Genesis Contest: Edited and Entered!

So the Contest Season is in full swing and in the next few weeks, I'll be blogging about contests. I recently had the opportunity to interview professional freelance writer/author/contest judge, Tiffany Colter, about how contests can help build your writing career. I'll be posting that very soon. I will also be posting links to various cool contests you may be interested in.

Well, today marks the deadline of one of my favorites: The ACFW Genesis Contest for unpublished authors. I entered three manuscripts this year - two WF and one YA. Last year I entered three ms and finaled with one. Even though I'd love nothing more than to final again, I'm not holding my breath. The guidelines have changed a bit and there will be three rounds of judging instead of only two. There will also be only three finalists instead of the usual five. With all of the talent I'm up against, well...like I said, not holding my breath.

BUT... I'm always up for a challenge so I went for it. Three times. We'll see what happens.

Here's how the judging will work this year: the first round of judging consists of published authors, previous Genesis finalists and writers trained in judging the Genesis. The top 20% in each category will go on to the second round (for example, if there are 60 entries in the Women's Fiction category, 12 of those entries will move on to the semi-finals). Semi-finalists will be announced on or around April 8th.

The semi-final judges consist of published authors. The top three scoring entries will be the finalists. Finalists will be notified on or around May 13th.

The final round is judged by professional editors and agents (see list, below). The winners will be announced at the awards banquet held during the annual ACFW conference in September.

I am looking forward to being a first-round judge again this year. Of course, we can't judge the categories we enter.

As always, there is a great line-up of final round judges. And they are:

•Contemporary Fiction: Beth Adams (editor, Guideposts books), Rachelle Gardener (agent, WordServe Literary), Ami McConnell (editor, Thomas Nelson)


•Contemporary Romance: Melissa Endlich (editor, Love Inspired), Raela Schoenherr (editor, Bethany House), JoAnne Simmons (editor, Barbour Publishing)

•Historical Fiction: Janet Grant (agent, Books and Such Literary), Sarah Long (editor, Bethany House), Jan Stob (editor, Tyndale)

•Historical Romance: Tamela Hancock Murray (agent, Hartline Literary), Charlene Patterson (editor, Bethany House), Emily Rodmell (editor, Love Inspired Historical)

•Mystery/Suspense/Thriller: Stephanie Broene (editor, Tyndale), Susan Downs (editor, Summerside Press), David Long (editor, Bethany House)

•Romantic Suspense: Susan Brower (editor, Zondervan), Tina James (editor, Love Inspired Suspense), Karen Schurrer (editor, Bethany House)

•Speculative Fiction: Jeff Gerke (publisher, Marcher Lord Press), Julie Gwinn (marketing manager, B&H Publishing), Annie Tipton (editor, Barbour Publishing)

•Women's Fiction: Sandra Bishop (agent, MacGregor Literary), Natasha Kern (agent, Natasha Kern Literary), Becky Monds (editor, Thomas Nelson)

•Young Adult: Jacque Alberta (editor, Zondervan), Terry Burns (agent, Hartline Literary), Rachel Kent (agent, Books and Such Literary)

What about you? Did you enter the Genesis contest this year? Are you judging?

Essay Contest for Teens and Moms by Moms4FamilyTV

Last Saturday night, my daughter and I watched former American Idol contestant Brooke White star in her first-ever acting role in the TV-movie, Change of Plans. Talk about great family television! This was a wonderful movie that my daughter and I enjoyed very much. (And we look forward to seeing Brooke in more acting roles in the future).

I just came across this contest and wanted to share it with you because it offers a great opportunity for not only you, but your kids. Check it out:

Who says TV can’t help teach our kids? Moms4FamilyTV has developed its first essay contest to help promote the principles of understanding, self-improvement and empathy. The competition coincides with two new family movies that highlight life-changing events, A Walk In My Shoes (December 3rd on NBC) and Change of Plans (January 8th on FOX). Participants are encouraged to watch these movies to gain further perspective on how unexpected life events can teach us valuable lessons, and then share there own experiences in 300 words or less.

Moms4familyTV.com invites you to answer this question...

“What has been your most life changing experience and what has it taught you?”

Explain your experience in 300 words or less and you could win a $500 scholarship for you and $1,000 for your sponsoring organization*.

Categories

• 8th grade students

• 9th grade students

• Moms

Entry Deadline

• All entries must be submitted by January 31, 2011.

• Contest winners will be notified by March 20, 2011.

Complete Contest Details

Essay Contest Form

Official Rules

I'd love to see your name (or your child's name) on the winner's list!

Good luck!

Confessions of a Contest Addict

My friends tease me because it always seems I'm winning something. In fact, just this week I won two tickets to the movie MegaMind in 3D and a $25 gift card to a great restaurant. Call me lucky or blessed, just don't call me a loser!

I've won gift cards ranging from $5 to $250, overnight stays in hotels, oodles of movie tickets, books and cash. Last year, I even randomly won a national Pepsi contest for two nights at Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa with two rounds of 18-holes of golf for four people. This package was worth almost $1,000 dollars.

So, what everyone always asks me is: How do you always win?

And what I always answer is: I always enter.

Seriously. That's it. Enter enough contests and you're bound to win a few. The truth is, for every item I win, I enter at least a dozen contests.

I will admit that I am Dutch, and the Dutch are notorious for being cheap. I don't know if this fuels my desire to get things for free, but besides contests, I also fill out surveys for credit. With this credit, I earn rewards like retail and restaurant gift cards. I also have one credit card with which I pay for almost everything. Every dollar I spend earns one or more "points" which I can exchange for rewards (I do pay off my balance every month, by the way). I use a rewards card at the gas station and acquire punch/stamp cards for the retail stores that offer them. In other words, my wallet is bursting at the seams with cards. But hey. I get free stuff!

A few rewards sites I recommend:

www.opinionoutpost.com
www.e-rewards.com
www.familyfunpanel.com
www.interactiveopinions.com


Of course, randomly winning things and using reward and/or punch cards isn't the same as entering something like a writing contest where winning is based on talent. But having won a few of those, too, I confess I've become rather addicted. There's something about winning that just makes me feel...like a winner! Lest it go to my head, though, God allows me to acquire some low scores and bottom of the barrel placements once in a while. Definitely not fun, but it keeps me humble and, if I'm honest, makes me even more determined to win next time.

For those of you who want to join me in Contest Addicts Not-so-Anonymous, here are some of the writing contests I recommend:

*ACFW Genesis Contest for unpublished authors

*Wow-Women on Writing Flash Fiction contest

*RWA Gotcha!

*Writer's Digest Short Short Story Competition

*Writer's Digest Annual Writing Competition

*The Phoenix Rattler: Does Your Story Have Bite? contest

*Get Your Stiletto in the Door Chicklit contest

*Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award

*Faith, Hope & Love contest

*Gemini Magazine Flash Fiction contest

*FaithWriters Page Turner contest

*Creative Writing Now Memoir Writing competition

Q4U: What cool prizes have you won?

Hey, speaking of contests, have you entered the two I have going right now on this blog? For my 12 Books of Christmas Giveaway Event, this week Linda Ford is giving away a copy of Christmas Under Western Skies HERE. That giveaway ends tonight at midnight, so hurry up already!

Also, author and former Mrs. Montana, Angela Breidenbach, is giving away a copy of her latest cookbook, Creative Cooking for Simple Elegance HERE. That one ends next Friday at midnight. But still, enter now before you forget!

Are you a great hooker?

That got your attention, didn't it?

No, of course I'm not talking about THAT type of hooker.

Sheesh, people...

The type of hooker I AM talking about is the kind that creates such a fabulous first couple pages of their novel that the reader is hooked and just has to turn that page.

As writers, we know that to catch an editor's or agent's interest, we must grab their attention and give them something so good they simply can't NOT keep reading. In other words, we need to have a great hook. It's more than creating a fabulous first line, although that's certainly a big part of it. But most editors and agents know within the first 5 minutes (or less) whether that story is one they will consider. 5 Minutes. That means you need to have something pretty spectacular in your first couple pages, or your manuscript will end up in the Rejection pile.

If you think your story has that special "can't stop reading" factor, then this might be the perfect contest for you.

The HOOK ME contest is sponsored by the ACFW Ohio Chapter and focuses on the opening of your book.


Here are the general details:

Submit the 1^st 1,000 words of your book, and your back cover blurb (max 300 words)

Payment ACFW members: $15 Non-members: $20

Deadline for submission: October 31, 2010

Genre does not matter – we're judging how well you capture our attention in the first pages, and if the back cover blurb makes us want to read those pages. That's it!!

Each entry will go to three judges, with the score an average of the top two scores. Judges will make comments/suggestions on entries. All judges are published or experienced in contest judging, editing, or other aspects of writing/publishing.

1^st prize: $50 gift card
2^nd prize: $25 gift card

Winner's Choice: CBD, Barnes & Noble, Borders, Amazon, Office Max or Staples.

All contestants receive:

• Comments/suggestions from the judges
• A download of writing tip articles from ACFW Ohio chapter members: published authors, experts, editors, and researchers

Results will be sent to contestants by December 1 Winners will be announced on December 10

Complete details and a sample judging sheet can be found on the official ACFW Ohio Chapter HOOK ME web page: HOOK ME CONTEST

GOOD LUCK!

Thought chick-lit was dead? Think again!

So we've all heard that chick lit is so not happening right now. But I'm here to disagree. Okay, it's true that the market got a wee bit saturated so publishers backed off. I get that. But, come on! There are lots of us who love the genre and want more. At the moment, it seems as if the general market still has plenty of chick lit to go around. But the Christian market? Not so much. I personally believe it will make a comeback, but may be labeled as something else.

Anyway, if you're like me and love chick lit (think Kristin Billerbeck, Judy Baer, Erynn Mangum), and even more, if you love writing it, I'm here to announce a fabulous contest just for you. I actually finaled in this contest a couple years ago, and now I have an agent trying to sell that manuscript. Back then, it was labeled "Mom Lit" but since any phrase containing the word "lit" is a no-no in publishing these days, it's now being dubbed as "Women's fiction with a touch of humor." Same dif, if you ask me. But no one's asking.

So you may have heard of this contest. It's called Get Your Stiletto in the Door and is put on by the Chick Lit Chapter of Romance Writers of America. What's cool is there are several different categories, including Inspirational. I believe Inspirational is the category that always seems to get the least amount of entries. Which is a good thing because -- hello -- that means you have a better chance of winning!

Here's the info:

Eligibility: Basically, the rule is you must be unpublished in book-length fiction.

Categories (see official contest page for descriptions of each category): Single title contemporary, Women's Fiction (mainstream), Thrill, Paranormal, Inspirational, Red Hot, and Young Adult.

Deadline: October 1, 2010

How to Submit: Electronically

What to Submit: Up to the first 5,000 words. Optional: a 500-word synopsis

Entry Fee: $15 for RWA members, $25 all others (by PayPal, check, or money order)

Judging Process: Two rounds of judging. Top 4 entries in first round will go on to the final round, consisting of professional editors and/or agents (to be announced)

Winners Announced: On or around December 20th, 2010

Website: GET YOUR STILETTO IN THE DOOR

I am thinking about entering a Young Adult (we'll see!). Let me know if you decide to enter. We can cheer each other on!

Good luck!

Am I crazy or just insane?

Common sense aside, I have decided to start another blog. In the past couple weeks that I've been contemplating whether I really wanted to do this, I've labeled myself crazy, insane, nuts, erratic, idiotic, out of my mind, and...oh yeah... brilliant. Brilliant obviously won out because I decided to put another side dish on my already heaping plate.

No, I'm not giving up this blog, which I love, but am simply adding another one to the mix. Hopefully, I can keep up on it better than I do my family blog (The Schab Shananigans), which hasn't been updated in months.

Seriously, I hope my new blog will be as helpful as I've anticipated.

I'm calling it Great Christian Book Giveaways. Basically, I will post links to current giveaways of various genres of Christian books. This will save you time surfing the web. You'll just be able to pop over to my blog, browse the list, see if there are any books you're interested in possibly getting for free, and click on over to enter. Easy-peasy. And convenient, don't you think?

The first list of giveaways will be posted tomorrow. For now, check out my Welcome post. Be sure to follow me or subscribe so you're notified of the giveaways as they're posted.

I look forward to providing you with links to some awesome Christian book giveaways.

Contest Corner: Family Circle 2010 Fiction Contest

To finish up the week of contest chatter, I thought I'd share a great short story contest.

Family Circle magazine is holding its annual Fiction Contest. Even though entries opened on March 1st, the deadline is not until September 8, so there's still plenty of time to get in on this one. And the best part (besides the prize package, which I'll detail in a sec) is that it's totally FREE! No entry fees. Yay!

Here are the details:

WHAT TO SUBMIT: A fictional short story in any genre. Two entries per person allowed, but each story must be unique (so you can't simply rewrite the same story two different ways). Entries must be unpublished.

WORD COUNT: Up to 2,500

ELIGIBILITY: USA and District of Columbia only, age 21 and older.

DEADLINE: September 8, 2010

ENTRY FEE: None!

HOW TO SUBMIT: By snail mail (bummer, I know!) See the official contest page for the address.

PRIZE(S):

• Grand Prize winner will receive $750.00, a gift certificate to one (1) mediabistro.com course of his or her choice, up to a value of $610.00, one (1) year mediabistro.com AvantGuild membership valued at $55.00 and a one (1) year mediabistro.com On Demand Videos membership valued at $160.00. Total approximate retail value of grand prize package $1,575.00.
• Second Place winner will receive $250.00, a one (1) year mediabistro.com AvantGuild membership valued at $55.00 and a one (1) year mediabistro.com on Demand Videos membership valued at $160.00. Total retail value ("RV") of second place prize package $465.00.
• Third Place winner will receive $250.00 and a one (1) year mediabistro.com AvantGuild membership valued at $55.00. Total RV of third place prize package $305.00.

For complete contest information and guidelines, visit the official Family Circle Fiction Contest page.

Good luck!

Winners of the Phoenix Rattler-does your story have bite? contest

Several months ago, I found out I was a double finalist in the Phoenix Rattler - does your story have bite? contest. The winners have been announced and, as you read on my previous post, it wasn't exactly how I hoped it would turn out, but after the initial disappointment wore off, and after a half gallon of ice cream, it's all good! I really am thrilled to have been a double finalist and don't take it for granted at all.

I have to give a special shout-out to my friends and fellow finalists, Michelle Shocklee, Susan Miura, and Deb Anderson. WOOT!

So here is the complete list of winners. CONGRATULATIONS!!

Contemporary Fiction
1st Place SEASON OF SURRENDER by Mary Proctor
2nd Place ROMANCE ON A DISTANT RIVER by Lee Carver
3rd place SURVIVING CARMELITA by Susan Miura

Historical Fiction
First Place BEYOND A RIVER by Michelle Shocklee
Second Place NIGHTSHADE by Debra E Marvin
Third place THE SAMURAI'S HEART by Walt Mussell

Young Adult
First Place THE WISHING SEA by Durga Walker
Second Place CALEUCHE REDEMPTION by Colleen Shine Phillips
Third place TALE OF A MAN by Deborah Anderson

Fantasy/Allegory/Science Fiction
First Place COUNTING TESSA by Tina Pinson
Second Place The Lightstone of Perlan by Dona Watson
Third Place METAMORPHISIS by Chawna Schroeder

Suspense/Thriller/Mystery
First Place NO TURNING BACK by Katie Vorreiter
Second Place ANOTHER SUN by Katie Vorreiter
Third Place DEAD WEIGHT by Lynda Schab

Women’s Fiction
First Place THROUGH THE VALLEY by Sarah Forgrave
Second Place THREE WISHES by Lynda Schab
Third Place THE BLUE LAKE JOURNALS by Cathleen Armstrong

Now it's on to the Genesis!

It's my blog and I'll whine if I want to

First, an apology to you subscribers who received an email of a post yesterday. That entry was scheduled for the wrong date and is not supposed to post until Wednesday. So you'll get the same email in a couple days. Sorry for the mistake.

Second...THANKS to all who entered the giveaway for Allie Pleiter's Easter Promises! Using random name selector, a winner was chosen this morning. And the book goes to...

QUIETSPIRIT

Congratulations! Enjoy this book! (I know you will)

Now...on to today's post.

I'm more confused than ever. This may not shock those of you who know me, as confused is a state that's not necessarily new to me. But this time, I'm whining about it.

Got my Phoenix Rattler scores back. I haven't yet seen the complete list of winners, but I do know that in the mystery category, I placed 3rd out of 3. Bummer. However, this isn't the entry that's confusing. Well, it kind of is, because even though I placed last, the judge actually liked my story. She thought I had a strong voice and she liked the character. She just thought the voice was too playful for suspense. Let me insert here that the category was mystery-slash-suspense. There was nothing that specified how the tone should be. But, whatever. I can live with the fact that the worst she had to say was that it was too playful. And since that's the effect I was kind of going for, I probably won't change it much. Overall, I was highly encouraged by her comments. Even if I did place last out of the three finalists.

My other entry score really has me confused. Although I ended up placing 2nd out of 3, the final-round judge did not really, um, like my story. Dare I say she hated it? I won't go into what she didn't like about it, but I will say why it confused me. Several people have read this story. Most have loved it. A first reader for a major publisher raved about it. Crit partners (some published) have loved it. It scored two high-nineties scores in last year's Genesis contest. My mom absolutely adores it! OK, that one doesn't really count. But the overall consensus has been very positive.

Then this.

It would not be quite so confusing if I didn't admire this judge so much. She is well-respected in the industry and there's no question she knows what she's talking about. Everything in me wants to take her suggestions and feedback as gold and change everything she mentioned. But so many people have loved it as is.

So what to do?

This week, I'm mulling it over. My intention has been to resubmit to the Genesis this year. One low score knocked it out of the running last year and my ultimate hope is that it will final this time around. Oh - but did I mention that the Rattler judge happens to be the same person who will be judging the final round of my category in the Genesis? Oy... thinking she probably won't change her mind and suddenly like it in the next couple months.

Again...what to do? I basically have three options: Submit it as is, do a complete rewrite, or bag it all together.

So you see my confusion.

I am woman. Hear me whine.

Contest Corner - Five Facts about Writing Contests

Most of you probably know by now that, for many reasons, I love writing contests. I realize not everyone agrees with me, and that's OK. But because I have entered many writing contests in the past few years, I've figured out a few facts that I'd like to share with you . So I give you five facts about writing contests.

1. The best things in writing aren't always free. I've heard people complain about writing contests that aren't free. Hey, free contests are great, but they also tend to be sponsored by huge publications that have huge prize budgets or wealthy donors. And that equals huge competition for you. Yes, someone has to win and it could be you. You have nothing to lose, so definitely go for it!

More often, however, you'll find paying contests. Sometimes the fees go towards the prize kitty. But more often, the the money goes towards the organization's administrative costs. Many people do not realize the time, expenses, and manpower required to run a website. Not to mention to organize and manage a writing contest.

2. Writing contests keep the creative juices flowing. Particularly contests based around a topic, phrase, or word. Let's face it. Sometimes writers could use a little help in the inspiration department. And contests are a great way to give us that nudge we need.

3. Growth Guaranteed. IF you take constructive criticism well, of course. Entering contests allows us to get our work read and often critiqued by industry pros or published writers. In other words, people who know what they're talking about. The feedback alone is well worth any conference fee (see #1). And if you take that feedback and actually apply it to your writing, you will emerge a better writer. Guaranteed.

4. You could get noticed. As mentioned above, many contests consist of a judging panel of agents and editors, which means there is the possibility that they will like your work enough to request seeing more of it. Which puts you one step closer to that contract.

5. Beware of BHS (Big Head Syndrome). Okay, so you've been entering contests for a while now and you've been finaling, or even winning. This may cause your ego to make a grand appearance. But remember that verse in Proverbs about pride coming before a fall? I suggest not getting to the point where wearing a padded suit is required. Try to maintain a humble spirit. Yes, it's fun to win but keep in mind the reasons you write. If you're a Christian, hopefully it's to glorify God - not yourself.

So what are your thoughts on writing contests? Are you for or against them? And why?

Oh - and speaking of writing contests, the ACFW Genesis contest just opened for submissions. Click HERE for more information.

Breaking News...

We interrupt these scheduled blog posts to bring you a special announcement....

OK, let's be real. I'm posting this because I just have to share my wonderful news.

I WON THE FAITHWRITERS 2009 PAGE TURNER CONTEST!

'scuse me, a sec....

YAY! YIPPEE! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOT! YEE-HAW!!!!!!!!!! WOO-HOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! HIP-HIP-HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!

K, I'm back now.

Anyway, as I was saying, I WON! Of course, as anyone who enters a contest, I was hopeful. In 2007 I received a highly commended award for the first chapter of Mind over Madi. This year, with Dead Weight, I thought if I walked away with another highly commended, I'd be thrilled. But when I heard I won, it was the ultimate thrill of thrills. My prize package consists of free editing of the complete novel, free publicity and press releases if and when the book is released and $800 cash (just in time for Christmas!).

For those of you who may not know, the Page Turner contest is an annual contest exclusively created for FaithWriters 500 members. Each year, the focus switches from fiction to non-fiction. The winner of the 2007 fiction-focused Page Turner was soon-to-be-published, J.C. Lamont. Last year's non-fiction winner was Cori Smelker for her book about surrogacy. I am so honored to be among these awesome writers in the winners circle.

The two runners up this year are:

Shelley Ledfors for her entry, "Dominion" and Lisa Mikitarian for her entry, "Hundred Pocket Mirage." CONGRATS to Shelley and Lisa! Two years ago, I was one of those runners up. You may just see one of their names on top in 2011!

As for Dead Weight, my goal is to finish it by spring. I may share more about the plot of this book at a later time, but for now I'll just say it's a light mystery with a twenty-something protagonist who is a crime-show fanatic and food addict. I'm having a lot of fun with it.

I hope you don't mind that I posted on a non-blog day. As you can imagine, I am uber-excited and if I didn't share, I would probably combust or something.

All that said....

We now return to your regularly scheduled blog posts.

Writing Contests and where to find them

I've heard arguments for and against writing contests.

Some anti-contest writers say they don't enter because the judges are unqualified - according to one writer on a recent message board post, not nearly as skilled as the writers he/she is judging. Some feel that writing contests are too subjective and don't serve any purpose at all, except to promote pride or dejection.

I, on the other hand, am a proponent for writing contests. This may be partly because I love the feeling I get when I win! (Does anyone NOT?) But really, it's more than that. It's the feedback I receive from the judges. Although is sometimes stings, I'll take the bad with the good. AND I'll take that feedback from judges who may not be as qualified as I am. Hey, God can teach me things through very unlikely sources.

Another reason I love writing contests is for the possibility of getting my work in front of agents and/or editors. Contests and writing conferences are the two ways to guarantee your work will actually get read instead of sit at the bottom of the slush pile. One contest I finaled in resulted in the agent requesting my full manuscript. Other writers I know have actually acquired contracts this way. It really does happen!

So it usually costs something to enter. Financially. Mentally. Physically. Emotionally. But hey. Does anything worth having NOT cost something? Even Jesus' free gift of salvation requires that we reach out our hand and take it. Not to mention simply being a believer requires sacrifice on our part every day.

But I digress. This isn't about whether you should or shouldn't enter contests. This post is for those who DO want to enter contests but don't know where to find them.

A while ago, I came across a great site that provides links to a ton of writing contests. The site is regularly updated and lists the contests ending the soonest on top. But not only is this a chart of contest deadlines, it also includes details about what type of contest it is, eligibility, how to submit, who the judges are, what the prize is, and the cost to enter. I do not know Stephanie Smith personally, but she offers a great resource for writers interested in entering contests. And I just wanted to share it with you guys.

So here is the link. Hope it helps! STEPHANIE SMITH'S CONTEST CHART FOR WRITERS

FaithWriters Book Winner!

Last wednesday, to celebrate the recent announcement of the FaithWriters Writing Challenge Best of the Best winner, as well as to allow you to share in the winning my husband and I have done lately, I posted a contest in which you could win the FaithWriters anthology of your choice. This is a great prize! Each anthology is filled with 100 uplifting stories, poems, and essays written by members of FaithWriters.com that placed in the Challenge quarter's top ten.

I did my random drawing this morning and I am thrilled to announce the winner for the FaithWriters anthology!

SEEMA!

Pause for applause.

CONGRATULATIONS, SEEMA!

Seems has chosen the book, Abundance of Life. Seema, this book will be on its way to you very soon, just as soon as you send me your mailing address (You can do this through the FW PM service or through my website http://www.lyndaschab.com/.)

Thanks to all who entered!

Winning Wednesday - Readers Choice

I'm dubbing today Winning Wednesday for two reasons:

1. Personally, my husband and I have won two great prizes within the last week. First, my husband was the correct caller on a local radio station and won (2) 11-day passes to the Muskegon Summer Celebration, a huge annual event with lots of fun stuff, including great bands. performing on stage. Last Friday night, he had the privilege of seeing Loverboy and Joan Jett. Last night, he took my daughter to see Kellie Pickler, and tomorrow night, he'll take my son to see Billy Squire. This coming Friday, he and I will go to see Heart. Can't wait for that! TOLD YOU there are some great bands! Classic bands of the 80's totally rock.

The passes he won are worth around $200. Not bad!

Then, yesterday, I received a certified letter in the mail informing me that I am the grand prize winner of a contest I entered that was sponsored by Crystal Mountain Resort & Spa and Pepsi. I won a 2-night, 3-day ski package for six people to stay in a 3-bedroom condo at Crystal Mountain. Sweet, right? Well, it would be...if any of us happened to ski. Not sure if this 40-ish body could handle all of those wipeouts.

I have emailed the resort to see if there is a possibility I can exchange the ski package for something a little less...extreme. Like Golf. I don't golf either, but I'm willing to learn. My arms might get sore, but at least it's likely I won't end up in a body cast.

So anyway...that's reason #1 I'm dubbing today Winning Wednesday. On to #2...

2. The FaithWriters Best of the Best winners were announced today. If you'd like to find out who won, visit my Examiner.com page. Hey, I earn a whole penny every time someone reads an article on my Examiner site. I'm not above begging for clicks. There are links provided to the top three entries, so you can read them and congratulate the winners.

Anyway, because of all the winning going on this week, I would like to give something to you! Because I want to share the love! Of winning, that is.

What can you win? Well in honor of the FaithWriters Writing Challenge Best of the Best winner (and because the Challenge starts up again tomorrow), you have the opportunity to win a FaithWriters anthology of your choice!

So here's how it's going to work. Check out the following FaithWriters anthologies and leave a comment letting me know which one you'd like to win and why. Don't be shy about the reason you want to win. If it's because you happen to have an entry published in one of them, that's a great reason!

I will randomly select a comment from all the entries and next Wednesday, I will announce the winner.

Here's the list. Have fun!

Abundance of Life (May, 2007)

Hidden in the Hymns (December, 2007)

A Year of Celebration (September, 2005)

Journey of Faith (January, 2006)

In the Beginning (July, 2005)

Come Away with Me (May, 2006)

Eternally Blessed (March, 2005)

Inspiration at your Fingertips (November, 2006)

Learning for Life (December, 2004)

Get your Stiletto in the Door!

As promised, I want to tell you about a great contest, exclusively for chick lit writers. At ChicklitWriters.com, a chapter of Romance Writers of America, chick lit is what it is. There is no shame or hiding behind other lables.

And the good news for us is that they hold an annual chick lit contest. It's called Get Your Stiletto in the Door (catchy, or what?) No Women's fiction or sappy romance allowed. This contest is for chick lit ONLY.

My novel, Mind over Madi, finaled in the 2007 Stiletto contest (Inspirational category) and my full MS was requested by one of the final round judges (an agent). Unfortunately, at the time, my MS wasn't nearly finished and I never did end up submitting. And also unfortunately, the OTHER final round judge basically hated my entry and scored me so low that I ended up finishing 4th of the the 4 finalists.

Sigh...

Anyway, that's over and done. Not wallowing. Really, I'm not!

Not sure if you qualify for this contest? Here's how the website describes chick lit:

Has your manuscript been shredded in other RWA contests because it's not quite romance? Do you write fun, sassy, contemporary fiction centering around the journey of the heroine? (Maybe you don't even have a hero at all.) Do your manuscripts not play by the romance rules?

Please note that this is a Chick Lit specific contest, not a romance contest. Our categories aren't suited for Regency entries. Contemporary Single Title, Paranormal romance, or Romantic Suspense won't do well unless the focus is on a plucky heroine with a true Chick Lit voice.

OK, now that I gave you the good news about this great contest, here's the bad: the deadline is June 15.

Yes, that is only 5 days from now. But don't panic. I haven't entered yet either. I still need to put together a synopsis (up to 5 pages), which is required as part of the submission. But I have faith in us! We can do it!

Some basic details:

• There are 5 categories: Classic Lit, Chick Thrill, Paranormal Chick, Inspirational Lit, and Young Adult Lit.
• Entry fee is: $10 for CLW RWA members (Please include RWA member number.),$20 for other RWA members (Please include RWA member number.), and $30 for non-RWA members
• Finalists are notified by August 25.
• Winners are announced by November 5

Get complete details, including the two final-round judges for each category, here: STILETTO CONTEST DETAILS.

If you enter, come back and let me know so I can cheer you on!

Long live Chick Lit!

And the Winner is...

Thanks to all of you who left a comment to win the FaithWriters anthology, Hidden in the Hymns. Every single hymn you mentioned is awesome. Personally, I love hymns, especially when they have a contemporary twist. But the words and basic melodies are fabulous!

Anyway, let's get to it. I wrote everybody's name down on separate slips of paper, mixed them up, closed my eyes, and picked one. And the name I drew out was ...

KARLENE!

Yay, Karlene! Congrats! All I need from you is your address and your book will be on its way.

Thanks again for participating. Stay tuned for more giveaways in the coming weeks.

By the way, there are many FaithWriters anthologies available. I have found that Buy.com offers them at the cheapest price. You can check them out here: FAITHWRITERS ANTHOLOGIES

Win TWO BOOKS and FALL IN LOVE with John's Quest and Milk Money

We have a special treat today with not one, but TWO romance novel giveaways! Author, Cecelia Dowdy is giving away a copy of John's Quest and Milk Money. Be sure to leave a comment for your chance to win both of these Heartsong novels. Check them out:

John French, a science professor, is an agnostic--he’s unsure if God exists. When he’s hired to tutor a blind seven-year-old child, Scotty, he finds himself falling for the child’s beautiful aunt/guardian, Monica Crawford. Monica’s life changes drastically when her irresponsible younger sister abandons her handicapped son on her doorstep. As John helps Monica to educate her nephew, he falls in love with her. However, problems arise when Monica, a devout Christian, finds herself drawn to Scotty’s handsome and intelligent tutor. Monica finds herself in a bind because she knows it’s a sin to be unequally yoked with a non-believer. How in the world can these two lovebirds overcome the huge problems that stand in the way of their relationship?

Running a dairy farm is a big job, but doing it alone is almost impossible.When her dad dies, Emily must work hard to save the family farm, but she manages. Until the day the CPA pulls in her drive and announces he’s there to do an audit on the place. Franklin Reese is appalled at the lack of interest the Cooper women have in the financial end of their livelihood, but he dives in, determined to help them learn. The further he looks into Mr. Cooper’s dealings, however, the more uncomfortable he becomes. Can he uncover the truth of the situation and still earn the love of the amazing Emily Cooper? Will Franklin's addiction to alcohol keep them apart, even after the farm is taken care of? Only God can heal hurting hearts and repair broken lives. Will these two let Him in?

About Cecelia Dowdy:

I spent the first ten years of my life on a military base in Aberdeen Maryland since my dad was in the Army. We moved to North East Maryland when I was about ten. I always remember the joy of opening a book, and reading mesmerizing stories that entertained me for hours! I went to the University of Maryland in College Park, earning my degree in Finance! My freshman English teacher claimed I was a great writer, and recommended that I change my major from Finance to English, but I didn’t heed his wise advice!

Instead of pursuing a literary career, I worked as an accountant for a travel agency for ten years. During that time, I traveled all over the world, including the following places: Germany, France, England, Tahiti, New Zealand, Mexico, Jamaica, Bahamas, Cayman Islands, and Santo Domingo.

In 1994, I began writing for fun, and I kept doing it until I sold my first inspirational romance novel. Before I sold my novel, I wrote sweet romantic short stories regularly for national women’s magazines. I’ve published thirty-seven of these stories. I'm now working on other novels, and you can check the books section of this website to see a list of past and future releases!

I love both secular and Christian fiction. I also love young adult fiction, and I hope to have my own young adult inspirational series someday!

I've been happily married to my husband for three years. We currently reside in Maryland with our son.

Visit Cecelia online: http://www.ceceliadowdy.com/

Don't forget to leave a comment to be automatically entered to WIN both of Cecelia's novels. Deadline: February 27

Enter all of the great giveaways this month! All comments need to be left by February 27. Winners will be announced on March 6th.

WIN A BOOK and FALL IN LOVE with Before the Season Ends

Linore Rose Burkard describes her books as Inspirational Romance for the Jane Austen Soul. If you're a fan of Jane Austen, you'll definitely want to read this book. Leave a comment on this blog post to be automatically entered to WIN a copy of Before the Season Ends. Here's a synopsis:




England, 1813: Romantic woes at home send Ariana Forsythe to her Aunt Bentley's town house in the fashionable Mayfair district of London. There she finds worse troubles than those that prompted her flight from home. Under her aunt's watchful eye, Ariana is soon steeped in high society--and at odds with Mr. Phillip Mornay, London's current darling rogue.
Then, unexpectedly, rumour of a scandal changes Ariana forever. Her faith and her future are at stake in an unexpected adventure that gains even the Prince Regent's attention.
Will Ariana's faith survive this test? And what about her heart? For it is Ariana's heart that most threatens to betray the truths she has always believed in. When she finds herself backed against a wall, betrothed to a man who cannot share her faith, how can it ever turn out right?



READER EXCERPT FROM BEFORE THE SEASON ENDS - CHAPTER 1

Chesterton, Hertfordshire: England - 1813

Something would have to be done about Ariana.

All winter Miss Ariana Forsythe, aged nineteen, had been going about the house sighing. "Mr. Hathaway is my lot in life!"

She spoke as though the prospect of that life was a great burden to bear, but one which she had properly reconciled herself to. When her declarations met with exasperation or reproach from her family--for no one else was convinced Mr. Hathaway, the rector, was her lot--she usually responded in a perplexed manner. Hadn't they understood for an age that her calling was to wed a man of the cloth? Was there another man of God, other than their rector, available to her? No. It only stood to reason, therefore, that Mr. Hathaway was her lot in life. Their cold reception to the thought of the marriage was unfathomable.

When she was seventeen, (a perfectly respectable marrying age) she had romantic hopes about a young and brilliant assistant to the rector, one Mr. Stresham. It was shortly after meeting him, in fact, that she had formed the opinion the Almighty was calling her to marry a man of God. Mr. Stresham even had the approval of her parents. But the man took a situation in another parish without asking Ariana to accompany him as his wife. She was disappointed, but not one to give up easily, continued to speak of "the calling," waiting in hope for another Mr. Stresham of sorts. But no man came. And now she had reached the conclusion that Mr. Hathaway--Mr. Hathaway, the rector, (approaching the age of sixty!) would have to do.

Her parents, Charles and Julia Forsythe, were sitting in their comfortably furnished morning room, Julia with a cup of tea before her, and Charles with his newspaper. A steady warmth was emanating from the hearth.

"What shall we do about Ariana?" Mrs. Forsythe, being an observant mama, had been growing in her conviction that the situation called for some action.

"What do you suggest, my dear?" Her husband reluctantly folded his paper; he knew his wife wanted a discussion of the matter and that he would get precious little reading done until she had got it.

She held up a folded piece of foolscap: the annual letter from Agatha Bentley, Charles's sister, asking for Alberta, the eldest Forsythe daughter, for the season in London. It had arrived the day before.

Aunt Bentley was a childless wealthy widow and a hopeless socialite. For the past three years she had written annually to tell her brother and his wife why they ought to let her sponsor their eldest daughter for a London season. She owned a house in Mayfair (could anything be more respectable than that?) and knew a great deal of the big-wigs in society. She had, in fact, that most important of commodities which the Forsythes completely lacked: connexions. And as Charles's family were her only living relatives, she was prepared--even anxious--to serve as chaperon for her niece.

Much to the lady's frustration, Julia and Charles had annually extinguished her hopes, replying to her letters graciously but with the inevitable, "We cannot countenance a separation from our child at this time," and so on. Charles was unflinching on this point, never doubting his girls would reap a greater benefit by remaining beneath his own roof. They knew full well, moreover, that Aunt Agatha could not hope, with all her money and connexions to find as suitable a husband for their offspring as was possible right in Chesterton.

Why not? For the profound reason that Aunt Bentley had no religion whatsoever.

And yet, due to the distressing state of affairs with Ariana, Julia wished to consider her latest offer. With the letter waving in her hand she said, "I think we ought to oblige your sister this year. She must be lonely, poor thing, and besides removing Ariana from the parish, a visit to the city could prove beneficial for her education."

Ariana's father silently considered the matter. His eldest daughter Alberta was as good as wed, having recently accepted an offer of marriage--to no one's surprise--from John Norledge. Ariana, his second eldest, had been irksome in regard to the rector, but to pack her off to London? Surely the situation was not so dire as to warrant such a move.

"I think there is nothing else for it," Mrs. Forsythe said emphatically. "Ariana is determined about Mr. Hathaway and, even though we can forbid her to speak to the man, she will pine and sigh and like as not drive me to distraction!"

Taking a pipe out of his waistcoat pocket (though he never smoked), Mr. Forsythe absently rubbed the polished wood in his fingers. "I recall other fanciful notions of our daughter's," he said finally, "and they slipped away in time. Recall, if you will, when she was above certain her destiny was to be a missionary--to America. That desire faded. She fancies this, she fancies that; soon she will fancy another thing entirely, and we shan't hear another word about the 'wonderful rector' again."

Mrs. Forsythe's countenance, still attractive in her forties, became fretful."I grant that she has had strong...affections before. But this time, my dear, it is a complicated affection for in this case it is the heart of the ah, affected, which we must consider. It has ideas of its own."

"Of its own?"

Mrs. Forsythe looked about the room to be certain no one else had entered. The servants were so practiced at coming and going quietly, their presence might not be marked. But no, there was only the two of them. She lowered her voice anyway. "The rector! I do not think he intends to lose her! What could delight him more than a young, healthy wife who might fill his table with offspring?"

Mr. Forsythe shook his head."Our rector is not the man to think only of himself; he must agree with us on the obvious unsuitability of the match."

The rector was Thaddeus Admonicus Hathaway, of the Church in the Village Square. Mr. Hathaway was a good man. His sermons were grounded in sound religion, which meant they were based on orthodox Christian teaching. He was clever, and a popular dinner guest of the gentry, including the Forsythes. If these had not been true of him, Mr. Forsythe might have been as concerned as his wife. Knowing Mr. Hathaway, however, Charles Forsythe did not think a drastic action such as sending his daughter to the bustling metropolis of London, was necessary.

Mrs. Forsythe chose not to argue with her spouse. She would simply commit the matter to prayer. If the Almighty decided that Ariana must be removed to Agatha's house, then He would make it clear to her husband. In her years of marriage she had discovered that God was the Great Communicator, and she had no right to try and usurp that power. Her part was to pray, sincerely and earnestly.

Mr. Forsythe gave his judgment: "I fear that rather than exerting a godly influence upon her aunt, Ariana would be drawn astray by the ungodliness of London society."

"Do you doubt her so much, Charles? This infatuation with Mr. Hathaway merely results from her youth, her admiration for his superior learning, and especially," she said, leaning forward and giving him a meaningful look, "for lack of a young man who has your approval! Have you not frowned upon every male who has approached her in the past? Why, Mr. Hathaway is the first whom you have failed to frighten off and only because he is our rector! 'Tis little wonder a young girl takes a fanciful notion into her head!"

When he made no answer, she added, while adjusting the frilly morning cap on her head, "Mr. Hathaway causes me concern!"

Mr. Forsythe's countenance was sober. "'Tis my sister who warrants the concern. She will wish to make a match for our daughter--and she will not be content with just any mister I assure you. In addition to which, a girl as pretty as our daughter will undoubtedly attract attention of the wrong sort."

Julia was flustered for a second, but countered, "Agatha is no threat to our child. We shall say we are sending Ariana to see the sights, take in the museums and so forth. Surely there is no harm in that. A dinner party here or there should not be of concern. And Ariana is too intelligent to allow herself to be foisted upon an unsuitable man for a fortune or title."

Too intelligent? He thought of the aging minister that no one had had to "foist" her upon. Aloud he merely said, "I shall speak with her tonight. She shall be brought to reason, depend upon it. There will be no need to pack her off to London."




Linore Rose Burkard creates Inspirational Romance for the Jane Austen Soul. Her characters take you back in time to experience life and love during the Regency England era (circa 1800 - 1830). Ms. Burkard's novels include Before the Seasons Ends and The House in Grosvenor Square (coming April, 2009). Her stories blend Christian faith and romance with well-researched details from the Regency period. Experience a romantic age, where timeless lessons still apply to modern life. And, enjoy a romance that reminds you happy endings are possible for everyone.


Enter to win this fabulous novel by simply leaving a comment on this post. Deadline to enter: February 27.
Enter previous Romance Novel giveaways: Love Finds you in Humble, Texas; Kiss the Bride; Do You Hear what I Hear?; Stand-In-Groom; Flame from Within, and The Valentine Edition.

WIN A BOOK and FALL IN LOVE with The Valentine Edition!

What better romance novel to give away on the day before Valentines Day than the charming romance novel, The Valentine Edition? ENTER to WIN a copy this book by leaving a comment at the end of this blog post.


The last place in the world Jodi Williams wanted to live was Turtle Creek, Wisconsin, but when her stepdad refused to put in a good word for her at the Chicago paper, she had no other choice than to accept the first job offer that came her way. Josh Thomas was Turtle Creek's veterinarian, but he also happened to be single and quite handsome. His life was pretty peaceful until a pretty, young stranger came to his clinic with a dog that had been hit by a car. While his first reaction was to care for the injured animal, he couldn't help a few glances at this unique young woman.That day was one of quite a few new beginnings. Jodi came to the aid of an injured animal, earning her the respect of a handsome man, she started a new job as a reporter for The Turtle Creek Newspaper, and she gained the wrath of the vet's receptionist. Della had her sights set on Joshua, and she wasn't about to let anyone come between her and the man of her dreams.

Here is the first page of The Valentine Edition:

Jodi Williams sighed for the hundredth time as she waved goodbye to the Chicago skyline, catching the last of the city in her car's rearview mirror. Dreams of working at The Tribune were dead right along with drinking green tea latte's at Starbucks anytime she wanted.
Hope behind her.

The unknown ahead.

She steered toward Wisconsin. An hour later, Jodi looked out the window at the open fields of frozen ground and cows standing along snowy fences. The comparison between her two lives the previous and the present were startling. Jodi attempted to shift her body in the seat but was pretty well anchored into the one position with her belongings crammed into the compact car from the trunk to the front. The turn-by-turn directions she had printed out were hard to follow since not all the roads were actually marked in this neck of the country. She decided to refer to them as mystery turns. Finally, Jodi pulled over to the shoulder and unfolded the road map to try to figure it out one more time. According to her calculations, she was almost there at the end of civilization.

About Robin:

I have a double major in Special Education and English with a minor in Theater. Teaching for nearly thirty years, I hold five teaching certificates. I am the Special Education Coordinator for Denton County Juvenile Justice Alternative Program. For our first two years of marriage, my husband and I traveled overseas as missionaries before becoming pastors of a church in Illinois. Rick and I have been married for over thirty years and have two grown children. We now live near Dallas, Texas. Rick still goes overseas each year for a month of ministry.

PUBLICATIONS: To date, my literary works include approximately two hundred articles in magazines such as: Live, Lookout, Mennonite, Christian Reader, Decision, Breakthrough and Today’s Christian. Other short stories appear in the books: A Match Made in Heaven, Stories from the Heart, The Evolving Woman, and in the New York Times bestseller, In The Arms of Angels by Joan Wester-Anderson. Ann Spangler also used one of my stories in her book, Help! I can’t stop Laughing. Another two-dozen stories have been published in the Chicken Soup books. One story, Mom’s Last Laugh, was re-enacted for a PAX-TV program: It’s a Miracle. I co-authored a thriller, The Chase, for Revel. My second book, The Replacement, was released in June 2006. The Candidate was released July, 2007. I have a romance series with The Wild Rose Press. The Christmas Edition was released November 2008. The Valentine Edition release date is Jan. 16, 2009. My next book, Wildcard is a mystery and will be released late April 2009. Visit me online: http://write2robinshope.blogspot.com/

Remember to leave a comment to be automatically entered to WIN The Valentine Edition. Deadline to enter: February 27.

Enter previous February book giveaways here: Love Finds you in Humble, Texas, Kiss the Bride, Do you Hear what I Hear?, Stand-In-Groom, and Flame From Within.

All winners will be announced on March 6th.

WIN A BOOK and FALL IN LOVE with Flame from Within

Dive into the Civil War with this page-turning novel by Shirley Kiger Connolly. This inspirational story is one of faith, hope, and love with a hefty chunk of romance, to keep with our theme this month! If you're a fan of historical romance, Flame From Within will not disappoint. Leave a comment on this entry for your chance to WIN a copy of Flame From Within.

Here is a brief synopsis:

A journey across the sea begins a journey of healing for Aimée's soul and a discovery of love and faith she thought she'd never find. When a Yankee-induced fire destroys her family and her home, young plantation-bred Amethyst Rose finds herself on the run. Angry towards God and the men in blue, Amethyst's only choice left is to move in with her elder and controlling sister, who runs a bordello in The French Quarter of New Orleans-a decision guaranteed to destroy Amethyst's personal respect and tarnish her family name. With her bitter hatred towards all Yankees plunged into high gear, nothing seems to matter anymore, until, on a riverboat en route to New Orleans, she finds herself intrigued by the presence of not one, but two Union officers. Each in his own way find ways to tug at the heart and soul of this woman lost.

An Excerpt from Flame from Within:

Gazing over at her creamy soft face turned toward the window he spoke again. “I realize you wish not to converse. Let me just say, I hope you won’t misunderstand the meaning of all this…Ro—sette.”

Aimée mumbled something incoherent and continued staring out the window.

“You do talk then. I thought I remembered you had a voice…a sweet one at that—in its unyielding sort of way.” He sat back against his padded seat and grinned mischievously.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Aimée turned and glared back at the officer’s face. “How dare you, accuse me of being unyielding! Maybe you’d like to tell me why you’re doing this…why you keep interfering in my life.”

“You’ll understand soon why I came to collect you. Just bear with me. I dare say, I don’t think you will hate me overmuch for this little rendezvous, when you hear of my ingenious offer.”

Aimée looked at the man strangely. “Offer? I don’t think I shall have a choice in whatever your silly offer may be, now shall I?” Reaching down and pulling at the ruffles of her skirt, she looked up again. “By the way, I’m all ears—just one thing.”

“Oh?”

“When you return me to wherever it is you think I am supposed to be, later this evening, I’m asking you just this once not to…not to….”

“Not to what?” He laughed at her with his eyes.

“Quit laughing at me, Captain. I’m asking you not to—to invite yourself into my chambers…as the matter of some are, and—and not to…touch me.”

She loathed the man’s handsome lopsided grin and the deep crevices in both his cheeks, which sank into oblivion when he smiled. She hated the twitching of his adorable mustache. She closed her eyes and tried to think, then opened them again as she awaited his response. Then she spoke again.

“Maybe I am asking the impossible, and perhaps my request seems foolhardy.” (Most assuredly, he probably was aghast by her request. After all, where had he come to fetch her…where, indeed? How much had he offered to pay for her, and what was it one did with one at that place?)

Yet she remained sober, for her request was deadly serious. And although she knew it was a dangerous gamble to ask such a thing of the man, she figured what more could be the harm?

He already had her in his clutches. Maybe, just maybe he would extend her a small portion of grace…just this once.


Shirley Kiger Connolly, born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, now lives on the Southern Coast of Oregon with her husband. Their three children are now grown. When not writing, Shirley is with her animals, doing stitchery, or reading, or watching classics with her husband. Shirley attended college in Northern California. She later became a graduate of Institute of Children’s Literature. A Christian for over forty years, it was through her relationship with the Lord, she developed a passion for women’s ministry and teaching. This blossomed further when her husband went into pastoral ministry. While teaching, Shirley’s love for research led to the publishing of two historical fiction novels. Shirley also wears another hat, penning light-hearted devotional books . The first in a series of three: I See God in the Simple Things is scheduled to release this month. Shirley’s goal is to keep her fiction as true to life as possible, and focus her devotionals on simple everyday living to encourage her readers to enjoy life to the fullest regardless of its difficulties.
Visit Shirley online: http://shirleykoinonia.tripod.com/id5.html

Be sure to leave a comment to be automatically entered to WIN a copy of Flame from Within. Deadline to enter: February 27.

Enter these previous book giveaways, too: Love Finds you in Humble, Texas, Kiss the Bride, Do you Hear what I Hear? and Stand-In-Groom.
Winners for all February book giveaways will be announced on March 6th.