Author Spotlight - Q&A with Michelle Levigne

STEPH: I don't know much about "Accidental Hearts." What's it about?

MICHELLE: Tyler Sloane, who we first met in COMMON GROUNDS as Xander's college friend and new roommate, has come to the rescue of his sister Tanya, whose marriage just imploded. He has her and her two children, Danny and Pam, come live with him.

Abby Morgan, who we first met in THE SECOND TIME AROUND, is the cousin of Dr. Daniel Morgan of Bulter-Williams University's theater department. She is helping her widowed brother, Al, raise his children, Chad and Candy.

They meet at summer camp, when, after dropping off their nieces and nephews, Tyler's Corvette breaks down and blocks traffic. Abby, who happens to be a pilot and has some mechanical skill, steps up to help. They're both interested, but with jobs to do and kids to help raise, who has time? Somehow, accidents keep throwing them together -- and when the accidents start pushing them apart, they realize they want to be together.

STEPH: How long did it take you to write?

MICHELLE: I can't remember how long the first draft took, because it was so long ago, but I spent about 2 months, on and off, doing the revising. Boring answer, huh?

STEPH: How much research did you have to do?

MICHELLE: Not that much. I had to look up some things like if there was an airport in Davenport, Iowa, and a little terminology for small aircraft, but the rest was taken from experience and all the things I had already established for the Tabor Heights books. For instance, where Tyler gets his hand smashed by the knucklebuster on the theater curtain ... *sigh* ... that was ME!

STEPH: How does the cover reflect the story within?

MICHELLE: I love Corvettes. What else can I say? I always give Jenifer such a challenge for my cover art, because I'm not a very visual person, but she always comes through. It's a great cover. I think the hood being propped up on a Corvette, signalling something is wrong ... that says it all.

STEPH: Abby is the heroine. What are her strengths? Weakness?

MICHELLE: She's responsible, reliable, dedicated, has a slow fuse -- but she's so used to putting herself last for the sake of her family that she feels guilty when there's something she wants and she feels resentment and frustration because it seems eternally out of her reach. Meaning a relationship with Tyler.

STEPH: What does Tyler find appealing about her?

MICHELLE: Maybe unconsciously, he likes that she doesn't seem to need rescuing, like his sister. Even though Tanya is strong -- she has to be -- she let her jerk-face husband scam her and then steal from her and her children. Tyler likes that Abby is independent and takes care of others. It helps that she's pretty, but she's not a glamour chick. And it helps a LOT that she understands the world of theater, because Morgan is her cousin. You can't believe the conflict and stress that can form in a relationship where one person doesn't understand the world that the other one lives in. (Well, maybe writers with spouses can understand -- especially the spouses/kids/parents who don't understand that when the fingers are moving across the keyboard, or you're staring into the distance, yes, you ARE working and interruptions about anything less important than blood or fire will destroy that scene you're building in your head.)

STEPH: What is the theme of the novel?

MICHELLE: Life gets in the way -- but you gotta decide what's really important to you and go for it. No matter what. No matter who.

STEPH: As a writer, where do you draw inspiration from?

MICHELLE: I HATE this question. Because honestly, ideas come from everywhere. Some stories come from dreams that stay in your head long after you wake up. Other stories come from watching a TV show or movie or reading a book that you hate because you KNOW it should have gone a different direction. Or the old standby: "I can write better than THAT!" You get images in your head, or someone asks a question, or you have a favorite story you'd like to see from a different angle. A friend dares you to retell an old story. Or, in the case of some of my SF, I made a world so "real" and secondary characters so solid that they developed lives and histories of their own, and I knew I had to tell those stories, too.

STEPH: Do you have an ebook reader? If so, which one?

MICHELLE: I started with a Palm Tungsten, then ordered one of the first Nooks. When my Palm died (temporarily!), I needed another MP3 player, so I got an iPod Touch, which lets me load e-reader software, so I have Nook, Kindle and iBooks on my iPod and my iPad. I have too many gizmos and too much luggage! But I would be lost without my iPad -- I can read in the line at stores or riding in a car (NOT driving), check my email without having to go through the fuss of logging in online, keep notes and lists and iTunes University is proving to be incredible for research purposes.

STEPH: Fun question: Are you a candle fan? What's your favorite candle to burn? Any autumn scents you'd like to gush about?

MICHELLE: I like scented candles, but don't really take the time to burn them. I have a Bath & Body Works 3-wick candle sitting on my desk, half-burned, that I got last Christmas. It's called Winter Night. I really like it, but as you can guess, I haven't burned it in a long time. And I keep it sealed to preserve the scent. Maybe when the cold weather comes back and I don't have my windows open for fresh air anymore, I'll start burning the candle.

But you know, I'm hoping to get my own place soon, so maybe I'll start getting candles and burn them regularly ... READERS? Any suggestions from you?


Web site: www.Mlevigne.com
Trailer: www.Mlevigne.com/tabor-main.html
OR www.MLevigne.com/trailers.html
Buy link: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-326/Tabor-Heights%2C-Ohio-cln--Accidental/Detail.bok

Author Spotlight - Q&A with BJ Robinson

STEPH: I don't know much about Whispering Cypress. What's it about?

BJ: Here's a blurb:

You'll never have peace here. Leave the past where it belongs, or it will ruin you.
Spring Showers stared at the cutout newspaper letters pasted on a sheet of typing paper. Her heart pounded harder than any nail gun, and she placed her hand over her chest as if to still it. Nothing about the rundown campground prepared her for such a threat. Who could possibly care if she restored it?

After a decade of no contact, she purchases the campground a man from her past dreams of owning and hires him to repair and remodel the cabins. She still has feelings for him, and the sparks are still there -- smoldering like embers from a left-over campfire. A male friend from the city visits and trouble brews. A girl is attacked. Hackett is arrested. Did authorities arrest the right man? The girl is pregnant -- who is the father?

STEPH: How long did it take you to write?

BJ: Whispering Cypress took about six months to write. Once I started it, I kept plugging away a little at a time.

STEPH: How much research did you have to do?

BJ: The type of research I did for this novel was vacation travel in Tennessee, the fun type. I lived in Louisiana and know camp-ground settings, and I traveled and visited in Mississippi. Those are the three settings in the novel.

STEPH: How does the cover reflect the story within?

BJ: The cover is my favorite out of my other novels because it makes you want to go there, as readers have said. I've had awesome compliments on it. It reflects the story within because the main character, Spring, buys a campground, and the cabins must be remodeled. She hires a former beau, Hackett, to restore them. The action takes place at the campground setting. A young girl is attacked across the river from Whispering Cypress Campground, Spring and Hackett live on the campground, and the ending of the novel takes place there.

STEPH: Spring is the heroine. What are her strengths?

BJ: Spring is compassionate, caring, determined, and loving. Weakness? Too trusting of others outward appearances.

STEPH: What does Hackett find appealing about her?

BJ: They went to high school together a decade earlier and dated. He feels she understands him, and he's comfortable with her, because he knows she knows him. He's attracted to her physical looks, but it goes deeper. The two of them have so much in common. They both fell in love with Whispering Cypress Campground, and they both wanted to make it their home, but Spring beat him to it, which causes conflict in the beginning of the story. Both love the river, camping, the serene setting, trees, and the beach. He is attracted to her love of nature, and he begins to figure out what he can do to win her heart back.

STEPH: What is the theme of the novel?

BJ: The novel has more than one theme, and I like to allow my readers to discover them for themselves, but one theme is all life is precious and that one is spelled out in the book trailer. It's the main theme. Another is family is precious. These are two main takeaways of the novel.

STEPH: As a writer, where do you draw inspiration from?

BJ: Life, childhood memories, vacation memories, my family, and my pets, but most of all God and His creative inspiration found in nature. He is the greatest artist of all time and paints the most beautiful, inspiring canvases for the world to see. I love to see heavenly blue sky merge with the ocean or a river surrounded with trees, where you see nothing but water, trees, and sky. I've enjoyed campfires and have been inspired by the glowing embers. I've sat on a green, grassy riverbank and found inspiration to write. This summer we vacationed in Grand Isle, Louisiana, and I loved it. I would've loved to have had more time to sit in a chair on the beach and write. Of course, the time flew by and there wasn't enough of it. I penned my first-prize winning short story with pen and a notebook sitting by a river.

STEPH: Do you have an ebook reader? If so, which one?

BJ: I have a Nook, but I got the free Kindle download for my PC, and I have an ipad I use for most of my reading.

STEPH: Fun question: What's your favorite summer fruit?

BJ: I have more than one. I love peaches, but I have to say strawberries if I have to pick an absolute favorite. I've written two novels set on strawberry farms: Last Resort and Southern Superstitions. I grew up around Louisiana strawberries, not Georgia peaches, but I love those peaches as well. I picked strawberries as a young girl to earn extra spending money, and I packed them as a young mother and brought my babies to the packing shed with me. I love strawberries with sugar, sugar and cream, and in strawberry shortcake. Strawberry is my favorite jam and jelly.

*****
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QFSVAPKrmKU&feature=youtu.be

Whispering Cypress Book Trailer

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-329/Whispering-Cypress-BJ-Robinson/Detail.bok Whispering Cypress at Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc.

Find me on the Web Pages:

https://www.facebook.com/#!/barbara.robinson.773 Facebook Page

https://www.facebook.com/#!/AuthorBJRobinson Author Page

http://www.amazon.com/BJ-Robinson/e/B007DNJIKU Author Page

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-template/BJRobinson/Page.bok Author Page

Author Spotlight - Q&A with Stephenia McGee

STEPH: I don't know much about "A Legacy of Lies." What's it about?

STEPHENIA: A life built on a legacy – A legacy built on lies.

When Sarah Sanders finally accepts her boyfriend’s invitation to visit his parents’ ranch in Montana, she finds herself drawn to a mysterious cowboy that infuriates as much as fascinates her.

Ranch hand Jim Anderson has suffered from night terrors for over a year. But despite this secret struggle, his life at the ranch had been a welcomed escape from his past. Until those terrifying dark shadows start coming for him in the middle of the afternoon. When he is called back to the life he desperately tried to flee, only the quiet strength of the beautiful woman willing to walk the path with him keeps him hanging onto hope.

Brought together by an unseen hand, Sarah and Jim must travel across the country to face the man who nearly drove Jim to the brink. Forced to question everything they believe, they must find the strength to unravel Jim’s long history of lies.

STEPH: How long did it take you to write?

STEPHENIA: That’s a tough one. I worked on this book on and off for about six years. This was my very first manuscript, although the published version is a good bit different from the original. As I started writing, taking classes and going to conferences, I learned a lot. What I learned I applied to my story. It grew along with me.

STEPH: What was the inspiration behind the story?

STEPHENIA: My husband and I were killing time on the two hour drive from our college to his parent’s house. We were talking about how I’d always loved to write and throwing around story ideas. We actually started with a man in hospital room and the preacher who comes to hear his final confession. That prologue no longer exists, but the entire story stems from his confession.

STEPH: Did you have to do a lot of research for the novel? What kind?



STEPHENIA: Most of the research I needed for this book I had already done in real life. My hero uses natural horsemanship, and it is something I have studied, practiced and taught for some time now. The other things, such as information for the ranch, average temperatures, and the names of local landmarks, I found on the internet. Miles City and the Tongue River are real places in Montana.

STEPH: Sarah is the heroine. What are her strengths? Weaknesses?

STEPHENIA: In a way, Sarah’s strength is also her weakness. She has become so self-sufficient that she has walled herself in, afraid of opening up to anyone or letting someone help her. But Sarah also has a very strong faith in God, and it this faith that pushes her to take risks.

STEPH: What does the hero, Jim, find appealing about her?

STEPHENIA: Jim is drawn to Sarah’s quite strength, honesty, and spunk. He’s also rather taken with her emerald eyes and her love for horses.

STEPH: What do you want readers to take with them after reading the novel?

STEPHENIA: Life is full of tragedy. Yet in the end, woven like a golden thread, God quietly sews it all into a beautiful tapestry. I hope the reader will finish the last line and put the book away feeling that no matter how deeply they’ve been hurt, there is always hope. There is always a chance for healing.

STEPH: Do you have an ebook reader? If so, which one?

STEPHENIA: I have a Kindle and I love it!

STEPH: What's your writing space like?

STEPHENIA: Well, I am currently sitting here typing for the very first time in my own office. My husband turned one of the bedrooms into an office and studio (I’m also a painter) for me. Usually, I’m sitting at the kitchen table, in the small storage room (that was just big enough for my desk!) or anywhere in the house that that was actually quiet. He wanted me to have my own space now that I’m a “professional writer” and all. He’s a very sweet man!

STEPH: Do you have any Easter traditions you'd like to share?

STEPHENIA: Easter for us is about the resurrection. We want to teach our sons about Jesus and the sacrifice He made for us. They are still a little young, but they do know that Easter celebrates Jesus saving us, just like Christmas celebrates His birthday. Every year we have a big egg hunt with the family. The kids all find their eggs, and then the adults get to search for the prize eggs my father-in-law hides. They usually have change or small bills, with the golden egg holding the big prize of $20. It’s loads of fun watching that many adults scramble around after eggs!

*******
"A Legacy of Lies is a compelling read to the very end! The chemistry between the characters is electrifying. I praise Stephenia McGee in her ability to draw you in and keep you wanting more!"

Jezika Stevens -- Reader

"An absolute page-turner. A Legacy of Lies is a book you won't want to put down. The reader is shown how we are all on a path chosen for us as each characters life intersects with the other. In her debut, Stephenia H. McGee truly delivers a heart-felt story of spiritual turmoil and redemption."

Jessica Lewis -- Reader

"A Legacy of Lies is a heart-warming tale of a man's search for forgiveness. A blend of Western Romance and Big City Intrigue, Stephenia H. McGee takes the parable of the prodigal son and creates a modern twist readers won't see coming until the final page."

Jennifer Lindsay, Editor and Writer

And here are some links to the book online:

Desert Breeze
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-273/A-Legacy-of-Lies/Detail.bok
Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/A-Legacy-of-Lies-ebook/dp/B007K1LS58/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332042156&sr=8-1
Barns and Noble
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-legacy-of-lies-stephenia-mcgee/1107713261?ean=2940014338950&itm=1&usri=stephenia+mcgee
All Romance eBooks
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-alegacyoflies-751693-149.html

Author Spotlight - Q&A with Jude Urbanski

STEPH: I don't know much about "Joy Restored." What's it about?

JUDE: Joy Restored is about a young, widowed mother wrestling with the eons-old question of "where is God when we're going through dark nights?" Her troubled, Vietnam vet husband is accidentally killed and in her anger at God she almost misses the incredible love offered by a wonderful Christian widower.

STEPH: How long did it take you to write?

JUDE: I worked on the novel, which is my first, off and on for over a year and had put it 'away' when the opportunity with Desert Breeze came along.

STEPH: Did you do a lot of research for the novel?

JUDE: I find it a hoot that the era of my novel, the late 1970 and into the 80s, is now called Modern Historical. That makes me feel akin to the dinosaurs! I had to reread about the Vietnam War as well as refresh about cars, clothing and music of that period. I had to think typewriters and not computers for the work environment. I learned all I could about the setting of Pickett County, Tennessee and made trips back. I was born in this county, moved away, so had to refresh myself on the dialect of southerners. My mother's short novella, My Little Cabin Home, is also set in Pickett County and is a free companion download to my book.

STEPH: What attracts you to Inspirational writing?

JUDE: Most my non-fiction writing is inspirational, which blends with my life as a Christian. When I decided to move into fiction, I made a deliberate decision to continue in the Christian inspirational arena. I'm aware writing can be inspirational, yet not Christian, but to me the two easily mesh.

STEPH: How much input did you have on the cover?

JUDE: Well, like other DB authors, I did all the cover art input. At one point, though, I asked if they would consider this marvelous (at least I thought so) photo I had taken. The cover is Mallard Point on Dale Hollow Lake in Pickett County, Tennessee which is my setting. It was a bit of a hard sale, but I so appreciate DB's willingness to work with me on this and I think the cover will help marketing in the area.

STEPH: Kate is the heroine. What are her strengths? Weaknesses?

JUDE: Kate is strong enough to manage a household, job and kids as a single mom, but her faith is weak, she's afraid to love and trust again and she puts blame in the wrong places.

STEPH: What does Seth find attractive about Kate?

JUDE: He's initially sweep off his feet with her beauty, loves her adorable children, but knows he and Kate are worlds apart spiritually. In spite of this, he loves her strength and is able to see her faith is there-just buried, way deep.

STEPH: What do you want readers to resonate with them after they've read the story?

JUDE: I'd like readers to know God is always walking with us, even in the darkest night. He's there in myriads of ways, if we but look for Him. I want them to enjoy and appreciate the incredible gift of love between a man and a woman.

STEPH: Hollywood is calling! Cast the main characters.

JUDE: Oh, me. I am so un-Hollywood! Ask my kids who live at Hollywood's doorsteps and they will know precisely! A tall, dark and handsome man and a beautiful, red-headed woman is all I can say, Steph. I can say though I readily see my story as a Hallmark Presents! Go film rights.

Here's Seth:



Here's Kate:


STEPH: Fun question: What's your favorite Christmas carol?

JUDE: I can answer this one so much better even though it is also hard because I have so many favorites, but 'Silent Night' is high on the list. I love the melody, words and story of the song.

FIND ME OR MY BOOK AT:

Desert Breeze http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-226/Joy-Restored-Jude-Urbanski/Detail.bok
Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Chronicles-Chanute-Crossing-Book-ebook/dp/B0067DDZ8S/ref=sr_1_sc_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1322667736&sr=1-1-spell

good reads http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13063251-the-chronicles-of-chanute-crossing-book-one

LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/pub/judy-martin-urban-pen-name-jude-urbanski/1b/967/130

Face Book www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1627189130

Twitter https://twitter.com/#!/judeurbanski

Web site www.judeurbanski.com

blog http://judeurbanski.blogspot.com

Author Spotlight - June Bryan Belfie talks about her favorite authors

Author CS Lewis

Everyone has favorite authors. Mine vary with my stage of life and my mood. I was re-cuperating from an appendectomy when I was sixteen and Tennyson was my favorite. I remember sitting on our family's veranda reading aloud to my father. He was quite the romantic and encouraged my choice of authors. In fact my father read to me every night as a child. We went through the Doolittle series, Mary Poppins, Treasure Island, Winnie the Pooh, and Wind in the Willows together. I believe he enjoyed them as much as I did.

There are times when Dickens fulfills some need in my life. When I was pregnant with my first child I read every one of his books.

Then I discovered C.S. Lewis through Mere Christianity. What an original mind that man was given. Also Watchman Lee became important in my reading life.

Since writing romance literature, I switched over to that genre and discovered Karen Kingsbury, Francine Rivers, (one of my favorites), Lauraine Snelling, Lynn Austin, Robin Lee Hatcher, and Beverly Lewis. There are a lot of talented writers out there and each one brings their own voice and life experiences to their writing. I read a book every three or four days and have to write down the names or I find myself re-reading some!

Author Spotlight - June Bryan Belfie talks about writing inspirational romance

When asked why I enjoy writing inspirational novels, I have to admit I'm not certain. I don't have extra qualifications such as a divinity degree or a mission background. This I do have though -- a love for Christ and a desire to serve him. Since writing doesn't require heavy back-breaking physical work and it is something I desire to do, I pray for inspiration and guidance. He has brought people into my life who have encouraged me to write.

Perhaps having been divorced myself, spending six months in bed with herniated discs and suffering countless illnesses, (non life-threatening, but disabling temporarily), and experiencing problems with loved ones and friends, I've stored enough experience to feel qualified to write about life's challenges. And always, the Lord has given me the strength, the patience and the hope that has brought me through. In Stephen's Ministry I worked with individuals suffering serious personal problems. I did not advise, but merely stood alongside them, encouraging them to seek His counsel.

I write not only of the critical times, but also the joys we have in life -- observing a new birth, a laughing child, tenderness, love in its many forms. Each of us experiences different events, but some things surpass ethnicity, geography, even gender, so we can empathize with others - even fictional 'others.' My characters become very real to me and I hope to my readers as well.

I pray that my books will offer encouragement to others at times in their lives when a friend is what they need.

Author Spotlight - BJ Robinson shares the inspiration of devotionals

If you've visited my blog at http://barbarajrobinson.blogspot.com and read my profile, you know I've had a number of devotionals published. Below is one of my favorite scriptures, and I used it in my debut novel Last Resort because it gave me hope when I lost my mother and sister only six years apart. Mom died of cancer and my sister of an eating disorder, and I used the themes of lost loved ones and eating disorders in my novel.

Hope Lives

". . . and the dead in Christ will rise first: After that, we who are still alive and left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words.” 1 Thessalonians verses 4:16-18

She and I stood in the front yard of the old apartment house. Lisa wore a light pink suit jacket, and her sad brown eyes looked directly into mine as she said, "I hope it's not cancer. I don't want to die." That visual image is sealed in my mind as vivid today as it was seven years ago when I lost my youngest sister. Bird-like hands clutched a shining gold star with a pearl-head pin. She handed it to me, "I want you to wear this, because every time I see a star, I think of you." When Lisa died, the heavens raged. Storm clouds covered the land and hurricanes blew in from the sea. That year, twelve blustery ones battered America's shores. The last, a storm named Lisa, tiny and non-threatening like her, eventually faded out over land. On September 13, a summons came for Lisa. Sent on a mission, angels ferried another angel home. As I fell to my knees bedside my bed and cried, I said a silent prayer. Then, I opened my Bible, and the Comforter sent me encouragement. I knew then, that even in death, hope lived, for I'd see my youngest sister again in heaven.

Dear Lord, thank you for Your encouraging Word and the gift of eternal life through Your son, Jesus. Thank you for opening my eyes so I no longer grieve without hope, Amen.

Author Spotlight - Q&A with Jennifer Hartz

STEPH: Jenn's latest release is Resurrection, Future Savior, Book 2. Can you tell me a little more about it?

JENN:1. The adventure in Meric Continues! The story of Future Savior was far too large for one book. As the story developed in my head I realized that it could easily be broken down into five parts. Future Savior Book Two: Resurrection is simply the second installment of the story. At the end of Future Savior Book One: Conception we were left hanging… or the lead character Christina was literally left hanging from a tree and presumed dead. Resurrection picks up right where the story left off. We are introduced to some new characters, we lose some friends along the way, and there are many amazing resurrections from the past.

STEPH:How long did it take to write?

JENN: I have an insanely busy life that includes a three hour commute, but I was able to complete the novel in less than seven months while dipping my preverbal pen into another project as well.

STEPH: Did you do a lot of research for the novel?

JENN: I hate doing research. I think that’s why fantasy appeals to me. I can simply make it up. But I did a small smattering of research for a few facts in the early part of the book.


STEPH: Where did the inspiration for the story come from?

JENN: My own crazy imagination! As I said earlier, I have a three hour commute to work so I spend my time plotting and dreaming up stories. On a more tangible level, I’m also highly inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis.

STEPH:If your story was going to be made into a movie, who would you cast as the leads?

JENN: Hands down, without a doubt and no questions asked the male lead for the character Shaw would have to be played by Kellan Lutz (Emmett from Twilight fame). As I wrote Shaw I had Kellan Lutz in mind. For the female lead of Christina Vaughn I’ve got a few lovely ladies that pop into my head. Alyssa Milano has always been a favorite. Along with Kate Beckinsale. But now I really like Sienna Guillory. Sienna has been in a lot of fantasy stuff including “Eragon” and “Inkheart”.

STEPH: What is the theme of the novel?

JENN: The overarching theme through all of The Future Savior Series is the struggle between good and evil. There is also a divine theme suggesting that there is a God in control even if we don’t see His work at times. The series is also heavy in biblical mirroring which is a treat to the Christian readers because the mirroring creates almost a scavenger hunt kind of feel. They will probably be saying to themselves at some point, “Okay, where in the Bible did the author pull that from?” or “Hey! I recognize that story!”

STEPH: What do you want readers to take away from the novel when they finish it?

JENN: A desire to want to know what happens next! After reading Book One: Conception a multitude of people told me that they could not wait to read Book Two to discover what happens next. I’m really hoping for the same reaction after they read Book Two: Resurrection.

STEPH:Do you have an ebook reader? If so, which one?

JENN: I’ve got a Kindle and I absolutely LOVE it! It is so easy and so convenient. I really like the text to speech feature and the customer service I’ve received through Amazon has been outstanding.

STEPH:What's the last movie you saw?

JENN:“King Fu Panda Two”… I have a three year old son. But I cannot wait for the final installment of Harry Potter!

STEPH: I just took my boys to Kung Fu Panda 2 yesterday! Joe is 4, so I know movie-going isn't easy for you right now. What's your writing space like?

JENN: Usually I’m cross-legged on my couch with my laptop… with plenty of chocolate or potato chips nearby.

Author Spotlight Week - Marion Kelley Bullock shares her passion for Inspirationals

I like to write inspirational novels because they challenge me to reveal true to life characters in real life situations. I have read some books that contain tacked-on scriptures or morals. I don't enjoy reading such stories, so I don't enjoy writing them. That's why I don't claim to write religious novels. I'm simply a Christian who writes from the overflow of my life. The main characters must be real, down-to-earth Christians. They may not start out as such, but they must show growth within the pages of my story. If not, I've failed.

I enjoy writing inspirational contemporaries and historicals that include elements of romance, sometimes touches of suspense and often a smidgen of wit. In every case, I've found some inciting incident that spurred me to tell a story. Secrets of Old Santa Fe grew out of my experiences living near Santa Fe, New Mexico. Christmas Stranger built on a blizzard and a young woman's unusual career that I learned about in my research. Christmas Bride came about when I researched early day stagecoach travel and Texas forts. My husband and I took a side trip to Brackettville, Texas, where Fort Clark is located. We picnicked at Las Moras Springs and toured the forts and my characters came alive.

Author Introduction - Welcome Author JoAnn Carterl to the Desert Breeze Family

STEPH: JoAnn, welcome to Desert Breeze. Tell us a little about yourself. Where did you grow up?

JOANN: Thank you for the warm welcome and for inviting me to join you today. I'm a native Jersey girl who grew up in the Pine Barrens, not far from Fort Dix. I worked as an LPN until our second son was born.

STEPH: Who were some of your favorite authors growing up?

JOANN: Janette Oke and Frank Peretti

STEPH: What genre do you write?

JOANN: I write mostly inspirational fiction—contemporary romance, romantic suspense, historical romance and general women's fiction. I also have one children's fiction, a few short stories, and some non-fiction articles.

STEPH; You have an upcoming release with Desert Breeze. Can you tell us when, the title, and let us know what it's about?

JOANN: Yes, I'm so excited about this Historical Fiction series. The first story is called, The Floating Palace. This will be released on my husband's birthday—July 15, 2011.

Here's the blurb~
ELLIE DUNKLING’S life long dream has been to work on one of Lake Champlain ’s steamboats, the Ticonderoga . There’s only one problem. Men, not women, are hired to work on steamboats. Ellie however is determined to change that. After all, it is 1923 and far from the dark-ages.

Captain PHILIP LAWHORN is a man’s man. When Champlain Transportation Inc. informs him that a woman has been hired to work on his ship as stewardess, he’s anything but pleased. First of all, he doesn’t appreciate the fact that someone’s been hired as part of his twenty-eight member crew without his knowledge. Secondly, how is he supposed to handle this company mandated sure to be disaster?

STEPH: Do you have an ebook reader? If so, which one?

JOANN: Oh, I wish! Unfortunately, I'm still in the dark ages. I download books to my computer and read them from there. I'm still saving up my pennies though. Perhaps one day I'll be able to purchase one. J

STEPH: Do you have any other books that are available?

JOANN: Yes. Teacher's Plans, By the Book, Sweet Rest, Smuggler of the Heart, Daniella, and a few "free read" stories are available as well. (There's more information about this on my website.)

STEPH: . Can you tell us a little about the state you live in?

JOANN: Although I grew up in NJ and lived there most of my life, about nine years ago, our family moved to Vermont. We love the beauty of this place and are really enjoying our time here, ministering in a small town called Jericho.

So lets see, what is interesting about VT? It is the home and birthplace of our 30th president, Calvin Coolidge. We have lots of dairy farmers (Cabot Cheese) and great coffee (Green Mountain.) The Ethan Allen homestead is right here and this is where Snowflake Bently discovered in the late 1800's through photography that there are no two snowflakes alike. We have beautiful fat Maple trees that produce yummy syrup. And how could I almost forget to mention skiing? If you enjoy winter sports, this is a great place to be.

STEPH:. Just for fun: pick your favorite: Monet, Picasso, or Renoir?

JOANN: Hmm—I think I'll go with Picasso.

STEPH: . Are you doing NaNoWriMo this year? Have you done it in the past?

JOANN: Funny you should ask this question. I was just thinking about NaNo WriMo. I'd love to try, but it always happens in November. The long Thanksgiving Break, when the boys are home, would set me too far behind schedule. So, instead I just plot along at my regular pace. Perhaps once they are all out of school, I'll give it a shot.

STEPH: . Where can we find you on the web?

JOANN: http://home.comcast.net/~jo.glenncarter/site
Thanks for having me here today!

Featured September Release - Conception, Future Savior, Book 1 by Jennifer Hartz

THE BLURB:

"I do not think it is a question of where, but when." were the words that Charis left my mother with thirty years ago when I disappeared from Meric…before I was born.

Shortly after being sent back I've been attacked by man-eating Vaipes. I've learned that my father was a power wielding Guardian. I've discovered that the silvery-blue eyes intriguing me my entire life belong to my Watcher, Shaw who is without a doubt the most handsome man I have ever seen. And somehow I need to stop a war mongering tyrant who can manipulate people's thoughts.

So my question isn't where or when. It is how? How can I help the people of Meric when I can't stop myself from falling in love?

EXCERPT:

Shaw faced me and the frightened men. His incredible pale blue eyes narrowed, and burned with such intensity they were nearly silver. "Stay back. I can handle this."

A brilliant flash of lightning framed his perfect physique in an illuminating beauty. A resounding crack of thunder pounded the air, and I jumped. How did the storm happen upon us so quickly?

The five men backpedaled until they were behind me. Then Shaw spun to face the beasts. He tossed his bow and arrows off to the side and ripped out his long sword from its sheath. Neither Shaw nor the Vaipes attempted to strike. They assessed each other, trying to ascertain a weakness, I supposed. The Vaipes on either end of the pack were trying to slowly loop around behind Shaw and surround him. This was the scene from my premonition! The lightning and thunder continued. Shaw's muscles tensed. He prepared to attack. Looking around me quickly I realized that the five men were gone. I stood back myself, watching Shaw, not knowing what to do. I had my sword raised, but I had no clue how to help him.

Apparently he didn't need my help.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Jennifer Hartz wrote and illustrated her first novel, an epic tale featuring winged fairies losing their magic wands to evil trolls, back when she was six years old. She has been a fan of fantasy and science fiction ever since. From the land of Mordor to a galaxy far, far away, Jennifer loves it all.

Born in Pittsburgh, but currently living in northeast North Carolina with her amazing husband and beautiful son, Jennifer spends her days teaching at a small private school in Norfolk, Virgina. Other than reading the Bible, Jennifer loves to read (and now write) Speculative Christian Ficion that has wonderful romantic storylines and exciting twists and turns.

The Future Savior series is Jennifer's first crack at a novel since the early days of fairy wand heists and she couldn't be more thrilled with its quick success.

Desert Breeze congratulates Jennifer on her latest release.

Author Spotlight Week - Q&A with K Dawn Byrd

Desert Breeze welcomes author, K Dawn Byrd in the spotlight this week. Her latest released is "Killing Time." Welcome K Dawn!

STEPH: What's the inspriation behind your story, "Killing Time?"

K DAWN: I've always been an avid reader and planned to write a book "one day." When I began work as a counselor in a jail, I thought that would be a neat setting for the book. I began to jot down notes about the environment such as sights, sounds, and smells. Before I knew it, my heroine had formed in my mind, begging me to tell her story.


STEPH: I don't know much about the book. Can you tell us a little about it?

K DAWN: I began to wonder what would happen if a strong Christian woman was wrongly accused and incarcerated. Would she lose her faith? Would she crack under the pressure? Here's the blurb from Desert Breeze Publishing:

Mindy McLaurin, thinks it's the end of the world when she's incarcerated on trumped-up embezzlement charges. While in jail, she investigates the death of an inmate who allegedly died of an overdose. Mindy suspects foul play when her cellmate dies and she learns that both women had ingested the same drug. Mindy trusts no one, including Drew Stone, the handsome counselor she can’t stop thinking about. She faces many challenges, including constant interrogation by the Major and emotional abuse from the other inmates. Upon release, someone is stalking her and framing her for the murder. Can she prove to Counselor Stone that she’s innocent of all charges before she loses him forever?

STEPH: How long have you been writing?

K DAWN: I've been writing for about three years and have written five books. Killing Time is my first book. I must have edited it a dozen times as I studied the craft. I'd learn something from a new book and tear it apart again.

STEPH: What attracts you to inspirationals?

K DAWN: I'm a Christian of the Baptist faith and even though I don't "preach" religion in my books, my faith in Jesus Christ is evident because at least one of my characters is a Christian or becomes one by the end of the book. I enjoy reading and writing clean novels that would be appropriate for all ages. This is a must for the Christian market. Even though I write primarily for the adult market, my novels are clean enough for anyone.

STEPH: Have you written any other genres?

K DAWN: I have written one romance (no suspense), but haven't tried to place it with a publisher. I'm such a suspense junkie that it was hard for me to write that one. I absolutely love suspense and it's hard for me to keep it out of my books.

STEPH: Do you cast your characters? If so, who are your lead characters?

K DAWN: I use character worksheets to develop my characters. However, I do scour magazines in search of photos that look like my characters. Isla Fisher, in my mind, looks the most like my heroine. My husband looks like my hero (and he is my hero!). If you take a look at my video trailer, that's my husband on the Harley Davidson at the end. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ncljBid61g

STEPH: Care to share any hobbies with us?

K DAWN: I love to take long walks with my husband and our two Chinese Crested dogs. I enjoy planting flowers. My husband I both like antiques and love to scour antique shops together.

STEPH: What was the last movie you saw?
K DAWN: Shutter Island. I'd read the book and it left questions in my mind. I had to see the movie to clear them up.

STEPH: Have you read Stephenie Meyer's series? If so, Team Edward or Team Jacob?

K DAWN: I've read the first couple of books in the Twilight series. I really liked both Edward and Jacob. They each had some good qualities and they both loved the heroine. There were times I rooted for both of them. I guess I'm in equal camps on that one!

Featured June Release - In the Manor of the Ghost By Tina Pinson

THE BLURB:

It's the 1870's. The Civil War has long since been fought and laid to rest, settlers are still joining the wagon trains and heading west to the New Eden. The land is changing. But those who dwell in Clayborne Manor seem trapped in time.

Trapped amid the whispers of failure and sorrow, whispers of longing and defeat. Kaitlin hears them clearly at night. But who haunts Clayborne Manor? The ghost that restlessly walks the halls in the night? Or the ones that plague the minds and spirits of those residing there? Though not inclined to believe the dead can walk the night laden corridors, Kaitlin can see them clearly in the eyes of her husband Devlin, and hear them in the deafening silence of her son, Derrick.

Does she have the courage to search the past and face the ghosts? Does she have the faith to stay and direct all those who dwell In the Manor of the Ghost to the one who sets the captive free?


EXCERPT:

Kaitlin slipped past the barricades and pushed through the crowds. Heavy smoke made it hard to catch her breath. Nothing could stop her scream when she saw her apartment building engulfed in flames.

She scanned the lines of blackened faces. Her family wasn't there. Her gaze was drawn to the building, to the raging mingling of fire and life. Kaitlin prayed her family would come out. No one exited -- the agony of her thoughts cut her like a well-sharpened saber. Looking up, her thoughts became flesh.

Jean Marc stood in the upstairs window holding a bundle. Kaitlin knew, with another slice to her soul, the bundle was Simone. Jean Marc, so quiet, protective, so uneasily riled, yelled. Tormented wails for help rose along with tears of anguish and fear as angry flames licked out behind him.

The knife in Kaitlin's gut pushed through and slit her spine, filleting with cold precision. Pandemonium reigned around her where men held out their arms, coats, and blankets, and yelled for those Kaitlin loved to jump.

Across the space of the yard, over the din of bells, the cries of man and beast, over the conflagration -- eternity settling between them -- she caught her beloved's eyes. She couldn't read them. Perhaps she could, but couldn't bear to hear the message. Jump, she bade him. He remained at the third floor window, their daughter pressed to his chest. A sparkle of flame in his tear filled eyes, spoke of things to come and time froze. She closed her eyes for a brief moment to dam the tears and looked up to find him gone.

No one had jumped.

*****

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tina Pinson resides in Grand Junction, Colorado with her husband of twenty-nine years, Danny. They've ran their own business, Omega Avionics, since 2004. The Pinsons have three grown sons, two lovely daughter-in-laws and four grand children.



Tina began her first novel in elementary school. Her love of writing has caused her to seek creative outlets be it writing poetry, songs, or stories. She had four years of journalism, a half a year of college, took a fourteen-month correspondence course through The Writer's Institute. Tina has been involved with American Christian Fiction Writers for seven year.

Tina has completed eleven novels. She was a third finalist in the ACFW Genesis Contest in 2003 for her story Trail of the Sandpiper-Rescued.

Beyond writing, Tina enjoys building, gardening, singing, speaking and some biking. She and her husband hope to get out more into God's country and do some camping.

CONTEST: Visit Tina's blog for a FANTASTIC CONTEST she's having this month - she's giving away two Kindles and 10 copies of her book. You can find the details here at: http://tinapinson.blogspot.com

Desert Breeze congratulates Tina on her book!