Vacations

So you are probably wondering how suspenseful vacations can be? For some a lot. I've had a few over the years that had my heart pounding. One was years ago in London during the rioting of the poll tax. My friend and I came up out of the Tube into the middle of a large gathering of people protesting the tax. Needless to say, we got out of there quickly. Police were everywhere and at that time the protest was still peaceful. We learned later that they soon because violent. When we were going to the airport the next morning, we saw the remains of what happened--cars burned, turned over, litter everywhere, damage to property. I thank the Lord for our timing. If we had been a half an hour later, we could have been really in trouble. The above picture is what the crowd looked like in the streets in 1990. The one below is what happened later when I was safely away.

What adventures have you had on a vacation that got your heart pounding?

FEATURED BOOK: BLACKMAIL BY ROBIN CAROLL

Another facility's been sabotaged!And PR representative Sadie Thompson is on the case. When she's assigned to investigate the damage to her employer's oil rigs, she knows it's her chance. Finally, she can prove she's left her "bad girl" past behind her. Yet someone wants the evidence to disappear—and is willing to threaten Sadie and Caleb, her recently paroled half brother, to make it happen. Caleb's parole officer, Jon Garrison, is watching them both closely, waiting for one of them to slip up. He doesn't trust Sadie—can she trust him? She needs Jon's help, and has nowhere else to turn….

Dad, the story teller

I remember as a child listening to my father read to us, both from the Bible and the plethora of story books on our shelves. He has a certain intonation, a gentle inflection that brought the words to life for me. I can picture him sitting there on the bed, with his thick fingers delicately turning the pages. He was the one who told me about God in a way I could understand, showing unconditional love both in the passages he read and the time he spent with me.
Fast forward a few decades to the arrival of my own two children. Somehow I do not see my father enough, anymore. The days are filled with business and though we live in the same town, our lives travel down different roads. Imagine my surprise when I first read to my own children, and found that I used the same phrasing and inflection that my father used with me, trying to wrap the words in the same web of warmth that he did. My daughters were caught up in the same storytelling web that I had been as a child.
So was it the stories? The voice? Or the fact that my father took the time out of his always busy days to read to me? Probably a little of everything. The fact is I will always hear my father’s voice, reading the Bible or the magical stories of “the great gray green greasy Limpopo River” and the Giant Jam Sandwich and though the stories have faded, his voice will not. Thank you, Dad.

Great Dads

In June we celebrate Father’s Day. My dad passed away in 2000, but what I remember about him is his laughter. That laughter was a joyous thing to hear. He was never down or moody, but an even-keeled man who always lifted my spirits. He was the only person on this planet that called me ‘Bobbie’. (That’s another story.) There are times now, when I wish I could pick up the phone and talk to him. He was a painter and the painting above is one he did.

In the book that’s coming out in Oct, GUARDED SECRETS the hero has lost both of his daughters to a rare genetic disease. He starts the book with a wounded heart. The person that pulls him out of his drunken haze was the daughter of his partner. When he woke up on the couch at his partner’s house, she told him that Jesus could heal his heart---truth out of the mouth of a babe.

My heroine has a daughter, the same age as the hero daughter would’ve been if she'd lived. She also touches a place in my hero’s heart, bringing joy and hope to his life. I put that man through the wringer, but he came out victorious. It is his response to her daughter that wins the heroine’s heart. He was a great father to his daughters and becomes a great father to the heroine’s daughter.

How has your father blessed your life? What is the one thing that you remember most about your father?
Leann

A romantic trip?

by Linda Hall

If you look carefully at my picture, you will see that I’m sitting on our boat and we’re in front of the Statue of Liberty. During May, my husband and I sailed our used but new-to-us boat from Maryland to our home in New Brunswick, Canada. It took us exactly four weeks. I have had people say, “Oh that must be so romantic.” Well, there were a few of those kinds of moments, but think about this. You are camping with your husband for a month and you can’t leave the tent!

My husband and I have sailed a lot and I always think sailing is like writing a romance novel. We got wind. We had one rather miserable day when we sailed from the end of the Cape Cod Canal to Gloucester, MA. The state of Massachusetts concaves to the left at that point, and when you come out of the canal, you have two choices: you can ‘make a run for it’ and go straight to Gloucester. Or you can hug the shore and stop in at Boston.

We decided to make a run for it. Mistake. Halfway across the eight hour journey, the wind built, the storm rose, and the ocean became mountainous around us. I went down below. I plugged into my iPod and hugged myself onto the berth while I listened to short stories on my iPod to keep my mind off the storm. Almost there, I poked my head out and it was worse. Around us were thunderstorms. Now, when there are thunderstorms, a place you do not want to be is out on water in a thunderstorms with that lightning rod 'mast' waving in the sky and saying, “pick me! Pick me!”

We couldn't leave. We had no where to go but straight across. I thought about book middles, when things are going poorly and the distant finish line seems so far away and the work seems mountainous.

But then there were the calm days, the days so glistening with sunshine and dolphins that seals that you wanted to hug the day to yourself and never let go. We get those days in life and writing, too. The sparkling days, the good times. You wonder if there could , any more beauty would be blinding than the words you just wrote. They’re brilliant! You have it! You don’t have to turn in your Writer’s Card.

But mostly the trip was a little of each, and writing a book is like that too.

But now I am home, and back at my computer ready to get to work to meet these deadlines and hoping for more sunny ones than stormy ones.

What's a Romance Novel?

It’s almost July and I’m wondering what happened to June. Which brings to mind the fact that in July, I’m teaching at the Harriette Austin Writers Conference. I’m going to be talking about writing romance novels . (That’s a good thing since that’s what I write—with a bit of suspense thrown in.)

So, in researching my information, I found some interesting definitions of what a romance novel is. I really got a kick out of the last one.

What is a romance novel?
• As defined by Wikipedia - The romance novel is a literary genre developed in Western culture, mainly in English-speaking countries. Novels in this genre place their primary focus on the relationship and romantic love between two people, and must have an "emotionally satisfying and optimistic ending."

• As defined by Romance Writers of America - RWA is a national organization with 8,200 members and describes romance novels as "stories whose main focus is the relationship between a man and a woman. The most important aspect of a romance novel, and what identifies it as such, is the guaranteed happy ending, the establishment of a lifetime commitment between one man and one woman."

• As defined by ANOTHER- fiction genre in which love conquers all, bosoms heave, and cowboys are the best things since sliced bread.

Didn’t that last one make you laugh out loud? Haven’t we come a long way in our writing and storytelling? What I love about Christian Romance novels is that we not only get to weave a story about a woman and a man falling in love, we get to talk about the greatest romantic story ever written. Christ’s love for his bride—us. How cool is that? And it has the best ending EVER.

What do you guys think?

Today we're welcoming Caitlin, the heroine of Scent of Murder, by Virginia Smith,

which was just released earlier this month. Wow, you've just had quite an adventure.


1. Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to be in the midst of such suspense.

I’m a flutist, and a member of a classical music trio with my friends Jazzy and Liz. They’re both getting married soon, so our trio is breaking up, but we booked one final engagement to play at a wedding in Little Nashville, an artist colony in the Blue Hills of Indiana. We were supposed to all go up a few days early to spend some time together shopping in all those adorable, quaint little shops, but both my friends bowed out at the last minute. I admit, I was feeling a little hurt by their desertion, because my long-time boyfriend just dumped me for someone else and I was looking forward to some girl time to help me gain some perspective. So I went ahead by myself. They were supposed to join me in time for the wedding, but before then… well, it’s a long story. I got pulled into a horrible situation involving the murder of a local man.


2. So, during the book you met Chase Hollister. Tell us a bit about him. What was your first impression? When did you know it was love?

Funny thing about the way I met Chase. On the drive up to Indiana, I was praying and I felt led to proclaim a “dateless year,” where I wouldn’t go out on a date for a full year. I mean, I knew I was vulnerable, and I didn’t want to fall for a rebound guy, you know? But as soon as I pulled into town, I saw a sign for a scented candle factory that gave free tours. I figured that was a good way to kill an hour or so before I could check in to the hotel. Chase was a member of the family who owned the factory, and he ended up giving me the tour. Ah, he is amazingly handsome. Doesn’t it just figure I’d meet him after I decided not to go out with anyone for a year?

At the end of our ordeal, we both realized that what we felt for each other was more than friendship. But I’d made this oath! I feel strongly in standing behind your promises. So… well, you’ll have to see what we ended up doing.

3. What strengths/skills do you have? What is your greatest weakness?
It’s funny, but Chase and I talked about this during the course of my trip to Little Nashville. I’m a nurturer. I guess that’s why I chose to teach music to kids as a profession. And, of course, I’m a Christian, so I hope my faith is one of my strengths. It certainly was tested during my ordeal in Indiana!

4. What scares you?

Being alone in life scares me. I definitely don’t want to end up alone. But you know, it’s funny. When my life was in danger, I realized that there’s something worse than being alone, and that’s not having heaven to look forward to. I don’t have to worry about that, because even in the darkest hour, Jesus was with me. Times of crisis emphasize the strength of our faith, and in the process, the exercising of faith strengthens it.

5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I’d give myself a real goal. When Chase was talking about all his plans for buying and improving the family business, I felt a little strange. He asked me if I wanted to play my flute professionally with the symphony, and I was embarrassed to tell him no. The thing I’ve always wanted most is to be a wife and mom. Sounds sort of silly, doesn’t it?
6. Where are you in your faith at the start of your story?

My faith is strong. I believe strongly in prayer, and in God’s hand in our day-to-day lives. I’ve proved that in the first two episodes of our classical trio, A Taste of Murder and Murder at Eagle Summit. When we have a crisis, my friends rely on me to pray with them.

7. Where are you in your faith at the end of the story?

I’ve learned that God really does hear our prayers. Not only our prayers, but the desires of our hearts. He knew what I needed to be satisfied and happy in life all along, and He gave it to me.

8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant.
The scripture is “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall be shown mercy.” When my life was in danger -- and I mean really in danger -- all I could think about was how God loved everyone enough to send His son to die for them. As my preacher once said, if the only person in the world had been the vilest of sinners, Jesus would have still died for them. That’s what kept coming to my mind. I was able to show mercy to the man who held my life in his hand, because I had an inner surety of Jesus’ love for him. It really was an amazing thing.

9. If you could be a dessert what would you be and why?

This question is addressed in the book! Chase and I were sitting in an ice cream parlor and he told me how preference in ice cream is supposed to be an indicator of personality. I love Rocky Road ice cream. Chase says that’s because it’s a blend of flavors, which means I’m not satisfied with anything plain. I have a wide range of interests and enjoy variety in life.

Wonderful premise, can't wait to read this book!! Thank you Virginia for sharing Caitlin with us today.

FEATURED BOOK: SCENT OF MURDER BY VIRGINIA SMITH

Everything is going wrong for Caitlin Saylor. Her boyfriend has left her. Her musical trio is disbanding. And for their trio's swan song? They'll be playing another wedding: a chance to watch someone else's happy ending. And then, unexpectedly, Chase Hollister enters the scene. The candle factory owner is handsome, charming and very interested in Caitlin. His gift of a special candle proves it. But there's something more to the candle than Caitlin or Chase suspect. Something that puts Caitlin at risk. To keep Caitlin safe, Chase must face a haunting crime from his past—and a deadly killer in the present.

Didn't Know Either

Pamela's post this week about not knowing her own whodunit got me thinking. With Deadly Exposure, I thought I knew who committed the murder. In fact I wrote the book working toward one particular individual. Then as I was in the last 30 pages or so, I prayed before writing. Now I try to do this all the time, but that day I was talking with God about what would happen next.

He whispered that a certain somebody did it. I looked a little funny up at the ceiling. "No, he didn't."

"Yes, he did."

I went back and forth a few times before thinking, "Okay, I'll try it." Inside, I dreaded all the rewrites it would require. Wouldn't you know, it didn't take much of any. The antagonist makes sense. Most everything had already been planted. And the readers love the way it turned out.

And before you wonder if I'm incredibly strange, I really do pray about my books. I pray when I'm writing proposals asking God for creativity and wisdom. I pray as I'm writing, and not always, "God, help me, please. I'm stuck!" And I cling to Daniel 1:17: God gave Daniel and his friends, knowledge and intelligence in all areas of wisdom, literature and understanding dreams and visions.

I don't want to waste an opportunity He has given me.

My First Book Signing Tour!!!

By Debby Giusti





When my agent and award-winning author Deidre Knight asked if I wanted to be part of a book signing tour, I jumped at the chance. The weekend was delightful, and I thought you might be interested in what I learned.

The photo right shows all of us (left to right): Maria Geraci, Debby Giusti, Jennifer St. Giles, Shannon K. Butcher and Deidre. Deidre's assistant Jia Gayles (in photo below right) made sure everything happened on time. Thanks, Jia, for all your hard work!

Booksellers are wonderful! At each stop, the booksellers made our signings special with posters and wonderful displays of our books. They were as excited as we were. In the future, I’ll be more apt to schedule signings, knowing how much they appreciate authors who interact with their readers. The photo below shows Deidre (middle) and Debby (right) with Jonathan Tonge, owner of Dog Ear Books, in Madison, Georgia.

Give a talk on writing prior to the signing. Many of the folks in the audience were writers who wanted to learn how we got published. Each of the authors gave a short pitch about our own writing journey, and then we opened it up for questions. All of us—writers and readers, alike—learned from the Q&A.

Send out lots of publicity. The authors blogged about the tour prior to the weekend, and the various bookstores sent information to their database of readers. I also sent a special email to writers I thought might enjoy meeting my agent. Many of them came to support me, but they also were able to talk about their work to Deidre. I was thrilled when she asked a number of them to submit their manuscripts to her agency.

Bring promotional items. Readers are often shy about meeting authors so I like to get out from behind the signing table and introduce myself to them. Having a bookmark, candy or other giveaway helps to break the ice.

Make it fun! Jia brought balloons. One of the bookstores provided beverages for those who attended. Each night the authors went out to dinner. Of course, we talked about writing and our favorite books. On Friday, we celebrated Shannon’s birthday with a yummy chocolate cake.

Spend the night. To cut down on driving, most of us stayed in Madison, Georgia, home of The Knight Agency. Having our hotel close by kept us well rested and ready for the next event.

Book tours are easy to do and lots of fun! Next time I have a book coming out, I’ll contact some of my author friends to see who wants to go on tour. Shoppers swarm the malls at the beginning of the month so I’ll schedule the tour with that in mind. Hope to see you there!!!

Happy writing! Happy reading!

Wishing you abundant blessings,
Debby Giusti
http://www.debbygiusti.com/
http://www.ladiesofsuspense.blogspot.com/

PROTECTING HER CHILD
By
Debby Giusti

“WHAT HAPPENED TO MY BABY?”

Wealthy heiress Eve Townsend is close to death. But before she dies, she has to know: what happened to the daughter she gave up for adoption twenty-four years before? Did she inherit her mother’s life-threatening disease? Medical researcher Pete Worth is ready to find answers by tracking her down. And when he finally locates Meredith Lassiter, he finds her widowed, pregnant and on the run. The loan sharks who killed her husband want her dead…and Pete is the only one standing in their way.

Winner of the 2008 Daphne du Maurier Award for Inspirational Suspense, medical technologist Debby Giusti writes spine-chilling Christian fiction for Steeple Hill. PROTECTING HER CHILD, her fifth book and the second story in her Magnolia Medical series, was released in May. CHRISTMAS PERIL will feature her novella YULE DIE in December, and KILLER HEADLINE will follow in February 2010. Her first three books, NOWHERE TO HIDE, SCARED TO DEATH and MIA: MISSING IN ATLANTA are available in hardcover by Thorndike. In addition to full-length fiction, Debby has written articles for numerous magazines, including Southern Lady, Woman’s World, Our Sunday Visitor, Army and Family. For over twelve years, she served on the editorial advisory board of ADVANCE for Administrators of the Laboratory and wrote extensively on emerging infectious diseases for that magazine. For more information about Debby and her books, visit her web site at: http://www.debbygiusti.com/.

Suspense--its all in the hooks

One of the best books for learning to write fiction is Dwight Swain's

informative and instructional book titled, Techniques of the Selling Writer.

Inside the pages of this book you'll find easy and practical advice on how to format a scene, how to hook your reader, how to string the words together in such a way that you transition from on thought or plot point to the next.

I discovered this book early on in my writing career and have read it at least a half dozen times. And every time I read through it I find another new nugget to apply to my work. I highly recommend this book to all writers, especially those just starting out.

I Didn't Know my own WhoDunIt!!!!

Yup, it's true. A few weeks ago I started a novel that had been simmering for quite a few months. Typically, I knew the beginning... and, since I write suspense, I knew the end (mystery solved, H and H connect, happily ever after, yada yada yada). The problem with this particular mystery is/was I didn't know who the murderer was. Nope, no a clue. It's a good thing Valley of the Sun President Valerie (who writes regencies for Kensington) invited a motivational speaker. Look at them so calmly preparing for a day of learning.

So, last Saturday, I signed up to attend the Goal, Motivation,

Conflict workshop with Deb Dixon that my local chapter was

putting on. That's her in the blue jacket and white shirt. I'm in black and white.

I had a great time (surrounded by friends) and the best part of all: I figured out who the murderer is! Not only that, but, see, I had my ending, and thanks to Deb, I also came up with a second black

moment. Yaba Dabba, doo! Thanks, Deb!!!!

Here you see paranomal author Connie Flynn, who co-founded

Bootcamp for Authors. She's sitting next to Libby Banks who is

aiming for a career with Harlequin American. BTW, they're

both my critique partners.

Not only that, but while I was sitting there listening to Deb, I
wrote the whole synopsis (And, yes, I belong to the

I-hate-writing-synopsi girls' club). Thanks, Deb!!!!

Unfortunately, now I have to convert it from the strange little

laptop I got for Christmas to the normal rightsize laptop I've had

for six years. Sitting at my table and frowning at my tiny-weenie

laptop (and also wearing a stunning black and white blouse) is

Harlequin American author Cathy McDavid. She's in

my critique group and my best friend!

What else did I learn? Well, I already knew I was a pantzer.

I don't see that changing any time soon. I also learned that

I'm never going to use a story board with sticky notes and that

most of the time, my books belong to both the hero and heroine.

Here in a green shirt is Chris Jones, another published author and pretty much founder of the Valley of the Sun Romance Writer's of America chapter. She's been the heart and soul behind the group for almost two decades.

Shades of green seem to be the color choice for many of our

authors, and yes, Harlequin American attendees dominate.

With the purse around her shoulder, this is Barbara White,

another Harlequin American author.

I love spending the day with writers!!!! And last, but not least. This is Sandra Lagesse, who is dating my father-in-law

(I fixed them up) and who writes Arizona history pieces for

newspapers. My son calls her Grandma.

If I could, I'd wiggle my nose so my fellow bloggers and all the

readers could come over for lunch. Here, take a Diet Dr Pepper

and let me tell you about my murderer.

BTW, don't forget to leave a comment! You'll be entered in a drawing to win this month's four suspense books.

No Alibi Interview

Today we're welcoming, Julie Ann Jones the heroine of NO ALIBI, a Love Inspired Suspense by Valerie Hansen for June 2009. Wow, you've just had quite an adventure.


1. Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to be in the midst of such suspense.

Hey, it wasn’t my fault. I was just minding my own business, literally my beauty salon, when I got a summons for jury duty. After that, my whole life was turned upside down – in more ways than one.

2. So, during the book you met Smith Barnett. Tell us a bit about him. What was your first impression? When did you know it was love?

I was in love with Smith from the time he escorted me to my senior prom, ten years ago, but don’t you dare tell him that. How was I to know that such a handsome Marine was just doing my brother a favor by taking me out? I made such a fool of myself over Smith back then, I was surprised when he started coming to my shop to get his hair cut after he left the service.

3. What strengths/skills do you have? What is your greatest weakness?

Have you been talking to Smith? He says I’m headstrong but he’s wrong. I’m just sure of myself. I learned the hard way to stand on my own two feet and I don’t need anybody telling me what to do or not do. I’m coping fine, thank you. Well, except maybe for the fact that somebody keeps trying to kill me. That’s a bit much.

4. What scares you?

Falling for Smith and showing my emotions scares me more than anything. That, and being wrong. Not that I ever am, you understand. I simply have a strong sense of fairness and will always try to do the right thing.

5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

Change? Why? I mean, I could use stronger faith. Who couldn’t? But if the Lord wants me to be different He’s going to have to show me how because I’m very resistant to any changes.

6. Where are you in your faith at the start of your story?

It’s a good thing I’m strong in faith or I’d never have made it through this “trial.” Pun intended.

7. Where are you in your faith at the end of the story?

Try flabbergasted. I never will understand why God puts us through such serious stuff just to make a point. Okay, so maybe I don’t listen to divine guidance otherwise, but I plan to do better from now on.

8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant.

Psalms 56:3-4 says, “When I am afraid I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid.”
I think that’s great advice for anyone at any time. After all, we’re not guaranteed another day, another breath, another heartbeat. If we weren’t trusting God to bring us through, what would we have left?

9. If you could be a dessert what would you be and why?

Anything chocolate. I want to be loved and everybody loves chocolate, right? :-)

Thank you so much Valerie for sharing Julie with us today. This sounds very exciting.

TODAY'S FEATURED BOOK: NO ALIBI BY VALERIE HANSEN

Juror Julie Ann Jones simply didn't expect the life on the line to be her own. Courtroom tension is running high during a scandal-packed murder case. As the trial heats up, a series of "accidents" begins targeting the jurors—especially Julie Ann. There are gunshots at her beauty salon. A prowler is spotted at her home. Through it all, fellow juror Smith Burnett gives her the courage to continue. But will she find the courage to give Smith her heart?

Graduation Day and Book Covers that make you say YES!

Things have been very busy in my house over the last few weeks. My oldest child graduated from high school. And while I'll admit I shed a lot of tears of pride watching my 6' 6 1/2" son walk across the stage to get his diploma, and cheering all the kids he's gone through school with who are now so grown up, I couldn't help but be excited for him too. He's going to college and leaving home. *Sniff*

Okay, on to things that don't make me weep. I'm going to be a bit of a tease and tell you that I FINALLY got a chance to see the cover to my December book, Yuletide Protector. My editor was right. The cover is gorgeous and I can't wait to show it to you all. As soon as I get the okay, I'll be posting it here.

I got a new shipment of summer reading books the other day and the first thing I noticed was the cover. Not the hero or heroine on the cover, but the setting of the book. I grew up near Cape Cod and am very partial to books set on the coast. Put a lighthouse on the cover or a sandy beach and I'll almost always pick the book up off the shelf to see what it's about. Okay, I admit I'm also partial to cops and cowboys so setting doesn't always make me pick up the book.

But I'm curious as to what it is that makes you pick up a book from the shelf. Do you automatically see a ranch and say, "I have to buy this book!" Or do you see a Christmas cover and stockpile the books to read throughout the year? Let's have some fun and talk about the things that make YOU pick up a book whether it's title, setting, hero or heroine. And then post one of your favorite covers here so we can all take a peek. Remember, if you post a comment, you'll be automatically entered into our monthly drawing to receive 4 free Love Inspired Suspense books!

Until next time, many blessings, Lisa Mondello

Dissing the works

A few writer friends recently shared some of their not-so-nice 'fan' mail, readers who have written to express their disappointment. But this blog asks the question,
What if the not-so-nice 'fan' mail went a bit too far? Hmm? (Twilight Zone music, please)
What if the reader went too far? What if the writer went too far when she received that letter?
Now, I'm not endorsing this kind of behavior, so shame on you for thinking that. No way, but the writer in me must ask these questions. I can't help it. It's why writers live, think and write.
So let's go. You read a book. You hate it for whatever reason, then you write in to tell the writer. The mounds of possibilities heap around me, too many to list, and far too dangerous to suggest to those of you who teeter on the brink of insanity. (You know who you are)
What if a fan is found dead and all evidence points to the writer who'd just been dissed?
What if a writer is found dead and all evidence points to a disappointed reader?
But remember, with our books, it's never that simple. And the next time you think of writing to us, remember something.
We may or may not get even, but we will definitely consider it for our next book.

Barbara Phinney, one who is always looking out for story ideas

Meeting authors....

Long before I dreamed of being published, I imagined the life of a writer being fascinating...strewn with public appearances, lofty discussions with other writers, and (the best part!) the opportunity to be immersed in writing for days on end--the words flowing effortlessly onto the page. Meeting writers for the first time, at a local Booklover's Luncheon that regularly drew authors from five surrounding states, was a revelation. They all seemed like--gasp--regular people! Friendly, down to earth, and as approachable as could be. It was so exciting!

That year Kimberly Cates, Susan Carroll (who also writes as Susan Coppula and Serena Richards), Leigh Michaels, Cindy Gerard, Kylie Brant, Lindsey Longford and twenty other authors attended. What an inspiration, to hear them each talk about their writing lives! I think that was the day that I began to wonder if it might be possible to become a writer...and hearing them speak about a writer's life certainly dispelled some of my pre-conceived notions, too. (smile)

I just noticed a previous blog entry about some booksigning dates for one of the authors here. Have you ever had a chance to stop by an author booksigning at your local bookstore? So many passers-by are shy at these events, avoiding the author's table because they can't think of a thing to say. Believe me, those authors would love a chance to just talk to you!

And if you live anywhere near Washington DC, you'll have a wonderful opportunity--a booksigning with around four-hundred authors, at the Marriott Wardman Plaza Hotel, on July 15th. A number of the authors on this blog will be there. I'm sure we'll be talking more about it as the time draws closer, but keep it in mind!

Roxanne Rustand
http://roxannerustand.blogspot.com/

Continuity Series

I just got through writing not long ago with my book in the continuity series for Love Inspired Suspense for 2010. My book is the March one and it's called Cowboy Protector. I love that title, by the way. I have discovered some readers love these continuity series that are spread out over six books for Love Inspired Suspense. Some of the suspense threads aren't solve totally until the last book. Pieces of the puzzle are in each of the books and readers try to figure out the mystery/suspense in the series. Each book does have a romance that is completed by the end of the book and some suspense threads that are tied up--just not all of them. How do you feel about continuity series or even series where the same people appear but each book stands alone as far as the romance and suspense?

By the way Terri Reed this month wraps up this year's Love Inspired Suspense continuity series called Without a Trace. I wrote the first one in the series. It came out in January. The name of the books in the series in order are:
What Sarah Saw by Margaret Daley
Framed by Robin Caroll
Cold Case Murder by Shirlee McCoy
Cloud of Suspicion by Patricia Davids
Deadly Competition by Roxanne Rustand
Her Last Chance by Terri Reed

Her Last Chance Interview

Today we're welcoming Leah Farley, the heroine of Her Last Chance: Book six of the Without A Trace continuity series, by Terri Reed . Wow, you've just had quite an adventure.

1. Tell us a little about yourself and how you came to be in the midst of such suspense.
Well, it’s hard to say how it all came about. I awoke one stormy day in a ditch with no memory of how I got there or who I was. Then a bounty hunter showed claiming I was Leah Farley and telling me I was a wanted for murder. Next thing we know someone’s shooting as us, trying to kill me.

2. So, during the book you met Roman Black. Tell us a bit about him. What was your first impression? When did you know it was love?
Roman was very intimidating at first. Especially when he thought I was a murderer but then he stunned me by deciding to protect until he knew who wanted me dead. I think in that moment I knew he was a special man, but it took awhile for me to trust my heart.

3. What strengths/skills do you have? What is your greatest weakness?
My greatest strength is my faith. Even though I couldn’t remember who I was or my life before, I had a deep faith.I can only guess bad judgment was my greatest weakness before I lost my memory. Now my greatest weakness is impatience with myself and my memory loss.

4. What scares you?
The thought of losing my daughter. Again.And the thought of what Roman will do when he finds the man responsible for his mother’s death.

5. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?I’d like to have my memory back fully.

6. Where are you in your faith at the start of your story?
As I said, I awoke with my faith intact. I don’t know how or why, but I know God lives in my heart and I trust him.

7. Where are you in your faith at the end of the story?
Stronger though I have to try to stop asking why this happened to me.

8. You've got a scripture at the beginning of the story. Tell us why this scripture is significant.
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not calamity, to give you a future and a hope.
Jeremiah 29:11

This verse gives me strength. I know that God is at work in my life even though I can’t see it or it doesn’t feel like it. He has given me and everyone this promise. I cling to that.

9. If you could be a dessert what would you be and why?Strawberry/rhubarb pie. A little sweet, a little tart and always delicious.

I hope everyone will enjoy the conclusion to the Without a Trace series.

TODAY'S FEATURED BOOK: HER LAST CHANCE BY TERRI REED

The mysterious man at her door swears he recognizes her. She's Leah Farley. Mother, wife—and suspected murderer. But her amnesia has wiped away memories of her former life. When a shower of bullets follows the man's claims, Leah is forced to accept the truth. She's in danger. And unless she can make herself remember, there's no way to stay safe. With bounty hunter Roman Black's help, she must uncover her lost memories—before the killer succeeds in keeping Leah's past and future buried forever.

Anniversay celebration

I recently saw the new STAR TREK Movie. My husband and I stood in line on the opening weekend to see it. It was also our anniversary. We’ve done this before. For our 9th anniversary we stood in line for hours to see THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK. That movie was released in 1980. Now, that might not strike you as romantic, but my husband is a big sci-fi fan. If it is a science fiction movie, my husband eats it up. Ever hear of Doctor Who? I hadn't until I got married. (That's one I still can't abide.) I’ve learned to appreciate certain sci-fi movies over the years. What we do for love.

If you look at both Star Trek and Star Wars you find romance. When I teach the hero’s journey, I use Star Wars. What Luke goes through is a perfect example of the Hero’s Journey, facing obstacles and obtaining the final victory. When I saw THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK all those years ago, and discovered that Darth Vader was Luke’s father, it blew me away. Wow, I wondered what the story was behind Darth Vader and Luke. I never saw the twin thing either with Luke and Leia.

Funny, growing up, I never thought on my anniversary I’d see a sci-fi flick, but then again I never thought I’d fall in love with a geek. Here, here for geeks.

On Tour

by Debby Giusti

I'll be on tour this weekend with the Knight Agency. If you live in Georgia and can make any of the events, please stop by and say hello!

Live too far away? I'll take pictures and post them on my next blog, June 17th!

Here's the info:

Knight Agency Book Signing Summer Tour Extravaganza!!
If you are going to be in the Atlanta area in early June, you don't want to miss the fabulous signing events that we are planning beginning June 5th!! The tour line-up includes Deidre Knight, an award-winning paranormal romance author who is also president of The Knight Agency, along with USA Today bestselling author Jennifer St. Giles, Debby Giusti, Shannon K. Butcher and debut author Maria Geraci!

This is not your ordinary book signing. Three of the events will feature a "How To Get Published Q&A," followed by a one-on-one meet and greet with the authors during the signing portion. See details below!

The Knight Agency Presents: How To Get Published Q&A and Book Signing
Instead of lounging during the lazy days of summer, now is the time to reach for that dusty manuscript or half-written chapter and get to work!

The journey from manuscript to published novel can be difficult to navigate, and we know you must wonder what it's like when you finally land that elusive contract. Why don't you give yourself an edge? Ask national bestselling authors represented by one of the region's top literary agencies about their adventures in the publishing business. Our experienced panel has been there and can answer all your burning questions about making waves in the often times intimidating publishing pond. The panelists will include award-winning paranormal romance author, Deidre Knight, who has sold numerous titles to top-tier publishing houses as president of the agency, along with an all star line-up including USA Today bestselling author Jennifer St. Giles, Maria Geraci, Debby Giusti and Shannon K. Butcher. These authors have released titles through major houses such as Simon & Schuster, Penguin and Harlequin.

Meet the authors in person at the book signing following the Q&A portion.

1--Borders at Stonecrest Mall in Lithonia – June 5th, 5pm ET
8000 Mall Parkway, Lithonia, GA 30038

2--Books For Less in Buford – June 6th, 1pm ET*
2815 Buford Dr, Buford, GA 30519

3--Dog Ear Bookstore in Madison – June 6th, 5pm ET**
142 Academy Street; Madison, GA 30650

4--Borders in Athens – June 7th, 2pm ET
196 Alps Road, Athens, GA 30606

If you have any questions, please direct them to info @ knightagency.net (remove spaces).
*Debby Giusti will not appear at the Books For Less event. The Madison signing will not include a Q&A session.

“WHAT HAPPENED TO MY BABY?"
Wealthy heiress Eve Townsend is close to death. But before she dies, she has to know: what happened to the daughter she gave up for adoption twenty-four years before? Did she inherit her mother’s life-threatening disease? Medical researcher Pete Worth is ready to find answers by tracking her down. And when he finally locates Meredith Lassiter, he finds her widowed, pregnant and on the run. The loan sharks who killed her husband want her dead…and Pete is the only one standing in their way.

Winner of the 2008 Daphne du Maurier Award for Inspirational Suspense, medical technologist Debby Giusti writes spine-chilling Christian fiction for Steeple Hill. PROTECTING HER CHILD, her fifth book and the second story in her Magnolia Medical series, was released in May. CHRISTMAS PERIL will feature her novella YULE DIE in December, and KILLER HEADLINE will follow in February 2010. Her first three books, NOWHERE TO HIDE, SCARED TO DEATH and MIA: MISSING IN ATLANTA are available in hardcover by Thorndike. In addition to full-length fiction, Debby has written articles for numerous magazines, including Southern Lady, Woman’s World, Our Sunday Visitor, Army and Family. For over twelve years, she served on the editorial advisory board of ADVANCE for Administrators of the Laboratory and wrote extensively on emerging infectious diseases for that magazine. For more information about Debby and her books, visit her web site at: www.DebbyGiusti.com.

A SUMMER TRIP by Linda Hall

Those of you who read my work, know that I love the ocean - and everything that has to do with boats. I've always been fascinated with boats. Right now my husband and I are on an extended sailing trip with our used but new-to-us sailboat that we have aptly named Mystery. (Hmm. I wonder who had something to do with that!) We bought her in Annapolis, Maryland and for the past two weeks have been sailing her home to Canada. As I write this we are swinging on a mooring in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. If you are interested in following our 'grand adventure' here is our 'boat blog.' My husband has been mostly doing the boat blog, as I try to scrape minutes every day to write!

Boat blog:http://www.sailblogs.com/member/ic34_mystery/

The picture is us sailing beside the Statue of Liberty. There is just something so cool about sailing your own boat around New York City,