One Author' Journey #7

 

 

Capture the Wandering Heart is the seventh book I wrote. It is set in the Texas Panhandle area of Palo Duro Canyon near present day Amarillo. Area towns of Clarendon and the now extinct boom town of Tascosa are also places that action takes place. It was important to have this book set close to my home. At many book events I was asked why I hadn't written about the panhandle area. I didn't have a good answer for them. I had contemplated writing about the Perryton area, but one day I knew it had to be set in the canyon.

 

I read an article from the Amarillo newspaper about how the Kiowa and Apache were subdued in the area by the U.S. army killing 1500 horses that were kept by them in the canyon. It was the last of the Trail of Tears saga. I knew I had to know more, In the following months I read three books and many more articles about the area in the 1800s.One book was about the Native Americans, one was about a land developer, and the other was about Charles Goodnight. I loved the research.

 

The story also included many folk remedies from the time. My sister was reading a book by "The Good Old Days" that was all about home remedies. There was some wild stuff in there. I had to borrow the book and use some of it in there. One remedy was the "Mad Stone". It was used to save people who contracted rabies. (Google it. You will be surprised.)

 

I found the research so interesting that I almost got bogged down in it. I discovered that in the 1800s, the Congress was considering putting all deaf people in one of the Western states. It would have been called "The Deaf State"! I am so glad that didn't fly.

 

One of my high school friends live near Palo Duro Canyon, so she shot some pictures for the cover. I love that she did this for me. Terry and I selected the close up of one of the caves. The other picture I posted here is the view of the canyon that everyone thinks of.

 

In writing this book, I learned a lot about the area and about myself. It was fun to think up inventions for 1877. I liked having a character who thought 'out of the box'. I found it difficult to write about spousal abuse and how it was handled back then. 

 

God really gave me a lot of wonderful elements for the story line. I know I can't write without His input. In some ways Capture the Wandering Heart is my favorite writing. I had a lot to think about for the next book in the series, but God had a different direction for me to go with book #8. I will tell you all about it next time.

 

Elaine Littau, author

 

 

 

 

 

It Could Happen Anywhere

I was going to start the interviews of my author friends after January began, but last night one of them sent me the answers to the interview questions and I had to share this interview now. I cried when I read about this woman's life. It began so typically, but in a day, everything changed for her and her country.
Somehow, here in the United States, we feel insulated from this kind of thing. After reading this I realize that it could happen here or anywhere.

The thing that stood out to me is that she has a very joyful personality even after everything she has been through. You will not feel depressed after reading this interview. She is a very positive person. Please read the interview with my new acquaintance, Sanela Jurich.

My name is: Sanela Ramic Jurich

My genre: 1.Fiction / Historical 2.Fiction / War & Military (Although I wanted it to be Romance).
The title of my book is: Remember Me
My website: http://www.sanelajurich.tateauthor.com

1. How long have you been an author and when did the desire to write (the writing bug) bite?

I've been a published author since June 7th, 2011, but I knew I was going to be one ever since I can remember.

I heard someone say once that in order to become a writer, you don’t just learn the skill; you have to be born with it. It’s inside you all along. It’s your calling.

I strongly believe this to be true. I remember exactly the first set of books I’ve ever read. It was Greek Mythology given to me by an old neighbor. I was seven years old at the time.

I know, you might say that Greek Mythology is too complex for a seven-year-old, but to my-seven-year-old mind, this was fairy tales. I loved reading about those strong, smart, wise Gods and gorgeous Goddesses.

And as I was growing up, each time I’d feel lonely, or sad, I’d always go back and read those wonderful stories that never failed to inspire and make me feel better.

Soon after I read those, I had my library ticket and was spending most of my after-school time there. My parents didn’t mind, since they both worked. I was left alone a lot, so the fact that I’d actually enjoyed being in a library was kind of like a relief to them.

I absolutely loved reading and so, in my heart, I knew that some day I was going to write cool stories to make people laugh and feel good.

I wasn’t going to write sad stories; all of them were going to be happy and fun. Filled with love. I’d sometimes write short stories just to amuse myself. They were filled with child’s imagination, funny names, and, always, love…

At some point, I'd even started to think like I was reading a book. For example:
I’m having a normal conversation with a friend or someone, at the end of their sentence, I’d think to myself something like: She said, as she looked away. Or... she stated, but the icy look in her eyes said otherwise….

I learned to read people’s facial expressions at a very young age. It was all so amusing to me. I loved being in a crowd - like in a crowded bus. I’d hide in the back and just watch people, telling myself their stories, just by reading their facial expressions and body language…. I’d usually make them funny.

When I was fifteen, my whole life changed in a blink of an eye. The world I saw through my fifteen-year-old eyes was not innocent and pretty. It was filled with death, sadness, and hatred.

You see, I was born in this cute town of northern Bosnia, called Prijedor. Now days, this town is known for its horrible concentration camps that were run by the Serbs in 1992.

I know, when you hear the words “concentration camps” you think of the World War II and Nazis. But no, this was not our grandparents generation time, this was our generation, 1992… on the threshold of the 21 century.

I remember my parents talking and thinking that war was going to end before it had even started… the world would not let another Nazi genocide go on.

But, to our surprise, the world did let it happen. It went on for four years: Genocide, Ethnic Cleansing, Concentration Camps, raping and slaughtering women and children…

It all happened.
And so my writing had to be put on hold....

When I had finally moved to the United States in 1993, I was a completely changed person then. My dream of becoming a writer became just that… a dream; so distant and unreachable. I thought that even if, somehow, I managed to learn enough English, I could never write happy, fun stories any more. My mind was reset and it was filled with darkness, pain, and distrust.

But in time, little by little, my sense of humor returned. The writer in me was getting tired of being quiet. So I'd started thinking like I was in a book again.

For example; I’d go to the Six Flags with my husband, children, and our friends, but because I’m afraid of heights, I wouldn’t go on any of the rides... (I know... I bore myself sometimes too).

So, anyway, I’d sit on the bench and wait for them to get off their rides. It’s perfect because the place is always crowded which gives me a chance to just watch people undetected. For example, I'd see a guy talking to a girl. I'd watch their facial expressions and body language to determine whether they like each other, so my inner analogue would go something like: “I don’t care,” she said firmly. Turning around, she smiled, ever so slightly.... Etc.

One day in July of 2009 on my way to work, I'd dropped off my two boys over at my mom’s house. She had made some comment about my kids, which got me a little upset and I thought to myself, boy, if this was a book, that comment would be perfect…

And so, my mind had started building a web of events and before I knew it, I had about three chapters. The character of Sabina, the mother, was born…

2. Why did you choose the genre you write in? Are there plans to write in another genre?

Honestly, I didn't chose this genre. It kind of chose me. When I first started writing this book, it was going to be a romantic tale between Johnny and Selma. However, as I was writing it, the story itself took me to a completely different direction then what I'd previously had in mind. I know it sounds kinda crazy, but it's true.

What's amazing about writing is the fact that you never really know where you'll end up. Your characters take on a life of their own and you just go with it.
So anyway, Selma and Johnny fall in love when she is sixteen. They get separated by the war. The story is told from Selma's point of you, so she tells you about her falling in love, then being taken away from home and thrown into a concentration camp where she gets raped and tortured repeatedly.

When she finally gets out, she's broken beyond repair and doesn't want Johnny to know of anything that she'd been through. On their way out of their home town, she witnesses Johnny getting killed by one of the soldiers...

However, as I said before, the romantic in me could not let my book have an unhappy ending, so I'd found a way to bring Johnny back into the picture and restore Selma's faith in God.

At the end, love prevails and they live happily ever after.
So, I thought the genre was definitely going to be romance, but the experts at Tate said it was Historical... I guess it's a little bit of everything.

3. Please tell about each title here:

So far I only published one book - Remember Me.

I did, however, sign another contract with Tate Publishing and am waiting for my second novel to be sent to production. It's going to be a sequel to Remember Me. Not sure what the title is going to be yet.

4. Do you do speaking engagements? Tell about your subject matter.

Yes, I do.
The subject that people seem to be most interested in is my own story of how I became an author.
Others ask questions about my experience in Bosnia, and so I talk a little bit about both.

5. What has been your most rewarding experience as an author?

Getting some things out into the open and having people read and comment about my work.
6. Where can your books be purchased?

My book can be purchased anywhere books are sold: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Books a Million, etc. It can also be purchased directly from my websitewww.sanelajurich.tateauthor.com and Tate Publishing's website as well. Also, autographed copies can be ordered from my website via PayPal.
7. How can readers reach you through twitter? through facebook? through your blog? through your website?

I can be reached through my website and Facebook:www.facebook.com/sanela.jurich

8. What was your biggest surprise at being an author?
I was really surprised at how much marketing I have to do myself. I was one of those people who thought that the hardest part was behind me once I signed that contract with the publisher. Boy, was I wrong, haha!

However, I try to look at it in a positive way and enjoy every single moment of it. I am loving every step and the experience I'm gaining. There is absolutely nothing in the world I'd rather be doing than writing and then sharing it with others.

9. We all know that writing can be a lonely occupation, what do your family and friends do to lift you up when you are down?

They buy me books and leave me alone, haha!

10. What is the last song you sang while you were all alone at the top of your voice and where were you?

It was an old song by Boys II Men - End of the Road.
I was in the kitchen loading up my dishwasher. I thought I was alone until I heard soft giggles coming from behind me. My nine year old son, Denny and my four year old son, Devin were cracking up. They find it hilarious that I have an accent even when I sing.

Kyra J. Cross, author of The Intruder

We are in the Christmas Season. Merry Christmas to all of you. On this coming Saturday, Dec 11 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Baymont hotel board room HWY 83 south in Perryton, TX - Terry and I are hosting a Book Launch Party for Luke's Legacy. Please come and visit, pick up a few books, and enjoy some snacks with us. We will have acoustic guitar music and an enjoyable time. If you can't come and want some books, click here to order.


This week I want you to read about an author friend of mine. Kyra Cross.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Kyra J.Cross . Book Title :The Intruder

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Why I was inspired to write this book

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
Age 12

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
Humour and suspense

5. Are you a reader? Yes

6. What are you reading right now?
Smith Wigglesworth book on Faith

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
A couple of books.
a- Am working on the next series that will follow "The Intruder"
b-Fiction books on romance, called Secrets. It will be a trilogy.
c-Fiction on historical romance, there will be two books on this particular series.
d-Teenage romance almost finished
e- Several others - still in the works

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
Busy schedule

9. Please put a description of each of your books here.

The Intruder back matter is below :"Curious fourteen-year-old Natalie Wintry accidentally sees a face inside her neighbor's window. Knowing that her neighbor is away, she decides to i nvestigate, dragging her reluctant friend, Heather, into the mix. Their attempt to investigate soon turns into a dead end.

Though Heather is happy with that outcome and thinks, or hopes, that her friend has completely forgotten about it,Natalie isn't convinced. Determined that she will get to the bottom of the mystery, Natalie says her prayers and sleeps on it.

She is rewarded with another lead. Joined by Heather's brother, Nolan, the trio sets out a plan to do some sleuthing in the dead of night. Is there danger ahead?
Will they catch the intruder? And if so, can the trio handle it? Join author Kyra Cross in this adventurous tale of suspense, sibling rivalry, and family fun in the first book of the Natalie's Hidden Treasures Series: The Intruder."
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your
website or blog here.
http://www.filedby.com/author/kyra_j_cross/3612475/
Book :http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-60799-339-1
Audio book :http://www.filedby.com/author/kyra_j_cross/3612475/

Tony Angelo

Goals


The trouble with setting goals is knowing what is realistic and what is not. In the book process, at first, I thought it would be no problem selling thousands of books. All I would have to do is sell 100 or more in each state of the union and I would have 5000 books sold in no time. I reasoned that I could easily sell 2500 within my family and friends and that would mean only 50 in each state. Hmmm ...not so easy.

Reality set in pretty fast. I needed to develop people who believed in my project(s). I do have to say that there have been quite a few people who have taken to heart the project of getting my books out there to other people. I have had many pleasant surprises in this.

I want to have goals high enough to allow for the surprise of the miracleous, so I will lean to the side of impossibility.

What are your goals?

Today I want to introduce you to Tony Angelo, author of childrens books.

1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Go-bez nibe: v clever firefly

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
The mesage is one of following the right path in life despite negative opposition.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
When I was in first grade but was a bad speller with a high vocabulary. My teachers seemed confused by that and would challenge. To Which they hi lighted mistakes, I did have a problem with that because my stories and reports still got high grades.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
trust honor & dignity

5. Are you a reader?
yes.

6. What are you reading right now?
world affairs, history & culture

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
yes. Honey I'm home. A story about adversaries learning trust "a bear & a bee fine each others strengths threw wants and needs. "I will be published & out by Christmas.

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
learning to market my book

9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Children will adore this book because of what it teaches them about life.
Their parents will love the book because the book's lessons are so valuable
and important."
-- Dave Lieber, Fort Worth Star-Telegram

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
tonyangelowriter@aol.com
> http://tonyangelo.weebly.com

Amy Gatliff author of The Power to Never Give Up

Opening up your heart
Some people find it very hard to let new people into their life. I guess that it can be dangerous, but most of the time we find that new people that we see are for the most part, a lot like us.

Taking the time to get to know our neighbors is something we all put off. What if they have ... "issues"? Yes, we all have them. I am thinking that if we pull away from everyone we will find ourselves living in a cocoon or sorts. How on earth can we be a help to our world if we are in a cocoon? You remember that Jesus said to Go out to the world and preach the Gospel. I am committed to reach those I can reach, love those I meet, and try to have hands like those of Jesus. Will you join me?

I want you to read about Amy Gatliff, author.

1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? My name is Amy Gatliff, and the title of my first book is "The Power to Never Give Up."

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you? In my writing, I like to be transparent and allow others to learn from my life whether that be from the good choices that I have made or the mistakes that I have made.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I never dreamed that I would become a writer until around 2007. I began to sense the Lord directing me to share my testimony with others to offer them hope and encouragement.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I believe it lies within my willingness to be open and share through my life's experiences. By doing so, I am able to connect with the reader on many levels.

5. Are you a reader?
Actually, I am not much of a reader. It takes a lot of discipline for me to stay committed in my Bible reading and in reading other books.

6. What are you reading right now?
I am reading a book by Joyce Meyer titled "I Dare You."

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
Tell about it. I have only recently began my second book. It has not been submitted for publication at this time. It is in the very early stages of being written.

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacles to writing would be finding the right words to say that would appeal to the reader and writing for extended amounts of time. The ways that I overcome them is through prayer; I also use the dictionary from time to time to help me with some of my wording; and I will set time limits for my writing.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok) Have you ever tried to face life's challenges, only to feel weak, lonely, and discouraged at the end of the day? In The Power to Never Give Up, author Amy Gatliff shares her personal experiences of such challenges, and through her transparency and brutal honesty reveals the struggles and victories throughout her life. Amy's story will be an inspiration and encouragement for anyone who finds themselves facing challenges, such as disappointment, anger, death, and bankruptcy. Amy looks deep within her faith to find The Power to Never Give Up.
10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books?
Please put your website or blog here. Through my website at http://amygatliff.tatepublishing.net/. I also have a blog here that I would love to share with them. There is also contact information for speaking engagements.

Jeanette Morgan, author of The Voice That Must Be Heard: Awakening Your Heart, Mind and Spirit through the Power of Divine Revelation

A Chill in the Air


In September we feel a chill in the air at times. The blustery wind catches us off guard. The same thing happens in relationships when we encounter people that we know. Sometimes, it would appear out of nowhere, there is a coolness. What happened? Have I offended someone?

At times it is only that the person is having a bad day and their usually warm personality is dampened. We have to allow for that. If it continues, then it is our responsibility to try to see what happened. If there is something that we have done, amends must be made. People are worth it. Even if they are just casual friends, they are worth it.

I want to endeavor to do this. It is always a work in progress. (If you ever open your mouth and say a word, you have to opportunity to hurt someone even if it is not your intention...be careful.)

I have heard it said that if you say few words you are more likely not to say things you shouldn't. That may be true, but my feeling is that if you say no words, it leaves people the option of trying to read your mind. Be careful for one another. Love genuinely. It will go well.

I want you to meet Jeanette Morgan, author.

1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
The Voice That Must Be Heard: Awakening your Heart , Mind and Spirit through the Power of Divine Revelation

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I've been a Christian for 10 years and struggled with my identity for a lot of years. I worked for a big software company before God called me to be home and raise my children. It was during that time, I struggled personally, and financially and yet while I struggled and went through deliverance and healing I also became a better me through understanding God's grace and discovering my identity in Him.
My intimacy and friendship with God grew and solidified in my life. My faith has been stretched so much I believe he has made me a more authentic and transparent person. What you see is what you get and I have no desire to wear a religious mask. I'm goofy at times and love to laugh. I'm imperfect but very passionate about the Holy Spirit and God's love for His people. I'm learning everyday that I was designed the way I am for a purpose and I don't need to change who I am ultimately, I just need to abide in who He is! He smooths out my rough edges and enhances my good fruits.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I didn't. It was a treasure God had placed deep inside me and He brought it to the surface one day and I just began to write the revelations he was downloading to my spirit through his word. never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined I would be a published author someday. God's dreams are so much bigger than ours. We often see limitations in our giftings where God sees abundance.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I believe I am a simple writer delivering simple yet powerful revelatory understanding of what God wants his true children to know. When you read my book you will get a sense that I am having a conversation with you one to one and that it speaks directly to you.

5. Are you a reader?
I absolutely love to read. It's one of my favorite passions. Especially reading anything having to do with God. I love hearing more and more about Him and the Kingdom of Heaven

6. What are you reading right now?
Kris Valloton and Bill Johnson's-The Supernatural ways of Royalty

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes, I am currently working on two more books! One is about Spirit and Truth and how when coupled together brings Life. We were never meant to just have one or the other as they are a dynamic duo and the Church must have both in order to produce life within the Body of Christ. The other one is about dreams and how sometimes we can have the craziest dreams and we are quick to discount them as a bad pizza dream but often God is really providing a lot of counsel and wisdom to his people through his language of dreams.

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I would say my biggest obstacles to writing would be the demands of my household. As a stay at home mom with three little ones, ages 7, 5 and 18 months it can be difficult to get that time to write. But honestly God is so gracious with me. He downloads his revelation so quickly and I find myself writing a page or two within 20-30 minutes. I did however write my first book late at night or in the middle of the night while my family slept. That was the time I could have intimate fellowship with the Holy Spirit without being distracted. But again God was so faithful to give me a lot in a short amount of time because he knew what my limitations were and the responsibilities I had as a wife and mother to my family.

9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
Do you feel as if you’re wandering in desert places? Are there times in your spiritual walk when you feel frustrated, confused, and exhausted? If you have, then be still and listen for The Voice That Must Be Heard. Author Jeanette Morgan shares a God-sent collection of revelations from the Father of Creation that expresses his love and grace for his children, dispensing wisdom to experience all that humankind was created for—his glory. The revelations in this Holy Spirit-inspired book will help to bring clarity, encouragement, understanding, and knowledge in a grace-infused manner.
The Voice that Must Be Heard will ignite the fire in you once again to continue on your journey of faith, healing, and deliverance and to grow into deeper intimacy and greater freedom with Jesus.

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My book can be purchased at Tate Publishing, BN.com, borders.com, and amazon.com.
I can be contacted at: jeanettecmorgan@yahoo.com or my facebook fan page:http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Voice-That-Must-Be-Heard-Jeanette-C-Morgan/236490558461?ref=mf

Eyvonna Rains

What is an author?

I am like most of you, I have had a very different idea of what an author looks like. Most of the time I do not resemble the image I have in my mind.

I have met a boat-load of authors this year and I can tell you that they are, for the most part, very warm and kind people that have stuck their neck out to let people see into a part of their heart.
I think that writing down words for other people to read makes the writer vulnerable in some ways. The secrets are unveiled.

In writing, I have discovered things about myself that I had never known before. I am forced to have an opinion on issues that I would rather shove under the rug, but if they are important they have to be examined.

Know this, authors care about what you think of their writing. If something inspires you, please go through the effort to tell the writer that it meant something to you. A word of encouragement is sometimes the only thing that keeps writers writing.

Today I want you to hear what author, Eyvonna Rains has to say.


1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? Sleep, My Child by Eyvonna Rains
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I started a poetry club because I love to share my poems with others and hear what they have written, as well.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
I started writing poetry and sharing it with people and got a lot of good feedback. I love when an idea for a poem or a story strikes me and I go into that dreamy world where nothing else exists and just write. It's euphoric.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My point of view is different. It may not be earth-shattering and brand new, but it's mine. I have learned that there is no one else just like me and I think that's great.

5. Are you a reader?
Absolutely! I love stories. You could say that I'm addicted.
6. What are you reading right now?
Till We Have Faces and Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis. The first is my favorite and I'm reading it to my husband because I want to share it with him.

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I have a book of Christian poetry and the story behind the poems. I hope to fill it with great photography to go with each one. I have finished a children's book tentatively titled, Color Makes Me Feel. It's about the psychology of color from a young perspective. (This idea came from my background in color consulting.) A Marriage Guide for the First Time Bride is a positive book full of advice from 'veteran married people' to a young bride from a Christian perspective. This is in response to a young engaged friend who was frightened by all of the bad things people kept telling her about marriage. She needed her positive friends with successful marriages to give her Godly advice. And there's more.......

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? My children!! My boys are 5 and 3 and keep me hopping! I write during naps, after they go to bed and any time that I have some quiet time and I don't need to nap!

9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok) Sleep, My Child is a comforting picture book to encourage your child to drift into dreamland. The verses encourage imagination and the fantasy world of dreams. "When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet." Proverbs 3:24

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Sleep-My-Child-by-Eyvonna-Rains/217339737888?ref=ts
eyvonnarains@msn.com

Janie Wilkins, author of Janie's Unbelievable Journey

Hot Days of Summer


July is almost gone and we are in the middle of the hot days of summer. It doesn't seem so long ago that we were fighting the blustery winds of winter. It reminds me that no matter where we are on the calendar year or in the season of our life, that there are challenges. We need to learn to just keep on going.

Look for the good things in your life. Watch for the kindness of God in your life.

When I spoke to the Stonecroft Women's group in Dodge City one of the cute little favors at my plate was a paper doll with an orange flavored Tootsie Roll Pop attached. (My favorite!!!) I took it as a little kiss from God. I mentioned this to the group in my speech and when I got to my spot at the table there were 6 of them stuck inside my Bible. That was way too sweet and I cried.

Another big kindness of God was that I was assigned the conceptual editor that I had for Elk's Resolve. What a blessing! I am so happy about that.
I also am blessed to be acquainted with some very special author friends. I learn from them every day. I want to intoduce you to one of my newest friends, Janie Wilkins

1.My name is Janie Wilkins, and my book is "Janie's Unbelievable Journey: Inspirational Letters written along the Way."

2. I think my readers would like to know that my faith in God has enabled me to overcome obstacles along life's highway and to succeed in helping students to grow and learn and believe in themselves.

3.A Methodist minister told me that I have a story to tell, and God commanded me to tell my story to help others and to teach and inspire.

4.My strong points, according to my own children and those who know me best are that I write from the heart, as I feel led by God and that when one reads my stories and letters that it is as if I were talking to them. This is my style as well.

5. I love to read, and I have read everything I could get my hands on that is about real people. I love non-fiction and history best of all.

6. I just completed reading Max Lacado's "Traveling Light," which is on our United Methodist Women's reading list.

7.My memoir is in two volumes, and volume two will be out shortly after volume one is released.

8.My biggest obstacles to writing are time, time, time, always. When I was completing my manuscript initially, I found that I had to set goals and stay up until I met the goal I had set. Since I had sponsored school yearbooks most of my working years, I applied some of the rules and guidelines we established to meet deadlines.

9. "Janie's Unbelievable Journey: Inspirational Letters Written along the Way" is a true story of life as a wife, mother and educator. It lets the reader know that we can accomplish our dreams if we believe in ourselves and never give up! You will want to read this memoir to see how Janie overcame obstacles to raise three extraordinary adult children the last one as a single parent.

10. Readers may contact me at Janiew3@aol.com or at my publisher at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore
or at 888 361 9473

The Old Account Was Settled Long Ago

Today is the deadline to file your income tax in the USA. Yep, I said it. Sorry if it panics you. I have found that working in a tax/accountant office during tax season is a great way to study people.
In January, people come in and file expecting a refund. In February and early March the waiting room is jammed with people wanting the work done ASAP. In April...things are different. Beginning with April 10 or so it gets pretty busy, but few are expecting a refund. There is a reason for the procrastination. As April 15 dawns upon us many businesses file extentions. The truth is, THERE IS A DEADLINE.

You will notice that the title of this post is "The Old Account Was Settled Long Ago". Let me wax spiritual here. This is a song we sang at church when I was a kid. "There was a time on earth, when in the books of heaven, an old account was standing for sins yet unforgiven. My name was at the top and many things below. I went unto the keeper, and settled long ago. Long ago, long ago, yes the old account was settled long ago; and the record's clear today, for He washed my sins away, when the old account was settled long ago."
I want to remind you that one day the "deadline" will come. For some of us it will be our death. For some it will be when Jesus comes back. Consider doing your business with God before it is too late.

This week I am interviewing Linda Wiggins-Edwards. You will want to read this interview with a real live scientist!!!!
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Linda Wiggins-Edwards and the name of my upcoming book will be "God's Angels in I Am Beautiful" TM
2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I think readers would find it interesting to know that I'm a trained scientist. I have a B.S. in Biology and a M.S. in Medical Sciences. I've previously worked in research & in the diagnostics industry. I also have an education background. I've owned two tutorial services, and I've also been a classroom teacher, teaching 4th & 6th grade science, and 9th grade advanced algebra & Biology. Even though these have been my career choices, I've always made a hobby of writing, ever since I was a little girl. I've written stories, plays, poetry, and started writing children's books for the last 7 - 8 years.
3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
As I said, I've always made a hobby of writing, ever since I was a little girl. However, I didn't think of publishing any of my work until my husband read a poem that I had written for our youngest daughter when she was born. When he read it, he told me how good it was, and that I could turn it into a children's book. I thought about it for about 6 months to a year, before I really believed that he could be right. Once I decided to really pursue this, I re-wrote the poem into a story and began submitting it to publishers. What happened next however, caused me to stop writing for a while, because it made me feel as if my writing was not any good. I submitted my work to agents and publishers, and started getting one rejection letter after another. Once that happened, I stopped writing, even though I had several stories in progress by that time. It took until I submitted my work to Tate Publishing for me to realize what I had been doing wrong all along. I was submitting my work to publishers that published children's books, but I wasn't specifically looking for a Christian publisher. This is what made all the difference in the world. Once I realized that my purpose was to write Christian children's books and that I needed to find a Christian publisher, my work got accepted immediately, and I've been blessed with being able to write again, with a renewed spirit.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I think my strongest point is being able to write about Christian values, and to honor & glorify God through my writing, but to be able to do it at a level that a young child will be able to understand.

5. Are you a reader?
Absolutely. I've always loved reading. A good writer must also be a good reader.
6. What are you reading right now?
A book called "Hearing God's Voice" by Henry and Richard Blackaby.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
Yes. I have the one that is currently being published, and I've already completed another one and I'm in the process of finishing a 3rd. The 2nd one is about children as God's gifts and the 3rd one is about a parent's love.
8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
I guess my biggest obstacle is being able to focus on what I'm writing at the moment. So many times while I'm writing one book, I get great ideas for other books and then I have to switch to another document to write down my notes and ideas, and then come back to the first book that I was writing. It doesn't cause me too many problems though because I always pray when I write, to make sure that I stay focused, and that I write about the things that God wants me to say.
9. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
When my book is complete (which will be in about 6 months or so), readers will be able to purchase my book from the Tate Publishing website. I am also in the process of building my own website, blog and Facebook fan page, so readers will be able to also find my book and more information about my books on these. These will become active once I have the illustrations completed for my book.

I Am Barabbas!

I am writing this post on Easter Sunday night. This morning our church had an East production about the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Live actors gave their view of the event and between each actor a clip from The Passion of the Christ was shown.
One clip that really struck me differently than it had before, (I have seen the movie several times.) was the scene where Pilot asked the crowd who he should release...Barabbas or Jesus. The crowd chose Barabbas and demanded that Jesus be crucified.
When I heard this part of the story as a child, I remember thinking about how terrible Barabus was. This man was undeserving of his freedom while the Son of God was taken to the cross. Barabbas should have to die for the murders he committed.
This morning it struck me. I am Barabbas! My sin was just as bad as the sin of any other person. I am so grateful that the sinless Son of God took my place just like He did for Barabbas.
My son, Mikey phoned us today to tell us Happy Easter. I started telling him about this thought. He asked me to listen to a sermon he preached earlier this week. It was placed on facebook. The last sentence he says is, "I am Barabbas!" His points were strong and the thoughts were much like what hit me this morning. I felt so blessed.
This week I am interviewing Cheryl Morgan.
1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
Cheryl Morgan, although I write under C A Morgan. The book is titled “2Friends 4Ever” A Journey to Reunion

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
Probably that I suffer from a very rare auto immune disorder called retroperitoneal fibrosis and as a result, I’ve been totally disabled for the past 3 years.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
That’s a hard question. I’ve always played around with writing, but it took my disability for me to want to become a writer who might be able to earn money writing. Before my disability, I owned my own insurance agency and worked for other insurance companies. When I became disabled, I got so bored laying in bed every day, I had to find something to do. I discovered these note pads I’d been scribbling book ideas on over the years and decided “What the heck! You’ve got nothing to do. Why don’t you give it a shot”. As I began writing my first novel, I discovered how much I enjoyed it and I think that’s probably when I really decided to become a writer.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
I think my strongest point is revealing the inner feelings and thoughts of my characters, really giving my readers a chance to know and understand them. I like writing about the dynamics of human relationships, not just romantic, but all relationships and how characters interact with each other based on those “What makes you tick” moments.
5. Are you a reader?
Avid. I think most writers are and I think out desire to read is what ultimately leads us to writing as well.
6. What are you reading right now?
Right now, I’m reading “Breakthrough” by Stephen Tremp, one of our First Time Authors Only members. I also have two other books written by members of the group waiting on my bed stand.
7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.
I just finished my 2 book, “A Journey to Redemption”. It’s the story of two brothers whose personalities are so different even though they were raised in the same abusive household. One of the brothers is a woman abuser who is really looking for love but has a hard time learning to be in a relationship with a woman where he has to give up control. The other brother is a homosexual during a period when being one wasn’t talked about as freely as it is today. The book looks at their relationship not just with each other, but with their families, wives, and children. It illustrates how two people can come out of the same environment but still see the world so differently. And, without giving it away, I really like the way I decided to end this book and I think the readers will too. I’m researching publishing options right now and hope it will be available by Summer 2010.

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome it?
My biggest obstacle is quitting. I have the hardest time saying “The End”. When I think I’ve got the book finished, I’ll start proofing it and I find myself rewriting or changing things every time. Even when I gave my first book up to the publisher, I was not satisfied with it and if they would have given me more time for the proofing, I’d have taken it. I overcome it by setting myself a time limit when I start proofing, like “I’m sending this manuscript to the publisher in 2 months” whether I’m totally satisfied or not.
9. Please put a description of each of your books here. (back matter is ok)
“2Friends 4Ever: A Journey to Reunion” is a story of two 13 year old girls who somehow become friends when one of their mothers is killed by a drunk driver and the other girl’s alcoholic mother deserts the family. The book takes the two girls through a 40 year time period and shares how they support each other throughout the various stages of their lives. From dating to menopause, the book is separated into sections that concentrate on these stages and really takes a good look at how these different personalities look at their problems and how they depend on each other to solve those problems. It’s a wonderful read, particularly for those people who have that one friend they depend on for everything.

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog .
My web site is www.c-a-morgan.com. And I do write a blog on the site which you can get to directly by typing in www.c-a-morgan.com/blog. I prefer people buy the book from my website because I get my books at a substantial discount from my publisher and so pass that savings on to my readers. It’s also available at amazon.com and bn.com, but the publisher has the retail price set too high. So if you go to www.c-a-morgan.com you can order and pay through PayPal and get the book for $20.00 rather than the $34.95 the websites are asking (unless they are having a sale, and even at that, the lowest I’ve seen it listed at is $24.95. If anyone wants to email me, they can do so at cheryl@c-a-morgan.com.

Fun in the Summer

This weekend I am going to Leatherman Park at Perryton to sell books on Perryton's Celebration Day, Saturday, Aug 22 from 11-5 p.m.
It has been so hot this summer I hope all goes well. It is so fun to talk to people who come by my table. I like to talk with the children who timidly tell me that they love to write stories. Some of them tell me a bit of their story. There are some great writers growing up around here.
Since I was 52 when my first book was published, I think that the fact gives people my age hope that no matter what your age, God can use you. Never let go of your dreams.

I am continuing with featuring Tate Publishing and Enterprise Authors. I have "met" most of them through facebook and the Tate Publishing fan page. In the following weeks you will have the opportunity so see the dedication and heart each person puts in their writing. This week I am interviewing Karina Harris.

1.What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is Karina Harris. The title of my book is "Second Chance".

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I believe my readers would be interested to know that I grew up overseas. My parents were Baptist missionaries, and I spent much of my childhood and teen years in India and Thailand.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?

As a teenager, I enjoyed writing poetry and short stories. I also wrote several short stories in college, but never did anything with them. After I married, started a career in education, and had children, the writing stopped for several years. This past year I moved to a new teaching position that gave me more free time. My children had reached the age where constant supervision was not necessary. And I felt the call of writing again. I began this book in January, and had an offer from Tate publishing in March.

4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?

I believe that characters are the key to a great story. So I spent quite a bit of time developing these characters before I ever started their story. I have been told that I have a gift in being able to describe things well, whether it be characters, scenery, or emotions in the book.


5. Are you a reader?
Yes!

6. What are you reading right now?

I just finished Julie Garwood's "Fire and Ice"; also an FBI romantic suspense.

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.

I have finished the second book in this saga and am working on the third. The second book is entitled "Third Time Around", and tells the story of Quinn and Emma. Quinn is the outgoing, photographer brother of Avalin (our heroine in "Second Chance"). He is put on assignment with Emma, who is professional to a fault. They don't exactly "hit it off" to begin with, but circumstances continue to put them together. A twist in the plot is that someone is after Emma, has threatened her...but nobody knows who or why.


8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacle is that I don't know the end of the story when I begin it. That makes it wonderfully fun at times, because it unfolds much like a movie in my mind. There have been times, though, when I don't know where to go next with the story (like the "pause" button has been hit), and it is quite frustrating on those days!

9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Second Chance:
Avalin Summers’s life changes forever when she is told her parents may not be dead.
In the romantic suspense novel Second Chance, Karina Harris weaves an intriguing tale of hope and uncertainty in the story of Avalin Summers, an art student who is fiercely loyal to her older brothers, Jaden and Quinn. When Jaden requests a family meeting at their childhood farm in Colorado, she doesn’t question him. But what she discovers is something she hasn’t dared to dream about for the past five years.
Agent Ian Martin has spent a year investigating the case of part-time FBI operatives John and Rosemary Summers and the suspicious conclusion to their last mission. Recent intelligence hints they may not have died in the European plane crash, but he needs the help of the Summers’s grown children, Jaden, Quinn, and twenty-one-year-old Avalin, to find out. At the family meeting, Ian presents evidence that suggests their parents may have escaped capture and fled to Portugal.
The siblings’ lives are turned upside down when they learn their parents were working as undercover agents. Hoping they are alive, Quinn and Avalin eagerly join Ian in his search. When they land in Lisbon, they are bombarded with even more uncertainties. Thrown together by circumstances fraught with danger, betrayal, and heartache, Ian and Avalin uncover something special in each other. As events unfold, Ian and Avalin begin to question their beliefs in their government, their families, and even God as they look for someone they can trust. Will they find love on their journey together? Will they discover the truth about the Summers’s parents before it’s too late? Find out in Second Chance.


Third Time Around

Harris brings us back to the Summers family in this gripping tale of suspense and romance. Quinn Summers has been assigned to Peru, as the photographer for a National Geographic expose on a Native Indian tribe. Expecting a short, two day stint, he encounters instead a situation which changes his life.
Emma McDonnell is a career driven journalist who has just received her big break. She has been given her first lead assignment for National Geographic, and she is determined to make it perfect. She's not about to let the overly confident, incredibly handsome replacement photographer, Quinn Summers get in her way.
Events conspire to bring them together, both professionally and personally. Quinn becomes determined to discover the cause of the fear he sees behind her eyes. Emma begins to wonder if perhaps Quinn is someone she should trust.
Just as their relationship begins to strengthen, trouble explodes as someone from Emma's past returns to haunt her. Who is it? What does he want? Will Quinn and Emma be able to discover the identity of the would-be kidnapper before its too late?

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
My blog is: karinabharris.blogspot.com




My website is: www.karinabharris.vpweb.com


Once the release date is set, people will be able to order a book through this website via PayPal. They will receive a signed copy.

Fishing and Camping

Terry and I went with our oldest son and family on a weekend camping trip into the mountains of Colorado. We were tent camping! Yay! I love it. We purchased some cheap little fishing rods for the grandkids and all the stuff that goes with fishing. (We aren't that practiced at fishing...or would that be: We aren't that good!) Anyway, I love the mountains and the kids so we had fun!
The only problem was...We had visitors!
Terry had taken the kids to the bathrooms in the car and my son and his wife were sitting with me around the campfire. We had just finished dinner (chicken fajitas cooked on a plow disc with a propane flame...I am so thankful for that gift from my nephew-in-law, Clifford!...) anyway, we were drinking campfire coffee and sitting around the campfire. My son very quietly said, "Mom, there is a bear."
I responded, "Stevie, you are not funny."
He said, "For real!"
I turned my head and a medium sized black bear with a tan muzzle casually walked about 12 feet from us. He maneuvered the length of our campsite. I then remembered what my mid-kid's wife told me about bears and stood up with one hand over my head. (the other hand held my coffee) and said, "Git outta here."
He turned his head and walked on into the dark.
We went to the van (my door was locked) and watched him as he came back and looked through the high cabinet at the table. Terry and the kids came at that time and the bear walked to the other side of the table and stretched his neck and stared at Terry. He then walked into the darkness.
Terry and Steve took a pitiful little flashlight and searched for him. He came and went off and on to the cabinet thingy.
I went to the tent and went to sleep. They said that the bear walked next to the tent....I didn't know it and he didn't care that I was there. We discovered that he had swiped our bread and marshmallows and bitten through Steve's deodorant and eclipse gum.
The next night about 2 or 3 a.m. we heard a racket that sounded like a train wreck. Two or so bears were dumping our cast iron pots and pans out of the box. Then we heard the sound of bubble wrap busting...They found Terry's jug of tea in the stream and were drinking it!

By the way, we fished a bunch and caught no fishes, but had a ball with the grandkids. Terry and the little boys biked around the lake a couple of times and all over the campground. We still love camping.

I am continuing with featuring Tate Publishing and Enterprise Authors. I have "met" most of them through facebook and the Tate Publishing fan page. In the following weeks you will have the opportunity so see the dedication and heart each person puts in their writing. This week I am interviewing Caroline Alden.


1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)? My name is Caroline Alden and the names of my books are "Blended" and "Unspoken Story".

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I enjoy the simple pleasures in life.

3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
When my youngest child was in kindergarten. I began writing at age 32 as a hobby and became hooked.
4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods?
My main characters develop
so easily because I feel passionate about them once they are created.

5. Are you a reader?
I enjoy reading a lot.

6. What are you reading right now?
I am currently reading a Nora Roberts book.

7. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication?
Tell about it. I am working on my third book. The title has not been determined yet. The main idea of the book is learning to trust. Like my first and second novel (Unspoken Story) my third work is also family fiction.

8. What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them?
My biggest obstacle has been in choosing the perfect settings for my story's.

9. Please put a description of each of your books here.
Blended is about a New Hampshire family. The main character Sarah will capture your heart, with her cheerful outlook on life. Sarah is full of passion and warmth for her not so functional family. Sarah can handle the worst situations, while wearing a smile. You will laugh at Sarah's not so typical mother. You will cry when you learn why Sarah's nephew Ryan doesn't like being alone. As you journey through many of life's twist and turns with the Benson family.
Unspoken story is about a boy named Danny who has never spoken a single word. Danny has no voice but can communicate better without words than most able to speak can. You will feel a strong connection to Danny as his world crumbles around him. Danny shows us how one small mistake can have years of consequences. He also shows us that time is a healer and that actions definitely speak louder than words.

10. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here. I can be contacted at shancar3@hotmail.com My book can be purchased through Tate publishing, or at Amazon, Target, Borders books and Barnes and Noble.


http://nansjourney.blogspot.com

See you next week. I hope you enjoyed this.

Variety is the Fun of Life!

Variety is the Fun of Life!

I am always amazed when I meet other authors. We are such a varied bunch of people. I used to worry about so many people writing books. I was afraid that they would take the dollars from my sales. I don't worry about that any more because the authors and their books are as different as the readers who purchase them. I have had a ball getting to know authors and readers via the internet and book signings. Everyone has a story. God can use any genre to get His message to the people whether it be Bible study material, non-fiction, fiction, or poetry.
The next author I want to introduce you to is David Hurst. I met him through a mutual friend on face book. He is also a Tate Publishing and Enterprises author.


David I am so happy that you are taking the time to join me here on my blog and newsletter.

1. What is your name and the title of your book(s)?
My name is David L. Hurst. The name of my book is: "a Daily Walk with the Lord"

2. What is one thing you think your readers would like to know about you?
I would like for the readers to know what my relationship to God is. I am a Christian, a child of the King,
a born-again believer. Jesus is my Lord and Savior.


3. When did you know that you wanted to become a writer?
After my father passed away in 2004 I started writing poems. My poems gave me strength, comfort, & peace. In the process God was drawing me closer to Him.
I knew that I wanted to be a writer when I shared some of my poems with my family and co-workers and I knew that God was using me to be a blessing to someone else.


4. What are your strong points in your writing style or methods? I guess my strong points in my writing is that I speak from the heart. I go to the deep emotional places
where we meet with Jesus and he walks with us. I go to the places where we have a fresh encounter with
the heavenly Father.

5. Are you a reader? What are you reading right now? I like to read the Bible and I enjoy other devotional books. I love to read inspirational poetry. The book I am presently reading is the Bible.

6. Do you have another book that you are working on and hasn't been submitted for publication? Tell about it.I would love to write another devotional book. In the near future I hope I can write another inspirational book--if the Lord is willing and I have the time.

7.What are your biggest obstacles to writing and how do you overcome them? I believe my biggest obstacle is overcoming writers block. I like what one author said: it was something like this, inspiration does not come before writing but after the writing has begun. Many times God has blessed
me with a poem when I began to write.
My book is for encouragement, to help people draw close to God by taking a Daily Walk with the Lord.
I write about time. I would like for everyone to understand the day of our departure is at hand. Loved ones will be called. Death will come knocking at the door. My deep desire is that God will use the poems in my book to bring that loved one to Christ before the midnight hour.

8. How can readers contact you or purchase your books? Please put your website or blog here.
The readers can contact me dailywalk4u@aol.com
I have a web site www.christiandevotions4u.com I will share some of my poems on line.
my book can be purchased at Tate Publishing & Enterprises
www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore This is the link that will take you directly to my book.
http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?=978-1-60799-080-2


Thank you so much David.

See you next week. I hope you

Persistence and Battle:The modern world of book publishing

Fellow Tate Publishing and Enterprises author, Cliff Graham posted this article on the Tate Author Forum Blog today. He has a fantastic book about to be released, "Lion of War", (First book, "Day of War" - Lion of War series--novels based on King David's Mighty Men.) Get your copies at Tate Publishing.com or at his website. (I will post the address here soon.)

I am humbled that he chose my experience as a first time author for his post. Thank you Cliff and good luck and great sales for you series!

Persistence and Battle: The modern world of book publishing
My first order of books arrived today, and we have been busy getting orders ready to ship. Since the release of the book to distribution (bookstores, online retailers like Amazon) is not until October, it is up to me, and only me, to get the word out about my product.That's the right word, after all: product.Gone are the days when a writer could just sit back and wait for someone else to do their work for them. The industry does not operate that way anymore, and if you still labor under the illusion that an unknown author with no platform has any prayer of magically striking rich with the debt-ridden and tanking traditional publishers, you might need to take a deep breath.This blog is operated by a career literary agent, and look at how dour a picture she presents for those who are trying to write nonfiction. If you don't have a platform, your blood, sweat, and tears alone will sell that book.This is a report on the transformation of publishing as we know it, in the form of a Q/A with a notable Writer's Digest figure. It has fantastic analysis on the state of publishing.This is a blog post about how even fiction writers need platforms nowadays.

All of this is interesting reading. One of the complaints I have heard about Tate is that no one likes to talk about their sales figures for their books if they aren't a famous author because it can be a bit embarrassing. True enough. But did you know that only 2-3% of all books published in the world sell more than 5,000 copies? That is sobering. It tells us two things.1) Only 2-3% of authors are ever looked at again by publishers in New York, even if they get good contracts for their work.2) Even less than that actually make a living writing books. Even if you sell 5,000 copies and succeed in becoming one of the 2-3% of authors who do so, that does not add up to a full-time career. Let's say that your contract gives you 7% of distribution royalties (the standard rate for New York publishers--Tate offers 15%, by the way). 7% of every copy from that 5,000 copy run will not pay your mortgage for 30 years. It might get you a new garage door or help repair your roof from hail damage, but it won't guarantee milk in your refrigerator. Especially if the books sells only 5,000 copies, and it sells them through distribution, for which the author only gets a tiny amount of the royalties. It won't sell more than that unless word of mouth is powerful (which can happen, see The Shack) or you work your tail off marketing, sacrificing writing time.

There is a happy medium to be found. I am not able to list the specific sales numbers for other authors I have spoken with, but I know that Tate author Elaine Littau had a counter on her blog that was well over 1,000 copies sold when I checked it last. 1,000 copies for an unknown first time author in just 2 years is a remarkable figure, especially considering that she did not get heavy television promotion and her novel did not appear on shelves nationwide. Many books do get that kind of attention and never even sell 1,000 copies.

The Gargoyle, a book whose marketing I frequently point to as the standard for everything wrong with the industry, coughed up just 15,000 in sales after months on prominent bookstore shelves, and that unknown author was paid over a million dollars in an advance. Elaine's perseverance and belief in her book (call it a product) are driving sales. She has built a loyal fan base of genuine fans and not just people duped into buying because of a corporate marketing scheme. She recently published her next book in the series, and the first wave of fans will be getting the sequel they have been waiting for.Elaine's story is fascinating because it is quintessentially American: hard work, dedication, and driving faith will see better results than haunch-sitting. She has been dramatically effective at self-promotion, and she still found time to write another novel in her series while working at a job. Now that's efficiency.

Tate is doing what other publishers are just now starting to understand: they set their authors up for success. They don't guarantee it. I had a drill sergeant when I first joined the army who always shouted to us, "None of this training will guarantee that you will survive battle--it just guarantees that you will be in the battle."An author in the modern times is in a battle, and it is better to have a publisher who provides tools and training to equip that author for battle than a publisher who just hopes on a wing and a prayer that something will be the next "Purpose-Driven Harry Potter."It's all about incentive. Do we have what it takes to swallow our pride, realize that no one likes us or cares about our book, certainly not enough to spend money on it, and go from there? That's how Rick Warren, John Grisham and J.K. Rowling started. Persistence won the day.
Posted by Cliff Graham at

"Nan's Journey" is now on the Christian Book Video website!

Friday I felt so blessed and grateful to see my first book trailer, "Nan's Journey" listed among the titles on the Christian book video site I posted about a couple of weeks ago. It is amazing to see it there with the work of the other authors. Take a look at the site. The books look like some I am going to have to read...

Gifts of Love

On Saturday I received a package in the mail. It was a lovely hand-made gift from a friend of mine who lives in Pekin, Illinois. She told me she was sending something special...but I had no idea! It was a beautiful picture frame made of plastic canvas done in cream, green, and rose. It fits the decor of my house perfectly. She did a wonderful job and I am so proud of it.
I cannot display it until my hardwood floors are done. I don't want to risk getting it dirty. It is too precious.

I "met" this friend through a Internet group of church secretaries. We have a lot in common and I treasure her friendship. I have another friend I "met" on the Internet. She is also an author. She is a sweet lady who is also a great writer. Her pen name is Anne Kimberly. Her book title is "Deep Well of Decision". It is a fantasy that is intriguing and you can purchase it on amazon.com. There are others I "met" on shelfari...an interesting woman from Spain and another from Australia on a blog tour.

The gift I received was wonderful, but the best gift is friendship. I am blessed!