January's Author of the Month

Welcome to 2014!!!

I'm so excited about this year! There's a lot of fun things planned (big changes for me...which I will be announcing soon...) and TONS of FABULOUS books set to be released, so hold on to your feathered-hats, ladies, it's gonna be a BLAST!

This month I'm thrilled to feature a great friend of mine, fellow blogger and author extraordinaire--Naomi Rawlings! I've just read and reviewed her latest book THE WYOMING HEIR (which releases today, by the way!) and I'm very excited to get to know her more, aren't you?

What a great way to start off the year!! Thank you so much for being with me this month, Naomi!!

First, tell us about you! Please include something fun/unique that we might not know. :)

I'm pretty  boring, really. I live in northern Michigan, way way way northern Michigan, where we get really cold temperatures and lake effect snow to the tune of 200 inches a year. Everyone in my family likes to snowshoe--even my three year old, and my husband is a modern day backwoodsman. As I'm typing this, he's got a dozen or so animal pelts sitting in our shed and ready to take to the fur buyer when he comes through town next.

Have you always wanted to be a writer? At what point did you feel God calling you to do this?

No, I didn't always want to be a writer. In fact, I stumbled upon it rather by accident. I had an English degree and a small child I stayed home with. Plus I was bored and had exhausted all my friends supplies of romance novels, so one afternoon I sat down and decided to write one . . . Three years and four manuscripts later, I had my first contract.

As for God calling me to write, I know I'm in His will and doing what He wants at this point in my life, but I never had any divine God moment where God told me I HAD to write. It was more just a sense and desire God put into my spirit during the time I was first learning the craft.

Your books are gripping! How do you decide what you will write about?

Ha! Not the usual way, I can tell you that much. I'm a bit of an oddball when it comes to writing and how I think about it. I usually decide to write a book because there's an underlying message I want to convey. I've done books about forgiveness, redemption, honesty, human value, and loving your enemies. This leads me to write stories set in rather unusual places like the French Revolution or Michigan's Upper Peninsula (where I live). The Wyoming Heir is a bit of exception in that I didn't start with a theme or message. This book I wrote because way back when I was trying to sell my first French novel, everyone was telling me I was ready to be published but no publisher wanted a French story. So I came up with a cowboy story that I thought might interest publishers and then decided on a theme from there. The theme ended up being about obedience.



What are FIVE of your favorite things-- doesn't have to be book related!

Oh, wow. I'm singing the Marie von Trapp song in my head after that question. :-) Okay, I'm going to answer assuming that God and family are already givens.

1. Books
2. Friends
3. Lake Superior
4. Snow
5. Hiking


What is your favorite Bible scripture and/or story?

1 Corinthians 15:10--"But by the grace of God, I am what I am . . ." I love this verse because it's a constant reminder that God created me just the way He wanted me, even with all my flaws and imperfections. And His grace will sustain me through the flaws and imperfections and trials.

How much fun! Thank you Naomi, for this great interview!

And ladies, it's not over yet. Naomi is doing a GIVEAWAY of her latest release THE WYOMING HEIR so if you want to be entered, be sure to comment below and leave your email addy!!

Hugs and Happy Reading to you all!!

December's Author of the Month

Welcome to the last month of the year! Can you believe it's already here? (*teehee*, that rhymes!) Another year past--full of both joys and sorrows. And no matter the height nor depth of the peaks and valleys, Christ has been with each of us every step of the way.

As you may recall, last year I focused on Christ for the month of December, and I think I need to make it a tradition. Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is the Author and Finisher of our faith, and it seems only fitting that we should focus our attentions on Him.

Are we not all beggars? Are we not all subject to sin and the frailties that come with being human? Of course we are. None of us can measure up. Not without Christ. He was born--and died--so that we can live again. Because of His infinite atonement, this mortal shall take on a glorious immortality. We will be able to live with Him in the eternities, singing endless praises to His glorious name in numberless concourses of angels.

Christ gave us a gift we can never repay. He has saved us from hell! As I consider this unfathomable gift, I wonder, what gift will I give to my Savior this Christmas? I believe the best way to show my love, is to serve others. Isn't that what Christ's life was all about? When we enter the waters of baptism we take upon ourselves the name of Christ and promise to do good in all times, in all things, and in all places. I must be Christ's hands here on earth, every day of my life, and show His love by my actions. Its not always easy, but He will be with me--I know it.

I want to bare my testimony that I know God lives, that He loves us and that He will come again in great glory. When I stand before my Savior at the judgement bar, I hope He will say, "Come unto me, ye blessed. There is a place prepared for you in the mansions of my Father."

Thank you all for being such a blessing in my life.

May you always remember your worth in the sight of The One who was born for you.

God bless you and Merry Christmas!

October's Author of the Month

Fall is finally here! 

Welcome to October's Author of the Month post! Grab yourself a mug of some delicious apple cider or hot chocolate--something fall-worthy--and get ready for fun!

I'm thrilled to be able to feature Robin Lee Hatcher, a fabulous author who has written dozens upon dozens of books, both historical and contemporary. Her latest historical romance BELOVED is out and ready to get into your pretty little hands! (I've read the first few pages, and WOW, its amazing. I can't wait to read the whole thing!)

And to whet your appetite for her latest book, Robin has offered to giveaway the first TWO books in the series, BELONGING and BETRAYAL! How fabulous is that?! To enter, you must be a follower of my blog and/or FB page and leave a comment with your email address. I will be choosing a winner one week from today!

But before I continue with the interview let me say a big THANK YOU to Melissa Jagears, who was featured last month. She is just delightful and her debut novel, A BRIDE FOR KEEPS was excellent . . .  make sure you read it-- or else! *wink*

OK! Let's get on with the interview!!


Tell us about Robin! We'd love to get to know you more. If you want, please include something silly or funny that we might not know about you. :)

I began writing my first novel in 1981, and it was published in January of 1984. Since then, I have written 71 novels and novellas. I wrote 30 books for the general mass market, and then I began writing stories that were faith-based. I served for five years on the board of directors of Romance Writers of America, including two years as their president. I have lived in Idaho all my life and have a deep love for my state and its history, which is why I set most of my books here in Idaho, whether they are contemporary or historical stories. In my non-writing world, I'm a wife, mom, and grandma.


Had you always wanted to be a writer? When was it that you really knew God was leading you to write?

Although I was always writing, no, I did not always want to be a writer. I wanted to be a movie star. Since that would have meant being on a diet for the rest of my life, I think I chose the right profession.  It was frustration with the ending of a novel that caused me to want to try to write a book. I didn't really do it with publication in mind. I just wanted to see if I could do it.


You have written so many wonderful books. Do you have a one that stands out as a favorite, or one that is extra special to you--and why?

All of my books are special to me in one way or another. The two most often named as readers' favorites are The Forgiving Hour and Ribbon of Years. The protagonist in Ribbon of Years, Miriam, was inspired by my mother, so her story is special to me. And my most fun characters to write about were Katie and Ben in Catching Katie and Cleo and Sherwood in Fit To Be Tied.


If you had three wishes (frivolous or serious...) what would they be?

I'm going to sound like a contestant in a beauty pageant, but I would have to start off with (1) world peace. It grieves my heart, the troubles in our nation and around the world. Come, Lord Jesus!

(2) To get to write fiction right up to the very end of my life.

(3) To suddenly love to cook. (There's a plaque on my refrigerator that says: "I only have this kitchen because it came with the house." Enough said.)


Lastly, what are your "top three" historical Christian romance books?

I hate this question because I have many, many author friends who have written many, many wonderful books. Thus any list of three could change (with the exception of book #1) depending upon the day and my mood and how good my memory is.

1) REDEEMING LOVE by Francine Rivers
2) A VOICE ON THE WIND by Francine Rivers
3) TO WHISPER HER NAME by Tamera Alexander


YAY! Wasn't that great? I just love getting to know these wonderful Christian ladies, who are so willing to share their gifts with us. Thanks, Robin! It's been an honor to have you. God bless you and keep writing, cuz we will certainly keep reading!! *big grin*

Now, don't forget to enter the giveaway!! This series is amazing and you won't want to miss it!


Happy Reading!

September's Author of the Month: Melissa Jagears

Welcome to September!! I have to admit that this has always been my very favorite month of the year. I love the weather--warm, yet not too warm, and there are no holidays (not that there's anything wrong with holiday's per se...) to make things super hectic or busy. September is the unsung hero of the year as far as I'm concerned.

Before I introduce our NEW and OUTSTANDING AUTHOR, let me say a big thank you to Joan Hochstetler who I hosted last month. She is fabulous--thanks Joan!

And now, for this month...

I have gotten to know this wonderful new author, whose book A BRIDE FOR KEEPS releases October 1, and I couldn't wait to tell you about her!! Put your hands together for MELISSA JAGEARS!!! Seriously, I think Melissa is a blast (hilarious sense of humor) and her novel is marvelous. You are going to love getting to know her.

Enjoy the interview!!

Tell us about Melissa! 

I'm the most unromantic romance author possibly ever. I dislike celebrating holidays, especially Valentines' day.

I never had a boyfriend....I couldn't make myself use the word "boyfriend" with my husband (the only guy I ever dated) because it seemed such a silly word for an almost 30 year old and it was just odd to think I had one. So when he pressed me for exactly what he was to me, I said he could be my "secret boyfriend" if he had to be something, but he couldn't ever call himself that. :P I'm sure that was tons sillier, but I just couldn't say that word with a straight face. Thankfully the word "fiance" took over um....5 months later. (I had to go look up dates, told you I was unromantic.)

How long have you been writing? What inspired you to be an author?

I'd occasionally had story ideas pop into my head and I'd write it on a slip of paper and throw it in a box, but I never wrote beyond what was necessary. As an English teacher, I recall being very uncomfortable grading my students' creative writing assignments because I wasn't qualified if I never wrote it myself. (Probably the easiest A's my students received.)

When we had children, we decided I'd stay home. After a year of patty-cake and endless diaper washing, I needed some kind of academic exercise because my brain felt like it was atrophying!  So I pulled out that box of ideas and decided to try my hand at writing fiction.

That would be about 4 years ago. I've written 6 novels and 1 novella so far.

What scripture or scripture story give you the most comfort, guidance in your life?

Comfort: John 10:29 - "My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand." Guidance: 1 Timothy 4:6-16, my Bible's heading calls this section "A Good Minister's Discipline."

If you had three wishes what would they be? (they can be serious or frivolous....doesn't matter!)

A housekeeper/cook, a mortgage free home, more talent than I have



What are your top three historical Christian romance books?

Hmmmm, ....I'm a chronic rereader, so in a crazy world where you were never allowed to read a book more than once, the ones I'd be most upset over never being able to reread would be: A Voice in the Wind by Francine Rivers, To Win Her Heart by Karen Witemeyer, Who Brings Forth the Wind by Lori Wick


Thank you SO much, Melissa! I know readers are going to FLIP about your book, Melissa, and about your novella. Just a word about that novella, ladies-- LOVE BY THE LETTER--is free right now, so click on that link and you can get it ASAP!! Melissa, it was a pleasure to interview you and get to know you better. I can't wait for readers to devour your story and THANK YOU for following your heart and sharing your talents with us. God bless!!

Yes, yes, readers--I know what you're thinking, "So is there gonna be a giveaway?!" Right-o, there is! Leave a comment and your email (you must follow my blog or FB page to be entered) and I will put your hat in the drawing! It's going to be awesome! I'll choose the winner one week from today!

God bless you all and have a wonderful September!

Happy Reading!!!

August's Author of the Month: Joan Hochstetler

Good Morning, Ladies, and Happy August!

Summer is in full-swing and if you are like me, you're baking in the heat and giving thanks for AC! *teehee*

It was such an honor to feature Tracie Peterson last month and I hope you were able to read her little interview and get to know her better. I just love her!!! Don't forget she has another book coming out soon...but I'll keep you posted on the release date, don't worry.

I couldn't be more thrilled about this month's author! Joan Hochstetler is a WONDERFUL author and if you haven't read any of her amazing novels, well now's your chance! *wink*

I've just reviewed DAUGHTER OF LIBERTY, a book that I truly loved, and Joan has graciously offered to do a giveaway!!! So, if you want to be entered, please comment below with your email address and I'll put your name in the hat.

Well, let's get on with it, shall we? Enjoy the interview!



Tell us about you!! Please include something funny/silly about yourself if you want!

I’m the daughter of Mennonite farmers and grew up on a farm near Kokomo, Indiana. I was a voracious reader from the time I made friends with Dick and Jane, but strangely enough as a young person I never had any ambition whatsoever to be a writer. I don’t recall writing any fiction at all. I really wanted to be an artist, but instead I got married and had babies, and life happened.

Then in 1977 I had this dream. Seriously! I had a dream one night that was so intriguing it kept haunting me. I finally decided that if I was going to make any sense of it, I was going to have to figure out who the characters were and what their story was, and the only logical way to do that was to write it all down. That turned into my epic medieval tragedy, which I swear I will get published someday! Anyway, that was the beginning of my life of adventure, intrigue, war, and romance.

What got me started writing about the American colonial period was The Scarlet Pimpernel, a fabulous TV movie from 1982 starring Anthony Andrews and Jane Seymour. It was set during the French Revolution. I absolutely ADORED it and knew immediately that I had to write my own version of the story. Alas, I wasn’t in the least interested in the French Revolution, and anyway there was no reason to duplicate that setting. Luckily we had our own Revolution, and my hero turned out to be a girl. And so the saga began . . .

So far 4 volumes of my American Patriot Series have been released, and I’ve also published one contemporary novel, One Holy Night, which was the Christian Small Publishers 2009 Book of the Year. It’s set to release in a new edition in October with a gorgeous new cover.

In my everyday persona, I’m an author, a professional editor, the publisher of a small press, Sheaf House Publishers, and the wife of a retired United Methodist pastor. I live in Elkhart, Indiana, and I have three daughters, four grandchildren, and five step-grandchildren.



Have you always had a passion for history? What draws you to this time period?

Passion . . . not so much when I was young. I doubt most kids are that interested in the past; they’re pretty much in the here and now. But in high school I enjoyed history and social studies, and that interest really took off in college.

I was raised in the Mennonite Church, and faith, family, church, and community are very important to Amish and Mennonites. The Hochstetler family has an especially interesting history that’s well known in the community and is regularly recounted. You’ll find a summary on my author website at http://www.jmhochstetler.com/hochstetler-family.html. In 1757, during the French and Indian War, my ancestors were caught up in one of the last Indian attacks on the border settlements in Pennsylvania. Three family members were killed, and three were carried off into captivity and returned some years later. That had a powerful impact on my life and interests, and, in fact, a distant cousin Bob Hostetler, a well-known author, and I are writing a fictional version of our ancestors’ story that we’re hoping to release by the first of the year. It’s a truly inspiring story.

That’s what first drew my attention to the colonial era, though my greatest area of interest has become the American Revolution. I love to do research and to learn about the lives of people in earlier times, and then bring the past to life for readers, especially for those who think they hate history. One of my greatest rewards is when I get feedback from readers who loved my books and mention that they never enjoyed history in school, but that my stories brought the era to life for them. I love that! That’s exactly what I’m trying to do.

My greatest concern, though, is that knowledge of our history and the values and principles our nation was founded on is eroding at an alarming rate, which doesn’t bode well for our future. I hope through this series to spark a greater understanding of and appreciation for our Founding era and the heroic men and women who sacrificed so much to bring this nation to birth.

What is your favorite scripture story and why?

Of all the wonderful, inspiring stories the Bible contains, the story of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection touches me the most deeply. It reminds me how much my sins cost Him, and how very much God loves me to make such an incredible sacrifice for my salvation. There’s no more beautiful story in any book that exists.

If you were stranded on a desert island, what three historical christian romance books would you take with you?

Oh, that’s a really hard question! There are so many good ones. Well, I’m going to go for 3 I haven’t read yet by authors whose work I especially enjoy. First would be Laura Frantz’s Love’s Awakening, Book 2 of the Ballantyne Legacy Series, which releases in September. I’ve read book 1 and can’t wait to read the upcoming volumes in the series.

Second would be new author Lori Benton’s sophomore novel, The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn, which comes out in April 2014. Her debut novel, Burning Sky, comes out this month, and it’s excellent! One of my all-time favorite historical novels is Siri Mitchell’s A Heart Most Worthy, and I love all her contemporary romances too. So my third choice would be She Walks in Beauty, which has gotten excellent reviews, and which I haven’t had the chance to read yet.

These ought to keep my mind off the burning desert sands while I’m a castaway!

Your characters are very strong and yet they have struggles like we all do. How do you create living/breathing characters?

A lot of what my characters go through relates in some way to my own struggles over the years and those of people close to me, and what I’ve learned in the process. That’s probably true for most authors; to a great extent we write out of personal experience. The truth is that it takes some living to get to the point where you’ve suffered enough of the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, as Hamlet put it, before you develop the maturity to interpret life on a profound level. In other words, you have to get old. As the saying goes, sadder but wiser. It’s the rare young person who has that kind of insight, though there are the occasional prodigies—or perhaps they’re just daring enough to get their heads well bloodied early on and draw the connections!

Writing a long series, such as my American Patriot Series, allows you to get deeply into your characters, to know their histories, what shaped them, and the hidden depths of their personalities even outside the scope of the story. I have a great advantage in developing my characters because I’m setting them in the midst of the real events and people of the American Revolution. I simply allow them to interact with what’s going on around them in the natural way they would as individuals. Once you get to know your characters very well, it becomes relatively easy to discern how they would react, what actions they would initiate, and what their emotional responses would be. But not always. Sometimes they surprise me, and I love that!

Bio and contact info

An award-winning author and professional editor, J. M. Hochstetler is the daughter of Mennonite farmers, a graduate of Indiana University, and a lifelong student of history. She is the author of the American Patriot Series, the only comprehensive historical fiction series on the American Revolution. Her contemporary novel, One Holy Night, was the Christian Small Publishers 2009 Book of the Year and a finalist for the American Christian Fiction Writers 2009 Carol Award. She is also the publisher and editorial director of Sheaf House Publishers.

Her books are available on Christianbook.com, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Koorong, and other online retailers and can be ordered in bookstores. They can also be ordered from Sheaf House at www.sheafhousedirect.com or readers can contact her directly at jmhochstetler@msn.com.

You’ll also find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/joan.hochstetler.


How fun was that?! I love all the in-depth information you shared, Joan--thank you SO much for being on my blog this month!! I can't wait for people to get to know you like I have! You are truly making a difference with your stories in a time when this country really needs to be inspired and reminded of how great America is, and the rich history we share. Thank you again!

If you want to be entered to win Joan's first book DAUGHTER OF LIBERTY, don't forget to comment! God bless you all!

Happy Reading!!!

July's Author of the Month: Tracie Peterson

"Juuuly!" 

Sometimes I like to say that word long and drawn out like the lady on Lonesome Dove. You know what I'm talkin' about, now don't pretend. *teehee*

Can you believe it? We're half way through the year, people!

Didn't you just love Jennifer Delamere?! What a delightful woman--so down to earth, fun...and not to mention ridiculously talented to boot! Her novel AN HEIRESS AT HEART is wonderful so please find it and read it if you haven't already.

As for "Juuuly!", (sorry, I couldn't help myself) have I got a treat for you! Before I tell you who I'm featuring let me give you a few fun clues. She has written over 100 books, loves God with all her heart and lives in Montana. Any guesses? Yep, you got it! Tracie Peterson!

I'm so happy to have Traice as my feature author this month. Yippee skippee!!!! The interview is below...you are so welcome. *wink*

Tell us about Tracie! Please include something fun and/or silly that we might not already know.

Fun or silly?  That pretty much defines me.  A while back while researching for a book I drove a stage coach. That was definitely fun and silly.  Silly because I had quite the time climbing the ten stories it took to get up to the driver’s seat.  I find myself in some pretty zany situations while researching.

What scripture or scripture story do you find most comforting/uplifting?

I just finished studying Genesis with the Bible Study Fellowship and found it to be a super blessing.  So many of the well known Bible stories come from Genesis and it was a great reminder.  Better still, I felt God really showed me how things fall apart when people try to rush God’s promises into existence.  That was powerful.

If you had three wishes what would they be? (These can be silly, or serious--whatever you want!)

On the serious side – I’d wish first and foremost for my granddaughter Rainy to be healed.  She has a chronic condition due to a cyst on the brain.  It causes all sorts of issues and she’s nearly died several times.  Second – I’d wish for wisdom for everybody.  The older I get, the more important wisdom is.  With wisdom for everyone we would know how to care for one another and live without strife.  Third, but most important, I wish Jesus would return and take us all home. J

On the silly side:  1. Have a slender, healthy body and the ability to eat whatever I wanted without it putting on an ounce.  2.  Not so silly – but definitely fun – to drive the AlCan Highway from Canada to Alaska.  3.  To have a money tree that bloomed constantly.

Of all the books you have written, which were the most challenging, the most rewarding and the most exciting?

I love how God works in each and every book I write.  He always teaches me something in the writing process and draws me closer to Him. Challenges come in many forms.  I’ve had a few times when sickness or death caused me to miss deadlines and have to ask for extensions.  Writing HOUSE OF SECRETS was a challenge in the research on schizophrenia and the RIBBONS OF STEEL and RIBBONS WEST series were challenging because of the research needed regarding the railroad industry.  Each book is a reward in and of itself.  I love writing and want each book to entertain, educate and encourage.

When you have down-time, and don't care to write, what do you like to do? 

There are a number of things.  I have very much loved my Bible studies – especially my Kay Arthur Precepts studies because they get me digging deep into word meanings and such.  I LOVE to learn.  I also love to embroider, crochet, play Plants vs. Zombies J on the computer and enjoy a good book.  I’m very much hoping heaven has a giant library.

BIO for Tracie Peterson

Tracie Peterson is the award winning, best-selling author of over 95 books. She makes her home in Montana with husband Jim and enjoys sharing the Gospel of Jesus through he
r fiction.  Tracie was awarded the 2011 Lifetime Achievement Award by the American Christian Fiction Writer’s, an organization she helped to found in hopes of helping new authors. She and husband Jim also teach at writer’s conferences with special focus on new and unpublished authors as a part of the ministry God has given her.

Isn't she fabulous! You can feel her genuine spirit coming through, and I just love that! Thank you so much Tracie for taking part in my little interview--I've loved getting to know you more, what a joy!

For those of you who are interested--and you would be a fool NOT to be interested--Tracie has graciously offered to do a GIVEAWAY! Yes, ladies, that's right, and this in not your run-of-the-mill give away. Tracie has offered to give away her Land of the Lonestar SERIES and The Quarryman's Bride! You can't handle it, its so awesome-- I know!

RULES: To be entered to win you MUST follow this blog or my FB page and leave a comment. Simple as that! And no rafflecopter this time....name in a hat is where I'm at. *wink* (Hey,
that rhymes!)

Also, you may have noticed the GORGEOUS new cover for her book THE MINER'S LADY that releases in August of this year! SWEET! This entire series is great, so make sure you get your fingers on a copy of that one as well.

God bless you all--and God bless America! Have a wonderful 4th, and a wonderful "Juuuly!" *BIG grin*

Happy Reading!

May's Author of the Month: Deeanne Gist

Welcome to May!!! This year is moving right along, isn't it? I can't believe summer is right around the corner!! April was great, and I LOVED being able to have MaryLu Tyndall as our Author of the Month! Have you read her new book?! Oh good, I'm glad to hear you have! *hint, hint*

Pinch me!! Somebody please pinch me! Am I dreaming?! Ladies, I cannot tell you how THRILLED I am to be featuring one of my ALL-TIME-FAVORITE historical Christian romance authors this month-- Deeanne Gist! 

AHHH!!! Holy romance!!! Dee is my hero, my idol, my writing-role-model! Her new book IT HAPPENED AT THE FAIR has just been released, and I can't wait to get my copy in the mail!! Did you have it on pre-order too?! I thought you did. *wink*

I am so honored that Dee would do this interview for me and I am thrilled to share it with you. So, with no further ado, here is Dee!!

Tell us about Dee!! Is there anything fun or unique about you we might not know?

When I was in high school, one of the boys teased me mercilessly. So in speech class I used him as my “volunteer” to demonstrate how to tie someone up. Once I securely tied him, I informed the class my speech wasn’t really about how to tie someone up, but about how to throw a pie in someone’s face.

I wrapped a shower curtain around his neck, then proceeded to make a pie out of whipped cream. When I was putting the finishing touches on the pie, I said, “Now, the most important thing to remember is to … splat … catch them by surprise.” ☺

Your characters are so real, with real issues. How do you choose who/ what to write about?

I have always been fascinated with intriguing little historical tidbits I would find in those historical time-line books, or in an article somewhere. With It Happened at the Fair, the springboard for my idea was the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.

With that one detail, I went to the reference part of the library and found two huge, oversized albums filled with pictures and descriptions of the Fair. In one was a picture of a woman teaching children. It turned out, she and the children were part of an exhibit and she was teaching them to lip read. I ground to a halt and immediately thought of all kinds of fun scenarios that could take place with a heroine who could lip read. And Della Wentworth was born.


What is your favorite scripture? What about it inspires you?

There are so many great ones. I’m afraid I don’t really have a favorite, per se. Every day a different one jumps to the forefront because it’s so dependent on what my circumstances are. I don’t know if I could possibly choose just one.

But if I have to, I’d probably go with the one about love. Romans 8:38, 39.

Of all your characters, who would you say you are most like?

There’s probably a little bit of me in all of them. I think the heroine I relate to most, though, is Essie Spreckelmeyer from Courting Trouble and Deep in the Heart of Trouble. Not so much because of what she liked to do. (She’s a much better athlete than me and I hate snakes.) But more because I really empathized with her desire to find a mate. Though I married very young, being a “wife and mother” were the things I most wanted to be when I grew up. My benchmarks were Maria Von Trapp and Mrs. Brady. ☺

WOW! Wasn't that awesome! Dee, I can't being to thank you enough for being on my blog this month! You and your books have blessed my life in so many ways--and I know many other readers feel the same. I CAN'T WAIT to read and review your next book--I know its going to be awesome!!

What is your favorite "Dee" novel, my friends? Who are your favorite characters? I'd love to know--please share!!

God bless you all and Happy Reading!
Amber
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Deeanne Gist—known to her family, friends, and fans as Dee—has rocketed up the bestseller lists and captivated readers everywhere with her original historical and contemporary novels. A favorite among readers and reviewers alike, her popular titles include A Bride Most Begrudging, A Bride in the Bargain, and Maid to Match. Her latest book, It Happened at the Fair (releasing April 2013), is her ninth published novel.

A popular speaker, Gist’s presentations have been featured on the front page of the Wall Street Journal and in other publications. The Wall Street Journal’s accompanying online video was the most watched video on the FrontPageWSJ.com website for several days following their feature.

Gist has a background in education and journalism. Her credits include People, Parents, Parenting, Family Fun, Houston Chronicle and Orlando Sentinel. She is also the creator of I Did It!®, a parenting line of products. Gist lives in Houston, Texas with her husband of thirty years. The couple has four grown children.

Gist’s fans enthusiastically interact with her at her popular online communities: IWantHerBook.com, as well as on Facebook (@DeesFriends) and Twitter (@DeeanneGist).

April's Author of the Month: MaryLu Tyndall

I am so happy April is here, for oh-so-many reasons! How about you?? Spring has finally sprung (at least here in WA where I live) and the birds are singing...what's not to love about April? (Before we move on, I must say real quick that it was great to be able to have Mary Connealy with us last month, wasn't it?!)

Well, if this month wasn't already totally fabulous, I have another reason for you to be jumping for joy. 

Wait for it.....

This month's featured author is none other than MaryLu Tyndall!! Yippee!!! See, I knew you would be just as excited as I am--I knew you would be jumping up and down!! *wink*

Well, instead of beating around the bush, let's get right to it.

Hope you enjoy getting to know the magnificent MaryLu!

Tell us about MaryLu! And please include a delicious tidbit that we HCR fans might not already know about you!


I'm a passionate, creative, romantic introvert who loves to create stories in my head. When I was little, I would spend hours daydreaming by putting myself into different settings and adventures and then letting the story play out in my mind. (Of course I was always the beautiful heroine!)  In fact, most of the time, I would prefer to remain in my head than face real life!  Despite that, I wandered off path and away from God for several years and became a computer nerd (a.k.a. as a programmer) where I spent 15 years in misery trying to shove a square peg into a round hole. I've only known the Lord for 19 years now and they've been the best years of my life! I grew up on the beaches of South Florida and love anything to do with the sea and tall ships and swashbuckling heroes. Popcorn, chocolate and cats make the world go around, and God is the sole purpose I write.

Your books are loaded with amazing historical detail. Did you have to do gobs of research? Was it daunting?  


Gobs? Yes!  Daunting? Always. Honestly, research is not my specialty. I much prefer writing. I truly love history and it's fun reading all the fascinating stories from the past, but it can be quite grueling if you're looking for that one tiny detail you need for one small scene and it takes hours to find! I'm very fortunate to have quite an extensive library in my office, but the internet is also invaluable for research. Depending on the story and the time period, I can spend up to a month doing research for just a single book. 

The Christian element in your stories is wonderful. Do you know the spiritual theme before you start a book or does it come to you as you write? 


Good question. I'm definitely a theme-writer. I start with a theme or spiritual lesson, something the Lord puts on my heart to share through the story. Then I create a story and characters around that theme. Most everything that happens in the plot and to the characters is a part of moving that theme along from beginning to end. What's really cool is that many times other themes sort of grow out of the first one and I end up with more than one moral of the story. 


What is your favorite scripture?


Psalm 84:10-11 
For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand.
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God
Than dwell in the tents of wickedness.
 For the Lord God is a sun and shield;
The Lord will give grace and glory;
No good thing will He withhold
From those who walk uprightly.

Was that not simply delightful?! MaryLu, thank you SO much for being a part of my blog this month. I know that I am not alone when I say that your books have blessed my life and I'm so thankful you are following God's path to write. May His blessings be upon you!

OK, now ladies, April is a biggie--many FABULOUS books are out this month, so your quandary about what to read next has been solved! If you haven't read FORSAKEN DREAMS, then go get it, because it's fabulous. Wanna see what I thought of that book? You can read my review here.

MaryLu has offered to do a giveaway (one copy and US addresses only) of FORSAKEN DREAMS!! Awesome, huh?! So, if you want to be entered, you must FOLLOW MY BLOG here or on FB and leave a COMMENT about which Tyndall book is your favorite. You must include your email as well. Pretty simple, I must say. *grin* The drawing will be a week from today (April 8th).

God bless you and have a great April!

Happy Reading!

March's Author of the Month

Happy Friday!!

Can you believe we are already running headlong into the third month of the year?! WOW!

Well, February was wonderful and I hope you were able to become more acquainted with Amanda Cabot. She is so sweet, and fun and VERY talented! It was an honor to feature her last month.

As for March...drum roll, please. Ladies, hold on to your seats, because this month we are featuring the one, the only--
MARY CONNEALY!!! AHHHHH!!!!! I know!! Isn't it great?

I have read loads of Mary's books and every one of them has captured my imagination within the first few pages. There are still more I need to read, and I CAN'T WAIT!!

It's a thrill and an honor to have Mary on my blog this month! Here is the interview, ladies! Enjoy!!

Tell us about yourself! Please include something unique/funny that people may not already know. *big grin*

I just had my 24th book release, which is unbelievable to me. I write romantic comedy…with cowboys and the publishers seem to keep wanting more of them. I’m the mother of four adult daughters and grandma to two. I live on a farm/ranch in Nebraska with my very own romantic cowboy hero.

Unique and/or funny? I remember as a teenager a good friend of mine, Leslie and I used to always joke around about how AVERAGE we are. We were middle of the road grades, not bad just average. Moderately good at sports. Not awful, but we weren’t gonna start varsity. Medium popularity…everything was average. We weren’t even DEAD middle, because it would be odd to be THAT average, so a few A Grades. An occasional toe onto the volleyball court. We laughed about it, but we thought it was really true.

I’ve lost contact with her now, mostly but she’s got a doctorate and teaches at a university—after almost not going to college, and I’m a published author. So we did okay for a couple of average chicks.

The humor in your books is fabulous! Have you always had a "silly" side? 

I don’t know about silly, I think sarcastic is more like it. Which honestly, is pretty strange. I had a nice, quiet, decent life. Where did all the sarcasm come from?

Of all the characters in your books, which one do you relate to the most and why?

Wow, I’m not sure about relating to them. I think I mostly write characters that are how I’d LIKE to be, not how I really am. I’m a pretty quiet person. (you might even say AVERAGE). I’m pathologically non-confrontational.  So the heroines I write are always taking on anyone who gets in their way (including the heroes) and that’s not me at all.

What is your favorite scripture? 

I have so many I love, that this is a hard question, but the one I’ll share here is Psalm 27:1 because I think there is so much truth in it, and I use it in my books a lot. Psalm 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is my stronghold; Of whom shall I be afraid?

I think if we could just hang onto this verse and know that in life and in death, we have nothing to fear as long as we believe, we would all live different, bolder, more Christ-like lives. 

Wasn't that great?! Thank you, Mary, so much! You are such a talented author, and your stories have really inspired me to live a "different, bolder, more Christ-like" life. I'm so happy you are following God's path for you and blessing so many people's lives in the process. Thank you again, and God bless!

Mary has been gracious enough to offer to do a GIVEAWAY!! You KNOW you want to win a copy of her new release SWEPT AWAY, which is available THIS MONTH!!! 

So, here's the dilly-o. To enter, you must post a comment (with your email) and tell me what your favorite Connealy book is--unless you are new to her books, in which case tell me what you'll read first--and make sure you follow me on FB or on this blog and that's it! How easy, right? I will be doing the drawing on March 8th, so be sure to check back and see if you are the happy winner!!

Happy reading everyone, and happy March!!!

January's Author of the Month

Welcome to 2013, all you fantabulous HCR lovers out there!

I hope you enjoyed my post for last months author...I personally think that author is the best. *wink*

I am SO totally excited to be featuring a very talented (and might I add hilarious and very faithful) author. Everybody, give it up for Margaret Brownley!!!!

When I discovered Margaret's books, I literally couldn't put them down.

Just sayin'...if you haven't read them yet then you are missing some great stories. I have reviews for all her "inspy" romances, so make sure you check those out as well!!!

Margaret has answered some fun questions for me, so I hope that you enjoy getting to know more about her!!

Also! If you want to be entered to win her new book, follow my blog (if you don't already...) and post this link on FB! You will have to leave me your email if you want to be notified of winning!!! Believe you me, you will want to win this'un!! (As you will see at the end of this post, there is ANOTHER different contest Margaret is doing, so make sure you read all the details to enter BOTH contests!!)


Tell us about yourself!  

First, let me say thank you, Amber, for inviting me to visit with your readers.
As for me, I was always a storyteller and constantly in trouble as a child for making up stories. The writer part was harder to acknowledge, partly because English was my least favorite subject.  My eighth grade teacher told me not to even think about being a writer. Diagram a sentence?  You gotta be kidding?

I might have spent the rest of my life scribbling in notebooks and writing amusing notes to my kids’ teachers had I not “volunteered” to edit my church newsletter. After I made the church picnic read like a Grisham novel, my former preacher took me aside and said, “Maybe God’s calling you to write fiction.”  And so that’s what I did.  I now have more than 25 novels to my credit, plus my first non-fiction book Grieving God’s Way: The Lasting Path to Hope and Healing was published in July.

On the personal side: My husband and I have three grown children.  As for hobbies, I like to herd cattle, chase down bad guys, and rob stages.  Wait at minute. That’s not me; that’s my characters!


What is your favorite novel of all time and why?

I don’t know that this was my favorite of all time, but the one that made a lasting impression on me was Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. I was around nine when I read it and it was the first book that made me cry. I wanted to be a writer like Jo March.

What is your favorite scripture in the Bible?

I have to say Mark 10:27: “With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.”  I gave you the King James’ version because that’s the Bible that’s handy in this historical writer’s office.

Your stories, are fun and fast paced! Where do you get your inspiration for your stories?

I get my ideas mostly from reading: An article in the National Enquirer about Avon ladies selling to Amazon natives inspired an older historical novel of mine.  I looked up Avon and discovered that the first Avon “lady” was a door-to-door book salesman.  He gave out perfume hoping to entice women to buy his books, but the perfume proved more popular.  Not only did this give me a great idea for a story but some good advice about what not to give away when promoting a book.  

The idea for my current Brides of Last Chance Ranch series came from the N.Y. Times archives:
In 1861 fifty ladies of the first Church of Milford in New York formed a society of old maids. It cost five dollars to join the group and members had to vow never to marry. The interest earned from the money paid for the annual dinner, with the principal going to the woman who remained unmarried the longest.

According to an article in the New York Times thirty years later in 1891 all but fifteen of the original fifty had married.  By then the prize money had risen to a thousand dollars.  I’ve not been able to find the winner’s name—and being a romantic I sincerely hope there wasn’t one— but the best part of being a writer is where real life fails, inspiration takes over.

www.margaretbrownley.com


How to Enter the HONK IF YOU LOVE BOOKS contest:
In WAITING FOR MORNING set in the Arizona Territory in 1896, Dr. Caleb Fairbanks introduces the residents of the Last Chance Ranch to his beloved "horseless carriage" named Bertha.  When Caleb and his backfiring Bertha incite gunfire from former dance hall girl, Molly Hatfield, the handsome doctor knows he's in for an adventure with the intriguing woman and her spirited wheelchair bound kid brother, Donny.
Share your memory of a car that played an important role in your life's story for a chance to win a $100 gas card. Email your story (no more than a couple of paragraphs) to contests@nancyberland.com.  Contests ends January 31.

Margaret, thank you SO much for being my author of the month--this is a real treat and I KNOW people are going to love this new novel as much as all your others. Thank you for following God's path and blessing us all with your talents.

God Bless and Happy New Year!!

The Greatest Author

What is the best selling book of all time, and who is it’s author?

 If you said the Bible, and Jesus Christ--you are right! (OK, I know that prophets and other such men did the actual writing, but Christ is really the "author" wouldn't you agree?!)

Being that this is December, and the month where the world joyously focuses on the birth of our Savior and Redeemer, I thought it was only fitting to feature Him as the author of the month.

The book of Hebrews calls Christ the "author and finisher of our faith."

Our Savior is truly the greatest Author of all time. His writings bring such joy, comfort and peace that we should turn to the scriptures daily and feast upon His words. I love the quote, "When you want to speak to God, pray. If you want God to speak to you, read your scriptures."

Christ came to earth as an innocent child, to bring to pass the eternal life of man by dying for each of us. He suffered all things so we need not suffer. Through His atonement we are saved and “with his strips we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5) I know that Christ knows us individually—He can help us in our trials because He already suffered what we now suffer. He can take us from the slums of sin into His glory if we will but trust in Him, and do His will. Again, in Hebrews 5:7 it says: He became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him.


Christ lived a perfect life—a life He asks us to emulate. Of course, we are imperfect and will always be sinners. But we can be perfect through Christ because of his sacrifice for us, and because of His love we can enjoy the blessings of a joyous eternity at the right hand of God.

Being a Christian isn’t easy. God requires a broken heart and a contrite spirit. He requires us to forgive “seventy times seven” and love all men no matter their wrongs against us. At times it feels as though the very jaws of hell have opened beneath us and we may fear that we are lost forever--but God is faithful. I have a testimony that Christ is always with us and will never leave us comfortless. John 16:33 is likely my favorite scripture (it’s hard to just pick one!). Christ says to us: In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

What greater comfort can we have then from God? He has overcome the world!

I know that Christ lives. I know He is the Word, the Great I Am. I know that “He came to earth, oh, wondrous plan/To suffer, bleed and die for man.” The story of His birth never ceases to bring tears to my eyes and warmth to my soul. God’s love for His children is without end—it is fathomless! I feel His love daily and I hope someday, to sing praises with the angel choirs in heaven— “Glory to God in the Highest!” I am humbled to the dust, knowing that the Author and finisher of my faith, is my eternal friend--my Savior.

I pray that you will feel His love this season, and that you may remember that Christ was born for you—He lived for you, and He died for you. He rose again on the third day, having conquered death and hell, and because of Him, we can live forever. Praise be to God!

I want to close this post with my favorite verse, of my favorite Christmas hymn, O Holy Night:

"Truly He taught us to love one another, 

His law is love and His gospel is peace. 

Chains he shall break, for the slave is our brother. 

And in his name all oppression shall cease. 

Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we, 

With all our hearts we praise His holy name. 

Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we, 

His power and glory ever more proclaim! 

His power and glory ever more proclaim!"

This is my prayer and my testimony. In His glorious name, amen.

Happy Reading and Merry Christmas!