Things I Learned at Storymakers 2010

By Nichole Giles

I spent last weekend at the conference of awesomeness—the LDStorymakers 2010. This is my very favorite conference of all time, for several different reasons, but mainly because after six years of attendance (or is that seven?) I feel like these people are my second family, and the conference is a giant reunion.

As much as I’d love to share all my notes, the classes are copyrighted. And truthfully, you kind of had to be there to get the fullness of everything. But what I can share with you are some thoughts and quotes from the classes I attended, and those incredible authors who taught them.

These are the things that affected me enough to stick in my mind, but not necessarily in any particular order:

“Anything that gets people to read is a wonderful thing.” ~Laura Rennert, Andrea Brown Literary Agency

“Writing a query is hard, but you can do hard things.” ~Elana Johnson author of From the Query to the Call.

“Writing is work, even when it’s fun.” ~Aprilynne Pike, author of Wings

“Believe in yourself, and find others who believe in you too.” ~ Laura Rennert (I went to two of her classes.)

“If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” ~Dave Wolverton (aka David Farland) author of the Runelords series, In the Company of Angels, and so many other books I can’t possibly list them all.

And finally, a thought given by Dave Wolverton at the Whitney Awards ceremony. (I didn’t write it down, so this is as I remember it. Definitely not verbatim.)

“Doctors spend years going to medical school, but for some reason, writers expect to be published right out of the gate…the difference between learning to be a doctor and learning to write is that medical school has teachers and instructors and college texts to teach them medicine and writers are all on their own.”

And.

“You can make a living as a writer.”

Do you need more than that? Yeah, I didn’t think so.

My advice for the week? If you want to be a writer, go out of your way to attend conferences as often as possible. Consider it medical school for writers, and justify it by reminding yourself that you need all the training you can get, whenever you can get it.

Oh, and check out my totally awesome friends. Our writer's group has certainly grown this year! This is only some of us. I love these people!

More About Bill the Cheeseburger

Just because Bill is no longer with Happy doesn’t mean she won’t always remember him. In the way of all the best things in life, his memory will live on for many, many cheeseburgers to come.

Have you ever had an experience like Happy had with Bill? I have. Every once in a while, I read a book like this. And then I pour through all the books I can find, hoping to get the same kind of satisfaction that I got with the first book (or series of books), but none of them are quite right. Some might come close, and I give them lots of credit. Still. Not the first book (s).

Then, one day, I get over my obsession with book #1, and eventually happen upon another book I love, and the process starts over.

This, to me, is the definition of a great story. When you just can’t stop thinking about it, when you scour the world to find something else that compares, when you become almost obsessive in your love of the main characters. That is some dang good reading.

It resonates, sticks, changes you. It’s what I hope my writing will someday do for just one reader.

That will be good enough success for me.

But, you know, if my book happens to get a high spot on the NYTBL, that would be really good too.

Meet Bill, The Cheeseburger in Paradise

Back in January, my family and I went on a trip. I came back and wrote a post about climbing a volcano. You can read it here if you’re interested.

What I didn’t talk about in that post was a highlight of our trip. It was a cheeseburger, and its name was Bill.

We’d just climbed a huge, freaking mountain with lots of stairs. Yes, stairs. It was totally worth it, and the view was spectacular and blah, blah, blah. And by the time we got to the bottom, we were both exhilarated and exhausted, even though it was only about eleven o’clock a.m.. So, we’re in the parking lot, and there’s this enormous yellow truck with a picture of a snow cone on it.

Who wouldn’t want a snow cone after a climb like that in 80 degree weather? But my daughter—you all know her as Happy—didn’t want a snow cone. She needed some protein, and begged for a cheeseburger instead. Which the yellow truck of deliciousness happened to serve.

So, while the rest of us ate ginormous balls of multi-colored snow drenched in sugar, Happy very carefully carried her little white box to the car, where she reverently opened the top and inhaled the heavenly aroma of a freshly grilled burger. “Don’t you just love that smell?” she said.

She then made me take a picture.

As soon as she bit into that thing, she made all kinds of noises that told everyone how absolutely she was enjoying this burger. “Here, mom, take a bite. You’ve got to try this,” she said. And then, “Everyone, I want you to meet my new best friend, Bill.”

I did, and she was right. It was a really great cheeseburger. And I’m not much of a burger eater. Still, as great as it was, I’d have forgotten it by dinner if not for her almost comical insistence that the whole family share in the glory that was…Bill.

We then spent the rest of our vacation looking for a cheeseburger that could measure up. We even paid astronomical amounts to eat at a famous restaurant that was featured on a food network program (I forget which one, probably DDD). But none of the burgers we bought her ever quite measured up.

Bill the cheeseburger will be remembered in our family forever. May he rest in peace.

Oh to be twelve again, with a metabolism that burns through everything!

Check back Monday, for more about Bill.

Spotlight: Donna Hatch, Author of "Guise of a Gentleman" and "Queen in Exile"

*Keep reading, there’s a contest involved!

“Fall in love all over again and find your happily ever after.”

I first met Donna Hatch in Arizona at an ANWA writer’s conference this past February. I’ve heard so many good things about her books.

This week, Donna’s new book, Guise of a Gentleman, was released. It’s the second installment in the Rogue Hearts series, which started out with the book, Queen in Exile. As mentioned above, I haven’t read either of these books yet, but am awaiting their arrival in my mailbox. Since these books are part of a series, I’d love to give you a little bit of information about both.

Queen In Exile, the blurb:

The only surviving member of her family, a princess must place her life and the fate of her kingdom into the hands of a trained killer. But accepting both her destiny and her own dark powers will mean choosing between her people, and the man she loves.

Short, yes. But doesn’t it sound intriguing? I thought so. But I’m going to give a bit more of a blurb for Guise of a Gentleman, since this is Donna’s newest release.


The widowed Elise is a perfect English lady living within the confines of Regency English society for the sake of her impressionable young son. Her quiet world is shattered when she meets the impulsive and scandalous Jared Amesbury. His roguish charm awakens her yearning for freedom and adventure. But his irrepressible grin and sea-green eyes hide a secret. 

A gentleman by day, a pirate by night, Jared accepts one last assignment before he can be truly free. Elise gives him hope that he, too, can find love and belonging. His hopes are crushed when his best laid plans go awry and Elise is dragged into his world of violence and deceit. She may not survive the revelation of Jared’s past…or still love him when the truth is revealed.

No wonder I’m excited to read these books! Both sound fascinating. Okay, so I am one lucky girl. Donna has graciously granted me an interview with her. Along with that, she is holding a contest in which she is giving away a free book. Yahoo! I love free books.

NG: Hi Donna. I’m so excited to hear about the release of Guise of a Gentleman. Since I’ve already shared the blurb with my readers, why don’t you tell us about your cover. It’s gorgeous!

DH: Most publishers don't let the authors have any input, but I was lucky -- mine does. I filled out a questionnaire with character descriptions and a concept of what I'd pictured. The finished result was very close to what I'd imagined, although the clothing isn’t exactly Regency, but I like it very much.

NG: Nice. From what I understand, that's very rare in the publishing world. So tell me, what are you working on now?

DH: I'm finalizing the edits on book 3 of the Rogue Heart's Series which isn't titled yet. (Gulp.) Each book is a stand-alone book, about a different brother of the Amesbury family, and the family members wander in and out of each other's books. I’m also starting a new Teen/Young Adult paranormal.

NG: Lots of fun. Now, I have a certain set of questions I like to ask my interview victims...er, um, I mean, guests. I hope you don't mind.

DH: Nope, not at all. Ask away.

NG: He he. *rubs hands together*

NG: What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream? For instance, right now my favorite is Ben and Jerry’s Key Lime Pie.

Donna: Ooh, tough choice. I love almost all flavors of ice cream. I seriously love anything made by Blue Bell. There’s also a flavor called Bunny Tracks that I really love, too. And Cookies and Cream, of course ;-)

NG: Of course. Everyone loves Oreos. But I’ve discovered most people have very particular tastes in literature. So, who is your favorite author? (Besides yourself or me, since everyone already knows we’re both awesome.)

Donna: Oh, well, besides us, I have many; Lynn Kurland, Julia Quinn, Joyce DiPastena, and Sarah Eden, among others.

NG: Ooh, another thing we have in common. I love Joyce and Sarah too. The other two I’ll have to check out soon. But back to you. What is your most favorite thing to do when you’re not writing?

Donna: I can’t pick just one. Read, play the harp, sing, dance, play with my children, snuggle with my husband.

NG: Aw. Sweet. And what are your favorite power snacks that keep you going as you write.

Donna: I don’t snack too often when I write. Usually, I just come out of my writing coma and realize I’m starved and then rapidly consume anything I can get my hands on. If I think about snacking, eat crackers and mixed nuts. I also have a thing for chewing on ice.

NG: Huh. Ice. Who knew? Definitely a fat free choice.

*shrugs*

NG: If you were an animal, what kind would you be and why?

Donna: A really spoiled rich cat who wears a fancy collar and sits on a cushion so I can be fed and petted all day long.

NG: Do you prefer diamonds or pearls?

Donna: Pearls

NG: I see. This tells me you’re really going to shine as an author. One last question. Where can we find your book?

DH: The Guise of a Gentleman is available at Wild Rose Press, Amazon, and all Barnes & Noble Locations (some stores may have to order it for you, but that costs the same as if it were on the shelf).

Contest time:

NG: Donna, I’m going to let you tell my readers about your contest:

DH: Okay, now how to win your free copy (and you have four chances if you do all four):

1. Leave a comment in this blog, then send me an email at donnahatch29 @ gmail.com and put “free book” in the subject line

2. Follow my blog, then send me an email at donnahatch29 @ gmail.com, telling me you're now following me and put "free book" in the subject line

3. Friend me on Facebook, then send me an email at donnahatch29 @ gmail.com, telling me you're now my friend on Facebook and put "free book" in the subject line

4. Go to my website and then find out what is the name of the hero, then send me an email at donnahatch29 @ gmail.com, telling me the answer to the question and put "free book" in the subject line

Remember, for each thing you do, you have another chance to win. Good Luck!!!

NG: Donna, thanks for sharing. I appreciate you taking the time to visit with me today.

A: Thanks for having me!

Click here to learn more about books by Donna Hatch.

To purchase your copy of Queen in Exile, click here.

To read Donna's Blog, click here.

Book Review: "The Cinderella Society" by Kay Cassidy

By Nichole Giles

The Blurb:

When the prom queen becomes your fairy godmother…

Sixteen year old outsider, Jess Parker, gets the chance of a lifetime: an invitation to join a secret girl power society dedicated to defeating the mean girls of the world. The Cinderella Society guides all new recruits through its top secret ultimate life makeover. It’s all part of preparing them to face down the Wickeds and win. Determined not to let the Cindys down, Jess dives in with a passion. Finally, a chance to belong and show the world what she’s made of.

… be careful what you wish for.

Jess’s transformation wins her the heart of her dream crush and a shot at uber-popularity. Until the Wickeds–led by Jess’s arch enemy–begin targeting innocent girls in their war against the Cindys, and Jess discovers the real force behind her exclusive society. It’s a high stakes battle of good vs. evil, and the Cindys in power need Jess on special assignment. When the mission threatens to destroy her dream life come true, Jess is forced to choose between living a fairy tale and honoring the Sisterhood… and herself.

What’s a girl to do when the glass slipper fits, but she doesn’t want to wear it anymore?

Okay, so here’s the thing. I liked this book. Didn’t love it, but liked it. It was cute, in a good-girl versus mean-girl sort of way. It didn’t jump out at me as a must read or a read over-and-over again book, but that might be because I really prefer more edgy YA these days. So, my opinion of this book has less to do with the quality of writing and story, and more to do with my personal preferences when it comes to story content.

The storyline is basically all about sticking up for yourself and others, discovering what you believe in, and making sure the number one thing on that list is believing in yourself. Which is always a good theme in any book.

My likes:

While this book touches on issues like self-esteem and bullying, it doesn’t really dig deep enough to be content heavy. It’s a light, easy read in which the outcome of the story is satisfying enough to make the reader feel like it was worth their time. And for those of us who are romance fans, there’s a romantic subplot I thoroughly enjoyed, along with a couple of great kissing scenes. A girl like me can never discount the importance of good kissing scenes.


My nitpicks:

I’m a girly-girl in so many ways. But when it comes to literature, not so much. This particular story felt a little too feminine, and perhaps meant for a bit younger audience than some of the heavier YA books I’ve read recently. But the premise is fun and likely just right for some reluctant teen-girl readers.

But don't take my opinion as law. You be the judge! Be sure to stop by Kay Cassidy's website for a sneak peak of chapter one.

To read a sample chapter of The Cinderella Society, click here.

To learn more about the author, click here.

To purchase your copy of The Cinderella Society, click here.


**FTC FYI I do not know the author of this book—yet—nor was I given a review copy. In fact, I participated in an ARC tour in which one advance copy was sent to me, and then I was asked to send it on to another person. Not only was I not compensated, but I actually paid money out of pocket for shipping to the next reader in order to participate in this review.

Is Reviewing Books Worth the Work?

I am so behind in my book reporting, it’s not even funny. Or maybe it is. I scheduled myself for all these reviews and stuff, and then before I finished all the books, made the mistake of taking my kids to the library where I checked out seven more. Yeah, well, two different libraries. Whaddayado? And I love to read. Seriously, love it. So. Only scheduled or important books are being reviewed this month.

The good news is I’m starting to get caught up. Well, okay, not really, because as soon as I typed that I remembered that I just agreed to do five more reviews. But they're books I was going to read anyway, so that’s okay with me.

Last month, I was weighing the pros and cons of continuing to do reviews at all. I’ve also considered starting a blog that’s dedicated to just posts of this type, so that I can narrow my focus on this blog a bit. In my experience, book reviews don’t get a lot of comments. But then I was talking to someone I know—who is not a writer, and not even a big reader—who said something that made me think again.

She works full time, has three kids and a widowed father who needs lots and lots of care, and travels out of state several times a month with her daughter for specialized medical treatment. She has a lot on her plate. But as we discussed her most recent trip, she mentioned how she’s been spending a lot of downtime in hotel rooms and how bored she gets. Recently, she decided to purchase a few books to pass the time. But she didn’t know what she wanted, so she went to my blog and read the book reviews before heading to the bookstore.

Yes, that’s right. She read MY book reviews for recommendations of books she might like to read.

Even though she’s only one person, her off-handed comment made it all worthwhile. So, while I’m still debating the pros and cons of starting a separate book review blog, I’m feeling validated in reviewing itself. I think that as long as I keep reading, I’ll probably always enjoy reviewing.

That said, I’m still getting caught up. Therefore, this week, you can expect to see both a review and a spotlight. Don’t worry, I’ll still blog about regular stuff, too. Just call me superwoman.

Win Lunch With Two Agents!

Yes, I already blogged once today. But I just have to share a link to an awesome contest. Sarah with a Chance is celebrating her contract with an incredible giveaway. Click here to find out how you can win a 40 page manuscript critique from Suzie Townsend, a query critique by one of three agents, a writer's survival pack, or...

LUNCH WITH THE JANET REID AND THE SUZIE TOWNSEND!!!!

Yes, I so totally want to win this contest. Any of the prizes, but lunch with two agents? Ahem. Yeah.

Now go enter and get back to work.

My Roots Are Showing

Every once in a while I’ll be editing a scene and discover that my characters are experiencing things from my childhood. When I realize this, I generally end up rereading the scene numerous times, wondering if that’s really how it happened.

Of course, I’m writing fiction, so the scene can go however I want, but still. It makes me wonder. Ya know?

At that point, I have a few choices. I could ignore my curiosity and just write the scene the way I see it in my head, or I could dig into my memory and rewrite it fifteen or a hundred times trying to figure out which way it really happened, or…

I could call my mom and ask her how it happened. If she was there. And if she remembers. Which she probably doesn’t.

Why do I do this to myself? Honestly, I think all writers inadvertently use certain scenes from our lives—be it childhood or adulthood—in our writing. If we didn’t, we’d probably have nothing whatsoever to write about. Granted, we do hope to come up with original stories and characters, but on some level even those things come from a box of storage buried deep inside our brains. And I don’t know about anyone else, but I’m not the most organized person. All my boxes are mixed up and muddled together.

Real life and fiction sometimes share the same box. And even though I know the difference, my characters don’t always get it. I guess I’m trying to say that the best way to be a good writer is to live life and experience lots of stuff. Let your characters borrow some of your roots and branches.

You can be sure that at some point, that helicopter ride over Lake Mead you took on a whim will come in handy for more than just the ability to say you did it. You’ll use it. I know I will.

Book Review: "Secret Sisters" by Tristi Pinkston

Okay, before I get to the review, I have to get something off my chest. I read a lot of books. I mean, really. Because I love reading. And I read lots of young adult books because, well, that’s my genre and what I need to know, and those are the stories I love. But.

Lately, YA books have been getting heavy. Or, at least, the best ones are. Heavy in topic. Heavy in emotion. Heavy in words and pages. Yikes! And even though I’m dying to read them, I find myself staring at the stacks of books on my nightstand warily, putting off opening them because I know that the minute I do, I’ll be sucked into a world of drama.

That’s how I like my YA books.

But no one can read ALL drama, all the time. To do so would be, well, exhausting. Which is why I also have a grand appreciation for short, entertaining books that make me laugh out loud. You know what I mean? Feel good books.

But I’m picky. Always. I still insist on reading books with well defined characters, thoughtful plots, and just all around good writing. Let’s face it. A writer’s style and voice can make or break the book.

The point is I’ve been excited for the release of Secret Sisters for something like two years. Ever since Tristi brought the first chapters of this book to our critique group, I’ve been completely hooked. (And just so you all know, this is the first in a multi-book series, so I’m still hooked.)

Right off the bat, I fell in love with Ida Mae. She’s so matter-of-fact and thoughtful, and just downright fun. Put her together with her sidekicks…er, I mean, Relief Society counselors, Tansy and Arlette, secretary Hannah, and zany—and totally hunky—nephew Ren, and let the spying...um, I mean, sleuthing, um, I mean, investigating begin.

This cast of characters will have you laughing out loud in the middle of the day, perhaps while you’re in the grocery store or driving your car, when out of the blue a great line pops into your head. One such as, “Sister Babbitt, why is the Relief Society here?”

Yes, that really happened. And people stared. I appeared to be nuts. Don’t worry, I’m used to it.

If you’re looking for a quick, light-hearted read that will have you giggling for days after you’ve finished, add Secret Sisters to your list. This one’s a keeper. Thank goodness it’s the first of a series. I know there will be several more books to which I can look forward.

**Afterthought** In reading my own words, it sounds like this is a young adult book, which it is not. Although, young adults would probably like it too. This book has been classified as chick-lit for the elderly. Or just plain old fun!

Here’s the blurb:

Ida Mae Babbitt, president of the Omni 2nd Ward Relief Society, didn’t mean to become a spy. But when visiting teaching stats are low, and she learns that one family under her care is in financial trouble, she’ll do whatever it takes to make sure they have what they need. If that includes planting surveillance cameras in their home and watching them from a parked car in the woods…well, isn’t that what any caring Relief Society president would do?


With the help of her counselors, Arlette and Tansy, Ida Mae soon learns that there’s more to the situation than meets the eye.


But it’s all in a day’s work for the Relief Society.


To purchase your copy of Secret Sisters, click here.


To learn more about the author, Tristi Pinkston, check out her blog or website.

To learn more about Valor Publishing, check out their blog or website.

A Lifetime of Funny

Okay, so you know that road trip we went on last weekend? It required approximately twelve hours of driving. Six there, six back. I know a lot of adults who don’t like being in the car that long, let alone kids.

Before you ask, no, we don’t have a DVD player, portable XBox, Nintendo, or Playstation in our family vehicle. (I know—so archaic!) So what’s a family to do for that many hours? Well, we aren’t completely in living in the stone ages. We do have iPods. But you can only leave those little buds in your ears for so long. We hadn’t gone far before we were chatting, being silly and laughing.

During the drive, I remembered why I write for children. They’re infinitely funnier than most adults, much wiser, and far less jaded.

Take my nine-year old. We’re on the road, driving past lots of billboards. He looks up, sees an advertisement for a casino and, looking puzzled, says, “Two dollar craps? What the…”

He was so serious. So truly confused. I’m still laughing. And I won't even discuss with you the ensuing debate over whether it’s pay or be paid.

Not much later, we passed a sign. Watch for falling rock. My DH pipes up, “When I was a kid, my older brother told me Falling Rock is a lost Native American kid. I spent hours and hours of my life looking for that guy.”

We had a good chuckle over that, but it wasn’t hilarious until the next day. We passed a gray-haired Native American man hiking nearby, and one of the kids shouts, “Hey, I think I found Falling Rock!”

Yeah. We’re a strange bunch. But living life through the eyes of my children gives me a since of wonder and fulfillment that nothing else in my adult life ever could.

Besides, they’ll always keep me laughing.

10 Things That Make Me Happy

My good friend, and fellow author Joyce DiPastena, who is so gracious and kind, gave me this fun new award. Isn’t it cute? To earn the privilege of displaying this button on my blog, I have to first list ten things that make me happy, and then pass the award on to ten bloggy friends. Yay! I love thinking about things that make me happy. So, here goes, in no particular order:

1. Spending time with my family—even if we’re all just sitting around doing nothing more than being home together.

2.Music.

3.Great books that leave me thinking about the characters for weeks after I’ve finished reading them.

4.Making someone else smile.

5.SUNSHINE!

6.The ocean.

7.Watching my children excel at something they love, like playing guitar, piano, basketball, or soccer.

8.Traveling.

9.My husband.

10.Writing a great scene or book—and typing the final words on the final page.

Wow, I could keep going with that. What fun. Thanks again, Joyce! And now, I shall pass this happy-making award on to ten bloggy friends. (I’m going to try to think of people I haven’t nominated in a while for this one.)

1. Carolyn Vawdrey, who is always smiling, every time I see her, without fail. She’s like bottled sunshine.

2. Elana Johnson who recently blogged about the importance of recognizing the small successes in life, and made me really evaluate happiness on a daily, hourly level.

3. Karen Hoover, who I don’t see nearly enough of, but who has found a way to combine so many things, and use them in her writing. For instance, she plays the flute beautifully. Go figure.

4. Elizabeth Mueller, who never fails to say uplifting, happy things on Facebook and Twitter, even when it’s snowing.

5. Suzette Saxton who has come to almost as many of my book-signings as my parents, and whose blonde, curly haired daughters remind me of someone who made me happy when I was young.

6. David J. West, who has a book coming out next week, Heroes of the Fallen, which I am very excited to read. (Congratulations, David.)

7. Frank Cole, who’s Hashbrown Winters books make my youngest son and I laugh like loons. Plus, he’s just an all around nice guy. And his blog is fun to read, too.

8. Heather Justesen who writes deep, thoughtful romance, but always manages to make me laugh through my tears in just the right places.

9. Russ Beck, who is such a great husband to my friend and co-author Cindy, and who comes to every, single signing ready to carry boxes, pass out bookmarks, and play the part of cabana boy every time we need something.

10. Kimberly Job, who had a different last name when I met her, but who is now far more happy than I’ve ever seen her thanks to the new one she now bears.

Okay, that’s ten. There are lots of other people I could mention, but I’ll catch you all the next time around. =) Have a good weekend everyone. And don’t forget to come back here and tell me when you post the ten things that make you happy that go along with this award.

Until next week, write on.

Winners and Other Random-ish Stuff

Hi all! I'm back in town and now feeling so behind in all my writing and blogging things. Guess what I remembered? I had a contest. It ended last Friday and I've been very slow in drawing the winner.

Here's my confession: I almost forgot that little detail. Yes, my bad. The thing is, Easter crept up on me, and with it, spring break. And then we took that little trip I told ya'll about (got those pictures and will share later) and now I'm back and trying to play catch-up. No worries. Other than lots of laundry, I'll get it all done.

First thing's first, though. I have winners to announce. Then on to a quick spotlight, and some other fun info I want to share.

So winner number one, get's to choose a watch:

The Graef Family (entered on Heather Gardener's Fire and Ice blog)

Yay! Clapclapclapclapclap. Cheer. Congratulations.

Winner number two gets to choose between an autographed copy of Wings, a copy of the Darwin Awards, or an autographed copy of Recovering Charles:

Damsel in Dis Dress (entered on Tristi Pinkston's blog)

Yay! cheercheercheerclapclapclapclap! Congratulations on winning.

Winner number three gets to choose between a $25 gift certificate to the Restaurant Morelia in Murray, UT or $25 worth of vinyl lettering by Whaddayawannasay Vinyl Lettering:

L.T. Elliott (for an entry on Ali Cross's blog)

Yayayayayayay! Cheer cheer cheer clapclapclapclap! Congratulations, L.T.!


And just to keep things interesting, L.T. has an option to choose a visit with my critique group. If she chooses something else, the option will fall to Damsel should she want it.

All of you need to email me your snail mail address with your choice of prize by Monday, April 12th at 5:00 pm. Or new winners will be picked. Congratulations everyone!

Okay, moving on. While I was otherwise occupied, I neglected to mention that April is autism awareness month, and because of that, my good friend, Danyelle is hosting a really awesome giveaway to celebrate the upcoming release of her book, (dis)Abilities in the Gospel. Check this out!

April is Autism Awareness Month. 

Specifically, April 2nd  is World Autism Awareness Day! 

"Be Aware. Be Understanding."

This is my very favorite quote. Autism awareness is so important to me, to other parents, and to individuals with autism. I have met so many other parents who have struggled with their kids at a park or store and received comments from those passing by about their child's lack of manners or the parent's lack of discipline. While these comments can be thought of as rude, really they are a result of 1) not being aware of the full situation, and 2) not being kind and understanding.

Even though there's a lot of publicity about autism these days, I often meet people who don't really understand what autism is. Well, guess what? I'm a parent of child with autism and I still don't understand what autism is! Autism just isn't that simple. There's no easy definition or description because it effects each individual differently. You can't just look at someone and say, "Hey, he has autism." If you don't interact with someone who has autism on a daily basis, you will most likely miss any cues that might make you think of autism.

So how can you help if it's not easy to tell if someone has autism? Just be a good community member.The key making parents and individuals with autism feel comfortable - no matter the circumstances - is to be kind and understanding. 

Do you remember that rule your parents taught you about - if you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say anything at all? Live it.

If you encounter a situation where a parent and child are struggling & the groceries go flying or an adult is having a difficult time expressing what he's trying to find in a store and you feel comfortable helping, then do it.  The help could be as simple as picking up the groceries, walking beside the parent to the car, then putting the groceries in the trunk. Something so simple can make a huge impact on a weary parent, whether their child has autism, another disability, or is just a tired kid throwing a tantrum. Do you see how just being a good member of the community can help anyone and make your town a happier place to live? The difference is really just your attitude and being kind.

I challenge you today to make a change, to be more aware of those around you, and to reach out & share a simple act of kindness with just one person. Then do it again tomorrow. Make it a goal each and every day.

Share the Love

Not only is this Autism Awareness Month, but my book, (dis)Abilities and the Gospel, just became available to pre-order! My co-author (Lynn Parsons) and I thought it was divine that our book - which is meant to help families and church leaders teach the gospels to individuals with mental disabilities (including autism) - is beginning it's promotions during such a relevant event. You can learn more about our book here.

To celebrate Autism Awareness Month, my co-author and I are hosting a give away each week.

List of Prizes –

Week 1 – $10 Gift Card to the Autism Speaks store

Week 2 – An autographed copy of (dis)Abilities and the Gospel. Will be mailed when released in June.

Week 3 – 8x10 Autism Awareness Art Print

Week 4 – An autographed copy of (dis)Abilities and the Gospel. Will be mailed when released in June.


This week's give away is a $10 Gift Card to Autism Speaks' store.

Entry Rules:

All entries must be received by noon on April 9th. The winner will be drawn (via random.org) and announced that afternoon. You can enter on both Danyelle's blog & Lynn's blog. All entries will be combined together and a winner drawn each week. You do not need to leave a separate comment for each entry. Just let us know what you did & we’ll add the entry points to our spreadsheet. If you enter via Facebook or Twitter, you must friend us to see your statuses. Also, if your blog is private, we need to either be invited to view your blog or that post won’t be eligible for an entry. Although you are still welcome to blog about the contest and our book! 

How to Enter:


1 entry each - Facebook and/or Tweet about the pre-order w/ link to Valor pre-order link. Please include the Twitter hashtag #DAG.

1 entry each – Facebook and/or Tweet this contest w/ link to Danyelle's post. Please include the Twitter hashtag #DAG.


Danyelle on FB
QOTC on FB

Danyelle on Twitter


Lynn on FB
Lynn on Twitter

2 entries each – Blog about Autism Awareness Month & the book order w/ links to our author websites and the Valor pre-order link. Include the contest information w/ a link to this post for an extra 2 entries.

Danyelle's Author Website
Lynn's Author Website

3 entries – Sign up for our mailing list (snail mail address) & email newsletter. We will only send stuff to you via snail mail if we have a signing coming to your area. The email newsletters vary, but do not come out more than once per week. Your information will not be shared with anyone outside of the two of us. Email Danyelle at QueenOfTheClan@gmail.com  and email Lynn at ldparsons60@gmail.com

5 entries – Pre-order your copy of (dis)Abilities and the Gospel. Click here to pre-order.



Thank you for helping us promote autism awareness and our book. Remember my challenge to each of you and good luck with the give away!

Click here for more information and to enter. Good luck!

Book Review: Women of the Book of Mormon by Heather B. Moore

All right. You know me. I have a published book titled Mormon Mishaps and Mischief. And while my general reading list is mostly national YA fiction—cuz that’s what I love—every once in a while I read something religious as well. It’s good for me.

Admittedly, I’m pretty selective in my religious reading choices. Yes, I have issues. Some of them having to do with my tendency toward boredom. However, having said that, I can honestly say that I LOVE Heather Moore’s work. I’ve read all of her books, and enjoyed every minute of each one. This is the first non-fiction work by Moore, and I have to admit, it took me a while to open the e-file and get started for that reason alone. But when I did finally open it to read, I was surprised at how quickly I was pulled in. This stuff is seriously interesting. I should’ve known I could trust this particular author to tell the facts in an interesting manner.

And not only that, each chapter is headed with spectacular art. The whole book is beautifully done. Here’s the blurb:

Explore the lives, circumstances, and choices of women in the Book of Mormon in this uplifting and inspirational volume that illustrates the parallels between the lives of the women of the Book of Mormon and LDS women today. With new insights on practically every page, author Heather B. Moore explores the written and unwritten stories of the prominent women in the Book of Mormon — taking familiar material and providing vivid details about family dynamics, domestic practices, and other aspects of daily life. By applying historical and cultural contexts to the situations of women like Sariah, Abish, Eve, Mary, and the faithful mothers of the striplings warriors, you will peek beneath the surface of the scriptural accounts to better understand both the righteous women of the Book of Mormon — and the women who didn’t use their agency wisely.

My thoughts:

There are very few women mentioned in the Book of Mormon, so I was surprised by the number of chapters and the parallels that clearly line up between these women and those mentioned in the Bible. The customs and traditions during this era of time seem so difficult in my mind, and yet some select women not only accepted their lot, but embraced it in order to raise righteous children who changed the world with their faith and influence.

Moore manages to give us insights that aren’t necessarily apparent in your every day scripture study. Or at least, not mine. And I appreciate the views, especially the chapter about Eve, and her vision of what had to be done for the good of mankind, rather than having been beguiled into making a bad decision.

I highly recommend this book for all LDS women. This book is a quick read, and makes a great Mother’s Day gift for the faithful women in your life.

To learn more about Heather B. Moore and her other books, click here.

To read a sample chapter of Women of the Book of Mormon, click here.

To purchase your copy of Women of the Book of Mormon, click here.


**I received an electronic file of this book in order to read it and give an honest review. In receiving this file, I have agreed NOT to share or sell it to any other party, thus, it has no monetary value for me. It does, however have intellectual value for which I’m sincerely grateful to the author. And I do believe I shall purchase multiple copies to give as gifts to the important women in my life.

Road Trips and Dam Family Time

Today I’m taking off for Las Vegas with my family. It’s spring break for my kids, and we could all use some wonderful sunshine—which is clearly not happening in Utah right now. But really, the point is spending some time together as a family. Because no matter what happens in life, our family relationships are the most important ones we’ll ever build.

And as I’ve learned all too quickly, children only stay young for a very short while.

This is a road trip, and the plan is to stop off along the way for some hiking and a picnic in gorgeous Southern Utah—since we wanted to go to Moab and didn’t make reservations in time—and then at some point to pay a visit to the Hoover dam. My daughter is hoping to find a dam hamburger (remind me to tell you about Bill, the king of all hamburgers, whom she met—and then ate—in Hawaii). My sons want to see about getting some dam T-shirts, and the rest of us want to take some spectacular dam pictures.

And whatever we do, we’ll make sure to follow the dam rules. Wish us luck with that! (Yes, Mom, I’ll be sure to hold on to my shoes this time. I bet the fish that ate my flip-flop when I was three is long gone.)

The downside of staying in Las Vegas is that practically the whole city is blocked from wireless internet access—even on my awesome iPhone. **frowns** So I won’t be replying to comments until after Thursday. But it isn’t because I don’t love you, my dear readers. It’s just because I’m shopping, and sunning, and seeing a magic show. But whatever I’m doing, it’ll be with my family. My favorite thing in life. And that makes me oh-so-happy.

Have a great week, and happy spring.

Flash Update: First Page Contest

Yes, it's Friday. And Easter weekend. And the beginning of spring break in our school district. But. I just came across a way cool contest all my writerly friends might find interesting. Click here for the important deets. Or visit the Guide to Literary Agents Blog, which is listed on my blog roll in the agent/editor section.

Go. Enter. Join!

Good luck, kids. You'd better hope your beginning is better than mine. Well, according to one agent anyway.

And now back to my previously scheduled weekend off.

Icy Slopes, New Skills, and Ibuprofen to the Rescue

This week, after eighteen and a half years of living in Utah, I took my first ski lesson. The problem isn't that I’m not an outdoors-type girl, or that I’m not willing to try new things necessarily. Just that I’ve never had an intense, mad desire to go flying down an icy slope on two waxed sticks with nothing more than a couple of poles and my body to steer me.

Yeah, well. Can you blame me?

But here’s the thing. Once I had an actual lesson from someone who knows what he’s doing, I realized that skiing isn’t necessarily as hard as I’ve always thought. I actually skied! Without killing myself.

Okay, so yeah, I did biff it once the instructor left me to my own devices, and totally twisted my knee in the wrong direction so badly that by the end of the day I could barely walk. But that’s beside the point. I tried something new and learned a new skill. And I have an economy-sized bottle of Ibuprofen, so it’s all good.

So the next time you think something is too hard, or that you’re not capable of learning a new skill, think again and try it anyway. You might just surprise yourself.

And that is all I have to say about that.


Don't be left out! This weekend is your last chance to enter my contest for lots of fun prizes. Click here for more details.