Words of Art

Isn't this cool????

I should be working on edits (thus my lack of personal blogging of late) but heard about this cool site that turns words into works of art. Had to share it!

Check out Wordle and make some words of art!

DragonLight

For fantasy lovers and/or those inspired by great books (that should cover all of us, right? ;-) ) here's a story and a series to experience.

DragonLight by Donita K. Paul
WaterBrook Press, June, 2008

The fifth book in the Dragon Keeper Chronicles, concluding the drama that has been building since DragonSpell was released in 2004.

Donita K. Paul weaves eternal truths into a page-turning story and still takes time to tickle her reader with humorous characters and situations.

As Kale and her father are busy hatching, bonding, and releasing the younger generation of dragons as helpers throughout the kingdom, the light wizard has little time to develop her skills. Her husband, Sir Bardon-despite physical limitations resulting from his bout with stakes disease-has become a leader, serving on the governing board under Paladin.

When Kale and Bardon set aside their daily responsibilities to join meech dragons Regidor and Gilda on a quest to find a hidden meech colony, they encounter sinister forces. Their world is under attack by a secret enemy. Can they overcome the ominous peril they can't even see?

Come meet the 2008 RITA inspirational finalists

This week I'd like to introduce you to Pamela Tracy, a wonderful lady who single-handedly organized a bunch of busy authors into doing a very fun series of interviews about the 2008 RITA inspirational finalists. Thanks, Pam! :-)

PAMELA TRACY started writing at age twelve (A very bad teen romance featuring David Cassidy from the Partridge Family). Later, she honed her writing skills while earning a BA in Journalism at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas (And wrote a very bad science fiction novel that didn’t feature David Cassidy.) Pamela sold her first romance It Only Takes A Spark to Barbour in 1999. Her next book Daddy for Keeps is out from Harlequin’s Steeple Hill Romance line in January of 2009. Since then she’s written a variety (sixteen made it to book shelves; Four are covered with cat hair and still hiding under the bed) of novels, novellas, and prayer books.

1. Describe your RITA phone call.

Of all my friends who entered, I think I expected it the least. Lisa Mondello mentioned to me that Tuesday morning that "Calls are going out." I promptly forgot. When my cell phone rang at 10:25, I was in my office five minutes away from teaching a comp class. When Jill St. John said, "I'm calling from RWA..." My first thought was, "Oh, the Desert Rose chapter is having a contest next weekend. They must have a question." Then, she said, "Your book, Pursuit of Justice, is a RITA® finalist." I about fell over. I did make a lot of noise (apparently, according to my coworkers, a lot of noise). And, promptly I made three quick phone calls: best friend, editor, and agent. Then I went off to teach a class to 24 students who'd never heard of the RITA®.

2. Tell us about the RITA book and why you think it stood out it the crowd.

Pursuit of Justice felt like a different book right from the beginning. I started writing it, oh, eight years ago. It was before baby, before marriage, I think I started it between anthologies. See, there was like a six book span where I wasn’t writing novels, instead I was writing – making that selling – novellas and prayer books. The 80 pages novellas kept having suspense elements and I kept muttering “Arg, if I could only have 200 more pages, I could ‘really’ make this a suspense.” Well, during that mind thought, Rosa’s (she’s the heroine) story tapped me on the shoulder. Rosa’s a wonderful gal. She tapped me, complete! I knew the beginning, middle, and end. That usually doesn’t happen. Of course, I got to about chapter two of her book, and I think I sold a prayer book. Once I finished the prayer book, I made it to chapter five of Rosa’s book, and then I sold another anthology. Every time I started to work on Rosa, I’d sell something else. Finally, I got an agent and he sold Rosa while she was only about 75% complete. Rosa finally got closure. What makes this book stands out is it was eight years in the making, and the whole time I was learning craft via the other sells. Boy, was Pursuit of Justice developed.

3. How many books have you written?

Four under the bed
Sixteen on the shelves
One in progress

4. Do you have a favorite?

Of course! Pursuit of Justice! First, it’s a RITA finalist (pinch, pinch) Plus, not only did the book and her characters keep me company for eight years, but Rosa then asked her friends if they’d like books too. Ruth and Mary both said yes. There were two more books published by Love Inspired Suspense: The Price of Redemption and Broken Lullaby.

5. Describe your writing process.

I have an old calendar and a spiral notebook by my computer. I usually roll out of bed about 5:30 a.m. Blurry eyed, I head to my computer. On the calendar, I keep track of the timeline. For example, Rosa was set in winter, so I decided on the month, and then in my calendar, I chose a day and wrote it down for her to get stopped for speeding by the cops. I tend to have my romances start and stop within days. Nope, don’t like that. Keeping the calendar helps me give the romance time to develop. The notebook has three columns and usually about fourteen rows. I keep track of every chapter – writing down what happens to her in column one, what happens to them in column two, and what happens to him in column three. Each row, of course, is a chapter. I’m a SOTPs writer. I’m working on a suspense called Lost Identity right now. I’m on chapter six. So, rows 1 – 5 are pretty filled. I kept track of names, happenings, etc. Rows 6-14 are sparse. I’ve jotted down ideas (in pencil so I can move them). I’ve also figured out that this will not be a 14 chapter book, so I’ve X’d out rows 13 and 14 and moved what few scribbles I have to other rows/ chapters. I have a toddler and a full time job, so I aim for three pages a day. In a current calendar, starting with Monday, I’ll write 103 – 106. On Tuesday, I’ll write 106 – 109. On Wednesday, I’ll write 109 – 112. You get the idea. Now, I ‘really’ aim to get those pages done. If I get more, I adjust my numbers. If I get less, then the next day I REALLY have to work. I don’t put number goals for the weekend. Anything I write on Saturday and Sunday is a gift.

6. When did you decide to become a writer and why Christian fiction?

I decided to become a writer as a toddler. I’d scribble and then take the scribbles to my dad and demand he tell me the story I just wrote. He’d make up a story. Um, he was an old army man, currently a lumberyard manager. I’m pretty sure his stories were scary (LOL! Which is probably why I write suspense and have dead bodies in my books). I think what happened next is I fell in love with David Cassidy (although it was Bobby Sherman who answered my fan letter) and wrote stories about him. Fast forward a few years and you have my girlfriends and I making up stories about the boys we’d met at Skateland (I still remember those boys’ names). Finally, I started writing stories in my notebook. I wrote a secret baby – about the time a fifteen year old friend had a baby. I wrote an historical – about the time I read my first romances (Hmmm, shall I admit I cut my teeth on Rosemary Rogers, Patricia Mathews, and Jennifer Wilde?)

I REALLY decided to become a writer in the weeks after my mother died. I’d told her I was going to be a writer. I purchased a computer from Montgomery Wards and set it up on a card table in my bedroom. I wrote a 300 page, single spaced, (not yet completed) Star Trek TNG. Then, I took a creative writing class at a local college and changed to romance and wrote four books (the before mentioned four that are under the bed). As to why Christian fiction… Well, I am a Christian and God pretty much nudged me in the right direction.

7. Tell us about your next or upcoming projects.

My first Love Inspired romance Daddy for Keeps comes out in January of 2009. I have a web master heroine and a bull rider hero. It’s a secret baby (I’ve come a long way since age 15 LOL) Then, I’m working on a three book suspense series called Seeking the Lost about three sisters. It hasn’t sold – yet.

8. Do you have any advice for unpublished writers?

Read, read, read. Write, write, write. Read in the genre you think you’ll write in. Don’t expect it to happen overnight. Never give up. If you write a page a day, you’ll have a novel in a year. Go to workshops, conferences, make writing friends.

Thanks for having me!

Find out more about Pam and her writing...

http://www.pamelakayetracy.com/

http://ladiesofsuspense.blogspot.com/

Come meet the 2008 RITA inspirational finalists

This week's 2008 RITA finalists interview is with Irene Hannon, who writes both romance and romantic suspense. Irene is the author of more than 25 novels. Her books have been honored with a RITA Award, the Holt Medallion and a Reviewer’s Choice Award from Romantic Times BOOKreviews magazine. More than 1 million copies of her novels have been sold worldwide. A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, she now writes full-time for both Steeple Hill and Revell. She and her husband live in Missouri.

1. Describe your RITA phone call.

I got the call early in the morning, not long after I sat down at my computer to write. Needless to say, it was VERY difficult to concentrate after that! I did manage to stick with my work in progress all day—after calling a few friends and family members to share the news, of course. But the next morning I took a couple of hours off and treated myself to Starbucks!

2. Tell us about the RITA book and why you think it stood out in the crowd.

There is a lyrical quality to Rainbow’s End that may have appealed to the judges. The beautiful but remote setting was also an integral element of the story, with the physical isolation acting as a metaphor for the emotional isolation of the three main characters. That may have helped make the book stand out, too.

But bottom line, I think the deeply emotional story is what vaulted this book to the finalist list. The book is about two lonely people—a shattered man and a disfigured woman—who join forces to help a traumatized little boy. Along they way, they reconnect with life and find healing, hope and love. It’s a very uplifting, inspiring story, and based on the incredible reader response, it touched a lot of hearts.

3. How many books have you written?

My 25th book was published in May 2008, and I’m under contract for eight more with two different publishers.

4. Do you have a favorite?

That’s like asking a mother to pick her favorite child! I like all my books. I honestly can’t single any one out; they’re all special in their own way. I do have to say, though, that I’m extremely excited about my upcoming suspense debut, and I do think the three books in my suspense series are among the best I’ve written.

5. Describe your writing process.

I’ve been very blessed for the past 4½ years to be able to write full-time after a long career in the corporate world, where I juggled my day job with my writing. Now, I spend every weekday (and some weekends) writing. I’m generally at my desk by eight or eight-thirty and I begin by polishing the pages I wrote the day before. Then it’s on to new writing. I aim for 10 good, new pages a day. I do work from an outline, though these have become less specific through the years.

If I’m in the plotting stage of a book, I may spend a lot of time researching or simply sitting around in my office or garden staring into space. It’s sometimes hard during those phases to convince people I’m actually working!

6. When did you decide to become a writer and why Christian fiction?

I can’t remember a time when I didn’t write. In fact, I was one of the winners in a complete-the-story-contest for a national children’s magazine when I was 10, so I’ve been in print for a long time! My first novel was published in 1985 with Thomas Nelson, which had just started a line of inspirational romances. However, they were about 10 years ahead of their time and the line folded.

I then wrote six books for Avalon before I connected with Steeple Hill. Avalon isn’t a Christian publisher, but it does focus on books with very wholesome, traditional values. I write Christian fiction because it fits my world view and because I sincerely believe it’s possible to tell a compelling, entertaining story without explicit sex, profanity or gratuitous violence.

7. Tell us about your next or upcoming projects.

I have a number of exciting projects in the works.

First, I have a three-book FBI-based suspense series debuting with Revell in February 2009 called “Heroes of Quantico.” I have just received an absolutely glowing endorsement for the first book, AGAINST ALL ODDS, from the master of inspirational romantic suspense, Dee Henderson, so I’m VERY excited about this new venture. The first book revolves around a member of the FBI’s elite Hostage Rescue Team, who is assigned to protect the daughter of a diplomat engaged in a sensitive hostage situation in the Middle East. It’s very fast-paced and exciting!

I also have a new book coming out from Steeple Love Inspired in February 2008. (That will be a first for me—two new books in one month!) APPRENTICE FATHER is about a man wary of commitments who finds himself responsible for two emotionally fragile children when his sister dies in a domestic violence incident. Help comes in the form of a physically handicapped woman whose deep, abiding faith turns off the anti-religion hero, but whose kind and loving ways begin to melt the ice around his heart..

Then, in May 2009, I’ll launch a new series with Steeple Hill called “Lighthouse Lane.” The books are all set on Nantucket, and I’m deep into writing those at the moment.

You can find out more about my upcoming books at www.irenehannon.com

8. Do you have any advice for unpublished writers?

Read a lot. Learn the basics. Write, write, write. Join a group like Romance Writers of America. Submit to contests and read the feedback with an open mind. Attend conferences. Network. And never, ever give up! I had written three books before I sold my first novel. I’m glad I persisted!

We have some winners!

I'm happy to announce we have three winners of some super cool books...

Jerralea and Stampedwithgrace have won a copy of Fatal Deduction.

Gratefulgramma has won Skid.

Please post your email address in the comments and I'll contact you about sending these fun books your way.

Congratulations!

Come meet the 2008 RITA inspirational finalists

Once a week, I'll be sharing an interview with one of the 2008 RITA finalists for the inspirational category. Here's the schedule:

June 2        Linda Goodnight
June 9        Karen Harter
June 16      Pamela Tracy
June 23      Irene Hannon
June 30      Amy Wallace
July 7         Tamara Leigh
July 14       Susan May Warren
July 21       Cindy Woodsmall


This week, I'd like to introduce you to Linda Goodnight and her 2008 RITA novel, A TOUCH OF GRACE

Beginning her career as Golden Heart finalist in 1999, Linda Goodnight’s books have been translated into more than a dozen languages. Among her awards are the Booksellers’ Best, ACFW Book of the Year, and a Reviewers’ Choice Award from Romantic Times Magazine. A former teacher and nurse, she currently writes for both Harlequin Romance and Love Inspired. She and her husband live on a small farm/ranch in Oklahoma. She is delighted and honored to be a 2008 RITA finalist.

1. Describe your RITA phone call.

On ‘the call’ day, I was in town doing some business, partly in self-defense because I didn’t want to sit around all day wishing for a call that didn’t come. I had just pulled up to the stoplight when my cell phone rang.

I answered the phone, expecting my husband. Instead, I got Kelly St. John. She said she was calling for RWA and asked, “How are you today?” The realization struck that this was the call I had wished for. A zing of energy tightened the hair on my head. My skin prickled. It was the weirdest sensation-good, but weird. When I could talk, I replied, “I think I just got better.”

Kelley laughed and went on to tell me I was a finalist. About that time the light changed and I had to drive. To this day, I have no recollection of driving for the next few miles. I kept saying, “Oh, my gosh. Oh, my gosh. Is this real?” and other gushing idiocies. At one point, I think I asked if it was April Fool’s Day.

I’ve always heard people say they pinched themselves to see if they were awake. I actually did that, thinking I must be dreaming. I mean, really, me a RITA finalist? It had to be a dream.

When Kelley finally got rid of me, I drove the seven miles to my house, laughing and crying and praising the Lord. Nah, I wasn’t excited or anything.

2. Tell us about the RITA book and why you think it stood out in the crowd.

I honestly don’t know why A TOUCH OF GRACE stood out from so many other really fine entries. I only know what the book meant to me and how much I loved the characters, the setting, and the theme. The key verses for that book are Isaiah 58 and Matthew 25, which are also my life verses. Maybe my passion for orphans and the needy was projected to the readers. Whatever the reasons, I am grateful.

Here’s a little blurb:
Ian Carpenter is a street minister with a heart for broken people and a subconscious that’s trying to tell him something. Gretchen Barker, an investigative reporter with a dark and painful past, turns the spotlight on Ian’s ministry when her drug-addicted sister turns up dead on the front lawn of the mission. Ian thinks he has nothing to hide. But he does. And the revelations shake the very foundation of who he thinks is and what he believes.

3. How many books have you written?

Over 25

4. Do you have a favorite?

I’ve heard authors say that picking a favorite book is like choosing a favorite child. Although all my kids were favorites, I do have books that stand out in my heart and mind - All three of THE BROTHERS’ BOND, for instance, including the RITA nominee and last year’s ACFW winner, A SEASON FOR GRACE. I truly love those books and thank God for giving me the opportunity to write them.

5. Describe your writing process.

The process changes with every book, but the core way I write doesn’t. I am basically a seat-of-the-pants writer with a little structure to keep me focused. Once I get an idea, I spend a lot of time fleshing out my characters, although I won’t really know them well until I get into the book. I also use a plotting circle that I devised using the “mythical hero’s journey” to lay out the big things that must occur. (An overview of the circle is on my website.) The rest comes organically as I write.

6. When did you decide to become a writer and why Christian fiction?

I’ve always loved the power and beauty of words, but it wasn’t until the mid-nineties, after a serious illness, that I began pursuing the big dream of publication. The desire was always there, I just didn’t think I could actually do it.

Although I did not start out in Christian fiction and still write sweet romance that is not specifically Christian, I love the thought of writing something that directly brings glory to God and has the opportunity to bless or encourage a reader in Jesus’ name. My reader mail lets me know that Christian writing, even when its major purpose is entertainment, is a ministry, and I take that very seriously.

7. Tell us about your next or upcoming projects.

My next book releases in early July! WINNING THE SINGLE MOM’S HEART is a sweet romance from Harlequin available for pre-order at http://www.amazon.com/. This is book four in an adorable author-generated series called “The Wedding Planners”. We authors had so much fun writing the books we now have a Wedding Planners’ blog that features real wedding tips, proposal and wedding stories from your favorite authors, visits from wedding experts, great prizes, as well as info about the series. I hope you’ll check us out. http://harlequin-theweddingplanners.blogspot.com/

I also having Christian fiction scheduled for September-A BRIDE BY CHRISTMAS, a Barbour historical anthology, and A TIME TO HEAL, a contemporary from Love Inspired.

8. Do you have any advice for unpublished writers?

Years ago I met an assistant editor at a conference in Oklahoma City. Fast forward several years and that assistant was now a senior editor who approved the purchase of my first book. As she handed the manuscript to my then and now editor, she said, “Linda is a lovely person. You’ll like working with her.” When my editor told me this I nearly fainted. I had met that woman one time as an unpublished writer and she remembered!

That incident taught me a valuable lesson. Be nice to everyone. The publishing world is small, and both editors and writers have long memories.

And to the usual “study the craft” truths, I’ll add one other thing: If your book is good enough, someone will pay you. Don’t pay them. I feel so bad for new writers who are duped by vanity presses.

Thanks for having me!

Visit Linda at: http://www.lindagoodnight.com/ and http://lindagoodnight.blogspot.com/ or zap her an email and Linda@lindagoodnight.com

Are you searching for a unique whodunit?

Then I have another book to add to your summer reading list!

And two mystery/ suspense lovers will have their very own copies to enjoy! Just leave me a note in the guestbook...

Fatal Deduction by Gayle Roper is a fascinating mix of family dynamics, painful pasts and crosswords puzzles to die for. The clues might be in the puzzles, but the lessons learned on loving the unlovable and depending on the Lord are worth digging into the story and decoding the truth for yourself.

One across… Three down… The answer is in the puzzle. The danger is in not solving it before time’s up.

Libby Burton longs to be close to her twin sister, Tori, but their lives have taken them in different directions. Forced to share Aunt Stella’s old Philadelphia home in order to receive their inheritance, Libby hopes for a change, but it isn’t looking good so far.

First, Tori tries to steal the affection and allegiance of Libby’s thirteen-year-old daughter, Chloe. Then when a crossword puzzle with a hidden warning shows up on their doorstep, Tori refuses to take it seriously—in spite of the dead man who delivers it.

Libby finds comfort in neighbor Drew Canfield, but he hesitates to trust her after his disastrous marriage. As Libby struggles to act faithfully in the midst of these confusing relationships, she must also deal with a stolen diamond and a botched kidnapping. The answer to her problems lies in the riddles of the crosswords, if only she can solve the puzzle before it’s too late.

Gayle Roper has been writing mystery and romantic suspense novels for more than thirty years and is the author of over forty-five books. She is a three-time Christy Award finalist, the winner of three Holt Medallions, and the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from Romantic Times magazine. Her novel Autumn Dreams won Romance Writers of America’s RITA Award for Best Inspirational Romance. She and her husband, Chuck, divide their time between Pennsylvania and Ontario, Canada.

A friend, a book and giving back

Writers write and writers read. I love doing both. What's super cool is when I have the privilege of reading as well as writing an endorsement for a friend's book. And I had the great honor of doing that for author Mike Dellosso.

What I only alluded to in my endorsement for The Hunted, I'll fill out a little for you all. This "spine-tingling tale" held me hostage in my basement office because I was too involved in the story and too scared to walk upstairs and catch some z's. The story, its characters and themes also stayed on my mind long after I finished reading.

I'll say one more thing about Mike before we jump into a more detailed look at Mike, The Hunted and links to learn more.

Mike is battling the beast of cancer. And one of the biggest things I hope will happen with his tour besides tons of readers becoming fans is that tons and tons of folks will lift up Mike, Jen and their three little girls. So please join me in praying for the Dellosso family.


Meet Mike:

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Mike now lives in Hanover, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Jen, and their three daughters. He writes a monthly column for Writer . . .Interrupted, was a newspaper correspondent/columnist for over three years, has published several articles for The Candle of Prayer inspirational booklets, and has edited and contributed to numerous Christian-themed Web sites and e-newsletters.

Mike is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, the Christian Fiction Blog Alliance, the Relief Writer’s Network, and International Thriller Writers. He received his BA degree in sports exercise and medicine from Messiah College and his MBS degree in theology from Master’s Graduate School of Divinity. To read more about Mike’s journey into writing, check out Mike Dellosso's website.

Mike can also be found blogging at Wide-eyed fiction. A visit there is a journey into the heart of a man who loves the Lord.

You can also check out Mike's first chapter. Just be sure to keep an extra flashlight handy!




Step into the story of The Hunted:

A town’s deadly secret will drive one man to the edge of his faith…

Joe Saunders is determined to unravel the mystery surrounding the brutal mauling of his nephew.

Police Chief Maggie Gill is determined to protect her family’s deadly secret.

But neither is prepared for the truth lurking in the shadows of Dark Hills.

After learning of the disappearance of his nephew, Joe Saunders returns to his childhood home of Dark Hills to aid in the search effort. When Caleb is found, badly mauled and clinging to life, Joe embarks on a mission to find the beast responsible.

But the more Joe delves into the fabric of his old hometown, the more he realizes Dark Hills has a dark secret, shrouded for three generations in a deadly code of silence. As Joe unravels the truth behind a series of unexplained animal attacks, murder, and corruption at the highest level of law enforcement, he is led to a final showdown where he must entrust his very life into God’s hands.


Praise for The Hunted:

A great first book from an exciting new author! A vicious enemy, a family secret, a thirst for revenge, and a need for reconciliation all drive The Hunted from intriguing beginning to thrilling conclusion. Skillful prose and great storytelling make Mike Dellosso a writer to watch. I can’t wait for his next book!
—Kathryn Mackel, author of Vanished

Mike Dellosso delivers a spine-tingling tale of hidden secrets, buried hopes and second chances. Interwoven through page-turning drama is the truth about vengeance and the triumph of God’s mysterious ways. The Hunted is a story best read with all the lights on and an extra flashlight handy–just in case!
—Amy Wallace, author of Ransomed Dreams

Something’s coming for you… and you might not be able to stop it. Read this someplace safe as you experience the incredibly descriptive world of The Hunted through the vivid writing and spine-tingling imagination of Mike Dellosso. And sleep with the lights on.
—Austin Boyd, author of the Mars Hill Classified trilogy

With hints of Frank Peretti and Stephen King, The Hunted is a chilling debut. Author Mike Dellosso is certain to make his mark in Christian fiction.
—Creston Mapes, author of Nobody

Mike Dellosso’s pins and needles thriller hurtles the reader down a dark and twisted path. Flickers of faith light the way, and fateful decisions determine the outcome of a horrifying climax. I dare you to take this one home!
—Jill Elizabeth Nelson, author of the To Catch a Thief suspense series

From page one The Hunted grabbed me by the collar and wouldn’t let go. Full of intrigue, supernatural undertones, and true to life characters, I highly recommend this superb debut novel.
—C.J. Darlington, Co-founder & Book Editor, TitleTrakk.com

. . . The Hunted places Dellosso on the list of authors to keep your eye on.
—Vannessa Ng, Aotearoa Editorial Service


A peek inside Mike:

Tell us a little bit about your family.

I’ve been married to my lovely and supportive wife, Jen, for 10 years. We’ve been blessed with three daughters ages 5, 6, and 8. All fun-loving, sweet-spirited, and of course always well-behaved (ahem).

What do you like to do when you’re not working, writing (which is work!), churching, or familysizing?

Read and fool around with my website. Oh, I also mow the lawn, trim the hedges, paint the porch, replace rotted boards, and all that other fun stuff homeowners do to pass the time away. Actually, I’m pretty boring (except when Toby Mac is in the CD player).

Tell us about when your cancer diagnosis.

Yeah, cancer. Kind of a big thing. I was diagnosed on March 17th, St. Patrick’s Day. Here I was getting ready to launch into trying my hand at promoting my new book and in the middle of negotiating a contract for a second book when the doctor dropped the bomb: You have colon cancer.

Funny thing is, I don’t remember ordering colon cancer. Not part of my plans at all.

How has cancer affected your writing?

How has it affected my writing? Well, immediately, it’s halted my writing. With the exception of daily journaling on my blog, I haven’t written a lick since being diagnosed. I love to write, it’s my passion, but this cancer thing trumps it.

I took this diagnosis as a nudge from God that I need to set writing aside for a little while and just concentrate on the most important things: my relationship with Him and my relationship with my family. Sometimes it takes something like cancer to refocus you, to get you to evaluate your life and do a little re-prioritizing.

In the long run, I think the experience of traveling through this valley will only enhance my writing, give it more depth, more texture, more emotion and passion. I know firsthand what it’s like to traverse that Valley of the Shadow of Death, to question Why me?, to be scared of dying, not for dying’s sake but for my family’s sake, to live with a monster inside me that wants to kill me (hey, that gives me a great story idea), to be poked, prodded, scoped, and stuck, to live a life that revolves around the next test result or the next doctor’s appointment. I’ve been there now and I can incorporate those experiences into my stories, into the life of my characters. It’ll be interesting to see how my writing changes once I get back to it.

What has cancer taught you?

One thing I’ve learned is to fully rely on God, to willingly submit myself and put my life in His hands. And of course, this carries over into my writing as well. We writers never know where the next contract is coming from or how much the next royalty check will be for, or even how the next story will unfold, if there is a next story. We are constantly at His mercy, and I’m learning that’s a good place to be.

Where did you get your idea for The Hunted?

The idea for The Hunted came from the internet. I was surfing one day just looking for ideas or something to spark my imagination and get the wheel churning when I came across this story of a small town in Indiana that reported lion sightings back in the 1920’s. Several of the townsfolk said they saw an African lion in the fields surrounding the town. A couple cows were mauled and eaten. Then the sightings just stopped. No one knows where the lion came from or where it went. I thought it was a pretty neat idea and ran with it. Story born. Happy birthday!

What are some of the underlying themes in The Hunted?

Themes are something else, aren’t they? An author can write a story expecting to convey one message and then, when the book’s done, look back and find he’s actually conveyed several messages and none are the one he intended. And then someone can read the book and get something out of it totally different from what the author thought he conveyed.

So, here’s what I think the themes are, what I wanted the themes to be when I wrote the book (whether anyone actually finds these themes is another story entirely, and I’m okay with that, really I am, as long as they get something meaningful out of it).

One theme is the idea of not putting God in a box, of letting Him be God, letting Him work in your life and do some miraculous things. I think too often we put a leash on God and tell Him what He’s allowed and not allowed to do. That’s not our place. God can do anything He wants to do. He’s the one in charge, remember?

Okay, enough of that. The second theme is the danger of a vengeful heart. Vengeance is a powerful thing; I think that’s why God said He’d take care of it. In the hands of mere mortals, it’s a deadly poison, able to consume a man and turn him into a monster. Revenge is not something we should try to harness. We have no business playing with that fire. In The Hunted we see the end result of a vengeful heart unbound.

Lastly, there’s the theme of forgiveness and acceptance and redemption. Beautiful things we experience from the heart our Heavenly Father and pass on to others.

What is one thing writing has taught you about God?

I think part of being made in the image of God is our desire to create. I experience great joy by bringing people to life, forming a world for them to live in and things for them to do. Putting them in a situation where there is no easy out and watching how they react. I can only imagine the fun God must have had creating this world. What a wonderful thought, the Creator at play.

What do you hope to accomplish in your writing?

God’s done so much for me. He loves me while I am so unlovable. Lifted me up out of that miry clay, wrapped His arms around me, and set my feet on solid ground. Made me a new creation and gave me a new life. I’m so undeserving of His love, and yet He so willingly and freely gives it. Why wouldn’t I want to give all of me back to Him?

And that includes my writing. God’s given me a gift and I want to give it back to Him to be used for His service, His Kingdom. I hope and pray my writing and my stories impact people on a spiritual level, if they don’t then I will feel like I’ve somehow failed. Really, when life is all said and done, when we get rid of all the materialism and ambition and rat race stuff, isn’t our sole purpose to glorify God? Isn’t that what it’s all about? Really? That’s what I want to accomplish with my writing . . . to just glorify God and let Him take care of the rest.


To learn more about Mike, hop on The Hunted blog tour~ don't forget to keep the lights on!


A Peek at My Bookshelf
Alien Dream
An Author’s Life
Artistic Blogger
Behind the Mountain
Blog Tour Spot
Camy’s Loft
Canadian Prairie Writer
Chatter Matters
Dee’s Christian Fiction
Fictionary
Gatorskunz and Mudcats
Good Word Editing
Heart Chocolate
His Reading List
Home-Steeped Hope
Humbleoradio
In the Dailies
jessicajournal
Kells Creative Musings
Life in the Midst of Writing
Life with Missy
Light for the Writer’s Soul
Margaret Daley
Mommy Come Lately
My Cup 2 Yours
My Name is Michael Snyder
Not Just Romance but a Love Story
Notes in the Key of Life
Novel Journey
One Day
Penning Prose
Portrait of a Writer . . . Interrupted
Real Women Scrap
Refresh My Soul
Relevant Blog
Savvy ReViews
See Ya On the Net
Sumballo
Terri’s Treasures
The Book Beat
The Law, Books and Life
The Surrendered Scribe
The Suspense Zone
The Write Message
wandering, wonderings of a whacked-out woman
Windows to My Soul
Wisdom Walk
Writing Career Coach
Writing on the Edge

Looking for a great summer read?

Well...I've got a laugh-out-loud book that's sure to please. And a giveaway copy to jump start someone's summer fun.

SKID by Rene Gutteridge is my favorite Occupational Hazzard novel yet! And I totally enjoyed Scoop and Snitch. Rene is a master at comedic writing and creating fascinating characters you'd love to chat with over cofee.

As a homeschool mom, I quickly fell in love with the Hazzard family, homeschoolers that turn sterotypes on their heads. They are where Old School meets New School meets Homeschool and laughter abounds. But you don't have to be a homeschooler to get a kick out of the Hazzard family and their zany adventures.

Each Occupational Hazzard novel focuses on one of the Hazzard children as they set out to discover their place in the career world. What readers find will be lots of laughs, characters to care about and plenty of things to think over when the last page is turned.

So without further ado... here's a little about Rene and her newest novel, SKID.

About the Author:

Rene Gutteridge is the author of twelve novels, including the Boo series, the Storm series, and the novelization for The Ultimate Gift, as well as Scoop and Snitch, the first two Occupational Hazard novels. She lives with her husband, Sean, and their two children in Oklahoma City.

About the Book:

Come Fly The Frenzied Skies!

Blissfully unaware that Atlantica Flight 1945 from Atlanta to Amsterdam is about to make aviation history, First Officer Danny McSweeney focuses his energies on navigating the turbulent personalities of an eccentric female captain, a co-pilot with a talent for tactless comments and conspiracy theories, and a lead flight attendant with an outsized attitude that definitely exceeds the limits for carry-on baggage.

On the other side of the cockpit door, the unscheduled in-flight entertainment includes a potbellied pig, a jittery diamond courier, and the recently jilted Lucy Meredith, whose personal mantra of “What Would Oprah Do?” will be challenged by the sudden appearance of her ex and his new traveling partner. On her left sits Hank Hazard, whose unusually polite but constant requests–prompted by his covert role as a spy for the airline–test the limits of the crew’s customer service.

But as Lucy and the rest of the crew discover, Hank’s odd behavior is linked to a quiet faith that may play a key role in the fate of everyone on board. Especially when an unexpected traveler sets this already bumpy flight on a course toward the unfriendly skies.

Ready to relax, read and laugh out loud? If so, leave me a comment and I'll get a copy of SKID flying your way!

Memorial Day - Remember

As you enjoy pools, picnics and a day off work, I hope you'll remember to pray for the veterans and the families of those who have given their lives for freedom. Also for the men and women serving our country right now.

My grandfather died in World War 2. My dad is a veteran who proudly served our country in Desert Storm. So to my family and to all the men and women and their families who have served and are serving us well...THANK YOU!

Remember Our Veterans

It is the VETERAN, not the preacher,

who has given us freedom of religion.

It is the VETERAN, not the reporter,

who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the VETERAN, not the poet,

who has given us freedom of speech.

It is the VETERAN, not the campus organizer,

who has given us freedom to assemble.

It is the VETERAN, not the lawyer,

who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It is the VETERAN, not the politician,

who has given us the right to vote.

It is the VETERAN,who serves under the Flag.

Freedom isn't free. Please remember to pray for our VETERANS and those serving our country today!

Sun, sand and books- oh, my!

Ahhhh... the ocean. After a week of body surfing, swimming and splashing in the ocean, I'm semi-sad to be back home. But only semi. See, I'm not a beach girl. I truly despise the sand, and sun with a burn is not my friend.

But I love the water. Especially, the emerald coast. Add a good book to that and I'm enjoying a taste of heaven.

During this year's beach trip, I did something I've never done before... Here's a picture to illustrate.

Unfortunately, the reason I've never enjoyed reading a great book on the beach is because I'm usually catching waves and splashing around with my family. Or I'm making sure said waves don't drown my children or nefarious sharks attack and drag my kids away.

I'm happy to report none of the negative, over-active imaginations happened.

I did however finish two books on our vacation and start a third. I finished Death, Deceit and some Smooth Jazz while staying up waaayyy to late. Always do with Claudia Mair Burney's books. She's just that good. I'd highly recommend dancing with some smooth Jazz and cheering Bell on as she slides into sleuthing one more time.

The second book I finished is Sharon Hinck's The Restorer's Journey. Another amazing story told with beautiful and thought-provoking skill. I laughed, cried and worshipped the One as I read this third book in the Sword of Lyric series.

Here's a blurb about The Restorer's Journey:

Back in our world with her teenage son, Jake, in tow, suburban mom Susan Mitchell is ready for life as usual. But when a foreign threat invades their comfortable home, Susan and Jake soon find themselves drawn back through the portal to the world of the People of the Verses. Now she will struggle to love a people who have become her captors, while Jake suffers a tragic betrayal and discovers his destiny as the next Restorer.

Filled with adventure, warmth, and humorous asides, the Sword of Lyric series offers readers an exciting reading experience unlike any other.

So there's two more books to add to your summer reading list~ both receive my HIGHEST recommendations!

And coming this week and next... two giveaways not to be missed. I'll be sharing my thoughts on Skid and Fatal Deduction along with the chance to win copies of both.

Happy Summer Reading!!!

Excuse number 101 for not blogging...

Have you missed me? I've been reading, critiquing, radio interviewing, blog touring and trying to catch a few zzzz's along the way.

At least, that's my story and I'm sticking to it. ;-)

But I wanted to let you all know a few of the books I'll be sharing here soon with some awesome giveaways. Plus, a sneak peek at what I'll be taking to the beach to read and relax...

Coming up the end of May is the super fun and funny book SKID by Rene Gutteridge. I'll be sharing my thoughts and giving away a copy of this awesome summer read.


Next, I'll be reading and giving away two copies of FATAL DEDUCTION by Gayle Roper. I loved her Seaside Seasons books and am looking forward to her newest suspense.





And here are the books that I'm packing in my suitcase..

Death, Deceit and some smooth Jazz by Claudia Mair Burney. I LOVE Claudia and her amazing Amanda Bell Brown mysteries. Claudia can write! And I'm looking forward to spending some time with Bell and Jazz while the ocean waves soothe and Claudia's story keeps me up waaaayyy to late. Like four AM late. Yep, that's how good these books are!

The second book I'm taking with me is by my all-time favorite author, Sharon Hinck. I'm finally able to kick back and read her amazing third Restorer book: The Restorer's Journey. I started reading and had to force myself to step away from the book so I could actually homeschool this week and get some work done. It's not just kids who get summeritis. ;-)

Hope this makes up for my recent silence. ;-) Give yourself a sweet treat and enjoy a great book!

Hanging out with the FBI in DC

I spent this past week in writer euphoria as my family and I toured Washington, DC and Alexandria, VA. And to the many folks praying for me not to get arrested by trying to slip into the FBI building ~ thank you.

God heard and I'm arrest free. ;-)

But I did walk by the Hoover building often and enjoyed a few writer "moments." My kids thought I was a little loopy. But I couldn't help getting giddy thinking, "This is where Steven, Clint and Michael actually walked!"

Okay, I do know they didn't actually walk there, but still. It was a good "moment."

Tuesday, the day I got up the nerve to have my picture taken in front of the FBI building, started with a series of unfortunate events. First, our White House tour was cancelled. Then we morphed into walking robots and took in so many sights my head is still spinning. There were also some "lost" moments where maps were studied and I tried to put on a brave face and just keep walking, hoping we'd end up somewhere safe.

After that, I paced in front of the FBI building like a lost puppy, begging for a peek inside.

That I did not get.

But what came next made up for it.

On a whim, my husband suggested we take a different street to head back to the car. And there before us~ just a few blocks from the FBI building~ was a Borders bookstore. My husband suggested we go in.

I hesitated. What if my books aren't there? That would so stink.

But in we went.

And not only was my book there....multiple copies were on a face-out, eye-level special shelf!!!! RIGHT NEAR THE FBI BUILDING!!!

I did a jig, my kids rolled their eyes and my hubby snapped a picture.

It was a "moment" of pure bliss.

And the manager asked me to sign their stock to boot. In my mind's eye, I was walking down red carpet and waving. ;-)

But God wasn't finished with His little surprises and funny shuffling of my itinerary.

The next day, we had a rescheduled White House tour and ended up behind a huge group of eighth graders and in front of another group of folks. Things got all mixed up and everyone had to move to yet another line.

When that happened, we ended up behind one person we'd spoken to with the eighth grade field trip and in front of a very friendly older couple. My kiddos struck up a conversation and soon this couple asked about the book my husband was holding.

The book I'd sort of ridiculously hoped I'd be able to leave for President Bush.

Between my kids' excited chatter about my writing and my husband handing out my business cards like candy, tons of folks were excited about the Defenders of Hope stories.

It was another "moment."

Needless to say, I didn't get to leave my copy of Healing Promises at the White House. But one of the ladies from the eighth grade tour group was so excited to see me after the tour and asked if I'd left the book. It was so sweet how much she'd hoped I'd get to do that.

We chatted a little and then I joined my family again. But God had another surprise and nudged me to go back to this kind woman and give her the book.

I did.

She nearly cried and called to all of the other teachers and parents, telling them about both of my books and that I'd given her a copy. Seeing her face and how much joy that little offering gave reminded me of why I write and that God has so much more in store than I can imagine.

I came home super charged that I'd actually rubbed elbows with real, live FBI heroes and walked in the footsteps of my characters.

Even more, that God's shuffling of my plans on multiple days resulted in a special God-kiss of knowing Healing Promises is hanging out right down the road from the FBI.

Most of all, I saw God do what I've prayed He'd do through every book~ encourage hearts and draw people closer to Him.

That was the best "moment" of all~ sensing His smile as I enjoyed the God-kisses and needed reminders He'd planned long before I stepped foot in DC.

So a special thanks to all of you who prayed. God showed up and filled me to overflowing with the sights, experiences and fun we had during our week away.

And maybe next trip I'll figure out a way inside the FBI fortress.... completely legally, of course!

How to stay humble

Today I had a blast on the TV show Mornings with hosts Lorri and Larry! And a question one of the callers asked is still rattling around my brain.

He asked, "How do you stay humble?"

I started to laugh because I have no reason to entertain diva thoughts, especially knowing that when I left the show I had kids to chauffeur to the dentist then lunch to fix. Besides that, God has more ways to keep me humble than I have brain cells to comprehend. And He uses a plethora of ways on any given day.

The bathroom scale
Cleaning up after kids and stomach flu do battle
Ironing
Making yet another PB&J sandwich
Editing

And one of the biggest ways I've seen God work in this area is by simply reminding me that I write for His glory and it's God who's touching readers' hearts.

It helps that I have an incredible family and wonderful friends who keep me grounded too.

But now I'm curious. Have you all thought about ways God keeps you humble?

Happy Birthday Honey!

While today's not my wedding anniversary, it is my awesome hubby's birthday! And I need your help to complete a special something that's happening over at the Life with Missy blog!

So please visit Missy Tippen's home on the web and put on your poetry hat for a chance to win a fun Healing Promises gift pack!

And as a special incentive...if anyone can tell me where the posted poem came from as well as where it appears in Healing Promises, I'll give away an extra gift pack.

So hop over to Missy's blog and join the fun!

And please leave my handsome hubby a special birthday note either here or at Missy's place. Thanks!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAVID!!!

I LOVE YOU TO INFINITY...AND BEYOND!

My Soul to Keep

If you're a fan of reading well into the night, My Soul to Keep is a story for you! But be sure to keep the lights on all throughout the house.

This week, the

Christian Fiction Blog Alliance

is introducing

My Soul To Keep

(Multnomah Books - February 5, 2008)

by

Melanie Wells

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A native of the Texas panhandle and the child of musicians, Melanie Wells attended Southern Methodist University on a music scholarship (she's a fiddle player), and later completed graduate degrees in counseling psychology and Biblical studies at Our Lady of the Lake University and Dallas Theological Seminary.

She has taught at the graduate level at both OLLU and DTS, and has been in private practice as a counselor since 1992. She is the founder and director of LifeWorks counseling associates in Dallas, Texas, a collaborative community of creative therapists.

When the Day of Evil Comes is her first published work of fiction, and the first of a three-book series. The second work, The Soul Hunter was released in May, 2006. Melanie lives and writes in Dallas.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

As nasty as I knew Peter Terry to be, I never expected him to start kidnapping kids. Much less a sweet, funny little boy with nothing to protect him but a few knock-kneed women, two rabbits and a staple gun…

It’s psychology professor Dylan Foster’s favorite day of the academic year…graduation day. And her little friend Christine Zocci’s sixth birthday. But the joyful summer afternoon goes south when a little boy is snatched from a neighborhood park, setting off a chain of events that seem to lead nowhere.

The police are baffled, but Christine’s eerie connection with the kidnapped child sends Dylan on a chilling investigation of her own. Is the pasty, elusive stranger Peter Terry to blame? Exploding light bulbs, the deadly buzz of a Texas rattlesnake, and the vivid, disturbing dreams of a little girl are just pieces of a long trail of tantalizing clues leading Dylan in her dogged search for the truth.


“Like water rising to a boil, My soul To Keep’s suspense sneaks up on you…before you know it, you’re in the thick if a frightening drama…Superbly crafted.”
---ROBERT LIPARULO, author of Deadfall, Germ, and Comes A Horseman


“Written with passion, a good dose of humor and, dare I say it, soul, this novel reminds us that we all, with grace and good fortune, bumble our way toward salvation.”
---K. L. COOK, author of Late Call and The Girl From Charmelle

New books to introduce to you

Chapter-a-Week is a great way to meet new authors and visit with established favorites as you enjoy reading a chapter and chatting about the stories. Here are the novels highlighted this week...

A Bride So Fair

Book Three in A Fair to Remember

by Carol Cox

A young woman searching for independence and adventure.

A handsome Columbian Guard striving to protect and defend.

A little boy caught in a web of intrigue and deceit.

Emily Ralston is delighted when she lands a job at the Children's
Building at the Chicago World's Fair. And the White City seems to be
living up to its promise of excitement when she meets Stephen Bridger, a
handsome Columbian guardsman. Surely Emily isn't the only one to
sense the spark of electricity between them?

When Stephen finds a lost boy, he delivers him to the Children's
Building to be cared for until his mother is located. But when a dead
body believed to be little Adam's mother is found, a mystery begins
to unfold. While unraveling the truth, Emily and Stephen are drawn
deeper into danger and closer to each other.

"Carol Cox has skillfully woven a heart-tugging romance and
page-turning intrigue around a fascinating historical setting, bringing
all three to life." --Linda Windsor, author of Wedding Bell Blues
and For Pete's Sake

"This talented author's sweet and charming love story—set
during the Chicago World's Fair of 1893—is a delightful
diversion." --Romantic Times BOOKReviews

Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear

Book Two in the Bargain Hunters mysteries

By Sharon Dunn

"A quirky `who done it,' Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear is
the perfect mystery for women who love bargains and surprise
endings." --Melanie Dobson, author of Together for Good and Going for Broke

"If you enjoy whimsy, humor, and fun characters with your mystery,
Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear is for you! But beware! Under the
laughs are buried strong spiritual truths. A delightful, thoughtful
read." --Gayle Roper, award-winning author of Fatal Deduction

"The bargain hunter gals are at it again! Dunn's riotous romp
seamlessly tucks in truth and light and leaves us in stitches. A
must-read for those who think living by faith is boring." --Lois
Richer, author of Healing Tides

Ginger and her bargain hunter friends head down the Wind-Up
Hotel in Calamity, Nevada to outlet shop, attend the world's largest
garage sale and help Ginger's husband Earl get his invention off the
ground at the Inventor's Expo. But their girlfriend time vacation
doesn't go quite how they had planned…

To read an excerpt of these new titles go to Chapter-a-Week
and to join our deeper discussion go to our new site Chapter-a-Week Chat

where authors and readers discuss new titles together.

Healing Promises blog tour!

It's finally here!!! Come join me April 7th through 30th as I travel all across the blogsphere and even to parts Down Under!

There will be Healing Promises gift pack giveaways and other chances to win a signed copy of Healing Promises. Along the way I hope you'll learn lots, laugh much, and be inspired to trust that God is good, even when things don't go the way we pray.

April 7
Jennifer Allee

April 8
Jill Nelson

April 9
Sally Datria

April 10
Nora St. Laurent

April 11
Lindi Peterson

April 12
Rel Mollet, David Wallace

April 14
Tricia Goyer

April 15
Dineen Miller

April 16
Novel Journey

April 17
Cindy Woodsmall

April 18
Sharon Hinck

April 19
Gina Conroy

April 21
Keep Me In Suspense

April 22
Book Lover's News, Mary A.

April 23
Missy Tippens

April 24
Laurel Wreath, Danica

April 25
FAITH blog

April 26
Christy Smith

April 28
Christa Allan

April 29
Tiff Colter

April 30
Tiff Miller

Your Know You're a Writer When...

"You can take criticism gracefully from anybody but a relative, a friend, an acquaintance, or a stranger."

HA! That's me some days. ;-) Hopefully not most.

This and some other great quotes are from the book You Know You're a Writer When... by Adair Lara.

Here's one more for your funny bone...

"You like everything about writing...except the paperwork."

I totally resemble that remark.

Other than Ms. Lara's great quips about writing, I thought of one way I realized I'd "arrived" in the writing world.

It's not the voices in my head... though I have had that problem from time to time.

It's not the plethora of sticky notes, index cards or folders of research... though my desk would trumpet the reality that I keep paper makers in business.

No, I realized I was a writer when I received my first email from someone whose heart had been touched through a story with my name on it.

And I realized I was a much loved writer when my name and book cover showed up in my church's newsletter inviting everyone to come to my next book launch. Maybe that seems like a little thing to you. But it's HUGE to me. It's a paper hug that speaks support, encouragement and prayers that my church family is sending my way. It's also a God kiss that reminds me He's close and has everything, even my writing safe in His hand.

Hope you receive this weekend a special God kiss that reminds you He's there and loves you abundantly, extravagantly more than you can imagine!

6 random things

I don't know what I'd do without tags from friends to make me blog. ;-) A very sweet friend drew me out from under an avalanche of emails with the tag below. Thanks, Tori!

I have to tell you 6 unimportant things about myself, then tag 6 others to do the same and provide links to them and the original tagger.

1. I totally dig Godiva dark chocolate mint medallions.

2. I still have a teddy bear collection, including some bears from East Berlin.

3. I'm eating a gluten and dairy free diet and have found some foods that actually taste really good. ;-)

4. Blue is my favorite color.

5. My favorite place in the world is the beach.

6. I'm learning the joys of homemade chai instead of Starbucks.

Now, the six people I have tagged are: you! ;-) This is an if-you-want-to-play-along tag. So join the fun and leave a note in the comments.