WE HAVE WINNERS!!!!
Joanne Bischoff’s Blog Tour is over, and the contest is now closed. BUT … winners are announced below and Joanne’s blog that follows is STILL fun and very inspirational to read, so enjoy!
Thank you to everyone who visited with Joanne and me during the blog hop. We were all so touched by your comments and stories.
The five winners below will each win one of Joanne’s books and one of the hosting author’s books.
From Katie Ganshert’s blog: Morgan Tarpley
From Carrie Turansky’s blog: Linda Finn
From Beth Vogt’s blog: Wilani Wahl
From Jocelyn Green’s blog: Juanita Decuir
From Julie Lessman’s blog: Micaela Wood
And the GRAND PRIZE winner of the bundle of country goodies + the eReader is:
Ruth Anderson
CONGRATULATION, LADIES!!!
Julie, here and you know what? I can’t count the number of times I’ve received e-mails from readers telling me they experienced such extreme emotions when reading my novels, that they either threw one of my books across the room or wanted to. I always smile when I read that because quite frankly, as a CDQ (caffeinated drama queen) who LOVES drama and angst, that’s what I live to do as an author — wring every last drop of emotion out of my readers!! 🙂
Or at least I did.
That is, until I experienced it myself, reading Christy-nominee Joanne Bischoff’s new Cadence of Grace series. No, I didn’t throw Joanne’s book against the wall, but I did have to resort to sleep aids when I finished book 2, something that’s never happened to me before. Because there was NO WAY I was going to peacefully nod off to sleep. Not after Joanne put me through the wringer with her powerfully written novels of Appalachian romance. Let me tell you, people, those babies grabbed hold of me hard and would NOT. LET. GO!!
I’m sorry, but in my book, that’s fabulous writing, so it’s no surprise whatsoever that Joanne’s debut book Be Still My Soul, book 1 in the Cadence of Grace series, was up for a Christy Award this year. That alone, along with the lack of sleep and angst the woman put me 
through, should be enough to tick me off. But when you read an author of Joanne’s caliber and talent and then she turns out to be one of the nicest, sweetest, most humble human beings you’ve ever met, well boo, you just gotta take a step back and give the little brat her due! 🙂
And so, it is my extreme honor and privilege to sponsor Day Five of Joanne’s “Something for Every Reader” blog tour so that you, too, cannot only experience the beautiful literary talent of this amazing new author, but have FIVE chances to win Joanne’s book plus one book from each of the following hosting authors: Katie Ganshert, Carrie Turanksy, Beth Vogt, Jocelyn Green and me! The grand prize is a country basket with peach butter, wild blueberry soap, a cookbook, and your choice of E-READER (up to $350 value!), so be sure to check out the link at the end of Joanne’s blog below for all the details.
Without further ado, I give you my good (and very talented) friend Joanne Bischoff.
A bit about how I met Julie
A mutual friend introduced me to Julie while we were both in St. Louis and I confess, I was a bit star struck! Back home, a few weeks later, a comment came through on my blog. It was the Julie Lessman…I nearly fell out of my chair! I’d blogged on the makings of a hero along with a giveaway and Julie commented, entering to win the books. Completely amazed, I wrote her to tell her thank you for her sweet words and that I would love to send her some. She wrote right back, and in her gracious spirit, offered to send me some of hers!
She also warned me that if I didn’t like her books, her feelings wouldn’t be hurt and I mentioned that she might not be too pleased with Gideon O’Riley, the hero of my story, when she first meets him. It dawned on us that we had something in common.
We chatted about the nerves that go into writing a story where characters do things that can send the reader’s jaw to the floor. The knowledge that a reader just might want to throw it across the room (both Julie’s and my books have taken flight a time or two!) But we agreed that it’s worth that risk in hopes of reaching hearts with a story of transformation. It has nothing to do with the shock factor, and everything to do with the picture of how people can change.
I’m reading A Passion Most Pure… and while I didn’t throw the book across the room, I’ve most certainly put Collin McGuire in a time out. *wink* The other day, I emailed Julie that Gideon and Collin would have been friends. Oh yes. Those Irish boys would have gotten into quite a bit of trouble together.
Flawed characters…finding their way home
I’m about halfway through A Passion Most Pure right now, and my favorite part about Julie’s book is the way the O’Connor family has welcomed Collin into their home. It’s his happy place. The place where this wandering and lost soul sees something different in a group of people—and himself—when he’s with them. A light in his life. I can tell he’s not entirely sure of what to make of that, but there it is, drawing him closer to them. Not because of who the O’Connors are, but because of Who is alive in their hearts. There’s just something about it… It’s so clear how Collin needs this family and at the same time, there’s a deep sense that the O’Connor’s may just need him right back. I can’t think of anything more fulfilling to that young man’s aching spirit, then to be loved and needed in all the right ways.
I’ve been thinking a lot over the last few years about families. Mentors. Those people who come into our path at just the right moment. It’s a God-thing, isn’t it?
Often when people ask me where the Cadence of Grace series came about, I tell them how it began with the heroine and hero…
But before that, which I never really share, is that I’d already had the Bennetts tucked in the back of my mind and heart. For those of you who don’t know the Bennetts, they are the older couple who takes the young O’Rileys under their wing.
Months before I began the first words of Be Still My Soul, I had woken from a dream with a heavy, heavy heart. The dream had been of an older couple living in the rural mountains of Appalachia. They were working alongside one another, both of them wondering—that with no living children—what the future might hold for them in the years to come. I woke and couldn’t shake the melancholy of that memory, so I quickly jotted down the image of who the Bennetts were, determined that somehow, I would not only write this older couple’s story, but I would find a way to bring them the hope of a family they yearned for. Little did I know that soon after that, Lonnie and Gideon would be wandering the mountainside lost and alone. So desperately needing guidance. A shelter, a home. And a story was in the making.
For there are times that a family can be born through circumstance, faith, and love.
***
Julie again, and I want to thank you for visiting Joanne and me on the “A Book For Every Reader” blog tour! Leave a comment answering one of the questions below to be entered to win not one but TWO books — one of Joanne’s and one of mine.
PLEASE NOTE: YOU MUST PUT YOUR NAME AND EMAIL WHERE IT SAYS “AUTHOR NAME” AND “AUTHOR EMAIL” OR I WILL NOT KNOW WHO YOU ARE!! 😐
Also, to enter in the grand giveaway prize which includes country goodies and an e-reader (up to $350), simply hop on over and fill out the entry form at the following link, where you’ll also find all the official details:
CLICK HERE TO ENTER FOR GRAND PRIZE
Finally, be sure to stop in at each of the following author blogs to increase your chances of winning Joanne’s book as well as one from each of the hosting authors: Katie Ganshert, Carrie Turanksy, Beth Vogt, Jocelyn Green.
Contest open until midnight Friday, September 27, and winners will be drawn on Saturday, September 28 and contacted via email. Thank you for joining us!
Hugs,
Julie
QUESTIONS:
Has there been a mentor in your life who showed you God’s love?
Has there been a time you were able to be that guiding light for someone else?
And… if you’re up for a bit of fun: have you ever wanted to throw a book against the wall? *smile*
JOANNE’S BIO:
Christy Award-finalist and author of The Cadence of Grace series, Joanne Bischof has a deep passion for Appalachian culture and writing stories that shine light on God’s grace and goodness. She lives in the mountains of Southern California with her husband and their three children. When she’s not weaving Appalachian romance, she’s blogging about faith, folk music, and the adventures of country living that bring her stories to life.
http://www.joannebischof.com/extras/blogtour/
Wow! Great post, Julie n Joanne! Let me know if these get onto audiobook, Joanne! Best wishes with your upcoming release!
My mom was/is my mentor and she showed me God's love on a daily basis. She is an amazing example of a godly woman.
Julie, I have really enjoyed all of the books you have recommended and can't WAIT to read these books. I find that most of what you recommend are the books that I can't put down until I finish!
CARRIE!!! You're the first comment today, so gosh, that should count for something … maybe an extra point in the contest?? 😉
Thanks for coming by, my friend, and GOOD LUCK!!
HUGS,
Julie
Hi Julie and Joanne, Woohooo, what a wild week! I am so thrilled to see all the friends who have come along for the blog tour and are excited about The Cadence of Grace Series! I have been blessed and encouraged by each of Joanne's posts this week. I LOVE her books and I hope many more readers will discover this great series . . . and all her books yet to come. I am looking forward to Oct. 15th and our online booklaunch party for The Governess of Highland Hall. I am so grateful you all will be calling in to be guest authors that night! Blessings on you both!
MELISSA, you are SO blessed to have a mom like that!! And THANK YOU sooo much for your kind words AND your support!!
LOL … yes, of course you like the books I recommend because if you like my books, you are obviously a passionate CDQ who loves drama and angst just like I do!! 😉
Hugs,
Julie
Yes, yes and YES! I've had several mentors but none more important in my life than my husband. He is the best and toughest one of all 🙂 I have been privileged to mentor a couple of women over the years. It's important that we give of ourselves.
It took me forever to get around to reading but once I did, APMP definitely was slammed shut and tossed across the room, after which I preceded to email you about that. Remember? One of the BEST BOOKS EVER!!!
I would love an opportunity to read Joanne's book. Thank you, ladies.
Oh, CARRIE, me too — Joanne's posts this week have been STELLAR and soooo indicative of the fabulous author she is!!
And, girl, while I was nodding off to sleep last night, my eyelids jolted up and I thought — uh-oh, is my tea-party promo with Carrie next week and I forgot to post it on my website calendar??? I immediately launched out of bed to find out before I could fall back to sleep. WHEW!!! SOOO glad it's in October, because I reallllly want to promo it well!!
Hugs,
Julie
LOL, ANNE … oh yes, I definitely remember you being a book-hurler, my friend, but I'm glad the gang won you over. I do believe, however, that you were one of the few who actually didn't HATE Charity by the time you finished APMP, right? So that redeemed you in my eyes … 😉
And your hubby is your mentor??? WOW, how cool is that, my friend!! You are blessed, but then we already knew that!! 🙂
Hugs and GOOD LUCK!!
Julie
Hi Jules, As you know I was up late lastnight and so I am finally here ! My first thing to do this morning after making coffee. I have to say that I never had a mentor till I was in my 20's really and I was in a wrong relationship and my self esteem was not good…. I decided to raise rabbits and the man who was the president of the club I was in , well he friended me after he came to buy rabbits from me and thus I joined the club and ARBA. He gave me a pair of mini rex and told me to see what I could do with them…lol He later on put me in charge of a rabbit auction and told me to plan the whole thing , other then the food we were going to make and sell at the auction… Well long story short we profited 1,000 dollars that day and everyone was so proud of me, my ego got a huge boost, because someone had more faith in my abilities then I did myself. Don Swensons friendship has meant the world to me , he is like my Big Brother that I never had. We still talk today on occasion and if he is concerned about me, he emails me or talks to me via FB ! When I was much older I met another person, young christian lady who had two young children and she was doing rabbits ! Yup that is how we met… I had her come to my home and she got her rabbits….Mini Rex and so began our relationship. She shared with me her problem with the kids, I handed her a book on parenting and She was so amazed that I was so good about things….LOL , Funny thing is Today we are still fast friends and Sisters in the Lord as through the years I have mentored her on things and Just a month ago she came to my home to teach me how to Spin. I am leaving on the drop spindle but I would rather have a wheel to spin my yarns. Wow…have I ever thrown a book against a wall !….. I have truely only thrown one book I think, sadly a bible that was my husbands, that I bought…. long story ! I did throw out a book once, it was a womens how to be a godly wife book… only because the woman didnt' have a clue what it was like to be married to someone with mental illness and what works for one marriage, surely didn't work to fix the issues in my own… So it may have flown to the wall before it hit the trash can. I am so looking forward to reading these new authors that you have clued me into and I am so enjoying Joannes Pinterest Boards ! I just love sharing with you and with others as the Lord allows….. I am so blessed to have met you and severl others who have commented here. Hugs, Linda
Great post, Julie! I read both of Joanne's books this summer, and by the time I got to the second one, I was thinking, "Darn, that was stupid… now I have to wait until October to read the third!"
I was SO frustrated reading them, but I can't wait to see what's up next for Lonnie and Gideon!
My parents have been really great mentors, and have shown me God's love constantly. They've both been so supportive of me, and have prayed me through a lot. =)
I've actually never been a mentor to someone, but I hope that one day God can use me to be that guiding light to a person in need.
And yes, I have wanted to throw a book against the wall numerous times! It's actually a pretty frequent occurrence for me… I get a little verbal when I read, and I'm convinced that my sister thinks I'm nuts. 😉
Thanks for the great giveaway, Julie! Hugs!
LINDA!!! A rabbit club, truly??? You raise rabbits, I guess, but don't they raise themselves pretty darn well?? 😉 Apparently the rabbit biz is bigger than I can imagine — are there contests? Why breed rabbits? Is there a big demand for pet rabbits?? You've OBVIOUSLY piqued my curiosity, my friend!!
Don sounds like an INCREDIBLE mentor … as do you, my friend! But my heart breaks for the troubles of your past. SOOO grateful they are behind you and God IS your present and future!!
Good luck, sweetie, and BLESS YOU for all your promo help!!
Hugs,
Julie
LOL, ELYSSA … glad I was not alone in my frustration!! It was kinda like ending GWTW at the intermission for me, so I was fit to be tied!! Thus the need for sleep aids … 😉
And uh-oh … you're a "book-thrower" too??? How many of my books have dents in them, girl???
Hugs,
Julie
LOL! No worries, Julie- I've never actually thrown a book. Sure, I've thought about it, but I never had it in me to actually do. And yes, I've gotten frustrated reading your books, but I never once thought of throwing them. =) I've heard stories of people wanting to throw APMP after reading it, but honestly, I was just excited to see what you had up your sleeve for Charity. I knew it would be a lot of fun with her personality!
What a wonderful day to have two fabulous Js together! This blog tour has been such a great week, full of blessings and inspiration!
My mother and grandmother have been wonderful mentors to me, showing God's love through their lives and their teachings. I am a mother of three, with one daughter, 16 months old. Knowing that she also has these mentors in her life is such a blessing!
Joanne, I love that you had the Bennetts story tucked in your heart and mind! It is such a beautiful story of family.
Julie, I loved this post. I have never thrown a book against the wall, but I have had a one sided conversation with a character in a book. I am currently reading A Heart Revealed and love it. Now after this week, I have been introduced to a new author and would love to read her books as well.
Julie, I loved this post. I have never thrown a book against the wall, but I have had a one sided conversation with a character in a book. I am currently reading A Heart Revealed and love it. Now after this week, I have been introduced to a new author and would love to read her books as well.
Hi, Yes Julie I have WANTED to throw your books ;), but I also LOVED every one! I can't wait to read Joanne's books! They sound wonderful! My Mentor has always been my Mom, We are very close and she's walked with me through many storms. My sister and I are also very close and I've walked through some dark times with her as well, so I think God has and continues to work in all of us. Also, Our Pastor and His Wife are close friends of ours that have helped guide us in some really hard times as well so , I would consider them mentors too.
Julie, I loved this post. I have never thrown a book against the wall, but I have had a one sided conversation with a character in a book. I am currently reading A Heart Revealed and love it. Now after this week, I have been introduced to a new author and would love to read her books as well.
Julie, I loved this post. I have never thrown a book against the wall, but I have had a one sided conversation with a character in a book. I am currently reading A Heart Revealed and love it. Now after this week, I have been introduced to a new author and would love to read her books as well.
Hi Julie and Joanne, I am Not a book thrower! I Boos are too precious to me so i eat tums! LOL I keep a bottle on my night stand as i read nightly and also during the day! I am one of those that can't put a book down so many sleepless nights! :} btw, I also raised rabbits as a kid also I had four and then it became i din't know approx,… 60 of them! One night a coyotee sp?came along and got them all! so that was the end of my breeding rabbits days! I was so bummed out! big time… I gave the bunny hutches AWAY!I love Julie books! I have bought every single book that she has ever written ! so I guess if i win I get two of Joanne;s books? LOL just trying….I also love Julie's just tell it how it is way of talking so i am always glued to her blogs! That is why I am so excited about this book giveaway. I get to meet four new authors to me. Buy their books and read them ,get hooked all over again and read their blogs etc.That is what is cool about this giveaway to me! I have never had a mentor, My family wasn't close.I guess the 1st thing that pops into my head is God! God is number one in my life and is everything to me! teaches me so much and we have such a trusting,,love, relationship,. I don't know what i would do without Jesus in my life!as for me being a mentor. I have always been kinda of a mentor all my life. i love helping people and getting them to love themselves! I was a Chaplain for many many years and that was such a blessing to me ! To pray with patients which became friends, bring them to Jesus, and having them believe they would get better which they did in most cases !I have seen so many miracles thru the Holy Spirit! It was amazing! I had to be let go because i have end stage COPD and I have to wear oxygen 24-7 and the hospital didn't think it looked right to the patients! It might scare them! They were all wearing oxygen and i was walking around all chipper and talking with people,How would that scare people so i left, I was pretty down about the whole thing for approx. 3 months and then Jesus led me to the homeless people and a new blessing had arrived! They didn't care what you looked like They just wanted to be loved and treated with respect! I treated everyone equal to me and loved them all. They all came to church with me and were saved and i got the HONOR of watching them grow in Christ and change their lives and etc.. to get jobs and rent houses or motels .it was so awesome! Those people just needed a little hope that was it! I now voulen. at CRMV working, with the homeless, the abused, the addictions .etc….. i love every min. of it! That is it i guess! Thank You Julie and Joanne for putting on this whole giveaway thing!Reading has always been my passion especially now! I know it takes alot of work and time so i really do appreciate it! God Bless both of you and have a great time with this give away! I have !
Love, Your Sister in Christ,
Darlene Lindstrom
what does ADMP mean??? thanks just wondering??? have fun my friend Jule and Joanne!
Want to be Gods Guiding light, Keep falling down though but did have the opportunity to say to a christian your anger is hurting your christian walk and it helped her
God bless All of you
Chris
I had a very gentle person explain the true gospel of Jesus Christ to me when I was 20 years old. I am now 62 and I never tire of hearing about the Lord !! I hope I have done the same for someone along the way and if so, I give all the glory to God.
And no, I never throw books against the wall !! They are too precious to me !!
Thank you for the contest this week !! It has been so exciting meeting all of the new authors and exploring their books !! I look forward to my reading adventures this fall and winter !!
Blessings,
Charlotte Phillips
WOW…What can I say! My favorite two authors on one page! I have read an enormous amount of books in my many years…but when I was fortunate enough (I'm sure God had a hand in it) to find your O'Connor family series…I was just blown away. I quickly fell in love with the characters, the writing that kept me so emotionally charged through laughter, anger, tears, love…what a roller coaster …and YOU! Your love of God shines through in so many ways, and your caring for others, is never ceasing as you remain so interactive with your fans and co-authors! Such a unique child of God and we are blessed through your writing!
I did have a mentor, who actually brought me ( along with God) back from a bad place in my life. She was my dearest friend and has gone from her life on this earth, but her loving gentle understanding spirit will remain always!
Now I have to tell you….I..have thrown a book (but not far enough to hurt it!)! It will come as no surprise that I have to blame you!(haha). You introduced me to Joanne Bischoff's "Cadence of Grace" series via an email/Facebook comment. As I usually very much enjoy whatever you recommend I ordered the First book. I was quickly taken as I was with yours and my heart was captured for this couple. When Book 2 arrived I immediately began reading and could not put it down! At 2 AM, when I finished, I just wanted to scream!! After a few minutes of mute shock at how it ended, I just threw it and yelled "NO WAY", Needless to say I remain on pins and needles for the last book!
Thank you for making us always feel so special. May God always surround you with people who do the same for you. You make it so easy to support you! I still have my prayer request in the box to get to meet you someday!
What a great blog today! My hubby has been a wonderful mentor to me! He has helped me grow in the Lord in so many ways, I am sure he doesn't ever realize! There have been several books I have wanted to throw against the wall.( I can't think of them at the moment)
Thanks for the chance to win! Have a great day!
My mom has been a huge influence in my life. Her advice as always been based on sound biblical teaching. So thankful for her!
God truly blessed me with wonderful parents, and I have never really sought out other mentors in my life up until this point. But I recently joined a ladies only small group at my church and am hoping some great relationships develop there!
On the other side of things I mentor a little 11 year old girl. We were connected through a program that was trying to help out kids who had a parent in jail, that program officially came to an end but we have stuck with it! We have great fun together, but I'm not sure if at this point it's much more than that for her… hopefully long term I can be a good influence on her life.
Julie, I have read and loved all of your books! I am really looking forward to Joanne's books but have not gotten my hands on any of them yet…
Guess I'm not really a book thrower, but I will sometimes just stop reading and set a book aside for a bit when I find the situations or characters actions not to my liking or to frustrating!
yes, I've thrown a book against the wall. Generally only to kill large spiders 🙂
You two are a couple of the sweetest CBA authors I know! I personally LOVE characters you feel you can't "control" as you write them…characters with depth. I am reading MY HOPE IS FOUND by Joanne right now and I just KNOW the right guy is gonna get Lonnie…I think…maybe not…
LOL, BRITNEY … I love that … two "Js" together on JJ!!;) Oh, girl, you are SO blessed to have both a mom and grandmom who are mentors!! Here's hoping you are as blessed in this contest! 😉
Oh, LANI, you are SO cute … and SO persistent!! Thanks for coming by AND reading AHR!! Good luck, sweetie!
WOW, DARLENE … 60 rabbits??? MAJOR BUMMER about the coyote, my friend, and not having a mentor, but bottom line is that the Holy Spirit IS the BEST MENTOR around, so you are in good hands, girl!! And, OH MAN, Darlene, I am so very sorry about the COPD but truly amazed how God uses it and YOU to glorify His name!!! What a HUGE smile you must put on the Father's face, my friend, just like you do on mine and everyone who meets you, no doubt!! Love you!!
DARLENE … where did you see ADMP??? It probably should have been APMP!! 🙂
Hey, CHRIS, YAY!!! That's a HUGE witness, my friend, so you go, girl!! And GOOD LUCK in the contest!!
Hugs!!
Julie
CHARLOTTE … God bless that precious person who explained the Gospel to you, girl, because WHERE would we be without it!! And I'll be your books are all in pretty good shape since you don't throw them … 😉
BEV!!! ALWAYS soooooo great to see you, girlfriend!! And, goodness, you sure know who to encourage, you sweet thing — thank you SO much for your VERY kind words!! You always make me smile, my friend. 🙂 And, LOL!!! Yes, somebody who reacted JUST like I did, except I didn't throw the book, I slapped it on my dresser before I popped 1/4-quarter Walmart sleep aid!! 🙂
Boy, BETH, to have a hubby as a mentor as you and several others have said today is a true blessing!! Go give him a great, big hug!! 🙂
Hey, AMANDA, how blessed you are to have your mom for a mentor. My mom died when I was 16 and we were not close at all, much to my regret, so I'm glad you truly appreciate what you have in her. 🙂
PATTY, WOW … how fab is that, mentoring an 11-year-old girl whose parent is in prison — DOUBLE WOW!! You are my definition of a true mentor, my friend, so you go, girl!! Thanks for your kind words about my books, Patty — you will love Joanne's, trust me!!
LOL, MICHELLE!!! And you can kill two spiders with one book if you're ticked at the author when you spot the spider, right??? 😉
Hugs,
Julie
As a children's and youth pastor I have mentored others. One that comes to mind was one of our youth leaders who was college age. We met every monday night late because that was the only time I had available with four children and other youth activities. I loved being able to pray with her, encourage her, and challenge her in her daily efforts in life. She moved away, married and had her own child when I received a fb message from her. She thanked me and said she had just realized what a sacrifice I had made to meet with her and how much it meant to her not only then but even more so now. You never know the life long impact you make so take the time to be a mentor or life encourager 🙂
I would have to say my mom is my mentor. She is a wonderful lady with so much poise and patience that at times drives me crazy. But, her faith in what God can do is tremendous! She wants me to be a better person in Christ. I love my mom 🙂 So, as you can see I am the opposite….Have I wanted to throw a book against the wall? Of course, I have…..I am not patient (well, sometimes! LOL) or just want to get my frustration out! Of course, I would not hurt a book…I love books! I just think about it, or you can say visualized throwing a book against the wall. Either way, I have thought about it!!! Great bog post and great questions. Thanks.
Loved Joanne's books!! And would love to read yours, Julie! Thanks for the chance to win! I need to go back to the ones I missed… I tried to post a comment on yesterday's blog tour, but got an error message. And I missed the day before by being too busy and then forgetting!
Carrie – That would be so great for the books to be on audio cd. Hoping one day!
Melissa – I love hearing about the relationship that you and your mom have. That is so wonderful! It’s such an honor to be on Julie’s blog and to get to meet so many of her friends like you!
Carrie T. –I am so excited about the big night for the Governess of Highland Hall. It’s going to be a lot of fun to celebrate with you and get to join Julie and you for that special time!
Anne- LOL! Oh, I’m reading APMP right now and I’ve wagged my finger at those characters more than once! Tsk tsk 😉 but the kind of story that like you, is so worth it! I’m excited to see how it all ends! So great meeting you here.
Joanne Bischof's books are just wonderful! I loved the lessons I learned on the journey through her stories. I have had a few mentors in my life. My parents, my husband and daughters as well as different heart/soul sisters who God has used at various times and in various ways. It is my hope that I have been a mentor to others and hopefully have been a source of encouragement. Only God knows…as for throwing a book against the wall – haven't quite done that but have had to set the book aside to give me time to process before moving on to the next chapter.
Love this blog!….I did throw a college book across the room…thankfully my hubby was there to encourage me to stick with it….love Julie Lessman books….I feel like the characters are so real that I am going to meet them someday!….they will be in heaven!….I imagine a cozy little cottage with a never ending supply of Julie Lessman books! Now that would be heavenly!
Linda – It’s so great to hear about those mentors in your life through the seasons. And like Julie… a rabbit club, wow! That’s pretty fun 🙂 It’s been great to see you around and on Pinterest and Facebook. Happy reading this fall!
Elyssa – not stupid at all, LOL.. but I know JUST what you mean as so many people are waiting to read #2 until #3 is out. Sorry for your angst, but it will be over soon! 🙂 Glad too that you get animated. I do too! I think I make faces when I read AND when I write. Such a blessing to hear about you and your parents. Just wonderful.
Thanks Britney! I am having so much fun hanging out with my fellow J and it’s made a million times better having you all here. You have three just like I do and it sounds like they may all be young. Busy time, isn’t it!? I love hearing about your mom and Grandma and your desire to carry that on to your children. They will be blessed for it indeed. It’s been so great to get to chat with you.
Hello J ladies….
seeing Julie name today just had to pop in and say HI…alwas like to read comments and post where you be…thanks for the giveaway today, I knew the page would be long.
Ga weather is little cooler today and I have windows open and feels great, I have been to Nancy Mehl banter on FB and the day is not over yet…LOL
Hope you both have a great weekend.
Paula O
Wilani- smiling at the thought of your one sided conversation. I do that too! Oh the things books can do to us. 😉
Darlene- I think you are our second rabbit girl today!! I know what you mean about those sleepless nights. I stayed up WAY too late last night reading. I’m so glad you’ve joined us for this giveaway and have had the chance to meet these new authors. A great group of ladies! Keep being that light… those folks ARE blessed indeed!
God bless you too, Chris. Thanks for being here!
Charlotte- what a beautiful thing that you never tire of hearing about the Lord. He is so worthy of that, isn’t he? I’ve enjoyed your comments this week. Great chatting with you!
Bev – I have heard the BEST things about Julie’s series and it’s so fun to be diving into it now! An OH, your reaction to Though My Heart is Torn is priceless! I am SO sorry for your angst and so very glad that it’s only 6 months between the two books as opposed to a year. I can happily say—it’s less than a month away! I hope you enjoy the end of the story. Thanks for your fun comment. I love hearing more about how you found Julie and I.
Beth—It’s so beautiful that your husband has been a mentor to you. And terribly romantic. 🙂 I look at my husband that way too. He wasn’t always a Christian but he is now and BOY does he teach me things about the Lord. God is so good. Thanks for visiting with us!
Patty – it’s absolutely wonderful to hear that not only are you being mentored in those ways, but in the way you’ve paid it forward to that little girl. I am sure you are such a blessing to her life. I’m a “set it aside” kind of girl too when it comes to books that move me so much. I don’t remember if I wrote this above but I put Julie’s book in a brief time out and now it’s sat there for awhile, thought about what it’s done to me and I’m ready to dive in for more delightful angst! 🙂
LOL – Michelle. I don’t blame you!
There have been several who have spoken into my life over the years and I have had some opportunity to do the same for others at times.
I have never actually thrown a book across the room but can freely say that I would have liked to set one or more character straight in both of your books.
Hi Miss Julie and Miss Joanne! I loved your post and I look forward to reading your new book. I can honestly say I have never thrown a book anywhere. I am very serious about the conditions of my books. I can barely make myself loan them because I am afriad they will suffere irrepairable damage. LOL I can't stand "dog ears" and creased spines! BUT, I have been emotionally drained after reading some books. I just read Melanie Dobson's new book The Courier of Caswell Hall and I boo hoo'd all throughout. Awesome book! This is an awesome giveaway too and I thank you so much for it.
By the way, Miss Julie, I am SO glad you had comments open today. So many times I want to respond to your Journal Jots. They are so touching and heart felt. THEY wring emotion out of me as much as any book! Hope you're well, My Friend!
Blessings,
Wanda Barefoot
flghtlss1(AT)yahoo(DOT)com
Our son went into the Air Force right out of high school. Although my husband spent 20 years in – it was so different with our son. I had no one that understood how I felt! When I knew of other friends' children going in the Military, I tried reaching out to them – I didn't want them to feel like I did!
Thanks for the chance to win this great giveaway!
Hey, HEATHER, I'll vouch for Joanne, but I'm not sure about me … 😉 My Hope is Found is burning a hole in my TBA because I'm reading for endorsement right now, but VERY soon!! Cannot wait …
Oh, WOW, STEPH, amen to that!! Most of us will never will know the extent of the impact we have for Christ till the other side of heaven, but goodness, what an impact you had on that young girl's life!! God bless you and God bless that girl!!
LOL, LINDA … visualization of throwing a book against the wall … I LIKE IT!! Sure saves wear and tear on both the books AND the walls!! 😉 And you are blessed to have a mom who's also a mentor, my friend.
Yes, PAM, DO go back and enter on each day because each of those authors are SO worth winning!! And I would LOVE to be able to send you one of mine, so GOOD LUCK, my friend!!
JOANNE!!! Wagging, tsking and time out … goodness, it's a wonder you're still talking to me!! 😉
Ah, JANETTE … a reasonable woman, you are for sure … setting books aside instead of "tossing" them!! 😉
JO!!! "A cozy little cottage with never-ending supply of Julie Lessman books?" I don't know how "heavenly" that would be, but I sure would enjoy my royalty checks, I know that … 😉
Hey, PAULA, thanks for coming by, girlfriend, and I sure hopesit nets you a win!! Happy weekend to you, too!!
LOL, PAM … trust me, both Joanne and I have wanted to "set one or more characters straight" in our novels too!! 😉
Hugs,
Julie
Amanda! I somehow missed you in the mix there. A special thing, indeed, to have that Biblical counsel from your mom!
Heather – *smile* I hope the right guy gets Lonnie too!! 😉 It’s hard, knowing that some will want it to be Toby while others will want it to be Gideon. It was a tough story to write! And I SO enjoyed your book.
Stephanie – What an incredible story of that kindness coming back to you in that sweet note. I bet you were touched indeed! We really never do know… a good reminder to myself. Thank you 🙂
Linda – “a better person in Christ” yes, that is a true, true mentor isn’t it? I don’t blame you for thinking about it a time or to, I ‘ve done that myself 😉
Pamela- so great to see you here! I’m so glad you’ve enjoyed the series! It’s been great knowing and chatting with you. 🙂
Janette – I just love you bunches and bunches but you already know that, don’t you? Your parents were such wonderful people. I see how they’ve mentored us all.
Jo – Oh what a fun picture you paint!! 🙂 Isn’t it amazing how characters can truly feel THAT real?!
Paula- I hope you are having a lovely day. Waving from CA to GA!
Pam (#2) – That made me laugh out loud. I don’t blame you for wanting to set a few characters straight in those books. 😉
Wanda- I’m the same way with my books! My hubby read one of mine (Be Still My Soul) and he did the bend-the-front-cover-back thing and I kept telling myself to let it go, LOL. The man was reading after all and it was MY chick flick! 😀 Isn’t it great having comments open on Julie’s blog? It feels like a party today! I will have to check out that book, too, by Melody Dobson.
Tammy- bless you for being a mentor to those who needed encouragement and thank you to your son and family for your service!
I have had several different teachers in my life due to being heavily involved with church but I haven't really had a one on one mentor. And as for being a mentor myself the closest I have come is with some of the various kids I babysit. I often find myself given opportunities with them which is really cool. The last time was a couple weeks ago with this almost 8 year-old girl who sat on my lap for an hour or so and asked me every question she could think of about Christianity. And she chose the hard ones from heaven to hell to the Trinity to whether loved ones who have passed on can see you, and everything in between! Nothing makes you think more than trying to explain the unexplainable to a little kid!
I haven't wanted to throw a book against the wall mainly because I would NEVER damage a book like that! I am very careful to keep all of my books in as pristine condition as possible! If a book is driving me crazy/making me mad I usually half close the book and take some deep breaths or close in all the way and go vent to my reading buddy sister! (Did that a couple times with your books Julie!)
So LOVE this blog post – 2 of my very favorite authors together, NOBODY compares, in my book, except maybe Liz Curtis Higgs! And – one of the reasons I love them so much is that I love all that passion & angst, I can be a pretty emotional person myself – at times. Their exceptional writing talent is another reason, but – just as important to me is the wonderful ladies that they are! Joanne – from the first time, I met you across the internet page, I have been impressed by your humility, generosity, & kind, loving, Spirit. And – what good things can I NOT say about Julie? She is the REAL deal – honest (to a fault), generous, full of love for others, funny, a bundle of joyful energy that everyone wants to be around, & a shining example for her Lord!
Julie is much like the mentor (& best friend) in my life – the wife of a previous pastor of mine. When I felt the Lord leading me to another state (away from family & friends) to be a cast member of a passion play (musical drama) about the life of Christ, I knew no one there, & had no job, or place to live. My family thought I was NUTS, to say the least, but I knew that was where I was supposed to be. My mentor, & her pastor husband started the passion play, & the church I attended . The church met in the theatre where the play was performed, altar calls were always given after the play, & tourists were always welcome at the Sunday morning worship services. I grew more in my spiritual maturity while being mentored by this wonderful lady, than at any other time in my life, & the time spent as a cast member, & member of her church , has been the most meaningful, & inspirational time of my entire life. I cared for her, in every way possible, when she went through a depression over the illness & death of her husband, & she cared for me physically, spiritually, & so many other ways, with so much love – not only when I had cancer, but the entire time I have know her. She is a small, bubbly, energetic, lady – who is full of joy & love for her Lord. We live in different states now, & I don't see her often enough – no friendship, on earth, can compare to that of sisters-in-Christ!
I would dearly love to win copies of Joanne & Julie's books – but will, not only, purchase, for myself, every book they write, but give them as gifts to my friends & family. Thank you for sharing your writing talent, & love for the Lord, with us, ladies!
My mentor was a very godly lady who taught me how to pray out loud, at least with a little more confidence than before. I 'm still not that good at it. But anyway, she was such an amazing person and she prayed with such sincerity and such conviction. I all always be thankful for her influence in my life. (She passed away several years back)
You gals are going to laugh! I truly found this funny…my name is Julie JoAnn! So I think that I should win your books because of the name association 😉
Seriously, Julie Lessman you know how many times I have wanted to throw your books across the room! But instead I just email or facebook you and rant and rave over how much a character in one of your stories drove me up a wall!!! As much as I dislike angst I have managed to get through every one of Julie's books and survive, so I am definitely going to have to try Joanne's books 🙂 Hopefully without the sleep aid! 🙂
Julie@ My Favorite Pastime
Wow — I can't wait to read this new book! The two of you should collaborate and you'd have a number one best seller in no time flat! I LOVE Julie's books, and if she says Joanne's are great, then they are on my Gotta Read list! Thanks for the great give away and keep up the good work!
Answer 1: I have been brought up in a Christian family my whole life, so the primary two people who have shown me God's love would be my parents. They are amazing people and I am proud to call them my role models/inspiration in life. They have made me the person I am today with God's blessing. Other people who have shown me God's love would be my so called "Nerd Herd" or my group of best friends. A few years ago I started going to a new middle school and met the sweetest group of girls. Soon after I found out that almost all of us were going to the same church as well. They gladly accepted me and now years later as Juniors in High School we are all still close friends/sisters in Christ. I can honestly say that where I came from I didn't have the best friends influencing me, but my "Nerd Herd" has set me back on the right path and I have felt so much closer to God since I met them.:)
Answer 2: I would like to think so! People in and out of school are always telling me that I am a sweet and innocent girl. I like being called that. It shows me that they notice that I'm not a bad kid and can still have fun. I don't need to get in trouble to feel cool or accepted. I think most people accept me just because I'm nice to them no matter what kind of person they are. I just mainly want to show people that I'm not judgmental. I may not approve of things they do, but I will be there for them when they need someone.
Answer 3: OMGoodness yes! Especially when it came to Julie Lessman's books! The first book I ever read by Julie was A Hope Undaunted in the Winds of Change Series. I thought mt heart was going to stop beating. That book made me laugh and cry, but most of all it made me furious! Don't get me wrong, I loved it, but once I finished it I thought I would never read another book by Julie again. And I didn't for several months. All the sudden one day I started thinking of that book again, and I knew that I just had to read all the others. So, I started reading them in order, which I should have done from the beginning and recommend to anybody who is reading this. I still wanted to throw the books against the wall and maybe rip some pages out, but they were so good! The Daughters of Boston series and Winds of Change series by Julie will be books that I will never forget. Those stories will live in my mind forever! You can visit my blog, http://kissedbooks.blogspot.com/, to see my reviews on each of the books as well as my Character Castings for them!
Have I ever wanted to throw a book at the wall? Uhm, yes, yes I have–many times in fact! The most noteworthy being when I read The Meeting Place by Janette Oke & T. Davis Bunn. I think I threw it twice.
But looking back, I think that made me like the book more–that frustrationt toward the characters and their circumstances drove me to find out "Will things ever straighten out in these books?"
Thanks for sharing!
In Christ,
Micaela 🙂
As a new pastor's wife (30 years ago) my pastors wife Patti taught me that God would use me…though I didn't fit the norm…anyway He desired. And He did. I have had the opportunity to mentor other new pastor wives…sharing the same advice.
Hope hope hope I win one of these wonderful books!
I have to say God has blessed me with different lovely mentors during different stages of my life. They have been placed in my life to help strengthen my prayer life when it was weak, and to offer guidance in other ways.
I have been a fan of yours for years now, and I can't wait to read Joanne's books.
While I have never actually thrown a book against the wall, there have been times when I've wanted to. Even Now and Ever After by Karen Kingsbury just about killed me. Then there was the time I wanted to reach through the book and smack John Morrison Brady upside his stupid little head. Drove me nuts for several chapters that one did.
I have a dear Christian friend who for the last 28 tears has always lived out her Christianity, she is one of the most honest people I have ever met and she has a quiet gentle spirit. She has shown through example how God works through people.
I am usually a shy quiet person so I 'm not always good at expressing myself. I don't know if I could say I every really mentored anyone. I guess the closest I can come is to tell you that before my husband passed away last year he told me that he always liked the way I helped him see God more clearly in the 46 years we had together. I can tell you that I am deeply humbled by the love for the Lord that took him through his illness and brought him to accept all the pain and knowledge of approaching life's end. it not only helped me but our entire family. So in his life ending our family came together stronger in the Lord. So perhaps he was the mentor for us.
And no I haven't thrown any book but there is always tomorrow!
Hi Julie and Joanne, I've enjoyed this blog tour so
much and so excited to be introduced to some new authors. And Julie,
Joanne is the first author who has drawn me in to the point of closing my
book with extra vigor. Meeting all of you has definitely called for an order
for some new books.
Thanks girls!
I would love to read any of these books. In the last ten years I had a lady from church, a little older than me, we had spent time together going to missions things, she became my mentor because she had just been through the same thing, Alzheimer's and a loved one. I called her many a time crying, not know what to do, and she always had a suggestion. Her's was her husband, mine was my Mom, and I became her guardian so that Dad would not take her back home. He had already lived 6 yrs of it before most of us knew what was going on. Anyway, Judy, was my mentor. Love her dearly.
JULIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It's been a while, but a long newsy miracle-filled update will be coming your way soon! 🙂 Wow! From all you have said about Joanne's books….well, I can't wait to read them!!! 🙂 Hi Joanne! 🙂 Julie is my top favourite author friend! I look forward to checking out YOUR blog and books!
I have been very blessed to have had a number of wonderful mentors in my life…and after 18 months of not a few weekends ago I met another wonderful woman who I know God has brought into my life to be the next further-along-on-the-journey-of-life friend (in the same country!). I say in the same country as Julie herself has been a wonderful friend in this category to me too!! Thanks for being such a blessing Julie!
I have the amazing privilege of encouraging a number of other women on an ongoing basis, particularly in the area of marriage. I thank the Lord for these relationships as they encourage me so much too!
I don't believe I've ever thrown a book, but I have sobbed uncontrollably while reading a couple! Causing my hubby to look at me with concern! LOL! 🙂
Would love to win…Elizabeth from New Zealand (you know my details, Julie!)
Gotta run…hope the above makes sense, wanted to make sure I got in before the deadline! 🙂 Don't even know if NZ qualifies in this contest…but wanted to say hi anyway!!! Bless you both.
WANDA!!! I have to admit it IS sooooo fun connecting with my favorite reader friends in comments on JJ and I actually used to have an "Open Mic" Friday once a month just to do this, but as much as I loved it, I found I never got any writing done on those days, so I had to give it up. BUT … opened it up for Joanne ONLY and am having fun connecting with y'all!! Thanks for your kind words, my friend — SO appreciate them AND you!!
Oh, TAMMY, God bless you for doing that … and I'm VERY sure He did!! 🙂 I believe as Christians we have to be good stewards — not only of our money and time, but of our trials and victories as well so we can be a light and helping hand to those going through those same painful times. So GOOD JOB, girl and GOOD LUCK in the contest!!
LOL, ABS, I'm QUITE sure you did!!! 🙂 And, WOW, to be grilled by an 8-year-old like that is SO very cool, my friend. Talk about sowing seed!!
Gosh, BONNIE, I'm just stoked with you mentioning me in the same SENTENCE as Liz, so THANK YOU, my friend!! And, you — emotional??? Ha-ha … sounds like we could be sisters … 😉 And, boy, you nailed Joanne to a T with "humility, generosity, and kind, loving Spirit — I felt that way about her too upon first meeting. And, yes, I AM definitely the "real deal" … real honest, real crazy, and real nuts. 🙂 Wow, girl, I bet it's a heck of a reunion when you and your dear friend get together and I sure hope you do!! Thanks SO much for your support, love and friendship, Bonnie — you are a REAL blessing, girlfriend!!
Oh, POLLY, I am sorry your mentor is no longer on earth, but imagine the joy she is experiencing in heaven!! And I LOVE people who pray out loud –I firmly believe in doing that wherever and whenever to tackle problems ON THE SPOT, so you go, girl!!
JULES!!! LOL … I am laughing … both at your name (Julie JoAnn — too cute!!) AND how many times you emailed me, grousing about the drama in my books. But, YES, you DID survive, praise the Lord, so apparently I have made great strides in making a CDQ out of you, my friend!! 😉 And don't bet on not needing sleep aid when you read Joanne's 2nd book … 😉
Aw, THANK YOU, SUSAN … SO appreciate your kind words, my friend, and YES, Joanne definitely needs to go on your "Gotta Read" list, girl! 🙂
SALYNA!!! "The Nerd Herd" — I LOVE IT!!! You have certainly been blessed with great parents and friends, girl, helping to mold you into a truly beautiful girl in Christ!! LOL about my books and how furious they made you!! I can't believe you decided you wouldn't read another ever and then, BOOM!! Suddenly you're making the most AMAZING montages for each of my books!! So you STILL want to throw my books and rip pages from them, eh? Well, you know what they say — the most annoying commercials are the ones that sell the most products, so I guess that applies to my books where you are concerned!! 😉
Oh, MICAELA … you piqued my interest with a "double throw," so I may just have to check The Meeting Place out, girl!!
MELODY!!! You don't "fit the norm"??? No WONDER I love you so darn much, girl!! 🙂
Hey, REBECCA, thank you SO much for reading my books!! It' great to have you as a "reader friend" (I'm not fond of the word "fan" since we are all just avid readers of Christian fiction), and I just KNOW you will love Joanne's books too, my friend, so GOOD LUCK!!
LOL, HOLLY … get in line, girlfriend!! I got a TON of letters about Mr. Brady, but I attribute some of them to the fact that my editor made me tone John's past down from the original ms. because she was afraid it would be too extreme for the Christian market. Trust me, his original past warranted that annoying stubbornness as well as provided even more motivation for Lizzie's rejection of him when she found it out. Mmmm … sounds like I should read those two books of Karen's, eh?
Oh, WOW, JACKIE … to have your husband tell you "he always liked the way you helped him see God more clearly in the 46 years you had together," is the ULTIMATE compliment, my friend, both for a mentor AND a wife!! And he sounds like a truly amazing man, husband, and father, so God blessed you richly with a marriage made in heaven. LOL … yes, indeed, there is always tomorrow … especially if one of the books you read is by either Joanne or me … 😉
MELODY … "closing your book with extra vigor" … lol, what a nice, civilized way to say she riled you up!! 😉 Mmmm …kind of anxious to see how much vigor I could incite … 😉
WOW, CHERIE, you were blessed with a mentor like Judy in your time of need, but then that is SO like God to send the people best able to shore us up. 🙂
ELIZABETH!!!! Soooooo fun to see you here, my friend, and THANK YOU for both your VERY kind words and your precious friendship!! And ALSO, I want to thank you for your honesty regarding Love at Any Cost, my friend. Do you know that I actually found myself cutting sentences in half during the galley stage specifically because of your comment, so YOU had a hand in the editing of book 2, girlfriend. 🙂
Hugs,
Julie
I have not had a chance to be a guiding light, but I have wanted to toss a few books.
Hi Julie and Joanne,
I love those kinds of books where someone REALLY needs redeeming! Not like we don't all need it, but those characters who we see a drastic change in their lives. I loved how in Joanne's first book, I couldn't stand Gideon for the beginning but truly felt for him by the end. Same with Callie in book two.
Julie-I just picked up a copy of A Passion Most Pure and now I know I need to start that book soon! Sounds like Collin is a character I am going to be very interested in reading about.
I have had various women that God has brought into my life at different times to guide me through whatever I needed to learn. There have been times that I have lacked that kind of mentor, as well, and felt the void dearly. I have been able to be a homeschool mom mentor to quite a few of my friends and they were looking at where to begin in their journey. That has been fun.
Wow, what a great post. I love your books and hope I can win one. Has anyone had a positive impact on my life. Yes, numerous people over the years. Does one stick out? Yes, I remember as a little girl my minister's wife Mrs. Short. She was always giving us "girl" advice of how to value ourselves. She would talk about how our outward appearance would give people the impression of what was on the inside. She would also talk about how loving God didn't mean you were not going to be judged. I guess she gave us life lessons and in all this she wove in the story of how God would always love us. I have tried to raise my daughter using the same life lessons approach. I think if I were to think of a mentor I would like to think she was in. A true southern Christian woman. Have I ever been a mentor to anyone? I hope I have been one to my daughter. I strive daily to show her how to walk with God.
Oh yes, I have thrown books against the wall once I can think of recently, but it's not what you are thinking. There was a HUGE spider and it had to die. the first thing I grabbed was a book. I did apologize to the book, but not the spider.lol
Blessings
Katrina.
When we lived in Texas several years ago there was a wonderful older woman at our church. She liked to be called Granny Sue. She was a great mentor for all the younger women. It was the farthest I'd lived from my family so it was kind of like having a second mom. I hope I'm a "guiding light" for my daughter. Now that she's in her early 20's, I think she sees that more than when she was in her teens.
I really enjoy reading the different conversations with the authors. Lets me get to know a bit about them and find fantastic new reads.
I am so excited to be introduced to a new author and one with the Julie stamp of approval. Congratulations and your books look delightful!!!
My mom was my mentor and she showed me God's love every day . wonderful blog.Thank you for the opportunity to win.
"Has there been a mentor in your life who showed you God's love?" Yes! I have been very blessed to have several such people in my life. Probably the most influential person is my grandmother. She talks about God with such love and knowledge. If I have a question she doesn't know the answer to she'll stop whatever she's doing to sit down and look it up for me. She's always reminding me who I am in Christ and tries her best to guide me in a relationship with Him. I hope to some day have a faith as strong as hers. 🙂
"Has there been a time you were able to be that a guiding light for someone else?" Not yet, or at least not that I know of. I hope that people will see God in me, but no, I haven't had the opportunity to be a "guiding light" for someone else.
"Have you ever wanted to throw a book against the wall?" Umm, I don't think so. Or at least I can't remember wanting to. I have slammed a book against the table when it frustrates me, though. And there was one book that was so suspenseful that I almost skipped to the end to find out "whodunit" – it was driving me nuts! I couldn't figure out who the villain was! 🙂
I must admit to both of you that I have read any of your books, but I would really like to! Thank you for using your talents to honor God, and to inspire and encourage others!
Blessings,
Sarah
Hi Julie and Joanne,
Nice to meet a new author to read!
Have I ever thrown a book? – I don't think so. But I was upset in the lovely Laura Frantz's "Love's Reckoning" when Silas left Eden. I couldn't believe he'd do that. I kept waiting for him to come back and find her in the snow. But then it skipped ahead EIGHT years! I did put the book down for a while – I admit it. After a day or so, I had to find out what happened. And it was a great ending!
And in Hope Undaunted, when Luke went off with Betty – well I thought he was an idiot, but hey. Some men take longer to come to their senses than others! LOL.
Thanks for introducing us to Joanne!
Cheers,
Sue
sbmason at sympatico dot ca
Has there been a mentor in your life who showed you God’s love? Yes, a sweet lady who invited me to a bible study online. She's old enough to be my grandma, and she's really been an inspiration in my life. She's shown me no matter how we go off course from God, He always takes His children back with open arms.
Has there been a time you were able to be that guiding light for someone else? I'm not sure. I try to be and do my best to show Christ's love.
And… if you’re up for a bit of fun: have you ever wanted to throw a book against the wall? *smile* Yes!
LOL, CAROL … hope none of them were mine … 😉 GOOD LUCK!!
BRITTANY … I don't know why, but your name looks SO familiar, so I thought you had already read one of my books, but I guess not. But THANK YOU for starting with A Passion Most Pure since this is a series best read in order do to a number of BIG surprises in book 1. That's the nice thing about being a Christian — God uses other to mentor us, then turns around and uses us to mentor others!!
LOL, KATRINA … a spider is certainly a legitimate reason to throw a book against the wall!! And Mrs. Short sounds like an angel and a true blessing in your life and other's, no doubt. 🙂
PAM!!! I have NO DOUBT you are a guiding light for your daughter, Pam, just knowing you the way I do. And Granny Sue sounds delightful and just like she needs to be in a Joanne Bischoff book!! 😉
TAMMY, I SO agree, my friend — it's been fun to get glimpse of all these authors, too!! Trust me, you canNOT go wrong reading ANY of them, because I have read them all — they are TOP NOTCH!!
TINA!!!! Gosh, you have NO idea how fun it is to see a fellow Seeker here … or I guess you do!! YES, Joanne definitely has my seal of approval, so pick one up, but stock up on sleep aids, my friend. 🙂
Hugs,
Julie
SUZI-Q!!! SOOOO fun to see you here, my friend, and YES, I was upset with my dear friend Laura, too, when Silas took a hike, but OH MY, my heart literally POUNDED in my chest in the scene where they met years later, MORE than any other book I have ever read!!! I have atrial fibrillation, but am on meds to control it, so when I started hyperventilating during that scene, I KNEW it was Laura's doing!! 🙂 And you thought Luke was an idiot??? Gosh, I LOVED him for what he did, but then as the author, I KNEW he would come back to Katie!! 😉 Trust me, my friend, you will LOVE Joanne!!
ALLYSON … Okay, kiddo, spill it — WHAT book have you wanted to throw across the room??? 😉
Hugs,
Juie
I have tried over and over to post, so I don't know if this is going through, but I would love to enter, so fingers crossed!!
Maxie
Julie, it was your book A Hope Undaunted. The tug and pull between Katie and Cluny was wonderful, but at certain places I wanted to throw the book. So good!
Hi Julie and Joanne! Thanks for the great post and the chance to win! I haven't read Joanne's books, but it sounds like I need to remedy that ASAP. 🙂
I've read a lot but can't remember ever throwing a book for any reason. Enter me in the drawing.
My mom was a great mentor to me…. She loved to read and made sure I always had lots of good books to read….Julie Lessman has also been an awesome mentor/friend/like a sister to me…God brought her into my life just when I needed her encouragement….her books have deepened my love for Jesus and my husband….so thankful she uses her gifts to bless others…
Hey, Maxie, I am SO sorry you had problems, but you're in the game,now, sweetie so GOOD LUCK!!
LOL, Allyson, yeah I LOVE that tug-o-war stuff between Luke and Katie, which is why AHU is my favorite of all the books I've written. And, I'm happy to say, I have NEVER thrown it across the room … 😉
Oh, MICHELLE … remember how I recommended Laura Frantz and you went crazy??? Get ready, girlfriend, because this is the gal who was up against Laura for a Christy this year. BUT … read this series in order, okay?
Hey, OLA, if you haven't thrown a book yet, then you haven't read the right book yet. Try Joanne's or mine and see what you think — we may convert you to a book thrower yet!! 😉
JO!!! There was another Jo up above, but I wasn't sure if it was you or not, but I AM sure this is you, you sweet thing. Do you have ANY idea how much I miss you??? Love you!!
Hugs,
Julie
Joanne! Oh my goodness the bend the front cover back thing drives me NUTS!! I have a sister that does that and I don't share my books with her too often. LOL
Julie!! I love you, my friend, and I so get the comments thing. By the time I get through emails and Facebook messages I don't have enough time to blog. LOL but I did enjoy connecting with you today and hopefully we can do it again soon. 🙂
A mentor, you say? I should say that it would have to be one of my past music teachers. She was/is the greatest encouragement in my life. If it wasn't for her, I may not have made it out to college. She helped build my faith and gave me courage.Yes, I have had those moments when I want nothing more than to hurl a book against the wall..many times..So, sometimes I rewrite the stories in my head..Thank you for sharing and for the giveaway! I enjoyed reading your blog.
Blessings,
Juli
II Timothy 1:7
Abbi – Bravo to you for sitting with her and answering those hard questions. What a special time! (And hooray for having a good reading-buddy that you can vent to when the going gets tough!)
Oh Bonnie, you are such a blessing time and time again. Saying a special prayer on your evening. Thanks for being such a warm, sunshiny “face” out there each week!
Polly, It sounds like she left quite a special legacy. That is so wonderful how it’s ministered to your life and I can only imagine that it ministered to hers as well.
My dear friend and mentor MaryAnn has been a Godly example and encouragement. She has cheered me on in my writing and spiritual journey. She is a blessing! 🙂
"Has there been a mentor in your life who showed you God's love?" Yes! I have been very blessed to have several such people in my life. Probably the most influential person is my grandmother. She talks about God with such love and knowledge. If I have a question she doesn't know the answer to she'll stop whatever she's doing to sit down and look it up for me. She's always reminding me who I am in Christ and tries her best to guide me in a relationship with Him. I hope to some day have a faith as strong as hers. 🙂
"Has there been a time you were able to be that a guiding light for someone else?" Not yet, or at least not that I know of. I hope that people will see God in me, but no, I haven't had the opportunity to be a "guiding light" for someone else.
"Have you ever wanted to throw a book against the wall?" Umm, I don't think so. Or at least I can't remember wanting to. I have slammed a book against the table when it frustrates me, though. And there was one book that was so suspenseful that I almost skipped to the end to find out "whodunit" – it was driving me nuts! I couldn't figure out who the villain was! 🙂
I must admit to both of you that I have read any of your books, but I would really like to! Thank you for using your talents to honor God, and to inspire and encourage others!
Blessings,
Sarah
Julie- Oh my gosh, Julie JoAnn you definitely need to win something, if nothing else a big group hug with these two J’s over here!! Lovely meeting you here on Julie’s blog!
Susan – What a smile I have at the thought of that. I could just see Julie and I fighting and crying and throwing pages in the air… oh the drama that would be… What fun! Thanks for being here!
Salyna – It is so wonderful to meet you and hear more of your story. It sounds like you are a good and true friend. 🙂 And I just have to say I LOVE how throwable Julie’s books are. I’m so glad I’m not alone!! And I think when we feel stirred up as readers, it gives us a lot of food for thought!
Micaela—I have not read that book but now I am so tempted to check it out. I’ve been there a time or two myself. 🙂 I’ve enjoyed your comments this week!
Melody- what a special ministry you’ve had. I bet it’s made a difference in many lives.
Rebecca—Lovely seeing you here on Julie’s blog. I’m just loving to get to visit with her readers and get to know you ladies more!
Holly—there’s just something about a character that is “smackable” isn’t there? Sometimes I wish I could do that to fictional characters all the time! 🙂
Jackie- I love your comment….sometimes it can be the shy, quiet way that is mentoring in itself. Just you being you. It’s so great how God creates each of us unique. I’m rather shy myself, too 🙂
Good evening, Melody! Oh, the thought of you closing your book with extra vigor. That just gave me such a smile. Thanks for reading the series and for being such a sweet presence time and time again.
Cherie- It’s so neat to hear your story and learn a bit more about you. Glad you are here and happy reading this fall!!
WANDA … I actually feel the same way as you and Joanne about manhandling books!! And, girl, I love you, too — you are flat-out ADORABLE!!
WOW, JULI … sounds like your music teacher was a jack of all trades — music, encouragement, ministry!! You are SO blessed to have known her, but I'm guessing she feels the exact same way about you!!
KAREN … Mary Ann sounds SO very special … but, it takes one to know one, my friend, so look in the mirror!!
SARAH B. … Mmmm, so you've never wanted to throw a book against the wall, eh? Sounds like we need to get both Joanne's and mine in your hands, sweetie! 😉
Hugs,
Julie
lol Yes, I came dangerously close to throwing Laura Frantz's "Love's Reckoning" into the wall when Silas kisses Isabelle! I LOVE being that emotionally connected to a story!
Yes, I have had many mentors and different seasons of my life. One that pops out right now is an older woman, now with Jesus, that helped me in the early years of my marriage and when my kids were babies. she definitely was a God-send.
And yes, I have wanted to throw a book or two across the room!:)
Well Jules, here I am , only 6 mins left… I am still sending folks here to join in these wee hours of the giveaway !
Love ya
Linda
a friend helped me through the death of my Dad she helped to keep me guided to God.
Hi Julie! Thanks for the chance to win one of y'alls books! I have been blessed to have my mother as one of the best mentors in my life! She has always been an example of Christ's love, and though I know she is not perfect, I want to be like my mom when I "grow up!" I used to be strung out on meth for 7 years. I lied to her, stole from her, "borrowed" money from her-that I knew I'd probably never repay, used & manipulated her. And while she changed the locks on her house and showed me tough love many times, she has been my biggest cheerleader, my greatest support, best friend & most awesome mother in the world to me! I pray that I can be 1/2 the woman that she is one day!
*I have wanted to throw many a book against the wall, and I actually did with a few of them!
1.) The one person that comes to my mind when I think of a mentor is a lovely lady that attended the same church as I (we both attend different churches now). She is a beautiful Christian lady who adores our Lord, and has lived a very Godly life. She is now 90 (or is it now 91?) and at age 88, she had her first novel self-published–and just published another one recently! I have not yet read the 2nd one, but I have read her 1st one, and it was very enjoyable, especially since I know the characters were based on her own life, embellished of course. And she has at least two others in progress as we speak! An amazing lady!
2.) I became somewhat of a mentor, for a friend I met at my work place a few years back (she was a customer). She is actually older than me, but she had recently lost her husband and was really struggling. It was one of those situations that you knew was a God thing, because I "just HAPPENED to come back t work after several weeks off", and she had "just HAPPENED to come into my store the same day, after being away for a couple months". God was able to give me the words that she needed to hear, so she could receive healing of some of her feelings of great loss and help her to begin living again (she had been starving her body out of grief). Not that I had ever experienced such a thing, but God just provided me with the words she needed to hear and her with that "friend" that she so needed at the time.
3.) I can't think of a time I have ever thrown a book across the room, however, I do find myself getting lost within the book I'm reading and get angry/sad/happy, etc. right along with or at the characters and find myself crying/laughing or sometimes yelling at them.. 😉
Vicki
Well, I want to thank you for the blog hop. I think I have visited each days blogs. I may be too late posting, because I just got home earlier from the hospital. My granddaughter entered the world yesterday, so I've been with my daughter all this time. I've had a few mentors over my lifetime. I think the one that stands out the most is my pastor from a church I used to attend. He was the one that got me into reading through my Bible every year. I am now on my 13th time through!
God bless you ladies!
I would have to say that my mother had been one of the most prominent influences in my life. Through every storm she always knew where her strength came from. Now as a pastors wife I am always humbled when God uses me to speak to someone or be an example for them. Now, the book against the wall thing…I haven't just thought about it. 🙂
God bless!!!
TARA … yeah, Laura has the gift of pulling the reader in like few authors I've seen, which is why she's one of my absolute FAVES!! I now can add Joanne as well because talk about toying with one's emotions!!
LISA … I am SO glad God sent an angel-mentor to you when you needed it most, and being a mom of babies in a new marriage is definitely one of them!
LOL, LINDA … I honestly need to put you on the payroll, you sweet thing, because NOBODY promos better than you!! BLESS YOU, my friend, for all your hard work!! 🙂
JOANNE … God bless that friend who saw you through the death of your dad, my friend, and I would LOVE to have you come back and tell me your name since you put Joanne Bischoff's name instead of yours, so I don't know who you are if you were to win … 🙁
OH MY GOODNESS, KRISTEN, what a story, girl!! And WHAT a mother and mentor!!! God was watching out for you with her, my friend, and I am SOOO glad!!
Oh, VICKI, sounds like you have two beautiful examples of both having a mentor and being one, which is SO God, isn't it??? Provision when we need it and provision to others when they need it THROUGH US!! And I'm with you — I love getting lost in a book and running the gamut of emotions — SO fun!!
Oh, JANICA, I don't know HOW you did it, but I LOVE the pink color and font of your comment, girlfriend!! And THANK YOU for reading APMP — SO glad you enjoyed it. 🙂 High school teachers can be some of the most influential mentors out there, especially those rooted in God!!
DEBBIE!!! SUPER CONGRATS on your new granddaughter, my friend — what a true blessing those little ones are!!! May you be the best mentor she ever has!!
KRISTIE … I think moms have come out on top in this survey of mentors in this giveaway for sure, which is a real testimony to moms everywhere. 🙂
Hugs,
Julie
A BIG THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO CAME BY AND ESPECIALLY TO JOANNE FOR HER FABULOUS, BLOG, BLOG TOUR AND BOOKS!!
I WISH EVERYONE COULD WIN THE BIG PRIZE, BUT AT LEAST EVERYONE CAN WIN BY READING JOANNE'S BOOKS BECAUSE THEY ARE A TRUE WIN!!
HUGS,
JULIE
THE FOLLOWING IS A COMMENT SENT TO ME BY AN ENTRANT WHO HAD TROUBLE POSTING IT ON MY BLOG. SORRY FOR THE HASSLE, JOY, BUT HERE'S YOUR COMMENT:
Boy! Have I ever wanted to throw a book against the wall – YOU BET!
Even though it was a Christian book it was WAY outside the box in edgy material. I like passion in my stories – I HAVE AlL BUT ONE LESSMAN BOOK – but – that book had me wanting to throw the book THROUGH the wall, not at the wall.
I've had several mentors in my life. Some longer term than others and in different areas of my life. I have a gal who says she prays for me every day and to me I'm being mentored to be a prayer warrior by her example. I've shared my deepest dream with that lady and feel my openness with her is protected.
Unknowingly, there were some things that happened recently at the ACFW Conference in Indianapolis that God used to give me opportunity to "help" some others, but none was so so deeply stirring or as deep a blessing as when I obeyed God and went to the Prayer Room in time to intercept someone who was hurting and when she shared her pain with me, it was something I'd been through and God used my empathy and understanding – even discernment when I prayed with/for her. She left the room a different woman and so did I.
I entered the drawings earlier but somehow missed seeing the questions, Julie. Thanks for asking them – I'm so excited to be able to share this last answer especially.
Joy Avery Melville
I have wanted to throw my math book across the room. But since I have always read your books on Kindle I wouldn't want to throw it across the room. But scary plot twists are part of the fun.
LOL, ELIZABETH …"scary plot twists ARE part of the fun," girlfriend, so you sound like MY kind of reader!! 🙂
Hugs,
Julie
WHOO-HOO, WE HAVE WINNERS!! CHECK OUT THE NAMES AT http://www.joannebischof.com/extras/blogtour/ OR http://www.julielessman.com/journal-jots1/!!
HUGS,
Julie
Now see Jules, how could I go wrong ! I won two awesome books that I didn't have and they both look totally wonderful ! Carrie's book Governess of Highland Hall and Joanne's book Be Still My Soul ! Its a wonderful Day in the Lord !!!!
Hugs and Blessings,
Linda
LINDA FINN, I'll tell you what — you are ONE lucky lady!!! But I prefer to think it's God blessing you for all the good you do for Christian fiction AND me!! 😉
Hugs and happy reading!! You will LOVE both books — I did!! 🙂
Julie
Thanks for introducing me to a "new-to-me" author! If the purpose of an interview is to stir up a desire to read more from that author, then you most certainly succeeded! 😉
You are MORE than welcome, CYNDI!!! Thanks for coming by — you will LOVE Joanne's books!!
Hugs,
Julie