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Writer’s Desk: Alyssa Clements

The Writer’s Desk with Alyssa Clements

Alyssa Clements is a third-grade teacher turned book editor who loves pointing children to God through the incredible world he has made. After earning her undergraduate degree in English literature and masters of arts in teaching elementary education from Wheaton College, Alyssa taught third grade at a Christian classical school in the Chicagoland area. She then went to work in the Christian publishing industry as an acquisitions editor on the children’s and adult nonfiction teams at Tyndale House Publishers, where she currently enjoys creating faith-based books that inspire readers of all ages to love what is good, true, and beautiful.

Alyssa is married to Forrest, and they have two wonderfully curious young children. Their family lives in West Chicago, Illinois, and can often be found playing outdoors at their neighborhood park or curled up reading stacks and stacks of picture books.

Connect with Alyssa on Instagram and Facebook.

More about The Size of Everything

This one-of-a-kind, faith and science picture book starts in the middle with the size your child knows best―their own body! Turn the pages to the left or right to discover big and small creations and science facts about God’s incredible world.

God created ginormous galaxies, itty-bitty quarks and everything in between―including humans. The Size of Everything captures the magnitude of God’s creation by setting everything on a size scale. Readers start in the middle with the size of an eight-year-old child and have the option to turn the pages to the left and explore cells, plants, and animals that are smaller than them. Or they can turn the pages to the right to discover creatures, landmarks, and planets larger than they can imagine! Best of all, children will see God’s power and creativity in all of creation.

What’s Inside?

  • A one-of-a-kind book that starts in the middle
  • Over 45 fantastic creations (atoms, cells, animals, plants, landmarks, planets, etc.)
  • Over 80 brilliantly colorful illustrations and highly detailed photos
  • Over 100 mind-blowing science facts, educational callouts, and funny tidbits
  • A giant size index along the bottom of each page for children to track their progress

It’s a perfect faith and science resource for reading at home or an educational resource for home schools, Christian schools, and Sunday school classrooms.

Purchase a copy of The Size of Everything here.

Q&A with Alyssa Clements

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?

AC: I grew up in northern California.

TG: Why did you write The Size of Everything?

AC: I wrote The Size of Everything because I saw a hole in the Christian children’s book market when it comes to books that tie faith and science together in an exciting, but scientifically rich way. When I was a third-grade teacher at a Christian school, science was my favorite subject to teach because it provided such a natural avenue to conversation about God. Kids love learning cool facts and having their minds blown by new, interesting things, and the study of science is filled with that. As they dive into scientific study, children are almost guaranteed to come across something that will lead them to respond, “That’s so cool!” Those moments are wonderful opportunities to respond, “Yes! And isn’t God so cool for creating it that way!” By studying the amazing world that God has made, children can easily have their hearts turned towards him—the Creator of it all. I hope that readers of The Size of Everything will each have a moment where they are stopped in their tracks by a fact about God’s world that sparks awe in them and inspires them to think about God in a new way.

TG: Did you have any surprises or learning moments while writing this title?

AC: I learned so many cool facts about God’s world! My research took me down so many rabbit trails, and the more I researched, the more I was fascinated by the intentionality, whimsy, and hugeness of God’s world. I was also reminded over and over again of the theme of the book, that of all these huge and tiny, marvelous and fascinating things, God says that people are his best creation. I obviously knew this before writing the book, but I was surprised by how much I still felt amazed by God’s love while I was writing. I hope it comes through to the readers!

TG: What do you hope readers take away from The Size of Everything?

AC: I hope they start seeing more of God and his character in the world around them. I hope that they want to learn more about who God is because they see that he is powerful, fun, creative, and loves them more than anything.

TG: Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

AC: I like to set aside several hours at a time to write. It takes me a little while to get in a groove, and once I do, I like to have the time to dig in. I don’t do well with writing just a half hour here and a half hour there.

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

AC: I’ve found that creating an outline is super important. This gives structure from the very beginning and keeps me from wasting time on ideas that are interesting but that might not actually make sense in the book. Children’s books also need to adhere to strict page count guidelines. An outline helps me to stay within those guidelines and create a cohesive product from the beginning, without having to add or cut things later to meet the page count.

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

AC: I normally choose hot tea, especially fruity flavors.

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

AC: I like to get outside and away from my computer. Getting my body moving and in a different environment helps me to think through different options and see if I can come at what I’m stuck on from a different angle. I also like to talk through ideas with my husband. Sometimes it’s easier to find the words that I’m looking for when I’m speaking compared to just writing, and verbally processing can get me unstuck.

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

AC: I’m a “both” writer! I definitely edit as I go because I like to finish a writing session with at least a portion of text that I feel good about. But once I write a larger section, I also like to step away and then come back to edit it again a few days later with fresh eyes. This just means that I need to plan ahead when it comes to my deadlines!

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

AC: You have to know your audience. As a children’s book writer, it’s important to understand child development and how children are thinking and speaking at different ages. There are so many children’s books out there that are written for adults more than children, which makes sense because adults are the ones publishing and purchasing the books. But I would say that a truly successful children’s book is one that kids will come back to over and over on their own. These books are the ones that invite children in at their level, and they are often different from the ones that adults think they will be.

So if you want to write children’s books that children will enjoy, spend time with the children in your life! Pay attention to how they think and talk, and consider what words and experiences are known to them at different ages.

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’ve ever received?

AC: There’s a quote by Toni Morrison: “If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.” I never planned to write a children’s book, but I knew the power of science in inspiring faith so thought I’d try to write the one that I thought was missing in the market. I was fairly confident that kids would like the concept because it was based off a lesson I used to teach my third graders, but I had no idea if all the gatekeepers I needed to get on board to get it published would catch the vision. I am honestly just so humbled that it is a real book out in the world. I’m glad I was willing to risk the rejection and go for it.

TG: What is your favorite place on earth?

AC: This may be a boring answer, but I’m a total homebody, so I have to say our home. It has lots of windows and natural light, and it’s the place where my kids are the most comfortable. I really can’t think of anywhere better than to be with them and my husband in the place that makes us all the happiest.

TG: Cats or dogs?

AC: Cats! Our family has a ten-year-old Tabby named Marmo.

TG: What is one thing you can’t live without?

AC: Plants. During the winter, you’ll find me tending to my house plants, and during the summer, I love being out in the garden, especially tending to my dahlias.

TG: What is the best song to blast when you need to be pumped up?

AC: “The Love of the Father” by CityAlight

TG: If you could time travel to any point in history when would it be, and who would you be hanging out with?

AC: I would like to travel back to the time when Jesus lived on earth and spend time with his mom, Mary. As a mom myself, I would love to talk all things motherhood and hear about her experiences raising Jesus.

TG: If you weren’t a writer, what job would you have?

AC: Besides being a writer, I’ve also been a third-grade teacher and book editor. I have loved each of those jobs in the different stages of my life that I’ve had them. I’m also a very novice gardener, and if I had the land and the time to invest in learning and planting, I would love to become a flower farmer.

TG: Who is your dream co-author?

AC: I would love to do a book with Steve Jenkins. His children’s science books are filled with fascinating information, and his striking, Caldecott-winning illustrations are realistic and interesting to look at. Our whole family loves them! However, his books do not have a Christian connection. He captures his readers’ imaginations, and after that happens, I wish I could come in and help turn readers’ hearts towards God and show them that learning science isn’t an end in itself; instead, it’s God’s joyful and gracious revelation of his character. Only with that perspective does it really matter.

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Writer’s Desk with Dan Seaborn

The Writer’s Desk with Dan Seaborn

Dan Seaborn is the founder of Winning At Home, a non-profit organization that seeks to support marriages and families through speaking, counseling and coaching services, community events and other media resources. Dan is an engaging and powerful speaker and a thoughtful and practical writer. He has a comfortable and humorous communication style that allows him to connect easily with audiences of all ages. Through energetic and memorable live presentations or through his books, Dan talks openly about family life—often by revealing his own struggles or failures.

As a featured speaker at various large-scale events and through his books, Dan has earned recognition as an influential and passionate communicator. Speaking all over the country, he uses practical illustrations and real-life examples to teach others how to win at home. His sincerity through his spoken or printed words, often leaves audiences nodding in agreement and his quick wit leaves them laughing.

In addition to being an international speaker and president of Winning At Home, Dan serves as the leader for the Marriage & Family Division of the American Association of Christian Counselors.

Dan has authored more than 12 books about marriage and family, and his advice is broadcast to over 350 radio stations across the United States. As a columnist, he has written hundreds of articles related to marriage and family and he is frequently asked to speak on the topic. He holds a master’s degree in Christian Ministries from Indiana Wesleyan University.

But his best experience has probably come from his own life and being married to his wife, Jane, for more than 30 years and being dad to his four children and Grandpa to six grandchildren.

Connect with Dan on his website, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Vimeo.

More about Winning at Home:

Combining the expertise of credentialed counselors, coaches, and pastors, Winning at Home offers clarity in the midst of chaos on hard-hitting topics like mental health, technology, sexuality, and identity, for parents who are trying to raise children from a faith-based perspective.

Your home should be a place of victory for your family. But all too often, it feels like it’s not.

Parents today are raising kids in a culture that not only disagrees with their Christian faith—it strongly opposes it at every turn. We know our faith must inform every aspect of our parenting, but the Bible doesn’t always offer cut-and-dried answers on subjects like parenting a child with mental health problems, helping your kids develop good interpersonal skills and boundaries, understanding sexual identity, or successfully parenting adult children. Nor does the Church always address them—and for that reason, they can be both messy and frightening.

In Winning at Home, Dan Seaborn teams up with several of the credentialed members of his ministry’s staff to dive into the mess and help parents seeking a faith-based perspective on some of our culture’s most complex topics find firm footing.

So bring your questions with you into these pages, where you’ll discover a wealth of wisdom and resources to help you navigate the challenges of twenty-first-century parenting. It’s time to turn your losses around and start winning at home.

Purchase a copy of Winning at Home.

Q&A with Dan Seaborn

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?

DS: I moved in the opposite direction that many people do in the US. I grew up in South Carolina and moved to Michigan in the late 1980s, so I’m really used to snow and cold now!

TG: Why did you write Winning at Home?

DS: Because of the combination of the work that our ministry does (therapy along with the more pastoral work that I do), we are uniquely positioned to both see the challenges that families and parents are facing right now as well as to get the word out about those challenges. And that is what this book is all about. I had the opportunity to partner with some of the counselors, coaches, and pastors on our staff to bring biblical, helpful, and practical advice in an effort to bring clarity to the chaos that many parents are feeling as they navigate the challenges of modern life.

TG: Did you have any surprises or learning moments while writing this title?

DS: Because I collaborated with some of the counselors, coaches, and pastors that work with me at Winning At Home, there are several of the more therapeutic things that go well beyond what I knew before starting on the book. Particularly some of the mental and emotional heal-focused sections were very informative for me.

TG: What do you hope readers take away from your book?

DS: I firmly believe that with the added cultural influences on parents and our children, we all need clear, Biblical guidance on the key issues we face today. It is my hope that this book can be both a challenge and encouragement for parents and that God would use this book based on solid, scriptural truth to bring hope and clarity to the journey of parenting.

TG: Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

DS: I’m constantly in conversation with parents and couples about the challenging parts of family life that they’re facing. So when I see patterns show up in what people are dealing with, then I know what I want to address in my writing. I would say that my biggest habit as a writer is paying attention to those patterns.

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

DS: I like to do things that help get me into a “thinking space.” Strangely enough, that’s often while I’m doing lawn care or going for a drive. I would encourage people to find their “thinking space,” even if it doesn’t look like they might think it’s supposed to look.

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

DS: Peanuts and almonds are some of my favorite go-to snacks. I like them roasted or chocolate covered!

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

DS: One thing that helps me is the fact that I lead the ministry of Winning At Home and I travel and speak many weekends throughout the year. So I have enough other work responsibilities that I can just shift my focus on to other facets of my job. And letting my mind take a break by focusing on other things is helpful.

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

DS: I actually started writing as a secondary way of communicating. My main role and passion is speaking, so I think my style of speaking preparation influences my writing style. I tend to think and write in blocks of ideas if that makes sense. I flesh out one idea at a time and then I see how that fits with the next idea and the next one. So, I edit as I go and then fit the pieces together along the way.

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

DS: Whenever people talk to me about their idea of getting in to writing for the first time, the biggest hurdle seems to be that they think of writing as needing to write a whole book rather than “getting ideas down on paper.” It’s a tough thing to try to fully articulate, but it’s probably how a non-exerciser would think of completing a triathlon or something. You don’t start with the idea of doing the whole thing; you start by chipping away at some beginning goals and see how that goes. If you enjoy the process of writing (or training), then keep going. And if you keep at it for months and months, you’ll accomplish more than you might expect.

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’re ever received?

DS: Be transparent about your own flaws and failures. The very things that we’re tempted to cover up and not share with others are often the things that resonate deeply with other people who are struggling with the same things.

Don’t miss my conversation with Dan! Click the graphic below to watch!

Enter to win one of five copies of Winning at Home*:

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*Due to shipping costs, paperbacks can be shipped to US mailing addresses only.

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Writer’s Desk with Carrie Padgett

The Writer’s Desk with Carrie Padgett

Carrie Padgett has lived in northern, central, and southern California and declares them all wonderful places. She writes small-town contemporary fiction with romance. She believes in families, fun, and happily ever after. She and her husband live in Central California with their cat and dog and are within driving distance of their grandchildren. Visit Carrie online at her website, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Follow her on Bookbub and Goodreads.

Q&A with Carrie Padgett

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?

CP: My feet have been cold since 2005. I wear slippers, often with socks, year-round.

TG: Where did you get the inspiration for One Fine Day?

CP: I read a couple of books about young widows and knew I wanted to write one also. I wanted to explore the concept of “moving on,” and what that would look like. In One Fine Day, the heroine, Chloe LaRue, returns to her hometown of Hearts Bend, TN, to help her mother and hopes to heal from the overwhelming grief of losing her husband. One of the books that really affected me was The Life Intended by Kristin Harmel. That’s an early book of hers, she now writes mostly historical fiction.

TG: Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

CP: I have to play my daily Wordle and Quordle before I get started. Sometimes I’ll catch up on Words With Friends, too.

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

CP: Be consistent. Show up, Butt in Chair, Fingers on Keyboard.

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

CP: I drink a ton of water, so my water bottle is always nearby. Snacks are anything salty. My husband is allergic to nuts, but he feels he has to have them around. Crazy, right? So, when he brings nuts home, I keep them in my office and try to eat them before he realizes they’ve disappeared from the kitchen.

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

CP: Take a break. A walk around the block (that’s 1.4 miles where I live!). Weed the yard. The walk especially, I think it’s something about the rhythm of one foot after the other that creates a brain pathway. I almost always figure out where I’ve gone wrong when I’m on a walk.

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

CP: I definitely edit as I go. I rarely do more than two drafts. Which made working with Rachel very interesting, since she does multiple drafts. We were able to make it through One Fine Day with only four drafts. Low for her and high for me.

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

CP: Expecting success to come quickly and easily. And overestimating the quality of their work. I know this by experience, by the way. I’ve been writing for more years than I want to publicly admit to, and I’m still learning.

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’re ever received?

CP: Go deeper. My local writing mentor used to say that to me all the time. It took me literal years to figure out what she meant, but it’s been invaluable.

TG: What is coming up next for you?

CP: In my day job, I work for a company that does online continuing education courses for pesticide applicators to keep their licenses current. I report the credits they earn to their licensing agency, and I write and update the course offerings. I’m currently working on Weed Resistance in Cotton. 😊 Fiction wise, I’m writing a romance novella about a reality dating show with jilted-at-the-altar brides and grooms. It’s very fun!

Click on the graphic below to watch my interview with Carrie Padgett on One Fine Day + what it’s like writing with Rachel Hauck!

Enter for a chance to win a copy of One Fine Day*

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*Due to shipping costs, the giveaway for the physical copy is open to US mailing addresses only.

More about One Fine Day

All she wants is a fresh start…

Chloe Beason LaRue left Hearts Bend after high school, determined to never look back. She shed her unrequited crush on Sam Hardy, moved to Paris, went to pastry school, found a good job, fell in love, and got married. She was happy in France. Then her husband tragically died. Now, Chloe just wants to move forward…but when her mom’s health is in jeopardy, Chloe heads right back to Hearts Bend where she’s hired as head baker for Haven’s, the premier bakery in town. She has no idea that moving home will push her right into the arms of the man who broke her heart.

He’s not looking to fall in love…

Nashville Titans quarterback Sam Hardy has too many broken memories in Hearts Bend to Return. But when he’s sidelined by an injury, he desperately needs to invest in something to safeguard his future. Haven’s Bakery is up for sale—and his business partner believes the deal is too good to pass up. He has no idea that the owners have hired the one girl he can’t seem to forget…and the last thing he expects is to be her boss.

But it’s a recipe for romance…

Back in Hearts Bend for the first time in ten years and thrown together at Haven’s Bakery, Chloe and Sam have a second chance at first love. Indeed, the more time Sam spends selling donuts, the more he sees a new future. But when Paris beckons Chloe back, where does her heart belong? Can they find the recipe for leaving regrets behind and start something new?

Escape to Hearts Bend for a sweet story of romance, faith, and an unexpected happy ending

Pre-Order a copy of One Fine Day here — releasing May 24, 2022!

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Writer’s Desk with Tricia Goyer

Writer’s Desk with Tricia Goyer

Tricia Goyer is a USA Today bestselling author of seventy-five books and more than 500 articles. She is a two-time Carol Award winner, as well as a Christy and ECPA Award finalist. She won the Retailer’s Best Award in 2015 and has received starred reviews from publications such as Romantic Times and Publishers Weekly; she is also a member of the blogging team at TheBetterMom.com and other homeschooling and Christian sites. In addition to her roles as wife, mom, and author, Tricia volunteers in her community and mentors teen moms. She is the founder of Hope Pregnancy Ministries in Northwestern Montana and currently leads a Teen MOPS group in Little Rock, Arkansas. She is also the author of this blog.

Q&A with Tricia Goyer

TG: Everyone always asks for an interesting fact, we’re going to flip the question. What is one boring fact about yourself?

I love watching America’s Test Kitchen. It’s my favorite cooking show, even the episodes from fifteen years ago.

TG: Why did you write Heart Happy?

I had planned to write a book on generosity and hospitality, which got shelved because of Covid. As I prayed about what to write instead, I saw that so many people struggled with trying to find happiness amid chaos. During the pandemic, we had so much stripped away. No longer able to cover my unhappiness with busyness, I was forced to find ways to nurture my soul. As I dug through the layers of pain, shame, and regret, I realized that my busyness had allowed me to keep God at bay. As I searched to discover my heart happy, I found tools that I believed could help others too.

TG: Did you have any surprises or learning moments while writing this title?

I was surprised that there were so many layers that had kept my heart unhappy. Each chapter was formed as I considered what keeps our hearts separate from God.

TG: What do you hope readers take away from your book?

I hope readers will see that the most important thing we can do each day is getting our hearts “happy in the Lord.” Even in the middle of chaos, we can pause and find God there. I need to find my “happy heart” before the day starts. If I don’t, my whole family suffers, and I do too. If I rush into my day without spending time with Jesus, worries, fears, and frustrations are quick to overwhelm me. If I don’t take time to fix my thoughts on God, my mind jumps from disturbances to distresses, and soon it becomes too much.

TG: Do you have any habits or rituals as a writer?

I love to wake up early. I get up and make a cup of coffee or tea, and then I sit down with my Bible and a devotional book. Then, after reading, thinking, and praying, I pull out my writing. When my heart is full of God, then the writing flows. Sometimes I’ll write for one or two hours and then even go back to bed.

TG: What habits would you encourage others to take up to be a more productive writer?

Before I fall asleep, I think through my writing priorities for the next day. It’s then that I set my goal for my actual writing. Then, because I already know my priorities, I work on that first the next day.

TG: What do you snack on or drink while writing?

I love earl gray tea. I also love coffee and a bit of creamer. I drink hot drinks when I write all year long.

TG: How do you overcome writer’s block?

Please don’t be mad, but I don’t struggle with writer’s block. With a house full of people, every moment I have to write is a gift, and I see it that way. There’s always something to write. And if I do get stuck with specific words, I pray.

TG: Are you an “edit-as-you-go” writer, or do you wait until the very end before you do any editing?

I write very messily to start. I’ll note whatever thoughts come into my mind. I don’t judge them. Instead, I write them down. I write for the first few months, moving around the book, and adding ideas here or there. Then, when I have about half of the book written in chunks, I go back to the beginning and fill everything in.

TG: What would you say is the most common mistake new writers make?

The most common mistake is that writers give up too soon. They get discouraged and don’t keep going. I write for many months before I come up with anything worth sharing. I believe new writers think that everything needs to look fantastic right from the start. I’ve learned that it isn’t the case.

TG: What is the best piece of writing advice you’re ever received?

It takes 20 years to be an overnight success. Agent and publisher Steve Laube told me this about thirty years ago. It was a great reminder not to give up. Good things take time.

Enter for a chance to win a copy of Heart Happy*

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*Due to shipping costs, the giveaway for the physical copy is open to US mailing addresses only.

More about Heart Happy

Tricia Goyer Heart HappyHeart Happy: Staying Centered in God’s Love Through Chaotic Circumstances takes readers on a journey to discover where their true strength, peace, and joy come from—the Lord—no matter what life offers up. Tricia Goyer—author, podcast host, volunteer, homeschooling mom of ten children, and caregiver to her grandma—understands what it’s like to be pulled in different directions with the longing and intention to do all things well. In the midst of chaotic circumstances (which all of us face), she’s found uncomplicated but effective practices for nourishing the soul—because everything stems from the heart.

This hope-filled guide will inspire you to stay tethered to the Lover of your soul. By taking time to make your heart happy in the Lord, you’ll grow closer to the Heavenly Father, fostering true transformation from the inside out. Heart Happy will help you discover the beautiful life you’ve always hoped for through a connection with God that never seemed possible … until now.

Purchase a copy of Heart Happy

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Writer Wednesday with Joanne Bischof

Today on Writer’s Wednesday we welcome Joanne Bischof, author of Sons of Blackbird Mountain.

Enter below for a chance to win a copy of Sons of Blackbird Mountain! Congratulations to Cassandra Darensbourg who won a copy of Rachel Hauck’s The Writing Desk! Note: This post contains affiliate links.

Joanne Bischof, author of Sons of Blackbird Mountian, shares her writing space on today’s Writer Wednesday.

My Writing Desk

Joanne Bischof shares her writing space on today’s Writer Wednesday.

Hello! Welcome to my favorite writing spot! As you can see, it’s not quite a desk. 🙂 But it’s definitely cozy! While each of my writing days is a little different, whenever I sit down to write, I pull up three things: My manuscript on one side of the screen, Pinterest for any pictures or character inspirations on the other side, and some music. I’m a single mom of three kids so this will often be in the evenings once the kiddos have gone to bed. When they are with a relative for the day (and if I’m on a tight deadline!), I’ll write straight through from morning until night, pausing for meals, a bit of movement and to talk to my cat. Cause, you know…social skills. 😉

Joanne Bischof shares her writing space on today’s Writer Wednesday.

While I work, something on my computer screen is always moving around. I change music A LOT and also adjust my character images for various scenes. I’m always looking historical details up online or in a book, and am often bouncing around between documents that contain notes or “scraps” (these are important lines or scenes that I have cut out of the manuscript but save because I am a hoarder for some strange reason!) and they have about a 1 in 10 chance of being returned to the book.

While writing Sons of Blackbird Mountain, I also paused to verify different ASL signs for whenever the Deaf character needed to communicate with someone. I knew many of his signs by memory from the classes I took, which really helped with the writing of the book, but there were a fair number that I needed to look up, or verify to be safe. Once I looked up a hand sign, I would repeat it a few times to figure out the best way to describe it in words, and also, I would really try and grasp the character’s emotion and intent behind the sentiment so as to express that in his mannerisms or facial expressions. It was a fun challenge incorporating these into the narrative in a way that felt organic and I really hope readers enjoy the effect of a visual language being presented through the written word. It challenged me as an author to be sure!

Joanne Bischof shares her writing space on today’s Writer Wednesday.

Rarely do I go through a writing week without touching base with some of my writing pals and critique partners. This includes Jocelyn Green, Amanda Dykes, and Kara Swanson who I regularly check in with for writing advice. Either running a scene by them, double checking a historical detail, or simply seeking an idea to help my characters out of a jamb. Other times it’s a message or two with my agent, Sandra Bishop, or my editors at Thomas Nelson/HarperCollins Christian as we hash out story insights. All these ladies know the ins and outs of the Norgaard family saga so these stories are always made better in their hands.

And one gal I couldn’t live without is my neighbor who is a head nurse at one of the local hospitals. Often, I walk over to her house with a notebook and pen and sit in her kitchen while we talk about medical elements. I even have a 1900’s medical journal on my bookshelf that she lent me years back. I’ve consulted it for many-a-story!

Joanne Bischof shares her writing space on today’s Writer Wednesday.

Between those chats, it’s not uncommon for her to get a text from me that says, “For fictional purposes, how long could someone survive such and such…” She’s been fantastic and has helped me with nearly every story from To Get to You to This Quiet Sky. She played a HUGE role in the sequel to Sons of Blackbird Mountain and inspired a brand new angle to the plot that changed everything.

When the workday is a hectic one and I have little time to spend away from the computer, I typically allow myself to recharge with a walk or a historical drama of some kind if the kids are out and about that day. There are a few shows that I love including Poldark and Mercy Street. We live in a town that has no fast food chains, so during breaks, I tend to splurge on a really yummy meal in my kitchen that usually centers around butter or olive oil, crusty breads and veggies, and coop-fresh eggs that I fry up. A cup of tea or coffee is often nearby! But the computer doesn’t stay idle for long. It’s not uncommon for inspiration to strike at odd hours in the night and sunrise writing sessions are some of my favorites. 🙂

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More about Sons of Blackbird Mountain

Sons of Blackbird Mountain by Joanne Bischof

A Tale of Family, Brotherhood, and the Healing Power of Love

After the tragic death of her husband, Aven Norgaard is beckoned to give up her life in Norway to become a housekeeper in the rugged hills of Nineteenth-Century Appalachia. Upon arrival, she finds herself in the home of her late husband’s cousins—three brothers who make a living by brewing hard cider on their three-hundred-acre farm. Yet even as a stranger in a foreign land, Aven has hope to build a new life in this tight-knit family.

But her unassuming beauty disrupts the bond between the brothers. The youngest two both desire her hand, and Aven is caught in the middle, unsure where—and whether—to offer her affection. While Haakon is bold and passionate, it is Thor who casts the greatest spell upon her. Though Deaf, mute, and dependent on hard drink to cope with his silent pain, Thor possesses a sobering strength.

As autumn ushers in the apple harvest, the rift between Thor and Haakon deepens and Aven faces a choice that risks hearts. Will two brothers’ longing for her quiet spirit tear apart a family? Can she find a tender belonging in this remote, rugged, and unfamiliar world?

A haunting tale of struggle and redemption, Sons of Blackbird Mountain is a portrait of grace in a world where the broken may find new life through the healing mercy of love.

Purchase a copy of Sons of Blackbird Mountain
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Joanne Bischof the author of Sons of Blackbird Mountain

Joanne Bischof has a long-standing passion for romance and a budding fervor for theology. She is more and more awed by how wondrously the two go hand in hand.

So depraved are we in our sinful state—so in need of a Savior—that the love story between God and his people is nothing short of astounding. A quenching of the thirst to parched souls. A light that makes the darkness tremble. A freedom from the bondage of pain and sin. Joanne is beyond thankful to be a part of this great love story and writes books to not only portray the glorious wonder of human love but to reflect the ultimate romance and rescue that comes through Christ.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Read full privacy policy here.

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Writers Wednesday with Rachel Hauck

Today on Writer’s Wednesday we welcome Rachel Hauck, author of The Writing Desk.

Enter below for a chance to win a copy of The Writing Desk! Congratulations to Laurie Tomlinson who won a copy of Elizabeth Byler Younts’ The Solace of Water! Note: This post contains affiliate links.

Rachel Hauck, the author of new book The Love Letter, shares her writing space(s) on this week’s Writer Wednesday.

My Writing Desk

Welcome to my workspace. I’d love to say this is where “all the magic” happens but it is literally where “all the work gets done.”

My office is an octagon shaped turret with a copula designed and built by a former Pixar artist.

My workspace is on the second floor – hubby is on the first – and my window view is of the backyard trees. I feel like I’m working in a treehouse. Only with air conditioning.

However, the tower-like structure is also called the turret and became my “tower” and the perfect inspiration for writing The Royal Wedding Series.

Rachel Hauck shares her writing space(s) on this week’s Writing Wednesday.

I love this space. It’s bright, airy and a gift from God. And when I’m on deadline, a bit messy. (As you can see from the photo.)

Once Upon A Prince was the first book I wrote here. Since then, there have been so many fun moments starting and finishing a book. Plus all the agonizing days in between when the middle felt so sluggish and dull.

My office is for writing. As cool as it is, I don’t hang out here unless I’m working. It’s a treasure to have space at home I only use for work.

I start my writing day between 10 a.m. and Noon, depending on how close I am to deadline. When fast drafting, I may be done by 5:00 p.m. but otherwise I work until 7:00 or 8:00 p.m.

Mid-afternoon I take a snack break since I try not to eat at my desk. A writer’s life is sedentary enough without adding food to the work mix.

My other afternoon break comes from sweet fur babies—a couple of Yorkies walking their owner. They come by to visit and chow down on a treat or two.

But really, let’s talk about the obvious—that giant picture of my husband and me on the left-hand side of the office photo. Isn’t that hilarious?

Here’s the scoop. The pic was taken during our brief career as extras in a Hallmark movie. In costume, the official Hallmark photographer snapped the shot.

When we got home, I had this bright idea to create a print as a memento. Even better, a canvas of our time in the movies.

Cruising the internet, I found Canvas.com and picked the size they had on sale. Twenty inches by something… I didn’t really calculate the size. Who cares, right?

A week later when the package arrived, I could not stop laughing. It was huge!

A good idea gone bad. Where was I going to hang it? Not in the house.

My husband, a pastor, joked about hanging it in the church foyer. But, um, no.

So, I carried it up to my office and hung it beside the bookshelf. From the angle in the picture, you can’t tell but the image is actually hidden unless you walk around my desk. I forget it’s there most of the time.

Rachel Hauck shares her writing space(s) on this week’s Writing Wednesday.

But I don’t always work inside. In the early spring and late fall, I like to work out on the deck. I can spend the entire day out here. Until mosquitos and no-see-ems time start nibbling at my legs. Then I have to call it quits.

So, there’s my office spaces and a small peek into my writing life. Thanks to Tricia for sharing this space with me.

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More about The Love Letter

The Love Letter, new from author Rachel Hauck

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Wedding Dress comes a story of long-lost love and its redemption in future generations.

Romance has never been actress Chloe Daschle’s forte—in life or on screen. But everyone knows who to call for a convincing death scene . . . and it might be killing her career.

When Chloe is given a peek at the script for an epic love story, she decides to take her destiny into her own hands and request an audition for the lead female role, Esther Kingsley. The compelling tale, inspired by family lore and a one-page letter from the colonial ancestor of scriptwriter Jesse Gates, just might break her out of this career-crippling rut. Jesse would rather write about romance than live through it after his past relationship ended in disaster. But once on-set together, the chemistry between Jesse and his leading lady is hard to deny.

Centuries earlier, in the heart of the Revolutionary War, Hamilton Lightfoot and Esther Longfellow wrote their saga off the silver screen. Esther’s Loyalist father opposes any relationship with Hamilton, but Esther must face her beloved father’s disapproval and the dangers of war in order to convince Hamilton of their future together. Hamilton has loved Esther for years and on the eve of battle pens the love letter she’s always wanted—something straight from the heart.

Set in stunning upcountry South Carolina, The Love Letter is a beautifully-crafted story of the courage it takes to face down fear and chase after love, even in the darkest of times. And just maybe, all these generations later, love can come home in a way not even Hollywood could imagine.

In the style for which she is known and admired, Hauck (The Writing Desk, 2017) returns with an intricately woven tale of how a letter links the past and present. From its epic opening to its unexpected and wholly satisfying conclusion, The Love Letter serves up the perfect blend of modern and historical romance infused with exquisite vulnerability. It sweeps readers into the centuries-old drama of South Carolina and the flash of contemporary Hollywood and delightfully explores layers of social and emotional duality. — Booklist

Purchase a copy of The Love Letter
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Rachel Hauck author of new book The Love Letter

Rachel Hauck is an award-winning, New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author.

Her book The Wedding Dress was named Inspirational Novel of the Year by Romantic Times Book Reviews. She is a double RITA finalist and a Christy and Carol Award Winner. Her book, Once Upon A Prince, first in the Royal Wedding Series, was filmed for an Original Hallmark movie and aired in April 2018. It was the #1 show for its time slot and #3 for the week in cable programming.

Rachel has been awarded the prestigious Career Achievement Award for her body of original work by Romantic Times Book Reviews. A member of the Executive Board for American Christian Fiction Writers, she teaches workshops and leads worship at the annual conference.

In other news, she’s the comical sidekick to Susan May Warren at the amazing My Book Therapy. At home, she’s a wife, writer, worship leader and works out at a local gym semi-enthusiastically. A graduate of Ohio State University (Go Bucks!) with a degree in Journalism, she’s a former sorority girl and a devoted Ohio State football fan. Her bucket list is to stand on the sidelines with Urban Meyer.

She lives in sunny central Florida with her husband and ornery cat.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Read full privacy policy here.

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Writer Wednesday with Katherine Reay

Congratulations to the following winners:
Kelsey Gilbert for winning a copy of Secret Keeper Girl
Janet Gerrard for winning a copy of The Life Giving Table
Megan Lakner for winning a copy of Carry On

Winners, please e-mail your mailing address to my assistant Christen (amy@triciagoyer.com).

Enter below for a chance to win a copy of Katherine Raey’s The Austen Escape!

Welcome to my office! Here is where I spend the vast majority of my time. I’m not a writer who enjoys coffee-shops, airports, doctor’s offices or carpool lines. I can’t fully concentrate out and about in the world so I really do write only here – or I should say I only write comfortably here.

This particular desk is a fairly recent investment for me. A few years ago I hurt my back hauling heavy furniture and training for a marathon. I tweaked it during our move then made it worse by not easing off on my running schedule. It all ended with a herniated a disk and a right leg that was tingly most days. I soon found long stretches of sitting made the numbness worse and, after extensive research, I found this… I love it! It goes up and down at the touch of a button. I now spend most days traveling up and down and writing at all points in-between.

You also see around my office my Elephant Collection. I suspect I’ve always loved elephants because I’m very like one – no vertical jump, horrid looking knees, loyal, long memory, and, I too, eat a lot. My husband gave me the one directly above my computer, as well another large print I have yet to frame. The lovely one with the red balloon was a gift from a reader/new friend. It is drawn atop a page from a Spanish encyclopedia – words and elephants! An ideal combination!

I’m not sure how well it comes across in the photo, but my walls are lined with corkboard. I saw this treatment in a magazine and fell in love with it. It means that every year – more often if I’d like – I change out the major players on the walls. And I’m always pinning up new small things like character sketches, to-do lists, the kids’ sports schedules, etc.

So that’s my space… Now what do I do in it? I try to write. Writing the manuscript-in-progress each and every day is the goal for me, but that doesn’t always happen. Right now I have one story about to launch, The Austen Escape which hits online and in stores on November 7th, and I’m beginning another. Every day is filled with marketing the one and “laying down words” for the other. First drafts, for me, are a quick-paced-uncensored building project. I try to focus more on laying down words in a fast, un-edited fashion, than I try to craft those words into a refined story. If I start to edit, I start to criticize. There are times, of course, I must go back and solidify early scenes in order to move forward, but for the most part I race through scenes and emotions laying down the raw gems I’ll refine later.

As for marketing The Austen Escape, there are articles and blog posts to write, conversations on social media to hold and replies to reviews to send out. I fully believe that if a reader tags me in a review, reaches out on Facebook, or writes to me directly, she has honored me with her time and I try to respond likewise. It’s tremendous fun meeting readers and bloggers in this way. The misunderstanding about we introverts is that we’re shy – get us one-on-one and talking about a subject we love and we can get very chatty.

There you go! I hope you’ve enjoyed this glimpse into my world. It’s been a delight sharing it with you. Now I really do need to get that new elephant up…

Thank you!

Katherine

Get a glimpse into @Katherine_Raey’s writing space on #WriterWednesday with @TriciaGoyer

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More about The Austen Escape:

After years of following her best friend’s lead, Mary Davies finds a whimsical trip back to Austen’s Regency England paves the way towards a new future.

Mary Davies lives and works in Austin, Texas, as an industrial engineer. She has an orderly and productive life, a job and colleagues that she enjoys—particularly a certain adorable, intelligent, and hilarious consultant. But something is missing for Mary. When her estranged and emotionally fragile childhood friend Isabel Dwyer offers Mary a two-week stay in a gorgeous manor house in Bath, Mary reluctantly agrees to come along, in hopes that the holiday will shake up her quiet life in just the right ways. But Mary gets more than she bargained for when Isabel loses her memory and fully believes that she lives in Regency England. Mary becomes dependent on a household of strangers to take care of Isabel until she wakes up.

With Mary in charge and surrounded by new friends, Isabel rests and enjoys the leisure of a Regency lady. But life gets even more complicated when Mary makes the discovery that her life and Isabel’s have intersected in more ways that she knew, and she finds herself caught between who Isabel was, who she seems to be, and the man who stands between them. Outings are undertaken, misunderstandings play out, and dancing ensues as this triangle works out their lives and hearts among a company of clever, well-informed people who have a great deal of conversation.

Purchase a copy here:
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Katherine Reay is a writer, wife, mom, continually rehabbing runner, compulsive vacuumist and a horrific navigator…

She graduated from Northwestern University and earned an MS in Marketing from Northwestern as well. She then worked in marketing and development before returning to graduate school for a Masters of Theological Studies. Moves to Texas, England, Ireland and Washington left that degree unfinished as Katherine spent her time unpacking, raising kids, volunteering, writing, and exploring new storylines and new cities.

The Reay family (with a great sense of permanency) now resides outside Chicago, and Katherine pursues writing with more focus. She writes character-driven stories and non-fiction that focuses upon examining the past and how it influences our present experiences.

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Writer Wednesday with Kara Isaac

 

Enter below for you chance to win a copy of Kara Isaac’s new book, Then There Was You. Winner will be announced here next week! 

My Writing Desk

The truth is . . . I don’t have one! I used to have one years ago when I was convinced that all “real” writers have a writing desk. It was even set up in a cute little alcove with a gorgeous view and bookshelves and all the things that should make a writing room the place to well, write!

But I never wrote there. I always wrote sitting on my bed, usually rugged up because the house was an old villa with little insulation. Every now and then I would force myself to go to my writing desk and try to write. I would stare out the window, or get distracted by the books nearby, surf the internet but no storytelling happened. So, when I moved out of that house, I finally admitted to myself that I just wasn’t a desk writer and it got gifted to the Salvation Army.

These days my favorite spot to write is the corner spot in the large couch in the “grown up” lounge (this is purely wishful thinking, my children pay zero attention to the designation!) I’m currently on maternity leave from my day job with my youngest so occasionally I get some writing in while he naps during the few days a week it is just the two of us and his brother and sister are at school and daycare but most of my writing is done at night once the three small benevolent dictators are tucked up in bed.

If not on the couch, then the other place I write is in bed. Next to me is a bookshelf stuffed with my to-read books, with more books teetering on top of the shelves and still more piled up beside and under the bed (I like to have lots of options within reach!). If I’m in the first draft process then there will just be my laptop. If I’m in the editing process then there will also be research books, red pens, sticky notes, and pieces of paper with scrawled notes with changes that need to be made.

As I’m typing this my next book, Then There Was You, releases in four days so most of my time is being spent on things like guest blog posts, answering interview questions, preparing content for social media and organizing things like a Facebook launch party. I’m also reading through the next book of one of my critique partners before she hands it into her editor. Then my family and I are off for a couple of weeks in July but after we’re back I’ll be starting on a couple of new projects. One is Kat’s story (a character who appears in my first three books) and the other is one I hope to be able to share about soon.

See where @KaraIsaac writes and enter to win her new book via @TriciaGoyer! #giveaway #freebook

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More about Then There Was You:

Paige McAllister needs to do something drastic. Her boyfriend can’t even commit to living in the same country, her promised promotion is dead on arrival and the simultaneous loss of her brother and her dream of being a concert violinist has kept her playing life safe and predictable for six years. Things need to change. A moment of temporary insanity finds her leaving her life in Chicago to move to Sydney, Australia. There she finds herself, against many of her convictions, as a logistics planner for one of Australia’s biggest churches, and on a collision course with her boss’s son.

Josh Tyler fronts a top-selling worship band and is in demand all over the world. But, in the past, his failed romantic relationships almost destroyed both his reputation and his family. He’s determined to never risk it happening again. The last thing he needs is some American girl tipping his ordered life upside down. Especially one who despises everything he’s ever worked for and manages to push every button he has.

When Josh and Paige are thrown together to organize his band’s next tour, the sparks fly. But can they find a way to bridge the differences that pull them apart? Or will they choose the safety and security of what they know over taking a chance on something that will require them to risk everything?

Purchase a copy of Then There Was You here:
Amazon | KaraIsaac.com

Kara Isaac lives in Wellington, New Zealand. She is the author of Close to You, a RITA Award Double Finalist, and Can’t Help Falling, an RT Review Top Pick. Her next book Then There Was You releases on June 22. When she’s not chasing three adorable but spirited little people, she spends her time writing horribly bad first drafts and wishing you could get Double Stuf Oreos in New Zealand.

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Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Read full privacy policy here.

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Day in the Life of a Best-Selling Author

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How do you picture the day of a best-selling author? Sitting in a beautiful setting, sipping tea, reading classic literature, and penning prose?

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Or perhaps having time to sit and ponder major plot complexities.
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Or maybe … just breathing life to words on this page this way.

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In real life this was my day:
7:45 a.m. woke up and realized I slept in and my three little kids (ages 7, 5, and 4) were already awake. (Which means no shower.)
7:50 a.m. dressed and getting them breakfast: sausage biscuit, chicken biscuit and cinnamon toast to be exact.
8:15 a.m. Cleaned up the mess from last nights painting projects. (See below.) Since I didn’t get time for prayer and devotions I listened to the audio book The Grave Robber: How Jesus Can Make Your Impossible Possible by Mark Batterson as I cleaned.
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8:30 a.m. sat down to homeschool my three kids ages 7, 5, and 4.  We worked on telling time, reading words, patterns and sequencing, and oval and rhombus shapes. (Exciting!)
10:00 a.m. our favorite part of the day. Mommy reading time! I read three stories out of this book:
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10:45 a.m. My nanny took over. (Yeah!) Made my breakfast and showered as she took the kids to our local pool for P.E.
11:15 a.m. Answered the most important emails.
1) to my assistant about blog post for TheBetterMom.com
2) to foster daughter’s case worker about upcoming field trip
3) to therapist about foster kids
4) to assistant about upcoming tasks for my blog
5) to marketing manager of Zondervan about upcoming promotions for Teen Mom
6) to agent about everything I need to unload :)
7) to Senior Producer at Focus on the Family radio (YEAH!! THEY ARE INVITING ME BACK!!)
8) to co-writers about a project that’s in the works
9) to assistant about my weekly e-newsletter
(And I’ll admit there was some skimming through Facebook and pinning on Pinterest in the midst of those emails. But that’s okay because while I was on Facebook I discovered that TriciaGoyer.com was included on the list of 100 Top Faith Blogs for Christian Women!)
2:00 p.m. Kids are back, fed, and napping. Nanny leaves. I FINALLY start on my novel in progress. These are some of the research books I’m reading for Planted with Hope. I worked on scenes for my novel. (And I wrote about 2,000 words)
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Find out what the rest of a writer’s day looks like over at Inspired By Life… And Fiction.

What does a writer’s day really look like? Find out from @triciagoyer

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Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

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My Writing Desk | Krista McGee

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Krista McGee’s writing desk is where her young adult novels take shape.

I have perfect posture. I can’t take any credit for it, though—there’s about a foot and a half of titanium steel back there—a result of surgery to correct severe scoliosis. My entire spine is fused, and the rods keep it all in place (no, I don’t make the metal detectors go crazy in airports nor do magnets stick to me—I had the surgery when I was 13, so believe me, my friends tried!). Though I don’t really have much back trouble, most desk chairs are made to mold to a normal person’s back, and I don’t have a normal person’s back. So most desk chairs make my back hurt. A few years ago some friends of ours recommended I try using a medicine ball to replace my desk chair. I tried it and was hooked! The seat is as soft or as firm as I want to make it, and I can lean as far away or as near my desk as I want. Perfect! My desk is in the corner of my bedroom, and I face a window that looks out at the beautiful Florida sky. Be it ever so humble, there’s no place like home!

About Krista: When Krista McGee isn’t living in fictional worlds of her own creation, she lives in Tampa and spends her days as a wife, mom, teacher, and coffee snob. She is also the author of “Anomaly,” “First Date,” “Starring Me,” and “Right Where I Belong.” Find out more about Krista at her website, on Facebook, or on Twitter.

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 Krista McGee is celebrating the release of Anomaly, the first book in her new YA dystopian series, with an iPad Mini Giveaway!

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One winner will receive:

  • An iPad Mini
  • A $25 iTunes gift card (download Anomaly to the iPad!)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on July 31st. Winner will be announced at Krista’s website on August 2nd.


Spread the word about Krista and her giveaway HERE!

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My Writing Desk | Kate Lloyd

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Thanks for your lovely invitation, Tricia! I must admit, when I received it a worrisome swoosh of apprehension surged through me. Did I want the whole world to see that the desk where I polished and edited my best-selling novel Leaving Lancaster and its sequel, the newly released Pennsylvania Patchwork, is both stark and cluttered? My first impulse was to straighten the desk and make it into a beautiful photo op. But I told myself: Tricia is looking for honesty, the real me. So here it is, warts and all. I have a cute wooden desk, but it stands in our master bedroom—not a good location for work because I attempt to switch my brain into low gear at night. Consequently, I took over our son’s desk after he graduated from college and left to live on his own. Some of his items remain on the austere structure, but I must plead guilty and claim the hodgepodge of Post-it notes and scraps of paper: ideas, words, telephone numbers, and reminders.

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In the second picture, you can see my favorite place to write. Now, doesn’t that look like a more inviting space to get creative? I’m an early riser, thanks in part to my husband, who jets to the gym at 5 AM, and also my father, who used to say, “You’re wasting the best hours of the day,” to my sister and me when we slept in.

First thing in the morning, I scoop my laptop off the messy desk and trundled downstairs to make coffee, then meander into the living room to nestle on the soft couch. Since it’s in the living room, I don’t allow myself to accumulate papers. Well, sometimes my reference books and the chapters my critique group has just reviewed end up on the coffee table. Plus a few scraps of paper.

~~~

PPatchworkcoverAuthor Kate Lloyd is a passionate observer of human relationships. A native of Baltimore, Kate spends time with family and friends in Lancaster County, PA, the inspiration for her novels. She is a member of the Lancaster County Mennonite Historical Society. Kate and her husband live in the Pacific Northwest. Kate studied painting and sculpture in college. She’s worked a variety of jobs, including car salesman and restaurateur. Find out more about Kate at her website or on Facebook and Twitter.

Here’s more about Kate’s new book, Pennsylvania Patchwork:

Seattle native Holly Fisher is smitten by Lancaster County, its simplicity and her long lost relatives. In the sequel to bestselling Leaving Lancaster, Holly embraces the Amish culture, learning to slow down to see what – and who – really matters.

Meeting the family that her mother had kept hidden from her, Holly comes face to face with her real life and blood legacy. She also falls for the charming Zach, a handsome Mennonite veterinarian who is everything she’s ever wanted in a husband: confident, kind, successful, and authentic. And Zach proposes marriage. Is this too soon? Is this the right choice? Mother and Amish grandmother think she’s rushing into too much of a lifestyle change. Holly is in love with Zach and that precludes everything. Until she meets an attractive Amish man. And an old suitor shows up.

Pennyslvania Patchwork is the moving, richly told story of one woman’s heart, her faith and trust, and the choices she makes. Never easy, but one choice can change your destiny.

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