Author Jennifer Hudson Taylor

Beautiful list, Jennifer. We have so much to be th...

2009-11-25T22:20:14.161-05:00

Beautiful list, Jennifer. We have so much to be thankful for, don't we? Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Jen

Beautiful post! I love the piano. I've been playin...

2009-11-25T22:18:14.671-05:00

Beautiful post! I love the piano. I've been playing since I was ten. Believe it or not I actually begged my mom to let me quit piano because I wanted to continue gymnastics instead but I was told it was one or the other. Piano was chosen for me and I'm so very glad. I haven't practiced in forever, as it's been a while since I lived in a home with a piano. But I have a keyboard and as soon as I clear out the moving mess that is still upstairs, I'll get a chair and start playing again.

The old pianos are gorgeous, aren't they? Such lovely instruments. They can make me weep with some songs, and dance with joy the next. I suppose it's true of any instrument in the hand of a master, but there's something special about a piano.

Happy Thanksgiving,
Jen

Wow! Great list! Very exciting on your novel! Hap...

2009-11-25T11:46:51.985-05:00

Wow! Great list! Very exciting on your novel!

Happy Thanksgiving!

what a beautiful "enter into His gates" post!

2009-11-23T20:41:48.612-05:00

what a beautiful "enter into His gates" post!

What a lovely collection of high points! Somethin...

2009-11-23T19:08:07.815-05:00

What a lovely collection of high points! Something tells me that thanksgiving is a place in which you reside, not a holiday. How precious.

Blessings,
Kathleen

How lucky am I that a Christian writer commented o...

2009-11-23T14:52:44.338-05:00

How lucky am I that a Christian writer commented on my blog?! I'm so excited to check out your new book! I'm always looking for CLEAN books to read so I was so excited when I checked out your website! Congratulations! What an accomplishment! I'll let you know what I think about it once I've read it! ;-)

Wonderful post! I love piano music too, and wish I...

2009-11-23T12:55:33.572-05:00

Wonderful post!
I love piano music too, and wish I had learned to play, but the best I can do is plunk out a melody...My husband even bought me a piano, but the coordination it takes to play with both hands is beyond me! Fortunately, my son is interested in learning and seems to have a natural talent.

Praise God for all of your blessings. We all have ...

2009-11-23T11:58:13.017-05:00

Praise God for all of your blessings. We all have so much to be thankful for it makes it hard to be negative when you think about God and his mercy on us.
Im so happy your dream of becoming a writer became a reality.
So happy your daughter is healed..that is so scarey. I know because my daughter had two(only tow thank GOd)seziures. Im so glad she didn't have any more then that.

I'm thankful to hear that your writing persistence...

2009-11-23T10:56:12.819-05:00

I'm thankful to hear that your writing persistence paid off. It gives writer wannabe's like me encouragement to keep at it. Hope you have many more books to come.
Lee

Arlee, You bring up a great point. I can't help bu...

2009-11-22T08:24:04.397-05:00

Arlee, You bring up a great point. I can't help but wonder if it's b/c children really learned something before they moved on to the next thing. Now days, they have to "cover so much" that they move on to the next topic whether the kids have learned the first topic or not. Kids were able to learn at their own rate. I think they learn better that way.

My daughter has special needs, and they've already covered the states and capitals of America. She never caught on. My husband and I are teaching her this at home, while the rest of her class is learning about South America. If she can learn it with us teaching her, why couldn't she learn it in school? It does make me wish we could home school her. Yet, her special resource teachers have made strides in math with her that we haven't been able to do.

Also, I wonder if these great musicians from back then were unique geniuses, not the average kid for back then either?

Sia, I love the Ren Faires. I went twice this fal...

2009-11-22T08:16:24.251-05:00

Sia,

I love the Ren Faires. I went twice this fall. Yes, the piano does have a lot more depth. As an historical lover I'm glad to know people are still using the clavischords and harpsichords. I'd hate to see such historical instruments disappear.

Annabell, Send her a link. I'd like to hear from h...

2009-11-22T08:14:11.830-05:00

Annabell, Send her a link. I'd like to hear from her.

It amazes me that in the 18th & 19th centuries th...

2009-11-21T01:06:32.848-05:00

It amazes me that in the 18th &
19th centuries that chidren and teenagers like Schubert, Mendelssohn, and of course Mozart were writing masterpieces for piano, chamber ensemble, and orchestra and now some of us are thrilled if our kids can write their names legibly.
Lee

Many institutions limit access to their online inf...

2009-11-21T04:57:27.697-05:00

Many institutions limit access to their online information. Making this information available will be an asset to all.

Great post! It's rare anymore to find a piano in ...

2009-11-20T21:23:01.064-05:00

Great post! It's rare anymore to find a piano in a home. My best friend plays the piano and I think she would like this post! [=

Jen, Interesting article. I love to listen to pia...

2009-11-20T21:50:04.091-05:00

Jen,

Interesting article. I love to listen to piano music. I have many CDs both classical and new age with piano. While I love to listen to various types of music, there are times I only want to hear instrumental. I have quite a collection of that--and it ain't elevator music, lol!

I always thought of Clavischords as a "portable" music box. Well compared to modern pianos. I read a reference, somewhere and I don't remember where, a few troupes of trubadors could carry one with straps on their backs. I don't know how true that is. I imagine they were quite heavy.

I've listen to both, we used to do a lot of Ren faires and had the opportunity to see some very fine musicians. Harpichords playing music--very lovely, ah, but when the same piece is played on the piano, the pieces are like liquid sunshine. Pianos bring such depth.

Like the pics within their settings too. Have a great weekend. :-)

It is extremely interesting for me to read the pos...

2009-11-20T03:30:37.776-05:00

It is extremely interesting for me to read the post. Thanks for it. I like such topics and everything connected to them. I would like to read more on that blog soon.

Arlee, I'm glad my post was helpful to you. I wou...

2009-11-18T12:33:50.273-05:00

Arlee,

I'm glad my post was helpful to you. I would recommend joining a critique group. It might help you with the feedback you're seeking.

Candee, I think 12 is a bit much. I would have pro...

2009-11-18T12:33:04.701-05:00

Candee, I think 12 is a bit much. I would have probably cut it to six, but that's just me--especially if some of them were basically saying the same thing.

And yes, it is YOUR story, so always go by what you feel led to write. I even had to sever my relationship with an agent b/c of this. And looking back, as painful as it was, I made the right decision.

Valerie, It's hard to weed out the comments that w...

2009-11-18T12:30:53.795-05:00

Valerie, It's hard to weed out the comments that will take us down the wrong road. But unfortunately, bad advice exists and there's plenty out there--especially where people mean better. We know they mean well. That's why it is so hard to discard and ignore.

I have one waiting in my TBR pile right now.

2009-11-18T12:27:29.186-05:00

I have one waiting in my TBR pile right now.

Even if you don't write romance, this is a great r...

2009-11-18T12:26:55.216-05:00

Even if you don't write romance, this is a great resource b/c most likely, you do write about relationships in your novels. It helps with seeing how people can view things differently and miscommunicate and build conflict.

Thanks everyone for stopping by.

Jennifer, I would love to put something on my blog...

2009-11-16T16:13:53.085-05:00

Jennifer, I would love to put something on my blog about your book. I will e-mail you.

Thanks for the tip. Looks like a great resource, a...

2009-11-16T23:51:48.470-05:00

Thanks for the tip. Looks like a great resource, and I'm taking your advice and getting a copy.

Thanks for the tip. Looks wonderful, I'm going to ...

2009-11-16T23:52:52.412-05:00

Thanks for the tip. Looks wonderful, I'm going to pick up a copy.

I love her books.

2009-11-16T16:05:10.001-05:00

I love her books.

Jennifer, I've not seen this one. I'll have to che...

2009-11-16T14:07:24.834-05:00

Jennifer, I've not seen this one. I'll have to check it out. Regardless of the sub genre of fiction we write, the premise of writing a good book is understanding people.

I do read a variety of romance. I do believe that some, while a very good story, go way overboard on on sex scenes. Now, having said that, I don't mind a well written love scene. But having a sex scene just for the sake of having it--no.

I like the premise of Highland Blessings. If you'd like me to review your book, let me know. And I'd love to have you as a guest Over Coffee next Spring.

Was glad to see your comment on my blog the day af...

2009-11-16T13:57:58.433-05:00

Was glad to see your comment on my blog the day after my break -- I love meeting new people. And how exciting about your forthcoming book! I have not written specifically for the Christian book market yet but do infuse my faith life into my work, and someday, I might give it a try. This looks like a good place to start -- thanks!

Great resource. I don't write romance, but I do kn...

2009-11-16T09:27:19.916-05:00

Great resource. I don't write romance, but I do know the value of a good insider's guide to a genre. I have not seen one for the Christian Romance. This will be a big help, I know.

Happy Monday,
Jen

You, as with many other sites, write about using a...

2009-11-12T21:06:45.590-05:00

You, as with many other sites, write about using authentic names of celebrities, but what about someone you know? How much can a character in your fiction be like a real person? For example, my main character shares three things in common with someone I know: Part of the name, for example Little Trucker Jim, where Jim is the middle name of someone I know. Hobby, Little Trucker Jim likes to drive trucks. This "Jim" drove trucks for a while once in his life. And, location. Little Trucker Jim lives in a town that "Jim" once lived in 20 years ago, but lives nowhere near today. LTJ is the hero in the book and overcomes much adversity, always to succeed in the end. It is a children's book, after all. Am I required to change the name, hobby and/or location to avoid libel or be forced to pay some sort of royalties?

I found this site using [url=http://google.com]goo...

2009-11-12T17:53:32.995-05:00

I found this site using [url=http://google.com]google.com[/url] And i want to thank you for your work. You have done really very good site. Great work, great site! Thank you!

Sorry for offtopic

Thanks for checking out my blog... I love your web...

2009-11-10T21:08:09.339-05:00

Thanks for checking out my blog... I love your website. I hope it all turns out well. I know it must be hard getting critiques (both positive and negative). Take the feedback as a positive thing. As long as you gained something out it, it must have helped in some sort of way. All in all I'm sure you hard work has not gone unnoticed.

Thanks for checking out my blog... I love your web...

2009-11-10T21:07:19.490-05:00

Very nice. I can't wait to read the entire book!

2009-11-10T14:52:34.094-05:00

Very nice. I can't wait to read the entire book!

Thanks for stopping by my blog (and for the commen...

2009-11-09T14:16:49.675-05:00

Thanks for stopping by my blog (and for the comment and support). I really enjoyed this post. There is definitely a risk when it comes to critiques of getting too much information. Thats where your job as a writer comes in--to sort through it and pick what works for you and disregard the rest. In the end, your opinion is the one that matters most.

I can't really recall asking for help and being ov...

2009-11-09T11:01:01.574-05:00

I can't really recall asking for help and being overwhelmed or confused, unless it was for something like math. You should consider yourself fortunate (and I'm sure you do)that you have so many readers who are ready to offer their help when you request it.

Since I have started my blog I have repeatedly asked for suggestions to help me improve what I do. I've gotten many wonderful comments and discussions, which is wonderful and something I want. But I also want some critique and suggestions about my writing. I have gotten one for which I am very grateful and to which I took heed. That was from you, Jennifer, early on in my first weeks you suggested about creating a blog schedule, which I gradually started doing, and now have formally instituted and it is working very well.

I have some regular readers who return to particular days and people who have indicated what upcoming posts they are looking forward to. I have given you credit for this idea more than once on my blog posts. Other bloggers who have read about my intent, which I got from you, have indicated they might try the same approach on their blogs.

So there you go, your proselytizing has borne fruit and I am deeply indebted to you for your help. Thank you for taking your time to help a novice blogger to improve.

Molly, Janice and Dawn, Thank you so much for the...

2009-11-09T10:49:55.783-05:00

Molly, Janice and Dawn,

Thank you so much for the offer to help me. If I don't already have your mailing address, email it to jt4novels@yahoo.com and type "Influencer" in the subject line. That way I'll be able to send you a packet with promotional items, and a copy of Highland Blessings when it releases. I'll also send you list of ideas and suggestions.

After I get past my macro edit deadline, you will be hearing from me.

Kathleen, Thank you!

2009-11-09T10:46:41.825-05:00

Kathleen, Thank you!

I remember joining the ACFW large critique group a...

2009-11-09T10:31:33.795-05:00

I remember joining the ACFW large critique group and got 12 crits on my first chapter. That's a lot of feedback to process so I printed out a hard copy of the chapter and marked each suggestion on it. Then, with ALL of the comments in one document, I could weed through them and make my decisions - before ever touching my computer file.

It's hard to ignore some suggestions but I'm the author and this is MY story to tell. As long as I have a good reason why I should do it my way. :)

Yes, I've gone the same route, and come out in the...

2009-11-09T10:16:23.731-05:00

Yes, I've gone the same route, and come out in the same place. Some input is wonderful, some is okay, some is just plain wrong. And different people weigh in right sometimes, wrong sometimes. It's a good lesson to me--not all my suggestions to other writers (I'm in a writer's group) are going to be gold. Some are just--tin. But getting feedback is good, and it keeps me from feeling alone out here in Valerie-land. Thanks for the blog!

Hiya Jennifer, I was just checking out your blog a...

2009-11-09T07:28:25.172-05:00

Hiya Jennifer, I was just checking out your blog and came across this post. I'd be happy to feature you on both my blogs. I have a small yet loyal following and I (along with my followers) are always happy to help promote a fellow author.

What would you like me to put up? Any specific pictures or information? I'll post a link to your blog for sure, what else would you like?

You can contact me at
dawnhullender@att.net

I loved it! I can't wait to read the rest of the b...

2009-11-06T18:00:19.271-05:00

I loved it! I can't wait to read the rest of the book. The dialogue reminds me of my grandma's accent.

I wouldn't mind putting a something on blog about ...

2009-11-06T10:38:53.505-05:00

I wouldn't mind putting a something on blog about your book.
Please read this http://janmrp.blogspot.com/2009/10/bogeyman.html
If you can help me Thank you

Just wanted to say that I am already on your list...

2009-11-06T09:16:05.052-05:00

Just wanted to say that I am already on your list (I'm Molly)! Congratulations and I can not wait to read your story!!!

Blessings dear friend@

I just have to say congratulatons! What a major f...

2009-11-06T07:42:34.205-05:00

I just have to say congratulatons! What a major feat to have written (and researched, and re-written, and edited and re-written ...) a novel that's made it's way to Amazon.

Kathleen

Congratulations on the upcoming release of your bo...

2009-11-04T14:16:55.296-05:00

Congratulations on the upcoming release of your book! That is awesome! :-)

This book looks fascinating. Can't wait to read it...

2009-11-04T13:34:26.530-05:00

This book looks fascinating. Can't wait to read it.

Thanks for posting this and the information. It wa...

2009-11-03T15:21:09.693-05:00

Thanks for posting this and the information. It was very informative and helpful.

All the best, Jennifer, with the upcoming release ...

2009-11-03T10:05:11.722-05:00

All the best, Jennifer, with the upcoming release of your book. Hope the sampler snags you some pre-orders!

Pacing is something most of us don't think about u...

2009-11-03T08:30:32.569-05:00

Pacing is something most of us don't think about until we struggle with a sagging middle. At least, that's the case with me, but I trying to keep it in mind as I write.

A really useful post. Thanks for the helpful advi...

2009-11-03T01:38:09.236-05:00

A really useful post. Thanks for the helpful advice.

Thanks for the wonderful tips.

2009-11-02T15:54:44.997-05:00

Thanks for the wonderful tips.

Wonderful information on pacing. I've never given ...

2009-11-02T09:58:34.485-05:00

Wonderful information on pacing. I've never given actual thought to it, but I see the patterns in my own writing: an intense scene followed by a more reflective one.

Happy Monday!
Jen

Wow! I love that fiction sampler. I would love t...

2009-10-30T13:56:49.650-04:00

Wow! I love that fiction sampler. I would love to get my hands on a hard copy of that. Thank you so much for sharing.

This looks good. Thanks for sharing! Julie =)

2009-10-29T11:50:28.435-04:00

This looks good. Thanks for sharing!

Julie =)

Great post. I just brough this book, haven't had t...

2009-10-28T10:30:09.686-04:00

Great post. I just brough this book, haven't had time to read it as of yet.
tarenn98[at]yahoo[dot]com

Terri, you are very welcome!

2009-10-27T09:05:30.348-04:00

Terri, you are very welcome!

I didn't know that Redeeming Love is being made in...

2009-10-27T09:04:51.883-04:00

I didn't know that Redeeming Love is being made into a movie! It's one of my favorite books of all time. I hope they do the movie and book justice.

I like the movies that Hallmark made of Jannette Oke's Love Comes Softly series, but I think they ruined it by not keeping the characters the same. I know they probably couldn't help it, but it sort of bothered me.

I read on Francine River's website that her "Redee...

2009-10-26T20:57:47.070-04:00

I read on Francine River's website that her "Redeeming Love" is in the making of a movie!! That's something to look forward too!

thank you for your insights and kind words on my b...

2009-10-26T20:06:46.096-04:00

thank you for your insights and kind words on my blog today!

I think Francine Rivers' "Redeeming Love" would ma...

2009-10-26T13:39:16.975-04:00

I think Francine Rivers' "Redeeming Love" would make a fabulous movie. As would her Mark of the Lion trilogy. And Angela Hunt's "The Justice" (I think that's what it's called -- the one about the female VP that becomes president and gets to name a S.Ct. justice?).

I would like to see more books turned into GOOD mo...

2009-10-26T11:56:54.920-04:00

I would like to see more books turned into GOOD movies. I understand there is so much in books than can't be translated into film or won't fit into the time limit. However, I have a HUGE problem with film makers taking liberties with the translation. My favorite book was made into a film a few years ago. It was only released on DVD (that says a lot). All they took from the book was the title, the character's names, and the very general plot line. Everything else (down to the main character's lack of braces and the color hair of one of the other m.c.) was so far off it was embarassing.

I'm alway wary of books-movies, but if it's a book I love, I usually go see it, just to see the interpretation (and see my characters in the flesh).

Jen

There are lots of books that I would love to see b...

2009-10-26T10:47:04.670-04:00

There are lots of books that I would love to see become movies! Unfortunately, as you said, we don't have a lot of choices sometimes and it can be really frustrating to try to rent or see something. I love Anita Shreve's writing and I think some of her books would make fantastic films.

Thanks for the great review. I'm so glad you enjoy...

2009-10-23T08:55:08.087-04:00

Thanks for the great review. I'm so glad you enjoyed reading about the history of my French Huguenot heritage. I think we do not understand sometimes the price that has been paid for our freedom to worship as we choose.

And I hope those of you who have not read "Prisoner" (and "Sun King" as well) will do so. I was glad to read, Jennifer, that not having read "Sun King" you could follow the story line fine.

Blessings to all!

Thanks, everyone! Golden is a good friend of min...

2009-10-22T18:52:27.676-04:00

Thanks, everyone!

Golden is a good friend of mine who is part of my historical writing group. She's a great writer. I hope to read more of her books.

This was a great review! I love historical novels ...

2009-10-22T16:06:30.747-04:00

This was a great review! I love historical novels and this is one I'll be adding to my to-read list. Thanks for the recommendation!

I am new to you lovely blog. Thanks for a wonderf...

2009-10-21T12:24:17.384-04:00

I am new to you lovely blog.

Thanks for a wonderful review of Prisoner of Versailles.

Author Linda Weaver Clarke is giving away a book on my blog. I hope you and your readers will stop by. :)

Sounds like a great book. Adding it to my wishlist...

2009-10-21T10:16:24.898-04:00

Sounds like a great book. Adding it to my wishlist now. Thanks for the great review!

Juile =)

Thanks for the review; I love high quality books t...

2009-10-21T08:32:30.650-04:00

Thanks for the review; I love high quality books that take place in France. It's my way of visiting.

Your reading disciplines must be finely honed. I ...

2009-10-21T08:17:17.816-04:00

Your reading disciplines must be finely honed. I am amazed at your coverage, as well as your insights. I've yet to read one of your reviews that hasn't left me wanting to purchase the book.

Now I only need to figure out how to get through the stack of some umpty-umpty I've yet to read!

Blessings,
Kathleen

I hypervetilate in gyms-and that's before I hit th...

2009-10-20T16:30:18.016-04:00

I hypervetilate in gyms-and that's before I hit the equipment-and coffee and wine gums have always done it for me!!!!

This is really wonderful advice. Sometimes I find ...

2009-10-20T10:51:20.163-04:00

This is really wonderful advice. Sometimes I find myself pushing myself too hard to write something - anything - when really I need to step back and take a break first. Thanks for the encouraging post! :)

I need to take up this advice, myself.

2009-10-20T09:42:14.944-04:00

I need to take up this advice, myself.

I do find tidbits like this very fascinating. Than...

2009-10-20T09:41:06.437-04:00

I do find tidbits like this very fascinating. Thanks for sharing, everyone!

Great advice! Happy writing!

2009-10-19T10:33:03.164-04:00

Great advice! Happy writing!

Yikes! Love the history, thanx!

2009-10-16T10:35:55.610-04:00

Yikes! Love the history, thanx!

Yes, I have wondered. Thanks for the info! Julie ...

2009-10-16T10:13:48.576-04:00

Yes, I have wondered. Thanks for the info!

Julie =)

Thank you for my history lesson today. I did not k...

2009-10-16T09:55:23.566-04:00

Thank you for my history lesson today. I did not know this!

Great post. Sounds like a great book. tarenn98[at...

2009-10-15T12:24:24.035-04:00

Great post. Sounds like a great book.

tarenn98[at]yahoo[cot]com

Sounds like a great book! Watch an intriguing way ...

2009-10-14T11:09:48.865-04:00

Sounds like a great book! Watch an intriguing way to introduce it. Adding it to my TBR.

Thanks!

Okay, Jen, that would make sense. I hope we don't ...

2009-10-13T08:48:29.868-04:00

Okay, Jen, that would make sense. I hope we don't have as many who disappear from the group this year.

I have one on my shelf waiting in my TBR pile.

2009-10-13T08:47:39.805-04:00

I have one on my shelf waiting in my TBR pile.

Tamika, That's a great way of saying it. The image...

2009-10-13T08:46:59.773-04:00

Tamika, That's a great way of saying it. The images remind me of the same thing.

Jen, Your welcome. Maybe you can find some more images by her.

Thanks, Julie!

I plant to use some of these images to center my mind in the time period for writing.

That was supposed to say, "keep supporting and enc...

2009-10-13T08:44:50.869-04:00

That was supposed to say, "keep supporting and encouraging one another".

Some of you have some great tips as well. And of c...

2009-10-13T08:44:13.191-04:00

Some of you have some great tips as well. And of course, not everything will work for everyone. Thanks for sharing. It's hard to get interrupted constantly. Let's get supporting and encouraging one another.

Prayers can be done anywhere at it can be a short ...

2009-10-13T02:39:42.622-04:00

Prayers can be done anywhere at it can be a short one as long as it came from the heart! Your post was very informative and very enlightening! I hope to hear from you more!

I enjoyed your post. I always think I need a good ...

2009-10-12T20:44:22.132-04:00

I enjoyed your post. I always think I need a good length of uninterrupted time in order to write, but since I work full time, the big blocks of time never come. I definitely need to learn to write whenever and wherever!

Hi Jennifer - I like your idea of stopping in the...

2009-10-12T20:10:32.878-04:00

Hi Jennifer -

I like your idea of stopping in the middle of an intense scene. I've found that pre-writing in my head helps me pick up the threads of my story.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Great topic. I have been forced to adapt to noise ...

2009-10-12T16:59:17.785-04:00

Great topic. I have been forced to adapt to noise and interruptions. I always re-read a few pages back before I commence to working on a piece, that way I get right back into the groove.

Actually, I've tried #1, stopping in the middle, a...

2009-10-12T16:33:45.219-04:00

Actually, I've tried #1, stopping in the middle, and it makes me so frustrated! I come back knowing that I knew where I was going and now I totally forgot and feel sure that what I'm now writing lacks in comparison to the original vision (even though I can't remember it :)

I make sure I end at scene breaks now. Then I go to bed and then generally the whole next scene writes itself, so since it's too late to write, I force myself out of bed and make short notes to remind me next time I have the chance to write.

But if I could just sit all day and write beginning to end that would be wonderful!

#2 works the best for me. I reread the last scene editing minor things as I go and then work on the next scene using the notes from the late night dream session if I have them.

Music distracts me.

Great tips. I especially like stopping in the midd...

2009-10-12T12:58:10.754-04:00

Great tips. I especially like stopping in the middle of something where you know where you want to go next. I hate coming back to writing only to have no idea where I'm headed. My writing only comes in interrupted spurts, so keeping the flow is a constant problem. I usually think about what I want to write while I'm doing all the other stuff.

Really great advice! I've found that when I accide...

2009-10-12T12:06:33.989-04:00

Really great advice! I've found that when I accidentally stop in an action sequence it is much easier to get back into the swing of things. I'm going to start doing that on purpose! Thanks!!!

These are great tips! Getting interrupted while wo...

2009-10-12T11:06:23.421-04:00

These are great tips! Getting interrupted while working is one of my biggest pet peeves and I am always cranky to the unfortunate person who breaks my concentration :) Personally I also re-read what I've written to get myself back into the flow of writing. I also need music to write and replaying the song I was listening to also helps me get back into it. It's hard to find time so I admire you for doing so with work and kids and household stuff!

Some good points, Jennifer. Currently I am in you...

2009-10-12T11:13:59.698-04:00

Some good points, Jennifer. Currently I am in your "dream" state. Being unemployed I can retreat into my home office and make my own schedule. I try to schedule my days as though it were a job and since my wife is at during the day and we no longer have kids at home, I am able to work for long stretches without interruption. I just have to be careful about being tempted by personal distractions like the internet, etc.
As far as maintaining writing rhythm, I try to formulate what I am going to write firmly in my mind, going over it thoroughly in my head so that it is firmly ensconced in my mental library so that I can bookmark it if I have to leave then return to my same place later--kind of like putting a CD on pause if you need to stop watching the movie and come back to it later.
The nightmare I used to encounter when I was first getting used to word programs was creating something that I had really thought out and it sounded really good and then somehow deleting it or losing the "masterpiece" that I thought I had written. Then when I tried to go back and rewrite it I was not able to recapture the magic of the original work--in my frustration I guess I would lose the momentum. Fortunately that doesn't happen anymore.
I see where you are coming from when you advise to stop in the middle of the excitement. The writing rhythm probably would maintain more continuity in doing it that way.

Adding her to my TBR list. Right now. Sounds like ...

2009-10-09T15:20:19.500-04:00

Adding her to my TBR list. Right now. Sounds like a great book!

Julie =)

Beautiful pictures. Thanks for sharing!! Julie =)...

2009-10-09T15:18:38.997-04:00

Beautiful pictures. Thanks for sharing!!

Julie =)

Beautiful pictures! Thank you for introducing me t...

2009-10-09T10:37:02.371-04:00

Beautiful pictures! Thank you for introducing me to this wonderful artist.

Happy Friday,
Jen

The pictures remind me of a happy, delicate time. ...

2009-10-09T09:24:36.627-04:00

The pictures remind me of a happy, delicate time. Where innocence was not lost on our children.

Great post!

Blessings to you...

Tara is a great name. It's been very good for me. ...

2009-10-07T21:52:50.345-04:00

Tara is a great name. It's been very good for me. Distinct enough that everyone you meet doesn't share it, but normal enough that everyone can pronounce it (except my 5th grade teacher who insisted on Tay-ra for some reason).

The only bad part was that my parents repeatedly told me I was named for a house. When I was in middle school and chubby, this did not encourage me to be self-confident. So they told me the original use of the name was for the seat of the High Kings of Ireland. It's basically the biggest hill. Because that's better... >.<

~Tara

Oh, and it's funny you should say Tara-Lynn. I'm T...

2009-10-07T21:54:41.546-04:00

Oh, and it's funny you should say Tara-Lynn. I'm Tara Lindsay. I always thought the sounds flowed quite nicely!

~Tara

Hi Jennifer - I've never participated in this mar...

2009-10-07T19:50:48.806-04:00

Hi Jennifer -

I've never participated in this marathon. The first year I heard about it I was in a cast and couldn't type a dozen words much less 50,000.

Maybe I'll try it someday, but right now I'd only be setting myself up for failure.

Blessings,
Susan

I am waiting to get this book. I love her books.

2009-10-07T11:20:03.785-04:00

I am waiting to get this book. I love her books.

Last year - I referred to last year, and not just ...

2009-10-07T06:45:30.141-04:00

Last year - I referred to last year, and not just to the critique group we share but others as well. To complete the NaMo task they didn't have time for anything else!
Jen

Laura, My commute is pretty long as well. I chose ...

2009-10-07T05:49:09.373-04:00

Laura, My commute is pretty long as well. I chose it though, b/c we moved so my daughter could go to the school here. The sacrifices us parents make...

Arlee, It's 50,000 words of unedited output. The goal is not to stop and edit until you finish so you can write as many words as possible.

Jen, I didn't realize people had vanished from our critique group for that reason since it doesn't start until November.

Candee, I hope you stay well through out the NaNoWriMo! Our household recovered from the flu 2 weeks ago.

Julie, Thanks! I'll stop by.

Sherrinda, I don't have summers off, so I'm somewh...

2009-10-07T05:43:07.011-04:00

Sherrinda, I don't have summers off, so I'm somewhat jealous!

CKHB, I hope you're able to participate this year. It's experiences like yours that make me wish I could try it.

Lindsey, I thought about the weekends, but I'm books all through November with my family.

Stina, You must be dedicated, especially with a funeral and a week off!

I grew up with one of my best friends named Tara. ...

2009-10-07T05:35:44.785-04:00

I grew up with one of my best friends named Tara. I love that name. I'm thinking of using the name Tara-Lynn in one of my Southern novels based in Columbia, SC. It's another one of those books I've sort of plotted, but haven't gotten around to writing yet.

Awesome! I've never tried it but good luck.

2009-10-06T23:02:01.267-04:00

Awesome! I've never tried it but good luck.

I can certainly relate to what you said about trus...

2009-10-06T21:11:22.232-04:00

I can certainly relate to what you said about trust. What a wonderful blog - thanks for posting on my site since it led me to see yours!

At this point in my life, I would have to say I'd ...

2009-10-06T15:02:07.347-04:00

At this point in my life, I would have to say I'd feel the same way as you.

Stop by my blog to receive a blog award that is waiting for you.
onerainyafternoon.blogspot.com

Julie =)

I tried it last year, hoping that the pressure wou...

2009-10-06T12:01:17.208-04:00

I tried it last year, hoping that the pressure would silence the internal editor and help me get my story out on paper. It did that and I was making great progress - until I came down with bronchitis and pneumonia and spent two weeks in bed, too sick to even think.

I'm leaning toward trying again this year. But, maybe off the official radar. (Then I can't "officially" fail.) Success for me would be significant progress on my next book before the Holidays and the end of the year.

Maybe you can set a smaller goal for yourself and track that progress instead?

It didn't help that everyone vanished from crit gr...

2009-10-06T10:50:23.204-04:00

It didn't help that everyone vanished from crit groups to do this NaMo thing! Apart from that, I'm still not tempted to try it. It seems too much like forcing something into daylight for me.
Jen

This challenge is a tempting one for me. For the ...

2009-10-05T16:44:39.446-04:00

This challenge is a tempting one for me. For the first time in nearly 20 years I am out of a job so I am not working full time like the others who have responded. I started my blog, http://tossingitout.blogspot.com/ ,
about 2 weeks ago and have been writing pretty diligently for less than an hour a day and in that time, in the blog only, have managed about 10,000 words of blog. This doesn't include comments I've made on other blogs and emails I have sent. With persistence I know I can do this if I force myself. My question is this: Is that just 50,000 words of unedited output? Or is this 50,000 words of finished product?
I will check out the website.

Everyone who reaches God has his/her own path to t...

2009-10-05T18:09:06.817-04:00

Everyone who reaches God has his/her own path to take. That's why I try not to judge the steps of a seeker. I was lost once too.

With the trust issue, I've learned that I have trouble putting people on a pedestal. When I do that, I am always let down. Now, I try not to place anyone in a hierarchy in my mind.

The hardest thing to do, though, is to treat everyone like they are Jesus (Matt 25.40) without getting hung up on their humanity. UGH! That seems impossible!

I've thought about trying it, but I also have a mo...

2009-10-05T13:56:44.192-04:00

I've thought about trying it, but I also have a more-than-fulltime job (I'm a lawyer) and a LONG commute, AND a husband and three teenagers at home. Like you, I would kill myself trying to do it, and I just can't inflict that on my family. Someday. . . .

I love Nanowrimo, despite its stress. I am highly...

2009-10-05T12:25:19.350-04:00

I love Nanowrimo, despite its stress. I am highly self-critical, so shooting for something other than brilliance (word count only) is basically therapy for me. I get to just enjoy the bliss of writing like a maniac. I have a full-time job as well, and some people only do it on the weekends. I really do recommend it highly. It's just a commitment to write every day, or even just a few more words than you might normally.

I did this last year, and I'm signed up again this...

2009-10-05T13:05:37.336-04:00

I did this last year, and I'm signed up again this year. I love NaNoWriMo, just because of the challenge (I love a challenge). I did make it to the finish line last year, even with an unexpected funeral trip, and a week of missed writing time.

NaNoWriMo is the reason I started writing again. ...

2009-10-05T10:30:00.710-04:00

NaNoWriMo is the reason I started writing again. I did have a full-time job at the time (but no kids!) and I didn't "win" but I did write 30K words that would not have been written otherwise. I think it is an amazing project and I'm so grateful to Chris Baty for starting it!

I have been tempted to try it, but, like you, have...

2009-10-05T06:36:48.971-04:00

I have been tempted to try it, but, like you, have a full time job. It is difficult. This time of year is extremely taxing at work and makes me not even want to write. (gasp) I have the summer off, so I participated in the July NaWriMo. I was very productive and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I could never do it in Nov. though!

I really enjoyed reading this. It reminded me of s...

2009-10-04T11:59:07.412-04:00

I really enjoyed reading this. It reminded me of something my father has always said (he ministers at a nursing home once a week) ... He always gives a sermon, followed by ... "Don't just take my word for it. Go read the word and find out for yourself. When you stand before the Maker, you can't say Jack told me so .. you've got to answer for yourself." He encourages others to read and study the word. I agree with so much of what you wrote. Thanks for sharing it.

Lovely cover! I love historical medieval romances....

2009-10-02T23:29:43.402-04:00

Lovely cover! I love historical medieval romances.

Thanks for answering!

2009-10-02T22:06:33.979-04:00

Thanks for answering!

Hi CKHB, I think your question is excellent. I do...

2009-10-02T12:12:48.958-04:00

Hi CKHB,

I think your question is excellent. I don't have all the answers. All I can do is offer my thoughts.

There will be some people who will never experience the supernatural event they are looking for, b/c it is possible that they are expecting something "profound" and it may not come like that. Kind of like that parable story of the man waiting on the roof for God to deliver him from the flood, but he missed the helicopter, the boat, and the raft--all things that God sent indirectly through the good will of others.

Also, I believe that some people do not experience their supernatural moment until they are dying, and with their last heartbeat they believe. It may be the vision of an angel, the light, etc, but we never know b/c they leave this world. It's between them and God.

There are others, who witness it through a loved one or someone they know. If they are really close to someone and if that person changes b/c of a supernatural experience they had, that could become a witness to others, b/c that individual would never have changed in a million years w/o something profound happening to them. I think a lot of people believed b/c of the changes that happened in Saul when he became Paul.

I also believe that if a person wants to have a supernatural experience with God, they can simply ask Him for it. Keep in mind, it might not happen right away. He may need to allow a series of events to take place in your life to mold you, before you are at a spiritual maturity level to receive the supernatural event He's planning to give you. But I believe if you ask Him, He will reveal Himself to you at the appointed time.

What if those people never have that supernatural ...

2009-10-02T10:45:02.828-04:00

What if those people never have that supernatural experience?

Jan, People in ministry have a natural propensit...

2009-10-02T10:12:31.993-04:00

Jan,

People in ministry have a natural propensity to want to "fix people". Sometimes the rest of us just want fellowship and a listening ear--a real friend. We don't always want advice that comes with a sermon. As Ecclesiastes says, there is a time for everything under the sun, and sometimes that time is for listening and not doling out advice like Job's friends, and passing judgment without the Holy Spirit's direction.

Flourchild, Thank you. It means a lot to me to hea...

2009-10-02T09:47:43.897-04:00

Flourchild, Thank you. It means a lot to me to hear you say that God can use me to further His Kingdom.

I can relate to the trust issues with Christians. ...

2009-10-02T09:34:32.884-04:00

I can relate to the trust issues with Christians. It seems that in my experience, I have received more support and non-judgment from non Christians. I often wonder where the wisdom is in churches that place unqualified, untried, immature people in leadership. It makes it hard to trust what comes forth from that ministry. I think there may be a fine line between testing the message/messenger, and being overly defensive - at least I struggle with that.
Good food for thought - thank you for this post.

Well put, thank you. I believe everything you said...

2009-10-02T07:44:42.595-04:00

Well put, thank you. I believe everything you said to be true. I have had similar trust issues in my life too. I refuse to debate God with non believers instead I just love them. Love them and hope they will see Gods lite shining through me.
Thanks again for your words of wisdom this morning. God truly can use people like you to further his Kingdom.

LOL, as a sidenote, it would be bad to be named fo...

2009-10-01T23:02:25.868-04:00

LOL, as a sidenote, it would be bad to be named for a book character. But I can tell you from experience, it's much worse to be named for a book HOUSE!

~Tara

I am writing a book about a pioneer family who hom...

2009-09-30T17:36:27.498-04:00

I am writing a book about a pioneer family who homesteads in Kansas. I researched a lot of names and actually settled on Alice, or as her brother will call her, Icy for short.

I actually know a woman in her 40s named Scarlett -- she is a firey redhead, fortunately, who can hold her own with the fact her mother named her for the fascinating Scarlett O'Hara.....I visited the Margaret Mitchell house and museum in Atlanta -- in the apt where she wrote GWTW. It is fascinating.

Thanks for stopping by my blog.......

I'm thankful for the find and replace option in wo...

2009-09-29T18:09:15.538-04:00

I'm thankful for the find and replace option in word because I don't always find the right name... right away. Then, one of my most recent books I've written I found that I'd named two people Simon and two people Theresa. They were all minor characters but I felt like a dork nonetheless. I look at behindthename also. Sometimes their name is right there in my mind when I write the character and sometimes it takes a bit. I don't use any family names, though, and most likely never will.

Thanks for your comments in my blog today.

I have a cousin named Scarlet. She even has red ha...

2009-09-29T14:27:01.247-04:00

I have a cousin named Scarlet. She even has red hair! She's nothing like Scarlet O'Hara though.

There are a couple of names that I just can't use, even though I know multiple people who have the name. Angie is one of them. That name has been so thoroughly ruined for me by one person that I know who has it.

I don't think I could ever name a heroine Ursula either.

It's so interesting to hear how everyone determine...

2009-09-29T06:00:42.987-04:00

It's so interesting to hear how everyone determines their character names. I haven't tried the Behind the Name site. I'm going to bookmark it. Thank you for sharing it as a resource.

If anyone else knows of any great resources, I'd love to hear from you.

Sometimes I just start writing and the names just ...

2009-09-28T22:57:51.295-04:00

Sometimes I just start writing and the names just happen through the characters' conversations.

At other times I have a blank line for paragraphs until a name just happens to fit in. I rarely think out a name. Even with my own children. The names just seem to fit and everyone lives happily ever after.

Thanks for posting on my blog.

Like JStantonChandler, My favorite source for name...

2009-09-29T01:11:45.138-04:00

Like JStantonChandler, My favorite source for names, meanings, name histories and origins is http://www.behindthename.com. What I love best about this is you can search their massive database by meaning or culture instead of just names themselves.

You can also use http://surnames.behindthename.com for last names, which is often even harder than choosing first names!

I generally start with meaning for characters. I try to keep them pretty normal, modern names that you might encounter multiple times (Margaret, Richard, Anna) but I want to match the actually meaning of the name to the character and to their parents (if they're in the story. Even if readers don't realize the connection, generally they seem to live up to their names quite on their own!

~Tara

I love choosing my character's names. Sometimes th...

2009-09-28T17:54:18.555-04:00

I love choosing my character's names. Sometimes they come equipped with them and it's not up to me at all.

I'm the opposite. I've always preferred giving my ...

2009-09-28T12:49:40.953-04:00

I'm the opposite. I've always preferred giving my characters very normal everyday names. Sometimes there is a reason behind it like my teen psychic named Cassandra (for those of you who don't get the connection, read up on your Greek mythology). And who would ever suspect ordinary Katie Jones of being an international assassin?

Other than that though, I prefer the normal.

Great post. It's really the most important thing n...

2009-09-28T11:00:41.707-04:00

Great post. It's really the most important thing next to a great premiss. Names say a lot and are the monkiers that guide our readers.

As a new novelist, I am a little shaky on this iss...

2009-09-28T10:05:28.064-04:00

As a new novelist, I am a little shaky on this issue. I did research historical names on the internet so that I would not use an inappropriate one. I am still thinking of changing one or two of them after my first edit is finished. Makes me nervous though to second guess my original pick.

Hi Jennifer. Naming my characters is probably one ...

2009-09-28T09:50:31.661-04:00

Hi Jennifer. Naming my characters is probably one of the most important parts of writing for me. I also over think them. Some of my characters come to me named, some of them don't. For the ones that don't, I usuall go online to www.behindthename.com. It's a nice website with a wonderful data base of names both common and unique. It also has a section on mythological and literary names to peruse. I place a lot of weight on the meaning of names and Behind the Name gives you the meaning and the history associated with each name.

Happy Monday!
Jen

Some good points here about naming characters to m...

2009-09-28T07:51:53.544-04:00

Some good points here about naming characters to make them acceptable but memorable too. I research names to fit the era I'm writing about too, but try to make them different enough to stand out.

A lot of good ideas here, thanks.

2009-09-28T09:29:45.259-04:00

A lot of good ideas here, thanks.

It is interesting to think of how things have chan...

2009-09-26T23:33:23.208-04:00

It is interesting to think of how things have changed.

Thanks everyone for stopping by!

Hello Jennifer, I followed you over from Nancy Wad...

2009-09-26T18:37:45.739-04:00

Hello Jennifer, I followed you over from Nancy Wade's blog Voiceover. I loved your testamonial and truly feel that you are blessed and annointed. I also love history and my husband & I own a farm that has been in our family since 1893.
Please visit me as I will visit you & add you to my blog roll.
http//www.debraharrisjohnson.blogspot.com Congrats on the new book and continued success.

Wow, how interesting! Times sure have changed, huh...

2009-09-26T12:33:45.542-04:00

Wow, how interesting! Times sure have changed, huh? This is really neat stuff. Thanks for sharing!

Very nice antique baby clothing. I love learing hi...

2009-09-26T11:08:25.255-04:00

Very nice antique baby clothing. I love learing history lessons...thank you! The bonnet is my favorite!

I read about this book on another blog and I still...

2009-09-25T13:05:52.976-04:00

I read about this book on another blog and I still think it sounds great! Will definitely have to read it soon!

Your post is the third one I've read today about P...

2009-09-25T00:32:09.769-04:00

Your post is the third one I've read today about POV, how interesting.

Thank you Jennifer! I've been struggling with POV ...

2009-09-24T21:32:34.268-04:00

Thank you Jennifer! I've been struggling with POV issues lately, trying to decide between first person and third limited. Your tips are very helpful reminders. It really changes the way your entire story is constructed when you go monkeying with your POV!

~Tara

I know. I can't keep up with my TBR pile either. I...

2009-09-23T20:53:44.734-04:00

I know. I can't keep up with my TBR pile either. It just keeps growing! Thanks for stopping by.

This book sounds FABULOUS. I'm adding it to my to-...

2009-09-23T14:09:42.494-04:00

This book sounds FABULOUS. I'm adding it to my to-buy-and-read list. (I'm going to have to stop reading these blogs; that list keeps getting longer and longer. . . .)

Thanks everyone! I still haven't been able to see ...

2009-09-21T13:54:34.760-04:00

Thanks everyone! I still haven't been able to see my new niece. My daughter came down with the Swine Flu (H1N1) over the weekend. I hope to see her soon.

Kathleen (a.k.a Sassy Granny), I still love your visits whether you're a writer or not. You always have something enlightening to say. Maybe my blog will turn you into an avid Christian fiction reader!

It's not too late, Molly! You're entered! =)

2009-09-21T08:20:45.500-04:00

It's not too late, Molly! You're entered!

=)

The interview was wonderful and the book sounds de...

2009-09-20T21:55:33.450-04:00

The interview was wonderful and the book sounds delightful! Would love to read it! Is it too late to enter????

mollydawn1981(at)aol(dot)com

Great post, Jennifer. One of the quirks of my hero...

2009-09-19T17:43:32.850-04:00

Great post, Jennifer. One of the quirks of my heroine is she prays often, and usually unintentionally outloud. Praying is one of her character traits, but it's done in a whimsical way.

If a character is a Christian, why not have them pray? It's something we should be doing anyway, so why can't our characters? I don't mean 3-page prayers, but enough to show that there is a relationship going on with the Unseen :-)

Nothing like a new baby to give life a richer hue!...

2009-09-19T15:23:45.534-04:00

Nothing like a new baby to give life a richer hue!

Every time I visit here I feel like I ought to be writing something. Then I could use all the resources you provide, and maybe even call on you for a review.

I get over it.

Blessings,
Kathleen

Thank you, Jennifer, for stopping by! You are ente...

2009-09-19T09:36:11.646-04:00

Thank you, Jennifer, for stopping by! You are entered!

=)

Great interview, enjoyed reading it. This book so...

2009-09-18T19:24:34.364-04:00

Great interview, enjoyed reading it. This book sounds great and I love the cover. Thanks for the chance to win it.

ejxd95 at gmail dot com

Happy Friday, Diane! You're welcome! =) Tammy

2009-09-18T10:54:48.260-04:00

Happy Friday, Diane! You're welcome!

=)

Tammy

Congrats Aunt Jennifer! :O)

2009-09-18T10:18:29.124-04:00

Congrats Aunt Jennifer! :O)

Thanks for the opportunity! estrella8888(at)roadr...

2009-09-18T10:17:39.373-04:00

Thanks for the opportunity!

estrella8888(at)roadrunner(dot)com

congrats on the baby! my first came early and went...

2009-09-18T08:09:51.469-04:00

congrats on the baby! my first came early and went to the baby shower with me.

Cherie, you just made my day! What a lovely thing ...

2009-09-17T08:08:50.406-04:00

Cherie, you just made my day! What a lovely thing to hear! =)

Jennifer--another extra special mom! When I was in high school years ago, the pastor who taught Bible class said that he believed God has a special place in heaven for moms. By the way he said it, he sincerely believed it. When I meet extra special moms, I have to believe it too.

Thanks everyone for stopping by! I'm enjoying ever...

2009-09-17T05:25:26.390-04:00

Thanks everyone for stopping by! I'm enjoying everyone's comments and learning more about you.

BTW, I have a special needs daughter too.

Wonderful interview! Would love to be entered in ...

2009-09-16T22:39:37.692-04:00

Wonderful interview! Would love to be entered in the drawing for this book. I have been hearing great things about it from people who have read it. Thanks for a chance to win a copy.

cherierj(at)yahoo(dot)com

Keli, it's wonderful to see you! Thank you so much...

2009-09-16T20:44:05.693-04:00

Keli, it's wonderful to see you! Thank you so much for stopping by and leaving a kind comment!

Sending you a hug!

=)

Tammy

Love's Rescue is a fantastic book and is on my kee...

2009-09-16T18:04:00.239-04:00

Love's Rescue is a fantastic book and is on my keeper's shelf. I loved every moment I spent with Jess and Jake and look forward to enjoying more of their story.

Please don't enter me in the drawing. I'd like someone else to have the opportunity to read this awesome story.

LOL! Laura, you got that right!

2009-09-16T16:49:11.979-04:00

LOL! Laura, you got that right!

Okay, now I have to read it, because . . . Hugh Ja...

2009-09-16T16:14:57.928-04:00

Okay, now I have to read it, because . . . Hugh Jackman . . . yummy! :-)

Of course, Laura, the character Jake looks like Hu...

2009-09-16T15:52:36.962-04:00

Of course, Laura, the character Jake looks like Hugh Jackman. There's also something to be said for contemporary characters. =)

Hi, Stacey! Your hat is in!

Thank you for you kind comment, Deborah! I've heard it said that God only give special needs children to very special moms. What a blessing to meet you. =)

Very cool. What a neat idea - to get "models" for ...

2009-09-16T15:11:39.200-04:00

Very cool. What a neat idea - to get "models" for your characters from photos from the period. I'm filing that away for if I ever get brave enough to try a historical!

Please toss my name into the hat for this one. I'...

2009-09-16T15:20:28.383-04:00

Please toss my name into the hat for this one. I'm dying to read it!

stacey_dale[at]yahoo[dot]com

What a wonderful interview and what a sweet person...

2009-09-16T15:29:42.339-04:00

What a wonderful interview and what a sweet person Tammy is. We have several things in common. I also like photography and I have a daughter that is developmentally disabled. Keep up the good work Tammy!
Deborah M.
debbiejeanm[at]gmail[dot]com

Greetings, Laura! One character in the book was pu...

2009-09-16T13:24:00.674-04:00

Greetings, Laura! One character in the book was pulled from a photograph of a man who looks EXACTLY like Kevin Costner in Dances with Wolves. Apparently it's true that everyone has a twin!

=)

Hi, Linda! Do you enjoy family history and pix fro...

2009-09-16T12:35:40.001-04:00

Hi, Linda! Do you enjoy family history and pix from the past too? My folks have generations of old black-and-white photos on their walls; it's surreal to see someone as a child in a family, then to see their wedding photo beside it, then the next photo is them with their children, then the last photo is them shortly before they died. An entire life, captured in four prints. Life seems to go by so fast, yet each of us matters so very dearly. =)

It's great to see you here, Carman! You're just determined to win a copy. Such tenacity. You remind me of me. =)

Carly Kendall, you have SUCH a fun name! It sounds bouncy and outgoing. =)

Crystal, aside from determination, sometimes another set of eyes is all you need. Critique groups and professional editors are wonderful things. =)

I loved this interview. I so enjoy hearing how wri...

2009-09-16T12:05:34.146-04:00

I loved this interview. I so enjoy hearing how writers develop their ideas, and actually was moved by the story of where Ambrose came from. Thank you for sharing.

I'd love to read this book.
lauramctx at yahoo.

I would love to win this book! I've wanted to read...

2009-09-16T09:33:20.766-04:00

I would love to win this book! I've wanted to read it ever since I first saw it.
booklovercb[at]yahoo[dot]com

For TB: If you would like to stop by my blog sometime for an interview, or giveaway, you are completely welcome anytime! Just send me an email. :)

I love Civil War historicals. Based on the fact t...

2009-09-16T09:30:40.610-04:00

I love Civil War historicals. Based on the fact that she used old pictures from the past, it should be great. Please enter me.
desertrose5173 at gmail dot com

Lovely interview, Jennifer & Tammy! I love reading...

2009-09-16T10:36:26.715-04:00

Lovely interview, Jennifer & Tammy! I love reading how other writers started & about their writing process. I haven't read much historical romance but this sounds like something I'd love to read. Please enter me in the drawing, too!

And yes, what she says about doubt is so true! I've been trying to complete revisions ALL YEAR on a middle grade historical & I think doubt plays a big part in my not finishing and sending it out on query.

clroget@hotmail.com

Thank you for the interview and the giveaway. I wo...

2009-09-16T09:54:56.569-04:00

Thank you for the interview and the giveaway. I would love to win a copy of the book.
carlyberd[at]yahoo[dot]com

Hi Sherrinda, Nora, Edwina, and Bonnie! Sherrinda...

2009-09-16T09:22:04.022-04:00

Hi Sherrinda, Nora, Edwina, and Bonnie!

Sherrinda, Nora, and Edwina, you gals are entered!

Nora, you're so right about doubt. God did not give us a spirit of fear; He told us to be bold as lions. Satan can take a long walk on a short pier; we're touching hearts for God!

Great interview ladies! And no need to put my name...

2009-09-16T09:08:29.178-04:00

Great interview ladies! And no need to put my name in the drawing, my books runneth over :-)

This book sounds great! Please enter me! edwina....

2009-09-16T08:52:16.294-04:00

This book sounds great! Please enter me!

edwina.cowgill@yahoo.com

Great interview! I love how Tammy used pictures fr...

2009-09-16T06:37:03.379-04:00

Great interview! I love how Tammy used pictures from the past to help create characters. Old pictures hold so much mystery. :)

The book sound wonderful and the cover is breathtaking! I'd love a chance to win.

sherrinda(at)gmail(dot)com

Thanks for letting us get to know Tammy better and...

2009-09-16T08:07:45.461-04:00

Thanks for letting us get to know Tammy better and learn more about her books. I agree with her about doubt. It can stop us in our tracks.

Please put my name in for the drawing.

Thanks
Nora :D

Finding Hope Through Fiction
www.psalm516.blogspot.com

BTW, your chances of winning are phenomenal--last ...

2009-09-16T08:22:23.352-04:00

BTW, your chances of winning are phenomenal--last I checked, only 30 people had entered, though the book has gone into its second printing and is still selling well!!!

=)

Tammy

Happy Wednesday, all! I can't believe I forgot to...

2009-09-16T08:18:34.339-04:00

Happy Wednesday, all!

I can't believe I forgot to mention the other contest! Read Love’s Rescue for a chance to WIN A ONE-WEEK WESTERN GUEST RANCH RESORT VACATION FOR TWO TO THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS OF COLORADO! For details and to enter, visit http://www.tammybarley.com/Bookshelf.html.

=)

Tammy

The Regency period is one of the hardest periods t...

2009-09-14T12:31:56.522-04:00

The Regency period is one of the hardest periods to write, b/c you have to be so detailed abt all the "rules of society" and the time. Yet, I love the period, so I must prevail! Or at least, keep trying.

Great succinct post. Thanks, I am sure this will c...

2009-09-14T11:27:50.016-04:00

Great succinct post. Thanks, I am sure this will come in handy one day.

Very interesting! Thank you for sharing.

2009-09-14T10:52:27.019-04:00

Very interesting! Thank you for sharing.

Great post...Just blog hopping and enjoyed yours t...

2009-09-13T03:04:10.609-04:00

Great post...Just blog hopping and enjoyed yours tonight...
Stop by and visit my new Christmas blog. There will be a drawing on October 1st for a GREAT prize...all you have to do is leave a comment..http://grammyababychangeseverything.blogspot.com

MaryLu is a wonderful writer! I love her books.

2009-09-12T19:28:59.178-04:00

MaryLu is a wonderful writer! I love her books.

Anonymous, I appreciate your comment. As to the cl...

2009-09-12T00:05:00.479-04:00

Anonymous, I appreciate your comment. As to the clock you are referring to, I took a photo of the description card for that particular piece and used the description from it. I do not feel qualified to contradict the Charleston Historical Museum historians.

Elizabeth, Sounds like it was a great deal! I hate...

2009-09-11T23:58:48.544-04:00

Elizabeth, Sounds like it was a great deal! I hate it when I'm unable to take advantage of excellent offers like that.

The clock which you say is baroque was a popular L...

2009-09-11T23:19:25.267-04:00

The clock which you say is baroque was a popular London style which I would date to about 1760-1780, not 1725. It appears to be oak, I note no lacquer, nor ormolu mounts. There are brass finials that are meant to represent torches.

You can still buy a good 18th century clock at auction for $3000.
Better and cheaper than the modern equivilents

About 20 years ago I almost bought an art deco gra...

2009-09-11T16:13:40.765-04:00

About 20 years ago I almost bought an art deco grandfather clock in an antique store for $1500 as a present for my husband's birthday, (he's partial to art deco). It was a simple design, very elegant. Anyway, I bought him a video camera instead. About a year ago I saw a similar clock for sale, the price? $8500. Oh well, win some lose some. I made the WRONG choice.

Great post!

I have The Blue Enchantress on my TBR shelf and am...

2009-09-09T21:24:51.874-04:00

I have The Blue Enchantress on my TBR shelf and am looking forward to reading it. I've heard great things about the story.

A changed heart and a changed life. Yet another e...

2009-09-09T15:23:20.618-04:00

A changed heart and a changed life. Yet another example of God's amazing grace, and no doubt a wonderful gateway for the author!

Blessings,
Kathlkeen

But the cover isn't blue? False advertising!

2009-09-09T11:27:02.874-04:00

But the cover isn't blue? False advertising!

I loved this book! I think everyone should read th...

2009-09-09T09:40:11.627-04:00

I loved this book! I think everyone should read this series, and her pirates series. They are both great!
~Carman

Beautiful cows. Never thought I'd say that. Inte...

2009-09-05T09:14:48.613-04:00

Beautiful cows. Never thought I'd say that. Interesting post. :O)