"Love Finds You" Blog Party Winners!

Acknowledgements:

Thank you so very much to all of the authors (Roseanna, Miralee, Robin, Melanie, and Loree) for your generosity in terms of time and prizes!! I hope this week celebrating the "Love Finds You" series was an encouragement to all of you!

And thank you to all of my readers and new friends for making this week a success! I appreciate your comments and your excitement regarding the party and the book series!!

We have winners!!!

• $15 Amazon.com gift card + 2 copies of Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland = Ariel!
• Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland = Geschumann (Gloria)!
• Love Finds You in Sundance, Wyoming = Ali!
• Love Finds You in Sunset Beach, Hawaii = steveandcami!
• Love Finds You in Nazareth, Pennsylvania = Jackie S!
• Love Finds You in Folly Beach, South Carolina = Casey and Katie McCurdy!

Winners will be e-mailed and will have 1 week to respond (or another winner will be chosen). Congratulations!!

Hope you all enjoyed the "Love Finds You" blog party!!

Love Finds You With Understanding

Loree won me over with one of her previous "Love Finds You" books - Love Finds You in North Pole, Alaska - and now I am quite eager to read her latest! (You can read my review of LFY in North Pole HERE.) Want to learn more about Love Finds You in Folly Beach, South Carolina and find out how you can win a copy for you or a friend? Read on!

Amber: What do you love most about writing for the “Love Finds You” series as compared to other books you’ve written?

Loree: Though I've always made a practice of visiting the places where my stories take place, the settings for the Love Finds You series have all been so fun and exciting! And because Summerside prefers to deliver lighthearted, uplifting novels to their loyal fans, I get to have as much fun as the readers do!

Amber: Have you visited the setting of your latest “Love Finds You” book? If so, what was your favorite part of the trip?

Loree: It's a tossup between the Folly Beach fishing pier and the crazy little boat that washed ashore during Hurricane Hugo (where locals and tourists alike paint all sorts of messages on the hull). On second thought, maybe the Morris Island Lighthouse. Or the fantastic restaurants. Hmm…I'm thinking I'll have to get back to you on that!

Amber: Sounds like there's a lot to love about Folly Beach!

Have you learned anything about love and humility while working on your latest “Love Finds You” book that you could share with us?

Loree: Absolutely! As Holly (the heroine) learned that she's lovable, despite her slightly-klutzy tendencies, I learned that my own eccentricities are more tolerable than I'd once thought. And, as Parker (the hero) grapples with his mom's dishonesty, I learned that even parents have feet of clay…and need forgiveness and understanding.

Amber: What would a Christmas party in the town and era of your latest “Love Finds You” book look like? (Any details about food, decorations, traditions, etc., would be wonderful!)

Loree: First, there'd be lots of colorful lights on the cottage terraces and vacation house balconies that overlook the Atlantic. And because the weather is (mostly) beautiful, even in December, the Christmas banquet would take place on the deck, so that the guests could gobble up crab cakes and fish gumbo along with the traditional ham dinner and sides…and so that we could put up our feet while eating our pecan pie, watching the waves crash onto shore all around the historic Morris Island Lighthouse!

Amber: Count me in! Thanks so much for joining us today, Loree! Can't wait to read this book!

Giveaway!!!

Here are the rules for today's giveaway of a signed copy of Love Finds You in Folly Beach, South Carolina to 2 winners! Please read carefully.

• Leave a comment for Loree along with your e-mail address.

• You must have a U.S. mailing address in order to be eligible for this drawing.

• All winners this week will be announced on Sunday, December 11, 2011. (That's soon, so don't delay - enter today!!)

(Folly Beach pictures from the Folly Beach website. You can learn more about Loree at her website!)

Love Finds You in the Christmas Spirit

'Tis the season! From Melanie's research trip to the title and cover of her latest "Love Finds You" book, this particular interview is filled with Christmas cheer. Enjoy the theme and read on to learn about a great gift opportunity (for you or a friend)!

Amber: What do you love most about writing for the “Love Finds You” series as compared to other books you’ve written?

Melanie: First of all, I love working with the Summerside team! They’ve been such an encouragement to me, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed partnering with them. Second, I love researching small towns across the country and then creating a fictional story from their history and heritage. Right now I’m writing my fifth Love Finds You novel (Love Finds You in Mackinac Island, Michigan).

Amber: Have you visited the setting of your latest “Love Finds You” book? If so, what was your favorite part of the trip?

Melanie: I always visit the towns where my Love Finds You books are set. Sometimes I think my novel writing is really an excuse to travel and explore because I really (really!) enjoy researching these towns. In my first Love Finds You novel (Liberty, Indiana), I crawled around in all sorts of secret spaces that were once hiding places on the Underground Railroad. For the Amana novels (Love Finds You in Homestead and Amana, Iowa), I explored the picturesque Amana Colonies for almost a week. Then for my latest novel (Love Finds You in Nazareth, Pennsylvania), I took a night tour last year of the beautiful Christmas lights in Nazareth while learning about its Moravian heritage.

Amber: Those sound like some great trips!

Have you learned anything about love and humility while working on your latest “Love Finds You” book that you could share with us?

Melanie: Those two themes are woven throughout Love Finds You in Nazareth, Pennsylvania because the story is about a married couple selected by Lot to be husband and wife. Even as he marries Susanna, Christian Boehler loves another woman in his heart, and he often fails Susanna in the first year of their marriage. The story is about choosing forgiveness over anger and replacing bitterness with both love and grace.

Amber: What would a Christmas party in the town and era of your latest “Love Finds You” book look like? (Any details about food, decorations, traditions, etc., would be wonderful!)

Melanie: Oh, it would have been a grand celebration! The Moravian people embraced the Christmas season and the depth of its meaning--so much so that their two major settlements in Pennsylvania were named Bethlehem and Nazareth. On Christmas Eve, the sanctuary would have glowed from the tallow candles they held as they feasted together on spicy sugar cakes and black coffee and worshipped God in song: “Good news from heav’n the angels bring…All my heart this night rejoices.”

Thanks, Amber! It’s a pleasure to celebrate with you.

Amber: It's a pleasure to host you, Melanie! Thank you for your wonderful responses and helping us get in the Christmas mood!

Giveaway!!!

Here are the rules for today's giveaway of a signed copy of Love Finds You in Nazareth, Pennsylvania! Please read carefully.

• Leave a comment for Melanie along with your e-mail address.

• This drawing is open to readers everywhere! (International giveaway!)
  

• All winners this week will be announced on Sunday, December 11, 2011.

(Learn more about Melanie at her website!)

Love Finds You in Beautiful Places

I had the great pleasure of hearing Robin Jones Gunn speak at our school's Woman to Woman Conference last February - and let me tell you, Robin has a lot of wonderful things to say! So grab a cinnamon roll and some tropical fruit to enjoy while you take in this lovely interview - and Robin's beautiful pictures of Hawaii!

Amber: What do you love most about writing for the “Love Finds You” series as compared to other books you’ve written?

Robin: My favorite part of the “Love Finds You” format is the summary at the beginning of the book that gives the history of the location. I loved digging a little deeper into the beginnings of the Sunset Beach area.

One of the best things about writing destination novels is having a chance to visit amazing places and then crafting a story in that setting. I’ve done this sort of onsite research for most of the novels I’ve written over the past ten years.

What made “Love Finds You in Sunset Beach, Hawaii” even more delightful was that I was writing about my home state. I live on a different island so I had to bring the characters to my corner of Hawaii first and then send them on to the North Shore on Oahu so they could meet at Sunset Beach. As I was writing I felt as if I was sharing my favorite parts of this beautiful paradise with the characters but more importantly with the readers.

Amber: Have you visited the setting of your latest “Love Finds You” book?

Robin: Oops! I think I jumped ahead in my last answer and covered most of this answer.

I will add that my favorite part of the trip to the North Shore was that my husband came with me and he had a video camera going so we could capture some of the majesty of the big waves and the pristine beaches. I even drew a big heart in the sand at Sunset Beach and looked up at the camera and said something like, “Will love find you at Sunset Beach?”

It was a fun day and we thought we had a lot of great footage. But when we got home and played it back the wild Kona winds dominated every scene. None of the audio came through and in the end we decided none of the video was usable.

I do have some photos that came out and we were able to use those at the back of the book. I’ll add some of them here as well.

Would I visit there in the future? Absolutely. Anytime.

Amber: Oh, that's a bummer about the video! But it sounds like a wonderful time all the same. =) And the pictures are great!

Have you learned anything about love and humility while working on your latest “Love Finds You” book that you could share with us?

Robin: Love and humility do tend to go hand in hand, don’t they? I felt both of these while working on this book.

I’ll tell you about the love first. My husband and I spent our honeymoon on Oahu 34 years ago and that was the first time we visited the North Shore together. Returning to Sunset Beach with him to gather insights for this book made me realize how quickly the years have gone and what a gift it is to be able to journey through life with a man who loves God and loves me. We walked hand in hand on Sunset Beach and remembered all the tender ways that the Lord has provided for us and protected us all these years.

The humility part came for me in the rewrites on this book. I tried something new in that I wrote one chapter from Sierra’s point of view and the next chapter from Jordan’s point of view. It was fun at first but then it became more complicated as the story and the characters became more entwined. I had to learn as I was writing what worked and what didn’t work.

Being challenged as a writer is always a good thing. I’ve been doing this for over 25 years and I want to learn and grow as a storyteller. But I’ll tell you, rewriting many times over is a humbling thing no matter how many books you’ve had published.

Amber: Love your response!

What would a Christmas party in the town and era of your latest “Love Finds You” book look like? (Any details about food, decorations, traditions, etc., would be wonderful!)

Robin: In Hawaii we say, “Mele Kalikimaka!” and we celebrate the way most families and friends do. We set up Christmas trees, we gather at parties for lots of food and we worship together at church on Christmas Eve. Local tradition says that Santa arrives in an outrigger canoe wearing an Aloha shirt and bringing gifts wrapped in banana leaves.

Last year my husband and I sat outside eating papaya and cinnamon rolls for breakfast at seven o’clock on Christmas morning. One of our neighbors came around the corner with their two toddlers in a red wagon. The dad was wearing a Santa hat, T-shirt, shorts and flip flops. The kids were in their bathing suits and the mom was in a sleeveless shift with a big beach bag over her shoulder. They were singing Christmas carols and were heading down to the blue Pacific for Christmas breakfast on the beach. Now, that’s a little different than the way most people in the U.S. and Canada spend their Christmas morning.

At Sunset Beach the surfers head for the water on Christmas morning because winter is when the big waves roll in. A big Christmas feast would include fresh fish, kalua pork, rice, poi, lomi lomi, teriyaki chicken, chow fun noodles, haupia and of course, sweet potato pie.

One of my favorite parts of Christmas in Hawaii is all the white twinkle lights strung in the palm trees and the candle light service at the 160 year old church where the carols are sung in Hawaiian. It’s a sweet reminder that Jesus is the light of the world and His light reaches all the way to these remote islands tethered here in the middle of the deep blue sea.

Amber: Sounds simply lovely! Thank you so much for sharing with us today!

One final note from Robin: I’d love to connect with you! On Facebook my page is Robin Jones Gunn. On Twitter it’s simply RobinGunn. You are warmly welcome to visit my Online Shop at shop.robingunn.com where you’ll find copies of all 75 of my books, including “Love Finds You in Sunset Beach, Hawaii”. If you place a first-time order in the Shop, enter the code WELCOME at check out and you’ll receive a 20% discount on your entire order! Gotta’ love those coupons!

Giveaway!!!

Here are the rules for today's giveaway of a gift package - Kona coffee and a signed copy of Love Finds You in Sunset Beach, Hawaii! Please read carefully.

• Leave a comment for Robin along with your e-mail address.

• You must have a U.S. mailing address in order to be eligible for this drawing.

• All winners this week will be announced on Sunday, December 11, 2011. (Please note the new announcement date! Winners will be announced Sunday afternoon or evening instead of Saturday morning.)
  

Love Finds You in the Simple Pleasures

Miralee is no stranger to Seasons of Humility - she was also a guest at the first "Love Finds You" blog party last year in 2010! Back then you readers got to ask Miralee your questions. (You can read that post HERE.) Today, I have a few questions of my own that Miralee has kindly answered! And keep reading to learn more about the giveaway, as well!

Amber: What do you love most about writing for the “Love Finds You” series as compared to other books you’ve written?

Miralee: Because the LFY books are set in real locations, it’s important the reader is able to visualize the setting, so I’d have to say, researching and depicting the setting. I love traveling to the places I write about (when possible) and helping the reader not only see the area in their mind, but get a glimpse into the past, as all mine are historical.

Amber: Have you visited the setting of your latest “Love Finds You” book? If not, what most intrigues you about the place – and would you want to visit there in the future?

Miralee: I’ve gotten to visit three of the four locations for my books, but didn’t have a chance to with Sundance, WY. The book was contracted at the last minute, after they had an unexpected opening, and I had three weeks to finalize and turn in the contract, so no time to visit Sundance. I did do a lot of research about the area and the history, and would love to visit there someday—especially since anything Western fascinates me, and that was the hangout for Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid!

Amber: I completely understand - anything Western fascinates me, too! Sundance sounds like an intriguing setting!

Have you learned anything about love and humility while working on your latest “Love Finds You” book that you could share with us?

Miralee: That’s actually a theme I try to weave into many of my books. My hero, Travis, had to learn a lesson about humility when he hired a ‘man’ as a varmint tracker/hunter and found out she was a woman. He made a snap judgment, as he was convinced a woman could never do a man’s job. Writing themes like this causes the author to often have to check their own heart, and I do find myself considering whether I judge people unfairly at times, and thinking about the acceptance and love we all have in Christ.

Amber: What would a Christmas party in the town and era of your latest “Love Finds You” book look like? (Any details about food, decorations, traditions, etc., would be wonderful!)

Miralee: It would be simple, as the people are all hard-working ranchers, store owners, etc., in an area and era where life was hard and ‘extras’ were few, but the emphasis would’ve been on family. There would have been a church service on Christmas eve at the church, with lots of singing, a peppermint stick for the children, and enough hugs and love to fill everyone’s heart. On Christmas morning simple, handmade gifts would appear under the tree (decorated with handmade items), and a meal would be shared, often with neighbors if they didn’t live too far away. Venison or possibly wild turkey or a slab of beef would be roasted, pies and cookies baked, along with vegetables that had been canned in the fall. Houses probably weren’t decorated, but family and faith were celebrated, with the focus on Jesus’ birth.

Amber: Sign me up - sounds like a sweet Christmas celebration! Thank you for helping us celebrate the holiday season and the LFY series today!

Giveaway!!!

Here are the rules for today's giveaway of a signed copy of Love Finds You in Sundance, Wyoming! Please read carefully.

• Leave a comment for Miralee along with your e-mail address.

• You must have a U.S. mailing address in order to be eligible for this drawing.

• All winners this week will be announced on Sunday, December 11, 2011.

(Sundance pictures from the The City of Sundance, Wyoming website. Learn more about Miralee at her website!)

Love Finds You With a Spark of Independence

Roseanna White's Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland is lovely inside and out! The book explores the ramifications and meaning of independence, set not long after the American Revolution and U.S. independence from Britain. And, as part of the LFY series, you can bet on some sweet romance to go along with that spark of independence. ;) You can read my review of the book HERE.

Read on to learn more about the author and her book - followed by details on how you can get your hands on a copy!

Amber: What do you love most about writing for the “Love Finds You” series as compared to other books you’ve written?

Roseanna: While setting is always important to me, it takes on new importance in the LFY books. I’m a historical writer, so I have a lot of fun finding what sets a place apart, especially during the time period it’s most known for, and bringing that to life. And I love that within the confines of the Love Finds You vision we have a lot of freedom in determining how and why a story revolves around a place.

Amber: Have you visited the setting of your latest “Love Finds You” book? If so, what was your favorite part of the trip?

Roseanna: I actually went to college in Annapolis, at St. John’s College, which was only a year away from being commissioned at the point of my story and was at the time King William’s School, where my hero and heroine’s brother attended, and where the heroine’s host is a teacher. =)

But though I lived in Annapolis for nearly 6 years, I never played tourist—instead I growled at the tourists who did crazy things like stop without warning in the middle of the sidewalk to take a picture. So naturally, when writing this book a friend and I had a blast playing tourist one Saturday and doing crazy things like stop in the middle of the sidewalk to take pictures. =) It was so much fun to see the town we knew so well through new eyes. And the most fun of all was when we started at the State House and plotted then followed the path Lark (my heroine) would have taken when she’s running away from Emerson (hero) at one particularly exciting part of the story.

Amber: I love that part!! Sounds like you had a blast. =)

Have you learned anything about love and humility while working on your latest “Love Finds You” book that you could share with us?

Roseanna: Oh my, this entire book was a big lesson in the Lord’s love for me and my own need for humility. I wrote it in a rush, praying every single time I sat down at my laptop that the Lord would somehow deliver the words I needed. When I finished and sent it to my editor for consideration, I had no idea if it was good enough. I’m usually pretty confident about my work, but with Annapolis I felt completely at a loss. Would this be the book the Lord used to open a door to a big publisher (my two previous novels are small press), or would it be one He used to show me something completely different?

Even after I got The Call, I still looked at this book and said, “Really, Lord? Seriously?? It’s happening???” LOL Every step of this path with Summerside has been a blessing, one that has shown me in funny, amazing ways that the Lord had this in mind all along, all those years I sat hoping and praying over other manuscripts. Do I understand why now, why this book? No—but I trust that it’s all part of His purpose, and amazed at His love for me—and how this manifestation of it didn’t come until I surrendered every last dream and ambition to Him.

Amber: Your trust and humility are inspiring - I think especially to those of us who are still waiting on God's plan and timing regarding our writing. =)

What would a Christmas party in the town and era of your latest “Love Finds You” book look like? (Any details about food, decorations, traditions, etc., would be wonderful!)

Roseanna: Oh, this is an especially fun question because I actually have Christmas in the story! =) Though New England at the time had strict rules about not celebrating Christmas, my characters would have belonged to the Church of England and would have enjoyed traditional English celebrations, all with a New World flavor.

One tradition of the day that most of us have only passing knowledge of is wassailing. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, the poor made up large batches of a milky drink called wassail (which isn’t known for being very tasty, LOL), which they would take around to the rich folk. The wealthy were pretty much obligated to buy this beverage, and did so with the idea that this was equivalent to alms without offending the pride of the less fortunate.

Also during this late Colonial/early Federal era, people often published in the newspaper when they were having parties, and total strangers would show up and expect a meal. Craziness! That came to an end right around the time of my story, LOL.

Decorations would consist of greenery and mistletoe, and the meals were a feast of local delicacies. In Annapolis, they would have enjoyed Maryland ham, a variety of seafood, treats that often featured sugar and fruit imported from the Caribbean . . .

Gifts would have been exchanged, and children especially would be unsurprised by what they received then. Toys, hair ribbons, books, new clothes . . . in Annapolis, my heroine Lark is away from home on Christmas and so very touched when a new friend gives her a leatherbound diary.

Amber: That was a great scene! Thank you for sharing all those tantalizing details, and thank you so much for being with us here today!

Giveaway!!!

Here are the rules for today's giveaway of a copy of Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland! Please read carefully.

• Leave a comment for Roseanna along with your e-mail address.

• You must have a U.S. mailing address in order to be eligible for this drawing.

• All winners this week will be announced on Sunday, December 11, 2011.
  

But wait - there's more!

Anyone who leaves a comment will also be entered into the Great ANNAPOLIS Giveaway, as well! (Check out the link to see what the prize is - it's fabulous!!) So what are you waiting for? Join in the fun! =)

(St. John's College photo from the school's website. Learn more about Roseanna at her website!)

The "Love Finds You" Blog Party is Here!!!

Welcome, one and all, to the 2nd annual "Love Finds You" blog party!! Today we're gathering around the virtual Christmas tree to start the festivities off right with the traditional pickle ornament hunt! But before we do, grab a mug of hot cocoa while I attend to a few formalities. =)

The "Love Finds You" Series

Let's begin with a quick re-cap (or introduction) to the "Love Finds You" series (published by Summerside Press). I'm going to share my explanation from last year's party:

Now, I realize that some of you may not be as familiar with this series as I am. The "Love Finds You" series is a collection of Christian romance stories set in various places (mainly in the United States) with unique town names and history. The stories range from historical to contemporary and are just as diverse as the towns themselves. The "Love Finds You" series is fun and inspirational, reminding readers that "Love Finds You" wherever God plans it to!

So here we are once again to celebrate this wonderful series and share some Christmas cheer! (If you'd like to read the great interviews from last year, click HERE and scroll down until you get to the 2010 posts.)

The Party Plan

If you haven't yet seen the party page, click HERE or click the button in the sidebar. There you'll find the party schedule and a list of this week's giveaways. As each post goes up, I'll include the links to them on that page, so if you ever feel lost with what's going on during the party, just head over there! Or feel free to leave a comment or e-mail me with any of your questions. =)

The Main Prize Package

As you'll see on the party page, there are going to be some great giveaways this week - starting with today's prize package!

You have the chance to win a $15 Amazon.com gift card and 2 copies (one for you and one for a friend) of Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland!

Here are the rules for this particular drawing (please read them carefully!) -

• You must leave a comment on this post saying which country you are from. If you are from the U.S. or Canada, you are eligible for all parts of this package. If you are from any other country, you are only eligible for the Amazon.com gift card (so if you win, another person will be chosen for the books). Hope that makes sense!

• You can gain 2 extra entries by taking the party button and putting it on your blog to help me spread the word. If you've already done so, no need to tell me again as I'll check back on the comments from the original post. However, you still must leave a comment here to be entered in the drawing!!

• You can gain extra extra entries by participating in today's activity, so read on!
  

The Great Pickle Hunt

If you're a long-time reader of this blog, hunting for pickle ornaments is nothing new for you! But for all our new visitors, here's an advertisement from The German Way that will tell you a little bit about the pickle-hunting tradition (click on the image to enlarge):

Basically a green pickle ornament is hidden among the branches of the Christmas tree, and the first to find it receives a gift. (My sister and I enjoy this tradition at Christmastime!) Today 5 pickle ornament images have been hidden in various places on this blog. Each pickle is worth 3 extra entries in today's drawing.

Here are the official rules:

• When you find a pickle image, just leave a comment saying where you found it (you can either describe the post/page or include the URL).

• You aren't limited to finding just one pickle image, so you can claim all 15 extra entries if you find all five pickles. However, if you want to be nice and not hog all the pickle claims, then I'm sure others will thank you. ;)

• I might be a little slow in checking in, but just know that once all five pickles are found, the game is over. (I'll eventually add the names of those who find the pickles to this post once the pickles have all been found.) If people are having a hard time finding the pickles, I might offer a hint or two later on.
  

• Also, please note: the pickle images from the rules post for last December's game and last July's game do NOT count. You will find them (as well as today's post) HERE, which is a link to the posts with the label "Pickle Ornament Tradition." Any other pickle images count, though! ;)

Finally, below is what the pickle image you're hunting for looks like. (But this is NOT one of the five I've hidden; this picture is just an example!)

*All 5 pickles have been found by Melanie, Bluerose, Casey, and Christy! Thank you to everyone who participated!*

In Conclusion...

I know this is a lot to take in! Please let me know if you have any questions, and remember that a lot of the information you need to know for this week is available on the party page. Have fun, and don't forget to come back tomorrow to meet Roseanna White and learn more about Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland!

Love Will Find You

At least in the pages of the "Love Finds You" book series!

This is a friendly reminder that Sunday (December 4th) marks the beginning of the "Love Finds You" blog party taking place right here at this very blog! There will be some really fun interviews and giveaways to get you in the Christmas spirit, so I do hope to see you there. And don't forget (if you haven't already!) to check out the party page to see the schedule and learn how to gain extra entries in the main prize package drawing!

While we're on this "Love Finds You" theme, there are new covers up on the Goodreads site for a couple of February 2012 LFY releases. Care to see them? They're quite lovely!


I'm eager to see what else is in store for this series in 2012! And I'm also quite eager to show you what's in store for next week! Soon, very soon... ;)

Coming Soon: 2nd Annual LFY Blog Party!

October is swiftly racing by, and soon November will be upon us. After that it will be December - time for Christmas preparations and, of course, the "Love Finds You" Blog Party! I'm very excited to be hosting this event again, as we had such a blast last year!

Did you miss last year's festivities? Or perhaps you'd like a chance to reminisce? Click HERE to read the party posts from December 2010 (be sure to scroll down)!

As of right now I have five wonderful guests lined up for this event, and there will be fun and prizes galore! Want to find out who two of the guests are? Take a look at the blog button I created for the party:

The background is a bit obscure, but if you look at the Summerside Press website I think you should be able to figure out who's book it is...and she's going to be one of our guests!

Now click on this blog button in the sidebar (not the one in the post). One of our guests' lovely covers is gracing the party page! (Note that the party page will be updated with more specific information in the coming weeks.)

Want to help spread the word? Just grab the button in the sidebar (using the code below the button) and share it on your own blog! If you leave a comment here letting me know that you've done this, you can have 2 extra entries in the main prize package drawing to be announced on December 4th!

Hope to see you there!

"Love Finds You" Blog Party Finale!

Thank you all so very much for making this "Love Finds You" Blog Party such a blast!!! I had so much fun reading your comments, learning about your favorite Westerns and Hershey products, and gathering your yummy holiday recipes!

It was a privilege having you all as guests for the party, and I am so grateful to those of you who spread the word! Before I get to the winners (and some final party entertainment!), I'd like to thank the following people:

• Renee Ann from Doorkeeper for making the lovely blog button for the party!

• Casey from Writing for Christ for contributing the book and bracelet to the grand prize package!

• Authors Anita Higman, Cerella Sechrist, Elizabeth Ludwig, and Miralee Ferrell for all of their help in making this party so exciting! Thank you for contributing your time and copies of your books--you are much appreciated! This party was to celebrate you and all of the other authors who write books for the "Love Finds You" series!

Now, I'm sure you all are eager to find out who the winners are!

Well, I'm going to be a little mean and keep you in suspense a while longer. ;) All of the winners have been sent e-mails, and I will post their names here below the images of their prizes as soon as I hear back from them. So keep checking in to discover who the winners are!

The grand prize winner is: Charlotte!

The door prize winner is: Keli!

The winners of Love Finds You Under the Mistletoe are: Maureen and Ellie!

The winner of Love Finds You in Hershey, Pennsylvania is: Casey!!!

The winner of Love Finds You in Calico, California is: Barb!

The winner of Love Finds You in Last Chance, California and Love Finds You in Tombstone, Arizona is: Andrea!

And we have to have some final party fun to end with a bang, right? So help yourself to a slice of the cake pictured above (which is actually a picture of a cake my roommate and I made on Mother's Day this past year--but don't the chocolate hearts fit so well for a "Love Finds You" party?), and let's chat! (After all, parties are great places for socializing!)

To get the conversation started, let me reassure you that just because this party is over, it doesn't mean the good times will end here at "Seasons of Humility!" In fact, I've got several posts I'm quite eager to write, and I've had to wait until after the party to do so. Among those posts are a "Book Blog Swap" with Joy from Edgy Inspirational Romance, a couple of book reviews, a moving "Monday for the Military" interview with videos, and a post about reading challenges for 2011! So stay tuned!

And has anyone gone to see the new Chronicles of Narnia movie, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader? I'm hoping to see this over Christmas break with a dear friend and my younger sister. Can't wait! Click HERE to watch the trailer and let me know what you think!

You know what else I can't wait for? The new PBS Masterpiece Classic season!!! The schedule has been announced for winter/spring 2011, which you can find HERE along with a trailer of the first, new featured miniseries!

Well, I hope I didn't overwhelm you with all of my eagerness! Enjoy the cake and feel free to dance and chat to your hearts' content. ;) Thank you again for coming to the "Love Finds You" Blog Party!

Love Finds You in Unlikely Places!

You wouldn't think of towns named "Last Chance" and "Tombstone" as settings where love would normally find you, but today's guest Miralee Ferrell has written love stories set in those very places!

Miralee is the author of three "Love Finds You" books, including Love Finds You in Last Chance, California; Love Finds You in Bridal Veil, Oregon; and the February 2011 release Love Finds You in Tombstone, Arizona.

Today you will have the opportunity to win Love Finds You in Last Chance, California AND Love Finds You in Tombstone, Arizona! These two books are, in fact, interconnected, with the one set in Tombstone continuing the story of one of the character's from the book set in Last Chance. Here's a little more information about the two books:

Love Finds You in Last Chance, California

From Summerside Press: "It's 1877 and Alexia travers is alone in the world. Her father has died unexpectedly, leaving her burdened with a heavily mortgaged horse ranch. Marrying one of the town’s all-too-willing bachelors would offer an easy solution, but Alex has no interest in marriage. Instead, she dons men’s trousers and rides the range, determined to make the ranch a success on her own. But despite Alex’s best efforts, everything seems to go wrong: ranch hands quit, horses are stolen, and her father’s gold goes missing. Alex is at her wit’s end when wrangler Justin Phillips arrives in Last Chance with his young son, looking for a job. But there seems to be more to Justin’s story than he’s willing to share. Will Alex ever be able to trust him? More importantly, will the independent woman finally learn to depend on God?"

Love Finds You in Tombstone, Arizona (February 2011)

From Christianbook.com: "Christy Grey thought she had buried her past when she left Tombstone. Now she's back to find her mother ill and her brother drowning in gambling debt. Must she return to her saloon job? Outlaw Nevada Keene is afraid Christy recognizes him from a stagecoach robbery. He wants to go straight. Will Christy turn him in?"

I just love the new cover! (Ya'll know I'm fond of stagecoaches, and the colors are beautiful!)

Today's interview is going to be a little bit different than the previous interviews we've had this week...and that's because you get to ask the questions! That's right--Miralee has offered to stop by and answer your questions about writing, research, and anything else you might want to know about her and these "Love Finds You" books!

So here's how you can win this two book set (as long as there are 25 comments!):

• First entry: You must leave a comment (with your valid e-mail address) with a question for Miralee. Any question counts! (However, note that there is a difference between the clever/quirky and the ridiculous--so be discerning, please!)

• One extra entry: Become a follower of Miralee's blog, or let me know if you are already a follower.

• One extra entry: Become a follower of this blog, or let me know if you are already a follower.

(Also, note that this giveaway is for U.S. residents only, and the winner will not receive Love Finds You in Tombstone, Arizona until it's release in 2011. But Miralee has offered to send the winner Love Finds You in Last Chance, California before then, if the winner so desires.)

And while we're talking about love finding you in unlikely places, I think it's safe to say that a huge tower in the deepest part of the woods is a pretty unlikely place, right? ;) Yes, I am talking about the new Disney animated movie Tangled (click HERE to read my review). And what's a party without a few laughs? So go check out this preview and this preview for a giggle and/or chuckle, and then come right back here to have a good chat with Miralee!

Ready those questions and fire away! And don't forget to enter all this week's giveaways before tonight, because I'm going to be drawing winners after 9:00 p.m. PST and announcing them in tomorrow's post!

Love Finds You in the Wild West!

Today's guest is Elizabeth Ludwig, author of Love Finds You in Calico, California! I just love the history of the Wild West, and California is my home state, so needless to say I'm excited to be talking about both today!

Enjoy this interview with Elizabeth, and read on to see how ya can wrangle yerself a copy of her book! ;)


Amber: What, in your opinion, is the best part about writing a book for the “Love Finds You” series?

Elizabeth: For me, researching the site for Love Finds You in Calico, California was the best part. I love that these stories are set in real places—where real people lived and walked. I think it adds a touch of whimsy to the stories, makes people feel more in touch with the characters.

Amber: I agree with what you said about the series--I love that they are set in real places! Could you share a couple of fun facts you learned while doing research about the place where your “Love Finds You” book is set?

Elizabeth: I discovered Calico, California quite by accident, while on vacation with my family. While there, I got to tour the Maggie Mine—the setting for the final, climatic scene of my book. The emotions I felt—the feeling of suffocating darkness and the weight of the mountain overhead—are translated to my heroine, Abigail Watts.

Visitors are still allowed to tour the Maggie Mine, so be sure to stop by if you’re ever in California!

Amber: If you were planning a party in the town where your book is set, what would it be like? Please describe some of the details of the party planning, such as the guest list, catering, decorations, etc.

Elizabeth: It would definitely by a costume party! I’d require all of my guests to dress in period clothing and speak the Wild West lingo. It might even be fun to make it a Murder Mystery party, where all of the guests are suspects and their job is to figure out who the murderer is by the time dinner is over. LOL!

No getting lost in the mine, however…that would be too much for my poor nerves.

Amber: Love it! Murder Mystery Parties are so much fun, and combined with the Wild West--awesome! Do you have any thoughts on love and humility in general that you would like to share with us?

Elizabeth: Sure!

I had surgery recently. It was very unexpected and SO scary! Fortunately, my dear husband took very good care of me. Every night, he walked me to our room and gently helped me to bed. Because I couldn’t lie back on my own, he’d slip his arms around me and slowly lower me down. So sweet! Then, when I was ready to get up, he’d come and lift me to the floor.

Now, this is just one way he took care of me. I would fill up an entire page if told you about the meals he cooked, the dishes he washed, and everything else he did. Still, his care for me while I was sick showed me much more than his words ever could how much he loves me. As for me? Well, I fell in love with him all over again!

I think that’s why I write Christian fiction—because I want to translate to readers that this is the kind of love that lasts a lifetime…not the superficial physical attraction so many other books talk about. Most of all, this selfless love is the very thing that our Savior demonstrates toward us. What better kind of love could there be?

Amber: Oh, that is so sweet and beautiful! Thank you so much for sharing about your real life love story and how humility plays such an important role. I'm so glad you could join us for the "Love Finds You" blog party!


Readers, as some of you may recall this past summer I returned to a mining town called Virginia City, Nevada, for another visit. (I've been there several time now and love it!) Let's make this a real Wild West party today, and join me through these pictures from my trip on a stagecoach ride!

Take a seat and hold on to your Stetson hat--it's going to be a bumpy ride!

And we're off! Just look at those sagebrush-covered hills and that silver-blue sky: bliss!

(Just a note before you watch the video: It might get a little loud, so I recommend turning the volume down unless you really want the full effect! ;) And in case you're curious, that's my mom up there with the stagecoach driver!)

Was that fun or what?! If you would like to learn more about these stagecoach rides and TNT Stagelines, click HERE.

And now that we've settled back down again (although probably still a bit jostled on the inside!), here's your chance to win Love Finds You in Calico, California! (Note that this giveaway is for U.S. residents only.)

Just leave a comment for Elizabeth with your valid e-mail address for your first entry. And if you would like 2 extra entries, tell us what your favorite Western show is. My favorite is Bonanza, which is set in Virginia City, Nevada!

Thank you again to Elizabeth for her generosity in giving away a copy of her book and for taking the time to join us!

Yee-haw!

Love Finds You Immersed in Chocolate!

You guessed it! Today's guest is Cerella Sechrist, author of Love Finds You in Hershey, Pennsylvania! I have had the privilege of hosting Cerella here several times, and she is such a joy. I am thrilled to have her back again!

Cerella graciously agreed to answer my questions and offer an autographed, personalized copy of her book, so read on for some more party fun!


Amber: What, in your opinion, is the best part about writing a book for the “Love Finds You” series?

Cerella: I absolutely adore that the "Love Finds You" books are themed around small towns or uniquely named ones. It’s such a great grounding theme to build a variety of stories from! Plus, since this was my debut novel, I was more than thrilled to be joining such an established series with other authors I’ve admired for so many years. I was definitely blessed with that, and I’m always so proud to tell people about Summerside and "Love Finds You!"

Amber: Could you share a couple of fun facts you learned while doing research about the place where your “Love Finds You” book is set?

Cerella: I grew up less than an hour from my book’s setting of Hershey, and I’d been there several times throughout my life. But it was fun to start exploring it from a character’s perspective, especially one like Sadie.

An interesting bit of trivia –
Milton Hershey’s life has an interesting history with his journey from a candy apprentice to chocolate magnate. One fun fact I picked up was that Hershey and his wife, Catherine, were slated to sail on the fated RMS Titanic’s maiden voyage on their return from a trip to Europe in 1912. Fortunately for them, his wife fell ill, and they were forced to cancel the trip and remain in Europe a little while longer for her to recuperate. Unfortunately, his wife eventually succumbed to the illnesses that plagued her, and she died while she was still relatively young. He never remarried, which is rather romantic.

Amber: How interesting and romantic/tragic! Thank you for sharing!

If you were planning a party in the town where your book is set, what would it be like? Please describe some of the details of the party planning, such as the guest list, catering, decorations, etc.

Cerella: Well, since this is my fantasy party, I think we’d have to break it down into TWO parties.

The first one would be held at the Hershey Theatre, which is extremely elegant and stunning in its replication of European architecture (Dmitri and Sadie attend a movie there in the book.) The theatre is also a venue for weddings, and it’s unbelievably beautiful. So we could have a fancy party there first with an entirely chocolate-themed menu (because we ARE in Hershey, after all.) I’d fly in the Top Chef: Just Desserts competitors to create the food, and I’d demand that everything from appetizers to entrees be themed with chocolate.

And since this first party would be fancier, why not take it over the top and dress up? I’d suggest themed “costumes” in the style of the Titanic-era since, after all, Hershey and his wife very nearly sailed with that ship. The Hershey Theatre atmosphere fits right in with that setting so it’s perfect!

After we finished our Titanic-chocolate party, we’d move on to the Hershey Story Museum and crowd into Café Zooka so we could sample the Origins of Chocolate tasting (which is a set of six chocolate beverages from different countries – it’s like wine tasting with chocolate!) And then we’d commence with a “make your own dessert” party, decorating cupcakes and ice cream sundaes with some of the Hershey company’s best known candies: Hershey’s Kisses, Reese’s Pieces, Jolly Ranchers, Good ‘n Plenty, York Peppermint Patties, Twizzlers, Kit Kat, Almond Joy and Mounds.

And Amber, because I know how much you love a good chocolate-covered strawberry, I figure we’ll throw some of those in, too, for everyone to decorate and eat. =D

Amber: Cerella, could you please, please, please have this party? That sounds absolutely delightful!!! You described it so well, too--it was easy to picture it all! Definitely the mark of a writer. =)

BTW, thank you for thinking of me with the chocolate-covered strawberries! ;)

Do you have any thoughts on love and humility in general that you would like to share with us?

Cerella: I love when the two go hand-in-hand! I think that’s part of the world’s continued love for Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice – that Darcy learned humility, all out of a growing love for Elizabeth. After all, Thomas Moore said it best when he remarked, “Humility, that low, sweet root, from which all heavenly virtues shoot.”

Thanks for allowing me to celebrate on "Seasons of Humility," and here’s hoping Love Finds You all year round! =)

Amber: Thank you so much for joining us today, Cerella! It's always a treat to host you, and your responses are fabulous!


Readers, what is a party without dancing? Picture us at that gorgeous Titanic-chocolate-themed party Cerella planned, dressed in all our gorgeous costumes and dancing the night away!

Here's my dad, me, and my sister at the Jazz Festival in our home county last spring:

So much fun! Dancing has been such a gift in my life--from dancing with my daddy, to dancing at Prom, to just having a dance party by myself in my room! Love it!

Want to join me? Click HERE to listen to a great dancing song all about love finding you (and how you know if it has!). Feel free to dance along!

If you want a quick break from all the excitement, leave a comment below with your valid e-mail address for a chance to win an autographed, personalized copy of Love Finds You in Hershey, Pennsylvania! (This drawing is for U.S. residents only.)

And while we're at it, let us know your favorite Hershey product (your candy of choice to put on top of those cupcakes and sundaes Cerella was talking about), and you can get 2 extra entries in today's drawing!

Let's dance!

Love Finds You at Christmastime!

Today our guest is Anita Higman, co-author (with Irene Brand) of Love Finds You Under the Mistletoe! Anita has been busy working on a deadline (and we as readers certainly don't want to interrupt the authors writing these great books!), but she kindly agreed to share this interview she and Irene put together, answering questions about their book.

Love Finds You Under the Mistletoe is two stories in one, with one novella written by Anita Higman and the other written by Irene Brand. The novellas are connected to each other, as well!

Enjoy the interview! (And remember to keep reading for information about today's giveaways!)


Was it difficult to connect your two stories?

Anita: Not at all. We had a brainstorming session by phone and by email and figured it out. Irene’s historical novella, An Appalachian Christmas, is tied to my contemporary novella, Once Upon a Christmas Eve. They are connected through the passing of a mistletoe ball through the generations. It was a delight to work with Irene. She’s very easy to get along with. In fact, we’ve become long-distant friends.

Irene: It wasn’t difficult. Actually, this may have been the easier part of the writing project. After we’d each read the other’s manuscript, I provided Anita with the information necessary for continuity, and she did the same for me. It was easy to insert the other story line into my novella

Do you think you’d consider working on another project together?

Anita: Yes, in fact we’ve been chatting about working on another project together.

Irene: It would appeal to me. Although our writing styles aren’t the same, still the differences seem to improve the book.

How did you come up with the idea for your story?

Anita: My novels are more character driven, and so my characters tend to move the story along. The idea for Once Upon a Christmas Eve may have started with my interest in the fairy archetype. I loved the movies Cold Comfort Farm and Chocolat for that very reason. There was something enchanting about those two heroines as they whirled around, fixing people’s lives. I gave my main character, Holly Goodnight, some similar fanciful qualities.

Irene: My husband and I spent a few days in Owsley County, Kentucky, where my novella is located. After we met the local people, visited the site where the action would be, and learned about the local history, the story was easy to develop.

What did you want the reader to take away from your story?

Anita: That no matter how impossible circumstances look, God can work all things for good.

Irene: That even when a romance seems hopeless, true love can overcome any barrier.

What are your five favorite things about Christmas?

Anita: The birth of Christ, of course. But then I love the music, the scents, the special foods, and family time together.

Irene: Local church activities, music, baking and visiting shut-ins with goodies, Christmas dinner with extended family, holiday movies on TV.

Where can readers find you online?

Anita: I would love for folks to drop by my website at www.anitahigman.com.

Irene: www.irenebrand.com

Anita: Thank you for inviting us to your blog! Irene and I hope your Christmas is filled with the love of Christ and all things bright and beautiful!


Amber: Thank you, Anita, for joining us for the "Love Finds You" Blog Party!

Readers, Anita has generously offered to give away 2 copies of Love Finds You Under the Mistletoe to two lucky winners! Isn't that cover lovely? And this is such a timely giveaway! To enter, leave a comment for Anita with your e-mail address. (This giveaway is for U.S. residents only.)

Remember that all winners will be announced on Friday, December 10.

Now, would you like a way to get extra entries and have some fun? I hope so!

This time of year is full of food...fudge, cookies, pie, candy, etc. And there are plenty of dessert auctions and social events where such food can be shared among friends. So, as a group of friends gathered here--is anybody up for another recipe exchange? (Since we can't actually share the desserts with each other, recipes will have to do!)

The picture above is of me and my grandparents (my grandma is right beside me in the picture) last year at my sister's school's Christmas play, where they also had a dessert auction. I got to come home early from college for Christmas break, and only my parents knew about it, so I got to surprise the rest of my family, including my grandparents! While they were looking at the desserts, I walked right up behind them and gave them a hug. It was so special! (With lots of happy tears!)

But anyway, just picture all of us around a table like this, ooh-ing and ahh-ing over the wonderful Christmas desserts everyone has brought to share! Help us picture these desserts (and help us make them on our own!) by sharing your recipe, and you'll get 3 extra entries in today's drawing for Love Finds You Under the Mistletoe!

Dig in!