Interview with Sweet Romance Author Jewel Adams

Jewel Adams has written several books in different genres, mainly romance, and is also a motivational speaker to both youth and adult audiences. She and her husband Sean are the parents of eight children and grandparents to five and counting. In her spare time (when she has any) she likes to curl up with a good book and a healthy stash of orange Tic Tacs.

Welcome back to my blog, Jewel. I love your book cover. Please tell us about this sweet romance: Beautiful In My Eyes.

This is a novella about a beautiful woman who is completely happy with her life, but soon deals with a trial that makes her begin to doubt her worth. She has a loving husband that loves her unconditionally and is determined to prove to her that her value to him is priceless.

Where did you get your inspiration for this novel? Do you ever put real experiences in your books?

Well, Giselle's trial is one I have been dealing with for years, not to the same extreme, but enough that I can understand exactly how she feels. Fortunately, I also have an amazing husband whose love is also unconditional, and despite my insecurities, he tells me I'm beautiful every day, and shows me as well.

What kind of research did you do for this book?

I really didn't have to do much. Since the heroine's trial is hair loss, I just looked up the various forms of Alopecia, from mild to extreme, and I looked up the symptoms, as well as treatment options. Sadly, in most cases, once you have reached a point, nothing can be done to stop it and the hair loss continues its course. Emotionally, it is devastating.

That is so interesting. Your writing style is fun. Most authors write in past tense, but you write in present tense. How does this affect your writing or story?

I just love writing in present tense because it kind of puts the reader right there in the moment. At least, that’s what they tell me:-)

Thank you, Jewel, for a wonderful interview. I love your book cover. I’ve been told that book covers really help to sell the book.

Interview with Author Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen

R.K. Hinrichsen (Ronda Gibb Hinrichsen) writes both fiction and nonfiction for children and adults. She enjoys history, fantasy, suspense, and learning about real-life heroes. Besides her Heroes of the Highest Order, chapter book series, she has published two suspense novels, Missing and Trapped. She travels with her husband throughout the world in search of fun settings and exciting characters for her stories.

Welcome back to my blog, Ronda. Please tell us about your new children’s book.

The Prisoner of the Shadows is book #2 in my Heroes of the Highest Order series. It’s about two children, Dan and Page, who move between a fantasy world and real-life history to earn powerful treasures that will eventually help them destroy the enemy of the Hidden Kingdom. In this book, the children walk in the footsteps of Mother Teresa to rescue their grandfather from the Prison of the Shadows.

This is a new experience for you since you usually write suspenseful sweet romances. Where did you get your inspiration for this story?

This series has been in my mind for so long I really can’t remember where the idea first came from. I’ve just always thought children are amazing. They have the power to do great things, and I want to encourage them to do those great things.

What kind of research did you do for this book?

Besides traveling to some of the settings, I read biographies about Mother Teresa. I also contacted her official organization for permissions and correct information.

That is so awesome. I’m impressed with your research. I love it when authors add real life situations to their stories. Do you ever put real experiences in your books?

Most definitely! Especially in this series because the premise of the story is that the children follow in the footsteps of real, historical heroes.

This book sounds like a wonderful book for children. Thanks for this fun interview.

Interview with Romance/Adventure Author Caroline Clemmons

Caroline and her husband live with their menagerie of rescued pets on a small acreage in North Central Texas. She has two grown daughters and is the award-winning author of ten fiction books, three novellas, and two family books. Caroline writes full time. When she’s not writing, she’s spending time with family, reading, traveling, researching genealogy, or browsing antique malls and estate sales.

Welcome back to my blog, Caroline. Please tell us about your cozy mystery, Digging For Death.

Thank you for asking. DIGGING FOR DEATH is the first of the Heather Cameron mysteries. She has taken over managing her family’s garden center and landscape design business from her grandfather. Her parents died when she was eight and her maternal grandparents raised her. This is her first major design project since she assumed control and she wants it to go well so her grandfather will know he was right to retire.

Here’s the blurb: Garden center manager Heather Cameron is DIGGING FOR DEATH to prove her old family friend, mentor, and employee, Walter Sims, is innocent of murdering the meanest man in town. Heather can’t trust the police to find the real killer when all clues point to poor Walter. The dead man was beaten to death with Walter’s shovel several hours after they were overheard arguing, and the two men had a long history of enmity. Walter definitely looks guilty, but Heather is sure—well, almost positive—okay, she certainly hopes her friend and mentor is innocent.

Heather is compelled to scour the fictional North Central Texas town of Gamble Grove to exonerate her old friend. She’s encouraged when the new police detective in town, Kurt Steele, shows interest in helping her look for clues. The deeper Heather digs into the dead man’s life, the more she justifies his ruthless reputation. Walter is indicted, but police begin to suspect the victim’s stepson as murderer. Heather is convinced the stepson couldn’t have murdered anyone either—although it’s clear no love was lost between the two men. The attempted murder of the victim’s real son creates a new twist. Can Heather solve the murder without becoming the killer’s next victim?

Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

It came to me when my family and I were at Weston’s Gardens in Fort Worth. Weston’s is a family-run center and they do landscape design and have a nice garden open on special days. You know how it is once your mind starts going “what if” and you come up with a cast of characters who just won’t stop talking to you. ☺ Then when my family were in Jefferson, Texas, I spotted the house that would be perfect for my book. I took lots of photos so I could be certain to remember it, but they weren’t necessary because the house exactly matched the one in my head.

That is so interesting. What kind of research did you do for this book?

I loved flower gardening, until our electric water well got too low to have a successful garden, and I used to spend several hours a day working on my plants and lawn. Roses are my favorite flower, and at one time we had almost fifty roses across the front yard. Now we just have a few of the new Earthkind drought and disease resistant roses plus a pink wild rose my daughter brought me from her acreage east of Dallas. I have a friend, Jeanmarie Hamilton, whose family used to have a garden center, and I picked her brain. My eldest daughter is a Master Gardener and helps me also. I visited garden centers, especially Weston Gardens, and read gardening books. I also read about some of the heirloom and trendy plants, how they’re marketed, and generally immersed myself in gardening books.

I love it when authors add real life situations to their stories. Do you ever put real experiences in your books and why?

Sort of. The great-grandmother in DIGGING FOR DEATH is based on a cross between my mom and a friend who is currently 104. My mom was decorous until she was in her late 80’s, then she said whatever popped into her head -- whether it was nice or not. Don’t get me wrong, she was a wonderful woman and mother who worked hard all her life. I suppose she was entitled to be eccentric after all that time. 

In addition, Linda, I believe we compress our life experiences and extricate whatever we need for our books, don’t you? We each have experienced anger, sadness, determination, and many other feelings on which we can draw for writing. We pull out this characteristic or that backstory and use it, but we aren’t using the whole of any person’s identity or events.

Thank you so much for this interview, Caroline. I really enjoyed it. This is an ebook giveaway and we have many other ebooks below to enter. Have fun checking them out.

Interview with Sweet Romance Author Ruth J. Hartman

Ruth is a multi-published author of sweet, funny romances, a children’s book and a memoir. She also works part-time as a dental hygienist. She’s been married for 30 years to her best friend Garry. They live in rural Indiana with their two spoiled cats.

Welcome back to my blog, Ruth. You write Humorous Contemporary Romance. Please tell us about Better Than Catnip.

Roxy Williams loves cats more than anything. She runs a stray cat shelter and that’s pretty much her life. Until she meets Derek Weller and his dad, Max. Derek has to complete community service for fighting in school and the only available place is the cat shelter. Derek has only lived with Max for a short time, due to his parents not being together. So Max is unaware that Derek had a bad experience as a little boy and is now terrified of cats. Max and Roxy try to figure out how to help Derek while at the same time, figure out where they stand with each other.

Every story you write has humor and includes a mischievous cat. Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

I think I used a little bit of every cat I’ve ever had (and that’s a lot!) for this one J. There are over thirty cats in Roxy’s stray cat shelter, so that’s lots more purrs and meows to go around.

What kind of research did you do for this book?

I already knew a lot about cats and their care, but I did do some research on actual rescue sites. Two of the cats we’ve had have been from rescues, also, so I had those experiences. Also, since I’ve live-trapped and had neutered and released, over a dozen cats myself, that part of the story was partly my experience, too.

I love it when authors add real life situations to their stories. Do you ever put real experiences in your books?

Roxy, the heroine is goofy and clumsy. That’s me, all the way. And Max, the hero, is my husband Garry. A large man who commands respect just by being who he is. But also, he’s loving and gentle, too. I’ve never had children, so Roxy’s inexperience with kids was a reflection of me, too.

Thanks, Ruth, for this fun interview. For those who enjoy a humorous book, check out Better Than Catnip.

Interview with Sweet Romance Author Traci Hunter Abramson

Originally from Arizona, Traci Hunter Abramson has spent most of her adult life living in Virginia. She is a graduate of Brigham Young University and a former employee of the Central Intelligence Agency. Since leaving the CIA, Traci has written several novels, including the Undercurrents trilogy, Royal Target, Obsession, and the Saint Squad series. When she’s not writing, Traci enjoys spending time with her husband and four children. She also enjoys coaching the local high school swim team.

Hello, Traci! Please tell us about your novel.

Royal Secrets is a fun romantic suspense about a woman struggling to raise her two young sons after losing her husband. When she comes to work for the royal family of Meridia, she forms an unlikely friendship with Prince Stefano. As time passes, and their friendship blossoms into romance, outside forces threaten the royal family and the very fabric of life in this storybook country.

Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

Royal Secrets was a unique project for me because it was written as in response to fan mail. I wrote Royal Target several years ago assuming that it would be a stand alone novel, but shortly after it came out, I started receiving fan mail from readers asking if I was going to write a sequel.

I tried a few times to start a sequel, but other stories kept dominating my thoughts and demanded to get written first. Then, finally, I started writing what was supposed to be a sequel. To my surprise, two secondary characters, Prince Stefano of Meridia and Alora DeSanto, completely hijacked this novel. Although I fought with them for several chapters, I finally gave up and let them find their story.

What kind of research did you have to do for this novel?

Most of my research for this novel occurred by simply pulling Royal Target off of my bookshelf. Both novels occurred primarily in the same locations, so I was able to borrow from some of the research I had previously done on those types of details. As for the intelligence and government side of the story, I was able to rely on my previous background working for the CIA.

That’s amazing. What does your family think about your writing?

Overall, my family has been very supportive and tolerant of my writing. I know it can be difficult at times, especially when I’m in the middle of the project, but usually they’re pretty good about letting me know when my balance needs to shift a bit between my writing time and our family time.

Thanks for the fun interview. I’ve never interviewed a former CIA agent before. Hahaha. Now it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

Between my junior and senior years in high school, I lived in Venezuela as a foreign exchange student. I had always wanted to become more fluent in Spanish and thought this would be a great experience. I lived in Caracas during the time of year when young people were required to register for the draft, and my friends and I were pulled over somewhat frequently. Twice I was caught without my passport. Both times the authorities discussed deporting me…once to Colombia and the other time to Brazil. Apparently my accent was good enough that they thought I was a native speaker even though my vocabulary was lacking. After some heated conversations in which I countered their questions in Spanish with some rather heated English (and after my friend who often held my passport arrived) they decided I wasn’t worth the paperwork and I was allowed to stay.

Wow! That’s scary. It sounds like you have had some interesting experiences. Almost deported in a foreign country, going on dangerous assignments for the CIA, and now you’re an author! You’ve had a very interesting life, Traci!

Interview with Author Charissa Stastny

Charissa Stastny lives in Meridian, Idaho with her husband, four kids, and her super mellow dog named Ginger. She and her family love camping, hiking, and biking. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from BYU, but is currently a proofreader and a grant writer. Eyes of Light is her first published novel. Her second book, Secret Keepers, is due out this fall. 

Hello, Charissa. Please tell us about your novel.

Eyes of Light takes opposites to a whole new level. From Hispanic drug capos to Mormon missionaries in Guatemala, this story shows the spectrum of the human soul. The protagonist, Suvi Goldstein, is smart and resourceful, yet unaware of her true potential. She tries to escape her past, but life’s whirlwinds suck her back into danger and intrigue as she falls for a man with secrets as deadly as her own.

When disaster strikes, she flees to leave her guilt behind, but finds herself in even greater peril. Torn between violent men in one world and a kind, forgiving man in another, Suvi must find her way toward salvation. But will she ever be free of the darkness that binds her? Can she ever forgive herself for what happened...so that she can love again?

This sounds like an interesting Christian fiction. Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

The inspiration for my Suvi character came in the form of a traveling artist that knocked at my door, selling canvases. I let her in, was charmed, and bought one of her paintings—The Street of Roses in Tiberias. Suvi was a captivating, gregarious personality. I couldn’t stop thinking about her, so used her to fuel my story for my creative writing class. Eyes of Light was born.

My little brother was my inspiration for my James character. He served a mission in Guatemala. I used his letters he wrote home to cast Elder Hinton. I tease my brother that James Hinton is him...only cool.

Hahaha. What kind of research did you have to do for this novel?

I used my brother’s mission letters to figure out details about Guatemala. I also did research on the FBI’s site about crime in Guatemala, which I thought my brother might be exaggerating. He wasn’t. Crime is terrible there.

I understand completely. I had to do research for my novel, Mayan Intrigue, since it was set in southern Mexico, and found that crime and artifact theft are running rampant there and in Guatemala. My eyes were really opened. So what does your husband think about your writing?

My husband thinks I don’t do enough zombie scenes for his taste. If I leave my computer for a second, I risk severe story tampering. I’ve come in to find my heroine being eaten by a zombie, or my masculine hunk telling the love of his life that he wants to eat her brains...things like that.

Hahaha. Your husband is so funny. How about your family?

Mostly, my family is supportive...but brutally honest. My daughter laughed hysterically when she read the first draft of Eyes of Light. She highlighted 3 different sections and wrote: “Cheesy! Please Mom, don’t ever publish this. It will embarrass me for you!” My husband also gave me useful advice: “Before you ever publish any of your stories, you might want to do a search for the word zombie.” Their tips saved me.  

That is so hilarious. Now it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

I was born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, but am “gambling-challenged.” I haven’t ever pulled a handle of a slot machine, or thrown dice across a craps table, and I can’t shuffle cards to save my life. In college, I shuffled UNO cards by scattering them all over the ground and messing them up, then picking them up again. It drove my roommates crazy.

Hahaha. Now I know the real you! Just your answers alone make me wonder if you’re going to have a sense of humor in your book. Thanks for a wonderful interview.

Interview with Historical Sweet Romance Author

Linda Weaver Clarke has been married for 39 years to George Clarke and has 6 daughters and 5 grandchildren. She travels throughout the United States, teaching a Family Legacy Workshop, encouraging people to write their family history and autobiography. She has gone to 16 states and given over 300 workshops. She is the author of nine novels and two non-fiction e-books: five historical “sweet” romance novels and four mystery/adventure novels.

“These books are enjoyable to read, and although they're wholesome, they're never boring. Linda Weaver Clarke is outstanding at presenting the characters' thoughts, especially when it comes to romance, and she captures the highs and lows of romantic life rather adeptly. The author also pays close attention to historical accuracy, enabling readers to learn about U.S. history in her novels.” –Suko’s Notebook

George Clarke: Every week you interview authors and have book giveaways and I thought it was about time someone interviewed you! You have 5 books in “A Family Saga in Bear Lake Idaho” series. What was the inspiration behind your first sweet romance novel, Melinda and the Wild West - an awarding winning novel?

Linda: Most authors are inspired by an event in their lives or by something they’ve read about in a newspaper. In my case, it was personal. I had a heartrending experience that I never forgot. I was a substitute teacher for an elementary school. I had subbed for this one class before, but this day was different. This day something was definitely wrong and I was not sure what it was. As I moved toward the back of the room, I noticed a desk that was hidden behind a bookshelf. I peered around the corner and saw an eight-year-old girl resting her head against her arms.

I was surprised. Why was this student separated from the rest of the children? Why was she hidden behind this bookshelf… alone? One of the students volunteered, "She has to sit there because she’s a trouble-maker and doesn’t do her schoolwork and fights with the boys at recess."

This eight-year-old girl had been labeled as a troublemaker by her teacher. Hearing this, the students steered away from her, not wanting to be her friend. This label made her feel degraded. She stopped doing schoolwork, refused to be part of the class, and got into a few fights. She seemed angry at the world but after working with her for a while, I soon learned what a sweet and wonderful child she was. She had characteristics that I was impressed with. When she realized that I really cared, she was willing to do her work, just to please me. I’ll never know how this young girl’s life turned out, but in my novel I chose a happily-ever-after ending, just because Melinda cared and made a difference in the girl’s life. Why was this subject important to me? Because something similar happened to my own daughter.

This novel has “sweet” romance and adventure. What kind of adventure? When Melinda takes a job as a schoolteacher in the small town of Paris, Idaho, she comes face-to-face with a notorious bank robber, a vicious grizzly bear, and a terrible blizzard that leaves her clinging to her life. But it’s a rugged rancher who challenges Melinda with the one thing for which she was least prepared—love.

George Clarke: I have read each one of your novels and enjoyed them. Why do you add true family or ancestral experiences to your historical novels?

Linda: I feel that it brings my story to life. An example is my great grandmother, Sarah Robinson. In my 4th book in this series, Sarah's Special Gift, she was my inspiration, so I patterned my character after her. She lost her hearing when she was a baby. Even though she was deaf, she was known as one of the most graceful dancers in town. She was a beautiful woman with black hair and blue eyes. Nothing held her back. She was a spunky woman. One day she had a feeling that an intruder was in her home so she grabbed her broom and searched the house. She found the terrible man under her bed. With all the power and strength she had, she swatted him out of the house and down the street, pummeling him as she went. Since I added so many experiences from her life in my book, I named my character, Sarah, after my great grandmother.

George Clarke: What was the inspiration behind the last four novels in this series?

Linda: Edith and the Mysterious Stranger was inspired by my parents’ courtship. They didn’t meet the traditional way. They met through letters. Their story was so romantic that I patterned this book after their courtship. With mysterious letters, cattle rustlers, a spunky woman, Halloween, and young love, there is always something happening. 

Sarah's Special Gift was inspired because of my great grandmother who was deaf. This story has deep-rooted legends, a few mysterious events, the mystery of the Bear Lake Monster, and a tender love story.

Jenny’s Dream was inspired because of some unpleasant childhood experiences and now Jenny must learn forgiveness before she can choose which dream to follow. Meanwhile, a legendary ten-foot grizzly bear is seen in the area and its boldness has frightened the community.

My inspiration for Elena, Woman of Courage was the “Roaring Twenties.” This was a new decade of independent women, when they raised their hemlines and bobbed their hair. As Elena fights to prove herself as the town’s newest female doctor, the town’s most eligible bachelor finds it a challenge to see if he can win her heart.

George Clarke: I loved each book in this series but my favorite is Elena, Woman of Courage because you put so much humor into it. I hope that many people were able to get to know you better. Remember to pick which book you’re the most interested in, whether you want a book or ebook, along with your email.

Interview with Fantasy Author Janalyn Voigt

Whether Janalyn Voigt’s novels have you flying on a winged horse into a fantasy land, facing down a buffalo stampede in the Wild West, or hunting for treasure on a mysterious island, her writing will transport you into breathtaking creative worlds. Janalyn serves as a literary judge for several national contests and is an active book reviewer.  She is represented by Barbara Scott of Wordserve Literary. Janalyn lives in a quiet corner of the Pacific Northwest, where she discovers worlds of adventure in the great outdoors.

Visit Janalyn's website: http://janalynvoigt.com

“In DawnSinger, Janalyn Voigt has penned a novel full of surprises. With adventure, mystery, and an unlikely romance, this beautiful, epic fantasy will leave you scrambling for the next book in the trilogy.” ~ Jill Williamson

Hello Janalyn! DawnSinger is book one of a fantasy trilogy, “Tales of Faeraven.” Please tell us about your novel.

DawnSinger and the rest of the Tales of Faeraven started as a story I invented for my young daughter to while away the time on a car trip. That story grabbed hold of me and wouldn’t let go, even during the years when I gave up on writing. Finally, out of a kind of self-defense, I decided to write this story that wouldn’t leave me alone, whether or not it ever saw the light of publication. DawnSinger is the first installment in a story that affirms the power of honor, self-sacrifice, and forgiveness to heal a broken nation.

The High Queen is dying... At the royal summons, Shae mounts a wingabeast and soars through the air to the high hold of Faeraven, where all is not as it seems. Visions warn her of danger, and a dark soul touches hers in the night. When she encounters an attractive but disturbing musician, her wayward heart awakens. But then there is Kai, a guardian of Faeraven and of Shae. Secrets bind him to her, and her safety lies at the center of every decision he makes. On a desperate journey fraught with peril and the unknown, they battle warlike garns, waevens, ferocious raptors, and the wraiths of their own regrets. Yet, they must endure the campaign long enough to release the DawnKing—and the salvation he offers—into a divided land. To prevail, each must learn that sometimes victory comes only through surrender.

Where did you get your inspiration for this series?

My father was a half-breed Native American, and when I was small he told me of his encounters with prejudice. The conflict within Tales of Faeraven centers on racial strife between the Elder and the Kindren, the two human races within Elderland. Later in the story, in DawnKing, the third book of the series, a half-cast daughter ascends to the throne of Faeraven and forces the nations to decide between love and hate. The presence of winged horses in all three novels stems from my lifelong love of horses.   

What kind of research did you have to do for this novel?

DawnSinger is based on 13^th-Century Europe. I filled a thick binder with historical notes. One of the hardest things for me to research has been siege warfare. I find it difficult to read about other people’s sufferings, whether they lived a year or a century ago.

I understand what you mean because your heart tends to go out to them, no matter how long ago it was. Okay, it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

I trained for five years in vocal music and performed in musical theater productions and several operas. My aim was to go into opera, but the need to eat intervened. Starving artists are only glamorous in theory. I became an insurance agent, and then an assistant underwriter instead. I’ve given up my dream of an opera career, but music still informs my writing. Many people describe my writing as “lyrical” or “musical.”

Wow! An operatic writer! I bet anything that you make at least one of your characters musically inclined. Ha! Thanks for being a guest on my blog, Janalyn.

Interview with Sweet Romance Author Marie Higgins

Marie Higgins is a multi-published author of romance; from refined bad-boy heroes who makes your heart melt to the feisty heroines who somehow manage to love them regardless of their faults. She’s married with two daughters, has two grandchildren, and she’s lived in Utah all her life. Visit her website/blog to discover more about her – http://mariehiggins84302.blogspot.com.

“More than just a romance...my stories are an adventure!”

Welcome back to my blog, Marie. I love adventurous romances. Please tell us about your new book.

Thanks for having me back, Linda! My book, “The Sweetest Touch” is book #2 in my Regency Romance series – The Brothers of Worthington.  I’ve tried to add a little humor, a little suspense, a little action, and a whole lot of romance in this story, hoping to please all kinds of readers. So far, I’m getting raving reviews!! Here is the blurb:

Louisa wakes from a deep heavy fog, surrounded by strangers and horrified to discover she's been the sole victim of a terrible buggy accident. Worse... she remembers nothing.

Trevor Worthington, Duke of Kenbridge, can’t trust women. Yet after nearly killing the amnesiac Louisa, he has little choice but to open his home to her. His heart softens to the straggly woman in beggar's garb as he strives to help her regain her memory. As proof of Louisa's scars, both physical and those lurking beneath the surface, come to light, Trevor finds himself more and more drawn to the mysterious woman. However he is hesitant to enter another nightmarish entanglement like his first marriage.

Louisa is all too happy to accept employment in the Duke's household though it quickly becomes apparent she doesn't fit in at all! For starters she speaks French and has no skills to speak of. Bits and pieces of conflicting memories flash through her mind, lending more confusion to the puzzle of her life. Fortunately the duke proves ever patient with her myriad of mistakes and Louisa finds herself falling in love with the kind, brooding man. As their budding relationship progresses from improper to scandalous Louisa's memory begins to return. Dare she tell Trevor the horrible truths of her past? That she belongs to an evil man known only as Macgregor.

As the heartbreaking facts of Louisa's past are exposed and decade old questions come to light, will the truth keep these lovers from happiness? Will Trevor be able to give love another chance? Or will Louisa's sweet touch prove yet another forgotten memory...

Wow! I love romances that have a touch of mystery. And this sounds like one I’d enjoy. Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

Well, Linda…to be honest, I like to mix up themes when I write. So this one is a little like The Prince and the Pauper meets Oliver Twist.  lol.  Although this is book #2 in my series, it’s about the oldest brother, Trevor Worthington. I didn’t know what kind of story I’d give him until I was nearly finished with “The Sweetest Kiss” (book #1). So what inspired me to write this story? It was book #1, “The Sweetest Kiss”. 

I love hearing what inspires an author to write a novel. Thanks, Marie. What kind of research did you do for this book?

Oh…I love doing research! I researched the slums of London. I researched pick-pockets and how they lived. And I also looked up how the gaols were operated back in Regency times. There’s a part where my characters go to a circus, and I looked online for that, as well as what particular vehicle my characters would drive in what scene. Fun!!

Do you ever put real experiences in your books?

Not really. I’ve always thought I lead a boring life, so to add a real situation from my life to a story… well, I’d fear it would put readers to sleep. However, I’ve felt sad before. I’ve been in love. I’ve felt fear and helplessness…and of course pure happiness, which are all the emotions I’ve written in this story.

What a perfect answer! Thank you, Marie, for a wonderful interview. I have learned a lot about you and your new book.

Interview with Children’s Author Sherrill S. Cannon

A former teacher, all of Sherrill S. Cannon’s books are in rhyme and all try to teach good manners and consideration for others. In 2011, she won eight National Awards for her books, The Magic Word, Peter and the Whimper-Whineys, and Santa’s Birthday Gift. Her fourth book Gimme-Jimmy, has just been released, with wonderful reviews. She also has written six published and internationally produced plays for elementary school children. A magna cum laude graduate of The American University, she has had a varied career including teacher and coach, newspaper photographer and columnist, Dinner Theatre Manager, and Business Administrator. She and her husband of more than 50 years are now retired, and travel in their RV from coast to coast each year, visiting their children and nine grandchildren... sharing Sherrill’s books along the way!

Welcome back to my blog, Sherrill. Please tell us about your new children’s book, The Magic Word.

The Magic Word is currently ranked #1 in Children’s Popularity on amazon. It has won four awards: a Gold medal Readers Favorite, winner of a Pinnacle Achievement award, second place in the Reader Views Awards, and was a Finalist (third place) in the Global eBook Awards. It is a story about a little girl who needs to learn good manners, so that she will make friends who will want to come to her birthday party. Her mother’s words echo in her ear, “What is the magic word?” and little Elisabeth has to say “Please.” Children seem to love to anticipate the answer!!

Where did you get your inspiration for The Magic Word?

I was inspired to write this book because this has always been a common reply in our family if someone forgets to say “Please.” It also works for “Thank-You”! I wanted to write a rhyming book to help children learn good manners, disguised as a fun story. I received the following lovely comment from a reviewer:

“I have passed the ones you sent me to my 4 year old niece… Her mother has already read her ‘The Magic Word’ and said she was completely delighted. She now sleeps with the book under her pillow. You have a definite 4 year old fan.”

 Please tell us about your newest children’s book.

My just released book, Gimme-Jimmy, is a story about how a bully learns to share. James Alexander’s nickname was Gimme-Jimmy because he was a greedy and selfish bully. Imagine Jimmy’s concern when he discovered that every time he said the word “Gimme,” his hand grew larger. Jimmy was happy to discover that when he was polite and said “Please” and “Thank you,” his hand began to shrink. He started practicing his new “Polite Rule” and found out that it was much more fun to share.

A reviewer wrote: “Gimme-Jimmy is a delightful children’s book. This is a great story to teach young children good manners, specifically not to be selfish.” Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

In this case, the title came before the book! When my son was in the “it’s mine” and “gimme” stage, he had a little friend whose name was Jimmy who always said, “Gimme”– so we got in the habit of saying, “Don’t be a Gimme-Jimmy!”

I love it when authors add real life situations to their stories. Do you ever put real experiences in your books?

Probably all my books are somewhat based on real life situations. Having been a teacher, as well as a mother of four and grandmother of nine, I have had multiple opportunities to help me determine that good manners need to be taught to small children, preferably by example, as early as possible. Learning consideration for others, to “think more of others and less about you,” helps not only with a child’s popularity; but becoming a good citizen is the best way to practice the “Golden Rule”. Reading books with your children is a great way to help them learn.

Thank you, Linda, for allowing me to reach more readers who will share my books with children. It’s all about the children… My website, where I also have a blog, is www.sherrillcannon.com. My SBPRA Link – Press Reviews for all four books: http://sbpra.com/sherrillscannon/

Thank you, Sherrill, for this wonderful interview. I know my readers have learned more about you and your books.

Mystery/Adventure/Sweet Romance Series

Desert Intrigue

The Adventures of John and Julia Evans

MYSTERY…ADVENTURE...ROMANCE...HUMOR...INTRIGUE!

“Romance, mystery, and regional history collaborate to create a satisfying, intriguing story! It was difficult to put this one down.” –Steve Miller, Author

“I love the sparks of romance in this adventure--they spice things up and add much interest to the story. The book has a handful of surprises that I did not anticipate, and the mystery fuels much of the action.” –Suko’s Notebook

1. My Devotional Thoughts: “The mystery in the book is probably the best I have seen from Linda Weaver Clarke. She gave subtle details, but even I did not have it all figured out by the end.” Ruth tells five points that grabbed her attention about Desert Intrigue. Read My Devotional Thoughts Review and tell me what grabbed your attention in this review.

2. Socrates Book Review: “I loved the first three books in this series, but I actually loved this one even more. I didn’t think that was possible. The characters are so well written and I absolutely adore each member of the Evans family. They grab at your heartstrings and won’t let go.” Yvonne’s reviews are different from the usual reviewer; she uses kitties instead of stars to rate her books. Read Socrates Book Review and tell me what grabbed your attention in this review.

Anasazi Intrigue: purchase a book at Amazon.

Mayan Intrigue: purchase a book at Amazon.

Montezuma Intrigue: purchase a book at Amazon.

Desert Intrigue: purchase a book at Amazon.

Interview with Children’s Author Camille Matthews

Camille Matthews was born in Lexington, KY, an area considered by many the horse capital of the world. Matthews is a licensed clinical social worker and author of the Quincy the Horse Books for children ages K-4th. She notes that most children have empathy for animals and identify with Quincy and his adventures which involve every day challenges that children face such as loss and change, a family move, confronting a bully and sibling rivalry. In 2008 she had the idea for a series of children’s horse books inspired by real events in the life of one of her horses.

"I have fallen in love with this new series. The Quincy series will engage and encourage a love of reading and bring children up to the next reading level, bridging the gap between picture books and chapter books in an intelligent way." –Biblio Reads

Hello, Camille. This interview is part of a book tour hosted by Walker Author Tours. It’s so nice to have a bit of help with a book release. Please tell us about your children’s book, Quincy Moves to the Desert.

It is a story of self-discovery. Quincy and his best friend, Beau, go across the US from New York to New Mexico on a big horse van. Quincy has doubts about going on such a big trip but he is soon soaking up the sights. He is amazed to learn that “Horses are everywhere.” His friend Beau tells him about all the things horses do in different places and he imagines himself doing these things. He also misses their owner who has gone ahead and worries about whether she will really be there to meet them. It continues the themes of the feelings associated with change and the excitement about learning new things that are in each of Quincy’s adventures.

Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

The entire Quincy the Horse series was inspired by the real life experiences of one of my horses, an American Quarter Horse named Quincy. He had many adventures when he first came to live with us that parallel the everyday challenges that are faced by children. He was a young horse who was learning new things and his personality was as it is depicted in the Quincy books. I thought it would be a fun way to explore the uncertainties and joys children go through when learning new things and his real reactions inspired the decision to have him come out ok in the end no matter what the problem he needed to solve. I purchased him to be a companion to my older horse, Beaujolais and they turned out to be very good friends. I focused on their relationship as a source of continuity in the books of the series and to demonstrate to young readers the relationships animals are actually capable of having with each other. While some question the literary device of having them speak to each other, anyone who is around horses for long discovers they are great communicators!

This reminds me of Black Beauty. The author wrote the book from a horse’s viewpoint, also. What kind of research did you have to do for this novel?

I am an equestrian as is the illustrator, Michelle Black. We spend our daily lives caring for and interacting with horses. It was important to us to make the stories very authentic in portraying events that horses really go through, what horses think and feel, how they behave and the various daily routines and equipment that make up life in a horse barn. One reviewer complained that having Quincy left to be fed by a neighbor prior to his new owner coming to try him out in the first book was an unexplained abandonment. Actually this happens to horses frequently when a new owner becomes ill or moves. I knew that she had not had much contact with horses.

I am also a psychotherapist and I have knowledge of the emotions that children experience when they are facing change. Acceptance of their feelings along with continuity and support are crucial in helping them grow through change so I wanted to make this a theme in the series through Quincy’s relationships with his owner and his friend Beau. I was really excited when one reviewer said that she thought the stories work well for the older range of the children reading picture books because they have themes that are thought provoking.

What does your family think about your writing?

My family is extremely supportive of my writing. My daughter is grown up and happy that I have found something I enjoy at this stage of life. My husband sometimes wishes I did not have to be gone so much to promotional events. The horses wish I had more time to ride but that is always a challenge in today’s busy world.

Now it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

Those who know me will say that I tend to become single minded when I am working on a project. A current project of great interest to me is getting the family to eat organic food as much as possible. Over the last year I have found organic options for our human members by joining in a community supported farm and starting an organic garden of my own. I have discovered organic dog food for my Great Pyrenees, Jack and organic horse hay and grain from a local Amish farmer. What my family does not know yet is that I soon plan to start raising chickens so we can have our own eggs!

Wow! It seems that we're beginning to think more about living a healthier life now days. Being a farmer’s daughter, we raised our own chickens and gathering eggs wasn’t my favorite thing to do. Hahaha. Those were the good ole days! Thanks so much for this interview, Camille.

Interview with Christian Romance Author Ann Lee Miller

Ann became a writer the year she discovered Sister Sheila had hair. She was in fifth grade at St. Hugh’s Catholic School in Miami, knee deep in nouns and verbs, when Sister Sheila walked through the door in a new habit that showed two inches of mouse brown hair threaded with silver. Thanks to Sister’s jump-start, Ann went on to earn a BA in Creative Writing from Ashland University, Ohio. Kicking Eternity won First Place, Long Contemporary in the 2009 Romance Writers of America Touched By Love Contest.

“Ann Lee Miller writes stories straight from the heart with characters who'll become friends, remaining with you long after you turn that final page. You won't want to miss Kicking Eternity!”- Jenny B. Jones, Author

Hello Ann! Author Lynn Rush said, “I've lost hours of sleep reading Ann Lee Miller's work due to her uncanny ability to yank me into a story with authentic, lovable, yet challenging characters.” I’m excited to hear more about your book.

Kicking Eternity is all about chasing dreams—our dreams, God’s dreams, and the mixed-up tangle of both. Here’s a blurb about the book: Stuck in sleepy New Smyrna Beach one last summer, Raine socks away her camp pay checks, worries about her druggy brother, and ignores trouble: Cal Koomer. She’s a plane ticket away from teaching orphans in Africa, and not even Cal’s surfer six-pack and the chinks she spies in his rebel armor will derail her.

The artist in Cal begs to paint Raine’s ivory skin, high cheekbones, and internal sparklers behind her eyes, but falling for her would caterwaul him into his parents’ lives. No thanks. The girl was self-righteous waiting to happen. Mom served sanctimony like vegetables, three servings a day, and he had a gut full.

Rec Director Drew taunts her with “Rainey” and calls her an enabler. He is so infernally there like a horsefly—till he buzzes back to his ex. Raine’s brother tweaks. Her dream of Africa dies small deaths. Will she figure out what to fight for and what to free before it’s too late?

You’ve got my interest! Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

A close family friend fell in love with a young man and felt strongly that God told her to marry him. When the guy broke off the engagement, she was devastated on multiple levels. In Kicking Eternity the hero has to come to terms with the same dilemma. My friend healed over the course of a couple of years and later married. She is now a happy new mother.

Wow! What a dilemma! What kind of research did you have to do for this novel?

Much of this novel is born out of growing up on the east coast of Florida and thirty plus years of summer camp. I studied meth addiction, regulations on campfires on the beach, attended an African children’s choir concert, visited New Smyrna Beach and took pictures of every scene setting in the book.

I love hearing about an author’s research. Thanks. What does your family think about your writing?

My husband, Jim, once sold the family minivan to send me to a writers’ conference, works two jobs so I can write full-time, reads me, edits me, believes in me, and loves me. My daughter reads all my books and helps me brainstorm when I get stuck. My three sons are always dreaming up marketing ideas for me.

Now that’s what I call real family support. Wow! Selling your minivan so you could get a bit more education? That’s so awesome. That’s dedicated love! Okay, it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

My father spent several years building a forty-foot sailboat in our backyard in Miami, Florida. We launched it in the Miami River and lived aboard at Dinner Key Marina when I was eleven. At the time I didn’t realize how unusual it was to live on a boat and ride my bicycle down the dock each morning to attend school. All my friends at the marina did the same. After school every day, I tossed my books onto my bunk, shimmied into a swimsuit, and jumped overboard. Sailboats show up in all my books thus far. In addition to Kicking Eternity, The Art of My Life debuts in September, Avra’s God in December, and Tattered Innocence next March.

Thank you, Ann, for this wonderful interview. Now we know the real you! The author who has sailboats in her blood, because of living in one while growing up!

Interview with Children’s Author Clarike Bowman-Jahn

Clarike Bowman-Jahn likes to write children’s books and is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. She likes to write creative nonfiction and memoir in her spare time and has been published in “A New Beginning Newsletter.” She has a dog and two cats and is living the life of her dreams. Clar is happiest when she is writing. She can be found at http://clarbojahn.wordpress.com on her blog.

Hello, Clar. Please tell us about your new children’s book.

Hi Linda! Thanks so much for having me.  I am so happy to be here. The book is about time and clocks and is a basic concept book for early readers. It helps teach time for ages four to seven. It has analog and digital clocks in it and is about a little girl Annie, who has a different adventure every hour.

Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

Once when I was sick I was listening to the sounds from outside my window. It was May and early spring. First I heard the crows and later I heard the more musical birds like the cardinals and mocking birds. It was very early in the morning, about four a.m. so the world was just waking up. I wanted to record it. I wished I had a recording. I have always loved hearing the birds sing. So since I didn’t have a recording machine I started writing it down, what a little girl heard each hour.

This book is about what a little girl experiences each hour. It is her birthday and she celebrates it by having a birthday slumber party that keeps her awake. I don’t want to tell the whole story though. I don’t want to give it all away.

What does your family think about your writing?

My sons are grown and flew the coop and now it’s only my husband and I. He couldn’t be more supportive and has taken the role of being my agent. My sons read my blog and like it. They think it’s great that I write now after supporting them with my nursing career. Writing is my second career.

How wonderful! I think that’s awesome that your sons read your blog. That’s real support. Now it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

In Holland where I was born, ‘ike’ is often added onto names to make it “the small version”. So Clarike is Dutch for “little Clara”.  I kept this name as my author name though my friends call me Clar and my middle name is Katrina. So my whole real name is Clara Katrina Bowman-Jahn. My two last names came from keeping my late husband’s name and adding my present husband’s name to it.

Very interesting! I was wondering what language your first name was because I hadn’t heard it before. I like it. Thank you, Clar, for being on my blog. This was fun getting to know you and your new children’s book.

Clar's facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ClaraBowmanJahn
Clar's twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/@Cbojahn
Clar's blog: http://clarbojahn.wordpress.com
To buy Annie's Special Day: http://www.etreasurespublishing.com

Interview with Historical Suspense Author Amanda Sowards

Amanda Sowards grew up in Moses Lake, Washington, then moved to Utah to attend BYU and ended up staying. She is married and is the mother of two children. Her books contain elements of history, mystery, clean romance, and a lot of suspense.

Hello Amanda! Please tell us about your suspense novel, Espionage.

Thank you for having me on your blog, Linda! I’m excited to be here! Here’s the synopsis from the back cover: France, 1944: Nobody expects Peter Eddy to survive his first commando mission—to retrieve a code book stolen by the Nazis—so when he does come back alive, his success is rewarded with an even more daunting assignment. Partnered with French Resistance leader Jacques Olivier, Eddy must identify which of three Allied contacts in Calais is a double agent and use the traitor to help implement a strategic Allied diversion that might win the war. Eddy and Olivier secretly cross the English Channel to confront their suspects one at a time, but what appears to be a clean assignment soon turns disastrous, and a shocking betrayal leaves Eddy in the grip of the Gestapo. With the courageous aid of Olivier and his sister, Genevieve, Eddy evades his captors with a dangerous escape plan. But as the Allied invasion approaches, treachery in the least likely places leads to fresh graves in the bloodied European soil—and only the power of loyalty and love can transform tragic endings into new beginnings.

Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

It started in high school. We were studying WWII in our US history class, and my teacher told us about the D-day deception schemes the US and British used to make the Germans prepare for an invasion in the wrong place. I found it fascinating—it was just like something out of the Jack Higgins or Tom Clancy novels I loved at the time. Then the next year an English teacher assigned the class a creative project, so I wrote a short story. The short story (with lots of revisions) turned into chapter one of Espionage, and the D-day deception schemes ended up being important plot elements later in the story.

Your book sounds so intriguing to me. I absolutely love historical novels with a bit of romance. What kind of research did you have to do for this novel?

World War Two was huge, and it’s been very well documented, so I’ve read history books, memoirs, found information online, and spoken with people who lived through it. Some of the books I’ve read were wonderful, and a few were a little dry. I have a large shelf on goodreads.com devoted to WWII nonfiction, and it doesn’t even include all the obscure books I checked out from the BYU library and read just parts of.

I love to read books that have been so well researched. What does your family think about your writing?

My husband is very supportive and helpful. My twins (almost two) don’t have any idea what’s going on. I usually write when they’re asleep. My extended family has also been very supportive—some of my sisters have been test readers—and I think my grandparents have told almost as many people about my book as my publisher has.

Wow! I love it. Now that’s real support. Okay, it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

I have twins. That’s not all that’s unusual, but it certainly changed my life! A few days before they were born, I went in for a routine doctor visit and one of the workers said something like “90% of women pregnant with twins would have given birth by now.” Not a great thing to tell someone that far along with twins, just in case you were wondering.

Haha. True. Thank you so much, Amanda, for this wonderful interview. I have learned a lot about you and have enjoyed talking with you.