Introducing A Tuscan Legacy and Solo Tu plus #Giveaway | Narelle Atkins

By Narelle Atkins  @Narelle Atkins

I'm thrilled to introduce my tenth book - Solo Tu: Only You - Book 7 in A Tuscan Legacy - a contemporary Christian romance novella series spanning three continents.

I've always wanted to write a book for a continuity series that has shared characters and a connected story world.

A Tuscan Legacy is the brainchild of my author friends Marion Ueckermann and Autumn Macarthur. I was delighted to accept their offer when they asked me to join them in their journey to write an indie novella series based in Tuscany.

The series has an overarching family mystery plot that links all the books together. I've loved working with my authors friends in the group who live in England, South Africa and USA.

Here's the video trailer introducing A Tuscan Legacy:

We're excited that Book 1 - That's Amore by Marion Ueckermann - is releasing next week on Tuesday April 17!

Let me share Solo Tu with you and introduce you to my characters - Sienna Rossi and Dave Maxwell.

If you read A Tuscan Legacy series from start to finish, you'll meet Sienna in That's Amore (Book 1) and Ti Amo (Book 4) before journeying to Sydney, Australia for Book 7.

Home means everything to Sienna Rossi.

Four years ago, Sienna defied her father by moving to Australia to obtain her teaching qualifications. Her grand plan is shaken by her father’s unexpected death and a trip back to Tuscany for her grandmother’s eightieth birthday where she renews her close bond with her sister, Alessa.

Teacher Dave Maxwell likes the freedom of his nomadic lifestyle. He works contract-to-contract, moving to different high schools around Australia. He’s in Sydney for a season, caring for his grandma while his aunt is on an extended overseas vacation.

Back in Sydney, Sienna moves in with her Aussie cousins and starts her first teaching job, torn between her dream for a future in Australia and her longing for home. Sienna and Dave work at the same school, attend the same church, and quickly become friends. They are drawn together by circumstances and an undeniable attraction.

But their idyllic time together is temporary. Can the girl from Tuscany and the boy from Australia risk everything for love?

$15 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway 

I'm giving away a $15 Amazon Gift Card to a reader who leaves a comment on this post.

You could choose to purchase the complete nine book series at the special pre-order price of 99 cents (USD) per ebook and have change left over from $15 to buy more ebooks!

I'll draw the winner on Sunday, April 15 (Aussie timezone) and announce the winner in a comment on this post. To claim your winning prize, please check the comments on this post on Monday, April  16. If you're the lucky winner, please leave your email address in a comment or contact me via social media. I will do one redraw on Friday, April 20 (Aussie timezone) if I'm unable to make contact with the original winner by April 20.

A Tuscan Legacy series - Amazon Kindle and coming in print

A Tuscan Legacy novellas are now available for pre-order on Amazon Kindle and will be available in Kindle Unlimited. The books will be releasing in ebook format first, and will later be available in print. Please check out A Tuscan Legacy series page on Amazon.com for more information.

Aussie readers can purchase the books on Amazon Australia and read the series on Kindle Unlimited via Amazon Australia. The Amazon Australia link for Solo Tu - amzn.to/2qpD40k

Here's the complete A Tuscan Legacy series list and the Amazon Kindle release dates. The ebooks are available now at the special pre-order price of 99 cents (USD).

THAT'S AMORE Book 1 by Marion Ueckermann - releasing APRIL 17
LUNA ROSA Book 2 by Elizabeth Maddrey - releasing APRIL 24
RAPSODIA Book 3 by Alexa Verde - releasing MAY 1
TI AMO Book 4 by Marion Ueckermann - releasing MAY 8
LA FIAMMA SACRA Book 5 by Clare Revell - releasing MAY 15
BELLA NOTTE Book 6 by Heather Gray - releasing MAY 22
SOLO TU Book 7 by Narelle Atkins - releasing MAY 29
DOLCE VITA Book 8 by Autumn Macarthur - releasing JUNE 5
LA RISPOSTA Book 9 by Autumn Macarthur - releasing JUNE 12

A Tuscan Legacy Reader Group on Facebook

A Tuscan Legacy has a Reader Group on Facebook. If you'd like to follow the series and keep up-to-date on the latest news, please join our Reader Group.

A fun loving Aussie girl at heart, NARELLE ATKINS was born and raised on the beautiful northern beaches in Sydney, Australia. She has settled in Canberra with her husband and children. A lifelong romance reader, she found the perfect genre to write when she discovered inspirational romance. Narelle's contemporary stories of faith and romance are set in Australia.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

Book Review: The Boy in the Hoodie by Catriona McKeown (and Giveaway)

Review by Iola Goulton

The Boy in the Hoodie is the debut from Australian author Catriona McKeown, and winner of the 2016 Omega Writers CALEB Prize for an unpublished manuscript. It was a well-deserved win, because it's a great coming of age novel about making mistakes, paying the price, and becoming a better person through the experience.

Here's the description from the back cover:

One girl. One boy. And a friendship that could save them both.

Good-girl Kat knew drinking alcohol at school would have serious consequences. But to protect her friend from being expelled, Kat lands herself a terms worth of detentions.

Inside the detention room, she meets a strange boy who obsessively draws dark pictures and covers his head with a grey hoodie. Little does she know, the hoodie hides a dark past ...

An unlikely friendship forms between Kat and the boy in the hoodie. When she discovers a sinister truth hes been hiding, she somehow feels compelled to help him but at what cost? And how much is she willing to risk in order to keep him safe?

The Boy in the Hoodie is a real, unforgettable story about past scars and how the ones we love can sometimes heal them.

My Review

I enjoyed everything about The Boy in the Hoodie. Aussie setting, strong characters, solid plot, and excellent writing with enough humour to offset the often-serious nature of the story. Like this line, where Kat is wishing she could leave her current high school and go to a private school:

Well, I thought it was funny.

The set-up could have come across as contrived, but it didn't. I think this was because the story was told in first person from Kat's point of view, so we could see both why she lied for her friends, and what she thought about it. It was also interesting watching her get to know the boy in the hoodie and find out more about what the adults thought about her misdemeanor.

The boy was also an interesting character, and first person worked well in that I (as the reader) didn't know any more about him than Kat did, and got to know him as she did—for better and for worse.

I almost read The Boy in the Hoodie in one sitting—yes, it was that good. The 'almost' is because the tension got too much towards the end, so I had to take a break. I definitely recommend The Boy in the Hoodie for young adult and not-so-young adult readers.

Any chance of a sequel? I see Paige had issues and I want to know more ...

Giveaway

Cate has offered to give away two copies of The Boy in the Hoodie - one paperback copy to an Australian postal address, and one Kindle copy to an international reader.

If you'd like a chance to win, leave a comment and your email address, and tell us whether you ever got a detention in high school. If so, what was it for? 

We'll announce the winner next Friday, 2 February.

About Iola Goulton

Iola Goulton is a New Zealand book reviewer, freelance editor, and author, writing contemporary Christian romance with a Kiwi twist. She is a member of the Sisterhood of Unpronounceable Names (Iola is pronounced yo-la, not eye-ola and definitely not Lola).

Iola holds a degree in marketing, has a background in human resource consulting, and currently works as a freelance editor. When she’s not working, Iola is usually reading or writing her next book review. Iola lives in the beautiful Bay of Plenty in New Zealand (not far from Hobbiton) with her husband, two teenagers and one cat.

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

October New Releases (plus giveaway)

The Dishonorable Miss Delancey by Carolyn Miller (Kregel Publications, 24 October 2017) 

Will a damaged reputation and desire for society's approval thwart the legacy of grace?

Tainted by scandal and forced to leave London for the quieter Brighton countryside, the Honorable Miss Clara DeLancey is a shadow of her former society self. She's lost the man she loved to another and, in a culture that has no patience for self-pity, is struggling with depression. A chance encounter brings her a healing friendship with the sisters of an injured naval captain. But Clara's society mama is appalled at the new company she's keeping.

Captain Benjamin Kemsley is not looking for a wife. But his gallant spirit won't let him ignore the penniless viscount's daughter--not when she so obviously needs assistance to keep moving forward from day to day. Can he protect his heart and still keep her safe?

When they're pushed into the highest echelons of society at the Prince Regent's Brighton Pavilion, this mismatched couple must decide if family honor is more important than their hopes. Can they right the wrongs of the past and find future happiness together--without finances, family support, or royal favor?

The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey is full of the captivating, flawed characters, fascinating historical details, and masterful writing that Carolyn Miller's fans have come to know in The Elusive Miss Ellison and The Captivating Lady Charlotte. If you love Lori Wick, Georgette Heyer, and other clean, wholesome Regency romance, you'll love this third book in the Regency Brides: A Legacy of Grace series.

"Fans of historical romance will love Carolyn Miller....With just the right touch of inspiration and interesting historical detail, Carolyn transports you back to Regency England."

--- Carrie Turansky, award-winning author of A Refuge at Highland Hall and Shine Like the Dawn. 

The Dishonorable Miss Delancey will be released on 24th October and will be available in print and ebook from stores including Amazon and Koorong.

Check out Carolyn's giveaway for our blog readers at the end of this post.

Grace in Strange Disguise by Christine Dillon (independent release, 1 October 2017) 

Physiotherapist Esther Macdonald is living the Australian dream, and it doesn’t surprise her.

After all, her father has always said, “Follow Jesus and be blessed.” But at twenty-eight, her world shatters. Everyone assures her God will come through for her, but what happens when he doesn’t? Has she offended God? Is her faith too small? So many conflicting explanations.

Will finding the truth cost her the people closest to her heart?

Available from Amazon. For more information, please visit Christine's website.

Whimsy Primsy Runs Her Race by Jen Gibbs (Tsunami Publishing Ltd., 28 October 2017) 

Join Whimsy Primsy as she runs her race. But will she ever find her lane? Kiwi author, Jen Gibbs introduces us to Primsy, a whimsical girl who begins to run her race but takes a few detours. This is a book that inspires readers to be themselves, not looking to the right or left.

“Whimsy Primsy is every child who needs a little reassurance. These delightful books are real, non-preachy and empowering.” Joy Cowley

$20 Buy from jengibbs.com, all Christian retailers in NZ, PaperPlus and other independent bookstores. Free shipping to Australia and New Zealand on all preorders through the website. 

Whimsy Primsy Sad to Glad  by Jen Gibbs (Tsunami Publishing Ltd., 28 October 2017)

Whimsy Primsy is a little sad. How will she get through it? As Whimsy Primsy’s friends join her one by one Primsy is encouraged that things will get better. This is a book that gently instills hope and shows the power of friendship. Another gorgeous Primsy story from Kiwi author, Jen Gibbs.

“Whimsy Primsy is every child who needs a little reassurance. These delightful books are real, non-preachy and empowering.” Joy Cowley

$20 Buy from jengibbs.com, all Christian retailers in NZ, PaperPlus and other independent bookstores. Free shipping to Australia and New Zealand on all preorders through the website.

Whimsy Primsy Love You More  by Jen Gibbs (Tsunami Publishing Ltd., 28 October 2017)

Whimsy Primsy goes head to head with her dad. Who loves whom the most? A conversation between Primsy and her dad reveals, in ways that are both funny and profound, the depth of their love for each other. A heart warming story that adults and children alike will love to read and re-read by Kiwi author Jen Gibbs.

“Whimsy Primsy is every child who needs a little reassurance. These delightful books are real, non-preachy and empowering.” Joy Cowley

$20 Buy from jengibbs.com, all Christian retailers in NZ, PaperPlus and other independent bookstores. Free shipping to Australia and New Zealand on all preorders through the website. 

The Whimsy Primsy Collection by Jen Gibbs (Tsunami Publishing Ltd., 28 October 2017)

A boxed set containing all three Whimsy Primsy books. Each book is a stand alone story, however, as a set they function as a well crafted series. These sets are ideal as a gift to be treasured.

“Whimsy Primsy is every child who needs a little reassurance. These delightful books are real, non-preachy and empowering.” Joy Cowley

$39.99 Buy from jengibbs.com, all Christian retailers in NZ, PaperPlus and other independent bookstores. Free shipping to Australia and New Zealand on all preorders through the website. 

Heart the Mountain: a short novella by Jeanette O'Hagan (Publisher: By the Light Books, 22 September 2017)

YA Fantasy Adventure in the lost realm deep under the mountain.

Twins Delvina and Retza’s are desperate is to be accepted as prentices by their parents’ old crew when they stumble across a stranger. Trapped under the mountain, young Zadeki’s only thought is to escape home to his kin. Peril awaits all three youngsters. Will they pull apart or work together to save the underground realm?

Amazon

Blood Crystal: a novella by Jeanette O'Hagan (Publisher: By the Light Books, 22 September 2017)

Unlikely hereos, thrilling adventure, clash of cultures, unthinkable choices.

What price survival? The underground realm is under attack from mad Overseer Uzza and the Crystal Heart is failing. As things become desperate, Twins Delvina and Retza brave a treacherous journey to seek help from Zadeki and his people. 

Will they find the answers they seek before it’s too late? What are the twins prepared to do to save their realm and those they love from certain destruction? 

Blood Crystal is the sequel to Heart of the Mountain.

Amazon

Akrad's Children Book 1 in the Akrad's Legacy series. by Jeanette O'Hagan (Publisher: By the Light Books, 22 September 2017)

Four young lives, a realm ravaged by war, a haunting legacy

Four young lives are bound together in friendship, love, rivalry and tragedy. A realm ravaged by civil war, a ruler scarred by betrayal, a legacy that haunts them all.

Caught between two cultures, a pawn in a deadly power struggle, Dinnis longs for the day his father will rescue him and his sister from the sorcerer Akrad’s clutches. But things don’t turn out how Dinnis imagines and his father betrays him.

Does Dinnis have a future among the Tamrin? Will he seek revenge for wrongs like his sister or forge a different destiny?

Amazon

Futurevision anthology (Publisher: 1231Publishing September 9, 2017)

20 Stories about the Future by 20 Australian Authors including stories from Nola Passmore, Raelene Purtill and Jeanette O'Hagan

Since humankind was able to imagine, stories about the future both immediate and far-reaching have been passed on. We ask ourselves:

• Will we, as a species, be able to overcome our differences and work together?
• Will planet Earth be salvaged or abandoned?
• Will we be able to connect with other humans in a digital age?
• Will we be able to recognise ourselves and our society in twenty years' time? How about in fifty or a hundred?

Find out what twenty Australian authors have imagined and be intrigued by the differences - and similarities - they have in store for humankind.

website

GIVEAWAY (open until October 31, 2017):

Carolyn Miller is giving away ONE of the following prizes (winner's choice):

An autographed copy of The Dishonorable Miss DeLancey (posted to an Australian address only)

OR $15 Koorong gift card

OR $10 US Amazon.com gift card 

To enter the drawing, please leave a comment on this post by October 31, 2017.

The winner will be announced in early November in a comment on this post and will have until November 15, 2017 to claim their prize by either 1) commenting on this post with their email address or 2) posting a comment on the winner's announcement post in the Australasian Christian Writers Facebook Group.

"Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws."

Review of An Aussie Summer Christmas with Giveaway

By Jenny Blake

An Aussie Summer Christmas 

Blurb

Melbourne Memories by USA Today bestselling author Marion Ueckermann 
Escaping his dangerous past, former British rock star Justin “The Phoenix” Taylor flees to Australia. Intrigued by the bearded stranger visiting her coffee shop, Ella Anderson decides to discover his secrets. But when Justin’s past collides with their future, Ella must decide whether they have a future at all. 

Next Door Santa by USA Today bestselling author Lacy Williams 
Will Harris is proud of his no-complications life. So why is he drawn to his upstairs neighbor, who seems obsessed with Christmas? Can Bridie soften Will-the-Scrooge’s heart in time for Christmas? 

Seaside Christmas by Narelle Atkins 
Political advisor and former bad boy Gus Donovan is intrigued by Chelsea Somers, the girl he didn’t call after their one and only date, six years ago. Chelsea is impressed by the new Gus, but can she trust him with her family secrets ... and with her heart? 

A Christmas Resolution by Rose Dee 
Breeah has avoided returning to her Australian coastal hometown of Kiisay Point for ten years—avoided the mistake that changed her life, ruined her friendships, and soured her first love. She’s never returned to Resolution, the island where it all happened. But now she’s back, and having to face up to the childhood she loved, the man she can’t forget, and the future that won’t start until she lets it all go. 

All is Bright by Andrea Grigg 
Amy’s always been a good Christian girl…except for being in love with her brother-in-law. Josh is looking for love again, surprised to find it with his late wife’s sister. But will a mountain of guilt and an unexpected letter stop them from making it to the altar? 

Falling for Maddie Grace by Meredith Resce 
Australia’s first professional female football umpire, Maddie Grace, gets knocked out in an on-field accident, crushed beneath the weight of an athletic sports star. What is it about the visual images that has the media making up stories of a secret love affair? Escaping the paparazzi is one thing, but escaping each other is quite another.

My Review

I really enjoyed this box set. Each story is different but has the Aussie connection and a beach connection.

Melbourne Memories by USA Today bestselling author Marion Ueckermann 

This is the first book and I have to say I wasn't sure how I would like this book as Justin was a rock star and its not my sort of hero but I actually really liked the story. It shows how a chance meeting when someone has hit rock bottom can help change a life. Justin ends up in Australia where he comes in contact with Ella who wants to learn his secrets not knowing how it may affect her. I really loved the way it showed how Justin turns his life around and his wanting to make amends for his past. 

Next Door Santa by USA Today bestselling author Lacy Williams 

I love Bridie, I think I like her cos shes has a job I would love. She is full of life although she has had plenty of heartache in her life. Will on the other hand seems to be more focused on working and not doing much else. We see an incident happen in which the two will be brought together and then need to work together. I enjoyed the story and learning both stories of why they are how they are. It also teaches not to judge by appearances as there is often more to a story than one thinks. 

Seaside Christmas by Narelle Atkins 
In this book we see Chelsea and Gus meet up again after 6 years. Chelsea wonders if Gus really has changed or if its just an act. She is also still grieving the passing of her sister. She has also told her father she will never reveal some of the details to her sisters death. She also wonders if she can handle someone who is in the political arena. I enjoyed their story and seeing how it unfolded. 

A Christmas Resolution by Rose Dee 
Breeah has returned home after the passing of her uncle. She hasn't been back for 10 years and wants to avoid some people. She made a mistake 10 years ago and still feels guilty. This story deals a lot with forgiveness and not just of others but of yourself. In many ways I felt like Breeah found herself in this book along with reconnecting with a former friend.


All is Bright by Andrea Grigg 
Amy feels she is bad because she loves her brother in law, she has loved him for a long time but knew he was off limits and never acted on the feelings or told anyone, she would never to that to her sister. Even with her sister gone for many years she still hasn't told anyone. Josh gets a letter from his late wife which changes everything between them. I actually found this book refreshingly in the way it showed Amy and her feelings and how she struggled with them. 

Falling for Maddie Grace by Meredith Resce 
Now here is a story I can appreciate. While I love cricket more I am an AFL fan. Maddie Grace is a umpire who has the misfortune of being knocked out by a star Zac. The media have a field day with this as Zac is also referred to as the Rev due to studying ministry and being squeaky clean. They know each other from years back when her father was the coach of Zac's team but nothing more. Seeing this story play out was interesting. Once again another good read.

Giveaway
Thanks to Narelle Atkins we have one copy to give away to one reader. Just leave a comment and the winner will be announced in the comments next Thursday.
Leave a way to get in touch with you like (myemail   at email dot com)

Online Book Advertising - Does It Even Work? + Giveaway!!

Last week I had a surreal moment. I was working away, clearing emails, when I happened to glance to the sidebar on the right hand side of my screen and saw my own soon-to-be-released book, Can't Help Falling, being advertised to me. I laughed about it, mentally congratulated whatever robot it was operating in cyber space on picking up from an inbox filled with emails about this very book that I might be interested in it, and moved on.

A few days later, an email landed from my agent talking about marketing Can't Help Falling. You need to think about spending some of your marketing budget buying online advertisements read one of his recommendations.

Really? I thought. Does anyone even pay attention to those? I mean sure, I've paid for the occasional Facebook post from my author page to be boosted if I'm doing a giveaway or I have something that I wanted all of my page followers to know about but real advertisements? The kind that pop up on websites and irritate people rotating on the side of their screen? I know nothing about this world, least of all how to know that I'm not throwing my limited marketing budget straight down the virtual toilet.

So, since I thought I'd turn to the great minds here. For those of you who are writers - have you ever used online advertising for any of your books? What worked and what didn't? Readers? Do you ever pay attention to online book advertising and if so, in what context? What do you like and what do you hate? (for example Facebook ads, Twitter promoted posts, advertisements on GoodReads, random ones just showing up on websites you happen to be visiting etc.)

One commenter will win a copy of their choice of my debut novel, Close To You, or my upcoming release, Can't Help Falling :)

Kara Isaac lives in Wellington, New Zealand. Her debut romantic comedy, Close To You, is about a disillusioned academic-turned-tour-guide and an entrepreneur who knows nothing about Tolkien who fall in love on a Tolkien themed tour of New Zealand. Her sophomore novel, Can't Help Falling, is about about how an antique shop, a wardrobe, and a mysterious tea cup bring two C.S. Lewis fans together in a snowy and picturesque Oxford, England. When she's not working her day job as a public servant, chasing around a ninja preschooler and his feisty toddler sister, she spends her time writing horribly bad first drafts and wishing you could get Double Stuf Oreos in New Zealand. She loves to connnect on her website, on Facebook at Kara Isaac - Author and Twitter @KaraIsaac

Peeking Under the Covers - Part 2 (plus giveaway)

By Andrea Grigg

Last week I introduced my graphic designer daughter, Melissa Dalley, and we discussed the essentials of cover design and gave reasons why it’s a good idea to employ a professional to create your book cover. If you missed it and would like to read it, please click here.

This week, I’m asking Mel questions on the subject of designing your own cover. A number of our ACW members raised some very good questions, and we’ll do our best to answer them today.

First of all, I have a question of my own.

Me: Which rookie errors stand out the most?

Mel: That’s an easy answer. Fonts and their colour choices, and balance.

Me: Okay, so could you please expand on those?

Mel: Sure. As far as fonts are concerned, don’t use what’s automatically on your computer. It’s quite limiting and it shows.

Second, make sure you know which style fits with your genre. Swirly and flirty is great for romance. There are many modern styles available for non-fiction and Young Adult (again, depending on the genre), and some great creepy styles for mysteries etc.

Third, be aware that some fonts come with copyright issues. However, you can purchase fonts for use, often between $5-$500, (similar to images), and this gives you the legal right to use them.

I mostly use myfonts.com for purchase but there are Royalty Free and free fonts all over the internet. (Be aware the free types aren’t always that great – they can be cheap-looking). The most important thing is to read all the licensing and understand what the fine print means.

As far as balance goes, the text shouldn’t be too heavily positioned on one side, nor should the imagery. Balance is also about the reader not having to turn their head to see something. Sometimes it can be an automatic reaction and we want to avoid that!

  

Me: Great advice. Now, what can you tell us about images?

Mel: Obviously, the image you use must fit your genre. I generally buy images from Shutterstock and iStock. Their imagery is licensed for use on book covers. Again, the fine print must be read.

In my opinion, Photoshop is the best software for editing imagery and Adobe Suite is the best program for designing and editing for book cover design and imagery editing. It gives you more control and helps make sure your work is up to speed for printing specs. Someone asked about Gimp, but I’m afraid I don’t know anything about it.

If you intend using a photographer for a custom photo, you need to brief him/her as you would if a designer was creating your cover. Remember to ask about their rights for reproducing and marketing their shots.

A logo is another form of imagery used on a cover. I recommend a designer to create one of these as they can be tricky, especially when used on a spine. Again, give the designer a well thought out brief, and include examples of logos you’ve seen and liked.

Me: Melissa, thank you for coming back a second time and answering more of our questions.

Mel: My pleasure!

Me: And I’m very happy to announce that Melissa has offered to design an e-book cover for one of our members for free!

To enter the draw, post the following in the comments on our ACW Facebook group, under the promotion of today’s blogpost:

1.    Provide an image of a cover you love

2.    Explain why it appeals to you, using two of the principles mentioned in the Peeking Under the Covers posts.

NB: The winner must agree to provide a stock image, and complete Mel’s questions on the design specs. Once Mel has completed the design, the winner may request up to three alterations. 

The winner will be announced on Friday on the ACW Facebook group.

Andrea Grigg is the author of two contemporary Christian romances, A Simple Mistake and Too Pretty. She loves hearing from readers and writers alike, and can be contacted via Twitter, @andreagrigg, her Facebook author page, and via email: andreagrigg(at)live(dot)com

  

Melissa Dalley has a degree in Marketing and eCommerce, and a diploma in Graphic Design and PrePress. She works as a Creative Design Manager for a well-known shopping centre group, is on the board for a charity as their marketing and creative adviser, and freelances designs for authors and small businesses. 

You may contact her via email at: melissadalley(at)live(dot)com

My experience with Bullying and a giveaway

By Jenny Blake

I was talking with Narelle Atkins about this book and how I believe it should be in every library and then was telling her a little about my story. She suggested I do a blog post about bullying. 

When I was in High School I suffered from bullying. It started in year 10 but thankfully a teacher saw what was happening and stepped in and stopped it. Then year 11 was a nightmare. I was bullied by one boy in particularly and while he included others he was the ringleader. I wasn't the only victim but as the class got smaller the others left so I became the main target. A lot of this was sexual harassment which escalated at the year went on. It didn't end at school either as it included stalking by phone calls, following me home and even throwing rocks on our roof. Being a christian and from a very conservative family just made it worse. 

I often wondered why some of the other girls didn't stand up for me or why others didn't step in and do something. I knew a couple of teachers knew but they were scared of this boy so did nothing. It wasn't until almost the end of the year when something happened and I got trapped and when I left I was so upset and crying a Christian teacher asked what had happened and I broke down and told him everything. He did enough to let it be known if it happened again there would be trouble and I was left alone. It also stopped the bully from picking on anyone else. 

We are looking at having a school year reunion next year and since talking to some of the other class members I have realised the reason they didn't stand up for me was the fact they were getting bullied themselves when I wasn't there. I also now realise if they had stood up for me they would then been the target. Another reason for not speaking up was seeing how one person who did tell suffered more, as back then telling wasn't always helpful depending who you told. Its sad that this is the case in so many incidents of Bullying. I have also heard from some who said he didn't stop at my class but also targeted people from other year levels. I have also been assured at the reunion people will protect me from having to deal with him.

My bully had a huge impact on my life which has been with me most of my life since high school. It has caused a lot of issues and up til the past year or so I could not be in the same store as he was in. (Yes he still lives in the same town). I have heard he was sorry for what he did but he has never said sorry to me and I am not sure how true it is. He has had chances to say sorry. In all reality he probably hasn't given it a second thought while I have had to live with what happened and been scarred because of it. It has only been through counselling when mum passed away that I was able to bring many of the issues up and was able to start to finally put some closure on what happened.  I am hoping my story will help others who have been bullied or are being bullied. Speaking up really can help and if you see a friend being bullied help them. If you are like me and still dealing with the effects of being a victim don't be afraid to seek help from a counselor as for me being able to forgive him has helped me move on as I was the one being hurt not him.

A book like Melissa wrote is a book that deals with bullying and would be an ideal book for teachers to use as a tool to combat bullying. It could also be used as part of initiatives to combat bullying. We need these books in the system and I would encourage every parent and school to get a copy of this book as a tool to fight bullying. I am including my review here also. 

My Review
Swallow my, Now! by Melissa Gijsbers

Spoilers for children in this review.

This is a lovely book. It should be in every primary school library in Australia. The book deals with bullying. Sam starts a new school and wants to make friends. Right from the start things are not working out how she wants. She does connect a story which gets out of hand but things were bad before this happened. When She makes up the story it just makes things worse and the bullying gets worse. It gets to the point she lashes out and then is the one in trouble. Finally she does tell someone and the 2 grade 5 classes have a joint class on what is bullying and how it happens. This is where we learn the different types of bullying and how it can happen so easy. I could see this book used in an anti bullying campaign to show what it is to be bullied and how to deal with it. I hope this book will make it to school libraries and places were children who are suffering from bullying will read it and know they are not alone and will know how they can make it better. Telling someone does help. Great book.

I am giving away a Kindle copy of this book to one reader. This is open to all including blog participant's as I believe this is a book that is a great resource for everyone. The drawer will be open til next Friday June 12.

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JENNY BLAKE (aka Ausjenny) is an avid reader. When not reading she enjoys watching cricket, in fact you could call her a cricket fanatic, scrapbooking and jigsaws. She volunteers at the local Christian bookshop where she can recommend books to customers. Her book blog is where she reviews books and interview authors. Her goal is to help promote new books and encourage authors. Her blog is athttp://ausjenny.blogspot.com and is Co-Founder ofhttp://acrba.blogspot.com

Author Interview & Giveaway: Carrie Turansky

By Ellie Whyte

Carrie Turansky is the award-winning author of several inspirational romance novels and novellas, including the Edwardian Brides series. 

She has been a winner of the ACFW Carol Award, the International Digital Award, and the Crystal Globe Award. Carrie has been writing 1999, and has published several articles, short stories, devotions, and essays. Writing fiction, however, is her passion, and she’s thankful for the creative ideas and characters God has put into her mind and heart.

When she’s not writing Carrie enjoys spending time with her family, working outside in her flower gardens, cooking healthy meals for family and friends, or walking around the lake near her home.

The following is a recent interview with Carrie.

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PLUS! ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

Post a comment about this interview at the end of the blog post and enter the Rafflecopter draw for a print copy of DAUGHTER OF HIGHLAND HALL. ONE copy to be won - paperback copy if the winner is in the US or Australia - NetGalley copy elsewhere.  A valid comment on the blog is an entry requirement into the draw. Contest open to entrants WORLDWIDE, and ends on Saturday, 22 November.

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Tell us a little about yourself.

I’ve loved reading since I first visited the library as a young child and checked out a stack of picture books. My love for writing began when I handwrote my first novel at age twelve. But I put writing aside for many years to focus on art and raising my family. I homeschooled my five children, and I found that gave me a great education and was good preparation for writing novels. My husband, Scott, and I have been married for over 35 years. He is a pastor, counselor, and the author of many parenting books. We love our church, Calvary Chapel Living Hope, and we often travel together for ministry and to visit our five adult children and 3 three grandchildren. When I’m not writing I enjoy working in my flower gardens, walking around the lake near our house, and cooking healthy meals for family and friends. 

How did you become a novelist, and did you always want to write?

I’ve been writing fiction since 1997. Our family spent a year in Kenya before that as missionaries. After we returned to the US I missed Africa so much that I decided to write a story set there as a way to relive some of our experiences. I poured out the story without knowing much about the art of writing fiction. I loved it! But when I showed it to an editor at my first writers’ conference, I found out I had a lot to learn about writing novels. I almost gave up writing at that point, but the Lord used a kind neighbor to encourage me with a gift of several writing craft books. I sensed the Lord telling me to press on and learn what I needed to learn to become a skilled writer. I joined ACFW shortly after that, and through that organization I found a critique group, a mentor, an agent, and eventually, a publisher.

What do you think is significant about Christian fiction?

I enjoy reading and writing Christian fiction because it includes the spiritual as well as the emotional journey of the characters. I believe it has the power to inspire readers and help them draw closer to God as they identify with the characters in the story. When characters face challenges and struggles and then look to God and spiritual resources for help, readers are often inspired to do the same. When characters make poor choices and we see the consequences clearly portrayed, that can serve as a warning as well.

How do you hope your readers react to the stories you write? 

I want to give readers a break from the pressures and struggles of everyday life and provide them with wholesome and uplifting stories that will touch their hearts and inspire them to draw closer to God and understand His love and truth.

What responses to your novels have affected you the most and why?

I love hearing from readers who have been touched by one of my stories and prompted to respond to an issue they are facing. One woman wrote and told me she was so moved by my heroine’s decision to reach out and forgive her father, that she was willing to do the same. Others have written and shared that they have been motivated to pray and reconnect with God after reading one of my books. Those are wonderful emails and letters that I treasure. They make me want to keep writing.

How has being a novelist impacted your relationship with Christ?

I’ve learned to trust and depend on God in new and deeper ways as we write the stories together. Thinking through the conflicts and issues my characters will face, makes me consider God’s truth about different issues and how to apply those truths to life as well as to my stories. Creativity is a gift, and tapping into it is a great way to connect with Him and deepen my relationship.

Other than writing great novels, what other goals do you have for your life?

I want to continue to grow spiritually and be used by God to love, encourage, and care for others in my church, my community, and through our various ministries. Family relationships are important to me, so I also hope to always be a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and daughter. 

As a writer, what influences have inspired you the most to write, and continue writing? 

I've always loved to read, and reading great stories has been a wonderful influence and inspiration. Also the friendships I have with other writers who are faithfully following God's call in their lives has been a strong influence on me. Their example and encouragement have helped me persevere and move ahead on my writing journey.

Every writer struggles with various aspects of their writing journey. What has been the most difficult aspect of writing for you, and what come the most naturally?

I think one of the most challenging aspects of writing is pressing on through doubts and dry times. It's very hard to be objective about your own writing. It can be difficult to keep working, stay on schedule, and be creative so you can turn in your book on time. When the pressure is on it's easy for me to start doubting your writing. It takes trust, staying connected to the Lord, and the encouragement of friends and readers to help me push through those doubts.

What is one piece of advice you would like to give to aspiring writers - either something you adhere to, or something you wish you had known when you started writing?

There is great value in attending writers' conferences! You can be inspired, learn new skills, and meet other people who love reading and writing.  I try to attend at least one conference each year. I believe networking and focusing on building skills has been very helpful to me.

As a reader, which stories excite you the most to read, and do you have any favourite novelists?

I enjoy reading, but I've recently discovered audio books. Now I listen to novels while I drive and while I cook and clean up in the kitchen. Listening to a story it's a completely different experience. I enjoy historical and contemporary novels, especially those that have a spiritual theme woven into them. One of my favorite novelists is Cathy Gohlke, the author of Promise Me This, Band of Sisters, and Saving Amelie. I've also enjoyed Julianne Donaldson, the author of Edenbrooke and Blackmoore, two very enjoyable Regencies. 

What are some of your most favourite places on the internet to visit, that help challenge you as a writer, and encourage you as a reader?

I love Pinterest! It's been a great help to me in my research for my current series. I've found some great historical images, and those have led me to articles and information that have been very helpful! I've also enjoyed the blog Edwardian Promenade, written by Evangeline Holland. I often read blogs written by literary agents Steve Laube, Karen Ball, Chip MacGregor, Wendy Lawton and Rachelle Gardner for information on publishing industry and writing. Seekerville is fun and informative, and I also like Novel Journey. 

What can you tell us about your most recent and upcoming novels?

I'm currently writing The Edwardian Brides Series for WaterBrook Multnomah. Book One, The Governess of Highland Hall, is set in 1911 in England. I sometimes say it's like Downton Abbey meets Jane Eyre with some spiritual themes woven in. Book 2, The Daughter of Highland Hall, released Oct. 7th. It continues the story of the Ramsey family as they travel to London for Kate Ramsey's first season as a debutante in 1912. I'm working on Book 3, A Refuge at Highland Hall. That one is set during WW1 in England and France. The hero is a pilot for the Royal Naval Air Service . . . and aviation is about 10 years old. Very interesting and exciting research! 

Do you have any parting words?

Thanks for inviting me to stop by the Australasian Christian Writers Blog! I think it's wonderful the way writers and readers around the world can connect on the Internet! I love thinking I am "meeting" friends in Australia and we share a love for writing and reading.

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ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

Post a comment about this interview and enter the Rafflecopter draw for a print copy of DAUGHTER OF HIGHLAND HALL. ONE copy to be won - paperback copy if the winner is in the US or Australia - NetGalley copy elsewhere. A valid comment on the blog is an entry requirement into the draw. Contest open to entrants WORLDWIDE, and ends on Saturday, 22 November.

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Visit Carrie's Author Portfolio Page at Soul Inspirationz // Christian Fiction Site to find links to her website and other online hangouts, as well as her list of books and a Featured Author Interview.

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ELLIE WHYTE is a long-time supporter of Christian fiction and is the founder and owner/operator of Soul Inspirationz // The Christian Fiction Site which relaunched after a 5-year hiatus in January 2013. Ellie also has aspirations for her own writing career, and has begun working on a project set in New Zealand in the 1850s. 

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