It's been so long, you may not remember, but when Tammy introduced me last month, I mentioned some of the things I was passionate about, and asked you to share some of the things you're passionate about. Most of you were too busy sending warm, friendly welcomes to take the time to do that. But today, I'd sincerely love to know! What floats your boat? What makes your heart sing? What makes you feel … [Read more...]
Cover Models!
It's not every day that this writer gets to correspond with cover models. But that's exactly what I've been doing lately! Leigh Foster and Stephanie Gooley posed for the cover of my soon-to-be-released contemporary romance, Meant to Be Mine. Here's what the final version of the cover looks like: When I contacted Leigh and Stephanie and asked if they'd be willing to answer a few interview … [Read more...]
Anyone else on board for a crazy life?
Hey, everyone. This is Cara, and I'm delighted to join you here on Inspired by Life and Fiction. I love the group of ladies who write for this blog and I can't wait to get to know as many of you as possible. I know many of you don't know me, so wanted to take a minute to share a bit. My friends have dubbed me the Do-It-All mom, Wonder Woman (a nickname I would gladly accept if it came with … [Read more...]
What Are You Reading Today?
I read a lot of fiction. A lot of Christian fiction, both contemporary and historical. A smattering of general market fiction, just to keep a finger on the pulse of what catches readers' attention. But I also like to read non-fiction, including Christian living, bios and memoirs, histories, etc. Usually I'll have one novel and one non-fiction title going at the same time. I also am a huge … [Read more...]
Small Things. Big Rewards.
I dedicated my latest book, The Dancing Master, to my own dance teacher: In honor of Aurora Villacorta ballroom dance instructor at the University of Illinois for more than twenty years. Thanks, Miss V. Your lessons are forever with me. Dance steps, yes, but so much more—etiquette, manners, respect, and grace. Your classes were the most enjoyable of my college years. I will never forget … [Read more...]
Just Do It
A friend recently told me he had an idea for a book and planned to write it after he retires in 10 years. I frequently hear comments like that, often about writing or some other dream for the future. “Someday, I would love to…” Followed by the excuses: “My kids are involved in too many activities right now; things are really crazy at work; I don’t have a calm, quiet place to write; I don’t have … [Read more...]
Multiple Author Giveaway (4/7 – 4/14)
A giveaway just in time for Easter! The authors of Inspired By Life…and Fiction invite you to enter our current giveaway in which one reader will win ten bestselling novels (1 from each author). How do you enter? Subscribe to the Inspired by Life…and Fiction blog. It's that simple. Visit the link inside the Rafflecopter box, then follow the instructions to start your free … [Read more...]
Home Sweet Home
This spring, my home has been a crazy place. Having five children, one dog, and four cats is liable to make any home crazy. But add to that homeschooling, a multitude of after-school activities, out-of-town sporting meets and debate tournaments, and evening meetings and speaking events. In addition, we're in the beginning stages of doing a major remodel on our kitchen. After almost eight years … [Read more...]
Author Event: Tamera Alexander (6/12 – 6/18)
June 10-18, 2014 Book Tour in Germany and Switzerland With Lynn Austin and Elizabeth Musser…and my daughter Kelsey! We're starting in the beautiful city of Marburg where our German publisher, Francke is located, and hope to see many of our German and Swiss readers during our book tour! Here is our TENTATIVE TRAVEL SCHEDULE, more dates and locations are being added: June 11 7:00 … [Read more...]
Seven Alone
Do you remember those books from your childhood that made a lasting impression on you? I can remember walking into my elementary school library and choosing a book from the shelves because the title made me laugh - The Last of the Really Great Whangdoodles - written by none other than Mary Poppins herself, Julie Andrews Edwards. That was the first book I remember reading that caused my imagination … [Read more...]