The authors of Inspired by Life...and Fiction thought our readers might be inspired by the gardens of the novelists who are featured on the blog "The Plot Thickens." Each Sunday, we'll share another novelist's newest book, and the garden spots where they find inspiration. Since selling her first book in 1997, Carolyne Aarsen has had numerous novels published. Her stories reflect a love of … [Read more...]
My Novel Took Me to a Hollywood After Party!
When I became a writer I thought I'd go places, like the library or on research trips. I never thought I'd make it to a Hollywood after party! In December I was asked to write the novelization of Moms' Night Out. Here is the book with, like, the best cover ever! ---> And take note of my name on the front! This week I've been talking my readers on a "Behind the … [Read more...]
An unexpected blessing
Quick! What's an unexpected blessing in your life right now? A blessing you didn't foresee. Maybe something you thought was going to be really good, but then it turned out to be even better than you ever dreamed! Or perhaps it's something you didn't even dream of, and now you marvel at what a gift God has given you. That's how I feel about you! When I first started writing, I was just … [Read more...]
Moving Day
Today is the day I’ve been anticipating for the past eight months, the day we move into our new home in Michigan. It’s the end of a journey but also the beginning of a new one. My husband Ken and I started planning his retirement last fall as we vacationed in Michigan where he grew up—and where we met and fell in love. As we cycled along one of our favorite bicycle trails near the … [Read more...]
When We Trip and Fall Flat On Our Faces
Confession: I have a tendency to trip and fall. Yes, if anyone in my family is going to trip over a step or crack or stray rock, it's usually me. In fact, I did just that last weekend at a wedding. After the ceremony and pictures, I pushed open the heavy wooden door of a beautiful old chapel. I lifted my face to bask in the bright spring sunshine, the warm breeze, and the waft of blooming … [Read more...]