G-Zone Blogtalk interview

Here is a last link for 2011. Yesterday I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Giovanni Gelati on his blogtalk radio show the 'G-Zone'. Gelati has a publishing company called 'Trestle Press' and does other extensive marketing and PR work.

A Christmas Eve Link - Play It Again among top reads for the year!

I wasn't going to post today, but I thought I'd slide this quick one in before going off to my other Christmas Eve plans ... Author Michelle Sutton listed PLAY IT AGAIN among her top thirteen reads for the year. what an honor. here is the link the what she has to say and all the other great books she listed.

Taste and See is making its mark

I read all of the fiction samples in the newly released 'Taste and See' Anthology so far, and I must say, the idea for the book is ingenious. If the purpose is to wet the appetite for more, then it has certainly done that for me. I plan to buy several books over the holidays including WOUNDED SPIRITS by April Gardner, and MEANDER SCAR by Lisa Lickel. These aren't the only tasty samples but they are two that got me hooked after just one chapter and I MUST find out what happens next!
Here's a video trailer for the book. There is still time to get your FREE copy just by going to Smashwords and downloading it, or buy it for 99 cents at amazon.

the anthology is a compilation of first chapters from several 'John 3:16 Marketing network' Authors. If you are interested in joining this dynamic group of writers go here. 

Two Weeks and Two Choices

Two weeks of 'holidays' and two choices ... This is my current dilemma.

I notice posts are getting fewer and definitely far between for many bloggers at this time of year. As I scroll through my reading list each day, it seems to take less time than normal. Of course, part of this could be due to the fact that I am not actually reading and commenting on as many posts as I normally would either, and that's probably a good thing.

Christmas holidays are supposed to be just that - a holiday. It's time to take a break from the busyness of life and relax with friends and family. The days leading up to Christmas are anything but relaxing, though. For myself, I have so much to do that it's another reason why I don't have as much time to spend on the computer. After Dec. 25th I plan to spend as much time as possible with my family and friends just hanging out, eating and playing games.

Despite the need to 'promote, promote, promote' there comes a time when a person just has to turn off the computer. It reminds me a bit of Mary and Martha. I could use these two weeks off from school to catch up on all the things that I can't seem to get around to on a regular basis when it comes to book marketing, or I could spend it with family. I think I'll choose the latter ...

So if you don't hear from me for a few days, well, I'm probably enjoying some eggnog in front of the tree ... MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

This Writer's Christmas Letter

I decided to post my Christmas letter on my blog this year, even though I also sent out some 'hard copies'. Merry Christmas to all my friends, family and acquaintances here in cyber-land!

 

"I’ll start off by saying ‘Happy New Year’ instead of ‘Merry Christmas’ since most of you will probably be getting this late. Once again I didn’t manage to get my cards out early enough to make it in time for Christmas. 

Gerald and I are still living and working in Tumbler Ridge, BC. He’s working at Peace River Coal and I’m still teaching Art, Drama, and English at the high school. He is on the church board and I play piano and lead worship, so we are still involved in ministry, if not in an official capacity. 

Zachary graduated in June and is currently working for a surveyor, which he enjoys. He is also coaching midget hockey, and still lives at home.

Eliza is still living in Edmonton. She finished her esthetics course in the spring and is back working at ‘Kunitz Shoes’. She’s a city girl, I think, so I’m not sure if she has any plans to move in the near future, but then again, she is also a Krauss, and we all know what that means …

Priscilla and Kurtis are still living and working in Fort St. John. It’s nice that they are so ‘close’ (only a two hour drive) so we get to see them quite a bit. They went to Paris, France for Christmas since Kurt’s sister is getting married there over the holidays.

Lydia and Aren bought a house in Tumbler Ridge this summer so we are super thrilled with the fact that they now live in the same town! Aren has been working at one of the mines as a journeyman electrician since last Christmas and Lydia still works at Ekati Diamond Mine in the NWT so she is gone for three weeks at a time, but at least they have a place they can call their own. 

I’m still trying very hard to ‘write’ my way out of teaching, but realistically, although book sales are going well, I don’t think it’s going to happen any time soon. My third book PLAY IT AGAIN just released. It’s a prequel to my first book AND THE BEAT GOES ON. My second book MY MOTHER THE MAN-EATER made it onto Amazon’s best seller list shortly after release, so I was excited about that. I also just signed a contract with a play publisher who wants to publish a play I wrote and directed last year called ‘A Midterm Eve’s Phantasm’. It’s a loose adaptation of ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ – again, very excited about that. This will be my second play in print, since my ‘Ebenezer’s Christmas Carol’ was published last year by Dramatic Publishing. Finally, I signed with a new literary agent and he is currently pitching a fourth book WIND OVER MARSHDALE. 

At the risk of sounding like an advertisement, you can visit my website http://www.tracykrauss.com where there are links to purchase all my books or where you can find out more information.  One thing I’ve learned in the last couple of years since getting into this ‘author’ thing is, you really have to learn to ‘toot your own horn’ – something that isn’t always easy, but is necessary if you want to get the word out.

In any case, we wish all of you and yours a very festive, safe and happy holiday season. Enjoy your time with family and friends and keep us in mind if you ever travel our way. God bless."

'Good-bye Noel' by Nike Chillemi

I am genuinely excited about the launch of GOOD-BYE NOEL by Nike Chillemi. I consider Nike to be a friend, and this is her second book to release this year. She's been called a 'Crime Fictionista' since her work focuses on murder mystery, an outspoken member of the 'Edgy Christian fiction' community, a marketing maven, and founder of the 'Grace Awards'. GOOD-BYE NOEL is a book you'll want to read this holiday season (or after!) Here's more about the book:

GOOD-BYE NOEL
by Nike Chillemi (published by DESERT BREEZE)

The first body is found under a trimmed Christmas tree, the second as they ring in the New Year (1947), the third goes head long out a window. Will a young pediatric nurse determined to make it on her own be able to care for an infant whose mother was murdered and escape the killer who has struck again? Can she trust the stalwart village detective with her life and her heart as he works to catch this killer before somebody else dies?

Pediatric nurse, Katrina Lenart, grew up strong willed and independent minded, while sharing her mother's flair for high fashion. When the police chief gives her an orphaned baby to care for, her maternal instincts take over and she's willing to fight anyone who might not have the infant's best interests at heart, even the man she's growing to love. After an attempt is made to kidnap the baby, she and the resolute village detective team up and do some sleuthing, undercover at a cult as well as at a fancy ball.

Detective Ian Daltry is a widower with a child and is not interested in a new love. Hunting a killer who stops at nothing has placed him in the position where he must protect a beautiful young woman he's drawn to. Is there's something he's overlooked in analyzing the case? Will he find out what that is before this ruthless murderer kills someone he loves?

Interview with Nike

1. GOODBYE NOEL points to how universally celebrated Christmas was in the US in the 1940s. Can you talk about this?

In that time period, for many Americans, the Christmas season started with Advent and ended on January 6th with Epiphany. Children opened the windows of an Advent calendar each of the 40 days leading up to Christmas and inside they'd find a Scripture for the day. Nearly all the houses on any given street were decked out. Oh, the decorations might have been simpler, or homemade, but they were there. Every town square had not only a decorated tree, but a crèche. The season ended Epiphany (Twelfth Night, Three Kings Day) and children got small gifts that might be usefull such as pencils for school. The entire season was generally a very joyful time of year. "Merry Christmas" was heard on many lips.

2. You call the genre for this novel Historical Romantic Thriller. Why did you use that term?

My novels are known for having suspense, romance, and action in equal measure. GOODBYE NOEL reads like a thriller imbued with an intense lofe story. Ian and Katrina hunt a viscious killer and the killer just might be poised to strike at them or someone they love. I've been told it's a page turner. As they fall deeper and deeper in love, the stakes become higher. That's why I call it a romantic thriller.

3. Why did you write GOODBYE NOEL?

I wrote it to give hope. The story is set at the close of WWII, a time when the nation was recovering from the great and devestation losses of the war. And yet, it is a time of great courage and optimism in America. The people of that time were a get up and go generation. They often had little, but still had great style and panache. They strove to make something of themselves and of this nation. I hope my characters reflect the spirit of that era. Right now our country is facing a very difficult time. I hope this story transmits a little bit of can do spirit of an earlier era.

4. What was the hardest part of writing GOODBYE NOEL?

Research, reasearch, and more research. Was the particular model car I want to use driven in 1946/47? Did they use the phrase knock yourself out? They did. When did the first female doctor go into practice in the US...since I have a female doctor in the novel. I had to change my coroner into a highly educated medical examiner after taking a Romance Writers of America (RWA) course on historic forensics. The actual medical examiners on Long Island, NY at that time were capable professionals. Things like that have to be checked and double checked for accuracy.

5. Is faith a strong element in this novel?

Yes, very much so. Pediatric nurse Katrina Lenart and Det. Ian Daltry, who is a widower with some painful issues in his life, are both committed Christians. They share the intimacies of their souls as part of their love story. They communicate deep, deep feelings to each other and even a few things that are quite difficult to talk about. And they share their faith with each other and help each other to a stronger faith. How believers are helped by their faith is a central theme of the novel.

Excerpt:

Chapt 5, scene 1

Long Island, New York

Late December, 1946

Katrina wanted to throw Detective Daltry into a snow bank. The nerve of him, barging into their house twice in two days, demanding she bundle the baby up and take him into the cold. How could that man not recall their harrowing, nighttime drive through the storm of the decade? She tossed her hair back over her shoulder, and with great difficulty held her tongue.

Momma apparently had no such reservations. "Detective, what you are doing is very wrong."

Katrina came up beside her mother, to show a united front. "This is outrageous." Her eyes narrowed and she crossed her arms over her chest. She hated the tone of her voice, but this baby wasn't a ping-pong ball to be batted back and forth as the detective moved forward with his murder case.

He ignored her and continued addressing her mother.

"I'm sorry, ma'am." He removed his fedora. "Chief Ferguson has already made the necessary phone calls and arrangements have been made. I must take Leslie Janos Bauer with me to the home of his aunt in Bay Shore. The chief would prefer your daughter come along in an official capacity as a nurse. It's up to her, but I have to take the baby."

Momma's face flushed beet-red, a sure sign she'd become enraged. "This is not good for him… this hustle from place to place."

"With all due respect, ma'am, a child belongs with his family, if at all possible." The detective took a step toward Katrina. "Now, will you please fetch the baby." It wasn't a request.

Katrina made sure she stood tall. "Yes, I'll get Leslie." She clenched her fists at her side and jutted her chin. "This is disgraceful. You are using this infant to solve your murder case. Perhaps your own tragic life experience clouds your judgment?"

His mouth fell open and he took a step back.

"If you have it within your heart, give me one minute. I'll get him ready and get my coat and boots on." Without giving him a chance to reply, Katrina turned and stormed up the stairs.

Leslie lay sleeping in the baby-doll cradle Poppa had made for her when she was a little girl. Poppa had that kind of talent. He could make anything. In her heart she knew, he'd figured it would be her baby's bassinet. At least now, it had a real purpose. She ran a finger over the hand carved leaves in the headboard.

"Milachku, time to wake up." She took the infant into her arms inhaling the smell of baby, sweeter than the most expensive imported perfume.

Leslie yawned and she snuggled her nose in the soft folds of skin between his head and shoulder, kissing his neck. He cooed, so safe in her arms.

She brought him to her heart, holding him, rocking him and spoke softly to her reflection in the mirror above her bureau. "Fat chance I'll ever walk down the aisle or have a family of my own with the man shortage since the war." Something deep in the core of her female-self rebelled, a throbbing turbulence, from which deep hunger erupted.

She stroked Leslie's cheek and made a funny face. The softness of his skin melted her heart. 

He smiled at her and kicked.

"I'm so sorry. I promised I'd protect you and I can't." She forced a smile and made clucking noises.

He grabbed her hair and yanked.

"Ouch." She laughed, removing strands of her hair from his little fist.

A tear escaped and ran down the side of her cheek. "I can do this." She lifted her chin, sucked in a long breath, wrapped Leslie in a heavy quilt, and picked up his tote bag.

BUY IT NOW FOR CHRISTMAS!

Links to Writinghood, Inscribe, and More!

An article I wrote at 'Triond' was published at 'Writinghood'. It's called 'Writers Make an Emotional Connection'.  (Don't know what Triond is? Go to the link.)

Every 15th of the month I post at 'Inscribe Christian Writers Fellowship' blog. Here is the link to my post 

Janet Sketchley wrote a great review of PLAY IT AGAIN. You can find it by clicking on the link. Janet is a fellow member of 'Inscribe' as well as the Word Guild and ACFW. Thanks Janet!

Cheryl Rogers at 'New Christian Books' added the release of PLAY IT AGAIN to her site. Check it out, leave a comment, and browse the many other wonderful books she has to offer. 

Lisa Lickel has also posted a review of PLAY IT AGAIN on 'Reflections In Hindsight'.

More Fun!

I continue to be impressed with the 'bookbuzzr' technology that is available, so I've added some new 'Quick Quizzes' on my 'Fun Page'. Here they are. If you play you can actually win points toward free books at Freado. :)  If these don't work go to:

http://bit.ly/tfd1qO

http://bit.ly/sgyYDQ

I also created a new 'Hangman' game for PLAY IT AGAIN. It is installed at the bottom of this page and also on my fun page as well. Why not try it out?

Seasons of Creativity

I'm a bit of an analyst. I like to think about the 'why' and 'how' of things. This tendency led me to consider the various 'seasons' of my creativity, or in other terms, 'What has been my primary creative outlet?" For me, the creative process is everything. Without it, I will wither up and die. It's just the way I've been hardwired.
I've been able to divide my adult life into broad sections where I recognize a primary focus of expression during each time. Of course, this doesn't mean I wasn't doing other things, too, but generally speaking, there has been one focal point during each season where I have directed most of my creative energy.

The Art Years - As a young adult, through my University days, and even into the early years of my marriage, my primary focus was visual art. This is what I did for a hobby, I studied Fine Art at University, and then I went on to try my hand at making a living as an artist. Beyond a few art shows, craft sales, gallery showings and commission work, I discovered that it was very difficult to make a living. :) Thankfully, my 'partner' (later to be my husband) was supportive and I didn't starve. I also made the wise decision to become a teacher specializing in art, so I could get a 'real' job if necessary.

The Homemaking Years - Once I had children, my focus  became my children and finding creative ways to be a 'stay at home' mom. I loved being a homemaker, but I recognize now that all the baking, sewing, crafts with the kids, etc. etc. was a way to exercise my creative energy. I was never bored at home, because I was always doing something. It was during this time that I also started writing my first fledgling novel. One of my favorite books was Edith Schaeffer's The Hidden Art of Homemaking. In it, she talks about all the ways that we can bring beauty and the 'aesthetic' into our lives - just my cup of tea! Her classic book has since been updated, too.

The Homeschool Years - When I decided to homeschool my children back in 1994, I was not interested in a 'canned' curriculum. I had been introduced to the movement back in my University days when one of my Education professors told us he homeschooled his own children. (How ironic is that? A professor training public school teachers that didn't actually believe in the system ...) Anyway, after much reading and research, I took the plunge. For me, it was much less about what the system was doing wrong, and much more about how fun and exciting and rich I could make the experience for my children. And so we launched into an adventure that lasted for about nine years. I loved to pick and choose rather than use anything from one source, and so we did a rich and eclectic mix with lots of fun science experiments, tons of art, history made into exciting tales of adventure, and even Shakespeare for all. (All my children, even my five year old son, enjoyed listening to 'Julius Caesar' read aloud. He didn't know it was above his head!) For the most part, my children look back on this experience with fond memories and gratitude. For me it was a consuming creative process with measurable results.

The Drama Years - When I went back to work as a teacher full time (eleven years ago, now) I was hired on to teach Art, English and Drama. The first two I knew I could do easily since this was where my training and background were. Drama, however, was something I had never actually 'taught' before. I had been in several productions in high school, as well as several church theatre productions. I had even written and directed my first play when I was in Grade Four! Thankfully, I had a wonderful predecessor who gave me some quick tips, and left me a ton of resources - not to mention a ready made group of teenage drama junkies who would do anything to perform! I dived in with both feet, and by our second season I was writing fresh, original material especially for the group. I soon learned that the adrenaline rush of live theatre has little comparison. It is demanding, exhausting at times, but oh so rewarding. We went on to produce two major productions a year for seven years, to packed houses and much critical acclaim.

The Author Years -  During all of the previous time, I was still writing on the side, involved in ministry, raising my family, teaching off and on, painting and drawing as a hobby ... basically life continued. I don't want to give the impression that I was neglecting any one area or that life can be so easily compartmentalized. I come back to the idea of a 'primary creative outlet' - the thing that for the most part is fulfilling your 'satisfaction-meter'. I started to submit my writing back in about 2003 or 2004. I had lots of rejection and did lots of rewriting. I also realized that getting published was not going to be the walk in the park I had envisioned.Finally, in 2008, I blitzed the publishing houses and agents that I knew about, determined to make my breakthrough into the world of 'the published'. It paid off. When AND THE BEAT GOES ON came out the next year, I was unwittingly launched into a new season of creativity; past the part time 'on the side' writer, to someone who actually had to actively pursue this new outlet on more than a hit and miss basis.

This is my current season of creative expression. With three books published (the third is coming out very soon), a wonderful literary agent who is shopping a fourth, one published play, and several works in progress, most of my creative energy is going toward my career as an author. Do I still paint? Yes. Do I still teach? Yes. Am I still involved in theatre? Yes. I am still a mother, homemaker, worship leader, and wife. But during this season of my life, I am enjoying the role of author, too. (And being stretched beyond my limits by it's demands!)

Thanks for reading this very personal 'expose'. I realize not everyone measures their life by their creative pursuits, but perhaps you, too, have noticed that your life has evolved through various seasons.

(For those that were directed here with the CW Blog Chain, my post on 'Gifts of the heart' can be found here. 

Are You a Writing Chameleon?

Chameleons are often used as a metaphor for people who are two faced, can't make up their minds, or seem to change their personality depending on who they are with. None of these are very flattering comparisons. In writing terms, we could go further and say that a 'chameleon' writer doesn't know his or her audience or can't make up their mind about genre. To this I say, poppycock! Instead, let's look at the positive aspects of being a writer with 'chameleon' tendencies.

As you know, a chameleon is a wonderful little creature that can change its color depending on its surroundings. I call that adaptable. Writers who can change and grow are writers that are going to be around for awhile. Times are changing, right from the type of material that readers want, to the way books are published and marketed these days. As a great example, just look at the explosion of ebooks n the last few years - and it appears this market has nowhere to go but up.

As for knowing your audience, that's all well and good, but you wouldn't want to get totally pigeonholed. I've faced this dilemma with my three novels. My first book AND THE BEAT GOES ON has been classed as everything from mystery to thriller to suspense and even romance. It was written to appeal to a wide ranging audience - a general audience, which in marketing terms means MEN TOO. (Most fiction is oriented toward women... I guess we just read more.) However, MY MOTHER THE MAN-EATER and PLAY IT AGAIN probably lean more heavily on the 'womens' side of the scale. Does this mean I've switched audiences? I don't feel as though I have. I just write what I think will make a good story. My fourth book, WIND OVER MARSHDALE, currently in the hands of my agent, is being pitched as womens' fiction, but I think it has a strong appeal for males as well. This is also the case with the NaNo project I just finished.

This subtle shift in target audience is nothing compared to some of my other writing activities, however. As you may know, I write, produce and direct stage plays. I currently have one play in print ('Ebenezer's Christmas Carol') and I just signed a contract for another play called 'A Midterm Eve's Phantasm'. Both of these plays are comedies, and neither are for the Christian market, per se. Add to that the children's picture book that I'm working on, and the chameleon is truly multi-colored!

In the end I'm not too worried. Many other authors, artists, and creative people have gone before me with a list of credits just as varied and they have managed to be successful. For me, the creative process is paramount, and I can't stop one activity in loo of another. In the end, I measure my success in personal fulfillment, and at this stage I'm quite content. So, let the colors change as they may ... I'm happy to be a chameleon writer after all.

April Gardner launches WARRING SPIRITS

There’s a party going on!!

Historical fiction author April W Gardner is celebrating the release of Warring Spirits (link is http://tinyurl.com/c5ebhlg), the second book in her Creek Country Saga! Everyone who purchases Warring Spirits on Amazon Thursday, December 15^th, will be entered into SIX different drawings for some cool and unique prizes. That’s right—ONE purchase. SIX chances to win.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS. (link is http://www.aprilgardner.com/landingpage.html )

She’s also giving away personalized, signed book plates (labels for the inside cover). One for every book you purchase. That’s a lot of bang for your buck. Order today and cross a few names off your Christmas list!

So what’s this book all about? Warring Spirits is the sequel to Wounded Spirits, April’s Grace Award winning debut novel. Here’s a bit about today’s featured book:

In 1816 Georgia, escaped slaves control the land just beyond the American border in Las Floridas. Lost somewhere between white and black worlds, Milly follows hope to the only place that can offer her refuge—the place Georgians are calling Negro Fort. The first, sweet taste of freedom convinces Milly that surrender is not an option. Death would be more welcome.

Major Phillip Bailey has orders to subdue the uprising and return the runaways to their masters. Forced to fight alongside Creek warriors—the same who etched the scars into his mind and flesh—Phillip primes himself for battle.  But inside, a war already rages—return for the woman he thought lost to him or concede her to the enemy she loves; follow orders or follow his heart.

Books excerpts are a great way to get a feel for the author’s writing style, so I asked April to share a scene with us. Here’s a taste of chapter one when we’re introduced to the hero, Major Phillip Bailey.

***

Phillip knew it was a dream. He told himself again, though it did little good. The children’s shrieks grew louder. The flaming pickets roared with new life, as though fueled by his denial of their existence.

His legs churned, but he couldn’t free his mind of the constant nightmare. At least this time, he reasoned, he wasn’t awake. Small blessings.

And then, he saw her.

Adela.

Arms dangling at her sides and skirt undulating in the waves of heat, she stood across the compound. Her lips were motionless, but her voice echoed through his mind. “Phillip.”

He rushed toward the vision, and she reached for him. “Phillip, love, you must wake up.”

With a cry, he bolted upright.

The silhouette of a woman hovered over him. He stared at her, unblinking, afraid to move and frighten her away.

Sweat poured down his chest—sweat as real as the shadow seemed.

“That’s better,” she whispered. “You’ll be alright.”

He disagreed, but if he spoke, he might shatter her. He’d done it before.

Her loose hair swayed as she moved so near, he should feel her heat.

Taking in the comfort of her presence, he held his breath until his lungs burned with need. Refusing to be contained any longer, air exploded from his mouth. The sound ripped through the cabin, and in one blink, Adela vanished.

A moan built in Phillip’s throat, and he buried his head in his trembling palms. When his fingers collided with the jagged flesh on his face, he recalled again why Adela was no more to him than a mocking shadow, a figment of his deluded, half-crazed mind.

She had turned him down.

Familiar nausea haunted his gut. With a growl, he threw his damp pillow across the room. The sound of splintering glass sent him scrambling for the musket by his bed. He had the unsteady barrel aimed toward the source before he realized he’d been the cause of the commotion.

He dropped the weapon and backed away from it as though it were a copperhead. Blood pounded in his throat. He swallowed hard, terrified of his own mind.

It had been nearly two years. One more night of this and he would prove the gossip correct. He would go mad.

There had to be a better way.

“Help me.” His voice shivered, and for once, he was thankful to be alone. “Sweet Jesus, show me a better way.”

***

Sound intriguing? Head over to APRIL’S PLACE (link is http://www.aprilgardner.com/landingpage.html ) to learn more! Or go straight to AMAZON (link is http://tinyurl.com/c5ebhlg) to get your copy.

About April:

April W Gardner resides in Georgia with her USAF husband and two sweet kiddos. She is the author of the historical romance series, the Creek Country Saga, as well as the children’s adventure series, the Channel Islands Resistance. She is the founder and senior editor of the fun literary website, Clash of the Titles. In her free time, April enjoys reading, organizing, and DIY. In no particular order, she dreams of owning a horse, visiting all the national parks, and speaking Italian.

Links galore

I have lots of links to share this week. Some weeks I don't have any and this week there is a full slate! Please take a moment to check out these book reviews, interviews, and features.

 - Here is the link to a promotional page for my new book PLAY IT AGAIN under 'Author Success Stories. check it out!

-  I had the privilege of being interviewed at Marcy Dyer's blog this week. Check out this new interview where we chat at length about PLAY IT AGAIN.

-  Michelle Sutton, the queen of 'edgy Christian' fiction herself, posted a glowing FIVE STAR review of PLAY IT AGAIN on her book review blog 'Healing Hearts'.  Check it out and leave a comment!

-  I am the featured author at 'Edgy Christian Fiction Lovers' (my favorite online hang out spot!)

-  It was by chance, through a google alert, that I came across 'Electro University' where I found my book AND THE BEAT GOES ON featured on the sidebar. In their own words, Electro University is a blog 'dedicated to minds, talents, and gifts, and those dedicated to share'. How about that ...

Speaking of AND THE BEAT GOES ON check out this cool new game I added on Freado - the site where you can play games and win books! http://bit.ly/sgyYDQ

I also added a 'quick quiz' for MAN-EATER, too! http://bit.ly/tfd1qO

Taste and See - get it now while it's hot!

It's here and it's creating quite a buzz! TASTE AND SEE - A SAMPLING OF FIRST CHAPTERS is already on its way to best seller status. Over sixty authors have contributed first chapters of their work. Everything from fiction, to poetry, to self help, to devotionals ... this book has a little of everything. You'll be sure to want more! You can get yours at either of these locations:

Smashwords edition.
Amazon

OR - I'd love to send you a pdf copy FREE! Here's how: (It's as easy as one-two-three!)
Follow this blog (if you don't already)
Follow me on Facebook (if you don't already)
Follow me on twitter (if you don't already) :)
Then leave a comment to tell me what you did! If you've already done all of the above, I'd love to reward you with a free copy!
Just leave a comment along with your email address.

Gifts of the Heart

It's almost Christmas, the biggest 'gift giving' time of the year. Many of my friends and colleagues have all their shopping done, apparently. Some even have their gifts wrapped! I am a terrible procrastinator when it comes to buying presents, however. It doesn't matter how good my intentions, I just don't seem to get started until well into December.

Last week my husband and I went to do some Christmas shopping in 'the city'. In order to appreciate what I'm talking about, you need to understand that we live in a fairly isolated community with very little shopping options available. There is no such thing as running down to the nearest Walmart*. Whenever one goes to town for an appointment, inevitably there is also a long list of things to buy as well. Sometimes you even get lists from other people.

Talk about pressure. My husband picked me up directly from school at three o'clock and we headed to 'town' - a little over a hundred and twenty kilometers away. (That's about 75 miles.) We made it in time for my four thirty appointment, looked after 'the lists', grabbed a bite to eat, and then proceeded to buy a few groceries. By this time it was going on eight o'clock. We had about an hour of Christmas shopping left.

I don't know about you, but I don't always shop well under pressure, and one hour isn't much time when you basically need to start from scratch. I found myself feeling very 'grinch-like', in fact, and totally uninspired. You see, I'm not one to make a list of things I want for Christmas and neither do I like shopping for someone else from their prescribed list. This takes all the fun out of it, in my mind. I like to be surprised, and I like to find gifts for those on my list that have some kind of personal meaning, not just buy them more stuff.  Basically, I go into the stores not having any idea what I'm going to buy for people. I wait for that perfect 'whatever' to jump out at me, and then I'll buy it.

This is not always the best method when faced with a time crunch. It's also why I usually end up doing my shopping somewhere around the week before Christmas. Sigh ... As you probably guessed, we got very little Christmas shopping done. There is always next weekend, and I'd rather get something meaningful.

I've come to realize that gifts, in themselves, aren't really that important, at least not in terms of dollars and cents. What counts is the message of love behind the gift. These are the kind of gifts I want to give and receive - gifts from the heart.

For more in this blog chain, scroll down to the bottom of this page.

PLAY IT AGAIN - it's finally here!

After months of production (and even some delays) my third novel PLAY IT AGAIN is finally for sale. Hooray! Obviously, I'm very glad since there is still time to order before Christmas, if you are so inclined. Here is a short description:

PLAY IT AGAIN by Tracy Krauss

'An unlikely duo meet in Play It Again, a story of love, life and faith. Sparks fly when an ex-rock and roll junkie and a stuffy accountant rendezvous at a local resort, but neither are prepared for the emotional entanglements, family complications, and threat from the past that unexpectedly resurfaces. Set in the 1980s, this story brings two opposing forces together in a clash of romance and danger, while its musical undertones highlight the theme that God can turn anything into beautiful music. Play It Again is the much anticipated prequel to Tracy’s debut novel And the Beat Goes On. Find out where Mark Graham’s journey began in this, the story of his parents.'

Like my other novels, PLAY IT AGAIN, is considered by some to be 'edgy Christian'. If you are interested in some of the potential 'hot topics' raised in the book, check this post I wrote a few weeks ago.  




Buy it now at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or go directly to the publisher.

Night of the Cossack and Author Tom Blubaugh

I'm pleased to host author Tom Blubaugh today - author of an adventurous book called NIGHT OF THE COSSACK.

Hi Tom! Please introduce yourself. 

I am a father of six and grandfather of fourteen. Barbara, my wife, and I live in southwest Missouri in the Ozark hills just north of Branson. I’m a very transparent person. I have no secrets about myself. I’ve lived a tough life having been sexually abused when I was twelve years old.  I was out of control and a felon by the time I was fifteen—I had been stripped of any trust or respect for authority, including God, although I was afraid of Him.  Fortunately, I joined the Navy for four years and they had boundaries I knew better than to cross.  The Lord revealed Himself to me when I was twenty-eight and I became a Christian. My life has been on an upward path from that day—Dec. 13, 1970.  All of these are reasons why I direct my writing toward the YA genre. I didn’t plan to write to this genre in the beginning, yet it seems to be a subconscious thing.

Tell us when did you first know that you would be an author?

This is an interesting question. I didn’t know I would be one—really.  I’ve been a writer for over 50 years (can it really be half of a century?), but it wasn’t until my unintentional novel was published that I knew I was an author. I say unintentional because it wasn’t my intent to write a novel. I was creating a heritage for my children and grandchildren since both my grandfathers died before I was born. I was simply taking a handful of facts about my maternal grandfather and was creating his character. Before that I had articles published in a denominational magazine. Up until then I wrote poetry, and I self-published a book for my ministry. I didn’t consider that any of this really made me a writer, but when I actually saw my writing in a magazine, I believed I could write.

Tell us more about your book Night of the Cossack.

Both of my grandfathers died before I was born.  I knew very little about either of them.  One of the things I knew about my material grandfather is that he was a Jewish Russian Cossack soldier. This always intrigued me. I took seven facts of him and wove them into a historical fiction book.

Night of the Cossack is my first work of fiction, which took me five years to write.  I have found writing fiction is much more difficult than writing nonfiction.  It’s a story about a 16 year old who is kidnapped by a Cossack soldier in 1898 and is forced to be a Cossack himself.

For those who don't know, can you tell us - what is a Cossack? 

Cossacks were members of several peasant groups of Russian and Polish descent. They lived in autonomous communal settlements, especially in the Ukraine, until the early 20th century. In return for special privileges, they served in the cavalry under the czars. They were well known for their horsemanship. They raided villages for supplies, women and young men to increase or replenish their ranks. Eventually they became a part of the Russian army.

The Night of the Cossack looks like it required quite a bit of research. How did you go about that? Did you encounter any obstacles? 

Night of the Cossack did require a lot of research. I worked hard at it and took my first fifty pages to a Russian History professor at a local university and asked her to read it. She did and told me there wasn’t a word of truth in it, which really threw me.  At the time, I was tutoring English as a second language and there were some students from Russia and Ukraine.  One of them read it and told me it was all true. I told her I was confused. She asked me where the professor was educated and I told her in Russia.  She told me that was the problem—that there is one version of history taught in the universities and there was the true history written by those who escaped and immigrated to the USA.  After that, I continued researching and writing.

What do you think are the keys to success for a writer? 

Have a passion other than making a name for yourself and money. Never give up on your story.  Everyone has one, but most don’t write it. If it doesn’t ignite your passion, it won’t excite others.

How does your faith play into your writing? 

Everything I do is an act of worship. I learned this from Julia Cameron in the Artist’s Way. Until then I thought only spiritual things could be a worship.  My favorite verses are Prov. 16:9 and 19:21.If you read Night of the Cossack, you’ll see how the protagonist’s faith is woven into the story. Everything I write has a spiritual aspect.

As a writer of faith, what is your philosophy on marketing? 

Great question.  I believe my talents come from the Lord and that I’m to do everything to the best of my ability, which includes marketing. I think He expects me to do all I can do and He’ll do what I can’t.

What is the best writing (or life) advice you have ever heard or wished you had followed? Why?

 Join a critique group. This scared me. I never took criticism well.  I found out that the group I joined were caring and sensitive.  Most of them were published in one form or another and their goal was to see me published.  I love having my writing critiqued now. It’s healthy and I’ve learned so much.

Which genre do you prefer to read and why?

 Action and adventure followed by Western.  I like stories and movies that take me out of my head for a period of time.  I remember one day I was doing a lot of writing in a rented office that had no windows. I was writing so intently that I didn’t realize a rainstorm was going on. All of a sudden the electricity went out and I was sitting in the dark thinking I’d lost everything. I got up and went to a movie. Two hours later I went back to my office.  The power was on and all of the text was there—not a letter lost. Turned out the word processing software had auto saved.  

Where do your story and character ideas come from?

 From my life, for the most part.  One day I was out working in the yard and Barbara, my wife, called me to the phone. It was one of our granddaughters with a question. I answered her and I went back to work in the yard. Within forty-five minutes, in my mind,  I wrote a children’s story based on her question and my answer. I distributed the story to all of our grandchildren for Christmas.  I has become a part of my legacy never to be forgotten. Another time, our newly acquired black cat got into the duct work in our house and provided me with another children’s story—in fact, probably a series.  Our minds are awesome creations.

As I said, Night of the Cossack is based on my maternal grandfather. The rest of the characters are figments of my imagination.

 

What do you enjoy most about being a published author?

 Everything, but I know that’s too broad of an answer. Most of all I like the open door I have into middle and high schools to talk to young people who are interested in writing.  I’m very transparent about my teen years in hopes I’m speaking to someone like I was so they know making a mistake doesn’t have to ruin their life.  Next,  the challenge of marketing and the fellowship with other authors and writers.

Have you received a particularly memorable reader response or peer honor? Please share.

 Two, in fact. I received a letter from a twelve year old boy who told me he read Night of the Cossack in one sitting and that it was the best book he ever read. Later, his mother put a review on amazon.com stating that her son raved so much about the book that she decided she better read it and gave me an outstanding five star review.  I also received a letter from an eighty-six year old woman who is Jewish.  She said she thoroughly enjoyed the book, but wept through a lot of it thinking about her own ancestors.  Both touched my heart.

Tell us about a "God incident" related to your writing. 

This truly is a God thing. I wasn’t sure I was going to publish the story because I was creating a legacy for my children and grandchildren. Both my grandfathers died before I was born so I never had the experience of having that role model. Now I have fourteen grandchildren and am winging it. When I was nearly done with the manuscript a friend called me and wanted me to help him set up a website. I met with him and his wife.  They told me they were starting an independent Christian publishing company. I didn’t think anything about it because I wasn’t writing the book from a Christian perspective since my grandfather was a Jew.  In the process of helping them, I showed them my website. They picked up the fact that I had the first chapter of my book on the site for reading. They didn’t say anything, but when they got home they read it (I found this out later).  They called me and said they’d like to read some more of the story, so I sent them a couple more chapters.  They then asked to read the entire manuscript after which they wanted to meet with me and my wife, Barbara.  During that meeting they asked to publish the story. Not your normal publishing story, but I certainly know who is in charge.

Do you have any future projects?

 I’m thinking about that now. Everyone who has read my novel asks about a sequel. I will continue building my author platform.  I enjoy public speaking so I’m working with elementary, middle and high school creative writing groups and classes. When it turns cold, I’ll stay in my office and probably work on the sequel.

 Thank you for joining me on 'Expression Express', Tom. If you would like to know more about Tom Blubaugh and his writing, or if you would like to connect with him, keep reading!

Connect With Tom!

  Tom Blubaugh, Author of Night of the Cossack--
Read the first chapter and get a signed copy by ordering here. FREE shipping in USA. Published by Bound by Faith Publishers.

ebook for Kindle available at Amazon.com.

ebook for Nook available at Barnes & Noble 
Facebook page.

 My Blog.

Co-author of The Great Adventure published by Barbour Publishing. (out of print).

Genesis Project

Jericho Commission, Inc.

Other endorsements:

Tom Blubaugh takes the reader to a neglected time and place in this touching exploration of his own roots.  An encouraging story that should inspire appreciation of one's own family heritage.

 -Author J.B. Cheaney, My Friend the Enemy

n Night of the Cossack, Tom Blubaugh has created an interesting fictional account of a young boy facing a series of tough life-or-death decisions when forced into the life of a Cossack soldier. Readers are sure to be entertained by this tale of Nathan Hertzfield's life, his struggle to maintain the upstanding character and morality set forth by his mother. 

-Author Michelle Buckman, Christy award finalist

Author Bio: 

Tom Blubaugh is a freelance writer living in Southwest Missouri with Barbara, his wife.  They have six children and fourteen grandchildren. Tom has written non-fiction most of his adult life, but has recently written a historical fiction titled Night of the Cossack, published by Bound by Faith Publishers. This is Tom’s first novel. He co-wrote a devotional journal in 2009 for Barbour Publishing titled The Great Adventure. His other writings include articles for a denominational magazine and an insurance publication. He also self-published a book, Behind the Scenes of the Bus Ministry in 1974.

Tom started writing poetry at the age of fourteen. His vision of turning them into lyrics for rock and roll songs for popular artists didn’t develop. He considers writing to be a God-given talent and feels led to develop it. His first novel was published at his age of 69. Tom says it’s never too late. He is now writing a sequel.

Tom spent twelve years as an insurance agent and eleven years as a financial planner. He is the past president of Jericho Commission, Inc., and still serves on the board of directors.