Interview with Michelle Sutton & Giveaway

Michelle Sutton and I serve on the ACFW board together. Her book, It's NOT About ME released this month. She's known as the edgy inspirational author, and from the first chapter or two of this book, that fits. This is her debut novel, and I had a few questions for her.

It's Not About Me is not your typical Christian fiction. What was the germ that planted the story in your mind?

I guess it was built on a premise. I asked myself how a young girl with a great life, good looks, and a solid upbringing would handle a tragic situation that robbed her of the future she had planned. Her only weakness is she always wants to make everyone happy. She learns, of course, that it's impossible to do that.

You put your characters through the ringer. Which character did you connect to the most?

Dan, who is the hero. He talks to God like they are close friends, but with submission on Dan's end to what is ultimately God's plan. Dan sometimes fights it and argues with God. Don't we all do that?

What's the take away you hope readers will have after they reach the last page?

That's it's worth it to wait for the husband God has planned for you. That getting married to make someone happy is always a bad idea. That once you go somewhere in a relationship you can never go back to just holding hands. That real faith is more than just going to church and being a nice person. That drinking to much can royally screw up your life and you can't ever undo the damage that is done. There is a whole lot more but those are the highlights.

Who's the target audience for this book?

16 - 23 years old. The main characters are two high school graduates and one college graduate. However, people who have teens have told me that it has helped them with their relationship with their teens and opened communication. It's also perfect for youth groups because it touches on topics that don't normally come up. Also, everyone remembers being young once so honestly, I've got a bunch of over 65 year old ladies that are almost like groupies. They remember being young and they loved the story because it brought them back to those days.

You call your writing edgy inspirational. What does that mean?

That means there is always going to be something redemptive and inspirational in the theme of each story. Those themes happen within the context of the characters' disobedience or issues they have dealing with temptation and sin. Also, I don't smooth things over. They suffer the consequences and don't always make the right choices. That is where the edgy portion comes from. Yeah, I like to run them through the gauntlet emotionally, too.

What did you learn while writing this book that was unexpected?

What did the characters teach me? That approaching God when you are hurting is always better than hiding your pain and lying to yourself and others about how you are doing emotionally.

Now for a fun question: If you could go anywhere in the world right now, where would you go and who would you take with you?

I'd love to go to Australia to meet some of my reviewer friends, like Rel. I'd take my hubby and kids with me.

Thanks so much, Michelle, for making the time for this interview. If you'd like to be entered for a copy of the book, be sure to leave a comment.

Red Mom, Blue Mom

For those of us who are more than a tad tired of the Mommy Wars...here's a clever story and reading by my online friend Dena Dyer. Enjoy. And remember that though we may disagree on politics, what really matters at the end of the day is what we believe about God, Jesus and our faith.

Hope you can laugh with me!

Book of the Year Award

Even those of us who like to think on our feet lose our words at times :-) Thanks, Janna, for capturing this. The only thing that would have made the moment more special would have been sharing it with Eric. Next time!

A Promise Kept

That's the working title of my next book, which is due October 7th. In part because of the ACFW conference, I've got a LOT of words to write and very few days. So if you don't see much of me here in the next week and a half, it's because I have to make every word count. Please pray that time stands still, and that the words flow. I have the story in my head. And I really like my characters -- through that awful first several chapter angst of thinking the only thing I write is drivel. Thank you, Lord! But I covet your prayers as I write like crazy to get this tale on paper...er computer screen.

Financial Bailout thought

Here's a link to Dave Ramsey's thoughts on the government bail out and an alternative. I don't know about you, but I'm sick of hearing Senator Shelby and others say, "it's not my fault." That may very well be true, but let's look for a solution rather than talk in front of the cameras. This plan may be one step in the right direction. Makes sense to me.

More Pictures

a Here it is...the photo of me with the Book of the Year award. Can you see the shell-shocked look in my eye? I really didn't expect to win. Hoped to -- yes. Expected to -- not in this lifetime!

And here are Rebecca and Quinn at the Mall of America during the booksigning. They are five weeks apart, and absolutely adorable at this stage. Very fun!

Here is a photo of Mary Connealy and me. Now if you've read my blog for any length of time, you know how much I love her books Petticoat Ranch and Calico Canyon. They are a hoot! Such fun and unexpected romances. That's why it was such an honor to tie with her for first place in the short historical category. I would love to write like her when I grow up!

One of the things I love about the ACFW conference is getting to meet the writers that I email back and forth during the year. This year Janna and I had such fun meeting Julie Lessman. Again, you know I've really enjoyed her books A Passion Most Pure and A Passion Redeemed. Julie is such a dynamo in person. I swear she's never met a stranger. And she lights up a room. She is delightful. It was so fun hanging out a bit with her.

This last photo is Rebecca at the airport on Sunday. She's getting a head start on reading great fiction. The gals we were waiting with: Sharon Lavy and Roseanna ( just spaced on her last name) both convinced me that this book by James Scott Bell has got to jump to the top of my to be read pile! You can never start them too young on reading!

Faking Grace by Tamara Leigh

Saturday night Tamara Leigh won the Book of the Year award for Splitting Harriet, one of my favorite books from last year. This week I've been reading her latest release, Faking Grace. Faking Grace is a delightful read, that is more than chick lit. As with Perfecting Kate and Splitting Harriett, Leigh dives below the surface to point out flaws and challenges in faith -- this time tackling cultural Christianity. But unlike some who too easily slide into a preachy mode, Leigh writes with a style that leaves me wincing as I laugh because Grace's thoughts and actions can mirror mine too closely.

This book is filled with real-life characters facing real-live challenges. Embrace faith or compromise? Act like a Christian or actually live it? Pick up this book the next time you are looking for a novel that entertains while making you think. I have a feeling I'll return to this one over and over and think about it long after I close the cover.

Synopsis:
All she wants is a job. All she needs is religion. How hard can it be?

Maizy Grace Stewart dreams of a career as an investigative journalist, but her last job ended in disaster when her compassion cost her employer a juicy headline. A part-time gig at a Nashville newspaper might be her big break.

A second job at Steeple Side Christian Resources could help pay the bills, but Steeple Side only hires committed Christians. Maizy is sure she can fake it with her Five-Step Program to Authentic Christian Faith–a plan of action that includes changing her first name to Grace, buying Jesus-themed accessories, and learning “Christian Speak.” If only Jack Prentiss, Steeple Side’s managing editor and two-day-stubbled, blue-jean-wearing British hottie wasn’t determined to prove her a fraud.

When Maizy’s boss at the newspaper decides that she should investigate–and expose–any skeletons in Steeple Side’s closet, she must decide whether to deliver the dirt and secure her career or lean on her newfound faith, change the direction of her life, and pray that her Steeple Side colleagues–and Jack–will show her grace.

If you would like to read the first chapter of Faking Grace, go HERE

“Tamara Leigh takes her experienced romance hand and delights readers with Chick-Lit that sparkles and characters who come alive.” - Kristin Billerbeck, author of The Trophy Wives Club


“A delightful, charming book! Faking Grace has romance, truth, and a dollop of insanity, making Tamara Leigh a permanent addition to my list of favorite authors. Enjoy!”
- Ginger Garrett, author of In the Shadow of Lions and Beauty Secrets of the Bible


“Tamara Leigh does a fabulous job looking at the faults, the love, the hypocrisy, and the grace of Christians in a way that’s entertaining and fun. Maizy Grace is a crazy character I couldn’t help but like. I loved this book and highly recommend it!”
- Camy Tang, author of Sushi for One? and Only Uni

ACFW Mall of America Booksigning

Here are some photos from the booksigning! First up is Missy Tippens. I love what she did with her table. Here are Karen Ball and Angie Hunt after their panel. We ran panels in both the Best Buy Rotunda and the Bloomingdale's Court. Thanks to the authors who willingly spoke and drew people to our signing!



Here we've got Susan May Warren and Jill Elizabeth Nelson talking to folks and signing. And then there's John Olson handing out Dinosaur poop -- perfect for Fossil Hunter.

And this last photo is one of me with Pam Williams. Pam and her daughter flew into Minneapolis and hung around the conference bookstore for a day meeting authors. I didn't put it together at the time, but I know we've corresponded. They weren't able to stay for the booksigning -- what dedicated readers to come all that way just to meet authors! Thanks, Pam, for sending me the photo!

I hope some one took a photo of me at the booksigning!
I may post more later, but the event was wonderful! Now back to writing :-) I've got 40,000 words to write and edit before October 7! Please pray for me.

For more photos be sure to stop by Karen Ball's blog.

Canteen Dreams Wins Book of the Year Category!!!!

I was going to add a lovely picture of my award, but that will have to wait. I thought I successfully downloaded Janna's pictures onto my computer, but can't find them anywhere so must have done something wrong.

Anyway, last night was the Awards banquet at the ACFW conference. It was so much fun to watch my friends win awards. In the first category, debut author, Robin Carrol placed second and Camy Tang won. Sushi for One is a wonderful book, so I am so pleased for Camy! Sharon Hinck won the sci-fi, allegory category with Restorer's Son which was a thrill to see. She is such a dear friend and fabulous writer!

We finally got to short historical -- I think it was the last category called! I was beginning to be afraid I would have to leave the banquet to take care of Rebecca before they'd reach my category. I didn't want to miss my category, or in the alternative, have someone think I was leaving because I was a poor sport!

There were six finalists in short historical, and they are all great writers, so I was incredibly honored simply to place. There was a corner of my heart that hoped I placed, but I knew that was a long shot. Ronie Kendig read off the third place winner Kelly Eileen Hake and then the second place winner Vickie McDonough. By then I was convinced I hadn't placed, and was ready to celebrate with whoever did. Then Ronie said, "The first line of the first - first place winner is "She hated attending dances alone. ..." I didn't hear another thing she said!!!!

My editor, JoAnne Simmons, met me on stage. I wish Eric could have been there to celebrate with me since I wouldn't be writing books now without his prodding and support. But my mom and sister were there. It was so fun to honor Mom for all the years of homeschooling in that way.

My friend Mary Connealy placed first as well. It is such an honor to share the award with her. She received the contract for that book in front of everyone at the 2005 conference. I remember thinking someday that could be me, and it was in 2006. How fun that we shared the award for best short historical!

Look for more about the conference this week. For now, I'm going to bed :-)

Fireproof the Movie and the Love Dare

Interviews at the Fireproof Screening from Gina Conroy on Vimeo.

My friend Gina Conroy had the opportunity to attend the screening for Fireproof this summer, and the above is her interview with the lead actress and movie producer. It was fun to get this email from her, because on Sunday our small group decided that we are going to work through Love Dare as a group this fall. We also talked about going to the movie opening weekend, which is September 26.

The Love Dare is a book that walks couples through specific projects they can do for 40 days to turn love into action. A challenge that every marriage can use no matter how new or experienced, how troubled or blissful.

Sweet September Blog Tour

I hate that the tour is here and I haven't had time to read this book yet. It's next on my list and actually traveled to ACFW with me. But, I did want to let you know about a contest Tricia is running and about the book. I'll post a review when I've read the book. For now, let me say the series is set in Nebraska -- the location for all great books LOL -- and she's interviewed my mom for the latest book she just turned in - -all about growing up in Nebraska in the 60s. It was a fascinating interview to read!

Blog Tour Contest: Since Sweet September is all about family, Tricia wants to meet yours. Leave a comment on the Tricia’s blog tour post sharing who your favorite family member is and why and you’ll be entered into a drawing to win William-Sonoma’s Pumpkin Harvest Loaf Pan & Quick Bread Set. (I’ve attached a photo. It’s super cute…and would be great for fall treats!)



About the book: Harvest time at Heather Creek Farm is an exciting time, but the kids don't seem to be getting into the spirit. One day while he's wandering through the fields, Christopher stumbles across an old piece of metal buried in the ground. He doesn't know what it is, but he hides it in the shed.

That night, the garden by the house is uprooted. Who could have done such a thing? Charlotte is determined to find out, but is distracted when she gets news that Sam is failing school. The sullen teen is indifferent and won't study. He starts spending a lot of time with Pete. Though she loves her son dearly, Pete never finished high school, and Charlotte is afraid he'll encourage Sam to do the same. How can she help him get back on track?

A gripping story that examines the Stevenson family's history as well as its shaky future, Sweet September will bring you deeper into the loving community of Bedford and the deep ties of love that bind this broken family together. As they forge new connections, you'll be entertained, inspired, and reminded that God's grace can make all things new.

About Tricia: Tricia Goyer is the author of twelve books including From Dust and Ashes, My Life UnScripted, and the children's book, 10 Minutes to Showtime. She won Historical Novel of the Year in 2005 and 2006 from ACFW, and was honored with the Writer of the Year award from Mt. Hermon Writer's Conference in 2003. Tricia's book Life Interrupted was a finalist for the Gold Medallion in 2005. In addition to her novels, Tricia writes non-fiction books and magazine articles for publications like Today's Christian Woman and Focus on the Family. Tricia is a regular speaker at conventions and conferences, and has been a workshop presenter at the MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) International Conventions. She and her family make their home in the mountains of Montana.

The joys *and challenges* of writing

I learned wonderful news for a friend earlier this week. She's made it through pub board at a publishing house -- that means she's one half step away from a contract. This is HUGE news. FANTASTIC news.

And my humaness is showing.

I'm a wee bit green.

Make that Jolly Green Giant green.

I am so happy for her. But I would love to write for the same house. This is a great opportunity for her and I know she'll make the most of it and be a success for that house.

This is the part of writing I don't like as much. It shows me all over again how much of me there is still left to kill. Ugh. So until my day comes, I'm going to focus on how excited I am for her. And count down the days until her title is available :-)

Greetings from Minneapolis

Rebecca and I arrived about an hour ago. She's happy to be off the plane. :-) though she did sleep through both flights. Am I a lucky mom or what!

It'll be a busy week, but I'm thrilled to be here. Meeting at the MOA in half an hour, then dinner and a booksigning. Tomorrow is the operating and advisory board meetings. Stay tuned for more details. Thursday the fun officially begins. Stay tuned for more details.

Minneapolis bound

Rebecca and I are boarding our plane today for our flight to Minneapolis. I land around 2:30, and head straight to the Mall of America for a site meeting. Then to the hotel so I can be ready to leave for dinner and a booksigning at the Maple Grove Northwestern Bookstore. Oh, yeah, we're leaving at 6. 

Thank goodness the board meeting tomorrow doesn't start till 10 a.m. I can sleep in -- if Rebecca lets me :-) Then in operating and advisory board meetings all day. And then the race really begins with the conference and Mall of America booksigning. 

If you think of it, pray for me. I've got a lot on my plate, but I love serving in this way. Please pray that travel goes smoothly for everyone and that the conference is a blessing to those who come. Also pray that the right people would be at the booksigning. Thousands would be great -- LOL -- but if I have one divine appointment I know the time and the hours and hours of effort will be worth it. 

And Saturday night at the awards banquet, Canteen Dreams is up as a finalist in the Book of the Year -- short historical category. :-)

If I don't post much the balance of the week, you know why! 

Things that make you go UGHHHH!

Our cat has become quite adept at what cats do. As I write this he is munching on something or other that he caught. Don't ask what, because I am SOOO not going to check. Eric cleaned up parts a couple days ago. Jonathan got a biology lesson. UGH! His first statement, "It was gross! But let me tell you all about it!"

I'm laughing as I gross out right now, because Midnight has strategically placed whatever it is he has nose length outside Jessie's range. Jessie, our happy-go-lucky dog, is watching with rapt attention. Here's the dialogue I imagine taking place right now.

J: whatcha got?

M: wouldn't you like to know. (Smugly satisfied at earning his keep for another day.)

J: Come on! whatcha got?

M: if you don't know, there's nothing I can do to help you, moron. (Insert proper feline superiority)

J: tongue wagging, head cocked. Why you eating it?

M: It's what cat's do. catch kill eat. 

J: Hmm. I eat what my masters provide. No running, catching, or killing involved.

    (Cocks head again.) "Who's the moron now?" (happy-go-lucky grin firmly in place)

A Reader is Born!

Here are a couple fun photos of Eric and the kids from this week. Eric is such a phenomenal dad. The kids are blessed to have him. Rebecca turned four months old this week. She's sitting very well with minimal support. I can't believe how big she's getting already. 

Minneapolis Booksignings

In addition to the HUGE booksigning at the Mall of America on Saturday, September 20, there will be multiple signings at the Northwestern Bookstores in that area next week. Here are the details:

• Judy Baer and Jill Elizabeth Nelson will sign books on Saturday, September 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Riverdale Crossing, 13040 Riverdale Dr., Coon Rapids, MN, and from 2:30-4 p.m. at Ridge Square North, 13029 Ridgedale Dr., Minnetonka
  
• Cathy Marie Hake and Julie Klassen will sign on Monday, Sept. 15, from 3-5 p.m. at Valley Creek Mall, 1750 Weir Drive, Woodbury, MN; Tuesday Sept. 16 from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at Arbor Lakes Mall, 12985 Elm Creek Blvd., Maple Grove, MN; and from 6-8 p.m. at Cobblestone Court, 14150 Nicollet Ave., S., Burnsville, MN 55337
  
• Robin Caroll, Rachel Hauck, Susan May Warren, and I will sign books Tuesday, September 16 at 7 p.m. at Arbor Lakes Mall, 12985 Elm Creek Blvd., Maple Grove, MN
• Patti Hill and Sharon Hinck will sign books Tuesday, September 16 at 7 p.m. at Yorkdale Shoppes, 6819 York Ave., South, Edina
• Colleen Coble, Gail Gaymer Martin, and Deborah Raney, will sign books Wednesday, September 17 from 11 to noon at the Arbor Lakes Mall, 12985 Elm Creek Blvd., Maple Grove, MN and from 12:30-1:30 p.m. at Yorkdale Shoppes, 6819 York Ave., South, Edina
• Elizabeth Musser will sign books and participate in a bookclub meeting Wednesday, September 17 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Arbor Lakes Mall, 12985 Elm Creek Blvd., Maple Grove, MN
• Brandilyn Collins will sign books on Sunday, September 21, from 2-4 at Arbor Lakes Mall, 12985 Elm Creek Blvd., Maple Grove, MN

If you love Christian fiction, this is the week to be in Minneapolis for booksignings!

Review: In the Shadow of Lions

In the Shadow of the Lions is a book that will sweep you back in time to the days of Henry the VIII. I'm a huge history buff, and remember reading so many biographies as a teen on the wives of Henry and then on his daughters. There's something captivating about royalty!

As I read this book I could smell the odors of London - Ugh, and see the setting. It was richly drawn in all its glory and brutality. This book reveals a portion of the history of getting the Bible into the hands of plow boys and fulfilling the vision of a man named William Tyndale, but who was known as William Hutchins at that time.

There is a fine line in this book between fiction, fictionalized biography and history. What I love about it, is the thirst to know which parts were true and which weren't will drive me back to the biographies. The what if that starts it all is intriguing: What if Anne Boleyn was a martyr?

Finally, there is a over-arching story that ties the chapters together. It was strong enough on its own to keep me flipping pages to see what the Scribe would reveal next. And the end to that story was quite satisfying!

Here's more:



"I am the first writer, The Scribe. My books lie open before the Throne, and someday will be the only witness of your people and their time in this world."

So begins the narration of one such angel in this sweeping historical tale set during the reign of England's Henry VIII. It is the story of two women, their guardian angels, and a mysterious, subversive book ... a book that outrages some, inspires others, and launches the Protestant Reformation.

The devout Anne Boleyn catches the eye of a powerful king and uses her influence to champion an English translation of the Bible. Meanwhile, Rose, a broken, suicidal woman of the streets, is moved to seek God when she witnesses Thomas More's public displays of Christian charity, ignorant of his secret life spent eradicating the Bible, persecuting anyone who dares read it.

Historic figures come alive in this thrilling story of heroes and villains, saints and sinners, angels and mortals ... and the sacred book that will inspire you anew. Fans of Francine Rivers and Karen Kingsbury will love Ginger's intriguing combination of rich character development, artful settings, and inspiring historical insights.

If you would like to read an excerpt from In The Shadow Of Lions, go HERE


Ginger Garrett is the critically acclaimed author of Chosen: The Lost Diaries of Queen Esther, which was recognized as one of the top five novels of 2006 by the ECPA, and Dark Hour. An expert in ancient women's history, Ginger creates novels and nonfiction resources that explore the lives of historical women.

Her releases include Beauty Secrets of the Bible, (September 11, Thomas Nelson) based on the historical research that began in her work on Chosen. The book explores the connections between beauty and spirituality, offering women both historical insights and scientific proofs that reveal powerful, natural beauty secrets.

A frequent radio guest on stations across the country, including NPR and Billy Graham's The Hour of Decision, Ginger is also a popular television guest. Her appearances include Harvest Television, Friends & Neighbors, and Babbie's House. Ginger frequently serves as a co-host on the inspirational cable program Deeper Living.

In 2007, Ginger was nominated for the Georgia Author of the Year Award for her novel Dark Hour. When she's not writing, you may spy Ginger hunting for vintage jewelry at thrift stores, running (slowly) in 5k and 10k races, or just trying to chase down one of her errant sheepdogs. A native Texan, she now resides in Georgia with her husband and three children.

Palin as Rosie

Arlette Figdore of York, Pa., right, holds a campaign sign with an image of Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin as "Rosie the Riveter" at a campaign rally in Lancaster, Pa.

(Carolyn Kaster / Associated Press)

September 9, 2008

Isn't this photo awesome?!? Love the adaptation to the classic World War Two poster. I saw this in the LA Times online.

Sing with Me... God is in Control...

The last two weeks God has been hammering me with the reminder that He is in control.

You see I'm in charge of a 125 author booksigning at the Mall of America on September 20. As ACFW's publicity officer, I was in charge of publicity for the event. And as a volunteer at the conference the last three years, I helped with the booksigning. It's always been a big event, but it feels like this year is bigger.

First, we've moved the event outside the conference hotel. But not only did we move it out, we moved it to the largest mall in America.

Second, authors' expectations seemed to sky rocket the moment I announced the venue last year at the conference banquet.

Third, we're partnering with Barnes & Noble to run the conference bookstore...and we've never done that before.

So this year, I'm responsible for all these firsts for the ACFW conference. It's been a daunting task, but one I've been happy to do, because it will help the visibility of Christian fiction in so many ways.

But let's say working with others when there are so many outcomes that I can't control is ... stressful. The last two weeks were terrible as the conference bears down on us, but many loose threads still needed to be addressed. But those threads were so far outside of my control I almost couldn't breath.

In the last two days I've spent hours on the phone, and I can now say they've all come together. I kept saying I knew God was in control, but I had a hard time relaxing and truly trusting Him. I kept asking people to pray, because it had reached a point there was nothing else we could do. I have a feeling God kept pushing the answers out, so that I would have to trust. To realize there was nothing I could control, but He had it all in the palm of His hand.

Will there be other emergencies? Undoubtedly. I'm working with 120+ other people plus several companies. Something will come up. But will it all work out. Absolutely. Not because I'm wonderful, but because God is. And this is a chance to introduce people to him through stories.

It's going to be a great event. And I really hope you can join us if you're in the Minneapolis area. It's from 1-3 p.m. in the Best Buy Rotunda, a hallway, and the Bloomingdale's Court. Panels with authors will run throughout the event. If you love Christian fiction, this is the place to be.