Featured Authors

So Happy To Introduce you to ... Staci Stallings!!

2012-02-18T09:04:00.000-08:00

It is so wonderful to have Staci with us this month. She is a talented woman who loves the Lord. Please join me in welcoming Staci Stallings!!

How did you come up with the idea for this book?

Like many of my books, the idea for "Deep in the Heart" came in a dream. However, unlike other books, I can't really tell you what the dream was about. Most of them I can remember a moment or something about the dream. This one (and this is weird), all I had when I woke up was a name. One name, and a feeling I had that I knew it wasn't just a random name but a real live person; however, I wasn't sure I'd ever seen the person, but I knew what he looked like in my head. The name was "Keith Anderson." I got up, went straight to the computer, and searched it through images. Sure enough. That was exactly the person I was picturing! I kind of let myself go and started asking God for the other pieces, and by day's end I had started "Deep in the Heart." Within a month it was finished.

How did you come up with the title of your book?

The hook of "Deep in the Heart" is "Can Keith defy the two most powerful men in Texas to follow his heart?" So... it's about Texas. I tried to find something that said Texas without screaming Texas. I wanted to allude to it without bashing the reader over the head with it because Texas in all its "bigness" plays a large part in this book. The idea that came and stuck and stayed was "Deep in the Heart," and I think that title works on many different levels because the book asks if the characters are determined to play shallow with life or if they are brave enough to go deep.

How do you come up with character’s names?

Keith's name was easy--though I did change it to Ayers. Maggie's name was about seven different things as I started writing. Every time I changed the title name, I would change her name too. But I really like the name Maggie because she's rather young, like 22 or 23, and she's... well, she's Maggie. She's not super-sophisticated. She's kind of shy and unassuming. She doesn't take herself too seriously. So Maggie was a great fit.

Some of the other character names came quite naturally. Conrad Ayers, Keith's dad fit because Conrad is an older name and kind of formal. Vivian, Keith's stepmom is the quintessential frilly-at-the-neck with the perfect suit woman. I tend to think of Victorian when I think of her. Patty Ann is Vivian's assistant and just annoying and catty and mean to everyone. Finally, there's Dallas, Keith's fiancée and the daughter of the Texas Senator who will eat Keith for lunch if he dares to hurt his little girl. It's a fun group. :)

Are your characters based on real people?

Normally no. But sometimes I make an exception if they show up as the person they are. Keith is one of those. In what can only be a God thing, shortly after I started writing this, Keith (the real one) had his biggest hit "Every Time I Hear Your Name." I think I watched that video a hundred-thousand times in that month. (Yes, I have a rough job, but I took one for the team! :)

Another character in this one that was based on a real person because he was who showed up was the character of Ike. Carefully pressed Wranglers, that cowboy hat just right--older but carrying it well, serious but with a quick, heart-stopping smile. Who else but the incomparable George Strait? Only problem with that was when he started giving Keith a hard time. Never thought I could even play hate George, but he was annoying me for awhile there!

When do you write?

Ugh. There's a question. I have written 30 full-length novels, 6 Bible Studies, and 5 short story collections. I have 4 blogs that I update every week, and at least five new titles that I'm working on. But if I had to tell you when I've done all that, I would have no idea.

When I was in high school, I wrote what they called "Newswriting" in Texas U.I.L. contests. The deal was, they gave you a sheet of information back and front, and you had to compose a news story (long hand) in 30 minutes. Start to finish edit. 30 minutes. I didn't realize it back then, but WOW does that ability to speed write--no second guessing--has served me very well over the years! When I have an idea, I go for it, and usually the Holy Spirit has to carry me through the doubts about how this is ever going to work out and what did that detail mean. Between the two things, I write a lot more that my time schedule ever says I possibly could.

What emotion do you most want to pull from your readers?

EVERY emotion! Are you kidding? If you don't laugh out loud and shed at least a few tears every book, I haven't done my job. I want my readers to be so hooked into the book that they forget to make dinner and the laundry just piles up--and they don't even care! Not in a bad way but I just think in our world today we so often just skate on the surface of everything. We don't take time to really FEEL. In fact, in some ways we're told that feeling is wrong or beneath us. I don't believe that for a second. That's what I want to give readers--a safe, wonderful place to feel--maybe deeper than they have let themselves in a long time.

Do you work outside of writing?

Ha! After you read the answer to this one, go back up to that "When do you write" question. I do not have a formal job outside of writing, like a place where I go to every day and collect a paycheck. However, I own two businesses, keep all the finances for my own and for the business I own with my husband--that's bills out, paying bills, bank statements, bonds, taxes, insurance, etc. I'm the founder of a Christian authors' group that helps each other learn to market. I also have three kids who go to two different schools, and every year I organize and run four different fundraisers between the two schools. Further, we have two very large, well-connected families with all the birthday parties, anniversaries, and get-togethers that entails. I also teach Sunday School and write and direct the VBS plays every year. I serve on retreat teams as well as doing all the "Mom" stuff--Valentine's parties, track practices, gymnastics... No. I don't know how I get it all done. The only thing I can tell you is God is GREAT at scheduling everything! I just do what He puts in front of me to do at the moment and figure He's got a plan for everything else. If I didn't have God, I'd be a basket case by now!

Do you have other titles coming out besides this one? If so, what are they?

I now have 14 titles on Kindle and Nook and 7 in print. One of my books, "Coming Undone" hit the #1 spot in Religious Fiction and Religion & Inspirational on Amazon at the beginning of February. That was an incredible ride.

I also have "Cowboy" which hit #98 in Romance in religious fiction and was a #9 Top-Rated Religious Fiction Novel on Amazon the first part of February. You can see all of my romance novels at: http://ebookromancestories.com

Do you have advice for future authors?

Listen to God. The world is going to tell you a lot of things to talk you out of what your heart is telling you. For example, I had a lot of people tell me that they didn't like my style. They tried very hard to change and to convince me to change the way I wrote, the unique way I tell a story. But God wouldn't let me be at peace with that, so I chose to trust Him more than what everyone else was telling me. It was not an easy road to get here, and I questioned if I would ever see this place. But God is faithful to the calling He puts on your heart, and He was faithful to the one He put on mine. I think if at the end, you can be thankful to God for seeing you through it all, THAT'S success. Get really good at listening to Him and trusting what He's telling you. That will get you farther than all of the other stuff put together.

Do you have a home on the web? What’s the address?

Several actually...

Romance Novels: http://ebookromancestories.com

Christian Living: http://spiritlightbooks.wordpress.com

Marketing: http://gnfmarketing.wordpress.com

I'm on Twitter: @StaciStallings

And on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/staci.stallings.author

Thanks so very much for having me, Rhonda! I've enjoyed the opportunity!

Have an awesome day, everyone! God bless!

It was great to have you here Staci! I loved hearing how your characters are created and come to life.

It is my pleasure to introduce...Drum roll....Dale West!!!!

2012-02-05T20:04:00.000-08:00

Dale and I are members of the same local writers group. I am very happy to be the first to have him on a blog, I'm sure I won't be the last. Please enjoy the inview and be sure and leave a comment for your chance to win his first book!!

When did you learn you wanted to be a writer?

It’s funny, but I’ve never considered myself “A Writer”. I’ve always labeled myself under other titles. Work is work and writing…well, that’s always been fun. I guess subconsciously I never wanted to turn writing into work, so I avoided the label. Honestly, I’d have to say that I’ve always been a “Writer”.

How long did it take before you got the call?

July 2006. And I ignored it until August 2007!

How did you come up with the idea for this book?

Now that’s a story. Since I was little I’ve always enjoyed writing short stories and poems. I always tinkered around with writing a novel but thought it was impossible. At the time, a 5 – 10 page high school or college report seemed overwhelming to me. Yet, just as a little kid stares up at the high dive board dreaming of one day going over the edge into the pool, I too, continued to dream. Oh, I made my fair share of attempts at writing a novel. I had several strong starts with great ideas but they never went anywhere. A couple pages in, I would stop and wonder, “Now what?”, never to start again. Then, one day, July 2006, I got the call in the form of dreams, dreams, and more dreams. Initially, I thought the dreams were just another “good idea” that was destined for the page 5 quicksand, so I ignored them, and ignored them, and ignored them…until August 2007. Finally, I started to write them down in short story form. Little by little, chapter by chapter, the pages formed into Legend of the True King: Book I – Cull of the Plague.

How did you come up with the title of your book?

Um, well, I went through several titles but this one seemed to fit best. Legend of the True King fits because it’s essentially a story about the True King. This is the first book in the series thus: Book I. Cull of the Plague describes the challenges the characters face.

Is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series?

Yep, definitely a series. I’ve been infected and can’t stop writing. I estimate the series will be about 7 books. The second book is titled, All Are Hunted, and the third book is titled, Heart Storms. The other titles I’m keeping under wraps until they’re written.

How do you come up with character’s names?

I’ve found that a creative imagination and baby name books are great resources.

Are your characters based on real people?

Easy answer. No.

How do you develop your characters?

Usually I’ll pull various character traits from real people and mold a fictitious character into what I want, but for this book the characters were given to me. I just had to be true to their already established traits and habits.

Are you a seat of the pants writer? Or a plotter?

I’ve always prided myself as a seat of the pants kind of guy for poetry and short stories. I think that’s part of the reason why I struggled for years at writing a novel. I could sprint for several pages and then run out of steam. After writing the first book, the dreams stopped. I thought I was done; doomed to never write another novel ever again. But before the dreams stopped I dreamed the end of the story. It was a dream that was a huge climax far from anything in Book I. So I found myself mulling. “When will the dreams return?” “What comes next?” “How will I ever carry on?” “Poor me…”

After a year it dawned on me. I was starting to plot. I plotted and plotted and plotted. I plotted until images were oozing from my brain. I plotted until a green light turned on in my head. It was like God said, “I gave you life. It’s up to you how to live it.” Everyone chooses whether they live a life that glorifies God or whether they spend a lifetime in rebellion against Him. The same was true for my story. Now I find myself plotting down a path to a known end. I will get there eventually, but it will take me a while. A journey I invite everyone to join me on.

What does your family think of your writing?

They’re enjoying the journey. My wife and kids are my greatest fans as well as my greatest critics. Their encouragements keep me going.

Welcome Love Inspired Historical author Debra Ullrick

2012-01-23T18:53:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to introduce Debra Ullrick! I just finished reading The Unlikely Wife and LOVED it! These characters stuck with me long after I closed the book.

Debra, how did you come up with the idea for this book?

One day I was watching the Beverly Hillbillies. Ellie May Clampitt is such a beautiful woman, yet so uneducated. Knowing Michael wanted someone like Rainee, the heroine from my story, The Unexpected Bride, who was educated yet could handle her own, I thought it would be great instead to give him someone who was a cross between Ellie May Clampitt and Calamity Jane.

How did you come up with the title of your book?

I didn’t, the editors gave me a choice between two titles, The Improper Wife, or The Unlikely Wife. At first I loved the title, The Improper Wife, but then the more I thought of it, it made her sound immoral, and I didn’t want that. This story was originally titled, The Lady In Trousers.

Is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series?

Yes, it is. The first book in the series is, The Unexpected Bride. Next is, The Unlikely Wife, then Groom Wanted, which comes out in August 2012. I’m working on Abby’s story now. I’m not sure if I’ll end with her or not.

What emotion do you most want to pull from your readers?

I want them to feel everything my characters are feeling. Joy, happiness, sadness, etc.

Which would you prefer, camping on the beach? Or camping in the woods?

Definitely camping on the beach. I don’t want any bear coming around and eating me for dinner.

Are your characters based on real people?

No. They are all a figment of my imagination. Well, God’s that is. *smiling* Without Him, none of this would be possible.

How do you develop your characters?

Most the time, I don’t. They develop me. They lead, I follow. Every once in a while though I will watch a movie, or see someone who intrigues, and a character similar to them will develop in my mind. Plus, there are times I think of what I want to do or how I would like to be and will create a character that fits that scenario.

What is your idea of the perfect vacation?

That one is easy. I love water and am fascinated with sea life and their brilliant colors, shapes and sizes. So, a trip to the Bahamas, Tahiti, Caribbean or any other place where the water is crystal clear where you can see all of that beauty and creativity. It must contain a lot of waterfalls though, too. That’s another thing I love.

If you could be one of your characters, which one would you be?

Camara Chevelle Cole from, The Bride Wore Coveralls. The reason being is, she knows how to works on cars, owns a classic car and could afford all the classic cars her heart desires. Plus she builds and races mud-boggers. Being around all of that would be pure heaven.

Do you have a home on the web? What’s the address?

Yes, I do. It’s www.DebraUllrick.com
Plus you can find me on Twitter and Facebook.

Thank you Debra for coming. I was pleasantly surprised that we have something else in common besides our writing. I love sea life and waterfalls, too.

Welcome Martha Rogers

2012-01-04T10:09:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Martha! I am so glad you could join us this month. I'm sure my readers can't wait to learn more about you. So let's get started.

When did you learn you wanted to be a writer?
I’ve wanted to be a writer as long as I can remember. I “scribbled” stories for my mother before I learned to write. Whenever I told about family stuff, she apologized for my “embellishing” the truth. I just wanted it to be more interesting.

How long did it take before you got "the call"?
Would you believe 70 years? No? Then how about eighteen from the time I started pursuing publication until I got my first full length novel contract. I had numerous non-fiction works and one novella before that time, but “the call” came around my 73rd birthday. My advice for those just starting out is to have patience and keep writing and submitting. God has a plan for all of us, and His timetable isn’t always the same as ours. In fact it very rarely is. Hang in there and pray a lot.

How did you come up with the idea for this book?
This book is the third in the series, Seasons of the Heart, and this story evolved from the characters I had already created. Abigail was Rachel’s best friend in the first book, so I wanted to bring her back into the picture. She is also sister to the hero of the second book.

Is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series?
The first two books in this series are Summer Dream and Autumn Song. The fourth, Spring Hope, will be released in May.

How do you come up with character’s names?
Since I write historical romance, I use the data base for popular names for various decades. That way my names are more authentic to the time period. Sometimes the names come from family members, and they love to see their names in my books, especially my grandchildren.

Are you a seat of the pants writer? Or a plotter?
Definitely a seat of the pants writer. I can write a synopsis and use it as a basic plan, but my characters take on minds of their own and things happen that I never planned. Characters I never knew existed pop up too and usually make the plot better. The synopsis is usually a guideline and will keep me on track to where I want to go, but the getting there changes a lot.

What emotion do you most want to pull from your readers?
The theme throughout all of my novels is that of reconciliation. Either the characters must make reconciliation with each other or with God and sometimes both. I want my readers to see how God touches our hearts and changes our lives. No matter whether my stories are contemporary or historical, they all carry this theme.

Do you have other titles coming out besides this one? If so, what are they?
Besides the fourth book in the present series, a Christmas book, Christmas at Holly Hill, will be released next fall. After that a new 3 book series, Love’s Journey Home will begin.

Do you teach writing classes? If so, where do I sign up?
I will be teaching 2 classes at the Texas Christian Writers Conference in Houston on August 4, 2012. I am also available to speak to writing groups and travel to wherever they may be.

What is your favorite writing conference to attend?
Definitely the ACFW conference is my favorite. I see so many friends there and make so many new ones each year. I always learn something new and get energized for the next year. It’s a great place to connect with editors and agents. Next to that would be our Texas Conference in August.

ACFW is my favorite also, Martha. Thank you for joining us.

If you want to learn more about Martha go to: www.martharogers.com

Time to welcome... Jill Williamson!

2011-12-14T07:13:00.000-08:00

Welcome Jill!

I hope you don't mind but we are going to jump right into your interview. I found it fasinating and think that our readers will too. So here we go.

How did you come up with the idea for this book?

I was riding in a car through upstate New York. I passed endless amounts of ranches, orchards, and farms. It got me thinking. What if there was a farm where they grew people? Clones... It could be called Jason Farms!

Since I’m from Alaska, I thought the last frontier would be a fun and ideal location for such a story. Alaska is such a vast state. Most people move there to get away from the world. And no one tends to ask many questions. It was the perfect place for an underground cloning lab.

I knew right away that I wanted a main character who was the daughter of one of the scientists. I thought if I made her a Christian and her father an atheist that alone would create conflict between the two on issues of ethics.

And I also wanted to have a male point of view character. My goal in choosing one of the clones was to explore God’s purpose for people. Purpose is one of my passions. I love getting to know people and encouraging them in their strengths. I wanted my female lead to do the same for my male clone. I wanted him to discover that even though he is a duplicate of another human, he is unique and called by God to live a purposeful life.

How did you come up with the title of your book?

It was originally called Jason Farms. It seemed the perfect title considering how I came up with the idea, but Zondervan didn’t think so. They changed the title to Replication: The Jason Experiment.

Is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series?

I have ideas for two more books in a trilogy, but whether or not I get to write them depends on how well the Replication does. For now, it’s just one book.

Are you a seat of the pants writer? Or a plotter?

I’m kind of a mix. When I’m brainstorming something new, first I come up with an original premise. Then I write five sentences that encompass my beginning, my three act structure, and how the story will end. I brainstorm characters’ names and backstories. If it’s fantasy or science fiction, I draw a map. If it’s contemporary, sometimes it helps to draw a floor plan of the main location.

Once I feel good about where I’m headed, then I write the story seat of the pants, with those general guidelines to keep me on track. I try to write the whole story as fast as I can. In a month or less, if possible. Then I can take my time rewriting.

Do you teach writing classes? If so, where do I sign up?
I teach classes ever year with the Oregon Christian Writer’s organization. I also teach online classes at http://nextgenwriters.com/ and plan to teach some classes soon with the new http://www.pekazoidprophets.org/ group for children and young adult writers.

Do you have a home on the web? What’s the address?

My website is www.JilllWilliamson.com. You can find out all about me there as well as read my blog posts and listen to my Blood of Kings podcast, where I record and post a new chapter of the trilogy every week—for free.

What was it like when you got your first contract? Did your agent call? Did the editor call you? Were you at a conference?

I was sitting at my computer, and Jeff Gerke sent me an email that said, “Do you happen to be by a phone right now so that I can call you?” That email pretty much floored me. I’d been rejected enough to know that editors didn’t tend to call an author up and say so. I figured Jeff wanting to talk on the phone was a good thing. I ran and told my husband to keep an eye on our daughter, then emailed Jeff back and he called right away. He wanted to publish the book. We talked about that a bit, and he said he’d email me the contract. I couldn’t sit still. I was so excited.

What is your favorite writing conference to attend?
Oregon Christian Writers Summer Coaching Conference. They’ve set it up similar to how Mount Hermon runs their conference. The conference gets about 300 attendees. It’s a great chance for me to hang out with some dear friends every year. It’s a longer conference, so it’s very relaxed. And they get a great mix of editors and agents. I’ve sold all my books at that conference to both Marcher Lord Press and Zondervan.

Do you have advice for future authors?

Write, write, write. Get into a critique group where you feel you are learning. And finish that first book. Many new writers tend to get stuck for years writing that first book. Train yourself to be a writer by doing the hard work of completing a full manuscript. Then go back and rewrite it. And when you’re done, put it down and write another book. Then write another. Then another.

Also, read, read, read. When you read, study what the author did. Look at their dialogue, action, punctuation, characters, plot, everything. Learn all you can. It will help you be a better writer and storyteller.

And try not to be impatient. Work on making each book the best it can be. When you finish a book, send it out. While you’re waiting to hear back, write another one. I wrote six novels before my first book was published. I’ve heard the same from many authors. So, try to have fun.

Advice-wise, one of my favorite writing quotes is from Michael Crichton. He said, “Books aren't written—they're rewritten. Including your own. It is one of the hardest things to accept, especially after the seventh rewrite hasn't quite done it.” It’s so true.

Thank you, Jill for being with us. I loved your "how I got the call" story! and I'm looking forward to reading this trilogy.

Please Welcome...Robin Bayne!!

2011-12-02T12:27:00.000-08:00

Welcome Robin! Thanks you for stopping by. I know my readers are looking forward to meeting you, so I'm just going to fire off some quick questions. First off,is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series?

Yes! “Christmas Pearl” is part of series of three novellas based on Biblical parables. The first two titles are “Prodigal” and “Samaritan.”

Do you work outside of writing?

Yes again! I work at a small, community savings bank. I wear many hats there, some of which include mortgage underwriting, loan processing, government reporting and loan shipping. If it’s walked by the loan department, I’ve worked on it.

Do you have a home on the web? My main site is www.robinbayne.com. From there you can link to my blog, which is called “Between Sundays.” I am also on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/rlbayneauthor.

Do you have advice for future authors? I would advise them to read all they can in their genre, and once they start writing, find a good critique partner or group before ever submitting anything.

What writing books would you recommend to new authors? There are so many great ones out there! “Writing For the Soul” by Jerry Jenkins, “Techniques of the Selling Writer” by Dwight Swain, “Creating Character Emotion” by Ann Hood, just to mention a few. If you are interested in reading devotionals geared toward writers, several years ago I compiled a collection of these written by well known and new Christian authors. It’s called “Words to Write By” and you can find info on my website.
Do you have a newsletter?
I’ve never gotten a newsletter off the ground, I have this great fear of accidentally spamming someone. Instead I invite everyone to visit my author page on Facebook. (https://www.facebook.com/rlbayneauthor)

What emotion do you most want to pull from your readers? Well, of course I want them to feel the love developing between my characters, but I also seem to weave a lot of forgiveness into my stories. I want them to feel the relief the character feels after making amends.

How did you come up with the title of this book? As part of the series based on parables, I first thought of the title “The Pearl.” Based of course on the parable of the pearl, and as it became a Christmas story the new title evolved.

When did you learn you wanted to be a writer? In the second grade, I remember being called up to the teacher’s desk. I thought I was in trouble. Actually, she was impressed with a short story I’d written about a haunted house. (My mom still has that story, printed with a fat pencil on wide-ruled paper.) I guess that was when.

Which would you prefer, camping outside or on the beach? That’s an easy one—camping at the Holiday Inn. LOL. Actually, my husband and I did own a large RV for a few years, but it wasn’t our thing. We like to stay in small towns or on an island and go exploring.

Laughing, I know what you mean about the Holiday Inn. Although it is fun to go on short camping trips from time to time. Thank you again for joining us this month Robin. It was a pleasure getting to know you better.

Thanks Rhonda so much for hosting me today! Merry Christmas

WINNER!!

2011-12-02T12:23:00.000-08:00

Ann Shorey is the winner of Vickie's Book!

LONG TRAIL HOME by Vickie McDonough

2011-11-01T08:44:00.000-07:00

Vickie and I are good friends who both came from Oklahoma and started selling our books about the same time. I'm thrilled to have Vickie today. Her current title Long Trail Home is releasing today! Be one of the first to own this wonderful historical novel.

Don't forget at the end of the interview to leave a comment for a chance to win this new release.

Now on to the interview...
Good Morning Vickie, how did you come up with the idea for this book? Long Trail Home is part of a six-book series I’m writing with Susan Page Davis and Darlene Franklin. The idea for a series done by several authors was our agents’ brainstorm. The Texas Trails series spans 50 years, from 1845 to 1896 and includes different aspects of Texas history. When we were deciding who would write what, I drew the 1860s and 1890s decades. For Long Trail Home, I decided to focus on Reconstruction after the Civil War and feature a returning soldier as my hero. I’d also read about the Texas Blind Asylum, a school for blind children, and that sparked my interest, so I incorporated a fictional school, where my heroine lived.

Is this book part of a series? Yes, the full title is Texas Trails: A Morgan Family series. If so, what are the other titles in this series? Yes, see the list below.

Released this year:
Book 1 – Lone Star Trail by Darlene Franklin
Book 2 – Captive Trail by Susan Page Davis
Book 3 – Long Trail Home by Vickie McDonough

Releasing next year:
Book 4 – A Ranger’s Trail by Darlene Franklin
Book 5 – Cowgirl Trail by Susan Page Davis
Book 6 – End of the Trail by Vickie McDonough

If you’d like to know more about this series, visit the Texas Trails website: www.texastrailsfiction.com

Are you a seat of the pants writer? Or a plotter? I’m actually somewhere in between. I always write out a synopsis of my story, but I don’t usually fill out character sheets or outline my book. I have to have some room to go with the flow because my characters don’t always do what I thought they would.

What does your family think of your writing? My family is very supportive of my writing. My husband, Robert, has been my cheerleader since before my first novella was published. He’s believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.

How much time do you devote to writing? It depends on whether I’m on deadline or not. Normally, I’ll write 3 or 4 hours a day, but on deadline, I’ve been known to write 12 - 18 hours.

Where do you write? I write in my living room in my recliner.

What is your favorite beverage? Coke

Do you have other titles coming out besides this one? Yes. If so, what are they? Besides End of the Trail, the final book in the Texas Trails series, I also have a new series with Guidepost/Summerside coming out next year. It’s called Pioneer Promises and is set in the 1870s on the Kansas prairie. The first book is called Whispers on the Prairie and is the story of a young Chicago woman who gets stuck at a stage stop when her wagon breaks down. The family who runs the stage stop has three grown sons, and the battle to win the lady’s affection begins.

If you could be one of your characters, which one would you be? I have to say Jacqueline (aka Jack) Hamilton Davis from my Texas Boardinghouse Brides is the one that most resembles me—or at least how I was as a kid. She’s a spunky tomboy who hates dresses and school and would rather go fishing with her two best friends (both boys) than do chores.

Do you have a home on the web? Yes What’s the address? www.vickiemcdonough.com Do you have a newsletter? I’m planning to start one early next year, so if anyone would like to sign up, they can email me at fictionfan1@me.com

What is your favorite writing conference to attend? No doubt it’s the ACFW conference—American Christian Fiction Writers.

Thanks, Rhonda, for having me as a guest here today!

Thanks Vickie for coming! I am so happy to have one of my best writing buddies join me on Rhonda's Ramblings!

WINNERS

2011-09-01T10:24:00.001-07:00

Elyssa is the winner of BLUE SKIES by Sarah Sundin

Judy is the winner of LOST IN DREAMS by Roger Bruner

AND

Kkern1613@gmail.com is the winner of THE EDGE OF GRACE by Christa Allan

Congratulations everyone!!

I will be posting new interviews this afternoon, so check back to read about Margaret Daley, Elizabeth Ludwig and Anne Green! October is another great month of reading fun!

Meet Barbour Author Roger Bruner

2011-08-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to introduce Roger Bruner to you! Come read with me and see how he designed his own web page! You don't want to miss this. Let's get started.

How did you come up with the title of your book?
Funny you should ask that, Rhonda. I’d originally titled this book Prancing on Pebbles. In fact, I was so determined that my publisher not have a reason to change it that I went to great lengths to explain my title in Chapter One. Then my protagonist referred to it again several times throughout the book and again at the very end. So I was shocked when my editor suggested Lost in Dreams instead. I try not to be a problem author, so I didn’t object. I liked the new title, and it does fit, although maybe not quite as well as the original. But my editor thought it would resonate better with teens. So, sure. Why not?

Is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series?
Lost in Dreams is book two in the Altered Hearts series. The series is missions-related. I haven’t been contracted beyond this second book yet, but I have a completed prequel and have also put considerable time and thought into two additional books. Tentatively, they’re called Overshadowed and King’s Highway.

Are your characters based on real people?
My protagonist, Kim Hartlinger, is based VERY loosely on my daughter, Kristi, who is listed as a co-author. At least she went to Mexico on a mission trip (see book one). However, when she was in, uh, eighth or ninth grade, she had a severe fatigue problem, and I modeled one of Kim’s problems in book two after Kristi’s problem. I hasten to add, however, that Kristi’s was not caused by guilt the way Kim’s was.

Are you a seat of the pants writer? Or a plotter?
In many ways, I’m a seat of the pants writer. I could never outline my story in detail. However, I do have to know what happens when—in a general three-act format. You know how most writers seem to hate writing a synopsis? That’s not true for me. I like to write the synopsis first, realizing that it may change considerably during the writing. I’m definitely not locked into anything except making sure I’m still aiming at my intended ending.

Where do you write?
Easy question. Although I have a room that’s designated as my “music room,” I don’t write there very often. I do most of my work on a laptop on a laptop tray on my lap on the love seat in the living room. However, I bought a netbook a few months ago and am using it more and more for writing—a whole lot lighter and easier on my lap and legs. I just have to finish getting used to the keyboard and to using Open Office instead of Word. However, we have a wireless network at home, so I can easily share files among the laptop, netbook, and desktop. The desktop is almost exclusively my wife’s. Oh, and occasionally I work for an hour or two at the café at the closest grocery store. Our two cats don’t provide the kind of companionship I sometimes need.

Do you work outside of writing?

I’m happy to say I retired at sixty-two (I’ll be sixty-five in September) to write full-time. We’re not rich by any means, but we’re not dependent on book income. I’m much more concerned about having a positive influence on as many readers as possible than on money. Of course, if one of my books went big-time, I wouldn’t complain. We’d love to build a log cabin in the woods, and we won’t do it any other way. *G*

Do you have other titles coming out besides this one? If so, what are they?
I’ve mentioned the other books in the Altered Hearts series. I don’t have anything else under contract, although my agent is shopping around three or four of my unpublished manuscripts. Barbour, my current publisher, is tentatively interested in a book I’ve started. It’s for teen boys, but adults and teen girls will probably love it, too.

Do you have a home on the web? What’s the address?
A writer doesn’t dare to be without a website. Because I have a background in web programming, I designed and take care of my own. It’s RogerBruner.com. The funny thing is I didn’t design it to appeal more to youth than to adults, but tried to hit a happy medium. (He didn’t duck in time, so I flattened him.) I’d really like for one or two of my adult, general fiction manuscripts to make it into print. You didn’t ask about a blog, but I do have one. It’s themeless, and I update only once or twice a month. So I don’t publicize it.

What was it like when you got your first contract? Did your agent call? Did the editor call you? Were you at a conference?
Terry Burns of Hartline—isn’t that also the name of a cat medication?—is my agent. He likes to do things by email because it provides a written record of things. We knew my first contract was pending approval, but it was taking forever. He alerted me by email that we were almost there and again once the contract had been officially offered.

What is your favorite writing conference to attend?
My favorite writing conference is the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference at Ridgecrest, NC. Although it’s not just fiction (like ACFW), it has a strong fiction emphasis. The facilities are greatly to my liking, and the price is reasonable. That’s not counting the fact I can drive easily from Richmond. Did I mention that the BRMCWC isn’t as huge as ACFW, either? Besides, I worked summers at Ridgecrest many years ago, so I feel at home there.

Abingdon's Christa Allan

2011-08-01T07:32:00.000-07:00

Today we are talking with Christa Allan. I'm excited for you to read about how Christa got the "call" that all writers are waiting for. So let's get started!

When did you learn you wanted to be a writer? I started writing in high school when I realized that I couldn’t sing [at least not anything anyone would want to listen to], I couldn’t dance, I couldn’t draw or paint anything beyond stick figures, and as for sports…well, let’s just say I was the kid everyone wanted on the other team. Many years later and married, I wrote for a newspaper when I had two children and two on the way, then—when four of my five children were out of the house, I decided to start writing a novel. Actually, I started because my precious husband had more faith in me than I had in myself. He guilted me into getting started by buying me a laptop!

How long did it take before you got the call? The same day the agent received my sample chapters and proposal, she emailed me asking for the full. After I picked myself up off the floor, I sent it and then tied myself in an emotional knot.

A few weeks later, she sent another email asking when she could call (that instant would’ve been great!). I opened that email and my third hour class walked in wondering how I could be in tears when they’d not yet sat in their desks! Kidding, of course, they were so excited with and for me. The week between that email and the call didn’t seem to pass as quickly as I’d hoped! When you and 145 other people (a day later, all my students knew about the call) are waiting. Finally, at 3:00 on January 30,, 2008, she and I spoke, and the celebration began a few minutes later!

Do you work outside of writing? For 23 years, I’ve taught English in public high schools in Louisiana. Contrary to what some believe, not all public high schools are breeding grounds for future convicts, drug dealers, or minimum wage workers! In fact, I happen to teach in one of the more affluent communities where I live, which-ironically-means many of my students are too unaware of the world beyond their luxury cars and gated homes.

I teach American Literature, both regular and honors, and Advanced Placement English Language and Composition to approximately 125-150 juniors. Four years ago, I received my National Board Certification. In addition to teaching, I’m the English Department Chairperson, I sponsor the National Honor Society, the Gay-Straight Alliance, and co-sponsor the Junior Class.

The pressure, though, for high scores is relentless and exhausting. Imagine being told you have to treat thirty patients at once every hour, and none of them are allowed to die—ever. Then, there are the “helicopter” parents, the ones who persist in hovering over their teens, protecting them from consequences. Many students try to schedule themselves out of my classes because they know I won’t tolerate mediocrity, I insist on their being responsible, and I don’t apologize for challenging them to become better citizens of the universe. The ones who don’t eventually come to realize that I’m passionate about learning, enthusiastic about their futures, and a wee bit on the quirky side!
My students also keep me from being too enamored with myself! When they learn that I’ve written books, their response is generally, “Real books? Like the ones in a bookstore?”

What is your favorite beverage?When I’m not sipping a latte (no foam!), I am a Coke Zero fanatic.

Do you have other titles coming out besides this one? If so, what are they?
In 2012, Love Finds You in New Orleans will be published by Summerside Press. I’m excited about this novel because the setting is a departure from me. Not New Orleans because I live there, but this novel is set in the 1840s. Then, in 2013 and 2014 I have three novels coming out with Abingdon Press. Titles to be determined!

Which would you prefer, camping on the beach? Or camping in the woods?
Um, I prefer camping in the Four Seasons Hotel. As a sweet friend of mine once said, “My idea of roughing it is a slow bellhop.”

Do you have a home on the web? What’s the address?
Do you have a newsletter?
My website is www.christallan.com. I’m resurrecting my newsletter, so I’d love if you sign up. There’s a place to do on the opening page.

What was it like when you got your first contract? Did your agent call? Did the
editor call you? Were you at a conference?
About four months after I signed with her, my agent started shopping the novel. I was sure that at least one publisher out of that long list she’d sent it to would leap at the opportunity.

Not so much. One month later, she called to tell me that the editors thought the novel was “too issue-driven.” And my being a first-time novelist didn’t help either. She said she’d continue to look for a home for it, but I may want to start considering some ideas for another book.

I spent my summer working on proposals for my editor appointments at the September American Christian Fiction Writers conference. As much as I loved WOBG, I understood that the subject matter being outside of the usual boundaries of Christian fiction and my being a new writer were risks for publishers But, my agent believed in the novel, and I believed in her, so I prayed that God would teach me to “let go.”

Then, two months later, my agent met Barbara Scott, the then-fiction editor of Abingdon Press, a Methodist publishing house launching fiction for the first time. She pitched my novel, and Barbara asked to see it. A few weeks later, Barbara said she was interested. My agent called at 11:43 am on October 30, 2008 to tell me Abingdon bought my novel.

Do you have advice for future authors?Read books about the craft. Joining American Christian Fiction Writers and attending their conferences opened doors to writing and publishing that I didn’t even know existed.

Don’t be afraid to write awful stuff. The awful is far easier to rewrite or edit than a blank page.

And as for that adage about writing what you know…Well, I don’t think Stephen King personally knew a high school girl with tele-kenetic power who wreaked a bloody revenge. But he did know high school girls who were bullied and teased, who had weird mothers, and he wondered, “what if…” Stephenie Meyer had no personal experience with vampire love. Write what you know doesn’t mean you’re limited to the 21st century and characters who look like your siblings and live in Tallahassee or Tickfaw. You know about betrayal and envy and joy and hope and fear. You know how your mother bites her lower lip when she’s thinking or your daughter twirls her hair when she’s nervous.

What writing books would you recommend to new authors?BOOKS: Any writing books by James Scott Bell, but especially Plot and Structure
Stephen King’s On Writing
Anne Lamott: Bird by Bird
Natalie Goldberg: Writing Down the Bones
Mary DeMuth: The 11 Secrets of Getting Published (e-book)
Donald Maass: Writing the Breakout Novel (get the workbook too!)

Please Welcome Sarah Sundin

2011-08-01T07:26:00.000-07:00

Good Morning Sarah! Thank you for joining us. Let's get started. I can't wait for everyone to get to know you a little better.

When did you learn you wanted to be a writer?January 6, 2000. How’s that for exact? Although I always read voraciously, I didn’t consider a writing career. Instead I chose a practical career in pharmacy which allowed me to work on-call and stay home with our three children. Then in 2000, I had a dream with such intriguing characters that I felt compelled to write their story. That first novel will never be published, nor should it, but it got me started.

How did you come up with the idea for Blue Skies Tomorrow?This story arose from my need for happy endings. In my first novel, A Distant Melody, one of the side characters, Helen Carlisle, is widowed at only twenty-one, and the hero’s oldest brother, Ray Novak, is dumped by his fiancée. I mentally introduced them to each other, and they really appreciated that—they complemented each other nicely, and the mutual attraction was strong. This novel also allows me to complete the story of the US Eighth Air Force in World War II to victory in Europe, and to cover the Port Chicago Explosion, which occurred close to Antioch, California, where Helen and the Novaks live.

Is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series?Blue Skies Tomorrow is the third book in the Wings of Glory series. The first two books are A Distant Melody and A Memory Between Us. The series follow three brothers who are B-17 bomber pilots with the US Eighth Air Force based in England during World War II. Each book stands alone, however.

How do you come up with character’s names?Oh, I love names! Sometimes a character comes to me with name attached, and other times I have to search for the right name—the sound, the meaning—is it a biblical or family name? For historical novels, I feel the names should fit the time period. Since my novels are set during World War II, I find names in obituaries and from patients in the hospital where I work.

Are you a seat of the pants writer? Or a plotter? I’m definitely a plotter. That’s the science nerd in me. First of all, I do lots of research beforehand—not only does this let me know if my story idea will ework historically, but it gives me ideas for scenes, problems, and characters. Then I fill out character charts (I love character charts!) and scene lists with the date, weather, what characters are wearing, goals and conflict, what’s happening historically, and an outline of the scene. Finally I get to my rough draft.

How much time do you devote to writing?I spend about thirty hours a week in writing-related activities, excluding e-mails and Facebook and Twitter.

Where do you write?For years I wrote longhand, curled up on the couch, but I finally carved out my own office space a year ago when we remodeled the den. I now have my own big, lovely, L-shaped desk with lots of drawers and cupboards and a tack board, and I have an extra bookcase just for my writing and research books. Everything I need—right there. Oh, it’s heavenly.

When do you write?I do most of my writing during the day when kids are in school, but I do some work (like this interview) on my laptop with the family while we watch TV at night. I’ve also learned to write whenever and wherever I have the opportunity. I take care of a lot of stuff in the dentist’s waiting room, in the karate studio, and on the soccer field.

What is your favorite childhood memory?I have a lot. The one that springs to mind is a camping trip with my family to Yosemite. I was about ten, and my sister was a year younger. It was such a relaxing and enjoyable week, seeing the beauty of God’s creation, pushing my sissy self to try new things, and spending time with my family.

Do you have a home on the web? What’s the address?My website is http://www.sarahsundin.com and my blog is at http://www.sarahsundin.blogspot.com

Please Join Me in Welcoming JoAnn Carter

2011-07-07T07:35:00.000-07:00

Rhonda, thanks for hosting me on your blog. It's an honor to be here with you and your friends today.

How did you come up with the idea for The Floating Palace?

I was inspired to write The Floating Palace when my family and I visited the S. S. Ticonderoga at its current home, the Shelburne museum in Shelburne, VT. As soon as I stepped foot on this boat, I fell in love with it.

While walking around this beautiful steamboat, I read and soaked up every sign there was on board expounding on the history. That's when one fact totally captured my imagination. In 1923, the first female stewardess was hired. It didn't take long for seeds to be planted for Ellie and Philip's story. Although the plot is fictional, I stayed as historically accurate as possible such as with the number of crew, their job descriptions, the boat description and layout. However, the route and schedule that the Ti ran was much more complicated than what is seen in this book.

Is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series?

Yes, this three book series is called, The Roarin' Twenties. Book Two: Winds of Change will release February 2012, and Book Three: Shifting Sands will release September 2012

How do you come up with character’s names?

This series is different than any other that I've written to date. I came up with the character's names by visiting a friend of mine, Elizabeth (Bette) Dunkling, who was actually born in 1923. She is such a spry, remarkable woman who doesn't let age stop her from doing anything she sets her mind to. Although her life experiences varied greatly from the main charter in The Floating Palace, they both share the same spunk. So, in honor of my friend, I used a derivative of her name, Ellie.

As for the rest of the cast, I asked her what names were popular in Vermont when she was a girl. I sat down with the list and chose the names according to the role they played in the story. It's a special memory for me and I enjoyed working with her on this project.

Are your characters based on real people?

Yes and no. As I mentioned up above, there really was a stewardess hired in 1923 and there really were rumrunners who stashed alcohol on the steamboats. Within that factual context, the characters in The Floating Palace are only alive and well in that story world.

How do you develop your characters?

This has been a learning process for me. When I first started writing, I didn't know a whole lot about my characters before I sat down to write. Now, I love to get to know the people in my story before I write a sentence. That way I can be true to how they react in situations and circumstance.

Basically, I develop my characters by dreaming on paper. I write down what they look like, where they have come from, and where they hope to go... that kind of thing.

What emotion do you most want to pull from your readers?
For The Floating Palace it is desire, but not it the way you may be thinking. Rather, it's a desire to surrender your dreams to God.

~ Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Do you work outside of writing?

Usually I do, but this year I didn't. In the past, I've worked as a LPN, Apple orchard guide, and as a substitute teacher. We also have home schooled two of our boys for 7th grade.

This year happened to be an in between year. Our second son is in 8th grade and our 3rd son is in 6th. I asked my husband what he would think about me pursing my dream of writing full time while the boys are all in school and he supported me 100%. I am so blessed to have had this opportunity. I'm looking forward to seeing where God will direct my steps for next year.

What is your favorite food?

LOL. I didn't need to think for even a second to answer this question-- Cinnamon buns (or any bread product for that matter!)

Do you have other titles out besides this one? If so, what are they?

Yes. The are stories I write are available at Amazon.com, B&N, the publishing company's web-site, as well as a few other book retailers.

*Teacher’s Plans White Rose Publishing

*Sweet Rest White Rose Publishing

*By the Book White Rose Publishing

*Smuggler of the Heart White Rose Publishing

*Daniella - Inspirational Romance, White Rose Publishing

*Paradox Desert Breeze Publishing

Do you have a home on the web? What’s the address?

I do, and I'd love to hear from folks. You can find me at http://home.comcast.net/~jo.glenncarter/site

Rhonda, thanks again for having me here today. I had a lot of fun. I hope you did too.

Tyndale Author Pam Hillman

2011-07-03T05:47:00.000-07:00

When did you learn you wanted to be a writer?

I knew I wanted to be a writer by the time I was 8 or 9 years old. There was a small public library where we checked out books once a week on the way home from school. My brother and my cousins were okay with stopping by the library on the way home from school, but it was the highlight of my week! I checked out the maximum allowed (I think it was 3) and my cousin, Joy, checked out 3 more that I wanted to read in her name. I’m sure I even twisted her little brother’s arm and made him check out books I picked out! lol

How long did it take before you got the call?

I starting pursuing publication in 1994, but I’ve wanted to be a published author ever since I can remember. As a child, I was fascinated by how authors put all those stories on paper. Somehow, my brain just naturally made up stories. But for years, I didn’t write them down. I tried to get started a few times, but didn’t know how to construct a compelling story with an interesting beginning, firm middle, and satisfying ending. So out of lack of knowledge and fear of failure, I just kept dreaming. I think I had the idea that as long as I didn’t attempt to write, I couldn’t fail at writing. In 1994, I decided that if I was ever going to write, I had to stop kidding myself and get to work.

How did you come up with the idea for this book?

Tyndale House Publishers used to publish 2 anthologies a year. Tyndale has been my dream publisher from the beginning, and I submitted novella proposals several times. Stealing Jake (then Stealing Jake’s Heart) was one of those submissions. It didn’t make the cut, but I loved the idea so much that I went back to it later and turned it into a full-length novel. It just happened to be the novel my agent and I were shopping when word went out that Tyndale was launching the Digital First Initiative.

How did you come up with the title of your book?

The heroine is a former pickpocket from Chicago in the 1870’s. The hero’s name is Jake. The original title was Stealing Jake’s Heart. At a fifteen minute pitch session with Steve Laube (before he agreed to represent me), he glanced over my one-sheet and recommended that I change the title to Stealing Jake. Two hours later, my roommate Robin Caroll and I had already brainstormed titles for the remaining books in the series. I was thrilled that Tyndale chose to keep the title.

Is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series?

There is a series planned around this book, but it’s not contracted yet. We’ll see. Titles are Trusting Trey and Giving Chase. As your readers can probably guess, Trey and Chase are the heroes in the 2nd and 3rd books.

How do you come up with character’s names?

I don’t remember how I came up with Jake, but Livy O’Brien is of Irish descent, hence the surname O’Brien. Livy is short for Olivia, which came from Oliver Twist. ‘Nuf said, huh? lol

What was it like when you got your first contract? Did your agent call? Did the editor call you? Were you at a conference?

Jan Stob, senior acquisitions editor at Tyndale emailed Steve Laube, my agent, and he emailed me. Isn’t technology amazing?

What is your favorite writing conference to attend?

American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), hands down. No question about it, it’s the conference to attend if you’re writing Christian fiction.

Do you have a home on the web? What’s the address?

My website is www.pamhillman.com. I hang out with the Seekers and Friends of Seekerville at www.seekerville.blogspot.com. There’s always lots of food, fun and fellowship and there’s usually someone commenting 24/7. Everyone’s welcome in Seekerville!

Do you have a newsletter?

It’s in the works. I’m currently organizing a giveaway package that will consist of a Kindle loaded with a host of Seeker books to be given away to one lucky winner later in the year. I apologize that the contest link isn’t quite ready yet. But readers can check on www.pamhillman.com and www.seekerville.blogspot.com to find the link to enter the contest once it goes live.

Thanks Pam for stopping by. Your book sounds wonderful.

The Winner for Brenda Minton's book is: Salena Stormo!
The Winner of Debra Ulhrick's book is: Judy John 2004!

Welcome Brenda Minton

2011-06-10T09:02:00.000-07:00

Brenda is my funny friend. I love talking with her, she always brings a smile to my face.We all need friends like Brenda. Sit back and enjoy your time with Brenda and don't forget to leave a comment :)

When did you learn you wanted to be a writer?
I think I always wanted to write. I’ve written stories for as long as I can remember. In high school I would write romance to entertain friends. I dreamed of being Victoria Holt and Lady Barbara Cartland.

Is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series?
Yes, it is. The Cowboy’s Family is one of my cowboy books. Next November the cowboy books will become the COOPER CREEK series.

How do you develop your characters?
The characters come to life in different ways, but I try to think about where the character came from, the type of childhood they might have had, and their life experiences. The backstory is so important to who they are and what they have to learn.

Are you a seat of the pants writer? Or a plotter?
Both. I usually have a plot, and the plot usually falls apart and gets reinvented while the book is being written.

What does your family think of your writing?
I think they like that I can be at home with them (my kids). My husband has always supported my writing; even the long years of not being published and not getting paid.

How much time do you devote to writing?
As much as possible.

Where do you write?
A chair in the living room.

When do you write?
When I can.

What emotion do you most want to pull from your readers?
I want the same for me that I want from a good book. A book that makes me laugh, makes me cry and makes me think.

What is your favorite childhood memory?
There are several. But when I think of my childhood I think of summer evenings on the front porch, my dad playing the banjo or the fiddle, someone playing the guitar, someone else on the mandolin. It was a wonderful way to grow up. I also have great memories of camping or fishing with my dad.

Please Welcome Debra Ullrick!!

2011-06-10T08:53:00.000-07:00

Debra and I have been friends for many years. I am blessed to have her as a friend. Enjoy the interview and be sure to leave a comment. Let's get started, Debra.

What is your favorite childhood memory?
I always wanted a bike, but there were five of us kids, and money was tight. But when I was 12, my dad bought me a used, blue bike for Christmas. It was the most beautiful thing I’d ever seen. It had a banana seat, if you can remember what those are, long handlebars with streamers, and a white wicker basket. My dad kept apologizing because it was used. But I didn’t care. I knew the sacrifice it had cost him to buy that for me. I cried like a baby.

How did you come up with the title of your book?
I didn’t actually. The original title for The Unexpected Bride was You Ordered What? The editors at Steeple Hill chose the title. They did ask me if I liked it though, and I told them yes, that I loved it.

Is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series?
Yes, it is. Steeple Hill recently purchased the sequel to The Unexpected Bride.
The Unlikely Wife is scheduled for release in January 2012. I’m now working on the sequel to it. I’m not sure how many there will be in this series though. Only time will tell.

Are your characters based on real people?
No. They’re only real to me. *grin* My heroine, Rainelle Victoria Devonwood, was developed out of my love and passion for Jane Austen’s movies and my deep fascination with southern culture. Rainee’s father was British and her mother was a Southern Belle socialite. So Rainelle’s personality is a combination of both of those worlds.

How do you develop your characters?
Honestly, I don’t. They develop me. I start my stories with only an idea of what they are like. Like Rainelle, I knew she was raised with a strict British father and Southern socialite mother who insisted she follow proper etiquette at all times. But Rainee detested most of the rules of etiquette. She deemed them foolish. Once I knew that, then Rainee pulled me along for the ride.

I take it back. There is one thing I do. Once I know the protagonist, then I make sure the hero/heroines are people who are polar opposites who want different things in life.

Are you a seat of the pants writer? Or a plotter?
I started out strictly as a seat of the pantser, but now I am both. And I enjoy both. Most of the times, however, I like not knowing what happens. The main reason I will plot is when a publisher is looking for something in particular, then I will plot out a book proposal.

Do you have other titles out besides this one? If so, what are they?
Right now, the only other titles I have out besides The Unexpected Bride are The Bride Wore Coveralls, Dixie Hearts, and Déjà vu Bride. However, I do have two novellas coming out in September 2011. Christmas Belles of Georgia is a four, short story book compilation that contains my novella titled Loving Stetson, and A Log Cabin Christmas, is a nine book novella compilation which contains my story A Grand County Christmas that is set in the county where I used to live and it hosts my ‘Germans from Russia’ heritage.

What does your family think of your writing?
My husband and daughter are very proud of me, as are my sisters and nieces. My brother’s don’t get too excited about it. They aren’t readers. And my 87 year-old mom who isn’t much of a reader either, well she will take her magnifying glass and read my books through that tiny, round magnifier in the corner of the magnifying glass. How’s that for dedication? *smiling*

What emotion do you most want to pull from your readers?
All of them. I love to write scenes that are so emotional that my readers will find themselves crying, or laughing, or even angry. But mostly, I want them to feel joy and peace and happiness when they read. I want them to feel something at least. Or otherwise I haven’t done my job as an author.

What is your idea of the perfect vacation?
Vacation? What’s that?
Seriously, my dream vacation would be some place where I could go snorkeling in a crystal clear ocean and watch the beautiful array of colorful fish and sea life God has created. This place would have to have a breathtaking, natural waterfall with a pool. One where me and my husband could swim and kiss under the free flowing waterfall.

Author Kathi Macias!

2011-04-16T08:39:00.000-07:00

I am happy to host Kathi Macias this month! Please enjoy your visit with her... AND don't forget to comment for a chance to win a free book!!

When did you learn you wanted to be a writer?
Honestly, I can’t remember ever wanting to be anything else. I have always had a love affair with words. When I was about 14 or 15, I told my then boyfriend (now husband), Al, that I was going to be a writer some day. How incredibly blessed I am to have been able to fulfill that great longing and purpose, which I believe was placed there by God Himself.

How did you come up with the idea for title of your book?

“People of the Book” is what many Muslims call Christians and Jews. And the term so aptly fit the story!

Is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series?
People of the Book is the fourth and final installment of the Extreme Devotion series. Like the other books in the series, POB is set in a foreign country (Saudi Arabia). The first book in the series, No Greater Love, is set in South Africa in 1989, just prior to the overthrow of Apartheid; book two, More than Conquerors, is set in the Mayan culture of Mexico; book three, Red Ink, is set in China.

How do you come up with character’s names?
I’m a firm believer in giving my characters names that fit their personality and/or destiny. This is especially true in this international series. I did a lot of research on cultural names and their meanings before choosing them for my stories.

Are your characters based on real people?
Yes and no. In some books the characters are based more on a composite of people in that country and/or situation. Book three, Red Ink, is the closest to being modeled after a true-life story, in this case a young woman named Li Ying, who is currently serving a prison term in China for printing and distributing Christian materials.

Are you a seat of the pants writer? Or a plotter?
I’m a bit more of an outliner with nonfiction, but with fiction, it’s definitely “seat of the pants.” I have a starting point and a finishing point, and the key point I want to stress throughout the book. That’s it. Then I develop my main characters and watch to see what they’re going to do next. I’m usually as surprised as my readers.

How much time do you devote to writing?
Including the research/marketing/promotional/editing responsibilities that go hand-in-hand with the actual writing, I spend a minimum of 40 hours/week at it, often more. I’m grateful that I’m able to do that, as I have many friends who have to work after they get home from their “real jobs.” I understand that very well, as I did it for years.

What is your idea of the perfect vacation?
Ah, that’s an easy one! Though I enjoy going to the mountains and pretty much anywhere with my husband and a couple of good books (someone else’s!), my favorite spot is Hawaii—ANY of the islands, though the Big Island is at the top of my list. (My husband’s favorite is Maui.) When we get there, I don’t want anything planned—no tours or tickets or time commitments, and definitely no alarm clocks! Just fill the cooler with ice cold drinks, pack up my favorite book (or two or three), and head for the beach. What could be better?

What is your favorite food?
I wish I could say broccoli and celery, but I’d be lying if I did. I must confess that my favorites are ice cream (preferably Tillamook!) and pizza (pepperoni and olives). That’s why I’m ALWAYS on a diet, which becomes less and less successful as the years go by.

Do you have other titles out besides this one? If so, what are they?
In addition to the four novels in the Extreme Devotion series (mentioned above), I have a stand-alone historical from Abingdon Press, co-authored with Susan Wales and titled Valeria’s Cross. I also have a fiction series with B&H (Obsession, The Price, The Ransom) and several nonfiction books with New Hope (Beyond Me; How Can I Run a Tight Ship when I’m Surrounded by Loose Cannons; Mothers of the Bible Speak to Mothers of Today). And then there’s my writers’ workbook: THE TRAIN-OF-THOUGHT WRITING METHOD: Practical, User-Friendly Help for Beginning Writers. Most of my other books are out of print by now, though I occasionally see them for sale on Amazon and various online venues.

Do you teach writing classes? If so, where do I sign up?
I teach at various conferences and workshops across the country. You can find the venues and dates listed on my “speaking” page on my website (www.kathimacias.com). If you want more info on any of them, just email me at ezyrtr@ca.rr.com.

Do you have a newsletter?
I’ve been told I HAVE to send out a regular newsletter if I’m going to be a successful writer, but then I think, Hmm… I don’t read the ones I get from other people, so why should they read mine? I do very occasionally send one out, but for the most part I stick to sending out a weekly devotional (in English and Spanish), which readers can sign up for in the lower left-hand corner of the homepage of my website (www.kathimacias.com). You can also leave questions/comments and/or contact me from my other website: www.thetitus2women.com.

Welcome Ann Shorey

2011-04-16T08:28:00.000-07:00

Please help me in Welcoming Ann! AND don't forget to comment for a chance to win a free book!!

Is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series?
Yes, The Dawn of a Dream is the third book in the At Home in Beldon Grove series. The first book is The Edge of Light and the second is The Promise of Morning. They’re historical fiction, set between 1838 and 1857. The books are connected by the town of Beldon Grove, Illinois. The characters are part of an extended family, so although each book has a separate protagonist, readers can follow the characters from previous books to learn “the rest of the story” in their lives, as well.

Are your characters based on real people?In this series, yes they are. I got the idea for the stories when researching family histories. All the memoirs my family handed down were written by men, and I wanted to know what the women’s lives were like. Details! I wanted details! So I turned to fiction. The Edge of Light was inspired by the life of one of my great-great aunts. My great-great grandparents were the inspiration behind The Promise of Morning. The current book, The Dawn of a Dream, tells the story of one of the children in the first book, now all grown up. This one is mostly fiction, but the first two do have actual facts mixed in with the fictional events.

Are you a seat of the pants writer? Or a plotter? I’m a little of both. I write out a two-page synopsis for the story before I begin, and basically follow the story arc I’ve set up. But there’s a lot that can happen between turning points, and that’s where “seat of the pants” comes in. Lots of fun plot twists crop up when I discover something I hadn’t planned on at the beginning.

What does your family think of your writing?My husband has been supportive from the first, although he may not have realized what he was getting into! It took several years before I got “the call” about my first novel, and during that time I don’t think anyone (except hubby) took me seriously. Now that I’ve had more than one novel published, they’re very proud of me.

How much time do you devote to writing?I write for three or four hours every week day, in the afternoon, and try to keep weekends and evenings free to spend with my husband. Sometimes when a deadline is close, the evenings and weekends are spent writing, too! Usually I set myself a daily word count and don’t quit until I’ve reached it.

Where do you write?My home office is in a converted bedroom upstairs in our house. It’s filled with shelves and stacks of reference books, plus my computer station. There’s a big picture window to my left, but most of the time I keep the blinds closed so I can focus on the screen.

Which would you prefer, camping on the beach? Or camping in the woods?That’s a hard choice! Where I live in Oregon, the beach is a couple of hours away to the west, and the woods are a couple of hours (or less) away to the east. I think I’d pick the woods, because the coast can be quite windy, and we enjoy having a campfire. But I’d sure hate to have to choose just one forever! They’re both great.

Do you teach writing classes? If so, where do I sign up?I teach writing classes at Oregon Christian Writers conferences. The website is http://www.oregonchristianwriters.com/. Their summer conference this year is scheduled for August 15 – 18, 2011, at the Aldersgate Conference Center in Turner, Oregon. The class I’m teaching is titled, “How to Cut Without Leaving a Scar.” I’ll be sharing tips on editing your manuscript to match your assigned word count.

Do you have a home on the web? What’s the address?Please visit www.annshorey.com to tour my website.

Do you have a newsletter? Yes, my newsletter goes out three or four times a year when I have news about upcoming books. Sign up is simple, just go to my website, http://annshorey.com/. There’s a sign-up box on the home page.

What was it like when you got your first contract? Did your agent call? Did the editor call you? Were you at a conference? It was so exciting! The editor emailed me that they were taking the book to committee. At that point I was unagented, but through God’s providence an agent I had queried by email called me to offer representation right about the same time, not knowing that the book was on the verge of being accepted. I met my editor at Mt. Hermon Christian Writers Conference in March of 2007, but it took until November of that year before I got the word that she wanted the book.

Please welcome Vickie McDonough

2011-04-09T20:27:00.000-07:00

Welcome Vickie! I'm glad you have a few minutes to stop by and answer my questions. As you know I'm a big fan! and LOVED reading Finally A Bride. My first question is...

Is this book part of a series? Yes. Finally A Bride is the third book in the Texas Boardinghouse Brides series. If so, what are the other titles in this series? Book 1 is The Anonymous Bride, and Book 2 is Second Chance Brides.

Where do you write? I write on my laptop while sitting in my recliner in my living room.

What do you write? I mostly write historical Christian romance, but I have also written several contemporary stories. My favorite genre is the late 1800s with a western setting.

What emotion do you most want to pull from your readers? My main goal in writing is to entertain my reader. I want them to feel a gamut of emotions, from happiness and hope, to anger or sadness, and back to happiness and a pleasant sigh at the end of the story. My greatest hope that my stories inspire readers in their own faith journey.

What is your idea of the perfect vacation? A month-long trip around the world—at someone else’s expense. There are so many places that I’d love to visit—Ireland, Scotland, Egypt, Australia, New Zealand, South America. I’m going on my first ever cruise this fall.

What is your favorite beverage? Coke, but I don’t drink much these days since I’m trying to lose weight.

What is your favorite childhood memory? My dad was on a bowling league in the evenings several nights a week when I was around ten years old. I didn’t get to see him those nights, so once in a while, I’d tape a note on his bathroom mirror after my mom went to sleep. Dad would pop a batch of hot buttered popcorn and fix us a Pepsi, then wake me up. We’d have our own special time together. I think back now to how tired he must have been after working all day then bowling until late, but he always woke me up whenever I posted a note on his mirror.

Do you have other titles out besides this one? Yes, I have a bunch of them. If so, what are they? They are all listed on my website. My last release was Mutiny of the Heart, which is the first book in a historical series set in the Charleston area. I also have a new book coming out this fall called Long Road Home. It’s part of a six-book series called Texas Trails: A Morgan Family series that I’m doing with Susan Page Davis and Darlene Franklin. Next spring, Winds of Change, the first book in a prairie romance trilogy will debut. The series is called Whispers on the Prairie and it will be published by Guidepost Books.

Which would you prefer, camping on the beach? Or camping in the woods? No camping—unless it’s in a lodge with a great view, heat/air, shower, and food in the fridge.

If you could be one of your characters, which one would you be? I’d probably be Jack from my Texas Boardinghouse Brides series. I was an ornery red-headed tomboy, just like her, and got in my share of trouble when I was young.

Do you have a home on the web? Yes What’s the address? www.vickiemcdonough.com

Do you have a newsletter? I’m working on starting one, so if anyone is interested in being on my mailing list, please email me and let me know. There’s an email link on my website.

LoRee Peery - A White Rose Author

2011-04-04T09:46:00.000-07:00

It is my pleasure to introduce LoRee Peery, a fellow White Rose Author! I hope you enjoy her interview as much as I did.

Is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series?Yes, the Frivolities series. Moselle’s Insurance was published as an e-book in July, 2010
“Sage and Sweet Grass” (working title) is with my editor now
“Found in the Woods” is finished

How do you come up with character’s names?Some are immediate. My maiden name was Mosel. I have three name books and I like to consider the literal meaning of names, especially for my heroes. I say them out loud to see how they roll off my tongue. Secondary characters come from my past, the telephone directory, or just pop up.

Are you a seat of the pants writer? Or a plotter? I would say I’m a plotser. Each story has evolved differently. Sometimes the setting, sometimes the character, sometimes the conflict comes first. Then I figure out what changes in the heroine’s life to set her on her journey, meeting the hero, the turning points, black moments, climax, and resolution. For my WIP I didn’t go into a deep characterization, I just started writing. For others, I’ve outlined the book in scenes. I usually know the ending.

What does your family think of your writing?My husband is proud of me, but he doesn’t read fiction so the whole romance novel idea is beyond him. I remind him readers love the happily-ever-after. However, he is a romantic, and he doesn’t mind going to chick flicks. My brothers say it’s “cool.” My daughters, “awesome,” and they’re proud. I have a couple grandchildren who think I’m “famous.”

Where do you write?I have a study upstairs where I’m surrounded by eight filled bookcases, Gone with the Wind memorabilia and lots of other personal and writing items that represent memories. That’s where I write my stories. Non-fiction essays come easier when I’m outside using a pen and yellow tablet. Of course, I take copious notes on anything handy, no matter where I am.

What is your idea of the perfect vacation?This is where my honey and I differ. He likes to drive around and look at things like historical buildings and Victorian architecture. I like to be in one spot where I can relax. I love walks on the beach and haven’t done that in a long time. I also like the country where I can walk in the woods or see a beautiful sunset.

What is your favorite beverage?My beverage of choice is water. I treat myself to an occasional white chocolate mocha or caramel macchiato.

What is your favorite childhood memory?I don’t have one particular memory. But growing up on the farm was such a precious, innocent time, even if we did work hard. When I’m stressed, I go off in memory to the native pasture where I used to sing and let my imagination run wild.

Which would you prefer, camping on the beach? Or camping in the woods?I’ve never camped on the beach. The ocean as a lullaby would be exciting and soothing all at once. But how close can you be, considering the tide? I’ve camped in the woods and find the sounds comforting, especially if there is a creek nearby.

Do you have a home on the web? What’s the address?
www.loreepeery.com

Thank you LoRee for this wonderful interview. To order LoRee's book and to see even more White Rose titles, go to www.whiterosepublishing.com

Please Welcome Trish Perry

2011-03-18T18:50:00.000-07:00

I loved getting to know Trish better. My prayer is that you will too :) Don't forget leave a comment for a chance to win, UNFORGETABLE!

How did you come up with the title of your?
This circumstance has happened for me on a few occasions. Sometimes a publisher has a series in mind, and several possible titles simply fit well within the series concept. Summerside Press started its When I Fall In Love series, for which each book title is a song from a particular era. Each book is set during the time the song was released. I loved that idea. Of the songs suggested to me, I liked Unforgettable the most. I love the song, I think the word itself has such romantic connotations, and the early fifties—while an era before my time (just)—is familiar enough I felt confident I could bring it to life.

How do you develop your characters?
Usually the first thing in my mind is how the hero and heroine might cross paths and relate to each other. That leads to my choosing professions and overall lifestyles for them, which often leads to their physical and basic emotional makeup. That usually stirs the need for photos of both of them and then several days to simply let them hang out in my head and let me get to know them. I think about them constantly, and I make note of anything I need to know just to get them started on their way. I used to do extremely detailed write-ups on my characters before I let them tell me how they met and fell in love. But I found much of that was me, not them. After their story started unfolding, I sometimes found I had described them wrong initially. So now I add to their profiles as I go along.

Are you a seat of the pants writer? Or a plotter?

I’m a bit of a mutt. I used to be a heavy-duty plotter, starting with a beginning idea, an ending idea, and then slowly laboring from point A to point Z with chapter ideas. I would do all of that before writing a lick. Now I generally start with my beginning conflict, my ending climax, and about three turning points between. Then I plot out the first few chapters—just a sentence or two to go by on each—and start writing. I do it that way now, because I found that, just as my characters didn’t always conform to the descriptions I initially designed, the plot doesn’t always unfold exactly the way I imagined. So I write several chapters in a row and then re-examine my plot outline, make adjustments and plan the next several chapters, write them, re-examine the outline, and so on.

What emotion do you most want to pull from your readers?
I’d say joy. My stories are romances, so they all have happy endings. I would hope the reader would have a smile on her face when she finishes that last page in my book, and that she would feel optimistic about God’s good will toward her.

Do you work outside of writing?I haven’t been, but I’m training to do courtroom stenography and hope to be able to use that to supplement my writing income starting in 2012. That should be an interesting new chapter in life! And I think it will blend very well with my writing schedule.

What is your idea of the perfect vacation?
I’d like to take a long, comfortable, well-financed tour of Europe. I say well financed, because my only trip overseas was a bit rough because we had to adhere to a strict budget. So we were pretty uncomfortable and unable to truly appreciate the history and beauty of our environment. (Read: we were whiners.) Certainly real life can be a struggle overseas. But if we’re talking vacation—not to mention “perfect”—then I’m going with lots of coin.

What is your favorite childhood memory?
My family wasn’t able to go on many vacations because of our size (five kids), my father’s work schedule, and my older sister’s health issues. But we took a week-long trip to Yosemite National Park that stood out as one of the highlights of my childhood. We stayed in cabins, hiked through the woods, drank amazingly sweet water from the mountain springs, and toured the stunning redwood forest. The fact that we were able to spend all of that time together in such a beautiful place was a total blessing. Funny that that memory came to mind before any of our trips to Disneyland did—and I loved Disneyland!

Do you have other titles out besides this one? If so, what are they?
Yes, I’ve released five titles with Harvest House (The Guy I’m Not Dating; Too Good to Be True; Beach Dreams; Sunset Beach; and The Perfect Blend) and will release a sixth in April (Tea for Two). And the devotionals I’ve written with a few other authors (Delight Yourself in the Lord…Even On Bad Hair Days and Your Grace is Sufficient…But Decaf is NOT) release from Summerside in March 2011 and (I’m guessing) November 2011, respectively.

Do you teach writing classes? If so, where do I sign up?
I seldom teach or lecture. I’ve spoken to a few writers’ groups, and this summer (June 21-25) I’ll be teaching the fiction track at the St. David’s Christian Writers’ Conference at Grove City College in Grove City, Pennsylvania. Here’s the link to register: http://www.stdavidswriters.com/registration.html
Do you have a home on the web? What’s the address?
Yes, my website (http://www.trishperry.com) is also the site of my twice-weekly blog, on which I interview authors about their latest releases, the craft of writing, and other fun topics. My interviewees give away signed copies of their books on my site too. Come by!

Thanks Trish for stopping by!
This has been great! Rhonda

Meet Fantasy author, Susanne Lakin

2011-03-04T07:44:00.000-08:00

How did you come up with the idea for your book?

The Map across Time

The Map across Time came to me on a trip with my husband to England. He was reading a book that talked about the Bible being a map that led you through life, and I thought what if you could have a map that didn’t move you across land but across time? I was inspired by Stonehenge and the city of York to create Sherbourne, the hub of my kingdom in the series.

Is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series?
This is the second installment in the collection, but like all fairy tales, they are complete in themselves and can be read out of order. They all take place in various parts of the kingdom at large and at different periods of time, but parts of the stories overlap a little and some characters pop their heads in other books. The first book is The Wolf of Tebron and the third one coming out this fall is The Land of Darkness.

Are you a seat of the pants writer? Or a plotter?

I’m a very serious plotter, although I always allow room for my imagination to add scenes and plot veering. I usually can tell when an author has not plotted out a book carefully; it shows in the lack of coherency of plot and tying in of themes and motifs. I plan very carefully, especially in developing my characters and I don’t’ start writing until I’m certain I know enough about their needs and motivations to drive the story. I often create large charts, timelines, and use index cards for each scene. For my latest book I created about six large charts and used yellow Post-it notes for scenes. Once I had most of the story all plotted out, I began writing. I’ve always written with the first line and gone straight to the end, but this book, due to it’s unique structure, allowed for me to skip around and write scenes out of order, which has been a fun experience.

How much time do you devote to writing?
I work professionally as a copyeditor and writing coach so try to work at least thirty hours a week. When I don’t have much editing work, I write. I felt very blessed to have about a month to get quite a bit done in my new book. And I’m blessed to have a very supportive husband who encourages me to write and wants to help support my habit!

What emotion do you most want to pull from your readers?
That’s a great question. I think a lot of people who write don’t really have that in mind. For me, it’s a very foremost issue and the most important to me. If I don’t get my readers crying at least three or four times through reading my book, I feel I haven’t done my job. I don’t want just to make people cry—I want to move them with relating to the angst and issues my characters are going through and also cry from joy and hope, which I always try to leave my readers with, especially readers of my fantasy novels. The Map across Time is especially moving, at least to me, as the universal heart cries in this book are so poignant. We all want to feel our lives have meaning and that we have pleased heaven with our choices.

Do you have other titles out besides this one? If so, what are they?
Aside from the ones mentioned in the series, my book Someone to Blame released in October—a relational drama about a family recovering from a horrible loss. It is a mystery, with a drifter coming to their town and crimes erupting all over. I explore the theme of blame and how we are often so quick to judge those we don’t know and blame them, ourselves, and even God for the pain we experience in life.

Which would you prefer, camping on the beach? Or camping in the woods?
How did you know I loved camping? I am an avid backpacked and I like nothing better than to be up at about 8,000 feet on a mountain (not too high!) where I can’t answer the phone or clean the house. It takes me getting that far away to get out of my grind!

Do you teach writing classes? If so, where do I sign up?I’m hoping to start teaching workshops at conferences, but for now, I do teach by mentoring my editing clients. Most are writers who have written their first novel or nonfiction manuscript and want help in strengthening the story and writing to polish it in order to submit it for possible publication. If you have written a book or are working on one and need help, you can hire me!

Do you have a newsletter?
Yes, you can subscribe on my website for my e-bulletin, which keeps you up-to-date on news, events, and book giveaways: www.cslakin.com

What was it like when you got your first contract? Did your agent call? Did the editor call you? Were you at a conference?
I actually had a most exciting experience that few ever had—my book was a finalist in a big contest—the Zondervan First Novel contest at Mount Hermon in 2009. I knew I was one of three finalists, but only learned I had won when my name and book were announced in front of an audience of 400. It was very thrilling. Although Someone to Blame won, it was not the first novel I’d written. In fact, it was my sixth. Shortly after that, I contracted with AMG Publishers for my fantasy series, the first three books I’d already completed. I’m hoping there will be many more to come!

Thank you so much for joining us, Susanne. I hope to see many more titles from you as well!

Another WInner!!!!

2011-02-07T09:22:00.001-08:00

Congratulations Natalie White!!!!! You are the winner of Brenda Minton's book, The Cowboy's Family!!!! Send me your address so that Brenda can send you your book.

A WINNER!!!!

2011-01-16T17:33:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Elaine Cooper!!!!! You are the winner of Connie Stevens book, LEAVE ME NEVER. Please send me your email address: rgib2001@yahoo.com

Thanks for commenting Elaine!!

Please Welcome Brenda Minton

2011-01-10T05:29:00.000-08:00

Brenda and I met at an ACFW conference a few years ago and just hit it off. She has a great sense of humor and is a down to earth gal who I can relate too. Brenda and I have become good friends over the years and I am happy to feature her books here.

When did you learn you wanted to be a writer? I think I always wanted to write. I’ve written stories for as long as I can remember. In high school I would write romance to entertain friends. I dreamed of being Victoria Holt and Lady Barbara Cartland.

Is this book part of a series? If so, what are the other titles in this series? Yes, it is. The Cowboy’s Family is one of my cowboy books. Next November the cowboy books will become the COOPER CREEK series.

How do you develop your characters? The characters come to life in different ways, but I try to think about where the character came from, the type of childhood they might have had, and their life experiences. The backstory is so important to who they are and what they have to learn.

Are you a seat of the pants writer? Or a plotter? Both. I usually have a plot, and the plot usually falls apart and gets reinvented while the book is being written.

What does your family think of your writing? I think they like that I can be at home with them (my kids). My husband has always supported my writing; even the long years of not being published and not getting paid.

How much time do you devote to writing? As much as possible.

Where do you write? A chair in the living room.

When do you write? When I can.

What emotion do you most want to pull from your readers? I want the same for me that I want from a good book. A book that makes me laugh, makes me cry and makes me think.

What is your favorite childhood memory? There are several. But when I think of my childhood I think of summer evenings on the front porch, my dad playing the banjo or the fiddle, someone playing the guitar, someone else on the mandolin. It was a wonderful way to grow up. I also have great memories of camping or fishing with my dad.

Want to learn more about Brenda? Visit her website here: http://brendaminton.net/