Archive for January, 2012

Posted on January 31, 2012 - by Shannon Vannatter

Charity–Love Put into Action

I Corinthians, 13: 4, “Charity suffereth long, and is kind;” KJV

Charity is love in action. Love in action is kind. To me, being kind in marriage is to think of the other person’s feelings. When I’m tired, stressed, or have a headache, it’s easy to take my discomfort or displeasure out on my husband. I mean, he’s not going anywhere. Even more reason to be kind. God gave me someone who sticks with me through thick and thin. He deserves my kindness.

If my husband is having a bad day or a problem at work, I try to support him, think of his feelings, and help get him through it. Now that he’s a full time pastor, at least he has fewer irritants. We have so much more together time and family time. A blessing, but it’s even easier to take our frustrations out on each other since we spend more time together.

Kindness is a good rule for life in general. Maybe the lady behind you at the grocery store with ten items in her cart scowled at you. You figure because your cart is loaded down and it takes too long for the cashier to ring up your items, even though your cart was half unloaded before the scowling lady got behind you. But consider what her life might be like. Maybe she has three kids at home and only enough money to pay for the ten items in her cart.

I learned this lesson of putting myself in other’s shoes a few years ago. I traveled with several people to a convention. One lady bragged about everything she and her children had done for the entire hour and a half long drive. After we dropped her off on the way home, I commented, “Is it just me or did she invent everything and if she didn’t, her kids did?”

A kinder lady than I, replied, “Maybe she has low self esteem, so she tries to build herself up in other’s eyes.”

Knocked me off my high horse. I felt about an inch tall. But I learned my lesson.

My son consistently complains about a kid in his life. The child experienced a life altering incident several years ago. When my son complains, I remind him what the other child has been through and ask him how he’d feel if that happened to him. Yes the child probably needs a spanking and nobody does it. Instead, they coddle because of what happened, but my son can still be kind.

So the next time, your spouse comes home railing about his or her day, the guy behind you lays down on his horn because you didn’t put the pedal to the metal as soon as the light changed, or the bank puts your deposit in the wrong account, try putting yourself in the other person’s place. Aren’t you glad you don’t have your spouse’s job? Maybe the guy behind you is taking his wife to the hospital because she’s in labor. Maybe the bank clerk is distracted because her sick child is with the babysitter instead of Mommy. Or maybe they’re just grumpy. Even so, love in action is kindness.

Posted on January 30, 2012 - by Lorna Seilstad

How patient are you?

What scripture is read at more weddings than any other?  Often referred to as “The Love Chapter”, 1 Cor. 13 has sent myriads of brides and grooms off into wedded blisss.

Or did it?

How many of these young couples too these words and applied them to their lives? When was the last time you read this chapter anc considered what kind of a “lover” you are?

For the next two weeks, the Inkspirational Messagers will be taking a fresh look at 1 Cor. 13 and sharing our thought about “The Love Chapter” just in tiem for Valentines day.

When Paul wrote this letter to the church in Corinth, he wasn’t speaking directly to young couples madly in love. He was talking to you and me. I’ve always found it interesting that he chose to say, “Love is patient” first. Really? Is that what you’d pick first to describe love?

But after some thought, I think I’ve discovered a few reasons why Paul started with “love is patient.”

Paul knows God is love and he’s telling us how God loves us. The Corinthian church was having a lot of problems, and they needed to know that God would be patient with them. In spite of those ugly sin problems, He would be faithful and would continue to love them.

Impatience comes from wanting what we want when we want it. It’s root is selfishness. Selfishness seeks it’s own happiness. Patience wants what’s best for the other person. It’s root is sacrifice.  In a marriage, this kind of love is key. Marriages don’t last long when selfisness reigns.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Greek word used for patience in the orignal text is makrothumei . It means to suffer long with people –especially in dealing with a difficult person. It is not referring to being patience with circumstances like poverty or illness. It’s about loving people when they are unlovable.  You know the ones–a co-worker who takes you for granted,  a husband who comes home grumpy night after night, the teenager who cuts you off while driving, or the in-law who treats you like an outlaw. It’s easy to love those who are good and kind to us. It’s hard to suffer long with those who treat us badly.

Sometimes God asks us to be patient and wait for His plans to come to fruition. Abraham was promised a son TWENTY-FIVE years before he receive Isaac. He and Sarah had grown old waiting. God’s timing is not our timing. He loves us enough to not give us what we want in the moment because He knows His plans are infinitely better.

Cars need a lubricant to keep part that rub against other parts from freezing up. In the same way, people need a lubricant to keep them living smoothly together. That lubricant is the virtue of patience.

So, how patient are you? What circumstances which make you more impatient than others?

 

Posted on January 30, 2012 - by Lorna Seilstad

Authorpalooza winners!

During our last two weeks, we’ve had a wonderful opportunity to meet some new authors and their latest releases. To celebrate that, the Inkspirational Messagers have some special giveaway winners to announce. Winners were selected through Random.org.

 

 

 

The winner of Susan Page Davis’ The Lady’s Maid is Pam K.

 

 

 

 

 

The winner of Margaret Daley’s Dawn Comes Early is Pam (daysong).

 

 

 

The winner of a 3 book package is Marianne. She’ll be receiving  Wence Came a Prince by Liz Curtis Higgs, The Perfect Match by Janice Hanna, and Love Remains by Kay Dacus.

 

 

 

Posted on January 27, 2012 - by Kav

More Love and Laughter from N.Y. Times Bestselling Author

Margaret Brownley

 I ‘discovered’ Margaret Brownley when I picked up a copy of A Lady Like Sarah at my Christian bookstore. I took a gamble and won. What a gem of a book and I eagerly awaited the next two in the series. Now I hear she is embarking on another series, releasing in March and I’m tickled to death to be able to introduce y’all to one of my favourite authors. So without further ado, here’s the interview.

 Think back to when you were 11 years old. What did you think your future would hold? Any truth to your childhood prophecies?

 First, thank you for letting me visit today.  To answer your question: Oddly enough I wrote my first novel when I was eleven years old and in fifth grade. Talk about childhood prophecies.  The book was a mystery that I didn’t know how to end. Still don’t.

 That’s great! I wrote my first book when I was eleven too! As I recall it involved aliens and a mystery and there might have been a bit of time travel in there as well. Clear to see why you’re the published author!

 When you embark on a new writing project what comes first — characters or plot?

 It’s different with each book.  Sometimes characters spring up and lead the way. At other times I have to chase after them with a hatchet.

 BTW: The idea for Brides of Last Chance Ranch series came to me after reading an old newspaper article in the New York Times dated 1891. A group of fifty ladies of the First Church of Millford formed a society of old maids in 1861. Each member vowed she would not marry.  Each woman paid five dollars on admission with the principal going to the one who remained unmarried the longest.  Thirty years later all but fifteen of the original had married. I was never able to find out who won the prize—and sincerely hope no one had— but the concept intrigued me and I couldn’t stop thinking about it.

 I love when real life inspires fiction! A church I went to a while back had a group of elderly unmarried women, though I’m not sure they took a vow! They called themselves The Unclaimed Treasures. How cute is that?!

 You are known for your spunky heroines who dance to a different drummer. Do you have any tips you can share with hopeful writers about how to flesh out memorable characters?

 For me it’s all about voice.  If a character isn’t waking me up in the middle of the night to chat than I know he or she isn’t fully developed.  I start by having each character say the same sentence in their own unique way.

 In Dawn Comes Early I asked my characters to introduce themselves.   My heroine Kate Tenney said “How do you do.”   The hero said, “Howdy ma’am.”   That’s when I knew that Kate was college educated and Luke was not.  In fact he’s a blacksmith with little formal education. This makes for an interesting conflict between them.  Half the time he doesn’t even know what she’s talking about. 

 Note to self: it’s okay to talk to characters in the middle of the night.Phew! Love how they become such a part of you. That really reflects in your writing.

 I love all the historical details you add to your books — from the chapter quotes to stories seeped in history. I feel transported back in time when I’m ‘reading Brownley’. Are you a history buff with tons of information at your fingertips or do you have to work at your research. You certainly make it seem easy!

 At last count I had 1500 research books in my library and I’m always on the lookout for interesting tidbits and unusual facts.  Since the heroine in Dawn Comes Early is a dime novelist I read a bunch of them.  When things like “Curses, foiled again” started popping out of my mouth I knew it was time to stop.  

 The trick is to slip historical facts into the story naturally as part of dialogue or action and not narrative.  Historical details are best served in little doses.

  1500 hundred books! A woman after my own heart (says the librarian who collects books the way other women collect shoes.)  What aspect of being a published writer surprised you the most?

 After having published more than twenty-five books the thing that surprises me the most is that I’m not rich. 

 If you had one piece of advice to pass on to an aspiring writer, what would it be?

 Enjoy the ride.  Unpublished writers have a luxury not accorded those of us published; you can spend as much time as necessary writing the book and giving it all the loving care it needs. The rest of us have deadlines to meet. 

 Sage advice that puts a whole new perspective on playing the waiting game. Savor the moment. Thanks for that!  Can you tell us a bit about your new book coming out in March?

 Dawn Comes Early

 Looking for woman

of good character and pleasant disposition

willing to learn the ranching business in Arizona Territory.

 Must be single and prepared to remain so

now and forever more.

 Will be given ownership of ranch.

                                    –Eleanor Walker

 Her latest dime novel banned, twenty-nine-year old KATE TENNEY finds herself without a publisher or other means of support. An advertisement for a woman willing to learn the ranching business seems like the perfect solution for a displaced western writer who has no intention of getting married—ever. 

 Trouble begins the moment she steps foot in Arizona Territory. The west is nothing like she wrote about in her books. Not only does she have to deal with a hard-nosed ranch owner, and nefarious outlaw, but a traitorous heart.  Deserted as a child by her father, grandfather and others—even God— Kate does not trust men and has no intention of falling for LUKE ADAM’S charm.  She’s determined to learn the ranching business and prove to the doubting ranch owner that she’s up to the task—if it kills her. Her faith tested by the harsh realities of the desert, Kate battles to hold on to the one thing that promises permanence—land.    

 If only she could stay away from a certain handsome blacksmith and his two matchmaking aunts.

 Okay – I’m hooked and already stomping at the bit for a chance to read another Brownley gem and I bet our blog readers are too. So, if you would like a chance at winning a copy of Dawn Comes Early, please leave a comment below. Be sure to include your email address so I can reach you if you win. But remember to disguise it from spammers by using AT and DOT instead of @ and . Winner will be announced and contacted on Sunday January 29^th. Oh – and since the book doesn’t release until March, your copy will be pre-ordered and shipped when ready. Just think of the extra joy you’ll get anticipating its arrival!

 And if you would like learn more about Margaret Brownley and her books you can contact her here:

 www.margaretbrownley.com

 You can also find Margaret on Facebook and Twitter

Thanks for stopping by inspirationalmessages, Margaret! I’m glad we got to know you better!

Posted on January 26, 2012 - by Regina

A CHAT WITH SUSAN PAGE DAVIS

About a year ago, I went, in fear and trembling, to my first area writer’s group meeting, which at that time consisted of myself and three other ladies in the Western Kentucky/Western Tennessee area. I mean, two of these ladies were PUBLISHED authors! I mean, they even put their pants on differently, don’t they? Well, it didn’t take long, over Culver’s burgers and ice cream, to find out that published authors are regular folk, and that having a good friend like Susan Page Davis is sometimes the best encouragement an aspiring writer can have!

Susan is the author of thirty-seven published novels. Prairie Dreams is her new series from Barbour Publishing. A Maine native, Susan now lives in Kentucky with her husband, Jim. She’s a past winner of the Carol Award and the Inspirational Readers’ Choice Contest.

Welcome, Susan! What was it that inspired you to become a writer?

I have always made up stories, and I have written them since I learned to write. I’m not sure what got me started. But when it comes to seriously writing fiction and trying to get published as an author, I think I was inspired to try when I realized I had a full-length novel in my head. I wrote the story out and started trying to sell it.

You’ve lived in, and written about, so many places! If you could set a book anywhere in the USA, whether or not you’ve been there or not, where would it be, and why?

Right now, probably in Albuquerque. My father-in-law was born there, and I’d like to see it and learn more about it.

Speaking of places, how does living in my own state of Kentucky compare to other places you’ve lived?

Okay, here’s the scoop. It’s warmer, and it has more heavy rains and tornadoes, fewer blizzards and hurricanes. When it does snow, which isn’t often, nobody knows how to drive in it. Kentucky also looks different from Maine or Oregon or any of those other places. . .It’s got flat roads, for one thing. The birds look almost but not quite right. It has lizards and poisonous snakes. It has more ticks and fewer mosquitoes. It has no moose, but lots of possums. The sun never gets up as early or sets as late as it does in a Maine summer, but that’s understandable since Kentucky is a whole lot closer to the equator. At the grocery store, I can find canned okra and bourbon-flavored baked beans, but I often can’t find molasses or fresh seafood or buttercup squash. They put whipped cream on milkshakes here, which seems a bit “overkill” to me, and gravy on lots and lots of things. And I frequently have to ask someone to repeat what they said, or ask what they mean. But all in all, it’s a pretty cool place.

Hey, I recall trying to get a barbecue sandwich in Indiana – it’s not quite like we have in Western Kentucky, is it? I’m just glad to have you close by!

Now, back to writing –

What author, dead or alive, would you like to mentor you? Why?

Dick Francis. I love his mysteries, and I’d love to be as good at pulling clues together.

You have written historical, suspense, and romance. How do you approach different genres?

They all take a lot of planning and research. Historicals probably take a little more, as I have to check EVERYTHING. The 1857 book I just finished is an example. Yes, they had sleeping berths on some trains then, but Pullman cars came later. So did railroad dining cars. That put a cramp in my characters’ journey. I check words and phrases to be sure they were in use at the time. I look up types of fabrics to be sure they were available and plants to be sure they grew in that area at the time. But contemporaries take research too—the place, the occupations, the weapons—it just never ends. And I love it.

The research angle hit me when I realized I may have placed a stagecoach in an area that might have been served by a railroad! Thank goodness for Internet resources!

So, what’s next for Susan Page Davis fans?

I have four historicals coming out in 2012. The first, in March, is Almost Arizona, which will celebrate 100 years of statehood with an action-filled romance. In April and October, the second and third books of my Prairie Dreams series will release. A lot of people are waiting for Lady Anne’s Quest, to answer some questions about the Stone family and see if Lady Anne finds true love in the Wild West. In the final book, A Lady in the Making, you’ll see what happens to Uncle David, the new earl, as he heads out of Oregon and into danger. Also in April, you’ll see Cowgirl Trail, the next book in the Texas Trails series. It’s a lot of fun.

I can’t wait to see what’s next for Lady Anne – and the Texas Trails series is amazing.

What question would you like to ask our readers?

What book that you’ve read in the last year would you most like to see made into a movie?

Thanks so much for joining us, Susan, and our readers! Remember, leave a comment during our “Authorpalooza,” and you may have a shot at a pack of books, including Susan’s own The Lady’s Maid!

Back-cover of The Lady’s Maid:

An Aristocratic Brit searching for her lost uncle . . .

A German Maid determined to protect her mistress . . .

A disagreeable Scout waiting to see the ladies fail . . .

A Ruffian dogging their every step . . .

And the Prairie that challenges their very survival.

Lady Anne Stone’s uncle is the new Earl of Stoneford. The only problem is, he disappeared into America’s Wild West. With only her personal maid, Elise Finster, as determined chaperone, Anne embarks upon a quest to find David Stone. First stop, St. Louis, where the ladies discover their quarry went farther west five years ago. Resolute in their mission, Anne and Elise join a wagon train to Oregon. But will their prairie-dream adventure turn into a Wild West nightmare?

Scout Eb Bentley, initially skeptical that the women can survive the journey, soon finds himself falling for the determination, charm, and beauty of one lady in particular. Can he keep her alive long enough to win her love?

Or will the ladies succumb to the rigors, ruffians, and rustlers along the trail?

Posted on January 25, 2012 - by Brenda Anderson

Chatting with Sharon Hinck

When I first began writing, I joined a local group, the Minnesota Christian Writers Guild (MCWG). About that same time, local author and fellow MCWG member, Sharon Hinck, was releasing her debut novel, The Secret Life of Becky Miller. I immediately found Sharon to be very approachable and I periodically e-mailed her questions regarding writing. She ALWAYS e-mailed me back, and that was before she knew who I was.

Since that time, I’ve gotten to know Sharon and find her to be one of the most genuine people I’ve met. She inspires me with her heart for God, and she’s become a mentor, offering  advice, and critique with encouragement and gentleness. I’m so excited to have Sharon visit with us today at Inkspirational Messages!

Since Sharon’s debut release in 2006, she’s published six additional novels in a variety of genres–fantasy, contemporary, mom lit–and she writes them all well. In October of 2011, she re-released THE RESTORER through Marcher Lord Press as an expanded edition. Here’s a little snippet about The Restorer-Expanded Edition:

Susan Mitchell thought she was an ordinary homemaker. She was wrong. When she’s pulled through a portal into another world, she finds a nation grappling for its soul and waiting for a promised Restorer to save their people.

She has always longed to do something important for God, but can she fill this role?

While she struggles to adapt to a foreign culture, she tackles an enemy that is poisoning the minds of the people, uncovers a corrupt ruling Council, and learns that God can use even her floundering attempts at service in surprising ways.

This new expanded edition of The Restorer includes an in-depth devotion guide for readers who want to dig into the spiritual themes of the book, bonus scenes providing glimpses of the story through a variety of characters, and fun extras including links to songs and recipes.

Sharon, I read The Restorer when it initially came out, along with the two other books in the Sword of Lyric Series (The Restorer’s Son and The Restorer’s Journey), and loved them all. I’m looking forward to reading the expanded edition. I’m curious, what was it like developing new material for this new edition?

I loved these stories and characters so much that it was a treat to revisit the world beyond the attic. It was fun playing with scenes from new angles and exploring other character voices. The interactive devotion guide was rewarding to write, because it helped me dig deeply into the Biblical themes that inspired elements of the books.

How did you decide which bonus elements to add?

It was important to me that people would feel that it was worth the investment to own The Restorer-Expanded Edition, even if they had a copy of the original edition. I drew from all the mail I’ve gotten from readers about these books and created the things that I felt would do the most to enhance their experience of The Restorer.

Since many readers share that the spiritual themes had a big impact on them, I created the devotion guide to show the foundation of those themes – and also to give more glimpses into the way that Susan Mitchell is loosely inspired by Deborah in the book of Judges. The Bible study and journaling and prayers allow readers to go on their own spiritual adventure as they are reading the novel.

I also had fun creating new scenes from the perspective of minor characters. Since the book is in Susan’s first person point of view, it was fun giving other characters like Wade, Tara, Kieran, Nolan, and Tristan a voice. My publisher had suggested including “deleted scenes,” but anything that had been deleted from the original manuscript when the book was first published needed to be deleted. So writing fresh material from a new slant seemed like the way to go. I hope it’s as fun for readers as bonus material on a DVD is for me.

We also tried something innovative in using QR codes so that people with smart phones can hover over the symbol and go to a page to heart the music of a song in the story, or read a recipe for a meal that is described in the book.

Now, I’m even more eager to re-read it! Sounds like more than a novel, but rather what I’d call an interactive experience. What do you hope people experience in The Restorer-Expanded Edition?

God can use ordinary people in unexpected ways. I truly believe that many women live lives of quiet heroism – whether their battleground is caring for aging parents, raising a child with a disability, fighting a long-term illness, volunteering at their church, or supporting a friend through difficulty. My hope is that Susan’s adventure in an alternate world breathes inspiration into anyone feeling that the road has been difficult in his or her world.

Love it–I believe Susan’s character does accomplish that goal.

What are you working on now? And what do you see in your future?

I just turned in all the bonus material for The Restorer’s Journey-Expanded Edition (due out in October 2012), and have begun working on new material for a fourth book that I’d love to complete, Lord willing.

I for one, am rooting for the fourth book. The characters you created became like family that I want to revisit.

On another subject, if you hadn’t become a writer, what would you want to be?

Great question.

I would have loved to dance with the New York City Ballet company, but alas, that was not to be.

Another secret vocational dream would be to be a midwife. I always thought it would be awesome.

Instead, I’ve found ways to be a “midwife” in the birthing process of books for other authors – by doing some free-lance editing and mentoring.

I love your analogy of authors being midwives. I’ve met many writers who would fit that role and they’ve had a great influence on me. Who has influenced you most in your writing career?

I’ve always appreciated the authors of the books I devoured as a young reader. They have truly been mentors and influences without ever knowing the impact they had in my life, and I’m so grateful to each writer who poured their heart into stories. In recent years, I’ve been privileged to get to know several contemporary Christian authors as friends, and am so inspired by their example of sacrifice, faith, service, and humility.

Thanks again, Sharon, for stopping by Inkspirational Messages today, and thank you for being an inspiring influence in so many writers’ lives. Bless you!

~*~*~

Sharon Hinck writes “stories for the hero in all of us,” about ordinary people experiencing God’s grace in unexpected ways. Known for their authenticity, emotional range, and spiritual depth, her novels include contemporary fiction such as The Secret Life of Becky Miller or Stepping into Sunlight and the groundbreaking Sword of Lyric fantasy series which includes The Restorer–Expanded Edition. She’s been a Christy finalist and has won three Carol awards.

Sharon’s undergrad degree is in education, and she earned an M.A. in Communication. When she isn’t wrestling with words, Sharon enjoys speaking to conferences, retreats, and church groups. She loves interacting with visitors at her website and blog: sharonhinck.com.

You can find Sharon’s books at:

www.sharonhinck.com

http://sharonswriting.blogspot.com/

To order The Restorer-Expanded Edition: http://www.marcherlordpress.com/books/the_restorer_se.html

Kindle version: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005VM4XL4?tag=sharonhcom-20&creative=384345&linkCode=kin

 

Posted on January 24, 2012 - by JerriLynn

Which Inspirational Writer has a Crush on Mr. Spock?

Ever read a book and wonder what the writer is like? I do. All the time. And once in a while, I get to “meet” someone whose work I admire. Colleen Coble is one of those people.

I first met Colleen through the ACFW Members List. I was so thrilled (because she was wonderful to me) that I went out and bought every one of her books I could find.  How lucky was I? Her books have all been fabulous, and I’m constantly amazed by her talent as a writer. If there’s anyone that I look to to learn what I’m doing right and wrong, it’s Colleen.

When this series came up, I had the good fortune to be the person who got to talk to Colleen a bit about a new project, about her writing life, and about her faith. So, without keeping you in suspense any longer (Colleen does a great job of that all on her own), here’s what she had to say:

JL: Colleen, I’m familiar with your work, but some of our readers may not be, so can you first, could you give us a brief bio?

Colleen Coble: I’ve been happily married forever (40+ years now) and have two grown children, Dave and Kara. My 3-year-old granddaughter is the light of our lives. God has opened so many more doors than I ever dreamed could happen, and I’ve had over forty books published now. I’ve been with Thomas Nelson for ten years this summer.

Author’s aside: If you’re not familiar with Colleen’s books, she writes Inspirational Romantic Suspense, Inspirational Romance, and Inspirational Suspense. You can learn more about her on her website (linked above) or her Facebook page.

 

JL: Colleen, rumor has it you’re about to start a new partnership with Robin Miller working on a middle grade readers series. What details can you share about that?

Colleen Coble: We’re so excited about this! Robin and I will be writing a mystery series for 8-12 year olds based on my Rock Harbor novels. The main character will be Emily, one of the children lost in the woods in Without a Trace.

 

JL: What prompted you to write middle grade fiction, since you’re usually an adult suspense author?

Colleen Coble: Tommy Nelson came to me and asked if I would consider writing a middle grade series. I have a granddaughter now and found the idea of writing books she would read in a few years very exciting. I knew I wouldn’t have the time to do it by myself. Robin was the first person I thought of partnering with. She knows Rock Harbor nearly as well as I do and I love her writing. I was thrilled when she was excited at the idea as well!

 

JL: Writing for adults must be very different than writing for middle-grade readers. Have you found the transition difficult?

Colleen Coble: Strangely enough, no. I’ve had young people in all of my books, and it seemed very natural to me.

 

JL: Ok, so you’re working on that project, but I know you have to have more going on. What other projects are you working on?

Colleen Coble: I’m working on a new contemporary series set in the Outer Banks called the Hope Beach series. I’ve been loving it! And my new historical series is launching next month. The first book in the Under Texas Stars series is Blue Moon Promise.

 

JL: Wow. You’re a busy lady! Is there a piece of scripture that guides your writing life? Why is this scripture important to you (or if there is no specific scripture, how does your faith fit into your career as a writer)?

Colleen Coble: My life verse is Romans 8:28. No matter what happens I know that God will work it out for my good.

Author’s aside: For those who are unfamiliar with it, this is the verse that Colleen lives by:

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

 

JL: Ok, enough about the work stuff for a moment. What’s one thing that readers probably don’t know about you?

Colleen Coble: I’m a huge Trekkie. Don’t laugh but I still have a crush on Mr. Spock! =)

 

JL: I know you’re busy, so one last question. What’s one thing that you wish you could tell other authors?

Colleen Coble: Be persistent. Keep writing. Move on to the next story and learn your craft.

Posted on January 23, 2012 - by Kim

The Swan House

Move over Margaret Mitchell. Stand aside Harper Lee. There’s a new kid on the block…relatively speaking. Or at least that’s what I thought when I read The Swan House by Elizabeth Musser.

This fantastic novel, published in 2001 is set in the author’s native Atlanta in 1962, is the coming of age story of one Mary Swan Middleton – a child of privilege from Buckhead. But money and the fine education she is receiving at the elite Wellington School doesn’t save her from the tragedy that leaves not only her family but the entire city grieving.

The story opens with a very grown up Mary Swan finally agreeing to tell her pregnant daughter the story of her sixteen-year-old self and the paintings that hang in Mt. Carmel Church in Grant Park. Thankfully, we get to go along for the ride as she tells of first loves, the slowly evolving racial climate in the city, the pain of secrets kept too long and the struggle to find a faith she didn’t know she was searching for.

From the very first paragraph, Elizabeth Musser draws the reader into the world of the South in 1962. Every word seems to pull you farther into a city still rising from the ashes of the past. Through the eyes of the characters, you feel like you are in Oakland Cemetery or standing on the expanse of lawn at the Swan House. You can feel Mary Swan’s pain as she grieves for her mother and struggles with the secrets uncovered as she tries to solve the infamous Raven Dare. You experience the confusion of being attracted to two possible first love and having to chose between the kind boy who could make her a social outcast and the sweet young man who drives a new convertible and goes to as elite a private school as she does. In short, you will cry her tears and laugh her laughs. And come out a better person for it.

 

Elizabeth Goldsmith Musser, a native of Atlanta, Georgia, attended the Westminster Schools and then received her B.A. in English and French from Vanderbilt University, where she was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and graduated magna cum laude.

Though passionate about writing since childhood, Elizabeth’s first book was not published until 1996. Two Crosses was the first of a trilogy set during both the Algerian War for independence from France (1957-1962) and the present day civil war in Algeria. Her work has since been translated into Dutch, French, and German.

Since 1989, Elizabeth and her husband, Paul, have lived in Montpellier, France, where Paul serves on the pastoral team of a small Protestant church. The Mussers have two sons, Andrew and Christopher. (Taken from the Barnes and Noble website.)

 

Posted on January 20, 2012 - by Dawn Ford

Author Interview With Jill Williamson

It is my distinct honor to talk with one of my new favorite Christian Science Fiction writers, Jill Williamson and share her with my inksper friends.

Jill, tell me a little about yourself and how you came to be a writer.

I grew up in Alaska with no electricity. My biggest dream was to get to the lower 38 and experience “real life.” Thankfully I found God in college before I got into too much trouble. I was very talented at making my own clothes and my dream was to be a fashion designer, so I eventually went to New York City for a year to finish that degree. We moved to Los Angeles because my husband wanted to work in the movie industry. It didn’t take long for our hearts to change. Those industries just didn’t fit our personalities. Plus we wanted to start a family and both Hollywood and the fashion industry aren’t the most family-friendly industries.

So my husband went back to school to become a youth pastor. I stayed home with the kids. After reading some of the teen novels the girls in my youth group were reading, I decided to write a teen novel for Christian teens. I got hooked on writing my spy kids story. So hooked that I had to put the dreaded thing down and write something different. So I did. Then I wrote something else. Then something else.

 

In your Darkness Series you created a whole different reality.  Is it harder to create your own world or is it harder to have to keep within the confines of a reality where you could get the details wrong at some point in the story?

It depends on the genre. But usually for me, it’s much harder to write within the confines of reality because of all those necessary details. The science part, especially. If I’m writing science fiction, or dealing with an element of science in a contemporary fantasy story, it’s really hard for me to research all that. I’d much rather draw a map and create my own world and its own rules. *grin*

 

What inspired you for your current novel, “Replication: The Jason Experiment”, to write about clones?

I was riding in a car through upstate New York with my sister. We were going to pick apples. We passed endless amounts of ranches, orchards, and farms. It got me thinking. What if there was a farm where they grew people? Clones. It could be called Jason Farms. And that’s where the idea for the story came from. I wanted to explore how the world might treat cloned humans. Would they have the same rights as the rest of us? And what would their existence say about a creator God?

 

Did you consider cloning to be a hot-button topic and one that may not be accepted by your religious audience?

Not at all. I just thought it was a fun story idea. And many of my critique partners—and my husband too—said it was their favorite of the books I’d written to date. And it was the easiest sale I’d ever had. But as the book neared its release date, I heard from some of my Blood of Kings fans who were a bit worried about this cloning story. The phrases “creeps me out” and “I don’t think I’ll like a story about clones” were mentioned more than once. And then I got a couple almost-offended reviews from magazines, and it suddenly occurred to me that some people might see this as a political story, which I never intended it to be.

 

You write Christian Science Fiction. How do you set out to put a message in your story that touches readers but that doesn’t preach to them in a way to turn them off to the message?

I never set out to put any message in my books. I just write the stories as they come and try to be true to the characters’ journeys. In the Blood of Kings trilogy, Achan needed to have an encounter with the One God, so I showed that the best way I could. And in Replication, Abby was a strong Christian—the kind of kid who actually tries to live out what she believes. So, I felt that the faith issues that arose between Martyr and Abby were naturally the things that would have come up in real life, the way they might in youth group one Wednesday night.

I can understand why non-Christians don’t understand that and that some might think I put those scenes in on purpose to meet some secret agenda, but I didn’t. It’s always been one of my pet peeves when a character gets saved in a book one because it never seems very realistic to me. In my own life, I was around Christians for eight years before I made the decision to follow Christ. But Martyr was different. So, I guess the answer to this question is that I try to be true to who my characters are, the story they are living through, and where they story needs to go to reach an ending.

 

We writer’s seem to get inspired by the strangest details. What was one of the strangest things that you experienced which brought forth an idea for a novel?

I distinctly remember where I got the idea for every story I’ve written, and most of those ideas were inspired by pretty ordinary things. I suppose that seeing the partially burned tree when I was on a walk with my son was a pretty small detail that inspired an entire trilogy. Luke and I had stopped our walk to look at a house that had burned down. And there was a tree in the yard that was partially charred and mostly still alive and leafy green. I remember running home (pushing the stroller ahead of me) and Photoshopping that tree. Once I had the image of a half-dead/half-living tree, I started brainstorming a story to go with it, which became the Blood of Kings trilogy.

 

What do you have next on your drawing board that you can share with us today?

I’m very blessed to be working on a few things. Marcher Lord Press bought my teen spy kids series (the first book I wrote!). The Mission League is a series of four books that follow one young man’s experiences with a spy organization that fights evil. The first book, The New Recruit, is scheduled to release in the fall of 2012. I’m so excited!

And I am writing a new series for Zonderkidz that is scheduled to release in 2013 with the first book tentatively titled Captives. Here is the gist of that story: In a dystopian future, most the population is infected with a plague. The only exceptions are those who live outside the city walls. A mutation in the plague sends city enforcers looking for uninfected nationals in an effort to purge the disease from future generations. When enforcers raid Levi’s village, they take his fiancé into the city and hold her captive in the Highland Harem. Levi launches a one-man war against the city in an attempt to free his loved ones from his village before it’s too late.

 

How do you view the future of the Christian Speculative Genre?

I see a bright future for the genre. There are a lot of houses looking for Christian speculative fiction. So I think that there is a huge market out there and publishers are willing to give it a try. I also see many writers getting caught up in ebooks and self-publishing. And while I’m not opposed to self-publishing on a case-by-case basis, most writers are not born marketers or businessmen. Being a self-published author is really tough, and many who go this route may get discouraged.

And one other thing I’ve noticed: critics can be hard on Christian spec fiction. It’s not politically correct to write books with Christian themes, and some reviewers get downright angry when they encounter them. As a result, I’ve seen a few authors tempted to write their next spec fiction books with allegories that can cross over into the general market. It’s difficult to continually create books you know some people will despise. So in that regard, the Christian speculative fiction may continually be a challenge to the author’s heart. Christian authors need to arm themselves with a Galatians 1:10 mentality. “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”

Jill’s newest release, Replication, is an amazing speculative story about a secret cloning laboratory and the one clone, Martyr, who simply wants to see the sky before he fulfills his life’s purpose before he expires and the girl helps save him. Jill’s refreshing tale of an innocent mind opening up to the knowledge of God and what  real purpose and sacrifice looks like will touch your hearts. I highly recommend it for teens and adults alike.

Thank you, Jill for a wonderful interview and a great read!

Posted on January 19, 2012 - by Shari Barr

Welcome, Author Cara Putman

Today’s guest author is an ambitious young woman whose smile and charm will make you feel like you’ve known her forever. With numerous novels behind her and more on the way, she’s mastered the art of keeping her readers intrigued until the very end. If you’ve never met her, you’re in for a treat. Please welcome Cara Putman.

Cara, tell us a little about you.

I live in Indiana with my husband and four children. I’m an attorney and a teacher at my church as well as lecturer at Purdue and adjunct faculty at a local community college. I have loved reading and writing from a young age and now realize it was all training for writing books. I love bringing history and romance to life.

An honors graduate of the University of Nebraska and George Mason University School of Law, I left small town Nebraska and headed to Washington, D.C., to launch my career in public policy. God detoured me to Indiana, a state I love to call home.

I am an author chasing hard after God as I live a crazy life.

Your ambition is admirable. When did you begin writing? Did someone encourage you to write, or did you just always know?

I first started writing as a young teen. My favorite authors of the time: Gilbert Morris, Janette Oke, Sandy Dengler, Michael Phillips, etc., just didn’t write fast enough, so I thought I’d help them out. Because I was homeschooled, my mom let me write as long as I was actually writing. Then I started college, a career and family, then law school, and the desire didn’t go away, but the time wasn’t right. Then in 2005 everything changed. The desire had reappeared at the forefront of my life, and I met an author who has been one of my biggest cheerleaders: Colleen Coble.

Sounds like things were falling into place for you, even as a child. I’ve noticed that you write in several genres. Do you have a favorite?

My favorites are my books set during World War II on the homefront. There’s something about that generation and the way they pulled together that inspires me. I can’t read a book about that time without seeing story possibilities.

What is a typical writing day for you? How do you find balance with your day job and raising a family?

I don’t really have a typical day. If I’m under deadline, I may have a babysitter come once a week to give me an afternoon to slip away to Panera to write. Otherwise, my typical work time is after the kids go to bed. So you’ll often find me writing between the hours of 9 and midnight. Because we homeschool, my days are usually filled with the kids and the occasional teaching slot at Purdue or Ivy Tech.

You are one busy mom, such an inspiration for other young moms struggling with the challenges of raising a family and pursuing a career. This leads to my next question. Do you have a favorite place to go to find inspiration?

I have a corner booth in Panera which I call my writing home. Not what you meant? Because I love research, I’ll often find ideas in magazines, newspapers, when we’re on vacation, etc. When we went to the Biltmore Mansion a couple years ago, I kept stumbling on World War II story ideas. Everyone else would see Gilded Age stories, but not me!

How did you land your first contract? How much time elapsed between beginning writing that first novel and publication?

I went to the ACFW conference in 2005, only a few months after I started writing again. While there I hosted a workshop for Jim and Tracie Peterson. The ironic thing was at the time I had no thoughts of writing for Heartsong Presents. But as Jim and I started talking, an idea formed – just the outline really. Then over the next day more pieces came to me. Then a friend wanted to sit at Jim’s table so I screwed up the gumption (not too hard if you know me) to ask him if Heartsong might be interested in a story like it. He thought it sounded interesting and told me to talk to Tracie. She was open, so as soon as I got home, I fleshed out the proposal and sent it in. I ignored that rule about writing the manuscript first…shh, don’t tell anyone. When he emailed asking if the book was finished, I stayed up for three weeks until it was written. I received the contract at the 2006 ACFW conference, and the book released in the fall of 2007. In 2008 Canteen Dreams tied for first in the Carol Awards for short historical. It’s been quite a journey!

Wow! That is an amazing story. Can you tell us a little about that debut novel?

Canteen Dreams was and is a story of my heart. People always say to write what you know. I love World War II, I love my grandparents, and I love that my hometown (North Platte, Nebraska) played a unique role in the war. Those three elements came together in Canteen Dreams. A school teacher and a rancher meet at a dance the night before Pearl Harbor. The sparks fly, but with the declaration of war life gets complicated. Audrey launches into the efforts of the local canteen, and Willard does all he can to enlist. I love this story!

That sounds like a wonderful book. Are you working on anything new?

Currently, I’m working on a proposal with my friends Tricia Goyer and Sarah Sundin for a World War II novella collection set in my current hometown in Indiana. I also have two proposals for World War II trade novels (one set in Europe and the other stateside) that I’m fixing and praying over. That plus the marketing of my three spring releases is keeping me busy!

Those proposals all sound like the makings for fascinating stories. Now, Cara, who are some of your favorite authors?

Oh! Great question. For historicals I adore Julie Klassen (regency), Tamera Alexander, Tricia Goyer, Sarah Sundin, Dan Walsh, and Mary Connealy. For suspense I can’t put down Irene Hannon, Steven James, Robin Caroll, Colleen Coble or Brandilyn Collins. For straight romance I love a Jenny B. Jones book!

Wonderful choices, Cara. What is your main goal as a writer?

My goal is to tell an entertaining story that grips readers, pulls them deep into a story, and along the way shows them or reminds them about God’s character. And if it’s historical, my goal is to weave the history into the story in a way that doesn’t slow down the story – but instead makes it even more fascinating.

What is the most important thing you’ve learned as a writer?

I will never arrive. I will always have to push myself deeper and further. The moment I stop being willing to do that, I should trade in my laptop for a more lucrative career!

Great advice for every writer. Thank you so much for joining us today, Cara! It’s been fun. Readers, don’t forget to stop by Cara’s website at www.caraputman to learn more about her and her books.

Don’t forget to leave a comment the next two weeks to get your name in a drawing for a free book pack.