ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) Conference 2018 (Nashville, TN)

I recently had the privilege of attending the ACFW Conference in Nashville, TN, which was held at the beautiful Gaylord Opryland Hotel on September 20-22, 2018. Close to 500 attendees were given the opportunity to attend various workshops designed to hone the craft of writing. Agents and editor appointments were also available. There were over 150 first-time attendees! The conference attracts aspiring and established writers (both independently and traditionally published). For a book lover, who also happens to be an editor and reviewer, this trip was a fabulous experience.

Here are a few photos from the hotel.

One of the highlights of the conference was meeting bestselling author Debbie Macomber. She kicked the conference off on Thursday (September 20, 2018) with her keynote speech. In addition to being a wonderful writer, she is an encouraging and inspiring speaker, as well. (I'll admit to some massive fangirling! 😊) I learned that she loves devotional books. I talked to her about how I'd written some, and I asked if she'd like a copy of the book which contains ten devotions I wrote ... and she said, "Yes." What an honor this moment was for me!

In addition to Debbie Macomber, I was able to meet three authors I've wanted to meet for some time, as I've edited two books each for them.

with author Marilyn Turk (I've edited two of her books: The Gilded Curse and Shadowed by a Spy)

with author/agent Linda S. Glaz (I've edited two of her books: Fear is Louder than Words and Blow Out the Candles)

with author Rachel Dylan (I've edited two of her books: Fatal Accusation and Surrounded by Darkness.)

The first day ended with the Milestones Celebration Dinner, where authors were honored for reaching significant publishing milestones (25, 50, 75, 100, or 100+ published novels). The amount of talent on the stage at one time was truly amazing to witness.

Friday began with the Zone Breakfast, where attendees could interact with other writers in their general area. This was also the first full day of workshops, with learning tracks designed for various levels, and they included information on starting your career, indie and hybrid publishing, and more.

Friday evening was open, and some authors met with their publishing houses or explored the area. My husband and I decided to attend a show at the famed Grand Ole Opry, which is something that's been on my bucket list for years. And it did not disappoint! I was super excited that John Schneider (who played "Bo Duke" on The Dukes of Hazard) was on the bill, along with Aaron Lewis, Debbie Boone, The Swon Brothers, Connie Smith, Kelsea Ballerini, and a few others.

Saturday was another full day of sessions. Workshops included topics such as "Writing a Series Your Readers Will Love" (by Tamera Alexander), panels on women's fiction and romantic suspense (hosted by authors such as Colleen Coble and Deborah Raney), Business for Indies, How to Grow Your Newsletter List and Maximize Your Impact, How to Write a Proposal that Sells, and Covers that Sell.

My morning was spent participating in two panels (Emerging Trends Experts Panel and Count Your Stars - What Professional Reviewers are Looking for in a Story). It was an informative and fun time spent with a number of wonderful ladies. That afternoon, I had the honor of interviewing some amazing authors (Carrie Stuart Parks, Leslie Gould, Heidi Chiavaroli, Lynn Blackburn, and Rachel Forhdam). I'll be posting about the interviews at a later date.

The conference wrapped up Saturday night with the Awards Gala, which celebrated the winners of the best-of-the-best in Christian fiction. Here we are prior to the gala.

Author Liz Curtis Higgs won the Lifetime Achievement Award, Jim Hart (Hartline Literary Agency) won Agent of the Year, and Revell's Andrea Doering won Editor of the Year.

Here are the Carol Award winners. (And if you're looking to add some books to your TBR pile, I've listed all the winners and their books below the photo.)

Carol Awards winners at the ACFW Awards Gala 2018. Pictured (from l-r): Heidi Chiavaroli, Sarah Tipton, Melanie Dobson, Morgan Busse, Tamera Alexander, Carrie Stuart Parks, Susan May Warren (not pictured: Candace Calvert, Melissa Tagg, Susan Sleeman).

Contemporary: Maybe It's You By Candace Calvert
Historical: Catching the Wind by Melanie Dobson
Historical Romance: A Note yet Unsung by Tamera Alexander
Mystery/Suspense/Thriller: Portrait of Vengence Carrie Stuart Parks
Novella: One Enchanted Noel from Enchanted: A Christmas Collection by Melissa Tagg
Romance: A Matter of Trust by Susan May Warren
Romantic Suspense: Fatal Mistake by Susan Sleeman
Short Novel: Christmas at Carnton by Tamera Alexander
Speculative: Awakened by Morgan L. Busse
Young Adult: Betrayal of the Band by Sarah Tipton
Debut: Freedom's Ring by Heidi Chiavaroli

"Maybe It's You" by Candace Calvert ... and a GIVEAWAY!

In celebration of her latest release, Candace has graciously offered to give away a hard copy of the book (US Only). To enter, see the Rafflecopter box at the bottom of this post. (Contest ends April 7, 2017.) If you are the randomly chosen winner, I'll contact you and pass on your information. Good luck!

A Word from Candace...

Hi Leslie! 

It’s a delight to be here with you and your readers—thank you for the hospitality.

Today I thought I’d offer a short, fun glimpse “behind the scenes” in the writing of this hopeful story.  I promise it has zip/nada to do with red pencil edits, deadline panic attacks, or the correct use of semicolons.

It has everything to do with a question every author is asked: “Are your characters real people?”

The usual author disclaimer is NO (in a sentence of carefully worded legalese just inside the cover). But I make no such promises about minor characters who often, in a major way, add just the right flavor to a story. Not only are they “real people,” they are often READERS.

Yes, really. I get a total kick out of spontaneously inviting readers into my stories as characters. I usually do this via Facebook, totally impromptu, and so far nobody’s turned me down. Good folks like . . .

WILMA M who appears as a neighbor to the heroine in Trauma Plan:

 . . . Her next door neighbor clutched a handful of envelopes against her purple blouse, the other hand holding fast to the leash of her rambunctious border collie. “Got some of your mail delivered to my box.” Wilma stepped closer, blinking as Riley’s string of motion sensor floodlights lit her hair like moonlight on Colorado snow . . .

THENA C, real life poet, who became our hero’s aunt in By Your Side:

 . . . Fletcher smiled. Thena was a published poet. He hadn’t had a birthday he could remember—to date—when he didn’t receive a targeted verse or two. Or a single visit when she didn’t proudly proclaim, “I speak in rhyme . . . but not all the time.”

SARAH P, who donates countless hours to kitten rescue, continued her good work in Maybe It’s You:

“We’re a no-kill shelter,” Sarah assured her. She scratched Marty’s chin. “We’re of a mind here that every animal deserves a second chance—as many times as necessary.”

Our daughter-in-law, WENDY M, became “Dr. Wendy” in Step by Step.

And . . .

Also in Maybe It’s You, I borrowed the husband of reader ANN S to become handyman “Jerry Rhodes.” Then—in a first for this author— I made it a family affair by welcoming Ann onboard, adding her elderly mother AND her two adorable dogs:

 . . . “He brought his dogs,” Piper announced, her eyes lighting. “Wiener dogs. I mean, doc-sunns.”

Celeste smiled. “Long-haired dachshunds. So sweet and comical. They’re named—”

“Gibbs and McGee,” Piper blurted, squeezing her hands together with obvious delight. “After the TV show. You know.”

Sloane nodded. “I do.”

They are adorable, aren’t they?

 I love that my novels are peopled with real friends. I like the genuine flavor they add to my stories. And I smile each time I read those scenes. I hope you do, too.

Now, let’s turn that smile into a chuckle or two with a last inside glimpse into the making of this book. Here’s a short collection of BLOOPERS from my Maybe It’s You author video. Enjoy!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=olIwNkmYykc 

My review...

ER nurse Sloane Ferrell thought she had escaped her past by changing her name and address. The pain from her past has made her distrustful, and she keeps her distance from others, for fear of them finding out the truth. Micah Prescott is a volunteer crisis responder who is desperately trying to fill a void in his life. He also wants to improve the image of Hope Hospital, and he thinks Sloane’s recent act of heroism can do just that. Micah will have to convince Sloane to trust him first, which will require both of them to face their pasts.

This book is the highly satisfying conclusion to the “Crisis Team” series. Sloane was quite different earlier in the series, but she has developed into a vulnerable and very likable heroine. Calvert’s background as a trauma nurse adds to the realism of the storyline. Themes of grace, forgiveness, and redemption are woven throughout this touching, hopeful tale. It contains an appropriate blend of romance, medical drama, and action. Difficult topics, such as sex trafficking and alcoholism, are handled in a tactful manner.

One of my favorite lines from the book is: “God never defined you by the past, but the enemy will try to confine you by it.” Definitely a good reminder!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I was not required to leave a review. Opinions are my own.

Amazon link for purchase...

http://amzn.to/2lvLaAV

About Candace...

CANDACE CALVERT is a former ER nurse and author of the Mercy Hospital, Grace Medical, and Crisis Team series. Often called “medical hope opera,” her stories offer readers a chance to “scrub in” on the exciting world of emergency medicine. Wife, mother, and very proud grandmother, Candace makes her home in northern California. 

Candace Calvert Website Books Page

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"Step by Step" by Candace Calvert ... and a GIVEAWAY!

In celebration of her latest release, Candace has graciously offered to give away a hard copy of the book (US Only). To enter, see the Rafflecopter box at the bottom of this post. (Contest ends February 19, 2016.) If you are the randomly chosen winner, I'll contact you and pass on your information. Good luck!

A Word from Candace...

I so appreciate your hosting me here, Leslie. It’s a delight to “mingle” with your readers, and share a bit about the release of my newest book:

Step by Step is the second story in my new "Crisis Team" series, following By Your Side. (All of my stories can be read as standalones, no worries) This series honors the work of community crisis chaplains, who are in my opinion very real heroes.  In the aftermath of tragedy (disaster, SIDS, suicide, murder, unexpected loss of a loved one), these specially trained volunteers offer a caring presence for the survivors. As one chaplain has put it: “We are emotional paramedics.”

On a personal note, I received Critical Incident Stress Management training during my years as an ER nurse. I was part of an intervention team offering support to hospital staff affected by especially rugged cases. Caregivers cry, too.  But they also know the adrenaline-infused rush of saving a life, enjoy laugh-filled silly moments . . . and sometimes fall in love, too. My hospital-based stories welcome readers to be part of all of that.

Q & A with Candace...

Q:  What would you be doing if you are not an author?
A:  Oh, wow… (Besides being a wife, mom, grandmother, world traveler) I might indulge my fantasy of owning a horse farm or running a bed-and-breakfast in a California vineyard or…

Q:  What are your thoughts on the publishing industry in general and in relation to self-publishing?
A.  More than nine books later, I'm still pinching myself that I'm teamed with Tyndale House. It is truly a dream come true. I've only known traditional publishing, but I'm fascinated by the growth in indie and hybrid publishing— and I applaud my friends who are finding success there.

Q: What advice you have for new authors?
A:  Read widely. Join an organization like American Christian Fiction Writers (http://www.acfw.com/). Attend conferences. Network with other writers, especially those just a bit ahead on the path. Study the craft. Keep writing. Don't quit. But, most of all, enjoy the journey. Don't feel you must rush to publication.

Q:  What is your favorite writing-related book?
A:  There are many, but I love Anne Lamott's Bird by Bird for humorous, practical and poignant, kick-in-the-pants inspiration. A must-read for beginners is Deb Dixon's GMC: Goal, Motivation, and Conflict.

Q:  What can you tell me about your next project?
A:  I'm currently working on revisions for the third "Crisis Team" story, Maybe It's You.

Q:  I know you enjoy cooking. What is your favorite thing to make?
A:  Appetizers. Perfect little scrumptious bites— so creative. And tempting. Facebook friends know that "apron time" always includes my sous chef Happy Spoon.

And here's a picture of Happy Spoon! So cute :)

Q:  Are you a PC or Mac user?
A:  PC. It's a Dell.

Q:  What is your favorite season?
A:  (Spice and smoke scented, crispy air and crunchy leaves!) Autumn, absolutely!

Q:  Favorite band or song?
A:  That's tough. I bought hubby an Amazon Echo for Christmas. It's tied to Prime Music, so I can simply say, "Alexa, play…" Right now she's shuffling some Adele tunes.

Q:  What what do you wish you had written?
A:  Water for Elephants, maybe. I love Sara Gruen's voice.

Think so much for stopping by, Candace. I had a great time speaking with you, and I'm sure my readers will enjoy learning a bit more about you.

My Review…

ER nurse Taylor Cabot has been a widow almost three years and is ready to move on. She has created a “survival list,” and falling in love again is last on the list. Questions surrounding her husband’s death return when crisis chaplain Seth Donovan re-enters her life. Taylor begins to wonder whether or not she really knew her husband at all. Seth is shocked to learn that she plans to leave the crisis team, and he is a bit surprised at his own feelings of jealousy when he sees her with another man. Though he wants Taylor to find peace again, is he worried that she will move on to a life which doesn’t include him?

This is the second installment in the “Crisis Team” series, though it can be read as a standalone. As fans have come to expect from Calvert, this is a medical romance/drama full of complex characters and well-integrated secondary characters, many of whom will hopefully return in sequels. All of the characters have a softer side despite their tough exteriors. The pace is consistent throughout, and there is no cliffhanger ending. Calvert’s medical background adds to the realism in this book, which gives the reader an inside look at the important role played by crisis volunteers.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

Amazon link for purchase…

http://www.amazon.com/Step-Crisis-Team-Candace-Calvert/dp/1414390343/ref=sr_1_sc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1454259482&sr=8-1-spell&keywords=step+by+step+candace+calbert

About Candace…

CANDACE CALVERT is a former ER nurse and author of the Mercy Hospital, Grace Medical, and Crisis Team series. Often called “medical hope opera,” her stories offer readers a chance to “scrub in” on the exciting world of emergency medicine. Wife, mother, and very proud grandmother, Candace makes her home in northern California. 

Where you can find her online…

Website:      http://candacecalvert.com/

Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/candacecalvertbooks/

Twitter:       @CandaceCalvert

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