Interview with Christian Author Ann Miller

Ann Lee Miller earned a BA in creative writing from Ashland (OH) University and writes full-time in Phoenix, but left her heart in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where she grew up. She has four children in their twenties, two daughters-in-law, a grandson, and an almost-son-in-law in June. Over 70,000 copies of her debut novel, Kicking Eternity have been downloaded from Amazon. Her other titles are Avra’s God and The Art of My Life.

It’s always a pleasure to have you on my blog, Ann. You write Christian romances. This novel is perfect for this Easter season. It's about a couple who learns the importance of repentance and forgiveness. The idea behind this story is changing and becoming a better person. Please tell us about your new book.

Tattered Innocence is a tale of passions indulged, denied, and ultimately forgiven. On the verge of bagging the two things he wants most—a sailing charter business and marrying old money—Jake Murray’s fiancée/sole crew member dumps him. Salvation comes in the form of dyslexic, basketball toting Rachel Martin, the only one to apply for the first mate position he slapped on craigslist.

Rapid fire dialogue and romantic tension sail Jake’s biker-chick of a boat through hurricanes, real and figurative. A cast of wannabe sailors, Rachel’s ex, Jake’s ex, a baby—go along for the ride.

Tattered Innocence is for anyone who’s ever waken up sealed in a fifty-gallon drum of their guilt.

This subject is about repentance and beginning your life again. What are you specifically teaching the youth in this book?

The story's message is all about the journey to God's forgiveness. Premarital sex between people who love each other—unlike what movies depict—wreaks havoc and causes immense pain. No one would want to go through this kind of anguish. The light at the end of the tunnel is that God forgives and heals when we seek Him.

Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

The setting on a sailboat comes from part of my childhood when my family lived on a sailboat in Miami, Florida. My Catholic upbringing, not only pointed me toward Jesus when I went looking, but gave me a hearty grasp on the concept of guilt for this story. I think most, if not all, of us have done things we deeply regret. These mistakes cling to us with the tenacity of super-glue and produce life-long shame. I believe the only one able to cleanse us of the shame is Jesus.

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

There is something magical about the first time a person falls in love. As children and teens we dream of meeting that person we can bare our souls to, share sunsets and mountain tops with, hold in our arms. Once we meet him, nothing is ever the same again. I had a sad childhood, but my husband has loved me well for thirty-two years and made up for my rocky beginning. He is my happily ever after. Why would I not want to write about love?

Wow! You are so right. For those interested, you may check out Ann’s website at http://www.annleemiller.com. You may join her at Facebook as well at https://www.facebook.com/AnnLeeMillerAuthor

Interview with YA Author Monique Bucheger

Monique is a happily married mom of 12 kids and Grandmama to a sweet little girl. She has written several books, though only three are published. Her passions include her kids, writing, scrapbooking, and causes which empower kids. Monique appreciates a kind word, a good joke, the occasional power nap, good chocolate, and hopes to brighten her corner of the world with a good story.

Hello, Monique. Trouble Blows West was written for young adults. Please tell us about your novel.

Trouble Blows West is about a spirited 12 year-old girl named Ginnie, who gets on the wrong side of the biggest bully in 6^th grade when she knocks him on his rear while defending her twin brother, Toran. She quickly figures out that Toran doesn’t appreciate being rescued by a girl any better than Charlie likes being knocked down by one. When Charlie seeks revenge on Ginnie, Toran sets aside his anger and helps her plot a playback prank at Charlie’s house. Sadly, Ginnie learns that Charlie has a reason for being a bully when she sees his dad drop him to the floor like a ragdoll. Realizing he's a boy in big trouble, Ginnie switches gears and decides to be his ally, even if he won’t let her be his friend.

This sounds like a wonderful story for children to read. Where did you get your inspiration for this book?

My husband and I fostered 120 kids over 12 years and have some experience with child abuse. I wrote the Ginnie series to empower kids and adults on all sides of the child abuse issue: victims, abusers, and those wanting to help both.

Tenacious as a bulldog, Ginnie is a spunky kid who isn’t afraid to try new things or stand up for the people she cares about. She doesn’t always think before she acts, but she is loyal to friends and family … and those who need a friend. She is courageous, impulsive, and a lot of fun.

The first book in this series is called The Secret Sisters Club. What is it about?

The Secret Sisters Club has been described as “Parent Trap meets An American Girl.” Ginnie’s best friend, Tillie, wants her mom and Ginnie’s dad to date. They come up with a plan to make it happen: Operation Secret Sisters. Ginnie is fine with the plan until she finds her deceased mom’s journals and realizes that getting a new sister will come with a new mom. While finding her mom’s journals gives Ginnie a chance to get to know the mother her dad doesn’t talk about, it also makes her wonder what life would be like if her mom had lived. When her dad takes away the journals, Ginnie isn’t sure what to think, she only knows she has to get them back, no matter what.

What does your family think about your writing?

My husband is my biggest fan. My nine-year-old loves Ginnie and Tillie. My children who are bookworms think it’s kind of cool that I write. When I recently introduced some of my children to Kevin J Anderson and his wife, Rebecca Moesta—they were impressed by the wide variety of fantasy and sci-fi books they had written. Being an author got elevated some that day. It was fun to see my kids get excited about meeting real authors and in turn, they are more supportive of my writing as well.

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

On September 11, 2001, I scheduled an induction so that I could give birth to my 9^th child, who also happened to be my 11^th pregnancy. My husband worked a lot and I wanted to make sure he could attend the birth. I fully expected to be able to tell the tale of having a “9-1-1 baby”, having no idea that the events of the day would change my son’s status as a “9-1-1 baby” forever to a “September 11^th baby.”

While I would change what happened that day if I could, I wouldn’t change my son’s birthday. I consider his birth one of the many miracles that happened on that eventful day. I have collected many stories of strangers helping one another, and of kindnesses rendered within the depths of such horrific tragedy, that Sept 11, 2001 is a day I recall as a day that has re-awakened the intrinsic goodness of most people, as they looked past differences to help one another reconnect as brothers and sisters in humanity.

Thank you so much, Monique. I have learned a lot about you and that makes this interview so much fun. Thanks for sharing your life with us.

Interview with Sweet Romance Author Danielle Thorne

Danielle Thorne is the author of sweet romantic adventure books, both historical and contemporary. She currently writes from south of Atlanta, Georgia. Danielle is a former editor for Solstice and Desert Breeze Publishing, but freelance writing and blogging at The Balanced Writer (www.thebalancedwriter.blogspot.com) is now her day job when life isn't calling. She has four sons with her wonderful husband. Together they enjoy travel and the outdoors.

Welcome back to my blog, Danielle. Please tell us about your book, BY HEART AND COMPASS.

BY HEART AND COMPASS is about having the courage to follow your heart even when it seems crazy. It's about chasing dreams and having them come true. It was nominated for a Whitney Award when it was released, and I'm very proud of its great sales and reviews.

This story is about genealogist Lacey Whitman, who buys a restored Victorian home, but never dreams discovering an antique diary will lead her back to sea and into the arms of the dive bum she’d rather forget. Her habit of living in the past (like so many of us do) comes to a screeching halt as diver, Max Bertrand, and the diary of his ancestor take Lacey on the quest of a lifetime: to discover and raise the privateer ship, Specter, and bring the treasure and legacy of a true hero home again.

I love sweet romantic adventure stories. Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

Believe it or not, I always wanted to write an adult version of my favorite childhood movie, Goonies. My historical novel, THE PRIVATEER, was a great springboard for going forward in time and unraveling a great treasure ship adventure

What kind of research did you do for this book?

I had a great time researching the Caribbean islands on a few cruise vacations. Luckily, I'm an Age of Sail nut so I had plenty of resources for refreshing my memory of the sailing world, and my scuba certification comes in handy, too.

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

I've always been a closet romantic even though I sometimes take myself too seriously. Writing romances has given me the opportunity to make people smile and believe in fairytales. It's also a chance to share sweet love stories full of exciting adventure that takes the reader somewhere far away for a spell. I love to give someone that "awww" moment and make them want to give a hug to the one they love.

Thank you, Danielle, for this wonderful interview. It was fun talking to you. For those interested, Danielle’s book is available in print and as an ebook at: Desert Breeze Publishing, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Kobo.

Interview with Author Steve Miller

J. Steve Miller has taught audiences from Atlanta to Moscow. He’s known for drawing practical wisdom from serious  research and communicating it in accessible, unforgettable ways. He's happily married to his wife, Cherie, and they have seven sons.

"For some time we've needed a well-researched, compelling introduction to this exciting field that focuses on the evidence. Miller delivers!” - Jeffrey Long, MD, best-selling author of Evidence of the Afterlife.

Welcome back to my blog, Steve! We have talked about your books called Publish a Book, Sell More Books, and Enjoy Your Money. Now we have a very interesting subject to talk about today. Please tell us about your new book, Near-Death Experiences as Evidence for the Existence of God and Heaven.

With the publication of Heaven is for Real and Harvard Neurologist Eben Alexander's Proof of Heaven (both best sellers), near-death experiences (NDEs) have become a hot topic. But readers like myself, with a skeptical bent, look at those personal experience books and ask, "But how can I know for sure they're telling the truth? Don't I just have to trust their stories?" In that sense, their out-of-body experiences were proof of heaven for them, but perhaps not for skeptical readers.

So I wanted to get beyond the personal stories that people write about in their books, since atheists might suspect that they were just making things up to make money. I needed something more substantial to believe that these people were really going to the other side and back.

So I decided to study the professional research that's been done on near-death experiences over the past 35 years. Most people don't know that over 900 articles on NDEs have been published in professional journals such as Psychiatry, The Lancet, and Neurology. Over the past 35 years, over 55 researchers or teams have published at least 65 studies of over 3500 NDEs.

Rather than bore readers with academic details, I wrote in a popular fashion and relegated the more technical stuff to appendixes and endnotes, so that people might actually read it. It must have worked, because it's selling great!   

Where did you get your inspiration?

I've always been a questioner, a doubter - sort of a doubting Thomas who required evidence to believe. So I've always been interested in evidence for the Christian faith. My course selections in college and graduate school read like a God search. But I never took NDE's seriously as evidence for heaven, since I assumed it consisted of personal stories with no corroborating evidence. But a relative sent me a copy of Heaven is for Real and wanted my input. I reluctantly read it, decided that the evidence presented wasn't very strong, but discovered that academics and medical professionals had been studying NDEs in clinical settings for decades. I just had to find out what they'd discovered.

What kind of research did you do for this book and can you tell us about one “Near Death” experience from your book?

I started by reading Raymond Moody's seminal study from 1975, Life After Life. Before this book, hardly anyone knew of the experiences, so you couldn't attribute the experiences to their prior expectations. In fact, their experiences were typically not what they were expecting at all of the afterlife.

After Moody, I began to read more recent studies, especially those that included reviews of all the other literature since Moody. I kept thinking as I read, "Surely somebody will come up with a natural explanation that's compelling!" But they never did. In fact, many facts of the experience don't seem compatible with naturalism at all. People report viewing their surgeries while they're brains are unconscious. Those born blind report seeing. Those who were born deaf report hearing. It's the wildest thing I've ever studied!

I also began to ask relatives and trusted friends if they knew of trustworthy people who'd experienced NDEs, so that I could interview them. After all, surveys found four percent of both Germans and Americans reporting that they'd experienced one. I was amazed to find plenty of people to interview within my own circles of trust.

I interviewed a staff member at my church - a bright, successful man in his 60's. He hardly ever talked to people about his experience, since he considered it quite private. But he sat across from a table telling me, at first with tears, about this powerful, life-altering experience that he described as "more real than sitting across from you talking to you right now. Nobody could ever convince me that it wasn't real." He was extremely ill in the hospital during his experience, which consisted of talking to three heavenly creatures about whether or not it was his time to die.

In my lifetime, I've studied many arguments for the existence of God, but this one is especially convincing and life changing. It's certainly helped my faith and shaped my priorities!

Thank you, Steve, for being a guest on my blog once again. It’s always a pleasure talking with you.

Interview with Children’s Author Sherrill S. Cannon

All five of Sherrill S. Cannon’s books are in rhyme and all try to teach something like good manners and caring for others.  In less than three years, this former teacher and grandmother of ten has won a dozen National Awards for her books: The Magic Word, Peter and the Whimper-Whineys, Santa’s Birthday Gift and Gimme-Jimmy.  Her latest book, Manner-Man has just been released. She has also written six published and internationally produced plays for elementary school children. All of her books are part of a CureJM Fundraiser through http://sbpra.com/curejm/ where 50% of the cost of her books goes to the CureJM Foundation to help find a cure for this incurable children’s disease.

Welcome back to my blog, Sherrill. Each of your books is set in rhyme. That makes it fun for the children. Please tell us about your new book, Manner-Man.

Manner-Man is a Superhero who helps children learn how to cope with bullying, and to have good manners and consideration for others.  Using the phrase, “I am strong, and my flash is bright; and I will defend you and make things all right…” Manner-Man arrives, helping children learn about sharing and warning about not ‘hitting with words’, suggesting that if someone starts bullying, just shout out “not nice!”  Manner-Man incorporates messages and characters found within some of my earlier books, and invites children to become part of the Manner-Man team.  It reminds them that they each have their own inner superhero within themselves.

This is wonderful. Where did you get your inspiration for this children’s book?

My four-year-old grandson asked me to write a book about a superhero.  When his mother first read him the story (without any illustrations) he promptly decided to send me his version of Manner-Man, which he and his father drew outside on the patio in chalk! He has since given me his approval of Kalpart’s illustrations!!

That is so cute. I love it when authors add real life situations to their stories. Did you put real experiences in this book?

Mainly hearing “not nice” as a familiar phrase throughout all of my children’s and grandchildren’s growing-up years!  It’s a simplistic way to solve bullying problems, but children can begin to resist bullying at a very young age…and adults generally respond when they hear the phrase!

Thank you, Sherrill, for being on my blog once again. I always enjoy having you because your books are so wonderful for children.

Four Mystery/Adventure Novels

Four Mystery/Adventure Books with a touch of romance!

“One thing I admire about Linda Weaver Clarke’s writing is that she desires to put the reader right there with her characters by describing the setting so well that you are swept away. From page one Linda eloquently describes in interesting details the surroundings and the feelings of her characters. I love when I begin reading a book and am taken in! The relationships and the communication between the characters is top notch.” –Melanie Ski, Jubilee Reviews

MYSTERY AND ADVENTURE WITH A TOUCH OF ROMANCE

Book or Ebook: Anasazi Intrigue: The Adventures of John and Julia Evans

Review: This is the first book I’ve read by Linda Weaver Clarke and I’m already hooked. The first pages grab you right in and grab at your heartstrings as you read about the destruction caused by the flood. When Julia and John fight for their lives, readers will be on the edge of their seats for this one. There’s also romance in the mix. John and Julia’s marriage is strong and they are quite supportive of each other. Even when they have their ups and downs, it’s not for long and they get right back into each other’s arms. It’s nice to see a relationship portrayed this way. Very realistic and believable. This series is a “must read” for me. And...my Socrates Great Book Alert Award! –Socrates Book Review

Sample Chapter: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/anasazi.html

Ebook: Mayan Intrigue: The Adventures of John and Julia Evans

Review: What starts out as a romantic trip quickly turns into a dangerous adventure among the Mayan ruins and jungles, and the vacationers are on the run from thieves--and wild animals! Excitement prevails! This book is full of mystery and suspense. Linda’s writing is lively and down-to-earth; she has the ability to make you feel as if you're in these stories, along with John and Julia, trying to decipher the truth and escape from harm. –Suko’s Notebook

Sample Chapter: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/mayan.html

Ebook: Montezuma Intrigue: The Adventures of John and Julia Evans

Review: I am charmed by her new book, Montezuma Intrigue. The mysteries continue as this author entrances us with life-like characters and electrifying adventures. The search for Montezuma's treasure is both exciting and memorable. There are also a few romances, and some surprises as well, which kept my reading pleasurable and lively. I enjoyed the adventure and suspense in her latest novel, which kept me reading well into the night. –Suko’s Notebook 

Sample Chapter: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/montezuma.html

Book or Ebook: Desert Intrigue: The Adventures of John and Julia Evans

Review: Romance, Mystery, and Regional History Collaborate to Create a Satisfying, Intriguing Story! It was difficult to put this one down. I cared about the characters, I cared about their ranch, and I was brainstorming right along with this delightful family, figuring out how to either remove the curse or solve the mystery that threatened to destroy their way of life. There are children flirting with romance, relational complexities, and a wedding in the works that just won’t seem to come together. The writing is clear and lively, never calling attention to itself or getting in the way of the story. The touches of humor and inclusion of regional history tie it all together to make a satisfying story all the more fascinating. Highly recommended! –Steve Miller, Author

Sample Chapter: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/desert.html

These books may be purchased for only $12.95 from my website, Amazon, or Barnes and Noble. Visit my website at Make Believe! They are also available as an e-book.

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. Visit her website/blog to discover more about her at http://mariehiggins84302.blogspot.com

Welcome back to my blog, Marie. Please tell us about your new book, Wonderland By Night.

Wonderland By Night is book #3 in my Colonial romance series. The hero, Gabriel Lawrence, has been the best friend to the heroes in books #1 and #2, and now he gets his own story.

In a world where freedom is questioned and everything is in turmoil, Lady Sarah Emiline Townshend needs to hide her identity for fear mobs will kill her and her family after her uncle—a political leader—passed laws that the good citizens in Boston did not approve of. Her father sends her to stay with some longtime friends of his in New Hampshire. But to stay safe, her maid must play Lady Sarah’s role…and Emiline will play Lady Sarah’s companion. When Emiline meets a handsome man, she suddenly wants him to look at her as a woman—not a servant. Yet, protecting her life is more important than confessing the truth.

Gabriel Lawrence’s pirate ship is almost captured and this time it was too close. He and his crew need to hide for a few months in hopes that the Royal Navy will forget about them. During his stay at his aunt and uncle’s in New Hampshire, he meets the niece of one of his enemies—Oliver Townshend. Because she doesn’t know who Gabe is, he will become close to her to see if she knows any more of her uncle’s secrets. But the beauty of her companion, Miss Emmie, captures his attention, and her quirky personality keeps him wanting more. But her over-zealous nature for adventure places both of them in danger and he’s forced to play the honorable rogue. How can he protect them both when an unknown spy is always one step ahead…and wants Gabe dead? 

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

I’ve actually had this story idea for many years. I wanted a story where both hero and heroine were hiding their identity for some reason or another, and I wanted their secrets to clash. So in this story, if the hero discovers who the heroine really is, he won’t be able to fall in love with her because of her political uncle—hero’s enemy…and because the heroine is a Loyalists instead of the Patriot, like the hero. If the heroine finds out who the hero really is…and what he does for a living, she’ll know she cannot possibly fall in love with him because her uncle will see the hero hanged for being a traitor against the crown. (Yeah, I love conflict!)

I really don’t know (or remember) where I came up with this plot since I’ve had it for many years.

I love the clash you’ve created. What kind of research did you do for this book?

I researched Boston, Massachusetts and what was happening during this time frame. I had to research New Hampshire, because once again, this is some place I’ve never been. I also had to research their way of life back then…but since this is book #3 in the series, I pretty much knew all of that since I’d researched this before. 

You love to write sweet romances, Marie. What intrigues you most about writing love stories?

I’ve always been a romantic. I’ve read nothing but romance novels ever since I was out of school. In school I hated all the books the teachers for my English classes made me read, and now I know why…because they had no romance and no happily ever after. 

What intrigues me about writing romances is having that feeling of falling in love all over again…from the character’s first glance, their first touch and the tingles that spreads over their bodies, to the magic of their first kiss when both feel their heart melting. I love creating a plot-filled story, too, which most of my books have. I love that moment when hero and heroine realize they are in love and they cannot go through life unless the other is with them. (dreamy sigh)  I also love writing twists and turns so that my readers can’t guess my endings.

When reading love stories, I love twists and turns. I love to be surprised at the ending. I like a little adventure and drama with romance. It makes the story so much fun. Thanks, Marie, for a great interview.

Five Historical Sweet Romances

“From the first page I was captivated by this book. I had to continue reading, rushing to turn the page, I had to see what next adventure would catch up with Melinda. The plot is interesting: mixing history with fiction, adventure with romance. Melinda is an endearing character and you can’t help but see things through her eyes. This is good Christian fiction. It is a great honor to highly recommend this book to readers of historical fictions and romance. Ms Clarke, this is a piece to be proud of, well done!” –Debra Gaynor, Reader Views

Book: Melinda and the Wild West

Award: Semi-Finalist for Reviewers Choice Award

Synopsis: Melinda Gamble wants to make a difference in the world. Without hesitation, she accepts a job as a schoolteacher in the small town of Paris, Idaho. She has many challenges such as trying to help a rebellious student, coming face-to-face with a notorious bank robber, a vicious grizzly bear, and finding herself in 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.

Sample Chapter: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/melinda.html

Book: Edith and the Mysterious Stranger

Synopsis: With mysterious letters, cattle rustlers, a spunky woman, Halloween, and young love, there is always something happening. Edith, a nurse, moves to Idaho to care for her cousin Melinda who is having a difficult pregnancy. She has wonderful qualities but never gives a man a second chance because her expectations are so high. However, all that changes when a mysterious stranger starts writing to her. For the first time, she gets to know a man's inner soul before making any harsh judgments. Whoever he is, this man is a mystery and the best thing that has ever happened to her. The question that puzzles her is whether or not he's as wonderful in person as he is in his letters.

Sample Chapter: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/elena.html

Book: Jenny’s Dream

Synopsis: Jenny Roberts has a dream to escape her small hometown to become a writer. She develops a friendship with a young farmer who is new to the area and has secretly fallen in love with her. After she realizes that her friend means more to her than she thought, she must now choose between a career and romance. Which dream should she pursue? The only thing standing in her way is an unpleasant memory, which has haunted her since childhood. She must learn to forgive before she can choose which dream to follow. Meanwhile, a legendary ten-foot grizzly is seen in the area and its boldness has frightened the community.

Sample Chapter: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/jenny.html

Book: Sarah’s Special Gift

Synopsis: Sarah is a beautiful and successful dance teacher. She is deaf, but this does not stop her from living life to its fullest. While visiting the Roberts family, David finds himself entranced with this very special lady and ends up defending her honor several times. He finds that Sarah has gone through many trials as she teaches him the importance of not dwelling on the past and how to love life. Meanwhile, David learns about the legend of the Bear Lake Monster and wonders why the community believes in such a thing. He is determined to prove there is no Bear Lake Monster.

Sample Chapter: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/sarah.html

Book: Elena, Woman of Courage

Synopsis: The “Roaring Twenties” was a time of great change, when women raised their hemlines and bobbed their hair. The language of the era was also new and different. Watch a young love blossom in this sweet romance. When Elena Yeates settles into a small western town as the newest doctor, a few problems arise. The town is not ready for a female doctor, let alone one so strong and independent. She must struggle against the prejudice to establish her new practice. As she fights to prove herself, the town’s most eligible bachelor finds it a challenge to see if he can win her heart.

Sample Chapter: http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com/elena.html

These books may be purchased for only $10.95 from my website, Amazon, or Barnes and Noble. Visit my website at Make Believe! They are also available as an e-book.

Interview with Fantasy/Romance 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. Serena helps authors get their books into shape.

Welcome back to my blog, Serena. You create book covers for authors. As everyone knows, the cover is what sells the book. You have to create just the right mood of the story. What is the procedure in creating a successful book cover and give us an example?

First, it is best to start by figuring out who your demographic is.  What age group and gender is going to be your main audience?  And then you want a cover that appeals mainly to that demographic.  

Next, make a list of keywords that describe the feel of your book.  Do you want your cover to be inspiring, gloomy, energetic, adventurous, romantic?  It is fantasy, romance, historical fiction, or a biography?  And do you want the cover to have a realistic look or an illustrated look? 

Then, make a list of things that you would like to see on the cover.  It could be a scene or an object or a symbol.  Do you want a person?  If so, what should they look like?  Do you want a picture of a landscape?  An ocean or a forest?  Do you want an object to be emphasized?  A coin or a flower or a shoe? 

Last year you published a new fantasy romance, and a couple reviewers have compared it to a fairytale. I noticed you changed your book cover for The Treasure of Isian. Why did you create a new one?

When I realized I was going to turn this book into a series, I knew I wanted my covers to have a similar feel.  So I decided to make some changes to the first book cover so that it would better match the rest of the books in the series. 

I read the reviews for The Treasure of Isian and they are wonderful. Here is a review for my readers to read: The Treasure of Isian was a stirring tale of an enchanted servant and a handsome prince and the adventures they face together as they search for the fabled treasure of Isian that will grant the bearer any wish they desire. This story had everything–dragons, witches, giants, elves, kings, princesses, terrifying forests and true love. Once I picked it up, I couldn’t put it down. Elani’s story was touching and heartbreaking as she goes on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment. The author did a wonderful job pacing the story and connecting me to the characters. I loved them all. Superb story that brought a smile to my face and helped me remember that sometimes, we can overlook the most valuable treasures in life if we’re not careful.  –Charissa Stastny, Author of Eyes of Light

Here is the cover for book 2. You mentioned that you are having a tough time coming up with a title for this book. It is temporarily called Isian’s Arrangment. I have an assignment for all my readers. Anyone who can come up with a good title that Serena absolutely loves, she will give you a free copy of the first book in this series, The Treasure of Isian. Then we’ll have a second drawing for everyone else who makes a comment. Serena, will you please tell my readers what book 2 is about so they can have fun coming up with a title?

Sure.  The title should preferably have the name Isian in it, but not necessary. War is coming and all the kingdoms must choose a side.  Isian decides to make an alliance with their long time enemies in order to defeat a common enemy.  So Isian sends a proposal, offering their daughter in marriage to the prince, in order to ensure an alliance.

Princess Gabrielle and her new husband, Prince Alec must learn to work together and trust each other even though they have vast cultural differences, in order to triumph in the approaching war. At times there is tension between the couple, but as they get to know one another, their love for one another starts to grow.

There is fantasy, danger, a bit of mystery, and of course romance!

Would I recommend The Treasure of Isian to my readers? You bet! Here is my review: This story is captivating and has many twists and turns. It gives a new dimension to fantasy characters. It was difficult to put down. Not only is it a fantasy, but a sweet love story that can be enjoyed by young adult and adult alike. The devotion of Elani to her Prince was enjoyable, making the reader wonder when the Prince will see her as something more than a servant.

Thank you for this interview, Serena. It was fun interviewing you. You’re such a sweetheart. Good luck to my readers in this drawing! Stop by often because I have a new book giveaway every week.

Interview with Christian Author Ann Lee Miller

Ann Lee Miller earned a BA in creative writing from Ashland (OH) University and writes full-time in Phoenix, but left her heart in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where she grew up. She loves speaking to young adults and guest lectures on writing at several Arizona colleges. When she isn’t writing or muddling through some crisis—real or imagined—you’ll find her hiking in the Superstition Mountains with her husband or “meddling in her kids’ lives.”

Welcome back to my blog, Ann. Please tell us about your new book, Avra's God.

In the tradition of The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, four friends navigate college and the drama churned up by their Florida beach band to cement friendship and more.

Avra wants love, but drummer Cisco—self-medicating from his parents’ divorce with intoxicants—is a poor choice. Cisco hungers for fresh-baked cookies and the scent of family he finds at Avra’s.

Kallie shares her classically trained voice only with lead vocalist Jesse and fights to keep her heart safe. Jesse feeds on fame and hides more than insecurity beneath his guitar. The friends surf ego, betrayal, and ambition and head for wipeout.  But somehow, when they're not looking, Avra’s God changes them all. 

Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

Often my books grow out of long-time prayer burdens. In this case I had been praying for a man to reconcile with his wife after he had strayed. Unfortunately, in real life, the marriage did not survive. But in fiction, the relationship healed. My characters are single, but the process of forgiveness and rebuilding trust are the same.

What kind of research did you do for this book?

I visited New Smyrna Beach, Florida where the book is set—and where I lived as a teen and young adult—to make sure I had all the locations and details correct. Because many scenes take place on the Daytona State College campus, I corresponded with several people who worked at or attended the college. The marketing director even offered to read the book to catch my flubs. My other research was more mundane—having my oil changed at Walmart, camping out on Google maps to determine where all my characters lived, and quizzing musical family members on music details.

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

This contains many of my experiences as a teen and young adult, though altered for the purposes of the story.

Thank you, Ann, for a lovely interview. Your book sounds like one that will help the youth make better choices in their lives. To learn more about Ann, visit her website at: www.AnnLeeMiller.com

Interview with Suspense Author Jeff Foltz

Jeff Foltz grew up in the Philadelphia area. He received a B. A. in history from Marietta College. In 2002, he returned to school and received an MFA in creative writing from the University of Southern Maine. Jeff is an avid cross country skier and sculler, competing at the highest level of rowing during college and post college years. He has three grown children and seven grand kids and lives with his wife, Sue, in Camden, Maine.

Welcome back to my blog, Jeff. Please tell us about your new book, Two Men Two Suns.

Two Men Ten Suns is World War II historical fiction with a twist to the commonly accepted theory about why Truman was so quick to use the atomic bomb. Two young men, one American and one Japanese, battle their personal demons to win the first nuclear arms race. One is driven by grief and hatred, the other by pride and ambition. Doubts plague both men, but neither can stop as their governments push them to develop the deadliest weapon.

Only now is information about this desperate competition creeping out of history’s dark corners. Some historians believe Japanese scientists had kept pace with those of the Manhattan Project and were ready to test. Did a handful of the world’s most powerful men bury all evidence that Truman dropped the bomb to beat Japan to the punch? History has criticized Truman’s decision. “It saved half a million G.I.s” was the administrations mantra. Yet the United States could not have marshaled adequate troops and material for an invasion of Japan until five months after Germany’s May 8th surrender. In that time, continued allied bombing and blockades could have pounded the Japanese into submission.

Perhaps Truman knew a deadly clock was ticking as he gave the order to destroy Hiroshima. If intelligence had warned him Japan was close to using their Genzai Bakudan (atomic bomb) on an American city, he could not have risked delay. Two Men, Ten Suns is a gripping fictional account of this perilous episode.

Wow! This story sounds like it’s full of suspense. Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

Discovering the details of history is fascinating for me. Sorting out which ones to use in a work of fiction is a challenge I enjoy. Enough “facts” to generate an atmosphere of authenticity, mixed with enough tension generating speculation about or deviation from “the accepted story” is the balance I seek.

When the corners of history don’t square or details of an historical event ride on the stooped shoulders of coincidence, I’ve found my fodder, my inspiration. I wrote Two Men Ten Suns as I did because both the American and Japanese atomic bomb programs offered some of those fascinating loose ends.

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

Once I had my inspiration, I looked for three things in my research. First I sought historical facts, particularly those that might be unknown to most readers. I sorted out facts which could be evidence that, for reasons of national security or perhaps politics, some parts of the truth were buried. Second, I looked for the corners that didn’t square, the “accepted” versions of history that were light on common sense or heavy on coincidence. Third, I wanted to find ways, based on indisputable history, to offer the reader a reasonable, believable alternative to the conventional perceptions.

What first disturbed me during my research was Truman’s rush to drop the bomb. The test at Trinity Site took place on July 16^th, 1945. The Enola Gay dropped the first bomb (Little Boy) on Hiroshima exactly three weeks later, on August 6^th, the first possible satisfactory weather date. Components of  both bombs (Little Boy and Fat Man), though many accounts indicate that only the Hiroshima bomb was on the Indianapolis, reached Tinian Island on July 26^th. Only ten days elapsed while the military moved a nine thousand pound weapon from New Mexico to the middle of the Pacific. In 1945 that’s as fast as they could transport anything so large and so classified. It’s reasonable to ask, “Why the hurry?”

Second, details about the advanced state of the Japanese uranium bomb program have not been detailed in our history texts. Two facts are indisputable. There were two Japanese programs, one run by the army at the University of Tokyo and one overseen by the navy in North Korea. Both had made far more progress than the Nazi program. I had to ask, “Why haven’t we heard more about the Japanese attempt to develop a bomb?”

Third, it was clear, even to the Japanese, that the Allies would win the war, especially if and when the Russians kept their Yalta Conference pledge to declare war on Japan. But from May 8^th, 1945, when Germany surrendered, until August 8^th, Stalin was content to let the U.S. military do the heavy lifting in the Pacific. Was it a coincidence that Stalin entered the Pacific war two days after Hiroshima? His spies had informed him of the success of the Trinity test. He had had three months to find evidence in German records of at least one shipment of U-235 from Germany to Japan. How could he have not suspected that the Japanese had a viable uranium bomb project? How could he have not wanted the opportunity to be first to reach Japanese atomic bomb data?

With those anomalies as a starting point, it was fun to hypothesize an alternative reason for dropping the bomb. Was there pressure on the “national security” nerve? Were Truman and his top advisors disturbed by more than the possibility of half a million military casualties in a full scale invasion of the main islands of Japan? Did they have knowledge, or at least sensible and genuine fear, that the Japanese might use an atomic bomb to annihilate an American city?

To be more specific, Two Men Ten Suns contains a great deal of historical accuracy. For instance, the fact that the Japanese built the largest submarine in the world and that it carried three airplanes is a fact. It was indeed called I-400. Manhattan project scientists did use lead lined Sherman tanks to navigate the Trinity test site immediately after the test. Nagasaki was not the primary target for the second bomb and that mission did encounter the incredible difficulties I describe. Scenes of the aftermath of the Nagasaki bombing are composites of actual eye witness accounts. It was the most gruesome research I’ve ever done and I wanted to be selective in what I used, but use enough to generate an authentic sense of horror for my readers.

Perhaps a bit of general philosophy about historical fiction is appropriate here. For me, an historical novel can and probably should be less accurate than a history text book (but some of those are becoming a bit trumped up), but fall well short of fantasy. Age of the history, the bias of the historical source, and the reader’s willingness to suspend disbelief are some of the factors that delineate an author’s boundaries as he or she puts together a story. Ten year old history is likely to be more accurate than history ten centuries old. Some recorders of history may have biases or agendas. Others may feel a need to protect secrets or perceptions. Some may never be privy to the facts or misunderstand them or the relationship of one fact to another. Enough history to generate authenticity blended with sufficient fiction to entertain is a good recipe.

I love it when authors add real life situations to their stories. Thank you so much for this great interview, Jeff. Your book sounds so intriguing. To learn more, visit Jeff at his website: http://jefffoltzauthor.com/index.html. Every week I have a new book giveaway so stop by often.

Interview with Romance Author Caroline Clemmons

Caroline writes full time from her home in rural North Central Texas where she lives with her Hero husband and their menagerie of rescued pets. After publishing twelve novels and three novellas, Caroline has plans for many more books in the future. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys family time, traveling with her Hero, genealogy and family history, and browsing antique malls and estate sales. 

“Caroline Clemmons writes Romance, Mystery, and Adventure!”

Welcome back to my blog, Caroline. Please tell us about your book, Bluebonnet Bride.

BLUEBONNET BRIDE is the third in the Men of Stone Mountain series, set in North Central Texas on the Brazos River. This is near the current site of Possum Kingdom Lake in the Palo Pinto Mountains. Most people would call them hills, but they are genuine mountains due to the formation. Comanche named them Palo Pinto because of the scrub oaks changing fall colors. Sheriff Joel Stone is the eldest of the Stone brothers, and the most serious in demeanor. In this book we learn that, while he appears businesslike, he has humorous internal dialogue. Rosalyn Vandagraff is posing as Rosalyn Dumas (her mother’s maiden name) and was wrongly accused of poisoning her husband and sentenced to hang. She lives in fear she will be discovered and sent back to the gallows.

Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

I had the little movie in my head of Rosalyn some time back, but hadn’t slotted her into a book until I discovered Joel. They fit together so well because she is fearful of the law and he’s the sheriff. She is different from any heroine I’ve written before, which is always a good thing. 

I had the inspiration for the Men of Stone Mountain and the Stone brothers several years ago when I visited the historic Belding-Gibson Ranch. It’s a beautiful ranch, still large even after years of being divided among heirs. The original cabin remains and has been incorporated into the ranch house to preserve it. The Gibsons have done a beautiful job of respecting their heritage. Barbara Belding Gibson wrote an interesting book about the ranch, PAINTED POLE, which I have used for additional research.

What kind of research did you do for this book?

Even though I write this time period frequently, there is still a good bit of research involved with each new story. For this one, for instance, I was happy to learn that home sewing machines were adequate for Rosalyn’s use as a dressmaker. I’ve researched a lot of poisons for this series, as I wanted poisons that were easily available naturally.

Of course, we also have the Internet. I’d hate to be without Google, wouldn’t you? But Internet information must be double-checked to be certain it is correct. Only my characters and the town are fictional, I intend my books to be as factual as possible. That’s why I research every aspect of the story.

That’s wonderful. I love learning what an author researches for stories. You love to write western “sweet” or mildly sensual romances with adventure, murder, and mayhem. What intrigues you most about writing love stories with adventure?

A ticking clock or a threat adds to my enjoyment in reading a book, and that’s what I want my readers to experience. My goal is for readers to have an escalating ride that leaves them unable to stop reading until the end, but happy with the way the book turns out. I write the kind of book I enjoy reading, and I hope my readers are satisfied and want to read my next book.

I, also, love to read stories that have adventure with a bit of romance. The adventure puts me on the edge of my sit at times and it’s hard to put down. Thank you, Caroline, for this wonderful interview. Every week I have a new book giveaway so stop by often.

Interview with Sweet Romance Author Shirley Raye Redmond

An award-winning writer and frequent conference speaker, Shirley Raye Redmond has written 27 books and over 400 magazine and newspaper articles. Two of her children’s books, Lewis & Clark: A Prairie Dog for the President and Tentacles! Tales of the Giant Squid, are her best-selling books. She has been married for 38 years to her husband Bill, has two children and one grandson who wants to be a super hero when he grows up.

Welcome back to my blog Shirley Raye. Please tell us about your new book, Rosemary's Glove.

Set in 1806 in England, this story is about Miss Rosemary Addison, who sets her heart on becoming the wife of the dashing Thomas Alden, Lord Beverley—a man with a dubious reputation. But when Rosemary's widowed mother confides that she plans to marry Mr. Nevin at the end of the Season and wants to see her daughter properly wed before journeying with him to his diplomatic post in India, Rosemary realizes she must force the reluctant earl's hand. 

She convinces her childhood friend, Broderick Loren--a handsome amateur botanist--to agree to a "temporary engagement.”  When the announcement appears in the Gazette, no one is more surprised than the conceited Lord Beverley. Rosemary soon finds herself consumed by conflicting emotions. Will she "cry off" her engagement to Broderick and throw herself into Lord Beverley's arms?  Or will she realize she loves Ricky with all her heart?

Where did you get your inspiration for this novel?

Several years ago, there was an article in the Smithsonian magazine about 19^th century orchid hunters. These men had adventures every bit as exciting as those of Indiana Jones! I clipped the article from the magazine, resolving one day to write about a “botanical” hero.

Also, I’d stumbled upon an interesting old article online that appeared in the NY Times in 1887 about the language of gloves. And I put gloves and orchids together and voila! The idea for Rosemary’s Glove was born. If your readers would like a link to the newspaper article, they can contact me through my website soon at www.shirleyrayeredmond.com.

Wow! Imagine a hero as exciting as Indiana Jones hunting for orchids!!! I love it. What kind of research did you do for this book?

As this is my first Regency romance, I found Jane Austen’s Town and Country Style by Susan Watkins to be helpful. I also collected a list of slang words from 1806 and read up on orchid hunters. Because I wanted my character Rosemary to give Broderick an expensive microscope as a present—a bribe!--I did some research on these scientific instruments and was tickled to learn that early researchers often invited friends over to look at “little beasties” (germs!) and other items on the glass slides they slipped underneath the viewing lenses.

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

Oh, absolutely—but not always my own! As most of my books are actually nonfiction, I’m usually writing about real incidents and real people, such as the amazing girls and women in my award-winning, Patriots in Petticoats, Heroines of the American Revolution (Random House).

I did spend three weeks in England before writing Rosemary’s Glove. Of course, I didn’t attend any balls. But perhaps, without realizing it, the impressions I had of old manor homes and drawing rooms and London streets and historic fashions in the museums influenced my novel. Also, British flower collectors did employ orchid hunters to travel to the swamps of Florida and Georgia to collect orchids and other rare flora for their collections. In the book, my hero Broderick has returned from a similar trip.

Thank you, Shirley Raye, for this awesome interview. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about Rosemary’s Glove and “orchid hunters.”