Love Finds You in Sunflower Kansas by Pamela Tracy

Will Annie find treasure in her field of sunflowers?


Annie Jamison is the sister who keeps the peace. So when her mother goes missing, Annie’s the one sent to retrieve her.

There’s one problem.

It seems the town Willa Jamison (willingly) ran off to—Sunflower, Kansas— doesn’t exist.
Sure, it’s on the map, but when Annie drives there, she finds herself in the middle of a field.

Of sunflowers.

In nearby Bonner Springs, Kansas, Annie finds her errant mother…and Joe Kelly, a handsome veterinarian who thinks Annie is part of a team of con artists out to swindle his father. It takes some time, but eventually, Joe’s working with Annie instead of against her to bring their wacky parents to their senses.

When this unlikely team turns into an unlikely couple, Annie no longer wants to leave her field of sunflowers.
She wants happily-ever-after with Joe Kelly.

But when evidence of the con resurfaces, will Joe have enough faith in Annie to recognize the truth?

Buy: http://www.amazon.com/LOVE-FINDS-YOU-IN-SUNFLOWER/dp/1609365941

The Phoenix Rattler Writing Contest

Christian Writers of the West (CWOW) – Arizona’s ACFW chapter - Announces

The Phoenix Rattler 2011-2012 writing contest - “Does your story have bite?”


Contest open to all unpublished novelists

Send the first scene, up to 10 pages, double spaced

Deadline Oct 29th 2011, winner announced Feb 11th 2012, fee $25

Category winners receive $25 prize - All Finalists receive an award certificate

Grand Prize (worth $515) paid registration to 2012 ACFW Conference (minimum 150 entries)

CATEGORIES & FINAL-ROUND JUDGES:
Contemporary Fiction Don Pape, Publisher, David C Cook
Bill Jensen, Owner, William K Jensen Literary Agency
Historical Fiction Karen Schurrer, Acquisitions Editor, Adult Fiction, Bethany House
Joyce Hart, Agent, Hartline Literary Agency
Suspense/Thriller/Mystery Sue Brower, Executive Editor for Fiction, Zondervan
Elizabeth Mazer, Assistant Editor, Love Inspired Suspense
Sci-Fi/Fantasy/Allegory Jeff Gerke, Owner, Marcher Lord Press, Author, Jefferson Scott
Amanda Luedeke, Agent, MacGregor Literary
Young Adult Becky Monds, Associate Editor, Fiction, Thomas Nelson
Rachel Kent, Agent, Books & Such LiteraryAgency
Joanna MacKenzie, Browne & Miller Literary Associates
Women’s Fiction Ami McConnell, Sr Acquisitions Editor, Fiction, Thomas Nelson
Sandra Bishop, Agent, MacGregor Literary
Judy Mikalonis, Senior Agent, Andrea Hurst & Associates
Romance included in all categories


Watch website for details and entry form: www.ChristianWritersOfTheWest.weebly.com

Contest Coordinator: DL Shipley – Rattler@dlshipley.com

How Sweet It Is.....or Isn't RT Workshop

If you're going to be at RT in LA, please stop by and say hi. I'll also be doing the book signing on Saturday.


Date: Friday April 8, 2011 01:30 pm - 02:30 pm
Event Type: Writer Industry Workshop
Location: San Gariel C

Panelist(s): Harlequin Love Inspired
Jillian Hart Camy Tang Pamela Tracy Janet Tronstad Janet Tronstad
Kim Watters Cheryl Wyatt

“My job was to give them faith in their own voice.” (The King’s Speech, 2010)

From hearth and home to danger and rescue, join a panel of multi-pubbed Harlequin Love Inspired authors as they tell you not only how and why they chose to write for the inspirational market (or why it chose them), but also hear how the faith element makes the goal, motivation, and conflict in their stories even better.

My step-by-step guide to how I get inspiration for my writing:

Step 1:
Get out of the house. People watch. When they speak, what mannerisms do they use? What features make them attractive? I often use the eyes, nose, and mouths of different people to create the image of my character. What color/style clothing are they wearing? How does it reflect their personality? I let my imagination run wild, guessing their background, what events in their life have shaped them, even what kind of day they are having based on their actions. All of this is great inspiration for developing my characters.

Step 2:
Write. My writing often inspires my next book.

Step 3:
Read. Watch movies. There’s an old saying that art inspires art, and I’ve often found this to be true in my case. I will catch a theme, or a character, or part of a story that captivates me, and give it my own spin.

Step 4:
My favorite book for inspiring my characters is Laurie Schnebly’s Believable Characters: Creating with Enneagrams. I look for the personality of the character I’ve already created in my head and study the attributes for decision-making that defines them. If I’m stuck on a character’s motives, this always gets me inspired to search for a deeper motivation!

Step 5:
Research. This gives me such inspiration, allowing me to step into the historical world of my characters and to truly visualize their every day life. My research will also often inspire scenes in my books and help me create adventures for my hero & heroine.

Step 6:
Bounce ideas off my family. My husband and sons are great listeners, and will often let me talk my story out loud, which often leads to me solving a dilemma in the plot. They are careful to listen much, and add comments rarely. What more could I ask for?

Step 7:
Attend my writer’s meetings. Talking to other writers always inspires me to write. I’m not sure if it’s because I’m in a roomful of other creative people and we feed off of each other, or if their excitement for the story generates my own excitement. But I’m always a fiend at the keyboard the next day.

Step 8:
Read my saved mail. I’m not sure if other writers do this, but whenever I receive an email from a reader, I save it in a special folder. If I’m having a difficult day writing, the stormy kind of ones where I doubt myself or my work, I read through all the wonderful notes from people who have loved my books, and are looking forward to my next one.

Step 9:
I go back to step 2. And if I get stuck, I repeat step 1, for it always helps to clear the mind and remind me that there’s a world of characters out there besides the ones I create. People who I don’t know, but I might have touched with my stories. How magical is that?


Until Next Time,

Kathryne

Inspiration for the day.

“Hugging is healthy: it helps the body's immune system; it wards off depression; it reduces stress; it induces sleep; it invigorates; it rejuvenates; and it has no unpleasant side effects.

Hugging is all natural: it is organic; it is naturally sweet; it contains no pesticides, no preservatives and no artificial ingredients; and it is 100% wholesome.

Hugging is practically perfect: there are no movable parts, no batteries to wear out, no periodic checkups; it has low energy consumption and high energy yield; it is inflation-proof; it is nonfattening; it requires no monthly payments and no insurance; it is theft-proof, nontaxable, nonpolluting and, of course, fully returnable.”

Quote for the week from the dictionary:

Inspiration, noun

1: arousal of the mind to special unusual activity or creativity

2: a product of your creative thinking and work; brainchild

3: a sudden intuition as part of solving a problem

4: arousing to a particular emotion or action

5: the act of inhaling [inhalation, breathing in]

For Writers: My Journey of sales to inspire you.

I started out writing short fiction before tackling an entire manuscript. I had published several short stories in small press SF/F publications, honing my writing skills in shorter fiction and establishing publication credits. I had a fantastic experience with SF/F editors, who were all so willing and helpful in providing feedback on my stories. When I made my first ‘pro’ sale, to Marion Zimmer Bradley’s Sword & Sorceress series, I felt that perhaps I was now ready to write an entire book. I do recall that MZB accepted that first story (a romantic fantasy titled Spirit Quest—you can read all about it in the Short Stories page on my website) by sending me a letter and contract through the mail. I also recall that my knees gave out and the couch was (fortunately) beneath me at the time.

I then wrote my first manuscript, Beneath the Thirteen Moons, a combination of SF/F and romance, all the things that I love. And I had a devil of a time selling it. There was no umbrella of Paranormal Romance at the time, so no one knew how to market it. I received rejections from SF/F houses that said “too much romance”, and rejections from Romance houses that said “too much fantasy”. I finally found Five Star, a small press house, whose editor at that time, Russell Davis, was actually looking for the type of story I had written. He called--my knees only wobbled this time--and Beneath the Thirteen Moons was released in hardcover. I was very naïve at the time, and Russell gave me the best piece of advice: join RWA. I then spent the next year or so learning about the ‘selling’ of books, creating a website, exploring marketing opportunities, etc. And the best part, meeting other writers.

Because of my difficulty in selling my first manuscript, I then wrote a historical romance titled My Unfair Lady, and I did manage to interest an agent with that manuscript. But the entire time I was writing it, I kept thinking: “What if?”

What if the titles of the nobility were based on magical talent? What if Merlin actually had magic in his blood, and passed it down to his descendants? And despite the market, I wrote the book of my heart, combining the research I did for my historical romance novel along with the fantasy that I just couldn’t resist weaving into my stories.

I shelved My Unfair Lady, pursuing (what turned out to be) the first book in my magical new series, The Relics of Merlin. I sold book one, Enchanting the Lady, to my first mainstream publishing house. Now by this time, ‘paranormal’ romance had become a good seller, and although my books are fantasy romances, publishers knew how to market them. And that they would have an audience. I wrote two more books in the series when I was approached by another publisher.

I’m going to circle back to that historical romance manuscript, My Unfair Lady. Besides launching into a new series, The Elven Lords, another magical variation on historical England, my new publisher wanted to look at everything I had written.

My Unfair Lady was published in December of last year, and received a starred review from Publishers Weekly and a Library Journal editor’s pick. My first book, Beneath the Thirteen Moons, is re-releasing December of this year in mm paperback. Remember, these are two books that were rejected by just about every publisher under the sun, once long ago. So based on my publishing experience I can offer this advice: nothing you write is ever a ‘waste’, writing is subject to personal opinion and the whims of the market, continue to write the book of your heart regardless of the market, cause this business is always changing.

And for me, I feel as if I’ve had more than one ‘first sale’. I’ve had many of them, sometimes circling back on one another. And although my knees don’t give out anymore, each time I see my book hit the shelves I experience that same thrill.

I hope my publishing journey inspired you in some way, and if I can offer any advice or support, please feel free to leave me a comment.

My Magical Best,
Kathryne

Interview with Patricia Davids

I’d like to welcome our guest today, Patricia Davids. It’s a pleasure having you come visit us at Much Cheaper Than Therapy, where chocolate is plentiful and advice is free. So grab some chocolate and a lounge chair. Your therapy session has begun.

I understand you have a new release out called Katie’s Redemption. Can you tell us a little bit about your fabulous new book?

First, thanks for the chocolate. I’m an addict, my dress size proves it. Can I have more? Absolutely. We aim to please. (KW)

Katie’s Redemption is the first book in my Brides of Amish Country series from Steeple Hill. It’s the story of a young Amish woman who returns to her unhappy childhood home because she is destitute and very pregnant. She prays her unfeeling brother will take her in but what she doesn’t know is that her family has moved away. Another Amish family now owns the farm. Carpenter Elam Sutter and his mother, Nettie. The new family takes Katie in. Through their kindness, they show her a side of Amish life she’s never known. Soon love grows, but can Elam trust that Katie’s change of heart is real?

Katie’s Redemption is a very interesting title. How did you arrive at that name?

Katie is an unwed mother. Her need to keep and protect her child is what brought her back to her Amish roots. To her surprise, she finds more than a roof over her head. She finds love and a new faith. In my mind, Katie’s daughter became her redemption, hence the title.

What made you decide to write in this genre?

My mother. Yes, really.

I didn’t start out to be an inspirational author. I wrote the sexy stuff. Not all that well, mind you. My mother kept pushing me to write a “clean book”. It wasn’t until I met the wonderful Christian author Deborah Raney that I realized there was a market for clean romances filled with faith and hope. It’s funny how God works in our lives and how often when He talks to us he sounds just like our mother.

Are you a plotter or a pantser and how did it affect the writing of this book?

I’m a plotter and a panster. I know where and when I want certain plot elements to come in my book. I have to figure that out before I start. It’s when the characters speak that I find I’m a panster. However, like a good cattle dog, I keep them all headed in the right direction. More or less.

Did you have to do a lot of research for the book? What are your favorite research books or sites?

I spent a good six months doing research for this book. I live in Kansas and while we do have an Amish community here it isn’t the size of the Ohio or Pennsylvania settlements. I read dozens of books, spent hours on the Internet and came to the conclusion I could never get the details to be exact. So, I concentrated on the emotions of the characters. We are all human, Amish and English alike. We fall in love, we fear being hurt, we have to find the courage to make a leap of faith. Once I had that firmly in mind, the rest was easy. As for my favorite tool, I’m a Google girl.

Where did you get your idea for this particular book?

My editor at Steeple Hill contacted me to see if I would be interested in developing an Amish series. After doing some research, I said “yes” to the project. I had read stories about people who have left the Amish but I wanted to show what would happen if someone tried to come back. Katie needed a valid and pressing reason to return to a life she hated so I came up with the idea of making her pregnant and having the boyfriend dump her.

Which character did you like writing about the most, and why?

I can honestly say I dislike the work of writing. I do, but I love to tell stories. I love it. It’s a gift God gave me. He made me a storyteller. I enjoy creating all kinds of characters but the hero of any book has my heart. Be he a tough guy, a soft guy, a wounded guy, I want to make things right in his life. What better way than to give him the woman who will make him complete and the faith that will complete them both?

Tell us about how you develop your characters. Do you create character sheets, do interviews, that sort of thing? How does your research affect your character development?

I don’t have a set way to create characters. Some appear full-blown and ready to rock in my head. Others, I have to work at fleshing them out by finding their hidden desires and fears. There is no right way to write a book. There is only your way.

Do you have any authors that inspired you?

Deborah Raney for one. She creates wonderful characters. I deeply admire Nora Roberts’ work ethic although I’m not a fan of her writing. (She has plenty without me.) She can turn out six or more books a year. What I wouldn’t give to be able to harness that kind of productivity.

What do you feel is the most effective promotion you have done for your book?

That is an easy question. I write for Steeple Hill. They have worldwide marketing. All I have to do is write a book that people will talk about. I do speaking engagements, I have a website, I do interviews and blogs, but I honest don’t know if they have an impact on sales.

What do we have to look forward next?

The Doctor’s Blessing is next for me. It is the story of a nurse-midwife working among the Amish and how the arrival of a new doctor upsets her personal and professional life. Yes, sparks will fly in Amish county.

Thanks, Pat!

To celebrate her book release, Pat is offering a free book of Katie’s Redemption to one lucky commenter on today's blog. (please check the blog Monday night to see who won. Chances of winning determined by the number of entries.)

She will be around all day today. I'm sure some of you have questions or comments for her, so please ask away...

Check out author’s website at http://www.patriciadavids.com/. Buy eHarlequin.com.

Great Review for On Wings of Love

My first Steeple Hill Love Inspired book received a 4 from Romantic Times.

ON WINGS OF LOVE (4) by Kim Watters: As donation coordinator for the Arizona Organ Donor Network, Ruth Fontaine's first encounter with pilot Noah Barton is not auspicious. The loss of his wife and Ruth's bad experience with romance makes the attraction felt by both unwelcome. Plus, using his charter service to fly the medical team is not Noah's choice. He feels that the doctors didn't do enough to save his son because they wanted his organs. That distrust puts a barrier between Ruth and Noah that only the God he no longer has faith in can breach. Watters' heartachingly poignant story is about learning to accept that, though bad things happen to good people, God's love is always steadfast and true.

—Susan Mobley

Thanks Susan!

Interview with Laurie Alice Eakes

I’d like to welcome our guest today, Laurie Alice Eakes. It’s a pleasure having you come visit us at Much Cheaper Than Therapy, where chocolate is plentiful and advice is free. So grab some chocolate and a lounge chair. Your therapy session has begun.

I understand you have a new release out called The Glassblower. Can you tell us a little bit about your fabulous new book?

The Glassblower is set in New Jersey in 1809 and is the first book in the New Jersey historical series from Heartsong Presents, Barbour Publishing. Colin Grassick travels from Scotland to Salem County to become the master glassblower at a glassworks. He loves his work and hopes to bring the rest of his family to America for a more prosperous life, but his love for his boss’s daughter could cost him his job and his life.

The Glassblower is a very interesting title. How did you arrive at that name?

With all three of these books, I wanted to go for simplicity. Somehow, focusing on one character from each book just stuck in my head. It’s mainly about a glassblower. Besides that, it’s not a usual occupation for a protagonist in a historical, so I thought it would get people’s attention.

What made you decide to write in this genre?

I love history. Although I’ve played with contemporary fiction, I haven’t found a niche there. Frankly, I’m more comfortable in historical settings than contemporary ones.

Where did you get your idea for this particular book?

I wanted to write a series on New Jersey. It’s kind of an unjustly maligned state for which I have a great deal of affection for various reasons, so I picked up an old Bicentennial general history of the state. The chapter on the glassblowing industry wouldn’t leave my head.

What are your favorite historical research books and why?

That depends on the time period and subject matter. I have hundreds of them. The ease of getting public domain books from Google Books makes the selection even broader. I usually start with some kind of general history and go on to the specific from there. I love original sources, too, like diaries and memoirs.

Which character did you like writing about the most, and why?

Colin. He just got ahold of my imagination and heart and I loved making this artistic and sensitive, but strong artisan.

Tell us about how you develop your characters. Do you create character sheets, do interviews, that sort of thing? How does your research affect your character development?

I use an Excel spreadsheet and focus on goal, motivation, and conflict for general purpose, romantic conflict, and spiritual conflict. I add in things like eye and hair color for reference later, and fears and strengths, etc. I also write down the epiphany they achieve in the story, what lesson they have to learn.

As far as research, it is highly important. Colin is a Scot, so his speech is going to be different. I like my characters to use words and expressions of their time and place, to talk like someone from their time and place rather than a contemporary person from Hollywood. Research matters in attitudes. This is especially important with female characters. My nineteenth century heroine is not going to sound like a feminist, though most of my heroines are independent. They’re simply independent in a historically accurate way.

What are some common speech terms, dress modes, transportation or housing facts that you found interesting for your time period?

I like the styles of the early 1800s. Far more comfortable for females than previously or later. Men, too, in many ways. Speech? That’s more fun in the Regency novel, of course. One thing I find interesting about the nineteenth century is how God is such an integral part of everyone’s life. Talk of religion, God, and spiritual matters was not a time for everyone to bristle or keep under the rug. It just was.

Do you have any authors that inspired you?

Oh, yes, several. Patricia Veryan, Jo Beverley, Georgette Heyer, I could keep going.

What do you feel is the most effective promotion you have done for your book?

Keeping my name in the public eye through blogging regularly, posting on Facebook, and, above all, writing a book that people like. The Glassblower was one of the editor’s five favorite historicals of 2009. She loved my hero.

What do we have to look forward to next?

The other two books in the New Jersey series: The Heiress and The Newcomer and When the Snow Flies, from Avalon books, come out in April and August of next year. I have several more books coming out after that, my first trade paperback, Bride of the Mist, will be released from Baker/Revell in January of 2011.

Thanks, Laurie!

To celebrate her book release, Kim has a free book of The Glassblower that one lucky commenter on today's blog can win. (please check the blog Monday night to see who won. Chances of winning determined by the number of entries.)

Laurie will be around all day today. I'm sure some of you have questions or comments for her, so please ask away...

Bio.
Award-winning author Laurie Alice Eakes does not remember a time when books did not play a part in her life; thus, no one was surprised when she decided to be a writer. Her first hardcover was an October, 2006 Regency historical from Avalon Books and won the National Readers Choice Award for Best Regency, as well as being a finalist for Best First Book. After selling her first book in the inspirational market, she also wrote articles and essays for Christian publications. A brief hiatus in publishing climaxed with her selling eleven books in nine months, to publishers such as Barbour, Avalon, and Baker/Revell.

She is an active member of RWA and ACFW, and started the Avalon Authors group blog. A graduate of the Seton Hill University Master of Arts Degree in Writing Popular Fiction, And a Bachelor of Arts graduate in English and French from Asbury College, she is an experienced speaker, and has made presentations at local and national RWA conferences, as well as local universities and libraries.

Until recently, she lived in Northern Virginia, then her husband’s law career took them and their dogs and cats, to southern Texas, where she writes full-time and enjoys the beach whenever possible.

Check out author’s website at http://www.lauriealiceeakes.com though I confess I haven’t had time to update it. My blog is more up-to-date on what I’m up to http://www.seizethechance.blogspot.com

Interview with Lyn Cote

I’d like to welcome our guest today, Lyn Cote. It’s a pleasure having you come visit us at Much Cheaper Than Therapy, where chocolate is plentiful and advice is free. So grab some chocolate and a lounge chair. Your therapy session has begun.

I understand you have a new release out called Her Patchwork Family. Can you tell us a little bit about your fabulous new book?

Her Patchwork Family is the 2^nd book in my "Gabriel Sisters" series for the new Love Inspired Historical line. The Gabriel sisters are Quakers who believe that God has given each of them special gifts and missions to use to heal America after the Civil War. These books are coming out one each December from 2008 to 2010.

Felicity Gabriel has inherited a large house, a mansion really, in a town along the Mississippi River in Illinois right across from St. Louis. She plans to open an orphan's home there. Her neighbors are horrified. They don't want riffraff in their neighborhood. But the real challenge to Felicity is Ty Hawkins' little traumatized daughter. How can she reunite this good man with his child?

Her Patchwork Family is a very interesting title. How did you arrive at that name?

My editor. I'm not very good at romance titles.

What made you decide to write in this genre?

I love history and historical fiction. And I love to write about strong women. My blog is http://strongwomenbravestories.blogspot.com/ If you want to read stories of strong women in fiction and in life, drop by!

Are you a plotter or a pantser and how did it affect the writing of this book?

I was going to say a little of both, but I'll amend that to a LOT of both. I plan some and then start writing. When I need something, it just comes.

Did you have to do a lot of research for the book? What are your favorite research books or sites?

I did some research, especially on 19^th century law and the crusade to enact laws that would deal with children offenders differently than adults. My brand is Strong Women, Brave Stories. I love to write stories of strong women who are ahead of their times, stories with a multicultural cast of characters and stories that include authentic history.

Where did you get your idea for this particular book?

I always look for a historical period with a lot of social change. It's easy to find conflict enough for a story there.

Which character did you like writing about the most, and why?

Felicity is a delight. She just never takes no for an answer and is fearless in her zeal to protect and help children. And the hero finds her irresistible too.

Tell us about how you develop your characters. Do you create character sheets, do interviews, that sort of thing? How does your research affect your character development?

I always use Tami Cowden's Archetype book, Kathy Jacobsen's Conflict Grid and a character interview. And of course choosing a name is key.

Do you have any authors that inspired you?

Georgette Heyer, Mary Stewart, and Phyllis Whitney.

What do you feel is the most effective promotion you have done for your book?

Writing a book people want to buy is a good idea.

What do we have to look forward next?

The final book in my Texas Star of Destiny series will come out in early 2010. It's title Her Abundant Joy and features a heroine who has just immigrated to Texas in time for the Mexican American War.

Thanks, Lyn!

To win books by Lyn Cote and more!

There are 4 ways to win books which include Lyn’s.

1-Enter the quarterly drawing at http://www.loveinspiredauthors.com

2-Drop by Lyn’s blog http://StrongWomenBraveStories.blogspot.com in a month that she has a new book released. She will give out several copies in a drawing of those who comment during the weeks. In 2009 that includes August, September and December.

3- Drop by my website http://www.LynCote.net and click Meet Lyn Page and scroll to the bottom to join the ChapterAWeek Club. Several times a year, this group gives away a prize of 10 lbs. of autographed books by notable Christian Authors, including Lyn.

4-Join www.goodreads.com and then click on Explore and then Books, there you will find scores of book giveaway drawings which you can sign up for. I give 1-2 copies of each of my new books here.

She will be around all day today. I'm sure some of you have questions or comments for her, so please ask away...

Check out author’s website at www.booksbylyncote.com

Buy www.booksbylyncote.com.

Interview with Glynna Kaye

I’d like to welcome our guest today, GLYNNA KAYE. It’s a pleasure having you come visit us at Much Cheaper Than Therapy, where chocolate is plentiful and advice is free. So grab some chocolate and a lounge chair. Your session has begun.

I understand you have a new release, “Dreaming of Home,” coming out this month from Steeple Hill Love Inspired. Can you tell us a little bit about your fabulous new book?

Thanks for inviting me here today! My first published book is set in the fictional small town of Canyon Springs in the beautiful mountain country of north central Arizona.

Fresh out of the military, widower Joe Diaz is determined to raise his young son alone. But his next door neighbor Meg McGuire has set her sights on the same house--and teaching job--as Joe. He's all about family now, not romantic entanglements, and he won't give up without a fight. But what about little Davy, who's growing more attached to Miss Meg every day? Or Joe who finds himself dreaming of a home and family with the one woman in town who could take it all away?

“Dreaming of Home” is a very interesting title. How did you arrive at that name?

The original name under which I submitted it to the 2008 Golden Pen Contest was “An Inconvenient Love.” When it sold to Steeple Hill, I was asked to suggest names to better fit their “hearth and home” brand. So family and friends helped me brainstorm. In my story both Meg and Joe are dreaming of making small town Canyon Springs their home, so the new title is a perfect fit!

What made you decide to write in this genre?

I’ve always written from a Christian worldview, but for a long time I didn’t seriously consider writing “inspirational” fiction. I mean, didn’t you have to be an ex-missionary? Be married to a pastor? Be a much more perfect and spiritually mature person than I am? But over the years, God gradually showed me that his strength is made perfect in my weakness. I don’t have to fit a mold for him to use me to write the stories he wants told. He’s looking for a growing faith, a teachable heart, and a willing spirit.

Are you a plotter or a panster, and how did it affect the writing of this book?

I’m what you might call a planster. I can’t just run out there and start writing without SOME kind of plan in mind or I go off on tangents that waste my time and have to be cut out later. But I’m also not one to whom the ability was given to map it all out right down to every twist and turn detail from the get-go. So I get a basic overall story “foundation” laid out in a synopsis, make a high-level, couple-of-lines breakdown by chapter, and then the details of its construction grow and morph as I write. So much comes in the actual writing and revision stages when I’m layering in the depth. I’m still a newbie writer, but with each new book I’m attempting to become better at “blueprinting” the fictional “house” I want to build. When I know where I’m going, I can make much more efficient use of my limited writing time. But I still have a lot to learn!

Did you have to do a lot of research for the book?

I traveled to the general area where the fictional town of Canyon Springs is set. I also spent a great deal of time researching a medical condition that plays a part in the story, and did a lot of research on hero Joe Diaz’s Navy background. Spent a lot of time on the official U.S. Navy website. They probably track “hits’ to the site, so I’m very likely on the government “watch list”--or may be receiving recruitment materials any day now! I also wrote dozens of questions that an ex-Navy friend graciously answered.

What are your favorite research books or sites?

I don’t have particular books or sites that I use. It all depends on what the issue is that I need to research. I try to stick to reliable sources and confirm info found in one place with others.

Where did you get your idea for this particular book?

I tend to collect ideas from all over and jot them down to use later. The opening line of “Dreaming of Home” initially sparked years ago at a fabric shop when I recognized an actor who’d played a pirate in a community theatre production. Thus was born the original version of “It was at precisely one o’clock on a sunny, September Saturday afternoon when Megan McGuire spied the pirate.” The line stuck with me and I knew I’d someday use it for SOMETHING, but didn’t then know what. Eventually it lit the “what if” fires that ignited the story and drew other ideas to it like a magnet.

Which character did you like writing about the most, and why?

Joe and Meg both have a special place in my heart--but Joe’s little boy, Davy, was a special delight! I don’t know where that little guy came from, but he just came alive for me.
Tell us about how you develop your characters—do you create character sheets, do interviews, that sort of thing? I’m still a newbie at this and still learning, so I’ve probably tried about ever trick in the book from completing character profiles, to interviewing them, to referencing books or worksheets on character development. I think the main thing I learned in using all of these tools is that even if you’re filling out the character sheets that ask “what’s his favorite color?” “What color are her eyes?’ the simplistic, surface answer isn’t as important as the WHY behind the answer. His favorite color is green. WHY? Because it reminds him of money? Or the great outdoors? Or was it the favorite color of his Dad who died when the hero was seven? It’s the WHY’s that intrigue me into digging below the surface to build a character.

How does your research affect your character development?

I think research enables you to go deeper than stereotypes of your characters or story situations. We’re to a great extent the sum of our experiences. A person who grew up in a happy, secure home will likely have a very different outlook on life than someone who raised themselves on the streets of L.A. In the case of Dreaming of Home’s Joe Diaz, my research into Navy corpsmen colored who Joe is, what makes him tick.

Do you have any authors that inspired you?

TONS. Too many to name!

What do you feel is the most effective promotion you have done for your book?

Again, I’m a newbie at all this, but I think the most bang for the buck comes from having a website. I don’t have a personal blog yet or a Facebook or Twitter presence mainly because they are so time consuming and time is something I don’t have much to spare right now. For two years I’ve maintain an on-line presence at www.seekerville.blogspot and more recently www.loveinspired authors.com and www.eharlequin.com. I’m doing guest blogs during the month of my book’s release and will have a local book signing.

I also believe word-of-mouth is super important. My Mom designed cute note cards that have the book cover on the front and the blurb on the back. Then inside is all the info on my upcoming release—plus room for me to write a personal note. I’ve mailed those to family and long-time friends all across the country and they, in turn, are telling their friends. My Dad submitted an announcement about my book to his school alumni newsletter! And I gave the owner of the high-traffic salon where I get my hair done a copy of my book and she’s posted an announcement of my upcoming book signing.

But right now, as a newbie, I feel my first priority is writing the best book I can and that’s where my time needs to be focused—on learning to become a writer who readers can depend on to deliver the type of story they’re already coming to look for from me.

What do we have to look forward to next?

I’m working on a story set in the same fictional Arizona mountain town as my first book. It features a hero and heroine who appeared as secondary characters in “Dreaming of Home.” Meg’s friend Kara Dixon and Joe’s “rival” Trey Kenton have some major issues to overcome before they can find a happily ever after in Canyon Springs!

Thanks, Glynna!

To celebrate her book release, Glynna is offering a free copy of Dreaming of Home to one lucky commenter on today’s blog. (check back Monday night to see who won. Chances of winning depend on number of commenters)

Glynna will be out and about today, but will do her best to pop in as she can to answer questions or respond to comments, so please ask away…

ABOUT GLYNNA

An ACFW "Genesis" and RWA Faith, Hope & Love "Touched by Love" award winner, GLYNNA KAYE'S first published book DREAMING OF HOME is an October 2009 Steeple Hill Love Inspired release.

Check out this author’s website at http://www.glynnakaye.com/ and visit http://www.seekerville.blogspot.com/.

Interview with Cara Putman

I’d like to welcome our guest today, Cara Putman. It’s a pleasure having you come visit us at Much Cheaper Than Therapy, where chocolate is plentiful and advice is free. So grab some chocolate and a lounge chair. Your therapy session has begun.

Thanks so much for having me. I see you have my favorite kind right there. Mind if I help myself to a truffle?

Absolutely! We aim to please.

I understand you have a new release out called Trial by Fire. Can you tell us a little bit about your fabulous new book?

The blurb say it best. Her mother's house was first. Then her brother's. County prosecutor Tricia Jamison is sure she's next on the arsonist's list. But who is after her family? And why does every fire throw her in Noah Brust's path? Noah can't forgive Tricia. Her failure to protect him on the stand the previous year meant his father's reputation was ruined.

Trial by Fire is a very interesting title. How did you arrive at that name?

The working title was Deadly Judgment, but as my editor and I talked about it, we knew it needed something that reflected the book a bit better. She came up with Trial by Fire, which is perfect because the heroine is an attorney, trials play a role, and an arsonist is hunting her.

Would you describe your book as a cozy, mystery, suspense, or thriller?

This book is definitely romantic suspense. So readers who love a romance will enjoy it, but it also has a strong ticking clock, woman in jeopardy feel. It’s the kind of book I love to read.

What made you decide to write in this genre?

Primarily the fact that I love reading in this genre. If I have a stack of books, all from authors I like, but one is suspense – that’s the book I’ll pick up first. I love the twists, turns, and pacing of well-written suspense.

Where did you get your idea for this particular book?

The heroine is a strong supporting character in the first book, Deadly Exposure, and I knew she wanted her own story. Then I played with ways that her career as an attorney could place her in harm’s way – but in a manner she’d never anticipate.

Do you have all the key suspense/mystery elements thought out before you begin writing?

I generally know the outlines of a plot, generally know the hero, heroine, and the bad guy. Then as I write, new thoughts and twists develop. That’s what makes it such a fun process.

Did you have to do a lot of research for the book? What are your favorite research books or sites?

Each book requires research. For this one, I had to research the setting since I hadn’t been to some of the buildings in Lincoln, NE. I also had to investigate how arson is investigated. I found a NOVA video on a serial arsonist which was hugely helpful. Then I also found websites for the organizations that train fire investigators. I also interviewed a friend who is a fire investigator, and he was wonderfully helpful to make sure my research was accurate.

Which character did you like writing about the most, and why?

I like Noah, the hero. I already knew Tricia pretty well, but her story took a turn I hadn’t anticipated, and writing Noah’s response was such fun. It allowed him to reflect Christ’s love in a way I hadn’t anticipated.

Tell us about how you develop your characters. Do you create character sheets, do interviews, that sort of thing? How does your research affect your character development?

I develop my characters through a combination of what you mentioned above. I’ll start with a sheet, then move to interviews, then use a tool Jeff Gerke has developed. And as I research, what I learn will impact how the characters may respond. It’s a very organic and fluid process. Fortunately, there are great resources available to help push writers when their characters quit talking or get predictable.

Do you have any authors that inspired you?

Colleen Coble has been a fabulous mentor. Brandilyn Collins mentored me from a distance through her fabulous blog Forensics and Faith. These women work hard to improve with each book and keep me guessing. Exactly what I want to do with my writing.

What do you feel is the most effective promotion you have done for your book?

Great question. I think appearing on blogs like yours helps because people who read your blog might not otherwise learn about my books. So thanks for your help spreading the word!

What do we have to look forward next?

I’m beginning a book that will release in July 2010 – I’m very excited because this series will marry my love for World War Two with my love of suspense! Hollywood, stars, and murder oh my!

Thanks, Cara!

To celebrate her book release, Cara is offering a free book of Trial by Fire to one lucky commenter on today's blog. (please check the blog Monday night to see who won. Chances of winning determined by the number of entries.)

She will be around all day today. I'm sure some of you have questions or comments for her, so please ask away...

Check out author’s website at: http://www.caraputman.com/

Buy: http://www.eharlequin.com/storeitem.html?iid=20173.

Harry Potter and Writing YA Romance

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince

Warning: Minor spoil alert.


I enjoy analyzing movies to spot what the writers did well…and not so well. Yesterday I watched Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. What stood out for me in this film was the theme of young love. The main young characters all seemed to have a “crush” on someone and feelings were getting hurt. Add a strong love potion and you have a hilarious scene where a main male character acts like a young girl.

Humor aside, I paid attention to how the characters showed their interest in one another. This is especially helpful if you write YA or Inspirationals where the romance is more platonic than sexual.

What stood out for me were gazes or hugs held longer than customary. Showing a characters interest when he eavesdrops on a conversation about the dating life of the girl he has a crush on. Looking upset when a competitor shows interest in the person they like. I wasn’t thrilled with the way one of the girls tied the shoe of one of the main characters. It was a bit too submissive for my taste rather than helpful. Of course, its Harry Potter so one character has to risk his/her life for another.

JK Rowling set the stage for romance when she added the love potion and when an older character asks Harry about the time he spends with Ms. Granger. Love is in the mind of all at the beginning of this film. Well done.

Interview with Betsy St. Amant

I’d like to welcome our guest today, Betsy St. Amant. It’s a pleasure having you come visit us at Much Cheaper Than Therapy, where chocolate is plentiful and advice is free. So grab some chocolate and a lounge chair. Your therapy session has begun.

I understand you have a new release out called RETURN TO LOVE. Can you tell us a little bit about your fabulous new book?

Hi there! Thanks for having me, and yes, I’d love to. RETURN TO LOVE is a story about a woman named Gracie who works at the Aquarium of the Americas as a penguin keeper. She is planning a fundraiser gala event to raise money to house displaced penguins from upstate. Unfortunately, Gracie’s only hope at a successful gala is her childhood best friend and famed musician, Carter, who still holds the pieces of her broken heart.

RETURN TO LOVE is a very interesting title. How did you arrive at that name?

Easy. My editor suggested it, and I said “okay”. Haha! The original title to this story was RECLAIMING HARMONY but when we did revisions and eliminated part of the music thread, it no longer fit the story.

What made you decide to write in this genre?

I’m a romantic at heart, and no matter which direction my books go in the future, there will always be romance in them – whether it be contemporary romance, romantic suspense, or romantic comedy.

Are you a plotter or a pantser and how did it affect the writing of this book?

I used to be a little bit of both but more so of a plotter—especially now that I am selling on proposal. I HAVE to know where the story is going and have the details to show my editor before contracting. But every other area of my life is organized and detailed to a fault, so I guess it only makes sense this is too. =)

Did you have to do a lot of research for the book? What are your favorite research books or sites?

I did call several places in New Orleans to keep my details accurate. I’ve been to New Orleans several times in my life (my husband proposed there!) but not since the hurricanes. Once I called The Gumbo Shop twice in one hour to ask questions like “is your floor concrete or tile?” and “is the wall outside your front door brick?” It was fun. =) Then of course, there was my penguin research. Tom Dyer, current penguin keeper at the Aquarium of the Americas, was invaluable with his help. He answered question after question about his beloved birds—and even let me use the name of the real penguins at the aquarium for the story. (with one exception my editor suggested. Gumbo is the only fictional penguin in the story)

Where did you get your idea for this particular book?

I just knew I wanted to write a love story between friends. I love relationships that begin from friendship, since my husband and I started that way ourselves! The setting and details came to me as I brainstormed. I’ve always loved New Orleans and I thought being a southern girl myself, it made sense to set my story there. Also, I’ve collected penguins over the course of my life, so it seemed right that Gracie would be a penguin keeper. =)

Which character did you like writing about the most, and why?

I would say Carter. I really enjoy writing male POV’s, I guess because it’s more challenging to make accurate. Also, I liked diving into Carter’s motivation and former music career, and exploring all his buried emotions. He’s quite the catch, girls! ::wink::

Tell us about how you develop your characters. Do you create character sheets, do interviews, that sort of thing? How does your research affect your character development?

I have before but not always. Character sheets help if I feel “stuck” or like something is missing from their development, but otherwise I keep it all in my head as I go. Sometimes the characters reveal things to me as I’m into the story that make me say “ohhhhhh now that makes sense!”. When that happens, I just go back and work that thread or motivation into the existing chapters and keep going.

Do you have any authors that inspired you?

Soooo many! Robin Jones Gunn, Susan May Warren, Deb Raney, to name a few. Their talent and friendship has meant so much. They are true mentors! I also have several not-yet-pubbed author friends who help critique my work and keep me encouraged. My girls are the best!
What do you feel is the most effective promotion you have done for your book? I guess we’ll find out soon! Haha! Seriously though, I have high hopes for the blog tour going on the month of July. I think word of mouth (or word of blog!) is still the most effective tool for authors and their promoting.

What do we have to look forward next?

Several things! The sequel to RETURN TO LOVE will be released February 2010, and is titled A VALENTINE’S WISH. Then, look for a new western story titled RODEO SWEETHEART in April, 2010.

Thanks, Betsy!

To celebrate her book release, Betsy is offering a free book to one lucky commenter on today's blog. She will be around all day today. I'm sure some of you have questions or comments for her, so please ask away...

Betsy St. Amant lives in Louisiana and is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers group. Betsy has been published in Christian Communicator magazine and Praise Reports: Inspiring Real Life Stories of How God Answers Prayer. One of her short stories, 'Kickboxing or Chocolate', appears in a Tyndale compilation book, and she is also multi-published through The Wild Rose Press. Betsy has a BA in Christian Communications and regularly contributes articles to Crosswalk.com. She is a wife, author, new mother and an avid reader who enjoys sharing the wonders of God's grace through her stories.

Check out author’s website at www.betsy-ann.blogspot.com or www.betsystamant.com
Buy http://www.eharlequin.com/storeitem.html?iid=19735&cid=236.

TEN LIFE LESSONS I LEARNED FROM WRITING

TEN LIFE LESSONS I LEARNED FROM WRITING

BY

CARA MARSI

(AKA CAROLYN MATKOWSKY)

In the years I’ve been writing fiction I’ve learned much about writing, but I’ve also learned much from writing. Below, in no particular order, are some of the things that writing has taught me about life:

1. Affirmation works. Believe it and it will happen. If you want something badly, write it down. For several years before I sold my first book, I wrote these words fifteen times a day: “I will be a published author.”

No, I didn’t sell immediately. And yes, I had to work really hard at writing. Just affirming what I wanted fifteen times a day wasn’t going to do it. But putting voice to my dream kept me focused.

How does this help with life? If you really want something, believe in yourself and keep working toward your goal. Will affirmations help you win the lottery? Let’s get real. If you have a realistic goal, for instance to retire from full time work in five years, you can make it happen. Write your affirmations every day, but do your research and work hard. Have faith in yourself.

2. Don’t listen to the so-called “experts.” If I’d listened to all the nay-sayers I would have stopped writing a long time ago. The “experts” said I would never sell and should give up because: I wasn’t finaling in writing contests; editors didn’t praise my work; I wasn’t receiving personal rejection letters. The only personal rejection letters I received made me cry. It took ten long years to sell my first book. I refused to give up and I refused to let the nay-sayers stop me.

No matter what you want to do in life--move to a new city, start a new career, go back to school, there are those who will tell you that you cannot do it. “Stay where you are,” “stay comfortable,” they’ll say. “You can’t change careers after forty, fifty, sixty, whatever,” they’ll tell you. Do NOT listen to them. Only you know what you want and what you’re willing to sacrifice to achieve your goals.

3. Don’t burn your bridges. This is good advice in the real and corporate world as well as the writing world. Got another rejection? Maybe it’s a rejection from your own publisher. Ouch! That hurts. Smile through the pain and send that editor a thank-you note. You may want to submit there again. Always send thank-you notes when you receive personal rejection letters, even the mean ones. It’s just plain good etiquette to be gracious in defeat. Editors know each other. Don’t think they don’t talk. Isn’t it better that they know you as a professional and not a whiner?

Passed over for a promotion at work? Congratulate the person who got the job you wanted. Smile at your boss. Maybe you’ll need to look for a new job, but don’t burn your bridges at your old one. You never know when you might need that good recommendation from your old boss.

4. Don’t compare yourself to others. There will always be those who are smarter, prettier, more successful than you. There will always be those who are less smart, less pretty and less successful than you. Don’t sweat it. Just be true to yourself.

This is a hard lesson in life and in writing. We all know those people who seem blessed by the fates. They have beauty, brains and money. Life is good. It’s the same with writers. We’ve all heard of that writer who suddenly decides to write a book. She finishes it in six months. Agents clamor to represent her. Book goes to auction and sells for six figures. And then there are the rest of us. We struggle for years. We endure rejection after rejection. But we persevere and we sell.

Life lesson?—Some are just more blessed than others. Accept that and be the best you can in anything you attempt. Each of us has a special talent.

5. Karma—there is such a thing. I personally have bad contest Karma. I never finaled in a contest before selling my first book. See number 2 above. I did, however, have two entries final in a contest after I sold. What did these contest finals get me? Rejections within two weeks rather than twelve weeks. Contests are overrated. Bad contest Karma? Not a big deal. Accept it and go on.

Do you have bad Karma in life? Don’t worry about it. Good Karma is overrated. See above. If you tell yourself that you have no control over your bad luck, you are in trouble. You do have control over your life.

6. “Don’t take life seriously. No one gets out alive.” I wish I were clever enough to think of this. I believe a rock star said this. Write for the pure pleasure of telling stories. Don’t worry about the rejections. I know, I know, that’s easier said than done. You tell a story from your heart and some editor or agent or contest judge rips it apart. Keep writing because you love it. “Do what you love and the money will follow.” Wish I’d said that one too.

The same goes for life. Have fun. Enjoy yourself. Hard advice at times, but remember this: when you’re in that nursing home, you’ll regret what you didn’t do, not what you did.

7. Know the rules. I belong to several email loops. Apparently, I’ve missed the memo on email etiquette. The few times I’ve taken the plunge to post something on a loop, I’ve been ignored or misunderstood. What am I doing wrong? On most loops, when new members join, the moderator “introduces” them. No moderator has ever introduced me. I’ve always had to introduce myself and then I’m ignored. Please someone send me the memo so I know what I’m doing wrong. If I choose to ignore the rules, that’s one thing, but I’m at a disadvantage when I don’t know I’m making a mistake.

Life lesson? You may choose to break the rules, but know them first. You can get yourself into lots of trouble if you don’t first know what’s expected of you.

8. Publishing is a business. Repeat this fifteen times. Sure, you’re a nice person. That has nothing to do with anything. An editor will take your book and an agent will represent you if they think they can make money. That is the bottom line. Don’t take rejection personally. It has nothing to do with you. For instance, you have a great interview with an agent. You discuss your upcoming vacation and her upcoming cruise. She says she loves the type stories you write. Feeling good, you send her the requested partial. In your cover letter you say you hope she had a wonderful vacation. What response do you get? A mean-spirited form letter that doesn’t include your name, her name, or the title of your book. The final punch in your gut? The letter says you shouldn’t darken that agency’s doorstep with one of your manuscripts ever again. Publishing is a business. Don’t forget that.

And life doesn’t always give you warm fuzzies either. Pick yourself up, know you are okay, and go on. Be true to yourself and kind to others. That’s what’s important.

9. NEVER GIVE UP. If you want it, go for it. Have faith in yourself. Don’t despair. See number 6 above. Enjoy.

10. NEVER GIVE UP. See 9 above.

Writing as Cara Marsi, Carolyn’s latest book is LOGAN’S REDEMPTION, a romantic suspense from The Wild Rose Press. Digital release August 2007. Print release November 2007.