Cover Reveal! A Windswept Promise

I'm so thrilled this week to reveal the cover of my new novel, A Windswept Promise. This is the second book in my Brides of Assurance series, set to release on November 4, 2014. It's available now for preorder on Amazon.

From the cover:

Pampered town belle Sophie Charlton has always secretly enjoyed the attention of cowboy Dusty Sterling, a hired worker on her family’s farm, even though she’d never tell him so. But can she go against the will of her family, who insist that she make a good match in Assurance’s most eligible bachelor?

Let's Celebrate Diversity in Fiction!

Image courtesy of Ambro / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

In honor of February being Black History Month, I wanted to take a few moments to celebrate diversity in fiction. Not only for African Americans, but for all people of multicultural heritage.

It wasn't too long ago that if you wanted to find a book that featured characters of multiethnic descent, you would have to go to a special section of the bookstore. That always left me with mixed feelings. While I was happy that books were being written that featured diverse characters, I was also concerned as to why they were tucked away in their own little corner. Why couldn't they be displayed along with the other romance, mainstream, and literary fiction? Was this a deliberate separation, or simply a way of showcasing all of the multicultural stories at once? It's certainly debatable, and I'll leave you to come up with your own conclusions.

Nowadays, the book industry is coming around to reflecting what most of us already know about our world: that we live in a diverse, beautiful, God-created world filled with people of different races and cultures. But we're all equal, and we all have a unique story to tell.

I considered it a milestone when Charisma published my first historical romance The Preacher's Wife, featuring a heroine of Comanche descent. Not only does the model's heritage reflect beautifully and boldly on the cover, but I received many compliments from readers of different ethnicities who said they were drawn to the book because the cover was different. Because Charisma was brave enough to let this heroine's story be told. Because Charisma was brave enough to publish an African American author's book.

Which is why I am so excited to now be working on the third novel in the Brides of Assurance series, tentatively titled The Soldier's Choice. This historical romance follows the journey of Violet Emmers, an African-American daughter of a ranch owner and Adam Campbell, a Buffalo Soldier. I get even more excited when I anticipate seeing what the cover of their story will look like. If the cover of my first novel is any indication of the Charisma design team's capabilities, then I have no doubt that they will find a lovely African American model to reflect Violet's brave and faith-filled spirit.

Although there is quite a bit of way to go when it comes to seeing more ethnic characters on the covers of books, I know that we're well on our way to a new era of acceptance. I hope one day we won't need a separate section for African American fiction, or Latino fiction, etc. Will things ever be perfect? Of course not. But every new multiethnic story that enters public consumption is a start. And as Christian writers and readers, we ought to be at the very forefront of this. God made each and every one of us in His image. Let's act like it in a show of praise for Him and all the diverse people that He has created.

When you read fiction, do you gravitate towards the familiar, or stories that take you on an unexpected path?

Libraries Provide Writers With More Than Research Material

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I just recently moved to the Dallas, Texas area a couple months ago. You might ask if the first thing I did was eat tex-mex or buy a pair of cowboy boots. Nope. I went to the local library and filled out an application for a card.

After multiple moves over the past few years, I've learned that one of the best ways for an introverted writer to get plugged into a new community is to visit the nearest library branch. Besides the plethora of books to delve into for recreational and research purposes, there are interest group meetings, informational panels, and other events to get involved in.

Since coming to Dallas, I've been able to get involved in a vintage costume group, get research tips from fellow writers, talk with romance readers, learn new swing dance moves, and attend free workshops, ranging from writing techniques to medieval heraldry. Maybe not all of these things will be used for a book, but the camaraderie I've gained from attending these events has been invaluable.


What unique ways has the library inspired you or helped you in your writing/reading?

The Preacher's Wife Book Tour/Giveaway

This month has seen the launch of my first novel The Preacher's Wife. To celebrate, I'm giving away a signed copy of the book. Enter your name in the Rafflecopter drawing below for a chance to win!

Want a sneak peek at the book? Here's a sampler.


Book Excerpt:

This excerpt takes place shortly after Rowe arrives in Assurance, Kansas. Marissa sees him on her way to deposit the saloon’s earnings in the bank. The town’s gossipy seamstress Linda Walsh stops to have a word with Marissa about the new preacher.

             “That must be our new preacher.” Linda Walsh, the town’s young seamstress, walked up beside Marissa. Always eager for conversation, Linda would speak to anyone who stopped to listen, as Marissa had learned since coming back to Assurance a couple years ago. “We weren’t expecting him for another two weeks. I wonder what made him take off from home so fast.”

            Marissa groaned at the thought of meeting another preacher. Every preacher she came across had turned her away once they discovered her profession.

            She watched the small schooner pull up to the local inn. She recognized the driver Dusty Sterling seated beside the other man. Dusty hopped down and tethered the horses. The man in black stepped onto the dusty curb. His recently polished boots gleamed.

            “Fancy one, he is,” Linda continued. “I hear he comes from a city somewhere in Virginia.”

            “Where did you hear that?”

            “It was in the paper a month ago. Our advertisement for a new preacher was answered from a man back East.”

            Marissa focused again on what was in front of her. The traveler indeed looked foreign to the prairie. Not a hint of travel dust stuck to his long, black frock coat and four-in-hand necktie, probably changed into just before departing the train. His gray pants were new and expertly tailored. He removed his hat briefly to wipe his brow, and Marissa saw the dark, wavy hair cropped close to his head.

            “He doesn’t have a wife or children with him. Such a shame.” Linda clucked her tongue. “He’s a handsome fellow, for certain.”

            Marissa agreed with her on that. He must have stood over six feet tall, with broad shoulders and a powerful build. The man’s profile was strong and rigid, his square jaw and straight nose a true delight for the eyes. Assurance’s former preacher, Reverend Thomas, did not look like this. “Would having a wife and children make him a better preacher?”

            Linda tossed her a look. “That’s got nothing to do with it. One ought to be settled down at a certain age, wouldn’t you say so? Instead of running wild with the barmen?”

            Marissa absorbed the sting of emotional pain. Anything she said in response would not sway Linda or anyone else’s notion that she was just a beer-serving streetwalker. She put on a polite stoic face. “I’m sure the ladies of this town will clamor for his attention. Will you excuse me, Miss Linda? I should be going.”

            She left the seamstress just as Dusty carried the new preacher’s valises inside the inn. The preacher moved to follow then stopped short, pausing for Marissa to walk past. Marissa saw his blue eyes widen and take in her entire form, from the feathered hat on her head to the dainty-heeled boots on her feet. By his expression she didn’t know whether he admired or disapproved.

            His lips settled into a firm line of what looked to be distaste, and she got her answer.

            The preacher hadn’t been there for an hour and already she drew out his scorn. Marissa returned the stare until her image of him blurred with beckoning tears.

            He jolted from his perusal. His low, straight brows flicked. “Good day to you, ma’am.” He amiably tipped his hat to her.

            She paused, not used to being addressed in that fashion. Kindness was in his greeting, not the sarcasm she normally heard from others. Marissa tilted her head to get a clear look at him. His eyes were friendly, calm deep pools. The rest of his face, with its strong, angular lines, remained cordial.

            “Good day,” she replied, hoarse. Awkwardness seized her person. Marissa hastily

continued on her way to the bank.

  

 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

THE PREACHER'S WIFE Blog Tour and Giveaway

Tuesday, October 1 is the official release day for my debut novel The Preacher's Wife. I am very excited and couldn't be happier that the day is getting closer and closer. Less than a week away!

Earlier this month I had a very joyous and happy moment when the Fed Ex delivery man dropped this little bundle on my doorstep.

Seeing the advance copies really solidified the reality of my book being published. Not to sound cheesy or overly philosophical, but there are few comparisons to holding a physical manifestation of your hard work and perseverance in your hands. I'm so glad to be on this journey.

And I hope you'll join me! Starting next week on my blog, I'll be launching The Preacher's Wife Blog Tour and Giveaway. I'll be on other blogs guest posting and interviewing, as well. There will be a drawing where the winner will receive a signed proof copy of the book. See you next week!


October is upon us. Have you bought your pumpkin yet?

From Pineapples to Pumpkins

A last glimpse of summer at the beach
Image courtesy of foto76 / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Most people enjoy the Labor Day Weekend for its three days of relaxation. They simultaneously feel a sense of fleeting wistfulness as this is the last holiday of summer.

Goodbye hot days and pineapple freezes. Hello autumn breezes and pumpkin-flavored everything.

Even if you want it to be summer forever, fall still has things for you to look forward to, especially if you're an avid reader or writer.


1. More Books To Read

Those great summer bestsellers were a treat to read at the beach, but more releases are coming out from September to November. Just in time for snuggling up on a chilly autumn night or stocking up on Christmas presents.


2. NaNoWriMo

Every November, seasoned and aspiring writers alike participate in this event. Want to jumpstart that idea for a suspense thriller that's been kicking around in your head all summer? Want to finish last year's project? Or do you just want to know if you can finish a 50,000-word novel in 30 days (That's if you write on Thanksgiving and ignore Black Friday and Cyber Monday)? It's a challenge, but the results are rewarding and you'll be in good company.


3. Writers' Conferences

ACFW will be hosting its annual writers' conference this month, drawing industry professionals, authors, bloggers, and readers all across the country. Other writers' and book organizations will be getting in full gear for their conferences, too. If your time and resources allow for you to attend, they're an excellent way to learn about publishing, mingle with your favorite authors, and receive motivation and support for your own creative projects.


4. Tighter Schedules

This can be a good thing. You can actually plan a time to edit those final chapters or catch up with your reading without feeling guilty about passing up a warm summer afternoon.


5. Pumpkin-flavored Everything

Oh, yeah. I already said that.


Have a great Labor Day! What are you looking forward to this fall?

Genre Expectations Versus Cliches (Or, How To Keep Readers From Rolling Their Eyes)

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Ok, I'm going to start out by acknowledging that all genre writing requires adherence to some formula. Romance requires a happy ending with the couple united. Science fiction and fantasy require speculative elements while mysteries generally need a dead body ("onscreen" or off).Whether the author decides to use a little or a lot of formula depends on how much he or she wants readers to recognize themes or tropes, common literary devices, in the story.

What's the difference between genre expectations and clichés? How do you keep readers engaged if your story centers upon time-tested themes such as love, revenge, or coming-of-age? Since I write romance, I'm going to use the genre as an example. Let's look at some formulas and those dreaded clichés.

Romance Formula #1: A Happy Ending

As human beings, we all desire to be loved. Despite our knowledge that sometimes love doesn't last forever, that strife and separation between couples does occur, we hold out hope that there is someone out there who will love us continually, flaws and all. That's why romance is one of the most enduring and popular genres in the market today. A story that features a couple whose relationship doesn't survive the end of the book is not classified as a romance. It is a story with romantic elements.

Romance Cliché #1: A Dainty, Simpering Heroine

Sorry. My sarcasm starts to show whenever I get on this topic. Romances of yesteryear typically featured the standard 5'2, 98-pound dainty darling. Her sixteen-inch waist and ability to cry on cue were usually all it took to wrap the big, tough hero around her pretty little finger. Today, as you can guess, most readers don't appreciate this type of heroine. Blame women's lib or the decreased popularity of tight-laced corsets (I say tight-laced, because anyone who's ever been to a Renaissance Faire or steampunk convention knows that corsets are very much still in vogue ;-) ).


Romance Formula #2: Conflict Between The Couple

Actually, this formula applies across the board. There is no story without conflict. With romance, in particular, readers want to see the hero and heroine battle and banter for control, even as the two fall in love. The writer can't "seal the deal" too early by having them declare their love for each other in the middle of the book.

Romance Cliché #2: Pining Pairs

Yes, yes, we know the romance hero and heroine cannot stop thinking about each other, even if they're mad enough to throw something at the other person. That doesn't mean they sit around all day writing sonnets dedicated to the color of their true love's eyes. They should have other equally pressing things to do, such as -Oh, I don't know- earn a living, save the family farm, jump off a sinking ship, dodge bullets from the outlaw's Winchester rifle, whatever your plot requires.


Romance Formula #3: Characters Need To Meet ASAP

Thanks to fast-paced action movies and the instant gratification that is online media streaming, we are conditioned to expect things bigger, faster, and in our grasp last Tuesday. If you write romance, your leading man and lady need to make each other's acquaintance within the first couple of chapters, if not paragraphs. Readers simply have too many other things pressing on their time and attention in real-life than to wait around for the author to leisurely get the plot gears turning.

Romance Cliché #3: Characters Need To Act On Their Attraction ASAP

I can't tell you how many times I've explained to well-meaning friends that not all romances are bodice rippers. While there are certain sub-genres that contain a high level of heat, not all romances push the boundaries of morals and self-control. Since I write sweet romances, my characters experience the tensions and temptations that any normal-functioning adult in love would feel, but because of my faith, I don't write explicit scenes or have the characters engaging in premarital sex.

That doesn't mean the story will appeal only to a dour ninety year-old grandmother. Sometimes the most intense romantic scenes in novels are those that engage the mind and take command of a full spectrum of emotions, not just the tactile senses, although those are very important, too. Read the classics and take notes. There's a reason why Austen and Bronte are still popular two centuries later.


All that being said, recognizing formulas necessary for good genre writing and avoiding clichés isn't very hard. Use what I like to call the eye-roll test. Read parts of your manuscript aloud. If certain scenes give you the involuntary urge to glance skyward or you get a little antsy about another reader perusing your prose, chances are there's a cliché waiting for the delete button.


What are the funniest/most annoying clichés you've come across in books?

Celebrating The Independent Writer

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If you're a writer or know someone who is, you've probably heard the clichés describing the creative personality type: quirky, moody loners, head-in-the-clouds daydreamers, take your pick. Some of those descriptions may apply at times, but more goes on behind the notebook or computer screen of that lone figure you see at Starbucks. In light of the upcoming 4th of July, let's take time to celebrate the independent spirit of the writer.

For those drawn to the pen, independence can represent:

I- Individual

Writing is similar to track and field. You have to run your own race. No matter how much help or feedback you receive, no one can write your story for you.

N- Necessity

Whether they write for others to read their work or keep it to themselves, writers have a deep and profound personal need to express themselves through this medium.

D- Dedication

Books aren't written in a day. That finished manuscript represents months, if not years, of plotting, researching, drafting, and critiquing. Not to mention sweat, tears, and countless pots of strong coffee.

E- Effort

It's easy to find alternative things to do besides writing. However, very often on sunny weekends, free afternoons, or quiet nights, writers make the decision to park themselves in a chair in front of the laptop. Could they be doing other things? Always, but the desire to bring words to life somehow trumps that reality show premiere or that basket of laundry. That's why DVR was invented. Now maybe someone could make a robot to do the chores...

P- Patience

There is no such thing as an overnight success in a writer's world. Even authors whose books hit the bestseller lists during the first week of launch will tell you that the road to success had its twists and turns.

E- Endurance

Drafting. Editing. Querying. Waiting weeks or months on publisher responses to submissions. It's enough to make any sane person tear her hair out. What does a writer do? Start another book. Figure that one out next time you hear Einstein's definition of insanity.

N- Never Say Never

Rejection slips show up in writers' inboxes all the time. Publishers report lagging sales. Doom and gloom reports come flying in. Yet writers go on, believing that one day their book will find a home.

D- Daring

Throughout history, people have used the written word to do away with conventions, expose lies, and change society for the better. Or at least regale us with tales to make the world we live in that much more genteel to inhabit.

E- Entertaining

To venture into the inner world of a writer is to explore the depths of human imagination and emotion. If you've ever read a book and were swept away by a hero's knowing smile, held captive by an army's siege, or escaped from a pursuing villain, then you understand the lasting impact of a good story.

N- Novelty

Writers constantly come up with interesting and unusual ideas. Those themes of love, vengeance, justice, or redemption may be classic, but that doesn't mean they can't be given a new coat of varnish and displayed in a new light.

C- Character

It sounds scary, but writers have multiple personalities. Just read their WIP. Chances are, the protagonist, bad guy, love interest, ally, nemesis, etc., all bear one or two traits of its creator. This is one of the few vocations where switching identities is accepted and, dare I say, very often encouraged.

E- Excel

Stagnation is unacceptable. Good writers strive to improve upon their work, no matter what their goals for writing are.

Bottom line? Writers have discovered a freedom that is inexplicable and hard to find. I'm willing to risk the occupational hazards to take part in this journey. If you're a writer, I hope you also remain steadfast. Friends of writers, stay supportive. We may be independent, but that doesn't mean we don't love you or cherish your company.

Happy Independence Day!

How will you celebrate your freedom this July 4th?

Inspirational Military Heroes

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Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer. That means pool parties and barbecues, or, if you're older than Justin Bieber, it brings back memories of our mothers and grandmothers'  warnings not to wear white until the last Monday in May. How many of us still follow that old rule?

More important than summer fun and white pants, Memorial Day is a holiday reserved for those who have fought and sacrificed to make our country great. I remember my grandfather's stories of how he led a platoon of soldiers through northern Africa. My heart swelled with pride, because I knew that in WWII, it was uncommon for an African-American man to hold a leadership position in the Army.

Grandpa's recollections stuck with me, so much that I found myself creating heroes in stories of my own. Those familiar with the romance genre know that the male lead is referred to as the hero. I didn't want to take that term for granted. Rowe Winford, the hero in my upcoming historical romance, The Preacher's Wife, is a Civil War veteran. The strength and integrity he displayed during wartime is still very much a part of him when he has to make a decision to stand up for an ostracized and ridiculed young woman. I enjoyed writing his story and wanted to continue featuring military men in the Brides of Assurance series. I am currently working on the tentative third installment featuring a courageous Buffalo Soldier named Adam Campbell.

I also happen to have a hero in real life. My husband currently serves in the armed forces. His dedication to God and the Army Chaplain Corps shows in his work ethic. I couldn't be more proud of him.

Have a great Memorial Day, and if you see one of our country's service members, please show them your appreciation!


What's your favorite barbecue food?

Cover Debut for The Preacher's Wife!

I'm pleased to present the cover for the first book in my Brides of Assurance series, The Preacher's Wife!

To see this image, representing years of hard work, patience, a few tears, and several cramped fingers, the feeling was indescribable.

The design team at Charisma House did a great job portraying Marissa Pierce, the novel's heroine, and the tiny but growing railroad town of Assurance, Kansas. The model's appearance matches what I had in mind for the main character. I describe Marissa as age twenty, bearing a Native American heritage, with black hair, a straight, almost angular nose, and full lips. Her personality is one of quiet thoughtfulness and determination. Since she is a former saloon girl who has suffered abuse from her employer and ridicule from the townspeople, she projects an air of haunting sadness, but a glimmer of hope as well. I think the model expresses those traits beautifully.

The red background and the model's white lace dress also provide a nice touch.

I'm really thankful that the publisher allowed me to give a description of the characters and setting. I realize that not all first-time authors get to have a say in what their cover looks like. Working with Charisma House has been a positive experience and learning opportunity for me from the start. I'm looking forward to working closely with them as we get closer to the book launch date of October 1, 2013.

By Way of Introduction

My name is Brandi Boddie, and this is my first post to Just The Write Charisma. When I was invited to join the Charisma authors on this blog, I jumped at the chance to connect with fellow writers and people who love to read a good story.

Introductions and bios have always been a little awkward for me. I can't help feeling that I'm interviewing for a job. I want to do it right, but am I leaving important information out? What's the best way of letting people know who I am? So instead of trying to place everything in paragraphs, I thought it would be more fun to put things in list form. Here goes.

1. I'm a new author at Charisma House. My debut novel, a historical romance tentatively titled Garters For Lace, is scheduled for release in Fall 2013.

2. I'm originally from Ohio, but having a spouse in the military has taken me to various regions throughout the country. In the three years since I have been married to my wonderful husband, we've lived in four different states. One of them inspired the western/prairie setting of my novel. 

3. When I'm not writing, you can find me taking part in swing dancing. I love that 1940s era where big bands played at the Savoy, clothing was tailored to perfection, and Bogie and Bacall ruled the big screen.

4. I'm a self-professed geek. If time and money permits it, I will be at the nearest Renaissance festival, Sherlock Holmes mystery society, or sci-fi convention. And yes, I do go in costume.

5. My favorite books aren't just those in the romance category. I also love epic fantasy, noir mysteries, and speculative fiction.

That's a little bit about me. I look forward to future posts and learning more about the blogging community here at Charisma. Feel free to connect with me on Facebook and check out my personal blog, where I post about the writing life and adventures on this side of eternity. Have a blessed day!

WELCOME A NEW MEMBER OF THIS BLOG

Introducing Brandi Boddie. Her book Garters for Lace will release in the Fall of 2013.

Let's give her a warm welcome.