Friendship, The Footprints In Your Heart

Reflections of the Heart

“Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born.” – Anais Nin (1903-1977)

Friendship is a most precious gift that will endure the eternities. Cicero (106-43 BC) said, “Life is nothing without friendship.” To have a friend that you can share your innermost thoughts with is worth more than wealth or material objects. To have a friend that you can laugh and cry with, to have someone make us feel wanted and accepted for who we are…this makes life worth living.

Eleanor Roosevelt (1884 – 1962) expressed her feelings about friendship in a completely differently way when she said: “Many people will walk in and out of your life. But only true friends will leave footprints in your heart.”

Friends can cheer us on when we need encouragement and help us when we’re depressed. They can embrace us when we weep and laugh at a lame joke that we’ve told. We should uplift one another. We should be able to say, because of our association with one another, “I’m a better person having known you.”

Elizabeth Mauske told a story about an unusual and sweet friendship between her mother and an old native Indian woman from Central America. The Indian woman would visit their home often. With each visit, she would give her mother some partridge eggs and berries as a gift. The lovely colorful clothing and coin necklaces the woman wore fascinated Elizabeth. She noticed her copper bracelets as they softly jingled on her arm and her sweet sincere smile.

The Indian woman only spoke Araucanian and her mother only spoke Spanish. Their conversation was minimal, but they would sit at the table, drinking tea and eating cake together with a smile and a laugh. They enjoyed one another’s company.

Elizabeth noticed each time the Indian woman would rise to leave that she would say the exact same words. With great curiosity, Elizabeth and her sisters memorized the phrase and quickly found someone who could translate Araucanian for them. When she found out what the Indian woman had said, she was greatly touched and said it was one of the nicest compliments anyone could have given her mother.

The Indian woman would rise from the table with a smile and say: “I shall come again, for I like myself when I am near you.”

Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could say this about our friendships? After spending the day with a dear friend, we could actually say, “I can’t wait until our next visit because you make me feel good about myself.”

Sydney Smith (1771-1845) said, “Life is to be fortified by many friendships. To love, and to be loved, is the greatest happiness of existence.”

Have you had a friend that made a difference in your life? Have you had a friend who left footprints in your heart?

Reflections of the Heart has 13 chapters of inspirational writings such as: The secret of Happiness, Laughter is the Best Medicine, Parenthood – A Great Responsibility, Equal Partners in Marriage, Developing Your Spirituality, and Music Soothes the Soul.

Interview with Christian/Romance Author Regina Andrews

Award-winning author Regina Andrews, a resident of Providence, Rhode Island, grew up in the nearby seaside village of Barrington. After graduating from Providence College she attended the University of Delaware, eventually earning her Master's Degree in American Civilization from Brown University. Her hobbies include travel, museums, theater, music, singing and gardening as well as reading.

Hello, Regina. Light of the Heart is the first book in The Sterling Lake Series. Please tell us about this Christian/Romance.

Sterling Lakes is a fictitious town in New England filled with natural beauty but also a cloudy past. In Book One, Light of the Heart, Cascade Preston, a successful stained-glass artist, returns to her hometown to work on the renovations at St. Luke's Church. However, she does so with a resentful heart, since this town pretended not to know that her mother was being abused by Cascade's father. She wonders how people can call themselves Christians and not reach out to help their brothers and sisters.

What a wonderful message! Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

I grew up in a beautiful small town that had its share of personalities! There was opportunity for character study around every corner. None of the characters in “Light” are based on folks from my childhood, though. The inspiration for the series grew from my growing understanding of human nature and my awe at God's love for us despite our imperfections as I matured.

Cascade is a stained-glass artist. Did you have to do much research about this subject for your novel?

Yes, I did, Linda. I fell in love with stained glass on my first trip to Paris, France, where I visited Sainte Chappelle in the center of the city and Chartres Cathedral outside of Paris. For this book, I read a lot and took a stained glass class. Let's just say I am a klutz! Fortunately, I live right near the Rhode Island School of Design, a great art University, and was able to do reference there.

What does your family think about your writing?

Another great question! My parents were really proud and happy and supportive, even though I was published after I lost them. Actually in the same year I was published, 2009, it was three different publishers who accepted four different manuscripts of mine and I felt like things were opening up. The first acceptance occurred on my parents wedding anniversary, I'll never forget it. It was like my parents were there with me. Now my husband, sister, in-laws and friends are really happy and proud. But they still can't understand why I have to work at my day job all week and then write on the weekends sometimes, instead of hanging out with them. lol!

Yes, authors tend to do that, huh. Now it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

Not to get heavy, because this has such a happy ending - but when I just started law school, my father suddenly became critically ill one day and he passed away the next day on the operating table. My mother at the time was gaining ground from a medical challenge 1 1/2 yrs earlier, and was not well. Now Dad was gone and she was alone. So of course I stayed home with my mother - for six years. I hope people remember this story as a parable for listening to what God wants for us in our lives, even if it might be really different from what we had planned. That trust is what I hope my books convey and reinforce.

What a wonderful lesson! Thank you so much for this lovely interview. I hope my followers will check out your book.

Interview with Suspense Romance Author Charissa Stastny

Charissa Stastny was born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada...but she has never gambled and can’t shuffle cards to save her life. She is married, has four kids, and loves writing, reading, hiking, and imitating monkeys (although when she tried it at the zoo, one of the monkeys spit at her). She currently lives in Idaho, where she doesn’t have to be embarrassed by her poor card shuffling skills nor worry about being attacked by monkeys. Secret Keepers is her 2^nd book available in the Eyes of Light trilogy.

Welcome back to my blog, Charissa. This book is the second in a series. Please tell us about your new book.

Secret Keepers has lots of suspense, clean romance, and gripping action as the past, with its powerful secrets, collides with the present, threatening to destroy all Suvi, James and Austan hold dear. Suvi flees to Israel, the land of her youth, to lure threatening forces away from James, and to seek help from her estranged father. James crosses an ocean to find her, but his discoveries may jeopardize his life and love. Austan returns as self-appointed guardian of Suvi when evil forces combine to destroy her. From Idaho to Israel, and with madmen, ruthless drug cartels, and Mossad assassins as key forces, the fight for light that began in Book 1, Eyes of Light, continues as perilous events lead Suvi to reevaluate her feelings and choose between the two men who love her.

My husband read your first book and loved it. He’s excited to read the second one now. Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

My inspiration for this story started with a door-to-door salesperson. An Israeli girl named Suvi with a nose ring and a vivacious personality knocked, charmed me into buying one of her oil paintings, and then talked to my daughters and me for an hour. After she left, a story started to form around her in my mind. As I wrote my imagined story for Suvi, I wanted to help my own daughters be aware of hidden secrets people carry so that they would be more merciful in their judgment of others. We never know what awful circumstances and experiences have led someone to act in certain ways.

What a wonderful lesson! What kind of research did you do for this book?

I researched the NCS (National Clandestine Service—CIA), and the Mossad’s kidon (assassins). The workings of the Mossad (Israel’s version of the CIA) fascinate me. There are some great stories out there as I read up on it. I didn’t get to use much of the information in this book, but great books could be written about it, and I would love to read anything on this subject (although it would probably be quite brutal). 

You love to write suspenseful romances. What intrigues you most about writing these stories?

I love reading romance (if it’s clean), and writing it is even better. My Eyes of Light series is intense and drags my characters through some very rough waters to test their faith and resilience. The most intriguing aspect of writing these books has been to watch my characters grow. I am always wondering what I would do in the same situations, and I feel that helps me grow as well to have to make choices in my mind as my characters make them on the written pages.   

Thank you, Charissa, for this wonderful interview. My husband was so impressed with your first book. I know this one will be equally as good.

Interview with Romance/Suspense Author Jordan McCollum

An award-winning author, Jordan McCollum can’t resist a story where good defeats evil and true love conquers all. She holds a degree in American Studies and Linguistics from Brigham Young University. When she catches a spare minute, her hobbies include reading, knitting and music. She lives with her husband and four children in Utah.

“I love how Jordan McCollum blends the best of both Canada and the U.S. in her debut novel. With plenty of polite humor, cloak and dagger mystery and fun romance, there are great characters from both sides of the border, and a case that had me turning pages quicker than I could say, ‘poutine.’ This Canadian author gives I, Spy two thumbs up!” — Author Julie Coulter Bellon

Hello, Jordan. I read your spy novel and absolutely loved it. It was great. Please tell my readers about your romantic suspense novel.

Canada is probably the last place you’d expect to find an American spy. But even idyllic Ottawa has its deadly secrets—and so does CIA operative Talia Reynolds. She can climb through ventilation shafts, blend in at the occasional diplomatic function, even scale buildings (small ones). But there’s one thing she can’t do: tell her aerospace engineer boyfriend Danny about her Top Secret occupation.

It worked for a year, keeping Danny in the dark, keeping him away from danger, keeping her secrets. And then Talia finally catches a hot case: Fyodor Timofeyev. Russian. Aerospace executive. Possible spy?

She can make this work, too--until Danny needs her at the same time her country does. And when Fyodor targets Danny? Suddenly her schedule isn’t the only thing suffering. Now to save her secrets and her country, Talia must sacrifice the man she loves.

Read an excerpt from the book: http://jordanmccollum.com/books/excerpt-i-spy

You have written this book in first person. The woman acts like a spy, thinks like a spy, and is extra cautious like a spy. Since she knows Russian, the CIA decides to use her in that capacity. Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

The first idea sprang into my mind while shopping for valentines at Dollar Tree. True story. An old favorite came on the Muzak, and I started wondering about the story behind the song: a guy who should be with the girl he loves, but she’s somewhere else. And I wondered, what could keep her away?

Then I added my favorite what-if question when plotting: what if she were a spy?

Sadly, I can’t say I’m drawing on my vast experience as a spy for this novel. But in my day job, I coerce people to do things they don’t want to, elicit information and generally manipulate the people I love most—I’m a mom.

Hahaha! Yup! That’s about right. I’m a mom of six daughters and understand completely. What kind of research did you have to do for this novel?

I was lucky enough to go to Ottawa on a business trip with my father when I was 15. While he was in meetings, I had free rein of the capital. (Can you imagine letting a teenager wander the streets of DC in the late ’90s?!) I also read a dozen CIA memoirs and reference books to get an idea of the training and daily life of a spy, as well as the cool capers they’ve pulled in real life.

What does your family think about your writing?

They’re very supportive. My son, 7, constantly asks to read my books. My parents both helped with I, Spy: my dad as a beta reader & technical advisor and my mom as a proofreader (she has a BA in English & was an English teacher for years—and both my parents helped to refine my writing throughout my school years!). My husband is the most supportive of all: for years he’s done the dishes so I can have those few extra minutes to write. Now that’s love!

Oh my gosh! What a fantastic man you married. Okay, now it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

As a teenager, I went on a short crime spree with my best friend which included vandalizing our family members’ yards with plastic flower lawn ornaments, parking in a no parking zone, and whistling underwater, which is allegedly illegal in North Carolina.

Hahaha. Vandalization? Disobeying the laws? Underwater crimes? Wow! You were meant to write spy stories. Thanks for this awesome interview, Jordan.

Sweet Romance Novel: The Rebels of Cordovia

We celebrate Independence Day, remembering the freedom we fought for centuries ago. Many patriots had to pay for this freedom with their lives and we are grateful to those who fought for our liberty. In this new novel, you get a glimpse of what another country had to fight for, as well. The freedom of speech, the freedom of equality, and the freedom to worship as we please! No one could have a greater gift than this.

The Stories of Robin Hood is Inspiration for Sweet Romance: The Rebels of Cordovia

“What a fun and interesting tale The Rebels of Cordovia is. A very good story to keep you glued all the way to the end. I really enjoyed the romance mingled with the fights. It is a well-paced tale to give you entertainment next to a warm fire in the rain. Linda writes a good, clean, and sweet romance, for young adults and adults alike. You will enjoy the story to the end.” –Author Anna Del C. Dye

Centuries after the legendary Robin Hood, a group of men and women find themselves fighting for the same cause: for their rights, for freedom of speech, and equality. Robin’s Rebels realize they must fight against the tyranny of a wicked king and help the people survive this oppression. In the small country of Cordovia, groups of rebels begin springing up, but its Robin’s Rebels who get the attention of the king.

In this battle for freedom, a tender love story begins to blossom. Daniel, a rogue and a leader of the Freemen, doesn’t realize that the sweet feminine woman he has met and is falling for happens to be the leader of Robin’s Rebels. Realizing the importance of uniting all the rebel groups, Daniel tries to recruit Robin’s Rebels but they refuse. Now he has to find a way to convince them. When he finds out the leader is actually a woman, what will his reaction be?

"This sweet romance set in the kingdom of Cordovia was a fun vacation read. This creative take on a Robin Hood-like story is charming and touching, and teaches some great morals about agency and choice. It reminded me of childhood fairytales of good versus evil, with a nice romance weaved into it. Yea!" --Author Charissa Stastny

"This book was a fun read with a strong plot and fast paced action, but gentle and happy characters. Linda Weaver Clarke has a storyteller's talent for enchanting and mesmerizing the audience. She weaves her key topics of love and respect through The Rebels of Cordovia as poverty and its devastating side effects are overcome by Robin and her band of merry men...and women. Robin is a strong female character with morals and an innocence that readers will appreciate. There are also some exciting surprises and twists that will delight the heart. A very timely subject set in a gilt frame, definitely a must read!" --Cindi Clubbs, Reviewer

Read a sample chapter here: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/rebels.html

Purchase Book Link: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/purchasebook.html

Price: $12.95, Ebook: $2.99

Book Release Celebration: The Rebels of Cordovia

The Stories of Robin Hood is the Inspiration for this Sweet Romance

This tale will entertain those who enjoy bits of adventure, humor, mystery, and a tender love story. The stories of Robin Hood have enchanted readers for years. In our youth, we enjoyed hearing the escapades of Robin Hood and were spellbound by each story and how he cared for the people. How awesome would it be to live during that time period just because of Robin Hood! In The Rebels of Cordovia, a similar story is created but centuries after the legend of Robin Hood. But this time, there are two major groups of rebels fighting for the rights of the people. Daniel, a good-looking rogue, would be the leader of the Freemen. Robin Marie, a young woman, would be the leader of Robin’s Rebels. Each leader is an expert archer and swordsman. With bits of adventure and delectable kisses, this tale will entertain anyone who enjoys a sweet romance.

In The Rebels of Cordovia by Linda Weaver Clarke, the time period is set in the late 1700s. Centuries after the legendary Robin Hood, a group of men and women find themselves fighting for the same cause: for their rights, for freedom of speech, and equality. Robin’s Rebels realize they must fight against the tyranny of a wicked king and help the people survive this oppression. In the small country of Cordovia, groups of rebels begin springing up, but its Robin’s Rebels who get the attention of the king.

In this battle for freedom, a tender love story begins to blossom. Daniel, a rogue and a leader of the Freemen, doesn’t realize that the sweet feminine woman he has met and is falling for happens to be the leader of Robin’s Rebels. Realizing the importance of uniting all the rebel groups, Daniel tries to recruit Robin’s Rebels but they refuse. Now he has to find a way to convince them. When he finds out the leader is actually a woman, what will his reaction be?

Book Review: “What a fun and interesting tale The Rebels of Cordovia is. A very good story to keep you glued all the way to the end. I really enjoyed the romance mingled with the fights. It is a well-paced tale to give you entertainment next to a warm fire in the rain. Linda writes a good, clean, and sweet romance, for young adults and adults alike. You will enjoy the story to the end.” –Author Anna Del C. Dye

Read a sample chapter of The Rebels of Cordovia: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/rebels.html

WHERE TO BUY REBELS OF CORDOVIA:

Soft Cover: $12.95, Ebook: $2.99

Purchase e-book for Nook, Kindle, or Ipad at Smashwords!

Purchase e-book or book at Amazon!
Purchase e-book or book at Barnes and Noble!

Interview with Christian Author Gail Pallotta

Gail Pallotta is an award-winning author, wife, Mom, swimmer and bargain shopper who loves God, beach sunsets and getting together with friends and family. She’s been a Sunday school teacher, a swim-team coordinator and an after-school literary instructor. A former regional writer of the year for American Christian Writers Association, she won Clash of the Titles in 2010. Her new teen book, Stopped Cold, is a best-seller on All Romance eBooks. Readers can find her blog at http://www.gailpallotta.blogspot.com. Her Web Site is http://www.gailpallotta.com

Welcome back to my blog, Gail. This book is a Young Adult Mystery. Please tell us about your new book.

It’s a teen sports mystery with suspense, first love and spiritual talk. The theme of the book is: We don’t have to be number one for God to love us.

It’s set in a small town in North Carolina, but things aren’t what they seem in peaceful Mistville.  Here’s what’s going on with Margaret McWhorter and her friends. She enjoys a laid-back Freshman year in high school flirting with Jimmy Willmore, swimming and hanging out with friends—until that day. Her brother, Sean, suffers a stroke from taking a steroid. Now he’s lying unconscious in a hospital. Margaret’s angry at her dad for pushing Sean to be a great quarterback, but a fire of hatred burns inside her to make the criminals pay.

Looking for justice, she takes Jimmy and her best friend, Emily, through a twisted, drug-filled sub-culture. A clue sends them deep into the woods behind the school where they overhear drug dealers discuss Sean. Time and time again they walk a treacherous path and come face to face with danger. Even the cop on the case can’t stop them from investigating. All the while Margaret really wants to cure Sean, heal the hate inside, and open her heart to love.

I love mysteries. Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

First of all, I wanted to write a fun book. As a youngster I loved mysteries, especially when the kids, like Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys, solved the case. My book’s reminiscent of those amateur sleuths. As for the message, over the years I’ve seen instances when not being number one created great pain for a child or young adult. Whether the pressure came from within, peers, siblings or parents, the need to be “better than everyone else” rather than “the best one could be” often hurt and sometimes led to destruction. We don’t have to be number one for God to love us. He’s given each of us a gift or gifts to use for Him.

That is so true, Gail. What kind of research did you do for this book?

A lot.  Children face a number of problems today, but I wrote about steroids. One reason teens say they take steroids is to enhance athletic performance, which indicates they have a drive to be number one. I read material from library books, the Physicians Desk Reference and the Internet. Also, I interviewed an undercover detective and a narcotics officer as well as an administrative policeman. Even though the use of steroids is going down, according to the latest statistics I could find there are around 125,000 teens who say they’ve used them. Sadly, I imagine there are some who’ve used them, but don’t say they did.

As for swimming, my daughter was a high school and U.S. swimmer, so I had lots of experience as a Team Mom doing everything from timing to serving as a team coordinator. I also went over the technicalities of meets with a coach and a director of summer league swimming.

What intrigues you most about writing Young Adult stories?

Seeing how young people face the challenges in today’s society. Each era brings its own set of unique problems. Currently we live in a world that gives mixed signals about right and wrong, so that makes choices even more difficult for teens than the ones made as recent as thirty years ago. Human nature doesn’t change, even though the times do. Today’s young people must deal with all society throws at them while coping with the same emotions all of us had when we were their ages. There are lots of qualities to admire about today’s teens as they handle these trying circumstances.

Is there anything you’d like to add?

I’m having a discussion and give away in the “teen” room at The Book Club Network. Each week for a month I’ll ask a question then choose a winner from the comments. Each winner will get a PDF download of Stopped Cold and one of the following prizes: An Olympic jacket from the 1996 summer Olympic Games, a stuffed cow from a Chic-fil-A football bowl game, a leather purse, or Fancy Nights perfume. The contest is going on now at http://bookfun.org.  Come over to the “teen” room and join us.

Buy Links for Stopped Cold: Smashwords, Front Porch Romance, Amazon, and All Romance Books

Interview with Christian Author Sharon Srock

Sharon Srock lives with her husband, Larry, and two dogs in Rural Oklahoma. She is a mother, grandmother, and Sunday School teacher. Sharon has one and three-quarters jobs and writes in her spare time. Her favorite hobby is traveling with her grandchildren. Sharon has two novels in The Women of Valley View series: Callie released in October 2012, and Terri released in April 2013.

“Terri is a delightful story, the second book in Women of Valley View. The humor is great and the author had me bursting into laughter several times. The romance is delectable and I found myself sighing and rereading the sweet romance scenes between Terri and Steve.” –Review by Author Linda Weaver Clarke

Hello, Sharon. Welcome to my blog. Please tell us about your new novel.

Despite a bustling day care center and a new foster child, Terri Hayes hungers for a family of her own. Then a plumbing mishap leaves her homeless and questioning God’s plan. Steve Evans’s gracious offer of his basement apartment as a temporary solution is an answered prayer.

Steve is a successful writer and a good father, but Terri is horrified when Steve’s book research leads him to a harsh confrontation with the parents of her foster child. She needs to distance herself from Steve, but her efforts fall short as his two scheming daughters plot to make Terri their new stepmother.

Will harsh words and sneaky plans drive Kelsey’s family further apart and put a wedge between Terri and Steve? Or does God have another plan in store?

Your story sounds very intriguing to me. Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

The character of Terri was born out of necessity for the first story. When that one story became a series, I really began to question God about the direction He was taking me. Terri’s journey mirrors mine in a lot of ways. Mostly the being dragged down an uncertain path kicking and screaming part.

Ha, ha! I love how you can identify with this character. What kind of research did you have to do for this novel?

Not a lot. I don’t like research, that’s why I write contemporary novels. I have friends who fostered 3 little girls, so I picked their brains and I talked with a social worker to get the story from their perspective.

Hey, talking to a social worker is great research. What does your family think about your writing?

They are all very supportive. Reading Mom’s books is a way to get my grown daughter’s to read. My husband won’t read, but he doesn’t mind fending for himself in the kitchen if I have to write.

If a husband can fend for himself without complaint, then that’s real support. Now it’s time to tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

I’m a huge Star Trek fan, and I once got James Doohan, the actor who played Scotty in the original series, lost in down town Oklahoma City.

Hey! My mother was a huge Star Trek fan, too. She never missed a show. I think she had a crush on James Kirk. Back then William Shatner was quite good-looking. Thanks for this opportunity of getting to know you and your book.

Interview with Women’s Fiction Author Maria Hoagland

Maria Hoagland has a knack for procrastinating, but somehow, eventually things usually get done. She has three children, a very supportive husband, a job working with English language learners at a local elementary school, and teaches in the women’s organization, called Relief Society, at her church. She’s looking forward to the summer to write the rough draft of her next novel and spend time enjoying the sun and raspberries in her backyard. Maria currently has two published novels, Nourish & Strengthen and Family Size and enjoys editing and formatting for other authors.

Welcome back to my blog, Maria. Please tell us about your new book Family Size.

Thank you, Linda, for hosting this interview! I’m excited about my newest novel, Family Size. I had so much fun writing from three different perspectives in this book—three main characters who experience unique situations dealing with fertility and their individual families and then weaving those stories together: Sloane desperately wants a baby, Jessica needs a break, and Maya could just use someone to lean on. It is a novel about friendships and faith as well as fertility, and one I think any mom can relate to.

Stories that we can relate to makes it more interesting. Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

You know when a group of women get together—especially at a book club or play group for the kids—and the conversation so often turn to labor stories? It always gets me to thinking about how we have no idea what’s going on in someone’s life. There was a time in my life when I was saddened by these stories, wondering if I’d ever have one of my own, which is probably why I always felt that adoption stories were a special treat. All of the women’s stories I’ve heard over the years have inspired me, and after mulling over them for years, I formed characters that I felt had interesting family stories to share that I think most women should be able to relate to and feel inspired by.

What kind of research did you do for this book?

I love doing research for fiction. Medical issues intrigue me. My ideas usually start with anecdotal information—personal experiences either in my own life or in the life of family and friends. I also do a lot of internet research on blogs to see how people feel and react to specific situations I plan to use in my book. I do as much fact-checking as I can on informational websites, but then where I am especially lacking in experience, I make sure to send the manuscript on to someone who has expertise that I don’t—in this case, with adoption.

You love to write Women’s Fiction. What intrigues you most about writing stories like this?

I started writing women’s fiction because it is my favorite genre to read. Sure, I appreciate a good Harry Potter or The Giver or The Night Circus, but I enjoy realistic fiction that teaches without being overly instructional, lets me experience without leaving my house, and entertains and enlightens. So that’s what I try to do. I figure if I like to read it, someone else probably will, too. At least that’s what I’m hoping!

Thanks, Maria, for this wonderful interview. I really appreciate getting to know you.

Interview with Author Cheryl Kaye Tardif

Cheryl Kaye Tardif is an award-winning, international bestselling Canadian suspense author. Her novels include Submerged, Divine Justice, Children of the Fog, The River, Divine Intervention, and Whale Song. Cheryl enjoys writing short stories inspired by her idol Stephen King, resulting in Skeletons in the Closet & Other Creepy Stories and Remote Control. She has also written a non-fiction marketing book, How I Made Over $42,000 in 1 Month Selling My Kindle eBooks.

Cheryl's website: http://www.cherylktardif.com

Official blog: http://www.cherylktardif.blogspot.com

“Whale Song is a beautifully written story of love. Tardif's gift with language and empathy towards cultures lent this book an authenticity, which had me searching to see if it was based on a true story. The best book I have read in a while." -- Melissa Clarke

Hello, Cheryl. Please tell us about your novel, Whale Song.

Whale Song is my "heart book," and I call it that for many reasons. It is the one novel that has more of me in it than any of my others; and it has affected people's lives in so many ways. In fact, you could say it has saved lives and relationships. One woman told me that sharing my novel with her mother restored their relationship. How powerful is that?

Whale Song is the story of a woman who reflects on her life and the mystery behind her mother's death. It opens when young Sarah and her parents move to an isolated town on Vancouver Island. It is there that she is introduced to racism, bullying and the effects these can have on a young girl's life. But when her mother falls ill, her focus shifts, and she learns of a secret that changes her life.

Filled with rich native folklore and memorable characters, Whale Song is really a novel for anyone, any age. It is being used in schools across North America and in a NATO school in Europe—there's a special School Edition with a discussion guide in the back (ebook and trade paperback). It is mandatory reading for a women's shelter in Newnan, Georgia, and was used as a book club read in a women's prison in South Dakota. But is it just for women and girls? No. I have heard from boys and grown men who have loved Whale Song.

It is my "heart book" for all of these reasons and more.

Author Chynna T. Laird said about your book, “It's about tragedy, understanding, coming-of-age, acceptance and forgiveness.” Will adults enjoy this book as well?

Adults will LOVE this story. It will take them back to the good and bad times of being a child. It'll remind them about the importance of family. It'll inspire them to be more forgiving and more accepting. One of my fans is a 60+ year old man who constantly tweets about his age and how much he loved Whale Song. My oldest reader that I know about was 108. And book clubs worldwide have embraced Sarah's story.

That is so awesome that your book has touched the lives of many people, young and old alike. Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

Sarah is based loosely on aspects of my life. I moved around a lot as a child. My father was in the Canadian military. I had to leave friends behind and learn to make new ones. I lived on an isolated island in BC that is rife with racism and bullying. I was exposed to native folklore. But Sarah's journey is her own, not mine. She inspired me to let go of the past, and in writing her story I learned that "forgiveness sets you free."

That is so true about forgiveness. What kind of research did you have to do for this novel?

I researched killer whales as they are a strong element in the story. I researched native folklore as well so that Nana could relate the stories of her culture. I also had to research the illness that Sarah's mother is diagnosed with and the final consequences.

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

My heart has been deeply saddened by the stories of teens who have committed suicide because of bullying. I cry for their sorrow and their frustration and their loss of life. And I know their pain, deeply, intimately. I was bullied when I was a teen. I was physically abused by other teens. I was emotionally abused by girls and boys. I thought of suicide many times. I withdrew and became very shy with zero self-esteem. My escape was books.

But I survived. I survived the bruises and everything that lowered my self-image. I survived humiliation. I survived despair. All I knew was that at some point things would change. The bullying would be over. I just had to get through it. Otherwise, the bullies WIN! So I had to live.

Decades later, I still remember those events and my main bully. I saw her once when we were in our 20s. Her life was nothing to admire. Karma. I was sad for her. She could have been more. I was determined to be. I forgave her. This is really the seed of Whale Song.

If I could talk one-on-one with a bullied child I would tell them: This will pass. It is only a small part of your life, and it does NOT define you. You CAN survive this. You will become better for it. You have your whole life ahead of you, and wonderful things are in store for you. So hold on for one more day. And then one more. I know this…because I did. And you can too.

Thank you, Cheryl, for this wonderful and touching interview. Your exceptional outlook on life, striving to become a better person, surviving childhood humiliation, and forgiveness has made you the person you are today. Thank you for sharing your innermost feelings with me and my readers.

Interview with Fantasy Author Serena Clarke

Serena Clarke is a graphic designer and author. She is also a member of the Red Mountain Shadows Publishing Team. She edits books, formats them, and creates covers for authors. Many authors want to publish their books through Amazon’s Create Space and other self-publishing companies, so Serena helps them get their books into shape. She loves reading and writing fantasy with a hint of romance. In fact, she enjoys designing her book covers almost as much as writing her books.

Welcome back to my blog, Serena. Today we’re going to talk about the secrets of writing a fantasy. What elements or creatures does an author have to put into a story to make a good fantasy?

The reason I love fantasy so much is that anything can happen. You are not restricted by reality. The definition of fantasy is “The faculty or activity of imagining things that are impossible or improbable.” There are no particular requirements to write a fantasy. Your imagination is your limit. However, there are some things to keep in mind. When you are writing a story, no matter the genre, you are creating a world. Within this world, there are rules. You create the rules. But then you must follow them. If you follow the rules you have created within your make-believe world, your story will be more believable and easier for readers to follow.

Create a history, not only for your characters but also for the world you have created, the kingdoms, etc. Also, if your world has magic, where did the magic come from? What rules apply? Who can use magic? What restrictions are there? Are there consequences for using magic? Does everyone know about magic? Is it accepted by society? Are there mythical creatures? What are they like, both physically and socially?

Create geography, methods of transportation, what technology exists, etc.

Create a society all your own… You can create a whole new world, unique to your imagination, or you can use the world you live in as inspiration and add fantastical elements. You can follow tradition and mythology or you can create your own characteristics. Or create your own fantastical creatures. You decide what is possible and what is real.

Wow! I didn’t know so much went into creating a fantasy. What does your story have in it to bring out these elements?

For my story, I created a whole new world, loosely based on reality. My main characters are humans, but they live in a magical world. There are magical creatures, witches, magical treasures, etc.

In your research, you have probably noticed that dragons, elves, giants and other creatures have a certain aura and personality about them. When I say “aura,” I mean a certain characteristic that surrounds them. Did you keep to this or create your own personality for these characters?

For some of the mythical creatures, I followed tradition. I did some research on what these creatures might look like or how they might act. But there are so many interpretations for many of these creatures that I decided to change them up a bit. Sometimes I made my creatures completely different from what they would be like traditionally. I wanted them to be unique to my world. I also have creatures that came from my own imagination. I created them, gave them a name and characteristics.

I read your book and that is why I loved it so much. Your creatures were unique. What is The Treasure of Isian about and where can you buy it?

Prince Garin is a brave, proud, adventure-seeking prince. Elani is his most trusted servant and she would do anything for him, even die for him. Their quest to find the mystical Treasure of Isian is immediately interrupted and they find themselves confronted by angry giants, soul-stealing elves, bewitched dragons, a vengeful water-witch, battling foes, and a mysterious kingdom. Elani must face her greatest fears to save her prince and her kingdom. Garin must decide what the most important things are in his life. Will they be able to make a great sacrifice to save the kingdom? And will Elani find true love? Become lost in the adventure, love, loyalty, and mystery of The Treasure of Isian! 

The Treasure of Isian can be bought online as an ebook for only $.99 for an Ipad, Kindle, and Nook. You may buy her novel at Amazon or Barnes and Noble online or order it from a local bookstore for $12.95.

Thank you for this interview, Serena. It was interesting to learn how a person creates a fantasy. I enjoy having my daughter on my Family Friendly Blog and letting my readers get to know you.

Interview with Young Adult Author Anna del C. Dye

I was born in Valparaiso, Chile. I came to the USA at age 21 to be married two weeks later. I have lived in Utah all my married life, and have travelled to many places in the USA. We are the parents of three princes and a princess. I love ruins, medieval and fantasy things.

Welcome back to my blog, Anna. I understand this new book is number six in your Elf Series, but it’s a stand-alone book and can be read separately. Please tell us about your book.

It is always a pleasure to be with you and your friends, Linda. Flying takes you to new heights. Here is a bit about A Flying Elf. Shahira is a she-eagle and lives with her father, mother, and baby brother. Her dream is to find a stripling young eagle for her mate. But mating is a ritual that happens in the sky and she cannot fly. She keeps telling herself that soon she will be able to, but every time she tries she falls.

The character causing all the problems in this tale is Huzan. He is almost a wizard and suffers from schizophrenia. He hears and sees people talking to him all the time. This makes him very dangerous, especially as he thinks his brother, the head of the Wizarding School, is against him. A crazy wizard, on his own, pursued by his personal demons, makes for interesting suspense.

Lets not forget Llorradinn. He is the Elf who finds love in Shahira’s nest and who is willing to do anything for her. As a true Elf, he would sacrifice his life for Shahira if it would make her happy. 

Where did you get your inspiration for this series?

From Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings. My son got me hooked on the books, and when the movies came out my imagination went wild. I have so many characters wanting to be first in my head I can’t write fast enough. 

What kind of research did you do for this book?

Eagles are the main characters in this tale, so I needed to ask questions about their lives and what they are like. The person in charge of the eagles in Tracy Aviary at a park in Utah was very nice and let me pick his brain. For my artist, we Googled eagles and had hundreds of pictures to choose from.

You love to write elf stories. What intrigues you most about writing these books?

What intrigues me most is how my Elfs came to me with their personalities clear and unwavering. They aren’t perfect, but they are certainly far ahead of any human I have met in real life. The world of my elfs is so pure and humble that it inspires many of my readers and me, because you can’t find that in real life and as humans we need it. The way elfs love and care for the she-elfs is humbling and the way the she-elfs reciprocate to their companion’s care and love is heavenly. I believe that is what every human being wants in life… someone who will see past our imperfections and treat us with utmost respect and love, in spite of it all.  

Thanks, Anna, for a wonderful interview. Your books sound awesome. The “world of elves” sounds so intriguing to me.

Interview with Author Kathi Oram Peterson

Kathi Oram Peterson is the mother of three, grandmother of two, and wife of one. After her youngest child graduated high school, she went back to college and earned her BA in English. She worked for a curriculum publisher writing and editing children’s biography and concept books, but always had the dream of writing YA time travel and romantic suspense novels. Her dream finally came true with the publication of The Forgotten Warrior, followed by An Angel on Main Street, The Stone Traveler, River Whispers, Cold Justice, and Wanted.

Welcome back to my blog, Kathi. I love romantic suspense. Please tell us about your new book, Wanted.

This was an exciting story to write. I set it in my home state of Idaho in areas I’m very familiar with: Swan Valley, Table Rock Mountain, and Fall Creek Falls. Let me share the back cover blurb of the book.

Rodeo veterinarian Jo Powers is accustomed to operating under pressure—but nothing could have prepared her for the shocking discovery of the armed and bleeding escaped convict hiding in her truck. Even more disconcerting is the fact that Jo knows the man in the prison jumpsuit. Jo’s split-second decision to use her medical skill to save this man’s life is just the beginning because now he needs her help to uncover the truth.

Seven years ago, Branson Faulkner was accused of a murder he claims he didn’t commit. With the hope of finding new evidence to prove his innocence, he’s risked everything to clear his name and reclaim his life—but he can’t do it alone. Jo agrees to help, even though she isn’t completely sure Faulkner is innocent. Now as Faulkner and Jo conduct their investigation, they discover an alarming connection between a string of homicides, and one truth is clear: there’s a murderer on the loose who will stop at nothing to cover his tracks . . .

I love mysteries that include romance. It seems to keep the story moving. Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

Sometimes the idea of a story just hits you out of the blue and sometimes it is an accumulation of things: places you’ve been, people you’ve known, and the type of story you’ve written before. Those three things, plus a lot of work inspired Wanted. I needed the main character to love animals, so making Jo a veterinarian was a good fit. And I’ve always liked the idea of having the hero wounded from a bullet and in need of help. Making Branson an escaped prisoner worked perfectly.

It’s fun finding out what inspires an author. What kind of research did you do for this book?

I attended many rodeos to research this novel. In fact, I was allowed, by one rodeo owner, a “behind the scenes” view of what goes on during a rodeo. I learned how they truly cared for their stock and many times took better care of their animals then they did themselves. These rodeos were not in air-conditioned arenas. They were held in the middle of nowhere, but when rodeo time arrived people gathered from miles around bringing their campers and RVs with them.

I also spent a great deal of time researching the criminal justice system. A friend of mine helped to teach religion classes in the prison and many inmates were converted. Time behind bars would be an awful experience, but it could also help some prisoners commit to living better lives. My friend was a great resource.

And because I grew-up close to where I set the novel I knew a great deal about the area. See, I knew that there really is a cave behind Fall Creek Falls because I’ve been there. I knew the creek was a warm springs because I’ve floated down it. I knew the beauty of Table Rock Mountain because my mother had been born at the base of the mountain and had taken me there many times as I was growing up. 

Wow! I love it. Your research and knowledge makes reading your books fun. What is the biggest challenge in writing a romantic suspense story?

I think the most challenging aspect of writing romantic suspense is adding enough red-herrings. Are two enough, are six too many? But this usually resolves itself as the story unfolds and opportunities arise.

Thanks, Kathi, for this awesome interview. It was fun learning more about your book and your research.