Melanie Writes--Fiction and Book Reviews

Family Fiction Magazine's Annual Poll and a Book Signing in Huntsville, Alabama

2012-01-24T14:48:00.007-06:00

Check out Family Fiction Magazine's annual survey. Go vote for your favorite books, authors, genres, even movies and DVD's. Click here to go vote.

Also, I'm doing a book signing at the Books-a-Million in Huntsville, Alabama this Saturday, January 28th, from 1 to 3 p.m. I hope you can come by and say hello!

I'm also meeting with the Finding Hope Through Fiction Book Club in Atlanta this Monday night, Jan. 30th. For more information, contact me or Nora St. Laurent!

The Merchant's Daughter is $1.99! For a Limited Time ONLY

2011-12-20T09:58:00.006-06:00

Hey, everybody! I'm excited to let you know that The Merchant's Daughter is $1.99 for a limited time as an e-book. So get it while you can! ALSO, The Healer's Apprentice is $1.99 for a limited time!

Please tell all your friends!

The Merchant's Daughter Now Available on Kindle and Nook!

2011-11-19T09:53:00.003-06:00

Time has seemed to go by so slowly while I've been waiting for The Merchant's Daughter to release! Finally, it is available for download to your computer, Kindle, Nook, or whatever e-reader you happen to have! Go here to buy it for your Kindle.
Or if you have a Nook, click here to get it.

And I have some more news to share. If you like fun, romantic stories, you will love this book. It's one of my favorites. Before the Season Ends by Linore Rose Burkard, and right now, for a limited time, it is a FREE download! I've downloaded it to my computer, because I know I will read it again some day, and I'm sure I will get a Kindle some day too! So go here to download your FREE copy of Before the Season Ends.

Enjoy!

The Reviews for The Merchant's Daughter Are IN!!!

2011-11-07T16:08:00.003-06:00

The reviews are in! I was really excited to get a Publisher's Weekly review for The Merchant's Daughter today. Oh wow, I feel so blessed!
"...Dickerson has once again done her historical homework in this tale set in England in 1352. ...This riff on Beauty and the Beast makes the story as comfortable as a pair of old shoes, but the shoes fit well. The Christian apparatus in the tale is natural and a nice twist links the Bible, literacy, and women's empowerment."

I was thrilled to get a positive review in Publisher's Weekly! Yay! They even complimented my research. And I've gotten a few others too.

Here is an excerpt of a review I particularly enjoyed from Kirkus. I'm not sure if they're trying to be positive or negative or both, but I liked it anyway. "Should Annabel flee or stay to defend lonely, disfigured Ranulf, whom she has come to love? Awash in meticulous medieval detail and heavily glossed with Christian overtones, this thinly veiled homily pulses with self-sacrifice, good intentions and suppressed sexuality."

Can't help but enjoy the "pulses with ... suppressed sexuality" comment! LOL!

And the Romantic Times reviewer said: "A fresh take on Beauty and the Beast. Even though this is a young adult novel, adults will enjoy this as much as teens. The message will resonate with readers of all ages: Beauty is within all of us. Regardless of physical appearance, a person’s true value lies within."

And this is from Booklist: "Intertwining the lore from The Beauty and Beast and strong biblical messages, Dickerson (The Healer’s Apprentice, 2010) manages a heartfelt romance that will stick with readers, not only for its morality but for
the exploration of a woman’s place within fourteenth-century English Christianity. True, readers will peg the happy ending at the start, but the progression of Annabel’s honorable love affair will have the rapt attention of Christian-fiction fans."

So, all in all, I can be quite happy with those reviews. But it would certainly--as I know from experience--be smarter to ignore all these reviews along with any negative ones I get and just keep writing my next story. But hey, it's only my second book. Maybe wisdom will come with the third book.

Seekerville Giveaway and Interview

2011-10-27T22:26:00.002-05:00

Today I will be on the talking about fairy tales and particulahttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifrly Beauty and the Beast. Please stop by and chat with me. If you leave a comment you will be entered in a drawing to win a copy of my new soon-to-be-released book, The Merchant's Daughter.

I did a video interview via Skype a few weeks ago. I still haven't watched it myself, but if you're interested, here is the YouTube link.

Wreath by Judy Christie

2011-10-12T22:09:00.003-05:00

Hey, all! I want to tell you about a special offer one of my author friends is making available today. Judy Christie has written her first Young Adult novel, Wreath. And today when you order her new book, you also get several cool downloadable gifts free -- including a sneak peek--the whole first chapter--of my upcoming novel, The Merchant's Daughter, coming in November.

I'm sharing news of Judy's book with you because I think it's the type of book you might enjoy. Wreath is the story of a teenager -- Wreath Wisteria Willis -- who lives in a junkyard by night and goes to school by day. Life has kicked her around a bit, but she is determined not to let it keep her down. She's gutsy, fun, and smart -- just the type of girl you want to read about and share with the young readers in your life.

But I'll let Judy tell you more about her new book. Check her out at JudyChristie.com. Get her book today and get lots of other free gifts -- including one from me!

Shelbyville, Tennessee book signing and Medieval presentation

2011-10-07T11:47:00.005-05:00

Hi, all! I'm doing a medieval presentation

and book signing at The New Covenant Christian Book Store in Shelbyville, Tennessee, at 12:00 noon tomorrow! Saturday, Oct. 8th, in honor of Christian Store Week. My very generous and helpful librarian from the Monrovia Library is accompanying me and providing a projector and screen so that I can have pictures. Yay, pictures!

A picture is worth a thousand words so maybe it will keep me from talking too much! LOL

Anyway, I'll also be signing copies of The Healer's Apprentice, so please come and see me!

The Merchant's Daughter is up for Book of the Month

2011-09-19T22:20:00.003-05:00

Today the online ACFW Book Club is voting on my new book, The Merchant's Daughter, (and a slew of other historicals) for the January book of the month. If you are a member of the ACFW Book Club, you can go now to vote at this link: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/acfwbookclub/surveys?id=2387975. (Please copy and paste because blogger is not letting me insert a live link.)

And if you are not a member of the ACFW Book Club, it's very easy to join. You can go to the yahoo groups website, groups.yahoo.com, and search for ACFW Book Club and click join. That's just about all you have to do. Then click where it says Polls on the left side and find the poll that was just created today, Sept. 19th. Or copy and paste the above link.

Thanks!!!

Also, miraculously, I am heading out to St. Louis on Wednesday for the ACFW conference!!! If you will be there, please look for me and claim your hug! I am so excited to be going. The Healer's Apprentice is up for a Carol Award, which is soooooooo sweet. Can't wait to see people and be with a bunch of great writers for four days! Woohoo!!!

News, and Trailer for The Merchant's Daughter

2011-09-12T08:44:00.004-05:00

While The Healer's Apprentice continues to get attention from contests--it is up for a Carol Award on Sept. 24th, one of three finalists in the Young Adult category, and a Maggie Award on Oct. 1st, also in the Young Adult category, I'm gearing up for the release of my second book, The Merchant's Daughter. More information to come, but I will be doing some book signings in the North Alabama area in November and December, so keep watching for that information.

Or watch it on YouTube, http://youtu.be/d-cwzxPfupE

The Merchant's Daughter releases in November.

99 Cent E-Books!

2011-07-22T09:19:00.004-05:00

Zondervan is offering a whole list of their e-books for 99 cents, including The Healer's Apprentice. You can get them for your Kindle, your Nook, your Kobo, your Sony reader, and if there are other e-readers I don't know about, they should have them for 99 cents too! Here's the list of Young Adult books:
Vanished (Faithgirlz! / Boarding School Mysteries)
0.99

The Healers Apprentice
0.99

Beyond the Reflection's Edge (Echoes from the Edge)
0.99

Chosen Ones (Aedyn Chronicles, The)
0.99

Catwalk (On the Runway)
0.99

Starlighter (Dragons of Starlight)
0.99

Eternity's Edge (Echoes from the Edge)
0.99

Boyfriends, Burritos & an Ocean of Trouble (Real Life)
0.99

I Love You This Much
0.99

Always Watching (The Rayne Tour, Book 1)
0.99

Mixed Bags (Carter House Girls, Book 1)
0.99

Saint Training
0.99

Premiere (On the Runway)
0.99

On the Run (Elijah Project, The)
0.99

Sophie's Secret (Book 2)
0.99

Sophie's World (Sophie Series, Book 1)
0.99

A Horse to Love (Keystone Stables)
0.99

Motorcycles, Sushi and One Strange Book (Real Life)
0.99

Stealing Bradford (Carter House Girls, Book 2)
0.99

A Girl Named Mister
0.99

Katy's New World (The Katy Lambright Series, Book 1)
0.99

Lucy Doesn't Wear Pink (Faithgirlz! / A Lucy Novel)
0.99

Jackson Jones, Book 1: The Tale of a Boy, an Elf, and a Very Stinky Fish
0.99

So go stock up on some good books! And please tell your friends!

The Great Reveal: Video Trailer of The Merchant's Daughter

2011-07-18T10:32:00.005-05:00

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What do you think of the trailer? She slightly mispronounced the hero's name (Ranulf, emphasis on the second syllable) and it isn't live action like my first one, but I like it.

What do you think of the cover? I absolutely love it and think they perfectly caught the feel of the story, with the hero's face in the broken mirror the heroine is holding. Cool, no?

If you'd like to pre-order your copy of The Merchant's Daughter, you can do that on Amazon.com
Barnes & Noble
ChristianBook.com
or Borders

Let me know what you think!

Website Is Back Up, a.k.a. Always Backup!

2011-07-15T14:06:00.004-05:00

Always keep a backup copy of your website!

That's the moral of the story of my disappearing website. It went down last week, and today it's back, thanks to Michael Joshua. Michael helped me by finding the html codes for all my web pages and putting them back up for me. It was quite a bit of work, and he is a hero! So, if you need a simple affordable website, Michael is your man! You can contact him on his website, or leave me a message in the comments and I'll give you his email address.

Keep an eye on my website in the next few days to see the official unveiling of the cover for my new book, The Merchant's Daughter, which comes out in November. There is a trailer for this book too, so don't miss it!

Here's a teaser for The Merchant's Daughter, my Medieval Beauty and the Beast story:
An unthinkable danger. An unexpected choice.

Annabel, once the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is trapped in indentured servitude to Lord Ranulf, a recluse who is rumored to be both terrifying and beastly. Her circumstances are made even worse by the proximity of Lord Ranulf’s bailiff—a revolting man who has made unwelcome advances on Annabel in the past.

Believing that life in a nunnery is the best way to escape the escalation of the bailiff’s vile behavior and to preserve the faith that sustains her, Annabel is surprised to discover a sense of security and joy in her encounters with Lord Ranulf. As Annabel struggles to confront her feelings, she is involved in a situation that could place Ranulf in grave danger. Ranulf’s future, and possibly his heart, may rest in her hands, and Annabel must decide whether to follow the plans she has cherished or the calling God has placed on her heart.

ICRS, Christy Awards, and website problems

2011-07-09T21:30:00.003-05:00

Monday I'll be signing copies of The Healer's Apprentice at the International Christian Retail Show--right after Karen Kingsbury. (Thank you, Karen, for drawing the crowd!) Should be fun. I've never been to the ICRS, but I'm very excited about it. There will be actual famous people there, like the Duggar family, Bethany Hamilton of Soul Surfer fame, and others. I will only be there one day, but I hope to post some pictures.

Monday night I will also be attending the Christy Award dinner, which should also be fun. Or at least nerve-wracking! It's really exciting to be a finalist, I must say.

And lastly, you may have noticed that my website is down and showing an error message. I have called the server about this and it is supposedly being fixed, but it is taking quite a long time. Grrrr. Right now I have no one to maintain my site, and I am pitiful, just pitiful, when it comes to anything having to do with making updates to a website. I tried once and it was not pretty. But the person I had hired to do my website and make updates has decided not to do it anymore, so if you or someone you know knows anything about HostGator or anything about websites, please, please, please let me know. I want to put the cover and trailer for my new book, The Merchant's Daughter, on my website, and I need help. Help, help, help. Please help the pitiful, old-fashioned author who has zero ability to work on a website.

Okay, end of pathetic-ness confessions and rants.

Greater Harvest Writers Workshop in Dayton Ohio

2011-07-02T09:53:00.003-05:00

In case you live near Dayton, Ohio or can drive in for the workshop, I want to invite you to the Greater Harvest Workshop on July 30th. I'll be teaching two workshops, one on writing
Christian romance and one on revising the first 30 pages of your manuscript so that an editor or agent can't resist requesting the full.

There will also be three other presenters, author Linore Burkard, children's author Donna Jo Shepard, and magazine article writer Teri Horsley. So please make plans to come! You can find out all the details at the Greater Harvest Workshops website.

You can also connect with Greater Harvest Workshops on facebook. Hope to see you on July 30th!

Win the e-book of The Healer's Apprentice

2011-06-25T19:45:00.004-05:00

Hey, guys! My friend, Carrie Pagels is giving away The Healer's Apprentice as an e-book. So if you have an e-reader and don't have The Healer's Apprentice yet, please go by Carrie Pagel's blog and leave a comment for a chance to win it!

I am working on the second round of edits of The Merchant's Daughter, my Beauty and the Beast story that comes out in November, and I am loving it so much!!! I love the changes we made. You're going to LOVE this hero! Guaranteed or ... I'll be really surprised! LOL!

Anyway, hope everybody is having a great weekend! Remember to check out Carrie's blog and her review of The Healer's Apprentice!

Vote for The Healer's Apprentice in a cover contest

2011-05-16T11:16:00.003-05:00

The good news of recognition for The Healer's Apprentice has been coming fast and furious, and I almost forgot to tell you about a cover contest that The Healer's Apprentice is a finalist in. Check out the Cover Cafe Cover Contest where my book is in the Two-Image Cover category. The front and back covers are being judged. There are lots of Christian books in the contest, in every category except the Worst Cover category. Which is good, since you will have to vote in at least three categories for your vote to count.

So go vote on three categories, and don't look at the Worst Cover category. Those covers are really gross, pornographic, if you know what I mean.

Also, if you want to win a copy of The Healer's Apprentice, leave a comment all this week on Shannon Vannatter's blog, where Rose is being interviewed on what she thinks of love, men, and marriage--but this was before she met Lord Hamlin. ;-) Go check it out!

I'm a Christy Award Finalist!!!

2011-05-08T19:43:00.004-05:00

In case you haven't heard me screaming and laughing the past three days ...
The Healer's Apprentice is a Christy Award finalist!!!
Here's the whole list of finalists from the Christy Awards website:

Contemporary Romance/
Blood Ransom

by Lisa Harris (Zondervan)
Indivisible

by Kristin Heitzmann (WaterBrook Press)
Sworn to Protect

by DiAnn Mills (Tyndale House Publishers)

Contemporary Series, Sequels, and Novellas/
The Reluctant Prophet

by Nancy Rue (David C. Cook)
The Thorn

by Beverly Lewis (Bethany House Publishers,
a division of Baker Publishing Group)
The Waiting

by Suzanne Woods Fisher (Revell Books,
a division of Baker Publishing Group)

Contemporary Standalone/
Almost Heaven

by Chris Fabry (Tyndale House Publishers)
Lady in Waiting

by Susan Meissner (WaterBrook Press)
A Season of Miracles

by Rusty Whitener (Kregel Publications)

First Novel/
Crossing Oceans

by Gina Holmes (Tyndale House Publishers)
Heartless

by Anne Elisabeth Stengl (Bethany House Publishers, a division of Baker Publishing Group)
A Season of Miracles

by Rusty Whitener (Kregel Publications)

Historical/
Chosen: The Lost Diaries of Queen Esther

by Ginger Garrett (David C. Cook)
For Time & Eternity

by Allison Pitman (Tyndale House Publishers)
While We’re Far Apart

by Lynn Austin (Bethany House Publishers,
a division of Baker Publishing Group)

Historical Romance/
The Girl in the Gatehouse

by Julie Klassen (Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group)
She Walks in Beauty

by Siri Mitchell (Bethany House Publishers,
a division of Baker Publishing Group)
Within My Heart

by Tamera Alexander (Bethany House Publishers, a division of Baker Publishing Group)

Suspense/
The Bishop

by Steven James (Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing Group)
The Bride Collector

by Ted Dekker (Center Street)
Predator

by Terri Blackstock (Zondervan)

Visionary/
To Darkness Fled

by Jill Williamson (Marcher Lord Press)
Konig’s Fire

by Marc Schooley (Marcher Lord Press)
The Last Christian
http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
by David Gregory (WaterBrook Press)

Young Adult/

The Charlatan’s Boy
by Jonathan Rogers (WaterBrook Press)

The Healer’s Apprentice
by Melanie Dickerson (Zondervan)

Motorcycles, Sushi, and One
Strange Book
by Nancy Rue (Zondervan)

And if that isn't enough, The Healer's Apprentice is a DOUBLE finalist in the National Readers Choice Awards! Check out the list of all the finalists.

My cup runneth over. It's truly a dream come true to final in the Christy Awards. I've been dreaming about it since I started writing, hoping to get a Christian novel published. I am so honored and feel so blessed. Thank you, God!!!

Happy Resurrection Day!

2011-04-23T09:23:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow is Easter, or Resurrection Day. I hope you will go to church and experience a little of what Jesus did for you and feel a fresh touch of heaven.

If you are a writer, or a person with a burning desire or dream in your heart, I have a great prayer from Mary DeMuth. She calls it A Writer's Prayer.

And in honor of Resurrection Day, here's a wonderful article on the evidences of Jesus and his resurrection by Eddie Snipes.

God's greatest blessings on you, dear reader!

Annual Readers Luncheon at the VBC

2011-04-12T21:55:00.002-05:00

If you live near Huntsville, Alabama, please consider attending the annual Readers Luncheon at the Von Braun Center for those who love romance novels. I, and a lot of other authors much more famous than I am, will be participating in a book signing at the end of the luncheon. Here's an announcement and information:

Registration is now open for the 14th Annual Heart of Dixie event, held at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville, AL, on April 30, 2011, from 11am until 3pm.

Special guest author Kerrelyn Sparks will share her vampire world during the keynote speech, host a table, and sign books at this year's event. Attendees will enjoy a delicious garlic-free lunch and blood-stirring conversation with fellow romance readers and favorite romance authors including Linda Howard, Beverly Barton, Linda Winstead Jones, Peggy Webb, Rhonda Nelson, Lynn Raye Harris, Kimberly Lang, and Vicki Lewis Thompson.

HOD's Annual Luncheon also includes mysterious door prizes and celebrations. A book fair and autograph session with the attending authors following the luncheon is open and free to the public at 2pm. Profits from the book fair are donated to a local literacy charity.

Join us as we celebrate romance in all its spine-tingling forms! Registration is $25 and must be received by April 15th. Seating is limited, so register today. More information and registration forms can be found at www.heartofdixie.org or call 256-586-5962.

I will personally be giving away a copy of my book, The Healer's Apprentice, and a basket of "medieval" items. See you there!

Attention Booksellers and Librarians!

2011-03-06T18:46:00.003-06:00

Judges are needed for the Carol Awards, sponsored by American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Here is the official call:

*ACFW's 2011 Carol Awards are actively recruiting librarians and booksellers
who are interested in judging the best in Christian fiction for the year
2010. If you are, or know of, a bookseller or librarian, who would be
interested, please contact Mindy Obenhaus at carolawards@acfw.com.

So if you are a librarian or a bookseller and you enjoy Christian fiction, please email Mindy at the above address. It means FREE books, and what's better than that?

Giveaways of The Healer's Apprentice!

2011-02-23T09:51:00.002-06:00

If you don't have a copy of The Healer's Apprentice, or need a copy to give to a friend, there are two giveaways going on right now! One at Novel Teen, the group blog I do with some other Christian YA authors. Just leave a comment on my article, What Do You Crave?

And the other giveaway is on Jamie Carie's blog. So please go check it out!

Book Signing in Atlanta

2011-02-17T18:12:00.005-06:00

If you happen to be in Atlanta on Monday, Feb. 21st, which is President's Day, please stop by the Buford LifeWay store in front of the Mall of Georgia. I'm having a book signing from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and then speaking to the book club that meets in the store that night at 7:30. Would love to see you!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-11T22:24:00.008-06:00

My friend, Jamie Carie, author of several very romantic novels, wants to share this video with you. These quotes are from her novels. Jamie writes Christian romance with heart and passion and emotion, so be forewarned that these quotes will make you want to read her books!

To better view this video (since I don't know how to make it fit the blogger screen!) please go to the YouTube page.

I hope you all have a wonderful Valentine's Day. Eat some chocolate! I know I will!

Go check out Jamie Carie's website for more information about her books.

The Merchant's Daughter--New Book to Release Dec. 2011

2011-02-10T11:13:00.004-06:00

It's official! I have a new book coming out December, 2011, with Zondervan. This one is a Beauty and the Beast story titled The Merchant's Daughter.

Here's a short summary:

Annabel grew up as the daughter of a wealthy merchant, but her father died and left them penniless. Her family is in trouble with the new lord of the village for shirking their duties, and she is forced to become Lord Ranulf’s servant. But Annabel is terrified to work at the manor house, since the bailiff once tried to molest her. Perhaps even more terrifying is Lord Ranulf himself, whose temper is as frightening as his appearance.

Lord Ranulf saved a servant from a wolf attack years before, which left him scarred physically, while his late wife’s betrayal left him scarred emotionally. People say he’s a beast, growling at anyone who tries to get close to him. If he didn't require someone to read to him at night, he'd never allow Annabel so near. She is a beauty and could never look at him with anything but repulsion. But when both their lives are at stake, Lord Ranulf is willing to sacrifice everything to keep her safe.

It has sort of a Gothic, romantic atmosphere (think Jane Eyre but with even more romance), and the cover designers did the most amazing job of capturing that mood. I can't wait to show you the cover! And I can hardly wait to see the trailer. The same people who created the cover and trailer for The Healer's Apprentice are also doing the cover and trailer for The Merchant's Daughter. I just wish December wasn't so far away! LOL!

Oh, and I just heard about a new medieval mystery series. I haven't read the books, but they look really good, sort of a Christian version of the Cadfael mysteries, which are by author Ellis Peters.

I hope I get to read them soon. I like the Cadfael mysteries. Although I am more of a romance reader, personally. :-)

Keep your eyes and ears out for my new book, The Merchant's Daughter!
Have a blessed week!

FREE download of The Healer's Apprentice!

2011-01-04T10:49:00.003-06:00

Get your FREE e-book of The Healer's Apprentice!

You can get it from Barnes & Noble as a free Nook book!

You can get the e-book from CBD.com.

You can get it from Amazon.com, where reviewers who hate Christian books love to hang out. (oops! Did I say that? Sorry. Slip of the keyboard.)

So tell your friends! Got get my book for free. You can download it to your computer, too, even if you don't have a Kindle or Nook or Sony Reader. So now you have no excuse for not reading my book! *Very big grin*

Oh WOW!

2010-12-03T09:32:00.002-06:00

My book is in Publisher's Weekly! In an article about Young Adult books, PW featured my book's cover prominently and said: "A highlight of this fall's list is The Healer's Apprentice by Melanie Dickerson, a loose retelling of the Sleeping Beauty story."

If you want to read the entire article, you can go here

Also, I will be doing an interview live between 4 and 5 this afternoon on WAAY-31 TV in Huntsville. Tomorrow (Sat.) I have a book signing at The Coffee Tree in Huntsville from 8 a.m. to 12 noon. The Coffee Tree is located on Bailey Cove Road across from Grissom High School and behind Star Pharmacy. Would love to see you! :-)

Get Autographed Copies of The Healer's Apprentice

2010-11-25T21:29:00.003-06:00

Want a simple, easy way to get personalized, autographed copies of The Healer's Apprentice? Do you have a special daughter, granddaughter, sister, niece, hairdresser, pastor's wife, etc. etc. who would love to get The Healer's Apprentice as a Christmas gift? (Of course you do!) Well, I have good news for you! :-)

Here is the link to bookseller Roseanna White website where you can buy my book. Roseanna will ship the book to me, I will sign it and personalize it any way you want, and mail it to you. This is a limited time offer, only running through Dec. 7th, so hurry!

And it isn't only my book that you can order. This is an "online book signing event!"
There are almost 80 authors participating. So go to the site and check it out. You can search by author, title, or genre at the Christian Review of
Books and then follow the purchase links
to CrossPurposes Bookstore and buy autographed copies of each book featured. The authors will sign the books and ship them to the customers.

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving, and here's to a very blessed and merry Christmas!

What is Your Moral Compass?

2010-11-19T12:58:00.004-06:00

What do you use as your moral compass? When you make decisions, what is your standard to help you make the right choice? And when you read a book, how do you judge the characters’ choices?

When I was thirteen years old, I read Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte for the first time.

It became one of my favorite novels and I still re-read it occasionally. The first time I read it, I wanted the hero and heroine to get married. They seemed made for each other. They were good for each other, and they loved each other. But Jane, the heroine, was convinced that it would be wrong to married Mr. Rochester.

Mr. Rochester tried to hide the truth from her, and when that failed, he simply told her it was all right. Yes, he was technically still married to his first wife, but it was all right. She was completely mad, so that made it okay. Also, no one would know. But Jane would not be persuaded. She would not commit a sin to please the man she loved, so she ran away from him, at great peril to herself, and also to Mr. Rochester, who she knew would be so distraught that he might do harm to himself.

The first time I read it, when I was only thirteen, I couldn’t understand why Jane didn’t just marry Mr. Rochester. He had explained to her why it was all right. Why didn’t she just marry him? I even went to my mother and told her the situation and asked her why it wouldn’t be all right for them to marry. She told me it wouldn’t be all right because the Bible said no one should have more than one wife. It was against God’s law—and man’s law—for Jane to marry Mr. Rochester.

I was a little shocked that I had let Mr. Rochester persuade me, if not Jane.

By the Bible’s standards, which was what Jane was following, Jane had done the right thing. By the world’s standards, as I read in a recent review of Jane Eyre on Goodreads, Jane did not do the right thing. She was following some outdated, overbearing religious law. She should have stayed with Mr. Rochester. To that reviewer, the standard was feelings. They both felt love for each other, so if they stayed together as man and wife, it was right.

What is the standard you follow? Do you apply it to story characters when you read a book?

I recently read a book that is marketed to teens as a Young Adult book. In it the “hero” does many things that violate the Bible’s standards, both in the beginning before he becomes “good,” and at the end, when he has changed and is considered “good.” What makes him good, you might ask? Well, now he is much kinder to people. And now he knows that it’s only okay to sleep with your girlfriend if you love her.

Wow, that’s a big departure from Jane Eyre. When you read a book, what is the “Truth,” or standard, that you judge it by? That modern novel I read was entertaining, but I cringe to think that some people who read it will mistake it for Truth. It isn’t okay to sleep with someone you’re not married to, even if you think you “love” them. What is love anyway? Love is a sacrificial thing, not just an emotion. If the person who says they “love” you isn’t willing to commit to you, to sacrifice for you, and marry you, then maybe that isn’t love at all.

But if you have no solid standard to go by, you won’t know what is good and what is harmful. And if you can’t judge right and wrong in a novel, how will you judge it in your own life?

Just some thoughts I wanted to throw out there! Would love to hear your thoughts and comments.

Sandi Rog's The Master's Wall

2010-11-10T08:16:00.005-06:00

I want to tell you about my friend, Sandi Rog. Last week her very first book, The Master's Wall, was released. The book has gotten rave reviews from published authors such as Robert Liparulo, and is said to be one of the best, if not THE best, Christian novel set in ancient Rome. But unfortunately, Sandi was not able to really enjoy her book's debut last week.

For a while, Sandi had been feeling really awful. She deals with MS and all the dread and physical problems that brings, so she believed her fatigue and dizziness was caused by the MS. However, her doctor put her in the hospital on the day Sandi's book came out and discovered she has a brain tumor. And a few days later, they confirmed that it is cancerous.

I want to ask you all to consider purchasing Sandi's book, The Master's Wall. I have known Sandi through ACFW and a very active writers' loop that we both participate in, HIS Writers, for writers of Christian historicals with exotic settings. I know Sandi to be a sweet, loving person and a very dedicated wife, mom, and writer. She loves the Lord and wants her life to glorify Him. And I desperately am praying for her healing. I ask you also to pray for her healing, and for her continued good spirits as she goes through treatment, chemo and radiation. Please pray for her family, too, her husband and four children. Sandi has been through a lot in her life, and I am praying for God's power and mercy to give her a miracle. Please join me in this.

And if you want to do more than pray, another way to help Sandi is to purchase her book. You can get it from Amazon.com here,

and it is also available on Kindle.
Her publisher is DeWard Publishing Company. Daniel DeGarmo of DeWard Publishing Company issued this statement:
...My business partner and I have agreed to donate an
additional $1 per book to a Fund that I'll be setting up this week.

Just so no one thinks we are being shady about the whole deal, this is above
and beyond the royalties that Sandi (and her agent) is already incurring
with every book sold.

The purpose of this fund is to help out Sandi's family (husband and
children) while she is laid up fighting for her life.

What I need from you is simply spread the word. For every copy of "The
Master's Wall" that is sold (including Kindle) we will donate $1 to this
Fund.

I'll also be setting it up so that it can receive regular donations if
anyone is interested in just helping out financially.

As soon as I have more information on this, I will let you know.

Please pray for Sandi! The Bible says God is the healer. He is "the God of compassion." He is merciful and "longs to give good gifts to his children." Pray with me that God, in his mercy and wisdom, will give the gift of healing to Sandi.

Thank you.

Radio Interview

2010-11-04T19:04:00.002-05:00

You can listen to my interview by going to the website, www.meetinghouseonline.info and clicking on The Intersection Download Center and the blue letters that say Click Here. Then scroll down to where it says Melanie Dickerson and click on the speaker on the left.

Radio Interview and Book Signing

2010-11-04T08:25:00.003-05:00

Today Faith Radio in Alabama will air a 15-minute interview with me sometime between roughly 4:30 and 5:15 p.m. You can hear it at 89.1 in Montgomery, 91.5 in Andalusia, 90.3 in Dothan, and a few other towns and frequencies in Alabama. More details can be found at the Faith Radio website. You can listen to the interview later, some time after it airs, by going to www.meetinghouseonline.info and downloading it.

This interview is to publicize my book signing in Andalusia this Saturday from 12:00 noon to 2:30 at Tabby D's Christian Book Store. I'm excited about going "home" and hoping to see some people I grew up with and haven't seen for ... a long time! There's also an interview with me in the Andalusia Star-News, which you can read by going to their website.

I'm very thankful to my Public Relations person, Candice, for getting me these "gigs" and to Zondervan for hiring her! God has been good to me. So far the sales for The Healer's Apprentice have been good. They even seem to be picking up on Amazon, so I'm very thankful!

Outdoor Festival and Book Signing in Birmingham!

2010-10-28T12:06:00.003-05:00

Come to McCalla, Alabama (near Birmingham) for Brooke's Book Stop's authors and crafts festival. It's this Saturday, October 30th from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and there will be food vendors and a live band! Also, several other authors will be there, including Christian author Elizabeth White, signing her latest book, Tour de Force.

I will also be signing my book, The Healer's Apprentice. The owner of Brooke's Book Stop and her daughter have been promoting The Healer's Apprentice! I'm excited to get to chat with them. :-)

If you're in the Birmingham area this Saturday, please come by! It's at 5928 Old Tuscaloosa Hwy McCalla Al. 35111, beside Brooke's Book Stop.

The ACFW Book Club is discussing The Healer's Apprentice

2010-10-21T11:25:00.003-05:00

The ACFW Book Club is discussing my book, The Healer's Apprentice, for the rest of this month! If you are interested in getting in on the discussion, go to the yahoo groups website and click "join this group."

It's so much fun to get to "listen in" on the discussion of my very own book, especially since I used to be the coordinator of this book club and I used to imagine how fun it would be to have people discussing my book! :-)

Publisher's Weekly Reviews The Healer's Apprentice!

2010-10-13T16:43:00.002-05:00

Publisher's Weekly reviewed The Healer's Apprentice! Here's their review:
"Alternating between the two protagonists' viewpoints, the plot unfolds at a satisfying clip with zesty supporting characters (the healer, the duke's younger son), which add intrigue. A light-handed Christian subtext weaves seamlessly through the novel: illness, injury, and malevolence are all combated 'in the name of Jesus.' Dickerson combines fairy tale ambiance (an unkind stepmother, a rat-filled dungeon, a caricature of a bad guy) with historical touches like herbal remedies, musical instruments, and architectural details to create a colorful and convincing atmosphere in this strong debut."

Pretty awesome, isn't it? Just the fact that they reviewed it all is an honor, and to get a positive review like this really makes my day ... no, my week!

"Clean" Young Adult Fiction--Two Reviews

2010-10-04T21:19:00.002-05:00

In my header it says I review Christian fiction. But since it's so hard for teens today to find good "clean" fiction, and since there is nothing out there in the Christian realm quite like my historical romance, fairy tale retelling, The Healer's Apprentice, I decided to review some books from the general market that are similar to my book and are "safe" for teens.

Today I have reviews of two such books. I hope these are helpful.

Beauty by Robin McKinley

I just re-read this book for the second time. It is a classic fairy tale retelling. Based on the Beauty and the Beast fairy tale, it is a gentle romance told enchantingly by the author, Robin McKinley. She wraps you up in details, but the details are always pertinent to the story, so you never get bored. It is a fantasy but very well-told, and I would recommend it to girls who are starting to read romance, as well as to anyone else who loves romance. It’s very sweet and definitely one of my favorite fairy tale retellings.

Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George

A retelling of the Twelve Dancing Princesses fairy tale, this is an intriguing tale with interesting characters and a wonderful hero who rescues not one but twelve fair princesses. I enjoyed this story and am happy to say it is very “clean” and is safe for young teens to read. There are even a few Christian elements in this fantasy that make it even better, like the fact that the late queen’s silver cross, which she dropped in the evil king’s kingdom, has caused a silver forest to sprout up which wards off evil and provides some protection from the evil king’s sons. I wouldn’t recommend the book to anyone younger than twelve, as there are a few scenes with the evil villain and his sons that are pretty intense, but I feel good about recommending it to the voracious reader looking for something that’s not too “dark.”

Chance to Win The Healer's Apprentice

2010-10-02T18:48:00.004-05:00

Teen blogger Prism is giving away a copy of The Healer's Apprentice on her blog, A Girl of Many Colors. Another giveaway can be found this week on K. Dawn Byrd's blog and on Elizabeth Ludwig's blog.

Lots of great reviews have come in on The Healer's Apprentice, and from some pretty prestigious places! For example:

Kirkus Reviews says: “The medieval German setting and fastidious details of period clothing, food, music and dance provide an ideal context for this courtly romance between two young lovers who choose duty, virtue and honor above self-interest. Female readers should savor this romantic fare.”

And Romantic Times says: “In her debut, Dickerson spins a magical tale loosely based on the story of Sleeping Beauty. Laced with plenty of romance, action, faith and fantasy, it's a perfectly romantic and well-told tale. Although it's written for a YA audience, it well satisfies the desire for sweet romance in all of us.”

Book Signing in Huntsville! This Friday!

2010-09-29T13:16:00.003-05:00

Nothing like doing things at the last minute! LOL!

Barnes & Noble at the Bridge Street shopping center only does a book signing every few months. They tried to email me but somehow they didn't get through. Anyway, I just found out they're doing a book signing this Friday from 4:00 to 6:00 and I will be there, and so will my books, if anyone wants to come out and say hello! I so appreciate the way people supported me a few weeks ago at LifeWay, so if you didn't get to come then, please come now! :-)

Drawing to Win The Healer's Apprentice T-shirt!

2010-09-15T11:01:00.002-05:00

As I had mentioned before, I am holding a drawing for you to win a T-shirt with the The Healer's Apprentice cover on the front. If you want to win this XL shirt, please leave a comment here or on my facebook page.

I am told that I can't ask you to take a picture of my book on a book store shelf in order to be entered in the drawing, BUT it would be really awesome if you would snap a pic of The Healer's Apprentice on a book store shelf and put it up on facebook. I have yet to see my book on a book store shelf! So you could be the first to share that with me!

Also, Amazon now has copies of The Healer's Apprentice in stock!!! YAY! And so does CBD.com. And you can now leave a review on Amazon.com, as of yesterday. If you read the book and like it, I would really be grateful if you would post a short review on Amazon, and any other places like Goodreads.com. I don't think anyone's posted a review yet on Goodreads.

So leave a comment to win a t-shirt!!!

Indianapolis Book Signing!!!

2010-09-08T10:42:00.003-05:00

If you live anywhere near Indianapolis, I want you to know about a book signing event scheduled there during the ACFW Conference, which is next weekend, September 17th to 20th. I will be signing copies of The Healer's Apprentice on Sunday, Sept. 19th, from 1:00 to 1:30 ... well, I'll stay longer than that, unless they run me off! I would love to see you there and sign a book or three for you. ;-)

But I will not be the only author! Here is a link to the schedule, in case you have other favorite authors! Among others, the list of authors includes:

Mary Connealy
Kim Sawyer
Julie Lessman
Tracie Peterson
Lisa Wingate
Gayle Roper
Deborah Raney
Dan Walsh
Rachel Hauck
Denise Hunter
Colleen Coble
Linore Rose Burkard
Sharlene MacLaren
James Scott Bell
Terri Blackstock
Brandilyn Collins

And many, many others! This is just a small percentage! I'm still pinching myself and am blown away that I get to sign my own books at this year's conference! God is good!

Another Giveaway

2010-09-07T23:13:00.002-05:00

I did forget a giveaway! Nora St. Laurent's blog, Finding Hope Through Fiction.

She's offering lots of extra chances to win by having you twitter the post and things like that. She also always puts up lots of fun pictures on her blog, so check it out!

More Blogs, More Giveaways

2010-09-07T07:52:00.002-05:00

I know I've probably missed one or two, but here are two more blogs going live today that have giveaways of my book.

Favorite Pastimes which is doing a two-part interview spread over today and tomorrow, and

A Pen For Your Thoughts

Whew! My life has sped up exponentially in the last few weeks! But I'm hanging on and trying to enjoy the ride! Who needs sleep, right? Definitely overrated. :-)

New Contest! Spot my book in a book store

2010-09-02T22:04:00.002-05:00

New Contest! If you see The Healer's Apprentice in a book store on the shelf and take a picture of it and post it to your facebook page and send me a link, I will put you in a drawing for an XL t-shirt with the cover of The Healer's Apprentice on the front and the words "Fairy Tales Do Come True."

On a Bunch of Blogs! Several Giveaways

2010-09-02T09:16:00.002-05:00

I'm on a bunch of blogs this week, and several of them are offering a chance to win my book, The Healer's Apprentice. (Hint: there are very few comments so far on Golden's blog and the Okay Listen Here blog, so you have a good chance of winning.)

Tomorrow I will be on Heidi Main's blog and Tiff Amber Stockton's blog. Next week I'll be on Lena Nelson Dooley's blog and the Seekerville blog next Friday.

I've probably forgotten a few, so I'll try to fill you in later!

September New Releases

2010-08-31T19:54:00.001-05:00

Hmm, let's see who has a new release this month ...

30. The Healer's Apprentice by Melanie Dickerson -- A Romance from Zondervan. The Sleeping Beauty fairy tale comes to life when Rose, the apprentice to the town healer, falls in love with Lord Hamlin, the betrothed son of a duke.

1. Across the Cotton Fields; Mississippi Brides, book 1 by Diane T. Ashley and Aaron McCarver-- Romance from Barbour. Alexandra Lewis must find a husband before a family scandal follows her to Mississippi, but where does God fit into her plans?

2. A Door County Christmas; The Heart's Harbor by Cynthia Ruchti, Ride With Me Into Christmas by Rachael Phillips, My Heart Still Beats by Eileen Key, and Christmas Crazy by Becky Melby, A collection of four Christmas-themed romance novellas from Barbour. A Door County innkeeper guarantees four single women that her Christmas cactus gifts˜and love˜will bloom by Christmas. As December nears, will barren plants and romances blossom into holiday joy?

3. A Hope Undaunted; Winds of Change series, book 1 by Julie Lessman -- An Romance from Revell. While on a summer law internship, a sassy and modern woman of the Roaring 20s butts heads with her lawyer boss, a stubborn pest from her past.

4. A Memory Between Us; Wings of Glory, Book 2 by Sarah Sundin -- An historical from Revell. During World War II, B-17 pilot Maj. Jack Novak has never failed to meet a challenge - until he meets Lt. Ruth Doherty, a striking nurse with a shameful secret.

5. A Prairie Christmas Collection by Deborah Raney, Tracie Peterson, Tracey V. Bateman, and six others -- A collection of nine Christmas-themed romance novellas from Barbour. An instant holiday treasure, this fiction collection is penned by nine multi-published authors. Each novella promises a sweet Christian romance on the historical American Great Plains.

6. A Riverwalk Christmas by Elizabeth Goddard, Martha Rogers, Lynette Sowell and Kathleen Y'Barbo-- A collection of Christmas-themed romance novellas from Barbour. Four young women find love in the most unexpected places at Christmas.

7. A Very Private Grave; #1 The Monastery Murders by Donna Fletcher Crow -- A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Kregel. A new policeman must protect a young social worker from big-city gangs making their evil way down south. Felicity thinks she knows everything, until a brutal murder teaches her she doesn't know anything.

8. A Woodland Christmas by Janelle Mowery, Tamela Hancock Murray, Darlene Franklin and Ramona Cecil-- A collection of Christmas-themed romance novellas from Barbour. Experience a nostalgic Christmas in the Piney Woods of East Texas where a traveling wood-carver dispenses wisdom that brings four couples to realize the gift of love.

9. Alpha Redemption by P.A. Baines -- A Science Fiction/Fantasy/Futuristic from Splashdown Books. In man's pursuit of knowledge, artificial intelligence was created. In the pursuit of love, artificial intelligence found God.

10. Baby Makes A Match; Love Inspired/Chatam House Series by Arlene James -- A Romance from Steeple Hill. A rodeo cowboy rescues a stranded pregnant girl and with the help of three matchmaking aunties….well what else do you need?

11. Christmas Mail Order Brides by Vickie McDonough, Susan Page Davis, Therese Stenzel and Carrie Turansky-- A collection of Christmas-themed romance novellas from Barbour. Ride the transcontinental railroad as marriage arrives by mail-order-and just in time for Christmas.

12. Finding Becky; Book 3 Winds Across the Prairie by Martha Rogers -- An Historical from Realms/Strang. Rebecca comes home with a new attitude, but Rob wants to find the Becky he's loved since their youth.

13. Formula for Danger by Camy Tang -- A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Love Inspired Suspense. Dermatologist researcher Rachel Grant is pursued by an enemy trying to take her latest research and her life.

14. Head in the Clouds by Karen Witemeyer -- A Romance from Bethany House. When a recovering romantic goes to work for a handsome ranch owner, her heart isn't the only thing in danger.

15. High-Stakes Inheritance by Susan Sleeman -- A Romance from Steeple Hill. Claiming an inheritance turns deadly when Mia Blackburn returns to her hometown.

16. In Every Heartbeat by Kim Vogel Sawyer -- An Historical from Bethany House. Claiming an inheritance turns deadly when Mia Blackburn returns to her hometown.Three best friends, three cherished dreams, three searching hearts...

17. Judgement Day by Wanda Dyson -- A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Random House/Waterbrook. One reporter's love of sensationalism leads to a horrifying story and someone willing to kill her to keep her quiet.

18. Lily and the Lawman; Idaho Brides, Book Two by Erica Vetsch -- An Historical from Barbour. A wary woman has no choice but to join forces with a local lawman to rescue her kidnapped niece.

19. Love Finds You Under the Mistletoe by Anita Higman and Irene Brand-- A Romance from Summerside Press. Two heartwarming stories of Christmas past and present.

20. Lydia's Charm by Wanda Brunstetter -- A Romance from Barbour. Will the anonymous gifts left for Lydia bring her hope for a new life, and when tragedy befalls her yet again, will the mysterious gift giver be there to support her?

21. Making Waves; CHAIM series, Book Four by Lorna Seilstad -- An Historical from Revell. After Mr. Boring presses for an engagement, a witting debutante meets an intriguing sailing instructor who is everything her hum drum suitor is not.

22. McKenzie; Montana Skies Series by Penny Zeller -- An Historical from Whitaker House. She wanted to change him and mold him into the man she was supposed to marry. Instead, she was the one whose heart was changed.

23. Medical Error; Prescription For Trouble (book two) by Richard L. Mabry, M.D. -- A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Abingdon. Identity theft isn't normally fatal, but this time it was.

24. More Than Words; Daughters of Amana #2 by Judith Miller -- An Historical from Bethany House. Will Gretchen Kohler's one impulsive decision cause tragic consequences for the entire Amana Community and cost her everything, even the love of her life?

25. Second Chance Brides; Texas Boardinghouse Brides #2 by Vickie McDonough -- An Historical from Barbour. When the man they came to town to marry weds someone else, two mail order brides must find a way to survive in Texas--or find another man to marry.

26. Secret of the Shroud by Pamela Billings Ewen -- A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from B&H Publishers. A powerful Bishop reaches for revenge when he's suddenly confronted with the secret of the Shroud and a choice that can destroy him.

27. Tender Vow by Sharlene MacLaren -- A Romance from Whitaker House. When John Evans is killed in a skiing accident, his brother, Jake, reaches out to his widowed sister-in-law, but Rachel will have nothing to do with his charity, particularly since they have a "history" she'd rather forget--but God has other plans.

28. The Columns of Cottonwood; The Alabama River Heritage Series by Sandra Robbins -- A Romance from Barbour. When a handsome stranger purchases a woman's plantation for back taxes, she vows to recover her land, but they discover God has a greater solution--a compromise to benefit both.

29. The Doctor's Blessing; #2 in The Brides of Amish Country by Patricia Davids -- A Romance from Steeple Hill. A nurse-midwife to the Amish and the new doctor clash over her home deliveries.

31. The Newcomer by Laurie Alice Eakes -- An Historical from Barbour. Marigold sacrifices things precious to her, for the sake of her young charges and isn't willing to let their uncle take over when danger follows in his wake.

32. The Perfect Blend; The Tea Shop Series by Trish Perry -- A Romance from Harvest House. A jilted bride encounters chaotic jobs, overbearing society matrons, and charming suitors in her quest for love, independence, and the occasional glimpse of God's will.

33. The Wolf of Tebron by C. S. Lakin -- An Science Fiction/Fantasy/Futuristic from AMG/Living Ink. A young blacksmith goes in search of his missing wife, journeying to the four ends of the world and solving riddles with a faithful wolf at his side.

34. Where Hearts Are Free; Darkness to Light Series, Book #3 by Golden Keyes Parsons -- An Historical from Thomas Nelson. In the freedom and promise of the New World, Bridget Barrington and Philippe Clavell fall in love, but nothing about their love seems possible, apart from God's intervention.

Giveaways and Interviews

2010-08-29T18:58:00.004-05:00

I'm on a lot of blogs in the coming weeks with my book The Healer's Apprentice. Tomorrow I'm on Casey Herringshaw's blog, and she is giving away a copy of The Healer's Apprentice. I'm also on Sharon Ball's blog and Golden Keyes Parsons' blog. Honestly, I don't remember on which blogs I'm doing giveaways of my book. In fact, I'm not even sure all the blogs I'm going to be on. I'll try to keep you updated, just in case you're interested. :-)

I'm also on Sandra Robbins' blog tomorrow, so check that out too!

Flash Fiction Featuring Characters from The Healer's Apprentice!

2010-08-23T17:02:00.003-05:00

At the request of blogger and YA fiction fan, vvb32, I wrote three very short scenes featuring secondary characters from The Healer's Apprentice. She is also giving away a copy of my book on her blog, so go to this link and follow the directions to get in the drawing.

If you want to go directly to the "flash fiction" scenes I wrote, here's the scene in the Great Hall of Hagenheim Castle. And I apologize for the typos! Ai-yi-yi! How did I miss them? And here's the scene in the Healer's Chambers, and the scene in the castle chapel.

This was so much fun, I hope you will check out these scenes. And if you want to wait until you read the book, don't forget to come back here afterward and read them!

Can you believe it's only 11 days until The Healer's Apprentice hits book stores!?! Yay!

Another Review! Or, Are you sick of me yet?

2010-08-17T22:44:00.003-05:00

I have turned into a very obnoxious blogger, only talking about myself! Do you hate me yet? But I just have to tell you about the awesome review Nora St. Laurent gave The Healer's Apprentice on her great blog, Finding Hope Through Fiction.

Here is a small part of it. Okay, here's a BIG section of it:

The author also had the right mix of romance, adventure, battles and a mix of scenery, which all added to the mystery and fun of the story. I liked the depth and complexity of these characters as their spiritual fight was revealed. It was refreshing to see characters struggling as they attempted to live out what they read in the bible. Rose and Wilhelm had a personal relationship with God. Both struggled with their emotions and how not to be taken over by them. Melanie had several supporting characters I grew fond of and was drawn into their dilemmas, as well. This story was suspenseful in parts; I found myself holding my breathe until the situation was resolved. I wasn’t sure how it would turn out. I anticipated the story going in one direction, then something would happen and I doubted where I thought this would end up. The author kept me guessing all the way through.

I was totally taken into this fairy-tale and read it in one day; my family gave me grace so I could keep reading. I had to find out how this ended. This is Melanie Dickerson’s debut novel, wow!! I can’t wait to see what she writes next. I definitely can’t wait to read it.

An author's "dream review."

First Review of The Healer's Apprentice!

2010-08-06T19:59:00.003-05:00

I just saw the first review of The Healer's Apprentice. If you'd like to read the whole thing, you can find it at this blog.

She said she read it in one day! I'm sighing from pure joy. She loved my book! Said it was going to stay with her a long time! Yes!

Wildflower Bride by Mary Connealy

2010-07-28T15:18:00.005-05:00

I’m a big fan of Mary Connealy. Her books never disappoint! This one is really great, as always.

We met the hero, Wade, in Montana Rose, where he was actually the bad guy. Then in The Husband Tree, we started to really love him. That’s also when we met the heroine, Abby/Glowing Sun. Wade rescued her from some bad men who had kidnapped her and then he promptly falls in love with her. But she’s “engaged” to the Flathead Indian chief’s son. Still, Wade holds out hope that she will one day want him and need him to rescue her again.

And that day comes in Wildflower Bride! Abby’s whole village is wiped out and Wade gets his chance to take care of her again. However, I lost count on how many times she pulls her knife on him! It’s so comical to see this half-wild woman raised by Indians dealing with falling in love with Wade by constantly pulling her knife on him. I also loved how feisty and brave and capable she is. She actually always ends up saving herself before Wade gets a chance to. But he keeps on thinking that if he hangs around long enough, she’ll actually need him!

Mary Connealy is the queen of comical situations in romance. I just loved this latest one. Very sweet and romantic, too.

Believe it or not, Mary has ANOTHER new book. It's called Doctor in Petticoats. I am a little behind on my reading, but I should have a review of it soon!

The Highlander's Sword by Amanda Forester

2010-07-10T08:53:00.003-05:00

WOW! I really loved this book. I love romance and I love Bible verses and I love that this novel is full of both! Even though this book is published by a secular publisher, Sourcebooks, it is really very Christian. However, I will warn you that it does have a sex scene between the married hero and heroine and is for mature adults only. But then, it isn’t much more risqué than The Song of Solomon in the Bible! (Sh! Don’t tell those people who think SOS is only about God and the church! Far be it from me to tell them it’s really about romantic love between a husband and wife!)

Anyway … this story is set in medieval Scotland, the home of Scottish Laird Padyn MacLaren and Aila, a Scottish heiress. MacLaren needs Aila’s fortune, but what he needs even more is to learn to trust again. He was betrayed by his first love, who tried to have him killed and left him with a huge scar on his face. Aila has to prove to him that not all women are like his conniving ex-fiancé.

Aila believes she’s destined for the convent. But when her brother dies, she becomes the heiress of a fortune and a large land holding. Suddenly she needs protection from a greedy, unscrupulous laird who wants her fortune and is prepared to hurt her to get it. But her arranged marriage happens so quickly, she doesn’t have time to come to terms with going from chaste nun-to-be to faithful, loving wife. But that’s when the real adventures begin, including kidnappings, daring escapes, battles, and personal discoveries.

If you like this kind of novel, you will certainly love this one. This is Amanda Forester’s debut, and I can hardly wait for the next one in the series!

New Releases for July, 2010

2010-06-30T21:52:00.001-05:00

Here are some new releases by ACFW member authors coming out this month. Pick something that sounds interesting and dive in!

1. A Shore Thing; Otter Bay, Book 2 by Julie Carobini-- A Romance from B&H. A fiery, eco-friendly young woman leads the fight against a large development in her beachfront hometown while falling for the architect assigned to the job.

2. Back on Murder; A Roland March Mystery, Book 1 by J. Mark Bertrand -- A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Bethany House. Homicide cop Roland March attempts a comeback as corruption and a high profile case threaten to sink him.

3. Beautiful Bandit; The Lone Star Legends Series by Loree Lough -- An Historical from Whitaker House. When rancher Josh Neville rescues a terrified woman who calls herself Dinah, she unwittingly leads notorious killers to his door, putting him and everyone at the Lazy N in jeopardy.

4. Beyond Summer; Blue Sky Hills Series, Book 3 by Lisa Wingate -- Women's Fiction from Peguin Group/NAL. Tam Williams discovers the blessings of community when her father is jailed, and the family moves to downscale Blue Sky Hill where her new friend, Shasta might lose her home to her father's shady mortgage company.

5. Bride in Training; Man's Best Friend Series by Gail Gaymer Martin -- A Romance from Love Inspired. Troubled lives lead to loneliness, Emily and Martin learn, until the Lord teaches them he is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope.

6. Cattleman's Courtship by Carolyn Aarsen -- A Romance from Love Inspired. Cara Morrison has to fix the past before she can face the future.

7. Doctor in Petticoats; Sophie's Daughters Series, Book #1 by Mary Connealy -- A Romance from Barbour. A burned out doctor is called in because he's a man, while the town's lady doctor does all the work and keeps the doctor from cracking up.

8. Driftwood Lane; 3rd in Series of Stand Alones by Denise Hunter -- A Romance from Thomas Nelson. A love story set on Nantucket Island.

9. Firestorm by Kelly Ann Riley -- A Romance from Steeple Hill. A firefighter falls in love while trying to find her father's killer.

10. Flash Point; Emerald Coast 911 by Stephanie Newtonr -- A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Love Inspired Suspense. Courage Under Fire.

11. Heart of a Cowboy; 2nd book in the Helping Hands Homeschooling by Margaret Daley -- A Romance from Love Inspired. Zachary Rutgers is perfectly happy with being a loner until he discovers he has a son and must deal with buried feelings concerning Jordan Masterson.

12. Love Finds You in Calico, California by Elizabeth Ludwig -- An Historical from Summerside Press. A young seamstress struggling to survive in a booming mining town is pressed into a marriage of convenience with the local livery owner.

13. Minnesota Moonlight 3-in-1 Collection by Becky Melby & Cathy Wienke -- Romance from Barbour. An ex-con, a storm chaser, and a footloose musician˜three unlikely heroes for three women learning to trust God...and the men He's brought into their lives.

14. Nightshade; Book #1 of the Discarded Heroes series by Ronie Kendig -- A Suspense/Mystery/Thriller from Barbour. This Former Navy SEAL is fighting a new battle--the home front!

15. Prodigal Patriot; Vermont #1 by Darlene Franklin -- A Romance from Barbour Heartsong. How can Sally and Josiah battle through the barriers separating Tory and Patriot to find love and forgiveness?

16. Ransome's Crossing; The Ransome Trilogy, Book 2 by Kaye Dacus -- A Romance from Harvest House. Disguising herself as a midshipman to get to her secret fiance, Charlotte Ransome faces danger--and love--crossing the Atlantic.

17. Rodeo Redemption; The Rodeo Royalty Series, Book 1 by Teri Wilson -- A Romance from White Rose Publishing. Josie Turner would rather forget she was ever crowned Rodeo Queen. Can former rodeo cowboy Luke Anderson mend Josie's heart and can one rodeo weekend help them both find redemption?

18. Seeds of Summer; Seasons of the Tallgrass - Book #2 by Deborah Vogts -- A Romance from Zondervan. When a former Miss Rodeo Kansas queen returns home after her father's death to care for the family ranch and her two younger siblings, what follows is a summer full of change, life-lessons and an unexpected romance with the new minister in Diamond Falls.

19. So Over It; Book 3 in The Reinvention of Skylar Hoyt series by Stephanie Morrill -- General Fiction from Revell. Senior year is over and Skylar Hoyt is ready to forgive and forget. Or at least forget.

20. Song of Solomon by Kendra Norman Bellamy -- A Romance from Urban Books. How can he convince her that she's his God-given mate when she's already wearing a wedding ring?

21. Stars in the Night by Cara Putman -- An Historical from Summerside Press. Step back to 1942 Hollywood as Audra Schaeffer tries to find her sister and a killer before it is too late.

22. The Crimson Cipher by Susan Page Davis -- An Historical from Summerside Press. When Emma's father is murdered, she's hired to do the job he could have had--helping track them down by breaking their ciphers.

23. The Engineered Engagement; Book Three in the Kennebrae Brides Series by Erica Vetsch -- An Historical from Barbour Heartsong. Sparks fly when a shipbuilder finds himself engaged to the wrong girl.

24. The Seeker; The Shaker Series # 3 by Ann H. Gabhart -- An Historical from Revell. The story brings alive the strikingly different worlds of the Southern gentry, the simple Shakers and the ravages of war in 1860s Kentucky.

25. The Way to a Man's Heart; The Miller Family Series, Book 3 by Mary Ellis -- A Romance from Harvest House. When all the men beat a path to Leah's diner, her parents don't breathe a sigh of relief until she narrows her suitors from half a dozen down to one.

26. Where the Dogwoods Bloom by Myra Johnson -- A Romance from Barbour Heartsong. Jilly Gardner left Blossom Hills ten years ago, determined never to return, but when Cam Lane calls to ask for her help, she finds she can't say no.

Happy summer reading!

2010 ACFW Conference in Indianapolis

2010-06-18T08:00:00.002-05:00

[This article is being posted simultaneously on the ACFW blog.]
It’s easy to get discouraged in this business, and success seldom happens quickly.
Two reasons why it’s important to go to the ACFW Conference with realistic goals and a fierce determination to stick it out, no matter what.

I attended the ACFW Conference in 2005 in Nashville. I had just completed my first novel and was very excited about attending my first writers conference. In the months leading up to the conference, my daughters and I discovered a new favorite movie—National Velvet. We watched it over and over. I loved Elizabeth Taylor’s character, Velvet Brown, a young pre-teen in love with horses, and one horse in particular, and determined to race him in the greatest and most grueling race of all—the Grand National.

It had never been done before. A girl had never entered a horse in this prestigious race, and certainly no girl had ever ridden in the race. Her horse, The Pi, was wild and undisciplined, with no credentials; he’d never raced before. But he and Velvet adored each other, and she just KNEW he could win.

If you’ve seen the movie, you know that Velvet and The Pi do win the race. You also know that Velvet has a quirk—she faints. A lot. She faints when she realizes she’s won The Pi in a lottery. She faints when she and The Pi win the Grand National, falling off her horse after crossing the finish line.

Well, I decided I was just like Velvet and The Pi. I was an underdog. I was a complete nobody. There was no reason why my book should get published. I didn’t have a degree in English or Novel Writing. I didn’t have family members in the industry. I hadn’t even been writing long. But I believed I WAS Velvet Brown. I was going to win the Grand National of writing. I was going to go to that conference and somehow win a publisher for my book.

You can probably guess what I’m about to say. I did NOT win a book contract. In fact, no one I spoke to was particularly interested in my book. I went to appointments with editors and agents, but I was told that they weren’t looking for stories like mine.

But as it turned out, I actually HAD been preparing myself for the conference by watching National Velvet, and I WAS like Velvet, but not in the way I had expected.

While at the conference, I was so keyed up I couldn’t sleep. So on the second night, I took an over-the-counter sleeping pill to help me sleep. The next morning I felt very strange and swimmy-headed. I thought maybe I just needed to eat. So I ate breakfast, but then I felt stranger than ever. I put my head on the table, and while the beautiful and talented Brandilyn Collins was making announcements, people around me realized I had fainted.

An ambulance was called. I was half-conscious by the time they arrived and was able to appreciate the fact that I was being wheeled out on a stretcher in front of almost four hundred people—everyone at the ACFW Conference. Thankfully, they didn’t announce the name of the person who fainted, so it wasn’t as embarrassing as it could have been!

The point is … be careful who you aspire to be like! No, the point is to be realistic about your goals at the conference, and to realize you need to develop a fierce determination and tenacious perseverance to make it in this business, because it’s easy to get discouraged, and success may not happen quickly.

Make the most of your time at the conference, but don’t be discouraged if you can’t immediately see any tangible results. The friendships and connections you make at the conference, the things you learn, will bless you in many ways that you might not be able to see right away. So I hope you will attend the ACFW Conference if at all possible!

World's First Sneak Peek at The Healer's Apprentice

2010-06-15T21:33:00.002-05:00

Hey! If you want to read a bit of a scene from The Healer's Apprentice, you can go to my friend Pepper Basham's blog. It's the scene that's portrayed in the trailer!

Hope you like it! :-)

A Hopeful Heart by Kim Vogel Sawyer

2010-06-14T18:35:00.005-05:00

Here's my review of Kim Sawyer's newest Historical Romance, A Hopeful Heart.
I very much enjoyed this book, A Hopeful Heart, which is the story of Tressa, an Eastern girl whose parents died a few years ago and left her to live with an aunt and uncle who didn’t love her or want her. They send her west, to a school that will teach Tressa to be a good wife to a rancher, as there are lots of eligible ranchers in the area but few prospects for wives.

I was drawn in by Tressa’s plight. She’s shy and rather incompetent at tasks she’d never had to learn while in her wealthy relatives’ home. I could sympathize with her not wanting to be thrust upon some man she barely knew to be his wife, feeling almost like she was being auctioned off. But she had little choice. She had to marry because she had no family or means to support herself. Such was the plight of many women of that time.

Kim Sawyer writes gentle love stories with tons of heart and true-to-life characters. I enjoyed this book very much and recommend it to fans of sweet historical romance.

Note: A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for review purposes.

I WON!

2010-06-09T08:41:00.003-05:00

YAY! The Healer's Apprentice won the poll and is now the October pick for the ACFW Book Club! I'm so excited! The book club has over a thousand members, although not all of them participate. But I'm tickled that I won and I will get to discuss my book in October and do a live chat the first Monday night of November. I used to be the coordinator of the book club, so this was a big deal to me. :-)

So if you voted for me, I just want to say THANK YOU!!! And I LOVE YOU!!!
LOL!

Can't wait to talk about Rose and Wilhelm and Rupert and all my "very real (to me)" characters. :-)

My Book is in the ACFW Book Club Poll!

2010-06-03T21:56:00.002-05:00

Wow, this is so exciting! After being a volunteer with the ACFW Book Club for years, first as assistant and then as coordinator, it's so exciting to see my very own book in the book club poll!

If you feel so inclined, and if you're a member of the ACFW Book Club, please click here to vote:

If you're not already a member, you can go to the Yahoo Groups website and search for ACFW Book Club and join up.
Of course, you don't have to vote for my book! There are several other great choices. :-) But I appreciate it if you do. ;-)
Oh, and the title is written incorrectly as The Healer & Apprentice. But just ignore that.

If my book is chosen, the discussion will take place in the month of October and there will be a live chat on the first Monday night of November. Fun times!

Novel Teen and Giveaway of The Healer's Apprentice

2010-06-03T07:40:00.003-05:00

Come over to the new blog I'm co-writing with several other Christian Young Adult authors, Novel Teen.

Today I'm giving away a copy of The Healer's Apprentice to one commenter between now and next Friday, June 11.

Come on by and check it out! If you're a Young Adult fan you'll want to subscribe to the blog and get the lowdown on all the latest Christian YA's. So come on over to Novel Teen!

Photo of the HOD Readers Luncheon

2010-05-24T10:54:00.003-05:00

Here are all the author's names:
Melanie Dickerson, Linda Winstead Jones, Christy Reece, Debra Glass, Janice Lynn, Debra Webb, Peggy Webb, Sabrah Agee, Trish Milburn, Rhonda Nelson, Kate Lyon, Beverly Barton, Lynn Raye Harris, Kay Cornelius, Kerri Nelson, Lyn Stone, Julia London, and Linda Howard.

I put some photos on my facebook page of the Readers Luncheon. This is a photo of all the authors who participated.

Notice that I am on the far left, and at the other end from me (literally and figuratively) is Julia London, our keynote speaker, and ultra best-seller Linda Howard. :-) Very friendly, very down-to-earth ladies, all.

The HOD Reader's Luncheon

2010-05-20T13:05:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to let you know that the HOD (Heart of Dixie--my local RWA chapter) Reader's Luncheon on May 15th went well. I had a lot of fun! It's always fun talking to writers and readers. I was sitting next to Pamela Hearon, and we swapped writing stories, how we got our agents, etc, and enjoyed our keynote speaker, Julia London, who spoke about the unique trials of being a full-time writer, and did so with a keen sense of humor!

Kathy Bone did an awesome job coordinating the event. Thank you, Kathy!

I got the opportunity to give away a basket of medieval-themed goodies that I had put together. That was fun! The winner was my friend, Kim Ewing! Yay, Kim! :-)

And all 166 attendees went home with a goody bag that contained, among other things, a The Healer's Apprentice bookmark that the wonderful people at Zondervan made and sent to me. So hopefully a few of them will be intrigued enough to look for my book!

Anyway, if you are in the area next year, please come. I believe the date is April 30th. It's a lot of fun and you might win something! A ton of baskets of goodies were given away.

Heart of Dixie Readers' Luncheon - Next Saturday

2010-05-07T08:49:00.003-05:00

I don't know why I didn't think to mention this before, but my local RWA (Romance Writers of America) chapter is hosting its annual Readers' Luncheon in Huntsville, Alabama at the South Hall of the Van Braun Center next Saturday, May 15th, at 11:00. Last year was my first time to attend, and this year I'll be hosting a table as "published author." Even though my book doesn't come out until September, I'll be promoting my book by giving out bookmarks with my book cover on them and giving away a cool medieval basket, perfect for a real "healer's apprentice" from the fourteenth century. Anyone who puts their ticket in for my basket could win it.

What is a Readers' Luncheon, you might ask? Well, it's a luncheon where you can sit at a published author's table and gab with them while you eat, then listen to a keynote speaker--this year it's best-selling romance author, Julia London--and win lots of prizes. At my table I will be giving everyone who sits with me some yummy chocolate truffles. (Trying to bribe people to sit with me! I have this fear that no one will want to sit at my table! It's not like anyone has ever heard of me!)

Enough about my insecurities! If you're interested, and if it's not too late to register, check it out on the HOD website.

New Releases for May, 2010

2010-05-01T19:41:00.001-05:00

1. A Quiet Place; A Tabor Heights Novel by Michelle Levigne -- A Romance from Desert Breeze. Tabor Heights -- A friendly little town on Ohio's North Coast, where the members of one church help each other in their journeys of faith, learning, and love.

2. Betsey's Return; Book 2 in the Brides of Lehigh Canal series by Wanda E. Brunstetter -- An Historical from Barbour. After being left once at the altar, Pastor William vowed to serve the Lord alone. But that was before Betsy's Return.

3. Black Hills Blessing; A 3-in-1 Collection by Mary Connealy -- Three Contemporary Romances from from Barbour. Buffalo owner butts heads with an ornery cattleman; a lady rancher has a cantankerous neighbor; A doormat wife stands up to her tyrant husband. Who will survive when worlds collide?

4. Clara and the Cowboy by Erica Vetsch -- A Romance from Heartsong Presents. Alec takes on robbers, rustlers, and kidnappers, but his greatest challenge will be taking on Clara, his boss's daughter.

5. Finding Jeena; Book 2, Homecoming Series by Miralee Ferrell -- Women's Fiction from Kregel. Shaken to the core at the threat of losing everything, Jeena is confronted with her prejudices and with a God she had long forgotten.

6. In Harm's Way; Heroes of Quantico, Book 3 by Irene Hannon -- A Romance from Revell. An abducted infant, a tattered Raggedy Ann doll, a terrified woman and a skeptical FBI agent come together in what Publishers Weekly calls "an ever-climactic mystery."

7. It Had to Be You; the third and final novel in the "Weddings by Bella" series by Janice Thompson -- General Fiction from Barbour. Bella couldn't be happier that her long-feuding Aunt Rosa and Uncle Lazarro have finally admitted their love for one another and are getting married. Their forties-style wedding is sure to be a night to remember.

8. Kate's Philadelphia Frenzy; Camp Club Girls Series, Book 5 by Janice Hanna -- General Fiction from Barbour. The Camp Club Girls series introduces young readers to six friends who meet at church camp and solve mysteries together.

9. Legendary Space Pilgrims by Grace Bridges -- A Sci-fi/Fantasy/Futuristic from Splashdown. If Pilgrim's Progress were a space opera, it might look something like this: two young seekers on a journey of discovery, searching for freedom and a planet to call home.

10. Love Finds You in Golden, New Mexico by Lena Nelson Dooley -- An Historical Romance from Summerside Press. Heroine in peril becomes a mail-order bride. . .gone awry

11. Love is Monumental; Book 2, A Walk in the Park by Annalisa Daughety -- A Contemporary Romance from Barbour. Finding love has become a feat of monumental proportions for a shy park ranger.

12. Morning for Dove; Book 2, Winds Across the Prairie by Martha Rogers -- An Historical from Realms, a Division of Strang Communications. Luke and Dove struggle against prejudice and a deadly natural disaster for their love.

13. No Other; Protecting the Witnesses LIS continuity series--book #3 by Shawna K. Williams -- An Historical from Desert Breeze. Jakob Wilheimer longs for healing after his family's internment during WWII, but will freeing Meri from the captivity of her upbringing heal them both, or tear them apart?

14. Nowhere Carolina; Book 2, Southern Discomfort Series by Tamara Leigh -- A Romance from Waterbrook. When Maggie Pickwick's teenaged daughter decides it's time she knew the identity of her father, Maggie's carefully balanced world begins to teeter.

15. Seeds of Summer; Book 2, Seasons of the Tall Grass by Deborah Vogts -- A Romance from Zondervan. When a former Miss Rodeo Kansas queen returns home after her father's death to care for the family ranch and her two younger siblings, what follows is a summer full of change, life-lessons and an unexpected romance with the new minister in Diamond Falls

16. So Over My Head; Book 3, Charmed Life Series by Jenny B. Jones -- General Fiction from Thomas Nelson. Newly single, stalked by a killer, and in desperate need of some chic clown shoes,˜ Bella is one mocha frapp away from a total meltdown.

17. The Heiress; New Jersey Historical Series Book 2 by Laurie Alice Eakes -- An Historical from Barbour. Desperate for money, Daire Grassick sells a family heirloom to a lady he doesn't know, only to discover it holds a secret formula for glass without which his family will be ruined.

18. The Narrow Path by Gail Sattler -- A Romance from Abingdon. When they must combine efforts for the most important event in Ted's church's history, can modern Mennonite Miranda Klassen and Old Order Mennointe Ted Wiebe find peace somewhere in the middle?

19. The Wedding Garden; Book 3, Redemption River by Linda Goodnight -- A Romance from Love Inspired. Join RITA and ACFW Award-winning author, Linda Goodnight, in "Redemption River", where healing flows.

20. The Weight of Shadows by Alison Strobel -- Women's Fiction from Zondervan. Kim has found a way to suffer for her sins and ease her guilt--but is her relief more important than her innocent daughter's safety?

21. They Almost Always Come Home by Cynthia Ruchti -- Women's Fiction from Abingdon. He was supposed to go fishing, not missing.

22. To Be a Mother by Ruth Axtell Morren and Cheryl St. John -- Romance from Steeple Hill. Two heartwarming stories of non-traditional families becoming families in a very traditional sense.

23. White Roses by Shannon Taylor VanAtter -- A Romance from Heartsong Presents. Can a heart-broken florist and a widowed pastor reclaim romance after their lives collide among the thorns?

24. Wildflower Bride; Book 2, Montana Marriages by Mary Connealy -- A Romance from Barbour. Glowing Sun, a white woman raised by the Flathead tribe, has never met a man she didn't want to pull a knife on, including the man determined to marry her.

Thanks to Pam Meyers for this list!

National Day of Prayer

2010-04-30T12:06:00.001-05:00

Have you prayed today? :-) Next Thursday is the National Day of Prayer, which has erroneously been declared "unconstitutional" by one of our Federal judges. We have been called out to shine the light of Jesus in a dark world, for such a time as this. Do you feel it as much as I do?

Here is some of what Jim Daly of Focus on the Family had to say about it:
Judge Crabb's ruling is now rightly under appeal. I am optimistic. But for perspective regarding the way forward, believers might look to a wonderful lesson in the New Testament's Book of Acts. There, in Chapter 4, we read of two men, Peter and John, who were arrested and imprisoned for talking openly about Jesus. They were later released. When they returned to their people and explained their plight, their group did a curious and counter-cultural thing. They didn't gripe or grumble; they prayed for their captives and asked for courage to keep the faith and stay on message:

...consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness. Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.

I believe we have reached a time and place where we are called to do likewise. I am encouraged, actually, to think that Judge Crabb's decision seems poised to do what years of free expression has not - awakened a sleeping Christian people, many of whom (though not all) have taken so many of our freedoms for granted for so long.

Now is the time for Christians, like those of the early church, to be strong and confident, not bitter or embattled.

Now is the time for believers to be bold but humble, courageous but compassionate.

Amen and Amen!

I'm on Seekerville!

2010-04-29T08:24:00.003-05:00

I'm giving away a copy of my book on Seekerville today!

What is Seekerville?

It is a great blog written by 15 fabulous authors, including Mary Connealy, Julie Lessman, Camy Tang, et al, who give great writing advice and talk about the publishing industry and give away lots of books! So come by and say hi! I'm talking about the booming YA genre.

Queen of Hearts by K. Dawn Byrd

2010-04-26T08:45:00.004-05:00

Here's a book you might enjoy, Queen of Hearts by K. Dawn Byrd. It is an e-book, and very affordable. Here's a little bit about the book:
Daphne Dean is proud to be serving her country stateside during WWII as a reporter and an Office of Strategic Services operative. When the photograph she takes of the crowd at a murder scene places her on the mob's hit list, she's forced into hiding in a vacant mental asylum in the middle of nowhere with terrifying secrets of its own.

Daphne believed herself to still be in love with her ex-fiancée, Kenneth, until she spends several days locked away in the asylum with Vito, the mob boss' son. Can she put the terrifying events that occurred there behind her and allow herself to pursue a relationship with Vito? Or, will she return to Kenneth who has turned his back on his country by becoming a draft dodger and a black market racketeer? One thing's for sure, it won't matter if she can't escape the mental institution alive.

Check out the book trailer on YouTube.

About the author:
K. Dawn Byrd is an author of inspirational romance. She holds a masters degree in professional counseling from Liberty University that she believes gives her better insight into the minds, feelings and emotions of individuals, which helps her to better understand her characters and develop them more fully. Queen of Hearts, a WWII romantic suspense will release April 1 and Killing Time, a contemporary romantic suspense will release August 1, both with Desert Breeze Publishing.
K. Dawn Byrd is an avid blogger and gives away several books per week on her blog at www.kdawnbyrd.blogspot.com, most of which are signed by the authors. Her blog spotlights not only the books, but the authors also because we all want to know more about our favorite authors.

When not reading or writing, K. Dawn Byrd enjoys spending time with her husband of 14 years, walking their dogs beside a gorgeous lake near her home, and plotting the next story waiting to be told.

Visit K. Dawn Byrd at her website
and purchase her book at Desert Breeze Publishing
or Amazon.com.

April's New Releases

2010-04-19T12:57:00.001-05:00

I've been a neglectful blogger! So sorry. Here are April's new releases, thanks to Pam Meyers.
1. A Promise Forged, Heartsong Presents Historical Ohio Series by Cara C. Putman An historical from Heartsong Presents. A player in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League finds challenges and love as she travels with her team.

2. Abbie Ann; Daughters of Jacob Kane, 3rd & final installment. by Sharlene MacLaren An historical romance from Whitaker House. Abbie Ann, president of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union in 1907, butts heads with a handsome divorcee, blindsided when she realizes her utter attraction to him.

3. Blood Ransom; Mission Hope Series, Book 1 by Lisa Harris A suspense/mystery/thriller from from Zondervan. thriller about the modern-day slave trade and those who dare to challenge it..

4. Calculated Revenge by Jill Elizabeth Nelson A suspense/mystery/thriller from Steeple Hill. When a teacher finds on the playground a backpack belonging to her long-ago abducted sister, she turns to the principal, an ex-private detective, to stop a child-killer from targeting her daughter.

5. Chesapeake Weddings by Cecelia Dowdy A romance from Barbour. Life sends three African American women into a tailspin; Can these women let God rebuild their tattered hopes when new romances unexpectedly enter their lives?

6. Code Blue by Richard L. Mabry M.D. A suspense/mystery/thriller from Abingdon. A doctor finds that returning to her home town has put her in the midst of conflict and possibly marked her for death

7. Crossroads Bay by Kathleen Kovach A romance from Heartsong Presents. A beautiful charter boat captain searches for lost treasure while her real prize is the caterer trying to keep up with her.

8. Damages by Deborah Kinnard A romance from Desert Breeze. A story of second chances, found in an unexpected place.

9. In Plain Sight by Michelle Sutton A suspense/mystery/thriller from Desert Breeze. Abused by her gypsy ex-boyfriend and left for dead, Jovana moves to America seeking a new life; two handsome men desire her heart, but she must choose the right one or end up in a situation much worse than before.

10. Lorenzo and the Pirate by Rick and Lila Guzman An historical from Blooming Tree Press. Will Lorenzo Bannister, marooned on a deserted island with two pirates, ever get home to New Orleans?

11. Love Lessons by Margaret Daley A romance from Steeple Hill Love Inspired. Alexa Michaels brings a breath of fresh air into Ian Ferguson's and his daughter's life, but is it enough to make Ian trust in love again?

12. Lucky Baby by Meredith Efken A women's fiction from Howard Books/Simon & Schuster. Will adopting an orphan from China bring Meg and Lewis the happiness they long for?

13. Mountain Peril by Sandra Robbins A suspense/mystery/thriller from Steeple Hill, Love Inspired Suspense. A woman discovers violence has once again entered her life when a grisly website sets the stage for murder and terror on a peaceful college campus.

14. Queen of Hearts by K. Dawn Byrd A suspense/mystery/thriller from Desert Breeze. Daphne Dean never knew that serving her country as a spy during WWII would send her into hiding in an abandoned mental institution with secrets of its own.

15. Refuge on Crescent Hill by Melanie Dobson A suspense/mystery/thriller from Kregal. As Camden Bristow works to uncover the past and present mysteries harbored on Crescent Hill, she discovers a deep family secret hidden within the mansion's walls that could change her life˜and the entire town˜forever.

16. Rodeo Sweetheart by Betsy St.Amant A romance from Steeple Hill Love Inspired. She grew up with a cowboy hat and a pony; he grew up with designer duds and a silver spoon. Will this mismatched couple ever be able to lasso their differences?

17. Rooms by Jim Rubart A suspense/mystery/thriller from B&H Fiction. A young Seattle software tycoon inherits a home on the Oregon coast that turns out to be a physical manifestation of his soul.

18. Scenarios for Girls, Book 3 by Nicole O'Dell General fiction from Barbour. Molly Jacobs isn't sure what she should do: Should she follow through with stealing some clothes for her friends from Magna the trendy girls clothing store where she works? Or should she do what she knows is right, even if it means losing her newfound popularity? Scenarios for Girls are interactive books that allow the reader to choose between alternate endings to make important, moral decisions for the main characters.

19. Scenarios for Girls, Book 4 by Nicole O'Dell General fiction from Barbour. Kate Walker joins the swim team and becomes obsessed with practice and making it through the championships with flying colors. What will Kate do when she's faced with pressure from her teammates to take an illegal substance that will help her swim multiple events in their championship meet? Scenarios for Girls are interactive books that allow the reader to choose between alternate endings to make important, moral decisions for the main characters.

20. Seasons in the Mist; Seasons of Destiny Book 1 by Deborah Kinnard A romance from Sheaf House. An eager historian, a time portal, and intrigue in King Edward III's court.

21. She Walks in Beauty by Siri Mitchell An historical from Bethany House. As Clara Carter makes her debut, she realizes it's not just her heart at stake--the future of her family depends on how she plays the game.

22. Sixteen Brides by Stephanie Grace Whitson An historical from Bethany House. Sixteen Civil War widows join the Ladies Emigration Society and head west to claim homesteads, only to find their organization has other plans. . . involving the word "brides.

23. Sworn to Protect by Diann Mills A suspense/mystery/thriller from Tyndale. Border Patrol Agent Danika Morales is caught up in a conspiracy and her life is at stake.

24. The Anonymous Bride by Vickie McDonough A romance from Barbour. Three mail-order brides arrive expecting to marry the town marshal. But he didn't order a bride. A contest to discover which bride would make the best wife turns into mayhem when there is a fourth anonymous entry.

25. The Cowboy's Baby by Linda Ford A romance from Love Inspired Historical. The prodigal returns but is he too late for a second chance?

26. The Word Unleashed, Book 2 of Face in the Deep by Steve Rzasa A sci-fi/fantasy/futuristic from Marcher Lord Press. Baden Haczyk's adventure continues as he tries to keep the last Bible safe from the religious secret police.

27. Too Close to Home, Book 1 of the Women of Justice Series by Lynette Eason A suspense/mystery/thriller from Revell. An FBI agent and a detective must track down a killer of teenage girls before his next victim hits Too Close to Home.

28. Wildflower Hearts, Book 1 in Series Set in North Dakota by Vickie McDonough A romance from Barbour. Three siblings who live on a ranch face problems and romance in the North Dakota Badlands

29. Wildflowers of Terezin by Robert Elmer An historical from Abingdon Press. In Denmark's darkest days, is it duty, faith...or love?

Enjoy!

All About Genre

2010-04-09T08:08:00.001-05:00

I'm talking about my genre, Christian YA medieval romance fairy-tale retellings (ha!), over on Peg Phifer's blog, where she's doing a series on all the different genres. Come by and leave a comment!

I'm also on Mary Connealy's blog where she has my trailer on a very nice wide screen. :-)

The Healer's Apprentice promotional trailer

2010-04-06T14:16:00.003-05:00

The Healer's Apprentice is a mini-movie trailer!

2010-04-05T10:52:00.002-05:00

I am shouting about this all over the place, but in case you haven't heard, my publisher, Zondervan has made a trailer of my book. It's like a mini movie with the model on the book cover acting in it. You can go here to watch it! Then let me know how cool you think it is! :-) :-) :-)

FREE Download of A Passion Most Pure

2010-03-25T12:41:00.001-05:00

Amazon.com and Julie Lessman's publisher are offering free downloads of Julie's first book (which I loved) A Passion Most Pure, on Amazon. If you haven't read it, you should go get your free download! Go to Julie Lessman's website to get the details.

How I Got "The Call"

2010-03-19T22:35:00.001-05:00

Hi! I'm on Keli Gwyn's blog, Romance Writers on the Journey, where I'm telling my "Call Story" of how I found out The Healer's Apprentice was getting published. Laughing and jumping up and down is involved. Come by and say hello.

New Article about Young Adult (YA) books

2010-03-15T17:41:00.005-05:00

Here's a link to an article in the L.A. Times about YA books. It calls YA fiction "a phenomenon" and attempts to explain why adults are increasingly drawn to the Young Adult genre. Books like Twilight by Stephenie Meyer, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak are being read by teens as well as adults.

Anyway, I'm really excited that The Healer's Apprentice is being published as a YA, the genre that is doing better in this slow economy than any other genre.

I'm on Keli Gwyn's blog

2010-03-13T09:14:00.003-06:00

I'll be on Keli Gwyn's blog, Romance Writers on the Journey,
next Saturday, March 20th, telling my "Call" story--how I found out that my first book was accepted for publication--for the first time. I hope you will join me! Keli's blog is really great and she does a lot of giveaways of free stuff! I'll be giving away a copy of my book, The Healer's Apprentice, when it comes out, to one lucky commenter, so come check it out next Saturday.

I've Been Outed!!! And New Website

2010-03-06T14:09:00.003-06:00

I've been outed!!! My historical romance, young adult book, The Healer's Apprentice, is available for pre-order right now on Amazon.com and Christianbook.com!!!

If you want to pre-order it, it's actually cheaper at Christianbook, I don't know why. And apparently it's coming out in September instead of October, which I'm really happy about!

AND I have a new website, www.melaniedickerson.com, that is really awesome, if I do say so myself. I have website guru Tracy Ruckman to thank for it. THANKS, TRACY!!! Tracy is also a professional editor and her prices are reasonable if you're in the market for a critique.

Thanks for basking in the joy with me! LOL

Vote! Or, How Do You Like Me Now?

2010-02-26T07:59:00.003-06:00

I wonder if you could do me a favor. I've been trying to write a succinct description of my 300-page book, The Healer's Apprentice, and it's, well, not easy. Not that I'm complaining or anything. Anyway, how does this description grab you? Does it make you want to read the book? Sound intriguing?
Description #1:

A woodcutter’s daughter,
a duke’s son, and a mysterious woman in hiding

Rose, a poor woodcutter's daughter, must prove her competence as the healer’s apprentice if she is to save herself from her mother’s plans to marry her off to a decrepit old merchant.

When Lord Hamlin, destined to be ruler over the region, is injured while the healer is away, Rose must overcome her inexperience to save him. But she must also conquer her attraction to him, for he has dedicated his life to rescuing his betrothed—a woman whom the evil conjurer, Moncore, has vowed to destroy.

Lord Hamlin’s duty is to marry his betrothed, defeat Moncore, and bring security to his people. He should not indulge in forbidden feelings of love for Rose. But when Rose is the one in danger, only true love can prevent the ultimate tragedy.

When destiny sleeps, it can only be awakened by true love’s kiss.

Okay, now here's Description #2:
When destiny sleeps, it can only be awakened by true love’s kiss.

In this historical romance loosely based on the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale, Rose, a woodcutter’s daughter, becomes the town healer’s apprentice. Her job is to help care for the sick and injured in the Southwest tower of Hagenheim Castle. But Rose becomes sick at the sight of blood and is more suited to making up stories than sewing up wounds. She is determined to overcome her weakness and prove herself a competent healer, or face marrying a disgusting old merchant her mother has picked out for her.

Lord Hamlin, oldest son of the duke, destined to be ruler of the region, is injured while the healer is away. Rose must overcome her squeamishness and inexperience to care for his injury. And she must not fall in love in with Lord Hamlin, for he is betrothed to marry a girl who is in hiding and must fulfill his duty to find the evil conjurer, Moncore, and save his betrothed.

But the people of Hagenheim are not always who they seem. When Rose’s life is in danger, Lord Hamlin must choose between duty and destiny, between obligation … and true love.

Do either of these grab you? Which do you like best, #1 or #2?

Thanks!!!
Oh, and here's what the cover will look like!

New Releases for February, 2010

2010-02-15T17:55:00.002-06:00

Here are some great new books! Pick one to get snowed in with. :-)

1. Abigail: A Novel, The Wives of King David, Book 2, by Jill Eileen Smith from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. Turmoil marks her life - what price will she pay for love?

2. A Valentine Wish, by Betsy St. Amant from Steeple Hill Lori, chocolate-lover extraordinary, is unemployed, single, and out of brownie mix. But when a secret admirer pops up at her new job running a chocolate boutique, she might have the ingredients for a special Valentine's after all!

3. Deliver Us From Evil, by Robin Caroll from B&H Publishing. When a female helicopter rescues a US Marshal escorting a heart, they must race against time to uncover the largest child trafficking ring in history.

4. Hometown Promise; First in the Kellerville Series, by Merrillee Whren from Steeple Hill. Kellerville: Finding family, community and love in one small town

5. Love's Winding Path, by Lauralee Bliss from Heartsong Presents, Barbour Publishing. A prodigal's life is never out of God's reach and His love as two lonely adventurers are about to discover.

6. The Marriage Masquerade, by Erica Vetsch from Heartsong Presents, Barbour Publishing. Sometimes running away brings you right back where you started.

7. Meander Scar, by Lisa Lickel from Black Lion. When Ann is ready to jump back into life with a new love, she discovers the devastating truth behind her husband's disappearance.

8. My Deadly Valentine, by Lynette Eason and Valerie Hansen from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. Two suspense filled stories about stalkers and the men determined to protect the women they love.

9. On Wings of Love, by Kim Watters from Steeple Hill Love Inspired. A dedicated nurse devotes her life helping others, only to discover the man who steals her heart doesn't want her help..

10. The Pastor's Wife, by Jennifer AlLee from Abingdon Press. A woman must face the husband - and the congregation - she ran from six years earlier.

11. Walking on Broken Glass, by Christa Allen from Abingdon Press. Leah Thornton stops numbing her pain with alcohol, but discovers the road to redemption might still be under construction.

Winner of Margaret Brownley's A Lady Like Sarah

2010-02-05T11:54:00.001-06:00

And the winner is ....

Nora!

Congratulations, Nora! I'll email you about claiming your prize!

Kissing Scenes on Pepper's Blog

2010-02-01T21:38:00.003-06:00

My friend, Pepper Basham, is celebrating Valentine's Day a bit early on her blog. Pepper has posted a partial scene from my 1880 novel set in Alabama, Magnolia Summer. Go to Pepper's blog to check it out.

A Lady Like Sarah by Margaret Brownley - Giveaway

2010-01-31T21:45:00.004-06:00

Margaret Brownley has graciously agreed to give away a copy of her Western romance, A Lady Like Sarah, to one commenter, so please leave a comment if you'd like to win it. (Limited to the continental U.S.) Here's a bit about the book:

She’s an outlaw: he’s a preacher. Both are in need of a miracle.

Preacher JUSTIN WELLS leaves Boston in disgrace, heading out alone on the dusty trail to Texas. But when the once-respected clergyman encounters a feisty redhead in handcuffs with a dying U.S. Marshal at her side, his journey takes a dramatic turn. When he promises the injured lawman to take his prisoner to Texas, Justin has no idea the trouble that lies ahead. The slightly-built prisoner turns out to be SARAH PRESCOTT—sister of the notorious Prescott brothers—and she’s determined to miss the hanging party waiting for her in Texas.

But escaping proves to be tougher than she thought. Justin doesn’t own a gun and hasn’t the foggiest idea how to survive the wilderness. How can she leave him alone with the injured marshal?

Nothing is more sacred to Justin than a promise made to a dying man, but how can he turn the blue-eyed beauty over to the hangmen? She’s tough as leather, but there’s something about her that is pure and good.

Justin can’t bear to lose her, but how can a simple preacher fight an entire town? And how can either one of them know that miracles come in many guises—including love?

Sounds good, doesn't it? Leave a comment if you'd like to win it!

Bright Star and an excerpt from one of my books

2010-01-29T15:37:00.008-06:00

I watched this movie, Bright Star, a couple of nights ago. It's the story of John Keats and his love, Fanny Brawne. John Keats died at the age of 25, so it is a rather sad movie, but sooooo romantic. It stayed with me for the next two days. I couldn't stop thinking about it. It was a really sweet movie, and also rated PG, very clean.

One of the sad things about the story is that John Keats never received much acclaim, and certainly not much, if any, money from his two books of poems published in his lifetime. If he had, he and Fanny could have married. As it was, he was too poor. But if you like romantic movies, I think you will love this. It's filled with beautiful images, and bits of poetry, of course.

Speaking of romance, I want to share that I'm going to be on Pepper Basham's blog on Tuesday, Feb 2nd. She's sharing a short excerpt from a book of mine--a kissing scene in honor of Valentine's Day. It's not from the book that's coming out in October (Yes, I have a book coming out in October! My first book is being published, but I can't reveal all the details just yet, but hopefully I will soon). Anyway, where was I? Oh, yes, Pepper has a snippet of one of my scenes on her blog this Tuesday. Click here to read it!
But not until Tuesday. :-)

The Winner of The Husband Tree is ...

2010-01-25T16:35:00.002-06:00

The winner of this funny, poignant, romantic book is ...

Jo!

Congratulations, Jo. I'll be emailing you to let you know how to get your book.

Thanks everyone who left a comment! Stay tuned for more giveaways!

The Husband Tree by Mary Connealy - Giveaway

2010-01-19T07:50:00.003-06:00

Mary Connealy's latest western romance is her best one yet. It's funny, touching, memorable, and the characters are really vivid. And if you leave a comment, you will get your name in the hat for the drawing to win a copy, courtesy of the author herself.

Belle Tanner has just buried her third no-account husband. She's used to doing all the work on her ranch by herself--well, with the help of her daughters, who work as hard as any man, and much harder than her husbands ever did. She's sworn off husbands and is determined to turn away all suitors. She just doesn't know how to pick a good man. Her husbands were all lazy, one a drinker, one a philanderer, and the only good thing they ever gave her was her daughters. But she's not about to make another mistake.

When she is forced to thin her herd of longhorns and take a thousand head of them over treacherous mountain trails, she goes into town to round up a few men to help her. She hates to ask the help of any man, but she has no choice. She didn't count on falling in love. She promised her girls she wouldn't!

Silas Harden has sworn off women. They are nothing but trouble. But he ends up working harder than he's ever worked in his life, trying to keep Belle Tanner and her four girls safe on the most dangerous cattle drive he's ever had the misfortune to get mixed up in. He didn't count on falling in love with all five of them.

This is a wonderful romance. If you're like me and the marriage self-help book, Love and Respect, just frustrated and confused you more, then this book might help clear it up for you. Honestly. A light bulb came on when I was getting near the end of this book. I actually felt like I understood men a little bit better. I'd be curious if anyone else gets that feeling when they read this book.

Leave a comment if you want to be in the drawing!

Time to Pick a Winner

2010-01-17T15:10:00.002-06:00

Time to pick a winner for A Stray Drop of Blood by Roseanna White.

And the winner is ...

Linda! Congratulations!

And come back Tuesday, when I'll have my review of The Husband Tree by Mary Connealy and will do another giveaway for that wonderful historical romance.

Giveaway - A Stray Drop of Blood by Roseanna White

2010-01-13T10:05:00.004-06:00

If you like Women’s Fiction, Historicals, and/or Biblical Fiction, you will love this book! It is very well written, dynamic, intensely emotional, and will make you think. If you ever wondered what life was like in the time when Jesus lived on the earth, how the different cultures clashed, and the different roles of the various classes, such as servants, slaves, and masters, or if you just want to read a really intense, true-to-life story, this book is definitely for you.

As the back cover says, Beautiful is a dangerous thing to be when one is unprotected. Abigail is beautiful, and although she was born a free Jew in Jerusalem in the time of Jesus, as a child she is sold as a slave to a Roman centurion. Through all the twists and turns of her life, she comes to believe in Jesus on the day of his crucifixion and her life takes on new meaning and new joy.

Though not a romance, which is what I usually read, it does have some romance in it, and is only for mature readers. But it carries a powerful message—more than one powerful message, actually. I predict great things from this author!

To get your name in the drawing for this book, please leave a comment with your email address. Thanks!

Winner of Out With the In Crowd

2010-01-11T15:06:00.002-06:00

And the winner of this YA novel is ...
Deborah! Congratulations!
I'll be emailing you today for your mailing address. Enjoy the book!

And stop by again soon for more giveaways to come in the very near future!

Out With the In Crowd by Stephanie Morrill - Giveaway!

2010-01-06T12:35:00.004-06:00

Today I am featuring the new YA novel by Stephanie Morrill, Out with the In Crowd. If you leave a comment I will put you in the drawing for a copy of this book.

Here's a little bit about the book:
Skylar finds that while she vowed to change her partying ways, it’s not so easy to change her friends. She’s trying hard to live a new life, but her old one is constantly staring her in the face. Add to that two parents battling for her loyalty, a younger sister struggling with a crisis pregnancy, and a new boyfriend wishing for more of her time, and Skylar feels like she can’t win.

About the author: Stephanie Morrill is a twentysomething living in Kansas with her high school sweetheart-turned-husband and their daughter. She loves writing for teens because her high school years greatly impacted her adult life. That, and it's an excuse to keep playing her music really, really loud.

Interview with Stephanie:

1. What's your favorite part of the story?

One of my favorite aspects of this story is Skylar wrestling with how much she should be willing to give up for her high school boyfriend, with whom she believes she has a future. My husband and I met and fell in love our freshman year of high school, so it’s an issue really close to my heart.

2. What was your favorite part to write?

I loved writing scenes with Skylar’s younger sister, Abbie, who’s pregnant. There’s so much emotion and conflict swirling around her that every scene with her naturally came to life.

3. What’s something you wish people understood about being a writer?

That it’s a lot of investment, both with time and money. I spent 8 years pursuing publication, so I’ll have to sell many, many more books before I “break even.”

4. What do you like most about writing for teenagers?

Their enthusiasm. I’ve never written for adults, so I’m not sure what that’s like, but I love the fan e-mails I receive. They’re full of exclamation points and stories about how late they stayed up on a school night to finish one of my books. A lot of the girls have questions that are really fun to answer (Will Skylar and Connor stay together? What’s going to happen with Abbie’s baby?). I think those e-mails make me a better writer. They help me to see what’s hitting home and what gets my audience excited.

5. Where can readers find you and find out more about you and your books?
www.StephanieMorrillBooks.com
I blog daily, and you can also read the first chapters of both Me, Just Different and Out with the In Crowd. With books, there’s no reason to buy it before you try it!

Thanks so much for having me, Melanie!

Thanks for stopping by, Stephanie, and for giving away a copy of your book!

Remember to leave a comment if you would like to win this book!

And we have a winner!

2010-01-06T12:06:00.003-06:00

Our winner is ... (drum roll, please)

Deborah M.

Congratulations, Deborah M.! You've won a copy of The Country House Courtship by Linore Rose Burkard!

And I will be having another giveaway tomorrow, so please stop by to check it out!

Country House Courtship - Giveaway!

2010-01-02T14:13:00.006-06:00

This week I'll be giving away a copy of Linore Rose Burkard's lovely book, The Country House Courtship. Leave a comment to get your name in the hat!

Here is a summary of the book:

England, 1818: It has been five years since Ariana Forsythe married The Paragon, Mr. Phillip Mornay. Now, Ariana's sister, Miss Beatrice Forsythe, is seventeen and determined to marry advantageously as well. (Surely Ariana's society connexions all but guarantee Beatrice's success-especially if Mr. Mornay is created a baronet by the Prince Regent!

But the Mornay's have disappeared from high society as they raise a family at their country estate. Can Beatrice persuade them to chaperone her in London? And what about her business with the curate, Mr. O'Brien, whom Beatrice rashly promised to marry years earlier? She is too sophisticated now to settle for a mere clergyman-despite his agreeable countenance and gentle, understanding ways. When Mr. Tristan Barton becomes tenant of the Manor House, Beatrice's hopes seem to have found their object. But when Ariana falls gravely ill, secrets come to light, motives are revealed, and pretenses that are easy to keep up in the darkness begin to crumble. As hearts are bared and truths uncovered, a country house courtship like no other cannot be far behind!

Fans of Linore's first books, Before the Season Ends, and The House on Grosvenor Square, will be delighted with final addition to the Regency Inspirational Series, as will all readers of historical romance.

And as if that wasn't enough to tempt you, go here to read the first chapter. Excerpt PDF from "The Country House Courtship"

Country House Courtship is the third book in Mrs. Burkard's Regency series. The first book was Before the Season Ends, and you can go here to read my review.

The second book in the series was The House in Grosvenor Square, another big favorite of mine! Go here to read that review.

Remember, one lucky commenter will win a copy of Country House Courtship, which you can actually read without having read the first two books, or if you like, I believe Linore would be willing to give you a copy of book one or book two instead. We'll ask her nicely. I think she'll say yes. :-)

New Releases, January 2010

2010-01-01T19:07:00.003-06:00

Start out the new year with a good book! Here are the new releases for January.
1. A Stray Drop of Blood, by Roseanna M. White from Whitefire Publishing. Born free, made a slave, married out of her bonds, Abigail never knows freedom until she feels the fire of a stray drop of blood from a Jewish carpenter.
(Melanie's note: I'm reading this book right now, and it's a winner! Very intense and well written.)

2. A Deadly Wilderness, by Kelly Irvin from Five Star/Gale/Cengage. A family that will stop at nothing to protect its secrets and a drug cartel hit man are just two of the pieces to the puzzle Homicide Detective Ray Johnson must solve to find a murderer—and save his own life.

3. Becoming Lucy - The Winds Across the Prairie Series, by Martha Rogers from Realms Division of Strang Communications. An alleged murderer reclaims his life, but can he reclaim his beloved?

4. Burn, by Erin Healy and Ted Dekker from Thomas Nelson. A supernatural thriller about a woman who gets an unwanted chance to extinguish her fiery past.

5. First Impressions , by Michelle Sutton from Desert Breeze Publishing, Inc. Playing the role of a saloon girl taught her how to flirt, but it makes a lousy first impression on the man whose heart she longs to win.

6. Jenna's Cowboy- Callahans of Texas, 1, by Sharon Gillenwater from Baker/Revell. Will Jenna's love enable Nate to put the horrors of war behind him and become the man she deserves?

7. Never Far from Home- 2nd in the Miller Family Series, by Mary Ellis from Harvest House Publishers. Emma's rebellious Rumschpringe may lead to her banishment as friendship turns to love with the English sheepfarmer.

8. Plain Jane, by Hillary Manton Lodge from Harvest House Publishers. Girl reporter Jayne Tate finds more than she bargained for when she goes to Amish Country to research a story.

9. Sworn to Protect, by Diann Mills from Tyndale. Danika Morales has sworn to protect our nation's borders. But that oath has come with a price.
10. The Chic Shall Inherit the Earth - All About Us #6, by Shelley Adina from Hatchette FaithWords. At exclusive Spencer Academy, Lissa Mansfield gains popularity when she replaces her nemesis, Vanessa, on the senior Cotillion committee, but graduation and major decisions about the future loom.

11. The Choice - Lancaster County Secrets, Book 1, by Suzanne Woods Fisher from Revell. A tender story of love and forgiveness, "The Choice" uncovers the sweet simplicity of the Amish world--and shows it's never too late to find your way back to God.

12. The Husband Tree - Montana Marriages, by Mary Connealy from Barbour. A tough lady rancher drags a reluctant cowhand on a cattledrive, along with her four daughters.

Can't wait to read Mary Connealy's new book!
I wish you all lots of great reading in the coming year! God bless.

Christmas Eve, 2009

2009-12-24T15:05:00.002-06:00

I've been very neglectful of my blog the last couple of months. I'm not sure when I'm going to start doing better, though. But I wanted to refer you to a beautiful Christmas poem by my friend and fellow blogger, Pepper Basham.

Hope you enjoy it! Merry Christmas! May you be blessed as you reflect on our perfect Lord's coming to the Earth to love us and save us. God blessed us, and we have only to seek him to find him.

Everything Austen Challenge--Mission Accomplished!

2009-12-17T22:16:00.003-06:00

I did it! I finished Pride and Prejudice, thus completing my challenge of reading all six of Jane Austen's novels in six months.

I saved the best for last and very much enjoyed reading about Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Bingley and Jane Bennet. I was afraid it would be too familiar to me and I wouldn't enjoy it that much, or it would be boring, but it wasn't. It was really fun! And now I have to watch my favorite movie version of P&P, of course, the version with Colin Firth. Yay! Can't wait.

And now, I must tease you and say that I have a big announcement to make, hopefully in a few weeks. So stick around for that!

And have a very merry Christmas! God bless you!

Pearl Girls

2009-12-14T17:29:00.003-06:00

I'm happy to get the word out about this new book by a bunch of great Christian authors. The proceeds will help fund a Safe House in the Chicago suburbs. It costs $50 a night to provide safe shelter for a woman and her children. During this economy, WINGS is receiving even more phone calls for a safe place to stay. Already, the Pearl Girls have provided 60 nights with the advance royalties. Here's Margaret with a little bit about the book:

With His love and grace, God covered the unexpected pain in my life of becoming an adult orphan and transformed this pain into a pearl. We are all Pearl Girls. Each of us has been touched by God's gift of love and grace, and it's a gift that I want to share with others. That's why I am launching Pearl Girls.

Actually, my very first gift from my parents was a pearl. The gift of my name. Margaret means "precious pearl." So perhaps this is what I was always supposed to do. My heart's prayer is that Pearl Girls will be a blessing to others - to the women who contribute their literary talent to the Pearl Girls projects; to the readers who are inspired and comforted by the life experiences shared through these projects and to the women and children who will benefit from the proceeds given by Pearl Girls to various charities. This is a win-win for everyone, and each of us has a special part in making the Pearl Girls projects "blessed sellers."

After the first Pearl Girls tea in Atlanta, I went to my brother, Claude's home to help sort through our parents' boxes in his basement. It was an emotional experience and tedious process to discover what was in each box, to decide what to do with each item and to discard those belongings which we needed to let go. After several long hours of sorting, I received an incredible hug from heaven - a confirmation that Pearl Girls is something that is meant to be. I discovered a three strand necklace of painted pearls belonging to my grandmother from the early 1900s! Isn't that amazing?

Authors include Shaunti Feldhahn, Melody Carlson, Kimberley Woodhouse, and Robin Jones Gunn.

December 2009 New Releases

2009-12-02T10:33:00.001-06:00

Enjoy perusing the new books coming out this month! Some might even make good Christmas presents! For yourself or others.

1. A Bouquet for Iris, by Diane Ashley & Aaron McCarver from Barbour Heartsong Presents. Iris Landon travels to Daisy, Tennessee, to care for two Cherokee children and finds romance and danger while aiding one family in the struggle to keep their land.

2. A Lady Like Sarah, Rocky Creek Romance, by Margaret Brownley from Thomas Nelson. He's a preacher. She's an outlaw. Both are in need of a miracle.

3. ANGEL WITH A BACKHOE, by Deb Kinnard from Desert Breeze Publishing. A small-town widower and a spunky suburban transplant match wits over a church construction project, finding true love can mix with blueprints and concrete footings.

4. Child Finder: Resurrection series: Child Finder Trilogy, 2nd book, by Mike Angley from Total Recall Publications, Inc. Child Finder: Resurrection…the highly-anticipated sequel to the award-winning debut novel, Child Finder, which Library Journal placed on its 2009 Summer Reads list for Christian fiction!

5. Christmas Peril, by Margaret Daley from Steeple Hill Love Inspired Suspense. Christmas themed, romantic suspense stories.

6. Cup of Joe, by Teri Wilson from White Rose Publishing. A grieving woman resists the cups of comfort offered by the shy, but handsome, owner of the neighborhood coffee shop.

7. Field of Danger, by Ramona Richards from Love Inspired Suspense. When April Presley can’t remember details of the murder she witnessed, deputy Daniel Rivers must help her recall the event and protect her from the killer determined to silence her.

8. Her Patchwork Family series: The Gabriel Sisters, by Lyn Cote from Love Inspired. In spite of opposition from the rich and influential, can Felicity Gabriel establish a home for children orphaned by the Civil War and heal two wounded hearts?

9. Patterns and Progress series: Michigan historical, book 3, by Amber Stockton from Barbour Publishing. A farmer's daughter would rather turn back the hands of time than accept the fact that advancement in technology could be in God's plan.

10. The Sheriff's Surrender series: #1 of The Ladies' Shooting Club Series, by Susan Page Davis from Barbour Publishing. The men of Fergus aren’t keeping the town safe, so a group of feisty women take matters into their own hands.

11. The Glassblower series: First book in the New Jersey Historical Series, by Laurie Alice Eakes from Barbour Publishing. Colin Grassick moves from Edinburgh, Scotland to Salem county New jersey totake a position as a master glassblower. He loves his work and hopes of bringing his family to America for a better life. But his love for Meg, the daughter of the owner of the glassworks, threatens his job...and then his life.

Sense and Sensibility

2009-11-23T14:49:00.003-06:00

I finished Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen, which was a wonderful reminder of why it's my second favorite Jane Austen book. Now I just have one more book, my favorite, Pride and Prejudice, to read before Jan. 1st to accomplish my Everything Austen Challenge! It's been great fun.

Sense and Sensibility is a wonderful story of two sisters who are quite opposite in their temperament. Elinor, the oldest, is very sensible, which is a good thing, because her younger sister Marianne and their mother are much too emotional, with sensibilities too strong, for their own good.

The two sisters fall in love, Marianne without any restraint, and Elinor with much self-control, and both affairs of the heart end rather badly, or at least seem to. I watched the movie version written by Emma Thompson, with Kate Winslet and Hugh Grant as soon as I finished it. I love that movie, but the newest one, that just came out last year, I think, is also extremely good and has a more perfect actor for the part of Willoughby, the roguish but very endearing blackguard who breaks Marianne's heart.

So, you can see I'm still as much into this challenge as I was at the very beginning! I'm a Jane Austen fanatic, what can I say?

Christmas Miracles drawing

2009-11-23T08:57:00.002-06:00

I drew one commenter's name and forwarded it to Cec Murphey's assistant, and she will be included in the drawing for the Christmas Miracles gift basket. And that commenter is ... Debra Ullrick!

Good luck! (Or maybe I should say, God's Blessings on you!) Debra!

Christmas Miracles by Cec Murphey

2009-11-18T16:20:00.007-06:00

Many ordinary people experience Christmas miracles—those special moments during the season of giving and receiving when Christmas becomes more than just a holiday. In Christmas Miracles (St. Martin’s Press, October 2009), Cecil Murphey

and Marley Gibson

share the stories of those who have recognized the special moments that transcend daily experience and transform their lives.
In these stories, people overcome desperate situations through a miraculous twist of fate—all during the most wonderful time of the year. A young boy sits down to read a Christmas book and discovers that his learning disability has vanished. A woman stranded in a blizzard is rescued by a mysterious stranger who she suspects is an angel. And a woman living far from home gets an answer to her prayer in the form of an unexpected gift.

Bestselling author Cecil Murphey says, “We all face discouraging times, whether it's the lack of money, being stuck on a road in a snowstorm, feeling stress, or being hungry and homeless. But God's help is available. I want readers to see that miracles do happen—sometimes simple, unexpected blessings or those that involve the supernatural. We start by asking, and in strange and wonderful ways God tiptoes into our dark nights; we experience renewed joy in life and witness God in action through people and unexpected events.”

Interview with Cecil “Cec” Murphey

by Marley Gibson

Co-authors of Christmas Miracles, from St. Martin’s Press

I am extremely privileged to have the opportunity today to talk to my friend and co-author, Cecil “Cec” Murphey, and to chat about our upcoming book, Christmas Miracles.

Marley: Cec, thanks for spending some time with me today.

Cec: Marley, it's great that you could take time away from important things like making a living to spend a little time with me.

Marley: I’m so jazzed about our Christmas Miracles book that’s coming out soon. I’ve had a lot of questions from folks wanting to know how we met, what brought us together, etc. So, I thought we’d do a back and forth on how it all came to be. Of course, I have to give props to our amazing agent and friend, Deidre Knight, for bringing us together. For those of you who don’t know, Cec co-authored the runaway New York Times bestselling hit 90 Minutes in Heaven with Don Piper.

Cec: I have to say thanks to Deidre Knight as well. Between Deidre and my assistant, Twila Belk, I've been able to sell quite a few books. 90 Minutes in Heaven has been my big book. I'm also proud of a book I wrote in 1990 called Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story. The book has never been out of print and has hit close to four million in sales. Early this year, Cuba Gooding Jr. starred in the made-for-TV film version.

Marley: That’s amazing! You are truly prophetic and definitely “the man behind the words.” Now, people ask how we teamed up. Sadly, there was a personal tragedy that brought Cec and me together as friends.

Cec: True. In early 2007, our house burned and our son-in-law died. Aside from the grief over Alan, we lost everything. Deidre and Jan, my-then-assistant, sent the word out of our tragedy without telling me. I'm immensely grateful for every gift people sent, but I probably wouldn't have admitted I needed help and wouldn't have asked. They taught me how much we need other people.

Marley: Deidre put out a call to other clients of The Knight Agency, to help Cec and his family out in any way in their time of need. At the time, my company was moving and we were cleaning house. We had a ton of office supplies that we were either going to throw away or give to some of the charities the company worked with. I got my boss’ permission to send a large care package to Cec…full of office supplies for him to re-stock his writer’s office. You name it…post-its, staples, paper clips, pens, pencils, markers, white out, ruler, scissors, paper, notebooks, notepads, envelopes, a laptop case, tape, glue, folders, binder clips…etc. A veritable potpourri of office delights. I was hoping that it would help Cec have a sense of getting his office back so he could keep working.

Cec: Marley's gift was the most unexpected I received. We hadn't met, although Deidre Knight had spoken of her many times and kept telling me she was wonderful. I wonder if you can imagine what it was like for me to open that box from someone I didn't know. I saw all those practical things for my office and yelled for my wife. I felt as if I were reading a first-grade book. "Look! Look and see! Oh, look!" I was overwhelmed by the gift and even more to receive it from a stranger. Those supplies were the most practical gift anyone could have given me. I'm still using black paper clips and red folders from Marley.

Marley: Awww…thanks, Cec! I didn’t have to think twice about doing it. Writing is such a solitary “sport,” but the writing community always astounds me with how they help their own. Not long after that, over plates of spinach and Gouda omelets, Deidre introduced me to Cec in person and I was thrilled to finally meet the man behind the words. Deidre knew we needed to work on a project together and thus began our brainstorming. What did you think of that first meeting, Cec, and cooking up the idea to work together?

Cec: Deidre and I had already spoken about a Christmas book and I had some idea about what it should contain, but nothing had come together. One day Deidre told me that Marley was coming to visit her and she wanted us to work together on a Christmas project. Marley and I talked before we ate and again during the meal. Everything felt right to me. I knew my strengths and Marley knew hers (and Deidre knew both of us). Everything clicked. Marley, a far better networker than I am, immediately sent out the word for submissions. Within days she had almost four times more than we could use. (She read every one of them!)

Marley: I was truly impressed with the submissions we received and it was hard narrowing it down to the ones we chose for the book. We’re fortunate to have such a go-getter agent in Deidre Knight. Cec, can you share how the whole idea of Christmas Miracles came about and what you thought of the project originally?

Cec: For me, it actually started while I was on the rapid-rail train from the Atlanta airport when I listened to teens talk about Christmas and it was mostly about gifts. I had the idea then, but nothing really came together. Months later when Deidre I and had a meeting, she brought up the idea of a compilation and mentioned my working with Marley. I've been Deidre Knight's client since 1997 and I've learned to listen carefully when she comes up with an idea. I said yes before she gave me all the information.

Marley: That’s the truth about Deidre! Getting back to those submissions, I want to say we got more than two hundred submissions for Christmas Miracles. So many wonderful stories to read through and select for the book. It was a challenge to pick and choose which ones were right for the book, but I loved every minute of it. After I chose the entries that would go into the book, Cec toiled long hours editing the works for a unified voice. What was the biggest challenge you found in the editing process, Cec?

Cec: I've been a ghostwriter and collaborator for twenty-plus years and this was a switch to give the book a unified voice—which was mine. It would have been easier to stay with each writer's voice, but the book—like many compilations—would have been uneven in tone and quality. When I discussed this via email with our delightful editor, Rose Hilliard, she was (to my surprise) familiar with my work. She told me she liked the warm tone of my writing and that I don't waste words. "That's the voice we want," she said. It still wasn't easy, but it was an exciting challenge. After Marley and I agreed on the stories and gave them that unified voice, our editor pulled six contributions. Although different, Rose felt they were too similar to other stories.

Marley: Can you give our readers a preview of the book? A favorite story perhaps…or one that moved you to tears? (I have to say the little boy who wished for nothing but to be able to read a book all the way through because of his stutter had me bawling when I read the submission.)

Cec: That's not fair! I liked them all. The one that touched me most, however, is the last story in the book, "Sean's Question." We had almost finished the book and I was teaching at a conference in Florida. I felt we needed one strong story at the end. Despite all the good ones, I didn't feel fully satisfied to conclude the book. On the last day of the conference, I met a conferee named Sara Zinn for a consultation. As we talked, I mentioned Christmas Miracles and that I still needed one more story. "I have a Christmas story," she said and told me about Sean. As I listened, tears filled my eyes—but, being the macho type I am, I was sure it was an allergy. Sara wrote the story, and it became the one I sought.

Marley: Oh yes…that one is an emotional one all right. It was meant to be in the book because of how you met at the conference. Now, you and I have both had challenges in our lives that others might have found too much to take, but we are both very strong in our faith and our relationship with God. How do you think Christmas Miracles is going to help others feel closer to God and experience His miracles in their own lives?

Cec: Awareness and appreciation are the two things I want readers to grasp. Awareness means for them to realize that they're never totally alone in life. Those unexpected, out-of-the-ordinary events remind us of that. Appreciation means to be thankful for what we already have. Too often, and especially at Christmas, we focus on what we'd like or what is supposed to make us happy. Christmas Miracles gently reminds readers of both.

Marley: In this day and age when our country is fighting two wars, unemployment is high, and a lot of people have a lack of hope and faith for their future, what do you want readers of the book to take away from Christmas Miracles and how can the stories in our book help provide comfort to those struggling?

Cec: I want readers to see that miracles do happen—sometimes simple, unexpected blessings or those that involve the supernatural (as in one of Marley's stories). I call myself a serious Christian. For me, the world's greatest miracle began with the birth of Jesus. Regardless of a person's religion, this book encourages readers to think about life during the Christmas season and see that life as more than gifts and celebrations. It's also a reminder that God loves us and hears our needy cries.

Marley: Beautifully put, Cec, and I couldn’t agree with you more. Can we share what’s next after Christmas Miracles? J

Cec: Why it's the Cec and Marley show, of course. Because of our go-getter agent and our enthusiastic editor, we've already received thumbs up for The Christmas Spirit. This will be stories of people who express the true spirit of Christmas by acts of love and kindness, for release in the fall of 2011.

Marley: And I can’t wait to start working on that project! Thank you so much for your time, Cec, and answering my questions. It was a privilege and honor to work with you and I look forward to our future projects together. You’ve helped me along during a trying time and I appreciate your friendship and support.

Cec: I liked this project because Marley had to send out the word, collect submissions, read them, and discard the weaker ones. I get to see only the better-written stories. (Don't tell her that I have the better job.) Although I mentioned only one story, all of those in the book touched me because of the poignancy of their situations and the miraculous answers. I won't say the stories increased my faith, but they increased my appreciation for the delightful mix of human need and divine intervention.

Marley: Thanks again, Cec! God Bless! And to our readers, please be sure to pick up a copy of CHRISTMAS MIRACLES, out October 13, 2009 from St. Martin’s Press. It’s a great stocking stuffer or gift basket filler. We hope you, too, will discover your own Christmas Miracles in your life.

Marley Gibson is a young adult author whose first published books in the Sorority 101 series were released by Penguin Group in 2008 under the pen name of Kate Harmon. She has a new Ghost Huntress series with Houghton Mifflin written under her own name. She can be found online at www.marleygibson.com.

Leave a comment for a chance to win the Christmas Miracles gift basket.

Wouldn’t you love to take home this amazing basket filled with Christmas goodies galore? This amazing gift basket contains everything you’ll need to make your Christmas holiday a success. Inside you’ll find a stocking stuffed with hard candies, kitchen towels and oven mitts, seasonal potpourri, holiday-colored candles, stuffed animals that talk, snowman candle, nutcrackers, Christmas ornaments, gift bags, gift tags, gift bows, ornament hangers, Christmas cookie cutters, a Merry Christmas doorstopper, a picture frame, Christmas cards, Santa ear muffs, and not just one, but two copies of Cecil Murphey and Marley Gibson’s Christmas Miracles – one to keep and one to give away to someone special.

So leave a comment for a chance to win the fabulous gift basket! And if you need an inspirational gift, this book will no doubt be a wonderful gift.

Jane Austen Rocks!

2009-11-08T20:09:00.003-06:00

I read Persuasion. Yay! Only two more books to go before I accomplish my goal for the Everything Austen Challenge!

Persuasion is one of my favorite Jane Austen books. It's actually a pretty quick and easy read, and it's such a sweet story. I believe Captain Wentworth is one of my favorite heroes because he's so real. He's hurt by Anne Elliot's early rejection of him, so he takes it out on her by ignoring her and flirting with her cousins. But he can't be mean to her, and he ends up getting caught in his own trap.

If you haven't read Persuasion, it's one of JA's shortest and best books. I decided to re-watch the movie version with Ciaran Hinds as Captain Wentworth last night after I finished the book. It was great. When I read the book, I was thinking of Ciaran Hinds as the hero, because he seems to fit him so well. I think he's the only one of JA's heroes who really likes to talk, and he expresses himself well. I guess that's another reason why I like him so much.

Now I only have to read Pride & Prejudice and Sense & Sensibility before Jan. 1st. They have always been my favorites, so I know I can do it. How is everybody else doing?

A Countess Below Stairs by Eva Ibbotson

2009-10-28T10:19:00.004-05:00

I just finished this book last night. Ever read a book that just makes you feel good all over, makes you feel like you're glowing after you read that last page and close the book, like you can't wait to write your own story in hopes it will be this great? Yeah, me neither, not very many times in my life, but I did feel all those things last night when I finished this book.

Anna Grazinsky is a Russian countess, a teenager who has lost everything during the Russian Revolution and must flee with what's left of her family to England. She is such a vivid character, very strong, so NOT snobby, and she insists that being a maid is not beneath her. Besides, it's only temporary. She comes to love the people who live in the huge estate where she goes to serve, and falls in love with the handsome, unassuming Earl of Westerholme who is about to be doomed in marriage to the cold-hearted Murial. Oh, what's a penniless countess to do?

This novel is full of vivid characters, so lifelike I found myself praying for them! LOL I absolutely adored the story, too, maybe, partially because I love all things Russian so much. But it's very sweet and romantic and I highly recommend it. And no, I did not receive any compensation for writing this review, and have never received a single penny from Amazon for linking to them. In fact, if the FTC would really like to know (and I can't imagine why they would, but who wants to pay a fine of thousands of dollars? Not me) I got this book from my local library. So there.

Everything Austen Challenge--Mansfield Park

2009-10-26T10:13:00.001-05:00

I finally finished reading Mansfield Park. I did enjoy it, very much, but I couldn’t help wishing during the middle part of the book, that Jane Austen had redeemed Henry Crawford and made him the hero instead of Edmund. Oh, Edmund is such a non-hero! Yes, he’s a good, virtuous person, but even in that one hero-like quality he has flaws. He’s easily turned aside by Mary Crawford’s pretty face. Blech.

And I just can’t imagine marrying a first cousin. I guess it was done quite a lot back then, but it doesn’t appeal to me in the least! It just seems … wrong. Icky. Not an option. But even in spite of these perceived flaws in the story, I still enjoyed it. There’s just something about Jane Austen’s style that is so appealing. Plus, it gets me to thinking about my own future stories, helps me come up with ideas, and makes me want to try writing a Regency.

I do think Mansfield Park is probably the most criticized of Jane Austen’s books. But it’s still well worth reading. And now I’m moving on to Persuasion. As soon as I finish it I plan to reward myself with the movie versions. I may watch both the Ciaran Hinds version (which is my favorite) and the newest version with that pale blond fellow who doesn’t appeal to me. In fairness, I didn’t actually watch much of that one. I just saw a tiny bit of it when it was on PBS.

So how are you all faring with your Everything Austen Challenge? I still have to read Persuasion, Pride and Prejudice, and Sense and Sensibility, but they’re my favorites, so I think I’ll make it with time to spare. We’ll see!

And no, Miss Austen did not send me this book and I got no compensation from writing this review. *Rolling my eyes*

Jane Austen Challenge - Falling Behind! Uh-oh

2009-10-12T20:41:00.002-05:00

So, how are you doing on your Jane Austen Challenge? Hmmm? I have to admit, I've fallen behind. I should have finished Mansfield Park last month, but I'm still only halfway through it! Yikes. So I need to finish it and read one more Jane Austen by the end of this month to stay on track. But I can still finish. I have 2 1/2 months to read Persuasion, Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, and finish Mansfield Park. Can I do it?

Yes! I think I can.

I've already watched several Jane Austen movies as well. But my goal was to read all six JA books by Jan 1st. It's still doable.

And BTW, I'm enjoying Mansfield Park. Fanny isn't as admirable a heroine as Jane Austen's other leading ladies, but I'm sympathetic to her at least. And somehow I just can't get into the thought of Fanny being in love (and ultimately marrying) her first cousin, in whose house she has grown up since she was very young. There's just something icky about that. I guess it was no big deal in the early 1800's, but still ... I'm having trouble with that.

Any opinions?

New FTC regulations regarding book reviews

2009-10-07T22:02:00.002-05:00

Some new regulations have a lot of book reviewers in an uproar. The gist of it is that from now on, book reviewers have to make a statement in their review saying that they received the book for free, since the FTC sees this free book, apparently, as "payment" for writing a review.

This brings me to some things I want to address.

I started this blog so I'd have a place to post my book reviews. At first I was just posting reviews of books that I'd bought, read, and liked. But soon authors and publicists started sending me free books. Sometimes I agree to post something about the book on my blog, but more often than not, I receive the books without me even knowing they're being sent. And I'm on "the list" of some authors, which gets me a free copy of each of their new books just before it releases.

You may have noticed that I never post negative reviews, that all my reviews are positive. The reason for this is very simple. I don't write reviews on the books I don't like. So if you read a review of mine talking about how much I loved a book, you can trust it. If I say I loved it, I really loved it, and it has nothing to do with the fact that I received the book for free! When I agree to post something about a book on my blog, if I didn't read the book, or I started the book but didn't like it, I will post some information about the book, post the link to purchase the book, but I won't review the book. I don't do negative reviews, but neither am I going to lie and say I loved it when I didn't.

So from now on, I will let you know if I received the book for free when I post a review. I don't know why you'd care, but since I don't want to be fined $11,000, I will post that little disclaimer! But I also want you to know that I get tons of books that I never even read, or I start reading but because I'm not crazy about the book, or I have other things I'd rather read, I never post a review about them. When a publicist sends me a book, it doesn't mean I feel obligated to read it or write a positive review about it. Because I don't. I'll read it if I want to. If I don't, I won't!

Anyway, that's all I want to say about that!