals on his head, but she won't leave him alone when he's playing happily in his jumper or on the tummy-time mat. Her interaction with him almost always ends with him crying or screaming. To her, he's her personal dolly, and she can do whatever she wants to him.

And I posted back in July about the mishaps with the fish. This most recent time, I was sure the fish would never last. I knew something was wrong when my daughter came into the sunroom/playroom/office with a banana and her fingers were covered in this brick-red stuff. At first, I couldn't figure out what it was. Then, it dawned on me...and I rushed into the kitchen.

To the left is what greeted my eyes.

In a matter of 5 minutes while I was on the phone with a client, my daughter had grabbed her stool from the bathroom and brought it into the kitchen. She climbed up to reach the fish food we'd put at the back of the counter. Deciding the fish needed to be fed, she proceeded to dump half the container of food inside the tank, giving the tank decor a healthy coating of red flakes. Maybe she wanted it to appear more festive?

I could go on with far more stories, but then what I would post here each week. Next week, I'll be sharing potty training stories. This experience is going to kick my butt if we can't get on the other side of the struggle soon. It's been almost a year trying to master this. Progress is going very slowly. And nothing we do seems to work. (sigh)

Don't get me started on the toys she's completely ruined. Good thing almost everything we have has been passed down to us and we didn't spend money on them, or I'd be much more upset. It never ceases to amaze me how a 2-year-old girl can destroy something in just a few weeks that has previously survived THREE boys through these same years and beyond.

Makes me cringe thinking about what my son will be like at this age. They might just team up as Destructo and Ruinous Havoc. A dastardly duo of disorganization. I better figure out a way to channel these penchants for good before it's too late!

How about you? If you have/had children, what helps/helped you get through these years? I'd love to hear about it.

Tune in next week for the next "Monday Mishap with Mom." See you then!

And you can always look at the labels at the bottom of the right column to find "monday mishaps with mom" and read up on any week you've missed. My goal is to encourage mothers who feel a bit frazzled, and to help brighten your day as you start off your week. You're not alone.

Welcome Rose Allen McCauley and Christmas Belles of Georgia

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

ROSE ALLEN MCCAULEY is happy to live in the beautiful bluegrass region of Kentucky on a farm surrounded by God’s creation. She has been writing for over ten years and has been published in several non-fiction anthologies and devotionals. She is thrilled for this to be her first published fiction because Christmas books are her favorites. She has a growing collection of Christmas books, and this one will takes its rightful place among them.

A retired schoolteacher who has been happily married to her college sweetheart for over 43 years, she is also mother to three grown children and their spouses and Mimi to three lovely, lively grandkids! You can reach her through her website www.rosemccauley.com or blogsite at rosemccauley.blogspot.com.

CHRISTMAS BELLES OF GEORGIA
by Rose Allen McCauley
Published by Barbour Publishing

ABOUT THE BOOK

Surprised by Life—and Love—at Christmas

Four letters are mailed from Monticello, a small antebellum town in Georgia. Sisters once, now heirs to a historic plantation, each young woman must come to terms with the circumstances of her birth. . . .

When she learns in a letter she’s adopted, Holly feels betrayed by her parents—and she books a flight out of Missouri immediately. Will she ever be able to love again?

Raised in a wealthy, loveless home, Carol rushes to Monticello from college in Atlanta when she receives her letter. She’s searching for family, but finds instead a boy she once mistreated. Will he remember her? . . .forgive her?

In one year, Starr has lost her parents, boyfriend, and job, so she’s sure her letter is more bad news. When the attorney flies to California to offer proof, Starr takes a second look—at the message and the man.

Noelle always knew she was adopted—and she’s always loved the foreman on her father’s Texas ranch too. But he’s so distant. . .perhaps a trip to Georgia is the break in life she needs.

Will the sisters receive a traditional Christmas gift. . .of love?

Readers, buy your copy of today!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

Waiting, patience, prayer...and receiving my first contract!

I have been writing for over nine years and joined ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) 8 years ago. My writing has steadily improved since then, but the elusive first contract had remained out of reach until Friday evening, September 17, 2010.

God has taught me many things over the past nine years, the main things being patience and learning to wait. When I awoke that morning and read my chapter in Jeremiah, there was a devotion by Catherine Marshall on the facing page, so I read it, too.

It was entitled "Waiting" and here are a few snippets from it that spoke to me: "Waiting...is God's oft-repeated way of teaching us that His power is real and that He can answer our prayers without interference and manipulation from us."

She then goes on to give the example of a child who brings a broken toy to their father but gets impatient and snatches it back still in the broken state, then reminds us that if we leave the "toy" in His hands, "not only do we eventually get it back gloriously restored, but are also handed a surprising plus. We find for ourselves what the saints and mystics affirm, that during the dark waiting period when self-effort had ceased, a spurt of astonishing spiritual growth took place in us.

Afterwards we have qualities like more patience, more love for the Lord and those around us, more ability to hear His voice, greater willingness to obey." Those qualities are ones I still desire more of, even if it means I have to wait again.

Now for the rest of the story as Paul Harvey used to say. I told my roommate , Jennifer Johnson, about my devotion, then we attended a class, ate lunch, shopped at the mall, and went to the opening worship session at 3:30. The worship leader Rachel Hauck, chose the song "While I'm Waiting" by John Waller for us to sing at most of our sessions:



Are you getting the message with me? Wait with patience! And keep serving and worshipping while you are waiting!

Next our president, Cynthia Ruchti, read from Colossians chapter three and verse 12 was very familiar since it is posted on my bedroom mirror: "Therefore as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." That last word jumped out at me and I leaned over to Jennifer and told her God was still telling me to wait and learn patience.

Then Becky Germany, editor at Barbour Publishing, took the stage and said she was ready to announce the 2 new authors who would receive their "first contract", something Barbour has done at each conference. When she announced the name of the first story as Nick's Christmas Carol, it sounded vaguely familiar but I still didn't realize it was a story I had written until she said my name!

Then I went up on stage in front of over 600 people, amid cheers and shouts, and was handed an envelope with my name on it and a letter offering me a contract for my first fiction story! Jennifer, who had known about the contract but kept silent for months even though we rode to conference together, took my picture but the flash didn't work so she motioned for me to go back up on the stage and she took it again.

Of course, I couldn't wait to call my husband and children and a couple friends, but the story doesn't end there. I got to attend the Barbour Banquet at PF Chang's that evening and kept receiving hugs and congratulations all weekend, but the best part was when one of my dear friends and prayer-partners, Connie Stevens who had received her first contract in 2009, told me that God had impressed on her heart to pray for the ones who would receive their first contract the following year.

So, she prayed that prayer that whole year and didn't know she was praying for me (and Donna Rich)! And something I learned from Connie’s post on Erica’s blog (June 22, 2011) is that the same song that God used to speak to her at the 2009 conference is the same one referenced above that He used to teach me.

Later that evening, I told Donna about the prayer cycle Connie began, and we both agreed to continue it by praying for the persons who will receive their first contract in 2011. Kind of paying it forward by praying the prayer that was prayed for us. So, the cycle continues, and I will continue praying for the ones who will receive their first contract at the ACFW conference this year. Until then, let's all keep waiting patiently and praying and worshiping the One who deserves all our praise.

* * * * *

Thank you, Rose, for sharing with us today.

Guest Question: What Scripture or song encourages you to keep waiting and persevering in your writing, or in any endeavor you're pursuing?

ENTRY RULES Readers, IF there is a book giveaway, leave your email address (name at domainname dot com/net) along with your answer to the question for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of the book above. If you do not answer the question, and your email address isn't provided, you will not be entered.

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

Welcome Kay Marshall Strom and The Faith of Ashish

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

KAY MARSHALL STROM recently finished her 40th book. She has also written numerous magazine articles, stories for children, and two prize-winning screenplays. She is in demand as a speaker throughout the country. More and more, her writing and speaking take her to other countries. Kay and her husband, Dan, live in the Pacific Northwest.

THE FAITH OF ASHISH
by Kay Marshall Strom
Published by Abingdon Press

ABOUT THE BOOK

Virat and Latha named their son Ashish—Blessing—for he was the light and glory of their world. Yet a simple drink of water changes all their lives forever. For Virat, Latha, and Ashish are Untouchables, outcastes who must never contaminate the world of the other, higher, castes.

When Ashish mistakenly drinks from the public cup beside the wrong well, he is badly beaten. Knowing that his son needs a doctor, which takes money, Virat ventures into the dangerous and forbidden realm of the high caste. He begs Mammen Varghese the wealthy landowner—member of a Christian family—for a loan. He receives the money, along with a life of slavery for himself and his family.

But Mammen Varghese does not understand the strength of a father’s love, the faith of a child, or the power of a young British nurse who cannot forget a boy named Blessing.

Readers, buy your copy of today!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

In Search of An Idea

"Forty books? Really? Where do you get all your ideas?"

I hear that question all the time. If people only knew! Would that I could live long enough to write on all the ideas in my bulging idea file.

Nope, those ideas are not all new and original with me. I mean, does a subject exist under the sun that has not been covered and covered and covered again? It is the job of a writer to take that already-used-and-reused idea and imbue it with new insights, perceptive interpretations, and a fresh approach. The more you read, the more you will see how other authors’ accomplish this.

The place to start is with your own Idea File. Here are six steps to getting one started:

1. Make a list of five things you know well enough to teach. Prepare to be surprised at how much expertise you already have. (Yes, of course it is all right to put more than five into your file!)
2. Look at what you consider irresistible reading. Those articles, stories, and books you cannot put down are great jumping off places for your own brainstorming of ideas. If you love the subject, it will show in your writing.
3. Make use of the newspapers and magazines you read. In those pages, you will be amazed by the emotion or absurdity or hilarity of true stories. You will meet the most wonderful prototypes for your characters. (Truth really is stranger than fiction!) How many times have you read something and said, "That reminds me of ... (whatever)!" When that happens, cut out the piece and jot your reaction down in the margin, then stick the piece and your notes in your idea file.
4. Stash notepads in strategic places. Great ideas strike at the most unexpected moments... and they have a nasty way of flying away before you can locate a pen and paper. So have notepads and pens ready and waiting beside your television, radio, and computer. Also in the glove box of your car and on the table beside your bed. And anywhere else ideas tend to pop into your head.
5. Disagree with something you read? That's a good thing! When you strongly disagree, consider your reaction a good topic for your own writing. If you reacted that way, you probably aren't the only one.
6. Write from your own experience. What happened to you? Who did you encounter? What roads have you traveled? All these are grist for your writing mill. This is exactly how The Faith of Ashish, book 1 of the Blessings in India trilogy, started. I was in Ireland on behalf of the movie Amazing Grace when I met Sam Paul, a man from India who was also on the team. Both of us were speaking about the problem of slavery in the world today. Sam Paul said to me, “Why don’t you write about the plight of the Dalits—Untouchables—in India? So many are enslaved as bonded Laborers.” He was right. I wrote the books.

Ideas? You will find them. Or should I say, they will find you?

Write on!

"I write what I would like to read—what I think other women would like to read. If what I write makes a woman in the Canadian mountains cry, she writes and tells me about it, especially if she says, 'I read it to Tom when he came in from work and he cried too.' Then I feel I have succeeded."

Kathleen Norris--on publication of her 78th book

* * * * *

Thank you, Kay, for sharing with us today.

Guest Question: On what areas of expertise could YOU teach? Have you ever written anything about them? If so, what?

ENTRY RULES Readers, leave your email address (name at domainname dot com/net) along with your answer to the question for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of the book above. If you do not answer the question, and your email address isn't provided, you will not be entered.

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

Monday Mishaps with Mom - Food Painting

This week is for those kids who discover playing with their food is far more fun than eating it.

Sure, my daughter has played with her food since she first started eating solids. But, initially, it was exploratory and for the most part, innocent. Sadly, neither I nor she can say that anymore. What's worse is she knows it, and she looks right at me, then does it anyway...sporting a rather large and mischievous smile on her face.

The little imp.

And it's not just the rather harmless items like macaroni and cheese, or squishing green beans. Oh no. For her, it's applesauce, mashed potatoes, spaghetti, pudding, etc. Anything she can squeeze between her little fingers, or use as paint for her arms and legs, she'll do it.

Unfortunately, because I also have to feed an infant, we don't always have our meals together. There are times when I need to be on the couch with my son while my daughter is at the table. Or, I have to be on the phone with a client, or even at my computer working on a deadline. Those times are the worst. I can still see my daughter from my desk, but she knows she doesn't have my undivided attention.

That's when she strikes!

So far, the food has made it everywhere EXCEPT her face or her mouth...at least when she's playing. When she's eating, she does great. And she hasn't yet discovered the "fun" in painting her brother yet. I'm sure it's only a matter of time. Making mental note to keep those two at opposite ends of the table.

Now, if only I could focus her attention long enough to eat then get down, we'd be in good shape. All I can say is...praise God for plastic drop cloths!

Sadly, I don't have a picture this week, as I was too busy cleaning up and bathing above-mentioned toddler to grab my camera and snap a pic. We'll see what next week brings.

How about you? What foods did your child(ren) explore or love to use as paint? And what's your favorite "playing with food" experience. Please share. I'd love to hear about it.

Tune in next week for the next "Monday Mishap with Mom." See you then!

And you can always look at the labels at the bottom of the right column to find "monday mishaps with mom" and read up on any week you've missed. My goal is to encourage mothers who feel a bit frazzled, and to help brighten your day as you start off your week. You're not alone.

Welcome Gail Gaymer Martin and A Family of Their Own

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

GAIL GAYMER MARTIN is a multi-award-winning novelist who writes Christian fiction for Love Inspired and Barbour Publishing, where she was honored by Heartsong readers as their Favorite Author of 2008. Gail has forty-eight contracted novels with over three million books in print. She is the author of Writers Digest’s Writing the Christian Romance. Gail is a co-founder of American Christian Fiction Writers and a keynote speaker at churches, libraries and civic organizations and presents workshops at conference across the US. She was recently named one of the four best novelists in the Detroit area by CBS local news. Gail has a Masters degree from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan and was an educator and licensed counselor for many years. She was also an adjunct instructor at Davenport University for five years. She lives with her husband in a northwest Detroit suburb.

A FAMILY OF THEIR OWN
by Gail Gaymer Martin
Published by Love Inspired

ABOUT THE BOOK

Four Makes a Family

With her daughter's health back on track, Kelsey Rhodes counts her blessings. But life is still not easy for the sweet single mom. She craves compansionship, yet finds it difficult to trust anyone. Ross Salburg seems like the perfect match for her. The handsome single dad also struggles to keep his daughter healthy. Can Kelsey convince Ross to take a leap of faith and meld their two families into one?

I'd be happy to give away one of the novels if you have a method of selecting the person. Just send me the address and info when it's over and I'll sign it and get it in the mail.

Readers, buy your copy of A Family of Their Own (Love Inspired) today!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

A Writer’s Life

Had I known how much my life would change as a writer, I know I would do it again, but the reality of what it meant to be an author came as a surprise. People who aren’t writers probably think, as I did, that I would write a book, an editor would love it and soon it would be in print. That statement is a speed of light comment rather than reality. Yes, I wrote a book. I wrote several books that were continually rejected, but as I learned I reworked some, studied the craft, networked with other writers, and started writing a new one. One day to my joy, I received a “we want to publish your book” email.

That was the day I learned about the process which consists of revisions, line edits, copy edits, galley proofs, cover art fact sheets, all elements of publishing that involved work for me. After waiting, it seemed forever, I saw my first novel. I cried with excitement. Gaining another publisher for my fiction, I learned about balancing book deadlines, as well as all the edits and revisions that came into play. Then as my fan base grew, I learned about book signings, answering reader mail, promoting my upcoming releases, getting involved with social networks: FaceBook, Twitter, Shoutlife, Linked In, Shelfari, and more. Soon I realized how that cut into my writing time, but I loved the contact with readers so I accepted it as part of writing.

Next I had to deal with my mind. Everything I did, every piece of interesting conversation I heard, every newspaper article, every experience in my life, every experience told to me by my family and friends became fodder for a novel. These tidbits of stories fill my head. I found little “niches” where I tuck the information along with more space for blossoming stories. Now when my husband asks me if I’ll ever retire from writing, I explain I don’t think I can. With all those stories growing in my head, all the ideas tucked into my brain, what would happen without a release. . .without getting them on paper? I figure my head would blow up. So I’ll continue to write until “the end” comes to me just as it does my novels.

Is it worth it? Absolutely. God is awesome. He gave me this career late in life. He’s touched my stories with his grace. He’s allowed my novels to win contests, to garner many fans, and to multiply. Today I have forty-eight published or scheduled to be published novels, and I’m working on new ideas. My head is still filled with stories that haven’t been sold so I will keep looking for an editor who will love them. Today I have over three million books in print which means for every one book out there a multitude of people have read it and been touched by the story in some way. Christian novels both entertain and serve as a reminder to people from where their help comes. The stories reveal God’s love, mercy, forgiveness, grace and salvation through Jesus. What more could a reader ask for, and what more could an author desire?

* * * * *

Thank you, Gail, for sharing with us today.

Guest Question: Did I mention something about writing that you hadn't known before? If you're a writer, what is your greatest joy in being one? What is mine?

ENTRY RULES Readers, leave your email address (name at domainname dot com/net) along with your answer to the question(s) for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of the book above. If you do not answer the question, and your email address isn't provided, you will not be entered.

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

Thomas Nelson $10,000 contest + free e-book!

From Thomas Nelson:

One of the highlights of our days in the Fiction department at Thomas Nelson? Receiving reader letters—either directly addressed to us or passed along from our talented authors. It’s critical to be reminded that at the end of our long days acquiring, editing, designing, selling, marketing, and publicizing books, those stories are reaching readers, striking nerves, changing lives. We want readers’ feedback. How stories have given you hope. Which authors’ series you can’t help from sharing with everyone you meet. We want to know what makes you stay up late in the night to finish a story, and conversely what turns you away.

We’re conducting a series of surveys—seeking answers from readers who love Christian fiction. Up for grabs is a free e-book for every respondent who completes the survery, as well as a $10,000 prize for one entrant. The responses we gather will help shape the future of the books we publish for years to come. As well as the data we’re collecting here, we’ll also seek more in-depth feedback from a panel we’ll develop over the next year. More details to come. The note below from one of authors gives a specific picture of how reader feedback shapes her work. In short, your opinion matters! We thank you for your time and appreciate your responding.

--Thomas Nelson Fiction


Dear Friends--

Your opinion matters. It really does. I love hearing from readers about what worked for them in a story and about what doesn’t work. Reader feedback changed the balance between romance and suspense in my novels. After the Rock Harbor trilogy, I wanted to write more suspense in my novels because that’s what I personally like. But readers really wanted more relationship and romance in the books so I moved back that direction to about the same mix of 50/50 that the Rock Harbor novels contained. I write for you even more than for myself.

I had no intention of setting a whole series of books at Bluebird, Texas. It was going to be only one book, but readers sent me requests in droves for more books. The fourth book in the Lonestar series, Lonestar Angel, will be out in October. The Rock Harbor novels were going to be complete at three. There are now five and I’m thinking about another one! All due to reader demand.

I’ve often asked for reader input on names and locations too. When I was struggling for a name for my hero in The Lightkeeper’s Ball, I turned to my readers. Harrison really fit my character, and my readers told me. Love that! When I was trying to decide on a location for the new Hope Beach series I’ve started, I asked readers. Their overwhelming response was for a series set in the Outer Banks so guess what I’m writing?!

That’s why we’re coming to you for answers. We want to give you what you really want! Don’t be afraid to let us know what you really think. We value your honesty and the time it will take to share with us. Looking forward to hearing what you have to say!

Your friend,
Colleen Coble

Welcome Bonnie Leon and Wings of Promise

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

BONNIE LEON is the author of eighteen novels, including the popular Touching the Clouds, Wings of Promise, the Sydney Cove series and the bestselling Journey of Eleven Moons. She also stays busy speaking for women’s groups and teaching at writing seminars and conventions. Bonnie and her husband, Greg, live in Southern Oregon. They have three grown children and five grandchildren.

WINGS OF PROMISE
by Bonnie Leon
Published by Revell

ABOUT THE BOOK

Wings of Promise is book two in the Alaskan Skies series and is the continuing story of Kate Evans who, in 1935, chose a career over marriage and moved to Alaska. The question of whether to be a pilot or a wife continues to plague her. She will have to make a decision one day.

Kate is also haunted by the death of her best friend, Alison. The two had been flying when the plane went down and Alison was killed. Kate carries a heavy weight of guilt, which is one of the reasons she chose Alaska and a career as a bush pilot. She needs to prove that she’s a skilled and dedicated pilot who isn’t afraid. She believes that running to Alaska is a way to rid herself of guilt. She doesn’t yet understand that guilt isn’t something that can be left behind.

In book one, Touching the Clouds, Kate met Paul Anderson, a doctor who is also using Alaska as a place of escape. She tried not to love him, but the quiet serious man snagged her heart and now, the two of them work together to help the people in the Alaska bush.

Readers, buy your copy of Wings of Promise: A Novel (Alaskan Skies) today!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

Don’t Quit

I love a good movie, especially when it's based on a true story. And so a few nights ago when my husband and I settled down to watch the movie Secretariat I was looking forward to a good time. However, God never wastes anything and He had more than just fun in store for me.

From the moment Penny Chenery inherited the family stables she had a fight on her hands. It was her grit, belief in her father's dream, her refusal to give up and faith in a spritely colt that she called Big Red that launched a horse to greatness.

The movie was rife with treasures, but one scene stood out above the others. It is the night before the Premont Stakes. The Triple Crown is within reach. Penny Chenery goes to the stables to see Secretariat. She tells the big red horse, "I realized something. I've already won. I made it here. I didn't quit. I've run my race. Now you run yours."

Those words went straight to my heart. I want to be able to say that I've won--that I didn't quit and that I ran my race.

Life isn't easy for any of us. Illness, circumstances, people who don't believe in us or our dreams, fears and roadblocks placed in our way by the enemy try to keep us from greatness, from the calling placed upon our lives by God. I can't count the number of times I've wanted to give up. It would be so much easier to simply ignore the challenges placed in front of me and to curl up somewhere and hide from the world. And then I hear . . .

Don't Quit! Believe in The One who has called you.

God has a plan for our lives, but know this--nothing of value comes easy. We need what Secretariat had--heart. And we need what Penny Chenery had, faith and stamina for the race we've been called to run. The apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 9:24 "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize."

Don't quit. Run to win.

* * * * *

Thank you, Bonnie, for sharing with us today.

Guest Question: When I first set out to write, everything fell into place quickly and fairly easily. It's been the years since my first release that have challenged my commitment. And remembering who called me and why sometimes fades.

What is your story? Has it been a difficult road or surprisingly easy? And when you wanted to give up, what has helped you hang on to God’s calling in your life?

ENTRY RULES Readers, leave your email address (name at domainname dot com/net) along with your answer to the question for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of the book above. If you do not answer the question, and your email address isn't provided, you will not be entered.

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

Welcome Kelly Long and Lilly's Wedding Quilt

Please interact with our guest authors by answering the question they provide. Your response will also enter you in the drawing for a free book.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

KELLY LONG is the bestselling author of Sarah’s Garden and Lilly’s Wedding Quilt. She has also written novellas with Beth Wiseman and Kathy Fuller, including An Amish Love. Kelly is a former English and Latin teacher and lives near Hershey, Pa with her husband and children. You can connect with Kelly on Facebook at Fans of Kelly Long or on the blogs Amish Hearts.com or Amish Living.com.

LILLY'S WEDDING QUILT
by Kelly Long
Published by Thomas Nelson

ABOUT THE BOOK

Local Amish schoolteacher Lilly Lapp is tired of weddings, afraid of horses, and immersed in caring for her depressed mother. But when Jacob Wyse, a handsome horse breeder from her small community rescues her from a dangerous accident, Lilly discovers a renewed interest in life and the possibility of love.

Yet Jacob has lost the one true love of his life to another man and doesn't care to expose himself to the vulnerabilities of loving again. God works to bring this unlikely pair into a sweet romance to produce a pattern of faith, which leads to the creation and comfort of Lilly's Wedding Quilt.

Readers, buy your copy of Lilly's Wedding Quilt (A Patch of Heaven Novel) today!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

Loneliness in Fiction Writing

What did I know about becoming a fiction writer when I slowly waded in? Needed a good agent? Yep. Needed a good publishing house? Sure. Needed to be willing to market, meet deadlines, do book signings, travel…? All good. Got it down. Needed to face the unremitting cold of the vast icy paper and the brain frozen fingers? You betcha.

I seemed to have had it figured out…UNTIL….I realized that nothing could have prepared me for the abject loneliness, the God and me aloneness of the process of writing for others to read.

You might say…suck it up; you get to work in your pajamas. Well, I missed getting dressed for work. I missed my students; the interaction between coworkers….other brains in the room besides my own wacky writer one.

So, I prayed more.

Got dressed. Put on makeup (okay..only a little). Started to talk to myself…I realized that I needed CONNECTION to survive. So, I bugged my Editor (truly blessed lady); made friends with my agent (easy to do…great personality)….Made best friends with other writers….

But I needed more.

So, I joined ACFW. Okay. I didn’t know what to do with it once I joined, but I finally got going and discovered felt like this too. And, I learned a lot from my other loop, The Writer’s View. I learned loneliness is not fictional, readers are not fictionalized (they care), and the life I am living for Christ now is not lonely fiction but an opportunity to reach millions…

I just have to be willing to take the first step with Him…Alone.

Peace,

Kelly Long

* * * * *

Thank you, Kelly, for sharing with us today.

Guest Question: What lessons have you learned as a writer? And if you're not a writer, what life lessons have you learned recently? How has God challenged you to grow in the life you're living?

ENTRY RULES Readers, leave your email address (name at domainname dot com/net) along with your answer to the question for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of the book above. If you do not answer the question, and your email address isn't provided, you will not be entered.

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

Monday Mishaps with Mom - Refrigerator Curiosity

Ok, here we are at week 6 with this new series. This week is in honor of those toddlers who discover they can open the refrigerator all by themselves.

My daughter discovered this last week, and now it's her favorite thing in the world to be a "big girl" and open the door. Of course, she then stands in front of it and stares, like the contents within are an amazing work of art of some jaw-dropping collection rendering her speechless.

But when she's not in awe, she dives right in and gets what she wants. I am thankful most of the contents are on shelves out of her reach--for now. But she can still get to the door shelves and the 3 drawers at the bottom. That's our meat, cheeses, produce, and all our drinks.

And after she decided to make herself a ham, turkey, shredded cheese, cucumber slices, and sausage "sandwich", we put a child-safety lock on the doors. We'll slowly ease her back into responsibility when it comes to the refrigerator, but for now, she's on lock-down without an adult present.

How about you? Did your children ever venture into the refrigerator and decide they wanted to "prepare" something for you or themselves? Please share. I'd love to hear about it.

Tune in next week for the next "Monday Mishap with Mom." See you then!

And you can always look at the labels at the bottom of the right column to find "monday mishaps with mom" and read up on any week you've missed. My goal is to encourage mothers who feel a bit frazzled, and to help brighten your day as you start off your week. You're not alone.

Thomas Nelson $10,000 contest + free e-book!

From Thomas Nelson:

One of the highlights of our days in the Fiction department at Thomas Nelson? Receiving reader letters—either directly addressed to us or passed along from our talented authors. It’s critical to be reminded that at the end of our long days acquiring, editing, designing, selling, marketing, and publicizing books, those stories are reaching readers, striking nerves, changing lives. We want readers’ feedback. How stories have given you hope. Which authors’ series you can’t help from sharing with everyone you meet. We want to know what makes you stay up late in the night to finish a story, and conversely what turns you away.

e’re conducting a series of surveys—seeking answers from readers who love Christian fiction. Up for grabs is a free ebook for every respondent who completes the survery, as well as a $10,000 prize for one entrant. The responses we gather will help shape the future of the books we publish for years to come. As well as the data we’re collecting here, we’ll also seek more in-depth feedback from a panel we’ll develop over the next year. More details to come. The note below from one of authors gives a specific picture of how reader feedback shapes her work. In short, your opinion matters! We thank you for your time and appreciate your responding.

--Thomas Nelson Fiction

Dear Friends—

Publishing books is a team effort, and there are a lot of players—authors, editors, cover designers, marketing staff, and a host of other behind-the-scene folks who help get the books on the shelves. And readers are also a large part of the process. Your input matters, probably more than you know.

When I hear from readers, I really listen to what they want. This is particularly true with my series books. For example, Seek Me With All Your Heart (book #1 in the Land of Canaan series) wraps up nicely at the end, but one of my minor characters (Katie Ann) was left pregnant after her husband left her. I received lots of emails about Katie Ann from readers, so book #2 in the series—The Wonder of Your Love—is Katie Ann’s story.

With the popularity of social media resources such as Facebook, it has allowed me to keep in close contact with readers and to seek opinions and advice. Several times, the publisher and I couldn’t decide on a cover, so we posted the cover options on Facebook and let readers decide. And if you’re posting anywhere on my Facebook Fans Page, your name could end up in a book. I often scan the names there, so you are unknowingly helping me just by being on the site.

Readers also made it clear that they wanted books in digital format, large print, and audio versions. Authors and publishers listened, and most (if not all) of my books are available in multiple formats.

As an author, I hope to write entertaining stories that will be enjoyed for many years. As a reader, I have favorite authors, and I’m not afraid to let them know what I want in future books. We listen to the likes and the dislikes in our effort to bring you the best stories we can, so don’t be shy. Tell us what you think!

Warmly,
Beth Wiseman

Welcome Donna Patton and The Gift of Summer Snow

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

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

DONNA ALICE PATTON is a freelance writer who lives in rural Ohio. In her writing journey, she has written just about everything including game clues, recipes and household hints!

As an avid contest participant, she won the Genesis (2nd place in the mystery/suspense/thriller category) for a WIP Wrestling Demons and an Honorable Mention in the W.I.N. Smartwriter’s Contest for The Cattle Rustling Catastrophe. Donna is the author of two books for children. The Search for the Madonna (Behold Publications) a depression era mystery for mid-grade readers. The Gift of Summer Snow (Philothea Press) is the first in a series of garden inspired mysteries also for mid-grade readers. Her work has also appeared in many Gryphon House publications such as Learn Everyday about Seasons and The Giant Encyclopedia of Lesson Plans. Her hobbies include reading, gardening, sewing and trying to get organized!

THE GIFT OF SUMMER SNOW
by Donna Alice Patton
Published by Philothea Press

ABOUT THE BOOK

Becky McGuffey is an ordinary eleven-year-old who likes to grow flowers and enter them at the county fair. She especially loves roses because they're beautiful and because they remind her of her favorite saint - St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, also known as the Little Flower. Becky is getting her flowers ready for the all-important junior garden show which is just a few weeks away. She's got her heart set on winning the grand prize so she can buy her grandmother a special gift. Everything's coming up roses until Becky discovers that someone has been snipping her prize-winning rose, Summer Snow. She sets out to catch the culprit and save her flowers but she literally doesn't have a clue where to begin. After taking crime-solving lessons from her family and a couple of helpful neighbors, she's soon on the trail of a likely suspect. But when she confronts the alleged rosenapper she sets off a string of unexpected events that teach her about competition and charity, pride and humility, suspicion and trust and what it means to imitate a saint.

Readers, buy your copy of The Gift of Summer Snow: A Tale from the Garden of Mysteries today!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

Writing Outside the Covers

Okay, that’s probably not the best title for this piece. But, you’ll understand in a second. When you think about being a writer – a real writer – where do you imagine seeing your name in print? Isn’t it almost always on the cover of a book? A real book –paper or hardback? If you’re honest about it, it’s the dream most of us have before we’re published and even after we’re published. Don’t we all see our books lining a shelf in the library or the bookstore? Admit it. It’s the Great American Dream of the writing world.

You’ve probably heard the saying “think outside the box.” Well, how about “writing outside the covers?” You’ll have to relinquish the belief that the only real writing worthy of calling yourself a writer is between the covers of a book. But, you might find opportunities you never dreamed possible. If you focus on “writing outside the covers”, God might lead you in unexpected paths you’ve never imagined. Even to a book contract or two.

For years I wrote – dreaming – hoping – praying to see my words immortalized between the covers of a book. A book was solid proof that I had arrived. I was a real writer at last. But, when my first book, The Search for the Madonna was published in 2010, I realized something profound. (For me anyway!) Looking back at my writing journey for the previous ten years, I made a discovery. I didn’t need a printed book to validate my becoming a real writer. While finally having a book in print at last (burst of the Hallelujah Chorus here) was fantastic, it only proved that I’d taken another step up the writing ladder.

Throughout the years as I worked on my books, I’d also been writing outside the covers too. By the time my first and then second books were published, I was already a real writer with a well-paid job writing K-12 worksheets for an educational website. I’d also become a regular contributor to pre-school and early education workbooks, had a list of magazine and newspaper credits, and with two other ladies co-edited a monthly page for children called, Cookies and Milk. (Our page is now syndicated in four Ohio counties and recently celebrated its 50th issue.)

Many of the articles I wrote for the paper eventually ended up in online children’s magazines or as feature articles in print magazines. This summer, I’m doing a series of assigned articles for History Magazine, writing a unit study to accompany my first book and deciding if I should take on a project of writing craft books for a homeschool boy’s group! None of these exciting opportunities would have happened if I hadn’t let go of my rigid belief that only a book counted as real writing.

Have you ever thought about writing outside the covers? Writing a book takes a long time and plenty of commitment. Writing shorter pieces for a magazine or newspaper take less time. While the gratification isn’t instantaneous, being able to look forward to a nice little check once in awhile is a terrific boost for morale. Even if you only make enough to buy a new pack of printer paper or a milkshake, it’s proof that someone wants to pay you to write! Heady stuff when you’re alone all day staring at a blank computer screen. It makes slogging away at a book seem easier.

Writing outside the covers is also a great way to build up credits. Agents and publishers are more likely to look at your book manuscript if you can show that you’ve been published before – even if it’s just in the hometown paper. You can also build up credibility as a writer in your chosen field. Let’s say you’re writing a book set in Regency England. It might help the publisher to know that you’ve also written a dozen articles for a historical publication or drafted a curriculum used to teach middle school children more about that era.

Today I’d like to challenge everyone to try “writing outside the covers.” The possibilities are endless and you might be surprised at what God has in store for you!

* * * * *

Thank you, Donna, for sharing with us today.

Guest Question: Have you ever thought about writing outside the covers? What would you do to make that happen? If you're currently writing outside the covers, what are you doing?

ENTRY RULES Readers, leave your email address (name at domainname dot com/net) along with your answer to the question for your chance to win a FREE mug with a rooster on it filled with strawberry candies. If you do not answer the question, and your email address isn't provided, you will not be entered.

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

August 2011 - New Releases

These late summer releases promise some good reading from ACFW authors. Check out the list. There's bound to be something to meet your taste in reading.

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW FictionFinder website.

A Horseman’s Heart by Myra Johnson -- Romance from Barbour/Heartsong. When Kip Lorimer shows up with a horse to donate to the family's equine therapy program, Sheridan Cross can't help but be suspicious. A cowboy a thousand miles from home and living out of a horse trailer? What's wrong with this picture?

A Most Unsuitable Match by Stephanie Whitson -- A Historical from Bethany House. They are opposites in every way. . . except how neither one can stop thinking about the other.

Agent Undercover by Lynette Eason -- Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired. A little boy with a secret, a killer with a vendetta, and a man and a woman who will stop at nothing to protect the child while catching the killer.

Aquasynthesis by Grace Bridges, Fred Warren, Caprice Hokstad, P.A. Baines, Adam Graham, R.L. Copple, Travis Perry, Mike Lynch, Keven Newsome, Kat Heckenbach, and Ryan Grabow. -- Fantasy from Splashdown Books. From classic-style fantasy and science fiction stories, through speculative tales that delve deeper into motivations and meanings, we move from humor to sacrifice by a linking story that connects many very different themes.

Blue Skies Tomorrow by Sarah Sundin -- General Fiction Historical from Revell. In a time of peril, can they find the courage to confront their fears and embrace a love that lasts?

Edge of Grace by Christa Allan -- General Fiction from Abingdon. Unable to cope with her brother’s news that he is gay, Caryn Becker rejects him. But when he is attacked and nearly killed, she is forced to make hard choices that take her to the very edge of grace.

Lost in Dreams, Book Two; Altered Heart Series by Roger Bruner and Kristi Rae Bruner -- Young Adult from Barbour. Eighteen-year-old Kim Hartlinger discovers the victory Jesus provides during the most trying of circumstances as she learns to lean on other Christians.

Marrying Miss Marshall by Lacy Williams -- Romance from Bethany House. Her job is to protect the town... but who will protect her heart?

Out of Control by Mary Connealy -- Romance from Bethany House. Rafe Kincaid controls everything in his life . . . until he meets Julia.

Ransome’s Quest by Kaye Dacus -- Historical Romance from Harvest House. Romance, intrigue, and swashbuckling leaps of faith create a wonderfully heroic close to this beloved series.

Something Old by Dianne Christner -- Romance from Barbour. Love is rarely plain and simple.

Surrender the Dawn by Mary Lu Tyndall -- A Historical from Barbour. You’ll be swept away in this seafaring romance between a plucky damsel-in-distress and a nefarious rake who’s selling out his country amid the War of 1812.

The Matrimony Plan by Christine Johnson -- Historical Romance from Love Inspired. A rich girl falls in love with a poor boy -- until the tables are turned.

Happy Reading!

Monday Mishaps with Mom

Ok, here we are at week 5 with this new series. You can always look at the labels at the bottom of the right column to find "monday mishaps with mom" and read up on any week you've missed. My goal is to encourage mothers who feel a bit frazzled, and to help brighten your day as you start off your week. You're not alone.

This week is for all those who have ever tried to train their children to NOT make a mess in the bathroom. I know, I know. Lost cause, right?

Well, as is normal with a toddler, you can't take your eyes off them for a second. And if they're quiet, you know they're into something they shouldn't be doing.

I had just cleaned up some spilled cereal on the floor and was in the kitchen cleaning up after dinner. My husband was on his computer and our son was happily sitting on the couch, cooing and taking in his surroundings. Everything seemed so peaceful and quiet. I enjoyed the break.

But, then I finished and came out into the living room. Someone was missing. "Where's Tori?" I asked my husband. He swiveled around from his desk and shrugged. "She was just here a minute ago."

That was when I heard the water running in the bathroom. Oh, no!

Thankfully, it wasn't as bad as it sounded. But it was still a mess. And the picture to the left doesn't show the mounds of toilet paper strewn across the vanity. At least she hasn't discovered the fun of flushing things down the toilet....yet.

The moment I said her name, my daughter looked up and immediately hopped up. As I came into the bathroom, she started grabbing for the toilet paper and her pull-ups, saying, "Help, help, help." She has this new penchant for wanting to help do everything, or wanting to do it all herself. And if she hears me sigh or notices me getting on my hands and knees to clean up one of her messes, she rushes in to "help."

Sometimes, though, it's just easier to get her out of the room and dump her on my husband. :)

How about you? What amusing bathroom/toilet paper stories do you have involving your kid(s)?

Tune in next week for the next "Monday Mishap with Mom." See you then!