Sunshine Rodgers's Blog - Posts Tagged "writing"
Laura Thomas. Author Interview
Author Laura Thomas explains that she writes heartwarming encouragement for the soul and has penned novels, children’s stories, devotionals and articles... through that hope-filled lens.
Me: Hello Laura Thomas! You are a published Christian Author. Tell me a little bit about yourself
Laura: I have three Christian romantic suspense novels published as well as a Christian teen fiction trilogy, marriage book, middle-grade novel, several anthology books, devotionals, articles, and stories in magazines and online. I’m a chocoholic mom of three grown children and am married to my high school sweetheart. Originally from the UK, we live in Kelowna, British Columbia as audacious empty-nesters.
Me: Wow! Congrats on your literary success! Tell me about some more about your books.
Laura: My Flight to Freedom series is Christian romantic suspense, published by Anaiah Press. The Glass Bottom Boat, The Lighthouse Baby, and The Orphan Beach can also be read as stand-alone novels and are all stories of hope with some nail-biting tension.
Me: What is next for you? Any new books?
Laura: I just finished writing my latest Christian romantic suspense manuscript and sent it to my literary agent mere days ago, so now I have to be patient—not my forte! It’s a brand-new series set in an idyllic village nestled in the English countryside, and it involves a Canadian photographer, a dashing surgeon, guilt and grief, and the ugly underbelly of the art world.
Me: What inspired you to be an Author?
Laura: Books have always brought me such joy. I was an absolute bookworm as a child and dreamed of being the next Beatrix Potter one day. And then many years later, when I shared my dream of writing a book with my husband, he encouraged me to pursue it… and eventually the author life became a reality!
Me: I love to read, too! Who are your literary influences?
Laura: My all-time favorite book is Little Women, and Louisa May Alcott certainly impacted my desire to be an author when I was a little girl. More recent authors who have inspired me in my writing include Francine Rivers, Colleen Coble, Dee Henderson, Terri Blackstock, and Angela Hunt, for their compelling writing in the world of Christian fiction.
To contact Author Laura Thomas:
Website
Instagram
Facebook
Twitter
Youtube
To purchase Laura's Books:
Amazon
To see the entire post:
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Laura Thomas
Me: Hello Laura Thomas! You are a published Christian Author. Tell me a little bit about yourself
Laura: I have three Christian romantic suspense novels published as well as a Christian teen fiction trilogy, marriage book, middle-grade novel, several anthology books, devotionals, articles, and stories in magazines and online. I’m a chocoholic mom of three grown children and am married to my high school sweetheart. Originally from the UK, we live in Kelowna, British Columbia as audacious empty-nesters.
Me: Wow! Congrats on your literary success! Tell me about some more about your books.
Laura: My Flight to Freedom series is Christian romantic suspense, published by Anaiah Press. The Glass Bottom Boat, The Lighthouse Baby, and The Orphan Beach can also be read as stand-alone novels and are all stories of hope with some nail-biting tension.
Me: What is next for you? Any new books?
Laura: I just finished writing my latest Christian romantic suspense manuscript and sent it to my literary agent mere days ago, so now I have to be patient—not my forte! It’s a brand-new series set in an idyllic village nestled in the English countryside, and it involves a Canadian photographer, a dashing surgeon, guilt and grief, and the ugly underbelly of the art world.
Me: What inspired you to be an Author?
Laura: Books have always brought me such joy. I was an absolute bookworm as a child and dreamed of being the next Beatrix Potter one day. And then many years later, when I shared my dream of writing a book with my husband, he encouraged me to pursue it… and eventually the author life became a reality!
Me: I love to read, too! Who are your literary influences?
Laura: My all-time favorite book is Little Women, and Louisa May Alcott certainly impacted my desire to be an author when I was a little girl. More recent authors who have inspired me in my writing include Francine Rivers, Colleen Coble, Dee Henderson, Terri Blackstock, and Angela Hunt, for their compelling writing in the world of Christian fiction.
To contact Author Laura Thomas:
Website
Youtube
To purchase Laura's Books:
Amazon
To see the entire post:
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Laura Thomas
Joy That Renews: Book of the Month
I wanted to spotlight the book "Joy that Renews" by Steve Akerson as my pick for THE BOOK OF THE MONTH.
Joy That Renews is a devotional book that will bring joy to your heart and refresh your soul.
Genre: a Bible-based devotional.
Pages: 175
What makes your book different from those in its genre? Author Steve Akerson has this to say, "The focus of looking in-depth at one specific verse in each chapter of Psalms brings out the intensity of the situations faced by David and Moses and others. My book allows the reader to find themselves in those situations and apply what the writers learned and experienced to their own lives."
From the author: " I hope my readers gain an understanding of how good God is and how much He wants to put joy in their lives and their hearts. I want my readers to know that there are proven things they can do to destroy the habits and sins that have captured them so they can live in complete freedom."
A quote from the book: "From the look at Psalms 20:7 - "There are so many things in life that will try to grab you. They will whisper that strength and security can be found in them...We are waking up to the truth that the physical things we put our hope in will fail. When you put more and more of your trust and faith in the Lord, your perspective on "things" will change...You will find your future of direction, peace and contentment - the real things of life."
What others are saying about "Joy that Renews":
"Not only does he use the most faithful and potent English version of the Book of Psalms, the Passion Translation, Akerson aligns his heart with King David and the other Psalmists in their pursuit of the grace and lovingkindness of God in the midst of great personal and external challenges and uncertainty. This fresh new book is an invitation to all who seek the shining, benevolent face of God in these anxious times." - Dave Householder – Senior Pastor at The Well at Surf City, Huntington Beach, California. #DiveDeepTogether, Author
"Steve’s devotional from Psalms will set your passion for Jesus on fire. His commentaries will help empower you to experience joy no matter the issue of your heart!" - Mark Strandjord – Missionary, Teacher, Pastor
"Steve’s passion for knowing the Lord is abundantly clear as he shares his heartfelt revelation of the Psalms. Nothing addresses the reality of the human experience quite like the Psalms, and Steve has masterfully captured key verses to ponder, pray and apply to daily life. As he guides you through each reading, may he deposit in you all that the Lord has freely given him and may you discover the true source of a joy that renews." - Mary J. Nelson, pastor and author of Jehovah Rapha: The God Who Heals and Praying for the Cure
To read the entire post:
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Joy That Renews: A devotional from Psalms to refresh your life every day
Steve Akerson
Joy That Renews is a devotional book that will bring joy to your heart and refresh your soul.
Genre: a Bible-based devotional.
Pages: 175
What makes your book different from those in its genre? Author Steve Akerson has this to say, "The focus of looking in-depth at one specific verse in each chapter of Psalms brings out the intensity of the situations faced by David and Moses and others. My book allows the reader to find themselves in those situations and apply what the writers learned and experienced to their own lives."
From the author: " I hope my readers gain an understanding of how good God is and how much He wants to put joy in their lives and their hearts. I want my readers to know that there are proven things they can do to destroy the habits and sins that have captured them so they can live in complete freedom."
A quote from the book: "From the look at Psalms 20:7 - "There are so many things in life that will try to grab you. They will whisper that strength and security can be found in them...We are waking up to the truth that the physical things we put our hope in will fail. When you put more and more of your trust and faith in the Lord, your perspective on "things" will change...You will find your future of direction, peace and contentment - the real things of life."
What others are saying about "Joy that Renews":
"Not only does he use the most faithful and potent English version of the Book of Psalms, the Passion Translation, Akerson aligns his heart with King David and the other Psalmists in their pursuit of the grace and lovingkindness of God in the midst of great personal and external challenges and uncertainty. This fresh new book is an invitation to all who seek the shining, benevolent face of God in these anxious times." - Dave Householder – Senior Pastor at The Well at Surf City, Huntington Beach, California. #DiveDeepTogether, Author
"Steve’s devotional from Psalms will set your passion for Jesus on fire. His commentaries will help empower you to experience joy no matter the issue of your heart!" - Mark Strandjord – Missionary, Teacher, Pastor
"Steve’s passion for knowing the Lord is abundantly clear as he shares his heartfelt revelation of the Psalms. Nothing addresses the reality of the human experience quite like the Psalms, and Steve has masterfully captured key verses to ponder, pray and apply to daily life. As he guides you through each reading, may he deposit in you all that the Lord has freely given him and may you discover the true source of a joy that renews." - Mary J. Nelson, pastor and author of Jehovah Rapha: The God Who Heals and Praying for the Cure
To read the entire post:
http://sunshinerodgersblog.simplesite...
Joy That Renews: A devotional from Psalms to refresh your life every day
Steve Akerson
Authentic. Sept. 5
Whenever I go for a run, I strap in Velcro weights to my ankles, tie in a burner belt, fasten my hair into a tight ponytail and secure my headphones to play music as I walk/run for 1-2 miles a day. With the Florida heat, I look like a crazy mess when I am done, in desperate need of a shower!
As I am running, I look over at a younger girl who is also walking across the sidewalk. Her long hair is down, she is wearing makeup, is not even breaking a sweat.
I thought about the authentic Hustlers.
You know the ones. Some examples include:
I can describe the real writers with books versus the one-book-wonder. The real writers have bags under their eyes from nights of finishing deadlines, their fingers stained with pen marks and bruised from paper cuts.
I can spot those who have been married for years versus those still on their honeymoon. The ones who have been married for decades have a trust in their eyes, a mature spirit when it comes to their spouse and a solid heart towards the other that is only gained through years of togetherness, strength, communication and experience.
If you are in a season where you are persevering....
If you are maturing into your next steps....
If you are becoming all that God has made you to be....
Then celebrate knowing that you represent the Authentic, the real, the raw, the true with your passion, with your beauty, with your grace, with your faith and with your love.
So, keep hustling! And know that your personal effort will pay off in time.
If you need prayer, let me know. I would love to pray for you!
Sunshine Rodgers
As I am running, I look over at a younger girl who is also walking across the sidewalk. Her long hair is down, she is wearing makeup, is not even breaking a sweat.
I thought about the authentic Hustlers.
You know the ones. Some examples include:
I can describe the real writers with books versus the one-book-wonder. The real writers have bags under their eyes from nights of finishing deadlines, their fingers stained with pen marks and bruised from paper cuts.
I can spot those who have been married for years versus those still on their honeymoon. The ones who have been married for decades have a trust in their eyes, a mature spirit when it comes to their spouse and a solid heart towards the other that is only gained through years of togetherness, strength, communication and experience.
If you are in a season where you are persevering....
If you are maturing into your next steps....
If you are becoming all that God has made you to be....
Then celebrate knowing that you represent the Authentic, the real, the raw, the true with your passion, with your beauty, with your grace, with your faith and with your love.
So, keep hustling! And know that your personal effort will pay off in time.
If you need prayer, let me know. I would love to pray for you!
Sunshine Rodgers
Ashalee Bingham: Interview
I wanted to feature Author Ashalee Bingham for the month of November. She is a debut Author, celebrating her first book release, The Lies I Told Myself. Thank you Ashalee for answering some of my questions today!
Me: First Ashalee, let’s begin by telling me a little bit about yourself
Ashalee : I am a Jamaican who loves food! I adore animals, I cherish new experiences, and I love meeting new people. I love a good adventure but I'm also a homebody. I tend to always be the quietest and most observant one in the room however, I can be very outspoken and expressive, especially about the things I am most passionate about. I love to laugh and I find joy in the simplest of things. I believe in making the most out of the life we are given in a way that pleases and honors God, though I have not always done that, I'm learning every day now how to do so.
Me: Congratulations on your new Book Release! What advice would you give to those who are aspiring writers?
Ashalee : Don't overthink it. Your book won't be for everyone and that's ok. Write from the heart and believe in yourself and what you have to say.
Me: What is next for you? Do you have any new books you are working on?
Ashalee : I am looking forward to my book launch on December 4th, 2021. As I am a new Author who just published her first book only a few weeks ago, my goal is to become a best-selling Author and impact as many lives as possible.
Me: Wonderful! And what inspired you to be an Author?
Ashalee : Writing has always been my way of expressing myself as a child and that grew with me into adulthood. I love writing poems and so my mother has always encouraged me to write a book of poems but, for years I doubted whether or not I was good enough to do so. Becoming an Author was a distant dream but, in the most difficult season of my life, I decided that it was time to conquer my fears and step out in faith, and so my journey to becoming an Author began.
Me: What do you hope your readers will gain from reading your book?
Ashalee : My hope is that my readers will be inspired to build a relationship with God, seek His guidance and allow Him to lead them to their purpose and when they discover what that is to not be afraid to live their true authentic selves, believing with certainty that they are made for more.
To connect with Ashalee Bingham:
Instagram
Facebook
LinkedIn
To purchase her book:
Amazon
To view the Author Interview on my website:
http://www.sunshinerodgers.com/featur...
Me: First Ashalee, let’s begin by telling me a little bit about yourself
Ashalee : I am a Jamaican who loves food! I adore animals, I cherish new experiences, and I love meeting new people. I love a good adventure but I'm also a homebody. I tend to always be the quietest and most observant one in the room however, I can be very outspoken and expressive, especially about the things I am most passionate about. I love to laugh and I find joy in the simplest of things. I believe in making the most out of the life we are given in a way that pleases and honors God, though I have not always done that, I'm learning every day now how to do so.
Me: Congratulations on your new Book Release! What advice would you give to those who are aspiring writers?
Ashalee : Don't overthink it. Your book won't be for everyone and that's ok. Write from the heart and believe in yourself and what you have to say.
Me: What is next for you? Do you have any new books you are working on?
Ashalee : I am looking forward to my book launch on December 4th, 2021. As I am a new Author who just published her first book only a few weeks ago, my goal is to become a best-selling Author and impact as many lives as possible.
Me: Wonderful! And what inspired you to be an Author?
Ashalee : Writing has always been my way of expressing myself as a child and that grew with me into adulthood. I love writing poems and so my mother has always encouraged me to write a book of poems but, for years I doubted whether or not I was good enough to do so. Becoming an Author was a distant dream but, in the most difficult season of my life, I decided that it was time to conquer my fears and step out in faith, and so my journey to becoming an Author began.
Me: What do you hope your readers will gain from reading your book?
Ashalee : My hope is that my readers will be inspired to build a relationship with God, seek His guidance and allow Him to lead them to their purpose and when they discover what that is to not be afraid to live their true authentic selves, believing with certainty that they are made for more.
To connect with Ashalee Bingham:
To purchase her book:
Amazon
To view the Author Interview on my website:
http://www.sunshinerodgers.com/featur...
Author Interview: Sunshine Rodgers
Thank you Sarah S. for conducting this Author Interview on her blog: For the Love of Literature as she sits down with author Sunshine Rodgers.
1. Which author has most influenced your own writing?
One of my favorite authors is C.S. Lewis and I would say, he has most definitely influenced my writing! I love how speculative and outright he is with his faith. I would dare say that I enjoy Lewis’ Nonfiction and Christian Adult Fiction over his Children’s books. I never grew up reading The Chronicles of Narnia series, finishing those books in my later years.
My PG-13 Christian Dark Fiction novel, After You: A Demon is Always Lurking Nearby is a modern-day twist on Lewis’ classic The Screwtape Letters.
C.S. Lewis likes to create Jesus Christ and God as fantastical characters in his stories. In his book, The Great Divorce, the story is set in Heaven and is a perfect introspection on the majesty of Paradise and the heart of Christ.
I like to also set my books in Heaven and I also write speculative fiction pieces such as: This is My Heaven, The Creation Project and The Roland Sisters and the Spirit Program. I also make Jesus Christ, God and the Holy Spirit into main characters, primarily in my Christian Fiction pieces.
2. Describe your books in five words.
I’ve written 10 Books:
Christian Nonfiction:
God the Father, Jesus the Big Brother, Holy Spirit the Best Friend: Closeness with the Holy Trinity
Christian Children’s Books:
Last Night, When I Prayed: Prayer Works and Demons Flee
Helpers: A Rescue Mission: Angels in School help Students
Christian Fiction:
This is My Heaven: God is with you. Always.
After You: A Demon is Always Lurking Nearby: Jesus wins over your demons
The Creation Project: Creation Story from God’s perspective
The Ring Does Not Fit: Return back to First Love
The Roland Sisters and The Spirit Program: Divine Healing from Mental Health
Inspirational Adult Fiction:
The Characters Within: Theme Park craziness inspires Author
Andrew’s First Act: Andrew’s attempt at Stand-up Comedy
3. What is your favorite book?
My all-time favorite book is Wild at Heart by John Eldredge. I absolutely love this author; I own nearly all of his books!
Wild at Heart really speaks to me because Eldredge inspires the reader to live life from a place of passion and pursuit. He tells stories of daring feats and exotic places. Eldredge shares the Gospel message in a new light as our faith is: A Battle to fight, an Adventure to live and a Beauty to rescue.
4. Do you prefer traditional books, ebooks, or audiobooks?
I prefer traditional books. I usually read about 2-3 books at a time. I love to fold the corner of the pages and highlight and underline the text. I have about 3 bookshelves full of books and I need to make room for more! I can spend hours at a bookstore!
I usually read Christian Nonfiction books and my favorite authors are: John Eldredge, C.S. Lewis, Joyce Meyer, Max Lucado and T.D. Jakes.
You can follow me on Goodreads ( https://bit.ly/3pf7liq ) as I am constantly writing book reviews and updating my reading lists.
5. If you could live inside a book, which one would it be?
Growing up, my favorite book series was Animorphs by K.A. Applegate. I absolutely loved reading about the alien invasion by the Yeerks and this ragtag team sent to stop them by using their supernatural morphing abilities.
Did you know that Nickelodeon had a TV show “Animorphs”? I was all excited to watch that!
I would LOVE to be an Animorph, fighting alongside Jake and Rachel. I would stay in Cassie’s farm and laugh at the mall with Marco. My animal of choice (as each character does prefer one) would be a parrot because I could fly and grab things with my talons.
I could help save the world with this unique group of heroes.
6. What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Turn off your inner critic. Don’t let the process scare you. Take it one page at a time. Write what you are passionate about. And stay calm.
My first book took 4 years before it became an International Best Seller on Amazon. Being a successful Author will take time but the journey is worth it. Be your own cheerleader. Celebrate the milestones in your Author career. And learn to love what you do; the passion will fly off the pages! And whatever you do…KEEP WRITING!!
To read the entire Author Interview:
https://bit.ly/3FwGgvx
Sunshine Rodgers
1. Which author has most influenced your own writing?
One of my favorite authors is C.S. Lewis and I would say, he has most definitely influenced my writing! I love how speculative and outright he is with his faith. I would dare say that I enjoy Lewis’ Nonfiction and Christian Adult Fiction over his Children’s books. I never grew up reading The Chronicles of Narnia series, finishing those books in my later years.
My PG-13 Christian Dark Fiction novel, After You: A Demon is Always Lurking Nearby is a modern-day twist on Lewis’ classic The Screwtape Letters.
C.S. Lewis likes to create Jesus Christ and God as fantastical characters in his stories. In his book, The Great Divorce, the story is set in Heaven and is a perfect introspection on the majesty of Paradise and the heart of Christ.
I like to also set my books in Heaven and I also write speculative fiction pieces such as: This is My Heaven, The Creation Project and The Roland Sisters and the Spirit Program. I also make Jesus Christ, God and the Holy Spirit into main characters, primarily in my Christian Fiction pieces.
2. Describe your books in five words.
I’ve written 10 Books:
Christian Nonfiction:
God the Father, Jesus the Big Brother, Holy Spirit the Best Friend: Closeness with the Holy Trinity
Christian Children’s Books:
Last Night, When I Prayed: Prayer Works and Demons Flee
Helpers: A Rescue Mission: Angels in School help Students
Christian Fiction:
This is My Heaven: God is with you. Always.
After You: A Demon is Always Lurking Nearby: Jesus wins over your demons
The Creation Project: Creation Story from God’s perspective
The Ring Does Not Fit: Return back to First Love
The Roland Sisters and The Spirit Program: Divine Healing from Mental Health
Inspirational Adult Fiction:
The Characters Within: Theme Park craziness inspires Author
Andrew’s First Act: Andrew’s attempt at Stand-up Comedy
3. What is your favorite book?
My all-time favorite book is Wild at Heart by John Eldredge. I absolutely love this author; I own nearly all of his books!
Wild at Heart really speaks to me because Eldredge inspires the reader to live life from a place of passion and pursuit. He tells stories of daring feats and exotic places. Eldredge shares the Gospel message in a new light as our faith is: A Battle to fight, an Adventure to live and a Beauty to rescue.
4. Do you prefer traditional books, ebooks, or audiobooks?
I prefer traditional books. I usually read about 2-3 books at a time. I love to fold the corner of the pages and highlight and underline the text. I have about 3 bookshelves full of books and I need to make room for more! I can spend hours at a bookstore!
I usually read Christian Nonfiction books and my favorite authors are: John Eldredge, C.S. Lewis, Joyce Meyer, Max Lucado and T.D. Jakes.
You can follow me on Goodreads ( https://bit.ly/3pf7liq ) as I am constantly writing book reviews and updating my reading lists.
5. If you could live inside a book, which one would it be?
Growing up, my favorite book series was Animorphs by K.A. Applegate. I absolutely loved reading about the alien invasion by the Yeerks and this ragtag team sent to stop them by using their supernatural morphing abilities.
Did you know that Nickelodeon had a TV show “Animorphs”? I was all excited to watch that!
I would LOVE to be an Animorph, fighting alongside Jake and Rachel. I would stay in Cassie’s farm and laugh at the mall with Marco. My animal of choice (as each character does prefer one) would be a parrot because I could fly and grab things with my talons.
I could help save the world with this unique group of heroes.
6. What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
Turn off your inner critic. Don’t let the process scare you. Take it one page at a time. Write what you are passionate about. And stay calm.
My first book took 4 years before it became an International Best Seller on Amazon. Being a successful Author will take time but the journey is worth it. Be your own cheerleader. Celebrate the milestones in your Author career. And learn to love what you do; the passion will fly off the pages! And whatever you do…KEEP WRITING!!
To read the entire Author Interview:
https://bit.ly/3FwGgvx
Sunshine Rodgers
Author Interview: Sunshine Rodgers
Author Interview: Sunshine Rodgers
Hosted by Tabitha Bouldin
Blog: Through the Fire Blogs
How many unpublished or half-finished novels do you have?
Do you think you’ll ever complete all of them?
Right now, I have 2 unfinished novels and I will complete them. I’ll explain why.
I’m always writing about 2-books at time which is why I can celebrate a new Book release every 4-6 months.
It’s become quite routine. I give a completed manuscript to my editors and start on a new one. It takes some time for my artists to create the cover designs, my editors to come back with markings and for me to look over and sign book contracts.
So, I use this in-between time to start working on new pages and doing research for my next release.
Right now, my Romance Fiction book Once Upon a Time…In a Dental Office is with one of my editors. It’s currently not published but it will be in a few months.
While that one is “cooking in the oven” (as I call it), I am writing a book tentatively called Be the Sunshine, a Nonfiction piece about spreading joy and kindness to others. This one is not complete and I am currently writing the First Draft.
Do you have a writing schedule? A specific time of day or hours per day that you write?
I try to make writing a full-time priority. I have an office in my house that has the perfect setup: candles, music, space to pace around and think, no distractions!
At the very least, I write an hour a day. I do not have a writing schedule. I just use up every available hour of my day to put pen to paper, sometimes staying up at odd hours of the night to get pages done and to meet deadlines.
Do you hide little secrets in your books?
I love to add real-life people as characters for my stories. In fact, I’ve used over 50 of my friends on the pages in my books.
I do this because I want to add realism to the piece and because I think it’s fun to include my friends as main characters or pop up characters.
My husband, Travis Rodgers, is an “easter egg” character in every book!
Even though this is something unique to me as an Author, it does create challenges.
My friends need to fill out permission forms so I can use their name and likeness. If my friends are a main character, they fill out a questionnaire so I can craft the character to be similar to that person.
This does add extra work for me, but I love when the book gets launched and all my friends are excited.
What was the most challenging aspect of your latest novel?
My last novel was Andrew’s First Act which was released in August, 2021. I write my stories from a first-person narrative, and this book was from Andrew Masterson’s point-of-view. I really had to embrace being a male character and seeing things from his perspective.
Needless to say, my husband, Travis, had to help me with this piece.
Also, Andrew’s First Act is about Andrew trying to become a Stand-up Comedian in New York City. I had to come up with original jokes for my story. I watched a lot of Stand-up comedians like Jerry Seinfeld, Brian Regan and Jim Gaffigan as research for this book!
To read the entire Author Interview: https://bit.ly/3FUv0JQ
Sunshine Rodgers
Hosted by Tabitha Bouldin
Blog: Through the Fire Blogs
How many unpublished or half-finished novels do you have?
Do you think you’ll ever complete all of them?
Right now, I have 2 unfinished novels and I will complete them. I’ll explain why.
I’m always writing about 2-books at time which is why I can celebrate a new Book release every 4-6 months.
It’s become quite routine. I give a completed manuscript to my editors and start on a new one. It takes some time for my artists to create the cover designs, my editors to come back with markings and for me to look over and sign book contracts.
So, I use this in-between time to start working on new pages and doing research for my next release.
Right now, my Romance Fiction book Once Upon a Time…In a Dental Office is with one of my editors. It’s currently not published but it will be in a few months.
While that one is “cooking in the oven” (as I call it), I am writing a book tentatively called Be the Sunshine, a Nonfiction piece about spreading joy and kindness to others. This one is not complete and I am currently writing the First Draft.
Do you have a writing schedule? A specific time of day or hours per day that you write?
I try to make writing a full-time priority. I have an office in my house that has the perfect setup: candles, music, space to pace around and think, no distractions!
At the very least, I write an hour a day. I do not have a writing schedule. I just use up every available hour of my day to put pen to paper, sometimes staying up at odd hours of the night to get pages done and to meet deadlines.
Do you hide little secrets in your books?
I love to add real-life people as characters for my stories. In fact, I’ve used over 50 of my friends on the pages in my books.
I do this because I want to add realism to the piece and because I think it’s fun to include my friends as main characters or pop up characters.
My husband, Travis Rodgers, is an “easter egg” character in every book!
Even though this is something unique to me as an Author, it does create challenges.
My friends need to fill out permission forms so I can use their name and likeness. If my friends are a main character, they fill out a questionnaire so I can craft the character to be similar to that person.
This does add extra work for me, but I love when the book gets launched and all my friends are excited.
What was the most challenging aspect of your latest novel?
My last novel was Andrew’s First Act which was released in August, 2021. I write my stories from a first-person narrative, and this book was from Andrew Masterson’s point-of-view. I really had to embrace being a male character and seeing things from his perspective.
Needless to say, my husband, Travis, had to help me with this piece.
Also, Andrew’s First Act is about Andrew trying to become a Stand-up Comedian in New York City. I had to come up with original jokes for my story. I watched a lot of Stand-up comedians like Jerry Seinfeld, Brian Regan and Jim Gaffigan as research for this book!
To read the entire Author Interview: https://bit.ly/3FUv0JQ
Sunshine Rodgers
Author Interview: Ruth Marie Paterson
I wanted to feature Author Ruth Marie Paterson, a poet who penned the book Gently Planted. She also has a second book of poetry Sharp Edges, coming out this spring/summer! I asked Ruth…”What’s In Your Bag?”
Me: So, tell me about Gently Planted, the green book in the middle.
Ruth: It’s a collection of poetry which I wrote during a pivotal year when I was graduating college, moving into my first apartment, and falling in love with my now husband. It was a crazy year full of ups and downs, and it caused me to visit these deep places in myself and in my relationship with God, bringing these poems to life.
Me: Very fun! And you mentioned your husband. Is that a picture of you two?
Ruth: Before I met Andrew, I had been praying for so long about my future husband. We met each other at just the right time in our lives, and God certainly wrote our love story—we had a whirlwind romance, getting engaged only 5 ½ months after we started dating! Now we have been married for a year and a half, and we are so happy and thankful.
Me: And what is that prayer towards the bottom?
Ruth: I have a copy of the Franciscan Blessing. You should look it up and read it if you're not familiar with it, but it’s basically this beautiful prayer that God would use us to seek justice and care for the poor. One of my favorite lines: “May God bless us with discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships, so that we may live deep within our hearts.” This prayer has helped me have the courage to go outside of my comfort zone to love and serve others.
Me: That’s beautiful. And what’s also very pretty is that hand drawn picture.
Ruth: A picture that one of my best friends gave me. It is a drawing of me, my sister, and my friend. I love the way this picture captures the friendship that we have shared over the years. My sisters and I are very close, and we often share a lot of the same friends. Looking at this picture reminds me of the special bonds of sisterhood, and the bonds of friends that are nearly like sisters.
To read the entire Author Interview:
http://www.sunshinerodgers.com/what-i...
Ruth Marie Paterson
Me: So, tell me about Gently Planted, the green book in the middle.
Ruth: It’s a collection of poetry which I wrote during a pivotal year when I was graduating college, moving into my first apartment, and falling in love with my now husband. It was a crazy year full of ups and downs, and it caused me to visit these deep places in myself and in my relationship with God, bringing these poems to life.
Me: Very fun! And you mentioned your husband. Is that a picture of you two?
Ruth: Before I met Andrew, I had been praying for so long about my future husband. We met each other at just the right time in our lives, and God certainly wrote our love story—we had a whirlwind romance, getting engaged only 5 ½ months after we started dating! Now we have been married for a year and a half, and we are so happy and thankful.
Me: And what is that prayer towards the bottom?
Ruth: I have a copy of the Franciscan Blessing. You should look it up and read it if you're not familiar with it, but it’s basically this beautiful prayer that God would use us to seek justice and care for the poor. One of my favorite lines: “May God bless us with discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships, so that we may live deep within our hearts.” This prayer has helped me have the courage to go outside of my comfort zone to love and serve others.
Me: That’s beautiful. And what’s also very pretty is that hand drawn picture.
Ruth: A picture that one of my best friends gave me. It is a drawing of me, my sister, and my friend. I love the way this picture captures the friendship that we have shared over the years. My sisters and I are very close, and we often share a lot of the same friends. Looking at this picture reminds me of the special bonds of sisterhood, and the bonds of friends that are nearly like sisters.
To read the entire Author Interview:
http://www.sunshinerodgers.com/what-i...
Ruth Marie Paterson
Author Interview : Naomi Craig
For the month of March, I wanted to feature Naomi Craig who is an Author of Biblical fiction novels, avid reader and pastor's wife. Naomi turns the Holy Scriptures into real and relatable stories, and she hopes her readers can relate to "the aspect of faith in the midst of these soul-deep struggles."
Me: Hey Naomi! Tell me about some of your more recent books.
Naomi: My debut novel, Rahab’s Courage covers Rahab from the book of Joshua. The scriptures are clear that Rahab was a harlot, so this book addresses her struggles to adapt to a new life and culture as well as sorting through the emotional baggage from her life in Jericho. On the other side of it, her husband, Salmah, is mentioned in the Bible as the son of the leader of the tribe of Judah. Tragically the father was in the generation that was forbidden from entering the promised land. Why would someone who grew up with seeing the consequences of sin—and the push towards holiness—end up with a Canaanite harlot?
Me: What do you hope your readers will gain from reading your books?
Naomi: I hope readers will come away with a sense of belonging. To the Lord, first and foremost, but also to know that they are seen. My characters have real struggles and maybe don’t go about getting through them in easy ways, because I don’t find easy ways to make everything turn out right in my own life. I hope readers can relate to the aspect of faith in the midst of soul-deep struggles.
Me: So fascinating! And what advice would you give to those who are aspiring authors?
Naomi: Write the best story you know how to. Learn and grow in your craft. Share your work with others, then apply what you have learned and fine tune it. Your manuscript will naturally improve.
Me: Tell me a little bit about yourself
Naomi: I love reading the Bible and imagining how things were at the time. When I’m not serving in various areas at church or trying to stay on top of mountains of dishes, you'll most likely find me enjoying a good book and a cup of coffee. I co-host #BehindTheStory, a Christian author interview show on YouTube and wherever you listen to podcasts. When I'm not writing and trying to wrangle social media, I am trying to get my rescue dog to be cute on command for Instagram reels.
Me: What is next for you? Any new Books?
Naomi: Ezekiel’s Song comes out in August of 2022. This story takes place in the book of Ezekiel. I’m sure you are familiar with some of the bizarre things in this prophet’s book? The wheel within the wheel, dead bones living, being instructed to make food over a fire fueled by human waste. This story takes a peek at the lives that would have been affected by these symbols and prophecies.
To Purchase Naomi's books
Amazon
To contact Naomi Craig:
Website : Download your free novella, On Desolate Heights about Balaam and his talking donkey.
Facebook
Instagram
To read the entire Author Interview: http://www.sunshinerodgers.com/featur...
Rahab's Courage
Naomi Craig
Me: Hey Naomi! Tell me about some of your more recent books.
Naomi: My debut novel, Rahab’s Courage covers Rahab from the book of Joshua. The scriptures are clear that Rahab was a harlot, so this book addresses her struggles to adapt to a new life and culture as well as sorting through the emotional baggage from her life in Jericho. On the other side of it, her husband, Salmah, is mentioned in the Bible as the son of the leader of the tribe of Judah. Tragically the father was in the generation that was forbidden from entering the promised land. Why would someone who grew up with seeing the consequences of sin—and the push towards holiness—end up with a Canaanite harlot?
Me: What do you hope your readers will gain from reading your books?
Naomi: I hope readers will come away with a sense of belonging. To the Lord, first and foremost, but also to know that they are seen. My characters have real struggles and maybe don’t go about getting through them in easy ways, because I don’t find easy ways to make everything turn out right in my own life. I hope readers can relate to the aspect of faith in the midst of soul-deep struggles.
Me: So fascinating! And what advice would you give to those who are aspiring authors?
Naomi: Write the best story you know how to. Learn and grow in your craft. Share your work with others, then apply what you have learned and fine tune it. Your manuscript will naturally improve.
Me: Tell me a little bit about yourself
Naomi: I love reading the Bible and imagining how things were at the time. When I’m not serving in various areas at church or trying to stay on top of mountains of dishes, you'll most likely find me enjoying a good book and a cup of coffee. I co-host #BehindTheStory, a Christian author interview show on YouTube and wherever you listen to podcasts. When I'm not writing and trying to wrangle social media, I am trying to get my rescue dog to be cute on command for Instagram reels.
Me: What is next for you? Any new Books?
Naomi: Ezekiel’s Song comes out in August of 2022. This story takes place in the book of Ezekiel. I’m sure you are familiar with some of the bizarre things in this prophet’s book? The wheel within the wheel, dead bones living, being instructed to make food over a fire fueled by human waste. This story takes a peek at the lives that would have been affected by these symbols and prophecies.
To Purchase Naomi's books
Amazon
To contact Naomi Craig:
Website : Download your free novella, On Desolate Heights about Balaam and his talking donkey.
To read the entire Author Interview: http://www.sunshinerodgers.com/featur...
Rahab's Courage
Naomi Craig
Author Interview : Allison Ramirez
For the month of April, I wanted to feature Allison Ramirez who is an Author, editor, and content creator. She has written a devotional journal called Breathe Deeply and she hopes readers gain a deeper closeness to God when they read her book.
Me: Thanks for joining me, Allison! First, why don’t you tell me a little bit about yourself.
Allison: I’m a Catholic Author, editor, and content creator. I live in Washington State with my husband, Nathan, and as my day job outside of writing and editing, I coordinate the faith formation programs at my local parish including Bible studies, Youth Groups, Retreats and more. I love snuggling up with a good book, going on hikes, and spending time with my family, friends, and many pets.
Me: Congrats on your new book! What advice would you give to those who are aspiring Authors?
Allison: My greatest advice for aspiring Authors would be to seek out community as a writer. Writing can be such solitary work, so to have a community of friendly fellow writers who can support, encourage, serve as beta readers or critique partners, and help promote what you’re up to can be tremendously valuable. We need to support and lift up one another!
Me: Tell me about your debut book.
Allison: My recent (and debut!) book is titled Breathe Deeply: The Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary as Invitations to Peace. This is a non-fiction, devotional journal with stories, meditations, prayers, journaling pages, discussion questions and more, to help readers, especially those dealing with stress and anxiety, to discover greater joy and peace through the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary. These are scriptural stories all about Jesus’ birth, upbringing, and early family life. My book is currently available for purchase on Amazon as both a paperback and kindle edition.
Me: How exciting! What inspired you to be an Author?
Allison: Ever since I can remember, I have always wanted to be an Author. I loved reading and writing stories ever since I was a little girl. It felt right that I would pursue these joys as an adult, and after receiving my Bachelor’s in English Creative Writing, I haven’t looked back since.
Me: What is a fun fact about you?
Allison: I currently have eight pets which include dogs, bunnies, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, and fish! I hope to one day live out in a small county farm home. I also participated in 4-H for nearly ten years, training and showing dogs.
Me: And finally, what do you hope your readers will gain from reading your book?
Allison: More than anything, I hope readers gain a deeper closeness to God when they read my books. I like to write about a good God working within a broken world and being present to love and guide each and every one of us if we are willing to open our hearts to him and to his love for us.
To connect with Author Allison Ramirez:
Website
Instagram
Facebook
To purchase her book, Breathe Deeply:
Amazon
http://www.sunshinerodgers.com/featur...
Breathe Deeply: The Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary as Invitations to PeaceAllison DeBoer-Ramirez
Me: Thanks for joining me, Allison! First, why don’t you tell me a little bit about yourself.
Allison: I’m a Catholic Author, editor, and content creator. I live in Washington State with my husband, Nathan, and as my day job outside of writing and editing, I coordinate the faith formation programs at my local parish including Bible studies, Youth Groups, Retreats and more. I love snuggling up with a good book, going on hikes, and spending time with my family, friends, and many pets.
Me: Congrats on your new book! What advice would you give to those who are aspiring Authors?
Allison: My greatest advice for aspiring Authors would be to seek out community as a writer. Writing can be such solitary work, so to have a community of friendly fellow writers who can support, encourage, serve as beta readers or critique partners, and help promote what you’re up to can be tremendously valuable. We need to support and lift up one another!
Me: Tell me about your debut book.
Allison: My recent (and debut!) book is titled Breathe Deeply: The Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary as Invitations to Peace. This is a non-fiction, devotional journal with stories, meditations, prayers, journaling pages, discussion questions and more, to help readers, especially those dealing with stress and anxiety, to discover greater joy and peace through the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary. These are scriptural stories all about Jesus’ birth, upbringing, and early family life. My book is currently available for purchase on Amazon as both a paperback and kindle edition.
Me: How exciting! What inspired you to be an Author?
Allison: Ever since I can remember, I have always wanted to be an Author. I loved reading and writing stories ever since I was a little girl. It felt right that I would pursue these joys as an adult, and after receiving my Bachelor’s in English Creative Writing, I haven’t looked back since.
Me: What is a fun fact about you?
Allison: I currently have eight pets which include dogs, bunnies, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, and fish! I hope to one day live out in a small county farm home. I also participated in 4-H for nearly ten years, training and showing dogs.
Me: And finally, what do you hope your readers will gain from reading your book?
Allison: More than anything, I hope readers gain a deeper closeness to God when they read my books. I like to write about a good God working within a broken world and being present to love and guide each and every one of us if we are willing to open our hearts to him and to his love for us.
To connect with Author Allison Ramirez:
Website
To purchase her book, Breathe Deeply:
Amazon
http://www.sunshinerodgers.com/featur...
Breathe Deeply: The Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary as Invitations to PeaceAllison DeBoer-Ramirez
Attitude. June 26
I want to remind you today to…Choose the right attitude. Come into work with a pleasant demeanor. Shift the atmosphere for the better. Watch for ways on how you can be a blessing to others. And watch what you say and what you do. Let me remind you, when people like you, they want to work with you and that favor will open doors and connectors will want to elevate you.
I recall a certain celebrity who is not casted for movies anymore and the supposed reason is because she is difficult to work with.
I don't want to be that person. I want to stay positive and maintain those connections and be slow to burn any bridges, apologizing (even if it's not my fault), keeping the peace and staying humble.
I was watching the movie, The Internship (2013), and the deciding vote to approve Billy and Nick for the job opportunity was this one question:
Lyle: Our final judgment is always based on the layover test, right? 'Who would you rather be stuck next to at an airport bar for a six-hour delay?'
It's important to me that I work well with others, that I make everyone feel good in my presence and I purposely bring the light and keep the situation calm. I know it helps others and it is also in the best interest for myself to remain professional and steady in the public eye.
Just a suggestion to you.
If you need prayer for anything, let me know. I would love to pray for you.
http://www.sunshinerodgers.com/blog-....
Sunshine Rodgers
I recall a certain celebrity who is not casted for movies anymore and the supposed reason is because she is difficult to work with.
I don't want to be that person. I want to stay positive and maintain those connections and be slow to burn any bridges, apologizing (even if it's not my fault), keeping the peace and staying humble.
I was watching the movie, The Internship (2013), and the deciding vote to approve Billy and Nick for the job opportunity was this one question:
Lyle: Our final judgment is always based on the layover test, right? 'Who would you rather be stuck next to at an airport bar for a six-hour delay?'
It's important to me that I work well with others, that I make everyone feel good in my presence and I purposely bring the light and keep the situation calm. I know it helps others and it is also in the best interest for myself to remain professional and steady in the public eye.
Just a suggestion to you.
If you need prayer for anything, let me know. I would love to pray for you.
http://www.sunshinerodgers.com/blog-....
Sunshine Rodgers
