Words of Wisdom from Agent Chip MacGregor

I just read Chip MacGregor's blog for today and for writers he has a lot of great words of wisdom. I can't post it here, but I can post the link.

http://chipmacgregor.typepad.com/main/2011/12/whats-your-best-writing-advice.html

Glory to God in the Highest This Christmas Day!

Christmas greetings! 

In the Chicago area, we are having a brown Christmas this year. Beautiful clear blue sky and not a cloud in sight. The temp is about 30 degrees, due to rise to the upper 30s before the day is over. And nary a flake of snow to cover the brown grass.

Yesterday, as I was reading Luke 2 in the Bible and reflecting on the night Christ was born, I paused at the part where the angels appeared to the shepherds to announce the birth of Jesus. I don’t use the King James Bible but Luke 2:14 in that version reads:

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace good will toward men.”

Back when I was about age six or seven, I attended Sunday school at a Congregational church that was only a half block from our home. It wasn’t the church denomination either of my parents were raised in, but when we first moved to that house we didn’t have a car, so that neighborhood church became our church for those years.

As in most churches, the children put on a Christmas program each year where the Christmas story was acted out according to Scripture. One year, I was chosen to be an angel. I remember my mom sewing my costume out of lots and lots of gauze, and on top of my blonde curls sat a tinsel halo. I’m sure I must have had wings as well. God has a sense of humor, I’m sure, because I was anything but an angelic child. To top it off, I was given one speaking line. You guessed it. Luke 2:14 in the King James Version, which back then was the only version people used.

I remember saying it over and over and on the night of the performance, I quoted it in the same strong voice I still have, at the top of my lungs. I nailed it. The very first Bible verse I’d ever memorized.

If only back at that tender age I truly understood the meaning behind the words. Like a river, lots of years had to flow under the bridge before my spiritual heart would awaken from its slumber. Not on Christmas, but on a Good Friday afternoon as I sat in a far different church listening to the biblical account of the crucifixion.

That Christmas back in my childhood I celebrated baby Jesus, not really understanding the significance of His coming and probably more focused on what would be under the tree for me Christmas morning. Little realizing that God’s gift to us at Christmas is far more valuable than a bike or a doll.

When I gave my heart to the crucified and risen Jesus on Good Friday over thirty years later, I came to finally understand the words I’d memorized as a child. Because of God’s good will in sending His Son Jesus to earth as a man, I could come to faith in Jesus my Savior and have eternal life with God the Father.

Now I can say loud and clear and with great joy,

“Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will to men!!”

Merry Christmas to All!!!

The busyness of December has gotten away from me. I've been plotting and starting the first draft of Book 2 in my On The Road to Love Series (more adventures of April and Marc!), preparing to coordinate ACFW's Genesis writing contest for unpublished writers which opens January 2nd, and doing Christmas things like baking pumpkin bread to give away, hosting a Christmas dinner and gift exchange for the ladies in my small group, and dealing with a car battery that was being drained by an errant amplifier.

Despite it all, I have been careful to remind myself of the Reason for the Season. It's not about presents or food or parties, although that's what many seem to think. I read an article in the paper recently on the Christian significance of Christmas, and the author said he wanted to stab a candy cane through the heart of the person who made up a department store ad campaign for this year which says simply "Believe." It made me laugh, but really ... What does any store that places that word in their ads want the consumer to believe? That they have the best deals in town? The most choices? What? I'm sure it's not to believe that Jesus is the Reason for the Season.

But wait! Maybe whomever developed the campaign does believe Jesus is the Reason for the Season and that's their subtle way of making a statement.

Regardless, I choose to believe the way I want to believe.

Merry Christmas!

Through His Eyes: From Dreams to Reality - Part 2

Through His Eyes: From Dreams to Reality - Part 2: For the 2nd installment of From Dreams to Reality I'm featuring the following talented authors: Pamela S. Meyers Lisa Grace Max Anderson...

From Ane Mulligan's Southern-fried Fiction: Is Your Wallet Empty This Christmas?

My good friend and writing buddy, Ane Mulligan, posted this on her blog this morning. It's worth repeating. Click on the link to read the whole thing

Southern-fried Fiction: Is Your Wallet Empty This Christmas?: When my pastor, Chuck Allen , talked about giving this last Sunday, it struck a chord in me. We'd already decided since...

Featuring Author S. Dionne Moore and Her New Release!

Today it is my pleasure to feature my good friend Sandra Moore who writes under the name S. Dionne Moore. Sandra is also one of my critique partners, and I can attest to her ability to spin a good story.  

Her latest release, Promise Brides, is a compilation of three novels, and is published by Barbour Publishing.

Anyone who has written historical fiction knows the countless hours of research that is required for any story. Sandra is going to discuss some of the things she learned as she researched for her novels.

***

One of the most interesting elements of my research for Promise of Time, one of three historical romances in newly released Promise Brides, was discovering that Abraham Lincoln was not the featured speaker at the Gettysburg National Cemetery dedication ceremony. Edward Everett was so honored, and he was scheduled to speak before the president on that cloudy day in November of 1863. Everett was a man noted for quality speeches and deliveries, his reputation for excellence in speech-making already established, as well as his tendency toward being long-winded. President Lincoln must have known this, for he planned his speech to be short, coming in at about two minutes compared to Everett’s two hours!

Even with two hours of talk time, Abraham Lincoln’s speech became the most well-remembered of the two, probably in great part because of its brevity.

The only known photo of Lincoln at Gettsyburg, the president is shown in the circle. His bodyguard is on his right. 

In my past blogs for my books, I’ve talked at great lengths about the historical facts used to make stories come to life. But what about my characters? Who are they and how do I develop them? Evolve might be a better word. My characters generally develop traits based on what will be happening in the plot and what hurdles they will have to jump in order to reach a satisfying ending.

In Promise Brides, specifically for Promise of Time, the idea of two people falling in love across the lines that divided our nation in 1863 fascinated me. Ellie is a Northerner, Theo a Southerner, but Theo is first and foremost a man. A young man thrust into the atrocities of war because of the things he saw his family and friends suffer at the hands of the Yankees. He had watched the North wreak havoc on everything in the South and he wanted to fight to protect what was left.

From this I delved deeper into who I wanted this man to be. How did the realities of war affect him? Theo would, like many, be unprepared for the stark realization that it had become his job to shoot at a men just like himself, but labeled his “enemy”.
But what if he months of war, of death and destruction became too much and he couldn’t take it anymore? What if, on the eve of watching yet another friend die, he also saw a man who was his “enemy,” but also a relative, murdered. . . ?

You can see the mire of questions I used to develop Theo into the character he became for Promise of Time. I wanted Ellie to be understanding of his mental anguish, thus she had experience working with the wounded in the aftermath at Gettysburg. But in spite of her compassion, wouldn’t the idea of falling for a Rebel be repugnant to her. . .or could she see what others could not. That Theo was a man first, then a soldier.

Promise of Time is available now on line at Christianbook.com, Amazon, and Barnes and Noble as well as at your favorite retailer.

Sandra Moore writes as S. Dionne Moore, and was named Favorite New Author in the 2011 18th Annual Heartsong Awards. A compilation of three historical romances released in November 2011, titled, Promise Brides. Stories include:  Promise of Tomorrow, a 2011 Carol Award Finalist, is set in Johnstown, PA, Promise of Yesterday, is set in Mercersburg/Greencastle, PA, and Promise of Time, in Gettysburg, PA.

Winter of 2012 watch for A Shepherd's Song, the first in her Wyoming Historical Romance series, followed by The Cattle Baron's Daughter (summer 2012) and Valley of the Heart (winter 2012).

Sandra resides in the rolling hills of Cumberland Valley, PA--a transplanted city girl and glad of it! She enjoys ferreting out little-known historical details and crafting a story around them. To learn more about Sandra and her work, visit her athttp://www.sdionnemoore.com/.

 As 2011 comes to a close, ACFW authors are finishing out the year in grand style with more offerings for your reading pleasure. It's not too late to include a few of these for the readers on your Christmas shopping list!


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

An Amish Wedding by Beth Wiseman -- Romance from Thomas Nelson; Pricilla's upcoming wedding is stirring up trouble - and romance - in Paradise.

Christmas Pearl by Robin L. Bayne -- Romance from White Rose Publishing (Pelican). Joe Gardner never expected to see Elizabeth again, not after the part she'd played in ruining his life. Refusing to believe she now shares his faith, Joe tosses aside her efforts to apologize. But when they are forced to work together in the midst of the Christmas season, Joe has to face the truth about Elizabeth, and himself.

Daddy’s Little Matchmakers by Kathleen Y'Barbo -- Romance from Love Inspired -- Wanted: Wife And Mother. Veterinarian Eric Wilson is confounded by the classified ad his three young daughters have placed. The handsome widower is not in the market for a bride!

Death in Dahlonega by Deborah Malone -- A Mystery from Lamp Post Inc.. A vacation with a friend should never include murder and mayhem.

Gold, Frankincense, and Murder by Barbara Early -- Romance/Mystery from White Rose Publishing (Pelican); A missing coworker. A brawny sidekick. Sometimes the holidays can be murder.

His Holiday Family by Margaret Daley, -- Romance from Love Inspired. In the aftermath of a hurricane, will Kathleen Hart and Gideon O'Brien, two scarred people, find hope and love?

Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland by Roseanna M. White -- Romance from Summerside Press. In 1784 peace has been declared, but war still rages in the heart of Lark Benton.

Polar Bear Plunge by Linda Glaz -- Romance from White Rose Publishing (Pelican). Aleni Callan can’t accept that God allowed her husband to die in Afghanistan while war hero, Brice Taylor, returns from Iraq to cheers and fame and feelings that he somehow failed. Neither can accept that one man lived and one man died.

Replication by Jill Williamson -- Young Adult from Zondervan; A girl discovers her biologist father is covering up multiple secrets—all of which are named Jason.

Savanna’s Gift by Camille Eide -- Romance from White Rose Publishing (Pelican); When Savanna gets a second chance at the love of her life, will her dream that once divided them get in the way?

Small-Town Sweethearts by Jean C. Gordon-- Romance from Love Inspired; With the help of God and the love of Drew Stacey, a down-sized Wall Street analyst turned church camp manager, NYC assistant art director and former town misfit Emily, ne Jinx, Hazard finds the thing she wants most in the place she least wants to be — Paradox Lake.

Smitten by Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, Denise Hunter, and Diann Hunt -- Romance from Thomas Nelson; When a failed logging company threatens their town's survival, four friends devise a plan to turn Smitten, Vermont, into the country's premier romantic getaway.

The Christmas Witness by Susan Sleeman-- Thriller Suspense from Love Inspired; Can a former FBI agent let go of the devastating loss of his wife to cancer in order to save a critically ill child and her mother from a ruthless criminal?

Tracks in the Snow by Sandra Hesch-- General Fiction from Lamp Post Inc.; Jo Bremley feared losing her husband to World War II, but when a snowstorm rips apart her storybook world, how can she heal her broken heart, and move on?

Celebrating My Book Launch!

I want to wish each of you a very Blessed Thanksgiving!

As for me, I have much to be thankful to God for this year as He has blessed me with the release of my debut novel, Thyme for Love.

My friend Kim spelled out the title in coffee beans

This past Saturday, my friends helped me celebrate the book launch with a wonderful gathering at a nearby Panera Bread. People from where I worked before I retired, church friends, my Bible study friends, and writing friends all came to the party.

My Books Sat Waiting for the Guests

Is this really me?

It felt weird to be on the other side of the signing table. What was I supposed to say? I'd picked out a scripture (Is. 30:18) to include with each signature, but what else should I say?  It was kind of like signing a yearbook at the end of the school year. 













The room quickly filled with my friends and as they noshed on cookies and drinks, I signed and celebrated. I don't have any idea how many actually came, but I sold 25 books! 


About halfway through, I said a few words about my writing journey and how God had led me every step of the way. Then I read a couple excerpts from the book before we drew the winning ticket for the gift basket I put together which included a copy of my book (of course!) and two other books by ACFW authors, a clip-on reading light, a beautiful mug with coffees and teas, and dark chocolate. No gift basket is complete without chocolate!

My good friend Karin & her new husband won the basket!

                                                             

 Soon the two hours were over. It was a beautiful blessed day.

The gorgeous roses came from ACFW member Jane Steen.

Lake Geneva, My Hometown & Setting for my Novels is in the News!

This morning I ran across an article about Lake Geneva, Wisconsin in my local paper that was syndicated from the Washington Post. The writer did a wonderful job describing the town and lake as it is today. This is the town my characters in Thyme for Love visit for meals and hanging out by the lake.

It is also the same setting in my upcoming novel, Love Finds You in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin which is scheduled to release in June. Included is a picture of the largest mansion on the lake called Stone Manor. I mention this home in my 1933 LFY story as "Younglands," the name it was called back in the 30s.

If you go to the article you'll see why I'm so blessed to be from such an historical and lovely area.

Here's the link to the article. I've reduced it at Tiny URL because of it's original length:

http://tinyurl.com/7yfgtbh

Thyme for Love is Available at Amazon!

This Monday is the official release date of my debut novel Thyme for Love and as of right now it's available for immediate purchase at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Amazon states that the book will be available in 5-7 weeks and this is erroneous information. My publisher OakTara is working with Amazon to get this corrected, but it is taking some time.

I just don't want anyone being misled if you choose to purchase the book at Amazon. They do have it in stock right now!

Dry As Rain is Anything But Dry!

One of my favorite novels of last year was Gina Holmes’s debut novel Crossing Oceans. When I heard she had a new book called Dry As Rain out from Tyndale I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it.

I just finished it the other day, and the night I read the last page I had a problem falling asleep because I couldn’t get her characters out of my mind. That to me is the sign of a good story.

Dry As Rain is written from the male protagonist’s point of view which is very difficult for a woman to do well. I know, because I’ve tried it and have been told by critiquers that my character sounded too girly. Not so with Eric Yoshida, Gina’s POV character.  Gina nailed the male POV expertly. Although this is a romance story, it is not a boy meets-girl-and-lives-happily-ever-after-kind of romance. This novel is about a marriage that has gone south and how Eric and his wife Kyra have to learn to forgive each other as the Lord has forgiven them.

The tagline for Dry As Rain is “Behind every broken vow lies a broken heart.” Rather than write a new summary of this story, I think the back of the book description does the job well.

When Eric and Kyra Yoshida first met, they thought their love would last forever. But like many marriages, theirs has gradually crumbled, one thoughtless comment and misunderstanding at a time, until the ultimate betrayal pushes them beyond reconciliation. Though Eric longs to reunite with Kyra, the only woman he has truly loved, he has no idea how to repair the damage that’s been done.

Then a car accident erases part of Kyra’s memory—including her separation from Eric—and a glimmer of hope rises from the wreckage. Is this a precious opportunity for the fresh start Eric has longed for? Does he even deserve the chance to find forgiveness and win back Kyra’s heart . . . or will the truth blow up in his face, shattering their last hope for happiness? A richly engaging story of betrayal and redemption, Dry as Rain illuminates with striking emotional intensity the surprising truth of what it means to forgive.

About the Author:  Gina Holmes is the President and founder of Inspire a Fire and Novel Rocket and award-winning author of Crossing Oceans and Dry as Rain. In 1998, Gina began her career penning articles and short stories in Ten years, and a stack of rejection letters later, she held her first published novel. She holds degrees in science and nursing and currently resides with her husband and children in southern Virginia. She works too hard, laughs too loud, and longs to see others heal from their past and discover their God-given purpose. To learn more about her, visit www.ginaholmes.com, www.novelrocket.com or www.inspireafire.com

You can order Dry As Rain at Amazon in either book format or for Kindle.

I highly recommend it!

Thyme for Love is Here!!!

I woke up this morning and immediately went to the UPS website. A very special package had made it's way up I-65 from Louisville to Indianapolis to Chicago overnight and had arrived at my suburban UPS distribution center around 4:00 a.m. It was now loaded on a big brown truck and out for delivery. Woo hoo!!

At about 2:45 p.m. the brown truck pulled up out front and I grabbed my iPhone camera and ran to the hall to wait, and wait, and wait. More waiting. Finally I heard the front door to the entry way open and he came up the stairs. It was like Christmas morning, only Santa is wearing brown this year.








He set it down inside my door and I stared at the box.

OakTara said it all. The publisher of my debut novel. And inside ....

My books! All seventy of them. I wanted to pinch myself, savor the moment, just look at them a moment, but I also wanted to hold one in my hand and so ....

I did ... I cried, I thanked the Lord, and I screamed "YAAAA HOOOO!

Utter Joy ... a moment that I will savor for a long, long time.

Check Out Stop One on My Blog Tour!

Today marks the first stop of my blog tour that will run into December. Kathy Harris has an awesome blog and she had me answer three questions, one of which was not your ordinary author interview question. So check it out at Divine Detours.

Also a big carton of books is on a brown truck headed my way today!!! It'll be like Christmas morning except Santa is wearing brown this year :-)

November New Releases from ACFW Authors!

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

More in-depth descriptions of these books 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.

Thyme for Love Book Trailer!!

At long last I am pleased to share the book trailer for Thyme for Love! Please feel free to share this!

A Newly Traveled Road Between Contract and Book Launch

I've often heard that once a book is contracted is when the real work begins, but until I started living it, I couldn't fully fathom the meaning.

I wrote here a few weeks ago about how I suddenly found myself sitting at my desk in front of the computer from early morning until supper time most days. I hadn't done that much intense work in a 7-8 hour stretch since I left my "day job" back in '05. Oh, I've spent many a day writing for long stretches, but even then there wasn't any pressure--no deadlines to meet, no window of time in which to get everything done before the book releases.

If I felt like reading a book instead of writing that day ... or maybe

.....taking a nap ...

... I felt like I could. But, now things are different. I've moved into my new home office now, lock, stock and barrel. Or should I say computer, desk and file cabinet. And this is my new normal!

In two weeks and two days, Thyme for Love releases, and three weeks from today I will host my book launch party! My books are ordered for the celebration, as are refreshments, but there is still much more to do before then.

I never knew this could be so much fun!

My Book Cover for Thyme for Love!

A picture is worth a thousand words!

Busy Hands Make Happy Hands

Did someone tell me that I would be busier after signing a book contract than before? I think they did, but somehow it didn't sink in.

As the release date for Thyme for Love comes closer (November 14th!), I'm racing to get my blog tour set up, write up interview questions and answers for those who want them, answer interview questions bloggers have sent me, design an invitation for my book launch celebration, develop an email list to send said invitation to, and so forth.

But despite the to-do list longer than my arm, I can say one thing.

I'm loving every moment!

If you're a regular visitor to this site you've  noticed that I've  changed the name of the blog from A Writer's Journey to my author name of Pamela S. Meyers, and added a new background and header, as I morph this site into a full website. My addy for this site will change to www.pamelasmeyers.com, but don't worry if you forget to change your bookmark, because the old addies for both my website and blog will forward to the new address.

In between all this, I'm editing Love Finds You in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin which needs to be turned into the editor by mid-November. 

Then I start plotting my next story and writing it! 

The busier I become, the more I love what I'm doing, and I realize this is what God has called me to do during this season of my life. He is blessing my socks off and in turn, I want to do what gives him pleasure. 

Kind of reminds me of that line from the movie Chariots of Fire, when the lead said that he felt God's pleasure when he ran. I thought to myself at the time how cool it would be to feel that way about something you are doing. 

Now I know what he meant!

My Debut Novel Thyme for Love Coming Soon!!!

My life as a writer is reaching a new normal for me. Published author!

I am excited to finally have a release date for my debut Novel Thyme for Love.

NOVEMBER 14th!!

Over the past several days, I've been pouring over the proofs (galleys) and noting tweaks for the editors. The other day when the PDF file arrived and I saw it in the format of an actual book, beginning with the title page, right on through to the author bio at the end, I totally lost it. 

Seeing those opening words on the first page of Chapter 1, words that I first wrote a number of years ago, now actually in book format ... well, I can't begin to describe all the emotions I felt. Most of all thankfulness for God's blessings on me along with joy.

Things are moving rapidly. I'll  get another set of proofs later this week with the tweaked changes to review for one final time. Then after I send those back, it will be off to the printer.

I'll soon be putting out the call for influencers and reviewers. As soon as I have a picture of my cover I'll post that. In the meantime here's a blurb to whet your appetites!

April Love applies for the job of her dreams as in-house chef in an old lake shore mansion. But when she discovers Marc Thorne, her ex-fiance, working for the same organization, and her new boss is found dead before he tastes her cooking, she questions if she misread God's intent for her life.

It doesn't take long for April and Marc to realize the love they held for each other is stronger than ever, but before they can begin a life together they must close the doors on the past. When the only man she ever loved is falsely accused of murder, she has no choice but to turn sleuth to expose the truth.

Tainted capsules, a collection of lovable and not-so-lovable staff members, a retired show parrot named Pedro, and a seventy-year-old aunt who has more energy than a room full of preschoolers makes this a fast-paced romance with a twist of mystery to keep the pages turning.

Janice Thompson's Hello Hollywood -- A Fun Read

The back cover of Janice Thompson's latest fun read, Hello Hollywood says:

When it comes to love, one thing's for sure--it doesn't follow a script!
Athena Pappas is the head writer on Stars Collide, one of the most popular sitcoms in television history. But when Vegas comedian Stephen Cosse is brought in to beef up the show's suddenly sagging ratings, she starts to worry about her job. Sparks fly as the competition--and attraction--between the two writers heats up. Athena has never had a problem writing the romances of her characters. So why is her own love life so hard to script?

With humor and a Hollywood-insider viewpoint, Hello, Hollywood! delivers lots of laughs as Athena and Stephen discover that not being in control of the plot of their lives might just be the best thing that ever happened to them.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book which is a fun way to get a peek at how a group of writers for a television show work together. In some ways, much the same way as we authors of fiction write, except they are constantly brainstorming and deadlines come up weekly.

But the fun doesn't stop there. Athena belongs to a My Big Fat Greek Wedding kind of family, and she often spends time at the family deli where a delightful cast of characters and dogs entertain and delight the reader.

For those that remember the old Dick Van Dyke Show from back when sitcoms were in black and white (you can catch reruns of the show even now) you will enjoy how the writing team our heroine belongs to uses that show, about a similar comedy writing team, as role models. It made me want to flip on the television and find some of those reruns.

If you are looking for a fun romantic comedy written by one of the masters of the genre, look no further than Hello Hollywood. For more information about Janice Thompson, check out her website!


Note: I was provided a complimentary copy of this book for purposes of review. All opinions expressed are my own.

ACFW New Releases for October Promise Lots of Good Reading

October Brings More Great Reads from ACFW Authors - Check Out Our New Releases!

With October comes chilly nights, perfect for curling up with a good read. The ACFW New Release list is sure to have something to meet all genre preferences!

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

A Wedding Invitation by Alice Wisler -- General Fiction from Bethany House; When Samantha Bravencourt receives an invitation to a wedding in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, she looks forward to reconnecting with her college friend. Instead her life collides with Carson, a fellow teacher and the man who broke her heart.

Attracted by Fire by DiAnn Mills -- A Thriller/Suspense from Tyndale. When a Secret Service Agent is assigned to the Vice President's rebellious daughter, danger lurks in every corner - and her heart.

Deeply Devoted: A Novel; The Blue Willow Brides Series by Maggie Brendan -- A Historical from Revell -- She is staking her future on a man she's never met. Can she learn to love him?

Freezing Point by Beth Goddard -- A Thriller/Suspense from Love Inspired. Casey Wilkes didn't realize her simple human-interest story would put her life at risk—again.

Lethal Remedy by Richard L. Mabry M.D. -- A Thriller/Suspense from Abingdon; A doctor discovers that the experimental "wonder drug" that offers the only hope of cure for a universally fatal infection can be attacking more than just bacteria.

Love on the Line by Deeanne Gist, -- Historical Romance from Bethany House. Rural switchboard operator Georgie Gail is proud of her independence in a man's world ... which makes it twice as vexing when the telephone company sends a man to look over her shoulder.

Maggie's Journey by Lena Nelson Dooley -- A Historical from Realms (Charisma Media). Near her eighteenth birthday, Margaret Lenora Caine finds a chest hidden in the attic containing proof that she's adopted and her journey begins.

Recipe for Deceit by S. Dionne Moore -- Mystery from Barbour. The third LaTisha Barnhart mystery finds the sassy diner owner trying to figure out who put the hit on a hitman.

Rodeo Dust by Shannon Vanatter -- Romance from Barbour Heartsong; Can they rely on God to find their common ground or will they draw a line in the rodeo dust that neither will cross?

Southern Fried Sushi: A Novel by Jennifer Rogers Spinola -- General Fiction from Barbour; Ride the roller coaster of Shiloh Jacobs’s life as her dreams derail, sending her on a downward spiral from the heights of an AP job in Tokyo to penniless in rural Virginia.

Ten Plagues by Mary Nealy-- Thriller/Suspense from Barbour; A demon possessed serial killer pits himself against a former ego driven cop, who's found peace as a mission pastor and a tough lady cop with the spiritual gift of discerning spirits.

The Baker's Wife by Erin Healy-- Thriller/Suspense from Thomas Nelson; To save her husband and son, Audrey Bofinger must rescue her enemy.

The Chair by James Rubart-- Thriller/Suspense from B and H Publishing; If you were given an ancient looking chair and told Jesus Christ made it, would you believe them?

The Christmas Child by Linda Goodnight-- Romance from Love Inspired; When a battle weary cop and a Christmas crazy teacher join forces to care for an abandoned, mute boy in a small town, neither is prepared for the shocking revelations waiting...just in time for Christmas.

The Lady's Maid by Susan Page Davis-- Romance from Barbour; As a lady's maid, Elise will follow her mistress anywhere, even into the Wild West.

The Wishing Pearl by Nicole O'Dell-- Young Adult from Barbour; Join conflicted sixteen-year-old Olivia Mansfield on her journey to hope and healing as she leaves her messed-up life behind and moves into home for troubled teens

There You'll Find Me by Jenny B. Jones-- Young Adult from Thomas Nelson; Grief brought Finley to Ireland. Love will lead her home.

When Love Gets in the Way by Janelle Mowery-- A Historical from Harvest House; Straight from the heart of the Old West, the Colorado Runaway series is full of adventure, humor, and romance.

When Two Hearts Meet by Janelle Mowery-- A Historical from Harvest House; Rachel Garrett finds that attaining her dream of becoming a nurse is fraught with peril, and a deputy sheriff with a wall around his heart doesn’t help matters.

CFBA Blog Tour - Here's to Friends by Melody Carlson

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing Here’s to Friends David C. Cook (September 1, 2011) by Melody Carlson

Melody Carlson fans will not be disappointed with her newest release. I love the premise of four girls all having the same first name choosing to go by their middle names and staying friends for many years.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Over the years, Melody Carlson has worn many hats, from pre-school teacher to youth counselor to political activist to senior editor. But most of all, she loves to write! Currently she freelances from her home. In the past eight years, she has published over ninety books for children, teens, and adults--with sales totaling more than two million and many titles appearing on the ECPA Bestsellers List. Several of her books have been finalists for, and winners of, various writing awards. And her "Diary of a Teenage Girl" series has received great reviews and a large box of fan mail.

She has two grown sons and lives in Central Oregon with her husband and chocolate lab retriever. They enjoy skiing, hiking, gardening, camping and biking in the beautiful Cascade Mountains.


ABOUT THE BOOK

Once upon a time in a little town on the Oregon coast lived four Lindas—all in the same first-grade classroom. So they decided to go by their middle names. And form a club. And be friends forever.

Decades later, they're all back home in Clifden and reinventing their lives, but the holidays bring a whole new set of challenges. Abby’s new B&B is getting bad reviews and husband Paul is acting strange. Still grieving for her mom, Caroline is remodeling the family home, but boyfriend Mitch keeps pressuring her to go away with him. Artist Marley, distracted by a friend's family drama (and a touch of jealousy), can't find her creative groove. And Janie’s drug-addicted daughter has just appeared up on her doorstep! When a long-planned New Year's cruise turns into a bumpy ride, they learn once again that, in your fifties, friends aren’t just for fun—they're a necessity!

You can buy it at Amazon!

If you would like to read the first chapter of Here’s to Friends, go HERE.

Note: I was provided a complimentary copy of Here's to Friends for the purpose of review. I was not asked to give only favorable comments.

A Heart Revealed - Another Great Read from Julie Lessman

Lately every September I look forward to two things, the ACFW National Conference and author Julie Lessman’s latest release from Revell.

This year is no exception. With A Heart Revealed, the second book in the Winds of Change series, Lessman continues the story of the O’Connor family. The first three-book series called The Daughters of Boston involves daughters, Faith, Charity, and Beth (Elizabeth), and the first book in the current series focuses on Kate, the youngest daughter.

With A Heart Revealed, gears shift as Sean O’Connor, one of the two brothers in the family, comes front and center for his story.

And what a story it is. As much as I’ve loved the women's stories, I loved reading about Sean who is all man. The story begins in 1931 when the country is reeling from the big crash that sent the economy into turmoil. Even so, self-proclaimed bachelor Sean has escaped loss of employment as manager of a large hardware store—until now.

Emma Malloy fled Dublin and her abusive husband for Boston years earlier and, over time, even as her emotional wounds healed, she has never regretted not seeking a divorce. Now, there's only one problem—she’s falling in love.

The back of the book asks, “Could Sean and Emma ever have a future together? Or is Emma doomed to live out the rest of her life, denying the only true love she’s ever known?”

If you are looking for drama, passion, raw human emotion, love and romance, this novel will not disappoint you. Lessman has a knack of tapping the deepest of human frailty and weaving a love for God and God’s steadfast love for His people into dynamite stories you can’t put down.

I highly recommend this book.

About the Author:

Julie Lessman is an award-winning author whose tagline of “Passion With a Purpose” underscores her intense passion for both God and romance. Winner of the 2009 ACFW Debut Author of the Year and Holt Medallion Awards of Merit for Best First Book and Long Inspirational, Julie is also the recipient of 13 Romance Writers of America awards and was voted by readers as “Borders Best of 2009 So Far: Your Favorite Fiction” at http://www.borders.com/online/store/ListView_best2009favefiction. Chosen as #1 Romance Fiction Author of the Year in the Family Fiction magazine 2011 Readers Choice Awards, Julie was also awarded #1 Series of the Year in that same poll and #3 Author of the Year, #5 Novel of the Year and #4 Historical Fiction Author of the year. She resides in Missouri with her husband, daughter, son and daughter-in-law. You can read more about Julie and her books at www.julielessman.com

Note: A complimentary copy of A Heart Revealed was provided to me by Revell for the purpose of review. I was not asked to provide only favorable comments. All opinions expressed here are my own.

CFBA Blog Tour - The Doctor's Lady by Jody Hedlund

This week, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance is introducing The Doctor's Lady Bethany House (September 1, 2011) by Jody Hedlund

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jody has written novels for the last 18 years (with a hiatus when her children were young). After many years of writing and honing her skills, she finally garnered national attention with her double final in the Genesis Contest, a fiction-writing contest for unpublished writers through ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers).

Her first published book, The Preacher’s Bride (2010 Bethany House Publishers), hit the CBA Best Seller list on two different occasions and has won multiple awards.

Her second book, The Doctor’s Lady, released this September. She has completed a third book which will be released in 2012. She’s currently busy researching and writing another book!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Priscilla White knows she'll never be a wife or mother and feels God's call to the mission field in India. Dr. Eli Ernest is back from Oregon Country only long enough to raise awareness of missions to the natives before heading out West once more. But then Priscilla and Eli both receive news from the mission board: No longer will they send unmarried men and women into the field.

Left scrambling for options, the two realize the other might be the answer to their needs. Priscilla and Eli agree to a partnership, a marriage in name only that will allow them to follow God's leading into the mission field. But as they journey west, this decision will be tested by the hardships of the trip and by the unexpected turnings of their hearts.

If you would like to read the first chapter of The Doctor's Lady, go HERE.

You can buy it at Amazon!

Watch the book trailer:

Betrayal by Jerry B. Jenkins - Don't Miss This One!

                    

 I didn’t know what to expect when I opened the latest book from Jerry Jenkins called Betrayal. Yep, the author is the same guy that with Tim LaHaye wrote all those Left Behind books.

Other than Left Behind, what I know about Jerry Jenkins are varied and sundry tidbits of information. He used to live in my neck of the woods, the Chicago burbs. He’s a very good friend of some people from my church, and a writer friend of mine used to see him at family reunions. He worked for Moody Publishers for a long while and wrote many biographies about sports figures. A few years ago he purchased the Christian Writers Guild, a correspondence school for writers, and has built it into a premiere go-to place for writers of both fiction and non-fiction to learn the craft. Then soon after that left Chicago for Colorado Springs. Now who would want a visual of Pike’s Peak out one’s window to inspire their muse when you can have the Midwestern plains?

 

Betrayal is a police story set right in the heart of the Chicago Police Department and Cook County Jail. Fast paced with short chapters that keep you turning pages.

As a resident of the area affectionately known as Chicagoland, I loved have the story set right here and being able to visualize the settings. Jerry knows the city well and he writes it well. Although I had not read the first book in this series called District 11, I had no problem picking up the storyline. It works very well as a stand-alone book.

Detective Boone Drake has just pulled off the most massive sting in Chicago history, bringing down the heads of not only the biggest street gangs in the city but also the old crime syndicate. The story is the biggest in decades, and the Chicago Police Department must protect the key witness at all costs. Yet despite top-secret plans to transfer the witness ahead of his testimony before the grand jury, an attempt is made on his life.

It soon becomes apparent that someone inside the Chicago PD leaked information to the shooter. As evidence mounts and suspicion points too close to home, Boone doesn’t know whom he can trust. An investigation reveals that the turncoat might be someone very close to him, even someone he loves—or is the guilty party just trying to cover up corruption at the highest level of the police department? Trusting the wrong person could prove fatal.

I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves detective, cops and robbers type of stories. The genre is not my first choice of a good read, but when I find a good one I enjoy it. This one is a keeper.

Note: I was provided a complimentary ARC of this book from Tyndale Publishers for the purposes of review. All opinions expressed here are my own and none were provided by the publisher.

CFBA Blog Tour - To Have and To Hold by Tracie Peterson & Judith Miller

In To Have and To Hold, multipublished authors Tracie Peterson and Judith Miller have brought their combined storytelling talents to craft a story their fans will love.

When Audrey Cunningham's father proposes that they move to Bridal Veil Island, where he grew up, she agrees, thinking this will help keep him sober and close to God. But they arrive to find wealthy investors buying up land to build a grand resort on the secluded island--and they want the Cunninghams' acreage.

Contractor Marshall Graham can't imagine why the former drinking buddy of his deceased father would beckon him to Bridal Veil Island. And when Boyd Cunningham asks him to watch over Audrey, Marshall is even more confused. He has no desire to be saddled with caring for this fiery young woman who is openly hostile toward him. But when Audrey seems to be falling for another man--one who has two little girls Audrey adores--Marshall realizes she holds more of his heart than he realized. Which man will Audrey choose? And can she hold on to her ancestral property in the face of overwhelming odds?

As you can tell from the description above this is a good story, full of surprising twists and lots of vivid descriptions of Bridal Veil Island which is located off the Georgia Coast. From a wary heroine whose fears are founded in her deep love for her father to a shotgun-toting-elderly aunt who hasn’t quite gotten the message the War Between the States is over, this novel brings a good September read to fans of late 19^th Century romance.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

  Tracie Peterson is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than 85 novels. She received her first book contract in November, 1992 with Barbour Publishings' Heartsong Presents. She wrote exclusively with Heartsong for the next two years, receiving their readership's vote for Favorite Author of the Year for three years in a row. In 1995 she signed a contract with Bethany House Publishers to co-write a series with author Judith Pella. Tracie now writes exclusively for Bethany House Publishers. She teaches writing workshops at a variety of conferences on subjects such as inspirational romance and historical research. Tracie was awarded the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for 2007 Inspirational Fiction and her books have won numerous awards for favorite books in a variety of contests. Making her home in Montana, this Kansas native enjoys spending time with family--especially her three grandchildren--Rainy, Fox and Max.

Judith Miller's first novel, Threads of Love, was conceived when she was commuting sixty miles to work each day. She wanted to tell the story of a pioneer girl coming to Kansas and the faith that sustained her as she adjusted to a new life. Through a co-worker, she was directed to Tracie Peterson who, at that time, worked down the hall from her. Having never met Tracie, Judith was totally unaware of her writing career, but God intervened. The rest is, as they say, history. Since that first encounter many years ago, Judith has been blessed with the publication of numerous books, novellas and a juvenile fiction book. Joyously, she and Tracie had the opportunity to develop a blessed friendship. In fact, they have co-authored several series together, including The Bells of Lowell, the Lights of Lowell and The Broadmoor Legacy.






You can order it from Amazon!

ACFW Authors New Release List - A Banquet of Many Choices

September brings a feast for fiction fans. Survey this buffet and choose what tempts you. There are a number of Christmas-themed novella collections which are always popular for gifting and getting yourself into the spirit. They might even help cool you down from this late summer heat! Enjoy!

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

A Biltmore Christmas by Diane Ashley and Rhonda Gibson -- A Historical Romance from Barbour; Explore the luxuries of America’s largest home through the eyes of the fictional Bradford sisters

A Bride’s Portrait of Dodge City, Kansas by Erica Vetsch -- A Romance from Barbour. Hoping to leave the shadows of her shady yesteryears behind, Adeline Reid is focusing on her photography career. But when her ex-boyfriend’s compatriot in crime shows up in Dodge City her entire past is threatened by exposure.

A Harvest of Hearts by Laura V. Hilton -- Shanna Stoltzfus thought nothing could make her return home to her Amish family. She was wrong. But can anything make her give up her dreams and stay?

A Heart Revealed by Julie Lessman -- A Historical Romance from Revell. Her heart is tied to a youthful vow . . . but can true love set it free?

A Log Cabin Christmas Collection by Margaret Brownley, Wanda Brunstetter, Jane Kirkpatrick, Kelly Eileen Hake, Liz Johnson, Liz Tolsma, Michelle Ule, Debra Ullrick, and Erica Vetsch-- 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?

A Marriage for Meghan by Mary Ellis  -- Romance from Harvest House; An engaging story of one girl’s quest for independence and true love as social prejudice tests a community’s faith in a simpler world.

A Quaker Christmas by Laura Lee Bliss, Rachael Phillips Ramona Cecil, and Claire Sanders -- Romance from Barbour. Christmas is a simple matter among the Quakers of the historic Ohio River Valley, but can it be a a special time to welcome love into four households?

A Whisper of Peace by Kim Vogel Sawyer -- Historical Romance from Bethany House. Will Clay Selby be forced to choose between his desire to minister to the natives and the quiet nudging of his heart to spend his life with a quiet, independent Indian woman who is not a part of the tribe?

Ashes to Honor by Loree Lough -- General Fiction from Abingdon. If only he'd answered that last call from the World Trade Center....

Belonging; Where the Heart Lives Series by Robin Lee Hatcher  -- Historical Romance from Zondervan; Can two bitter pasts make one sweet future?.

Captive Trail by Susan Page Davis-- Historical General Fiction from Moody Publishers; A girl has become a woman while in captivity, and a stagecoach driver longs to take her to the home she barely remembers.

Christmas at Barncastle Inn by Lynette Sowell, Susan Page Davis, Darlene Franklin, and Janelle Mowery -- Romance from Barbour; Each Christmas the Barncastle family transforms its sprawling Victorian bed and breakfast into a fantasy world through time. Will its guests also discover that forgiveness is timeless?

Deadly Pursuit by Irene Hannon-- Thriller/Suspense from Revell; A woman who protects children. An ex-Navy SEAL turned police detective. A stalker with deadly intent.

Deep Cover by Sandra Orchard-- Romance from Love Inspired; Undercover Cops: Fighting for justice puts their lives--and hearts--on the line.

Dry As Rain by Gina Holmes-- General Fiction from Tyndale; Undercover Cops: Behind every broken vow lies a broken heart. A richly engaging story of betrayal and redemption, Dry as Rain illuminates with striking emotional intensity the surprising truth of what it means to forgive.

Falling to Pieces; A Quilt Shop Murder by Vanetta Chapman-- A Cozy Mystery from Zondervan; Not your usual Amish buggy ride!

Finding Angel by Kat Heckenbach-- Speculative Fiction from Splashdown Books; Angel doesn’t remember her magical heritage…but it remembers her.

From This Day Forward; American Tapestries by Margaret Daley-- Historical Romance from Summerside Press; Following the War of 1812, an Englishwoman, stranded in South Carolina, pregnant and recently widowed, struggles to make a life for herself. Can a disenchanted American physician heal her wounded heart?

Hailee by Penny Zeller-- Historical Romance from Whitaker House; Can this unlikely pair come to terms with their pasts and face the future together?

Hidden in the Everglades by Margaret Daley-- A Thriller/Suspense from Love Inspired; Michael Hunt needs Kyra Morgan's help to keep his sister safe. It will take everything they have to escape the Everglades alive.

Love Finds You on Christmas Morning by Debby Mayne and Trish Perry -- Romance from Summerside Press; Two women receive marriage proposals in the same house— 85 years apart. Love finds a home on Christmas morning in two heartwarming holiday stories.

Love Finds You in Sundance, Wyoming by Miralee Ferrell-- Romance from Summerside Press; While war rages in Europe, Rebekah Hendricks dreams of life far beyond the family farm in Oklahoma. And when a telegram arrives in October of 1918, she believes God has provided her way of escape.

Naomi’s Gift-An Amish Christmas Story by Amy Clipston-- Romance from Zondervan; Take a trip to Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania, where you'll meet the women of the Kauffman Amish Bakery in Lancaster County.

Pirate of My Heart by Jamie Carie-- Historical Fiction from B and H Publishing; Forced to flee the only home she's ever known, Lady Kendra Townsend risks everything for a chance at finding true love in the wilds of a new America.

Remembering Christmas: A Novel by Dan Walsh-- General Fiction from Revell; Can one Christmas change a person's life forever?

Shadowed in Silk by Christine Lindsay-- Historical Romance from Whitefire Publishing; Neglected by family, Abby travels to India after WWI with her small son, only to be abandoned by her husband, a cruel stranger, and to fall in love with a man who can never return her love without offending God.

Surrender the Dawn by Mary Lu Tyndall-- Historical Romance 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 Aristocrat’s Lady by Mary Moore -- Historical from Love Inspired; She was resigned to a life without love-until she met him...

The Christmas Belles of Georgia by Debra Ullrick, Jeanie Smith Cash, Rose Allen McCauley, and Jeri Odell -- Romance from Barbour; They were sisters once—identical quadruplets—given up for adoption at birth. Now each receives a letter advising her to claim her inheritance and the family she never knew. . .at Christmas.

The Doctor's Lady by Jody Hedlund-- Historical Romance from Bethany House; Priscilla White knew God wanted her to be a missionary, not a wife. But the only way she can serve is to be married. Married in name only, her new journey will test her spirit. . . and the new longings of her heart.

The Healing; Kentucky Brothers Series by Wanda Brunstetter-- Romance from Barbour; Can Esther Beiler win Samuel Fisher’s heart, or has she already lost it to an English woman? How will God untangle star-crossed lovers when jealousies and misconceptions threaten to tear them apart?

The Wounded Heart; An Amish Quilt Novel by Adina Senft-- General Fiction from Faith Words (Hachette); When she's diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a young Amish mother must choose between obedience or following her heart.

To Have and To Hold; Bridal Veil Island Series by Tracie Peterson and Judith Miller -- Historical Romance from Bethany House; Amid a time of growth and change for Bridal Veil, can Marshall and Audrey find a foundation on which to build a love to last forever?

Wings of a Dream by Anne Mateer-- General Fiction from Bethany House; While war rages in Europe, Rebekah Hendricks dreams of life far beyond the family farm in Oklahoma. And when a telegram arrives in October of 1918, she believes God has provided her way of escape.