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Just 15 weeks left. Almost down to single digits in the weeks. Still doesn't feel real. But as of week 25, here is the update:
 For those who haven't tuned in for the past 3 weeks, we had our ultrasound on December 2nd, and.... drum roll...
IT'S A BOY!
 That's right. We've got an all-American male growing inside me, and he is an active little bugger. Richard Vaughn Stockton. We'll be calling him Richie.
My boy’s physical proportions are evening out at this point and most of his remaining development will largely be weight gain and lots and lots of nervous system development. Oh joy! More gaining weight. I'm so thrilled. :)
The good news is: if for some reason, my boy is born premature, at this point, he’ll be more likely to survive without too much trauma as his lungs began to produce “surfactant” last week, which means his tiny respiratory system is getting stronger with each passing day. Now’s a good time for a minor sigh of relief and a quick pat on the back. All that hard work and conscientious living is really getting my son prepared for a healthy delivery.
This week he’ll be scootching slowly out of the old breech position and start rotating (already!) into a better position for exit during his birth. His head and feet are slowly rotating so that his head is pointed down toward the birth canal. Time is short (or really long, depending on who you ask)—just (still!) 15 weeks left before I can go back to being a single-resident human. And if you talk to my sister-in-law, she'd say time is LONG! She was due with her boy on Dec. 19th, but baby Michael still hasn't decided to join the air-breathing population just yet. We're all praying for one day this week. That gal is ready to bust!
And now for some words from the wiggle-worm inside me:
Well, I've been enjoying hearing all the muffled sounds on the outside. There's some high-pitched shrieking that I think is coming from something called a "sister." I don't know what that is, but I have a regretful feeling I'll be finding out real soon. If that sister is responsible for all that thumping and pounding on my mommy's tummy, waking me up and disrupting my comfort zone, I might just have to teach her who's boss!
 At least it's not all the time, and I have my mommy's voice to soothe me, her warm hand to comfort me, and the methodic rocking of her movements to lull me back to sleep. Oh yeah, and I've given some good healthy kicks to the person my mommy calls "daddy." It sounds like mommy, so he must be just as important. There's so many strange things out there. I look forward to seeing it all for myself. But for now, I'll enjoy this warm, snug, and safe cocoon where I currently live.
Me again. The mama. :) That's it for now. Tune in each week for the latest. And if you want to receive an email each time I post an update, subscribe using the form over there at the top right.
Thanks for coming along this journey with me...some of you for the second time.
Wow, just 16 weeks left. I tell ya. Get past that halfway point, and it just flies!
And as of week 24, here is the update:
 For those who haven't tuned in for the past 2 weeks, we had our ultrasound last week, on December 2nd, and.... drum roll...
IT'S A BOY!
That's right. We've got an all-American male growing inside me, and he is an active little bugger. Richard Vaughn Stockton.
This is another big week for my magical growing baby! Just take a look at the checklist for this week: 1) ears: done; 2) fingernails: done; 3) testicles: taking their 3-4 day trip from the abdominal wall to the scrotum; and 4) lungs walls: secreting “surfactant”. What’s that? Well, surfactant is sort of what it sounds like: a surface-activated fat whose main purpose is to assist my son's little lungs during inflation (as in, filling with air, not getting more expensive).
 Goodness, sure wish I could get that much accomplished in one week. :) To the left is my latest belly shot, week 24.
Just in case you’re curious, my submerged baby is still breathing in amniotic fluid, preparing and rehearsing the lungs an oxygen-filled life outside the womb. By the end of this week, my son will be weighing around 2 lbs and 14 inches long. My cutie-patootie may even be a little more plump, but isn't anywhere near their full baby-fatted cute-self. Most of the “filling out” is coming up in that long awaited (and slightly dreaded?) third trimester. Woo-hoo! I better get ready! It'll be here in just 3 more weeks. Yikes!
And now for some words from the wiggle-worm inside:
All right, so it's finally my turn to say something. My mama's been sharing updates with you for weeks, telling you all about what's happening inside here. But let me tell you, it sure feels far different than the way she describes it. Sure, she's getting kicks and feels the movement, but you have no idea what's it like when she eats something cold or sweet or spicy. Wow! It sure hits ya like a ton of bricks sometimes. And you wonder why I wiggle and squirm!
The other reason is I'm hearing about how much less room I'll have before long, so I'm enjoying moving in the space I have now. Seems like I should get used to it before things get tight and cramped. My legs are already feeling the pinch. But it's all right. I'm warm and cozy and feeling the love. Looking forward to making my debut in a few months. Then, I'm sure mama will share pictures so all of you can see me too. Now, it's back to sleep for me. Zzzzzzz.
Me again. The mama. :) That's it for now. Tune in each week for the latest. And if you want to receive an email each time I post an update, subscribe using the form over there at the top right.
Thanks for coming along this journey with me...some of you for the second time.
Don't forget the rules of the spotlights here. Answer the random question associated with this spotlight in the comments in order to be entered in the drawing.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
 TAMMY BARLEY - I have lived in twenty-seven places in eight states (so far) and have visited nearly all. When I'm not writing? I judge a number of top writing contests and love my work as a manuscript editor and biographer. I am also Mom to two sons, one daughter, a rescued American Eskimo dog, thirteen parakeets, and an aquarium full of fish. The children I home-school; the dog I taught to sit. She also barks at parked cars. In my spare time, you're likely to find me baking, gardening, behind a camera, or hugging a horse.
FAITH'S REWARD
by Tammy Barley
Published by Whitaker House
ABOUT THE BOOK
The year 1865 starts out as a nightmare come true for Jessica Bennett. The cattle she and her husband, Jake, fought to save from drought the summer before now face the threat of freezing to death. Her fears worsen when Jake contracts pneumonia.
Springtime brings trials of a different kind—the snowmelt causes the ranch to thrive so much that Jake must sell off the last of their cattle to make room for their horses and the young foals to be born. In the meantime, Jess endeavors to recover her rightful inheritance, which mysteriously disappeared from the bank. When she discovers a link between the banker and a group of murderous Unionists, who continue to target Southerners even though the war is over, Jake launches an undercover investigation.
The conspiracy runs deeper and wider than either of them could have imagined. Jess must put her life—and the life of her unborn child—at risk to stop the ringleader and save the lives of many others. Yet, Jess refuses to give up hope in the God she serves—a God of love who often provides above and beyond our greatest dreams.
~ Rated four stars, "Compelling. A page-turner" by Romantic Times Book Reviews.
Readers, buy your copy of Faith's Reward today!
AUTHOR INTERVIEW
1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?
The climactic scene. I wondered, “What has never before been done before in a climactic scene?” On-location research in Virginia City, Nevada inspired the answer, and the third book of The Sierra Chronicles grew from the mental image of that one scene.
2. How much of your own experiences influenced your characters? What aspects became traits that were theirs and theirs alone?
You mean Jess’s stubbornness? You think she might have gotten that from me? LOL! Probably, though I try to think of it as certitude and tenacity. :) Neither Jess nor I are wired to quit. Traveling to places I write about grows my real-life experiences and influences my characters, as does reading intriguing historical journals written by people who lived it.
I have Jake and Jess’s love for wild, open places, and I share their love of horses, mountains, streams, and walks in the moonlight. Like them, I’ve ridden horseback over mountains on extended trips, waded in snowmelt streams, and often lose myself in the moonlight, or in watching a fog bank roll in.
Those are the qualities I’ve shared with Jake and Jess. The rest are qualities they have shared with me.
3. If your hero/heroine were an ice cream flavor, what would he/she be and why?
Jess would be mint chocolate chip—fresh and breezy as all outdoors, with a little sweetness and just a bit of kick. :)
4. Are there any themes in Faith's Reward that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?
The main theme was inspired by one of my favorite Bible verses, “Faith is being sure of what you hope for and certain of what you do not see” (Hebrews 11:1). Jess’s faith, and her powerful love for Jake, enables her to see “impossible” circumstances as merely obstacles, and it enables her to prevail against all odds.
5. What were your most difficult parts to write? Your favorite?
Difficult: Twisty plots. As the third book in a complex three-book plot, I had to be certain to tie all loose ends neatly, forgetting nothing.
Favorite: Everything else. This book has tons of unknowns, twists, and suspense, and I loved the romance. It was great fun to write.
6. When is your next book coming out and what is the story?
The next trilogy is set in 1873 Wyoming Territory, tentatively titled The Legend of the Wind River Mountains. Three sisters find love, and discover themselves, in a most unexpected place. Release date currently unknown.
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Thank you, Tammy, for being in the spotlight with us.
ENTRY RULES Readers, answer the question associated with the spotlight in the comments, then leave your email address for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Faith's Reward. If you do not answer the question, you will not be entered.
Question: As indicated above, I wrote a grip-your-seat-suspenseful climactic scene in Faith’s Reward that has never been done before (to my knowledge) in any fictional format. What is your favorite suspenseful climactic scene in a book or movie? Why is it your favorite? All you folks who share your favorite scene will be entered into the drawing to win a personalized, autographed copy of Faith’s Reward.
Make sure you also leave your email address (name at domainname dot.com/net). You won't be entered in the drawing without it. If you wish to comment but don't want to be entered, say so when you post.
This week, the contest is open to US/Canada residents only.
Ok, just 17 weeks left. And as of week 23, here is the update:
For those who didn't tune in last week, we had our ultrasound on December 2nd, and.... drum roll...
IT'S A BOY!
That's right. Richard Vaughn Stockton is growing inside of me and is quite the wiggle-worm.
At this point I’ve pretty much adjusted to the fact I’ve got a moving little gymnast inside of me, but now he's going to kick up the party a notch because he can hear and react to sounds from the outside world. Sounds from my alarm clock, a thunder roll, or that darned car honking at me across the intersection can actually jar his little ears enough to elicit a kick or violent bout of squirming. Good thing we don't live in New York City or some other big city known for crazy drivers and honkers. My boy would be kicking twice as much!
Of course this also means his little ears are picking up the sounds of my voice and those near me. I've been talking and singing to him for weeks now—and if he starts kicking, I take it as a kick of approval. :)
My boy's tiny taste buds are still growing and his bones are continuing to ossify (harden), his tiny veins are visible through his translucent yet wrinkly skin. He's been swimming in the equivalent of a long hot bath for the past 23 weeks, so can you blame him for being a little prune-like? It'll all stretch out and smooth out by the time he's ready to make his presence on the outside.
That's it for now. Next week, you'll get to hear from Richard himself from the womb. Tune in each week for the latest. And if you want to receive an email each time I post an update, subscribe using the form over there at the top right.
Thanks for coming along this journey with me...some of you for the second time.
Don't forget the rules of the spotlights here. Please answer the random question associated with this spotlight in the comments.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
 APRIL GARDNER has been a military brat, missionary's kid, and military spouse. After 21 years in various countries overseas, April happily resides in Georgia with her USAF husband. A homeschool mom, she fills her mornings talking fractions and phonics with her two sweet kiddos. In her free time, April enjoys reading, gardening, and DIY. In no particular order, she dreams of owning a horse, visiting all the national parks, and speaking Italian.
Librarian, reviewer, and avid reader, April adores anything books. She writes a weekly column for the joint blog, Reflections in Hindsight, and is the founder and senior editor of the website, Clash of the Titles.
WOUNDED SPIRITS
by April Gardner
Published by Vinspire Publishing
ABOUT THE BOOK
On the frontier, Adela McGirth’s life is simple, rugged, and exactly to her liking. Her greatest concern is whether to marry the settlement’s most eligible young officer. When a distant war among the Natives spills over into a nearby skirmish, life takes a perilous turn. Deep in enemy territory Adela must choose between the man she loves and a baby that has yet to be born; will she be strong enough to wait on God's provision?
A peace-loving yet loyal Creek warrior, Totka is forced to align with the extremist Red Stick faction whose purpose is to eradicate the Whites from Creek soil. In the midst of battle, Totka is assigned to protect those he is expected to hate--and kill. Life was simpler before his enemy became a beautiful face with a quiet strength and dignity he cannot resist.
Having lived a life plagued with death and loss, Zachariah McGirth is a man on a mission - he'll have his revenge or die trying. Blinded by grief, he can't see his way clear of yet another tragedy. Why has God taken everything from him...or has He?
Their lives molded by the course of history, can these Wounded Spirits learn to rely on God's grace during one of the bloodiest conflicts in the South?
Readers, buy your copy of today!
AUTHOR INTERVIEW
1. This is your debut novel. Congratulations! What gave you the inspiration for this story?
Thank you! Debut novel. Wow! Never thought I’d see this day. Yesterday was my Amazon Book Launch. Anyone who bought the book yesterday received tons of e-gifts! Just for readers of this blog and for today (Dec.8) only, I’m extending the offer. Buy the book on Amazon, then follow this link http://tinyurl.com/2u8bbj2 to find out how to receive your e-gifts.
My inspiration is my own family history. It’s believe my family is somehow connected to Chief Red Eagle of the book. A great, great (plus quite a few more) uncle on my dad’s side. Curiosity led me to research his life. Then the writer in me took over and demanded it be put into a novel.
2. How much of your own experiences influenced your characters? What aspects became traits that were theirs and theirs alone?
“Write what you know,” is a tried and true saying. What do I know? Spain. I grew up there. And how wonderful for me that Mobile, Alabama belonged to the Spanish during my novel’s time-period. Inserting a Spanish character (Galena) into the novel was me tipping my hat to my Spanish “heritage.” Galena’s fiery temper, however, is hers and hers alone. :)
3. If your hero/heroine were an ice cream flavor, what would he/she be and why?
Oh, this is a fun one! Let’s see…Adela McGirth, my heroine, would have to be Ben and Jerry’s Banana Split. From page one, she’s torn, split right down the middle between the enemy and her family. Totka, my Creek warrior hero, would be Ben and Jerry’s Imagine Whirled Peace. He’ll fight the white settlers, because to do otherwise would put him and his sister’s family in danger. But what he’d rather is everyone just get along.
4. Are there any themes in Wounded Spirits that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?
War brings suffering in all shapes and sizes. My characters have plenty of it. I pray my readers come away encouraged that their own suffering is important to God. He wants us to lean on him, not turn away. I’ve experienced his comfort in my own tribulations and pray the same for my readers.
5. What were your most difficult parts to write? Your favorite?
It was no easy task to “think” Native American. Starting out, I wasn’t at all familiar with their culture, and I’m sure I, unwittingly, made mistakes along the way. I hope my Native American readers forgive my blunders! My favorite scenes were the action scenes. Those scenes are never boring!
6. When is your next book coming out and what is the story?
Warring Spirits, the sequel is tentatively scheduled for November of next year. Adela’s sister, Lillian, is the heroine in Warring. The war for land might be over, but the battle still rages in her heart.
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Thank you, April, for being in the spotlight with us.
April: Thanks for having me today, Tiffany! I love to hear from readers at aprilgardnerwrites@gmail.com.
ENTRY RULES Readers, answer the question associated with the spotlight in the comments. April is unable to do a giveaway, but go back up and read her answer to Question #1 for some other giveaways and prizes related to her book.
Question: Do you have any well-known historical figures in your family tree?
Thanks for stopping by!
Seems hard to believe there are just 18 weeks left. 40 weeks or 9 months sounds like such a long time. But once you've made it halfway, it feels like it's going so much faster.
And as of week 22, here is the update:
We had our ultrasound last week, on December 2nd, and.... drum roll...
IT'S A BOY!
 That's right. We've got an all-American male growing inside me, and he is an active little bugger. The ultrasound tech kept telling him to stop wiggling and squirming and called him a wiggle-worm several times. Hmm, does that mean we're in trouble when this little guy is on the outside? I don't know. Our daughter is rather active, running a lot and constantly on the move, and she was fairly normal in the womb. Definitely not as active as my son.
Wow, it feels so great to say that. My son. :) It will make it much easier here too in regard to pronouns. No more he/she stuff. God is awesome to give us one of each. And we're done with this one. I'm getting too old for this. (grins)
So, for development of this little tyke, the grow must go on! I'm now housing a wonder-baby who weighs one full pound and measures a foot in length. His perfect little pancreas is now further developed and he's also started producing his own hormones!
My son's future in the circus as a world-famous tight-rope-walker is secure too: his inner ear is now developed to the point he has his own sense of balance. And look at those long legs! Takes after his daddy, for sure. Lucky for my little explorer, balance also promotes physical dexterity, which has him actively feeling out his surroundings where skin, body parts, and the resident umbilical cord are the big sensory experiences.
 My foot-long baby is looking a bit like an oversized raisin right now as more and more wrinkles are showing up each week. But all that excessive wrinkling is just his skin's way of planning ahead for the time when he'll start piling on that irresistible baby chub. I can hardy wait to squeeze those cheeks...the ones on the face, that is. :)
That's it for now. Tune in each week for the latest. And if you want to receive an email each time I post an update, subscribe using the form over there at the top right.
Thanks for coming along this journey with me...some of you for the second time.
Don't forget the rules of the spotlights here. Answer the random question associated with this spotlight in the comments in order to be entered in the drawing.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
 ELIZABETH GODDARD is a 7th generation Texan who lives in East Texas with her husband and four children. She and her family recently spent five years in Oregon, which serves as the setting for several of her novels, but in 2010 they returned to Texas to live near family again. Elizabeth is the author of seven novels and novellas, including Praying for Rayne and The Camera Never Lies, releasing December 2010.
THE CAMERA NEVER LIES
by Elizabeth Goddard
Published by Barbour
ABOUT THE BOOK
Crash the wedding and meet photographer Polly Perkins who zooms in on a murder victim. As she studies an endless line of potential suspects from safely behind her camera, Polly finds love staring back at her. Will her uncanny ability to read emotions through a camera lens help prevent another murder—while exploring her own potential for romance?
Readers, buy your copy of The Camera Never Lies (Hometown Mysteries) today!
AUTHOR INTERVIEW
1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?
Oh that’s easy. My inspiration was Crater Lake National Park. Usually a setting really grabs me and I decided immediately I wanted to set a story there. Then came the idea for a photographer—of course, it’s so beautiful there, how could my character not be a photographer who gets pulled into solving a mystery?Note: I created a fictional national park based on Crater Lake.
2. How much of your own experiences influenced your characters? What aspects became traits that were theirs and theirs alone?
My characters in this story don’t share too many personal experiences with me. For instance, I’ve had several people tell me that I wrote a story about their relationship with their mother. But the relationship Polly shares with her mother in Camera is not the relationship I have with my own mother. Perhaps I’ve witnessed the relationship between others.
3. If your hero/heroine were an ice cream flavor, what would he/she be and why?
Perhaps cookie dough because they still have a few raw places inside them, or rather uncooked, not ready to be served—but yet those places when revealed to the right person can be the best. Did that make ANY sense? Probably as much as the question. :)
4. Are there any themes in The Camera Never Lies that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?
Most of the themes developed as the story unfolded—nothing was planned ahead of time. A lot of the themes I didn’t even realize until I had to come up with the discussion questions for CBD. Here’s one thing that stands out. Polly has held a grudge for twenty years and she’s wished that person dead. She sees this person for the first time in years at the beginning of the story and then he ends up murdered. She wonders if God gave her the opportunity to forgive this man, or if she is guilty of a crime of the heart. There are many other spiritual themes that unfolded during the story’s writing.
5. What were your most difficult parts to write? Your favorite?
The most difficult part was getting all the red herrings right, to make sure they all connected and tied in correctly. My favorite part was writing the last third of the story. That’s when stories usually pick up for me and things are moving fast.
6. When is your next book coming out and what is the story?
I have two releases (so far) next year. Freezing Point is my romantic suspense for Love Inspired Suspense and releases in October 2011. Under the Redwood Tree is my contemporary romance for Heartsong Presents—the first book in my Redwood Coast series—and also releases in October 2011.
Blurb for Freezing Point: Investigative reporter Casey Wilkes is willing to fall off the map, having escaped certain death at the hands of a businessman who blames her for destroying his life. But her stay in obscurity lands her smack in the middle of a cash-smuggling ring and a sting operation that could turn deadly. Jesse Mitchell was transferred to a desk job after he nearly blew his last assignment, but now he’s the only man for the job. When a beautiful but nosy reporter starts asking the wrong questions, the situation could turn explosive, and Jesse can’t afford to blow the operation. But one thing he’s learned--working undercover comes with a high price. . .and this time, Jesse isn’t sure he’s willing to pay.
Here’s the blurb for Under the Redwood Tree:
Fascinated by all things Shakespeare, Camille Westover blogs about his works, while she creates a painting for the Redwood Art Association’s contest that she hopes will win her an art scholarship. When her aunt welcomes an ailing friend and then her son into her home, Camille finds inspiration beneath the brooding gaze of the handsome, but scarred, stranger. While Romeo Merete attends to his mother, Camille completes a portrait of him without his scar. Will he allow God to help him forget the past and find love again through Camille’s eyes? When a blog stalker turns physical, can Camille trust God to be her strong tower, rather than taking matters into her own hands?
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Thank you, Beth, for being in the spotlight with us.
ENTRY RULES Readers, answer the question associated with the spotlight in the comments, then leave your email address for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of The Camera Never Lies. If you do not answer the question, you will not be entered.
Question: In The Camera Never Lies, Polly is faced with an intolerable situation, considering those she loves could become murder suspects. Because of circumstantial evidence, she considers the question of their guilt even as she works to prove their innocence. Have you ever been in a situation where you had to trust someone despite what appeared to be the "facts"?
Make sure you also leave your email address (name at domainname dot.com/net). You won't be entered in the drawing without it. If you wish to comment but don't want to be entered, say so when you post.
This week, the contest is open to US/Canada residents only.
Another month, another list of new releases for you to peruse and perhaps purchase. This month, I'm thrilled to see my own newest release (Michigan Brides) among the other great books. Enjoy!
1. Aloha, My Love by Deborah Kinnard -- A Romance from Desert Breeze. A second chance at love mixes with trade winds in a winter vacation.
2. An Amish Love by Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller, and Kelly Long -- A Romance from Thomas Nelson. Two of today's most popular genres--Romance and Amish fiction--together in one volume.
3. Christmas Bodyguard; Gardians Series, Book 1 by Margaret Daley -- A Romance from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. Slade Caulder, a businessman, hires bodyguard, Elizabeth Walker, to protect his daughter, but can Elizabeth save both Slade and his daughter from a killer and keep herself from falling in love with him?
4. Cowboy Daddy by Carolyn Aarsen -- A Romance from Steeple Hill Love Inspired. When a woman calling herself the aunt of his nephews comes to try to take them away, Kip learns a lesson in love and letting go.
5. Driven by Shellie Neumeier -- A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Risen Books. Robyn can't help but notice the new guy at school, but what she misses could cost her dearly--a demon has been sent to destroy her.
6. Love Finds You in Sun Valley, Idaho by Angela Ruth -- A Romance from Summerside Press. Emily Van Arsdale returns home to film a movie and falls for the rafting consultant who has a grudge against celebrities ever since his fiancee left him for fame and fortune.
7. Maggie and the Maverick; Book 3, Idaho Brides by Erica Vetsch -- A Romance from Barbour Heartsong Presents. Maggie goes undercover to break up a ring of thieves, but finds herself falling for her prime suspect.
8. Michigan Brides by Amber Stockton -- A historical from Barbour. Relive Michigan's industrial boom alongside three women who must change their way of viewing the world before they can realize love.
9. Mail Order Cowboy; Simpson Creek Brides by Laurie Kingery -- A Romance from Steeple Hill Love Inspired. An enterprising miss in a bachelor-less post-Civil War Texas town organizes the unmarried ladies to bring mail-order grooms to town.
10. Praying for Rayne by Elizabeth Goddard -- A Romance from Barbour Heartsong Presents. Rayne Fleming loves her job designing water fountains, but when Jack Kostner joins the company all her plans for success struggle to survive, including the blossoming love between them.
11. Singing in Babylon by Ann Gaylia O'Barr-Breedlove -- General Fiction from Oak Tara. Life in the "enchanged kingdom" is nothing like she thought.
12. The Camera Never Lies; Hometown Mysteries by Elizabeth Goddard -- A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Barbour. When Polly Perkins’ camera finds a murder victim, her ability to read emotions through a camera lens could prevent another murder while giving her reason to hope in lasting love.
13. The Lawman’s Christmas Gift; Alaskan Bride Rush, Book 6 by Linda Goodnight -- A Romance from Steeple Hill Love Inspired. Love, faith, and a Christmas miracle come to a dying Alaskan town just in the "Nick" of time.
14. Touched by Mercy by Tina Pinson -- A Romance from Desert Breeze. The west seems to hold all the answers to Samantha Northam's dreams, but is it far enough away to protect her from her nightmares?
15. Wasatch Love by Lauralee Bliss -- A Romance from Barbour Heartsong Presents. The Wasatch Mountains of Utah holds the key to a young woman's unhappiness and a man's desperation.
16. Yuletide Defender by Sandra Robbins -- A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. A determined reporter, a protective cop, and a threatening gang war are headed for a showdown, just in time for Christmas.
Well, we've made it to the halfway point and beyond. Sorry I didn't post last week. Thanksgiving and traveling to see my family back East sort of took it all out of me. But now, we're at 4-3/4 months to go if this baby comes on time. It never ceases to amaze me I'll be holding my second little one and falling in love all over again in just a matter of months. :)
And as of week 21, here is the update:
Our first ultrasound is scheduled for this coming Thursday, December 2nd. My husband will be there with me. My mother-in-law is sick and doesn't want to risk bringing the sickness with her. She caught it from my niece and nephew over the holidays. Gee, what a great "gift." I'd love to take my daughter too, but it's right in the middle of her naptime. (sigh) She'll just have to be happy with feeling the baby kick and seeing Mommy's tummy get bigger and bigger.
I'm continually feeling movement and the kicks several times a day. Haven't seen any visible evidence yet, but I sure do feel it. I've noticed this one doesn't like it when I lean forward or when my daughter sits on my belly. Can't imagine why! :) Doc said I should definitely experience my first real kick about mid-December, which is coming up fast!
Belly hasn't gotten much larger, and I'm glad! I haven plenty of room in there. This tyke is swimming happy and probably doing the backstroke, reveling in all the freedom to move. Better enjoy it now, as it won't last long.
My beautiful little miracle-gro baby will be putting on a full ounce and a half this week (and weighing up to 16.5 ounces), but that’s just the beginning! Within the next five weeks, they’ll really be packin’ it on! For now, I'm pleased to report the addition of rapid eye movement (REM): a key component to any healthy baby’s sleep schedule.
While in the dermatology department: this little one's thin soft skin is very red, rather translucent, and a bit wrinkled. No worries, it’s not a premature aging disease. It's just his/her clever little body setting them up with extra space that will smooth out once this little one starts packing on the baby-fat. That won’t be for a few more weeks, though.
So for the time being, my munchkin is still a little lean mean growing machine! The beginnings of what is commonly called “brown fat” is just starting to fill in to help my baby retain some body heat, which is crucial as he/she's not yet capable of regulating their own body temperature. Sure is keeping me warm though! And winter's coming, so I don't mind a bit. :)
That's it for now. Next week, I'll be able to share pictures from our ultrasound and I hope I can also say whether we're having a boy or a girl. Tune in each week for the latest. And if you want to receive an email each time I post an update, subscribe using the form over there at the top right.
Thanks for coming along this journey with me...some of you for the second time.
Don't forget the rules of the spotlights here. Answer the random question associated with this spotlight in the comments in order to be entered in the drawing.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
 SUSAN MEISSNER is the author of 12 novels, including The Shape of Mercy, named by Publishers Weekly as one of the Best Books of 2008. When she is not working on a new novel, she is directing the small groups ministries at The Church at Rancho Bernardo. She also enjoys teaching workshops on writing and dream-following, spending time with her family, music, reading great books, and traveling. She lives in southern California with her pastor husband and their four grown children.
LADY IN WAITING
by Susan Meissner
Published by Waterbrook Press
ABOUT THE BOOK
Manhattan antique shop owner, Jane Lindsay is jolted into a new reality when she suddenly has to face the fact that her marriage is crumbling. While she grapples with her husband’s abandonment, she comes across an ancient ring that may have belonged to Lady Jane Grey. As she traces the origins of the ring and Lady Grey’s story, Jane has to decide whether she will default to habits of powerlessness or whether she will take the first steps towards real truth and happiness.
Readers, buy your copy of Lady in Waiting today!
AUTHOR INTERVIEW
1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?
I have long been intrigued by the historical account of Lady Jane Grey and have mulled writing a novel that blended her story with contemporary tale for quite awhile. She lived during a time when women had few opportunities to make their own choices, especially women of noble birth. We live in a culture today, especially in the Western world, where women can and do make many choices but sometimes life deals us a hand that seems to leave us unable to choose what will happen next. That was the question I wanted to explore: are you ever truly without choice? I created a contemporary fictional character named Jane Lindsay to consider this question. She is an antique store manager in Manhattan and one day she finds a very old ring hidden inside the binding of an ancient prayer book. Her first name is engraved inside: Jane. But she doesn’t know whose it was or how it ended up hidden inside an old book. The ring then becomes our gateway to the past.
2. How much of your own experiences influenced your characters? What aspects became traits that were theirs and theirs alone?
I can honestly say I am nowhere near as passive as my present day Jane Lindsay. She is someone who likes to defer and I am someone who doesn’t. She was a hard character to make likeable, at least for me, because of that. I had to find a way to forge out of her weakness a likeable strength. Passive people tend to be forgiving; that’s certainly a likeable trait! However I do love some of the things present-day Jane loves, like old books and train rides and French press coffee. I also loved the three years I lived in England when I first heard Lady Jane’s story. We were stationed there during the years my husband was active duty. I visited the castle that appears in the first section narrated by Lucy and absolutely fell in love with it, even though sad things happened there.
3. If your hero/heroine were an ice cream flavor, what would he/she be and why?
My present-day Jane would probably come across at first glance as vanilla but I hasten to add there’s a lot you can do with vanilla ice cream. Imagine pistachio or marble fudge on apple pie...Just not the same. Vanilla ice cream didn’t get to be so popular because no one likes it!
My 16th century Jane would be something European and expensive-tasting, like maybe a lemon sorbet with hints of mint.
4. Are there any themes in Lady in Waiting that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?
This story is a blending the historical account of a 16-year-old queen pushed to marriage and the throne by power-mongers with a fictional contemporary woman - of the same name - whose husband becomes disillusioned with their marriage and walks out. Both women appear to be victims of other people’s decisions, but I hope readers will see that things aren’t always what they seem.
My modern-day Jane, who finds an ancient ring that she believes belonged to Lady Jane Grey, sees parallels in her life and Lady Jane’s, especially when it comes to finding the courage to make a tough decision rather than defer. Through contemporary Jane, who is the collective “us” in the story, I want to convey that we can’t always choose our circumstances but we can always choose how we will respond to them.
As for themes that developed, I found as I wrote that my modern day Jane was becomingly increasingly aware no one is responsible for someone else’s happiness. A person chooses to be happy. We can only attempt to love them as we love ourselves. But they are the ones who will choose – for themselves - happiness over discontentment.
5. What were your most difficult parts to write? Your favorite?
As I mentioned earlier, uncovering modern-day Jane’s virtues tasked me. Her flaws – she’s passive, deferential, and supremely non-confrontational – were obvious but I had to work at exposing her virtues of compassion, forgiveness and loyalty. I loved writing about Lucy and Jane both falling love, even though I knew what would eventually happen.
6. When is your next book coming out and what is the story?
My 2011 release is entitled A Sound Among the Trees. The story is set in Fredericksburg, Virginia, in a 160-year-old house that survived one of the more horrific battles of the Civil War. The family living in the house, called Holly Oak, includes a matriarch-type gal whose great-great grandmother was accused of being a spy and hiding Union soldiers. The current-day family also includes the matriarch’s grandson-in-law, who is a newly remarried widower who has just brought his second wife to live at Holly Oak, which is, of course, his deceased first wife’s home - an interesting little situation for this new bride. At the new wife’s wedding reception there is talk that there is a ghost at Holly Oak, which is quickly discounted. But still, the house seems to project an aura of regret, like it can’t forget what happened within its walls during the war. And here is this new bride, trying desperately to fit in...
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Thank you, Susan, for being in the spotlight with us.
ENTRY RULES Readers, answer the question associated with the spotlight in the comments, then leave your email address for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Lady in Waiting. If you do not answer the question, you will not be entered.
Question: Lady Jane Grey, who seemingly had no choices left to her, had one remarkable moment to make a definitive decision that was all on her own. I won’t spoil anything for anyone but she actually was not a helpless puppet the entire time. Not the entire time. I found that one moment quite remarkable. It’s in the book! ... Have you ever had a moment like that, where a decision you made could make or break a given situation? If so, what was it? Do you feel you made the right decision? Why or why not?
Make sure you also leave your email address (name at domainname dot.com/net). You won't be entered in the drawing without it. If you wish to comment but don't want to be entered, say so when you post.
This week, the contest is open to US/Canada residents only.
Don't forget the rules of the spotlights here. Answer the random question associated with this spotlight in the comments in order to be entered in the drawing.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
 KIM VOGEL SAWYER is the author of seventeen novels, including several CBA and ECPA bestsellers. Her books have won the ACFW Carol Award, the Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence, and the Inspirational Readers Choice Award. Kim is active in her church, where she leads women's fellowship and participates in both voice and bell choirs. In her spare time, she enjoys drama, quilting, and calligraphy. Kim and her husband, Don, reside in central Kansas, and have three daughters and six grandchildren.
COURTING MISS AMSEL
by Kim Vogel Sawyer
Published by Bethany House
ABOUT THE BOOK
Edythe Amsel is delighted with her first teaching assignment: a one-room schoolhouse in Walnut Hill, Nebraska. Independent, headstrong, and a firm believer in a well-rounded education, Edythe is ready to open the world to the students in this tiny community. But is Walnut Hill ready for her?
Readers, buy your copy of Courting Miss Amsel today!
AUTHOR INTERVIEW
1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?
As a former school teacher, I've always thought it would be fun to feature a schoolmarm in one of my stories. A snippet from an article about women's suffrage--it mentioned that if Nebraska had approved the right-to-vote amendment, it would have been the first state in the U.S. to give voting rights to women--planted a seed, and Edythe Amsel was born. Edythe is a very progressive schoolmarm for 1882, and Walnut Hill, Nebraska, will never be the same once she sweeps through.
2. How much of your own experiences influenced your characters? What aspects became traits that were theirs and theirs alone?
I had a lot of fun incorporating some of my own teaching methods (tweaked, of course, for a different century) into the story. Like Edythe, I wanted my students to expand their thinking--to grow personally as well as academically. I hate to confess, but I also share a tendency toward stubbornness with Miss Amsel. lol Of all the heroines I've written, I probably related most closely to Edythe because of the teaching aspect and some of her personal traits (stubborn, independent, wanting to make a difference...). But she's a lot spunkier than I ever thought about being! I'm not one to instigate or stand up very well against conflict.
3. If your hero/heroine were an ice cream flavor, what would he/she be and why?
Hm, Joel is such a steadfast, dependable fellow, he would probably be something that can stand alone and still blend well with others. So I'd say vanilla with real vanilla beans for an added burst of flavor. As for Edythe, since she has a penchant for "standing out," she'd be a much more exotic flavor...cinnamon with dark chocolate chips.
4. Are there any themes in Courting Miss Amsel that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?
When the story originally formed in my mind, I expected a theme about being true to one's convictions to be the underlying take-away. But as I got to know Edythe better, I realized she had a real problem with letting go of control and leaning into someone else's strength. This impacted her earthly relationships, but also interfered with developing a trust in her heavenly Father. Edythe had as much growing to do as some of the children under her tutelage. Thankfully, God is a patient teacher. :)
5. What were your most difficult parts to write? Your favorite?
The most difficult parts concerned the historical aspects--making sure the details were right for that part of the country in that time period. Farming methods have changed greatly in the last 100 years! I scoured every resource I could find, and an 1882 Farmers' Almanac proved the most helpful. As for my favorite parts...any of the classroom scenes. Writing about Edythe relating to her students brought back so many pleasant memories of my own teaching days.
6. When is your next book coming out and what is the story?
The next release is titled A Whisper of Peace, set in Alaska (near Denali) at the turn of the century. I'm not sure of the release date (spring or fall?), but it will definitely be out in 2011. I'm very excited about this story--it features an Athabascan Indian heroine and a pair of missionaries, and was inspired by my visit to Alaska in 2008. It is different from my others historical stories (not a prairie in sight!), but I hope my readers will enjoy getting to know Lizzie, Vivian, and Clay.
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Thank you, Kim, for being in the spotlight with us.
ENTRY RULES Readers, answer the question associated with the spotlight in the comments, then leave your email address for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of Courting Miss Amsel. If you do not answer the question, you will not be entered.
Question: Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school, and why?
Make sure you also leave your email address (name at domainname dot.com/net). You won't be entered in the drawing without it. If you wish to comment but don't want to be entered, say so when you post.
This week, the contest is open to US/Canada residents only.
Only 1 more week to the halfway point. That's 4-1/2 months to go if this baby comes on time. It never ceases to amaze me I'll be holding my second little one and falling in love all over again in just a matter of months. :)
And as of week 19, here is the update:
Our first ultrasound is scheduled for December 2nd. My husband and mother-in-law will be there with me. I'd love to take my daughter too, but it's right in the middle of her naptime. (sigh) She'll just have to be happy with feeling the baby kick and seeing Mommy's tummy get bigger and bigger.
I started feeling movement about a month ago and have been feeling flutters or bubbles every day since. I've noticed this one doesn't like it when I lean forward or when my daughter sits on my belly. Can't imagine why! :) Doc said I should definitely experience my first real kick about mid-December.
Belly hasn't gotten much larger, and I'm glad! I haven plenty of room in there. This tyke is swimming happy and probably doing the backstroke, reveling in all the freedom to move. Better enjoy it now, as it won't last long.
My amazing little baby is now around 10 inches in length! If this seems a bit shocking, it's actually because his/her little legs are now straight enough to be measured. This is when doctors begin measuring fetal growth from head to toe, (no longer “crown to rump” or CR). Lanugo (little hairs) covers my little one's whole body now, trapping that charming cheese-like vernix caseosa (see week 18) to the surface to the skin.
This week my baby will start on an appetizing diet of amniotic fluid which he/she is now capable of swallowing, digesting, and passing the fluid as far as their tiny “large” intestines. Fortunately for me, this nice little lump of baby-poop won’t be coming out while the baby is still in my womb. Some time shortly after birth, though, this fun lump will become the first in a long line of baby poops. Oh yay, that black, sticky stuff again. *winks* At least we're given advance warning about what it will look like and how to get it off.
That's it for now. Next week, we'll be back East visiting family for Thanksgiving. So, the next 2 weeks will be "on location" out there. Tune in each week for the latest. And if you want to receive an email each time I post an update, subscribe using the form over there at the top right.
Thanks for coming along this journey with me...some of you for the second time.
Don't forget the rules of the spotlights here. Answer the random question associated with this spotlight in the comments in order to be entered in the drawing.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
 MARGARET DALEY is an award winning, multi-published author in the romance genre. One of her romantic suspense books, Hearts on the Line, won the American Christian Fiction Writers’ Book of the Year Contest. Recently she has won the Golden Quill Contest, FHL’s Inspirational Readers’ Choice Contest, Winter Rose Contest, Holt Medallion and the Barclay Gold Contest. She wrote for various secular publishers before the Lord led her to the Christian romance market. She currently writes inspirational romance and romantic suspense books for the Steeple Hill Love Inspired lines, romantic suspense for Abingdon Press and historical romance for Summerside Press. She has sold seventy-five books to date.
Margaret is currently the Volunteer Officer for ACFW. She was one of the founding members of the first ACFW local chapter, WIN in Oklahoma. She served as vice-president for two years in WIN-ACFW and is still on its board as an advisor. She has taught numerous classes for online groups, ACFW and RWA chapters. She enjoys mentoring other authors.
Until she retired a few years ago, she was a teacher of students with special needs for twenty-seven years and volunteered with Special Olympics as a coach. She currently is on the Outreach committee at her church, working on several projects in her community.
You can visit her web site at http://www.margaretdaley.com and read excerpts from her books and learn about the ones recently released and soon to be released.
A DAUGHTER FOR CHRISTMAS
by Margaret Daley
Published by Steeple Hill/Love Inspired
ABOUT THE BOOK
Dr. Max Connors had no idea he'd fathered a child thirteen years ago. Or that his baby girl had been given up for adoption. He locates his daughter in a small Oklahoma town and moves there, hoping to become a part of her life. But when he meets her widowed mother, Max is unsure how to reveal his identity. As he helps Rachel Howard with her plans to homeschool the girl, he's welcomed into the family. But with the holidays approaching, Max must tell Rachel who he really is. Can he make his dreams of family come true by Christmas?
Readers, buy your copy of A Daughter for Christmas today!
AUTHOR INTERVIEW
1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?
I have always liked books about secret babies. This is a secret baby with a twist.
2. How much of your own experiences influenced your characters? What aspects became traits that were theirs and theirs alone?
In a lot of my characters I have bits and pieces of myself. In this book Rachel’s daughter, Taylor, is diagnosed with attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity. As a teacher I have dealt with many children with ADHD. Some of my experiences working with these children are illustrated in this story.
3. If your hero/heroine were an ice cream flavor, what would he/she be and why?
Rachel’s ice cream flavor would be cookie dough while Max’s ice cream flavor would be fudge chocolate. Max has a sweet tooth and loves ice cream. I see him combining his love of chocolate with ice cream. I gave Rachel my favorite ice cream, cookie dough.
4. Are there any themes in A Daughter for Christmas that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?
The main theme is forgiveness. I use this theme in stories because I think it is so important in life.
5. What were your most difficult parts to write? Your favorite?
The most difficult part to write was when Max had to tell Taylor he was her biological father. My favorite scene to write was when Max’s outdoor Christmas decorations ended up blowing down the street.
6. When is your next book coming out and what is the story?
My next book after this one comes out in December 2010 called Christmas Bodyguard, a Love Inspired Suspense. This is the first in a series about female bodyguards.
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Thank you, Margaret, for being in the spotlight with us.
ENTRY RULES Readers, answer the question associated with the spotlight in the comments, then leave your email address for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of A Daughter for Christmas. If you do not answer the question, you will not be entered.
Question: Max couldn’t forgive Alicia for what she had done to him. Have to you ever been unable to forgive someone? Why?
Make sure you also leave your email address (name at domainname dot.com/net). You won't be entered in the drawing without it. If you wish to comment but don't want to be entered, say so when you post.
This week, the contest is open to US/Canada residents only.
Don't forget the rules of the spotlights here. Answer the random question associated with this spotlight in the comments in order to be entered in the drawing.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
 SARAH SUNDIN lives in northern California with her husband and three children. When she isn’t ferrying kids to soccer and tennis, she works on-call as a hospital pharmacist and teaches Sunday school. She belongs to American Christian Fiction Writers and Christian Authors Network. She is the author of the Wings of Glory series— A Distant Melody (Revell, March 2010), A Memory Between Us (September 2010), and Blue Skies Tomorrow (August 2011).
A MEMORY BETWEEN US
by Sarah Sundin
Published by Baker/Revell
ABOUT THE BOOK
Major Jack Novak has never failed to meet a challenge—until he meets army nurse Lieutenant Ruth Doherty. When Jack lands in the army hospital after a plane crash, he makes winning Ruth's heart a top-priority mission. But he has his work cut out for him. Not only is Ruth focused on her work in order to support her orphaned siblings back home, she also is determined not to give her heart to any man. As the danger and tension of World War II rise to a fever pitch, Jack and Ruth will need each other more than ever. Can Jack break down her defenses? Or are they destined to go their separate ways? From the English countryside to the perilous skies over France, A Memory Between Us takes you on a journey through love, forgiveness, and sacrifice.
A Memory Between Us is the second book in the Wings of Glory series, which follows the three Novak brothers, B-17 bomber pilots with the US Eighth Air Force stationed in England during World War II. Each book stands alone.
Readers, buy your copy of A MEMORY BETWEEN US today!
AUTHOR INTERVIEW
1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?
My first novel, A Distant Melody, was originally meant to be a standalone, but while doing research, I became enamored with the Eighth Air Force during World War II and wanted to tell the full story to V-E Day. Since my hero had two pilot brothers, I decided to write a trilogy, with each book focusing on one brother. About this time, the character of Lt. Ruth Doherty came to me—what if a poor girl made a bad decision in order to feed her family? What kind of girl would make such a decision? What would she be like when she grew up? I mentally put Ruth in the same room with Jack—and sparks flew!
2. How much of your own experiences influenced your characters? What aspects became traits that were theirs and theirs alone?
That’s hard to tease out. Like my heroine, Ruth, I’ve also dealt with shame (although for different reasons), so I was able to follow her on that journey. In general, I try to think like my characters do, so a bit of me goes into each one. I may never have experienced what my characters go through, but I know what it’s like to feel rejected, joyful, angry, terrified, ashamed, or content. However, I’m careful not to make my characters just like me. How boring would that be?
3. If your hero/heroine were an ice cream flavor, what would he/she be and why?
Maj. Jack Novak would be coffee ice cream—he’s energizing and dynamic. Lt Ruth Doherty would be deep-fried ice cream—a hard shell on the outside, soft and melty on the inside.
4. Are there any themes in A Memory Between Us that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?
I didn’t write with a theme in mind, but the themes developed from the characters and story. I had named my heroine Ruth because it’s a great period name and one I’ve always loved. Then I re-read the book of Ruth in the Bible and was struck by some inadvertent parallels between the women—which I then chose to develop (isn’t God fun?). I also discovered my theme verse when Boaz praises Ruth for coming to trust under the Lord’s wings. I think I jumped up and down and screeched. I realized both Jack and Ruth needed to learn to trust—and the “wings” reference was perfect for a book about a pilot.
5. What were your most difficult parts to write? Your favorite?
The most difficult scene to write was near the end when Ruth had to face her great ordeal. The poor thing had been through so much in the story, and I found myself wanting to back off and resolve the scene early. But I couldn’t. I had to keep pushing the scene and pushing Ruth to the brink, because I knew only when she faced her darkest moment would she see the truth she needed. Argh. I think the Lord must have similar feelings when we go through trials. He knows the lessons we’ll learn, which is why He lets us stay there, but it must grieve Him.
I had many favorite parts. So much of this story wrote itself. Any time I put Jack and Ruth in the same room, the banter flew. I just transcribed their dialogue. It was a lot fun.
6. When is your next book coming out and what is the story?
The third book in the Wings of Glory series, Blue Skies Tomorrow, comes out August 2011.
Lt. Raymond Novak prefers the pulpit to the cockpit, but at least his stateside job training B-17 pilots allows him the luxury of a personal life. As he courts Helen Carlisle, a young war widow and mother who conceals her pain under a frenzy of volunteer work, the sparks of their romance set a fire that flings them both into peril. After Ray leaves to fly a combat mission at the peak of the air war over Europe, Helen takes a job in a dangerous munitions yard and confronts an even graver menace in her own home. Will they find the courage to face their challenges? And can their young love survive until blue skies return?
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Thank you, Sarah, for being in the spotlight with us.
ENTRY RULES Readers, answer the question associated with the spotlight in the comments, then leave your email address for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of A Memory Between Us. If you do not answer the question, you will not be entered.
Question: Your turn—what flavor ice cream would you be? Or a chicken-out question—what’s your favorite flavor?
Make sure you also leave your email address (name at domainname dot.com/net). You won't be entered in the drawing without it. If you wish to comment but don't want to be entered, say so when you post.
This week, the contest is open to US/Canada residents only.
I originally put this in my email newsletter over the summer, but I only had a 2-3 participants. So, now, I’m opening up the contest to anyone and everyone. This will also be posted on my Facebook Readers page. And you can forward this blog post to anyone you think might be interested. I’m looking to hit all available markets and avenues from teens up to our beloved grandparents or great-grandparents. :)
All right. Now for the contest. It's two-fold.
 LEVEL ONE
1. Write a Review
Review any or all of my books. I've received dozens of reviews from readers, but they've all been sent privately to me. Some I’ve featured on my web site, and others I’ve shared on my blog. Now, I'd love to see some of these great words appear online for everyone else to read too!
2. Post Your Review Online at any review site such as Amazon.com, Christianbook.com, Barnes&Noble.com, etc.
3. Email Me the Link (or tell me the web site where you posted it and the book you reviewed. Any site that features book reviews will count, not just the ones I’ve listed above.
4. You will receive one entry in the giveaway contest for each book you review and post (but posting the same review to multiple sites only counts once).
Reviews count toward my overall marketing summary for my career. It's great when I can provide reviews to those who ask for them, but it's better when others can find them without asking.
 LEVEL TWO
1. Forward this email to other reviewers.
Do you know someone who loves to write reviews, or someone who has read one of my books and might be willing to review it? If so, forward this email and ask them to follow the rules in Level One.
2. Have your friends say you referred them by providing your name and email address.
3. You will receive one entry for each friend who posts a review and gives your name as referrer.
 BONUS LEVEL
1. Buy one of my books between August 1st and December 15th, 2010.
My books make fun gifts for the book lover in your circle of friends or family. If they love history and romance, they'll love my books. Buy one for yourself, a friend, a family member, or any other occasion.
2. Email me with the order confirmation # and web site where you purchased the book. No personal information, please. Protect your privacy.
3. You will receive two bonus entries for each book you buy.
 EXTRA CREDIT
I didn't want to leave out anyone who might not write reviews, or anyone who hasn't yet read one of my books. So, this section is for you.
1. Refer subscribers to my quarterly newsletter.
2. Forward this email to your friends.
3. Ask your friends to put your name and email address as referrer when they subscribe.
4. You will receive one entry for every 2 people who subscribe.
PRIZE TIME!
And now it's time to tell you what you have a chance of winning. Winners will be drawn and announced on December 15th, 2010 via my newsletter, my web site, my blog, and Facebook, as well as Twitter.
GRAND PRIZE
- Complete autographed set of all 8 of my currently available books.
- Advance copies (autographed) of each future book through the end of 2012 (6-8 books currently expected).
- Your review(s) featured for one year on my web site.
- Autographed copy of your choice of either a Tracie Peterson novel or a Tamera Alexander novel.
- Complete autographed set of all 8 of my currently available books.
- Your review(s) featured for 1 year on my web site.
- Autographed set of one series plus the repack. Your choice. Liberty's Promise (Delaware Brides) set, Michigan Brides set, or the brand new Delaware series releasing in 2011. (4 books each)
And that's all there is to it. The more you do, the more chances you have to win. Leave a comment with any questions you might have.
Wow! When I type out that post title, it makes everything hit home real hard! I can't believe I'm already nearing the halfway point and only have about 5 months left. It's amazing to even think that in just 5 short months, I'll be holding my second little one and falling in love all over again. :)
Oh, and for those who hadn't heard or read it yet....SURPRISE! I'm pregnant again and expecting another wee one on April 8th, 2011. It's posted in several places on this blog, my web site, and Facebook, but easy to miss if you're not looking for it.
Anyway, if you were around in 2008-2009, you know on Mondays I posted weekly updates toward the countdown of my first baby's arrival. Well, I heard so many great comments and received so much feedback, I figured it'd be a great idea to do that again. I began in week 22 then, so I'm getting a few weeks' early start this time around.
And as of week 18, here is the update:
We have had 4 appointments so far, and our first ultrasound is scheduled for December 2nd. This time, we're going to find out if we're having a boy or a girl. No surprises. And this is it for us too. Only two children. I'm getting too old and too close to 40 to have anymore. :)
I started feeling movement about 3 weeks ago and have been feeling flutters or bubbles every day since. Doc said I should definitely experience my first real kick about mid-December.
Other than that, we're doing great. I had a belly at about 6 weeks, believe it or not. I'd heard with a second baby, your body remembers, but I didn't believe it until it happened. With my daughter, I didn't need maternity clothes until nearly 6 months. This time, I was scrounging for my maternity clothes, worried I'd packed them somewhere I'd never find, or worse, that I'd put them in a large garbage bag that got thrown away. We've been preparing to move from our condo to a house this year, so there are a lot of boxes. Thank God, I looked in a tub in my daughter's closet and TADA! I found them. Phew! :)
Anyway, this is the week when my baby's inner ear and the nerve endings from the brain have developed enough so that he/she can probably detect sounds clearly. One of the most comforting sounds is probably my heartbeat. My baby may also hear my voice, my stomach rumbling, and the sound of blood moving through the umbilical cord to and from the placenta, which is now almost as big as my baby.
So, I guess it's good to start singing and talking to the wee one I'm carrying. :)
And....we have two more ounces! My litte "getting bigger-n-better by the minute baby" is already up to 7 ounces and 6 inches! This is also a big week for their baby skin. There are now two distinct layers—the epidermis (or the surface skin) and dermis. Currently, his/her skin is covered with a greasy, waxy, cheese-like substance, known as vernix caseosa. Sure, it sounds pretty nasty, but this mixture of fatty secretions covering my little swimmer from head to toe is the best way to protect their oh-so-thin skin from bruising and abrasions as well as chapping caused by amniotic fluid exposure (and my little one is swimming in that stuff!).
My baby is also starting to swallow and may even feel thirsty sometimes. Some experts think thirst may trigger a baby to swallow, and since amniotic fluid is constantly being produced, my baby’s swallowing of excess fluid helps keeps the fluid at a constant level. This little one can also mimic breathing. The little chest will continue to move up and down to mimic breathing, but my baby isn't breathing air—just swallowing and inhaling amniotic fluid.
That's about it for now.
Tune in next week for the latest. And if you want to receive an email each time I post an update, subscribe using the form over there at the top right.
Thanks for coming along this journey with me...some of you for the second time.
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Don't forget the rules of the spotlights here. Answer the random question associated with this spotlight in the comments in order to be entered in the drawing.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
 VANNETTA CHAPMAN has published more than 100 articles in Christian family magazines. She discovered her love for the Amish while researching her grandfather’s birthplace in Albion, Pennsylvania. Vannetta is a multi-award-winning member of Romance Writers of America. She currently teaches in the Texas hill country. A Simple Amish Christmas, her debut novel, released on October 1st. It is now in its 3rd printing and is a CBD bestseller. Chapman is hard at work on a three book Amish murder mystery series set in Shipshewana, Indiana. Written for Zondervan (a division of Harper Collins), these cozy mysteries will begin releasing in 2011.
A SIMPLE AMISH CHRISTMAS
by Vannetta Chapman
Published by Abingdon Press
ABOUT THE BOOK
Annie Weaver always planned to return home, but the 20-year-old RN has lived in Philadelphia for three years now. Her time of rumschpringa is about to come to an abrupt end, bringing for Annie an overwhelming sense of loneliness as the Christmas season is in full swing. She returns home and finds herself face-to-face with a budding romance with an Amish farmer. Her passion for healing has caught widower Samuel Yoder's attention. Will she also capture his heart? Annie has several important choices to make, all on the morning of A Simple Amish Christmas.
Readers, buy your copy of A Simple Amish Christmas today!
AUTHOR INTERVIEW
1. What gave you the inspiration for this story?
My agent specifically asked me to write an Amish story, which I hadn't done before A SIMPLE AMISH CHRISTMAS. But the inspiration for this particular story came from two places--my grandparents, who I've discovered lived in Pennsylvania during the early 1900s and then the conviction that many Amish women must struggle with the same problems that you and I do.
2. How much of your own experiences influenced your characters? What aspects became traits that were theirs and theirs alone?
I always bring something of myself to a story, at least in its inception. Although Annie loves her community as well as her Amish faith, she has an insatiable desire to learn. This becomes a bit of a problem when her schooling ends after the 8th grade. She's a bit adrift and dissatisfied with her employment prospects. I didn't attend college full time after high school, and I definitely was not satisfied with the secretarial work I was doing. Like Annie I've always had a desire to learn more that is never quite satisfied.
3. If your hero/heroine were an ice cream flavor, what would he/she be and why?
I think Annie would be Neapolitan--homemade vanilla because she has that basic goodness about her, rich chocolate to represent the more daring side of her personality that is willing to take risks, and then of course strawberry to represent the fun teasing side of her that does tend to land her in trouble occasionally.
4. Are there any themes in A Simple Amish Christmas that you hope the reader sees? Are there any themes that weren't overt but developed as the story progressed?
I suppose every book has multiple themes, but the one theme that I consciously tried to develop was a focus on God's grace. Annie is young and hasn't learned to fully accept that yet. Samuel, on the other hand, knows God's grace intellectually - but part of his heart has suffered so that he no longer can embrace it. Which is why God has brought them together.
5. What were your most difficult parts to write? Your favorite?
The most difficult part for me was probably the home birthing scene, since that's something I've never seen personally. However, I was present for the birth of my dear friend's daughter in a hospital room, and that was one of the most precious, blessed events I've ever witnessed. So maybe this was my most difficult and most favorite scene rolled into one.
6. When is your next book coming out and what is the story?
I have a 3 book series from Zondervan which will begin releasing next year. Shipshewana Amish Mystery Series is set in Indiana and involves two women (one Amish, one English), a quilt and a dead body. I'm currently working on book two and love, love, love these ladies. Watch for the cover on my webpage and blog.
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Thank you, Vannetta, for being in the spotlight with us.
ENTRY RULES Readers, answer the question associated with the spotlight in the comments, then leave your email address for your chance to win a FREE autographed copy of A Simple Amish Christmas. If you do not answer the question, you will not be entered.
Question: I was surprised to learn my grandparents were born and raised in Albion, Pennsylvania. Where were your grandparents raised?
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