Happy 3rd Anniversary, Long & Short Reviews!

Hi, everyone!

Long & Short Romance is celebrating its third anniversary - and I'm one of the party hosts! The gifts, however, are all yours! Participate in a scavenger hunt where LASR is giving away THREE Nook eBook Readers, along with a $50 BN.com gift certificate. Bonus? The Nook comes pre-loaded with dozens of romance and juvenile fiction eBooks...my current release, Hearts Crossing, included!

All you have to do is "Find Marianne's NOOK!!" It's somewhere on my website, http://www.marianneevans.com/

Here's a hint: Think about...uhm...stuff I have coming up in the future - LOL!

Find my nook, and then fill out the form you'll find on the entry toggle below! It's that easy! What are you waiting for? Click, and go huntin'!!! Have fun, and good luck!!

Oh, the glamour of business travel...

I'll be the first to admit it. When I hear about friends and colleagues who jet off to big cities on business trips, there's a part of me that thinks:"Gee. How fun. How glamorous..." You fly in, check in at what will most likely be a very comfortable hotel, accomplish some business goals, have a nice dinner, mix and mingle with people you may have only known through cyberspace or phone calls...sounds good right?

Sure it does.

Let me share the 'glamorous' story of my recent business trip to Chicago.

My plane departed at 7 am, so I arose at the horrific hour of 4 am to be sure I got there on time. Delays in getting a shuttle from the parking area to the terminal ate up a bit of the extra time I had built in, but no worries. Until I checked in at security, that is.

The 7 o'clock hour heralds the first morning flights to most major cities along the east coast from Detroit, so security was an absolute madhouse. After an hour in line, and a mad dash to the gate, I boarded the plane. Just barely.

Arrival in Chicago was uneventful, and actually quite fun, as the city skyline came into view. I had met up with a colleague from Ohio and we made our way to the Midwest headquarters of our company. We checked in at the security desk of the office building, and that's when problem number one came up. I lost my drivers license.

I had it when I went through security, and I slid it into my tote bag after that, so all I can figure is it came out when I was reading a book on the plane and I didn't even realize it.

Frantic calls to the airport, to the TSA, offered up only voicemail recordings. I finally connected to a human being who told me the documents I'd need to get home the following day. He also warned me to be prepared for a "slightly longer security check" on departure. Fine, I thought, as long as I get home.

Issue settled for now, I met up with my colleagues for - yes - a very glamorous dinner at the Signature Room, on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Building. Outstanding views!! Wonderful atmosphere and food! After that, I literally sank into bed and was out before my head hit the pillow.

The next day we concluded our business activities and headed to the airport with plenty of time to spare (and get me through security without a photo ID...!) It only took an extra 15 or 20 minutes, and I had plenty of time, but the TSA team was thorough. They opened and searched my overnight carry-on. They emptied and searched my tote and purse, and even took apart my phone. They were nice, but very businesslike. And, since I had nothing to hide and was very eager to simply be aboard my plane, that was fine by me. I didn't even object to the full pat-down in the plexiglass security/holding pen...

However - I shouldn't have been in such a hurry.

I boarded the plane, pulled out my book to read (after making sure nothing fell out! LOL!) and the crew buttoned up the aircraft and we pulled away from the gate.

And stopped.

The captain came on, informing we were under a full ground stop at O'Hare due to severe, late afternoon storm systems moving through the Midwest. We'd be stopped for, at minimum, an hour and a half, but perhaps as long as two and a half hours. A sense of claustrophobia set in almost instantly. They kept the air running, but it wasn't very cool, and we were asked to close our window shades to further aid in keeping the cabin cool. Mid-July in the Midwest is typically humid and sunny - and late afternoon storm systems like this happen frequently - but I couldn't get over the idea of feeling trapped, and hemmed in.

I worked hard to distract myself with e-mails from my BlackBerry, reading, chatting with my seatmate, I even tried to write, though, to be honest, though I had a scene idea in mind, I just couldn't focus to that degree.

Thankfully after an hour and a half on the tarmac, we were cleared to take off. Just less than an hour later I was back home - drained and exhausted and eager for nothing but comfy clothes and fresh, cool air!! Added bonus? I had a trip to the Secretary of State in my future!

It sounds horrible - and, yeah, parts of it were, but it was also beneficial to me, fun, and just a small taste of that glamour I always thought about when hearing about business travel. Now, however, I understand more clearly when those who travel frequently on business tend to warn: "It's okay - but it's not as alluring as you'd think."

Be blessed everyone - and see you next time!

I Dreamed a Dream...

And White Rose Publishing is making it come true!

When I made the switch from writing secular romances to writing Christian inspirationals earlier this year, one of the factors that motivated me was the idea of creating a series of books based upon a single place of faith and worship – a church not unlike millions of others around the world, where people gather, bond, share and grow. After all, as we grow, we help and enable others to grow.

In book form I longed to paint that picture with words and stories that would, of course, feature a stirring romance, but reveal the beauty of a circle of faith and worship.

As most of you know, Hearts Crossing, my debut Christian inspirational, came about as the result of a writing contest sponsored by White Rose Publishing. While I waited and sweated the results, a second story took off – and I even had niggles of what I wanted to do with books three and four. Ultimately, I could see these stories becoming “The Woodland Series.” Though – bear in mind – I hadn’t gone anywhere with Hearts Crossing yet…

Talk about dangerous “prepare thee for disappointment” territory…

Well, nothing is dangerous when it comes to God, and His will. Shortly after the sale and debut of Hearts Crossing, I was able to present my editor with its sequel, Hearts Surrender. In that offering I explained that I also had ideas brewing for two more books after that.

She reviewed Hearts Surrender, and placed it under contract – and she asked for a synopsis and opening chapters of books 3 and 4, which I provided. I cloud danced for a bit, then got to work! Now, contracts have just been executed for Hearts Communion and Hearts Key, and I'm thrilled! Although, it hasn’t taken me long to figure out that it’s an exciting kind of terror to write on speculation.

So, a dream becomes reality – and beyond the Woodland Series, I’m very optimistic about my continuing relationship with White Rose Publishing. This publishing house holds my heart and loyalty. They do things the right way with regard to everything from author support and responsiveness to editorial talent and production quality. I feel so blessed and honored by this show of confidence as White Rose continues to grow and prosper.

There's much more to come, naturally! But for now, please enjoy the stunning cover for Hearts Surrender (artist Nicola Martinez absolutely outdid herself!). Meanwhile, I’m hard at work on Hearts Communion and Hearts Key. Please keep these efforts in your prayers. We need messages of faith, hope and love in today’s world! I've said it before, but I'll say it again: It's not about 'me' and 'books sold' - it's about honoring my God, and my beliefs in Him, His grace, mercy, provision and love.

For a bit more about Hearts Surrender, here’s a blurb:

Kiara Jordan is a sophisticated modernista, but beneath an engaging personality and super-model looks, her heart hungers, and she longs for deeper meaning in her life.

Ken Lucerne is the charismatic young pastor of Woodland Church; he's adjusting to life on his own following the death of his wife and copes by keeping as busy with parish life and mission work he can.

A home-building mission in Pennsylvania brings them together, and forces them to look hard and deep at the relationship they share, and where God means for it to go. Already bound by mutual respect and caring, love dawns, a love that takes them to a life-point neither would have expected.

After all, can a chic, vivacious woman find fulfillment within the quiet, mission-centered life of a clergyman? Can they trust God's hand strongly enough to surrender their hearts to one another…forever?

Blessings, friends!!

And the Winner Is.....

Mary McCall!

Mary, you've won an autographed, print edition of Hearts Crossing!! Look for an e-mail so we can exchange info!

To those who stopped by, and commented, both here and at the White Roses in Bloom Blog, I thank you for your support and encouragement. Hearing your stories and individual testimonies is a blessing.

Just days after my blog post, I received a completely unexpected but most welcomed Google alert that Long and Short Reviews had given Hearts Crossing a 4.5 Books rating! Amazing, from such a highly respected review site! Furthermore, I'm nominated for "Book of the Week!" Voting Starts Saturday, and I'll be posting links all over the place, so watch for it. I'd love to earn your vote!

Nice thing is, White Rose Publishing has TWO books in contention for Book of the Week at LASR - Hearts Crossing and Nicola Beaumont's fantastic kick-off to the WRP Christian Gothic line, a novella entitled: Into the Grae! I've read it, and it's fantastic. So, in honesty, I don't care who wins, but giving White Rose authors a strong vote of support would be just great.

I want to see the Inspys do well! There's so much hope and love to find out there in the genre of Christian Romance.

Thanks again, gang - and Blessings!

Marianne

I'll Give a Little...So You Get a Lot!

It's not about me. It's not about making book sales, or gaining New York Times acclaim. My most recent writing ventures, and successes, are centered on being a disciple. It's about using my time and talents in the way God calls.

But here's the quandary of adopting that attitude in our modern, explicit, 'life by titillation' culture: Many people equate Christian fiction, and sweet, Christian romance in particular, as being dry. Or, worse yet: self-righteous and preachy.

I want to dispel that idea as best I can in my little corner of the universe. How am I doing that? By giving a little, to make a bigger impact. I'm offering a chance to find out, for free, that those perceptions couldn't be farther from the truth. I want to do my part to foster changes in attitude and opinion, because the more inspy fiction I read, the more I enjoy both the quality, and content. These are realistic stories, featuring heros and heroines you can relate to, facing life's challenges wherein sometimes they stumble and fall, yet always, in the end, find the helping hand of God and a richly rewarding love story.

Hearts Crossing, as most of you know, is my debut as a Christian Inspirational author. I'm very proud of this work, and am forever grateful to White Rose Publishing and my gifted editor, Nicola Martinez, for blessing me with the chance to see this story released. Hearts Crossing carries with it a message of love, faith and a redemptive mercy that, to my mind, is desperately needed in today's world.

But I want to put my convictions where my mouth is. Check out the link in my story title and read a brief excerpt, and the blurb. See if it hooks you in. You might also check out the character interview section to find out more about Collin Edwards, the hero of Hearts Crossing. If you're intrigued, then leave me a comment. From there I'll chose someone to receive an autographed print edition. The winner will be announced on Friday, June 11th - so check back in and see if you win!

What have you got to lose? Go ahead and give it a try! After all, like I said, it's not about me, it's about Him. Experience the smart, real, humorous and even heart-tugging way Christian Romance can hook you in, and leave you not just pleasantly surprised by the content, but uplifted and affirmed as well. My bet is you'll be back to White Rose Publishing, and the 'new age' of Christian inspirational romances for even more!

Until next time - Blessings ~

Marianne

Welcome, Delia Latham!

Today's post is a special treat here at the "Minute" blog! I want to tell you about my friend and fellow "White Rose" author Delia Latham. Delia is a wonderful talent in the world of Christian romance, so I wanted to introduce you to her, and let you know about her new release, Yesterday's Promise, from White Rose Publishing.

Here's a bit about Delia, so you can get to know her better:

Delia is a born and-bred California gal, recently transplanted to Oklahoma where she lives with her husband Johnny. She’s a Christian wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend—but above all, she treasures her role as child of the King and heir to the throne of God. Delia enjoys big, loud, happy family gatherings and quieter times with just her own four children and grandchildren. She loves to play piano and sing, read, drink in the natural beauty of her surroundings, design marketing products for authors, and write. Delia’s inspirational novel, Goldeneyes, was released in March 2008. Yesterday’s Promise released through White Rose Publishing in March 2010. A children’s book, Adam’s Wings, will be available in December 2010. Find out more about this author and her books at http://www.delialatham.net/.

To draw you into the world of Yesterday's Promise, here's an overview, and excerpt - followed by my review and details on an exciting contest that's being held in conjunction with Delia's blog tour!

BLURB:

A spur of the moment wedding near Bridalveil Fall.
A young bride who awakens the morning after to find her new husband gone with the mountain wind.

Songbird Hannah Johns supports the child born of that ill-fated union by signing in a dinner lounge. Her dream of someday owning the elite establishment and turning it into a venue more suited to her Christian values is shattered when an unexpected transaction places it in the hands of Brock Ellis, the handsome biker who abandoned her in their honeymoon suite.

Ensuing sparks fly high, revealing buried secrets and forgotten pasts. Seeking to find peace with her painful past, Hannah returns to Yosemite, and Brock follows hard on her heels. Back where it all began, she finds herself in danger of losing her heart yet again to the man who shattered it the first time around.

EXCERPT:

Gazing in dismay at the tattered strips of rubber hanging from her right front wheel, Hannah shuddered. "Whatever a smithereen is, that's what I think this thing is blown to."

Dutifully opening the trunk, she stared down at the spare tire. There it lay, right where it was supposed to be. Tentatively she poked it with one finger. Now what was she supposed to do with it?

The warm late-June air did little to relieve the chill spreading throughout her nervous system. Miserably, she berated herself for ever thinking she could pull off a trip like this on her own. Just look at where her little streak of independence had gotten her: Here she sat, all alone at the side of the road with a crippled car on her hands. She barely knew how to fill the fuel tank, much less change a flat tire. And who knew what kind of deranged person might stop and offer to "help"?

At the thought, one shaky hand flew to her lips. "Oh, God, be with me!" The frightened, whispered prayer came from the depths of her soul.

Hurrying back to the driver's door, she slid behind the wheel, where she hurried to raise the convertible top, roll up the windows and lock both doors. Her heart trip-hammered as she recalled in full detail every horror story she'd ever heard about lone women attacked at the side of the road by sadistic human monsters.

Allowing her head to sag wearily against the steering wheel, Hannah did what she always did in desperate times.

"God, I'm in trouble. I don't have a clue how to change a tire. I really need Your help this time, Lord. Won't you send someone along that I can trust?"

The roar of an engine outside her window brought her head up. She wasn't even aware of the tears on her cheeks.

Several yards ahead of the mustang, a man dressed in solid black dismounted a huge Harley-Davidson motorcycle and reached up to remove a shiny black helmet.

God were You even listening? I asked for someone I can trust!

MARIANNE'S REVIEW:

Without even realizing it at first, Hannah Johns holds the key to unlocking a number of troubling ‘blank spots’ in Brock Ellis’ mind – and heart. Their whirlwind marriage and his subsequent abandonment of Hannah, possess the answers to a series of events in Brock’s past that weave a complex, relationship-driven conflict. This is a story I thoroughly enjoyed, and definitely kept me turning the pages.

An added bonus to Yesterday’s Promise is the authentic, loving portrait Delia Latham paints of Yosemite. I love it when a skilled author places a reader deep into a setting without overwhelming the book with too much detail.

I was won by the struggles Brock confronts both in his memory loss, and an embattled relationship with God. I also found Hannah to be a most admirable heroine – fully devoted to her son and her and the manner in which Hannah asserts herself as a heroine of the first order – using smart logic, her head and her heart, to help Brock , and herself, move past pain, and into a life-long love as well as a renewal of faith.

Five stars, Delia – very well done!

CONTEST & BLOG TOUR DETAILS:

Delia’s on the move until the end of the month – and she’s giving away two $10 gift certificates to White Rose Publishing at the end of her blog tour. Winners will be drawn from the comments left at the blogs during this 3-week event. So, when you comment, be sure to leave your e-mail address so Delia can connect to you if you win. Every comment generates one entry, so follow her on the schedule I’ve provided below to increase your chances!

Delia, congratulations again on the release of Yesterday's Promise - and best of success to you!!

20
Tori Close
a Merciful Heart
http://www.toriclose.com
20-26
Shirley Kiger Connolly
A Pen for Your Thoughts
http://apenforyourthoughts.blogspot.com/
21
Angie Breidenbach
God Uses Broken Vessels
http://godusesbrokenvessels.blogspot.com/
21
Teresa Slack
Joy in the Journey
http://teresaslack.blogspot.com/
24
AusJenny
Come Meet AusJenny
http://ausjenny.blogspot.com/
24
Sharon Ball
A Break from the Norm
http://www.sharonball.com/
24
Kara Hunt
Fiction with Faith
www.fictionwithfaith.blogspot.com
25
TRS Blog (Guest Post)
TRS Blog
http://theromancestudio.blogspot.com/
25
Vickie Price Taylor
Write Along the Way
http://vickiepricetaylor.blogspot.com/
26
JoAnn Carter
White Roses in Bloom
http://www.whiterosesinbloom.blogspot.com/
26
Robin Bayne
Between Sundays
http://wwwwritingbetweensundays.blogspot.com/
27
Carla Stewart
Carla's Writing Café
http://www.carlastewart.blogspot.com/
28
Miralee Ferrell
Coming Home
http://miraleesdesk.blogspot.com
28
Susan Holloway
Journeys of Love…Inspired by Faith
http://susanhollaway.blogspot.com

Livin' the "BIG"GBY Life!

Sometimes, the hardest step to take is the first one.

Here's the scoop. I want so very much for my current release, Hearts Crossing, to reach, and touch, as many 'hearts' as possible (pardon the pun!). After all, isn't that the point of writing? Of sweating and agonizing over each detail of the novels we create?

When White Rose Publishing, my fantastic authorial home, enabled print copies of novellas, I jumped at the chance to be able to offer both electronic and print versions of this contest winning story. However, beyond that, I wanted to promote. We want to reach readers.

So, after hearing about the success people had at coffee house signings, I thought: Hey, I could do that! I love coffee, I love getting folks together, I love sharing my work...

But then came shyness. Then came doubts and insecurity. I mean, really. Me? Who wants surrender part of a gorgeous spring Saturday in Michigan (after enough rain to float a boat!) to visit with an author and simply buy a book?

Then came an epiphany - something that should have occurred to me much earlier. Promoting, signings - they're not about me. They're about my work - a book I believe in with all my heart. That's what I'm asking people to take note of and support, not me.

That mental adjustment gave me just enough courage to put together a promotional piece, some business cards, and go to my local Biggby Coffee Shop and ask if they might be interested in letting me camp out at a table for a few hours and have a book signing.

I was overwhelmed by their response. Not only did they welcome the chance to have a local author conduct a signing at their shop, they promoted it on Facebook and Twitter (just like I did on my own sites...), they broadcast a promotional PowerPoint presentation I put together on their big-screen TV's, and were incredibly gracious as folks came in!

I gave away a Biggby Gift Card (Congrats Christy Ciaramitaro!!) and a Gift Certificate to White Rose Publishing (Congrats Suzanne Calvano!!) and so many great friends, family and fans came out!! Here are some pictures from the event - and for any subsequent publications, you can bet I'll be setting up signings at Biggby Coffee in the future.

Remember - it's all about the BOOK! I was nervous at the start, and as I set it up, but executing and enjoy the day was really fun, and was well worth the shaky steps forward into self-promotion.

Thanks for letting me share my excitement about a very successful and tremendously fun event! I feel so blessed!