Welcome Vickie McDonough and Long Trail Home

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

VICKIE MCDONOUGH is an award-winning author of 25 books and novellas. Her books have won the Inspirational Reader's Choice Contest, Texas Gold, the ACFW Noble Theme contest, and she has been a multi-year finalist in ACFW’s BOTY/Carol Awards. Vickie is the author of the fun and feisty Texas Boardinghouse Brides series from Barbour Publishing. Watch for her new books from Moody Publishers, Texas Trails: A Morgan Family series, in which she partners with Susan Page Davis and Darlene Franklin to write a 6-book series that spans 50 years of the Morgan family. The first three books release this fall. Also, next year brings the release of another new series from Guidepost/Summerside, Pioneer Promises, set in 1870s Kansas.

You can find out more about Vickie and her books at www.vickiemcdonough.com.

LONG TRAIL HOME
by Vickie McDonough
Published by Moody Publishers

ABOUT THE BOOK

A weary soldier returns from the War Between the States to discover his parents dead, his family farm in shambles, and his fiancée married. Riley Morgan takes a job at the Wilcox School for Blind Children and tries to make peace with God and himself. When a pretty, blind woman who cares for the children reaches through his scarred walls and touches his heart, he begins to find renewed faith and hope for the future. But when he discovers Annie feigned her blindness just to have a home, will his anger and hurt drive him away and ruin all chances for a future filled with love, faith, and family?

Readers, buy your copy of LONG TRAIL HOME today!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

Critique Groups – Life or Death to a Writer

I can say without a doubt that I’m published today because of the help I’ve received from my critique group partners. They’ve encouraged me when I wanted to give up on writing. They taught me to show, not tell. I learned point of view from them, and they’ve become my friends. Most of my experience with critique groups has been positive, but that hasn’t always been the case.

I nearly quit writing because of the harsh comments I received in my first critique group, when I was a brand new writer and green as a pickle. The critiques from one member made my manuscript pages look like bloody road kill. I cried many tears over her harsh comments on my many mistakes and lost confidence in my ability to write. Looking back, she was probably right in her assessment, but at the time, I wasn’t ready for such in-depth critiques.

As a more experienced writer now, I crave those detailed assessments. Tell me what’s not working in my story. Did a section leave you scratching your head in confusion? Does the dialogue of the children in my story sound like real children or is it too mature? Is my bad boy hero too unlikable? I want to know what works and what doesn’t.

You may not be at the stage where you want such detailed critiques. Maybe you only want help with grammar issues, or maybe you want help with your dialogue or someone to help you brainstorm a new story. The important thing is to find a critique group that fits your needs.

So, how do you find one? Most online and local writers’ clubs have critique groups you can join. I also did a Google search and discovered there were eighty-two pages of critique group listings! Wow! There are ones for any genre: non-fiction, short stories, all types of fiction, and even children’s books.

There are critique groups that submit weekly, others twice a month, and some monthly. Some groups submit a chapter at a time, while others have a page limit. Some groups are a mixture of writers of different genres, while others are genre-specific.

So why do you need a critique group? Besides the fact that you are networking with other writers, you will learn a lot, especially if you’re a newer writer. Often the more experienced writer just needs another set of eyes to look at her story before it’s shipped off to an editor. A critique group is also a good place to ask questions and to brainstorm.

Some of the key things you want critiquers to look for in your manuscript are:

• Spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors – Be sure to submit your best work, not your rough draft. Critiquers will tire out quickly if you use them as a spellchecker.
• Continuity issues – Does your heroine have green eyes in the beginning of the story and blue eyes at the end? Did you accidentally change your hero’s name? Does your widow heroine have two children at the beginning of the book and one at the end?
• Overused words – just, really, that, etc.
• Point of view problems
• Author intrusion
• Too many –ly words instead of strong verbs
• Telling instead of showing
• Too many dialogue tags – he replied, she murmured
• Inconsistencies in storyline or character’s behavior
• Clichés
• Stereotyped characters

Of course there are plenty other things to watch for, but these are the main issues. The most important thing to do is to point out the positive along with all that needs fixing. I like to put happy faces or LOL at places that make me smile or somewhere that the writing is especially nice, but remember, it’s called a critique group for a reason. It’s not to make you feel all warm and fuzzy, but rather to give you beneficial advice on how to improve your story.

You’re sure to find the right critique group if you get out there and hunt for it. You might kiss a few frogs before finding a group that’s a good fit, but it’s well worth the time and effort. You’re writing will improve greatly under the tutelage of a few good critiquers.

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Thank you, Vickie, for sharing with us today.

Guest Question: Have you ever been a part of a critique group? More than one? Were they helpful or not? Why? If you're not a writer, have you ever been part of a group supposed to help you in some way toward a specific goal? Was it successful? How so?

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 your choice of ANY book on Vickie's web site. If you do not answer the question, and your email address isn't provided, you will not be entered.

The contest is open to US/Canada residents only.

Welcome Eddie Snipes and I Called Him Dancer

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

EDDIE SNIPES balances writing between a full-time job, five children, and participating in professional organizations. In 2011, he began serving as the President of the Christian Authors Guild. He has been actively writing since 1998. Eddie contributes to OnePlace.com / Sermon Search, is a speaker, and has served as a Pastor and interim pastor. He actively participates in three writing organizations - The Christian Authors Guild, American Christian Fiction Writers, and the Atlanta Writers Club, and has won several writing awards. Eddie's favorite genres are not limited to Christian fiction - anything but sappy romance and trashy writing. He reads a little of every genre - as long as he can get it on his Kindle. Connect with Eddie on his website: www.eddiesnipes.com

EDDIE'S BOOKS

I CALLED HIM DANCER is about a boy growing up in a broken home. His fragile world is shattered when his mother leaves him with a relative and walks out of his life. After seeing a man dancing with grace and acrobatics, he decides to imitate the man and discovers a natural talent for dance. His life's passion becomes dance and eventually the young man achieves his dream of Broadway. A drug addiction and his inner demons destroy his life and he eventually becomes homeless. His previous dance partner refuses to let go and reaches out to him, but he rejects her. Bitter at God and the world, the dancer embraces a solitary life on the streets. Though he lashes out at God, the Lord has other plans for the fallen dancer.

I Called Him Dancer has a 5 star average after 26 reviews. It's available in print, but the ebook version is only .99 cents and is available here.

Simple Faith: How every person can experience intimacy with God is also available in print or as a free ebook. Download it here.

Each of us struggle with the tendency to put the weight of faith upon our own shoulders. Christianity can become a fear of failure, and then we miss the joyful journey. According to scripture, the goodness of God leads us to repentance. We follow God's ways because we see the goodness of fellowship, not from fear of punishment. Instead of feeling like God watches from behind and strikes when we drift off course, the journey becomes about intimacy. It's two friends walking the road of life, enjoying sweet fellowship, and being helped - not scolded - through difficult times. The sweetness of intimacy is how the Christian life should be lived. Misunderstanding this makes faith a difficult road. Instead of faith being our strength, it adds a burden. I hope this book helps others realize this truth.

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

Enjoy The Writer’s Journey

If you write it, they will come. It’s the ideology of most new writers. Deep down we all have this unrealistic hope. We’ve put the time, effort, and our heart into a manuscript and believe it’s something of value. The truth is that Stephen King can throw out a poorly written novel and it will be a best seller, but the unknown author can produce a masterpiece and no one notices. You can substitute King with any other big named author and the same rule applies.

The life of writing is filled with frustration and reward. Unfortunately, the reward isn’t usually in your pocketbook. I want to talk a little bit about the journey of writing and get a better view on our expectations and where we should focus our attention.

We’ve all heard it said that life’s a journey. Some people enjoy the journey, others are miserable, while others live such crowded lives that they get to the end and realized they missed the journey. As writers, we have the same tendency. The goal becomes a rush to get published and so much focus is put on landing the contract or winning over an agent that we forget to stop and look around the world of writing we live in. The truth is, we are on a life-long journey and there is much to experience along the way.

I once sat at a dinner table with an agent during a writer’s conference. It became impossible to have a real conversation because everyone looked at him as if he were an end to their means. For some, the agent was their hope. Every time he tried to make small talk, someone would say, “Let me tell you about my book,” and then would begin with their prepared elevator-pitch. One person reached across the agent’s plate of food and offered their manuscript. Later he told me that writers put a lot of pressure on him during the one-on-one meetings. He explained how it bothered him that writers often showed desperation and made him feel that all their dreams of publication rested on his shoulders. “Being the outlet of a writer’s desperation makes me reluctant to get involved,” he said.

Herein is the problem. Desperation. Why do we write? For the money? Very few authors make enough money to live on, much less enough to by a mansion next to Stephen King. If it’s fame, chock up another one in the disappointment category. How many authors can you name? Once in a while a book will come out, like the Purpose Driven Life, which launches the author into the public eye. But for every mega success, there are hundreds of thousands that are well written but remain unknown beyond the niche audience that reads it.

Christian authors will be quick to say that their goal is to glorify God. The truth is, God glorifies Himself and brings us into His work. So why the desperation and frustration? If it’s the work of God, we shouldn’t be carrying the burden of making the way. Let me share a word from the scripture. Ephesians 2:10

For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.

Writers have the calling to write. But what’s not always obvious is the call to call to a journey. If God has called you, then you are His workmanship. And the path of good works was prepared beforehand that we should walk on it. Where the path leads, I don’t know. And you don’t know. One thing we do know is that we are called to walk on the path God has already prepared. Walk. Not Run.

When we rush to the end of the path, we pass the treasures God has also prepared that we should find and enjoy. The life of good works is a journey, not a task. Whether the work is writing or another mission, we must stop and consider the journey. It’s a journey of first learning to walk in intimacy with the Lord. The Lord walks with us, but He doesn’t run after us. He’s prepared the way and calls us to walk where He’s going-not to answer our call for Him to come where we’re running.

Most of us pray something like, “Lord, I’m writing this book for you. I need it in the hands of readers, so I need interviews and a big publisher. Here’s my big plan. Bless it.” Then we’re off to make it happen. When one door shuts, we rush to the next. We become frustrated and wonder why God isn’t responding. That’s when we crawl over a table, shove a manuscript into someone’s face and say, “This is God’s work!” Is it God’s work? Maybe, but it’s been mixed with ours. The door God wants to open is somewhere behind us, or somewhere down a path we can’t see because we are following our plans.

God promises to open the door that can’t be shut. Also, if God shuts it, you can’t open it. The book contract isn’t your reward. It’s God who told Abraham, “I am your exceedingly great reward.” Is God your reward?

If God inspires your writing, trust Him to take you down the road He’s already prepared. The journey is long. Publication is only one event in the journey. Don’t allow a goal to distract you from the journey. The purpose of life isn’t getting a book into print, but walking in the works God prepared beforehand. The purpose is a journey centered on walking with Christ.

Enjoy the journey and the people God brings into your life along the way. Enjoy learning and experiencing the world of writing. Connect and enjoy fellowship with likeminded Christian writers. Enjoy the journey with Christ. Go where He’s going, be patient, and trust Him. Make it your goal to look back on your life and appreciate every step of the journey.

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Thank you, Eddie, for sharing with us today. No giveaway this week, so simply enjoy the post and be inspired.

Everyone in the U.S., have a blessed Thanksgiving this week. For everyone else, may God richly bless your week as well.

CFBA Presents S. Dionne Moore and Promise Brides

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Promise Brides Barbour Books (November 1, 2011) by S. Dionne Moore
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

S. Dionne Moore resides in South Central PA with her family. She is a weekly contributor to The Borrowed Book where she posts tips on the writing life, recipes, and teaches on various writing-related subjects. In addition to writing cozy mysteries, she pens historical romances that bring strong focus to locales within her region of Pennsylvania as a way of indulging her passion for history. In Fall of 2011 her first of three romances set in Wyoming, A Sheepherder's Song, will release.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Love is the same, no matter when, no matter where—it never comes without sacrifice. Theodore risks capture for Ellie, but will their hope for a future together be defeated? Can Marylu trust Chester, or is she asking for another broken heart? Will Alaina and Jack find common ground, or will flood waters destroy any possible future? Enjoy three romances from the historic state of Pennsylvania.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Promise Brides, go HERE.

MY REVIEW

When I first met Sandra, we were both involved in the local ACFW chapter zone of the Mid-Atlantic states. Or, we might have first met at an ACFW conference. I'm not sure. Wherever it was, it didn't take long for us to form a fast friendship, full of laughter, fun stories, and camaraderie you don't find unless you share it with other writers. Our shared passion for history is another tying link. Since my first series was set in historical Delaware, a neighbor to Pennsylvania (and once 3 colonies belonging to that state), I knew I had to get this book.

And Sandra Moore does an amazing job with the historical detail of all 3 books in this collection. I was swept away by the Johnstown Flood story of Alaina and Jack, intrigued by the escape from slavery story of Marylu and Chester, and tugged into the north/south struggle of the war story of Ellie and Theodore. Each one brought unique facets of the history of Pennsylvania to light, and I read the book in 3 short sittings.

The characters all came to life and brought their unique backstory to the pages. If you're looking for some easy reading with some sweet, yet dedicated, love stories, plus a fun history lesson without feeling like you're in school, check out this book. You won't regret it.

*** I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for this review. No compensation was given or received.

Welcome Pamela S. Thibodeaux and The Visionary

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

PAMELA S. THIBODEAUX is an award-winning author, and the Co-Founder and a lifetime member of Bayou Writers Group in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Multi-published in romantic fiction as well as creative non-fiction, her writing has been tagged as, “Inspirational with an Edge!” and reviewed as “steamier and grittier than the typical Christian novel without decreasing the message.”


Website address: http://www.pamelathibodeaux.com
Blog: http://pamswildroseblog.blogspot.com
Bayou Writers Group: http://www.bayouwritersgroup.com


THE VISIONARY
by Pamela S. Thibodeaux
Published by Five Star

ABOUT THE BOOK

A visionary is someone who sees into the future Taylor Forrestier sees into the past but only as it pertains to her work. Hailed by her peers as “a visionary with an instinct for beauty and an eye for the unique” Taylor is undoubtedly a brilliant architect and gifted designer. But she and twin brother Trevor, share more than a successful business. The two share a childhood wrought with lies and deceit and the kind of abuse that’s disgustingly prevalent in today’s society.  Can the love of God and the awesome healing power of His grace and mercy free the twins from their past and open their hearts to the good plan and the future He has for their lives?  Find out in…The Visionary ~ Where the awesome power of God's love heals the most wounded of souls.

Readers, buy your copy of THE VISIONARY today!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

It's All About Balance

As someone who has juggled life and writing for nearly thirty years, I've come to realize success is more than wearing numerous hats or multi-tasking like a professional. This is especially true for an author. Most writers have full-time jobs, home, family, church obligations...and the list goes on.

Success is about being in balance—mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually, and leaving out any one of those areas can disrupt the greatest juggling act.

So how does one stay in balance?

If you figure that out let me know, I am continually out of sync LOL! However, here are a few ideas I've incorporated in my quest to maintain balance in my life.

Spiritual: Prayer/Meditation—I can't stress enough the importance of quieting your mind so that your inner voice/muse can speak to you. Many folks panic at the thought of mediation, but this can be as simple as a 5-10 minute break in which you sit quietly, take deep breaths, still those tumultuous thoughts, and listen to the spirit within.

Physical: Exercise—In addition to eating right & getting adequate rest, exercise is imperative for physical, mental & emotional health. Yeah, I know, you barely have time to do everything on your list, can't figure where to squeeze this in. Statistics show frequent 10 minute walks are as beneficial over the long haul as 3--30 min workouts 3x a week. This is where a treadmill, elliptical, stair master, stationary bike, or simple aerobic step comes in handy. You're going to get out of your chair anyway, why not take an extra minute or two and do 100 steps/pedals?

Mental: Take a moment or two before you begin your writing for the day and visualize your finished project—true, you may be just beginning but imagine holding that book in your hands! Adding prayer & positive affirmations super charges your visualization. Again, this doesn't have to take a long time - a minute or two - you can even combine this with exercise as long as you are careful and/or your prayer/meditation time.

Emotional: There are times when we are just plain stressed out—nothing flows, nothing is finished, you work all the time and accomplish zip. Now is the time to sit down and work through the emotional issues brought on by (or adding to) the circumstances in your life. Journaling is one of the best ways to do this. Hey, you're a writer right? Why not use this time proven method to untangle your emotions and get focused. Again, this can be combined with the Mental and/or Spiritual practices.

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Note: This post is part of a month-long virtual book tour where 4 autographed copies of The Visionary will be given away. Follow the entire tour (list of stops on my blog http://pamswildroseblog.blogspot.com) and leave a comment on each one because the more times your name goes in the hat, the more chances you have to win!

* * * * *

Thank you, Pamela, for sharing with us today.

Guest Question: What steps do you take to maintain balance 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 featured above. If you do not answer the question, and your email address isn't provided, you will not be entered.

The contest is open to US/Canada residents only.

Blog Tour - Tamera Alexander and A Lasting Impression

Enter to win one of Tamera's fabulous prizes and RSVP for Facebook Party on 11/15!

Kindle Fire Giveaway and Facebook Party from Tamera Alexander!

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ABOUT THE BOOK

A fake. A forger. More than anything, Claire Laurent longs for the chance to live an authentic life, to become the woman she wants to be. And she'll be given that choice. But will it come at too costly a price?

Claire Laurent's greatest aspiration is to paint something that will bring her acclaim. Yet her father insists she work as a copyist. A forger. When she's forced to flee from New Orleans to Nashville only a year after the War Between the States has ended, her path collides with attorney Sutton Monroe. She considers him a godsend for not turning her in to the authorities. But after he later refuses to come to her aid, Claire fears she's sorely misjudged the man. Finding herself among the elite of Nashville's society, Claire believes her dream to create a lasting impression in the world of art is within reach--but only if her fraudulent past remains hidden.

The Federal Army has destroyed Sutton's home and confiscated his land, and threatens to destroy his family's honor. His determination to reclaim what belongs to him and to right a grievous wrong reveals a truth that may cost him more than he ever imagined--as well as the woman he loves.Set at Nashville's historic Belmont Mansion, a stunning antebellum manor built by Mrs. Adelicia Acklen, A Lasting Impression is a sweeping love story about a nation mending after war, the redemption of those wounded, and the courage of a man and woman to see themselves--and each other--for who they really are.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tamera Alexander is a best-selling novelist whose deeply drawn characters, thought-provoking plots, and poignant prose resonate with readers. Having lived in Colorado for seventeen years, she and her husband now make their home in Nashville Tennessee, along with their two adult children who live near by. And don't forget Jack, their precious--and precocious--silky terrier.

For more information please visit A Lasting Impression, are traveling across the country virtually (with a few international stops as well!), she will be hosting a Kindle Fire Giveaway (11/4 - 11/15) and preparing for a lavish Southern-Style Facebook Party (11/15) (dripping with hospitality, of course). She will be giving away Southern Food Baskets, books, and an array of other fabulous freebies! Don't miss a minute of the fun. Swoon!

Read what the reviewers are saying here.

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Brand New Kindle Fire (shipped as soon as it releases)
• A copy of A Lasting Impression and 3 other special books Tamera wants you to have (for Kindle)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on November 15th. Winner will be announced at A Lasting Impression Facebook Party on the 15th. Tamera will be wrapping up the A Lasting Impression celebration with an author chat and giving away Southern Food Baskets (Loveless Cafe Food Baskets, books, Amazon & Starbucks gift certificates, and copies of Christy Jordan's Southern Plate cookbook), six gift certificates to Starbucks and Amazon.com, and copies of A Lasting Impression! So grab your copy of A Lasting Impression (it's okay if you don't have one yet- you might win one!) and join Tamera on the evening of November 15th for an author chat, a trivia contest (How much do you know about the 1860's?) and lots of Southern-inspired giveaways (complete listing here).

Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER. Hope to see you on the 15th!

The rest of the blog tour:

Blog Tour Schedule: (please include this link in your post: http://litfusegroup.com/blogtours/text/13436980)

11/4

Lena at A Christian Writer's World http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

Mocha with Linda http://mochawithlinda.blogspot.com

Holly at 2 Kids and Tired Books http://2kidsandtiredbooks.blogspot.com

Alena at Little Bit Of Wonderful http://little-bit-of-wonderful.blogspot.com

Jami's Reviews http://jamisreviews.blogspot.com

Tara at Ramblings of the Blonde Mother Bear http://www.theblondemotherbear.com

Patricia at It's Time To Read Mamaw http://itstimetoreadmamaw.blogspot.com

11/5

Jenny at Book Reviews By Jenny http://bookreviewsbyjenny.blogspot.com

Diana at hanging by a thread http://www.pencildancer.com

Debra at Footprints in the Butter http://debrakb.blogspot.com

Pam at Southern Gal Loves to Read http://southerngallovestoread.blogspot.com

Maggie at Tethered Mommy http://www.tetheredmommy.com

Renee at Black 'n Gold Girl's Book Spot http://steelergirl83.blogspot.com

11/7

Margaret at Creative Madness Mama http://creativemadnessmama.com

Kari at Alas 3 Lads http://www.alas3lads.blogspot.com

Reviews By Jane http://www.reviewsbyjane.blogspot.com

April’s Lifestyle Show http://aprilslifestyleshow.com

Mindy at A Room without Books is Empty http://detweilermom.blogspot.com

Mary Ann at A Mom With A Blog http://www.amomwithablog.com

11/8

Trish at In So Many Words http://trishdoerrler.com

Faith Hope & Cherrytea http://faithhopecherrytea.blogspot.com

Misha at On my Bookshelf http://mollystories.wordpress.com

Diane at That's What I'm Here For http://www.dianeestrella.com

Kim at Window To My World http://berlysue.blogspot.com

Amber at Snidbits http://amberfrench.blogspot.com

Crystal at My Reading Room http://myreadingroom-crystal.blogspot.com

Tiffany Amber Stockton http://amberstockton.blogspot.com

11/9

Books, Etc...by Bina http://www.booksbybina.blogspot.com

Laurie's School Days http://www.lauriegauger.blogspot.com

Michele at My Blessings From Above http://koreamom.blogspot.com

Caroline at Happy Four http://happyfour.blogspot.com

Stacie at Hobbit Door http://hobbitdoor.blogspot.com

Krista at Welcome to Married Life http://www.welcometomarriedlife.com

Elizabeth at Count It All Joy http://texasjoy.blogspot.com

Casey at Writing for Christ http://enjoyingthewritingcraft.blogspot.com

Annette at Net's Book Notes http://www.annetteirbyreviews.blogspot.com

11/0

Christy at Southern Sassy Things http://southernsassythings.blogspot.com

Mandie at Taking Time for Mommy - Online Magazine for Moms http://takingtimeformommy.com

Celena at The Traveling Sisterhood http://thetravellingsisterhood.blogspot.com

Theresa at Frugal Experiments http://www.frugalexperiments.com

Christen at mom, writer, crafter, coffee drinker http://ChristenKrumm.com

Whitney at Rambles of a SAHM http://ramblesahm.blogspot.com

Debora at A Book and a Cupcake http://abookandacupcake.blogspot.com

Kristen at Read Great Fiction http://readgreatfiction.wordpress.com

Katie at Legacy of a Writer http://katie-mccurdy.blogspot.com l

Melissa at Bibliophile's Retreat http://www.bibliophilesretreat.com

Lauri at Knits, Reads and Reviews http://knitsandreads.blogspot.com

Brooke at I blog 4 books http://iblog4books.blogspot.com

Paula at Grace Reign http://gracereign.blogspot.com

11/11

Kendra at Happily Managing a Household of Boys http://familymgrkendra.blogspot.com/

Andi at Radiant Light http://www.frommipov.blogspot.com

Jasmyn's Reviews http://jasmynninestuff.blogspot.com

Jendi's Journal http://jendisjournal.com

Jettie’s Ramblings http://jettiesramblings.blogspot.com

Stephanie at A Cooking Bookworm http://www.acookingbookworm.com

11/12

Vera at Luxury Reading http://www.luxuryreading.com

Linda's Lunacy http://lindaslunacy.com

Amy at My Friend Amy http://www.myfriendamysblog.com

Becky at Christian Chick's Thoughts http://christianchicksthoughts.blogspot.com

Angela at All Grown Up? http://pantylesspreacherswife.wordpress.com

Sheila at Showcase Sisters http://showcasesisters.blogspot.com

Suzanne at Clicking Her Heels http://www.clickingherheels.blogspot.com

Melanie at So Many Books.. So Little Time http://www.melanieski.blogspot.com

Kim at Teaberry Cottage http://teaberry-cottage.blogspot.com

Sara at Shoopette's Book Reviews http://shoopettesbookreviews.blogspot.com

Kathy at Bags, Books & Bon Jovi http://bagsbooksandbonjovi.blogspot.com

11/13

Kelli at The Zen of Motherhood http://www.thezenofmotherhood.blogspot.com

Renee at Doorkeeper http://reneeannsmith.com

Betsy Ann - Writer at Large http://www.betsy-ann.blogspot.com

Jen at Happy Little Homemaker http://www.happylittlehomemaker.com

Lauren at 5 Minutes for Books http://5minutesforbooks.com

Michelle at Healing Hearts http://edgyinspiratuionalauthor.blogspot.com

Megan at The joys of life http://www.raunandmegan.blogspot.com

Laurel at Let's Go on a Picnic! http://headant.com

11/14

Megan at Inspired by Fiction http://inspiredbyfiction.blogspot.com

Charity at Austenitis http://austenitis.blogspot.com

Jennifer at Adventures in Unsell Land http://www.theunsells.blogspot.com

Michelle at Life in Review http://lifeinreviewblog.com

Savanah at Ridiculous Reviews http://ridiculousreviewsbysavanah.blogspot.com

Preslaysa at The Literary Mama http://www.preslaysa.com

Patty at Broken Teepee http://brokenteepee.com

Whitney at Rambles of A Stay at Home Mom http://ramblesahm.blogspot.com

Welcome Rhonda Gibson and A Biltmore Christmas

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

RHONDA GIBSON is an award winning author who loves being a wife, mother and Mimi. She has held many types of jobs in her life starting with hoeing cotton as a young girl and her last position, outside of writing, was Preschool Teacher. Rhonda is blessed to be able to write full time. Before Rhonda was an author she was a reader. Thanks to her mother’s love of reading, Rhonda started reading at an early age. She believes that that love of reading lead to her desire to write. To learn more about Rhonda, you can visit Rhonda at http://rhondagibsonwebpage.blogspot.com where she enjoys chatting with readers and friends online. Rhonda hopes her writing will entertain, encourage and bring others closer to God.

A BILTMORE CHRISTMAS
by Rhonda Gibson, et. al.
Published by Barbour

ABOUT THE BOOK

The four orphaned Bradford sisters find employment and romance at the Biltmore Estate at Christmastime.

In A HONEY OF A CHRISTMAS by Rhonda Gibson, Peggy Bradford loves being an assistant cook at the Biltmore Estates. She enjoys being close to her sisters and has become what she thinks is an old maid. Will the arrival of beekeeper, Mark Ludman, prepare Peggy for a honey of a romance? And take away her old maid status for good. Or will she feel the sting of a lost love due to her allergic reactions to bee stings?

Christmas is a time for love to glow at the Biltmore Estate.

Readers, buy your copy of A BILTMORE CHRISTMAS today!

AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR FEATURE AUTHOR

Writing Time

I get asked all the time, how much time do I invest in writing? For me the answer isn’t simple. I know there are people who have a “regular” writing time. I’m not one of them. I write at various times throughout the day depending on my day.

Let me explain. I have a family that keeps me hopping. They always want or need something and most of the time whatever it is they want or need can’t wait. I’m one of those people who usually drops everything and does what her family wants. So that makes it hard to keep a focused schedule. That doesn’t however stop me from trying.

So on the days when life is “normal.” I get up; take care of James, do my Bible study, and household things in the mornings. Then I write in the afternoon and some in the evenings. On the days when life isn’t normal, I write whenever I can but I make sure that I write something every day. That is the key to establishing writing time. No matter what happens during your day to interfere with writing take a few minutes and make time to write. You don’t have to write a whole chapter or even a whole page but you do need to write at least a sentence.

How much time do I invest in writing? The answer is: I try to write at least one hour a day. Normally, I write up to four hours a day. Most of the time that is 2 hours in the morning, one in the afternoon and one more in the evening. When I’m on deadline, it’s more. When I’m not, it can be as little as one hour a day.

If you are a writer and this question was important to you, remember: How much time and how much you get written isn’t what’s important, what is important is that you write.

* * * * *

Thank you, Rhonda, for sharing with us today.

Guest Question: So what eats up your time and keeps you from writing? If you aren’t a writer, what eats up your time and keeps you from doing what you feel you should be 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 autographed copy of the book featured above. If you do not answer the question, and your email address isn't provided, you will not be entered.

The contest is open to US/Canada residents only.

CFBA Presents Tamera Alexander and A Lasting Impression

I'm pleased to feature a good friend and mentor today on my blog, courtesy of the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance. Tammy and I met back in 2002 working the bookstore tables for the national ACFW conference in Kansas City (then ACRW). We still call each other "book table buddies" and share many fond memories of those times. :) She has since gone on to win the Christy and the RITA awards for her outstanding novels. Me? I'm still trying to balance writing with 2 little ones at home and breaking into trade-length. We'll see how it all goes. Without further ado, here's the feature on Tammy.

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing A Lasting Impression Bethany House (November 1, 2011) by Tamera Alexander

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tamera Alexander is the best-selling author of Rekindled, Revealed and Remembered, the critically acclaimed Fountain Creek Chronicles historical series with Bethany House Publishers. Her second historical series, Timber Ridge Reflections (From a Distance, Beyond This Moment, and Within My Heart) continue her signature style of deeply drawn characters, thought-provoking plots, and poignant prose which has earned her devoted readers—and multiple industry awards.

These awards include the 2009 and 2008 Christy Award for Excellence in Christian Fiction, the 2010 and 2007 RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance, the 2010 and 2007 Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, the 2010 HOLT Medallion, the 2007 Bookseller’s Best Award, the 2007 National Reader's Choice Award and Library Journal’s Top Christian Fiction for 2006, among others.

Tamera's newest novel A Lasting Impression is the first of a brand new three-book Southern historical series, and the first two chapters are available for review. She's at work on her ninth novel which will release in fall 2012.

After living in Colorado for seventeen years, Tamera has returned to her Southern roots. She and her husband now make their home in Nashville, Tennessee, along with Tamera's father, Doug, and with their two adult children who live near by. And don't forget Jack, their precious--and precocious--silky terrier.

ABOUT THE BOOK

To create something that will last is Claire Laurent's most fervent desire as an artist. It's also her greatest weakness. When her fraud of a father deals her an unexpected hand, Claire is forced to flee from New Orleans to Nashville, only a year after the War Between the States has ended. Claire's path collides with that of Sutton Monroe, and she considers him a godsend for not turning her in to the authorities. But when they meet again and he refuses to come to her aid, she realizes she's sorely misjudged the man. Trading an unwanted destiny for an unknown future, Claire finds herself in the middle of Nashville's elite society and believes her dream of creating a lasting impression in the world of art may finally be within reach.

All that Sutton Monroe holds dear lies in ruin. He's determined to reclaim his heritage and to make the men who murdered his father pay. But what he discovers on his quest for vengeance reveals a truth that may cost him more than he ever imagined.

Set at Nashville's historical Belmont Mansion, a stunning antebellum manor built by Mrs. Adelicia Acklen, the richest woman in America in the 1860s, A Lasting Impression showcases the deep, poignant, unforgettable characters that set Tamera's stories apart and provides an inspiring love story that will capture readers' hearts and leave them eager for more.

If you would like to read the first chapter of A Lasting Impression, go HERE.

MY REVIEW



From the first book she released, and even before she was published, I have loved Tamera Alexander. She made a "lasting impression" on me back in 2002 with her passion for history and her winsome personality. Even when she wasn't sure what would happen of this crazy pursuit, she possessed a charm about her that only shines in each book she writes.

This latest is no different. And in my opinion, it's her best book yet. The rich detail of Nashville's Belmont Mansion, the accurate portrayal of a war-torn South, and the engaging characters reflecting the emotional upheaval following such a destructive war -- all of it is smoothly blended into a compelling story of a daughter running from certain fate and her family, and a son determined to avenge his father's death. Their worlds collide, and with every experience or interaction, you feel you are right there with Claire and Sutton.

Painstaking research and close character study bring this novel to great heights and take you on an exhilarating journey you won't soon forget. The only down side is having to wait for book 2!

Thanks, Tammy!


GIVEAWAY

I'll also be sending a FREE copy of this book in a random drawing from the comments answering this question:

When have you felt wronged in some way, pursued restitution or resolution for it, then learned another lesson along the way? If the incident is too personal, share the lesson you learned.

The contest is open to anyone in the US/Canada.

New Releases in Christian Fiction - November 2011

Lots of good reading abounds for November with these selections from ACFW authors. Think Christmas shopping perhaps?

More in-depth descriptions of these books along with their covers and other books by these authors (plus many more) can be found on the ACFW FictionFinder website.

A Lasting Impression by Tamera Alexander -- Historical Romance from Bethany House; To create something that will last is Claire Laurent's most fervent desire as an artist. It's also her greatest weakness. All that Sutton Monroe holds dear lies in ruin. He's determined to reclaim his heritage and to make the men who murdered his father pay. But what he discovers on his quest for vengeance reveals a truth that may cost him more than he ever imagined.

Bound by Grace by Amber Stockton -- Historical Romance from Barbour. When Charlotte Pringle’s father disrupts her idyllic relationship with Richard Baxton by announcing he’s been working on a marriage arrangement to secure her future, Richard despairs over the loss of the woman he’s come to love, until his niece persuades him to fight.

Fatal Reality by Jonathan Wakefield -- A Thriller/Suspense from OakTara -- In this race only the winner will be allowed to live.

Gateway Weddings; Romancing America by Myra Johnson -- A Romance from Barbour. Three Missouri women enter the gateway to life, love, and longing.

Hope and a Future by Betty Arrigotti -- Romance from OakTara; Will Marjorie Gloriam overcome her fear and trust God to be a Friend with plans to give her Hope and a Future?

I Can Do Better All By Myself by E. N. Joy, --Biblical Fiction from Urban Fiction (Kensington). The singles ministry at New Day Temple of Faith is beginning to unravel, and the pastor is considering dissolving the ministry. Some members believe the only way to hold it together is by getting their pastor to join. And why shouldn't their leader show support by joining, considering the pastor's own single status?

Katie’s Way by Marta Perry -- Romance from Praise (Penguin). A quilt shop brings Amish and Englisch together, and trouble follows...

Lonestar Angel by Colleen Coble -- Romance from Thomas Nelson. Five years ago Eden and Clay Larson's baby was stolen and never found. Eden blamed herself, Clay lost himself in work. Their young and rocky marriage ended. Or so Eden thought.

Mind Over Madi by Lynda Lee Schab -- General Fiction from OakTara; All men cheat. At least, that's what Madi's mother has always told her.

Peril by Suzanne Hartmann -- Thriller/Suspense from OakTara; A top-secret agent must trust God to protect her many secrets when she accepts high-profile assignments but can she trust Him when He leads her to reveal her secrets and takes her to death's doorstep?

Promise Brides by S. Dionne Moore-- Historical Romance from Barbour; Love is the same, no matter when, no matter where-it never comes without sacrifice.

Protection for Hire by Camy Tang-- Thriller/Suspense from Zondervan; Tessa Lancaster’s skills first earned her a position as an enforcer in her uncle’s Japanese Mafia gang. Then they landed her in prison for a crime she didn’t commit. Now, three months after her release, her abilities have gained her a job as bodyguard for a wealthy socialite and her three-year-old son. But there’s a problem or two … or three ….

The Land of Darkness; The Gates of Heaven Series by C.S. Lakin-- Speculative Fiction from Living Ink (AMG); Jadiel is twelve and things couldn’t get much worse—or could they?

The Long Trail Home by Vickie McDonough-- Historical Romance from Moody Publishers; When Riley Morgan returns home after fighting in the War Between the States, he is excited to see his parents and fiancée again. But when he arrives he learns his life will never be the same again.

The Merchant’s Daughter by Melanie Dickerson-- Historical from Zondervan; An unthinkable danger. An unexpected choice. Annabel, once the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is trapped in indentured servitude a recluse. She must decide whether to follow the plans she has cherished or the calling God has placed on her heart.

The Rancher’s Courtship by Laurie Kingery-- Romance from Love Inspired; Though Caroline Wallace can’t have a family, she can still have a purpose. Becoming Simpson Creek’s new schoolmarm helps heal the heartache of losing Pete, her fiancé, to influenza. Then Pete’s brother arrives, trailing a herd of cattle and twin six-year-old girls.

Thyme for Love by Pamela S. Meyers--Romance & Mystery from OakTara; April Love has always dreamed of being a chef. But she didn’t expect a former fiancé or murder to be part of the recipe for her new job.

Turnabout’s Fair Play by Kaye Dacus-- Romance from Barbour; When Maureen O’Connor begins scheming to match her grandson Jamie with Flannery McNeill, the last thing she has in mind is a romance of her own.