Enter to win Laura's September 2013 release,
Love's Awakening
Scroll to the end of the post to see how to enter.
Scroll to the end of the post to see how to enter.
I was introduced to Laura at an ACFW conference by my a fellow Writer's Alley Cat writer. Immediately I saw Laura's gracious spirit. It's been about two years since and I thought of that Christlike spirit when I noticed her new book release. I asked Laura to share with us the journey God has led her on for her writing career. Of course she graciously agreed. Here is what she said:
You Were Born For Nothing Less
Thanks
so much for having me here, Mary. It’s always a joy to revisit my writing
journey as it stays fresh and is always humbling to think how God led me to
this place.
In a nutshell…
I’ve
written stories – historical fiction only – since I was seven years old. I
think I came into the world hardwired to write. I didn’t study craft books and
only took one creative writing course in college (which I hated). I think my
best teachers were books.
I read voraciously as a child and young adult,
especially historical fiction or biographies of famous historical figures. When
I was working as a teacher and social worker and even as a college student I
would carry around legal pads and pens and write my heart out in spare moments.
Aside from my family and the Lord, writing was and is my greatest joy and
blessing.
Until
I was in my 30’s I simply wrote for myself, never dreaming or thinking of
publication. Then one day my pastor brother challenged me, telling me I’d been
given a gift to share and should stop being a closet writer. He actually
arranged for my family to help pay for a freelance editor to read my first
novel, The Frontiersman’s Daughter.
At the same time I submitted to Writer’s
Edge. In about six months Revell Publishing perused my manuscript and
picked it up.
**Mary here, this should encourage many who have been leery about submitting to Writer's Edge.
I
was so ignorant of the CBA and their standards as I’d read very little in the
inspirational market. I didn’t have an agent or an online presence and I hadn’t
been to any writing conferences, etc. But the Lord had a plan.
I’m always amazed that authors
come to publishing in such unique, individually tailored ways. God is so
creative in how He leads us and opens and closes doors. When I received my
first three-book contract, I was amazed (and still am!) that the Lord took the
writing dreams of a little Kentucky girl and made them a reality.
Now,
six years and five books later, I can honestly say that publishing has been
something of a spiritual boot camp for me. I’ve had to let go and trust the
Lord in fresh, often frightening ways. But I’ve found that He’s always
faithful, always trustworthy.
I’ve grown and changed so much since my debut
novel went to print. Sometimes I feel I’m not the same person! And I agree
wholeheartedly with Beth Moore who says this about serving Christ with the
gifts He gives us:
“You surrender
yourself to living in the tension where you’ll always be stretched and often be
broken… You accept that far easier ways to live exist, but you were born for
nothing less.”
Friend, wasn't it wonderful to read how God led Laura even when she didn't have the training? Let's see here are a few she mentioned:
She read and read and read
Her brother pastor approached her about pursuing her writing interests (who needs to approach us before we step forward)
She has found publishing a spiritual boot camp (translated - it's not easy!)
She hold's to the Beth Moore quote at the end of her post. (good words to reread)
Choose one and add your comment.
Author bio:
I
was born and raised in Kentucky and my heart has always been in Berea, Madison
County, the place my family has resided since the 18th-century. I came to know
Christ there at the age of 12, was baptized, and spent my childhood roaming
through the woods and swimming in the rivers of my books.
My
earliest memories are of the public library, standing in front of shelves
filled with those little biographies of famous historical figures like Daniel
Boone and George Washington and Sacajawea
I
attended college at Denison University in Ohio and also in England, living in a
manor/castle and studying the American Revolution from the British perspective.
Shakespeare and 18th-century literature form the backbone of my English degree.
Strangely enough, I only took one creative writing class.
It
was never a desire of mine to be published. I simply love to write for the
sheer joy of writing – and that was enough. But as Proverbs 16:9 says, “The
heart of a man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.”
Web site: www.LauraFrantz.net
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/laurafrantz
To enter the contest for an autographed copy of
Laura Frantz's book: "Love's Awakening":
leave a comment (and email address)
and become a follower of this site if you aren't already.
Winner announced on my facebook page.
Thank you, Laura, for Joining us This Weekend!
Friend, wasn't it wonderful to read how God led Laura even when she didn't have the training? Let's see here are a few she mentioned:
She read and read and read
Her brother pastor approached her about pursuing her writing interests (who needs to approach us before we step forward)
She has found publishing a spiritual boot camp (translated - it's not easy!)
She hold's to the Beth Moore quote at the end of her post. (good words to reread)
Choose one and add your comment.
Comments
I'm rooting for you. It's been a while since the computer chose your comment number. Maybe this time:)
I was one of those historical readers too. There was a section in our elementary library with biographical fiction. It didn't have kids going back in time (which I found fakey) it just had the story in kid language. I think I read every book our library had in that section. When anyone enjoys a certain type of book, the reading bug hits. That is good.
So, Maxie, what kind of book did you enjoy reading as a kid?
Thank you for the giveaway, I read the first book in the series and am eager to read Love's Awakening.
janoww1(at) yahoo(dot) com
I have heard others say they did not see the gift God had given them. Rather someone else had to point it out to them first. Could it be that the gift comes so natural that we don't even realize we are doing whatever it is well?
What is your gift?
Blessings on the drawing, my friend.
Mary, Thank you for such a gracious welcome and introduction. I remember you having that gracious spirit and are/were so easy to be with. I love your gentle smile! I find it so interesting that you read historicals but now you write contemporary! I imagine you would be good at both.
Maxie, You're so right in saying a lot of young people aren't interested in history. I've thought a lot about this and maybe one of the reasons is the dry way it's being taught. Sometimes I think students should read historical novels, at least clean ones, to learn about history. You have a wise heart - love when you say He didn't say things like publishing would be easy but that He guarantees to see us through it. Thank you for your comments. I'd love to send a book your way!
~Laura
I'm so happy you've already met Eden and Silas in the first book and want to meet Ellie and Jack.
Thanks for being here!
~Laura
Don't worry. We knew it was you, :)
Love Laura and her books! So gracious, and it's so encouraging to hear more about her writing journey.
I am following via Bloglovin'
campbellamyd at gmail dot com
Sometimes it isn't the training that gets the climber up the hill, it's the sheer desire to scale the mountain.
SOOOOOO looking forward to this book!
Melissa
battles2001@hotmail.com
Blessings,
Juli
emeraldelena@hotmail.com
Blessings,
Carrie
I think all writers probably love to read... I think the more you read, the more you will recognize good writing.
I think it was so neat that her brother encouraged her writing journey!
pattymh2000(at)yahoo(dot)com
I sure wish I could be with you next week at ACFW. Lord willing, next year. I'll be thinking of you and praying for you and others as you go!
~Laura
Thanks for being here today - would love to send a book your way! Have a wonderful weekend.
~Laura
my email: april.lecureux@gmail.com
Oh, I. Cannot. Wait. for you to meet Jack! But first we must get thee to ACFW, which I am already sorely missing. Here's to next year!!
~Laura
So thankful you like my books! That encourages me in so many ways. Thanks for stopping and wanting to read!
~Laura
~Laura
So looking forward to seeing you at the conference and the MBT party.
Your comment is so spot on. Anything done for simple material or earthly achievement will all fade. But can you imagine the smile we'll get from God when we see Him face to face when He mentions the things we did for Him. sigh. I can't wait.
Would love for you to meet Ellie and her Jack. Bless you for being here this Friday!
~Laura
Yes, Beth Moore says some very profound things :)
Bless you for being here!
~Laura
My favorite books to read at night is inspiration. Isn't it just peaceful? And when it's historical, we kinda have a peek into pieces of the story which make the read extra fun.
I'm so glad you joined our chat today!
Hope to see you again.
Yes, I'm really thankful for my brother, Chris. The funny thing is he took that chance and prodded me even when he hadn't read any of my own writing. He did, of course, read my debut novel after it was published. I owe him so much. And am thankful the Lord prodded him to help me along.
Have a blessed weekend!
~Laura
You're hilarious. So let's take it one step farther. What would God say as he pealed your fingers free from the iron gate. First I imagine they sweet Fatherly twinkle, then...
Thanks so much for adding humor to our chat today. :)
Love when you say you'd like to read the Ballantyne books back to back. That really does make for a richer reading experience. You're the best kind of reader!
Thanks so much for stopping here and for the gift of your gracious words.
~Laura
Have a wonderful weekend!
~Laura
Thrilled to meet you here:) Thanks for wanting to spend time with my Ballantynes!
Have a good weekend!
~Laura
Sometimes the books outside the box are the most intriguing. And meaningful.
I'm so glad you joined us today! Thanks for becoming a follower.
Stay and catch a few more sun rays. I'm about to serve up some virtual tea.
Welcome! So glad you came!
Sounds like others agree with you about Jack and Ellie.
Hope you can stay for a while and chat with the others.
The inspirational books are for encouragement for all readers. These books embed wonderful deep truths for the believers and eye opening truths for the unbeliever. Woven into a beautiful fabric of story, well the result is pure joy.
Thanks so much for stopping by today.
So great to see you here this week!
How is the music program coming along?
I imagine your sister is also encouraging you for your music. Imagine that...the tools you are learning in the one can easily be applied to the other. Girl, you have the tools for some awesome creativity.
Thanks for stopping by today. Hope to see you again.
How are you feeling? Wow, thanks so much for joining our chat on a sunny deck today.
Those brothers of ours...what would we do without them? They are teasers and encouragers all wrapped up in one package.
So glad you could join us today. Looking forward to your release and guest appearance with us at that time. :)
I am an avid reader and would love to have this one of hers to read and review, It is good to see you again my friend and good luck with this new book...
Paula O(kyflo130@yahoo.com)
I am a follower GFC(pol)
candicervaldez@gmail.com
Yeah, good to see you.
And yes, I guess writers should love to read. I noticed my daughter who is currently studying to be a choral conductor loves to listen to choral music (and Lady Gaga - the balance?) I find that the more I read, the more I love to read. Now there is a good principle to spin off: I suppose the more I follow God's will, the more I will like to follow His will.
Sure loved chatting with you today. Looking forward to seeing you again.
Thank you for becoming a follower. I'm so glad you stopped by to join our chat on a sunny deck. Laura has been a great guest speaker. I sure hope you can stay around to chat some more.
Blessings on the drawing.
Looking forward to you joining us again.
Welcome back! We saved a seat for you knowing you would arrive when you had a free moment.
Blessings on the book drawing.
Looking forward to your next visit.
You ARE an avid reader and I'd love to add this one to your stack! I appreciate your thoughts and prayers as this book is releasing.
Have a blessed weekend!
~Laura
Have a blessed weekend,
~Laura
So happy you were able to join our chat today. I set your chair close to Laura so you two could speak Kentuckian to each other. You do translate, right? :)
Blessings on the book drawing and looking forward to the next time you can stop by.
I love this comment by Beth Moore! I'm going to write it on one of my favorite bookmarks as a reminder. I get so frustrated sometimes with certain aspects of this season of my life, and this statement helps give it perspective.
Laura Frantz has been my favorite author since I first read Courting Morrow Little, and went on a frenzy to find every other book she'd written! I just can't wait to read what happens next where Love's Reckoning leaves off. Thanks Laura!
Welcome and thanks for becoming a follower. I'm so excited you've joined the gang here.
To tell an author you have been waiting a long tine for their next book is to render one of the highest compliments, because when we are waiting--five minutes can seem like a year.
I'm so glad you joined our chat today and look forward to your next visit:)
I just started following this blog.
Martha
josieringer(at)gmail(dot)com
Thank you for joining our chat today. Laura's book will be a wonderful, sweet read.
Blessings on you.
I hope to see you again.
What sweet words. I'm so glad you came today. I like your idea of writing Beth's quote on a favorite bookmark for a reminder. And on this sunny day, sitting here on the virtual deck with the others I hope you feel the warmth God has given us today.
Thanks so much for joining us. I can't wait for your next visit.
I totally agree that reading is a great teacher, and can be a healer. It gives us the opportunity to consume information at our own pace. Even though I am a writer I still tend to be a word by word reader instead of a scanner. I love the visual images painted on the story canvass and then watch the characters move about, captivated by their issues and then finding at long last the solutions waiting for them.
Thanks so much for joining us today. I sure look forward to your next visit.
These are great questions. I have found some the the answers to your questions in other inspy historical fiction books. It's amazing to learn about the clothes, the requirements when and where...can you imagine the cost if we had to do all of that today? The shoes are so beautiful but I don't think I could wear some of the hat's I've seen. Let's stay tuned for Laura's comment back to you to see if she gives us a clue.
Thank you so much for becoming a follower.
I look forward to seeing you again.
http://pinterest.com/laurafrantz/
Like you, when I look at those lovely pins I long to know more - who the wearer was, why the gown was made, where it ended up, etc.
Thanks so much for stopping. You've made my day!
~Laura
Thanks for joining in and making Friday sweet :)
~Laura
mnicholepatrick(at)gmail.com
Angela, I'm so glad this Beth quote speaks to you as it does me. Great idea to 'bookmark it' to keep close. And I'm absolutely thrilled you've met Morrow! And that she led me to you. God is so good! I hope you enjoy Jack and Ellie just as much. Though Morrow and her world make for a very different kind of read, I think!
Bless you for your gracious words,
Laura
~Laura
Thanks for the chance to win!
-Alli
allimo81(at)gmail(dot)com
jrs362 at Hotmail dot com
Thanks for entering!
~Laura
Thank you for wanting to read my book! Thoughts and prayers with you.
~Laura
I feel so blessed that you joined us today. Your excitement and spirit raised the enthusiasm for Laura's books.
Thank you for becoming a follower. I sure look forward to seeing you again.
Yah, know, I do look forward to your visits. You truly are a special person, one who brightens my day. Sometimes the work God has for us is to meditate, read His word, and enjoy His creation.
Did you know Hudson Taylor had to come home from China for about 4 years. Yep. It was due to health. He felt rather bad about "leaving the ministry" until 4 years later we he realized, the new missionaries sent, the books he'd written in the time, the prayer he'd done, the mission he established for inland China would not have happened had he not come home for that time?
God has something for you girlfriend. He loves you more than anyone else in the world can.
Karlene
Just dropping in to say "Hey" Laura and good to meet you, Mary Vee!
Sheri
hspruitt{at} frontiernet [dot]net
What a treat to have join our chat about Laura's book today. I was hoping you would come.
Looking forward to seeing you again.
I am the honored and blessed one. To have Laura as my guest and you joining the chat. What an blessing to hear you say Laura's books have inspired and encouraged you, especially for years. This tell so much to others who will also benefit from Laura's stories.
I look forward to the next time you come.
Thanks for joining us today and sharing with us.
Looking forward to your next visit.
Connie
cps1950@gmail.com
Thanks so much for joining us today. I sure loved visiting with you and hope to see you again, soon.
Sure looking forward to our next visit together. :)
Barbara Thompson
barbmaci61(at)yahoo(dot)com
I'm a follower!!
~Laura
~Laura
~Laura
So nice seeing you today, Barbara. Blessings on the drawing.
So glad you came to our chat today!
marissamehresman(at)aol(dot)com
I SO enjoyed your interview/testimony, & am over-joyed at meeting an author who is a native Kentucky resident! I live in the Louisville area, & absolutely love the history & crafts of the Berea area.
Your testimony is SO inspiring, & I love the Beth Moore quote (just love HER, anyway). Your journey to publication is an example of the Lord "working in mysterious ways, His wonders to perform".
I haven't read any of your books, & would love to read Love's Awakening - thanks for the opportunity to win a copy!
bonnieroof60(at)yahoo(dot)com
Hi! So nice to see you. Thanks for coming to our chat.
If you can come back to add another comment, can you tell me why this book is so special. I mean, I will only spend money on certain books and my reasons are very specific. What is special about this book that is calling you to read it?
I hope to see you again.
Welcome back. So glad you could join us even in the wee hours of the night. Love's Awakening will be a wonderful read. Whether you win the book or not (an I hope you do) I hope you will get copy and enjoy this delightful story.
(Deiselbuffs@gmail.com)
Thanks for joining us, Lisa. Sure loved having you here.
Hope to see you again.
~Laura
~Laura
Thank you!
~Laura
Love your sister in Christ,
Darlene Lindstrom Luvnheal@ gmail.cim
Love,
Darlene ;)
Luvnheal@gmail.com
Thanks Mary! I enjoyed the interview and I'd love to be in the drawing for the new release.
I'd love to sit with Laura and hear about her travels to Scotland. What I'm hoping is that she is writing fiction set there!
Mary, are you going to ACFW?
Love,
Darlene Lindstrom
Luvnheal@gmail.com
I am so glad you were able to find the books. And I see you were excited, finding a way to get copies quickly. What a joy it has been to get to know you. I am looking forward to our future visits together.
Blessings on you.
I'll see you there, too?
Blessings on the drawing!
Happy readings are ahead. :)
Oh, what fun we would have sharing a wee cuppa tea:) And talking Scotland and Scottish heroes and the like. Count me in:)
~Laura
Thanks so much for being here!
~Laura
In Him,
Laura
I am following this blog under email plb1050(at)gmail(dot)com
I wish you great success with your book!
Blessings from East Texas Piney Woods,
Patricia aka Mamaw
Thanks Laura! I'm enjoying myself over at the Colonial Quills. I so enjoyed your posts on FB while you traveled. It's definitely at the top of my to do list, and I'd love to compare notes (and scones!)
~Laura
Thanks so much for being in the drawing. Would love to send a book your way!
~Laura
Thanks so much for joining our chat today.
We enjoyed having you here with us today.
Thanks also for sharing your well wishes for Laura and her books.
Hope to see you back.
and blessings on the book drawing :)
Awesome to see you again. We kept your chair by the lakeside and have made virtual fresh sweet tea.
Blessing on you and looking forward to your next visit.
Email Subscriber:
marypres(AT)gmail(DOT)com
~Laura
Thanks so much for stopping by. Just in time, we were all waiting for you to join us. What a great conversation we've had with Laura as our guest.
I sure hope you come back again to join us with other authors.
Blessings on you.
~ Juli
Your sister is truly an inspiration. What a gem she has been for you. How blessed you must feel to know God sent her into your life.
Sometimes it is difficult to know what God wants us to do at the specific moment. We feel lost and floundering. It's difficult to see that at that second God simply wants us to do what we are doing, it is the preparation for what He has next.
Blessings on you Julianna, I look forward to chatting with you again.