Monday Morning Gratitudes

Bountiful tables
watching children eat
happy families
The American flag flying in the breeze
starry nights
fog raising from the valleys
stockings hanging from the mantel
Christmas trees
thanksgiving prayers
that God made turkeys--smile

Blessings!

Sunday Morning Peace

Bless the Lord,

oh, my soul,

and forget not all His benefits!

(even in the surrounded by trouble!! Smile)

--Psalms

November

"If it is true that one of the greatest pleasures of gardening lies in looking forward, then the planning of next year's beds and borders must be one of the most agreeable occupations in the gardener's calendar. This should make October and November particularly pleasant months, for then we may begin to clear our borders, to cut down those sodden and untidy stalks, to dig up and increase our plants, and to move them to other positions where they will show up to greater effect. People who are not gardeners always say that the bare beds of winter are uninteresting; gardeners know better, and take even a certain pleasure in the neatness of the newly dug, bare, brown earth."

- Vita Sackville-West

OH! I'm Totally Thrilled to Have Karen Robbins On My Blog!

She is Such a Talented Wonderful Person with an interesting blog filled with tidbits of her traveling adventures.

Enough gushing. Now on to the interview!
Tell us about your latest release. The cover looks fantastic!

Thanks for the compliment! Murder Among The Orchids is a cozy mystery with one of my favorite characters, Casey. She is a professional Household Manager, not a housekeeper, and one morning discovers her boss among his beloved orchids. Mr. Popelmayer lay as if he'd gone down swinging. Casey and her detective friend, Max, discover more than one bizarre and exotic turn to the mystery of Mr. Pop's death. Did his daughter, Cattelya, or his son, Garo, want an early inheritance? Or perhaps his first wife has had her revenge. The answer lies in the Costa Rican Forest of Orchids. It was a lot of fun to write and I hear from readers that it’s just as much fun to read. Casey is a fun sleuth.

What was the hardest part to write?

Probably the hardest part was trying to keep from giving away too much too soon in the mystery. You want to drop hints. The fun part of reading a mystery is trying to figure out the who-done-it but you don’t want the readers to discover that too soon. But this ending surprised me. When I got there, I suddenly discovered something that even I didn’t know about my characters. That’s where I credit God. I wouldn’t have thought it up on my own.

That is so true. I love mysteries! We all have choices of items that help us write. What’s yours? Can you give the readers a glimpse into your writing space? What’s your favorite writing reference tool?

Yikes! A writing space? As you know, Carole, my husband and I travel a lot so my “writing space” is anywhere I can plug in my laptop for a few minutes or hours, if I’m lucky. As a matter of fact, a good part of Murder Among the Orchids was written while we were in Hawaii during the whale season. I didn’t adjust well to the time and was waking up really early. I used the time to write.

As for items that help me write, I’d have to say my old worn dictionary and my thesaurus. When I know there’s a better word and just can’t seem to come up with it on my own, I turn to those references. I’ve never been able to figure out any of those programs that are supposed to help you plot, build characters, etc. Although I do use Word Excel to set up a spreadsheet where I can make notes about my characters as they develop in the story. That way I don’t start out with one being blonde and making her a brunette later without the help of Clairol.

I hope I don't show my jealousy in you writing a book in Hawaii! lol. If you had to choose one person to go with you for encouragement to a secluded cabin, who would that be?

If I were going to a secluded cabin, it would be for writing and reflecting and spiritual refreshment. I don’t know that I would take someone with me. I would want to enjoy the quiet, leave myself open to God’s whispers, and pour my thoughts out in words on a page.

What are you working on now?

My coauthors of A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts and I have just finished a new book, A Scrapbook of Motherhood Firsts, due to be released in April 2012. I’m also working on several other novels in various stages of completion. I have a historical that takes place during the Great Depression that has been a work of several years now. Another novel is being rewritten and hopefully will be ready for ebook release soon. Of course the next book in the Casey Stengel Mystery Series is cooking as well.

You're a busy woman! Loved your Christmas First books (Run out to buy it now, readers!) What is one of the happiest moments of your life or an accomplishment that you’re especially proud of?

The happiest moments of my life have been as a wife, mother, and grandmother. I’ve been married to the love of my life for 43 years now. We have five kids, three wonderful daughters-in-law, and eight grandkids who continually bless our lives with giggles, hugs, and lots and lots of crayon drawings. With all of that, it’s hard to pick out just one moment.

Sounds lovely. How could anyone wish for more? How do you choose names for your characters? Do you do a lot of research on them?

Choosing names for characters is kind of like going shopping for new clothes for a special event. I try them on. Knowing what the storyline is helps. Or the time period. Or the setting. Some names are more popular in certain areas of the country or world and fit better. Or sometimes the name needs to fit the picture of the character you have in mind. Just like when you find the right outfit and try it on, you know if it fits. Casey was like that. Her married name was Stengel. Putting the two together, made her a quirky kind of baseball fan even though there was no relationship to the baseball Stengel. That’s what makes the cozy mystery so much fun to write.

Love your explanation. Choosing character names is one of my favorite things to do. Can you tell us some of your favorite books or characters that you cherish?

I grew up loving Scarlett O’Hara. I still think she is a fascinating character. She had courage to stand up to what would have destroyed so many others. Her creativity in dealing with adversity was amazing (I’m thinking drapes to dress). Yet there was a sympathetic side to her—wanting to love and be loved however misdirected it may have been. She wanted to be strong and yet she wanted to be taken care of. She struggled to be the kind of person Melanie was in theory yet she couldn’t because her independent spirit and her fighting Irish spirit made her impatient with her circumstances. She was complex. That’s why she’s iconic.

And fun things about yourself that the readers might enjoy knowing?

I’ve already mentioned our traveling. We have touched foot on all seven continents including Antarctica! And have almost circumnavigated the globe. We are also scuba divers and have been diving in the Caribbean, the Great Barrier Reef, Papua New Guinea, and Tahiti to name a few places. And I am excited about being an elf this Christmas season! We have volunteered for our local Polar Express on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. I’ll be the one with the red apron that says “believe” serving hot chocolate and cookies to wide-eyed kids (and adults) as they travel to the “North Pole.”

What fun! Is there one piece of advice that’s been especially valuable to you?

A few years back, I went to a CLASSeminar where we were taught some ways to improve our speaking talents and our small group instructor handed out scripture verses to each of us. She said she had prayed over them and asked God to put the right scripture in the right hand to meet the need of each of us since she didn’t really know us all that well. The scripture she handed me is one I continually remind myself of especially when life just seems to get complicated and I need to focus. It’s Matthew 6:33, “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

Please share information where readers can check out and buy your books:

Murder Among The Orchids is available in all ebook formats at http://www.smashwords.com/; also at Barnes and Noble for the Nook and in the Sony Online bookstore for the Sony reader.

A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts (and in April, A Scrapbook of Motherhood Firsts) is available at online bookstores such as Amazon, B& N, Christian Books, etc., or ask for it at your local bookstore.


There you have it, folks. A delightful interview with my friend, Karen. Hope you enjoy her book as much as I did.

Smiles and blessings!

Monday Morning Gratitudes

techy gadgets
outdoor lights
writing retreats
writing retreat friends
laughter on friends' faces
sought after advice
independence
ceiling lights I pick out & enjoy
looking forward to good times
opportunities

Blessings

Sunday Morning Peace

Put on a happy face . . .

and you were willing for a season to rejoice!

St John 5:35b

Blessings!

I'm Excited to Have My Favorite Traveling Writer With Me on My Blog Today!

Please make sure to check out her blog here:
http://karenrobbins.blogspot.com
And look for her interview on November 23, right here!

Welcome, Karen . . .

The Wandering Writer

If I were to brand myself, it would be The Wandering Writer. My husband and I have been blessed to be able to travel the world. It started out as business trips but it wasn’t long before we were hooked—addicted to be precise. We have been able to set foot on all seven continents. Yes, even Antarctica! And we have almost completely circumnavigated the globe.


Along the way, God has given me much to write about. We have met people who have inspired us and been to places where God has seen fit to bring to light lessons that have drawn me closer to Him. I thought I might take this opportunity as Carole’s guest blogger to share a couple of those with you.

A few years ago, we were in a beautiful place called Cinque Terre on Italy’s west coast. The area has five little towns built along Italy’s rugged coastline, each nestled into or on top of the cliffs. Along the narrow path in one of the towns, we were able to see the base of a few homes built on the cliff’s edge. The solid rock cliff met with the base of the house and was secured with mortar. There was no digging into the earth. The base of the home sat on a rock-solid foundation.

Later, we visited Pisa and of course, the famous leaning bell tower. The foundations of the building there are somewhat precarious and the tower is not the only building that leans. It is just much more dramatic because its base is not as large and therefore the weight is not distributed as evenly as other buildings. Sighting down the exterior wall of the cathedral there you can see where a part of it also has sagged. The reason: a mushy clay base beneath it. Not necessarily a sandy foundation but one just as unstable.

Within a few days, we had two great examples of what it says in the Bible about a man who builds upon rock versus one who builds upon sand. The rock foundation stands through centuries. The other leans and threatens to collapse without continual reconstruction. While the less than solid based foundation may boost the tourist industry, it’s not a good philosophy of life.

The next year, we toured a large part of Australia. The Red Center of Australia is a desert area similar to our Southwest in landscape. It usually receives a bare minimum of rainfall as you can imagine but the days preceding our visit and during our time there, rain poured down. The area experienced horrible flooding and roads were blocked with red mud.

We were unable to get to the resort we were to stay at along the way between Ayers Rock and Alice Springs. The resort was about 3 ½ hours from either place and when we were finally turned away with no hope of the road being cleared enough for us to get through, we did the only thing we could we drove on to our next stop, Alice Springs.

Picture miles and miles of nothing, the sun quickly setting behind us, no lights on the two lane highway, and no moonlight. All we could see was what our headlights picked up in front of us.

I heard Bob say, “I wonder how dark it is?” And in the next instant, I was plunged into total darkness. HE’D TURNED OFF THE HEADLIGHTS!

We’re tooling along at 120 kilometers/hour (about 65 mph) and he turns off the lights! It was only for a second but it seemed an eternity. I’m not a screamer but I screamed. It was the blackest black I have ever experienced. I’ve worked in a darkroom developing pictures but that was not even as dark as this. I could literally not see my hands in front of my face. It was as though I had no body and there was just this consciousness of me.

When the lights came on, my heart was pounding. I tried to shake off the sensation of being in total darkness.

Separation from God is said to be total darkness—an eternity if you have never accepted Jesus as Savior. I can certainly see now why Jesus’ words were so important: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

God enriches my life with each new travel adventure, each new personality met along the way, each new wonder revealed. Wandering the path He has set before me keeps me writing.

***

Karen writes of her travel adventures at the Wandering Writer (http://karenrobbins.blogspot.com/). She is the coauthor of A Scrapbook of Christmas Firsts (Leafwood, 2008) and A Scrapbook of Motherhood Firsts (available April, 2012). Murder Among The Orchids is her first ebook novel and is available for download at http://smashwords.com/.

Welcome to Three New Friends!
Tracy Ruckman
Amy Barkman
Debbie Roome

Tell us about your latest release. The cover looks fantastic!

TR: Thanks so much. We're rather partial to it ourselves. Board to Death is a trio of mystery novellas written by Amy Barkman, Debbie Roome, and myself, Tracy Ruckman. It centers on a theme of board games. Here's the back cover blurb:

Baby Boomers Polly Nichols, Lindsay Wilson, and Gretchen Anderson may live worlds apart, but they have one common hobby – a penchant for board games.

Polly’s serene Kentucky campground turns sinister when the manager is a VICTIM of murder. In New Zealand, Lindsay’s life is turned upside down when MIND GAMES and evidence drag her into a murder case - as a suspect. At the Kettle’s On Campground in Georgia, Gretchen matches wits with a murderous wordsmith intent on winning the latest game of SENTENCED.

You’ll love the games, the characters, and the stories – and we promise, you won’t be BOARD to Death!

Sounds unique and oh, so interesting. What was the hardest part to write?

TR: Well, the most challenging I think was to write three stories set in three different locations, and yet still have the stories sort of blend together. Amy's story, set in Kentucky, led into Debbie's story, which is set in New Zealand, then that led into my story, set in Georgia. New Zealand's seasons are opposite ours here in the states, so in the blazing hot summer here, she's going through winter. Trying to make that work was interesting.

Then, after Debbie and I finished our stories, we realized they were entirely too similar so I rewrote mine. Next time, we're doing much better brainstorming and plotting before we start writing. :-)

Wow. Sounds like a lot of work, but the results were good, I imagine. We all have choices of items that help us write. What’s yours? Can you give the readers a glimpse into your writing space? What’s your favorite writing reference tool?

TR: I love working out on my screened porch. I can get away from inside sounds, and the outdoor noise and even the traffic in the distance serves as white noise for me. The birds and squirrels occasionally get loud and remind me to take a break, too. My favorite reference tool changes from story to story. I do love the Flip Dictionary for writing in general, and then all of my crime reference books - those help a great deal.

DR: I’ve learnt to write anywhere – but one of my favorite places is on a plane. I fly frequently and always try and sit by the window in the back row. People don’t like the back so I’m normally on my own - and spread my stuff out and write furiously. Google is my favorite reference tool. It can generally tell me anything I need to know.

Love you gals' choices! Perfect. :) If you had to choose one person to go with you for encouragement to a secluded cabin, who would that be?


TR: My husband. He's my biggest supporter, sounding board, and shoulder to cry on. I read all of my writing to him – it helps me edit, and hear the flow of the words. He also takes good care of me when I'm on deadline, making sure I remember to eat, bathe, sleep. :-)

AB: I would probably choose Tracy or my daughter Virginia Smith if I had to take somebody with me, because they are both writers and understand the need for silence. Actually I go every other month to the Kentucky mountains and stay in a cottage Monday through Friday all by myself and write. They don’t have cell phone or internet connection access! I love it.

DR: My husband.

What are you working on now?

TR: A novel I started a few years ago - I'm ready to finish it and move onto the next one. I'll also be plotting and brainstorming with Amy and Debbie on our next book in the Dangerous Games Series. That book, Hands of Death, will release next summer. And I'm just fleshing out a new series.

AB: I’m working on a mid-grade fiction, second in the Fun To Be One Club series, a Murder Mystery Dinner Theater script, and a non-fiction “Walking in the Spirit for Amateurs.”

DR: I’m working on my second novel which is entitled Broken Shells. I’m hoping to finish it by the end of 2011.

All of them sound good. Hope to read them someday. How do you choose names for your characters? Do you do a lot of research on them?

TR: Names for my characters are so important. A setting normally presents itself to me first, as it did in that new series I mentioned earlier. Then, the characters start placing themselves into the setting. Once they do that, I have to know their names, and what they look like. I'll spend some time on some stock photo places, flipping through photos until I find just the right character and then I visit Social Security's website for most popular baby names in different years. I type in the year my character was born, and then I look through the list to see what appeals. I don't like ordinary names.

AB: Tracy’s way of naming sounds so professional. I just see my characters in my imagination and then search my own mind for names that fit. I have named a lot of characters after friends of mine who have died. It’s kind of like a tribute to them.

DR: The name has to fit the age and nature of the character and I sometimes change names two or three times before I’m happy. I usually settle for names that don’t remind me of friends or family with the same or similar names.

Choosing names is one of the funnest things in writing novels, I think. Any fun things about yourself that the readers might enjoy knowing?

AB: I’m in my late sixties but feel like a kid. I’ve quoted Psalm 103:5 for over thirty years that my youth is being renewed as the eagles. And when people talk about aging I say “Not me, I’m youthening.” I guess it must have worked because I’m busier than I’ve ever been in my life and have more energy than ever. I love Disney World and English castles. I collect castles and dolls and thimbles. I have fun with children.

DR: I’ve been a dog lover since I was a young girl. My current dog is a Jack Russell named Nelson. I call him my ‘hairy child’ and he goes all over with us. He loves popping balloons and sometimes I’ll blow a whole packet up for him. It’s hilarious watching him trying to burst them all.

Debbie, I love Jack Russells. Darling dogs. And Amy, I love your motto. Forever young! Yay! How long have you known that you were a writer? Did you receive a clear “call?” Or have you just loved writing all your life?

AB: I loved to read when I was a child - can’t remember when I couldn’t read, was reading by age 4. And some time in my teens I discovered that inventing stories and writing them was even more exciting than reading. I sold a few things, wrote a humor column, and won a few contests. But I didn’t do it seriously until a few years ago.

DR: I wrote my first book when I was six and sold my first story when I was eight. I’ve loved reading and writing since I was small but have only been able to concentrate on it since moving to New Zealand in 2006.

What is the genre you write in? Would you explain what it is?

AB: What genre don’t I write in? I’ve already mentioned the humor column and the dinner theatre script, Christian non-fiction books, and Christian fiction books: women’s fiction, mystery, mid-grade. I wrote a musical - script and 9 songs - that premiered in 2009, “Claus and the King.” I’ve written several other songs too. I also sold a Christian sci-fi short story years ago, and a 4th grade Kentucky historical fiction. I’ve won some poetry contests and sold a few poems. And I wrote forms and instructions when I worked for state government. Ah! I don’t write bonnet fiction or cowboy stories. I’m sure I’d sell better if I did but, it’s just not me.

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?

AB: I tried for a long time to set a goal but too many interruptions made me irritated at people so I just write when I can and trust the Lord to make the time for me. I wrote the first draft of one mid-grade novel (45,000 words) in 3 days - by going upstairs and telling everyone to pretend I was not home. I took several years to write another book before I found out about scenes. If I get stuck chronologically I write a future scene that I have clearly in my mind and then somehow it fills itself in. I usually have the first third and last chapter of a book clear in my mind. Since I’ve learned I don’t have to write chronologically, I have a much easier time getting from here to there.

What is the spiritual message in your book? What can readers expect to get from reading it?

AB: In my novella “Victim,” the spiritual message is compassion. I hope readers will take away a sense of God’s love for each of us just as we are and a realization that He can change us into His perfect plan for our lives.

TR: Overall, Board to Death shows compassion, as Amy said, but also, it reveals in a subtle way how we’re all so different and how we all live out our Christianity in unique ways. Polly is very vocal about her faith, Lindsay meditates on Scripture to get through trying times, and Gretchen prays silently. Their faith is no more or no less than any of the others, because there’s no “right” or “wrong” in practicing our faith – as long as we’re biblically-sound, and actively pursue our individual relationship with Jesus.

I love that. Compassion is such a needed trait in this world today. Do you ever feel like giving up? Most people don’t understand the stress, the work, and the joy of being a writer. How tenuous becoming a writer is. Do you care to share how it feels, what discouraging/encouraging times you’ve gone through?

AB: I have given up trying to interest publishers. The three books published this last two months are ones where two different publishers approached me.

DR: When you have a book published, people suddenly become literary experts and tell you exactly what is wrong with your work. I’ve found that much of this criticism comes from unpublished writers. I’ve learnt to accept this graciously, take note if they’re right and ignore the rest. (And be happy that I’ve got as far as being published)

Good advice. Do you mind telling us some of your likes and dislikes? Hobbies, interests? Where would you like to travel if you could?

TR: I’m an avid fisherman – but I don’t get to fish as often as I like these days. I love traveling – if money and time were no object, I would travel the entire world, staying long enough in each place to learn the people and the area, then move on to the next spot. Observing people in their every day lives is special to me, and seeing architecture with vast history just renders me speechless at times. I have a great appreciation for art and music, and the talents and gifts required for both.

AB: Likes: reading historical and cozy mystery novels, writing, directing plays, watching plays. Traveling to new places and back to England, Scotland, and Disney World. I used to like to oil paint and embroider but now that time is spent writing. Dislikes: TV and radio.

DR: I don’t like people taking advantage of the underprivileged and disabled. I enjoy music and play piano, guitar, and bass guitar. Travel is a large part of my life and I would especially like to spend some more time in Asia. I’ve been to Singapore and Hong Kong and find their culture fascinating.

Great likes. I adore some of the same things. Would you give us your blog or webpage so everyone can check it out? Anything else you’d like to share? Promotional information?

Board to Death is available in print and digital formats at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and a host of other retail outlets. You can also request autographed copies from any of us.

http://www.tracyruckman.com/

http://www.amybarkman.com/

http://www.debbieroome.com/

http://www.writeintegrity.com/

Board to Death book trailer - http://youtu.be/q7YdYRKnsRc

Amy’s Which Witch? book trailer - http://youtu.be/9bOHnbomleg


Thank you, ladies for visiting today!
Blessings!

Monday Morning Gratitudes

The feeling of a fresh new morning
Watching leaves fluttering in the wind
choosing pumpkins
autumn colors
decorated doors
old fashion sleds, either decorated or ridden by children
back roads, country roads, so narrow you're scared you'll meet someone coming the opposite direction
quiet walks
meeting friendly people
chilly weather perfect for sweaters

Blessings

Sunday Morning Peace

The future belongs to those

who believe in the beauty

of their dreams.

--Eleanor Roosevelt

blessings

Crazy Stuff About Me

I got this idea from my friend Jeanette's blog post (check out her website at:
.
Hopefully this won't gross you out or disgust you . . . that you'll find it interesting, weird, and funny.

If not, love me anyhow, and by all means, post a couple crazy things about yourself! Have fun.

• Love to rub my hubby's feet (I know so many who think their hubby's feet are gross; not me!)
• Love coffee, but can't drink it after Sunday morning church--I have no idea why! Weird.
• Can't stand for hubby to bother the radio in the vehicle; I'm in charge of radio stations! lol
• Love rocks (stones)!
• Love vanilla cream chocolate covered peanuts; can't stand the maplenut cream ones, but love maple nut goodies. Now, that's crazy!

Your turn!

Blessings

Laurie Kingery is Back!

A warm welcome, Laurie. It's always a treat to have such a talented writer here on this blog! AND she's giving away a copy of her The Rancher's Courtship!
Comments and email addys will put you in the running.

Laurie, tell us about your latest release. The cover looks fantastic!

THE RANCHER’S COURTSHIP is the fourth book in my “Brides of Simpson Creek” series for Love Inspired Historicals. It’s Caroline Wallace’s story. Caroline had lost her fiancé in an influenza epidemic in THE DOCTOR TAKES A WIFE, book 2, and at the end of book 3, THE SHERIFF’S SWEETHEART, we see Caroline deciding to devote herself to the town’s children as a teacher, rather than risk her heart on love any more. Then Jack Collier arrives in town, trailing a herd of cattle, and with twin daughters who need a temporary home…

Oh, my goodness. That sounds great. What was the hardest part to write?

It’s always the middle. I have a great premise in mind, and of course, a Happily Ever After at the end, but when I reach the middle I always panic and wonder what I was thinking, HOW MANY WORDS ARE LEFT? and just what I’m going to do to get to the End. Of course, it always works out, but I leaned heavily on prayer and the advice of a trusted friend this time.

I think that's the hardest for most writers! lol. We all have choices of items that help us write. What’s yours? Can you give the readers a glimpse into your writing space? What’s your favorite writing reference tool?

I’m fortunate to have an office of my own complete with a desk, computer stand, and shelves for reference books and a chest of drawers for writing supplies—and a window that looks out on a maple tree. I’ve spent a lot of hours gazing out that window, watching the change of seasons. I always burn a candle while writing. My favorite general refence is Rodale’s SYNONYM FINDER and since I write books set in Texas in the 1800’s, Fehrenbach’s LONE STAR, a very comprehensive Texas history.

I love synonym finders. One of my favs too. If you had to choose one person to go with you for encouragement to a secluded cabin, who would that be?

My husband, because he wouldn’t expect me to entertain him. He’d be happy to go off and catch dinner in the lake (or shoot it, depending on the season) or at least grill a great pair of steaks or barbecued chicken.

What are you working on now?

The next book in the series, which will be Faith Bennett’s series. It’ll be called THE PREACHER’S BRIDE. Faith is an interesting person to have as a heroine of a Christian historical, because she doesn’t have any—faith, that is! It’s challenging to write an agnostic heroine, I’m finding, but I never want to write the same thing over and over again, so it’s fun. I’m hoping the readers will find her faith journey especially interesting, as well as her love story, of course!

What is one of the happiest moments of your life or an accomplishment that you’re especially proud of?

Happiest moments—when my two daughters were born, and when I married Tom. I’m proud of being nominated for a Carol award last year from ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) for a previous book, THE OUTLAW’S LADY.

How do you choose names for your characters? Do you do a lot of research on them?

I can’t say it’s terrifically hard in the western era because they used Biblical names a lot and generally common names for that era. But I do think it’s important—nothing will throw me out of another writer’s book faster than a name which is too modern, or has a modern spelling to it. Folks in the 1800’s weren’t into cutesy spellings, such as starting a name with “K” instead of the “C” it’s usually spelled with, if that makes any sense, and I don’t like names like that now. I have to really like a name before I’ll use it for a character, because I have to use it for a 75,000-word book—and longer, because these characters may appear in other books in the series.

I agree totally! Can you tell us some of your favorite books or characters that you cherish?

I confess I have a SERIOUS weakness for Roarke in JD Robb’s “in Death” series. Now, there is the perfect man—rich beyond words, yet nurturing of his heroine-wife at the same time. I’d like to be brave and bold like his Eve, too. I don’t write books with a lot of violence and gory detail, so these books are a nice vacation for me.

And fun things about yourself that the readers might enjoy knowing?

I made a book trailer this time for THE RANCHER’S COURTSHIP! You can see it on the home page of my website at http://www.lauriekingery.com/

I’m really thrilled with how it came out, and can’t recommend Paperbackflyers highly enough!!!

Is there one piece of advice that’s been especially valuable to you?

Write down the time you spend writing on a calendar that you see every day. That way you cannot fool yourself about how much time you are or are not writing. I use different colored dots to indicate the type of writing day I’ve had, too—red for when the story’s coming “hot,” yellow for average, and blue for when I just can’t get going or am interrupted a lot. I write down time spent in writing-related activities, like blog-writing and conferences, too, but they get a different kind of sticker. It’s a really kindergarten-style form of encouragement, but it works for me. And it’s proof that this isn’t just a hobby if the IRS suddently starts to question my commitment to this as my job—if advance and royalty checks aren’t enough. J

Oh, I like that. Never thought about posting it on a calendar, but I think I'll use that advice. I use a calendar for lots of other things; why not that? Thanks! Please share information where readers can check out and buy your books:

My website is http://www.lauriekingery.com/
My books are available in places like Barnes and Noble, Walmart, etc. as well as online at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Christian Book Distributors (CBD.com) and Harlequin.com

Thanks, Laurie!
Readers, comments and email addresses will give you a chance to win her book.

Blessings to all.

Monday Morning Gratitudes

cozy mysteries that are exactly that: cozy
suspense novels that capture my attention
romances that stir my emotions deeply
poems that resound in my soul
maps
sweatshirts, neat and comfortable
afghans, quilts, and soft blankets
warm soup--soothing, healing, delicious
a good cup of coffee
maps

Blessings!

Sunday Morning Peace



Work expands to fill the time

available for its completion

--N. Parkinson

Blessings!

Review of Falling to Pieces


An Amish mystery by Vanetta Chapman

I met Vanetta Chapman sometime back but haven’t had the chance to read and review one of her books. Since she writes Amish, and Amish writers must not only be a super good writer, but also have a plot to catch my interest, I began with quite a bit of trepidation.

I was caught up from the first page! If her other books are like this one, then I’ll be buying and reading more of them. Unlike some readers, I loved her index of Amish words at the front of the book, and constantly referred to it when she’d bring in a word.

Set in the small Amish town of Shipshewana, Deborah Yoder and Callie Harper meet after the death of Callie’s aunt, Daisy who owned and ran the town’s quilt shop, with tourist days running into the thousands of customers for the town show owners.

Running from the misunderstandings and death of her husband in Texas, Callie wants nothing more than to hide from life itself, sell the shop and move on. To what, she hasn’t decided yet.

Enter Deborah and her other three friends who need the shop to exist. Deborah has her own concerns with (one of the friends) Melinda’s financial needs because of an ailing son. Selling their handmade quilts will hopefully bring in the money for the boy’s physical requirements. With Deborah’s encouragement and help, Callie agrees to reopen the shop—but only because it makes a better impression to buyers.

Unfortunately, Callie gets caught up in the murder of the cantankerous newspaper editor. Accused and questioned, Callie is determined to find the murderer and Deborah is equally determined to help her.

The characters are alive and vivid on the pages. The action is entertaining. The setting realistic.

How the two women who fast become friends, foist off the accusations and pick through the quilt pieces of evidence will keep the reader turning pages until the end. I highly recommend this book!

Blessings

I'm Thrilled to Have Dina Sleiman Here This Week

How long have you known that you were a writer? Did you receive a clear “call?” Or have you just loved writing all your life?

I would say by high school I knew I wanted to write novels, but at the time I figured writing was something I would do on the side. In college I discovered there were actual graduate programs in writing. I think that’s when I realize no other career path would cut if for me. As for a clear call, in 2006 after twelve years of primarily staying home and raising my kids, I did feel like God said it was time to get busy writing.

What is the genre you write in? Would you explain what it is?

My first novel is historical romantic women’s fiction set in the medieval period. But, I also have a series of contemporary romantic women’s fiction. And I’ve even written a work of narrative nonfiction. So I guess I write in all sorts of genres. But there are elements that are consistent throughout my writing. All my writing is geared towards women and focuses on intimacy with Christ and inner healing, and all of it has lyrical sort of voice. My tagline is “Dina Sleiman – Dance with Passion.” I think that embodies all I write.

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 a loosy goosey sort of writer. I write in big spurts when the spirit hits, and then I might not write anything new for a few months. The most extreme example was when I wrote my narrative nonfiction book in six days. Not much eating, sleeping, or even showering occurred that week. However, I do take my writing seriously. During the school year I try to spend at least two or three hours each day either writing, editing, critiquing, blogging, or working on publicity. There’s a lot more that goes into being a writer than just writing. As to how long it takes me to write a novel, I would say in general about six months. But I prefer to have time to put it aside and let it brew so I can really turn it into something special instead of just cranking out words.

You recently had a book published. Would you take this time to describe it to us? How and where can readers buy your books?

Here is the official back cover copy for Dance of the Dandelion:

Love's quest leads her the world over.


Dandelion Dering was born a peasant in the English village of Arun, but her soul yearned for another life, another world. One filled with color and music, with adventure and passion  . . . with more. Haunted by childhood memories, Dandelion determines to find a better existence than the life every peasant in the village contents themselves with. Even if her sweetheart William’s predictions prove true, and her journey leads straight to heartache.


From her sleepy hamlet to the intrigue of castle life, from the heart of London to the adventurous seas, Dandelion flees from the mistakes of her past, always seeking that something, that someone who will satisfy her longings.


Will Dandelion ever find the rhythm to her life's dance . . . or did she leave her chance for true love at home in Arun village?

You can purchase the book at online distributors like amazon and Barnes and Noble. It’s also available for a variety of ereaders through direct download or at this link https://www.ebookit.com/books/0000000691/Dance-of-the-Dandelion.html

What is the spiritual message in your book? What can readers expect to get from reading it?

The primary theme of the book is finding the true meaning of love through intimacy with Christ. I hope that readers, both Christian and non-Christian, will all be drawn closer to God through Dandelion’s experiences. The book also deals with the freedom and healing available only through that deep relationship with Christ.

Do you ever feel like giving up? Most people don’t understand the stress, the work, and the joy of being a writer. How tenuous becoming a writer is. Do you care to share how it feels, what discouraging/encouraging times you’ve gone through?

I have moments of frustration and doubt, but at the end of the day I do have peace that this is where God wants me. I think the hardest period was when I was querying agents but wasn’t involved in any writer’s groups yet. Dealing with that rejection without a support system just about did me in. I really had to get on my face before God and search out his will. Did he really want me to be a published writer, or did I just write a book for my own growth and development. I felt that God confirmed both through speaking to me and through my husband that I was to keep going, and also that I desperately needed to connect with other writers. Since then I’ve had a the sense of peace I mentioned, even if the timing doesn’t always meet my expectations.

Who inspires you the most?

Well, from a writing perspective I’m most inspired by truly artistic writers. Lisa Samson is probably my favorite. When I read her books, I feel like, “Wow, I would have never thought of that.” But it makes me want to try even harder with my own writing. My critique partners, Christine Lindsay and Roseanna White, inspire me as well, and I’ve learned so much from them. They are actually two of my favorite authors.

Would you explain how you “chose” (or were chosen by) a publisher? Do you just go “inny, minny, miny, moe?” Now, that you’re published, can you sit back and relax from the success you’ve experienced?

Well, my agent sent Dance of the Dandelion to all the big Christian publishing houses, and we received some very favorable feedback. But at the time the book was still being considered by these bigger houses, I heard about WhiteFire Publishing. I loved the vision of the company and really wanted to be involved. I had a strong feeling at that point that my book would eventually end up with WhiteFire, so I wasn’t disappointed when all the bigger publishers turned it down for marketing reasons. But in general, you don’t pick a publisher. You find an agent, your agent sends to everyone who might possibly be a pick, and then they pick you. You only get a choice if more than one offers a contract, which is unheard of for a first time author.

I don’t really feel like I can sit back and relax now, although I’m not stressed or pressured either. I have three completed books and several partials finished. So I can kind of take a breath and enjoy this moment, but I also need to keep my career moving. My contemporary series is being considered by several companies now, and there is also some talk of future books with WhiteFire. It’s important that this book has good sales and reviews to set a strong base for both my career and for WhiteFire Publishing to continue growing.

Do you mind telling us some of your likes and dislikes? Hobbies, interests? Where would you like to travel if you could?

I love the outdoors, especially the beach. I do a lot of biking and hiking. For the past 17 years I’ve been very involved in worship dance and drama, and I’ve led ministries at several churches. I’m also a published poet.

My husband is an international producer, and he’s originally from Lebanon, so I’ve already done a lot of traveling. I’d still like to make it to Italy, though, and maybe another trip to England, which I last visited 20 years ago.

Would you give us your blog or webpage so everyone can check it out? Anything else you’d like to share? Promotional information?

My website is http://dinasleiman.com/
You can also friend me on facebook or goodreads.
And I should mention that the ebook version of my book is a great deal, under $4 in any format.