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JUNE COTNER
WHO AM I?: Besides being a wife, mother, and grandmother,
I’m an author, editor, and anthologist. I have had 26 books published including the bestselling Graces and Bedside Prayers.
My books have sold over 860,000 copies and have been featured in USA Today, Family Circle, Better Homes & Gardens, Woman’s
Day, and Good Housekeeping. I love hiking in the Olympic Mountains and playing with my grandchildren. My favorite reading
genre is memoirs; two of my favorites are EAT, PRAY, LOVE and THE GLASS CASTLE.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY?: My career of compiling
inspirational books happened almost by chance. After THE HOME DESIGN HANDBOOK was published, my agent came to my home for
dinner and saw a binder called “Graces” I'd put together for our family. When my children were young, instead
of using standard graces, I wanted to find more inspiring ways of expressing gratitude around the dinner table. My agent looked
through my binder and thought it would make a perfect book! She suggested it would be stronger if I included pieces from lesser
known poets and writers, which was a brilliant suggestion. My anthologies feature approximately 80% contemporary writers (for
freshness) and 20% classic and famous authors (for familiarity). GRACES (HarperOne: 1994) is now in its 37th printing.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY?: Through my
books, I endeavor to publish poetry, prayers, and prose that uplifts the human spirit offers comfort, encouragement, hope,
and inspiration helps us appreciate our blessings and honor the sacred in everyday life helps celebrate life’s major
passages, including honoring our family members offers subtle insight to help improve our relationships with others
I enjoy including poems and prayers in my anthologies that reflect and
embrace the divine without being prescriptive.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING?: Because
my books are spiritual in nature, I am grateful that reading submissions for my books becomes a form of everyday prayer. I’m
particularly attracted to interfaith prayers for my anthologies because I like to focus on what we have in common rather than
how we are different. I usually create a “test market” manuscript for each of my books consisting of all my favorite
pieces. My “test market” readers include a priest, a rabbi, and minister. When all three clergy members love a
particular prayer, I know that prayer will make the final cut for the book.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS: I just completed the
book proposal for EARTH BLESSINGS: POEMS, PRAYERS, AND PROSE FOR CREATING A GREENER EARTH. It’s currently being shopped
to publishers. I have almost completed the proposal for WISDOM OF WOMEN: THOUGHTS AND POEMS FOR EVERY STAGE OF YOUR LIFE.
Submissions: Any interested readers can go to
my website, www.JuneCotner.com, click on “Calls for Submissions” for information on contributing
to my books.
PHIL BOATWRIGHT
WHO AM I? Phil Boatwright, film
reviewer for Preview On Line, Baptist Press, "Mornings with Lorri & Larry" (radio/TV simulcast on FamilyNet TV.) and several
other outlets. I write about Hollywood’s impact on our culture and review films from a Christian perspective.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY? For the
past twenty years I have been reviewing films from a Christian perspective - offering the synopsis and content so families
could make informed decisions as to their suitability. Being a movie buff, I also suggest video alternatives - films with
the same theme or style as the new pictures, but without the material many may consider objectionable. The most endearing
films, like parables, nourish the spirit as well as entertain. I delight in bringing such movies to the attention of my readers.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY?
My work is meant to be a tool. If a filmmaker has the right to put whatever he wants in a film, then a filmgoer has the right
to be warned. My bottom line: the truth is always found in God’s Word, seldom in Hollywood’s products.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING?
I began my work/ministry over two decades ago mainly because I was hearing God’s name being profaned in a great many
films – movies from all genres and by nearly every major film star. I continue with my film reviewing because of my
faith. It is my belief that God is to be reverenced. Few in the motion picture industry do this on screen. And it does influence
our culture and even our churches.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS: MOVIES:
THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE REALLY, REALLY BAD. (Check a review of his book under non-fiction.) Everything A Christian
Needs To Know About Movie-Going! Presently, I am working on a Vol. 2. My weekly film reviews can be found on Preview On Line
(previewonline.org) and I write a monthly column concerning the media for Baptist Press (baptistpress.com).
Website:
Preview On Line (previewonline.org), The Movie Reporter (moviereporter.com)
Email: moviereporter@sbcglobal.net
Liz Johnson
WHO AM I?: I am a child of God and always loved by Him. I am a daughter,
sister, and aunt to the most wonderful family in the world. I am a full-time publicist, a sometimes writer (not nearly as
regularly as I should), and an even less frequent jogger. I am blessed beyond measure.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY?: I write love stories. I’ve started with
romantic suspense because it’s what I love to read. I love reading stories of true love with happy endings, so that’s
where I wanted to start my writing career. I think romantic novels offer a temporary respite from reality and lots of entertainment.
It makes me so happy to think that I can offer that to readers through my writing.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY?: My goal in all of my stories is to
convey whatever God is teaching me as I’m writing it. I find reoccurring themes—areas God is always working on
in my heart—include relying on Him and trusting the path that He’s prepared for me. I want to encourage my readers
to find hope in Christ and in His plan for their lives, even during really difficult times.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING?: I think my faith is the most integral
part of my writing. It affects what I write. All of my stories have spiritual themes and encouragement for the readers. It
affects what I don’t write. I’ve joked with friends about writing risqué romances, which often sell better than
Christian market romances, but I just couldn’t write something that doesn’t line up with my beliefs. And my faith
impacts why I write. Writing isn’t always easy. In fact it can be really hard work. But I know that God has given me
a talent for writing, and I refuse to waste that just because it’s tough. On days that I want to give up, I remind myself
of the responsibility that’s been given to me.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS: THE KIDNAPPING OF KENZIE THORN, which is the
story of Myles Parsons, who is just another inmate in Kenzie Thorn’s GED course until he kidnaps her, offering only
a feeble explanation–that he’s actually FBI Special Agent Myles Borden. Terrified, Kenzie doesn’t want to
believe his story of being undercover to protect her. Moreover, she can’t believe that someone might really want her
dead.
But just when Myles thinks he has her out of harm’s way, his plans
start to fall apart. He attempts to take Kenzie to a safe house—but the stubborn woman won’t go! So together they
must uncover the clues that will reveal a most shocking perpetrator. All the while Myles tries to keep his distance from Kenzie
… but finds himself falling in love.
Will Davis Jr
WHO AM I?: I am Will Davis Jr—a husband, father, pastor, author,
and a Christ-follower. I have been a resident of Austin, Texas all of my life. I met Christ when I was nine years old
and have been very serious about my faith for the last thirty years. The love of my life, Susie, and I were married June 1,
1985. Susie is also a writer, a speaker and a radio host. We have three totally awesome kids, two that are in college.
In 1993 Susie and I started Austin Christian Fellowship. It was and is
our best effort to help close the gap between the city we love and call home and the Savior we worship. We are living our
dream.
I enjoy hiking, snowshoeing and water-skiing.
WHAT DO I
WRITE AND WHY?: Several years ago, while enjoying some down time over the Christmas holidays, I felt a gentle nudge to write
a devotional. That’s all it was—just a nudge. So I wrote a brief devotional and then posted it in our church newsletter.
Then, I wrote a few more devotionals, and it turned out that I actually
liked writing. Well, those few devotionals turned into a daily email devotional that went out all over the nation for over
three years. After that, a book seemed inevitable. I never planned to be a writer. It just happened.
I write because I can’t not write. It’s just in me. As a
pastor, I find that writing makes be really wrestle with thoughts and concepts that the Bible presents. Writing makes me a
better teacher.
I write about what God is doing in me and what he’s teaching me.
Writing, like teaching, is a very personal process for me. I can’t really communicate what I’m not convicted about,
so I write about what God is showing me.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY?: In the Pray Big book series, I challenge
people to not “under-ask” in prayer. I encourage Christians to not settle for weak and lame prayers that don’t
ask anything of God. I want Christians to use the Bible to ask big, hairy, audacious things of God. I want them to ask things
of God that only God can do.
In PRAY BIG FOR YOUR CHILD, I show parents how to apply the principles
of pinpoint praying and praying big, hairy, audacious prayers to their prayers for their kids. Prayer is the most effective
parenting tool that God has giving us. In PRAY BIG FOR YOUR CHILD, I show parents how to fully utilize God’s Word as
they seek his best for their kids.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING?: My faith is inseparable from my writing.
It’s the same in my teaching. If I don’t communicate the Bible accurately and powerfully, then I’ve got
nothing to say. For me, writing is part of the calling of God on my life to faithfully communicate his Word. It’s just
through another medium.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS: I have been blessed to write five books with
Revell Publishers. The last of that five book series, FAITH SET FREE: LEARNING TO PRAY WITH RECKLESS ABANDON, comes out May
1, 2009. I wrote four books in 18 months, and needless to say I was a little weary after that. I’ve been on a writing
sabbatical for a few months, and I’m just gearing up for what I hope will be my next writing season. I have more ideas
than I can possible write about, so we’ll see where God leads me. Stay tuned!
Jill Williamson
WHO AM I?: I am a novelist and freelance editor. I love to read and started
Novel Teen Book Reviews (www.novelteen.com) to help teens find great books to read. We review books for ages 8-12, 12-16,
and 16 and up. Our site has a search box that helps readers find books by age, genre, or gender. (ACR also does reviews for
Teens/Young Adults)
I also run www.teenageauthor.com, a website devoted to encouraging young writers. Teenage Authors has a yahoo
critique group where teens can post their work for review.
My husband has worked as a youth pastor for eleven years, so I’ve
had lots of experience working with teens. I read, write, and play the guitar in my free time. I live in Eastern Oregon with
my husband and two kids.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY?: I write stories that combine danger, suspense,
and adventure for people of all ages. My first novel, By Darkness Hid, was originally a young adult novel, but my publisher
felt it worked for an adult audience. I tend to write speculative genres. By Darkness Hid is the first book in the Blood of
Kings series, which is medieval fantasy. I also have written a few contemporary stories that read like suspense novels but
have fantasy or science fiction elements to them. When I started writing, I felt like there was a lack of entertaining Christian
fiction for older teen boys. So that’s what originally motivated me to write the stories I wrote, but also because they
were the kind of books I liked to read.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY?: That God is the desire of our hearts.
No matter what we face, knowing him will make life more worthwhile. He created us for a purpose. If we want to know our purpose,
we must discover him. Also that the Bible is God breathed and gives us all the answers we need for life. A lot of people just
don’t know that.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING?: If I had never come to know Jesus,
I would not be writing. He led me here, so I can never forget that this is all for him. Plus my faith impacts my worldview,
which comes through in my writing. You can’t read a novel without grasping how the author sees the world. I hope my
heart for God comes through in my writing and that through my stories, readers can grow in their own faith.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS: My first novel, BY DARKNESS HID, releases
on April 1, 2009 from Marcher Lord Press. It’s a medieval fantasy about a squire who must protect an evil prince, and
a maiden who is masquerading as a boy to avoid a forced marriage. Their stories collide on the battlefield. You can read a
sample chapter and endorsements on my website. I’m currently finishing up book two.
Carolyn B. Anderson
As a Christian for over forty years, I greatly enjoy writing about
God and sharing my writings with others. I have a B. S. in early childhood education and briefly taught in the public school
system and in a Christian school. I first began writing for adults in 1998. Most of my writings have gone into the prisons
across this nation. I still receive letters from grateful inmates who come across my writings in their prison libraries.
In 2006 I began writing for children and teenagers. My desire is for
all, both children and adults, to realize that God has a specific job for each of them to do on this earth and for them to
know that Jesus is coming soon so we all need to get busy finding out what God wants us to do and do it.
When I first found out from God's Word that everyone had a specific calling
upon their lives, I began seeking God for mine. The first thing He led me to do was minister to female inmates through my
writings.
Over the years, I wrote for adults and now God has me writing for children
and teenagers. I have written a book on heaven, one on anger, one on peer pressure and my latest publication is one entitled
"Let's Talk About Honor." (Read the review for TALK ABOUT ANGER under Elementary/Tweens http://idealinhope.com/bookreviews/elementary.html.)
I have also written a Teacher's Handbook and a Student Activity Book
to accompany the books on anger, peer pressure, and honor so they can be used in Christian school settings, homeschools, church
groups or individual studies. I use my website www.andersonpub.com to market and sell my books.
Terri Blackstock
WHO AM I?: I've been writing professionally for over twenty-five years,
the last fifteen in the Christian market. I've sold six million books, 2.5 million of which have faith woven into the tapestry
of my plots.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY?: I write what I call Up All Night Fiction. That
tag line came from so many letters from readers telling me they stayed up all night reading my books. Some even called in
sick to their jobs the next day. Most of it is suspense, because it's what I love to read. I have a short attention span,
so I like to have a lot of plot twists and surprises, escalating danger, and time running out. I write Christian novels because
I want to challenge readers to think and grow, and remind them that there's a loving God watching over them.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY? : The theme of most of my books is
that the crisis is sometimes the blessing. I like to take my characters through terrible trials, facing great evil, and have
them ask hard questions that normal people ask when they're suffering. I want my readers to finish the book feeling that they've
learned something about their own trials, and hopefully it will draw them closer to God.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING?: My plots wouldn't stand without
the faith element, because it's woven into the tapestry of every book. Every writer has a worldview that's apparent in the
way they frame things, the way they have their characters react, and in the themes they choose to illuminate. I'm no different.
I'm a follower of Christ, so that shows through in all of my stories.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS: My latest book is DOUBLE MINDS (See
review under fiction), which is set in Nashville and deals with the Christian music industry. It's a stand-alone novel
about Parker James, a singer/songwriter trying to make it in Christian music.. When the girl filling in for her at her day
job is murdered, Parker realizes she might have been the target. Industry corruption threatens to end her career, and
a killer threatens to end her life.
Kim Vogel Sawyer
WHO AM I? I am a lady who wears many hats--sometimes stacked to the rafters!
:o) I am wife to military hubby Don; mom to three girls; gramma to five precious grandsons; a writer, speaker, Sunday school
teacher, women's fellowship leader, drama troupe leader, petter of cats and consumer of chocolate...but most importantly,
I am a born-again child of the King!
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY? I write predominantly
historical Christian fiction. Even as a child, I was fascinated by history. I taught social studies to fifth graders for many
years, and I loved making history come alive to my students. It is a pleasant excursion for me to travel into past times and
"live vicariously" through my characters. Life without all the gadgets and conveniences of modern is a challenge, yet there's
a simplicity that is appealing to me.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY? In every one
of my stories, the underlying theme seems to be that hope exists when we rest in God's capable, caring hands. This world--and
everything in it--is temporal. Only a relationship with God is eternal. The settings and characters and storylines are different
in each book, but somehow that message creeps through: Our hope is in Him; our joy is knowing who we are to Him.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING? Faith is
the thread that holds my stories together. If the faith thread were removed, all that would remain is a snarl of tangled,
broken yarns. God is so much a part of my life--in every heartbeat of my life. Thus He is always a main character in my stories.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS: MY HEART REMEMBERS,
which released in March of 2008 from Bethany House. It is a very special story to me because it features three orphan train
siblings who long to be reunited. My dear step-grandma was an orphan train rider, so she inspired the story. Please watch
for WHERE THE HEART LEADS, the sequel to WAITING FOR SUMMER'S RETURN, also from Bethany House. It should be hitting bookstores
in early August.
Website: www.KimVogelSawyer.com
Email: kim@kimvogelsawyer.com
Carolyne Aarsen
WHO AM I?: My name is Carolyne Aarsen. I live in Neerlandia which isn't
Near much. We have a farm and horses and a dog and cats. The chickens died and ignoble death at the hands of coyotes and the
cows got shipped so my husband could work up the pasture. We have four children that used to be out of the house but seem
to be bouncing back and forth into our lives, our house and using up our storage space. We also have one grandchild and we
are the requisite mushy grandparents.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY?: My reasons for writing are wide and varied
and after 11 years, it's getting harder and harder to separate them. I write to tell a story that has to come out. I write
so that my characters can struggle with the same faith issues I struggle with. I write because when I don't, something
huge is missing from my life. And the other reality is, I write because I can supplement our household income. As Christian
writers, we often feel we have to see our writing as a calling. And I firmly believe that it is, but I also believe that I
wouldn't have done this for 11 years if I didn't have some monetary expectation. So I'm humbly thankful that I can write the
stories that can express my own faith in the Lord and, at the same time, not have to do it for free.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY?: My main writing goal is to take people
on an honest journey that might make them laugh or cry, but will, hopefully, challenge them to enjoy the fearsome power of
our Lord and to appreciate the people God puts in their lives through family and/or community. I want to show that God loves
us in spite of the darkness of our soul but also the foolishness of it. That gives me great comfort and, I hope, it can comfort
those who read my book.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING?: When I write, as I said, I use
my characters to struggle with my own struggles. They can ask God the hard questions, they can doubt and they can cry and
exult over the same things i do. I often find that the when I"m not afraid to show my own cracks, that's when I make a connection
with readers.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS: Two actually. I'm working on a proposal for
Love Inspired and finishing up a contracted book for Guideposts' Home to Heather Creek Series.
Finally a Family, LI June
08
A Family for Luke, LI Jan 09
Mary Hawkins
WHO AM 1? An Australian farmer’s daughter from Queensland, ex-registered
general and midwifery nurse, Bible College graduate, speaker, women’s Bible study leader, writer, minister’s wife,
mother, and grandmother, living with my husband of over 43 years in Tasmania. Phew, what a list – and I’m sure
I’ve missed a few, including those three Africa short term mission and study teams. Then there were those two years
ministering in England and… Oh dear, I started off not quite knowing where to begin on this question and as I wrote
realised these are really all “outward appearance” stuff. I am so very thankful that despite all I may appear
to be or not be, I am certain my Heavenly Father claims me as His daughter because of what HIS son, Jesus, did for me at Calvary.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY? I write mainly what I enjoy reading the most
myself – romance novels, both contemporary and historical. After writing five medical romances released by Harlequin
Mills & Boon I realised there was simply no time in my busy life to write inspirational romance for the then new Heartsong
Presents book club at the same time. Being able to include specific aspects of the Christian faith in my characters’
lives won hands down! I now have 17 titles released, including the CBA best-seller, AUSTRALIA, a Barbour collection of Heartsong’s
Search series. AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK is the collection of my Heartsong Great Southland historical series. Recently released RETURN
TO BARAGULA, my first single title Christian novel, is Book One in another series set in Australia.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY? As we commit ourselves to Him and His
ways, it is quite normal to be able to have a very personal, real relationship with God in every aspect of our lives. Choosing
a life partner is one of the most important decisions we can make. Christians need to seek, to know what the scriptural guidelines
are about love and marriage, including sex, but then to obey God’s ways to find the real love and joy He longs to give
in “Happy Ever After” relationships.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING? I think perhaps I’ve already
answered that in the answers above. Because I have surrendered my life to God, this means a life of prayer, feeding my own
faith from the scriptures and fellowship with fellow believers, seeking to know and obey God’s leading to fulfil His
purposes in my life. What He has tried to teach me over many years I try to show in the lives of the fictitious characters
in my stories.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT. Released into shops in March, RETURN TO BARAGULA
is Book One in a new single title series. These are my first longer stories and about people who live and are associated with
a small fictitious town in rural New South Wales. Emily Parker's actions as a teenager not only impacted her own life but
the lives of many others. Now, six years later, she returns reluctantly to her home town of Baragula only to discover the
man at the heart of those actions, Matthew Davidson, is the community's respected doctor. There is a touch of mystery, danger
threatens and Emily’s loss of faith and Matthew having become a committed Christian over these years have all to be
dealt with as their story unfolds.
Book Two, OUTBACK FROM BARAGULA is the story of Matthew’s sister,
Jillian, from the family’s cattle station way out west and Steve, one of Emily’s old school friends and the son
of the man her aunt loves. Together they have to find Jillian’s missing twin brother and then do battle with cattle
thieves. OUTBACK FROM BARAGULA is completed and only requiring final revisions. Then of course, the third in the BARAGULA
series, JUSTICE IN BARAGULA, is waiting to be written – but more about that another time.
Autographed copies are available via PayPal on my website after an email
requesting cost.
DEVIN BROWN
WHO AM I?: I am an English Professor at Asbury
College. I live in Lexington, Kentucky with my wife Sharon and our 15-lb cat, Mr. Fluff
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY?: I am the author of INSIDE NARNIA and INSIDE
PRINCE CASPIAN, commentaries on C. S. Lewis and his Narnia books. I am currently working on INSIDE THE VOYAGE OF THE
DAWN TREADER, which will come out in 2010 in advance of the third film. I write about these books because they have
meant so much to me and played such an important role in making me who I am. I hope to share my passion for them with
others.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY?: That the life of the mind and the
world of ideas--in my case the ideas surrounding the Narnia stories--are of critical importance. That God wants us all
to use all of our mind and God-given reason.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING?: I teach at Asbury College where
our focus is on the integration of Faith and Learning. I hope that all of my writing shows this vital integration.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS: INSIDE PRINCE CASPIAN: A GUIDE TO EXPLORING
THE RETURN TO NARNIA (Baker 2008)
J. M. HOCHSTETLER
WHO AM I? I am a professional editor, an author, and now a publisher.
I was an editor with Abingdon Press, an imprint of The United Methodist Publishing House, for twelve years, up until last
summer. My first two books, DAUGHTER OF LIBERTY and NATIVE SON, books 1 and 2 of my American Patriot Series set during the
American Revolution, were published by Zondervan. Then in 2006 I founded my own small press, Sheaf House, to publish outstanding
fiction, with an emphasis on new authors who have fresh new voices.
In my everyday persona, I’m the wife of a truck-driving, motorcycle-riding
retired United Methodist pastor. I live near Nashville, Tennessee, and I have three daughters, four grandchildren, and five
step-grandchildren.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY? As most authors will tell you, I write because
I can’t not write. Writing is as natural as breathing to me. It’s the way I process life and make sense of it.
And it’s the way the Lord has called me to communicate his love, mercy, and grace to his people.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY? The most important thing for me as
I write is to testify to the truth embodied in our Savior, Jesus Christ—his atoning work on the cross to cleanse us
from the stain of sin and to reconcile us to God. I want my readers to know that they are forgiven; that God longs to restore
them to relationship with him; and that no matter what they may have done, there is nothing that can separate them from God’s
perfect, redeeming love.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING? In every way. When I sit down to
write, I ask God to show me what he would have me to write. I couldn’t do the work the Lord has called me to without
a deep reliance on him any more than I could live without air to breathe.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT: My newest project, ONE HOLY NIGHT, is set to
release in April. It’s a modern-day retelling of the nativity story set in the Minneapolis area during the Vietnam War.
It tells the story of a family torn apart by intergenerational strife, war, and illness that is brought together again by
the miraculous birth of a baby. It’s already getting great reviews!
At the same time, I’m in the process of getting two exciting projects
ready to publish through Sheaf House: a young adult romance by Michelle Sutton titled IT’S NOT ABOUT ME, and a cozy
mystery by A. K. Arenz titled THE CASE OF THE BOUNCING GRANDMA. Readers are in for a treat!
LAURAINE SNELLING
WHO AM I? Good question,
sometimes I wonder. I am Lauraine Snelling, daughter of the King, wife, mother, author of over sixty books, mostly fiction,
speaker, business woman, artist, gardener, seamstress, traveler, reader and dreamer of big things. I love to read, good thing
since writers need to read, and hate to put a book down until I finish it. Good thing I am a fast reader. I love to make people
laugh and I have a Phd. in hugging. I love animals, dogs and horses especially, but also cows and cats and elephants and…the
list goes on. And I love telling stories. Guess that’s enough, right?
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY? I write
mostly fiction because I am a story teller and I figure that God tells stories so guess I can too. We remember things told
in story, He hardwired us that way. I write mostly historical fiction because I enjoy history and the families that I create,
like the Bjorklunds of Blessing ND who came from Norway in 1880. I guess I write because I can’t not write. In other
words, I need to write, I feel lost when I’m not writing. Not that I write every day but the stories grow in my mind
all the time. I have to get some written so there is room for the new ones.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY?
That God loves us and forgives us and asks us to do likewise to and for those around us. I think we’d rather just accept
and not go and do likewise. I want to take God at His word and rejoice.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING?
Because of who and whose I am, faith always plays a part in my characters’ lives. We all struggle at times and so do
my characters. If they are doing the struggling and learning, I don’t have to preach. My readers pick up the message
from my characters.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS: SOPHIE’S DILEMMA came out this summer, book two in the Daughter’s
of Blessing series. BREAKING FREE came out in August, my latest contemporary and one of my favorites because of the theme
of rescue, this time a Thoroughbred horse gone crazy and characters who are trying to save him. They are all breaking free.
I am writing ONE PERFECT DAY, a contemporary of two families and the giving and receiving of a donor heart. I cried a lot
writing this one, to be released next October.
Website: www.laurainesnelling.com and www.blessingnd.com. Since Drayton, ND has decided to incorporate my fictional
town of Blessing into part of Drayton, readers can learn more about the town becoming reality and the Bjorklunds and people
of Blessing on the second site. Such fun.
Email: tlsnelling@yahoo.com
Carol Kent
WHO AM I? I'm Carol Kent--a wife, mom, and an international Christian speaker and author.
I work at my favorite hobby, which is leading people to Christ and reminding them that the answers to today's problems are
in God's Word. Many of my weekends are spent speaking at women's conferences and retreats on the subjects of my books, A NEW
KIND OF NORMAL, WHEN I LAY MY ISAAC DOWN, BECOMING A WOMAN OF INFLUENCE, TAME YOUR FEARS, SECRET LONGINGS OF THE HEART, and
SPEAK UP WITH CONFIDENCE. Several times a year I hold a Christian communications seminar called, “Speak Up With Confidence.”
WHAT
DO I WRITE AND WHY? I write nonfiction books, including some Bible studies. My goal is to help people to find hope in the
middle of challenging circumstances and to address felt needs that lead readers to Bible-based solutions.
WHAT
MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY? My major message is to encourage people to make hope-filled choices when life turns upside down.
My husband and I have launched a nonprofit organization called “Speak Up for Hope” (see www.SpeakUpforHope.org), a ministry that benefits inmates and their families. I also train Christians to share their
personal testimonies and to study and teach the Bible with clarity through the “Speak Up With Confidence” seminars.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING? My faith in Jesus Christ as my personal Savior impacts
everything about my writing. I know part of my mission in life is to encourage people to turn fear into faith and to choose
confident action steps as they focus on an eternal perspective.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS A NEW KIND OF NORMAL (Thomas Nelson) (See Review under October
07 Non-fiction.)
The framework for A NEW KIND OF NORMAL is based on the choices my husband, Gene, our son, and
I have made as we continue to face a life situation that has completely changed the rest of our lives. Our only child, Jason
Paul Kent, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland with a stellar personal and military record, murdered
the biological father of his two stepdaughters when he believed their father, who had allegations of abuse against him, was
about to get unsupervised visitation with the girls.
In an instant, everything we were looking forward to in
our “normal happy lives” was no longer an option. There are many people who discover in an “upfront and
highly personal way” how a single event, a moment in time, a word carelessly spoken, an accident on the freeway, a job
loss, an unwanted diagnosis from the doctor, the wrong choices of your child/children, the death of a loved one, a child born
with a disability, or a betrayal by a spouse or a friend can forever reshape the future of their expectations for normalcy,
their definition of happiness, their understanding of true joy, and their dreams for the future.
This book is
about the importance of making eight positive choices when life doesn’t turn out the way we anticipated. The "God's
Power in Your Circumstances" section at the end of each chapter outlines study questions on each topic for self-study or for
small group interaction.
Website: www.CarolKent.org
Email: Speakupinc@aol.com
Kathleen Y'Barbo
WHO AM I? In addition to being a bestselling author, I am a
cheer mom, former hockey mom, and publicist for Books & Such Literary Agency. I've got a Marketing degree from Texas A&M,
and I have a paralegal certification from Southwestern. I am a member of the Public Relations Society of America, the Author's
Guild, and Words for the Journey Christian Writers Guild. I was the first elected treasurer of American Christian Fiction
Writers and, back in 2002, I created the Noble Theme contest, the original ACFW contest for unpublished writers, the precursor
of the Genesis contest. A tenth-generation Texan, I have three grown sons and a teenage daughter and live near Houston. I
have a grumpy orange tabby cat named Baby and a miniature Schnauzer named Baxter who I believe secretly conspire with one
another when I'm not around.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY? I started writing romance in kindergarten when I fell for a boy named Dennis.
After asking how to spell 'my heart beats for you' I was on my way down a career path that's taken me places I never dreamed.
I love the plotting and planning of a book, loathe deadlines, and love seeing the finished product for the first time. When
I came to a saving knowledge of Jesus, I realized that all those things I'd written, going back to kindergarten, were done
in anticipation of the day I would write for Him. Now He is what I write and why I write.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY? There is only one message: Jesus is the way and the truth. While I
don't aim to hit people over the head with a Bible, I do stand for the truth. During the process of writing, I keep a friend
in mind who is not saved. She reads my books, and I write each hoping that the message I send will soften her heart and, eventually,
bring her to Jesus. I know some who can effectively spell out the Gospel in overt ways, and I applaud them for that.
I hope that my books entertain while gently leading. If someone picks up one of my books not knowing it's a CBA book and reads
about Jesus in an unexpected way, then I'm just as happy as if a brother or sister in Christ enjoys it.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING? As a Christian, my faith impacts every aspect of my life. Writing
with a Christian world view, spans all genres, even going into the general market. When a book starts with the premise that
the only way to heaven is through Jesus Christ, there is no doubt it will be a faith-filled book.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS: BELOVED CASTAWAY releases in November 2007 through Barbour's trade line:
Isabelle Gayarre was born of dubious parentage. The illegitimate daughter of a rich white gentleman and
his quadroon mistress, she was born into a gilded cage – loved and adored but a slave nonetheless. Her only hope was
to secure passage to England aboard The Jude to escape to an English country cottage given to her by her half-sister, Emilie.
The cottage—an ocean away from the racist constrains of New Orleans—would give Isabelle a life of freedom.
Yet Isabelle's flight to freedom is almost over before it begins when fire breaks out on the docks of
New Orleans. Narrowly avoiding destruction, Josiah Carter captains The Jude through the flames. The fire, though, has taken
its toll and Captain Carter must find medical care for his men. On the way, he finds himself drawn both to Isabelle and her
faith as those aboard his ship suffer with their fire-induced injuries.
When still another catastrophe strikes the ship in the Florida Keys, Josiah is forced to come to terms
with his faith—and his love of a slave woman whose gilded cage bars her forever from the bonds of matrimony. Does love
truly conquer all? Even the racist society of nineteenth century New Orleans?
See ACR Review of her book next month at http://idealinhope.com/bookreviews/fiction.html
Website: www.kathleenybarbo.com; www.booksandsuch.biz
Email: kathleen@booksandsuch.biz
Neta Jackson
WHO AM I? Neta Jackson, half of the writing team
of Dave and Neta Jackson. We live in Evanston, Illinois.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY? After many years of co-authoring
books with my husband (e.g. the Trailblazer Books, 40 titles of historical fiction for middle readers about great Christian
heroes), in 2002 I began writing women's fiction with my first novel, THE YADA YADA PRAYER GROUP. That novel has since become
a series of seven novels, the seventh of which will be released by Thomas Nelson this Fall, 2007.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY? The Yada Yada
novels are about a group of Chicago women from different ethnic neighborhoods, as diverse as mismatched socks, learning to
"go deeper in prayer" and "higher in praise" as they tackle life's challenges, joys and sorrows, together. If there is a consistent
"message" in the Yada Yada novels, it is the reality of 1 Corinthians 12, which says that the different parts of the Body
of Christ need each other.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING? I'm a Christian
who is a writer, and my faith impacts my worldview, my values, my choices, and my perspective on life and relationships. And
like any writer, my worldview, values, and perspective on life and relationships permeate my writing. The Yada Yada novels
reflect my own journey of faith, and I draw on many of my life experiences and relationships, although in a fictional way.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS THE YADA YADA PRAYER GROUP
GETS DECKED OUT, the seventh and final book in the Yada Yada series, a Christmas (or Seasonal) Novella, which will be released
this Fall, 2007. And now I'm working on a new series, which doesn't have a series name yet! But readers can check out our
website (below) for information:
Website: www.daveneta.com
Email: daveneta@daveneta.com
See review of THE YADA YADA PRAYER GROUP GETS
ROLLING under fiction.
Robin Lee Hatcher
WHO AM I? I'm a follower of Christ who seeks to serve the
King in a ministry of writing. Christian fiction is my area of service. I'm now working on my 55th book. I'm a mom to two
grown daughters and a grandmother to a small tribe of six, ranging from barely 15 to almost 2.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY? I write contemporary women's fiction
that explores things that affect both believers and non-believers -- alcoholism, out of wedlock pregnancies, marriages in
crisis, forgiveness, God's grace, and much more. While entertaining, my novels also point to the hope that can be found in
Christ.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY? No matter what storms beset
us in this life, the Father loves us more than we can comprehend. He will be there with us through it all.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT MY WRITING? In every way. I write
about what God has taught me or is teaching me. Faith is infused into my stories because it is an essential part of me.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS: RETURN TO ME from Zondervan (June
2007). This is a modern day retelling of the parable of the prodigal son. Only in this story, the prodigal is a daughter,
and the perfect sibling is her sister. The novel is ultimately about grace -- the grace we need to give to others and the
grace available to us from the Father.
The novel I'm currently working on is THE PERFECT LIFE (Women
of Faith/Thomas Nelson, March 2008) about a woman who believes her life is perfect in every way, until her world tumbles down
around her ears, causing her to wonder if it all has been the perfect lie.
Website: www.robinleehatcher.com
Email: readers2007@robinleehatcher.com
WHO AM I? Stephen Bly
Besides spending time
as a speaker and writer, I'm a pastor of a community church, a mayor of a town of 308 in the mountains of north Idaho on the
Nez Perce Indian Reservation, and I collect old Winchester rifles, which reflects my desire for historical accuracy. I also
have a fondness for Jimmy Buffett music. Hey, there's not a whole lot of difference between a pirate and an outlaw.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND
WHY?
Just completed my 100th
book. A lot of it's fiction. I write about the West (historic and modern) from the inside. I worked family farms and ranches
in California for several decades. Some think the frontier has long passed along with 'the code of the west.' Truth is, both
are still around. The West is so big, so diverse, so enchanting, it's a thrill to write about it in any era. I have both the
heart and mind to describe things as they really were . . . and are.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I
WANT TO CONVEY?
I want my readers to laugh
some, tear up a bit, discover characters who find if not completion, at least partial healing from the past, and provide hope
for their own situations, no matter how different. Every story has some encouragement for plugging away at life's tough draws.
There's a way to resolve the struggles.
HOW DOES MY FAITH IMPACT
MY WRITING?
Every book's written from
a Christian worldview. That's who I am. That's the influence I bring to my stories and the characters, whether they're believers
or not. But I strive to entertain as well as inspire. I aim to be real to true life situations, not preachy. I leave that
for the pulpit.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT
IS . . . ONE STEP OVER THE BORDER published by Center Street/Hachette Book Group USA, released June 12, 2007
It's a romp.
A buddy road adventure. It's romantic comedy with character. Some call it CowboyLit. Rodeo cowboy Hap Bowman's on a search
for Juanita, the gal of his dreams, whom he hasn't seen in 18 years. He's stuck on 12-years-old and the enchanting girl he
met back then.
"An idiot obsession,"
his roping partner, Laramie Majors, chides. But Laramie agrees to a final summer's trek along the Rio Grande. If they don't
find the mystery senorita during those months, Hap promises to drop the whole idea. Fans have already been getting
involved in the Juanita search. Find out all about it at www.OneStepOverTheBorder.com. The book's available through your local quality bookstore,
your favorite online bookstore, or can be ordered at our website. Another one of Hap and Laramie's adventures, not found in
the book, is available on AmazonShorts at www.Amazon.com. It's entitled Aim Low, Shoot High.
Website: www.blybooks.com and www.OneStepOverTheBorder.com
Email: stephen@blybooks.com
Stephanie Grace Whitson
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY? Historical fiction because I am personally encouraged
by the lives of our foremothers.
Contemporary fiction because. . . . well. I had the ideas and my publisher
was willing.
Non-fiction because I was burdened to share what I had learned about
how to help grieving friends so they wouldn't be like me -- well meaning, but clueless.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY? There is a personal God who works in
the lives of His children to accomplish his eternal glory and their eternal good. . . .in all circumstances at all times.
. . and true peace arrives only when we stop "kicking against the pricks" and accept what He is doing, whether we understand
it or not.
The Bible is applicable to my life today. It is true and reliable
for every person in every place in every time of history.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS: JACOB'S LIST, a contemporary novel set in
Lincoln,
Nebraska, that releases in August. Jacob is a college student with a list of ten things
he wants to accomplish before he settles down. When he is unable to reach his goal, his estranged parents decide to do it
for him. Jacob's list ends up having far more impact on the people around Jacob than anyone ever dreamed. The theme is "reconciliation
against all odds."
Website: www.stephaniewhitson.com
Email: stephanie@stephaniewhitson.com
Jeanne Marie Leach
(Read the review on Jeanne’s THE PLIGHT OF MATTIE GORDON under fiction.)
WHO AM I?: I am a creative
person and a dreamer. After passing the age of 50, I was surprised and delighted to find that life still happens past that
age. David and I have been married 32 years. We never had children of our own, so we borrow other people's kids for a while,
spoil them rotten and then give them back. We have two large Alaskan Malamutes, whom we spoil too.
We live in the mountains
of Colorado
at an elevation of 9,097 feet above sea level. I work part-time at a Bed and Breakfast as Assistant Innkeeper, and write as
often as I can during the rest of the week. I've recently started a freelance editing business. My hobbies are: show shoeing,
hiking, biking, jeeping, scrapbooking, winning the local annual chile cookoff, reading, interior decorating, eBaying, and
attending Denver Broncos games with my hubby.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY?:
I write Christian historical romance. First and foremost I write this because I am a Christian and couldn’t write anything
that wouldn’t please God. I also love studying history. Whenever we travel somewhere, I never buy tee shirts as souvenirs,
but rather I get books on the local history of the area. And lastly, romance because I am a romantic at heart. The first Christian
fiction book I ever read was Love Comes Softly, by Jeanette Oke. I was hooked from the first chapter, and have enjoyed all
her books, as well as a myriad of other Christian romance novels. It is said that one should write what one loves and knows,
and this is a comfortable fit for me and my personality type.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO
CONVEY?: Prov. 13:12 tells us that hope deferred makes the heart sick. I've been
heartsick before, and it's not a good feeling.
But Jeremiah 29:11 says,
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope
and a future." The passages that follow that say that if you seek him with your whole heart, he will be found by you.
This message of hope has
become the theme of all my books. In fact, one woman who has read my book sent me an e-mail message saying she now had hope
for her 16 year-old son because of Will and Mattie. So my message to readers is to NEVER GIVE UP! As long as you have breath,
you can hope for a bright future, a future led by God.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS:
Out From The Shadows, being released late spring, 2007
Return to
Sender, a short historical romance set in the tiny mountain town of Boreas,
Colorado. What happens when a mail-order bride arrives at her destination, only
to find the man she’d come to marry had died a few days prior? This book is almost ready to submit to my publisher.
Website: http://www.jeannemarieleach.com
Email: jlmtnlady@colorado.net
Kim Sawyer
WHO AM I? I am Honey to my military-hubby Don,
Mom to three wonderful girls, Gramma to three--soon to be four--delightful grandchildren, a petter of cats, a lover of chocolate,
and--most importantly--a child of the King.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY? I write
inspirational fiction, both historical and contemporary, with a gentle message of hope. This world is an uncertain place,
but it's also a temporary place. The only thing of lasting value we can possess is a relationship with God through His Son
Jesus. My stories are meant to entertain, but also to edify God's children and offer encouragement as we travel this life's
pathway.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY?
My deepest prayer is that readers will discover a nugget of truth that leads them to more intimate relationship with their
Father God. Our hope is in Him--only in Him--so that's where we need to place our trust.
MY LATEST BOOK/PROJECT IS Where Willows
Grow from Bethany House, an historical story set in 1936 Kansas, and Bygones from Barbour, a contemporary story set in an Old Order
Mennonite community, both release in April of 2007. It is exciting to have two books coming out at once! God has done amazing
things.
Website:
www.KimVogelSawyer.com
Email: author_kim@yahoo.com
Vickie McDonough
WHO AM I? I've been married thirty-one
years, the mother of four boys, mother-in-law to one sweet gal and grandmother of a darling baby girl. I've lived all my life
in Oklahoma,
except for one year when my husband and I lived on a kibbutz in Israel.
I love reading, traveling, watching movies, doing counted cross stitch and gardening. I've been writing a little over six
years and have sold nine novels and novellas
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY?
My books have different themes. My goal in writing a book is to entertain readers and inspire them in their Christian walk.
I also believe Christian fiction is a great way to reach people who might never step inside a church. In my stories, the characters
deal with normal issues of life, though sometimes the problems can seem overwhelming. I like to show that God is with you,
no matter what you are facing or experiencing.
MY LATEST BOOK IS “The Bounty
Hunter and the Bride.” It is the second book in my Oklahoma historical
series, although it is a stand alone book and can be read without the reader having read the prequel, “Sooner or Later.”
It's the story of a sheriff who quits his job when his wife is killed by an outlaw. He goes on a long search, tracking the
criminal, who leads him to a young bride about to make the worst mistake of her life.
Website: www.vickiemcdonough.com
Email: fictionfan1@cox.net
PHIL VISCHER
See Review under September Kid’s
web page: Sidney & Norman: A Tale of Two Pigs.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY?
WHO AM I? My name is Phil Vischer, and
I am the creator of the kids' video series VeggieTales.
WHY DID I DECIDE TO DO THIS? I wrote Sidney
& Norman - A Tale of Two Pigs because I had noticed something interesting about how God relates to us and the messages
we need to hear from him. The Bible says God loves all of us equally, but some of us find that idea easy to accept and some
find it very hard. Norman has no problem believing God loves him, because he has always been a 'good pig.' But Sidney struggles
every day – with accepting himself, and with accepting the idea that God could love him, in spite of his messes. When
each pig is invited to visit with God, the messages he gives them are as different as they are - and just what they need to
hear.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR LATEST PROJECT. In addition
to Sidney & Norman, I am completing another children's book called 47 Beavers on the Big Blue Sea, and a book for grown-ups
about my own story and the creation of VeggieTales called Me, Myself & Bob.
Websites: www.jellyfishland.com www.philvischer.com
Email: info@philvischer.com
ROBERT ELMER
I'm Robert Elmer, and I write fiction
for adults, fiction for middle readers (younger kids), and a little bit of nonfiction. I think that covers it. For my grown-up
books, I enjoy writing stories about relationships, stories that touch the heart. Generally no murders or mayhem, but plenty
of emotion, faith and real life. A lot of times they're set in small towns (because I love small towns and think they make
a great stage) but my latest takes a small-town couple and transplants them to the big city. It's called The Recital, and
it's a follow-up to my earlier book called The Duet. Here's the official synopsis for that book:
Life isn’t just “happily
ever after” when Gerrit and Joan decide to marry, but the baggage each brings to the altar certainly makes life interesting.
So when the couple moves to Chicago to pursue a teaching opportunity for Joan, Gerrit must find new purpose in an unfamiliar
new world. In the process, Joan and Gerrit both redefine the meaning of love and home as they learn painful new lessons about
mutual submission in love.
That's all for now, except please feel free to visit my web site at www.RobertElmerBooks.com.
Lori Z Scott
WHO AM I? My name is Lori
Z. Scott. (I keep the middle initial in my name to distinguish myself from all those other “Lori Scotts” across
the country.) I live in Indiana. I’m married to a smart and supportive husband, and have two wonderful children. My
hobbies include drawing cartoons, reading, swimming, running, and eating large bowls of buttered popcorn.
I work part-time supervising
student teachers for Indiana State University, so I spend a lot of time in classrooms. It’s a privilege watching others
teach…sometimes I even learn a thing or two! It’s especially fun to see the elementary kids respond to my students.
I guess I enjoy teaching so much because I’m still a little bit of a kid at heart. Like I said on my Extreme Diva Author’s
Blog, I buy cereal for the prizes, reach for the comic section first in the newspaper, and prefer reading YA novels.
Over the years, I’ve
taken an active role in the lives of children from preschool through middle school. I’ve been involved in Vacation Bible
School, Sunday School, AWANAS, Pioneer Club, and a puppet ministry. I’ve served as a Children’s Museum volunteer,
tutor, FCA camp leader, Honey Rock Day Camp leader, and Team Kids leader.
For me, a typical day includes
a lot of time set aside for taking care of my family, time for Bible study and exercise, haphazard meal planning (six times
out of ten I produce something that’s actually edible for dinner), work and/or volunteer time at the school, and at
least one hour spent waiting at one of my children’s sporting event practice. Oh yeah…and writing.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY?
The “what” part of that question is easy to answer. I write about what interests me! I’ve contributed to
nine books, including REAL MOMS (Zondervan) and CUP OF COMFORT DEVOTIONAL (Adams Media).
Additionally, I’ve been published in POCKETS, an inspirational magazine for children ages 6 to 12, and DEVO’ZINE,
a devotional magazine for teenagers. I’ve also published short fiction, poetry, personal essays, and cartoons. Twice
my stories have been radio broadcast by MomSense radio for MOPS International.
The “why” part
of that question is more difficult to address. And I suspect I shall wander a bit when I answer it, so bear with me.
Although I enjoyed writing
when I was growing up (I made “books” in grade school and wrote for my high school newspaper and yearbook) my
interests pulled me into education. I taught mostly first grade for almost ten years before retiring to stay at home with
my children.
Then one day while the kids
and I browsed through picture books at the library, I saw a flyer for an amateur fiction writing contest. With nothing better
to do than change diapers, I decided to enter. The short period I spent writing that story (late at night while the kiddos
slept) rekindled the creative part of my life that I’d let go dormant. My mind spun with ideas, imaginary conversations,
and possible plots. And I won second place in the contest!
After that, I was hooked
on writing. I joined a local writer’s group (best move I ever made), where my rather raw skills were developed and encouraged
by a wonderful and patient mentor… Carolyn R. Scheidies.
WHAT MESSAGE
DO I WANT TO CONVEY? I write for more than the joy I experience when writing. Just like I felt called to the education field
and then later to stay at home, I feel called to write for this period in my life. Perhaps God wants to use my writing as
tool for encouraging others in Christ. Until writing came along, my ministry was limited to children. But with writing, I
can branch out to reach teens and other mothers.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR LATEST
BOOK. Now I’ve joined up with the Extreme Diva Media team to create a book called “Busy Moms’ Devotions
to Go” for mothers who, just like me, need to find God when life picks up speed. The book contains thirty devotions,
enough for a full month. Each has a short scripture verse, a quick devotional insight, and a suggested activity. It’s
due for release right around Mother’s Day (May 2006), and would make a great gift for new moms and mothers of school-aged
children. I included stories from my own life that will make you laugh (ever accidentally super-glue YOUR lips?) and think
(everyday situations with a-ha moments that point to God). There are even a few fun ideas for encouraging your kids!
I enjoy working with Extreme
Diva. Their philosophy is fourfold: reduce stress, increase joy, simplify life,
and enhance relationships. They do that through publications (like my book), presentations (you can book many Extreme Diva
authors—including me—for speaking engagements) and products. In addition, they have an online magazine called
“Simple Joy” that’s full of practical advice and tips for cutting out stress on a daily basis. You can find
the magazine at www.simplejoy.org .
WEB SITE/EMAIL: Check out
my new book at www.extremedivamedia.com . ========
Tricia McCary Rhodes
WHO AM I? I am a grandma,
a mom, a pastor's wife, an author, teacher and lover of Jesus.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY?
I write books on Christian spirituality because God has stirred my heart with His beauty, and now I long for people to experience
the wonder of intimacy with Christ. He is worthy of worship and obedience and hearts that adore Him, but unless we know Him
deeply and personally, we'll never follow or give Him the honor He so deserves. This is what fuels my passion to write.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO
CONVEY? That knowing Jesus, the Lord of the Universe, is a joy beyond anything we can ever imagine, and that having an intimate
relationship is our destiny and thus must be our drive. With each book I write, it is my hope that readers will throw off
duty and obligation and all the rules about being a good Christian, and just fall in love with Jesus, as an older aunt challenged
me to do when I was 18 years old. I want people to live their lives for His glory by finding their greatest delight in knowing
Him and making Him known.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR LATEST
BOOK: I tell in the beginning of the book about how when I was a little girl, I loved wearing my mom's shoes -- for a little
while. Soon my tiny feet would squish down into those pointy toes and they would hurt so much, all my dreams of Hollywoodesque
grandeur would go out the window as I donned my saddle oxfords to go play outside and have some real fun.
I think we all find ourselves
trying to wear someone else's shoes when it comes to spiritual disciplines -- especially intercession. We read of this person
or that method and start trying to be as spiritual as they are, but we end up feeling squeezed into some mold and uncomfortable.
The purpose of the book, then, is to help people find their own style of praying for others so that they can be free to walk
in the wonder of knowing Christ's heart for the broken world they encounter every day. While God doesn't need us to accomplish
His purposes, He invites us, and then gives us grace to join Him in bringing the kingdom of heaven to earth, one prayer at
a time. My desire is that people reading this book will be set free to enjoy intercession as an incredible form of intimacy
that Christ yearns for us to have with Him.
WEB SITE/EMAIL: http://www.soulatrest.com tricia@soulatrest.com
Nikki Arana
WHO AM I? To the eye of a casual observer, I’m a woman, a devoted wife, the mother of two sons, award-winning
writer, and successful real estate broker. In the eyes of God, I’m a sinner who would be lost but for the saving grace
of Jesus Christ.
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY? All of my books touch on social issues, illegal immigration, abortion, and children
with disabilities for example. And I always have at least one main character who would be judged “less than” by
the world. A one-legged beggar, a child with Down syndrome, or a poor, illiterate stableman become the catalyst of the story,
impacting the other characters in the book in positive, life-changing ways. I do this as a way of breaking stereotypes.
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY? Often things are not what
they seem. God has a plan for every life no matter what the circumstances. If we will approach the challenges that come to
us with an eye to discern His divine hand at work, and a willingness to be a vessel of His love, we will overcome. And in
that process, further the kingdom.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR LATEST BOOK. My first book, The Winds of
Sonoma, was released by Revell last month. (See review) It is the story of a poor, illiterate Mexican stable hand and a young
attorney who is the only daughter of a wealthy heart surgeon--and a love ordained by God!
I use a lot of symbols and double meanings in my books. In this book, the wind is a symbol of the Holy Sprit.
Every time the wind blows, I mean if a leaf flutters, God is acting in the lives of the characters. It was inspired by a true
story. My story. It is the first of a three book series, so I was thrilled to learn it has been picked as one of the "Top
Twenty Fiction Books" by ChristianBook.com and got 4 Stars from Romantic Times.
COMMENTS: If God has called you to write the books of His heart,
rest assured, He will prosper what He ordains. Face your writing future with excitement and anticipation for what He is about
to do. Watch for the opportunities that are surely before you. My life experience has taught me, He never performs His will
in the way I expect, and it is always a thousand times better than anything I imagined.
WEB SITE/EMAIL: www.nikkiarana.com
Nikki@nikkiarana.com
WHO AM I? Sandra
McLeod Humphrey is a retired clinical psychologist and children's author
WHAT DO I WRITE
AND WHY? I write inspirational, motivational, and values books for children, and my books include: If You Had to Choose, What
Would You Do? (Prometheus Books, Ages 6-12) It's Up to You...What Do You Do? (Prometheus Books, Ages 8 and up) MORE--If You
Had to Choose, What Would You Do? (Prometheus Books, Ages 6-12) Dare to Dream!: 25 Extraordinary Lives (Prometheus Books,
Ages 8 and up) Keepin' It Real: A Young Teen Talks With God (CSS Publishing, Ages 10 and up)
As a clinical
psychologist for over 31 years, I worked with young people who were burned out not from street drugs or alcohol but from life
itself. They had no values, no sense of direction to their lives, and no sense of their own identity. In short, they had given
up and they had no hope. I write my books to encourage our young people to believe in themselves, to help them develop some
coping skills, and to give them hope.
WHAT MESSAGE
DO I WANT TO CONVEY? I want my books to help our young people develop strong moral character and a strong sense of who they
are and where they are going. And I also want my books to inspire them to dream dreams and to have the perseverance to follow
through on those dreams even in the face of great obstacles and even when sometimes it may mean standing alone.
TELL US ABOUT
YOUR LATEST BOOK. My most recent book Dare to Dream!: 25 Extraordinary Lives is a collection of 25 biographical sketches of
ordinary people from different walks of life who overcame great obstacles in order to attain their extraordinary dreams, and
it has received outstanding endorsements from nationally recognized educators including: Philip Bigler, Director, the Madison
Center, James Madison University, and 1998 National Teacher of the Year; Gene Bedley, PTA National Educator of the Year; Donald
Draayer, 1990 National Superintendent of the Year; and Terry Hitchcock, Executive Director, The Heroes & Dreams Foundation.
COMMENTS: I just
recently received the Helen Keating Ott Award for Outstanding Contribution to Children's Literature (July 2005), and this
was one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences for which I am most grateful. I love writing for young people and I
love visiting classrooms to dialogue with students about life issues.
The ongoing essay
contest I have on my website gives students an opportunity to tell me about the most difficult moral choice between right
and wrong they have had to make so far, and some of the essays have been so poignant that you wonder how someone so young
can have already experienced so much pain. But underlying the pain I see incredible strength and survival skills, and these
young writers have earned not only my respect but my admiration.
WEB SITE/EMAIL
website: www.kidscandoit.com
e-mail: Sandra305@aol.com
Max Elliot
Anderson
WHO AM I?
I grew up around the production of Christian films for rental to Churches. My favorites were usually the dramatic films for
children. I like to tell people that, at the age of 8, I was “killed” by a hit-and-run driver while riding my
bike. Since the film I was in was shot in black and white, my blood came from a chocolate syrup bottle. I’ve carried
that love of production throughout my life, and have my own video production company now. It is this rich, highly visual,
motion picture experience that finds its way into my books. Readers tell me the books are like being in an exciting or scary
movie when they read them.
WHAT DO I
WRITE AND WHY? As a child, I hated to read. After a lengthy period of research I determined that I have always been a
reluctant reader. So, I decided to begin writing the kinds of books I would have liked when I was growing up. Hopefully I’ll
be helping others who think they hate to read, but just haven’t found the right books yet. These books are not only
for reluctant readers. Even though my initial target was boys, the books are also widely enjoyed by girls and even adults.
WHAT MESSAGE
DO I WANT TO CONVEY? My adventures are for readers 8-13. Each has completely different characters, setting, and plot.
One of the reasons I did this was to give myself the freedom to deal with real issues that kids might face. It seemed harder
to do this with the same set of kids in every book. My message would be character building, moral and spiritual concepts,
and Christian principles. Reviewers say that I’m accomplishing this without being preachy.
TELL US ABOUT
YOUR LATEST BOOK. I’ve written a total of 33 manuscripts so far, and my 8th book will be published within the next
couple of months. Reckless Runaway tells the story of a boy who mistakenly believes that his parents’ discipline
is proof that they don’t love him. After reading the manuscript, a girl wrote to tell me that’s what she thought
of her parents, but she never really understood their love until she read the book.
COMMENTS:
An extensive teacher’s manual has been developed for each of my books. They come with chapter tests, word searches,
matching, vocabulary, crossword puzzles and more. This has been endorsed by a board member from (ACSI) Association of Christian
Schools International, and is already being used by several Christian schools and homeschoolers.
WEB SITE/EMAIL
http://maxbooks.9k.com
ANGELA
HUNT
WHO AM I?
People have been struggling to answer that one for ages! I am a servant of Jesus Christ, a wife, mother, writer, and novelist.
I’m an INTJ, a neat freak, a perpetual student, and a woman who colors her hair. I’m an animal lover, a chocoholic,
and a dog person—preferably mastiff.
WHAT DO I
WRITE AND WHY? Years ago I began to write because I wanted a job I could do at home so I could stay with my babies. I
wrote all kinds of things just to help pay the mortgage. Over the years, though, I’ve found my niche, I think—at
least for now. I believe I’ve been called and equipped to write parables, which could be defined as “onion”
stories—there’s one layer of meaning on the outside, and other layers of meaning beneath the skin. The deeper
you reflect, the more
WHAT MESSAGE
DO I WANT TO CONVEY? Completely depends upon the book. Some of my stories will be most meaningful for the body of Christ;
others should be meaningful to anyone. But the theme of the book definitely depends upon the story, and what people take away
from my books completely depends upon the Spirit of God.
COMMENTS:
I believe in the sovereignty of God, so I rest completely in the comfort of his will. The Christian life—or any life—is
sometimes filled with suffering, but even in the midst of struggle there is comfort in knowing that I’m in the center
of God’s will.
WEB SITE/EMAIL: www.angelahuntbooks.com Angie@angelaelwellhunt.com
CYNDY
SALZMANN
WHO AM I?
I am a wife and mother living in Omaha, Nebraska, who also happens to be the author of several Christian books including
“Making Your Home a Haven”, “The Occasional Cook” and “Beyond Groundhogs and Gobblers." The
first book in my new Friday Afternoon Club Mystery series “Dying to Decorate!” will be released July 5, as part
of Howard Publishing’s Motherhood Club.
WHAT DO I
WRITE AND
WHY? I started writing books in 1997 -- as an excuse to avoid laundry. The subsequent publication of these musings led
to a speaking career - surprising me even more than my children. Now my kids all know how to sort colors - and what to do
when the washing machine starts jumping around.
WHAT MESSAGE
DO I WANT TO CONVEY? The focus of my speaking and writing ministry is to provide encouragement to the "domestically challenged."
And trust me -- I include myself in this category. I believe with all my heart that our homes should be a haven from our chaotic
world. I also believe that the key to this is first turning to God -- and then
to good resources. It's my prayer that my books are one of the resources moms
turn to time and time again.
COMMENTS:
My goal is to be an inspiration and encouragement to other women as we tackle the important job of mothering.
WEB SITE/EMAIL
www.familyhavenministries.com
cyndy@familyhavenministries.com
Robin Bayne
WHO AM I?
I am Robin Bayne, and I write inspirational and ‘sweet’ romance, articles and devotionals.
WHAT DO I
WRITE AND WHY? When I started writing romance I dabbled in a variety of subgenres, including time travel and straight
contemporary. I didn’t realize at the time what a wonderful type of story a Christian, or “inspirational”
romance was--–it was exciting to find a field which allowed me to not only mention God in my stories but also weave
the characters’ faith right into the story.
WHAT MESSAGE
DO I WANT TO CONVEY? I have found my last few romances have centered around the theme of “forgiveness,” which
takes place both between the characters, and between the characters and God. I hope the concept will stay with readers long
after they close the book. Of course, it would be nice if they remembered my characters as well <G>.
COMMENTS:
My latest story with the forgiveness theme is “From Now On,” in which the villainess from my previous book “Cougar
Lake” must come to terms with what she’s done and try to start fresh. Read an excerpt at my website, and enter
to win a Ty Beanie Baby.
WEB SITE/EMAIL
http://www.robinbayne.com Robin Bayne rlbayne@nbayne.com
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LISA TAWN BERGREN
WHO AM I?
I am a child of God, constantly growing and
learning. I am wife to Tim, an artist, and mother of three fabulous children. Sadly, I cannot keep a pet alive! We've tried
fish, a turtle, and a dog! I am the author of twenty books and after a two-year writing hiatus. I'm hard at work on my next
book...
WHAT DO I WRITE AND WHY?
I've written many things because I go where
the Father leads me. I've written children's books, gift books, romances, women's historical fiction, contemporary fiction,
a book on prayer, and now I'm working on medieval spiritual suspense! How's that for covering the spectrum? I love seeing
what God will plant in my head next...
WHAT MESSAGE DO I WANT TO CONVEY?
Depends on the book. Sometimes it's a message
of salvation, other times a message of grace and love. It really depends on the characters and storyline--because wouldn't
you say that we each have a message from God that changes from week to week if not day to day? Sometimes He hammers home a
message over a year or a decade, trying to get us to see what He is teaching us. In my current series, the message is that
God can use each of us for His good purposes--and is alive and well and afoot!
COMMENTS:
I'm so happy to be writing again! I love diving
into my story. I took a couple of years off because I had another baby and have been busily building my company, Good Books
& Company. But I'm making time for writing again and it feels great!
WEB SITE/EMAIL
www.lisatawnbergren.com
www.goodbooksandcompany.com (Check this out if interesting selling books in a party format.) Lisa@goodbooksandco.com
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Louise M. Gouge
Who am I?
Louise M. Gouge, author of Ahab's Bride, now celebrates the release of Hannah Rose, Book Two of Ahab's Legacy. Wife of David,
mother of four, and grandmother of three, Louise teaches composition and humanities at Valencia Community College in Kissimmee,
Florida, and enjoys public speaking.
What I write
and why? I write historical fiction and contemporary romance. Ever since I was a child, stories have kept my imagination
churning. Now that my children are grown, God has given me an outlet for those stories through my writing.
What message
do I want to convey to my readers? When we have simple faith in God's simple grace, when we surrender ourselves to Him
for His purposes, He will bless us and use us in the most surprising and wonderful ways.
ON WRITING: Terry W Burns
Who am I?
I'm a fifth generation Irish storyteller that's a 4th generation Texas bullshipper, telling stories is as natural as breathing.
For years I managed chambers of commerce and that ate up all my writing. Finally a few years ago I had the opportunity to
try my hand at fiction. Now I have seventeen books in print with a new series underway at River Oak Press beginning with "Mysterious
Ways."
What I write
and why? A reviewer recently said I wrote "Inspirational fiction with a western flair." I'll go with that. I write because
I have stories to tell. I write because I want to share my faith with others. I write because I have to. I used to tell people
I was a Christian Western writer, but my editor told me he didn't want that, he wanted a "Christian that wrote westerns."
Took a while to understand the difference, but now I think I do. I don't really write westerns, I write inspirational, character-driven
stories that just happen to be in an old west setting.
What message
do I want to convey to my readers? I don't set out to convey a message. I just try to tell a good story and my faith shows
up in it. As the story progresses characters learn and grow, lose and gain faith, and some message that the Lord intends to
be included simply appears. If I do it right the message never overshadows the story, is never preachy or in the reader's
face.
Blessings
www.terryburns.net "Mysterious Ways," River Oak Publishing January release
http://pages.ivillage.com/crscheidies/bookreviews/id5.html
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ON WRITING: Stephen Lawhead (From an interview I did with him several years ago.)
Who am I:
Stephen Lawhead, author of such standards as the Pendragon series on Arthur, The Song of Albion, the Celtic Crusades, and
many more series and books, has achieved celebrity status. He lives with his wife in Austria.
What he writes and why: Lawhead continues to be fascinated by historical mythology,
but brings to his books his deeply held faith as well. The Christian message is often subtle in his fiction and he certainly
doesn't preach. "I never set out to do it," he said of incorporating faith into his fiction. "I set out to entertain. And,
I write for my own delight."
Many of his stories go beyond today's legends, as his research has led him to discover the Christian
roots of stories such as King Arthur. Accurate research is very important to him. "I do enough research to feel comfortable,"
he said. How much research and how long it takes depends on the story. "BYZANTIUM," he said, "took five years."
Stephen said, "My books speak
heart to heart and soul to soul. They speak to the heart and the spirit."
What about his readers: "I have a high opinion of and regard for fiction," Stephen
said, "and what it can do for people emotionally and spiritually."
His advice to would be writers is to read and to "write the books that interest you."
Interview
with Andrea Kuhn Boeshaar
Who am I: Andrea
Kuhn Boeshaar is an agent with the Hartline Literary Agency and the author of numerous articles, devotionals, romance and
women's fiction. Her latest release is SNOWBOUND FOR CHRISTMAS with Debby Mayne.
What I write
and why: I write women's fiction and romance for the Christian market. I write because I can't NOT write. God has done so
much in my life -- He saved me, then saved my marriage. Now I want to tell the world what a great God we have!
What message do I want
readers to come away with: That our Lord is a God of second, third, and fourth chances. There is no sin too great that God
cannot forgive it.
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Interview with Molly Noble Bull
Who am I:
My name is Molly Noble Bull -- wife of Charlie Bull and mother of our three grown sons, Bret, Burt and Bren. I was reared
in a mainline, liberal denominational church, but after I was saved, I became a Southern Baptist. My father and my maternal
grandfather were ranch managers, and I lived on a sixty thousand acre Texas cattle ranch for part of my growing up years. The isolation together
with the fact that I am an only child fueled my interest in writing, and today, Charlie and I live in a rock cabin in a remote
area at the top of a hill in the beautiful Texas hill country west of San
Antonio.
What I write
and why: Besides being a wife and mother, I became an elementary and early childhood school teacher, and in the course
of my job, I realized that I could write books and stories for children. My first sale was to Humpty Dumpty's magazine. As
a Christian, I knew I didn't want to write adult novels that contained dirty words and sex scenes and was completely happy
to write for children.
Then a writer friend convinced
me to write novels for teenagers, and I wrote three chapters of a novel for teenage girls to see if I could do it. An editor
read my chapters and said my writing was good, but my seventeen-year-old-heroine sounded like she was about twelve. This meant
I had to learn how to make my characters grow up, and I spend a year or so learning. It finally paid off.
Though I didn't sell a novel
for teens, I did sell “For Always,” my first Zondervan romance novel for adult Christian women. My second inspirational
novel “The Rogue's Daughter” was soon published as well. Zondervan also accepted a third novel for publication,
but it never came out because Zondervan stopped buying inspirational romance novels. At that point, I had to make a decision.
Write secular novels or wait until the inspirational market returned. I prayed and waited, and the Lord opened up the market
once again. And on November 1, 2004, my first long inspirational historical
“The Winter Pearl” is being published by Steeple Hill in trade paperback. God is good.
What message
do I want readers to come away with: Some people have a false impression of Christians and the Christian life and think
we are boring, but they couldn't be more wrong. Christians have more fun than anybody. All this and Heaven, too. Through the
story and characters in my novels, I hope my readers will discover the laughter and joy of serving the Lord, and perhaps choose
that blessed and abundant life for themselves by meeting and knowing Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Interview
with Tricia Goyer
Who am I: In 2003, I was
named Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference "Writer of the Year." I have written hundreds of articles, Bible Study notes,
and both fiction and non-fiction books.
Yet those things pale in
comparison to my love for my family. I'm married to the love of my life, John, and we have three great kids whom I homeschool:
Cory (15), Leslie (12), and Nathan (10). We make our home in Northwest Montana with our dog, Lilly.
What I write and why: My
first novel, From Dust and Ashes (Moody) was inspired by true stories from World War II veterans. I heard about the brave
actions of these United States GIs while visiting Austria.
I heard so many great stories after interviewing these veterans that I embarked on a second novel Night Song (Moody), released
September 2004.
Out of my own experiences
as a teenage mother, and my work with young moms, I have also written Life Interrupted: The Scoop on Being a Young Mom (Zondervan).
This book provides encouragement and hope to teenage mothers who face so many challenges.
My merriest book to write,
Ten Minutes to Showtime (Tommy Nelson), was inspired by the types of stories I loved reading to my kids when they were younger.
This first children's book is due to be released October 2004.
In addition to writing, I
enjoy sharing Jesus' love through volunteering as a mentor for teenage moms in my community. And I join the rest of my family
in leading children's church every week. I'm also blessed to travel around the nation as a speaker, mainly giving presentations
to women's groups.
What message
do I want readers to come away with: All of my books center around a message of HOPE. Hope found in the darkest places, even
concentration camps in World War II. Or hope for young women who don't know where to turn for help. Whether it is fiction
or non-fiction, my desire in my writing is to point to Jesus, our true Hope!
AUTHOR INTERVIEW: Karen Kingsbury
Who are you? A short personal background: I am a novelist who sees straight into the heart and
believes that lives can be changed through a story. My Life-Changing Fiction (TM) comes from the fact that God has blessed
me with a great deal of emotion, an empathy for people, and a keen understanding of emotional situations. I draw from my experiences
as a wife of 16 years, married to Donald, my prince charming. And from my experiences as a mother of six children, three of
whom are adopted from Haiti. I received my journalism degree in 1986 and spent 3 years writing sports and later features for
the Los Angeles Times and Los Angeles Daily News. I have written more than 40 books, and I have more than 2 million copies
in print.
What does writing mean to you? I've been
writing since I was 5-years-old, so it has always been who I am. Writing is my way of expressing the deep, passionate emotions
that grow within me. God has given me both the desire and the gift to write - for me it is like breathing.
What would you like to say to you readers?
I write for each of them, and when I'm finished writing, I pray for them. The readers should know how grateful I am to each
of the thousands and thousands of them who write to me, telling me how their lives have been changed by my fiction. Only God
can do such work in the lives of His people. I'm honored and humbled that He's using my ficiton to see it happen.
Book List: Where Yesterday Lives, When Joy Came to Stay, On
Every Side, Waiting for Morning (Book 1 in a trilogy), Moment of Weakness (Book 2), Halfway to Forever (Book 3), A Time to
Dance (Book 1 - Women of Faith Club), A Time to Embrace (Book 2 in Women of Faith Club), Redemption (Book 1 in Redemption
Series), Remember (Book 2 in Redemption Series), Return (Book 3 in Redemption Series), Rejoice (Book 4 in Redemption Series),
Reunion (Book 5 - July, 04), One Tuesday Morning, Oceans Apart , Let me Hold You Longer (First Children's Book - September,
04), Gideon's Gift (Christmas Novel), Maggie's Miracle (Christmas Novel), Sarah's Song (Christmas Novel Sept., 04), Treasury
of Christmas Miracles, A Treasury of Miracles for Women, A Treasury of Miracles for Teens, Treasury of Miracles for Friends
(June, 04)
To see what readers are saying about Karen Kingsbury's fiction,
go to www.KARENKINGSBURY.com, and click the GUESTBOOK link.
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AUTHOR INTERVIEW: Kristin Billerbeck
I'm Kristin Billerbeck and
I went to San Jose State University where I majored in Advertising. After a short stint at a high tech ad agency, I went to
work in marketing for major shopping malls. Then I owned a bridal business, had kids and I've been home ever since.
Writing is my escape, my place
where I'm in control and being a control freak, I like this. Writing is one of the ways I connect with God, it's one of the
ways I handle the stress of life and it means that I can be home with my kids.
I want to tell my readers
that God is sufficient. When people let you down, when things don't go the way you think they should, God is in control
of it all, and He will handle it.
Kristin Billerbeck, Author
An Unbreakable Hope, Heartsong
Presents 11/03
What a Girl Wants, WestBow
Press 2/04
She's Out of Control, WestBow
Press 7/04
Kristin Billerbeck's web site ***
AUTHOR INTERVIEW
Mary Elizabeth Anderson
1. BIO INFORMATION: Mary
Elizabeth Anderson, a former elementary teacher and adjunct writing instructor at community colleges, is the author of
four published books for children. Her first book, LINK ACROSS AMERICA: A STORY OF THE HISTORIC LINCOLN HIGHWAY, was released
in April of 1997 from Rayve Productions of Windsor, California. The Antique Automobile Club of America presented her with
a special Authors Award in recognition of this book that encourages young people to become interested in the automobile hobby
through printed media.
JayJo Books, LLC, A Guidance
Channel Company of Plainview, New York, released TAKING CEREBRAL PALSY TO SCHOOL in 2000. This book was written for all children
to inform them that people in wheelchairs are really just the same as everybody else. In 2002 Warner Press of Anderson, Indiana,
published EVER WONDER WHAT TO DO? ALL ABOUT MANNERS for children of ages 4-9. IT’S ME AGAIN, GOD, a story devotional
book for the child of ages 8-14, was recently released from New Canaan Publishing in July, 2003. This book consists of 17
fiction stories targeting contemporary issues children face. WHY DID THEY BUILD A FENCE, a multicultural picture book, will
be published by Blessing Our World in 2004.
Her articles and stories
for both children and adults appear in over one hundred periodicals such as HIGHLIGHTS FOR CHILDREN, GUIDEPOSTS FOR KIDS,
HUMPTY DUMPTY, MY FRIEND, POCKETS, MATURE LIVING, HOME LIFE, THE FAMILY DIGEST and THE LUTHERAN DIGEST.
In April 2003 she won the
Hall County Nebraska Literary Award presented by Moonshell Arts & Humanities. She is available to speak to groups on the
Lincoln Highway, how to pursue a freelance writing career, and why she writes Christian books for children.
2. WHAT DOES MY WRITING MEAN
TO ME: My writing presents me with a sense of purpose, and bestows shape to my life. Writing defines who I am. God set this
master plan in place for my life. He directs my writing, and I give Him all the glory.
3. WHAT DO I WANT TO SAY
TO THE READER: When I write for the middle grade reader I want to say, “Hey, wait a minute. Listen. I know what you’re
feeling. And I know that sometimes it hurts SO much! I’ve experienced much of the hurt, pain and uncertainty that you
encounter right now. I’ve also known great joy, and I PROMISE you that you can have happiness, too.
Please realize that almost
everyone else your age has the same feelings you do at some time, but many just do not acknowledge them. Talk to God daily
about how you feel. Let Him always walk beside you and be your best friend. Jesus Christ is always the answer!” http://www.meanderson.com
Read a review of her book IT'S ME AGAIN GOD
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DIANN MILLS
believes in “Writing on the Edge ” when it comes to sharing her Christian faith through her writing. She is the
author of twenty-eight novels and novellas, as well as nonfiction, short stories, numerous articles, devotions, and the contributor
to several nonfiction compilations. Visit her Web site: www.diannmills.com
Writing is my ministry. It's
a calling and a passion that God placed in my heart to communicate the written word. My signature states "Writing on the edge."
Let me go one step more and say that I believe in writing reality, life from a Christian perspective. I want to give the reader
an adventure in leading the Christian life.
What would you like to say
to your readers? Thank you for your support, your encouragement, and your caring to read my books and recommend them to others.
KATHY COLLARD MILLER
Who are you? A short personal background.
I am a wife to Larry
for 33 years, mother of two grown adults, popular women's conference speaker, and freelance writer. I have spoken in 29 states
and five foreign countries and I'm currently working on my 48th book. It's about how to diminish worry and trust God more.
What does writing mean
to you?
It's my ability for being
creative and encourage people. I write about those areas that God has been working within me so I write and speak from personal
experience. My ministry began when I wanted to help other hurting parents, struggling with anger. God delivered me from being
an abusive parent to our two-year-old daughter. Then my ministry expanded to other topics. Writing is my primary way to communicate
with a wide audience and I love seeing words being connected to form an almost living body of writing. Or seeing the proverbial
Light Bulb come on in the minds of the women I speak to.
What do you want to say to your readers.
That there is always hope. No matter the degree of sin or helplessness within someone, God is even
bigger than that problem and He is eager and yearning to help us.
Kathy Collard Miller is a
popular women's conference speaker and the author of 47 books, including her newest, Princess
to Princess. Her books are available on her secure shopping cart at www.KathyCollardMiller.com
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Karen Ball, senior acquisitions editor of fiction for Zondervan and an author of novels for Multnomah
A short personal background
Grew up in Southern Oregon, where my dad has been a pastor for nearly 45 years--all at the same church!
Grew up with a passion for reading, writing, music, nature, and animals. I started writing stories with a friend in the 7th
grade, and just kept on until my first novel, Reunion, was published by Multnomah in 1996. Professionally, I've worked
at Tyndale Publishers, Multnomah publishers, and now at Zondervan heading up their fiction lines, so I've had the delight
of working with many of the Christian markets' top novelists, including Francine Rivers, Terri Blackstock, T. Davis Bunn,
Karen Kingsbury, Robin Jones Gunn, Gilbert Morris, Angela Hunt, Lori Copeland, Catherine Palmer, and many others.
What does writing mean to you?
It's a part of who I am. Even if I wasn't being published, I'd write. Can't help it. It's how my emotions
sort themselves out, by flowing onto the page. It's a way to share my heart, to share what God has taught me in my life and
relationships, to share the incredible blessing I've been given in my family and friends. Besides which, it's fun! And I'm
a huge proponent of doing what's fun.
What do you want to say to your readers.
That God is in control. No matter what you face, no matter what circumstances seem to say, God is
in control. And that it's okay to read for relaxation and a bit of escape! The wonder of fiction is that as you're "escaping,"
as you're wandering around in other places with the characters of the book, God can touch your heart and mind with the truths
you need to deal with your own issues, struggles, and questions. The Lord used story to teach eternal truths. I think that's
because He knew fiction captures both the heart and the mind. So find time to relax, to let yourself enjoy a good
story, and to let God touch you with the truths He knows you need.
A Test of Faith (coming in
2004)
The Breaking Point
Reunion
Wilderness
Three Weddings and a Giggle
Mistletoe
Fools for Love
Heart's Delight
click here for Let's Talk Fiction Site
Click here for Multnomah web site
Gail
Gaymer Martin - Award-winning author for Steeple Hill single title, Steeple Hill Love Inspired and Barbour's
Heartsong Presents and anthology. Winner of two Holt Medallions, a Winter Rose, an ACRW Book of the Year, and Romantic
Times Reviewers Choice of Best Love Inspired 2002. Gail writes inspirational women's fiction, romance and romantic suspense.
In six years of writing, she's signed thirty-one fiction contracts. She is a speaker and workshop presenter across the U.S.
I am a driven writer who
considers my work a ministry for the Lord. I am grateful to have been blessed with this second career and I love having the
opportunity to give something back by teaching and providing a training web site for new writers.
Talking about writing
and sharing my faith is an honor. Being able to teach and to share my knowledge with others is a bonus gift of being a successful
author. I never pass up an opportunity to meet readers and writers.
Latest books by Gail Gaymer
Martin:
THE CHRISTMAS KITE, Steeple
Hill single title, November 2003
LOVING WAYS, Steeple
Hill Love Inspired, December 2003
LOVING CARE, Steeple
Hill Love Inspired, February 2004
"An Open Door" in FROM
ITALY WITH LOVE, Barbour Anthology, Feb 2004
Upcoming books by Gail
Gaymer Martin:
OUT ON A LIMB, Heartsong
Presents, May 2004
ADAM'S PROMISE, 1st in
Faith on the Line Series, Steeple Hill Love Inspired, July 2004
MICHIGAN, (four reissued
novels set in Michigan) Barbour, August 2004
THAT CHRISTMAS FEELING,
hardcover wtih Catherine Palmer, Steeple Hill, Nov 2004
"Then Came Darkness" in HIDDEN MOTIVES, Barbour anthology, December 2004
Click here for Gail's web site
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