Monday, October 30, 2017

10 Bestselling Christmas Anthologies

These collections have hit one or more bestseller lists . . . or are new 2017 releases.


MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS BRIDES | Celebrating Faith and Love in the Historic Rocky Mountains

From a Wyoming ranch in 1880, to a logging camp in Washington Territory in the late 1800s, to Denver, Colorado, in 1913, meet nine couples who find that Christmas is the perfect time for climbing to the heights of romance.

Watch as their faith and courage propel them through challenges that come with mountain winters to cozy fireside celebrations that lead to lasting proclamations of love. Penned by an exclusive selection of Christian fiction authors—including Susan Page Davis, Vickie McDonough, and Carrie Turansky—this collection of nine romances is one to treasure.


THE 12 BRIDES OF CHRISTMAS COLLECTION | 12 Heartwarming Historical Romances for the Season of Love by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Margaret Brownley, Amanda Cabot, Mary Connealy, Susan Page Davis, Miralee Ferrell, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Amy Lillard, Vickie McDonough, Davalynn Spencer, Michelle Ule

Enter the heartland of historical America at Christmastime through twelve inspiring romance novellas from acclaimed Christian authors. Meet Alma, Lucy, Esther, Marilee, Polly, Deborah, Annabelle, Sophie, Maddie, Karen, Arabella, and Kate who are surprised by how God brings them the desires of their hearts. Watch as faith, romance, and heartfelt gifts open each of their hearts to love. 


BYGONE CHRISTMAS BRIDES | Six Stories of Old-Fashioned Christmas Romance

Light a candle in the window and sit down to a slice of fruitcake as you delight in six 19th Century romances that welcome love at Christmastide. Many traditions held dear today have their roots in the British Isles and have been practiced for over a hundred years. In these six delightful historical stories, romance is nurtured amidst baking Scottish shortbread and English mince pies, burning the yule log, and hanging kissing boughs. But each couple is also plagued by worries of the day. As Christmastide draws to a close, will faith and love endure for future celebrations?


A PLAIN AND SWEET CHRISTMAS ROMANCE COLLECTION | Spend Christmas with 9 Historical Couples from Amish, Mennonite, Quaker, and Amana Settlements by Lauralee Bliss , Ramona K. Cecil, Dianne Christner, Melanie Dobson, Jerry S. Eicher, Olivia Newport, Rachael O. Phillips, Claire Sanders, Anna Schmidt  

Enjoy a simple Christmas, sweetened by love, in historical communities of plain faith people. Four romances develop among the Ohio River Valley Quakers of the mid-1800s. Two Mennonite couples face influences from outside their old traditions. Two Amish couples from the early 1900s are affected by world events. And in an Amana community, childhood sweethearts  reunited. Each story also includes a recipe for a sweet traditional treat.


THE CHRISTMAS BRIDES COLLECTION | 9 Historical Romances Promise Love Fulfilled at Christmastime by Kristin Billerbeck, Lauralee Bliss, Irene B. Brand, Lynn A. Coleman, Kelly Eileen Hake, Vickie McDonough, Tamela Hancock Murray, Colleen L. Reece, Therese Stenzel

Journey back into history to experience Christmas alongside nine brides-to-be whose wedding dreams are overshadowed by doubts and troubles. Meet an English immigrant wanting to return home. A ranchero’s daughter being forced to marry a despicable man. A soldier’s fiancée facing the realities of war. An optimist who believed a lie. A snowbound woman near death. A do-gooder fighting for orphans. A bride sought only for an inheritance. An orphan protecting her father’s land. A motherless daughter wishing for yesterday. Will love shine its light of hope and truth into each life?
           

THE WESTWARD CHRISTMAS BRIDES COLLECTION | 9 Historical Romances Answer the Call of the American West by Wanda E. Brunstetter, Susan Page Davis, Melanie Dobson, Cathy Liggett, Vickie McDonough, Olivia Newport, Janet Spaeth, Jennifer Rogers Spinola, MaryLu Tyndall

Take the journey into the American west alongside nine women who are chasing their dreams—Cynthia, for security; Beryl, for a new family; Adeline, for freedom; Molly, for marriage; Beth, for a new start; Belinda, for a place to heal; Suzette, for adventure; Juliet, for peace; and Caroline, for a future for her children. Celebrate Christmas alongside these pioneers as love finds them in nine distinctly different romances penned by leading Christian fiction authors, including New York Times bestselling author Wanda E. Brunstetter.


A PIONEER CHRISTMAS COLLECTION | 9 Stories of Finding Shelter and Love in a Wintry Frontier by Margaret Brownley, Kathleen Fuller, Marcia Gruver, Cynthia Hickey, Vickie McDonough, Shannon McNear, Lauraine Snelling, Michelle Ule, Anna Carrie Urquhart

Journey along with American settlers who learn that despite where the trail takes them or how primitive their lodgings may be Christmas is all about the heart. Determined to honor Christ’s birth, these pioneers find a way to make Christmas happen in places like a cave, a tipi, and a dugout. Modern readers will enjoy a peek into life before commercialism took over the sacred day, distracting us from the true blessings of faith, hope, and love. Enjoy nine original novellas of Christmas romance as penned from many of today’s leading Christian authors, including Lauraine Snelling, Kathleen Fuller, and Vickie McDonough.


 A BASKET BRIGADE CHRISTMAS | Three Women, Three Love Stories, One Country Divided by Judith Mccoy Miller, Nancy Moser, Stephanie Grace Whitson

Not even the Civil War can smother the spirit of Christmas, especially in the town of Decatur, Illinois, in 1862, where the ladies of the Basket Brigade board trains to minister to Union soldiers, offering fried chicken, pickled peaches, pound cake, and other dainties to men who haven’t eaten a home-cooked meal since enlisting. Join Sarah, Lucy, and Zona, three compassionate members of the brigade, as they care for wounded heroes—and find love along the way.



A TEXAS CHRISTMAS | Six Romances from the Historic Lone Star State Herald the Season of Love by Ramona K. Cecil, Lena Nelson Dooley, Darlene Franklin, Pamela Griffin, Cathy Marie Hake, Kathleen Y'Barbo 

Spend Christmas in the Old West with six unconventional women who take on Texas-sized challenges—and unexpected romance. Bridget falls for a man opposed to her teaching Indian orphans. Polly is trying to hold her family together when her childhood love returns to town. Rugged rancher Charlsey is inexplicably attracted to a tenderfoot accountant. Vivian shuns marriage until meeting a nomadic photographer. Lacey’s cooking draws a quiet blacksmith out of his shell. Tracker Bessie Mae helps a ranger hunt down a villain.


A PATCHWORK CHRISTMAS COLLECTION | Three Stories of Second-Chance Love Will Delight at Any Season by Judith Mccoy Miller, Nancy Moser, Stephanie Grace Whitson

Join three of today’s bestselling inspirational fiction authors in a collection of Christmas stories from Victorian-era America that are full of second-chance romances. Jilted by her fiancé, Karla packs away her wedding quilts and her plans for marriage. Widow Jane travels to marry a prosperous man she barely knows in order to give her daughter a better life—then is stranded in a winter storm. Victoria, a wealthy ingénue, inadvertently causes grave injury to a poor man she once considered quite a catch. Each must search her heart, change her plans. . .and patch together a tender, unexpected life filled with love.


Have you read any of these? Your favorite?

Saturday, October 28, 2017

Christmas Traditions - ON SALE!


CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS: Six heartwarming novellas of Christmas gone by where the true meaning of the season warms your heart and love flows as fast as apple cider. Grab your favorite drink, no matter the temperature outside, curl up in a cozy chair and lose yourself in holiday romance.

An Amazon bestseller! 


Featuring
Nutcracker Christmas by Jennifer AlLee
The Skiing Suitor by Niki Turner
Holly Daze by Gina Welborn

Friday, October 27, 2017

Meet Book Blogger Jessica Baker of A Baker's Perspective!


Debra here, and this is a treat for me as I get to host Jessica Baker (Don't you love that smile?) . I had the pleasure of spending time with her in August. As in... we traveled through three states and back to attend the Christian Fiction Reader's Retreat in Cincinnati. We had plenty of time to talk about books and life and the ins and outs of blogging and writing. AHah!  I "picked her brain!" 

Welcome, Jessica!

Jessica--First of all, thank you for hosting me today! Wow, I am on the Inkwell. I mean, how many people get to say that!? It is such an honor and a blessing. I love the blogger spotlights you have been doing! Such a wonderful way to not only spread the word about these amazing bloggers, but learn more about them as well.

Debra--Wow! Thanks so much. I had this 'inspiration' last spring and I'm very thankful for it. It's hard to come up with ideas for blog posts and this has been so much fun. I get to know more about you all, and yes, hopefully promote great bloggers and encourage readers to become reviewers!

Tell us how you came up with the idea for your blog.

J- I started my blog a little over two years ago, although I have been reviewing books for longer than that. I was applying to be on Amy Clipston’s street team and one of the questions you had to answer was if you had a blog or not. If not, it was recommended that you start one. I thought to myself, hey I can do this. I love talking about books and what better way to do that! As for the name? Well, I’m not going to lie, I have about zero creativity. When I first started A Baker’s Perspective, most of my friends and family thought it was going to be about baking, forgetting about my last name. It was just something that came to mind and kind of stuck.
D- What’s the best part of being a reviewer?

J- Most people think that the best part of being a reviewer is the fact that you get so many free books. Let me enlighten those people – it is not the best part of being a reviewer. Don’t get me wrong, it is awesome that we get free books, and it certainly helps the budget. It’s just not the best part. The best part of being a reviewer is sharing my love of reading with others. I am a book nerd, there is just no getting around that. So if I can help someone find a new author, a new book, or encourage them to review on their own, I am a happy girl.
D- I perfectly understand.  When we started our group blog I was hoping it would be helpful to my writing. I didn't think about how much these ladies would bring to my life as friends!

What’s the most difficult part of the ‘the job’?

J- Blogging and reviewing is a job, I just want to get that out there. Yes, it is fun and no, I do not get paid. It. Is. Work. I think that is really the hardest part, the fact that it takes time and is work. My TBR pile is about a mile high. I will get to every single book, but it might take a little longer then I’d like. I’ve never missed a deadline, and I hope that I don’t in the near future, or ever. But I have to discipline myself, and I really need to start learning how to say the word NO. Hard word to say, but we’ve all got to learn some time! Pray for me. This is a word I’ve struggled with basically forever.
D- What was the last book you read that you couldn’t put down?

J- Wow, this is a tough question. I have read so many good books this year. So I guess I’ll literally go with the most recent book I’ve read that I couldn’t put down.  Blind Spot by Dani Pettrey. It was full of suspense, excitement, and a swoony hero. I devoured the book – literally couldn’t put it down. The ending was rough – kind of left you at a cliff hanger. Me and cliff hangers do not get along so good, but it is making my hungry for the next installment!

D- Ha ha. Dani did her job then! 

What do you do when you aren’t reviewing (and making authors happy!) 

J- Don’t judge – my life is extremely boring. I work a full-time job, come home and spend time with my family. And Sunday’s I go to church twice, and go again on Wednesday night where I am in charge of the young youth group. That is it! My daughter just turned 15 and is a sophomore at high school. I’ve realized that the clock is ticking faster and faster every day, and I want to spend as much time with her as I can before she goes off into the real world. To add to that, seven years ago my husband almost lost his life. That tends to give you a whole new outlook on life, and made us realize how precious our time with our family is. It may be extreme to some, but it works for us.


D- Boring is good when it means a wonderful family that you don't take for granted. I think you had enough excitement when your husband was so sick!

What is your favorite setting? Place and time? Genre?  
J- I’m not sure I can give you a straight answer on this question. The truth is that it depends on my mood. I typically only read Christian fiction, of all genres – contemporary, suspense, historical, Amish, dystopian. Pretty much all of them. I have yet to find a genre in Christian fiction I didn’t like. There are a few authors that are outside of that world that I will read as well. I have a soft spot for Nicholas Sparks, and my daughter has introduced me to a few young adult books that I really enjoyed. I guess you could call me a well-rounded reader. But I can tell you, my favorite setting is always in the country. I think that’s because I am a country girl myself, and really have no interest in the city life – therefore I think the characters I’m reading should feel the same 😊
D- I kind of envy that as I feel I need to expand my horizons!  What would you like to share about yourself that few people know?


Jessica as  a Grandma Christmas
for a church party!  

J- I have an obsession with Peanut Butter, and Christmas. I have some form of peanut butter every single day. I think I need help. lol. And as for Christmas... well, Christmas in my house runs from like November 1 through February.  One year I even had my Christmas tree up until St. Patrick's Day. Sad, I know. 

D- well, I share one of those obsessions and I'll just leave it at that. Ha ha. Okay, I still think about that peanut butter milkshake I had at Steak and Shake!

What’s your favorite movie to watch if you had a rainy afternoon alone? And hey, how about a free catered meal...

J- Only one movie? Wow, these are some tough questions! Since it’s raining, and my husband will probably be with me, I would settle on watching The Choice. It’s based on a Nicholas Sparks book (by the way, the book is better!), and it’s been a new favorite of mine lately. Take-out food is simple, but it has to be a Friday night. A local eatery in Cooperstown has the best fish fry I have ever had in my life, and they make a delicious apple cranberry cole slaw as a side. YUM!




D-I've seen it --but just once. So many things to love about that movie!
If you could wiggle your nose and be in a new career, what would it be? 

J-  I just want you to know that I am wiggling my nose as hard as I can! I have had this dream for years, no joke. I’m waiting for God to catch up with me on that (okay, I know His plans are the best plans, but you can’t blame a girl for trying!). I would love to open a bookstore/bakery. I love reading and I love baking. Combining those two things would be like paradise for me. At Christmas time I go a little overboard on the baking part. I’m not just talking cookies. No, there’s also candy, fudge, bars, bread, and more. To be able to do that everyday? I can’t even imagine such a world!



D -What piece of advice would you offer authors who are just starting out?

J- Write what God puts on your heart. Don’t listen to those who tell you not to. There’s a reason God wants you to write that exact story. Don’t compare yourselves to other authors – you are not them. You are just you and that’s all God wants you to be. If you follow His lead, the rest will fall into place.
D - Same for  bloggers...

J- Just be yourself. Don’t worry about what other bloggers are doing, it’ll just eat you up and make you feel awful about your own blog. I know, I’ve been there. Blogging in the Christian world is not supposed to be a competition. We’re all supposed to be helping each other out and supporting authors together. Have fun. And again, be yourself!
D- Absolutely. As an author it's so easy to compare yourself and forget that we each bring something different 'to the table'. Blogging began as 'logging in' thoughts and really that's what it's all about. The graphics and promotions are wonderful, but so are the basic blogs where a reader gets to know the blogger through their words. Especially with reviews! As we can't all feel the same about each book we read, it's important that a 'visitor' gets to know the blogger as a real person with opinions. I think it should feel casual and comfortable, like a conversation. I don't know how you all read and review so many books but I do know how important (and unpaid) it is!

Thanks Jessica! I really enjoyed our time together this summer and having you visit the Inkwell! I enjoy following your blog and I hope you gain some new readers!

Here's Jessica's contact information:

Okay, so I have to try this one soon---  yum!
from "Southern Living" website.http://www.southernliving.com/recipes/apple-cranberry-coleslaw-recipe

Monday, October 23, 2017

8 Best Christian Anthologies 2015

 MOST ELIGIBLE BACHELOR ROMANCE COLLECTION | Nine Historical Novellas Celebrate Marrying For All the Right Reasons by Erica Vetsch, Kathleen Y'Barbo, Amanda Barratt, Susanne Dietze, Cynthia Hickey, Shannon McNear, Gabrielle Meyer, Connie Stevens, & Gina Welborn

Meet nine men from bygone days who have all the qualities of a true hero and who all the single ladies wish to court—though some are unassuming and overlooked until their worth is revealed. The socialite, the architect, the doctor, the masked vigilante, the missionary, the postmaster, archaeologist, the wealthy widower, and the heir can have their pick of brides, but which one will they choose? CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK 

 A GENTLEMAN'S KISS ROMANCE COLLECTION | 9 Modern Romances with an Old-Fashioned Quality by Ginny Aiken, Kristin Billerbeck, Lynn A. Coleman, Peggy Darty, Rebecca Germany, Bev Huston, Yvonne Lehman, Gail Sattler, & Pamela Kaye Tracy

Are you ready for some good old-fashioned romance in a contemporary setting? Then you’ll enjoy these nine stories of modern women who are forced to slow down and take a new look at dating and romance when new men enter their lives. For some it will take vacation time, others will discover through music, while some need the gentle nudges from both God and Grandma. Delight in discovering how chivalry is not dead despite the stresses of today’s world. CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK

 THE OREGON TRAIL ROMANCE COLLECTION | 9 Stories of Life on the Trail into the Western Frontier by Amanda Cabot, Melanie Dobson, Pam Hillman, Myra Johnson, Amy Lillard, DiAnn Mills, Anna Schmidt, Ann Shorey, & Jennifer Uhlarik

Nine romantic adventures take readers along for a ride on the Oregon Trail where daily challenges force travelers to evaluate the things that are most precious to them—including love. Enjoy the trip through a fascinating part of history through the eyes of remarkably strong characters who stop at famous landmarks along the way. Watch as their faith is strengthened and as love is born despite unique circumstances. Discover where the journey ends for each of nine couples. 

A SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY ROMANCE COLLECTION | 9 Love Stories from the Memorable 1940s by Dianna Crawford, Joan Croston, Cathy Marie Hake, Kelly Eileen Hake, Sally Laity, DiAnn Mills, Kim Vogel Sawyer, Janelle Burnham Schneider, & Lynette Sowell

Journey back to the great decade of the 1940s through nine romances that ignite despite the challenges and dangers of a world war. Couples meet under unique circumstances—during the bombing of London, at military outposts, through covert operations to save children, as well as on the home front—and the bond of love grows through shared ideals and faith. 

THE AMERICAN DREAM ROMANCE COLLECTION | Nine Historical Romances Grow Alongside a New Country by Kristy Dykes, Laurie Alice Eakes, Carla Gade, Jane Kirkpatrick, DiAnn Mills, Lisa Karon Richardson, Ann E. Schrock, Tiffany Amber Stockton, & Jennifer Hudson Taylor

Meet the faithful dreamers who helped build the foundation of the new American nation—from four brothers in Colonial Connecticut determined to make something of their lives, to a colony of Quakers in North Carolina resolute in their faith, to settlers in the northwest frontier staking their claim in hostile territory. Watch as nine romances develop and legacies of faith and love are formed. CLICK TO BUY THE BOOK

8 WEDDINGS AND A MIRACLE ROMANCE COLLECTION | 9 Contemporary Romances Need a Little Divine Intervention by Tracie Peterson, Janet Lee Barton, Lena Nelson Dooley, Nancy J. Farrier, Pamela Griffin, Diann Hunt, Loree Lough, Sandra Petit, Gail Sattler

Weather the storms of life alongside nine modern couples who hope to make it to the altar—someday. Be it a meeting in the wrong place at the right time, an accident that opens hardened hearts, or weather that seems to blow things off course, sometimes love needs a little divine intervention. Penned by an exclusive selection of Christian fiction authors—including Tracie Peterson—this collection of nine romances will become an instant favorite. CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK

THE CONVENIENT BRIDE COLLECTION by Amanda Barratt, Andrea Boeshaar, Mona Hodgson, Melissa Jagears, Maureen Lang, Gabrielle Meyer, Jennifer Uhlarik, Erica Vetsch, & Renee Yancy

Join nine brides of convenience on their adventures in a variety of times and settings gone by—from a ranch in California . . . to the rugged mountains of Colorado . . . to a steamship on the Mississippi . . . to the dangerous excitement of the Oregon Trail . . . into high society of New York City. No matter the time or place, the convenient brides proceed with what must be done, taking nuptials out of necessity . . . and never dreaming that God might take their feeble attempts to secure their futures and turn them into true love stories for His glory. BUY THE BOOK 

THE TIMELESS LOVE ROMANCE COLLECTION | Love Prevails in Nine Historical Romances by Dianne Christner, Lynn A. Coleman, Nancy J. Farrier, DiAnn Mills, Darlene Mindrup, Tamela Hancock Murray, Jennifer Rogers Spinola, & Pamela Kaye Tracy

Journey along as men and women emerge triumphantly out of their challenges and into romances that bolster their faith in nine historical novellas. Lonely Prudence has a secret admirer. Spoiled Olivia finds her first job. Adventurous Edie helps a ranger track bandits. Poor Lillian learns about true wealth. Fearful Katie confronts her past. Desperate Dameon finds work. Grieving Maime discovers new purpose. Guilt ridden Justin faces his fears. Newcomer Garrison seeks a business partner. 
CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK

Have you read any? All? Which one is your favorite?

Saturday, October 21, 2017

Get Your Kiss on Route 66!


For years Route 66 was the main thoroughfare across the United States. Now, in one convenient volume, experience romances from Missouri to Santa Monica as ten women experience a journey they'll never forget. Come take a romantic ride on the Mother Road!



Featuring

Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Chesapeake Shores Features Lending Library Box

by Anita Mae Draper


Do you watch the Chesapeake Shores TV series on the Hallmark Channel? It's based on the book series, Chesapeake Shores by well-known author, Sheryl Woods. Up here in Canada we watch it on the W Network months after it's aired in the U.S., but considering the broadcast issues, we're blessed to see it at all.

Although the series is set in Chesapeake Shores, Maryland, it's filmed at Parksville and Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. The Hallmark TV series, Cedar Cove, had a similar setup where it was set in Washington State and filmed in British Columbia as well.

What makes Chesapeake Shores special to me is that it's centered around a multi-generational family where one of the daughters, Bree, is a writer. And a very good writer apparently, from the accolades she received from a successful screenplay. But as the series starts, she's suffering writer's block and can't seem to latch onto the key of that first success.

Without going into episode detail, I'd like to say that what endeared me to Bree's character is when she asks country music singer, Trace, to build her a lending library box in the Season 1 episode, Georgia on My Mind.

Image courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/ChesapeakeShores/

I'm not going to tell you which episodes, but every once in awhile the Chesapeake Shores action is set at the show's lending library box location.



Furthermore, because of the Bree character, scenes are also set in the local book store. I really like this series as it integrates Bree's love of books and her writer's life into daily family life. The frustrations and battles she faces in her decisions to make it as a writer are no more or no less important than those any other member of her family faces in their respective careers.

Although the Chesapeake Shores episode guide calls it a "lending library box", the concept is fashioned with the same idea as Little Free Library.


A Little Free Library can be found in any country, any community, on any street. Anyone with a willingness to share can set one up on the edge of their property where people can take a book and leave one for someone else to read.


The Little Free Library website even has 20 different design plans to build your own. They can be found at https://littlefreelibrary.org/build/.

Pinterest has some unique, practical, and whimsical images of current library boxes to check over at http://www.pinterest.com/ltlfreelibrary/.


Today's questions for discussion:
Do you watch Chesapeake Shores? Any thoughts on it?
Have you seen one of these little library boxes? Care to share where? Have you used one?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Anita Mae Draper's historical romances are written under the western skies of the Saskatchewan prairie where her love of research and genealogy yield fascinating truths that layer her stories with rich historical details.  Anita's short story, Here We Come A-Wassailing, was a finalist for the Word Guild's 2015 Word Awards. Her novellas are included in Austen in Austin Volume 1, The American Heiress Brides Collection, and The Secret Admirer Romance Collection. Readers can check out Anita's Pinterest boards for a visual idea of her stories to enrich their reading experience.  Discover more at: Website - www.anitamaedraper.com




Monday, October 16, 2017

Don't Put Off Until Tomorrow...Battling Procrastination



Susanne here, and lately, I have been stuck in the Procrastination Swamp.

We've all been there (I assume). Sometimes we get overwhelmed by the tasks facing us and we shut down; sometimes we get tired and need a break; sometimes we're distracted; and sometimes we just lack energy.

Yet deadlines don't care much why we procrastinate, do they? They must be met.
It's not you, it's me.
The past few weeks, we had a house issue that robbed my writing time, shopping time, energy, and sleep. The mini cleaning/simplifying projects I've intended to do each day? Pfft. Finishing a proposal? Didn't get done. Dusting? Puh-lease. They'll all have to wait until tomorrow...

When things like this happen, an unfortunate cycle begins. I lost my groove, and had a hard time regaining it even when my house issue was under control. And when I lose my groove, I tend to procrastinate. AKA hide, because I feel so behind and the pile of tasks is so large, I am afraid of it.

Here are six tips I've found to help confront procrastination, and I'm going to put them into place this week:
  1. Divide your deadline into chunks. One big huge deadline can be overwhelming to look at, like, say, writing an entire novel or cleaning out the closet. Break up your deadline. For me, a chunk could be a chapter, or an editing project, or cleaning off a single shelf on the book case or organizing one drawer, not the whole desk.
  2. Create a timeline for each specific deadline you've made. Whether it's writing 2000 words in a day, vacuuming the bedrooms, or going through recipes for make-ahead meals, determine how long each task should/will take based on experience and go from there. 
  3. Identify your distractions and don't indulge. This takes willpower! What lures you away from your deadline? Making graphics or memes can be one of mine (ahem: promotion, which is an important part of a writer's life, won't matter if there's no book to promote). 
  4. Reward yourself when each deadline is met, big or little. Indulge in one of your distractions. Or chocolate.
  5. Get an accountability partner. It's quite embarrassing to tell someone you plan to write a thousand words and then later, when they ask how it went, telling them you didn't get to it. That's why telling people can be a good motivator! I've tried all kinds of systems, and they are all helpful. Try scheduling time with a buddy for a writing sprint (I've done this with people I've never met in person, but we engage on Facebook Messenger). Post it on social media so you can report how it went. Anything that gets you moving!
  6. Just do it (thanks, Nike). You really will feel better once you start. It will be easier tomorrow. 


How about you? What tips do you have for me?

***

Susanne Dietze is the ECPA-bestselling author of historical romances. She also recently adopted a cat, which has added to her procrastination. You can learn more about her books at www.susannedietze.com

Wednesday, October 11, 2017

14 Best Christian Anthologies 2016

THE LASSOED BY MARRIAGE ROMANCE COLLECTION| 9 Historical Romances Begin After Saying "I Do" by Angela Bell, Angela Breidenbach, Lisa Carter, Mary Connealy, Rebecca Jepson, Amy Lillard, Gina Welborn, Kathleen Y'Barbo, and Rose Ross Zediker

Come along on a romantic journey jam-packed with all the angst of marriages founded upon practical choices as well as coercion. Meet nine couples who barely know each other before they find themselves suddenly married to please family, to stem the tide of gossip, to save the land and joined for life. But can love grow when duty comes before romance? CLICK HERE TO BUY THEBOOK

12 BRIDES OF SUMMER COLLECTION  | 12 Historical Brides Find Love in the Good Old Summertime by Mary Connealy, Amanda Cabot, Miralee Ferrell, Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Margaret Brownley, Susan Page Davis, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Amy Lillard, Davalynn Spencer, Michelle Ule, and Vickie McDonough

Meet 12 adventurous Victorian era women—a beekeeper who is afraid of bees, a music teacher whose dog has dug up a treasure, a baker who enters a faux courtship, and six more—along with the men they encounter while making summertime memories. Will these loves sown during summer be strengthened by faith and able to endure a lifetime? CLICK HERE TO BUY THEBOOK

THE COWBOY'S BRIDE COLLECTION | 9 Historical Romances Form on Old West Ranches by Susan Page Davis, Vickie McDonough, Susanne Dietze, Nancy J. Farrier, Miralee Ferrell, Darlene Franklin, Davalynn Spencer, Becca Whitham, and Jaime Jo Wright

Ride onto the open range alongside cowboys and cowgirls who embrace the adventures of living in the Old West from Kansas to New Mexico, Colorado to Texas. Whether rounding up cattle or mustangs, training horses, fending off outlaws, weathering storms, competing in rodeos, or surviving drought these cowboys work hard each day. But when hardheaded men have their weaknesses exposed by well-meaning women will they stampede away or will a lasting love develop? Find out in this exciting collection of nine historical romances. 

THE COURAGEOUS BRIDES COLLECTION | Compassionate Heroism Attracts Male Suitors to Nine Spirited Women by Johnnie Alexander, Michelle Griep, Eileen Key, Debby Lee, Rose Allen McCauley, Donita Kathleen Paul, Jennifer Uhlarik, Jenness Walker, and Renee Yancy

Ride into adventures alongside nine determined women of yesteryear whose acts of compassion and bravery attract male attention. Marcy helps displaced Indians. Emmy tends wounds at Fort Snelling. Ronnie stows away on a cattle drive. Daisy disguises herself as a Pony Express rider. Elinor becomes an abolitionist. Mae tames wild horses. Hannah gets help for accident victims. Lucy’s curiosity unnerves criminals. Kate nurses soldiers on the battlefield. Will real dangers douse the sparks of love? CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK

THE CALIFORNIA GOLD RUSH ROMANCE Collection | 9 Stories of Finding Treasures Worth More than Gold by Amanda Barratt, Angela Bell, Dianne Christner, Anne Greene, Linda Farmer Harris, Cynthia Hickey, Pam Hillman, Jennifer Rogers Spinola, and Jaime Jo Wright

Rush to California after the 1848 gold discovery alongside thousands of hopeful men and women. Meet news reporters, English gentry, miners, morticians, marriage brokers, bankers, fugitives, preachers, imposters, trail guides, map makers, cooks, missionaries, town builders, soiled doves, and more people who take advantage of the opportunities to make their fortunes in places where the population swelled overnight. But can faith and romance transform lives where gold is king?

SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN TEXANS ROMANCE COLLECTION | The Hart Brothers Must Marry or Lose Their Inheritance in 7 Historical Novellas by Amanda Barratt, Susan Page Davis, Keli Gwyn, Vickie McDonough, Gabrielle Meyer, Lorna Seilstad, and Erica Vetsch

Seven brothers must marry within 1874 or lose their inheritance.

Meet the seven Hart brothers of the 7-Heart ranch in central Texas. Each man is content in his independent life, without the responsibilities of a wife and children—until their father decides 1874 will be the year his grown sons finally marry, or they will be cut from his will. How will each man who values his freedom respond to the ultimatum? Can love develop on a timeline, or will it be sacrificed for the sake of an inheritance? 

THE BLUE RIBBON BRIDES COLLECTION | 9 Historical Women Win More than a Blue Ribbon at the Fair by Cynthia Hickey, Jennifer AlLee, Carrie Fancett Pagels, Angela  Breidenbach, Darlene Franklin, Niki Turner, Tiffany Amber Stockton, Becca Whitham, and Gina Welborn

Meet nine men and women whose competitive goals take them to state and county fairs between 1889 and 1930. From baking pie to polishing pigs, from sculpting butter to stitching quilts, everyone has something to prove to themselves and their communities. But in going for the blue ribbon, will nine women miss the greatest prize of all—the devoted heart of a godly man?

THE AMERICAN HEIRESS BRIDES COLLECTION | Nine Wealthy Women Struggle to Find Love in a Society that Values Money First by Lisa Carter, Mary Davis, Susanne Dietze, Anita Mae Draper, Patty Smith Hall, Cynthia Hickey, Lisa Karon Richardson, Lynette Sowell, and Kimberley Woodhouse

Meet nine young women in America between 1866 and 1905 who have been blessed by fortunes made in gold, silver, industry, ranching, and banking. But when it comes to love, each woman struggles to find true love within a society where “first comes money, second comes marriage.” What kind of man can they trust with their greatest treasure—their hearts?

THE RAILS TO LOVE ROMANCE COLLECTION | 9 Historical Love Stories Set Along the Transcontinental Railroad by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Lisa Carter, Ramona K. Cecil, Lynn A. Coleman, Susanne Dietze, Kim Vogel Sawyer, Connie Stevens, and Liz Tolsma

Journey the Transcontinental Railroad along with nine unlikely couples who encounter all the dangers and disappointments of traveling the rails in the late 1800s. From sight-seeing excursions to transports toward new lives, from orphan trains to circus trains, can romances develop into blazing love in a world of cold, hard steel?

WHERE THE HEART IS ROMANCE COLLECTION by Andrea Boeshaar , Carol Cox , Rhonda Gibson , Sally Laity, Jane West, Claire Sanders, Pamela Kaye Tracy, and Erica Vetsch

Journey along with nine women who find themselves on the move out of their comfortable lives and into the unknown as they set up new homes, take on new jobs, seek out loved ones, and encounter romance. Will their faith endure the hardships, and will love form when life is in transition? Written by nine inspirational romance authors who have a passion for American history and faith. CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK


THE SECOND CHANCE BRIDES COLLECTION | Nine Historical Romances Offer New Hope for Love by Lauralee Bliss, Angela Breidenbach, Ramona K. Cecil, Pamela Griffin, Grace Hitchcock, Pam Hillman, Laura V. Hilton, Tiffany Amber Stockton, and Liz Tolsma

Meet nine women from history spanning from 1776 to 1944 feel the sting of having lost out on love. Can their hope for experiencing romance again be renewed? CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK

SMALL-TOWN BRIDES ROMANCE COLLECTION | 9 Romances Develop Under the Watchful Eyes of Neighbors

by Janet Lee Barton, Susan Downs, Darlene Franklin, Pamela Griffin, Kelly Eileen Hake, Debby Mayne, Donita Kathleen Paul, Marjorie Vawter, Kathleen Y'Barbo

Join the fun and feel the romance in various historical communities from Massachusetts to Florida, Missouri to Texas. Meet ladies who take firm stands for their work in mills, orphanages, churches, schools, hospitals, and the like as they dance through courtship with their beaus. Can the nine couples develop lasting loves under the watchful eyes of their neighbors?

THE VALIANT HEARTS ROMANCE COLLECTION | 9 Stories of Love Put to the Test by Kristin Billerbeck, Darlene Franklin, Pamela Griffin, JoAnn A. Grote, Colleen L. Reece, Janet Spaeth, Jennifer Rogers Spinola, MaryLu Tyndall, Kathleen Y'Barbo

Join brave women who take on wars, social injustices, and westward expansion, living to find love and build a legacy in these nine stories of historical romance. From Virginia west to Oregon, meet Lucy, a nurse; Helen, a bookkeeper; Permelia, a farmer; Birdie, a seamstress; Francie, a writer; Collette, a widow; Christiana, a midwife; Glorie, a nurse; and Josephine, a maid, who each have their ordinary lives disrupted by mysteries and challenge—and extraordinary love. CLICK HERETO BUY THE BOOK

LOVE IS PATIENT ROMANCE COLLECTION | True Love Takes Time in Nine Historical Novellas by Erica Vetsch, Vickie McDonough, Janet Lee Barton, Frances Devine, Lena Nelson Dooley, Darlene Franklin, Jill Stengl, and Connie Stevens

Enjoy the slow dance through the courtship of nine historical couples in the American west, including the territories of Arizona and Wyoming. Just at a time in life when they have nearly given up on finding love, romance enters their lives. But will it be true love, and will it be worth the wait? Find out in this delightful collection written by eight bestselling authors of inspirational romances. CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK

Have you read any? All? Which one is your favorite?

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