Inspired by Life ... and Fiction

Novelists bound by the pen, sisterhood, & more

The Things That Last

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As a Christian novelist, I believe that I need to be steeped in God’s word if I am to have anything of value to offer the readers of my books. My desire for every book I write is that it will (1) entertain the reader while (2) drawing them one step closer to Jesus. “The grass withers, the flower fades,But the word of our God stands forever.”(Isaiah 40:8, NASB95) Since 1997, I have made it a … [Read more...]

A Collection of Historical Tidbits

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Research is a huge part of writing any novel, but it plays an especially key role when it comes to historical fiction. Historical details are the building blocks that shape the story world for readers. They can help shape the plot and give extra dimension to the characters. They bring the setting to life and even offer wow moments when something particularly unique is revealed. My latest … [Read more...]

My First Audiobook Experience

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I know we’ve had several posts lately about audiobooks, but since I am brand new to audiobooks, I’d thought I’d share my experience.  My husband joined the audiobook bandwagon about six months ago—when he started getting a free audiobook a month with a periodical subscription. He decided he likes them so much that he signed up for Audible.  I’ve long been a skeptic as far as … [Read more...]

Two favorite things—books & salads

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Two of my favorite things today...books & salads. First, A fabulous new book on the craft of writing by our own Deb Raney! Writing Cinematically truly is a "workshop-intensive-in-a-book that takes only an hour and a half to read, but will teach you to describe more visually and dynamically, revolutionizing the way you write. The book includes twelve lessons (plus a bonus) with … [Read more...]

Oliver!

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I'll confess--I get most of my news and information from YouTube these days. I also watch things on chickens, strange and mysterious disappearances, and the royal family. I love vids about dogs and especially horses. The other day a video from HOMESTEAD HORSEMANSHIP appeared in my feed. The main guy (would you call him a protagonist?) was going to a horse auction, and I was fascinated, never … [Read more...]

Tea Time with Friends

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One of the highlights of my year is having tea with ladies from the "Tantalizing Tea" book club. Over the last several years, these readers have also become dear friends. This year's tea was especially enjoyable because author-friends Erica Vetsch and Michelle Griep were there as well. The ladies showered us with delicious food, laughter, and generous gifts. Did we talk much about our … [Read more...]

Texas Time (and a book deal)

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Ken and I have been traveling in Texas for the past week and will be exploring much of this huge state over the next month-plus. We have been blown away by the beauty of Texas, especially the Hill Country, which is a new area for us. I'm thinking I may just have to set a future book in this place and this season when the bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush and baby blue eyes are gorgeously in bloom … [Read more...]

Blind Date With a Book

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I sent readers on a "blind date with a book" via a post at this time last year. I had so much fun that I'm back with another round! The general idea.... A library wraps books in paper and writes clues about the contents of the books on the front. You go on a blind date with a book by picking one, unwrapping it, taking it home with you, and reading it. :) Below, I've virtually "wrapped" eight … [Read more...]

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