Cyber Friends, A Sweet Blog Award, and An Announcement

This week my cyber friend who stops in here at the cafe on a regular basis, nominated me for an award - The Irresistibly Sweet Blog Award. Thanks, Tracy Ruckman! You've been an encouragement to me, and I'm honored that you thought of me.

The "rules" that go along with the award are that I need to name ten other blogs for the award and then write seven random things about myself. So this becomes a sort of "chain award" like the old chain letter, only you don't get thirty thousand dollars or recipes in your inbox. What you do get is get the satisfaction of passing the love along. I like that. We should encourage one another.

Where I get hung up is picking only ten. Which ten? The ten who will play along or the ten who really need a boost here in the deep dark of winter? Or the ten bloggers who have it all together and make a significant contribution to the blogosphere? Or the ten who have beautifully designed sites that give you blog-envy? You understand my dilemma then?

So, I'm going to bend the rules. As a matter of fact, I'm going to salute bloggers everywhere - the good, the bad, the sweet, the sarcastic, the beautiful, the stragglers. This I do by giving seven random thoughts about blogging and at the end, a special announcement.

• It is guesstimated that there are more than 100 million blogs out there. Personal blogs. Corporate blogs. Topic blogs. Hybrids (combining two or more types). Suffice it to say that if you are blogging and people are finding your blog, you are very special. And you deserve the Irresistibly Sweet Blog Award. 
• By blogging, you are investing your time and energy to share what you know. Whether you write about how to plant a garden, weave yarn into a rug, or write a book, you are sharing a part of yourself, a knowledge that is uniquely yours. You are generous and deserve the Award. 
• If you are sharing personal journey stories, you are opening up a window into your soul. Your vulnerability is to be admired. Please take the Irresistibly Sweet Blog Award and make it your own. 
• If you view life through a quirky lens and can make people laugh with your words, please don't quit blogging. The world needs more people like you. The Award is yours! 
• Have you ever read a blog and sighed because the words were so beautiful or the message so poignant that you were inspired to be a better person, to try harder, to be more patient. You know the kinds of stories I'm talking about. Bless you who can inspire others. The Irresistibly Sweet Blog Award was designed with you in mind.  
• Much of the craft that I've learned about writing has come from blogs - either a special tip or a resource that sent me in the right direction. I cannot imagine writing without the research tools at our fingertips through the internet and niche blogs. I'm grateful to those who share tips, who give directions, who've brought hope and inspiration to me every day. A double helping of the Award to you. 
• As promised, I said I'd end this with an announcement. I'll preface that by saying that nearly every blog out there is in transformation - it's not the same today as it was in the beginning. That's the beauty of blogging. It's a learn as you go process. So, Carla's Writing Cafe is also in the process of transformation. Within the next couple of weeks, this page will be integrated into a NEW and EXCITING new webiste - everything under one domain name. Carla's Writing Cafe will remain in place, but will no longer be updated when the new site is ready. 

It's almost bittersweet that the Irresistibly Sweet Blog Award comes to the Cafe now since we're hanging a "Moved" sign on the window, but you'll want to be on the lookout - I'll be celebrating the move with some fantastic book giveaways and other goodies. And if that's not a sweet deal, I don't know what is.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE at ACFW Conference

In just two months, ACFW descends on St. Louis, for the annual conference. This will be my sixth year to attend, and I can’t imagine being a writer in the Christian market and NOT attending. It’s one of the highlights of my year!

One of the many things I love about ACFW is how it has grown to meet the needs of both novice and seasoned authors alike. The first time I went, I was definitely an aspiring novelist. Yes, I’d written a couple of books which weren’t published, but I wasn’t sure how what I wrote fit into the inspirational market, so I went with some hesitation. Wow. Blown away by the experience only begins to describe what transpired during that four days. And each successive conference has brought new (and equally wonderful experiences).

So what makes ACFW so fantastic? I’m glad you asked. No matter what level you are in your writing, there’s a spot for you. And opportunities. Here’s a partial list of things you might expect from attending an ACFW conference.


Newcomer’s orientation – You’ll learn how to get the most out of the conference and have the opportunity to ask questions about how things work.


Continuing ed classes and workshops—these instructional hours are the “meat” of the conference. These vary from beginning level writer to multi-published, so there’s something for everyone. Confession: I still take a beginning level class once in a while, and I always learn something new or am reminded of a great writing concept that I need to work on.


Bonus early bird session with a national speaker. This year Dr. Stanley Williams will present his teaching on The Moral Premise. This promises to be a great session for every level of writer.


Appointments with editors and agents. Goes without saying how valuable to your writing career these are, but to make the most of your time and theirs, do your research ahead of time to see who might be the best fit for you and what you write.


For published writers: Media training and other media opportunities. This was a new and exciting part of ACFW last year as published authors had the opportunity to connect with publicists and/or staff from Christian Retailing Magazine (Strang Publications) and RT Book Reviews.

Awards Banquet—this is the “dessert” of the conference. The fun, gala evening when the best of ACFW is recognized—Genesis winners for the unpublished contest and Carol winners for published books. Plus Editor of the Year, Mentor of the Year, and Agent of the Year. Last year was particularly memorable for me as my agent won the coveted Agent of the Year award.

What do all these things have in common? Connections. Renewing acquaintances and catching up with those you see once a year. Rubbing shoulders with authors, editors, and agents. If it’s your first time and you only know ten people like I did when I attended my first conference, you’ll be surprised at how friendly and helpful ACFW is. To keep track of those you meet, it’s helpful to exchange biz cards.

Connection opportunities abound at ACFW – you’ll have many opportunities for casual meetings with people. The hotel lobby, the conference bookstore, meals, waiting for appointments, and after hours. A prayer room is open for private contemplation or if you want someone to pray with you, volunteers are there. I’ve discovered every year, there are divine connections to be made, sometimes when you least expect it. Come with a heart open for learning and worship, and God will meet you where you are.

See you in St. Louis!

Carla Stewart

Broken Wings, June 2011 (FaithWords)
Chasing Lilacs, 2010 (FaithWords), Oklahoma Book Award Finalist, 2011 OWFI Best Book of Fiction, Inspirational Reader’s Choice Awards, 2nd Place (Women’s Fiction)
www.carlastewart.com

OKLAHOMA BOOK AWARDS

Saturday night was the annual Oklahoma Book Awards Celebration presented by the Oklahoma Center for the Book. I was honored that Chasing Lilacs was a finalist for the Fiction category. So many great authors and illustrators come from my state, it's hard not to feel a teensy bit proud. And while my book didn't win, I was glad when the author who sat next to me at the book signing event did take home the medal. Congrats to David Gerard for his book God's Acres!

David Gerard, Winner of the Fiction Award

These kinds of events both scare me and thrill me somehow. Several judges came by and talked to me about my book and how relevant it was to life in the fifties. Others chatted with Max and made him feel welcome. Oklahomans are like that - good people who take you in and make you feel special. An unexpected treat was meeting Kitty Pittman who reviewed my book on her Okie Reads blog. Here's her summation of the Book Award evening. What she failed to mention was that she - Kitty Pittman - received the Glenda Carlile Distinguished Service Award. Kudos!

Kitty Pittman - as lovely in person as she is on her blog

My favorite date, as always!

Former Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor, Jari Askins, was the master of ceremonies and shared about her lifelong love of books and memories of trips to the library as a child. Rilla Askew, a beloved Oklahoma author received the lifetime achievement award.

Our good friend Jingyau

Sounds of the harp filled the background as we enjoyed a scrumptious dinner, good fellowship, and added another page to the scrapbook of lovely memories. Have I mentioned lately that I LOVE books? I love to read them, write them, talk about them, and most of all celebrate them.









Thanks Oklahoma Center for the Book for making the celebration a night to remember!!

In Good Company

One of the scariest aspects of writing (and there are many) is allowing your work to stand against other writers and books. It would be easy to simply say, "Okay, I have a book published; it's lovely to hold and look at; people are saying nice things," and just let it go at that. And yet, there is this tiny part of a writer's heart that says, "Yeah, but how does it compare to other books?"

There are numerous places to submit published works. Conference contests. National book awards. Regional prizes. Genre contests named after famous authors like Agatha or Bram Stoker. Either the author or publisher has to submit to these contests, and it is time sensitive in that most awards given in 2011 are for books published in the previous calendar year.

Like I said, it's a scary business, and yes, I've thrown my debut book, Chasing Lilacs, out there with a few prayers. The Oklahoma Center for the Book is the organization that presents the premiere Oklahoma Book Awards, choosing winners from finalists in five published categories. The criteria is specific: books must be set in Oklahoma or the author must be an Oklahoma native or resident. And as you might have guessed by now, this Oklahoma girl's Chasing Lilacs is a finalist in the fiction category along with five others. I'm honored and humbled.

How will my little coming-of-age story stack up against the others? I have no idea. I did check out the other finalists in fiction. The stories all sound fascinating and it makes me a little nervous. I think the competition will be tough, but come what may, I'm already honored to just be a finalist.

You may see a list of all the finalists here or here. Also I found this new review at Okie Reads last week.

The award ceremony is April 9 in Oklahoma City. Will I be scared? Probably.

But I'm glad I entered.

ACFW Conference Aftermath

Sometimes it's hard to process all that goes on in a weekend long conference - hence my long wait to tell you about my ACFW conference experience last week. My thanks to the conference directors who made this the best one yet! The teaching was exceptional, and I know I will be pondering some of the nuggets I learned for a long time. But for me, the primary purpose of attending ACFW is to be with other writers, to reconnect with friends, make new ones, and for a few short days, indulge myself in all things having to do with craft and promotion and rubbing shoulders with some of today's finest Christian authors. So, here are my highlights of this year's conference:

 

Seeing my friend, Camille Eide, who is also one of my critique partners, and our mutual dear friend Kellie Gilbert. They are both fabulous writers and someday you're going to enjoy reading their novels. To give you a taste, check out what Camille had to say about the conference here. She's funny and wonderful!
(left to right: Kellie, Carla, Camille)

 
I LOVE the awards banquet, and this year was exceptional. My agent, Sandra Bishop, received the Agent of the Year award. Not a surprise to her clients as she is witty and smart and one of the best in the biz. Here is Sandra with Chip MacGregor and Amanda Luedeke, the rest of the savvy team at MacGregor Literary. CONGRATS SANDRA! Sandra gave her 30-second speech with style and grace, but was unable to give her longer, prepared speech. However, she shares it here. Scroll down to the September 22 entry.

Hats off to all the winners, but a shout out to Cindy Hays who was a Genesis finalist and Myra Johnson and Vickie McDonough from my local ACFW group who were Carol Award finalists. A complete list of the winners can be found here.


One of the most prestigious awards is for the Mentor of the Year, and this year's honor went to Susan May Warren. She is one of the most energetic, giving, and fun people I know. She encourages and inspires other writers through her My Book Therapy endeavors. And every year, she hosts a pizza party on the "free" night at the conference. This year she had a special surprise. At the conclusion of the party, Susie herded everyone into another room, locked the doors, and taught us all a line dance. Not your usual expectation for a writing conference, but what can I say? Publisher's Weekly dubbed it the highlight of the conference. I'm sharing the link at risk of embarrassment to myself, but we're all friends here, right? Line Dance on YouTube.

I'll conclude with some other random shots - friends, colleagues, moments that I'll hang onto until the next conference. To see my complete set of photos please visit me on FaceBook where I've posted two albums of pics.

I shared a book signing table with the fabulous James Scott Bell and enjoyed the support of Susan Meissner and Christina Berry. The gals both endorsed Chasing Lilacs and were Carol Award finalists. Christina took home the trophy in Contemporary Fiction Book of the Year - I am so proud of this girl!

Courtney Walsh, Sandra Bishop, and me. I'd been dying to meet Courtney after our online friendship and sharing the same agent. She was wonderful and we hit it right off. I miss her already. 

Sandra and her clients, celebrating at the banquet. 

 My post is not complete without mentioning Max, who not only encourages me in this crazy writing life I've chosen, but also drove the SUV that got us safely to Indianapolis and home. Not sure if it was the allure of being around 630 people who navigate imaginary worlds and stay up until all hours talking about plots and character goals or if it was the call of golf courses not yet conquered that made him want to go. Whatever it was, the trip was that much sweeter because Max shared it with me. Thanks, honey.

2010 ACFW Genesis Finalists

One of the highlights of the ACFW Conference (which is where I am right now while my blog is on auto pilot) is the awards banquet on the last evening of the conference. Posh frocks, lots of sparkle and glitz, a kilt or two. And three or four dozen very nervous attendees who have the noted honor of being contest finalists. Two writing contests: The Carol Awards (named for Carol Johnson, the editor who first championed Inspirational Fiction) and the Genesis Awards (esteemed contest for unpublished authors). This year's contests are shaping up to be among the most exciting to date. Several from my local ACFW writing group are among the finalists - Cindy Hays (Genesis), Myra Johnson and Vickie McDonough (Carol awards). Vickie is actually a 3-time finalist with three titles making the list. Precious and very prolific writer!

An exciting addition to this year's awards is that it will be broadcast in a LIVE BLOG so that you who couldn't make the conference this year can root and cheer for your favorite finalists at home.  Wynn/Wynn Media and ACFW have teamed up to bring you this, so along with the imaginary red carpet, you can fantasize that you are in Indianapolis at the actual event when in reality you are in your pajamas having popcorn and pop out of a can while the contestants are wringing their hands and sweating bullets waiting for their category to come up. Showtime is 7:30 pm on Sunday, September 19!

Here are the Genesis finalists. Tomorrow I'll post a list of the Carol Award Finalists.

2010 Genesis Contest Finalists: 

• CONTEMPORARY FICTION: (total entries: 47)

  1. Cindy Hays
  2. Lynnette P. Horner
  3. Chris Kraft
  4. Mark Lundgren
  5. Christina S. Nelson

• CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE: (total entries: 63)

  1. Jeannie Campbell
  2. Sarah Forgrave
  3. Janice LaQuiere
  4. Rebecca Syme
  5. Linda Yezak

• HISTORICAL FICTION: (total entries: 35)

  1. Lori Benton
  2. Brenda Jackson
  3. Robert Kaku
  4. Lisa Karon Richardson
  5. Katie-Marie Stout

• HISTORICAL ROMANCE: (total entries: 65)

  1. Susanne Dietze
  2. Anne Greene
  3. Pam Hillman
  4. Lisa Karon Richardson
  5. Ruth Trippy

• MYSTERY/SUSPENSE/THRILLER: (total entries: 45)

  1. Rich Bullock
  2. Barbara Early (double finalist with two entries)
  3. Lynda Schab
  4. Chawna Schroeder

• ROMANTIC SUSPENSE (there was a two-way tie for the fifth finalist slot): (total entries: 50)

  1. Valerie Goree
  2. Mindy Obenhaus
  3. Leslie Pfeil
  4. Dianna Shuford
  5. Teri Dawn Smith
  6. Terri Weldon

• SPECULATIVE FICTION: (total entries: 49)

  1. Ben Erlichman
  2. Suzanne Krein
  3. Shelley Ledfors
  4. Andra Marquardt
  5. Holly Smit

• WOMEN'S FICTION (there was a three-way tie for the fifth finalist slot): (total entries: 76)

  1. Lisa Buffaloe
  2. Jennifer Fromke
  3. Terri Haynes
  4. Fay Lamb
  5. Christina S. Nelson
  6. Melissa Tagg
  7. Michelle Ule

• YOUNG ADULT: (total entries: 56)

  1. Angela Bell
  2. Lin Harris
  3. Kasey Heinly
  4. LoraLee Kodzo
  5. Stefanie Morris

Congratulations to all the 2010 Genesis finalists!

ACFW Carol Award Finalists

ACFW has just announced the finalists for the 2010 ACFW Carol Awards (formerly Book of the Year). These awards recognize excellence in Christian fiction in a variety of categories, and represent fiction titles released in 2009.

Here are this year’s finalists:

Debut Author

Bonnie Grove - Talking to the Dead (David C. Cook Publishing)
Liz Johnson - The Kidnapping of Kenzie Thorn (Steeple Hill)
Kirk Outerbridge - Eternity Falls (Marcher Lord Press)
Jill Eileen Smith - Michal (Revell)
Dan Walsh - The Unfinished Gift (Revell)

Contemporary Novella
6 Finalists due to a tie

Barbara Cameron – One Child (Thomas Nelson)
Barbara Cameron – When Winter Comes (Thomas Nelson)
Debra Clopton – A Mule Hollow Match (Steeple Hill)
Susan May Warren – The Great Christmas Bowl (Tyndale House)
Beth Wiseman – A Change of Heart (Thomas Nelson)
Beth Wiseman – A Choice to Forgive (Thomas Nelson)

Historical Novella

Victoria Bylin – Home Again (Steeple Hill)
Vickie McDonough – A Breed Apart (Barbour Publishing)
Vickie McDonough – Beloved Enemy (Barbour Publishing)
Janet Tronstad - Christmas Bells for Dry Creek (Steeple Hill)
Carrie Turansky - A Shelter in the Storm (Barbour Publishing)

Long Contemporary
6 Finalists due to a tie

Christina Berry - The Familiar Stranger (Moody Publishers)
Mary Ellis - A Widow's Hope (Harvest House Publishers)
Joyce Magnin - The Prayers of Agnes Sparrow (Abingdon Press)
Susan Meissner - White Picket Fences (Waterbrook Press)
Marlo Schalesky- If Tomorrow Never Comes (Multnomah)
Susan May Warren - Nothing But Trouble (Tyndale House)


Long Contemporary Romance

Candace Calvert - Critical Care (Tyndale House)
Denise Hunter - Seaside Letters (Thomas Nelson)
Jenny B. Jones - Just Between You and Me (Thomas Nelson)
Beth Wiseman - Plain Promise (Thomas Nelson)
Cindy Woodmsall - The Hope of Refuge (Waterbrook Press)


Mystery

A.K. Arenz - The Case of the Mystified M.D. (Sheaf House)
Mindy Starns Clark - Under the Cajun Moon (Harvest House Publishers)
Darlene Franklin - A String of Murders (Heartsong Mysteries)
S. Dionne Moore - Polly Dent Loses Grip (Heartsong Mysteries)
Janice Thompson writing as Janice Hanna - Pushing up Daisies (Heartsong Mysteries)

Long Historical

Deeanne Gist - A Bride in the Bargain (Bethany House)
Robin Lee Hatcher - Fit To Be Tied (Zondervan)
Maureen Lang - Look to the East (Tyndale House)
Siri Mitchell - Love's Pursuit (Bethany House)
Allison Pittman - Stealing Home (Multnomah)

Long Historical Romance
8 Finalists due to a tie

Amanda Cabot - Paper Roses (Revell)
Mary Connealy - Cowboy Christmas (Barbour Publishing)
Mary Connealy - Montana Rose (Barbour Publishing)
Laura Frantz - The Frontiersman's Daughter (Revell)
Ann Gabhart - The Believer (Revell)
Julie Lessman - A Passion Denied (Revell)
Janice Thompson writing as Janice Hanna - Love Finds You in Poetry, Texas (Summerside Press)
Kathleen Y’Barbo - The Confidential Life of Eugenia Cooper (Waterbrook Press)

Short Contemporary

Debra Clopton - His Cowgirl Bride (Steeple Hill)
Myra Johnson - Autumn Rains (Heartsong Presents)
Vickie McDonough - A Wagonload of Trouble (Heartsong Presents)
Mae Nunn - A Texas Ranger's Family (Steeple Hill)
Glynna Sirpless writing as Glynna Kaye - Dreaming of Home (Steeple Hill)

Short Contemporary Suspense
6 Finalists due to a tie

Jill Elizabeth Nelson - Evidence of Murder (Steeple Hill)
Sandra Robbins - Final Warning (Steeple Hill)
Virginia Smith - Murder at Eagle Summit (Steeple Hill)
Virginia Smith - Scent of Murder (Steeple Hill)
Jenness Walker - Double Take (Steeple Hill)
Lenora Worth - Code of Honor (Steeple Hill)

Short Historical

Lyn Cote - Her Patchwork Family (Steeple Hill)
Laurie Alice Eakes - The Glassblower (Heartsong Presents)
Laurie Kingery - The Outlaw's Lady (Steeple Hill)
Lynette Sowell - All That Glitters (Heartsong Presents)
Dan Walsh - The Unfinished Gift (Revell)

Speculative (includes Science Fiction, Fantasy, Allegory)
6 Finalists due to a tie

Kirk Outerbridge - Eternity Falls (Marcher Lord Press)
Donita K. Paul - The Vanishing Sculptor (Waterbrook Press)
Steve Rzasa - The Word Reclaimed (Marcher Lord Press)
Stuart Vaughn Stockton – Starfire (Marcher Lord Press)
Fred Warren - The Muse (Splashdown Books)
Jill Williamson - By Darkness Hid (Marcher Lord Press)


Suspense/Thriller

Terri Blackstock – Intervention (Zondervan)
Colleen Coble - Lonestar Secrets (Thomas Nelson)
Brandilyn Collins – Exposure (Zondervan)
Harry Kraus - Salty Like Blood (Howard/Simon & Schuster)
DiAnn Mills - Breach of Trust (Tyndale House)


Women’s Fiction
7 Finalists due to a tie

Julie Carobini - Sweet Waters (B&H Publishing)
Kathryn Cushman – Leaving Yesterday (Bethany House)
Sara Evans & Rachel Hauck - Sweet By and By (Thomas Nelson)
Rene Gutteridge & Cheryl McKay - Never the Bride (Waterbrook Press)
Deborah Raney - Yesterday's Embers (Howard/Simon & Schuster)
Deborah Raney - Above All Things (Steeple Hill)
Lisa Wingate - The Summer Kitchen (New American Library/Penguin)


Young Adult

Shelley Adina - Who Made You a Princess? (Hachette FaithWords)
Brandilyn & Amberly Collins - Always Watching (Zondervan)
Jenny B. Jones - I'm So Sure (Thomas Nelson)
Jenny B. Jones - So Not Happening (Thomas Nelson)
Booker T. Mattison - Unsigned Hype (Revell)

The Carol Awards will be presented at ACFW's Conference in Indianapolis, September 17-20. There's still time to register at www.acfw.com/conference.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE FINALISTS!!!!

Novels: MY TOP FOUR PICKS THIS YEAR

As I might have mentioned earlier, my “best of” lists include mostly books that were published in 2009. However, by my own rules, they qualify if I first read them this year, and I want to give them their due praise.

There were a LOT of great books in 2009, but even as I looked back, there were four that rose to the top. If you’ve not read them, I highly recommend that you treat yourself. They are wonderful.

THE HELP by Kathryn Stockett. A much-acclaimed book that had me from the first paragraph. I was reminded at once why I love books set in The South. It’s a place where you can feel the flies biting and the sweat beads pop out on your scalp the minute you step out the door. The voices have a rhythm all their own. Ms. Stockett captured the cadence and social climate of Mississippi in 1962, and even if you’ve never stepped a foot south of the Mason Dixon line, this book will make you feel you’ve had a personal tour.

It’s the story of three women: two black maids who work for white families, cooking, cleaning, raising their babies, and keeping their secrets. The third young woman is from a family who employs “help” and as she interjects herself into the lives and secrets of “the help” history is made and lives are changed. I didn’t want the book to be over, and it will be one I read again in 2010.

SUMMER OF LIGHT by W. Dale Cramer. I’m really not sure why I’ve never been introduced to this author, but at a friend’s recommendation, I ordered this 2007 release, and I’m so glad I did. It lands a spot in my top four. Here is the review I wrote for it earlier this year:

Mick Brannigan, a construction worker, loses his job when an accident occurs on the “high steel,” and he finds himself playing stay-at-home-dad to his and Layne’s three children. The results are hilarious and poignant, often on the same page. During his tenure, mishaps aplenty occur, a menagerie of animals roam the five-acre lot where the Brannigans live, and Mick discovers passion and purpose in his life. While his wife, Layne, is certain the children will be psychologically scarred . . . if they survive . . . Mick plods along in hopes that the damage to his kids won’t be permanent.

This story was delightful in countless ways, laugh out loud funny at times, and heartwarming to the end. I’ll be reading more from this author.

THE GUERNSEY LITERARY AND POTATO PEEL PIE SOCIETY by Mary Ann Schaffer and Annie Barrows. Doesn’t the title alone make you want to dive in and see what this is about? First, I must tell you, I’m not sure I’ve ever read an “epistolary” novel before. For those who might not be familiar with such a strange word, it’s a novel presented only in letters and other correspondence. Set in London and on Guernsey Island (of the Channel Islands between Paris and England), I was captivated not only with the setting which was unfamiliar to me, but also a slice of history that I knew nothing about – the German Occupation of Guernsey Island during WW II. The story is tender and charming, a tale I could read again and again.

One note about the book: Mary Ann Schaffer, the author who carried this story in her heart for many years, had just sold it to a publisher when she became ill and unable to finish the editing process. Her niece, Annie Barrows stepped in and make the final additions. It’s truly an act of grace that the world now has this lovely book. Ms. Schaffer has now passed away.

HOTEL ON THE CORNER OF BITTER AND SWEET by Jamie Ford. Again, this title mesmerized and enticed me. It’s also a story of an era that I knew little about. Set in the Chinese and Japanese districts of Seattle during WW II, it is a story of forbidden love—a first love that is torn apart when a young Japanese girl and her family are sent to a Japanese internment camp in Idaho. Her young Chinese friend carves a new life for himself, and many years later, upon the death of his wife, is drawn to a hotel where the belongings of many Japanese families have been stored in the basement. For him, it is the beginning of a search for the past, and it’s a lovely journey.

So, for you, my faithful readers here at the Café, I present the four books that captured my heart in 2009. Each is unique and has different qualities that endeared them to me, but the unifying factor is simply this: The stories have lingered long after the last page. The characters are people I would be proud to call friends. I hope you have the opportunity to meet them too.

Q for you: What is the best book you’ve read this year? Please leave a comment and tell me the name of the book, the author, and what made you love the book.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! May 2010 bring you many reading pleasures.

ACFW BOTY (Book of the Year) Finalists

In less than two months, five hundred or more writers will converge on Denver for the annual American Christian Fiction Writers conference. It's a highlight of my year for many reasons, but one of the most exciting things about the conference is recognition of the winners of two contests sponsored by ACFW: The Genesis winners (for unpublished authors) and the Book of the Year winners for inspirational books published the year before (2008 this time). It's a time of celebration and rooting for your favorites. I'm tickled to see many of my writing friends nominated for this year's honors. Some really good books here. For fiction lovers, you can't go wrong by reading one of these nominated books. This years finalists . . .

2009 American Christian Fiction Writers
Book of the Year Contest Finalists

DEBUT AUTHOR

A Passion Most Pure (Julie Lessman)
Courting Miss Adelaide (Janet Dean)
Every Good and Perfect Gift (Sharon K. Souza)
Hero, Second Class (Mitchell Bonds)
In the Shadow of the Sun King (Golden Keyes Parsons)

LITS

Faking Grace (Tamara Leigh)
Picket Fence Promises (Kathryn Springer)
Single Sashimi (Camy Tang)
Sweet Caroline (Rachel Hauck)
Truffles by the Sea (Julie Carobini)

LONG CONTEMPORARY

Lookin Back Texas (Leanna Ellis)
One Holy Night (J.M. Hochstetler)
Stuck in the Middle (Virginia Smith)
Summer of Joy (Ann H. Gabhart)
Symphony of Secrets (Sharon Hinck)

LONG CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE

Along Came a Cowboy (Christine Lynxwiler)
Controlling Interest (Elizabeth White)
The Convenient Groom (Denise Hunter)
Finding Stefanie (Susan May Warren)
Zora and Nicky: A Novel in Black & White (Claudia Mair Burney)

LONG HISTORICAL (6 finalists due to a tie)

The Apothecary’s Daughter (Julie Klassen)
Calico Canyon (Mary Connealy)
Deep In the Heart of Trouble (Deeanne Gist)
From A Distance (Tamera Alexander)
I Have Seen Him in the Watchfires (Cathy Gohlke)
My Heart Remembers ( Kim Vogel Sawyer)

MYSTERY

The Case of the Bouncing Grandma (A.K. Arenz)
Death on a Deadline (Christine Lynxwiler, Sandy Gaskin, and Jan Reynolds)
Drop Dead Diva (Christine Lynxwiler, Sandy Gaskin, and Jan Reynolds)
For Whom the Wedding Bell Tolls (Nancy Mehl)
Of Mice . . . and Murder (Mary Connealy)

NOVELLAS

The Cookie Jar (Janet Lee Barton in A Connecticut Christmas anthology)
Dressed in Scarlet (Darlene Franklin in Snowbound Colorado Christmas anthology)
Santa’s Prayer (Diane Ashley in A Connecticut Christmas anthology)
Snowbound for Christmas (Gail Sattler in A Connecticut Christmas anthology)
Stuck On You (Rhonda Gibson in A Connecticut Christmas anthology)

SHORT CONTEMPORARY

Buffalo Gal (Mary Connealy)
Clueless Cowboy (Mary Connealy)
Family Treasures (Kathryn Springer)
Her Unlikely Family (Missy Tippens)
White as Snow (Janice Thompson)

SHORT CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE

Bayou Paradox (Robin Caroll)
Broken Lullaby (Pamela Tracy)
Countdown to Death (Debby Giusti)
Forsaken Canyon (Margaret Daley)
Killer Cargo (Dana Mentink)

SHORT HISTORICAL

Family of the Heart (Dorothy Clark)
Masked by Moonlight (Allie Pleiter)
Reckless Rogue (Mary Davis)
Return to Love (Susan Page Davis)
Sandhill Dreams (Cara Putman)

SPECULATIVE

The Book of Names (D. Barkley Briggs)
DragonLight (Donita K. Paul)
The Restorer’s Journey (Sharon Hinck)
Shade (John B. Olson)
Summa Elvetica: A Casuistry of the Elvish Controversy (Theodore Beale)

SUSPENSE

Anathema (Colleen Coble)
The Black Cloister (Melanie Dobson)
Fossil Hunter (John B. Olson)
Lonestar Sanctuary (Colleen Coble)
Perfect (Harry Kraus)

WOMEN'S FICTION (7 finalists due to a tie)

A Month of Summer (Lisa Wingate)
Every Good and Perfect Gift (Sharon K. Souza)
My Sister Dilly (Maureen Lang)
The Perfect Life (Robin Lee Hatcher)
The Shape of Mercy (Susan Meissner)
Stepping into Sunlight (Sharon Hinck)
Tuesday Night at the Blue Moon (Debbie Fuller Thomas)

YOUNG ADULT

The Big Picture (Jenny B. Jones)
The Fruit of My Lipstick (Shelley Adina)
It’s all About Us (Shelley Adina)
The Owling (Robert Elmer)
Trion Rising (Robert Elmer)

CONGRATULATIONS to the finalists. Thank you for writing your dreams!

PREMIERE EVENT

The first Christian Book Expo takes place in Dallas on March 19 - 22. This is an important event for several reasons. It's a great resource for what is happening in Christian communities across the nation with some of the country's leading speakers: Henry Blackaby, Don Piper, Max Lucado, Donald Miller, Liz Curtis Higgs, Randy Alcorn, Mary DeMuth, and many others.

It's also an author event with more than 200 Christian authors signing throughout the three days. On Thursday night, my friend and amazing author, Susan Meissner, is a finalist for the Fiction Book of the Year. So, whether you're a writer, reader, or involved in ministry, this should be a very worthwhile few days.

Right now, I'm planning to go. Max will get a couple of golf days, and we're anxious to visit some long-time friends in the area. What a deal! Spending time with writers, great friends, and my husband in a wonderful city.

How about you guys? Any great getaways planned?

Conference and Book Signing Pics

The pictures tell more than I ever could about the conference. I hope you catch the excitement!

The gals from "Seekerville"

(front) Cheryl Wyatt, Myra Johnson, Julie Lessman, & Janet Dean

(back) Debbie Guisti, Margaret Daley (who infiltrated the group), Mary Connealy, & Camy Tang

The Three Musketeers - My online buddies

Erica Vetsch, Kaye Dacus, & Georgiana Daniels

Author Panel at the Mall of America Booksigning
Angela Hunt (Conference Keynote Speaker), Karen Ball, James Scott Bell, and Brandilyn Collins

My friend and author, Michelle Sutton

Mike Ehert (Editor of Afictionado) and fab author, Susan Meissner

Myra and Rhonda Gibson at booksigning

I am so proud! Here is Denice at the booksigning. The cows and pencils were a big hit.

Sarah Anne Sumpolec is on the right.

Me with Cara Putnam, who should be named Wonder Woman. She organized the 120 person booksigning, had a baby four months ago, and had two books published last year. She is amazing and so much fun!

Authors Tosca Lee and John Olson

John also taught the Advanced Fiction Writing class. Wow!

Vickie McDonough and Myra Johnson at booksigning

The fantastic Mary Connealy (Book of the Year Winner) with me

My two favorite Susans - Great authors and fun friends

Susan Meissner and Susan Page Davis at the awards banquet

Me with my agent, Sandra Bishop. She's smart and funny and loves coffee. Who knew?

Chip MacGregor who looks fine in a kilt and is one of the nicest guys around.

Fellow WIN members, Therese Stenzel and Gina Conroy at the banquet

WIN friends at the banquet - Myra Johnson, Vickie McDonough, & Therese Stenzel

Denice, Me, Margaret Daley, and Myra at the banquet

Cindy & Steven Hunt, Matt Jones, and Kenny at the awards banquet

Myra, Denice, and I on our best behavior.

Congratulations to ACFW's Book of the Year Finalists

Debut Author
Bayou Justice (Robin Miller writing as Robin Caroll)
In Between (Jenny B Jones)
Sushi for One? (Camy Tang)
My Soul Cries Out (Sherri Lewis)
Petticoat Ranch (Mary Connealy)

Contemporary Novella (*six finalists due to a tie)
A Cloud Mountain Christmas (Robin Lee Hatcher)
Finally Home (Deb Raney in Missouri Memories anthology)
Mississippi Mud (DiAnn Mills in Sugar And Grits Anthology)
Moonlight & Mistletoe (Carrie Turansky in Big Apple Christmas anthology)
Remaking of Moe McKenna (Gloria Clover in the Race to the Altar anthology)
Sweet Dreams Drive (Robin Lee Hatcher)

Historical Novella
Beyond the Memories (DiAnn Mills in Mississippi Memories anthology)
Finishing Touches (Kelly Hake in Missouri Memories anthology)
Love Notes (Mary Davis in Love Letters anthology)
The Spinster & The Cowboy (Lena Nelson Dooley in Spinster Brides of Cactus Corner anthology) The Spinster & The Tycoon (Vickie McDonough in Spinster Brides of Cactus Corner anthology)

Lits (*six finalists due to a tie)
Around the World in 80 Dates (Christa Banister)
One Little Secret (Bottke, Allison)
Renovating Becky Miller (Sharon Hinck)
Splitting Harriet (Tamara Leigh)
Sushi for One? (Camy Tang)
The Book of Jane (Dayton/Vanderbilt)

Long contemporary
Autumn Blue (Karen Harter)
Like Always (Robert Elmer)
Taming Rafe (Susan May Warren)
When the Nile Runs Red (DiAnn Mills)
Within This Circle (Deb Raney)

Long Historical (*seven finalists due to TWO ties)
Courting Trouble (Deeanne Gist)
Fancy Pants (Cathy Hake)
Lady of Milkweed Manor (Julie Klassen)
Remember Me (Maureen Lang)
Then Came Hope (Louise Gouge)
Veil of Fire (Marlo Schalesky)
Where Willows Grow (Kim Vogel Sawyer)

Mystery
Days And Hours (Susan Meissner)
Death of a Garage Sale Newbie (Sharon Dunn)
Gone With The Groom (Janice Thompson)
Sticks And Stones (Susan Meissner)
Your Chariot Awaits (Lorena McCourtney)

Short Contemporary
Heart of the Family (Margaret Daley)
The Heart of Grace (Linda Goodnight)
The Perfect Blend (Allie Pleiter)
Wedded Bliss (Kathleen Y’Barbo)
When Love Comes Home (Arlene James)

Short Contemporary Suspense (*six finalists due to a tie)
Caught Redhanded (Gayle Roper)
Her Christmas Protector (Terri Reed)
Nowhere to Hide (Debby Giusti)
Pursuit of Justice (Pamela Tracy)
See No Evil (Gayle Roper)
Vanished (Margaret Daley)

Short Historical (*six due to a tie)
A Time to Keep (Kelly Hake)
A Wealth Beyond Riches (Vickie McDonough)
Canteen Dreams (Cara Putman)
Corduroy Road to Love (Lynn Coleman)
Golden Days (Mary Connealy)
To Trust An Outlaw (Rhonda Gibson

Speculative
Demon: A Memoir (Tosca Lee)
DragonFire (Donita Paul)
The Restorer (Sharon Hinck)
The Restorer’s Son (Sharon Hinck)
Isle of Swords (Wayne Thomas Batson)

Suspense
Abomination (Colleen Coble)
Black Ice (Linda Hall)
Coral Moon (Brandilyn Collins)
Crimson Eve (Brandilyn Collins)
Ransomed Dreams (Amy Wallace)

Women’s Fiction
A Promise To Remember (Katie Cushman)
Bygones (Kim Sawyer)
Remember to Forget (Deb Raney)
The Oak Leaves (Maureen Lang)
Watercolored Pearls (Stacy Adams)

Young Adult
In Between (Jenny B. Jones)
On The Loose (Jenny B. Jones)
Sara Jane: Liberty’s Torch (Eleanor Clark
Sarah’s Long Ride (Susan P Davis)
Saving Sailor (Renee Riva)

I see so many names among this list who've touched my life in the past year, whether by writing a great book, extending a hand of friendship, teaching a class, or just being a good friend. My heart is warmed by your success and recognition. I'm especially pleased that several from my area are included in this list--Vickie McDonough, Margaret Daley, Rhonda Gibson, and Linda Goodnight. Prayers for you all. What a party we'll have at the awards banquet in September.

Anyone out there looking for some inspirational reading? Here it is, folks, the best of the best in the world of Christian fiction.

Christy Finalists Announced

This is it, folks--the biggest award in Christian Fiction--the Christy Awards. When I read the list, I got goosebumps. Here's why:

• The first writing class I ever took was an online class someone recommended to me. The teacher? Michelle Buckman. She has several published novels and is now a Christy finalist for her young adult book. I am so proud of her and know that even in the beginning of my writing path, God was directing me to people who would make a difference in my life.
• Going down the list, I have taken workshops from or heard EIGHT of these authors speak. Jane Kirkpatrick is one who stands out. Again, early in my career, she spoke on the divine call to write. I wept in her class because it was like she had seen into my heart and knew my desires. What a lovely person. Most recently, I took Angela Hunt's continuing workshop at Mount Hermon. I will be digesting her words for years to come.
• Of this impressive list, I've read FIVE of the finalists' books, each one excellent. One outstanding read is Catching Fireflies by Charles Martin. I tell everyone who will listen that they should read his books. I've never met him or heard him speak, but his writing touches me in a way that few authors do. And we usually have a fight at our house on who gets to read the latest Martin book.

If you haven't read Christian Fiction lately, I would point you to this list. Pick your favorite genre, and you will be blessed. Enjoy.

PRESS RELEASE From Wynn Wynn Media

Media Inquiries: Jeane Wynn

Wynn-Wynn Media, LLC918-283-1834

jeane@wynnwynnmedia.com

For Reservations: Donna KehoeCA2000DK@aol.com

2008 CHRISTY AWARD NOMINATIONS ANNOUNCED
Ann Arbor, Mich.-The Christy Advisory Board is pleased to announce nominees in nine categories for the 2008 Christy Awards honoring Christian fiction. The Christy Awards dinner will be held Saturday evening, July 12, 2008, at The Rosen Centre in Orlando, Florida. Visit the Christy Awards online at www.christyawards.com for more information about the dinner and to make reservations.

The Christy Awards 2008 Nominees

CONTEMPORARY (STAND ALONE)
Chasing Fireflies by Charles Martin (Thomas Nelson)

In High Places by Tom Morrisey (Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group)

Quaker Summer by Lisa Samson (Thomas Nelson)

CONTEMPORARY (SERIES, SEQUELS, AND NOVELLAS)

Home to Holly Springs by Jan Karon (Viking Penguin)

A Time to Mend by Sally John and Gary Smalley (Thomas Nelson)

What Lies Within by Karen Ball (WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group)

HISTORICAL

Lady of Milkweed Manor by Julie Klassen (Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group)

A Proper Pursuit by Lynn Austin (Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group)

Tendering in the Storm by Jane Kirkpatrick (WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group)

LITS (four nominees due to a tie)

Doesn't She Look Natural by Angela Elwell Hunt (Tyndale House Publishers)

Hallie's Heart by Shelly Beach (Kregel Publications)

Let Them Eat Cake by Sandra Byrd (WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group)

Trophy Wives Club by Kristin Billerbeck (Avon Inspire, a division of HarperCollins Publishers)

ROMANCE

Lightning and Lace by DiAnn Mills (Barbour Publishing)

Remember to Forget by Deborah Raney (Howard Books, a division of Simon and Schuster)

Remembered by Tamera Alexander (Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group)

SUSPENSE

The Cure by Athol Dickson (Bethany House, a division of Baker Publishing Group)

My Hands Came Away Red by Lisa McKay (Moody Publishers)

The Pawn by Steven James (Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group)

VISIONARY

Auralia's Colors by Jeffrey Overstreet (WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group)

The Restorer by Sharon Hinck (NavPress Publishing Group)

Scarlet by Stephen R. Lawhead (Thomas Nelson)

FIRST NOVEL

Auralia's Colors by Jeffrey Overstreet (WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group)

Demon: A Memoir by Tosca Lee (NavPress Publishing Group)

The Stones Cry Out by Sibella Giorello (Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group)

YOUNG ADULT

Hollywood Nobody by Lisa Samson (NavPress Publishing Group)

In Between by Jenny B.Jones (NavPress Publishing Group)

Maggie Come Lately by Michelle Buckman (NavPress Publishing Group)

The winners will be announced in July. Any favorites of yours here?

Home from the Conference

The 2007 ACFW Conference exceeded all my expectations. The sessions, meeting new friends, divine appointments, and sharing fears, woes, and triumphs with other writers made it a fantastic experience. My local WIN group took home many honors and the promise of requested submissions from editors and agents. Going full-tilt for three full days wore me out, and I may never fully absorb all the information. I did learn that a conference of this magnitude is not for wimps, and that you really should prepare a few words for the awards ceremony, just in case.

On the one hand, I didn't dream I would win anything, let alone take first place in my Genesis category. I thought it would be presumptive of me to write out a list of people to thank or any lofty thoughts. Who would've thought? On the other hand, perhaps I should have. When my name was called, my brain turned to mush, followed quickly by involuntary shaking and the inability to propel myself to the stage. That's when my friends took over, and I know their cheers and prayers went with me to the stage. I don't know what I said at the podium, only that words DID flow from my mouth, and the next thing I knew, Jodie Westfall was taking my picture and smiling back at me. Today, I feel humbled and honored and thankful. Enough of that.

The real purpose of today's blog is to share the victories of my local WIN (Writers of Inspirational Novels). What an accomplished group! For some, it was their first conference. Many others are seasoned veterans.

Kudos to:

• Margaret Daley, 1st place Book of the Year, Short Suspense
• Therese Stenzel, Zone Director Award
• Myra Johnson, 3rd place Genesis Award, Comtemporary Fiction
• Vickie McDonough, finalist in two Book of the Year categories

The photo above is of me with my Genesis award plaque and Jennifer Hudson Taylor, my new fun friend who placed in TWO Genesis categories. Way to go, Jennifer!

I am blessed by this group and will post some of the conference pics when I figure out how. A techie I'm not.

Till then . . .