Author Spotlight. . . with Valerie Comer

 

Thank you for joining me for this special Author Spotlight!

Valerie Comer is a very favorite author of mine and I’m delighted to share this author spotlight with my readers. . .

 

 

You’ve come to the right place!

Valerie Comer is a farmer, gardener, and local food enthusiast. She’s also a USA Today bestselling author and two-time Word Award winner of the Farm Fresh Romance series, the Urban Farm Fresh Romance series, the Christmas in Montana Romance series, the Riverbend Romance Novella series, the multi-author Arcadia Valley Romance series… with more stories and series on the horizon. Right here, where food meets faith… and fiction.

Valerie blogs where food meets faith. If you’re interested in God’s perspective on the topic, Valerie extends an invite to you to get to know her and her novels. While she might not have all the answers, exploring the subject is close to her heart — and God’s.

Valerie Comer’s life on a small farm in western Canada provides the seed for stories of contemporary inspirational romance. Like many of her characters, Valerie and her family grow much of their own food and are active in the local foods movement as well as their creation-care-centric church. She only hopes her creations enjoy their happily ever afters as much as she does hers, shared with her husband, adult kids, and four adorable granddaughters.

Recently, Valerie chose to participate in a multi-author series, known as Romance Grows in Arcadia Valley. I’ll let Valerie tell you about this exciting series in her own words. . .

Welcome to Arcadia Valley, Idaho, where a foodie culture and romance grow hand-in-hand. Join my friends and me as we release a book every month set in Arcadia Valley. You’ll enjoy meeting old friends and making new ones as each of the six authors’ books intertwine with the previous stories in this Christian romance series. Get started with Romance Grows in Arcadia Valley and follow along at ArcadiaValleyRomance.com to make sure you don’t miss any installments!

January 2017: Romance Grows in Arcadia Valley
May 2017: Sprouts of Love
November 2017: Rooted in Love
May 2018: Harvest of Love

 

Valerie, thank you for taking time out of your busy day to answer a few questions, so your fans can get to know more about you…

1) Tell us a little about your new book. What is the main storyline?

My upcoming release tells the story of a bookstore manager who falls for a guy who avoids reading. While Harvest of Love is part of the Arcadia Valley Romance series, it can be read as a standalone.

Hot on the heels of a failed relationship, Kenia Akers focuses on her bookstore along with granting her aging grandfather’s desperate desire to get his hands in the dirt through a program at Grace Greenhouse. Reminding herself she’s on the rebound isn’t enough to keep her from falling for the hunky activities coordinator from Granddad’s facility.

Zane Russell is amazed that the fun-loving, pretty bookstore owner is attracted to him, a guy who’s not even in her league. As their relationship deepens, he avoids explaining why he seems allergic to books. Admitting his failures has never been a good move in the past.

Will they find a way to let openness, trust, and acceptance blossom into a harvest of love?

2) What character do you relate to or like best?

That’s like asking me which child or grandchild I love most! It’s impossible to choose one, because each has special, wonderful qualities. My favorite is nearly always the one I’m spending time with at the moment which, right now, is the characters in a Christmas novel to release in October. Recently, I fell a little in love with Zane Russell (Harvest of Love, May, 2018). He harbored a secret from those around him, making him a complex, somewhat tortured hero who sent mixed messages.

3) Did you learn anything new about yourself while writing Harvest of Love?

I always do, even when the heroine is nothing like me. In this case, Kenia Akers is a bookstore manager who comes from a wealthy family and is an extrovert to boot! We don’t have a lot in common, other than that we are both children of God who struggle with insecurities, even though they stem from different sources. I find God has a lot to teach me spiritually through every book I write. Sometimes it feels like a private journal is on public view and being judged by others!

4) How long have you been writing?

I’ve dabbled in writing my entire life, but I didn’t get very far before the summer of 2002, when I landed a job in a small-town flooring shop and found myself with many empty hours at work that needed to be filled. My bosses were totally fine with me setting up a desk in a back corner and writing between customers, phone calls, sales reps, and delivery guys.

In the next ten years, I’d write eleven novels in that corner, final in several writing contests, land an agent, and hold my first published book in my hands. That was Rainbow’s End, published by Barbour in May, 2012, in which my novella Topaz Treasure debuted. It is now out of print.

5) How/when did you first know you wanted to be a writer?

It’s always been somewhere in my head. I started dozens of stories as a child, honed my imagination through roleplaying, and both piqued and satiated my curiosity through reading. But I was over 40 when it all came together and I began the process of learning to create characters and stories with complete arcs that others might wish to read.

6) Do you have a special place or atmosphere you like to write in best?

After ten years my bosses at the flooring shop sold the building, and I “retired” to write from home. I set up an office in a spare bedroom upstairs, but found I gravitated more and more to taking my laptop to my living room recliner. Finally I gave up pretending I worked at a desk and gave the room over for grandkids’ visits! I now have a computer that swings in front of my recliner and a lapdesk that holds my keyboard and track pad. I also have a laptop I can use to write away from the living room… but I rarely do.

7) What project are you working on now?

At the moment, I’m writing a Christmas romance, the first book in a new series. I’m not ready to reveal the direction of this new project yet! In 2017 I juggled three series, finishing up the Christmas in Montana series while actively writing on both the Arcadia Valley Romances and the Urban Farm Fresh Romances. With Harvest of Love’s release in May, my part in the multi-author Arcadia Valley Romance series is complete. Three series was too many, but I do enjoy alternating between two story worlds, hence the new series debuting this fall. Hopefully the next Urban Farm Fresh Romance will release in August or September as well. I’m trying not to make promises I can’t keep.

8) What advice would you give a new author?

Write because you love it, because you can’t not write, because God has put stories on your heart that you must share or go crazy. It must be a passion first, because the outcome is not guaranteed. Sure, anyone can self-publish a book these days — every one of my current titles are independently published — but that makes it even harder to stand out since there are so many titles available to readers.

Write the best book you can, then put on your business hat and hire a cover designer and an editor before releasing it. There are many things you can do to draw attention to your book — write blog interviews, pay for advertising, build an email list, be active on social media — but the final results of your marketing efforts are out of your hands and not a measure of your self-worth.

Writing, to me, is first and foremost an act of worship and obedience.

9) How many books have you written and how can we find your book(s)?

I’ve written and published 24 Christian contemporary romance novels. You can find a complete listing by series at http://valeriecomer.com/books.

All titles are available in ebook on Amazon, Kobo, Nook, iBooks, and Google Play. Some are also available on Christian Book Distributors. Most are sold everywhere in paperback, and my two main series are also available in audio.

If you enjoy romantic stories with engaging characters, strong communities, and deep faith, please come visit!

 

Now for a few fun facts…

Favorite vacation spot – Vancouver Island, in BC, Canada. I love the wild Pacific coast and staring out at the ocean, watching for whales

Favorite color – Green, of course!

Favorite food/drink – Too many to count, and it changes season by season depending on what’s fresh from the garden. But I guess I’ll say homemade mocha, being as I have at least one mug every day, no matter the time of year!

Favorite time of year – Whichever one we’re in at the moment. I try to find enjoyment in them all. I’m not fond of the high temperatures in summer, though.

Favorite hobbies – Hanging out with my three young granddaughters. Camping beside a mountain stream. Cooking veggies minutes from the garden.

Favorite holiday – Christmas, at least if both our kids and their families can be home. Family time is the best.

Favorite dessert – I have too many favorites here! The local foodie in me should say fruit cobblers, and I do enjoy them. But… chocolate usually wins.

 

Thank you, Valerie… and God bless you!

You can find Valerie on her WEBSITE, at FACEBOOK, TWITTER, GOODREADS, and AMAZON.

 

Don’t miss my interview with VALERIE COMER…today on Donna’s BookShelf. – Tweet this!

 

Interview © 2018 DJ Mynatt

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Naomi Miller . . . Author Spotlight

 

Thank you for joining me for this special Author Spotlight!

First, a bit about Naomi…

This is what Naomi feels like when her deadline approaches… 

As a new author, Naomi keeps not one, but two physical calendars going at all times — current year and following year, plus calendar sheets for the next five years.

If you plan to make a career of writing, you must plan ahead. I had no idea of the timeframes involved, with first drafts, revisions, conferences, events, book signings, blog tours, cover reveals, promoting, … the list goes on and on.

But I’m happier now than I’ve ever been! I love writing! I love interacting with my readers! And yes, I love opening a box and pulling out copies of my book!

Naomi is the author of two Amish books, with a rough draft of the third book just completed. Her latest release, Christmas Cookie Mystery, is the second novel in the Amish Sweet Shop Mystery series.

Naomi is currently working on a collaboration with speculative/dystopian fiction author JC Morrows, merging their genres in a new series. For updates, be sure to sign up for Naomi’s newsletter.

A Tennessee native, Naomi is a graduate of Bellevue University in Nebraska, completing a bachelor’s degree in Networking, then a master’s degree in Security Management. She has been an employee of the State of Tennessee for almost fifteen years, and plans to retire in the next few years, to write full-time and enjoy a more flexible schedule. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers and hopes to become more involved in all ACFW has to offer in the near future.

Naomi also enjoys traveling with her family, singing inspirational/gospel music, taking a daily walk, and witnessing to others of the amazing grace of Jesus Christ. In her spare time, she likes to relax, while crocheting or knitting — and always has time to read new releases from her favorite authors.

Readers can learn more about Naomi at naomimillerauthor.com or find her on Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, Pinterest and Goodreads.

 

A spotlight with Naomi Miller . . . today on Donna’s BookShelf. – Tweet this!

 

And here is my interview:

Have you always wanted to write? Do you use an outline for your stories?

Yes! I’ve always wanted to write, but I didn’t think it was a career I could actually choose to do. I actually began a contemporary novel in 1990, but eventually it ended up in a drawer. I still have it . . . someday I may finish it, but for now, I’m compelled to write Amish fiction.

I don’t use an outline. I write down 5-6 short sentences – each sentence representing an idea of a chapter. Sometimes the chapter follows the idea; sometimes it goes a completely different direction. I’ve learned to let my story guide me. Many times I have no idea how it’s even going to end!

How does it feel being a published author? Have you encountered any surprises along the way to being published?

I love it! Being published feels really great! I love watching a story develop on the page, from beginning to end. Of course, it’s not all fun, but overall it’s the most fulfilling thing I’ve done. And it’s such a blessing to see how my book impacts the lives of others.

Do you have a folder or a file where you keep future ideas for stories or do you just come up with ideas after a suggestion from your editor, agent, or friends?

I don’t keep a physical file or folder, but I have folders on my laptop, where I keep a few word documents with story ideas. Most of the time, I don’t begin a new book, until I’ve prayed about it for awhile. My usual habit is to wake early and spend time with God, asking Him what I should write. And when the ideas come, I write down a few sentences – one for each chapter; and that’s where I start.

Have you attended any writer retreats, conferences, and the like? Do you think they are necessary for your writing?

YES! I was advised by several author friends to make time for retreats, workshops and conferences . . . not only have the workshops and classes been worth every minute spent, but the friendships I’ve made have been invaluable!

How often do you travel? Where do you go? Who do you travel with? What is your favorite vacation spot?

I want to travel, but until I retire, I’m limited to a few workshops and book events each year! My favorite vacation spot is Myrtle Beach, which also happens to be the favorite vacation spot of my grandchildren. I love listening to the sound of the ocean and watching my family playing in the waves.

What are you working on now? Is there another genre you are interested in writing?

I’m currently working on books 3 and 4 in my Amish Sweet Shop Mystery series. Book two was just released this month, so I have a few weeks before book three is due to my publisher for editing while book four is being written.

 

And now for a few favorites:

Favorite color – Purple (although I love all colors)

Favorite food/drink – That’s a tough question. I love cheeseburgers, but my favorite snacks are peaches, blueberries, and watermelon. My favorite drink is sweet tea (hey, I’m from the south).

Favorite time of year – I love fall, winter and spring. I love watching it snow, but I’m not a fan of the cold weather anymore.

Favorite hobbies – Writing, reading, crocheting/knitting, and working puzzles (sudoku, solitaire, freecell).

Favorite holiday – Christmas. I love the Christmas songs, the decorations and the wonderful idea of giving gifts to those you love.

Favorite dessert – Sweet Potato Pie. My daughter makes an awesome homemade sweet potato pie! She makes one for Thanksgiving and one for Christmas.

 

THANK YOU for joining me for this AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT!

Blessings!

Interview © 2016 DJ Mynatt

Kelly Irvin . . . Author Spotlight

 

Thank you for joining me for this special Author Spotlight!

First, a bit about Kelly…

Kelly is the author of more than a dozen Amish books. Her latest release, The Saddle Maker’s Son, is the third novel in the Amish of Bee County series. She is also the author of the Bliss Creek Amish series and the New Hope Amish series. Among her other works are novellas in two collections, including An Amish Christmas Gift and An Amish Market. Both novellas were reviewed this week on Donna’s BookShelf.

Kelly is currently working on a four-book series entitled Every Amish series. The first book, Upon A Spring Breeze, will release in Spring 2017. Her novella, One Sweet Kiss, will be included in a novella collection, An Amish Summer, also slated for release in 2017. An as yet unnamed novella will also appear in a second collection entitled An Amish Christmas.

Kelly’s novel, The Beekeeper’s Son, was a 2016 finalist in the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) Carol Awards contest. Another novel, Love Redeemed, was a 2015 finalist in the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) Carol Awards contest.

The Kansas native is a graduate of the University of Kansas School of Journalism. She has been writing nonfiction professionally for more than thirty years, including ten years as a newspaper reporter. She recently retired after working 22 years in public relations for the City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and the Alamo City Christian Fiction Writers.

Kelly is married to photographer Tim Irvin.  They make their home in San Antonio, Texas. They have two children, two grandchildren, and two ornery cats. In her spare time, she likes to write short stories and read books by her favorite authors, especially mysteries and romantic suspense novels.

 

Readers can learn more about Kelly at www.kellyirvin.com or find her on Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, Pinterest and Goodreads.

 

A spotlight with Kelly Irvin . . . today on Donna’s BookShelf. – Tweet this!

 

For today’s spotlight, I am doing something a bit different. I’m going to feature some of my favorite blog posts from Kelly’s website:

 

Disappointment–it’s what’s for dinner!

September 10, 2016 by Kelly Irvin 8 Comments

Disappointment is something we would all like to banish from our lives. However, the older I get and the more I experience disappointment, the more I see how it shapes and molds me into a more thoughtful person. Disappointment helps us grow up, no matter how old we are. I know that sounds ridiculously self-righteous,… Read More

 

Medicine & Prayer Make Powerful Partners

September 3, 2016 by Kelly Irvin 10 Comments

The other night my husband and I were watching a TV program in which a fictional medical examiner said, “I’m a doctor, I don’t believe (in miracles, in prayer, in God).” Irritated, I turned to Tim and remarked that one did not preclude the others. He rolled his eyes and said, “It’s a TV show.”… Read More

 

On buggies and choosing to slow down

August 6, 2016 by Kelly Irvin 5 Comments

 

It seems as if I’m always in a hurry. Even when I’m not. I retired in February so I no longer throw myself out of bed at five-thirty a.m. to rush downtown to an office where I finagled an hour of writing before beginning my day job. I rushed home to fix supper, exercise, shower,… Read More

   

Thanks, Kelly!

And THANK YOU for joining me for this very special AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT!


On buggies and choosing to slow down with Kelly S Irvin! – Tweet this!

 

Blessings!

Interview © 2016 DJ Mynatt

Jean C. Gordon . . . Author Spotlight

 

Thank you for joining me for this Author Spotlight!

First, a bit about Jean…

Jean C. Gordon’s writing is a natural extension of her love of reading. From that day in first grade when she realized t-h-e was the word “the,” she’s been reading everything she can put her hands on. A professional financial planner, Jean is as at home writing retirement- and investment-planning advice as she is writing romance novels, but finds novels a lot more fun.

She and her college-sweetheart husband tried the city life in Los Angeles, but quickly returned home to their native Upstate New York. They share a 170-year-old farmhouse just south of Albany, NY, with their daughter and son-in-law, two grandchildren, and a menagerie of pets. Their son lives nearby. While Jean creates stories, her family grows organic fruits and vegetables and tends the livestock de jour.

Although her writing and family don’t leave her a lot of spare time, Jean likes to give back when she can. She and her husband team-taught a seventh-and-eighth-grade Sunday school class for several years and currently serve on her church’s Evangelism Committee. She also shares her love of books with others by volunteering at the church’s Book Nook.

You can keep in touch with her at JeanCGordon.com or find her on Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, and Goodreads.

 

An interview with Jean C. Gordon . . . today on Donna’s BookShelf – Tweet this!

 

And here is my interview with Jean:

1. You have written several great series for Love Inspired . . . what inspired you to branch out with the Upstate NY series?

Actually, I wrote my Upstate books before I started writing for Love Inspired. Avalon Books originally published them in hardcover for libraries. Amazon Montlake later bought Avalon, and I received the rights back on my first three Avalon books, which I refreshed and updated and published under the Upstate NY imprint. Montlake still has the rights to and has republished my last two Avalon books, Mara’s Move and Candy Kisses. I like writing sweet romance as well as inspirational romance, so I’ll be launching a new sweet series (Team Macachek) in the fall to complement my Love Inspired books.

 

2. Have you ever written under a pen name? Why or why not?

No, I haven’t. Jean C. Gordon is such a nice easy name to remember. FYI, the “C” is for Chelikowsky.

 

3. I heard that you plan to attend a readers conference in Nashville this August . . . will you also be attending the ACFW conference during the same week?

Yes, I will be at the conference as well. I’m looking forward to both of them and to visiting Nashville for the first time. I’m bringing my husband along and staying a few extra days to sightsee. I hope to see at least some of you while I’m there.

 

4. You live in an historic farmhouse in New York State. Can you tell us more about your choice to live with your daughter’s family? (I live with my daughter’s family, too)

The summer before our son started high school, our daughter and son-in-law were house hunting and not finding what they wanted—something with acreage to do some farming—in their price range. The semi-rural area where we were living at the time was quickly becoming suburban, and the high school had grown to a size that seemed large to my husband and me. We wanted our son to attend a smaller school. After a summer-long search, we finally found our house. We had a few bumps at first, such as quickly discovering that we couldn’t share a kitchen. My husband and I added a second kitchen to our side of the house. Once we got over the bumps, things have worked out pretty well, and I love having the multi-generations together. I think it’s good for all of us.

 

5. Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

I have two things. If you want to succeed commercially, treat your writing as a business, not a hobby, and remember where your talents come from.

 

And now for a few favorites:

Favorite person – my husband, Mark

Favorite coffee –  anything mocha 

Favorite perfume – Lily of the Valley

Favorite hobbies (other than writing) – reading and playing Scrabble online with a few friends

Favorite book – it’s a toss-up between Francine Rivers’ Redeeming Grace, and Mary Jo Putney’s The Rake and the Reformer (original versions of each)

Favorite music – most recently, Country. It reminds me of the rock ballads of the 1970s. (Yes, I’m dating myself)

Thank you, Jean!

And THANK YOU, readers, for joining me for this AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT!

Blessings!

Interview © 2016 DJ Mynatt

Ruth Logan Herne . . . Author Spotlight

 

Thank you for joining me for this Author Spotlight!

First, a bit about Ruth…

Ruth Logan Herne loves Charlie Brown Christmas trees, rooting for the underdog and people who go the distance while others see the path as too long or broken! She loves God, chocolate, writing, dogs and is blessed by a sprawling family, oodles of grandkids and a sweet old farmhouse in constant need of work.

She’s sure that clean rooms are over-rated, snakes and possums should mind their own business and buy their own farm and puppies and kittens and babies are about the cutest things on Earth. A “pull-up-your-big-girl-panties-and-move-on” kind of gal, she is blessed to be married to her high school sweetheart (although it wasn’t as if THEY WERE KNOCKING DOWN THE DOOR to challenge him for her!!!), work with young families who allow her to exploit their sweet children on blogs, and rock babies on a regular basis.

An author for Love Inspired Books and Summerside Press, she lives in upstate New York.

“To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the heaven.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1)

 

Readers can learn more about Ruth at www.ruthloganherne.com or find her on Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, Pinterest and Goodreads.

 

An interview with Ruth Logan Herne . . . today on Donna’s BookShelf. – Tweet this!

 

And here is my interview with Ruth:

1. You have written several great series for Love Inspired . . . what inspired you to branch out with the Double S Ranch series?

Well, this question is easy, LOL! They offered me a contract and I jumped at it! I always wanted to write bigger books…. and category, too. I like having people of all ages and income levels be able to find my stories. So this was perfect!

 

2. We spoke last year about your pen name? Do you mind if I share your story with my readers again?

Sure! Ruth Logan Herne is a pen name. My real name isn’t a secret, it’s in most of my books. But when my mother was dying of cancer, she took my hand one day and said, “I know you’re serious about your writing. I know it means a lot to you. When you get published someday, will you use something of my name in your name? So people know you were mine?”

So I did. Her name was Mary Elizabeth Logan Herne and I took the Logan Herne from her. Herne was my maiden name.

 

3. I heard that you plan to attend a readers conferences in Nashville this August . . . will you also be attending the ACFW conference during the same week?

I am in Nashville during the ACFW conference, and I’m taking part in the amazing Christian Fiction Reader’s Retreat on 8/24 in Nashville…. and then I’ll be in the hotel lobby to visit with folks on 8/25 and 8/26 before I catch a plane back to upstate NY to help with the farm… This is our busy time here, and it’s all hands on deck, so I’ll be there to visit, but not for the whole conference… I love meeting people! That’s my favorite part, so if any of you are there, by all means, come chat with me in the lobby…. The blonde with a laptop and a smile! (This is not natural blonde, unless L’Oreal chemicals are somehow now construed as natural, but that’s okay!!!)

 

4. You live in an historic farmhouse in New York State. Can you tell us more about what’s happening around your farm this year?

Historic farmhouse sounds fancy, doesn’t it? It’s big, but not fancy, and it’s full of love and we’re always breaking things and fixing things! Right now we’re planting like crazy. All kinds of veggies…. squash, pumpkins, cukes, melons, tomatoes, peppers, gourds, corn, and anything the deer seem to love to eat…. it seems we’re offering New York State whitetail deer a veritable buffet of goodness. Oy!!!

But it’s all good and Dave and Seth are working hard to pull this all together!

 

5. You post often about “The Mighty Finn” who is one of your grandsons. What prompted you to write a series about this incredible, adventurous little boy?

Finn… Oh my stars, his nature is what prompted us to write about him. He’s so funny and endearing and he’s got a great personality for pictures, he doesn’t make faces when we pull out the camera, and he’s a born storyteller so that shows in his face…. he’s always wondering or thinking and smiling! His mom is the photographer, and he’s just been a great subject, but who knows when that might change???? Yikes!

 

6. You seem to be involved in everything . . . from writing novels to selling eggs! How do you find time for everything you do?

Donna, blame the Yankee in me, or the New York minute, or a frenetic personality…. or that I love what I do! I’ve been waiting all my life to write books, so now that I can and people are buying them, I’m so excited!!! So I jump in and make time count… Ben Franklin said “There’s plenty of time for rest in the grave” and I love that saying! I’ve always wanted to use the talents God gave me…whether it’s cleaning, gathering eggs and raking out chicken coops, baking cookies and pies or writing sweet books. I am so blessed!

 

7. Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

Yes. Don’t quit. Don’t ever quit. Just write, write, write and when you’re done with one manuscript, start another. Or research one while working on another. Don’t let time slip away, there are no time guarantees on our clocks! Go for the gold, reach for the stars, and believe.

And never, ever, ever give up.

 

Thanks, Ruthy!

And THANK YOU for joining me for this very special AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT!


If you haven’t read MORE THAN A PROMISE by Ruth Logan Herne, you’re missing out on a great story – Tweet this!

Drop by to talk books and dwarf goats with Ruth Logan Herne! – Tweet this!

 

Blessings!

Interview © 2016 DJ Mynatt

Ane Mulligan – Author Spotlight

 

Thank you for joining me for this amazing Author Spotlight!

First, a bit about Ane…

Ane Mulligan writes Southern-fried fiction served with a tall, sweet iced tea.

She firmly believes coffee and chocolate are two of the four major food groups.

Novelist and playwright, Ane is the executive director of Players Guild@Sugar Hill, a new community theater and president of the award-winning literary site, Novel Rocket.

She resides in Sugar Hill, GA, with her artist husband and a dog of Biblical proportion.

 

 

Readers can learn more about Ane at her website or find her on Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, Pinterest, Google+, Novel Rocket and Goodreads.

 

 

If you love reading Ane’s books as much as I do, I am honored to share some exciting news! Ane is searching for a few new members for her street team. If you’re interested (and who wouldn’t be interested), please contact Ane or check out her street team group HERE.

 

An interview with Ane Mulligan . . . today on Donna’s BookShelf. – Tweet this!

 

And here is my interview with Ane:

1. Ane, what genre is “Southern-Fried Fiction?

General or contemporary fiction. It’s Southern, the “fried” refers to the humor in my writing. The brand was pinned on me by another writer. We were talking about voice and brand, and from reading emails from me she said, “Like your Southern-fried fiction.” My agent loved it and it stuck.

2. The town is certainly unique… what was your inspiration for Chapel Springs?

Chapel Springs is patterned after three places: Dahlonega, GA, Black Mountain, NC, and Sugar Hill, GA. All are small. Two are quaint. And all three have those busybodies who know all your business. They make bicker, like Claire and Mayor Felix Riley, but should someone threaten them from the outside, you won’t find better allies.

3. Claire and Patsy are true southern ladies! Are any of your characters taken from people you know?

Oh yes. Claire is a combination of three special ladies in my life. Carol Crosby is a hoot, a real character in her own right. She’s one of those people to whom things happen. She keeps me laughing. Becky Thompson says things that crack me up. You never know what will come out of her mouth. Patsy Hannah is one of those “man the torpedoes, charge ahead” people. I love these ladies and took traits from all three for Claire.

Patsy is a bit of several of my close friends. She’s loyal and always there. Many of the others characters are if I look closely, composites of members of my church and town. Most writers don’t purposely use people they know, but I think it just naturally happens.

Then there is Bud Pugh. He’s in every book I write. Bud is a dear older man at my church. When I’d have to pull together a large production for Christmas or Easter, getting people to play those parts wasn’t easy. But Bud Pugh always said yes. He always encouraged me. He was a natural to put in my books.

4. Do you regularly attend writers workshops and conferences? Are they helpful to you?

Absolutely! I attended my first writers conference in 2004, and have been to at least one a year ever since, sometimes two a year. They are always helpful in several ways. If I come away with just one “golden nugget” of new learning, the conference has been worth the time and money. You can’t absorb everything, so each time I go to one, my work gets better, I learn a new marketing tactic, or I make new friends. The best part is now I’m starting to teach at conferences. I love that. I want to share what I’ve learned and help other writers.

5. Can you tell us more about your book club – “Finding Hope in Fiction”?

This is a funny story and proves God has a sense of humor. About ten years ago, a new couple joined our church. Fred and Nora St.Laurent had been in theater in Florida, and our church secretary introduced us. We quickly became good friends.

Nora worked at a LifeWay bookstore near where I live. One day, I said to her, “We should start a book club. And you lead it, I’m too busy.”

Yeah. I really did that. What I didn’t know is that God was using me. He had big plans for Fred and Nora. About that same time, Nora’s boss at the bookstore asked her to start a book club there in the store. She argued with God for a time, but when He asked her to just love the ladies He sent to her, she agreed. She could do that.

Thus was born the Finding Hope in Fiction Book Club. Fast forward another eight or nine years, and the bookstore had to stop doing the book club there. By now, Nora and Fred had The Book Club Network and Book Fun Magazine going strong. So when Nora told me about having to stop the club, I felt a very sharp poke in my ribs. Yeah. God said, “Now it’s your turn.” Thankfully, He gave me a wonderful co-leader.

6. I love reading your New Year’s resolutions… will you share them with my readers?

I’d love to. I discovered donkey’s years ago I couldn’t keep resolutions, so now I only make ones I know I can keep. My 2016 resolutions are:

1. Drink coffee
2. Eat chocolate
3. Write
4. Read books
5. See a few plays
6. Gain a couple of pounds

The last one isn’t really a resolution, but it’s going to happen. If I include it in the list I don’t feel so bad.

7. Do you have plans for another series in the future?

I definitely do. I have another two-book series that’s ready to publish, and another idea for a Sugar Hill series. The mayor of Sugar Hill has been after me to write one set in our town. I have so many characters and stories in my head that I could keep writing for another fifty years.

Thank you, Ane! And thanks for sharing your resolutions with us… I think I could do most, if not all, of those myself! Readers, feel free to share your resolutions in a comment!

And THANK YOU, readers, for joining me for this very special AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT!
 
Drop by Donna’s BookShelf to talk books and recipes with Ane Mulligan! – Tweet this!
 
If you haven’t read the CHAPEL SPRINGS series by Ane Mulligan, you’re missing out on a great series! – Tweet this!

 
And don’t forget to check back tomorrow for the GRAND PRIZE WINNER!
 

Blessings!

 

Interview © 2016 DJ Mynatt

Ruth Logan Herne – Author Spotlight

 

Thank you for joining me for this very touching Author Spotlight!

First, a bit about Ruth…

Regardless of the season, I love visitors. Folks who love sweet books, gentle stories of hope, love and redemption set in small towns . . . and sometimes in big cities! I’m so glad you stopped by . . . grab a “cuppa” from the Keurig or I’ll make you a latte. Or maybe just a glass of sweet tea?  Set a spell, relax and let’s talk books, amazing heroes and spunky heroines with cute little kids, fun neighbors, sweet country churches and horses and dogs thrown in for good measure.

And the occasional adorable dwarf goat!

Look around. See what suits you. And always, always, always, it is my great pleasure to have you stop by.

“To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under the heaven.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1)

 

Readers can learn more about Ruth at www.ruthloganherne.com or find her on Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, Pinterest and Goodreads.

 

An interview with Ruth Logan Herne . . . today on Donna’s BookShelf. – Tweet this!

 

And here is my interview with Ruth:

1. You write contemporary and historical romance… do you write any other genres

Not at this time! I have a fun fantasy (think Lion, Witch and Wardrobe fun) that I started and haven’t had time to finish, but I love it! At this time, though, I love doing exactly what I’m doing: Writing sweet, delightful romances that show folks overcoming the seemingly ever-present obstacles life throws in our way! That can be daunting, but I love to show people their inner strengths, the power of their beliefs in God and in the amazing person he created when making them. So this is keeping me crazy busy and I’m having the time of my life!

2. Have you ever used a pen name? If  not, is this something you might do, perhaps for a different genre?

Ruth Logan Herne is a pen name. My real name isn’t a secret, it’s in most of my books. But when my mother was dying of cancer, she took my hand one day and said, “I know you’re serious about your writing. I know it means a lot to you. When you get published someday, will you use something of my name in your name? So people know you were mine?”

So I did. Her name was Mary Elizabeth Logan Herne and I took the Logan Herne from her. Herne was my maiden name.

3. Do you attend writers conferences and workshops? Do you attend workshops, teach workshops, or are you there for social benefits?

Oh, Donna, I’m so very bad!!! I love going and meeting people, I don’t attend classes, so now if I go to a conference, I just hang out in the lobby and write and chat with people. That’s my favorite way of attending! I have taught lots of writing classes in my time, and I love it, but I’m still working a day job and there are only so many hours in the day. It’s hard to get chosen for workshops at conferences, so now I focus on meeting readers/writers and friends!

4. You live in an historic farmhouse… and it’s beautiful. Can you tell us more about this choice?

Aw, thank you! It’s such a great old place, and we raised six kids here so we kind of hammered it! And like so many, we’ve had a few rough patches financially, so when my first writing contract came through, we bought two new toilets, LOL! That’s so funny to think of, but so very necessary! Then over the past five years we had the porches repaired, new roofs put on, a family room (there are 14 grandchildren now, so the family room got bumped up the list!) and of course some needed farm things for Dave and the boys. We’ll hang onto it for a while more because it’s a great place for kids and grandkids to come home to! And I love being on a farm.

5. You post often about “The Mighty Finn” who I think is one of your grandsons. What prompted this?

Finn is hysterical! He’s got his own persona, and we were laughing about it, and one day I just called him The Mighty Finn because his reactions to things are like a little old man in a tiny fellow’s body! And it caught on and now we’re just plain having fun with it and getting ready to publish a series of Mighty Finn stories for kids…. It’s just a delight to see things through a mix of his eyes and storytelling.

6. Can you name a few of your favorite writers?  Favorite books?

Gosh, there are two categories. First The Seekers…. The gals I turn to for everything, the ladies of Seekerville. Tina Radcliffe, Missy Tippens, Mary Connealy, Myra Johnson, Julie Lessman, Audra Harders, Glynna Kaye, Janet Dean, Sandra Leesmith, Pam Hillman, Cara Lynn James and Debby Giusti. I love their work, I love their devotion, I love them!

But before there were Seekers there were favorites, too! Lisa Wingate (Her Texas Cooking series is how I found her, delightful!!) Karen White (everything she writes, but my first experience was “Falling Home”, which I loved), Debra Smith (Sweet Hush, one of my favorite ABA books), Sara Donati (now uses her real name Rosina Lippi) (Into the Wilderness) Catherine Marshall’s “Christy”, Louisa May Alcott’s “Little Women”, and so many others! I’ve always lost myself in books and I know you’re like that too!

You and I have a lot in common!

7. Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

Yes. Don’t quit. Don’t ever quit. Just write, write, write and when you’re done with one manuscript, start another. Or research one while working on another. Don’t let time slip away, there are no time guarantees on our clocks! Go for the gold, reach for the stars, and believe.

And never, ever, ever give up.

 

And now for a few favorites:

Favorite vacation spot – People go on vacations??? REALLY??????

Favorite color – Yellow. Which is probably why my house is yellow, that and because it’s such a neat, old-fashioned color!

Favorite food/drink – I am fully supportive of most foods and drinks, but coffee is at the top of the list. Blame being a New Yorker… or a deep need for legally addictive beverages! Food… too many to list, but I love simple foods. I’m a simple person, and if I picked one thing it would be chocolate!!!!!

Favorite time of year – Fall, winter and spring. I’m not a summer person, although I love to work outside… but I prefer sweater weather to heat and humidity. I get kind of SNIPPY when it’s hot out, shame on me!

Favorite hobbies – Writing.

Favorite holiday – Easter. We haven’t messed it up yet, and I love the grace and peace that follows such a tragic day as Good Friday. So much room for rebirth and joy!

Favorite dessert – Pie. I’m a pie person. I eat like any dessert that is not nailed down, but I love making and eating and developing pies!!!! Pies rock!!!!
Donna, thank you so much for this, and for all you do to promote authors, Christian fiction and the joy of reading! You’re amazing!

 
Thanks, Ruthy!

And THANK YOU for joining me for this very special AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT!


If you haven’t read A TOWN CALLED CHRISTMAS by Ruth Logan Herne, you’re missing out on a great story – Tweet this!
 

Drop by to talk books and dwarf goats with Ruth Logan Herne! – Tweet this!

 

Blessings!

Interview © 2015 DJ Mynatt

Valerie Comer – Author Spotlight

 

Thank you for joining me for this delightful Author Spotlight!

And now, introducing…

 

Valerie Comer’s life on a small farm in western Canada provides the seed for stories of contemporary inspirational romance. Like many of her characters, Valerie and her family grow much of their own food and are active in the local foods movement as well as their creation-care-centric church. She only hopes her creations enjoy their happily ever afters as much as she does hers, shared with her husband, adult kids, and adorable granddaughters.

Valerie writes Farm Lit where food meets faith, injecting experience laced with humor into her award-winning Farm Fresh Romance stories.

 

 

You’ve come to the right place! Valerie Comer is a farmer, locavore, beekeeper . . . and the author of the Farm Fresh Romance series.

Valerie blogs where food meets faith. If you’re interested in God’s perspective on the topic, Valerie extends an invite to you to get to know her and her novels. While she might not have all the answers, exploring the subject is close to her heart — and God’s.

 

Valerie, thank you for taking time out of your busy day to answer a few questions, so your fans can get to know more about you…

 

1) I absolutely fell in love with your Farm Fresh Romance series… it’s amazing how you’ve written such inspiring stories, while introducing most of us to the benefits and advantages of “farm fresh” idea of living. Why did you decide to write what most of us would describe as a “new genre”?

When I looked at the contemporary romance market, I knew I didn’t fit with authors who wrote urban-based stories about women in heels and men in suits. I needed to find a place where my own interests intersected with contemporary romance… and then hope there were readers who craved rural stories.

 

2) Was it scary putting something new out there?

Yes and no. Even though society has become so urban-centric in recent decades, many people dream of rural life, thinking of it as simpler and more romantic. I don’t write for “every reader.” I write for those who are, or wish to be, more connected to their roots and are interested in where their food comes from.

 

3) Which genre do you enjoy writing more – farm fresh lit or romance?

I have a hard time separating the two. I can’t see writing farm lit without romance in it, and some of my Riverbend Romances are light on local food issues, so that might answer the question. But I prefer to see them as a unit.

 

4) Have you ever used a pen name? If not, is this something you could see yourself doing?

No, I’ve never used a pen name, and I don’t see any reason I’d start doing so.

 

5) Do you attend writers’ conferences and workshops? Do you see any real value is them, or are them just for socialization?

I’ve attended four ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) conferences as well as a few smaller regional conferences. I think they’re valuable. I definitely learned a lot about craft in the earlier ones, and more about marketing, etc, in more recent ones. Making connections is also valuable, and not just socially. I’ve met quite a few authors that I’ve worked with on the Inspy Romance blog or in box sets.

**Note to Valerie: I’ll be attending the 2016 ACFW Conference in Nashville . . . and I’d love to meet you in person if you plan to attend. Maybe we could get together for wild mint tea?

 

6) Can you name a few of your favorite writers/books?

I really don’t like questions like this because I have so many author friends and hate to choose favorites! So today I’ll simply mention Elizabeth Maddrey because I’m reading the third book in her Taste of Romance series these days. If you enjoy my Farm Fresh Romance series, check out Elizabeth’s series, starting with A Splash of Substance. She pops local food themes into an urban environment in a way I’m quite enjoying.

 

Now for a few fun facts…

Favorite vacation spot – Vancouver Island, in BC, Canada. I love the wild Pacific coast and staring out at the ocean, watching for whales

Favorite color – Green, of course!

Favorite food/drink – Too many to count, and it changes season by season depending on what’s fresh from the garden. But I guess I’ll say homemade mocha, being as I have at least one mug every day, no matter the time of year!

Favorite time of year – Whichever one we’re in at the moment. I try to find enjoyment in them all. I’m not fond of the high temperatures in summer, though.

Favorite hobbies – Hanging out with my three young granddaughters. Camping beside a mountain stream. Cooking veggies minutes from the garden.

Favorite holiday – Christmas, at least if both our kids and their families can be home. Family time is the best.

Favorite dessert – I have too many favorites here! The local foodie in me should say fruit cobblers, and I do enjoy them. But… chocolate usually wins.

 

Thank you, Valerie… and God bless you!

You can find Valerie on her WEBSITE, at FACEBOOK, TWITTER, GOODREADS, and AMAZON.

 

Don’t miss my interview/spotlight with VALERIE COMER…today on Donna’s BookShelf. – Tweet this!

 

Interview © 2015 DJ Mynatt

JC Morrows – Author Spotlight

 

Thank you for joining me for this exciting Author Spotlight!

And now, introducing…  

     JC Morrows!

JC Morrows is a new, inspirational-romance-speculative fiction author.  She has recently released 3 stories from the Order of the MoonStone series . . . 2 short stories available (one on pre-order) on digital media, and A Reluctant Assassin (book 1) is available in paperback or digital media. A Treacherous Decision (book 2) is expected to be released by the end of the year.

She is a home-schooling, skirt-wearing, coffee-drinking, mother of two and full-time go-for… for her mother.

As a young girl she often told stories to her stuffed animals and her own make-believe friends, she never met a stranger until some time in high school, and her mother often joked that she would start up a conversation with a brick wall — if she thought it would talk back to her…

She thought it was perfectly normal to hear the voices of characters in her head, to see otherworldly visions all around her, to live in her own story worlds during quiet times… and sad times — but then she grew up and the world told her to put away those “childish things” so she got a job and learned how to be an adult.

But GOD had a plan for her and the stories never really stopped… they lay dormant for a time — waiting until she was ready to hear them again.

Now she happily spends most of her time living in a fantasy world of her own making. She regales those around her with tales of aliens and villains, epic wars and war-torn kingdoms struggling to rebuild — and whenever possible, she gets those stories down on paper (or on her computer at least) so that one day… she can share them with you as well.

 

JC, your fans are wanting to know more about you… so it’s time for a few questions…

 

1) JC, we are all excited about your new series… it’s amazing how you’ve released a short story, the first book, and now another short story — with another book expected — all in the same year! How do you do it?

With hard work, perseverance, awesome support from my family and LOTS of prayer!

2) Why did you choose speculative fiction?

The simple answer is that it’s just how my mind works. I’ve always been fascinated by vast possibilities. We occupy a tiny corner of an endless universe and we were created by an all-powerful God. The Bible tells us: “With God, all things are possible.” I like to take that scripture to heart!

3) Do you feel that writing “inspirational” stories makes your books more or less popular?

Honestly, I don’t know yet. Typically, young adult books — even in the secular market — don’t contain a lot of nasty language or sensual relationships, so these may do well enough simply because they fit close enough into that YA mold.

4) What made you decide to write young adult fiction?

That is actually a funny story. The first series I started writing — “The Andarii Chronicles” — was written with a single mom as the MC.

My mother and several friends suggested it would better if the MC were a teenager. Naturally, I resisted for some time before I realized they were right. I even started re-writing it in YA and then went back to the original before coming to this conclusion and some day I will find time to go back and finish the YA rewrite.

This series however, presented itself to me as YA. There was never any doubt in my mind that Kayden was a 17 year old girl.

5) I know from reading your books that you write “clean reads”… no bad language, no sex scenes (not even drinking or smoking) so far. Can you really write a series about an assassin — with death in the foreground — without any bad language, or habits, such as drinking and smoking?

I did. And no one has complained about the lack of it… so far.

6) All right, it’s time to come clean! “JC Morrows” – is that your real name, or a PEN name? If it’s a pen name, what is your reason for not using your real name?

It’s my pen name. The reason is simple… my real name just doesn’t sound like a speculative author. “JC Morrows” does.

7) Do you attend writers conferences and workshops? Do you see any real value is them, or are them just for socialization?

Yes! Both. I believe that no writer can get to a point where there is nothing more they can or need to learn about their craft. Literature is just as fluid as art and we should all keep an open mind.

And I love to meet other authors. It’s encouraging to make friends with authors who inspire me!

Now for a few fun facts…

Favorite vacation spot – Myrtle Beach
Favorite color – Purple
Favorite food/drink – COFFEE
Favorite time of year – Winter!
Favorite hobbies – Reading, playing board games with the fam!
Favorite holiday – CHRISTmas!
Favorite dessert – Anything chocolate!

 

Thank you, JC… and God bless you!

You can find JC on her WEBSITE, at FACEBOOK, TWITTER, GOODREADS, and AMAZON.

 

Don’t miss my interview/spotlight with the amazing JC MORROWS…today on Donna’s BookShelf. – Tweet this!

 

Interview © 2015 DJ Mynatt

K.E. Ganshert – Author Spotlight

 

Thank you for joining me for this exciting Author Spotlight!

And now, introducing…

Katie, tell us about your writing journey…

Even though the love affair began in elementary school, when my third grade teacher read my story about Mr. and Mrs. Leaf out loud to the class, the journey didn’t start until I traveled to Kenya to do HIV/AIDS outreach in 2006. The places and people I encountered haunted my soul. They would not leave, even after I came home. My only relief came through the keys of my computer. So over the summer, I sat at my desk and wrote my first full-length novel.

When I finished, I thought I’d see about publication. Only I had no idea what I was getting myself into. After doing a very small amount of research, I sent out queries, received one request for a full and a quick rejection. Still in college and newly married, I put the novel in a drawer. I graduated with a teaching degree, moved to Iowa, got a wonderful job teaching 5th graders, and let life have its way. Until 2008, Valentine’s Day in New York City, when hubby and I found out we were expecting.

While pregnant, my stomach wasn’t the only thing expanding. The writing itch returned. Stronger this time. So I wrote my second novel and decided I didn’t want to stop. This writing thing felt like more than a hobby. So I dived into the world of publishing, researching agents and editors and filling my bookshelves with books about writing. I revised my first two novels and wrote two more. I paid for some professional critiques, joined the American Christian Fiction Writers Association, found some critique partners, and attended my first writing conference in September of 2009.

It was there, in Denver, that I pitched my third novel to my dream agent, Rachelle Gardner. Two months later, I got a phone call I’ll never forget. It was Rachelle, calling to offer representation (to read more about this exciting and slightly chaotic evening, check out my post about getting the call).

My book went on submission in January. While I waited (and waited and waited) I wrote two more books and continued to immerse myself in the industry. Then, on October 29th, 2010, one of my biggest dreams came true. Rachelle called and said, “Katie, this is the phone call you’ve been waiting for.”

My book had passed the frightening land of Pub Board. And Waterbrook Multnomah, a division of Random House, offered me a two-book deal (to read more about this exciting and slightly chaotic day, check out this post).

I signed the lovely contract three months later.

 

That’s really exciting… before we get to the questions, I know my readers would love to hear about your faith journey, too…

Faith, I’m certain, is a journey.

I may have given my life to Christ as a freshman in college, but God was nowhere (and is nowhere) close to finishing the good work he started that day in my dorm room. Nowhere close.

I grew up in a semi-religious home. We went to church on Sundays. My brother and I went to religion class on Wednesdays. I used to think that as long as my good outweighed the bad, I was pretty much fine. And as far as the Bible? It was just a bunch of rules and disjointed stories and tips for moral living that pastors and priests and reverends would read to help them teach on Sundays.

Then my parents got divorced and we stopped going to church.

A couple years later, my dad gave his life to Christ. My mom got baptized Mormon. And I pretty much stayed out of it.

Until my freshman year of college. Madison, WI. Witte Hall. Tenth floor.

I opened the Bible my dad gave me for my graduation and read the book of Matthew. Then Mark. Then Luke. Then John. And when I was finished, I got down on my knees and told God I didn’t want to do this life-thing on my own anymore.

It was the first time I realized Christianity is not about religion. It’s not some man-made effort to reach a far-away God. It’s not about a list of rules. It’s not about being good. And the Bible is so much more than a bunch of old, disjointed stories that pastors and priests and reverends read to help them teach on Sundays.

It was the first time I realized Christianity is about a relationship. It’s about a merciful Father reaching down into a broken world to rescue His beloved creation. It’s about freedom and joy. It’s about undeserved, amazing grace. And despite having sixty-six books, forty-something authors, and a time span that reaches past a thousand years, the Bible weaves itself together to form one single metanarrative. One single overarching story. And that story is a message of redemption.

Since that moment on my dorm room floor, God continues to woo me, to draw me in, to lovingly peel my fingers away from the things I hold so tightly and whisper, “Let go, Katie. I’ve got this.”

Since that moment on my dorm room floor, I’ve discovered that God’s love language is obedience and when I step out in faith, He shows up in amazing, amazing ways.

Since that moment on my dorm room floor, I’ve seen a world that is hurting. A world that is broken. And people are digging through the mire of that hurt and brokenness, hoping to find satisfaction for a longing this place was never meant to satisfy.

Which is ultimately why I write inspirational fiction. I want my words to point to the hope we’re all searching for. I want my words to point to the truth.

That while we were battered, bruised, and broken. Marred with scars. Covered in filth. Jesus laid down His life to rescue us. Writing these stories reminds me that He is the answer to our longing. I hope it reminds others too.

 

WOW!  What an awesome message to share with everyone. OK, now for just a few questions…

 

What was your favorite book growing up?

Hands down, The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster. It was the first book that swept me up and transported me into a different world. I absolutely could not put it down. I have so much nostalgia for this book that when I taught 5th grade, I read it to my students each year. The story has so much word play and symbolism that went over my head as a kid, but I can appreciate now as an adult. Plus, the message is beautiful. Don’t let the old-fashioned cover scare you off. It’s such a fun book.

Why do you write under two names?

Because I write two different genres of fiction–young adult for the secular market and inspirational fiction for the Christian market. While I believe (and hope) that readers of my inspirational fiction will also enjoy my young adult, and vice versa, I want to be clear that readers should expect different things from both.

What made you decide to write young adult fiction?

I love reading young adult fiction. And I had this idea come into my head that would not leave. Even though industry advice says not to deviate from your author brand, I couldn’t help myself. I had to write this story. So I sat down and started writing. I didn’t intend to share it. I was writing for me, for the fun of it. And man, was it ever fun! It brought my creativity back to life. After I finished, I was itching to share it. So I did. With a few close friends and family members. They enjoyed the stories so much, and I enjoyed sharing them so much, that I decided I should make them available to the public.

Why do you write inspirational fiction?

This is the genre I started reading voraciously in college. I was obsessed with Karen Kingsbury and Francine Rivers. And my faith is such an integral part of who I am. So when I opened up a Word document one day to write a novel of my own, faith naturally became a big element of the story.

Why did you decide to go indie with your young adult?

I’ve loved every second of traditional publication. There are definitely a lot of great benefits that come with working with a publishing house, and I’ve had a wonderful experience with mine. But there’s also some fun benefits that come with indie publishing–namely, speed and control. I’m all finished writing The Gifting trilogy. I didn’t want to wait years and years to make them available. I also love that as an indie author, I’ll be able to control the price point. If I want to put one or two or three on sale, I can. It’s been a very fun adventure so far!

 

Thank you, Katie… and God bless you! 

You can find Katie on her WEBSITE, at FACEBOOK, TWITTER, GOODREADS, and AMAZON.

 

Don’t miss my interview/spotlight with the amazing KATIE GANSHERT…today on Donna’s BookShelf. – Tweet this!

 

Interview © 2015 DJ Mynatt