Gratitude!

Autumn giving way to winter, and another year steaming rapidly to a close, has left me in somewhat of an introspective mindset (watching seasons change always tends to do that to me...how about you?).

We’re approaching Thanksgiving and we’re mere inches away from the joy of Christmas. What wonderful opportunities to take stock of our lives, and reflect on where God has led us during the past twelve months.

I give thanks for the grace, love, and continuing direction of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ in the pathways of my life. When I’ve fallen – when I’ve doubted – even when I’ve felt frightened, anxious and less than worthy, He has lifted me up. Faithful and true, God’s love is so powerful and perfect that it obliterates all but His plan and will for us. We are His precious children.

I also give thanks for my family and friends, for the love and encouragement of the people in my life both near and far. They are, in fact, God’s presence revealed. The way I see it, God has a human face that he blesses me with every day – a tangible means by which he touches my life and leads me along life’s path. That beautiful face belongs to my friends and family, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

Next, I look at White Rose Publishing, and am amazed by the opportunities to be found. In faith and friendship the books and authors I’ve discovered are a huge blessing in my life. Through the pages of my Woodland series, and those books that will follow, through the talent and love of the editors (thank you, Nicola!) and staff, I am humbled by the chance to spread God’s word through the beauty of romance, and the experience of revealing the story of two people falling in love and finding their way not only to one another, but to a Christ-centered, ordained relationship.

I used to write secular romance. As such, I’ve been challenged about the seeming paradox of being a writer who loves to delve into the spark, and fire, of falling in love, versus being a Christian. I hope people understand I long to depict the universal reality and truth of two people falling in love. There are sparkles, and a heart rush, and the dizzy tingles. However – (and this is a huge part of my stories, and those of White Rose Publishing!) there is also heartfelt, committed emotion and faithful love. That’s the bottom line. To me, that journey is the most beautiful thing we are given. To reveal God’s grace through the pages of a book focused on love and romance is a gift I will never, ever take for granted, nor take lightly.

What comes to mind when you look at the past year? What blessings have you met with gratitude and thanksgiving? What areas are you wanting to work on…with God at your side and always in your corner? I’d love to hear about it! Thank you for being a blessing in my life, and helping fire up my own spiritual walk. Your presence in my life, as readers, authors and friends, is an enormous gift!

Blessings ~ Marianne

The Good Samaritan and Emily Post

I have been reading the original 1922 edition of Emily's Post's famous Etiquette as research for a story I want to set in the late teens, early twenties era. In the introduction by Richard Duffy, it states:

Many who scoff at a book of etiquette would be shocked to hear the least expression of levity touching the Ten Commandments. But the Commandments do not always prevent such virtuous scoffers from dealings with their neighbor of which no gentleman could be capable and retain his claim to the title. 

Interestingly, our readings at church this morning had to do with law. The Gospel reading was of the well known parable of The Good Samaritan. As you most likely know, Jesus told the story in response to a lawyer's question "Who is my neighbor?" While listening to the story I could not help but think of Emily Post and her explanations of manners.

In the chapter The Fundamentals of Good Behavior, Post explains:


All thoroughbred people are considerate of the feelings of others no matter what the station of the others may be. Thackeray's climber who "licks the boots of those above him and kicks the faces of those below him on the social ladder," is a, very good illustration of what a gentleman is not.
A gentleman never takes advantage of another's helplessness or ignorance, and assumes that no gentleman will take advantage of him.

And then farther on in the chapter:  All thoroughbred women, and men, are considerate of others less fortunately placed, especially of those in their employ. One of the tests by which to distinguish between the woman of breeding and the woman merely of wealth, is to notice the way she speaks to dependents...When you see a woman in silks and sables and diamonds speak to a little errand girl or a footman or a scullery maid as though they were the dirt under her feet, you may be sure of one thing; she hasn't come a very long way from the ground herself. 

While this is not a parallel to the parable, I think it's likely that Jesus would tend to agree with Emily.

New Release - A Time for Healing

A Time for Healing by Tamelia Tumlin
As an active church member, Jaci Sinclair believes the Christian message that forgiveness is open to all…all except her, that is. Years ago, Jaci made a life-changing mistake, and now she’s sure she doesn’t deserve the one thing she wants the most—a family of her own.  But when Hunter Grant walks into her life, her world is turned upside-down. Not only does he make her desire a family even more, he shines a lamp on the one thing she refuses to see.

Ex-FBI hostage negotiator, Hunter Grant, has lost the one thing he treasured the most—his family. Filled with bitterness and anger towards God, Hunter vows never to let anyone close to him again. He moves to Yellow Rose, Texas, trying to forget the tragic deaths of his wife and son—deaths he should have prevented. Wanting to lose himself in the sleepy little town, he is not prepared for the powerful feelings Jaci stirs within him. 

As Jaci’s and Hunter’s worlds collide, neither is prepared to face the demons that haunt their pasts and hinder their future together, but for everything there is a season…even a time for healing.

Are Reviews Important?

As a reader, I don’t always rely on reviews or word-of-mouth in order to buy a book. After all, reading is subjective and not every book someone recommends is something I enjoy. Besides, I’ve been disappointed too many times.


But as an author, I love to receive those glowing 4 or 5 star reviews! This validates my work and builds confidence that I truly AM a writer. Even in a not-so-glowing review, I can normally find something positive to focus on.

Recently I found out just how important reviews are to an author’s recognition.

I heard through the grapevine that the more reviews a book or story on Amazon has, the more potential it has to become a “recommended read” when people do searches for specific genres, thereby increasing exposure. In researching I discovered that White Rose Publishing titles were not very easy to find while searching Amazon unless you knew the title and/or author. And then, the book(s) were buried so far in pages of other similar titles and authors, most folks would get tired looking for them.

So some of the White Rose authors banded together and began reviewing each other’s work.

Within days of this happening, most of the authors had 10 or more reviews. A few actually reached higher than twenty reviews before a week was up. But that’s not the best part.

The best part is, within days of us posting reviews of the books we’d already read and tagging each one with terms like White Rose Publishing, Inspirational Romance, and other identical words, White Rose titles began moving up in the ranks and were listed as an “also reviewed” or a “suggested product” similar book to some well known publications! If a search is done in the Kindle Store for “Christian Romance” about a 1/3 is WR titles where before you'd only get bonnet books and ones written by people whose last name was Christian.

This means that Amazon is automatically showing WR books to people who search, which may encourage them to buy our books!

So do your favorite author a favor and review his or her book on Amazon.

Pamela S Thibodeaux
“Inspirational with an Edge!” TM
http://pamelathibodeaux.com/
http://pamswildroseblog.blogspot.com/

Coming Soon from White Rose Publishing!

Royal Dreams

This morning on the Today show, there was much speculation about a pending royal engagement between Prince William and his girlfriend, Kate Middleton. Usually, I let the TV drone on in the background while I get ready. But, this time, I stopped what I was doing and sat and watched the segment.

Watching the dashing prince, I couldn't help but revisit that day way back in 1981 when his mother, Lady Diana Spencer, married Prince Charles and became the Princess of Wales. I know I'm dating myself here...I wasn't that old. Barely 13.

But old enough to set my alarm clock for the wee hours and watch the royal wedding unfold on live television. It was the stuff of young girls' fantasies. The bride even arrived in a real glass coach! I think that was the day I fell in love with romance.

Prince Charles and Princess Diana

on their wedding day, July 29, 1981

It was also the day I fell in love with royalty, a love that is still near and dear to my heart. Like Elle Woods from the Legally Blonde movies,  I am convinced I have the perfectly shaped head for a tiara.

Why do so many of us harbor secret dreams of castles, glittering crowns and Prince Charming? I think it's a dream God has placed in all our hearts. A dream that will ultimately be fulfilled. But we won't be given a crown that can be tarnished by earthly things. God's Word tells us we will be given a "crown of glory which will never fade away" (1 Peter 5:4).

And as for Prince Charming, riding in on his white horse? We don't wait for Him in vain...

"I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True" (Rev 19:11).

In my upcoming series from White Rose Publishing, I explore these dreams of royalty, tiaras and handsome heroes on white horses. Rodeo Royalty kicks off on July 16, with the release of Book 1 ~ Rodeo Redemption!

Rodeo Redemption releases on July 16, 2010

Rodeo Rescue,

Book 2 in the Rodeo Royalty Series

Rodeo Resurrection,

Book 3 in the Rodeo Royalty Series

Until then, embrace your role as a princess in the Kingdom of Heaven!

"But you are a chosen people,

a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people

belonging to God ,that you may

declare the praises of him

who called you out of darkness

into his wonderful light."

1 Peter 2:9

Teri Wilson ~ Romancing the pet lover's soul

http://www.teriwilson.net/

Cup of Joe ~ Available NOW from White Rose Publishing

Easter Is...

Does anyone remember the cartoon special Easter Is...? It was shown on television when I was a child. In recent years, our pastor used it as an aide to help my youngest daughter, who has Down syndrome, to understand communion.

A quick aside here about my daughter's first communion. She has a very sensitive gag reflex. When the pastor offered her the bread for the first time, she put it in her mouth, realized she wasn't going to be able to swallow it, spit it out and handed it back to the pastor. I was embarrassed but our wonderful pastor simply put the bread in her robe pocket and continued on.

Anyway, for some reason, I've been thinking about this cartoon with Easter fast approaching. For those who may not have seen or don't remember it, here's a quick summary from the DVD 3 Easter Classics at CBD.com - Easter Is — Benji must make a poster portraying the meaning of Easter. Frustrated for lack of good ideas, he pushes Waldo, his dog and pal, away. When Waldo later becomes lost, Benji's dad tells how the disciples thought they would never see Jesus again. In the end the good news of Easter is shared — that just as Waldo comes back to Benji on Easter morning, Jesus also returned!

Easter is... I've been trying to finish that sentence in my mind. There are many good endings to that from "the day I get a chocolate bunny in my Easter basket" to "the day Jesus returned, triumphant over death."

Where I live, in Wisconsin, there is generally still snow on the ground, especially when Easter is as early as it is this year. As people come into the church on Easter Sunday, they shed their heavy winter coats to reveal their colorful, new spring clothes. Easter is the time when we shed our mantle of sin and death and God reveals the new, vibrant life buried underneath.

As the weather warms, people come out of the houses where they hidden away all winter from the cold and snow. Yard work is being done. Gardens are being planted. flowers are beginning to grow and bud. Neighbors begin to talk again.

This all makes me think that Easter is...
The awakening
The renewing of relationships
The beginning...again.

Easter is...

Now it's your turn to finish the sentence.

An Introduction, The Story of a Thrill, & My 'First Ever' Contest!

So there I was – just noodling on the Net – when along came an e-mail that set my world spinning.

But wait, I'm sorry. I need to back up a pace or two and catch you up. I need to fill you in on the complete picture of my life at a most extraordinary moment in time – when I became a member of the White Rose publishing family. By the way, I’m delighted to be making your acquaintance here at the Blog.

My son and his wife had just come home for the holidays. My daughter had also just arrived for break from college. My hubby and our entire family were camped out in the kitchen, making traditional Christmas Sugar cookies for Christmas Eve festivities in a couple of days. A question came from my son, Dan: "Mom, while Mary's out for a minute, can you show me the top you got her for Christmas? I think I may have gotten her the same thing. I want to make sure my gift is different.”

The top in question was already wrapped and under the tree, but since I had ordered the item on line, I had an e-mail from the company, complete with photograph.

"Sure," I answered. "Come on over to the computer."

Question. Busy as we were (fresh-made cookie dough waited - as did green and red sprinkles and multi-colored sugar-balls...) why did everyone follow? Why? Because something was brewing, and God knows exactly what He's doing. Always.

I paged through e-mail and as I hunted down and opened the confirmation notice for Dan, I also saw a new message that made my heart pound. The sender was Nicola Martinez, Editor in Chief of White Rose Publishing. The subject line: Hearts Crossing Contest Entry.

I passed it by. I didn't want to click the 'open' button at all. In fact, I showed Dan the picture of the gift item - found out duplication was no longer an issue - then logged off e-mail.

Here's my justification: Just days away from welcoming 14 family members to my home on Christmas Eve, I didn't want to find out I had lost the Hearts Crossing writing contest sponsored by White Rose Publishing. I was happy and content. I didn't want anything to interfere with that fact. When you don't "know" there's always hope, right?

You see, this contest meant a great deal to me. For quite a while now, I've wanted to break into the Christian inspirational market, and White Rose has a strong, growing reputation in the industry. So, the contest, which I entered back in September, was a wonderful opportunity to do just that. At the same time, I was realistic enough to realize victory was beyond my wildest hopes. A lot of incredibly talented people were vying for the grand prize - a book contract.

So, I figured the e-mail would read something like: "Thank you so much for entering the contest. While your submission featured many appealing elements, the competition was very tight, and we regret to inform you that..."

Yeah -- you get the drift.

When I turned away from the computer, I caught my husband's eye and he could tell something was up just by looking at me. All I said to him was, "I think the verdict is in on Hearts Crossing." Steve sweats and bleeds publication issues right along with me - a partner in the best sense of the word. Unfailingly supportive he said, "Well, come on! Open it up! Let's find out!"

I was, shall we say, somewhat less enthusiastic. In fact, I was nervous as all get out. I even explained all the reasons why I avoided opening the e-mail. His answer to that somewhat psychotic behavior? "Marianne, really. If you win, we're all here around you. If you've lost, we're all here around you. What more could you ask for?"

Dang he's smart sometimes.

I huffed and I sat, opening up my e-mail once more. A deep breath later I clicked on the e-mail from Nicola. As it opened, Steve quipped, "It'll probably say Congratulations…"

First word of the e-mail? "Congratulations..."

I have to confess, and don't tell Nicola this, but, initially I didn't read much beyond that first word. Instead I burst into tears. Meanwhile, Steve and the kids whooped and cheered. I found myself blessed by an incredible moment, one I got to share it with the ones I love so much, and who have supported me through all the inevitable rejections and sad times that also come along quite frequently in the world of publishing.

The tentative release date for Hearts Crossing is late January. Below is a link to the video trailer for the book so you can get to know Daveny Montgomery and Collin Edwards a little better. These two were God-made for one another. Coming soon? The 'official' book blurb and excerpt.


Hearts Crossing Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QT0y46c3Mak

I'm eager to know what you think, so a week from today, one lucky visitor who leaves a comment on this blog, or at the site for my trailer, will win a $10.00 White Rose Publishing gift certificate so they can splurge on a few of their many wonderful offerings!

Meanwhile, thank you so much for welcoming me into the bouquet of White Roses. It is such an honor.

Blessings to you all – Marianne

Fan mail for Alvarado Gold

Victoria Pitts Caine has written a book entitled, Alvarado Gold.

One fan writes, "I enjoyed it so much, that I thought I would take a minute to let you know. I have read hundreds of paperbacks in the last two years, and this is the first time that I wanted to let an author know how much I enjoyed a book. I especially appreciated that it wasn't done like a paint by the number spainting. Your characters were real and your story unique. I loved Addie's temper and the fact that her adventures didn't end up with her finding a pot of gold, but something even more precious. She found love and she found her family again. Along the way she also experienced a spiritual journey, which I could easily relate to. Anyway, the book was delightful and I will look forward to the sequel. Keep on writing!!!!!"

How about you? Is there a favorite White Rose Publishing book that you love? Why not leave a little "fan" mail... it's sure to make their day!

The latest release...

DANIELLA is now available!

White Rose Publishing writes... Secretaries, disappearing contracts and handsome executives draw us into intrigue during these final days before Christmas! This is another great read from veteran author, JoAnn Carter, and just the right length to fit into your hectic holiday schedule.

Blurb:
When Harrison Beckman meets his father’s secretary, Daniella Duncan, she’s shy and self-conscious. Harrison, however, is determined to get to know her better. Before he gets to do that a rival comes along to steal Dani’s heart as quickly and thoroughly as the company’s contracts, which have been disappearing. As the mystery unfolds, Harrison has to fight for the woman he loves, even though this means crossing swords with his father and his determined adversary. Will Harrison be able to find the love that could await them or will it be too late?

Here's a little excerpt which introduces the two main characters...

"Oh, Dani fits me all right. It sounds short and fat." Her hand clamped over her mouth, and her eyes grew even wider. Harrison’s heart nearly broke when she asked, "Did I really say that out loud?"



It had been drilled into his head since he was a boy never to talk to women about two things: their age and their weight. Now, what should he do with this hanging hot potato? Ignore it. "I didn’t hear anything if you didn’t." He tried to continue with the previous introductions.


"Everyone calls my father Mr. Beckman, so I go by Harrison."



"Okay. I’ll try to remember that." Daniella seemed to have reached her limit; she looked like a cat being chased by a mouse, desperate for escape. "Um, I really need to get back now, so..."



"Sure. Thanks again." Harrison didn’t even know if she heard him as she turned and left with quick steps.



He stood quietly by his door and listened to the clickety-clack sound Daniella’s shoes made on the linoleum fade into a soft pitter-patter as she retreated down the hallway. He shut his door while contemplating the strange woman who was just in his office. Pretty but strange...yes, definitely strange. Finally, he shrugged his shoulders and went back to the tasks at hand.

Hope you'll be able to pick up your copy today. ($3.50) Don't forget, if you sign up for the White Rose Newsletter, you will get 10% off your order now through Christmas.

Devotions available for this Friday's Release!

This coming Friday, December 18th, Daniella will be released! You can watch the book trailer here: http://www.youtube. com/watch? v=rExz49PPw_ 4

In the meantime, if you're looking for a little something special to either end the year-- or perhaps a pick-me-up after the holidays, head over to my web-page http://home.comcast.net/~jo.glenncarter/site/ Click on the link at the top of the page that says Devotions for Daniella. There will be two full weeks of special Bible passages, thoughts, and plenty of room to journal your insights.

I hope you'll enjoy and be able to take advantage of this opportunity. Have a wonderful week!

Holiday Themed Romances

Hello Friends!

Just want to drop a note and let you all know that beginning Nov. 24th -thru- Jan 8th I will be featuring Holiday Themed romances on my personal blog: http://pamswildroseblog.blogspot.com

I'll try and post the upcoming titles and authors here!

Nov. 24th - Cindy K Green - Snow Kissed
Nov. 26th - Susan Lyons - Thanks but No Thanks
Nov. 28th - My Saturday Spotlight is on Margaret Tanner and her book, Shatterd Dreams - this is not a holiday story but a previously scheduled spotlight - the holiday stories will continue on Dec. 1st.

Hope you'll drop by my blog and check out these stories!

Until later....Take care, Be BLESSED and remember.....life is a gift so offer God praise and remember to keep the Holidays holy days!

Pamela S Thibodeaux
"Inspirational with an Edge!" TM

Cup of Joe...in print!

What a cute dog on that book cover!

Today was an exciting day around my house. I came home and found four huge boxes on my front porch. And guess what was in all of them?

Hot-off-the-presses copies of my new book Cup of Joe.

Cup of Joe will officially be released from White Rose Publishing on December 4. I have a book signing scheduled for December 12 at The Foundry coffee shop here in San Antonio. (Cup of Joe...coffee shop...get the connection? I'm clever that way!)

My son, Cameron, came over tonight so we had an impromptu photo shoot. Of course, I wanted my puppy, Bliss, in the photo since she bears a rather striking resemblance to the dog on the cover (what a shocking coincidence). My English Cocker Spaniel, Angel, wanted to climb in my lap so she could be in the picture, so we tried to get them both in. Boy, it's hard enough to get a decent looking picture of me, much less a good photo of all three of us.

Look at our sad attempts...

Um, Angel, what are you looking at?

Look at Angel's glowing eyes. What the heck? Halloween is over.

Oh well. Maybe next time!

Blessings, Teri

Teri Wilson ~ Romancing the pet lover's soul

http://www.teriwilson.net/

Free novella at White Rose Publishing

Last week my serialized novella, Once Upon a Collar, launched at the White Rose Publishing reader's yahoo group. This fun read is available FREE for anyone who joins the group! We've been having a great time over there reading the first chapter and answering discussion questions. Come join us at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WhiteRosePublishing/ and get in on the fun.

Emilie Bonner, the heroine of Once Upon a Collar, is an artist who creates special wedding cake toppers. She's less than happy when she's forced to create a topper with a groom dressed in red pants as a cartoon-inspired Prince Charming. Since she's a dog lover, I thought I'd share a mini-gallery of wedding cake toppers she might find more fun.

 

 

 

Aren't these a riot? I never knew such things existed until I wrote this novella. Shhh. Don't tell Emilie. She's supposed to be working on something more like this...

Once Upon a Collar, by Teri Wilson. Available for FREE from White Rose Publishing.

Whenever Emilie Bonner meets a man, she can’t help but imagine what he would look like on top of a wedding cake. Since she spends most of her waking hours designing wedding cake toppers, it’s somewhat of an occupational hazard. Somewhere along the way--perhaps after the first two hundred or so--hand-crafted bridegrooms, Emilie begins to doubt she’ll ever find her own happily-ever-after.

Then, after a mysterious encounter with a woman who could be an angel, Emilie meets a handsome stranger at the dog park. At first, it seems as though Matt, with his big dopey dog and irrepressible charm, is the Prince Charming she’s been waiting for. Not only is he a sweetheart, but he’d look great on top of a wedding cake.

Soon, however, she discovers something about him that changes everything and leaves her wondering…does God believe in fairy tales?

For more information, visit www.teriwilson.net.

Blessings, Teri

And the Winner is .....

Elizabeth Pina!

Hello Friends,

If you remember, I said that I would pick one person who commented on my last post about fully depicted love scenes to win a copy of one of my titles.

Elizabeth chose A Hero for Jessica as her prize.

I thank each and every one of you for participating in this discussion.

I had another equally challenging question for you, but for the life of me I can't remember what it was right now.

Until later....take care, be blessed and remember....life & love are a gift - enjoy both to the FULLEST because you never know when the opportunity will slip away.

Fully Depected Love Scenes

Hello Fellow Roses and Friends & Fans of White Rose Authors!

*Warning - the scenes below may be considered too riske' for some readers *

I'm on a quest.....

Many read Inspirational/Christian/Sweet romances because they don't want/need the graphic details of intimacy between a couple. Some, however, bemoan the fact that most of these books are too chaste. Thankfully, at White Rose Publishing, we have a bit more freedom in what we write - but the door is still basically closed when it comes to fully depicted love scenes.

This scene from The Inheritance is about as sensual as I get.....

Rebecca closed her eyes, marveling at the way his heart thundered against her palm, matching rhythm with the blood thrumming through her veins. Mesmerized she slipped her hand inside his shirt, felt him shudder, and heard his soft moan of pleasure. Before she could jerk away, he covered her hand with his.

“It’s all right,” he whispered. “Don’t be shy or afraid.”

She lifted wide, pleading eyes to his. “But I am afraid, Ray. Afraid of where all this will end, afraid that I’ll forget every scrap of morality I ever taught my children and even more afraid that I won’t care if I do.”

“I promise it won’t go that far. I’ll let you know when it’s time to stop,” Ray insisted. She allowed him to shift her slightly so that she was cradled against his side. Murmuring soft words of love and praise, he urged her to relax and to trust him. Slowly, he unbuttoned his shirt and tugged it free from the waist of his jeans. Cupping her face in his hands, he covered her lips in a breathtaking kiss before pulling her in his arms once more.

As though in a trance, her hand moved across his chest to trace circles of fire over the sleek expanse of muscle and flesh. She felt him tremble, heard his sharp intake of breath and jerked her hand away, marveling that she was capable of eliciting such a response. It was obvious that by Jim always being the one to initiate intimacy between them, she’d been robbed of the simple pleasure of cuddling and caressing. And, oh, how she wanted to now.

When Ray didn’t move or speak or open his eyes, she placed her hand over his heart once more. Propping up on one elbow, she ran her fingers up his throat, let them walk over his chin and sweep across his lips to cup one cheek as her lips brushed across the other. Rolling into a sitting position, she placed a hand on each of his shoulders and let them slide slowly and gently down his chest, thrilling at his soft groan of pleasure.

Ray grabbed her hands and stopped the sensual torture, afraid that if she so much as thought about touching him again, he’d surely die from lack of oxygen. His breathing came sharp and painful. His knuckles were white from clenching his fists in order to keep from crushing her to him and ravishing her on the spot. His jaw hurt from grinding his teeth so hard that it was sheer wonder—or a miracle—they weren’t mere dust in his mouth.

“Now, Rebecca,” he rasped in a voice so harsh it sounded, and felt, as though he’d swallowed a Brillo pad. “We have to stop now, before there’s no stopping at all.”

This wedding night scene from my novel Tempered Fire may be considered by some 'fully depicted' .....

His mouth covered hers in a scorching embrace, hands shook when he undid the tiny buttons along her back. “I love you so much,” he whispered, the words punctuated with feathery kisses across her cheeks, eyes and mouth.

“I love you, too,” Amber assured, swallowing the lump of emotion clogging her throat. “Hold me, Stanley, make me your wife,” she invited.

In answer Stanley swung her up into his arms and laid her on the bed. His hands trembled as he undressed her, covering inch by inch of precious skin with kisses. With the tenderness born of love and control he didn’t know he possessed, he kissed and caressed her, mumbling soft, sweet words of love and longing. He nearly lost control when, with trembling hands, she finished unbuttoning his shirt and began placing whisper-soft kisses on his skin; nipping gently at the tender flesh of his broad chest and circling patterns of fire over his skin with her touch.

Amber forgot everything she’d ever heard when he took sweet possession of her body, and felt nothing but the incredible heat, the glorious ache, the delirious need building to a shattering crescendo within her. The heat of his touch circled through her leaving scorching brands on her flesh wherever he stroked her with gentle hands and followed with hot, possessive kisses. Their vows were consummated in a tender celebration of love.

However, many still consider this chaste compared to secular romances.


You may wonder what this has to do with my quest - so I'll tell you... I queried a publisher about another project - an obviously secular publisher that has an 'inspirational' line and was told that even though the story is inspirational, they expect fully depicted love scenes. So now I wonder.....

Would you read a Christian/Inspirational novel if it DID contain fully depicted love scenes as long as the couple is married - more fully than above? Is what I've shared too much or not enough to be considered "fully depicted"?

I've always written "Inspirational with an Edge!" and explored the sensual side of romance more than most Christian/Inspirational authors, but I'm tempted to take this a step further....to show the beauty of physical love, yet I hesitate, wondering if doing so will turn away or disappoint my readers. Of course I can always warn them if I do write one of these LOL!

Seriously though....It is NEVER my intention to offend anyone and if I have by sharing these scenes with you - the PLEASE accept my SINCEREST apologies.

Your opinion on this matter is valued and greatly appreciated.

Leave a comment and you just may win your choice of one of my E-books.

Pamela S Thibodeaux
"Inspirational with an Edge!" (TM)

Enduring the Storm

Today is the release day for It Happened One Hurricane, a short inspirational story I wrote last fall during the five days I was without electricity following Hurricane Ike. This got me thinking about storms. Not the natural ones like Ike and Katrina, but the “life storms” some of you may be enduring at this very moment. Perhaps a relationship has died, or someone is sick. Maybe someone has failed to meet your expectations and let you down in a way you could never have imagined. Or maybe this recession is finally getting the best of you. Please let me remind you of a couple facts:

First: God has not forgotten you. It is often hard to find God or even pray when certain storms have swept us into deep waters. Never fear. God has a plan, God has peace to impart regarding the situation, and God always has the answer. So hang on. What’s that old saying? God may not come exactly when you call, but He’s always right on time. Count on it.

Second: You are not alone. Yes, I know you feel alone. Yes, I know you don’t know how you’ll ever feel right again. Yes, I know you’ve been forsaken by earthly people with limited earthly abilities. I know your heart is broken. Refer to my first point above.

The challenge: Though in the midst of your storm, take two minutes as often as you can to lift your arms above the raging water and say “Thank you, God, for calming the storm” and believe He is doing it. It really helps!

More on It Happened One Hurricane:
Here’s the blurb:
When Pittsburgh native Amber Kensington moved to the Texas Gulf coast to take a job, hurricane season was the last thing on her mind. That is until a massive storm named Ike appears destined to make a direct hit just miles from her apartment. Evacuation is the answer, but what happens when your car won’t cooperate?

Alex Clarke has seen his share of tropical weather, but it never gets any easier. A childhood experience with lightning has left him fearful of storms. Still, his greatest desire is to participate in his church’s outreach program and assist hurricane victims. Now he’s discovered his new neighbor is stranded. Can he convince her to go with him? And can Amber and Alex find God’s comfort and healing despite the raging storm?

Pop over to my blog and leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of It Happened One Hurricane. Winners announced Sunday evening the 9th! http://authorcarlarossi.blogspot.com/

The Sister Pact

The Sister Pact is now in bookstores.

Savannah Compton is devastated when her sister and best friend, Allison, falls into a coma after a tragic accident. Or was it an accident? Even with a charming and handsome detective at her side, it seems Savannah may never discover the truth. But if she doesn’t her family could be in even more danger. And Savannah’s past holds its own secrets that could change everything.

Now she must prove her innocence to the one person who is beginning to matter most. Join Savannah as she struggles to summon faith and rely on hope, even in the darkest of circumstances, and learn how the bond between sisters can overcome anything.

The Sister Pact is a thrilling romantic mystery, full of unexpected twists. Cami Checketts delivers an exhilarating new novel that will keep you guessing to the very last page.

To win a free copy, please visit my blog - http://camicheckettsbooks.blogspot.com.

www.camichecketts.com

Special Guest - Debby Mayne

White Roses are pleased to have with us once again, author Debby Mayne with her book, Love Finds You in Treasure Island, Florida.

Author and speaker Debby Mayne grew up in a military family, which meant moving every one to three years throughout her childhood. Debby was born in Alaska and lived in Mississippi, Tennessee, Oregon, Florida, Hawaii, and Japan. Her comfort foods are as diverse as her interests. You might find her eating sushi while reading a cozy mystery novel or fried catfish while watching a Tampa Bay Buccaneers football game.

Her husband of almost 30 years has accepted the fact that outside of her faith and family, books are the most important thing in her life. She and Wally have two grown daughters, Lauren and Alison, a son-in-law, Jason, and a granddaughter named Emma.

Debby has published 11 books, more than 400 short stories and articles, and 5 novellas that have been printed in 6 anthologies. She has also worked as the managing editor of a national health magazine, product information writer for a TV retailer, and as a copy editor and proofreader for several book publishers. Debby currently enjoys writing Christian fiction, which allows her the freedom to tell stories without restraining her convictions.

She lives on Florida’s west coast with her husband and two cats. To learn more about Debby, visit her website at http://debbymayne.com.

Debby's 2009 releases: Peachtree Dreams - Barbour Publishing, April 2009

Love Finds You in Treasure Island, Florida - Summerside Press, June 2009

Christmas Homecoming - Barbour Publishing anthology with Paige Winship Dooly, Elizabeth Goddard, and Elizabeth Ludwig, September 2009

Noah's Ark - Heartsong Presents, October 2009

Be Still and Let Your Nail Polish Dry - Summerside Press, 2009

Love Finds You in Treasure Island, Florida - Amanda Burns owns a bicycle shop in Treasure Island, Florida, but she has very little time to enjoy the charming town or its beautiful beaches. When she's not caring for her emotionally demanding sister, she's busy waiting on customers. There's one customer she never minds seeing. Each year for his parents' anniversary, Jerry Simpson returns to the shop to rent a bicycle for two. Jerry's sense of responsibility to his parents has prevented him from even thinking about love. Will he and Amanda find the treasure they both deserve, even if neither of them is looking for it?

Working with Summerside Press: From the moment of my sale to Summerside Press, editor Rachel Meisel has been a joy to work with. Jason and Carlton have put together a great team of publishing professionals, and I'm excited to be included in the fabulous lineup.

Thank you Debby! Best of luck and God's blessings on your writing.

Pamela S Thibodeaux
"Inspirational with an Edge!"

Cinderella dressed in yellow...

Cinderella dressed in yellow
Went upstairs to kiss a fellow
Made a mistake
Kissed a snake
How many doctors did it take?

I didn’t kiss a snake, but it did take a doctor or two to fix me up last night. My life has been a little crazy lately. My only child graduated from high school last week. Being an only child (and an only grandchild), plenty of family members came in town to celebrate this milestone in my son’s life. At times it was a bit overwhelming. Then, the day after everyone left, I took a tumble in a pizza parlor and sprained my foot. Right there amid the red checkered tablecloths and bubbling mozzarella, I watched my foot swell to about three times its normal size.

After I finished my pizza (hey – I have my priorities), my son (the high school graduate – insert heaping dose of parental pride here) and his girlfriend took me to an emergency medical clinic. The medical professionals x-rayed me and told me my foot wasn’t broken, but somehow I still ended up with a giant removable cast on my foot/ankle and orders to get lots of rest with my feet up.

So I went home and watched a DVD. It was a toss-up between Cinderella and Lady & the Tramp. Yes, I love Disney. And I have the personalized mouse-ears to prove it. I chose Cinderella. I haven’t seen it in a long time and besides…the color of my foot was starting to resemble the lovely blue of Cinderella’s ball gown.

Several of my son’s friends drifted in and out of the house and each and every one of them stopped, plopped down in the living room with me and watched the movie. I guess no one is immune to the feel-good quality of a good fairy tale. Even my dog Angel propped her chin up on my cast and stared at the plasma screen. She especially loved the little singing mice.

What is it that makes a good fairy tale so irresistible? I think it’s something more meaningful than just those fab glass stilettos. Even though I would walk through coals for a pair of shoes like that (cumbersome cast not withstanding). I believe we are all drawn to these stories because we want to believe something like that could happen to us. Somehow, somewhere there’s someone who can make all our wildest dreams come true.

The good news is that it’s true. God is that someone. He wants to make our dreams come true. Sometimes, of course, His idea of what’s best for us is slightly different than ours. But He is the God of the universe. His plans are better than anything you or I could come up with. Not only is this the truth, it is also the premise for my new novella from White Rose Publishing, Once Upon a Collar.

Once Upon a Collar is a modern, inspirational twist on the traditional fairy tale. And best of all – like a gift from a fairy godmother – it will be available FREE to anyone. Even those who forget to wish upon a star. All you need to do is join the White Rose Publishing Reader’s Group on Yahoo. To join the group, simply click here:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/WhiteRosePublishing/

Don’t miss out on Once Upon a Collar and other inspirational free reads. In the meantime, leave a comment and tell me what you love best about fairy tales. Or share some tips for getting around with this awful cast on my foot. Seriously, if Prince Charming showed up on my doorstep I couldn’t cram this thing into a glass slipper to save my life.

Blessings, Teri

Teri Wilson ~ Romancing the pet lover’s soul

www.teriwilson.net

Coming soon from White Rose Publishing:

Once Upon a Collar & Cup of Joe

Special Guest - Sandra D Bricker!

Please joine the White Rose Authors in welcoming author, Sandra D Bricker as our guest today.

“I'm going to be a writer when I grow up!"
Sandra D. Bricker declared these words to her father on a Sunday afternoon in Slidell, Louisiana. She was 5 years old, and was referring to being able to string her cursive letters together to write her full name for the first time, but the declaration proved somewhat prophetic. By the time she reached high school and her first article was published in The Cincinnati Enquirer, Sandie knew writing was what she wanted to do. For more than a decade, Sandie lived in Los Angeles and, while writing in every spare moment, she studied screenwriting and worked as a personal assistant and publicist to some of daytime television's hottest stars. When her mother became ill in Florida, she walked away from that segment of her life and moved cross-country to take on a new role: Caregiver.

"I guess most people would see my career as a publicist as a sort of dream job. But giving it up turned out to be the best thing that could have happened to me!” she declares. “Not only was I given the gift of getting to know my mother as an adult woman before she passed away, but I was also afforded the blessing of being able to re-focus on writing novels in an effort to pursue my dream of a writing career.”

That career weaves a web that draws in every age of reader. Sandie's interest in telling a story knows no boundaries. Three novels for middle readers carved out the beginning of the journey; then Avalon Books followed up with two hardbound romance novels in 2001: unWANTED: Husband (romantic comedy) and Change of Heart (romantic suspense). The response was tremendous, and Sandie was asked to pen a sequel to Change of Heart ... and so Sins of the Past was released in December 2003. Next up was another romantic comedy; Wish I Weren't Here was released in February 2005.

“I’m a Christian woman, first and foremost,” she says. “So my newest book is also a bit of a dream-come-true. Summerside Press has chosen me as one of two authors to launch their new Love Finds You line in October 2008. Love Finds You in Snowball, Arkansas is a romantic comedy for the inspirational market. So the best of all worlds, as far as I'm concerned!"

Future laughter is promised from this author. Her recent sales include Love Finds You in Big Sky, Montana and Love Finds You in Holiday, Florida for Summerside Press, and The Big Five-OH! for Abingdon Press (Spring 2010).After spending nearly 15 years dealing with her celebrity clients' fans, Sandie finds it amusing that she is suddenly the one getting fan mail!

"When people were actually buying my books at a recent signing, I found myself wanting to go around and invite them all to dinner or offer to bake them cookies. Hey! In fact ... maybe I'll do that very soon."

So what if she can't hook a fish? This city girl has a plan to snag something else ... and his name is Justin.Lucy Binoche is reasonably attractive, intelligent, she has French lineage and better-than-average hair. So why is she nearly 30 and still single? Justin Gerard is the rugged hottie new to her church's single group. When he signs up for a camping trip in the Ozarks, Lucy loses no time writing her name on the line beneath his. There's only one problem: Lucy's idea of "roughing it" is suffering through a long line at Starbucks. She assumes she can rely on the grace of God and the assistance of her friend to get her through. But at the campsite in Snowball, Arkansas, Lucy bungles everything she attempts as she tries to impress Justin. She can't fish, hike or ride a horse; caves make her hyperventillate and hot air balloons bring on nausea. Soon, events are snowballing out of control. Will Lucy pretend to be someone she's not to snag the guy? Or will she discover in time that there's someone else who loves her for just who she is?

Now a few words from Sandie.....I'd been published before Summerside, but never in the inspirational market. And that was the goal! When I heard about the new Love Finds You line Summerside Press was going to start, I was really excited. They turned down several of my proposals, and then one day my editor called to ask if I'd be interested in trying something specific. It seemed they wanted a laugh-out-loud romantic comedy for one of the two launch books, and they thought I'd be just the writer to give it to them.

I found this a little odd, since everything I'd submitted thus far had been rather serious in nature. But it turned out that the e-mails we'd been exchanging had them laughing at their laptops! So I dug in and put something together for Snowball. A week later, Summerside's Creative Director, Jason Rovenstine, told me I'd nailed it, and he invited me to be one of the launch authors for the line.

I was both excited and anxious. Launching a line can be exhilerating and wonderful, but it also means you're the first to dip your toe out there in the Great Unknown. My experience with Love Finds You in Snowball, Arkansas has resulted in a landslide of the greatest reviews I've ever received! A friend called me recently and asked, "Have you read the reviews on your book at Amazon?" I hadn't lately, so I stopped over to have a look. I was in tears by the second one. People had fallen in love with Lucy, and with her adventures in the quest for true love. But the greatest part was that, between the fits of laughter, so many of them seemed to be moved by her spiritual journey as well. As a writer who loves Jesus the way I do, there is no bigger rush than that!

There's lots going on in my life at the moment because of the success of Snowball, too. I've sold two more books to the Love Finds You line (Holiday, Florida will be released in November, and Carmel, California is slated for next year). In addition, I've sold a comedy to Abingdon Press for their new fiction line (The Big 5-OH!) which will be released in Spring 2010.

At the moment, I'm involved in some awesome promotion for a devotional that I co-authored with three other Summerside authors (Loree Lough, Debby Mayne and Andrea Boeshaar). It's called Be Still ... and Let Your Nail Polish Dry, and it's geared toward the busy woman on-the-go. We've already received amazing endorsements from Candace Cameron-Bure (remember D.J. Tanner on Full House?) and Robin Lee Hatcher. The authors have all decided to donate a portion of the proceeds to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund (I'm a survivor). We have a blog devoted to the book over at http://bestilldevos.blogspot.com/ and I really do hope you'll all stop in there and say hello. We're so blessed (and humbled) by what the Lord is doing with that devotional.

So that's what's happening in my life these days. Thanks so much for having me here today!Blessings, Sandie Bricker

Thank you, Sandie for being with us today - please keep us posted on the Love Finds You line and the movies!

Well friends, hope you enjoyed this special guest. Join us on the 17th when Debby Mayne returns with her Love Finds You book!

Until later....Be Blessed!
Pamela S Thibodeaux
"Inspirational with an Edge!" (TM)