Laura Frantz author interview and book Giveaway Love's Awakening

Today I’m interviewing Laura Frantz author of Love’s Awakening.  Here is my review of this wonderful book.

TRINITY ROSE Tell us about Love's Awakening the featured book .

LAURA Beloved daughter. Wayward son. Will a future with him cost her all she holds dear?
The book is set in 1822 Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, including early Pittsburgh, and is a story of the Underground Railroad and the entwined lives of three families – the Ballantynes, Turlocks, and Camerons. Lots of twists and turns and romance and some historical fireworks! It continues the story in book one, Love’s Reckoning, with Eden and Silas Ballantyne and focuses on their daughter, Ellie.

TRINITY ROSE Has being published changed your life?

LAURA Yes. I was a stay at home mom for many years after working as a teacher and social worker. My boys, Wyatt and Paul, kept me plenty busy. It’s a joy to work from home now writing books but it also is a challenge as I don’t go to the office so everyone still has access to me Winking smile. Carving out writing time requires a lot of discipline. Thankfully I love it and can’t wait to sit down and do it!

TRINITY ROSE What do you find harder to do come up with a character, get the scenery or the plot?

LAURA I think plot is often the trickiest part. I’ve heard it said that if you have strong, compelling characters you can have a weak plot but watch out if your plot is weak and your characters are, too. I’ve never dug myself a hole yet as far as plot, thankfully, as the Lord always bails me out. I rely on His guidance and leading completely for these stories of mine otherwise I couldn’t do it. Scenery and character development seem to come more naturally to me. Maybe too naturally as I can get wordy!

TRINITY ROSE Which do you enjoy more e books or print books?

LAURA I always prefer a print book but love the ease of e-books. There’s something about seeing a cover and holding a real book that is very comforting and meaningful to me. Love the feel and smell of them, etc.

TRINITY ROSE Thanks for taking the time answer questions for us and for donating a book.

LAURA Thanks so much for hosting me! It’s always  a joy to share a CBA book and meet new readers.



GIVEAWAY OF LOVE’S AWAKENING
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ENTRY DEADLINE OCTOBER 21, 2013

Author Interview Janet Bly featuring the book Stuart Brannon's Final Shot-BOOK GIVEAWAY

Today’s interview is with Janet Bly featuring  the book Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot written by Stephen Bly with Janet, Russell, Michael and Aaron Bly. I have loved all of the books I’ve read written by Stephen Bly and this one is fantastic. Here is my review link if you would like to see what I thought. http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2012/03/stuart-brannons-final-shot-by-stephen.html
Janet and her sons Russell, Michael and Aaron did a incredible job finishing this  book. So on to the interview and giveaway!

Tell us about the featured book Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot.
Book blurb: It's 1905. Two orphans flee Oregon's Tillamook Head. One of them is branded a hero. Dare they tell the truth and risk the wrath of a dangerous man? Meanwhile, a retired Arizona lawman searches for his missing U.S. Marshal friend while he grapples with the game of golf on behalf of a celebrity charity tournament.
Summary: At age 58, legendary lawman Stuart Brannon--now a rancher and widower--had no intention of leaving his beloved Arizona Territory to attend the Lewis and Clark Centennial Exposition in Oregon, nor to participate in a celebrity golf tournament. His life no longer consisted of men to track down, people trying to kill him, gangs preying on the innocent.
Then the telegram came: Stuart, I need you in Portland. Tom Wiseman is missing. I think there's a cover-up. I'll contact you there. T.R.
How could he refuse a request from the President of the United States?
Reviews:
"Stuart Brannon's Final Shot delivers and reminds us what we'll miss most about the beloved author." Jerry B. Jenkins, NYT Bestselling novelist & biographer


"Bly throws his readers into the fray from the first page and never lets up until the final scene." Award-winning author Kathleen Y'Barbo


"A poignant reminder of a by-gone time...I was drawn into the world ...There's so much wisdom in this book...I loved the story. I loved the colorful characters..." Review by Angie Arndt, ACFW Carolinas Coordinator
"...comes alive with vivid details...an intriguing and often comical story of adventure and loyalty, flavored with the unexpected...has all the adventure one would expect from a Western, with enough humor to appeal to non-Western readers." Jennifer Slattery, CWG reviewer


"...unusual experience...I found it a fascinating look into the process." Michael Ehret, CWG Editor-in-Chief


What was the hardest thing about finishing this book that Stephen started?
Of course the obvious one--not having my husband as part of the project. And having so little time (four months) for such a challenge as this. We so wanted to match Steve's story writing ability, so it read like a Stephen Bly novel and portrayed the Stuart Brannon character as he created him to be. We also missed having a 'rest' time for the story to season for a final objective edit before the deadline. We sent the manuscript in such a flurry of last minute changes, we didn't have a settled feeling. Fortunately, we were allowed an additional look before it went to press. And, yes, we did make corrections.


Of your three sons who helped finish this book, do you see any of them becoming an author of other books?
I know they could create a book together with each of their different inputs. Also, either Aaron or Michael could write on their own, given the time and motivation. They have both expressed this desire.

Many writers are also avid readers.  Do you have any favorite authors?  If so, could you name a few?
Oh dear, where do I begin? I truly do read a vast number of fiction and nonfiction authors. And I'm so privileged to call many of them friends too. Right now I'm enjoying the book Heaven by Randy Alcorn. I know where Steve is, but I'm so curious to have more biblical information about what it's like for him there and what he might be doing. Reading about heaven comforts me in my great loss. Also appreciate Randy Alcorn's novels, in which he often tells the story from both the earth viewpoint and heavenly perspective.

If you could only take five books with you on a journey of ten years, which ones would you take?
The Bible. A concordance. A dictionary. A thesaurus. A journal.

What three things are you most thankful for in your life?
My family. My church. My friends.

Which do you enjoy more e books or print books?
Ebooks are fun to order. Print books are the most satisfying to read and mark and I don't have to remember to get them charged.
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Janet Chester Bly has authored and co-authored with Stephen Bly thirty nonfiction and fiction books, including Awakening Your Sense of Wonder, Hope Lives Here, The Heart of a Runaway, The Hidden West Series and The Carson City Chronicles. She lives at 4,000 ft. elev. in Winchester, Idaho. Find out more at http://www.blybooks.com/ or http://www.blybooks.blogspot.com/


Russell Bly is married to Lois, father of Zachary and Miranda (married to Chris Ross), and grandfather of 1-year-old Alayah. He is manager of Deranleau’s department store in Moscow, Idaho.


Michael Bly is married to Michelle and is Director of Business Operations for Inland Cellular in Lewiston, Idaho.


Aaron Bly is married to Rina, father of Keaton and Deckard. He’s Manufacturing Supervisor for Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories in Lewiston, Idaho.


Filled with humor and heart, adventure and romance, Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot is the story of a man who embodied the Code of the West. Christy Award–winning author Stephen Bly (August 17, 1944 – June 9, 2011) wrote 105 books including six Stuart Brannon novels. In Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot, we bid a fond farewell to the character — and to Stephen Bly, his creator.
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One fortunate follower will have the chance to win Stuart Brannon’s Final Shot.
Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.


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Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE May 25, 2012

Author Interview-Charlene Ann Baumbich-BOOK GIVEAWAY-Finding Our Way Home

FINDING OUR WAY HOME by Charlene Ann Baumbich is a wonderful book that I know you will love. Here is my review link so you can see what the book is about and what I think of it.  http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2012/04/finding-our-way-home-by-charlene-ann.html 


Here is my interview with Charlene and below that a book giveaway for one fortunate follower.

Has being published changed your life? 

Being a published writer/authors has:

--helped pay the bills. 
--affirmed that what is entertaining to me is usually entertaining to others.
--ignited wonderful affirming emails from readers.
--delivered interesting new “people” (characters) from whom to learn. Seriously, my characters teach me a lot.
--made me appreciate, value and honor the power of story.
--given me a chance to travel to places I’d never have otherwise seen, especially when I wrote the Dearest Dorothy series for Penguin Books. They sent me on several marvelous book tours, from coast to coast and up and down.
--out of necessity, delivered lots of time alone, which I’ve always craved.
--helped my discipline. Deadlines!
--educated me on my utter NEED for good editors!


What do you find harder to do come up with a character, get the scenery or the plot?

I don’t actually come up with any of them; they come to me. When I am “absent” enough, they have room to arrive.

First a character shows up, one with a dilemma. They arrive the same way my imaginary friends used to: one day, they’re just there. Although this happens relatively often, I don’t write anything down. I just wait to see if they hang around, keep my attention, bug me until I simply must sit down with them for a spell, “listen” with my fingers, record what I start to see/hear, which runs like a movie in my head.

If they’re not memorable enough to keep my attention until I start writing about them, why would they be interesting to a reader?

Scenes begin to come into focus as I mentally follow the characters around, fine-tune my listening, surrender to their lives, not my version of their events and personalities. When I am listening well, the plot unfolds, as do the nuances about the characters. Eventually, they tell me where we are. As I begin to look through their eyes, I see what’s around them, meet their friends and relatives—learn their secrets and desires.

For me, writing is LISTENING, not TALKING to the page. My job is to get out of the way. Record well. Let the characters be who they are, where they are—even though I sometimes yell at them.

Which do you enjoy more e books or print books?

I enjoy books any which way, including audio. I spend a lot of time in my car, so audio books get their fair amount of attention from me. I have a longstanding membership with Audible.com, so I get a book and subscription a month. (I’m grandfathered into some old plan.)

I own a Nook Simple Touch, which I really like. I also have the Nook app on my Android smartphone. The two sync, which is nice. Since I always have my phone with me, I can read away from home whenever I find a few minutes without my eReader or a book around.

The Nook fits in my handbag, which is nice. But my favorite place to read it is in bed, even though I usually don’t stay awake long after I start reading.  I love sleeping in a cold room, and I can bundle the covers all around me with nothing out but my one hand holding the Nook. It’s even easy to turn the pages this way. LOVE it!

If, however, you saw the piles of books that surround me, and that I continue to buy, you’d wonder what I’m doing with a Nook.  New, used, rereading … 

It’s the words—the story—that matter most. Not how I consume them. A captivating story will keep my attention, no matter how it's consumed.

But in the end, seeing books on a shelf is more satisfying than seeing them on a “shelf” in a fragile electronic. I’m hard on books. I like writing in the margins, starring, underlining, arguing, dog earring, making notes in the front of books so I can easily find favorite things again …  We live in an unincorporated area, so I don’t have a library card. For the amount one would cost per year, I can buy a fair amount of books. Good thing, since I’m sure the library wouldn’t take any of mine back. 




Thank you so much Charlene for this wonderful interview. I thought you answers were most intriguing. 
Followers here are the rules for the giveaway.

Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.


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~Be or become a follower  +1
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Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE  May 19, 2012

Author Interview with Dan Walsh featuring The Discovery and BOOK GIVEAWAY

I've always enjoyed books by Dan Walsh and The Discovery is one of the best. Here is my review link if you would like to look to see how much I loved it. 
http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2012/04/discovery-by-dan-walsh-review.html 


I would like to thank Dan for this fantastic interview and book giveaway. Also I agree completely with how you feel about books in print form. Now to the interview!

Tell us about The Discovery the featured book.


Here's the way it's described on the back of the book. Seems to say it pretty well without giving too much away:


When aspiring writer Michael Warner inherits his grandfather's historic Charleston estate, he settles in to write his first novel. But within the confines of the stately home, he discovers an unpublished manuscript that his grandfather, a literary giant whose novels sold in the millions, has kept hidden from everyone-but which he clearly intended Michael to find. As he delves deep into the exciting tale about spies and sabotage, Michael discovers something that has the power to change not only his future but his past as well.

Laced with suspense and intrigue, The Discovery is a richly woven novel that explores the incredible sacrifices that must be made to forge the love of a lifetime. 


Has being published changed your life? 


In many ways it has. It allowed me to do something I've wanted to do since high school -- write novels. I wasn't able to do this fulltime until after my 3rd novel came out. That made it possible for me to retire from pastoral ministry after 25 years. We're not rich, by any means, but finally making enough that it allowed us to transition into writing fulltime. This has also allowed me to write 2 books a year instead of one. Besides these things, I've met some wonderful new friends and now work with an amazing publishing team at Revell.

What do you find harder to do come up with a character, get the scenery or the plot?


I'm not sure which is harder of these three. In  some of my books, the plot (story) came first then the characters. With some, they were "born" at the same time. The characters don't start out as real as they become to me 50-70 pages into writing the book. I have an idea of who they are, but often they will "graduate" to the status of almost being real people that I know. After that, writing scenes with them becomes much easier. I often go back at that point and make changes to the first section of the book, to take this new understanding of the characters and adjust them to be the same person throughout the rest of the story.


Which do you enjoy more e books or print books?




Definitely print books. But I get the eBook craze. My wife is on her 2nd Kindle, and she absolutely loves it.  Both my agent and editor use them and, it seems, a growing number of my fans (judging by the sales figures). But I still like the feel of holding a real book, with actual pages that turn. Actually, I like hardback books the best, so I'm totally "old school." 
=====================================

www.danwalshbooks.com
The Discovery - AVAILABLE NOW/RT Reviews 4.5 Stars-Top Pick
Remembering Christmas - RT Reviews Top Pick/ECPA Bestseller
The Deepest Waters - "Matches the storytelling of Nicholas Sparks" - Christian Retailing
The Homecoming - RT Reviews, 4.5 Stars
The Unfinished Gift - 2 ACFW Carol Awards

================================================================

Giveaway The Discovery by Dan Walsh

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Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE May 16, 2012 

Tom Pawlik-author interview and BOOK GIVEAWAY-Beckon

Today I’m interviewing Tom Pawlik author of Beckon.  http://www.tompawlik.com/
I really loved this book and here is my link to the review I did of Beckon. http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2012/04/beckon-by-tom-pawlik-review.html

Also after the interview there will be a chance for you to leave a comment to win this fantastic book. Beckon is a very suspenseful, thriller.

Tom, thanks for taking the time to visit us today! I appreciate you answering these few questions. It will be fun to get to know you better. Tell us a little about yourself.

I'm blessed to have a truly wonderful wife and six healthy, terrific children. I've always dreamed of being a writer and began thinking up my own stories at an early age. Unfortunately, I never pursued it as a career for many years so my first novel wasn't publish until I was 42.

I got my first contract in 2007 from Tyndale House as a result of winning the Operation 1st Novel contest put on by Jerry Jenkins' Christian Writer's Guild.

I love to write strange, speculative novels with a touch of creepiness and unusual plot twists. The trick is to be able to do this all within a Christian world view and have something of eternal value to offer the reader. I'm hoping Christian readers will enjoy it enough to come along for the ride.

How long did you write before you were published? 

I started getting serious about writing in 1993 and finished my first novel manuscript in 1997. I tried to get it published for several years through the normal routes but with no luck. I had just about given up when I discovered the Christian Writer's Guild in 2003, and learned about their contest. That entry came in 2nd place in 2004. While I didn't get a contract, I did sign up with a literary agent who helped me shop that book around to other publishers. Also during that time I started working on my second book called VANISH, which I entered in the 2006 contest and won. So it was about 14 years from when I started to seriously pursue getting published, which I hear is pretty typical.

Tell us about Beckon the featured book.

Beckon is a creepy, sci-fi thriller about an ancient Indian legend, a hidden cave system, an unknown species of arthropod and a small town with a secret that ties all those elements together. Thematically, it's about man's inhumanity to man and his insatiable desire for immortality. And it is about what lengths we go to to save someone we love deeply.

Is there any person who has been a strong influence in your writing journey?

C.S. Lewis has been a big inspiration to me as a writer of speculative fiction. But without a doubt, Jerry Jenkins has been the single most influential person to have helped my career. His vision to help Christian authors develop led him to buy theChristian Writer's Guild and come up with the idea for the Operation 1st Novel contest, which got me my first contract. I can't commend the ministry of the CWG enough for all the great work they are doing.

How do you spend your writing days? Do you set goals to reach a certain number of words per day? Can you give us a general idea of how long it takes you to write a novel?

I typically write late at night, after the kids are in bed. I try not to let my writing interfere with my being a father. So needless to say, I'm a bit of a night owl. But the key for me is to write a little each night. I try to shoot for 500-1000 words. That usually gives me 4 months to get a first draft completed.

What are you currently reading?

I've been reading Into The Bermuda Triangle by Gian Quasar as research for a future book.

What are you writing now?

I'm working on my next proposal for Tyndale. Developing some ideas using the Jack Kendrick character from Beckon. I have some very cool directions I'd like to go (sort of Fringe meets The X-Files) but not sure how much they'll like it. Also getting ready for the release of my new ebook novella Recollection which is part of the 7 Hoursanthology coming out this summer.

Thank you once again Tom for spending this time with us. I love your books and look forward to your next one. God bless you and your writing.

Followers Tom Pawlik has agreed to give away one copy of his fantastic book Beckon.

Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.

Here are the ways to get extra entries:

~Be or become a follower  +1

~Be or become an email subscriber +1

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Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE MAY 5, 2012

Author Interview/Book Giveaway-Sharlene MacLaren

I really love this book. Here is my review link if you would like to read it.   http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2011/12/ellies-haven-by-sharlene-maclarena.html 

Tell us about Ellie's Haven the featured book.
Ellie’s Haven is book two in my “River of Hope” series set in Wabash, Indiana in 1928.  Here’s the book blurb taken from the back cover:

A courageous young woman seeking refuge...

Ellie Booth was never the type to run away. But she'd witnessed her stepfather commit a heartless crime, and, knowing he'll stop at nothing to keep her quiet, she has no choice but to flee. Soon, she finds herself in Wabash, Indiana, scrambling for a cover identity to evade her stepfather. For lack of a better option, she answers an ad for a wife/housekeeper/nanny, praying that her lack of experience won't be obvious.

A widowed father with no domestic skills to speak of...

Gage Cooper is reaching the end of his rope. With four children between the ages of three and ten, he needs a reliable nanny, yet each one he's hired has thrown up her hands and deserted her post. When an attractive, spirited young woman applies for the "job," he knows he should pray about the matter, but his desperation for help propels him headlong into a marriage of convenience.

A trial by fire of their wedding vows...

Ellie immediately falls in love with the Cooper children, and, not long after, with their father. Soon, the "marriage of convenience" becomes less of a business arrangement as husband and wife yield to an attraction neither one had expected. When secrets of the past and dangers of the present arise in their lives, their marriage is put to the test, and God alone knows what will become of their union.

Can you tell us how many books you have in print in the Christian market?
When Ellie’s Haven releases in February that will bring my total to 11 books.  Number 12, the final installment in my “River” series, will hit shelves in late 2012.

Is there a particular book among those you've written that you would especially recommend to our readers?  If so, why?
Haha, that’s sort of like asking a mother, “Which of your 12 children is your favorite?” I don’t really recommend any in particular other than if someone wants to read one of my three historical series, it’s best to start with volume one of each set.  The first in my “Little Hickman Creek” Series is Loving Liza Jane, number one in “The Daughters of Jacob Kane” is Hannah Grace, and in the “River of Hope” Series, you’d want to begin with Livvie’s Song. If a reader prefers stand-alone contemporary fiction then Long Journey Home, Through Every Storm, and Tender Vow are all available and I’m thrilled to add have received excellent reviews.

The Christian fiction field has rapidly expanded over the past few years.  What would you like to see happen in this field in the years to come?
Just ten years ago, Christian fiction, or as it’s more commonly referred to now, faith-based fiction, is definitely on the rise.  Authors are developing relatable, imperfect characters and realistic, page-turning plots.  I think folks appreciate being able to read a book that contains these elements minus all the sex, unnecessary violence, and vile language. Even non-Christian readers have voiced their appreciation for cleaner fiction as long as it doesn’t come off too preachy.  Authors are finding ways to present the gospel so that it draws readers to Christ rather than turns them off to His message of love and redemption. This gives faith-based fiction a more positive “face” with the average reader. My hope is that this trend will continue. Don’t get me wrong; I don’t believe in watering down the gospel, but I also don’t believe in making fiction so preachy that even Christian readers want to toss the book aside for something more realistic.  Let’s face it; Christians aren’t perfect.  If there’s a way we can show the world that God provides answers in an imperfect world, then that should be our main thrust.  I always pray that when my readers finish one of my books they won’t so much go in search of another Sharlene MacLaren book as go in search of their Bibles.  I want my readers to realize there can be true purpose and meaning to their days; that there’s a God out there who solves real-life problems and hears their cries for help.

How can readers and fans encourage you as you pursue what is sometimes a challenging and solitary job?
I love receiving fan mail!  It is the highlight of my day when someone drops me a line in my website guestbook or sends me an email.  It is like getting a whiff of the best smelling perfume on the market – it just lifts me to the heights. Writing IS a solitary job, so I connect myself to others via Facebook. When I take a quick writing break I’ll often log into FB and see what’s ‘cookin’’ with my friends.  I compare it to going to the teacher’s lounge during a recess break, something I did for 31 years. That’s where I got re-energized, refocused, and rested up for the next stretch of the day.

Many writers are also avid readers.  Do you have any favorite authors?  If so, could you name a few?
In non-fiction, I love anything by Beth Moore (who doesn’t?), Anne Graham Lotz, Sarah Young, and numerous others.  In fiction, I enjoy almost too many to name, but for starters, Jody Hedlund, Julie Lessman, Marcia Gruver, Francine Rivers, Lena Nelson Dooley, Loree Lough, Kim Vogel Sawyer, and several others. Sadly, since taking up writing, I have little time for reading unless I’m between projects.  I tell people the only author I have time to read is Sharlene MacLaren.  I sit at my computer and say, “Oh, I wonder what’s going to happen next?” because, truthfully, as a seat-of-the-pants writer, I usually don’t know!

If you could only take five books with you on a journey of ten years, which ones would you take?
Obviously, my Bible first!  What would I do without the Book of Books? I’d probably choose to take Sarah Young’s devotional book, Jesus Calling, perhaps Hannah Whitall Smith’s The Christian’s Secret of a Happy Life, Francine Rivers’ Redeeming Love, and maybe John Bunyan’s Pilgrim’s Progress. (That was a tough question.)

If you had 48 hours to hang out with any TWO people (besides Jesus), alive or dead in the history of the world who would you hang out with and what would you do?
Oh, my goodness, Beth Moore for sure and Billy Graham!  I bet in two days time I could learn so much from those two.

What three things are you most thankful for in your life?
Love these easy questions! My precious relationship with Jesus, my wonderful husband, and my adorable children and grandJOYs!

What is the most fun thing you have ever done?
It’s difficult to pin that down to just one thing, but when I think of FUN and EXCITING things in my lifetime – aside from getting married and raising wonderful daughters – I’d have to say that before I got married I stopped teaching for a year and traveled all over the U.S. and parts of Canada with 7 other singers.  We performed concerts for large conventions, small and large churches, high school assemblies, and numerous other events. We recorded albums in the Bill Gaither studio, hit the road, listened to ourselves on Christian radio, and generally had a blast spreading the gospel message in song wherever we went.  In that year, we visited approx. 40 states, so it was a whirlwind year packed with experiences I will never in my lifetime be able to duplicate.  

What are you writing now?
Currently, I’m writing book three in my “River of Hope” series titled Sofie’s Song.  This book won’t release till winter of 2012, but I will have to turn it in to my editor by June 1.  After that, I will jump into my next series!  The writer’s life (at least MY life) is eternally busy – just the way I like it!

How can readers find you on the Internet?
*You will find my website at http://www.sharlenemaclaren.com
*You can find me at Facebook by going to http://www.facebook.com/sharmaclaren. Let me know you read this interview and then request my friendship!
*Check out my MONDAY MUSINGS and THURSDAY THOUGHTS and other miscellaneous tidbits at my blog at http://www.sharlenemaclaren.blogspot.com
*And feel free to shoot me an email at smac@chartermi.net

Hope to hear from y’all VERY soon!

Thank you so much Sharlene for the wonderful, entertaining interview.
Sharlene has agreed to give her book Ellie’s Haven to one of you followers. 
Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.

Here are the ways to get extra entries:
~Be or become a follower  +1
~Be or become an email subscriber +1
~Be or become a networked blog follower +1

Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE January 22, 2012

Christina Schofield-author interview and book GIVEAWAY

Today my interview is with Christina Schofield who wrote My Life and Lesser Catastropes-a true story. I loved this book and I know you will also. Here is my link for the review I did. http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2011/12/my-life-and-lesser-catastrophes-by.html 
Book giveaway below. I really love making new author friends and Christina is a very special lady!


Tell us about My Life and Lesser Catastropes the featured book.
For Christina Schofield, the difference between life as she’d always known it and a life of fear and uncertainty was a matter of a few pebbles.

As the motorcycle she and her husband were riding hit a patch of loose gravel, the bubble around her smooth Christian life popped. The safety nets she thought she had--based on unquestioning obedience to God, unyielding faith, a ministry-focused life--broke as their bodies were hurled from the bike.

What began that very moment was an emotional search for the God she thought she knew. With warmth and transparency, Christina describes facing her deepest questions of faith--and God’s painful silence--with honesty, sincerity and humor, showing that even in our darkest hours, God’s goodness shines through.

Why did you write this book?
As the title suggests, this book is about something awful our family was faced with. An accident changed our lives completely in less than a minute, and our eyes were instantly opened to what matters most. Tragedy brought perspective! I've always hoped by sharing our story, other people could benefit from that new perspective without having to go through the whole catastrophe thing personally!  And I had a strong desire to say, "Yes! God is good! Even in gross times!"

Can you tell us how many books you have in print in the Christian market? 
This was my first book. I've collaborated on maybe as many as 100 other books and projects, mostly for things used in youth ministry.

How can readers and fans encourage you as you pursue what is sometimes a challenging and solitary job? 
I don't really have aspirations of becoming a writer, but I love to hear from new people and I would be so happy to know people were praying for Allen and my Dad.

Many writers are also avid readers.  Do you have any favorite authors?  If so, could you name a few?
I like anything written by God or Dave Barry. :) Because of our weird circumstances right now with my husbands' paralysis, I have very little free time and read the Bible almost exclusively. But every once in a while, I'll get my nose into a book I can't put down!  Mostly I love to read stories about how God is moving in our generation (or recent history)! Stuff by Bill Johnson, T. L. Osborne, John G. Lakes, Heidi Baker. I recently read the book The Heavenly Man by Liu Zhenying (Brother Yun) about the infancy of the Underground House Church in China.

If you could only take five books with you on a journey of ten years, which ones would you take? The Bible, and a few books I haven't read yet but would like to: Francis Chan's "Forgotten God" and "Crazy Love," "Don't Waste Your Life" by John Piper, and maybe one of the "God's Generals" books? Or could I just take four and then have extra room for my Ipod Nano and some chocolate?

If you had 48 hours to hang out with any TWO people (besides Jesus), alive or dead in the history of the world who would you hang out with and what would you do? 
My Mom and Dad. I love them soooo much. We'd go thrift store shopping and then, have to stop for donuts and coffee to keep Dad engaged. I know I should say someone Bible-y or whatever, but I really get kind of nervous around new people and couldn't possibly enjoy anyone more than my parents!


What three things are you most thankful for in your life?
Lord Jesus, my family, and music. I play piano and a little guitar and I'm learning violin, which still sounds terrible in my opinion. The cat always leaves the room and at my family's request, I practice with a mute!

What is the most fun thing you have ever done? 
Before our daughter was born, we lived on a cul de sac. Late at night, when I didn't think I'd be spotted, I would roller skate out there under the street lamps. A neighborhood dog would gallop alongside with his tongue hanging out! He thought it was great fun! But I've never laughed so hard as the day I played racquetball with my sister at the YMCA. She is maybe the only person on earth who might possibly be worse at sports than me! We laughed the entire time! Another fun day was this past October when I took my daughter and her little friend to this drive through animal safari. The exotic animals stick their heads in your car window hoping for a tasty snack! It was unbelievable! I got zebra drool on me!  (Sorry, you only asked for one.)

What are you writing now?
Just a personal project. I have a dear friend I've been trying to share Jesus with. Whenever I try, I chicken out or gumble it up, so I'm making a little picture book about how to become a follower of Christ to give her as a gift. (I 've done a little illustrating for children). Pray with me that it bears fruit!

How can readers find you on the Internet?
I have a website with my online art portfolio: www.artdiva.biz, and at www.childrensillustrators.com/christinaschofield.  I'm starting up a blog spot: myscintillatinglife.blogspot.com, but it isn't very exciting yet!

Wasn't that just a wonderful interview? I think Christina is a very sweet, witty person. Here are the rules of the giveaway.

~~~~~~~~~~~

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Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE December 19, 2011

Gayle Roper-Shadows on the Sand-author interview and BOOK GIVEAWAY

Today we welcome Gayle Roper author of Shadows on the Sand. I really enjoyed reading it and recommend it. Here is my review link if you would like to look at it again. 
http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2011/10/shadows-on-sand-by-gayle-roper-review.html 






Tell us about Shadows on the Sand the featured book.
Shadows is the fifth book set in my fictional Jersey Shore community of Seaside. Carrie, my heroine, operates a cafe in the heart of town. She's had a hard life and struggles to put the pain and hurt behind her.  Greg is an ex-cop with his own tragic past that he's finally rising above. They, of course, provide the romantic thread of this romantic suspense.

Andi works for Carrie and lives with her Uncle Clooney. She's hiding both a personal secret and a highly dangerous one. When Carrie's dishwasher is killed and Andi disappears, Carrie and Greg team up to solve the various mysteries.

As Carrie and Greg fight for their lives, they learn there's a time for every purpose under heaven.
Can you tell us how many books you have in print in the Christian market?
Counting ebooks, there are currently fifteen of my titles in print.

Is there a particular book among those you've written that you would especially recommend to our readers?  If so, why?
Of course I recommend Shadows on the Sand. It says some important things about cults, forgiveness, and God's timing in our lives, all wrapped in a great story. I also recommend Allah's Fire, a military intrigue that considers Islam and the Palestinian situation. And there's Spring Rain that speaks to the issue of a gay family member. But even when I talk about controversial topics in my books, I'm primarily a story teller. Action, adventure, conflict and emotion are uppermost in all these books.

The Christian fiction field has rapidly expanded over the past few years.  What would you like to see happen in this field in the years to come?
I'm delighted with the expansion of Christian fiction into so many genres and styles of story telling. I've been writing for over 40 years, and it's been exciting to be along for this wonderful ride. I would like to see the quality of our writing and the breadth of our audience continue to increase while we stay true to the eternal message of Christ.

How can readers and fans encourage you as you pursue what is sometimes a challenging and solitary job?
I'm always encouraged by brief notes from those who have read one of my books. And of course I'd love prayers that my writing touches hearts both as good story telling and as a vehicle that turns hearts to God.

If you could only take five books with you on a journey of ten years, which ones would you take?
Obviously the Bible. Knowing God, JI Packer. The One Year Christian History, Rusten and Rusten. Dream a Little Dream, Susan Elizabeth Phillips. Ferocious Sudoku, Will Shortz.

If you had 48 hours to hang out with any TWO people (besides Jesus), alive or dead in the history of the world who would you hang out with and what would you do?
Carolyn Custis James and Anne Boleyn.

What three things are you most thankful for in your life?
My family, both my birth one and the ones I married into and raised.
My freedom as a woman born in this time and country.
My salvation.

What is the most fun thing you have ever done?
Too hard to name only one thing. There's the family cruise taken before my husband's health failed. There's the white water rafting adventure last summer. There's the week at Sanibel Island with my husband. And the list goes on.

What are you writing now?
I'm working on two projects. The first is a trio of novellas set in Seaside. The second is preparing to launch a blog called Widow's Journey based on my experiences and emotions for the first two years of being widowed..

How can readers find you on the Internet?
I can be found at www.gayleroper.com.

Gayle Roper has graciously donated her book Shadows on the Sand to one of you
Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.

Here are the ways to get extra entries:
~Be or become a follower  +1
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~NEW Comment on one of my other posts +1  for each comment {so if you comment on 10 of my posts you will get 10 extra entries}

Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE November 20, 2011

Hannah Alexander-Author Interview and BOOK GIVEAWAY

Today I welcome Hannah Alexander to my blog.
We will be talking about their newest book The Wedding Kiss and the giveaway follows the interview.
Here is the review link of that wonderful book. http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2011/09/wedding-kiss-by-hannah-alexander-review.html



Tell us about The Wedding Kiss, the featured book.
The Wedding Kiss is set in the year 1901, when a young woman, Keara McBride, loses her home, farm, everything she's ever known because her father was tricked in a card game, and then accused of murder. Desperate, she asks Elam Jensen, her neighbor and the widower of her best friend, to marry her so she can help him with his three children and have a place to live. A match made out of necessity becomes something totally different when they share their first kiss in the wedding ceremony.  Enter Elam's sister-in-law, Susanna, who has been shot and is lying on their front porch when they arrive from the wedding in Eureka Springs. As Keara tends to Susanna, using the herbs and home-medicine knowledge taught to her by her mother, Elam runs interference and tries to find out who shot Susanna. Neighbors and family rally around as danger comes to White River Hollow and a wicked man and his followers close in. With prayers and faith, God's will is done, and love shows itself in many ways.


We know Hannah Alexander is the pen name for the husband-and-wife writing team of Mel and Cheryl  Hodde. Would you tell us how you came up with the name Hannah Alexander?
When Mel and I got married, I'd been writing for 14 years, though nothing had been published. Since he's an ER doc, he would come home at night excited about the cases he'd had. They were so interesting that I suggested we work together on a new book. Since he provided a great deal of input--we wrote medical romantic suspense with a lot of ER scenes--I suggested we come up with one name to describe us. I chose Hannah because I identified with pre-Samuel Hannah in the Bible. Mel chose Alexander, because it means Servant of Mankind. Mel doesn't provide as much medical for me anymore, but he still edits and reads everything I've written, so the name will continue.


Can you tell us how many books you have in print in the Christian market?
All of our books are in the Christian market, and at last count that's 22. We have more coming soon, so that number will continue to change.


Is there a particular book among those you've written that you would especially recommend to our readers?  If so, why?
I would probably recommend Hideaway, not only because it launched a ten-book series of Hideaway novels, but I took more time writing that novel and getting it right than any I've written before or since. It won the Christy award, and I still find myself thinking about the characters who began from that book and continued on through the rest of the series.


The Christian fiction field has rapidly expanded over the past few years.  What would you like to see happen in this field in the years to come?
I would love to see more reviews without the words, "typical Christian fluff" because I don't see much of that these days. Christian fiction is taught, hard-hitting, truth-telling stories that change hearts and minds. What some might call fluff, others would call warm and tender stories that heal the heart. I'd love to see that reflected in reviews.


How can readers and fans encourage you as you pursue what is sometimes a challenging and solitary job?
Prayer is vital. Also, I love to hear from readers and I answer all emails. Also, if a reader likes a book I've written, a quick review on Facebook, a word or two on Twitter, or reviews on Amazon, B&N or Christianbook.com and Goodreads will go a long way toward sharing the stories with others as well as making it possible for me, or your other favorite writers, to continue writing.


Many writers are also avid readers.  Do you have any favorite authors?  If so, could you name a few?
Oh, my goodness, I have so many favorites! Lately I've read the wonderful Miralee Ferrell, Athol Dickson, James Scott Bell, Denise Hunter, Diann Hunt, Kristen Billerbeck, Terri Blackstock, Angela Hunt, Margaret Daley, and I know I've left out dozens more, those are just off the top of my head.


If you could only take five books with you on a journey of ten years, which ones would you take?
The Bible, Dean Koontz Watchers, and three reams of blank paper so I could write, write, write. 

If you had 48 hours to hang out with any TWO people (besides Jesus), alive or dead in the history of the world who would you hang out with and what would you do?
I think I'd like to hang out with Enoch, because he walked with God. I love to walk with God, as well. I think I would also like to spend time with Mary Magdalene, because she was so close to Jesus, and I think I'd have understood her. She was rescued from great evil, and so was I.


What three things are you most thankful for in your life?
I'm thankful that God puts up with me no matter how angry or thoughtless or whiney I get. I'm thankful for the way of women with women, the friendships they develop and the nurturing they do for each other. I'm also thankful for the husband I've been given. He is totally God's blessing to me.

What is the most fun thing you have ever done?
I love to hike. The most fun hike Mel and I and ever took was a place in the Canyonlands National Park, a trail called Syncline. We thought it would be an easy eight mile hike. We ran out of water halfway through. We found ourselves clinging to chains as we rock-climbed. It was most challenging for us, and I didn't get sick. Every time I've hiked the Grand Canyon, I've gotten sick, so it was nice to be challenged without the extra handicap.

What are you writing now?
I'm working on another historical novel titled Against the Wind set in 1855, where a group of people on a wagon train are traveling to Kansas to ensure it becomes a free state. Oh, and they'll be smuggling thirty former slaves with them.

How can readers find you on the Internet?
www.hannahalexander.com is the best way to find us. I Twitter on occasion. I also have a blog called Sunroom Reflections, and I blog with GirlsWriteOut, but mostly, you can find me on my website.


Thanks to much for having me!

=========================================================
Followers Hannah Alexander has agreed to give one of you their newest book The Wedding Kiss.
A fantastic book!

Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.

Here are the ways to get extra entries:
~Be or become a follower  +1
~Be or become an email subscriber +1
~Be or become a networked blog follower +1

Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org.  ENTRY DEADLINE  October 15, 2011

Irene Hannon-author interview and GIVEAWAY

Today I'm interviewing Irene Hannon and featuring  her newest book Deadly Pursuit. Fantastic Book!
Irene, thanks for taking the time to visit us today! I appreciate you answering these few questions. It will be fun to get to know you better.

How long did you write before you were published?
I can’t remember ever not writing. I think people are born writers. But in terms of book-length fiction, I was writing for about five or six years before I made my first sale.



Tell us about Deadly Pursuit, the featured book.
Here’s the blurb from the back cover: Social worker Alison Taylor has a passion for protecting children. But now it seems she needs protecting. When her tormentor’s attentions take a violent turn, she calls in reinforcements—her police-detective brother, Cole, and his new partner, ex-Navy SEAL Mitch Morgan. As her relentless stalker turns up the heat and the danger intensifies, Mitch takes a personal interest in the case. Because protecting Alison has become more than a job; his future depends on keeping her safe.

Is there any person who has been a strong influence in your writing journey?
My freshman English teacher in high school, who instilled in me a passion for the power and possibilities of words. Book 1 in this series, Fatal Judgment, is dedicated to her,



What message do you want to be clear to your readers?
As with every book I write, I want to leave readers uplifted, hope-filled, and with a renewed understanding of the power of love to transform lives. In addition, in Deadly Pursuit I deal with the issue of personal responsibility and how all of us are accountable for the decisions we make.



What are some of your likes and dislikes? Your hobbies, interests? Where do you like to vacation?
I love my family, singing, chocolate pastries, long walks, Saturday mornings with my husband at our favorite coffee shop, travel…too many things to list! I love to go anywhere on vacation—but over and over, I seem to be drawn to the seashore.



Tell us a little-known fact about yourself that readers may not know.
I love to perform in community musical theater productions and have had the great good fortune to play the leading role in some classic musicals, including The King and I, Brigadoon, Oklahoma, South Pacific and Anything Goes, to name a few.



How do you spend your writing days? Do you set goals to reach a certain number of words per day? Can you give us a general idea of how long it takes you to write a novel?
I’m at my desk from about 8:30 in the morning until I’m done for the day. If all goes well, I meet my page count by 5 p.m. (minimum of 5 good pages, preferably more). Then, after dinner, I take care of any business-related tasks that I didn’t get to during the day. For example, it’s 9:30 in the evening as I work on this interview. And I have more to deal with when I finish this. Because I write for two publishers, I allow about nine months between books for each; so in nine months, I write two books.



What are you currently reading?
I just finished Winter’s End by Ruth Logan Herne. One of my contemporary romance novels (A Father for Zach) is up against this debut book for the Carol Award from American Christian Fiction Writers, and I have to say I’m very impressed by her work!



Do you grow flowers or vegetables? What are your favorite flowers?
Flowers…always flowers! To paraphrase Will Rogers, I’ve never met a flower I didn’t like!



What are you writing now?
I’ve finished Book 3 in the Guardians of Justice series, Lethal Legacy, so I’ve moved on to my next romantic suspense series, which will feature three former law enforcement operatives who’ve joined forces to form a PI firm.



How can readers find you on the Internet?
I’m at www.irenehannon.com. You can also find a link on my site that will allow you to become a Twitter follower. Please do!



And thanks for spending this time with us, Irene.
We wish you much success.



Irene Hannon is giving away a copy of her book Deadly Pursuit

Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.
Here are the ways to get extra entries:
~Be or become a follower +1
~Be or become an email subscriber +1
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Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org. ENTRY DEADLINE September 26, 2011

Laura Frantz-author interview and book giveaway-The Colonel's Lady

Today's interview is an excellent author, Laura Frantz the author of several books, and she has offered her book for a giveaway. Here is the book she is talking about today The Colonel’s Lady. I love that book and here is my review http://thelifeandtimesofwanda.blogspot.com/2011/08/colonels-lady-by-laura-franza-review.html




Tell us about The Colonel's Lady, the featured book.
In 1779, a search for her father brings Roxanna to the Kentucky frontier – but she discovers instead a young colonel, a dark secret…and a compelling reason to stay.


Can you tell us how many books you have in print in the Christian market?
Three so far (The Frontiersman’s Daughter, Courting Morrow Little, and The Colonel’s Lady) with 4 more to come in my next series.


Is there a particular book among those you've written that you would especially recommend to our readers? If so, why?
My latest release, The Colonel’s Lady, is probably the one I’d tell readers to start with as it contains romance, intrigue, danger, and more. The plot was very carefully woven and the characters, or so readers tell me, are the most vivid yet.


The Christian fiction field has rapidly expanded over the past few years. What would you like to see happen in this field in the years to come?
I’d like to see attention given to more books with settings outside the 19th-century. Since books in this time period sell best, there are so many of them, but it would be so interesting to see more colonial and medieval novels, etc. I’d also like to see books expand beyond America’s borders to settings in other countries.
How can readers and fans encourage you as you pursue what is sometimes a challenging and solitary job?
If readers enjoy a book, telling friends and family about it is a huge help! Drop a note or email to an author. Oftentimes, authors keep these notes in a “sunshine” folder for encouragement. We really do write our stories with readers in mind!


Many writers are also avid readers. Do you have any favorite authors? If so, could you name a few?
My favorite historical writer in the CBA is Liz Curtis Higgs who writes with a rare depth and beauty. Her latest novel Mine is the Night is the story of Ruth, Naomi, and Boaz and takes place in 18th-century Scotland (the prequel is Here Burns My Candle). It took my breath away! Other writers I enjoy are Siri Mitchell (Love’s Pursuit) and Susan Meissner (The Shape of Mercy). I read mostly outside the CBA and my favorite historical writer in the general market is James Alexander Thom.


If you could only take five books with you on a journey of ten years, which ones would you take?
Excellent – and easy – question! My Bible, Matthew Henry’s Commentary, Jane Eyre, Christy by Catherine Marshall, and George Whitefield’s Journals.


If you had 48 hours to hang out with any TWO people (besides Jesus), alive or dead in the history of the world who would you hang out with and what would you do?
I’d love to have an 18th-century dinner party and dance with George Whitefield, the famous evangelist, and my hero, Daniel Boone. The only problem is that Whitefield abhorred dancing and Boone would rather have been out hunting and exploring.


What three things are you most thankful for in your life?
My Lord and Savior, my family, and my health.


What is the most fun thing you have ever done?
Two things tie as the most fun - attending college in an English castle and the recent tour I took of historic Philadelphia this past July on a research trip. Both were the experiences of a lifetime!


What are you writing now?
I’ve begun a 4 book series tentatively titled, The Ballantyne Legacy, about a Scottish apprentice and 2 sisters in 18th-century Pennsylvania. It’s a mail-order groom, rags to riches type story. I hope you and readers fall in love with the setting and characters.


How can readers find you on the Internet?
I love hearing from readers over at my website/blog - LauraFrantz.net - or Facebook.

The giveaway today is The Colonel’s Lady.
Leave a comment with your name and email address. You will not be entered unless you leave a comment AND your email address.


Here are the ways to get extra entries:
~Be or become a follower +1
~Be or become an email subscriber +1
~Be or become a networked blog follower +1


Contest is only open in the U.S. and void where prohibited. Chances of winning are based on the number of entries and winner is draw from a non-biased third party- Random.org. ENTRY DEADLINE September 17, 2011




Thank you so much Laura. I'm really looking forward to your new series. I know it will be fantastic!