Give the Lady a Ride: Linda Yezak

Give the Lady a Ride by Linda Yezak
Review by Pauline Creeden



When a person gives up on finding love they can end up in one of two situations: they become a roving cynic, or they immerse themselves in their work and purpose. Give the Lady a Ride brings together a victim of each situation in a story that redeems both. Patricia Talbert is a mild version of the first. She is jaded and has given herself over to inward self-debasing while putting on a façade of control. Talon Carlson has spent every moment trying to gain and keep control, but since the death of his foster parents, he’s lost all semblance of it. When Patricia inherits the ranch that Talon manages, the couple is unwillingly thrown together.

Linda Yezak has done an amazing job of bringing these characters to life and making them likeable. Patricia is no cliché socialite and Talon is more than an ‘awe-shucks’ grin in a cowboy hat. The strings that entwine the pair are not based on love-at-first-sight, but rather a mutual need and finding parts to a puzzle that just fit the way they are supposed to. Throw into that mix the thrill and risk of bull riding, and you now have a story that is exciting and dangerous.

Both Patricia and Talon spend most of the book hating, or trying to convince themselves that they don’t want the other. While another couple in the story seem to have their love and trust all worked out, Patricia and Talon struggle with loving and being loved. It’s a bit of trouble that is well balanced and engaging.

In the movie Becoming Jane (2007) Anne Hathaway as Jane Austen says of her books: “My characters will have, after a little bit of trouble, all that they desire.” When I first read Linda Yezak’s Give the Lady a Ride, I felt that if Jane Austen lived in Texas during this century, she may have written this book herself. As a fan of neither western books nor romances, pure curiosity lead me to pick up this book and I am glad to have followed that notion.


Give the Lady a Ride at Amazon.com

A World Apart by Lynn Austin

While We're Far Apart
by Lynn Austin
Review by Lisa Norsworthy


A World Apart is the latest novel by Lynn Austin, whose most popular work was the Gods & Kings series. The Schaffer family includes Eddy, a recent widower and his two bereft children, Esther and Peter. Their mother, Rachel, was killed by an out-of-control vehicle at the local vegetable stand along with Miriam Mendel, the landlord’s wife who lives in the downstairs apartment of their Brooklyn duplex. Miriam’s husband, Jacob, not only has to cope with the enormous loss of his wife but also with the lack of communication from his son, Avraham, who has returned to their homeland of Hungary to study Torah. Since going to Hungary, Avi has married and has a daughter but, with Hitler conquering Europe, their fate is unknown.

Meanwhile, Ed Schaffer decides to enlist in the army hoping that fighting for the common good will help him to deal with his pain and grief assuming that his aging mother will care for the children. He is shocked when she refuses to care for them but Penny Goodrich, the proverbial “girl next door” that has had a crush on Eddy since childhood volunteers to care for them with two motives: to make Eddy fall in love with her and to escape her unloving and stifling parents.

The children, who are already heartbroken from losing their mother, resist this plan with hostility. Many events throughout the book serve as catalysts for growth in all of the characters’ lives. One heartwarming change is the growing relationship between the children, Mr. Mendel, and Penny. The love that develops between them softens their bitterness and makes them willing to be open and vulnerable again. There are also many difficult changes for Penny, but through these changes, she realizes that she is a capable and independent woman.

The main theme, however, focuses on Jacob’s and Esther’s anger at God and their inability to reconcile God’s love for them and the fact that He has allowed such devastating tragedy in their lives. This is an issue that causes struggles for many people, and I was especially pleased with the way the author reconciled this in these character’s lives.

Though this wasn’t my favorite of Lynn Austin’s works, it was a very satisfying read, and I would highly recommend it.

BOOKS BY LYNN AUSTIN AT AMAZON

Dianna Young: Drama and Pro-Life

Muted Grey by Dianna Young
Review by Lisa Norsworthy

I have convictions and I feel very strongly about some of them. However, daily life seems to take over, and I can be guilty of getting tepid in my passion on certain subjects. Jesus said, “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth.” Revelation 3:15-16

Muted Grey reignited my grief over abortion. In a very clever, unique way, it reminded me that the victims of abortion are people…the babies are not just “fetuses” and the mothers are victimized by deception and, often, regret. If you are pro-life in your beliefs, this is a must-read. If you are pro-choice, I challenge you to read this book and give some thought to the author’s message. It’s a very quick read at only 100 pages, and it would be thought-provoking to anyone who reads it.

Available at Amazon:

Erin Healy: Supernatural Mystery

Review By Lisa Norsworthy
The Promises She Keeps by Erin Healy



Chase is a 30-year-old autistic man with a savant-like talent for drawing, and a knowledge of trees. He awakes to the voice of his father--who has been missing in action for over ten years--telling him to draw a certain tree.

Porta Cerrato, an aging woman adept at witchcraft, opens an art gallery in Chase’s hometown, and uses her evil craft to influence people, while searching for a person she believes has the key to eternal life.

When Chelsea, Chases’s devoted twin sister, brings Chase on his usual walk over the same route one Saturday, she is shocked to see him deviate from his usual routine and enter Porta’s gallery. The pictures he is being told to draw all have recipients and Chase eerily knows who they are and why they need them.

In the meantime, Porta’s son, Zac, comes to know a young woman with cystic fibrosis. Because she knows her lifetime is limited, she is obsessed with becoming famous so she will not be forgotten.

All of these lives converge into a suspenseful, supernatural story of evil, greed, and the quest for eternal life. But, ultimately, it is child-like love, perception, and loyalty that are victorious. It can be difficult to find a story with supernatural elements that are not contrary to scripture but this tale unfolds in a way that doesn’t leave the Christian reader uncomfortable. Because a main theme of this story was the desire for eternal life, I was left wishing the author had emphasized that Jesus was the only true answer especially in Promise’s quest.

Erin Healy developed the characters nicely, and the uniqueness of this thriller was engaging. I look forward to Healy’s next work.



Book at Amazon by Erin Healy, alone and with Ted Dekker.

        

Supernatural Christian Thriller

Review by Teisha Priest
Visit Teisha's blog at http://www.teishknits.com/

David chance sees messages. They tell him what will happen. One of the messages saved his life, but now they are directing him to take action that could end up costing him his life. Are these messages from the dead? Is it some genetic mutation? Or, could it possibly be God speaking to him? David is just an ordinary guy with a family, but these messages have landed him in the middle of a conspiracy. Will David follow them regardless of the cost? I don’t want to say too much because I don’t want to give the story away! If you enjoy supernatural thrillers, drama, intrigue and action then Messages is right up your alley.

In the very first chapter, David begins seeing messages in the words around him. The story takes off from there and continues its fast pace through to the end. There are enough clues to give us a hint of what’s really going on, but enough twists to still keep us guessing. I stayed up late two nights because I was so intrigued by the story that I couldn’t put it down! The main character is the type of “average-Joe” that most of us can identify with. David is not a believer, but the messages that have embroiled him in extraordinary circumstances also lead him to search for answers.

The book is as much about his spiritual journey as it is about his quest to unravel a terrorist plot. Messages fits into the “speculative fiction” genre, as does John’s first novel, VRIN: ten mortal gods. Even so, it will appeal to those who enjoy dramatic thrillers as well. Messages is a solid second novel for John, and we’ll definitely be watching for his third! If you missed John’s first book, VRIN: ten mortal gods, then you can read my review here. Both of his novels are available through Amazon in Kindle and paperback formats. To keep up with what John is writing, visit his blog.


Interview with Teisha Priest for CFBR

Christian Fiction Book Reviews: You’ve written two novels that have been published so far. Was the writing process pretty much the same for both books, or did you find it different the second time?

John Michael Hileman: Most of VRIN took place in a Fantasy world of my own creation. It's pretty easy to write about a world that doesn't exist. No one can say, "Hey! There aren't any stairs in front of the Blah Blah Blah museum!" When you're writing about a man hunting for a dirty bomb in the streets of Boston, you need to have a working knowledge of Boston and the surrounding area. Since part of my childhood was in the suburbs of Boston, I have a good idea of how things work. The internet filled in the blanks.

CFBR: What drew you to the speculative fiction genre as a writer?JMH: I like being able to create scenes no one has ever created before. Speculative fiction offers a canvas for that kind of out of the box thinking. Plus, alternate realities allow you to examine the principles and precepts of God from another perspective.

CFBR: What has the publishing process been like for you?JMH: Lots and lots of waiting. Writing a book is merely the beginning of a vast journey. If you set foot on the road, prepare your heart to enjoy the walk, because there aren't' many rest stops on the way.

CFBR: What’s been the most difficult part of the writing/publishing process for you?JMH: Overcoming doubt. When I started as a writer, I wanted success, and I feared failure. God has shown me that success is not in the quantity of people who love you, but in the quality of people who love you. It is fair to say, my readers have given me more than I could ever give them. I no longer wonder if I was meant to write, because I have a stack of e-mails from dear friends, who remind me how important what I do is.

Just last night I got a letter from a concerned mother who asked whether or not my latest novel would transform the heart of her Atheist son. I shared this insight. A stonecutter was once asked, "which strike of the hammer broke the stone?" The stonecutter replied, "The first. The last. And every one in between." I don't know if my book will be the strike that breaks her sons hard heart, but knowing that I am partnering with someone of such great character, gives value to the work I put in to writing it.　

CFBR: There has been the suggestion that Christian authors should not write any sort of fantasy/science fiction type novels. What are your thoughts on the topic?JMH: I don't think most Christian outright object to fantasy and science fiction. It is more of a cautious apprehension--at least towards science fiction. As Christians we must guard our minds against the enemy of our souls. He is continually pleading his case through all forms of media. He wants to sow seeds of doubt in our minds, and turn us away from the truth. Since truth is so important, most Christians stick to stories that are grounded in reality. Most science fiction starts with a premise that is a lie, like: in thousands of years mankind will take to the stars and meet other life forms. This premise is silly and fanciful as Gene Roddenberry wrote it. But Christian authors tend to put Biblical truths into everything they write. As soon as you turn Star Trek into an Allegory, you've lost your Christian readers. They cannot take the story as pure fiction, because you've injected the real God into it.

As for Fantasy, that is more of a witchcraft/magic issue. God tells us to avoid such things. And yet, most fantasy stories have some form of it mentioned.

I believe science fiction and fantasy are like firearms. They are only as dangerous as the person wielding them. I don't know about you, but I'm thankful police carry firearms.

CFBR: What are your favorite books? The ones you read over and over.JMH: I did most of my heavy reading before I was right with the Lord. The only books I read over and over--lately-- are mine.

CFBR: When you write, do you prefer background music or quiet?JMH: I like it quiet. I'm easily distracted.

CFBR: Any words of wisdom for aspiring speculative fiction authors?JMH: Tread carefully. You will be accountable for your actions.

CFBR: Do you have any other novels on the horizon that we should be watching for?JMH: Yes I do. But I can't tell you about it. It's super duper top level secret stuff. All I can say is, I've been working on it for the past eight years, and it has one overriding theme: the holiness of God.

CFBR: We will be looking forward to it! Thanks for the interview John!Both Messages and VRIN: ten mortal gods are available through amazon in Kindle and paperback format.

Interview: Julie Cave

Leave a comment for Julie Cave, after the interview, to win a copy of her novel Pieces of Light.


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CFBR: Today we are speaking with Julie Cave about her Suspense Mystery novel "Pieces of Light". Thanks for being with us, Julie.

Julie: Thank you for having me, I really appreciate it!

CFBR: Tell us about Dinah Harris. What makes her tick?

Julie: Throughout the trilogy, readers will have come to know Dinah Harris firstly as a woman suffering from depression and alcoholism to one who has discovered hope and redemption in Christ. She is flawed in many ways - she loses her temper often and is sarcastic and impatient. However, she is genuinely growing in her walk as a Christian and learning how to re-define her life according to her faith. She is smart, funny and single-minded in her quest to find justice.

CFBR: She sounds like a lot of fun to write. What kind of mysteries will we unravel in "Pieces of Light"?

Julie: A serial bomber is determined to get rid of God from Washington D.C. by blowing up churches. Dinah's old FBI partner, Ferguson, asks her to consult on the case and they discover an intelligent, organised killer operating from a place of great rage. It all comes down to Dinah to reach out to the bomber and convince him to end his reign of terror over the city. Will she succeed before more lives are lost?

Readers will also meet Isabelle, a young woman dealing with the aftermath of a violent childhood and trapped in a loveless marriage. Will she escape her abusive husband and learn how to reconstruct her life? And what connection does she have to the bomber?

Finally, Dinah's nemesis Senator Winters is back, but for how long? This time he has met his match. Who could be powerful enough to bring down the evil Senator?

CFBR: What inspires your stories?

Julie: Anything that is currently happening in world current events. I get many story ideas from the news headlines. I try to research the issue behind the headline - such as euthanasia, atheism or domestic violence - with a view to explaining the impact on people's lives and what the Bible says about such issues.

CFBR: Who is your target audience and what do you hope readers will get from your books?

Julie: My books target both Christians and non-Christians who enjoy a thrilling, action-packed read. For non-Christians, I include a simple, accurate Gospel message in each book along with a reasoned defence of the Christian faith in the hope that their hearts are stirred into finding out more about God. For Christians, I hope to provide them with a non-threatening tool to evangelise to their friends and families, and to challenge their own understanding of Christianity and the controversial topics of our culture. All three Dinah Harris mysteries delve into some deep and shocking subjects, as I feel passionately about writing with authenticity about issues facing us all today - like alcoholism, racism, and domestic violence.

CFBR: What is the greatest obstacle to being a writer?

Julie: Having people know who you are and what you write about. Getting published is the first step - then the real work begins! It takes a lot of time, effort and hard work to build your profile. For anyone thinking of a writing career, I'd encourage them to build their platform now - work out who your audience is and how you will target them. If you have this platform in place and growing, it makes publishing and marketing your book more attractive to a publisher and easier on the writer in the long term.

CFBR: Are there more Dinah Harris stories in our future, or are you planning something else?

Julie: I could quite happily do either! There is so much character development I can still do on Dinah Harris and I have no shortage of ideas. However, the idea of doing something completely fresh appeals to me too. We'll have to see what the readers think I should do!

CFBR: Thanks for joining us, Julie.

Julie: Thanks again for having me.



Here are books by Julie Cave, available at Amazon.com
    

Review: The Help

The Help by Kathryn Stockett
Reviewed by Lisa Norsworthy

The Help is set in Jackson, Mississippi, the very epicenter of the Civil Rights Movement, in 1960. Apparently, any self-respecting middle to upper class family had a black maid in those days. The middle class could afford it, because even though there were minimum wage laws, no one abided by them and the black community has absolutely no ability to assert themselves without severe financial or physical retribution. Most black people could not even register to vote, because of severe intimidation.

We hear the story of Abileen and Minny- black maids- and Skeeter who, although white and privileged, is restless for a challenge and change. Skeeter begins to have an awakening to the degradation and humiliation these women endure, and with great risk to everyone, decides to document their stories.

As Christian readers, I am aware there is a difference in tolerance regarding questionable content. This book is not a Christian book. There is minor swearing and one of the main characters says she prayed to a God that she neither liked nor believed in. However, Abileen is someone who faithfully goes to church and prays every evening for hours, writing in her prayer journal.

I absolutely love this book. The writing and character development are superb. It is hard to believe this was a common practice only 50 years ago, and while I am sure there is still a lot of room for improvement, the progress that has developed through the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is amazing. The irony that these white families would not let their “help” use their bathrooms, because they were “diseased”, and yet basically had them raise their children, is astounding.

Also, if you do read this book, make sure to read the notes by the author in the back. Her perspective of this somewhat autobiographical story is extremely interesting.

DiAnn Mills: Historical Fiction

The Fire in Ember

by DiAnn Mills

TAGS: Historical Fiction

Once again, DiAnn Mills demonstrates her ability to engage readers quickly.  Who is about to be hanged?  Why?  Does there seem to be something just a little bit strange about this?  Why on earth would a young girl—about to be hanged—keep her gender secret?  Why is she dressed as a boy?  Was the horse really stolen? 

Having become a fan of Mill’s suspense series, it was a treat to see if she could keep me interested in a genre I don’t particularly enjoy…and, dad gum it! She succeeded.  Somehow Mills has an innate ability to draw readers into her storyline.  As I found out, that innate ability transcends genres.  Quite frankly, a masterful writer is a masterful writer is a masterful writer.

Readers who enjoy Christian romance will certainly want to grab up this book, set in the late 1800’s.  While the main character, Bert/Ember, seems to be just a little bit too naïve at times, and a tad unable to make rational decisions or find logical solutions to her basic problems, Mills advances the plot line at a steady pace, with just the right number of twists and turns to keep readers interested.  I particularly enjoyed Mills skill in weaving in a spiritual message matter-of-factly and without contrivance.

So, bottom line…if you want to find your next “favorite” author and your next favorite read…and if you want to have your own faith strengthened by the book choices you make…grab “The Fire in Ember” up and move it to the top of your To Do list.

Reviewer: Janice E. Daku

Chris Fabry: Mystery, Drama

CHRIS FABRY
Mystery, Drama, Supernatural, Inspirational



This fall and winter, I have been blessed to read many good books and some of them I would even put in the “great” category. In the previous months, I had slogged through quite a few books with predictable plots and lackluster characters so coming across these engaging books has renewed and refreshed my love of reading.

Almost Heaven by Chris Fabry would definitely be in the “great” category. I had never read any of Mr. Fabry’s work before but after reading Almost Heaven, I quickly downloaded his books June Bug and Dogwood too.

Almost Heaven is about Billy Allman, a man with deep roots in Dogwood, West Virginia. The story starts by highlighting some very formative events in his boyhood and teen years. Interspersed throughout the story is a narrative from his guardian angel, Malachi. He begins by explaining his role in serving God and the joy and contentment he feels when engaged in a mighty battle for Him. Upon being assigned to Billy’s case, he says, “However, spotting this young boy sleeping and looking into his face, I am ashamed to say that I felt such disappointment. Letdown. I expected to see a cherubic lad, the tousled hair of aristocracy, a diamond in the rough. Instead, I found an unattractive hill child sleeping soundly, his covers askew, an old mandolin next to his head. I couldn’t help but stare at him and wonder. A bulbous nose, his eyes deep set, and an almost-Neanderthal forehead. For his age, his hands seemed large and his arms gangly. I know the humans grow in fits and spurts throughout their youth, but I couldn’t help but wonder, why this child? Why this plain and ordinary dwelling?”

As he matures, Billy discovers he has a great gift for playing the mandolin and even travels with a bluegrass, gospel group. The books then quickly moves ahead to his adulthood which leaves the reader with many unanswered questions that are answered later.

As an adult, Billy grows into a loving and faithful son, friend and servant of the Lord. Through many trials, his faith is tested but he remains faithful to Jesus. Most Christian books have characters that have lost their faith because of one trial or another and are working through bitterness toward God. One of the most endearing and refreshing aspects of this story and of Billy’s character is the horrible trials he endured only made him more humble and tender before the Lord.

Eventually, Billy decides to start his own bluegrass, gospel radio station. He uses this opportunity to encourage and minister to people in his region and many are deeply touched. One person he befriends is his mail carrier, Callie. It is soon apparent that she loves Billy but he seems strangely detached and afraid of intimacy. This storyline is intriguing and exciting.

He also meets a young listener, Natalie, affectionately called June Bug. He gives June Bug the opportunity to have her own radio show and you see how their relationship ministers to the needs of both of them.

There are many exciting twists and turns, and some heavy issues, such as suicide, sexual abuse and dementia, are explored with discretion and sensitivity. This was one of those reading experiences where I could not wait until I could sit down with my book to read more.

When Billy’s angel is assigned somewhere else, he says, “What I have witnessed in the life of Billy Allman is a humility unmatched. With all of the pushing and shoving to get to the place of honor at life’s table, to see a man so connected to his work and to the Almighty is a wondrous thing. And yet the man has flaws. He is not a saint. Some believe God chooses the best people to follow Him, ones with fewest flaws, who can do wondrous things for Him. But I have seen the truth of the words written long ago fulfilled. In this case, God did not choose the most wise or powerful or wealthy. Instead, He chose a person the world considered foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And He chose the powerless and despised, a person counted as nothing, and used him again and again.”


Reviewer: Lisa Norsworthy



Chris Fabry Books at AMAZON

Lifted from the Waters

by Culpepper Webb

TAGS: Inspirational Drama

Lifted from the Waters is one of the most poignant and touching stories I have read in a long time. Gunter Wall, an elderly man, recounts the defining moments of his life, through a rich and meaningful depiction of the Greatest Generation. It was a generation which faced the depression and the horrors of World War II, and a time when men, returning from the war, were not supposed to express emotion, but "put one foot in front of the other", as Gunter Wall would say.

Through excellent character development, I grew to love the people, and was deeply moved through their triumphs and trials. And, I felt I was sitting on a log in the woods, with this wise old man, imparting golden nuggets of wisdom to me. It should be required reading for today’s high school students who have so lost sight of selflessness, hard work, and sacrifice.

If you love heartwarming stories about love, bravery, faith and integrity, you’ll love this book. Get your tissues and savor the experience!


Reviewer: Lisa Norsworthy

Lifted From The Waters at AMAZON

Review: McKenzie

McKenzie

by Penny Zeller

TAGS: Family Drama, Romance

This historical novel, set in 1881, a “prairie romance”, is the first in Penny Zeller’s Montana Skies series. The well-conceived plot of this novel is typical of most historical romances. A damsel in distress—an evil villain— a handsome romance interest—conflict between the central character and the romantic interest—and a final resolution with a happily ever after ending. 

McKenzie Worthington, the central character, is a young and naïve high society Bostonian, who, in an attempt to rescue her youngest sister from a dangerous situation, heads to the Montana wilderness. 

Fortunately for the reader, this novel is saved from the mundane and totally predicable by Zeller’s strength as a writer. Her story line is meticulous. The faith elements are strong. The plot elements are reasonably complex. Zeller’s characters come to life with richness and vibrancy.

Readers who love the historical romance genre will find McKenzie a step above the rest and will find their own faith strengthened as they reflect on the message of God’s sovereign power woven throughout the novel.




Reviewer: Janice E. Daku

Chris Fabry: Drama

CFBR: First, I'd like to thank you for giving us a chance to talk with you, Chris, I know you are extremely busy.

Chris Fabry: Never too busy to talk with someone about my stories. Thanks for asking.

CFBR: With seventy books under your belt, there is no end to the number of questions we could ask, but we'll narrow it down a bit. Please tell us about your Christy Award winning novel Dogwood.

Chris Fabry: My dream was to write a novel for adults that affected me like the novels I love and have changed me. I had a character in mind from many years ago—a fellow who fell in love with a girl but then went to prison. His love for her endures and he returns with the mission of rescuing her, facing a lot of obstacles along the way. I worked on it in my spare time over a few years and then finally submitted it and Tyndale was the only publisher really interested. I can take you back to the spot on the interstate between Indianapolis and Denver where I received the call saying they wanted to publish it. Very exciting evening.

CFBR: I bet! And that was not the only evening of excitement. Tell us about the events surrounding the Christy awards. You and your family were going through quite a bit of emotional and physical turmoil, do you mind telling us about that?

Chris Fabry: In October of 2008, after years of some pretty severe illnesses, we vacated our home because of a toxic mold exposure. We left everything inside. We put our dogs down. We literally left with the clothes on our backs and became vagabonds. We moved to Tucson to get treatment. It was awful because of all the crushing medical bills and the mortgage and the uncertainty. In July of 2009 when Dogwood won the Christy, it was as if God were saying, “Hang in there. I’m at work here. Just be faithful and take one step at a time.” So it was an emotional moment because I felt God’s encouragement and the good will of a lot of friends and fellow strugglers.

CFBR: I can only imagine the relief you must have felt. What a challenging year. I'm so glad God strengthened you through that-- and you won a Christy to boot! That is quite a prestigious award. Can you tell us a little of what is involved with the Christy? We have many aspiring authors in our readership who would love to know how it works. There are fees and requirements involved, correct? Did your publisher handle all that?

Chris Fabry: Tyndale did handle all of that. There is a fee for each entry and if your title wins there are other fees, I believe. I’m oblivious to most of it. I know there’s a committee that reads and judges. Maybe they just felt sorry for me. But it was a great honor.

CFBR: I have to say, my initial intention was to just focus on Dogwood for this interview, but after reading a blurb on your website, I found myself captivated by the mystery of Junebug. You wrote: "... that story came to me, believe it or not, while watching an old RV chug into our local Walmart parking lot! I had this idea of a little girl stepping out of an RV one morning and walking into the store, only to find a picture of herself on the wall of missing children... and that became the beginning of a story of love and redemption and sacrifice that I truly think you'll enjoy." What more can you tell us about Junebug, without ruining it?

Chris Fabry: Well, what you describe happens on the first page or two. I had a ten year old daughter who I patterned June Bug after, her speech patterns and actions, but as you get to know her, she hasn’t had a normal childhood. She’s grown up traveling the country with her father. But the more you get to know, the more you question if he is her real father. And if not, who is he? What are his intentions and motivations? The interesting thing about the writing process was that while I was writing/editing June Bug was in the middle of our escape from the house. At one point in the novel, June Bug and her dad lose just about everything. I was conducting my radio program from a little pull-along trailer in our front yard because I couldn’t go into the house. It was surreal. But the main point of the story is to figure out June Bug’s identity.

CFBR: How do you develop your characters?

Chris Fabry: I base many of them on people I’ve known or composites of people. Very few can I point to and say, “That is Aunt Wilma.” My mother shows up often. My wife. Obviously some of the male characters are like me or have some of my personality. I try to map out the characters and plot simultaneously so that they’re not only interesting but have something to do, something they want to attain.

CFBR: What are some practical writing tips you would give an aspiring Christian Fiction writer?

Chris Fabry: The best advice is to write every day and read as much as you can. A writer who doesn’t read isn’t a writer. Don’t take no as an answer. Strive to get better. Find a mentor who can help you learn. Listen to editors. Give God whatever gifts you have and ask him to use them. And don’t be averse to doing something that’s not in your sweet spot. If you get a chance to write for the church newsletter, take it. Or a column in a local paper. Or a blog. Just write.

CFBR: What is next on the horizon for you?

Chris Fabry: I’m working on a story now called, Not In The Heart. It’s about a writer/reporter whose son needs a new heart. A man on death row offers his. If the reporter discovers the man is innocent, his son may die. If he covers the truth, an innocent man will die. The main character is not a Christian. I think it’s going to be a riveting story.

CFBR: You have a way of locking in on the interesting hooks. That sounds like another great read in the making. God bless you, Chris. Thanks for stopping by.

Chris Fabry books at Amazon