Friday Fun With a New Release: Mattie's Meltaways

And so, we conclude our week together by saying 'Farewell!' to the Sweet Treats Bakery.

Mattie's Meltaways, releasing today from White Rose Publishing, concludes the series by Mary Manners and I've had a blast introducing you to this quartet of wonderful, heart-touching women. The Spencer sisters won my heart, and after reading their stories of love and romance, my bet is, you'll love them, too!

BLURB

Mattie Spencer has spent the last decade helping to raiser her siblings and grooming Sweet Treats Bakery into a thriving business.

Over the years, she's watched her sisters grow into beautiful women and find the men of their dreams. Now it's her turn, but, at thirty-five, she feels too old to dream of a husband and children of her own.

Tyler Jacobs, a firefighter in the small town of Mount Ridge, keeps busy raising his seven-year-old daughter. The death of his wife during three years ago still haunts him, but morning stops into Sweet Treats, along with a dose of conversation and a handful of Mattie's delicious mint meltaways, kindle a desire he thought was extinguished forever.

Now Tyler has just one goal--to convince Mattie that love knows no age.

PURCHASE MATTIE'S MELTAWAYS RIGHT HERE

MARIANNE'S REVIEW

Love knows no age, love knows no boundaries, and we're never--ever--too old to pursue our dreams.

I've always believed that when the Lord places a call on our hearts, He gives us the wherewithal, stamina and ability to see it through.

Mattie Spencer has helped raise her sisters. She's been part of the braintrust that has built Sweet Treats Bakery from the ground up. But she fears her heart is destined to remain unfulfilled by marriage, and children of her own.

Into the shop walks firefighter Tyler Jacobs--reeling from his own disappointments in life.

When these two come together, the heady tingles and sweet 'going under' of falling in love takes place, and that's one of my favorite plots--watching two people who have 'given up' on life remain sweet, and caring, and ultimately find their way to true love and happiness.

Mattie's Meltaways forms a wonderful conclusion to Mary Manners's series, and it has been a real "treat" for me to shine the spotlight on Sweet Treats Bakery. I can't wait for what's next from Mary!

Blessings, friends, and have a great weekend!

Delia Latham Completes a Blog Visit Trifecta!

Welcome back--for a magical third time--to my friend and fellow White Rose author, Delia Latham! She's such a favorite! :-)

Born and raised in a place called Weedpatch, Delia Latham moved from California to Oklahoma in 2008, making her a self-proclaimed California Okie. She loves to read and write in her simple country home, and gets a kick out of watching her husband play Farmer John. The author enjoys multiple roles as Christian wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, but especially loves being a princess daughter to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. She loves to hear from her readers. You can contact her through her website or send an e-mail to delia AT delialatham DOT net.

Delia, I can't wait to talk about Kylie's Kiss! Kylie's Kiss is book 2 of the acclaimed Solomon's Gate series and Delia's latest release. It's amazing - and my review follows!

On a dare, Kylie Matthews lands smack in the middle of Solomon’s Gate—Castle Creek’s new Christian dating agency—and she finds herself revealing exactly what she’s waiting for in a relationship: “The kiss that steals my breath away.”

What she doesn’t reveal is her lack of self-esteem or her irrational reaction to facial disfigurement. Neither is applicable to her quest to find the perfect match. But that seemingly superficial malady becomes all-important when her first agency-arranged date is Rick Dale—a man who is everything Kylie is searching for. He’s handsome, smart, fun. Rick has it all…including an angelic six-year-old daughter with severe scarring on one side of her face.

Hard at work founding a therapy camp for young female victims of deformity or disfigurement, Rick wants Kylie to be a part of those plans. She’d love to say yes…but how can she, when every contact with the facility’s guests—and Rick’s own daughter—will make her violently ill?

Kylie is ready to admit their relationship doesn’t stand a chance, but she’s forgotten that God makes a way where there seems no way.

Sounds fantastic, eh? Well here are my thoughts on this wonderful romance!

We are all beautifully made. That biblical truth forms the heart of Kylie’s Kiss, book two of the Solomon’s Gate Series. The story reaches deep and wins the heart by virtue of Delia Latham’s solid characterization, sparkling humor, and tender-hearted skill as an author. The romance is affecting, but beyond that, Latham does an outstanding job of developing a story that layers forgiveness within a family torn apart by the idea of physical image and outward appearances.

Kylie Matthews is the daughter of a beauty queen, and the sister of a world-famous actress. She’s spent a lifetime feeling frowzy and unworthy to a degree that leaves her physically ill when confronted by physical imperfection. The longing for a mystical, magical, transcending kiss from the man God intends just for her leads her to Solomon’s Gate, a Christian dating agency we were first introduced to in Destiny’s Dream, book one of the series.

Rick Dale becomes her assigned date – this following a serendipitous car accident between the two. (Think God has plans afoot here?) Rick is the father of a sweet little girl named Lea, who suffers from a facial disfigurement that has made her wise and mature beyond her years. Lea has inspired Rick to create Looking Glass Ranch, a place for kids like Lea to make friends, have fun, and escape social pressures and stigmas.

Rick and Kylie for a noble unit, they’re people you fall in love with and root for from page one. Latham crafts each ladder step of this book’s plot with precision – cuing the reader in with just enough information and plot development to keep the pages flying whole at the same time creating a love story between two struggling, beautiful souls finding their way to one another in a pathway that could only come from God.

The angel Solomon provides an appealing whisper of angelic intervention, and it’s wonderful to see Destiny and Clay, from Destiny’s Dream, in their new and happy lives, but you don’t need to have read Destiny’s Dream in order to enjoy Kylie’s Kiss. (I have a strong feeling you’ll want to snap it up, though!)

With her trademark gentility and tenderness, Latham urges us all to embrace love, and ‘fix each other’s scars together.’ As Kylie’s Kiss so aptly portrays, the worst of these scars aren’t physical, they reside in our hearts and God’s touch is there, waiting, to help smooth it away, and bring us to love everlasting.

Please, grab a copy and enjoy Kylie’s Kiss!

Contact Delia at the following locations:

Web: http://www.delialatham.net/
Blog: http://www.my-book-bag.blogspot.com/
Newsletter: http://www.bookshelfnewsletter.blogspot.com/

Delia, thanks so much for your visit and God bless!!

JoAnn Carter, and Explorations of a Paradox

Welcome to A Minute With Marianne, JoAnn Carter!

JoAnn is a woman I've been blessed to call friend ever since I first heard about White Rose Publishing. She's a multi-published author of inspirational Christian romance, and she has a new release out with Desert Breeze Publishing called Paradox. I can't wait to read it!

For now, though, let me sit back and sip my java while I give you all a chance to meet this lovely lady, and hear even more about her work and where to find her!

JoAnn, the floor is all yours!

This morning while I was lying in bed in the early pre-dawn I heard a bird singing out a beautiful melody. Normally, this would make my heart happy, but then I'd just turn over and try to catch a few more moments of rest. But not today. Today was extra special. Why? Because crazy as this may sound, this little birdie was lifting it's sweet praises in the midst of a thunderstorm. Amazing! God used two rather "ordinary" things to create and extraordinary experience for me—God showed me something awesome and real—a perfect picture of peace.

Thunderclouds rolled in, lighting flashed across the dark gray sky, and rain teamed down the windowpane yet this bird was secure. In fact, it was more than secure, it was full of joy, willing and wanting to sing.

This sends Goosebumps up my spine as I think about it. It's a paradox and truly a God thing. Especially since this word, paradox, has been near and dear to my heart. In fact, I kid you not; this is the very title of the book that I wanted to share with you today. Yet, perhaps paradox is not a word you're familiar with, so let me explain. Paradox is flowers on snow, joy in the midst of trials, compassion for others as your own heart breaks. It's what many of us just celebrated, Easter-- Jesus laying down his life for me, someone sinful and undeserving. It's victory and life born out of death and suffering.

Through this experience, God reminded me that He delights in using those ordinary things to accomplish His marvelous purposes. And that's super news! If He can use Fishermen, tax collectors, birds, and thunderstorms, I know He can use me—a very average, ordinary person to do extraordinary things for Him. Perhaps you're feeling "ordinary" today. Take heart, it's through that very thing that God can show His creativity, His power, and even His love just like He did for me in the midst of this early mornings storm.

***************************************************

A CONTEST TO HELP CELEBRATE THE RELEASE OF PARADOX:

Win a gift box filled with goodies! (A paperback copy of Teacher's Plans, a gift certificate, a mug filled with a package of Green Mountain Coffee, pen and a Tee-shirt.)

How? Help JoAnn spread the word about Paradox by sharing the link to this post on your FB, Twitter, blog, etc. then e-mail where you posted it to joannwrites@gmail.com with "Blog Blitz" in the subject line. A winner will be drawn 5/26/11.

--

JoAnn Carter writes stories that will encourage your faith through inspirational fiction novels and novellas. She resides in Vermont with her wonderful husband and four children.

JoAnn is available for speaking engagements to book clubs, reader groups, library groups, women's ministries events, school events, and church retreats.

Find her here:

Visit JoAnn's Web site

Connect with JoAnn on Facebook

JoAnn's Blog

--

JoAnn, thanks so much for your visit today - it's been a treat!!

Be sure to pick up a copy of Paradox today @ http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-168/JoAnne-Carter-Paradox/Detail.bok

Watch the trailer here ~ http://youtu.be/mnOQeNeQuUE

A new release - just in time for Easter

Will a quest for the truth lead him to a miracle -
and the love of a lifetime?

Reporter Paul Hutchins is all about finding facts and uncovering the truth. Verification, authenticity and quantification are the fuel of his spirit...until he falls in love with producer Sandy Pierson.

Sandy sees Christ alive in every aspect of her life. No need for quantified facts. Faith is the fuel of her spirit. But her love for Paul puts her at odds with God's call toward faith and all of its mysteries.

Paul considers Christianity to be well-meaning myth - hyperbole. To Sandy, it's everything - and she can accept nothing less from the man she loves.

Can a miracle happen? Can the touch of God Himself keep their relatinship from shattering?

EXCERPT

"I know how deeply you feel things, Paul. You have a wonderful heart. That's part of why I love you so much. I'm torn in two about my feelings for you." Sandy's declaration would have filled him were it not chipped and cracked by the impact of her doubts. "Your reporter's instinct toward autenticity and revealing the truth is a big part of what I admire about you. There's nothing wrong with facing the world honestly, but you need to make room for a few other truths."

"Like God."

"Yes, and the fact that life holds as much mystery, and as many intangibles, as it does realistic things you can hold tight to with both hands."

She wanted him to change. Right down to the soul. Paul continued to study her. She was hurt enough that she had almost stepped away from attending tonight's event - out of a frustrated sense of love. Yet, here they were - together - out of a frustrated sense of love.

And if he wasn't mindful of her beliefs, she'd step away from him.

Paul navigated the rapidly-filling parking lot of Woodland Church. Once they stopped, he killed the car engine and used a restraining hand to keep Sandy in place. He closed the space between them and gave her a kiss that lingered and thoroughly tasted. He felt the gesture ease a bit of the tightness in her shoulders and back. "I'll keep an open mind, OK?"

She touched his face, and there was yearning in her eyes. "Keep an open heart. That's much more important."

Welcome to the Blog, Mary Manners!

Today I'm delighted to welcome my dear friend, and fellow White Rose author, Mary Manners to A Minute with Marianne! Mary is a treasure, and such a talented writer. I'm excited to introduce you to her, and her wonderful stories.

Mary lives in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee with her husband, Tim, and their daughter, Danni, as well as dogs Abby and Molly and cats Lucky and Gus. Mary is an award-winning, multi-published author of inspirational romance. You can visit her at www.marymanners.com

Mary, I just returned from a research trip to Nashville, and my husband and I fell completely and totally in love with Tennessee. What a gorgeous state! Thanks for paying a visit to the blog today.

I'll start things off with a bit about your contemporary inspirational romance, Tender Mercies:

BLURB:

When Lexi Taylor resorts to hosting an online auction to raise money for her fledgling youth center, Thursday's Child, the last thing she expects is to be matched for a date with…

…Cooper Jackson…hometown hero and former championship-winning University of Tennessee quarterback. Lured by the promise of a lucrative NFL career, he broke off their engagement without so much as a backward glance six years ago. Now he's come home to Knoxville to nurse an injured knee and his wounded pride--and he wants Lexi back.

A heartbreaking secret stands between them…and Lexi plans to keep it that way. But when Cooper's gentleness and renewed faith coax the secret to the surface, will forgiveness draw them close…or will their love be shattered forever?

What inspired you to come up with writing in the genre of Christian romance?

MM: I like to share God’s many blessings with my readers, and give a message of hope and happiness.

How long had you been writing before you got your call (or email) from an editor?

MM: I have been writing since birth!! No, really…I completed my first full-length story in the sixth grade, but had been seriously pursuing a writing career for about three years when I got the email from Nicola Martinez at White Rose Publishing.

Such a thrill!! Congrats!! What advice do you have for other new authors coming into the field of writing?

MM: Write, write, write! The more you write, the better you become. Also, submit your work to contests and take the judges’ feedback to heart. You can learn a lot from another reader’s ‘fresh’ eyes.

So very true, Mary. How do you overcome writer’s block, or do you ever get that?

MM: I mow. Seriously…I live on two acres and when a block hits, I go out and push mow. It’s like taking a sledgehammer to a dam. During cooler months, I light some scented candles and just sit in front of the keyboard until the words come. I do not pass go…you know the saying.

Mowing therapy! I absolutely love it! I've had that happen with weeding / landscaping. I'll have to give mowing a try as well! What do you think it takes to write a good book?

MM: A great imagination, outstanding imagery, and a desire to share what’s in your heart. I also think life experiences bring a certain authenticity to a person’s writing. The older you get and the more you experience, the better you can relate to what a character feels in any given situation.

What is your process of writing a novel, briefly—from conception to revision?

MM: I begin with a phrase, idea or situation and build on it brick by brick, like building a house. I begin by writing in a steno pad—character names, quirks, fears, likes, etc. Then I weave the first few chapters before transferring over to my laptop. I don’t typically use an outline, but have a good idea of where I’m going. Sometimes I’m surprised, though, which is always good.

Here's a little bit of a curve ball: Think of something you might ask a fan that would spark your interest in subject matter for your next project. What would that question be?

MM: What is the most difficult experience of your life, and how did you manage to overcome it?

GREAT question -- and the answer would truly speak to the receipt of God's grace and love! Thank you again for stopping by, Mary, you're a delight! Where can readers find you and your work?

MM: Readers can find TENDER MERCIES and MENDED HEART at www.whiterosepublishing.com and at www.amazon.com or order autographed copies by visiting my website at www.marymannersromance.com

Meet Author Tanya Stowe!

I'm delighted to introduce you all to the lovely and talented Tanya Stowe! Tanya is a fellow White Rose Publishing author with a new release titled "Tender Touch." More info on that exciting development to come - but first, meet Tanya!

Tanya Stowe has written for the real estate industry, television, publicity firms and national publications. Her first novel, a time-travel adventure, Time’s Embrace, was released in the United States in 1993 and internationally released in 1995. Tanya has an eclectic career, doing market research, working at a performing arts center and for the American Cancer Society. Recently, Tanya contributed to a collection of women’s survival stories titled, Triumph! The Beautiful Face of Courage and collaborated on her first full-length play, a Christmas musical titled, The Night Before Christmas.

Tanya has been married to her high school sweetheart for thirty-seven years which is a romance story in itself. Currently they are visiting the East Coast and soon they will travel to the Middle East to begin a new adventure!

To give you a better look at Tanya's inspiration for Tender Touch, here's what I like to call 'The Story Behind the Story' - straight from the author herself:

Years ago when my children were young, my husband went back to school, leaving me to handle our four young, rambunctious children. To help me out, my sister organized a long summer vacation, touring the California Gold Country.

We visited Sutter’s Mill, Columbia, Angel’s Camp, most of the major gold camps of the past. I was struck by the beaut y of the gold country, the mountains, caverns and rivers, so different from the deserts of Southern California where I lived. I wondered what it must have been like for those early pioneers alone, in this rugged land, filled with gold fever and determination. But mostly I wondered how these lovely little towns survived after all the gold fever passed.

I was also a new Christian and I had witnessed some of God’s very miraculous healing power. Those experiences had amazed me, but also frightened me a little and left me with a lot of questions. Of course, our Lord had the answers for his young and inexperienced Christian. But Lacy’s story was born out of those early questions and that very memorable trip through the California Gold Country.

********************************

Without further delay, please enjoy this introduction to Tender Touch - I'm sure you're going to love it!

Lacy Butler is graced with the gift of healing. She can save strangers…even those undeserving…yet fails to save her mother.

Rejecting her gift, God, and society, she's content to live alone high above the mining town of Harperville. But her solitude is shattered when Royce Darnell builds a water flume through the middle of her mountain. To protect her sanctuary, Lacy sabotages his efforts. Little does she expect Royce to track her through a blizzard and end up half frozen to death on her doorstep. She can heal him, but why should she when he threatens to steal her peace...and her heart?

With the livelihood of the miners and their families depending on his project, Royce refuses to stop building, no matter how good the reason or how lovely the masked saboteur turns out to be. Besides, he's convinced God wants Lacy to use her gift for good and not to hole up in her cabin like a reticent recluse afraid of human contact. But first, she must learn to trust, and Lacy doesn't trust anyone, not Royce and especially not God. Soon Royce finds himself in a battle to save the two things he loves the most…Harperville and Lacy. Is his faith strong enough to save them both?

*********************

Excerpt:

"Lacy--look at me," Royce commanded. She looked up. "Feel the music, Lacy. Just move with me."

Her muscles eased. Her breathing slowed. She seemed to sense the rhythm of his body and took her cues from the slight touch of his hand. He dipped, she followed. He swept, she flowed, her skirts swinging in a graceful arc behind them. They sailed around the room in perfect motion.

Royce smiled. "I knew you could do it."

"Thank you for teaching me," she murmured.

Royce looked at the woman in his arms. He'd known the minute she'd entered the room. He was shocked to see her, knowing instinctively that the crowd and the noise would not be to her liking. But, when he'd seen the pink of her cheeks and the high color of her eyes, he knew she was enjoying herself ... and that made him happy. He liked the little giggle she tried to suppress and the way her eyes lit when the dancers came near her. So he’d asked her to dance.

“Thank you," Lacy repeated.

"My pleasure, ma'am. Is there anything else I can do for you?"

Her features turned somber. "You can let me go, now, before it's too late.”

She was asking him to do what he'd vowed to do. But looking at her lovely features, he knew he wouldn't do it.

"I can't, Lacy. I've tried and I can't."

The truth of his words flowed over both of them. They stood still in the middle of the dance floor. He wondered where the words had come from, and how he would take care of this fragile, beautiful creature in his arms.

Purchase Tender Touch Right Here

************************

Tanya, thanks so much for joining me on the blog today! I've thoroughly enjoyed your company and wish you much success and abundant blessings with Tender Touch! As part of Tanya's blog tour, if you leave a comment, you'll be entered to win a copy of Tender Touch! Tanya is also giving away a copy of Rodeo Redemption, by fellow White Rose Publishing author Teri Wilson, so you've got two chances to win two great books! Enjoy the contest, and good luck!!

Everybody Loves A Winner!!!

Whew!!

My month-long blog tour to announce the arrival of Hearts Surrender has come to a close, and I'm delighted to announce the prize winners! These are folks who left comments at one of the wonderful blogs I visited this past month! Prizes were awarded, via e-mail and blog notice, just a little while ago. Hope you enjoy!

Drum-roll please!!!!!

Miss Mae - $10 to White Rose Publishing - For visiting Regina Andrews blog!!
Rebecca Booth - $10 to Amazon.com - For visiting the Inspirational E Books blog!!
Rebeka Stowe - Autographed copy of Hearts Surrender - For visiting Tanya Stowe's blog!!

Congratulations, Miss Mae, Rebecca and Rebeka - and thanks to everyone who paid visits, offered love, support and encouragement. It means far more than these mere gifts can ever express.

Until next time ~ Blessings!

Marianne

The Hearts Surrender Tour!

Throughout the month of September, I'm blog touring to announce and support the release of Hearts Surrender. Join me, won't you, at the following locations? Those who comment on any of the blogs listed below will be entered in a contest to win:

1. A $10 gift certificate to White Rose Publishing

2. A $10 gift certificate to Amazon.com

3. An autographed print edition of Hearts Surrender

The three winners will be announced here on September 30th at the end of the tour - so stay tuned!

JoAnn Carter

September 03 2010

http://whiterosesinbloom.blogspot.com/

Dawn Roberto (Love Romances & More)

September 06 2010

http://loveromancesandmore.blogspot.com/

Regina Andrews

September 07 2010

http://reginaandrews.wordpress.com/

Robin Bayne

September 08 2010

http://wwwwritingbetweensundays.blogspot.com/

Mary Manners

September 09 2010

http://marymannersromance.com/

Holly Hewson (The Romance Studio)

September 09 2010
http://theromancestudio.com/party

Clare Revell

September 11 2010

http://telscha.blogspot.com/

Therese Travis

September 13 2010

http://theresetravis.net/

Tanya Stowe

September 15 2010

http://www.creativewritingforces.blogspot.com/

Gina Welborn

September 15 2010

http://www.inkwellinspirations.blogspot.com/

Delia Latham

September 17 2010

http://my-book-bag.blogspot.com/

Mary Eason

September 18 2010

http://www.maryeason.blogspot.com/

Casey Herringshaw

September 20 2010

http://encourageanauthor.blogspot.com/

Book Discussion-White Rose Readers Group
September 20-24 2010

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WhiteRosePublishing/

Carol Ann Erhardt

September 29 2010

http://www.carolannerhardt.blogspot.com/

Shawna Williams

September 22 2010
http://inspirationalebooks.blogspot.com/

Each comment earns you an entry, and here's a bonus - comment here, and that counts as well!!

Good luck, and I hope you enjoy Hearts Surrender! It's an awesome story of finding love and God's grace in the most unlikely - but wonderful - of places!

God bless!

Marianne

I want you to meet some friends of mine...

First off, say hello to Jeremy Edwards and Monica Kittelski:

Jeremy “JB” Edwards dreams of one thing: Having a loving wife and children of his own. Not a surprising ambition, since he was raised at the heart of a large, tight-knit family.

Monica Kittelski spends her days at Sunny Horizons Daycare Center pouring her heart and faith into other people’s children. But Monica harbors one impossible dream: Having children of her own someday.

JB and Monica seem the perfect match, but what will come of their electric, sassy relationship when Jeremy learns of Monica's infertility?

Hopes and reality collide when they must confront the idea of finding God's plan and following His will when a dearest hope is destined to remain unfulfilled.

Can these two loving, passionate hearts survive a communion of dreams and reality?

Hearts Communion, Coming Soon from White Rose Publishing!

~~~~~

Next, I’d love to introduce you to Tyler Brock and Amy Maxwell (oh...and that adorable little pixie, Pyper, too!):

A chorus of faith sung in the key of second chances.

Life hasn't been kind to Amy Maxwell. Once, the effervescent leader of the pack, her marriage should have been perfect. Instead, she escaped with nothing but the clothes on her back and her daughter, Pyper.

Tyler Brock is dazzling. The once shy teen has evolved into a powerhouse in Christian music, and when he returns to Woodland for a benefit concert, Amy can’t believe he is as faithful and tender as ever. He even manages to touch the heart of a doubtful Pyper.

But, Amy can’t escape her own self-doubt, and she questions the wisdom of her heart when it comes to the charismatic musician who is so different now, yet so much the same.

Can the key to their hearts unlock a lifetime of love?

Hearts Key, Coming Soon from White Rose Publishing!

~~~~~

These beloved characters of mine comprise books three and four of the Woodland Series, and they’re coming very soon to White Rose Publishing! The Woodland Series takes its name from the church, and characters, you first met in Hearts Crossing. Readers and reviewers asked for a sequel to Hearts Crossing, and I’m thrilled to be able to deliver on that request through an extraordinary publisher of Christian romance.

Book two, Hearts Surrender, releases in just a few weeks, on September 3^rd! I’m so eager to share this story with you! Hearts Surrender, the story of Woodlands pastor, and the woman who claims his heart, will be available in both print and electronic formats via White Rose Publishing and Amazon.com.

Rest assured, each book in the Woodland Series stands alone as a touching, heart-stealing romance, but when you connect the storylines, from Hearts Crossing onward, I think you’ll find yourself carried away into a church family, and the lives of characters you won’t soon forget.

So dive on in! Join the Woodland family of faith, and fall in love…again, and again!

~ Woodland Church...nourishing faith, nurturing love! ~

Until next time, blessings!!

Marianne

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!!

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