Haley

Haley is my hero...

Stolen Christmas

What happens when you’re so poor you have to steal your Christmas presents? Have you ever taken a punch in the face as your Christmas gift to the girl you love? Or saved Christmas while hunting were-weevils?

The award-winning stories from seventeen LDS authors featured in Stolen Christmas are the best of the best from the LDS Publisher Christmas Story Contests. From Christmases past, to present, to future; from sweet and inspirational, to zany and delightful—there’s a story for everyone in this eclectic collection. I'm excited and honored to have one of my short stories included.

Please visit LDS Publisher's blog to pre-order your copy here.

What Are You Thinking? is a Finalist!

Valerie and I just received word that What Are You Thinking? has been chosen as a finalist in the 2009 National Best Books Awards. According to a press release winners and finalists traversed the publishing landscape: Simon & Schuster, Penguin, W.W. Norton, Revell, McGraw-Hill, Thomas Nelson, American Cancer Society, and many more.

Finalists and winners in the competition will garner national media coverage for the upcoming holiday retail season.

We are so excited!

Author Interview: Gale Sears

Gale Sears

Website www.galesears.com

Blog www.galesears.blogspot.com

Gale, who are you as a person versus an author?

Like everyone else I’m a lot of different things, but I think foremost I’m a spiritual person. Growing up in a Christian home, I remember feeling comfortable with intangible realities, and feeling drawn to the spiritual story. I’m also deeply touched by nature: mountains, trees, flowers, oceans, sky, sunsets, sunrises, animals.

I love to travel. I love to experience new places, and meet people from varied backgrounds.

I love to cook, but I’m not very creative or brave. Untried recipes scare me.

I’m very fond of my family. I love them in any and every condition.

I love my friends.

I love to laugh.

I love the concept of giving up old ways of thinking if they don’t work and moving on.

I love that learning continues to the grave and then on into the eternities. Perhaps I’ll learn how to love math in the hereafter.

What genre(s) do you write in?

I write historical fiction, slice of life novels, and children’s books.

Do you seek to educate or entertain?

Both! I’ve spent years as a teacher, years as an actress, years as a stage director, and years as a playwright. I’ve also spent my life in crazy antics that make people laugh. (Well…my sister thinks I’m hilarious)

I craft my books to be good stories, but I also want them to evoke deeper thought and feeling.

Where do you write your best stuff, and when?

I have to have quiet when I write. Mornings are my most creative times, but if I have good dark chocolate on hand, I can write well into the night.

I try and discipline myself to write every day, at least an hour or two. If I’m in the middle of a book I’m normally in the chair five to six hours a day.

Why do you write?

I like to tell stories. I grew up in the enchantment of Lake Tahoe, and I think the surroundings just flowed into my little heart and made me acutely aware of sights, sounds, smells, and magic. I loved writing stories at a young age. At eight I remember making nests for myself which I’d stock with a supply of pencils, crayons, and paper. I’d spend hours drawing and writing. It soon became evident that I was not a Monet, but more a Mark Twain.

I also write because I believe there are words and stories that can inform and inspire. I love the English language; the power of the written word. I scored high on my SAT’s in English, but low in…can you guess? Yep. Math.

What do you love to read?

Historical fiction, biographies, autobiographies, LDS fiction, a Sue Grafton mystery now and then, Scriptures, Ellis Peters, the classics, CS Lewis, a fantasy now and then, slice of life novels, children’s books, poetry, plays, joke books…

Vanilla or chocolate?

As mentioned above…chocolate. I love dark chocolate. Have you ever had Belgian chocolate? The first time I had Belgian chocolate I thought I’d died and gone to heaven. There will be chocolate in heaven, I’m sure of it. Let’s see, how many more times can I write chocolate? Chocolate…chocolate…chocolate.

What is your preferred manner of writing?

I write pencil on paper and then transfer the work to my PC. I do my editing on the computer, but the original flow of the story comes out through the lead of the pencil.

What is your current book?

My latest book on the shelves is entitled, The Route. It is a novel based on my experiences delivering meals-on-wheels to a cast of zany, inspiring, and delightful older folks. It lets us take a sneak peak at the wonders to be cherished, and the lessons to be learned along life’s highway.

Will people’s lives be changed or enriched by reading it?

My life was changed by the amazing people on my route, and I believe much of that magic jumped into the pages of the book.

One piece of advice/wisdom for the world?

Embrace change. Realize there is a God and you’re not it. One day at a time.

Dogs or cats?

Sorry cat lovers, but my answer is dogs. I have a cherished photo of me at age three with my arm around the shoulder of our black cocker spaniel dog, Eightball. I was obviously destined to love dogs.

What do you want to be remembered for, or as?

I want to be remembered as a good friend.

Author Interview: GG Vandagriff

G.G. Vandagriff

Her website here

She blogs here

GG, who are you as a person versus an author?

GG My kids are raised, and I have chosen to spend my life as the writer I always wanted to be. I also love to travel, and in researching an upcoming series (The Crazy Ladies of Oakwood) I will be traveling to four of my favorite places on earth: Florence (this October), the Greek Isles, Provence, and the Scottish Highlands. This is providing the earth holds together. Aside from being a writer, I am a mother of grown children, a grandmother, a wife of an extraordinary man, and a passionate Latter-day Saint.

What genre(s) do you write in?

G.G.: I have written mostly mysteries in the past: Cankered Roots, Of Deadly Descent, Tangled Roots, Poisoned Pedigree, The Hidden Branch, and The Arthurian Omen. (see www.ggvandagriff.com and www.arthurianomen.com) I call these my "potato chip books." We all love and need potato chip books at times. But my serious novel "The Last Waltz,"(www.last-waltz.com) represents the direction I would like to go in now—women's fiction. There will always be romance in my books, but it will be true romance, even though it may take a lifetime to achieve. DB has my "Only Bright Thing," right now, which I hope they will publish next spring—another woman's novel with romance, but it is not a romance, if you get my drift. I also write non-fiction, primarily my twice-monthly column for Meridian. However, I am currently working on a gift book: Embracing Abundance, which I hope to publish next year. I already have two non-fiction books: Voices in Your Blood: Discovering Identity Through Family History and Deliverance from Depression: Finding Hope and Healing through the Atonement of Christ.(www.deliverance-depression.com)

Do you seek to educate or entertain?

GG: Both. All the books that I have written since my miraculous healing three years ago contain my testimony of the atonement somewhere in the story.

Where do you write your best stuff, and when?

G.G.: I write daily for most of the day. Right now, I am trying to promote two books and write two others, so it is very demanding and difficult work. I have a lovely office overlooking the Utah Valley. It is painted cranberry, and I have pictures of the Savior and my family all around me, as well as copies my husband framed of each of my books. In front of my nose, just behind my computer screen is a large sign: "Life is God's Novel, Let Him write it."

Why do you write?

GG: I have been writing since before I could write. I used to draw picture books when I was little. I have been creating alternative realities ever since I can remember. It was a long time before I realized everyone didn't do this. Now I write because I want to have my readers experience, through my stories, the power of real love to change peoples' hearts.

Vanilla or chocolate?

GG: Chocolate definitely, and the darker the better.

Laptop, PC, Mac, longhand, other? Why?

GG: I have a PC with a large flat screen and an ergonomic keyboard. I also just purchased a netbook which I take with me on my travels or when I want to sit in my zero gravity chair and rest my back, but continue working. The why is just that we've always been a PC family.

What do you like to read?

G.G.: It depends on my mood and how hard I've been working and what I have been working on. I like to read things that will bleed into my writing consciousness. So when I am writing serious fiction, I read serious fiction. When I am writing fun stuff, I read fun stuff. When I'm writing spiritual stuff, I read the scriptures and conference talks almost exclusively. Sometimes, I must confess, I'm too tired to read, and simply veg out watching TV—mostly classic movies from Netflix.

What is your current book?

GG: I have two this year. The Last Waltz (Shadow Mountain, www.last-waltz.com) has been compared by four reviewers to Gone with the Wind. It is a romance that is not according to formula, set in a time and place most Americans know very little about—Vienna, 1913-1938. Its flawed characters are ultimately redeemed by love. People should read this to understand the fragile nature of democracy and some surprising truths about love.

The Hidden Branch(Deseret Book, www.ggvandagriff.com) is a serio-comic mystery, featuring my mischievous sleuths: Alex and Briggie who own a genealogy research company. This time, they are working with a quirky large family of Armenian-Americans among the surfers of Huntington Beach. They suspect one of them of murder, of course. Alex experiences a crisis in her faith and in her love life, while Briggie (a grandmother of nine) buys a wetsuit and learns to boogie board. Unfortunately, she also has several brushes with the law. People should read this for entertainment, and to understand the Lord's prescription for a sound, Christ-centered marriage.

One piece of advice/wisdom for the world?

GG: Mosiah 3:19.

Dogs or cats?

Dachshunds

What do you want to be remembered for, or as?

GG: A valiant servant and witness of the Lord Jesus Christ.

GG Vandagriff's novel of mystery, romance, and comedy, The Hidden Branch, will be released on or before September 16th. Set in Huntington Beach, CA, the book is the fifth in the Alex and Briggie Mystery Series, but can also be read as an introduction to the series. For more information please see: www.ggvandagriff.com

From now now until September 17th anyone who buys the book on line or in a store will qualify for an Alex and Briggie gift package and a chance to win an autographed set of the entire series. Simply e-mail GG your name and address (ggvan1@gmail.com ) and tell her where you bought the book.

Author Interview: Shaunda Wenger

Shaunda Wenger

She blogs here.


Shaunda, who are you as a person, versus an author?

I'm a mother, a book-lover, a friend, a cook, a teacher, a gardener, an athlete, a closet artist ... (although artist is a stretch--I like paper, and love the idea of putting something on it, whether that be words or pictures). When my children are grown I imagine I'll continue with everything I do now, although I'll have more time to do it. New and unusual things always interest me, so I imagine I'll put more time into exploring, both locally and globally.

What genre(s) do you write in?

I started with cookbooks--a literary one I wrote with Janet Kay Jensen, called The Book Lover's Cookbook, Recipes Inspired by Celebrated Works of Literature and the Passages That Feature Them (Ballantine), which combined my love for books and food. We couldn't have been more pleased to see this book in print. Because creating new dishes is an ongoing pastime, I hope to see more cookbook projects published in the future, so stay tuned! However, I'd started writing for children a few years before The Book Lover's Cookbook came to fruition, so I returned to writing children's fiction after the cookbook was out.

My favorite genres to write in are middle grade and picture book. However, I've also dipped in to chick-lit when I'm looking for a fun break.

With middle-grade, I enjoy creating characters with eccentric senses of humor or outlooks, given the situations I put them in. I also love writing picture books, but they are definitely a challenge to write well for today's market. Picture books being published today are getting shorter and shorter. They're great when the concept works, but I wonder if we're not selling children short by feeding into the idea that their attention can't be held for long durations.... Really? I've seen them sit for long periods of time for story-tellers who love the stories they're telling. The children respond by listening intently, and wanting more when the story ends. They respond because they know that story-teller is there for them, sharing something special. I worry society may be dropping--or losing out on--the chance to nuture "a love of story" in today's children. My love of reading wasn't fostered with short picture books. We owned ver y few--not for lack of want, but for lack of budget. Yet, my mother did sit with my brother and I and read aloud from a single large book filled with classic stories--stories that would be considered too long by today's standards.

Do you seek to educate or entertain?

It depends. For picture books, I write solely for entertainment. For novels, I also write to entertain, but I always get excited when I can weave in interesting facts or tidbits that readers might not otherwise know. On the whole, my hope is for readers to walk away feeling inspired to overcome their own obstacles after experiencing the stories of my characters.

Where do you write your best stuff, and when?

I write best in my truck (parked, of course!), when I've got a snippet of free time between chauffeuring kids from place to place. Because their schedule is fairly regular from season to season, my free time in the driver's seat goes by a pretty good schedule. I actually like working in the truck, because once I pull out the lap-top, there's not much else to focus on, other than what's on the screen. But I do have an office, and it works well for providing space for writing in the morning.

Why do you write?

I always knew I loved to write. One of my favorite classes in college was a writing class, and that professor had pulled me aside to see if I might want to pursue it more seriously. But for me, at that point, I considered it a hobby, and I was on-track for graduation with a science degree, which would lead me to a practical, if not interesting career. It wasn't until after my first child was born, when I was staying at home, wondering what I might do with my "free-time" outside of being a full-time mother, that I decided I'd write. Once I opened myself up to the craft, I couldn't stop.

What do you love to read?

Middle-grade and YA, whether it be contemporary, historical, humorous, or fantasy. I love reading aloud with my younger sons, and sharing books with my daugther.

Vanilla or chocolate?

Definitely vanilla.

Laptop, PC, Mac, longhand, other? Why?

I prefer longhand when I'm fleshing out new ideas. The only problem is that the pen never seems to keep up with my thoughts, so much so, that for all the speedy scrabbling, sometimes I can't read what I wrote--nor do I remember what was intended, which is troubling for another reason I'd rather not think about....Dementia, anyone? ;)

What is your current book?

My current book remains The Book Lover's Cookbook, which is geared to entice people to the library after sampling good food in the kitchen. The four books I published with Benchmark Education (Caterpillar Can't Wait!, How Does a Butterfly Grow?, How Many Muffins?, and The Farm Stand Mystery) are designed to be sold to schools, and thus, are not available to the general market.

I do hope to place a historical cookbook online soon. It's based on the cookery journal of my great-grandmother who boarded railroad workers at her home in the early 1900s in Avis, Pennsylvania. She not only housed the workers, but fed them, recording her favorite recipes--and those she sought to perfect--in her journal. Avis was home to a series of railroad machine shops, which fixed and maintained the engines. My great grandfather managed the shops. All of the recipes and tidbits from the journal are absolutely delightful. I really look forward to sharing this gem. It's nearly ready, so keep an eye out for it.

Rick Walton and I also have plans for a fun children's cookbook in the works. Fingers are crossed for this one!

As for my novels and picture books, I'm currently submitting like many others, hoping to find a bit of luck. I've come close a few times, which keeps me working for and chasing the dream.

One piece of advice/wisdom for the world?

Keep learning, keep sharing, keep yourself open to possiblities--and when they arrive, take them, and repeat.

Dogs or cats?

Can I say horses? I own cats, but I grew up riding horses.

What do you want to be remembered for, or as?

I just want to be remembered for always doing and giving my best.

Author Interview: Michele Ashman Bell

Michele Ashman Bell

She blogs here

Her website is here

Michele, who are you as a person versus an author?

I love this question! My greatest passion in life is my husband and children. They easily consume 90% of my time, which only leaves 10% for the other stuff. I have a few outside interests and passions that people might not know about me. One, is that I'm an aerobics instructor (current term for this is Group Fitness Instructor). I have been teaching since 1982. That is twenty seven-years! I still love it and hope to teach another twenty-seven. The people in my class and I figured we would sweat and grow old together. I'm also a freak about Broadway shows. I've seen 18 thus far and dream about the day I write something that will be on Broadway. (Far-fetched, I know, but I can dream, can't I?) I absolutely love to travel and experience new cultures. People and places fascinate me. I also am a huge Doris Day fan and have collected every one of her movies. I would love to meet her someday. Anyone have any connections?

What genre(s) do you write in?

Most of my books are Women's Fiction. I love to write stories about characters who face difficult situations and overcome them and become strong in the process. Characters who really inspire people. I also have written for the YA and Children's market and hope to do more Children's books. And I am crazy about Christmas and have several booklets and books around this theme. I'm most proud of "A Candle in the Window" a true story based on my Grandma Ashman who just turned 100 years old this month!

Do you seek to educate or entertain?

Mostly entertain. I write stories about relationships and life experiences. However, people who read my books will learn and grow along with the characters. I do tons of research so readers are definitely going to learn about different places and cultures and careers through my stories.

Where do you write your best stuff, and when?

Oh man, I wish I had a good answer for this. I'm a morning writing person. I've learned if I don't get my writing in first thing I usually don't get around to it the rest of the day. I try and write every day, even if it's only for an hour. Depending on how hectic life is at the moment I can get a lot done in a short amount of time, but I can also sit and stare at the computer for an hour. I have an office in my basement that is quiet and secluded and doesn't have a lot of distractions, which is good since I tend to get distracted easily.

Why do you write?

I have always loved to read. The magical moment for me came in third grade when my teacher read to our class the book, "My Father's Dragon." This book was full of fun and imagination and totally carried me away. I became a reading fanatic. At that time I was a huge Laura Ingalls Wilder fan and read her whole series of books over and over from start to finish. In high school I read romances and would hide them inside my text books while I was in class. And yes, I got busted many times and got in trouble. I also started keeping a journal in 8th grade and found that pouring my heart out on paper was very therapeutic and enjoyable for me. Combining the love of books and of writing my feelings was the catalyst that created my desire to write when I was twenty-six. I read a really bad short-story in "Good Housekeeping" and said, "I could write better than this!" That was the beginning.

What do you love to read?

I love biographies. They are my favorite. I really enjoy learning about people and real life drama. Three of my favorites; Not Without My Daughter, Mutant Message Down Under and Follow the River (not completely a biography, but based on a true story.) I also love romantic suspense. I think that is the perfect combination for a plot. The book, "Romancing the Stone" is a great combination of romance, suspense and comedy.

Vanilla or chocolate?

Vanilla. I love white chocolate! But after I turned 40 I developed a serious craving for regular chocolate. I've never been known to turn down any kind of chocolate. Especially if it's German or Swiss.

Laptop, PC, Mac, longhand, other?

I am most comfortable writing on my PC. I outline in longhand first, then type it onto my computer, print it out, then begin writing. I have to revamp my outline several times during the course of writing a book because my characters tend to develop minds of their own.

What is your current book?

My most current release is called "A Modest Proposal" which is the first book in the "Butterfly Box" series. It's the story of five girls who experience the death of their friend on the day of high school graduation. They create a memory box called the "Butterfly Box" and have a yearly reunion. Each year the box is passed to one of the girls and is believed to bring them good luck and blessings. "A Modest Proposal" is about Lauryn, who is a clothes designer in New York City and wants to design modesty clothing for women. Her efforts are thwarted by a designer from Hungary, Laszlo Molnar, who tries to sabotage her collection. It's a book about fighting for what you believe in and working hard to make dreams come true. I love the message of inspiration it gives for women of all ages to go out and make a difference in the world.

One piece of advice/wisdom for the world?

Sheesh! No pressure there. Well, I live my life by the rule that if you want something badly enough and you are willing to work hard enough and never give up you can make anything happen. It took me ten years to get published. I'm living proof that it works.I've taught this philosophy to my children and my greatest joy is watching them make their dreams come true.

Dogs or cats?

My daughter has asthma so neither, but if I could have a pet it would be a dog.

What do you want to be remembered for, or as?

Mostly for being a devoted wife and mother. But I also hope people say that I touched lives through service and through my writing. I probably won't change the world but I'm trying to make a difference in my corner of it.

I hope people will visit my web-site at www.micheleashmanbell.com and my blog at http://micheleabell.blogspot.com. Or they can email me at micheleabell@gmail.com.

--Michele Ashman Bell author of, "A Modest Proposal" YA and Children's book reviewer for Meridian Magazine

Author Interview: Rebecca Talley

For her website click here
She blogs here

Rebecca, who are you as a person versus an author?

All I've ever aspired to be is a wife and mom. My greatest goal in this life is to stand in the celestial room of the temple with all of my kids there. I love being married and being a mom. I'm not so crazy about booger noses and sticky Kool-Aid messes on the floor, but I love watching my kids grow, I love to hear them bear their testimonies, I love to see them develop their talents, I love to listen to their questions.

I also love to teach. My favorite callings in the Church have been teaching, especially in Primary. I absolutely loved serving as the Primary chorister. It was so much fun.

I enjoy knitting, playing the piano, and redecorating the house, but have given most of that up in pursuit of writing.

I do yearn for a clean house and an organized basement so I can actually find my food storage (I know it’s down there somewhere).

After my kids are raised, I hope to serve a mission with my husband, travel to research my ancestors, and serve in the temple. Since I have a 3-year-old, that might be quite a few years down the road.

What genre(s) do you write in?

Mainly, I've written for children. All of my magazine stories have been targeted at children. I wrote a children’s picture book, “Grasshopper Pie” (WindRiver 2003), and I’ve graduated from the Institute of Children’s Literature.

I also write LDS romance and LDS women's fiction.

Do you seek to educate or entertain?

Probably a little of both. I think all good stories entertain, but the best ones also teach us a little about life and about ourselves. Through books, we can explore so much and learn so many things. I hope that my stories entertain, but also teach a little about how I view life and the world around me.

Where do you write your best stuff, and when?

I try to write every day, usually in the afternoon while my youngest sleeps, after all the chores are done. But, some days I just write whenever I get the chance. My life can be crazy at times so I'm always thankful for any time I have to write.

Why do you write?

I've always loved language and how words sound. I love to string together sentences and use different words. I write because it’s my way of creatively expressing what’s in my head and in my heart (the world is grateful that I don’t try to express myself through singing). I love to see a story take shape and share my stories with others.

Vanilla or chocolate?

Chocolate--the darker, the better.

Laptop, PC, Mac, longhand, other? Why?

I write on a laptop. Unfortunately, my youngest child has learned how to delete my writing and reboot my laptop. He has even figured out how to get past my password protection.
I like that my laptop allows me more opportunities to write because it's so versatile. However, I also use a notebook to write longhand because I love the feel of the pen in my fingers and the smoothness under my hand as it moves across the paper. It's very tactile and I like that.

What do you love to read?

I read LDS fiction and children's books. I shy away from national releases because I'm afraid they will have foul language and/or inappropriate scenes. If I don’t want my kids to read a book, I won’t read it either. The books I read have to be suitable for my kids to read. I loved, "Stargirl," by Jerry Spinelli and "Princess Academy," by Shannon Hale.

What is your current book?

My current book is Altared Plans. Here’s the tagline, “Abandoned at the altar, Caitlyn vows to never love again. Will Travis change her mind or will it be déjà vu?” The story chronicles Caitlyn’s reentry into dating life at BYU. It’s a romantic comedy that is a feel-good, escape-at-the-end-of-a-long-day kind of book.

One piece of advice/wisdom for the world?

Keeping the commandments of God is the only way to find true peace and joy in this life.

Dogs or cats?

Cats. My mother gave my grandparents a Siamese cat shortly before she passed away. I lived with my grandparents after my mother’s death and spent a lot of time with that cat. I was devastated when he died in my arms because he was a connection to my mom. I guess I’ll always have a soft spot for cats.

What do you want to be remembered for, or as?

I want to be remembered as a faithful member of the Church and as a devoted wife and mother. Having an eternal family is the very most important thing to me. I truly believe the words of David O. McKay when he said, “No other success can compensate for failure in the home.” I want to raise strong, faithful, committed children who will marry in the temple and, in turn, raise their own children in the gospel.

Author Interview: Anne Bradshaw

Anne Bradshaw

Her website is here

She blogs here

Anne, who are you as a person versus an author? What is your passion and what are your hobbies? Are you an aspiring gourmet chef or a budding chicken farmer? Do you yearn to travel the world or become a hermit when your kids are raised?

My inner self is quiet, shy, and not too confident. It’s taken many years to reach a point where I can pretend a confidence that’s not entirely real. It has taken much practice, prayer, and pushing to reach the stage where I can speak in front of people and not look terrified (I hope). I’m much happier alone in my office, writing, and communicating by email.

My hobbies include vegetable and herb gardening, photography, and getting lost in great books. I’m a lousy cook, but yes, chicken farming appeals. Years ago in England, we reared goats, chickens, and bees, and I really enjoyed those times. As for travel, if it weren’t for children and grandchildren spread around the country, I’d be perfectly happy staying home. Travel seems such a huge, uncomfortable thing these days, but it has to be done, unfortunately for me.

What genre(s) do you write in?

I’ve tried my hand at several—YA mystery suspense, adult fiction, poetry, non-Fiction, and screenwriting.

Do you seek to educate or entertain?

I hope my work does both these things. I know I love to learn something new whenever I read a good book. But I hope the educational bits are woven in enough so they don’t feel like “telling.”

Where do you write your best stuff, and when?

I’m an early morning person and get most of my writing done between 5:30 AM and noon, though most days I keep going long beyond that—with exercise in between. And food, of course, I eventually remember to eat when my stomach demands. A day without writing (except for Sundays) doesn’t feel right anymore. I’m fortunate enough to make any schedule work as our children no longer live at home.

Why do you write?

Although I loved making up stories from a young age, I didn’t consider writing them down until in high school when an essay I wrote came top in an English class contest. I guess I was about twelve then. My first published short story as a young adult won a prize in a Millennial Star magazine contest in England. Looking back now, I shudder at the awful writing and can’t imagine why I won. Maybe I was the only entry.

Vanilla or chocolate?

Take me into an ice cream shop with a hundred different flavors, and Vanilla is my choice every time. Creamy, dreamy vanilla! My husband simply cannot figure it out.

Laptop, PC, Mac, longhand, other? Why?

It used to be longhand because I could sit anywhere I wanted and scribble away, but these days, the PC wins because I love the challenge of computers and discovering what miraculous things they can do. Plus, being able to copy and delete chunks of work in seconds is amazing. Beats the old typewriter any day.

What is your current book?

My current book, Famous Family Nights, will soon be in the stores. At a time when the world is going crazy, a book about keeping families not only intact, but also bonding and thriving, is something everyone needs, no matter what their beliefs.

This book is a unique compilation of touching, inspiring, and often-hilarious personal experiences from ninety well-known LDS people around the world. The stories highlight family home evening as a priceless tool for building strong, faith-centered families, despite the many obstacles of modern life.

For more information about Famous Family Nights, please click HERE.

There is also a YouTube trailer on YouTube, and a Facebook Group to join at Famous
Family Nights.

One piece of advice/wisdom for the world?

Life is all about choice and consequence. Put good thoughts into your mind; put wholesome, natural foods and pure water into your body; and live according to God’s laws. Each of these things promotes good health. Choosing the opposite leads to problems—physical, mental, and spiritual. Why not make the most of our time on earth by healthy living?

Dogs or cats?

I love them both—especially when they are babies—and goats, and horses, and Jersey cows.

What do you want to be remembered for, or as?

I’d like to be remembered as a person who loved the teachings of Jesus Christ; who looked for ways to share them; and who didn’t offend. I hope my writing reflects these things and that it helps those who seek truth.

Pre-order links for Famous Family Nights:

Cedar Fort click here

Amazon click here

Author Interview: Aubrey Mace

She blogs here

Her website is here


Aubrey who are you as a person versus an author?

I love to work in the yard, but my allergies have been so bad this year that I haven't been out there as much. I'm a bit of a compulsive weeder. I love to cook. Before I wrote my first book, I was set on going to school to be a pastry chef. In fact, the main character in my next book, Santa Maybe, owns her own bakery, which has always been a dream of mine. And I love to travel, but I've been kind of stuck lately; my sister and mother are my vacation buddies, and my sister currently has two kids under the age of three. I love them a bunch, but they do make it a little harder to pick up and leave! :) I'm also a big reader. I've always got a huge stack I'm working through. Actually, I'm toying with the very sinful idea of putting my current writing project away and just reading all summer.

What genre(s) do you write in?

Spare Change was a tame little chick-lit, and my newest book, My Fairy Grandmother, is a YA/middle grade novel. And the novel I mentioned earlier, Santa Maybe, is kind of a Christmas comedy/romance. So I'm all over the place right now as far as genre goes.

Do you seek to educate or entertain?

I enjoy being educated myself, but I'm not much of an educator. I'm not expert enough on anything to offer advice, so I'd have to say I'm in it to entertain.

Where do you write your best stuff, and when?

I get most of my writing done at night, since I work full-time. I've tried getting up early, but my brain really doesn't function in the morning. And I do better when it's quiet-- I'm easily distracted, so I tend to seclude myself when I'm working.

Why do you write?

There was no golden moment when I knew I wanted to become a writer. But I have ALWAYS loved books. I love bookstores. I love libraries. I love buying books and borrowing books and lending books. There's that excitement when you read something amazing and you want to share it with everyone you know. I've always idolized authors who can write well so much that I suppose it was inevitable I would want to try my hand at the craft.

Vanilla or chocolate?

Chocolate. Unless it's pudding. I have a major weakness for vanilla pudding. I think I could eat it everyday.

Laptop, PC, Mac, longhand, other?

I mainly write in notebooks because they're convenient-- you can take them with you everywhere. If I have a flash of something, I can jot it down and work with it later. I have to really be "in the zone" to type straight from my brain to the computer.

What is your current book?

My current book is called My Fairy Grandmother, and I think it's my favorite so far. It's a fun, slightly dark story about Kaitlin, a nine-year old girl who goes to visit Viola, the grandmother she barely knows. Viola wants to tell Kaitlin the story of her life. Kaitlin is skeptical, but when Viola starts talking about castles and fairies, it becomes clear that this is no ordinary family history lesson. I love this story because it's about good and evil and being terrified but still having the courage to do the right thing. Plus, there's the added bonus of getting to decide for yourself whether Viola's outlandish past really happened or if she's just incredibly senile!

One piece of advice/wisdom for the world?

Take the time to slow down and appreciate the little things. I'm constantly surprised by the things I almost miss when I'm in too big a hurry to look around.

Dogs or cats?

Definitely cats, even though mine is mental. She has anxiety issues, so she pulls her fur out. When I go into the garage in the morning, there's a pile of orange fur on the steps waiting for me.

What do you want to be remembered for, or as?

I hope I will be remembered as someone who would drop anything for family or friends and who tried every day to be a little bit better than I was the day before.

Oh-- and as someone who can tell a really good story. :)

What's Your Happiness Threshold? Author Interview: Ally Condie

Her great website is here

Ally, who are you as a person versus an author?

I am a runner, a reader, an armchair traveler, and I'm passionate about being a mother. However, when my kids are grown, I'd love to run more, read more, and travel more.

What genre(s) do you write in?

I write contemporary young adult fiction--but right now I'm working on a YA sci-fi title. Hopefully it works!

Do you seek to educate or entertain?

I think I fall in the "entertain" category. I don't ever write with an overt moral in mind--I never think, "This book will teach a lesson about____." Usually, the story is all I think about--how to tell it best, how to make my characters real. I want it to be a story worth caring about and investing in.

Where do you write your best stuff, and when?

I write my best on Saturday mornings. The rest of the week, I'm just trying to cram it in around naptime, and usually it doesn't happen. I'm a morning person, so it's kind of hard for me to write at night (but that's almost always when it has to happen during the week). On Saturdays, my husband takes the kids for a few hours and I get a lot done. It's great!

Why do you write?

I always wanted to be a writer when I was young. I still have the first story I "wrote" when I was four--I had my babysitter write it down while I dictated. Later, I became a high school teacher and remembered how much I loved writing when I was teaching creative writing to my students. I don't think I ever had a magical moment--just a lifelong love of the written word and a desire to write some words of my own.

Vanilla or chocolate?

Vanilla. And chocolate. Do I have to choose? :)

PC, Mac, longhand, other?

I like working on my Mac. It's sleek and pretty and it hasn't failed me yet (knock on wood).

What is your current book?

I recently published a book called Freshman for President with Shadow Mountain (the publishers of the Fablehaven series, The Wednesday Letters, and other books) for the national market. This book is about a teenage boy named Milo who runs for president--even though he knows he can't win--for the best of all teenage reasons: to impress a girl and prove to everyone that he's not a nobody. He ends up getting a little more fame than he bargained for, and in the middle of all that, he's still trying to win the girl, keep his friends, and find out what's going on with his older sister--who came home from college and hasn't been the same since. It's a book that is about growing up and staying true to yourself. I think people will like Milo, and I think they will find a lot to root for in him, and I think this is a hopeful book.

One piece of advice/wisdom for the world?

The key to happiness is having a low happiness threshold. If you let the little things make you happy, there's plenty to feel good about!

Dogs or cats?

Neither. I have allergies and they make me itch!

What do you want to be remembered for, or as?

I'd like to be remembered as a good mother and a good friend. Actually, it's hard to think of a better epitaph than Charlotte had in E.B. White's book Charlotte's Web: "It is not often that someone comes along who is a true friend and a good writer. Charlotte was both." Add "mother" to that and it would be just about perfect.

Author Interview: JoAnn Arnold

To see her beautiful website click here

JoAnn, who are you as a person versus an author?

I'm addicted to Genealogy. I enjoying painting, restoring antiques, reading, crocheting, knitting, quilting (by hand), and I'm a huge fan of Star Trek, Star Gate, Star Wars, etc.

What genre(s) do you write in?

Fiction, Mystery, Fantasy.

Do you seek to educate or entertain?

I think I would have to say that I do both. In each book I've written there is something to be learned, yet I try to make it an entertaining education.

Where do you write your best stuff, and when?

I try to write everyday. I like to close the door to the outside world where I can work without intruption. In the spring, summer, and fall, I may go out on the patio in the morning while the world is quiet except for the birds. Then I move back into my little room. Or if I'm home alone, I might select another room. I have a portable desk and laptop that can be easily moved. I may write from 6:00 p.m. til 2:00 a.m., or from 4:00 a.m. until someone disturbs me. And there are times I can spend most of a day in front of my laptop.

Why do you write?

Even as a little girl, I loved to write poetry or make up stories that I never let anyone else read. In the later years, I loved writing short plays, elementary school musicals, and plays for my Community Theatre. I've always had this giant imagination and I found writing was a way to put it to work.

What do you read?

I love mysteries, Church history, religious doctrine, historical nonfiction and fiction, fantasy,

Vanilla or chocolate?

Chocolate (but it has to be dark chocolate).

Laptop, PC, Mac, longhand, other? Why?

I have a laptop that goes everywhere with me. I like the freedom of being able to write wherever I might plant myself. When we travel, my husband drives, and I sit in the back seat with my laptop.

What is your current book?

My latest book is "Prince Etcheon and the Secret of the Ancient." I like the review sent to Cedar Fort by a 12-year old girl, so I will quote her.

This book is amazing, fabulous, cool, clever. If I had knowledge of all the words that meant I loved it, I would use them. . . . It starts out when Prince Etcheon's Granny Fela dies and he gets a mysterious note that tells him he is the prince of another land and time. He goes to this beautiful, timeless valley where there is a pretty lady name Tarainisafari, who brings comfort and help, along with an ancient tree and some wise, talking animals that each have something to teach Etcheon before he is ready to embark on a quest with a timepiece to rescue his parents, his land and his people from a terrible king and a wizard.

Another reason you should read this book is because it is original. . . . It came right out of the author's head and I don't think anybody else could think of it. It is adventurous and entertaining. The first sentence draws you in. It holds the readers through the whole book. Another reason is, and I feel it is the best, is it is appropriate. There's no swearing or bad stuff. It shows people that mormons aren't that bad because they don't swear or stuff in their books.

One piece of advice/wisdom for the world?

Don't take anybody's word for it. Search out the truth for yourself.

Dogs or cats?

Dogs. (I'm alergic to cats)

What do you want to be remembered for, or as?

I think I want to be remembered as a woman who was not afraid to follow her own path. Who never grew up, and who never grew old. Who, when it was time, simply took the next step . I want to be missed by my children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren because I brought laughter into their lives and love into their hearts.

Author Interview: Haley Hatch Freeman

Haley Hatch Freeman

She blogs here

Haley, who are you as a person, versus an author?

An absolute passion of mine is sign language and the Deaf culture. I can interpret for the deaf and one of my dearest friends for life is hearing impaired. Before I was married and had kids I interpreted at the MTC for the deaf missionaries and worked for the School for the Deaf and Blind.

The next thing I would consider a passion is teaching and caring for my two children and adoring my husband. I get more satisfaction from seeing my kids not only learn and love to learn than anything. My husband really is my best friend and my world so any chance I get I spend it with him.

I'm a scrapbook consultant so I host parties every month and create projects for them to assemble. I also play the piano and can’t remember when one of my callings in church hasn’t revolved around it. If it’s not the organist in sacrament then it is being the choir pianist, and don’t forget the Relief Society. I use to teach piano until my life become too full and something had to give. And I enjoy camping, playing tennis, watching my Jazz and BYU football teams, and yes I have to admit some reality TV shows.

What genre(s) do you write in?

My book, A Future for Tomorrow, is a work from my heart as it is a non-fiction account of an extraordinary part of my teenage life. However, now I am playing with a fiction series for pre-teens to young adult.

Do you seek to educate or entertain?

Both. My first book was written for the purpose of bringing awareness to the seriousness of anorexia. It aids in the prevention of this illness as well as give parents a tool in helping their loved one as they one endure and overcome this disease. I hope that while I teach, it also entertains my readers, not with laughs, but with the intensity and drama of the situation.

Currently, I am writing purely for entertainment purposes. Mostly because I don’t have another traumatic experience to share, thank heavens. I fell in love with the entire writing and publishing process and don’t want to let it go.

Where do you write your best stuff, and when?

I only write at home in my comfy sweats. There is usually something else going on around me whether it is my husband’s sports game, or my children laughing. I have no problem multi- tasking, usually I enjoy sitting by my husband, not so much breaking up a fight with the kids, and taking a peak at the score, all while creating another twist for my characters to overcome.

Why do you write?

There was a powerful moment in which I knew I was not only suppose to, but personally commanded to write my book. It is depicted in A Future for Tomorrow. You’ll have to read it to fully understand the magnitude of that experience. I now write because I’m hooked.

Vanilla or chocolate?

Chocolate, unless I’m pregnant I can’t stand chocolate during those 9 months—with both children this happened!

What is your preferred manner of writing?

My friend and fellow writer introduced me to a cleaver little gadget called the Neo. It has changed the way I write forever. I can now actually do so without being removed from my kids. The Neo is a little typing system that is only a word processor. It’s easy to take with me so I just bus it along wherever the little ones need me to be.

What is your current book?

A Future for Tomorrow is an extraordinary non-fiction account of the author’s actual battle against anorexia nervosa as well as a spiritual triumph against evil. You will be brought into the anorexic mind, shown the fierce war against depression and self-depreciating thoughts and actions; and witness the gravity of the destruction this disease can do. A deeply edifying experience will occur as you journey with the author to the eternal world. There, angels confirm to her gospel truths such as the intensity of Christ’s love, and the sacred and holy nature of our Father’s plan for his children here on Earth.

Besides giving a voice to those of us who have experienced this illness, and giving hope to them and their loved ones, I hope my book also helps the reader realize their divine worth and feel edified as they experience this journey along side me.

One piece of advice/wisdom for the world?

Seek to find out your divine worth and live in a manner that reflects that knowledge.

Dogs or cats?

I love all animals. I was sad to find out last year that my son is allergic to cats so there goes that idea. But we love the dog we have!

What do you want to be remembered for, or as?

Someone who makes others feel good about themselves, a survivor, a loyal daughter of God, a great mother and wife.