Irene Hannon - DEADLY PURSUIT

Deadly Pursuit: A Novel by Irene Hannon

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Another great read by Irene Hannon. I highly recommend it!



View all my reviews

The Craftie Ladies of Romance & A BASKET OF BOOKS

HI all, just wanted to let you know that the Craftie Ladies of Romance are giving away a basket of books. All you have to do is go on Goodreads to enter the contest.

Hope to see you there!

October New Releases!

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW FictionFinder website.

A Wedding Invitation by Alice Wisler -- General Fiction from Bethany House; When Samantha Bravencourt receives an invitation to a wedding in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, she looks forward to reconnecting with her college friend. Instead her life collides with Carson, a fellow teacher and the man who broke her heart.

Attracted by Fire by DiAnn Mills -- A Thriller/Suspense from Tyndale. When a Secret Service Agent is assigned to the Vice President's rebellious daughter, danger lurks in every corner - and her heart.

Deeply Devoted: A Novel; The Blue Willow Brides Series by Maggie Brendan -- A Historical from Revell -- She is staking her future on a man she's never met. Can she learn to love him?

Freezing Point by Beth Goddard -- A Thriller/Suspense from Love Inspired. Casey Wilkes didn't realize her simple human-interest story would put her life at risk—again.

Lethal Remedy by Richard L. Mabry M.D. -- A Thriller/Suspense from Abingdon; A doctor discovers that the experimental "wonder drug" that offers the only hope of cure for a universally fatal infection can be attacking more than just bacteria.

Love on the Line by Deeanne Gist, -- Historical Romance from Bethany House. Rural switchboard operator Georgie Gail is proud of her independence in a man's world ... which makes it twice as vexing when the telephone company sends a man to look over her shoulder.

Maggie's Journey by Lena Nelson Dooley -- A Historical from Realms (Charisma Media). Near her eighteenth birthday, Margaret Lenora Caine finds a chest hidden in the attic containing proof that she's adopted and her journey begins.

Recipe for Deceit by S. Dionne Moore -- Mystery from Barbour. The third LaTisha Barnhart mystery finds the sassy diner owner trying to figure out who put the hit on a hitman.

Rodeo Dust by Shannon Vanatter -- Romance from Barbour Heartsong; Can they rely on God to find their common ground or will they draw a line in the rodeo dust that neither will cross?

Southern Fried Sushi: A Novel by Jennifer Rogers Spinola -- General Fiction from Barbour; Ride the roller coaster of Shiloh Jacobs’s life as her dreams derail, sending her on a downward spiral from the heights of an AP job in Tokyo to penniless in rural Virginia.

Ten Plagues by Mary Nealy-- Thriller/Suspense from Barbour; A demon possessed serial killer pits himself against a former ego driven cop, who's found peace as a mission pastor and a tough lady cop with the spiritual gift of discerning spirits.

The Baker's Wife by Erin Healy-- Thriller/Suspense from Thomas Nelson; To save her husband and son, Audrey Bofinger must rescue her enemy.

The Chair by James Rubart-- Thriller/Suspense from B and H Publishing; If you were given an ancient looking chair and told Jesus Christ made it, would you believe them?

The Christmas Child by Linda Goodnight-- Romance from Love Inspired; When a battle weary cop and a Christmas crazy teacher join forces to care for an abandoned, mute boy in a small town, neither is prepared for the shocking revelations waiting...just in time for Christmas.

The Lady's Maid by Susan Page Davis-- Romance from Barbour; As a lady's maid, Elise will follow her mistress anywhere, even into the Wild West.

The Wishing Pearl by Nicole O'Dell-- Young Adult from Barbour; Join conflicted sixteen-year-old Olivia Mansfield on her journey to hope and healing as she leaves her messed-up life behind and moves into home for troubled teens

There You'll Find Me by Jenny B. Jones-- Young Adult from Thomas Nelson; Grief brought Finley to Ireland. Love will lead her home.

When Love Gets in the Way by Janelle Mowery-- A Historical from Harvest House; Straight from the heart of the Old West, the Colorado Runaway series is full of adventure, humor, and romance.

When Two Hearts Meet by Janelle Mowery-- A Historical from Harvest House; Rachel Garrett finds that attaining her dream of becoming a nurse is fraught with peril, and a deputy sheriff with a wall around his heart doesn’t help matters.

August ACFW New Releases

A Horseman’s Heart by Myra Johnson — Romance from Barbour/Heartsong. When Kip Lorimer shows up with a horse to donate to the family’s equine therapy program, Sheridan Cross can’t help but be suspicious. A cowboy a thousand miles from home and living out of a horse trailer? What’s wrong with this picture?

A Most Unsuitable Match by Stephanie Whitson — A Historical from Bethany House. They are opposites in every way. . . except how neither one can stop thinking about the other.

Agent Undercover by Lynette Eason — Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired. A little boy with a secret, a killer with a vendetta, and a man and a woman who will stop at nothing to protect the child while catching the killer.

Aquasynthesis by Grace Bridges, Fred Warren, Caprice Hokstad, P.A. Baines, Adam Graham, R.L. Copple, Travis Perry, Mike Lynch, Keven Newsome, Kat Heckenbach, and Ryan Grabow. — Fantasy from Splashdown Books. From classic-style fantasy and science fiction stories, through speculative tales that delve deeper into motivations and meanings, we move from humor to sacrifice by a linking story that connects many very different themes.

Blue Skies Tomorrow by Sarah Sundin — General Fiction Historical from Revell. In a time of peril, can they find the courage to confront their fears and embrace a love that lasts?

Edge of Grace by Christa Allan — General Fiction from Abingdon. Unable to cope with her brother’s news that he is gay, Caryn Becker rejects him. But when he is attacked and nearly killed, she is forced to make hard choices that take her to the very edge of grace.

Lost in Dreams, Book Two; Altered Heart Series by Roger Bruner and Kristi Rae Bruner — Young Adult from Barbour. Eighteen-year-old Kim Hartlinger discovers the victory Jesus provides during the most trying of circumstances as she learns to lean on other Christians.

Marrying Miss Marshal by Lacy Williams — Romance from Love Inspired Historical. Her job is to protect the town… but who will protect her heart?

Out of Control by Mary Connealy — Romance from Bethany House. Rafe Kincaid controls everything in his life … until he meets Julia.

Ransome’s Quest by Kaye Dacus — Historical Romance from Harvest House. Romance, intrigue, and swashbuckling leaps of faith create a wonderfully heroic close to this beloved series.

Something Old by Dianne Christner — Romance from Barbour. Love is rarely plain and simple.

Surrender the Dawn by Mary Lu Tyndall — A Historical from Barbour. You’ll be swept away in this seafaring romance between a plucky damsel-in-distress and a nefarious rake who’s selling out his country amid the War of 1812.

The Matrimony Plan by Christine Johnson — Historical Romance from Love Inspired. A rich girl falls in love with a poor boy — until the tables are turned.

Sandra Orchard is here - and I'm giving away her new book

Bio: Sandra Orchard lives in rural Ontario, Canada where inspiration abounds for her romantic suspense novels set in the fictional Niagara town she's created as their backdrop. Married with three grown children, when not writing, she enjoys hanging out with family, brainstorming new stories with fellow writers, and hiking or kayaking in God's beautiful creation. Her debut novel Deep Cover is now available on eHarlequin and hits bookstore shelves in September.

This week on Goodreads.com Sandra is giving away a signed copy of her novel. If you’re a member of Goodreads, visit Goodreads to enter.

Book Blurb:

IDENTITY: GUARDED
Maintaining his cover cost undercover cop Rick Gray the woman he loved. Sweet Ginny Bryson never really knew Rick. He never gave her the chance. Not then, and not now, when he's back with a new alias to gather evidence against Ginny's uncle. The man's crimes led to Rick's partner's death, and Rick wants justice to be served. But his investigation is stirring up trouble, and Ginny is smack-dab in the middle. Someone wants Ginny to pay the price for what her uncle has done. But how can Rick protect her without blowing his cover, jeopardizing his assignment...and risking both their lives?

Deep Cover is the first book in the series, Undercover Cops: Fighting for justice puts their lives—and hearts—on the line.

Book 2 ~ Shades of Truth ~ March 2012
A compassionate youth worker fighting to preserve her dying father’s legacy battles the justice-driven detective who threatens her mission and her heart.

Book 3 ~ Dose of Deception ~ TBA (title tentative)
A nurse. An undercover cop. A killer who’ll stop at nothing to avoid being caught.

What reviewers are saying about Deep Cover:
“4 Stars. Great job…a good mystery, interesting characters and a satisfying ending.” ~ Romantic Times

“5 stars. A fast-paced, exciting, romantic story and awesome, fresh writing…” ~ Goodreads reader


Connect with Sandra Online:


Visit her website ~ www.SandraOrchard.com

Visit her personal blog ~ http://www.SandraOrchard.blogspot.com

Like her Facebook Page ~ www.Facebook.com/SandraOrchard

Join her at Goodreads ~ bit.ly/Goodreads_SandraO


Teaser from the front of the book:

Rick took her face in his hands. “I only care about keeping you safe.”
His soft words turned her inside out.

His intense drive to protect her was one of the things she’d loved most about him, because all her life she’d been the one doing the protecting.

It had felt good to lean on someone else.

Then he’d left, and the dove hanging from her rearview mirror became her reminder that she needed to lean on God alone. Except Rick had come back and wanted to be her protector.

Unspoken regrets shadowed his eyes. “I honestly don’t know whether some psychotic protestor or one of your uncle’s enemies or one of mine has targeted you. But I promise you I’ll figure it out and put a stop to him.”

“I? Uh, uh. Whether you like it or not, we’re in this together. No more secrets.”

Lynette here: If you'd like to win a copy of this fabulous book, leave a comment for Sandra telling her why you'd like to read her newest release.

God Bless to you all!

Carol Award Finalists!

2011 Carol Awards Finalists

Debut Novel:
The Preacher's Bride by Jody Hedlund (Bethany House - Dave Long/Sharon Asmus, Editors)
Crossing Oceans by Gina Holmes (Tyndale Publishers - Kathryn Olson, Editor)
Rooms by James L. Rubart (B&H Publishing - Julee Schwarzburg, Editor)

Long Contemporary:
The Choice by Suzanne Woods Fisher (Revell - Andrea Doering, Editor)
Red Ink by Kathi Macias (New Hope Publishers - Randy Bishop, Editor)
Never Say Never by Lisa Wingate (Bethany House - Dave Long, Editor)

Long Contemporary Romance:
Plain Jayne by Hilary Manton Lodge (Harvest House - Kim Moore, Editor)
Anna's Return by Marta Perry (Berkley - Ellen Edwards, Editor)
Plain Paradise by Beth Wiseman (Thomas Nelson - Natalie Hanemann, Editor)

Long Historical:
Here Burns My Candle by Liz Curtis Higgs (Waterbrook Press - Laura Barker, Editor)
Petra: City in Stone by T.L. Higley (B&H Publishing - Karen Ball, Editor)
Sons of Thunder by Susan May Warren (Summerside Press – Susan Downs, Editor)

Long Historical Romance:
The Husband Tree by Mary Connealy (Barbour - Rebecca Germany, Editor)
Love Finds You In Homestead, Iowa by Melanie Dobson (Summerside - Rachel Meisel/Connie Troyer, Editors)
Courting Morrow Little by Laura Frantz (Revell - Andrea Doering, Editor)
Mystery:
Mirrored Image by Alice K. Arenz (Sheaf House - Joan M. Shoup, Editor)
Muslin Mystery by Vera Dodge (Guideposts - Beth Adams, Editor)
The Camera Never Lies by Elizabeth Goddard (Barbour – Rebecca Germany, Editor)

Novellas:
The Prodigal Groom by Vickie McDonough (Barbour – Rebecca Germany, Editor)
Ride With Me Into Christmas by Rachael Phillips (Barbour – Rebecca Germany, Editor)
A Trusting Heart by Carrie Turansky (Barbour – Rebecca Germany, Editor)

Romantic Suspense:
The Silent Order by Melanie Dobson (Summerside Press - Rachel Meisel/Susan Downs, Editors)
Don't Look Back by Lynette Eason (Revell - Andrea Doering, Editor)
Pursuit of Justice by DiAnn Mills (Tyndale Publishers - Karen Watson, Editor)

Short Contemporary:
The Wedding Garden by Linda Goodnight (Love Inspired - Allison Lyons)
A Father for Zach by Irene Hannon (Love Inspired - Melissa Endlich, Editor)
Winter's End by Ruth Logan Herne (Love Inspired - Melissa Endlich, Editor)

Short Contemporary Suspense:
Night Prey by Sharon Dunn (Love Inspired Suspense - Emily Rodmell, Editor)
Legacy of Lies by Jill Elizabeth Nelson (Love Inspired Suspense - Emily Rodmell, Editor)
Firestorm by Kelly Ann Riley (Love Inspired Suspense - Tina James, Editor)

Short Historical:
Her Healing Ways by Lyn Cote (Love Inspired Historical - Tina James, Editor)
Promise of Tomorrow by S. Dionne Moore (Barbour - JoAnne Simmons, Editor)
The Columns of Cottonwood by Sandra Robbins (Barbour - JoAnne Simmons, Editor)

Speculative Fiction:
The Wolf of Tebron by C. S. Lakin (AMG Publishers - Rick Steele, Editor)
Rooms by James L. Rubart (B&H Publishing - Julee Schwarzburg, Editor)
König's Fire by Marc Schooley (Marcher Lord Press – Jeff Gerke, Editor)

Suspense/Thriller:
Predator by Terri Blackstock (Zondervan - Sue Brower/Dave Lambert, Editors)
Fear No Evil by Robin Caroll (B&H Publishing – Karen Ball, Editor)
Medical Error by Richard L. Mabry (Abingdon Press – Barbara Scott, Editor)

Women's Fiction:
Beaded Hope by Cathy Liggett (Tyndale Publishers - Jan Stob/Lorie Popp, Editors)
They Almost Always Come Home by Cynthia Ruchti (Abingdon – Barbara Scott, Editor)
Beyond Summer by Lisa Wingate (NAL - Ellen Edwards, Editor)

Young Adult:
Anything But Normal by Melody Carlson (Revell - Lonnie Hull Dupont, Editor)
Healer's Apprentice by Melanie Dickerson (Zonderkidz - Jacque Alberta, Editor)
Katy's New World by Kim Vogel Sawyer (Zonderkidz - Jacque Alberta, Editor)

Welcome Sharon Dunn!

Just a little about Sharon:

BIO
Sharon Dunn is an award winning romance and mystery author. Her Guardian is her third romantic suspense for Love Inspired. When she is not writing, Sharon divides her time between three kids, her husband of twenty four years, a very nervous border collie and three cats. You can read more about Sharon and her books at www.sharondunnbooks.net.


I'm so thrilled to have Sharon Dunn as my guest today! First Happy Fourth of July! I was supposed to post this on the 2nd, but due to family stuff, weekend stuff and life in general, it just didn't get done for which I apologize. However, I think it's very appropriate to post about about this book today. Today is about FREEDOM, our freedom, bought and paid for by American lives. Sharon's book is about a girl whose freedom was taken away from her at the age of 13 and she doesn't get it back until the age of 20. And yes, this freedom comes at a cost. So, I hope you enjoy reading about this book and will enter the contest to win this fantastic book!


Inspiration for the Story

The inspiration for Her Guardian came from a number of news stories about kidnappings, the Jaycee Dugard and Elizabeth Smart cases, along with a case in Europe where a woman was kept locked away in her father’s house for years and the neighbors never knew. I didn’t want to explore the grittier elements of those cases like the rape and having children by your abductor. What was interesting to me was how a whole chunk of someone’s life could be lost. My heroine Julia is held captive from the time she is 13 to age 20. She has missed out on all the “normal” growing up stuff that happens during those years: graduation, learning to driving, starting to date, first kiss, prom, having friends, going to college. I wanted to explore how someone comes to terms with that loss. How do you find hope and not give into bitterness? Julia’s bodyguard and the hero of the story Gavin helps her with that process in addition to keeping her save from the cult leader Elijah True. Gavin is Julia’s guardian not only for her physical safety but also for her heart, for her emotional well being.






















Thank you so much, Sharon, for sharing about Her Guardian. I can't wait to get my own copy!

All right, readers, if you want to enter, just leave a post and tell us about your feelings on FREEDOM. Freedom as a country, freedom in Christ, just freedom in general.

Hope everyone has a WONDERFUL 4th of July!

God Bless!
Lynette

Welcome Margaret Daley

Happy Wednesday Book Lovers,


Today, I'm very honored to introduce my friend and fellow author, Margaret Daley.

Margaret Daley is an award winning, multi-published author in the romance genre. One of her romantic suspense books, Hearts on the Line, won the American Christian Fiction Writers’ Book of the Year Contest. Recently she has won the Golden Quill Contest, FHL’s Inspirational Readers’ Choice Contest, Winter Rose Contest, Holt Medallion and the Barclay Gold Contest. She wrote for various secular publishers before the Lord led her to the Christian romance market. She currently writes inspirational romance and romantic suspense books for the Steeple Hill Love Inspired lines, romantic suspense for Abingdon Press and historical romance for Summerside Press. She has sold seventy-five books to date.
Margaret is currently the President for American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), an organization of over 2300 members. She was one of the founding members of the first ACFW local chapter, WIN in Oklahoma. She has taught numerous classes for online groups, ACFW and RWA chapters. She enjoys mentoring other authors.

Until she retired a few years ago, she was a teacher of students with special needs for twenty-seven years and volunteered with Special Olympics as a coach. She currently is on the Outreach committee at her church, working on several projects in her community as well as serving on her church’s vestry.

On a more personal note, she has been married for over forty years to Mike and has one son and four granddaughters. She treasures her time with her family and friends.

Margaret graciously agreed to answer a few questions about a couple of her books.

Questions for author interviews for Lynette’s blog

1. We read your bio and learned a little about you. Anything you want to share in addition to that? When I retired from teaching three years ago, I wasn’t sure how it would go. I thought I might get bored or not have enough to do. NOT. I have been busier now writing full-time than when I was teaching and writing.

2. You’ve been writing a long time. How many books do you have published now? I sold my seventy-fifth book last September to Summerside Press. That historical romance called From This Day Forward will be out this September.

3. I know you’ve written a book in the recent Love Inspired Suspense continuity series, Texas Ranger Justice. Was it difficult to write about an idea created by someone else?



My book, Trail of Lies, was the fourth book (out April 2011) in the series. This has been my seventh continuity series and each one is a challenge coordinating with five other awesome authors and writing a story that has loosely been plotted by Love Inspired Suspense. They give us the broad plot points we need to address in our story, but we have to come up with all the scenes in between and make it all work.



4. I know you did a lot of research for Trail of Lies, including visiting with a Texas Ranger. Do you always “go all out” with your research? I try to get my research as accurate as I can. Some books require more than others. I have interviewed some interesting people for a book.

5. What are you working on now or going to write next? I am working on Saving Grace, my second book in the Men of the Texas Rangers, a romantic suspense series for Abingdon Press. This book will be out next August 2012. The first in the series called Saving Hope will be out in February 2012.

6. What do you like to do for fun? Do something with my family, especially my granddaughters. I also love to go to lunch and a movie with a friend.

7. How can readers get in contact with you? http://www.margaretdaley.com is the address of my new website. I just got through redoing it and moving my blog to the website. Check it out and leave a comment on my guestbook for a chance to win a book in the monthly contest.

8. What is the book you have out in June? I have the second book in Guardians, Inc. Series for Love Inspired. It is called Protecting Her Own. The third will be out in September called Hidden in the Everglades.


Blurb for Protecting Her Own: Nothing short of her dad’s stroke could bring professional bodyguard Cara Madison back to Virginia. But her homecoming turns explosive with a pipe bomb package addressed to her father. Cara knows two things for sure. First, someone’s after either her father or her…or both. And second, this job is too big to handle on her own. Unexpected help comes from Virginia state police detective Connor Fitzgerald. Years ago she’d walked away from him…and love. Now, despite their unresolved feelings, they must join forces—and settle their scarred differences.

9. Any parting comments? Wise advice for pre-published authors? Keep writing and submitting your work. Don’t give up. Also don’t forget to read a lot in the area you want to write.


You are a very busy lady! Thank you so much for stopping by and spending some time with us.

Readers, if you would like to win a copy of Margaret's newest release, PROTECTING HER OWN, please leave a comment saying you want to be entered in the drawing. You might leave Margaret a little note, too. :)

God Bless and until we meet again...

June ACFW New Releases

A Vision of Lucy by Margaret Brownley -- Romance from Thomas Nelson. Trouble may follow Lucy wherever she goes, but with the help of God and the rugged, reclusive David Wolf, she'll never face adversity alone.

Behind the Badge by Susan Sleeman -- A Thriller/Suspense from Love Inspired Suspense. Can a rookie sheriff's deputy find a killer before the killer takes the lives of the people she loves?

Beyond All Measure by Dorothy Love -- General Fiction from Thomas Nelson. Unless she can let go of her fears and learn to trust again, Ada may lose the heart of a good man.

Broken Wings: A Novel by Carla Stewart -- General Fiction from Faith Words (Hachette). One woman clings to her memories. The other wants to erase hers. A story of an unlikely friendship birthed in providence and bathed in grace.

Forever After (A Hanover Falls Novel) by Deborah Raney -- General Fiction from Howard (Simon & Schuster). A series of arson fires at Hanover Falls rebuilt homeless shelter threatens its residents and casts new suspicions about the original fire.

Home Sweet Home by Kim Watters -- Romance from Love Inspired. Finding a home is all Abby dreamed about, until she discovers the man she falls in love with has a less permanent agenda.

Idaho Brides by Erica Vetsch -- Romance from Barbour. Experience the Wild West through the eyes of the three McConnell brothers who long to overcome their troubled childhood as drunkard’s sons.

Love Finds You in Amana, Iowa by Melanie Dobson -- Romance from Summerside Press. As the rest of the nation is embroiled in the Civil War, the Amana Colonies have remained at peace—until now.

Protecting Her Own by Margaret Daley -- Thriller/Suspense from Love Inspired Suspense. Protecting her own father when an assailant targets him, bodyguard Cara Madison with Connor Fitzgerald, an ex-boyfriend, searches for a would be killer while fighting her feelings toward Connor.

Purple Knot by Raquel Byrnes -- Romance from White Rose. With her faith shaken and her world cast in shadows, can Reyna trust the God she believes abandoned her?

Spring for Susannah by Catherine Richmond -- Romance from Thomas Nelson. How could a marriage possibly work when the couple has only exchanged a few letters?

The Inconvenient Marriage of Charlotte Beck by Kathleen Y'Barbo -- Romance from Waterbrook/Multnomah (Random House). Unlikely romance is sometimes just an inconvenient marriage away

The Irresistible Earl by Regina Scott -- A Romance from Love Inspired Historical. If Chase Dearborn, the powerful Earl of Allyndale, found Meredee Price's family in Scarborough, surely he'd continue his quest to challenge Meredee's stepbrother to a duel. Meredee is determined to avoid the earl at all costs.

The Story in the Stars, Gateway to Gannah, Book 1 by Yvonne Anderson -- Fantasy from Risen Books. The inhabitants of the planet Gannah are known as bloodthirsty savages who once tried to conquer the galaxy. Now a plague has ravaged the planet and only one survivor remains.

The Sweetest Thing by Elizabeth Musser -- General Fiction from Bethany House. The Sweetest Thing is the story of two girls--opposites in every way--fighting for the same thing: survival amidst tumultuous change.

The Wedding Season: The Gentleman Takes a Bride by Louise M. Gouge -- Romance from Love Inspired Historical. Surely Elizabeth Moberly was born to be a nobleman's bride. She can't possibly be attracted to the untitled stranger who interrupts her cousin's wedding.

Under a Desert Sky by DiAnn Mills -- General Fiction from Summerside Press. A race from danger...straight into the arms of love.

RWA - Who will be there

Sorry it's been awhile. Blogger was messing with EVERYTHING and I couldn't get a post up. So, anyway, I will be at RWA this year. That's the Romance Writers Conference in New York City. I will be one of MANY signing at the Literacy booksigning on June 28th from 5:30-7:30. Check this out.

Information taken from the RWA website.

2011 "Readers for Life" Literacy Autographing

The "Readers for Life" Literacy Autographing has become one of the most popular events at RWA's Annual Conference. More than 400 romance authors participate in this two-hour autographing event, and each year we raise thousands of dollars, which are donated to ProLiteracy Worldwide and local literacy organizations. Since 1990, RWA has donated more than $670,000 to literacy charities.

The 2011 "Readers for Life" Literacy Autographing will take place on Tuesday, June 28, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at the New York Marriott Marquis in Times Square, Broadway Ballroom. This event is open to the public; there is no admittance fee. Proceeds from book sales go to local NYC and worldwide literacy organizations.

Authors signing at the 2011 "Readers for Life" Literacy Autographing:

Shana Abé
Cherry Adair
Shelley Adina
C.H. Admirand
Lara Adrian
Ann Aguirre
Jami Alden
Rochelle Alers
Cassie Alexander
Victoria Alexander
Laura Marie Altom
Donna Alward
Karen Anders
Jessica Andersen
Susan Andersen
Bella Andre
Beth Andrews
Vivi Andrews
Janice Angelique
Alex Archer
Jennifer Archer
Zoe Archer
Gina Ardito
Vivian Arend
Keri Arthur
Katharine Ashe
Sharon Ashwood
Sidney Ayers
Maya Banks
C.J. Barry
Gerry Bartlett
Jenna Bayley-Burke
Michelle Beattie
Jo Beverley
Laura Bickle
Jenna Black
Shayla Black
Toni Blake
Mary Blayney
Karina Bliss
Stephanie Bond
Joanna Bourne
Elizabeth Boyle
Celeste Bradley
Leah Braemel
Katherine Brandon
Kylie Brant
Marilyn Brant
Jackie Braun
Helen Brenna
Adrianne Brennan
Allison Brennan
Terri Brisbin
Suzanne Brockmann
Connie Brockway
Christina Brooke
Cheryl Brooks
Carolyn Brown
Sherri Browning Erwin
Nina Bruhns
Diane Burke
Marcella Burnard
Niki Burnham
Monica Burns
Grace Burrowes
Jaci Burton
Mary Burton
Shannon K. Butcher
Christyne Butler
Rhyannon Byrd
Meg Cabot
Gayle Callen
Stella Cameron
Kate Carlisle
Isobel Carr
Robyn Carr
Kathryn Caskie
Linda Castillo
Jayne Castle
Kendra Leigh Castle
Victoria Chancellor
Janet Chapman
Lara Chapman
Tera Lynn Childs
Ann Christopher
Beth Ciotta
Tiffany Clare
Rosemary Clement-Moore
CC Coburn
Mary Connealy
Stacy Connelly
Ellen Connor
Linda Conrad
Deborah Coonts
Karina Cooper
Dana Corbit
Nicola Cornick
Lecia Cornwall
Wendy Corsi Staub
Susan Crandall
Carolyn Crane
Megan Crane
Kathleen Creighton
Caitlin Crews
Sydney Croft
Jennifer Crusie
Jacquie D'Alessandro
Teresa D'Amario
Margaret Daley
Lauren Dane
B.J. Daniels
Lydia Dare
Tessa Dare
Patricia Davids
Heather Davis
Jo Davis
Alyssa Day
Sylvia Day
Janet Dean
Cindy Dees
Robyn DeHart
Roni Denholtz
Anna DePalo
Virna DePaul
Kimberly Derting
Anna DeStefano
Thea Devine
Leslie Dicken
Helenkay Dimon
Lila DiPasqua
Christina Dodd
Susan Donovan
Kate Douglas
Marissa Doyle
Ella Drake
Stephanie Draven
Stephanie Dray
Vicky Dreiling
Eileen Dreyer
Judy Duarte
Leigh Duncan
Nikki Duncan
Barbara Dunlop
Lynette Eason
Jennifer Echols
Cynthia Eden
Louisa Edwards
Anne Elizabeth
Simone Elkeles
Cara Elliott
Leanna Ellis
Suzanne Enoch
Karen Erickson
Jennifer Estep
Wendy Etherington
Alyssa Everett
Judi Fennell
Suzanne Ferrell
Caridad Ferrer
Marie Force
Gwynne Forster
Delores Fossen
Lori Foster
Addison Fox
Angie Fox
Susan Fox
Jacqueline Frank
Barbara Freethy
Jeaniene Frost
Diana Gabaldon
Tina Gabrielle
Abby Gaines
Shana Galen
Shelley Galloway
Lina Gardiner
Diane Gaston
Olivia Gates
Susan Gee Heino
Lexi George
Cindy Gerard
Tess Gerritsen
Rachel Gibson
Nancy Gideon
Blythe Gifford
Deeanne Gist
Debby Giusti
Seressia Glass
Colleen Gleason
Linda Goodnight
Anne Gracie
Donna Grant
Jane Graves
Ava Gray
Abby Green
Jennifer Greene
Leigh Greenwood
L.B. Gregg
Amelia Grey
Laura Griffin
Laura Lee Guhrke
Sophie Gunn
Shirley Hailstock
Traci E. Hall
Lynnette Hallberg
Jan Hambright
Lori Handeland
Darci Hannah
Kristin Hannah
Fiona Harper
Karen Harper
Molly Harper
Lynn Raye Harris
Kim Harrison
Thea Harrison
Megan Hart
Regina Hart
Michele Hauf
Candace Havens
Alexandra Hawkins
Karen Hawkins
J.C. Hay
Gwen Hayes
Jennifer Haymore
Pamela Hearon
Lorraine Heath
Meg Hennessy
Ann Herendeen
Rachael Herron
Kate Hewitt
Kristan Higgins
Tamara Hogan
Hannah Howell
Elizabeth Hoyt
Coralie Hughes Jensen
C.C. Hunter
Madeline Hunter
Sandra Hyatt
Larissa Ione
Jenna Ives
Jackie Ivie
Alexandra Ivy
Brenda Jackson
Maggie Jaimeson
Elle James
Eloisa James
Julie James
Silver James
Victoria Janssen
Hannah Jayne
Sabrina Jeffries
Elizabeth Jennings
Carolyn Jewel
Laura Joh Rowland
Christine Johnson
Kate Johnson
Kathryn Johnson
Linda O. Johnston
Darynda Jones
Crystal Jordan
Sophie Jordan
Wayne Jordan
Autumn Jordon
Stephanie Julian
Julia Justiss
Andrea Kane
Bethany Kane
Mallory Kane
Virginia Kantra
Laura Kaye
Robin Kaye
Susanna Kearsley
Taylor Keating
Erin Kellison
Leslie Kelly
Megan Kelly
Vanessa Kelly
Sharon Kendrick
Joanne Kennedy
Kris Kennedy
Janette Kenny
Lavinia Kent
Sherrilyn Kenyon
Beth Kery
Laurie Kingery
Cindy Kirk
Angela Knight
Deidre Knight
Amy Knupp
Kieran Kramer
Jayne Ann Krentz
Kathy Kulig
Joyce Lamb
Jill Marie Landis
Katie Lane
Emma Lang
Kimberly Lang
Michele Lang
Julia Latham
Sharon Lathan
Rosalind Lauer
Stephanie Laurens
Day Leclaire
Emery Lee
Jade Lee
Sandra Leesmith
Kara Lennox
Rose Lerner
Ann Lethbridge
Vicki Lewis Thompson
Jeannie Lin
Caroline Linden
Sara Lindsey
Marjorie Liu
Nikki Logan
Christine London
Julia London
Laurie London
Dianna Love
Jennie Lucas
Kathy Lyons
Susan Lyons
Heather MacAllister
Sally MacKenzie
Julianne MacLean
Sarah MacLean
Stella MacLean
Katy Madison
Tracy Madison
Margo Maguire
Margaret Mallory
Josie Malone
Lissa Manley
Catherine Mann
Ashley March
Emily March
Wendy S. Marcus
Juliet Marillier
Lorelle Marinello
Shirley Marks
Mia Marlowe
Cat Marsters
Kat Martin
Sandra Marton
Delilah Marvelle
Jessica Matthews
Cathy Maxwell
Melissa Mayhue
Amanda McCabe
Melissa McClone
Judi McCoy
Cathy McDavid
Maureen McGowan
Mackenzie McKade
Emily McKay
Laurel McKee
Shannon McKenna
Lee McKenzie
Kristina McMorris
Teresa Medeiros
Susan Meier
Christine Merrill
Courtney Milan
Melanie Milburne
Mima
Jenna Mindel
K.A. Mitchell
Kate Moore
Laura Moore
Angi Morgan
Carole Mortimer
Janet Mullany
Debra Mullins
Cindi Myers
Sophia Nash
Laura Navarre
Carla Neggers
Diane Nelson
Rhonda Nelson
Miranda Neville
Kate Noble
Deborah Nolan
Rosalind Noonan
Barbara O'Neal
Kathleen O'Reilly
Kaitlin O'Riley
Erica O'Rourke
Jana Oliver
Robin D. Owens
Sharon Page
Pamela Palmer
Allison Pang
Sarah Parr
Leslie Parrish
Beth Pattillo
Kate Pearce
Marta Perry
Vicki Pettersson
Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Caridad Pineiro
Allie Pleiter
Jane Porter
Mary Jo Putney
Erin Quinn
Julia Quinn
L.L. Raand
Radclyffe
Hope Ramsay
Francis Ray
Deanna Raybourn
Christy Reece
Eileen Rendahl
Heidi Rice
Lisa Marie Rice
Christie Ridgway
Maggie Robinson
Farrah Rochon
Joanne Rock
Maya Rodale
Karen Rose
Margaret Rowe
Stephanie Rowe
Michelle Rowen
Diana Rubino
Gerri Russell
Roxanne Rustand
Cristal Ryder
Sharon Sala
Patricia Sargeant
Cat Schield
Anna Schmidt
Ericka Scott
Inara Scott
Laura Scott
Regina Scott
Susan Sey
Jill Shalvis
Maggie Shayne
Lynn Sheene
Shelley Shepard Gray
Kandy Shepherd
Eve Silver
Gianna Simone
Kira Sinclair
Nalini Singh
Arianna Skye
Stefanie Sloane
Bertrice Small
Cheryl Ann Smith
Annie Solomon
Teresa Southwick
Kerrelyn Sparks
Roxanne St. Claire
Shannon Stacey
Marianne Stephens
Susan Stephens
Amanda Stevens
Shelli Stevens
Juliana Stone
Michelle Styles
Cara Summers
Karin Tabke
Liz Talley
Karen Templeton
Leslie Tentler
RaeAnne Thayne
Jodi Thomas
Sherry Thomas
Colleen Thompson
Missy Tippens
Christine Trent
Janet Tronstad
Stephanie Tyler
Maggie Van Well
Lisa Verge Higgins
Carol Voss
Ann Voss Peterson
Barbara Wallace
Joss Ware
Tracy Anne Warren
Jeannie Watt
Wendy Wax
Heather Webber
Robin Wells
Christine Wenger
Karen White
Liia Ann White
Barbara White Daille
Karen White-Owens
Merrillee Whren
Lori Wilde
Kit Wilkinson
Alayna Williams
Beth Williamson
Lauren Willig
Michelle Willingham
C.L. Wilson
Lois Winston
Pearl Wolf
Veronica Wolff
Lenora Worth
Maisey Yates
Rebecca York
Rebecca Zanetti

Congratulations to the 2011 Christy Award Nominees!!


Contemporary Romance
Blood Ransom
by Lisa Harris (Zondervan)

Indivisible
by Kristin Heitzmann (WaterBrook Press)

Sworn to Protect
by DiAnn Mills (Tyndale House Publishers)

Contemporary Series, Sequels, and Novellas

The Reluctant Prophet
by Nancy Rue (David C. Cook)

The Thorn
by Beverly Lewis (Bethany House Publishers,
a division of Baker Publishing Group)

The Waiting
by Suzanne Woods Fisher (Revell Books,
a division of Baker Publishing Group)

Contemporary Standalone

Almost Heaven
by Chris Fabry (Tyndale House Publishers)

Lady in Waiting
by Susan Meissner (WaterBrook Press)

A Season of Miracles
by Rusty Whitener (Kregel Publications)

First Novel

Crossing Oceans
by Gina Holmes (Tyndale House Publishers)

Heartless
by Anne Elisabeth Stengl (Bethany House Publishers, a division of Baker Publishing Group)

A Season of Miracles
by Rusty Whitener (Kregel Publications)

Historical

Chosen: The Lost Diaries of Queen Esther
by Ginger Garrett (David C. Cook)

For Time & Eternity
by Allison Pitman (Tyndale House Publishers)

While We’re Far Apart
by Lynn Austin (Bethany House Publishers,
a division of Baker Publishing Group)

Historical Romance

The Girl in the Gatehouse
by Julie Klassen (Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group)

She Walks in Beauty
by Siri Mitchell (Bethany House Publishers,
a division of Baker Publishing Group)

Within My Heart
by Tamera Alexander (Bethany House Publishers, a division of Baker Publishing Group)

Suspense

The Bishop
by Steven James (Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group)

The Bride Collector
by Ted Dekker (Center Street)

Predator
by Terri Blackstock (Zondervan)

Visionary

To Darkness Fled
by Jill Williamson (Marcher Lord Press)

Konig’s Fire
by Marc Schooley (Marcher Lord Press)

The Last Christian
by David Gregory (WaterBrook Press)

Young Adult

The Charlatan’s Boy
by Jonathan Rogers (WaterBrook Press)

The Healer’s Apprentice
by Melanie Dickerson (Zondervan)

Motorcycles, Sushi, and One Strange Book
by Nancy Rue (Zondervan)

May New Releases from ACFW authors

A Great Catch by Lorna Seilstad — General Fiction from Revell. She wants to change the world. He wants to change her mind.

A Killer Among Us by Lynette Eason — A Thriller/Suspense from Revell. Kit Kenyon is a first-rate hostage negotiator. Noah Lambert is a good detective with excellent instincts. The new partners have hardly had time to get used to each other when they are thrown into a grisly murder case.

Deep Trouble by Mary Connealy — A Romance from Barbour. Gabe Lasley finds Shannon Dysart stranded in a mountaintop cave and saves her. She is on a quest to prove her father’s research isn’t the work of a madman, that he really did find a treasure in the wild west.

Died in the Wool by Elizabeth Ludwig — A Mystery from Barbour. Can Monah and proven sleuth Casey Alexander find the real killer before this librarian is booked for murder?

Fade to Blue by Julie Carobini — A Romance from B and H Publishing. When confronted with her most painful, past decisions, will Suz Mitchell second guess herself? Or will she learn to let God restore all that once seemed lost?

Journey’s End by Dora Hiers — A Romance from White Rose. When Chelsea Hammond is snatched from her home, can she put aside her fear, and trust Trey Colten with her life? Can she forgive him for destroying her past and let him help to rebuild her future?

Montana Marriages Trilogy by Mary Connealy — Romance from Barbour. The complete Montana Marriages series all under one cover. One volume encases three acclaimed novels by Mary Connealy.

Over The Edge by Brandilyn Collins — Thriller/Suspense from B and H Publishing. Torn from the front lines of medical debate and the author’s own experience with Lyme Disease, Over the Edge is riveting fiction, full of twists and turns—and powerful truths about today’s medical field.

Promise of Time by S. Dionne Moore — A Romance from Barbour/Heartsong. Time promises to heal all wounds, but will Ellie and Theo allow God to work His timing in their lives and bring a new promise of love?

Revealing Fire by Connie Stevens — A Romance from Barbour/Heartsong. Two people in their September years are blessed with a second chance at happiness, but unexpected arrivals of a long-estranged son and a long-forgotten former admirer threaten to unravel the cords that bind two hearts.

Secrets of the Heart; Ravensmoore Chronicles, Book One by Jillian Kent — A Romance from Rhelms. When Lady Madeline Whittington rescues a runaway from a nearby lunatic asylum her life will be forever changed.

The Art of Romance by Kaye Dacus — A Romance from Barbour. Two artists are drawn together by matchmaking matriarchs.

The Unexpected Bride by Debra Ullrick — A Romance from Love Inspired. Haydon Bowen has no intention of marrying. Unfortunately, his brother has other plans. Even when beautiful, cultured Rainelle Devonwood learns she’s a mistakenly ordered bride, she won’t let Haydon drive her away.

Threat of Exposure by Lynette Eason — A Thriller/Suspense from Love Inspired. In book 5 of the Texas Ranger Justice series, DEA Brock Martin and Texas Ranger Gisella Hernandez must work together to decipher codes, uncover clues and protect themselves from a killer who doesn’t want his secrets known.

To Win Her Heart by Karen Witemeyer — A Romance from Bethany House. A blacksmith with a criminal past. A librarian with pacifist ideals. Do they have a fighting chance at finding love?

Undercurrent by Michelle Griep — A Science Fiction/Time Travel from Risen Books. People go missing every day–many meet with foul play, some leave the social grid by choice, but others are never accounted for…where do they go?

When Sparrows Fall by Meg Moseley — A Romance from Waterbrook/Multnomah. When an isolated home-schooling widow makes a stealthy bid to escape a cultic group, an outspoken professor encourages her to stand up to her abuser but brings his own set of complications.

Wyoming Weddings by Vickie McDonough, Susan Page Davis, and Diana Brandmeyer — Romance from Barbour. Three modern Wyoming women face mountains on the road to love.

Guest blogger Hope White

Accused of being an eternal optimist, I began spinning tales of intrigue and adventure when I was in grade school, and wrote my first book when I was eleven — a thriller that ended with a mysterious phone call the reader never heard!
My college sweetheart and I have been married for over 20 years and are blessed with two wonderful sons, two feisty cats, and a bossy border collie. When not dreaming up inspirational tales, I’m usually out walking the many trails here in Washington, enjoying a fine cup of tea with friends, or hiding out in a movie theatre. I love to hear from readers: hopewhiteauthor@gmail.com

1. We read your bio and learned a little about you. Anything you want to share in addition to that?
My next book, “Christmas Haven” is out in November and it also takes place in the fictional town of Port Whisper. Julie Burns witnesses a kidnapping and someone’s after her. She retreats back to the small town she ran from 10 years ago where the love of her life is now police chief. Chief Morgan Wright never fully recovered from Julie breaking his heart when she chose a career as a social worker in the big city over their love. Now he has to protect both his one true love, and his own heart because she will surely leave him again.

2. How long have you been writing? How many books do you have published?
I’ve been writing forever! LOL “Witness on the Run” is my second book for Love Inspired Suspense. My first was “Hidden in Shadows” (Nov. 2010).

3. Who are some of your favorite authors?
Shelley Bates, Heather Davis, Maggie Steifvater, Suzanne Brockman, Harlan Coben – I’m all over the map!

4. Is there anyone who had a big influence on your writing?
My husband for being so patient and supportive! He’s a story teller in his own right. Then there’s my friend, Karen, who continued to tell me “you can do it” when the rejections came flooding in.

5. Tell us about your new release. A summary or back cover blurb would be great.
Okay, here it is:
A gun firing. A man killed. Running for her life. That's all Robin Strand remembers of the shooting she saw. With fear-induced amnesia, she can't identify the killer, no matter what the police say. The only one who believes her is private investigator Jake Walters. And he's the one who steps in to rescue her when her safe house is discovered. As they struggle to stay one step ahead of danger, Robin needs Jake more than ever. With his faith and training as a guide, they work together to bring back her memory. Before the killer can ensure that she never remembers.

6. What made you want to write this story?
I always wondered what it would be like to get a do-over. In other words, if you didn’t know who you were or where you came from, would you be a different person? Would you make different choices? “Witness on the Run” is also about trust: trusting in other people and trusting in God. Robin has to rely on and trust others in order to survive the killer who’s after her.

7. What research did you have to do for this book?
I had the pleasure of visiting a wonderful town in Washington called Port Townsend that inspired my fictional town of Port Whisper. It’s a charming town on the Olympic Peninsula – it’s so gorgeous out there! I also connected with a private detective and learned a lot about the P.I. business. Fascinating stuff!

8. What are you working on now?
Another book set in Port Whisper featuring FBI agent Aaron Monroe, who’s the biological father of Sketch, the teenager who appears in “Witness on the Run”. Aaron is tracking a killer and has no idea his son is living in the small town with his grandmother, Aaron’s former mother-in-law.

9. How can readers get in contact with you?
E-mail: hopewhiteauthor@gmail.com
Facebook: hopewhiteauthor (friend me!)

10. Any parting comments?
Thanks for giving me the chance to meet new readers!


All right everyone, now is the chance to win this awesome book! Leave a comment telling why you want to read this book and be entered into the drawing to win.
Thanks so much! And thanks to Hope for being on my blog!

Missy Tippens guesting today! Enter to win a free book!

Hi Missy, so glad you're here!

Missy's bio:

Bio:
Missy Tippens is a pastor’s wife and mom of three who lives near Atlanta. After ten years of pursuing her dream, she made her first sale of a full-length novel to Love Inspired in 2007. She still pinches herself to see if it really happened! Her novels have been finalists in the American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year Contest, the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence and the Bookseller's Best Award. Visit Missy at www.missytippens.com.

1. We read your bio and learned a little about you. Anything you want to share in addition to that?

Well, I’m a former microbiologist, turned stay-at-home mom, turned adjunct instructor at the local technical college. So I’ve had a variety of careers!

2. How long have you been writing? I started writing in 1995 when we got our first computer. :)
How many books do you have published? My 4th just came out.
How long did it take you to get published? Almost 12 years!

3. If you compared your writing style to any other Christian Fiction author, who would it be?

Oh, gosh, that’s too hard to answer! It could probably be compared to several of the other Love Inspired authors who write small towns stories with lots of emotion and a touch of humor.

Here's the back cover blurb:



When Faith Hagin sees widower cop Gabe Reynolds every day in her coffee shop, she can’t help but feel for the struggling single dad. She’s raised a teenager of her own—and sadly, knows what not to do. But thanks to his matchmaking preteen daughter, Chelsea, the whole town’s praying for Gabe to find a wife!

Even though Faith thinks she’s content being just friends, spending time with him and Chelsea starts to feel like a fresh start at having a family. And their love may be the answer to everyone’s prayers.





4. What made you want to write this story?

A Family for Faith is inspired by a man I watched on a flight from D.C. to Atlanta! I actually thank him in the acknowledgments. :) The man was a single dad across the aisle and up a row on the plane. I watched as he tried desperately to put a hair bow in his little daughter’s hair and just couldn’t get it in right. I knew I wanted to write a story about a single man with a young daughter who was hitting an age where she would need a mother’s influence. I had so much fun writing it!

5. What research did you have to do for this book?
I did some research about small town cops using Debra Dixon’s Dad’s book, When You’re the Only Cop in Town by Jack Berry and Debra Dixon. I also double-checked facts with friends who have cop husbands. Since it’s contemporary small town, I’m mainly writing what I know. :)

6. What are you working on now or going to write next?

I just turned in A House Full of Hope which will be out from Love Inspired in Feb. 2012. And now I’m working on another proposal.

7. I know you like to teach at writing conferences. What are some of the topics you teach on?

Yes, I enjoy teaching! I like to speak about persistence, The Moral Premise, the journey to publication, the first year after the first sale, and basic plotting.

8. What do you like to do for fun besides meet other writers for marathon writing sessions?

Oh, I do love to get away with writers! :) I also love shopping with my daughter, watching my favorite shows on TV, reading (of course!), date night with hubby, movies with friends, girls’ night out, and eating out every chance I get!

9. How can readers get in contact with you?

www.missytippens.com, and on Facebook (Missy Tippens Readers) and Twitter (MissyTippens).

10. Any parting comments? Wise advice for pre-published authors?

Keep writing! Don’t re-work the same story over and over. Just plow ahead. You’ll learn more with each story. Then when you do sell, you’ll have several stories to offer your editor for that second book contract!

Lynette, thanks for having me!

Thank YOU for being here. Sounds like a great story. Can't wait until I can sit down and read it.

All right, bloggers, now's your chance. Leave a comment to be placed in a drawing to win a copy of this fabulous book!

God Bless!

Winner of Renee Ryan's book!

Hi everyone, just wanted to say thanks for stopping by and entering to win Renee's book. And the winner is....

Courtney!

Thanks so much!
Lynette

Renee Ryan guest blogger today - come win a book!

Renee grew up in a small Florida beach town. To entertain herself during countless hours of "laying-out" she read all the classics. It wasn’t until the summer between her sophomore and junior years at Florida State University that she read her first romance novel. Hooked from page one, she spent hours consuming one book after another while working on the best (and last!) tan of her life.

Two years later, armed with a degree in Economics and Religion, she explored various career opportunities, including stints at a Florida theme park, a modeling agency, and a cosmetic conglomerate. She moved on to teach high school Economics, American Government and Latin while coaching award-winning cheerleading teams. Several years later, with an eclectic cast of characters swimming around in her head, she began seriously pursuing a writing career.

Renee sold her first book, EXTREME MEASURES, to Dorchester Publishing by winning the inaugural New Historical Voice Contest in 2002. She eventually reconciled her writing with her faith and began writing Inspirational Romances in 2006. She sold her first Inspirational manuscript to Love Inspired Historical in December 2006. Her first Love Inspired Historical will arrive in stores February or March of 2009.

When she’s not writing for Love Inspired Historical, Renee works part time as a regional makeup artist for an international cosmetic company. She lives with her husband, two children and one ornery cat in Nebraska.



Thanks, Lynette, for inviting me to blog with you today.

I’m here to talk about my latest release, Book Four in the Charity House series, THE LAWMAN CLAIMS HIS BRIDE.




Charity House is no ordinary orphanage, but rather a unique home for the by-blows/mistakes of prostitutes and gunslingers. By its very nature, Charity House lends itself to unique stories.

THE LAWMAN CLAIMS HIS BRIDE is no exception. The book reintroduces two familiar characters, Logan and Megan. Both have been along for the ride since Book One, THE MARSHAL TAKES A BRIDE.

Because my hero and heroine had been around from the beginning of the series I found myself faced with a large problem. Logan and Megan met and fell in love back in Book Two, HANNAH’S BEAU. But Megan was too young and Logan wasn’t ready to be a family man. Well, that’s what everyone said anyway. But no matter what they’re told, they can’t help loving one another.

The reader finds out in Book 3, LOVING BELLA, that Logan has taken a job in San Francisco to make a living worthy of his beloved. He plans to marry Megan as soon as he returns home. There is no doubt these two will end up together.

But therein lays the heart of the problem.

What fun is a romance novel where the hero and heroine are already in love before the book even begins? More importantly, how was I supposed to accomplish the daunting task of writing a full-length novel with zero romantic conflict? Can you say: Boring?
Under the circumstances, I did what any self-respecting writer would do. I started playing the “what if” game.

What if one or both of them is only in love with the idea of being in love? What if they’ve each built up the other in their minds to impossible proportions? What if a newly appointed US Marshal comes home to marry his one true love, only to find her in jail for murder?

Now I had the makings of a story.

But wait. There’s more. Another issue I wanted to tackle was the touchy subject of intimacy between newly married Christians. We in the church tell our youth that a strong physical attraction will translate into a strong sexual connection once vows are spoken, but not before. Never before. Christians, especially Christian women, are taught from a very early age that intimacy is bad, bad, bad. Unless, of course, inside the sanctity of marriage.

But isn’t that sending our girls a confusing, dare-I-say mixed message? For a bride’s entire life she’s taught that intimacy with a man is something to be avoided at all costs. “Don’t even think about it, much less do it,” she’s told. But then, on the night of her wedding, she’s supposed to flip some invisible switch and suddenly intimacy is a good thing.

Want to know how I, as a believing Christian and a mother of a teenage girl, addressed this very touchy issue in THE LAWMAN CLAIMS HIS BRIDE? You’ll have to read the book to find out. ☺

Renee Ryan writes for Love Inspired Historical and Love Inspired. Her fabulous editor is Melissa Endlich. For more information, you can visit Renee at renee@reneeryan.com

THANK YOU, Rene, for being here today. Readers, run out and get this book! It's awesome! Leave a comment and a way to get in touch with you and you might find yourself a winner of this fabulous story.

An Easter Mystery!

Come on over to the Craftie Ladies of Suspense blog where I posted part eight of our Easter mystery story. Come read about The Great Easter Bunny Heist!

www.ladiesofsuspense.blogspot.com

And Karen Kirst is the winner of Diane Burke's book!

Congratulations Karen!

Winner of Beth Goddard's book!

Hi all, the winner of Beth Goddard's book is Anne Payne! Congratulations, Anne! Beth will be in touch with you soon!

Everyone have a fabulous Saturday!

I'm at Dollywood, what are you doing this weekend?

Work Ethic and what do you do with it?

Okay, this has nothing really to do with writing, but I'm curious. We (my family) go out to eat quite a bit. Yesterday, we went to my favorite restaurant, had a great waitress, excellent service, the food was out quickly, etc. It was a most enjoyable experience. And I gave a tip that reflected that. I'll also be back to that restaurant probably next week.

But then there's the other restaurant that we like. Only, 95% of our past experiences with this restaurant have been bad. Seriously. So, why do we keep going back? Mainly I think it's because we really do enjoy the food when it's done right. So anyway, when the service is bad, the food is either wrong or cold by the time we get it, or whatever, I don't tip--or I leave a really small one. Now, of course, if I can tell that the server is really trying and it's not his/her fault, I don't scrimp on the tip, but otherwise...

And I get that people have bad days, I mean, I sure do, but aren't we supposed to push past that or at least attempt to cover it up when we're on the job? Aren't we actually supposed to do the job we're being paid for? Some days I don't really feel like writing. Some days, I'd like to say, I'll do it later. And it's nice that I have that option, but I also know that later might bring some kind of crisis. Illness, an unexpected errand, anything can throw off the writing time. So, I don't procrastinate (usually) when it comes to getting in the word count. Isn't that what I'm supposed to do? Because if I'm late, I throw off the whole process of getting the book released on time.

Because if I'm late, I throw off the whole process of getting the book released on time. And that would NOT be good.

Anyway, I'm just curious. When you're working, do you wear your feelings on your sleeve? Do you have a good work ethic or a bad one? And why do you think you have whichever work ethic you have?

Just curious.

Hope you have a fabulous weekend!

Diane Burke is giving away a free book!

Award-winning author, Diane Burke, writes for Love Inspired Books. She loves to read all of the lines and writes for the romantic suspense division. She lives in Florida and when she's not writing, she's reading, walking the beach, visiting with her grandchildren or playing with her dogs.

Welcome, Diane!

Thanks, for having me, Lynette.

So, tell us how you came up with the idea for Double Identity.

The original idea began as the wispy remnants of a dream. I woke up and remembered dreaming about a woman who picked up a letter from her kitchen table. The letter began, “By the time you read this letter I’ll be dead.” Of course, that caught my interest. That’s probably why the dream stuck with me. I don’t usually remember my dreams.

I started asking myself questions. Who was this woman? Who was the person who left the note? When she goes in search of answers and discovers that her name, her identity, is all false, what would she do? And soon a plot was born.

However, plotting is only half the battle. I had to try and put myself in my characters shoes and answer the all important question---what is going on emotionally within this woman and how is she going to cope?

That made me think about teenagers. So many teens get angry at their parents and have moments that they wish they belonged to some other family. Or they sometimes don’t feel like they belong in the one they have and wonder if they’ve been adopted.
So how would it feel if you found out the family and life you felt belonged to you wasn’t real?

We all wear masks. We’re wives, mothers, daughters, sisters, employees, friends. But who are we really? If every title, if every mask was stripped away, what would be left behind? Who really is the person in the mirror?

I’d love to hear from your readers and see how they’d answer that question. I’m still trying to answer it for myself.


All right readers. I hope you'll give Diane an answer to her question. I know I'm going to have to think about this one a bit.

Louise Gouge is here. Win her book!

Bio:
Award-winning Florida author Louise M. Gouge writes historical fiction, calling her stories “threads of grace woven through time.” In addition to numerous other awards, Louise is the recipient of the prestigious Inspirational Readers’ Choice Award. Married to David Gouge for forty-six years, Louise is a mother of four and grandmother of six children. In addition to writing, she teaches English and humanities at Valencia Community College in Kissimmee , Florida.







1. Tell us about your current release. A summary or back cover blurb will do nicely.
In At the Captain’s Command, a heroic British naval captain, son of an influential earl, dares to fall in love with a provincial American girl. Then he discovers her family's devastating secret.


Loyal to the British Crown, orphaned Dinah Templeton has vowed never to marry a seafaring man, for her father died at sea and her merchant captain brother is always away. But when Captain Thomas Moberly sails into St. Augustine to defend the East Florida shores from American pirates, Dinah finds that her heart may overrule her head regarding this seafarer. Captain Thomas Moberly, captain of HMS Dauntless, has been assigned to capture the notorious American pirate Nighthawk, who plagues the Atlantic coast of East Florida. War-weary and hoping for a refreshing visit with his brother and sister, who live near St. Augustine, Thomas never expects to find love. But how can he resist the lovely Miss Templeton, even though she is what his father, Lord Bennington, would call a common American?

2. When did you decide you wanted to be a writer?
I’ve always had an active imagination, so it was a natural step to start writing down my stories. I didn’t have time to do it until my children were pretty much grown (they were in middle school and high school). But once I got started writing back in 1984 at the encouragement of a friend, I didn’t stop. I even went back to college and grad school so I could learn to write better.

3. How/where do you come up with ideas for your stories?
Stories are all around us. Sometimes a story can come from reading some historical detail or watching a documentary on television. My very first story was inspired by watching a father and son toss a football in a field outside my window. That story grew into my first two publishing credits. I look for the human element in any situation and try to choose a compelling story that will show my readers how God moves in our lives.

4. Writing historicals means tons of research. How do you do your research? Do you have all your facts ready before you sit down to write the story? Or do you research as you go along?
I love the research process, but story or research first? It’s different for each book. Sometimes I find that wonderful historical detail that sparks my imagination, and I rough out a story. I check online about the era and begin to flesh out the plot and setting details. Other times, I have a character in mind and try to discover what time period in which to set her or him. Yes, I definitely continue to research details as I go along. When I make an actual research trip to someplace like Boston, Nantucket, Annapolis, or St. Augustine, I prepare my questions carefully and contact the local historical societies beforehand. Historians are wonderful in sharing information to help authors make our stories historically accurate.

5. Who are some of your favorite authors?
Laurie Alice Eakes (Lady in the Mist), MaryLu Tyndall (Surrender the Night), and Ramona Cecil (Freedom’s Crossroad) not only are my favorite living authors but my former critique partners. Each of these ladies has a gift for bringing her characters to life and describing settings so subtly that readers feel as if they are there. My favorite authors of previous eras are Charlotte Bronte, Jane Austen, and Charles Dickens. Funny thing is that we consider them historical writers, but they were writing contemporary novels of their own times.

6. Did you have someone who really made a difference in your writing? A mentor that helped you get to where you are now?
How about a whole organization? American Christian Fiction Writers has made all the difference in my writing career. This is the place where I met and networked with agents, editors, and other writers. Before that, I had published two novels with a major publisher, but had only modest success. After joining ACFW, I saw a whole different world.

7. Where do you get your ideas for your characters? Are they based on people you know?
Just like my stories, my characters are all around me. Sometimes people inspire characters. Sometimes my character is a composite of more than one person. I always add my own touches. And like most authors, I’m always on the lookout for that one special character whose journey will have a huge impact on my readers. Someone like Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird or Jane Eyre in her self-named novel, characters whose person strength and core values are something we all can admire and hope to emulate.

8. What are your goals as a writer? Where do you see yourself five years from now?
I want to keep writing stories that inspire people to walk closer to Jesus Christ. I hope to still be doing that in five years.

9. What are you working on now or going to write next?
I’ve begun to write in the Regency period in England. It’s a delightful era that provides opportunity for both comedy and serious drama. But I also love to write Americana, especially post-Civil War stories. I’m waiting on the Lord for His direction.

10. How can your readers get in touch with you?
I love to hear from readers and always answer them. My website/blog is http://blog.Louisemgouge.com. Please write!

Thank you so much for stopping by, Louise! Love your answers and your books! I was in my local Christian bookstore just last night and saw it sitting proudly on the shelf. So, glad to have you.


All right, lovely readers, if you want a copy of this book, leave a comment and maybe tell us why you love to read historical books.

Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference

I just wanted to tell you about a great writers conference coming up. If you're a beginner or an advanced writer, this conference is for you. Agents, editors, freelance writers are all there to answer your questions, listen to your pitch and encourage you in your writing journey.

Place: Ridgecrest Conference Center in Black Mountain, NC
Dates: May 9-13, 2011 That's a Monday through a Friday

I plan to take a couple of classes myself. One of those being Mike Dellosso. If you're a suspense writer, you might want to consider signing up for his class. Here is his bio and the class descriptions.

Mike Dellosso writes novels of suspense for both the mind and the soul. He writes to both entertain and challenge. In addition to his novels, Mike is also an adjunct professor at Lancaster Bible College and a faculty member at the Greater Philadelphia Christian Writer's Conference.

Writing the Supernatural/Suspense/Thriller/Mystery Novel (Continuing Class)

We'll discuss the differences in the genres, how they look in the CBA, pacing, mood, protagonists and villains, theme, and other intricacies of creating a story that thrills, entertains, and moves the reader.

Is Christian Horror an Oxymoron? (Workshop)

What do you think of when someone says Christian horror? In this workshop we'll be looking at this unique genre and discussing why it's important, why it's misunderstood, and how to effectively write the horror novel but "keep it Christian."

Writing a Novel on a Shoestring Budget (Workshop)

No, we won't be talking about finances. In this workshop we'll look at how to write a novel on a tight budget . . . of time. We'll discuss things that rob our time, how to find time and then prioritize it, and how to budget your time to writing a full-length novel in three months.

Sound interesting?

Then hurry and sign up. I would love to see you there!

Elizabeth Goddard is giving away a free book!

Hi Bloggers, I have a special guest today. Beth Goddard is a fantastic writer and I'm really excited she decided to stop by today. I hope you'll read about her and leave a comment to be entered in the drawing for her latest book, THE CAMERA NEVER LIES. I know you don't want to miss this opportunity!


Elizabeth Goddard is a 7th generation Texan who grew up in a small oil town in East Texas. Surrounded by Christian family and friends, coupled with her love of reading, writing Christian fiction seemed like a natural outcome. Elizabeth attended the University of North Texas where she received her degree in computer science. She spent the next seven years working in high-level sales for a software company located in Dallas, and traveling throughout the United States and Canada. At 25, she finally met the man of
her dreams and married him a few weeks later. When she had her first child, she moved back to East Texas with her husband and daughter and worked for a pharmaceutical company. But then, more children came along and it was time to focus on family. Elizabeth loves that she gets to do her favorite things every day-read, write novels, and stay at home with her four beautiful
children and wonderful husband.

1.Plug Time: Tell us about your latest book and/or share with us the back cover blurb.
Back Cover Blurb: Photographer extraordinaire, Polly Perkins, runs her business in a small town on the Oregon coast. Though it is her primary source of income, there are limits to how many mismatched jackets, earrings and shoes she can take. Still, people fascinate her—their smiles might brighten with the flash of the camera, but their eyes never lie. When Polly is hired to photograph a wedding at Caldera National Park, she captures a murder victim instead. Will her uncanny ability to read emotions through a camera lens help her prevent another murder—and find romance for herself?


2.What do you hope readers take away from the book and think about long after they've finished the story?
That’s an interesting question because I didn’t write the story with a take-away in mind, but there are several spiritual nuggets. The one that stayed with me after the book, and I hope others will pick up on it, is more a question. Have you ever in the darkest corner of your heart wished ill-will upon someone? Polly has to face the music when her ill-will comes to pass, but not by her hands, then she wonders if she is still guilty. Of course, this all has to do with forgiveness, but what if it’s only a crime of the heart?

3. Are there any particular spiritual themes you like to write about?

Years ago when I began crafting stories (none of those I submitted for publication) I wanted my themes to center around treasures in heaven, and putting emphasis on what is really important in life. Now, looking at the books that have been published, they all have something in common—my characters are looking for purpose and direction, something they can only find through a relationship with God.

4. How did you learn to write? Did you have a mentor? Do you have a specific way that you write? For example, are you a plotter or a pantser? Do you use a spreadsheet? Storyboarding? Or do you just sit down and start writing?

I have to credit the critique group I joined in 2001 when I joined ACFW. I read voraciously, but I didn’t have a clue how to write a novel. Joining the group, I had to send in a chapter a week and through that process, I learned the craft, along with books and attending conferences. But that got me started. Because I started out by writing for Heartsong Presents, and they require a chapter synopsis, I learned early on to plot out my story. Now, I find that to be an invaluable tool so I’m not staring at the page wondering where the story is going. Of course, it’s a loose outline, because I’ll often change things around, or add a different element, but for the most part the story follows the synopsis. I’ve purchased several programs, including Scrivener, and the Snowflake, thinking these could help make my lfie easier. But I haven’t found the time to go through the learning curve, plus I’m not sure changing the system that works for me is a good thing in the middle of deadlines!


5. What are your goals for the future when it comes to your writing career? Where do you see yourself in five years?

I love writing category romance and I hope to always write for Heartsong and Love Inspired Suspense, but in addition to writing those, I’d love to add bigger books. I enjoy the fast pace of romantic suspense so I would hope in five years, I could be writing category and romantic suspense.


6. Is there a particular Scripture verse that’s made a big difference for you?

Psalm 45:1 My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses for the king; my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer. This is the verse the Lord continued to bring to me repeatedly during those years he was calling me to write. This verse speaks to my heart and says that my voice can be heard through writing.


7. How can readers find you online? (i.e. website, facebook, twitter, etc.)

Please stop by my website and join my newsletter at www.elizabethgoddard.com and follow me daily at my facebook author page, www.facebook.com/elizabethgoddardauthor and twitter, twitter.com/bethgoddard


8. Anything else you’d like to share?

The Camera Never Lies released in December 2010, as well as Praying for Rayne. In October 2011, I have two books releasing. Under the Redwood Tree (Heartsong Presents) and Freezing Point (Love Inspired Suspense)




Thanks for having me Lynette!

Thanks for being here, Beth. Winner will be announced one week from today, so check back to see if you won. God Bless and happy reading!

Craftie Ladies of Suspense blog time

Hey, have y’all ever stopped by www.ladiesofsuspense.blogspot.com? If not, you’re missing out. There’s a whole group of suspense authors over there who’d love for you to drop in. We talk about writing suspense, sometimes we talk about new releases and sometimes we just talk about life. But we always have a great time and would love for you to join in. If you get over there, just tell them Lynette sent you. Oh! And sometimes we have contests! You might even win a book or two. ☺

One last thing, I’m blogging today about blogtalk radio. What is that, you ask? Well stop by and find out! God Bless!

April new releases from your favorite ACFW Authors

A Family for Faith by Missy Tippens -- A Romance from Love Inspired. Even though Faith Hagin thinks she’s content being just friends with Gabe Reynolds, spending time with him and his daughter Chelsea starts to feel like a fresh start at having a family. And their love may be the answer to everyone’s prayers.

A Place to Belong by Linda Goodnight -- Romance from Love Inspired. Faith and warm memories have helped widow Kitty Wainwright endure the loss of her husband. That's all she's ever needed…until she hires contractor Jace Carter to repair her motel.

Abigail's New Hope by Mary Ellis -- A Romance from Harvest House. As an Amish midwife, Abigail Graber loves bringing babies into the world. But when a difficult delivery takes a devastating turn, she's is faced with some hard choices.

At the Captain's Command by Louise M. Gouge -- A Historical from Love Inspired. A heroic British naval captain, son of an influential earl, dares to fall in love with a provincial American girl. Then he discovers her family's devastating secret.

Canyon Walls by Julie Jarnagin -- A Romance from Barbour Heartsong Presents. Sunset Camp changed Cassie’s life, and she is determined to keep it alive.

Chosen Ones by Eileen Rife -- General Fiction from Oak Tara. While Maggie and Gavin Munsfield adjust to a new baby, missionary friends, Dan and Yvonne Pratt, experience the heartbreak of infertility and miscarriage. Will they find it in their hearts to accept an outcome so different than what they expected and hoped for?

Dare to be Different; From the Scenarios Series by Nicole O'Dell -- Young Adult from Barbour. Each book in the series follows a character up to the point where she has to make an important, life-changing decision—then it’s your turn to choose. Will your choices lead to a happy ending?

Delivered With Love by Sherry Kyle -- General Fiction from Abingdon. An old love letter found in the glove compartment of a young woman's inherited 1972 Volkswagen propels her to leave her life in Los Angeles and go to the small town of Capitola, California. There her dream of finding the writer of the letter leads her on an unexpected journey that changes her life forever.

Diagnosis Death by Richard Mabry M.D. -- A Thriller/Suspense from Abingdon. When Dr. Elena Gardner's comatose husband dies in the ICU while on life support, the whispers begin. More deaths turn the whispers into a shout: "Mercy killing." What is the dark secret that keeps Elena's lips sealed when she should be defending herself?

Fairer Than Morning by Rosslyn Elliott -- A Romance from Thomas Nelson. A young woman and man haunted by the past seek love and freedom as they assist fugitives on the Underground Railroad.

Finally a Bride by Vickie McDonough -- A Romance from Barbour. Will reporter Jacqueline Davis uncover his secrets before Noah Jeffers can capture her heart?

From Darkness Won; Blood of Kings Book 3 by Jill Williamson -- A Fantasy from Marcher Lord Press. Achan and Vrell seek out their place in the coming war to push back Darkness for good.

Griselda Takes Flight by Joyce Magnin -- General Fiction from Abingdon. Now that her sister, Agnes Sparrow, is comfortably dieting at the Greenbrier Nursing home, Griselda has time to fly—literally.

Kaydie by Penny Zeller -- A Romance from Whitaker House. Kaydie Worthington builds a protective wall around herself that won't be easy to tear down. There's something about Kaydie that draws Jonah Dickenson to her and makes him question his decision to remain a bachelor.

Love Finds You on Prince Edward Island by Susan Page Davis -- A Romance from Summerside Press. Molly Orlund is honored to serve as a maid where the Prince of Wales will be a guest. Peter Stark, an understeward in the royal party, is attracted to Molly, but an uncovered secret could change everything.

Oregon Weddings by Kathleen Kovach -- A Romance from Barbour. An alpaca, a lost family treasure, and an ornithophobic actress all take center stage in these three stories of love and faith that are as eclectic as the state of Oregon itself.

Patchwork Dreams by Laura V. Hilton -- Romance from Whitaker House.Becky Troyer has committed the ultimate sin, and finds herself on the edge of her Amish community; Jacob Miller believes he was sent to the Old Order Community in Missouri to help out a distant cousin--instead, he discovers he was part of an arranged swap.

People of the Book; Book 4 in the Extreme Devotion Series by Kathi Machias -- General Fiction from New Hope. Farah lives in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with her family, and wants nothing more than to develop a deeper devotion to her Muslim faith. All goes well until the prophet Isa—Jesus—appears to her in a dream and calls her to Himself.

Risky Business; From the Scenarios Series by Nicole O'Dell -- Young Adult from Barbour. Each book in the series follows a character up to the point where she has to make an important, life-changing decision—then it’s your turn to choose. Will your choices lead to a happy ending?

Swept Away; From the Scenarios Series by Nicole O'Dell -- Young Adult from Barbour. Each book in the series follows a character up to the point where she has to make an important, life-changing decision—then it’s your turn to choose. Will your choices lead to a happy ending?

Tea for Two, Book 2 of the Tea With Millicent Series by Trish Perry -- Romance from Harvest House. Zack Cooper tries his best to raise his children, but he's losing his grip on them. Tea Shop owner Milly Jewel has the perfect woman in mind to help Zack.

The Daughter's Walk by Jane Ann Kirkpatrick -- General Fiction from Waterbrook/Multnomah. Based on a true story of a mother and daughter who walk across the country in 1896 and the consequences of the journey to both of their lives.

The Dawn of a Dream by Ann Shorey -- General Fiction from Revell. She’s embarking on a new life—but can the past truly be left behind?

The Deepest Waters by Dan Walsh -- General Fiction from Revell. Inspired by a true story, The story weaves a tale full of action and suspense, and yet it is also an amazing love story that could only happen if miracles do come true.

The Lightkeeper's Ball by Colleen Coble -- Olivia Stewart’s sister, Eleanor, was engaged to Harrison Bennett, one of the nation’s wealthiest men, who has since died. Now the pressure is on Olivia to take her place, despite her suspicions about Eleanor’s fiancé.

The Sheriff's Sweetheart by Laurie Kingery -- A Romance from Love Inspired. A down-on-his-luck gambler on the run from a dangerous enemy meets the richest girl in a small Texas town and turns his life around to become worthy of her.

The Unforgivable; Wounds of South America, Book 1 by Tessa Stockton -- A Thriller/Suspense from Risen Books. Accused of the worst war crimes in the history of Argentina, Carlos Cornella is despised by a wounded nation…

Tomorrow's Garden by Amanda Cabot -- Romance from Revell. Can Harriet Kirk and Lawrence Wood ever truly put the past behind them in order to find happiness?

Trail of Lies by Margaret Daley -- A Thriller/Suspense from Love Inspired. As the mother of a beautiful daughter and the wife of a wealthy entrepreneur, Melora Hudson seemed happy. No one knew about the secrets hidden behind closed doors—secrets Melora was forced to keep.

Yukon Wedding; Book 1, Alaskan Bride Series by Allie Pleiter -- A Romance from Love Inspired. Widow Lana Bristow won’t abandon the only home her son has ever known, even if it means wedding Mack Tanner, the man she blames for her husband’s death.