Witty Clarice G. James Highlights Her Book The Least of These

Humor always makes life a little more bearable. This week I have an author whose posts always strike a chord of humor for me and many others. Clarice G. James (website here!) is here to focus on her book The Least of These. Jump on in the interview and discover more about this witty lass and her books. 

PT: As always, our readers want to know what drew you to be an author?

CGJ: Over the years, teachers, family, and friends often suggested I should do something with my “gift.” After my children were grown-up and gone, I took their advice.

PT: Many readers are glad you did! So, what genre do you write in, and what genre do you prefer to read in?

CGJ: I write women’s contemporary fiction and read mostly in that genre. I do enjoy historical fiction as well.

PT: Where is your favorite spot to write? An office? Outside? Coffee shop? Other?

CGJ: No noisy coffee shops for me. I need a quiet space to write, and I’m blessed to have a spacious office. But, as with all writers, I’m always writing in my head no matter where I am.

PT: I definitely agree with the quiet space. Have you always lived in the northeast or have you lived in different places?

CGJ: I have lived in the Northeast my whole life. Though I was born in Rhode Island, my family moved to Cape Cod, Massachusetts when I was a toddler. I lived there until I moved to New Hampshire twenty years ago.

PT: I'll be honest, I always think of you with a splash of humor, since you're so gifted in putting up such amusing posts. Does your humor find its way into your books?

CGJ: I love to laugh—alone and with others! So, yes, you will find humor in my stories.

PT: Do you ever have a book inspiration in an inconvenient time or place such as in the middle of the night or in the middle of the grocery aisle? Do you jot things on a scrap of paper or napkin or use a phone or other electronic device to record your ideas?

CGJ: I have to write ideas down or I will forget them! To the right of my laptop now is a “slush pile” of sticky notes, lists of character traits, snatches of dialogue, and plot ideas for my current work in progress.

PT: I confess I have a bit of a sticky note obsession myself. Do you have a Biblical principal or concept when you start to write, or does that slowly develop as you progress through the writing process?

CGJ: Not always. Sometimes the storyline gives me the Scripture passage as I’m writing.

PT: Do you outline your books or fly by the seat of your pants?

CGJ: My style is somewhere between the two. I start with a loose outline and character sketches, but seat of the pants writing often takes over.

PT: Tell us your current favorite Bible verse.

CGJ: “Whatever you do, whether in word or dead, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17

PT: All right, let's have you spill the dirt. Tell 5 things about Clarice G. James that have nothing to do with writing.

CGJ:

1.            I’m not competitive. I don’t even win when I play Scrabble by myself.

2.            As a little girl I used to soak the family toothbrushes in Lestoil.

3.            If I ever invite you on a road trip, say “no.” I once got lost in a beach 

               parking lot.

4.            Every day, I find reasons to laugh—often at myself.

5.            As a young Catholic girl, I once wet my pants in a confessional booth

              —and didn’t confess it. Yes, I’m Protestant now.

PT: What was the inspiration and setting for your book The Least of These.

CGJ: A friend of mine suspected that the kind, generous physician she worked for was defrauding the Medicare system. She needed to get away before she was implicated.

I wanted the story set in a small town. Since my brother owned a vacation home in Andover, Maine, I was able to stay at his place while the friendly locals helped with my research.

Nurse practitioner Carley Rae Jantzen blows the whistle on Philadelphia physician Dr. Harrison Nichols for Medicare fraud. While waiting for the FBI to complete its investigation, she must work side by side with Dr. Nichols—without letting on what she knows or what she’s done.

So, when Carley receives an invitation to become a live-in assistant for Geneva Kellerman—a great-aunt she didn’t even know she had—she jumps at the chance to run off and hide in Andover, Maine, population 826.

Great-aunt Geneva soon learns that receiving help is not as easy as giving it. And Carley discovers the “assistance” her great-aunt had in mind has nothing to do with nursing but all to do with passing down a legacy of caring for the least of these.

PT: Oooh, juicy. Based on a true story? Intriguing. What's your next writing project?

CGJ: I am two-thirds finished writing my novel, The Longing Soul. The main character, Avalea Madigan, is a 53-year-old widow (twice over) who longs for God to lift her grief and fill her life with new purpose … or with another husband … or both. She and three friends meet weekly to learn how to better apply the Word of God to their lives.

PT: Boom! Another riveting Christian author bringing the goods! Clean, Christian entertainment. If ya can't wait to get your sweaty paws on this book, go here: The Least of These and snap that puppy up! Or you can take your chances on our drawing. We need 5 people to comment or leave info on our contact form. And as always, thank you, Clarice, and thanks to all of you readers who stopped by!

*******

Clarice G. James~

Clarice was raised on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. She married early, and she and her husband were blessed with two sons and a daughter. In her early thirties, Clarice began a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus. She says, “My life has not been the same since—thankfully.”
While raising her family, Clarice squeezed in a few English literature and creative writing courses. She continued along that path, writing articles for local publications, marketing copy for her employers, and newsletters for her church.When her husband Terry died, she continued writing as part of her healing process. Eight years later, she remarried and moved to southern New Hampshire. “David was a keeper,” she says, “and all grown up when I got him.” Sadly, she was widowed again just shy of fifteen years of marriage.
Clarice has written five women’s contemporary novels. Her stories are woven together with colorful threads of humor, faith, romance, and surprise. In 2022, she added Say Grace: A Scriptural Field Guide to Weight Loss to her list of published works.
Clarice says, “I credit my father for showing me the power of dreams and my mother for teaching me the value of working to achieve them.”

Author Karen H. Richardson Releases Curtains for Maggie

Come on in, ladies and gents. Welcome to the Diamond Mine. I’m Peggy, Peg for short. Take a seat on the sectional and I’ll introduce you to one of my friends. It’s Karen H. Richardson with her debut novel! Karen and I have been bumping elbows for some time, meeting here, meeting there, and now, she’s putting out her first baby. I am beyond excited. Coffee anyone? Tea? Code Red, no sorry, that’s for me. Let me pull the curtains to get rid of the glare. And speaking of curtains…well, I can’t give the whole interview away this early. Keep reading…

Peg: HI, Karen! I’m super-duper excited to host you for your first novel. I know you’ve really been working towards this goal. But let’s start at the beginning. What started you on your writing journey?

Karen: There has always been a writer inside me. In elementary school, I wrote a play and tried to get my friends to act it out. When I wasn’t writing stories, I was journaling– writing the story of whatever was happening in my life. It’s fun to look around at people, they all have a story, or could become a character. Along the way teachers fostered my love of the written word. So, writing a book became the goal.

Peg: Yes! I need that t-shirt that says, Be careful. You might end up in my book, lol. Have you always aspired to write contemporary Christian books?

Karen: I didn’t set out to write Christian books, but my faith is so much a part of who I am, it would be impossible to not include it in my writing. I love reading historical fiction, but do not have the time for the research that goes into writing it. I’m going to stick with contemporary for now.

Peg: Do you have any mentors, conferences, meetings or anything else that encouraged you along your way to publication?

Karen: In 2009, I went to my first writers group meeting, Louisville Christian Writers. Then I found an ACFW chapter was starting and the time they met worked better for me. The topics they talked about every month broadened my view of not only the writing craft, but the business of getting published. Until now, I was the only one in the group not published. But they encouraged me to keep writing. I kept writing and learning about our craft. There is still so much more I’d like to learn and improve on. Both Janet MorrisGrimes and Betty Thomason Owens were such strong encouragers for me.

Peg: I know those girls! They are the best. So, how about sharing your favorite authors?

Karen: I enjoy Kristin Billerbeck and Kathleen Fuller, two contemporary favorites. Liz Curtis Higgs and Lynn Austin are my favorite historical fiction authors.

Peg: All of those authors are fabulous. I have so many of Lynn Austin’s books on my shelves. Are you a full-time writer or do you juggle writing around your job?

Karen: I have a fulltime job in addition to writing. The first half of my career was in marketing and communications, which made it a challenge to write all day, and then have any words left for my novel writing at night. I was itching to get out of communications, so I took the course work to earn my project management professional certification (PMP). Now I’m an IT project manager by day, and a novelist by night.

Peg: I’m always interested in how people fit their writing around their normal activities. Tell us your schedule.

Karen: Other than working full-time, my schedule is my own. Our son is grown so the days of being a band mom, or a baseball mom are done. I went through a few years of caregiving for my mother, but she went home to be with the Lord last year. That opened my time and energy for working to get Curtains for Maggie published. I have a blog, KK’s Candor (www.KKsCandor.com) where I post short slice-of-life articles. I work on my novels when I have bigger chunks of time like weekends or nights when I don’t have to get up the next day. It is so much fun to get lost in Oakdale, Indiana (fictious town) where Maggie and the gang are doing life.

Peg: Curtains forMaggie is such an interesting title. Tell us a little about the premise and how you came up with the idea and setting and does it have anything to do with curtains?

Maggie Nelson lost her identity. Nora St. Claire lost her husband. And Jen Stephens lost her job—sort of. The three friends from college, now in their forties, rediscover a special part of themselves that time and relationships have stolen.
To rediscover who she is, Maggie revisits a passion from her past. Something that was her own—acting. With this, her family begins a season of their orderly, planned, and scheduled lives becoming not so orderly. How can Maggie regain her identity without losing her husband?
Nora is an interior designer whose husband was killed in the line of duty. After years of mourning, she is ready to rebuild her life. Her career launches when she wins over a difficult client for the firm. And in her social life, she finds herself volunteering alongside a man who sparks her interest. Work, friends, dating—what will the design of her new life be?
Jen is a free-spirited personal trainer who never expected to find herself as an assistant manager at the gym. The role is a stretch, but it includes all the components of healthy living that she believes in. The rest she can learn. The transition has a few twists and turns Jen navigates well with the full support of her husband, and her two friends. And yet … is it the best fit for Jen?
Their paths are messy ones, but isn’t that true about life? Along the way, each woman discovers she is more precious than rubies. Even in her imperfection.

Karen: The idea for Curtains forMaggie came from when my son was in elementary school, and I was a working mom. Every morning when I dropped him off at school, there would be two or three women standing around the parking lot with their coffee, talking. My commute was 30-minutes. Many mornings I spent that time wondering what the women were talking about. That’s when the theme for Curtains for Maggie came to me. I decided those women were probably talking about life, families, children, things women generally connect around. Curtains for Maggie is the story of Maggie Nelson who feels like she has lost her identity to the roles she has in life – wife, mother. She misses having something that is uniquely hers.

 She comes across a flyer for auditions at the community theater. It reignites her interest in acting which she did in college. With half-hearted support from her husband, she auditions. The results aren’t exactly what she had in mind. The story takes the reader on a journey of the challenges Maggie faces in her marriage, family, faith, and finding herself. Along the way, Maggie’s friends Nora and Jen are dealing with changes in their lives that stretch them as well. Nora lost her husband five years ago and is rebuilding her life, even considering dating. She just started a job at an interior design firm. Jen is a part-time personal trainer who jumps into an assistant manager role at her gym. The three friends encourage and support one another through finding out God’s will and rediscovering the unique talents He gave each.

Peg: Ooops, I just spilled my drink, and I can’t seem to find my glasses. Oh, that reminds me of a question I wanted to ask. What type of personality flaws and quirks do each of the main characters have?

Karen: Maggie is hyper-organized. She’s a list maker and a calendar keeper. Jen is a free spirit. Nora is always put together, hair pulled in a knot, matching outfit with the perfect accessories. While there is nothing wrong with any of these traits, taken to an extreme, they can become masks for hiding their real selves. These three strong, intelligent women are going through the same challenges many women do. We give ourselves to those we love. Sometimes to a fault. I hope readers find encouragement to use the talents God gave them. To love boldly and to live impactful lives. This will look different for each of us. We can make an impact in our everyday interactions. I would love to hear from readers about their “Maggie moment.” That season in their life when they felt lost and by leaning into the faith, and their Creator, they rediscovered something special about themselves.

Peg. Oh, I love that! Is Curtains for Maggie based on a Bible verse or theme?

Karen: Curtains for Maggie is based on the theme that God made each of us in His image, with our own uniqueness that we shouldn’t let any relationship or role squelch. Psalm 139 reminds me of what Maggie and her friends need reassurance of.

Peg: Will there be a sequel or are you working in a new direction?

Karen: Yes, I have a rough draft of Nora’s story next, and an idea for Jen’s. I’m working toward having at least Nora’s story ready to pitch to Elk Lake Publishing this fall.

Peg: What is on your computer right now for your attention? Writing? Editing? Or something else?

Karen: Right now it’s all efforts towards getting Curtains for Maggie launched – marketing, social media, outlets for selling in addition to Amazon. But I’m also itching to get to work on Nora’s story. Like other writers, ideas for scenes, themes, or characters will dance around my head for a while before I have to just sit down and draft them. Right now, I’ve got several scenes for Nora whirling around in my head.

Peg: What is something you’d like people to know about you as a writer?

Karen: I was very blessed that I only had to pitch Curtains for Maggie three times before it was picked up by Elk Lake Publishing. I’m still learning about our craft, and I look forward to the next book being better than the first one.

Peg: Give me 5 things fast about Karen H. Richardson that have nothing to do with writing.

Karen: I like country music, playing pickleball, took up tap dancing in my mid-forties, and would rather watch sports live than on television. I was born with red hair, went through all the teasing in grade school, but today am so glad God made me unique in that way. And no, I’ve never colored it.

Peg: Thanks so much for sharing your novel journey with us, Karen! I’m sure we’ll both be sitting at the same table before too long, chatting about the next big book. And I am so excited about Karen’s book, that I’m giving away an ebook copy! Leave your email in the comments section or send it to us via our contact form to be entered! Wanna know more? Wanna copy of Karen’s book, Curtains for Maggie right now? Check out her links below:

·        Check out Curtains for Maggie on Amazon.

·        Social Media links:

·        Facebook

·        Instagram

·        Twitter

·        Online: www.KHRAuthor.com

Meet Jessie Mattis

 Summer is here, and so is author Jessie Mattis. Her interview was filled with fun tidbits for me. Especially, her "writing shed". That had me filled with excitement. Let's find out more about her and her work. Jesse's middle grade fiction novel, Power Up, won second place the 2020 Selah Award, and also first place in the 2020 Christian Indie Awards. She's also written in other genres. Since my interest began with middle grade fiction and has moved to adult fiction, I couldn't wait to learn more in our interview. So first things first, lets get to know her by learning more about what inspires her. 

Hello Jessie. Can you tell our Diamond Miners a little about yourself?

Sure. I'm married to my best friend Chip, and we have three kids ages 14, 12, and 10. We love being together and spending time with extended family too. I love black coffee in the morning, mid-morning, and afternoon. It makes life possible...with Jesus, of course.

I know a lot of coffee drinkers. They seem to be like you! Do you have any pets to round out your crew?

Yes, we have a two-year-old labradoodle (or labradoofus, as my husband affectionately calls him) named Guster. He has the curliest hair of any dog on the planet, and keeping him groomed is a nightmare, but he's loveable and my kids adore him. We also have eight chickens, but I'm not sure I would call them pets, haha.

I'd love to hear about your writing. What is your reason for writing?

I'm always inspired to write things that will draw people closer to God. My first book, a middle grade novel called Power-Up, was written because I craved good fiction that would show mychildren how to listen to and lean into the Holy Spirit's guidance, and I found little to nothing available. I wrote it to fill the gap in what my family needed, and pary it meets that need for someone else too.

I've always heard if you're looking for a certain kind of story, and don't find it, you should write it. You did it! That's really amazing. It won the Selah Award also. What a great encouragement. What are some other things you've worked on?

Last year I contributed a short story in a book called Christmas from the Heart: A collection of Christmas Romances. My story, titled Almost Christmas Again, was inspired by a mash-up of friends and family's experiences, imagination, and a delightful vacation we once took to Colorado.

What is your current WIP, Work in Progress? Is it another middle-grade novel?

No, these days I'm working on historical fiction, and my writing is very much inspired by my own family history. For example, I'll think of a situation my grandmother faced and think, "What if...?" The story takes off from there. Always, the ultimate goal is to inspire others in their walk with God.

Have you considered writing in any other genres? You've covered a few so far!

Yes I have. Christian fiction is my broad genre, including middle grade, contemporary, and historical. I have considered non-fiction, but will probably only jump into that if I feel strongly called.

Who would you say has been the biggest influence in your writing?

Francine Rivers is the author who first made me truly love Christian fiction. Her books are truly works of art, and as a writer, it's fun to read them and study her technique.

What is the hardest part of writing a book for you?

The hardest part of writing is finding the time! :) As a homeschooling mom of three, my days are full, so I have to get creative to make space for writing. It is also difficult to make sure I'm somewhat following the writing "formula" for successful fiction. I see why it's important to do so, but I don't always like it.

As a former homeschool mom, I can relate to how hard it would be to find time to write. I didn't begin writing fiction until many years after my girls left home. Do you have a favorite spot to write?

Two years ago, my sweet husband, dad, brother-in-law, and friend transformed our run-down garden shed into a writing shed, complete with mini fridge and coffee bar. It's one of my favorite places in the world, and it's the easiest place for me to focus and get my work done.

A writing shed?! I'm so jealous. Well, I guess I shouldn't say jealous but how exciting for you to have such a great spot! So, are you a night owl or an early bird out in your writing shed?

Night owl! My head is clearest when the entire family is in bed and I only have one thing to focus on.

Tell us about your all time favorite book.

Roll of Thunder Hear my Cry by Mildred D. Taylor is one of those childhood books that really stuck with me, so I'll always call that one a favorite. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin is probably my all-time favorite, which is funny because I generally have a hard time getting into books from that period.

Let's change direction for a minute and talk turkey, or whatever else you like to cook. Do you like to cook? Tell us some of your favorites.

I don't love to cook, but I do it! I'd rather be doing something else. I prefer simple, tasty things, like throwing a roast in the crock-pot with carrots and potatoes. Baking is a different story; I much prefer baking to cooking. It can be difficult because I try to limit sweets so I'm constantly making substitutions...but all bets are off in December. :) I have also developed my cake-decorating skills over the years, and that's a lot of fun for me. 

Thanks Jessie for a wonderful chat. I look forward to reading your next novel, whatever the genre might be.

For a chance to win Jessie's book, Power Up, enter the rafflecopter below.

To connect with Jessie, check out her website. She also has a free e-book available there!

https://www.jessiemattis.com/ 

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Becky Van Vleet-Children's Author

Hello Diamond Miners! Our author today is one after my own heart with her children's picture books. Let's get to know her! 

Meet Becky Van Vleet, award wining author of the adorable children’s book titled Talitha, the Traveling Skirt. Becky creates a wonderful tale of a skirt that travels through a family for seventy years. Her unique story telling with this book will continue to the next book in her “Traveling Series”, Harvey, the Traveling Harmonica. She has received the Purple Dragonfly Award and the EIE Award. 

Let’s get started Becky.  Can you tell us a little about yourself? 

I'm a sixty-something newbie at writing. I've been married to my college sweetheart for forty-six years. After raising four daughters (yes, my husband survived hormone hill), we are now enjoying life as empty nesters. Our eight grandchildren are an added blessing!

How long have you been writing?

I did very little writing in my younger years. I completed writing assignments in high school and college, and that was about it. However, when I started teaching writing in my sixth-grade classes in 2005, I felt the bite of a writing bug. I enjoyed teaching writing and I worked on my own writing skills with my students cheering me on. When I retired in 2016, I finally had the time to connect my thoughts to my keyboard at a very personal level for the first time. And I’ve been writing as a hobby ever since.

Your book Talitha, the Traveling Skirt sounds adorable. Do you want to write in any other genres? 

When I wrote my first four children’s picture books, I never imagined I’d hop around with genres. But I recently completed my first adult historical novel, and I surprised myself for how much I enjoyed writing at a whole new level. My debut novel is slated to be published in 2022. I’m currently working on a devotional book. And that’s a new path for sure. But I’m quite certain I will go back to children’s picture books!

Order your copy of Becky's book here

Writers always have favorite authors. Who is your favorite author?

Going back to my childhood, Beverly Cleary, author of the Henry and Ribsy and Ramona books, unquestionably advanced my love of reading and I truly admired her. I would save my babysitting money and purchase her books for fifty cents, and my childhood book collection grew. Today, Patricia Polacco is one of my top favorite children’s book authors. I love her writing style, and I really appreciate her talent for bringing her personal family stories to light in the forms of creative books for children to enjoy.

What is the hardest part of writing a book for you?

Hands down, the hardest part for me is coming up with ideas and then expounding upon them for creative and clever writing. When I read other authors’ books, I think to myself, how did they ever come up with that idea?

Do you have a favorite spot that helps your creative juices flow?

I’m as snug as a bug in my swivel chair in front of my desk and computer. No fancy answers here! I sip on a cup of tea and tell Alexa to play classical music, and I’m good to go.

Are you a night owl writer or an early bird or some bird in between?

I typically take a walk in the morning after breakfast, and then I dig into whatever writing project I’m working on. I’ll work more after lunch as well. Not much writing comes out of me in the evenings.

If you could talk to any author for a sit-down chat, who would it be?

I’ve love to sit down with children’s book author Patricia Polacco and bend her ear for how she comes up with her ideas for her personal family stories. I’d ask her for tips for how she develops the storyline and lessons for children to learn.

Tell us about any hobbies you have before we're done today. 

I enjoy gardening, oil painting, hiking and biking around in God's great playground He designed in Colorado. Oh, and I love to eat cotton candy! 

This has been fun, Becky! Thanks for sharing your new book series with us. I look forward to future installments of your "Traveling Series". 

Diamond Miners, be sure and visit Becky's website to read some of her personal stories on her blog and check out her other books that are coming soon. 

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Meet Christy Hoss-Children's Author and More

 

Hello everyone! Jill here, for my first interview for the Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction. I plan to focus on children’s Christian fiction and perhaps some children's nonfiction from time to time. As the children’s Christian market continues to grow, I look forward to bringing you some excellent examples of this exciting genre. 

 

Parents and grandparents everywhere see the necessity of presenting Christian books to children. If you’re one of them then you’ll love this author. For my debut author interview, I chose someone special to me, Christy Hoss. Christy is one of the editors who assisted me with my first chapter book. Her patience and perseverance gave me the confidence to keep working to make it the best book it could be. 

Welcome Christy to the Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction, and thank you for agreeing to visit with us today. We’re interested to learn more about you and how you began your writing journey. 

 The oldie but goodie question, what inspires you to write?

 

I was inspired by my second-grade teacher, Mrs. Olson. She had a writing contest, and I won first place with a story about my dog Noodles. I won a picture of my favorite animal, a giant panda, and encouraging words from Mrs. Olson: “You’re going to be a writer one day. That was 1972. I dedicated my second book, The Rubber BandStretches- Rocky’s Story, to her. I never forgot that dream she instilled in my young heart and mind. I began actively writing 15 years ago, attending writing conferences and learning the craft. 

To really answer the question, I’d say my characters inspire me to write. I love creating their unique situations and personalities. Each character will have their own book, and once I get started on writing one, I can’t stop. It’s addicting. 

I’m so blessed to have a very strong support group of writers to inspire me as well. One of our members has been writing for more than 40 years and is a New York Times bestselling author. 

 

Teachers play such an essential role in children’s writing success. I know you’re a former school teacher, as am I. Who knows, someday we may hear of former students who became writers!

How long have you been writing?

 

I feel like I have been writing since the moment I could hold a pencil in my hand. I used to write romance stories in fourth grade and would write them for my friends too. I’ve been actively pursuing my writing career for the past 15 years.

 

Do you only write children’s novels?

 

I am currently writing middle-grade novels for children, but I dabble in romance novellas and hope to have some of them published soon as it is a series. I wrote a romantic thriller, Palms of Death, and self-published it.

 

Who has been the most significant influence on you in your writing? 

I have had a few writing mentors from my experiences at Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference. Brandilyn Collins gave me the best advice, to put hooks on the end of every chapter no matter what genre you are writing. They keep the reader engaged. Mary Demuth was another mentor that taught me how to write a captivating first page to pull the perspective reader into your book. Francine Rivers is my current mentor and part of my writing critique group. She truly is a wonderful friend, woman of faith, and confidant that will always let you know what she thinks of your project. She loves my characters and already has them grown up and married. She also endorsed my first book- I am so blessed from God to have such a gift.

 

Who is your favorite author?

 

I love Francine Rivers and Brandilyn Collins.

 

What is the hardest part of writing a book for you? 

 

Putting my butt in the chair. I am highly distracted by the many projects around the house that call my name. If there is a puzzle lying around, begging me to finish it, I can’t help but put some pieces in it before I write.

 

Do you have any projects you’re working on right now?

 

I am writing the third book in The Rubber Band series called The Rubber Band Slingshot Summer. I’m also completing a romance novel, the first in the My Heart series called Fair Well My Heart. I am working on my personal memoir paralleling The Wizard of Oz to what has happened in my life. Last but not least, I am working with an illustrator for my picture book, My Question for Jesus.

 

                                                     

Wow! All of those projects sound exciting. I’ve learned writers usually have several projects going at one time, and you sure do have your hand in many different areas. I look forward to seeing these titles when they come out. 

 When you work on these projects, would you say you are a night owl, an early bird, or some bird in between?

 

 I used to be a night owl keeping my husband awake, but as I grow older and go to bed earlier, I am now a morning person.

 

With all these different interests, what is your all-time favorite book? 

Little Women.

 

If you could talk to any author for a sit-down chat, who would it be?

 

C.S. Lewis, because I love The Chronicles of Narnia. As a kid, I devoured his series.

 

When we worked together, I found out you had a rescue dog. I would love to hear more about him. How long have you had him and how does he help you? 

My dog Aiden is a service dog. I’ve had him for 4 years, and he is six years old. He comes from Dogs for Diabetics and smells my blood sugars dropping, alerting me before it becomes dangerous. He alerts by grabbing a padded bar that hangs from his collar. At home, he will go get my glucose tablets and glucose monitor when he senses I’m low. 

I do have two rescue dogs. 12 years ago, I fostered dogs for a rescue. The first one we fostered was a pit bull mix that survived distemper and had a lame leg and a nervous jerk that made him look like he was in constant seizure mode. His name is Sparta. He is now 12 years old, having learned to live with three legs and outgrew his nervous twitch. The second dog I’ve had since he was four weeks old. I bottle-fed him and three siblings until they were old enough to be adopted. He was the last one left, but I don’t think he wanted to leave us because the night before the rescue, he got sick from eating a carnation variation in my garden. In the middle of the night, I took him to the emergency vet. It cost $600 to get better. Since I paid the bill, I declared him mine. He looks like the Egyptian God Anubis, so that’s his official name, but we call him Newbie. He’s a terrier/chihuahua mix.

 

I’m amazed at the idea of a rescue dog helping someone with diabetes. I’m sure he’s one remarkable fella. It sounds like the other dogs have a place in your heart also.  

Since people love to hear about food, here are some quick and fun questions. 

 

Coffee drinker?

 

 I gave it up due to circumstances when I got Covid- Now, I drink tea and feel healthier.

 

Do you like to cook? 

 

Not at all.

 

What is your favorite dish to prepare? 

 

Popeye’s Lasagna

 

Favorite restaurant? 

 

Boudin – San Francisco

 

Strangest thing you’ve ever eaten?

 

Escargot on a cruise ship. Upon picking up the second snail, I noticed it still had its antennae, and all I could think of was the snails from my garden. I lost my appetite immediately and shared the rest of the dish with my older family members.

 

 

Thanks, Christy, for taking the time to share a little about yourself with us here at the Diamond Mine of Christian Fiction. It was a lot of fun learning about your writing and about Aiden! We look forward to all the wonderful projects you have planned for the future. 

To be entered for the newest book, The Rubber Band Stretches, Rocky's Story, leave a comment and your email address. You can also leave your name and email address on our contact form on the left if you prefer more security. One person will be selected for the giveaway. Please comment because we need five people to constitute an official giveaway. Thanks! 

The following are Christy's contact links if you'd like to know more about her and her amazing dog, Aiden.

christyhoss.com

 

https://www.facebook.com/christyhossauthor 

 

https://www.instagram.com/christyhossauthor/

 

https://www.elklakepublishinginc.com/christy-hoss/

 

https://www.pinterest.com/hosswriter/boards/

Debut Author, Jill Chapman

Howdy! I’m out on my porch with a brand-spanking, new author, Jill Chapman! Her debut book is soon to hit the shelves! She and I have spent some wonderful time on each other’s porches (Yes, literally! On our porches!) chatting about life, challenges, and writing! So wedge your rocker a little closer. You won’t want to miss this interview!

PT: Hello, Jill! Fancy meeting you here, on the porch of the Diamond Mine! I know you are over-the-moon excited to see your first book in print. Oh, the hours we’ve chatted about our writing dreams and publishing goals. So, let’s get to the nuts and bolts for the readers. Tell everyone what genre  you write in and why? Then, give us a little information about yourself.

JC: My first book contract is for a middle-grade chapter book, The Bomb Squad. This work of action/adventure fiction takes readers on a wild ride with a group of small-town boys as they solve a mystery. I’ve also self-published a nonfiction book for newbie homeschoolers. Both books are the first in a series.

PT: Ah, yes! A middle-grade chapter book. So many readers look for quality Christian books in this genre. And for those of you interested in homeschooling, I’ll put that cover and link up right about here:

Click here for purchase link.

PT: All right. Everyone is always interested in how an author came to be, well, an author. So how did you come to this place of publication? Why did you choose middle-grade fiction?

JC: I’ve been a writer since middle school. Recently, I began writing in the hopes of being published. My head and heart overflows with adventure stories for children, and with books of encouragement for adults.

PT: Now, I think you told me there might be more than one book eventually. And is your non-fiction book also part of a series? So what is the names of your books/titles of your series?

JC: The Bomb Squad, a mystery middle-grade chapter book, is Book One of The Bomb Squad Series. The second book is entitled, Off the Grid.

10 Common Mistakes Newbie Homeschoolers Make and how to avoid them-First book in Homeschool Hustle Series for parents new to home education. In the works for this series is: Journaling with Children and Silent Partner.

PT: Let’s get back to The Bomb Squad. How did you come up with the concept of this book/series?

JC: As a youngster, I loved mysteries and action books. The idea for The Bomb Squad came to me one day as I thought about Fourth of July celebrations throughout my life then I threw in a mystery to the story. I decided to write a story about a group of adventurous boys inspired by boys from my life, past and present.

PT: Buckle down that rocker, girl. It’s time for my answer quick session. Ready? Go: country girl/city slicker? Pets/no pets? Coffee, tea/something else? Desk writer/wherever? Favorites: color? Book? Author? Food? Vacation spot?

JC: Country girl all the way. Indy is my yellow lab who flunked out of obedience school. Not once but twice! He’s a lovable goof ball. Hot tea is my go-to drink in the winter. Iced tea in the summer. I write on my laptop where and when the mood strikes me. Sometimes I’m in my art room and some days I’m in the dining room with the ceiling fan going. When I need the sunlight to keep me motivated, I’m in the kitchen at our island. My favorite color has been red all my life. I love to watercolor paint and find my paintings tend toward blue and green though. Tacos, nachos, and a Pepsi make my day. I love the beach but surprised myself when we took a trip to Alaska and fell in love with it. I mean, head over heels in love with the wild landscape and the people.

My favorite book of all time is To Kill a Mockingbird. I’ve met some criticism for many reasons on this book but it speaks to me. I reread it almost every year. The courage and strong characters strengthens me deep down.

PT: What Bible verse is near and dear to your heart right now?

JC: This is a tough question to narrow down to one. I have so many that I lean on regularly.

Isaiah 43:19 See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. NIV

My writing isn’t new but seeking publication and becoming a professional at it is new. It seems like a wilderness to me at times because I have so many things to learn for this profession. Yet, God has already made a way and I know he’ll continue to lead me where I need to be. He continues to do new things in my life every year.

PT: Do your books reflect a timeless Bible concept/Bible verse?

JC: Wow! That’s another tough one. My desire for The Bomb Squad would be for youngsters to see loyalty in friendships, overcoming fear, to take challenges head on, and to learn to be a part of community. All of these things are some of what God desires from us. So that aspect would be what I hope children take away from my book.

PT: Why do you write?

JC: Writing is part of who I am. I’m a communicator and seek out ways to connect with people of all ages. Throughout my life, my writing takes on the form that I need at the time. Journaling, newsletters for the homeschool group, Sunday School lessons, Missionary Day programs, and now, writing for middle grade readers.

PT: What’s next on your book writing trail?

JC: I have an adult novel completed in rough draft. (very rough!) Another project in the building stage is a book for those struggling in their faith. The title of this project is Tell Yourself. I’m very excited about this project but it is still in the first stages.

PT: Tell 5 things about Jill Chapman that have nothing to do with writing.

JC:

1. My life centers around my family and my faith.

2. I love to eat chocolate, spicy foods, and visit with friends, not necessarily in that order.

3. In the past, my happy place was the beach but after our vacations to Alaska, I long to go back there again. (I still love the beach though! Alaska has beautiful coastlines but not like Florida)

4. I love to buy craft supplies and once in a while I actually use them. Painting with watercolors is also something I love to do. 

Isn't this awesome??!!

5. I would never wear shoes if I could get away with it.

BONUS!!! 6. I’m a huge advocate for those on the Autism Spectrum. Autism remains a challenge that many families face without being fully addressed and supported by communities. I would love to see more communities show support and offer services to those families who struggle. Awareness is wonderful but acceptance is key to their success in life.

PT: Oh, Jill, it’s been fabulous sitting on the porch chatting with you! I know our readers are thrilled to meet yet another new Christian author. We love our readers who continue to support Christian/Inspirational authors who fill the world with the Lord’s fiction to encourage, entertain, and comfort all of us on our life journeys. Thank you, Jill, for being with us this week!

JC: Thank you so much for having me!

If you want to connect with Jill and her exciting path of publication, you can find her at these links:

https://www.facebook.com/authorjillchapman

https://authorjillchapman.com/

https://www.instagram.com/author_jill_chapman/

The release date for The Bomb Squad is set for September 2021.

Jill is giving away her homeschool book, 10 Common Mistakes Newbie Homschoolers Make: and how to avoid them to one lucky person who leaves a comment and email (you can always leave your email on the contact form.) Thanks so much for joining us!

***

Jill resides in Southern Indiana with her husband of forty-two years. They enjoy their country lifestyle and visit with their children and grandchildren as often as life allows. Her life centers around her family and her yellow lab, Indy. She enjoys being an avid movie watcher, loves Mexican cuisine and dabbles in watercolor painting.

Jill also hosts The Mighty Pen, an eclectic writer’s group for people in various stages of their writing endeavors.

Her interest in books began in my childhood, where reading provided a wonderful outlet for her wild imagination. She loves to tell stories about her life experiences with humor mixed in to convey the sense of adventure she feels every day. Her life is like a good plate of nachos, a tiny kick of spice, and a whole lotta cheese.

***

Speaking of new releases, mine is coming out on June 1st! The Misfit Bride is the first of my newest Inspirational Historical Series, Society of Outcasts. Stay tuned for a cover reveal! Please don't miss any updates and sign up for my newsletter now! peggytrotter.com

Second Chances with Ada Brownell

Second Chances: Ada Brownell on the Diamond Mine

Please join me and welcome Ada Brownell to the Diamond Mine! She's giving away a copy of her latest release, The Lady Fugitive. See details following the interview. Well, come on, everyone...gather round. I have coffee and cookies...somewhere. Oh, well, let's get started!

--------------------------------------------------------------

Welcome to the Mine, Ada. I’m so glad you’re here. I hear you have a new book? Can you tell us a little about it?

The book is The Lady Fugitive. Jenny Parks, my main character materialized from memories of my maternal grandmother, whom some relatives say had to run from an abusive uncle, a judge.

Grandma, as is Jenny, was a talented orphan who graduated from high school at 16 in about 1896 with a teaching certificate.  She was an elocutionist and performed her poems and songs on stage in Pueblo, Colo.

The leading man, William O’Casey, has similarities to Grandpa. Grandpa died before I was born, but I heard how he used to travel around the country showing one of the first Passion of the Christ picture shows. My brother has the reel. Grandpa’s father was murdered, as William’s was.

That’s so amazing. What a cool story! Well, not the murdered part…although it makes for great drama. In the plot, Ada! I’ll take my foot out of my mouth now.

Back to the book, what inspired you to write it?

I’ve wanted to write this novel for decades. I spent a big chunk of my life as a newspaper reporter, and wrote for Christian publications since my teens. After I retired from The Pueblo Chieftian I joined American Christian Fiction Writers. I took the courses that come with membership. I joined critique groups. I was active on the loop where seasoned writers share vital information and tricks of the trade. I wrote a teen novel, The Castle and the Catapult.

Then I joined ACFW’s Novel Track where you write as fast as you can without stopping to change anything or edit.  You keep going until you reach the end. I had about 7,000 words to begin with, and in five weeks I had 80,000 words and The End. It took another year or more to edit it.

The book now has more than 30 reviews, a majority 5-star.

Now that’s quite the accomplishment. Do you have a favorite scene or part of the book? If so, can we get a glimpse?

After peeking in a dirty window and seeing an empty room, Jenny opened the rickety door. Her footsteps echoed on the crude wood floors. Emptiness, dust, and cobwebs filled the place. She took a stick and tore webs away as she walked.

A rumpled blanket wiggled on the bed. “Perhaps we have a kitty here.” She lifted the corner. A soft rattling noise erupted and a snake shot toward her. It grazed her sleeve as she jumped back, the blanket still in her hand. The reptile flopped on the dirty floor where it coiled. She threw the blanket on it.

Jumping on top of the bed, screams came from Jenny’s mouth like blasts of dynamite from a mine. Over and over she screamed. Then the snake’s head emerged at the edge of the blanket.

"Oh, God, help me!” The prayer pulsed through her as her thumping heart made her head ache.

The reptile slithered out from under the cloth. The head hovered first this way and that, its tail jiggling the rattles. She gasped for breath and shrieked again. She’d seen snakes climb poles. He might be up the bedpost any minute.

Loud footsteps shook the old house. Jenny’s scream died in her mouth. An explosion and flash of fire caused Jenny to almost jump out of her boots. Pain pierced her ears. For a moment, everything went black. She leaned against the wall, and then her vision returned.

The rattlesnake was dead—shot through the head.

The man hovered beside her. Curly reddish-brown hair stuck out beneath his cowboy hat.

Still dizzy and shaking so much she could barely stand, she started to fall.

He grabbed her, pulled her off the bed into his arms, and stepped away from the rattler. “Are you all right, ma’am? I heard you screaming clear up on the road.”

Ohhh…wow. Can you tell me more? No, wait…let’s get back to the interview first. What made you want to write books?

The Lord set my soul on fire. I was the youth leader and started writing youth ideas for a leaders’ magazine at age 15, and soon sold articles to Christian publications. I went into the news business about five years later.  My first book, Confessions of a Pentecostal, was published in 1978 by the Assemblies of God. My first journalist work was in the 1960s, I took out nearly 20 years to stay home with children and then earned my journalism degree and was hired again. All the while I freelanced for Christian publications.

That’s amazing. I don’t know if I could write for a newspaper. It has to be hard. I’m glad you’re in the novel writing business now, though. Do you have a pearl of wisdom for those just starting out? What about those struggling along the way?

My advice to a Christian writer is to draw close to God, study the Word, and pray for wisdom and guidance. Then learn writing techniques and THINK. Look at everything from a different angle. Write down your ideas, study people, make a plan and write.

If one word could describe you, what would it be? Why?

Worker. I take seriously the scripture, “Whatever you hand finds to do, do it with all your might; for there is no work or device, or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10)

Jesus said, “As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.” (John 9:4) Scripture repeatedly warns sluggards.

Writers or any Christian should work to support himself and family, but also do the work that doesn’t pay in money, such as at home. Go the second mile for others, and be a witness through words and actions.

Whoa, that hit home for me. It seems as if there’s not enough time in a day. Not so much laziness as poor time management. I definitely need to work on that. My husband would appreciate it, I’m sure. Thanks for the reminder, Ada. We need it.

Back to writing and reading…if you could pick three authors from the crowd, who would they be and why?

There are so many authors that I’ve reviewed books for that are superb writers that I love, but if I must share here are a few.

Josh McDowell

Non-fiction: Josh McDowell author of Evidence that Demands a Verdict; Ralph Riggs, theologian; Dr. Donald F. Johns, author of the Sunday school youth teachers quarterly, “The Bible and Science,” that I taught in 1963. He was way ahead of his time, and I’ve used what I learned from him many times. I love the truths and solid doctrine presented by all these authors.

Frank Peretti

Fiction: Frank Peretti and the The Nightmare Academy (an unusual YA book on truth); Catherine Palmer and her Prairie Rose Trilogy, Melanie Dickerson, author of The Merchant’s Daughter; and there are many other fiction authors I love. My favorite genre is inspirational historical romance in a story with substance.

Rebecca McClanahan

On Writing: Word Painting by Rebecca McClanahan. I should also mention Terri Main, an ACFW member, who has wonderful writing courses for $5.

For many, writing’s a lonely trek…for a short time. Soon, you realize the path’s far easier with a little bit of help. Who do you give the most credit in your writing journey and why?

Dick Champion who edited youth magazines and Robert C. Cunningham who edited The Pentecostal Evangel for years. They showed me respect, even when I was in my teens, and if I had an article or story that almost fit, they’d write and tell me to shorten it, add another illustration, or that sort of thing. I did the work the same day and sent it back and they bought it. Editors don’t have time for that now.

They sound like a couple of great men. In some ways, your writing life's been a story of second chances and hard work. Although times have changed, writing's stayed the same. Maybe not styles, or even form, but the words get on the page the same way. From a writer.

I can't help it. I need to know more about your story. Do you have a funny part of The Lady Fugitive to share with the readers before you leave? (Stop it, everyone. I can hear the giggling. I can always unplug the coffee pot. Better yet, no more chocolate chip cookies for you.)

Maude stood on the edge of the pasture, bellowing so loud her belly convulsed with the exertion. Jenny grabbed a bucket. After three years singing, reciting poetry, and performing on stage along with her studies, she hadn’t done much milking. But surely she didn’t forget how.

She rinsed the milk bucket by the windmill. She was ready.

Jenny herded Maude into the homemade stanchion that kept the cow’s head immobile, but allowed her to eat. After forking more hay into the feeding trough, Jenny found a little stool and placed it beside the black-and-white spotted cow.

To relax the animal, she rubbed the bristly hair on her neck and along the backbone. Then she positioned the stool. In response, the cow lifted her tail and splat! A big cow pie landed behind Maude, splattering up her legs.

Jenny nearly gagged. Her dizziness and nausea didn’t need that smell! She held her nose and considered holding her breath

Adjusting the three-legged stool a little, she sat and promptly toppled backward. How could a man sit on a seat so dinky? Certainly, her backside wasn’t that big.

She replaced the stool and milk bucket and tried again. With the seat finally firm and settled, she reached for two of the four teats. Maude raised her hind foot and kicked. There went the milk bucket. The thing, banging into posts along the way, rolled and rattled halfway across the barn floor.

Hold your temper, Maude. Just for that, you can be uncomfortable a little longer. I’m not going to drink dirty milk. Jenny stomped to the windmill to rewash the bucket.

How adorable! I’ve never milked a cow before, but I can see it now. I can’t stop laughing. Thanks for another glance into your book. That was great. Now that you’ve blessed us, can you tell how the Lord blessed you with this book?

I have a good publisher (Elk Lake, a division of Book Club Network). I’ve had super reviews, amazing feedback from readers, and satisfaction that I finally wrote it. The greatest contentment is that it’s squeaky clean and spiritually uplifting.

Thank you for being a part of the Diamond Mine, Ada. You are a true blessing. Oh, one last question! Do you have anything in the works?

I have over 10,000 words on a sequel that has interesting characters, too, and I’m working on a non-fiction book, Common Sense, Propaganda (Spin) and Faith, almost ready to be published.

Well then, I can’t wait for what comes next! Come and get the rest of the cookies!

GIVEAWAY ON THE DIAMOND MINE!

LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN

DRAWING ON 3/11/2015

(one winner by random draw selected from commenters)

(Rough Diamond Writers are ineligible to participate in giveaway)

About the Book:

How does a respected elocutionist become a face on a wanted poster?

Jenny Louise Parks escapes from the coal bin, and her abusive uncle offers a handsome reward for her return. Because he is a judge, he will find her or he won’t inherit her parents’ ranch.

Determination to remain free grips Jenny, especially after she meets William and there’s a hint of romance. But while peddling household goods and showing a Passion of the Christ moving picture, he discovers his father’s brutal murder.

Will Jenny avoid the bounty hunters? Can she forgive the person who turns her in? Will she find peace, joy and love?

Get it on Ada Brownell’s author page https://www.amazon.com/author/adabrownell or at buff.ly/L8up6E

About the Author:

Ada Brownell

Ada Brownell, a devoted Bible student, has written for Christian publications since age 15 and spent much of her life as a reporter for The Pueblo Chieftain in Colo. She also is a veteran youth Christian education teacher. After moving to Missouri in her retirement, she continues to write books, free lance for Sunday school papers, Christian magazines, write op-ed pieces for newspapers, and blogs with stick-to-your-soul encouragement. She is a member of Ozarks Chapter of American Christian Writers and American Christian Fiction Writers. She and her husband have five children, one in heaven, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Blog: http://inkfromanearthenvessel.blogspot.com Stick-to-Your-Soul Encouragement

Ada Brownell Amazon Author page http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B001KJ2C06