Wednesday, January 28, 2015
'Til Death Book Giveaway
I'm excited about 'Til Death. I was inspired by the book of Hosea, but wanted to modernize the story with my own twists. That's why it's inspired by Hosea but not based on it.
The story centers around Sal Martinelli who grew up without his mom and the last thing he wanted for his son was to grow up without his. He loves Vicki but her addictions make it difficult to repeat the vicious cycle of love and disappointment. You can read the beginnings here.
So what better to celebrate than to have a book giveaway. I'm giving away two books, one to the US and one to Canada. The winners will be announce next Wednesday. You have many ways to enter:
1. Leave a comment on this blog post.
2. Leave a comment on the Facebook link.
3. Join my Facebook Author Page here.
© Nadine Zawacki 2015
Cover photo of the book is a picture of our wedding rings and my wedding dress.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Her Mother’s Hope Blog Tour
Welcome to the Blog Tour for Francine River’s new book, Her Mother’s Hope. I’ve just started reading it and the story is very intriguing. My post today is longer than most that I write and feel free to read any or all of it. At the very end of the post are links for the book’s first chapter and a book trailer. If you’re a fan of Francine’s you may or may not know some of the answers to these questions. If you’re a fan, let me know your favorite book or what you like about her as a writer.How did you get started as a writer? From the time I was a child, I knew I would be a writer. Because I didn’t know what I would write, I majored in English (emphasis in literary writing) and minored in journalism (emphasis on who-what-when-where-why). My parents had always been non-fiction readers. Rick’s family loved all kinds of books – and lots of fiction. Mom Edith loaned me novels and I loved them. On a dare (from Rick) I decided to write a combination of my favorite genres and wrote a “western-gothic-romance”. Romance novels were booming in the general market, publishers were on the look-out for new writers. My first manuscript sold and was published. I was hooked! I followed with eight or nine more (of what I call my B.C. (before Christ) books). They are all now out of print, are never to be reprinted, and are not recommended.
When I turned my life over to Jesus, I couldn’t write for three years. I tried, but nothing worked. I struggled against God over that because writing was my “identity.” It took that period of suffering “writer’s block” to bring me to my senses. God was trying to open my eyes to how writing had become an idol in my life. It was the place I ran to escape, the one area of my life where I thought I was in complete control. (Hardly!) My priorities were all wrong and needed to be put right. God first, husband and children second (we had three children by then) and third-- work. I prayed God would change my heart. My love for writing and reading novels waned and my passion for reading and studying God’s Word grew.
Rick and I began hosting a home Bible study. I began working with Rick in his business. The children came along and played in the office, hiding in the shipping popcorn. Writing ceased to matter. I was in love with Jesus and my husband and children. God never stops with the transformation process. We began studying the book of Hosea, and I sensed God calling me to write again – this time a romance about Jesus’ love for each of us. Redeeming Love was the result. It is the retelling of the Hosea story, set in Gold Rush-era California. After I turned it in, I wasn’t sure whether I would write anything more. I had so many questions about what it means to be a Christian, how to live for God, different issues that still haunted me. I felt God nudging me toward using my writing as a tool to draw closer to Him. I would ask my question, create characters that would play out the different viewpoints and seek God’s perspective. I began work on A Voice in the Wind. Writing has become a way to worship the Lord through story – to show how intimately He wants to be involved in our lives.
Which is your favorite book of those you’ve written? My favorite book is Redeeming Love. It was my first as a born-again Christian, my statement of faith, and the most exciting year I’ve spent writing anything. I felt God’s presence throughout the months of work, as though He were telling me His story through thousands of Scriptures as well as explaining the inner heart-ache and quest of each “my” characters.
Which book was the hardest to write and why? The Atonement Child was the most personal and difficult to write because I had to face my own abortion experience. Added to the considerable research I did, and women who shared their experiences with me, I went through an intensive post-traumatic stress Bible study for post-abortive women at our local pregnancy counseling center. Reliving all aspects of my abortion decision and experience was excruciating – but healing. After twenty-six years of being imprisoned by guilt and shame, I was free through the power and love of God. Though the book was the most heart-wrenching to write, it also proved to be the most life changing. I’ve received countless letters from other post-abortive women and have learned my experience is not unique. Our nation is filled with wounded men and women. The character of Hannah is based on my story, Doug is based on Rick’s, and Evie is based on my mother’s.
Tell us about your current work. I have just completed the second in a set of two books about mother-daughter relationship over four generations. This was intended to be one long novel dealing with the different ways generations have lived out their faith – but became so long it needed to be divided. Her Mother’s Hope will be released March 16, 2010. Her Daughter’s Dream will follow in September. There are numerous family and personal details woven into both books and I plan to share those things on my blog.
What is your goal or mission as a Christian writer? I want to whet the appetite for the real thing: the Bible and a personal relationship with Jesus. I try to weave Scripture throughout the story so people receive the Word and see what it might mean in their lives – how the Lord is present and real and passionately interested in each of us. He is not an idea. He is real, all-powerful, all-knowing, the embodiment of love, deeply involved in our existence, and He created each of us for a purpose.
What advice would you give to a new writer? Write what you need to read. Write from your heart and. Write truth. Sometimes it hurts to peel away the layers of self-deception and see ourselves in the mirror, but it will also draw us closer to Jesus. And your work may minister to others struggling with the same issues. Read the Bible every day so that it will flow naturally into the story. Study the Bible from beginning to end. It is the most exciting reading in the world. It is also alive – and will help you recognize when you are entering into sin and need to realign yourself with the Lord. Keep your focus on Jesus.
First chapter excerpt at: Click here
Book trailer video at: Click here
PLEASE NOTE: A complimentary copy of this book was provided to me as a blog tour host by Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for posting this interview on my blog. Please visit Christian Speaker Services (click here) for more information about blog tour management services.
© Nadine Zawacki 2010
Wednesday, April 07, 2010
The Blank Page
The blank page can be a writer’s worst nightmare. A clean canvas waiting for a story to form on it shouldn't be so scary. The blank page anticipates the weaving of the author’s imagination. Why would something that is pure and clean cause heartache? When words don’t seem to form it’s heartbreaking. You feel lost. You feel like you've lost it . . . or maybe it’s just me.The last time I wrote a blog post it was over a month ago. It’s not because I haven’t attempted to write something. I feel blocked. I feel as unoccupied as the page that stares back at me. I’m not sure what is going on.
So how do I get “over it?” I’m not quite sure. I hope that the flood gates of creativity come pouring out of the heavens and into my spirit.
Maybe this little post is the beginning of the end of The Blank Page.
© Nadine Zawacki 2010
Monday, November 30, 2009
The Purse
Inspiration can come from almost anywhere. All you have to do is open up your eyes and see. During our book club meeting I noticed one of the purses (pictured above) of one of the gals at the meeting. It reminded me of a purse from the 1950’s or 1960’s. A story started to develop in my head. Walking down the street Candice entered Granny’s Thrift Shop just for the fun of it. She wasn’t seeking anything to buy. She was saving for retirement and careful about spending money. Even though retirement was in about ten years she couldn’t help being frugal. She was amazed at the variety of items they gathered in such a small space. On a shelf next to a pair of shoes, a purse caught her eye.
She was drawn to it. Suddenly she was eight years old again.
“Momma, when are we going to the toy store?” Candice asked with a big smile on her face. “Soon, baby. You have to finish your breakfast before we can go.” Her mother stroked the top of her head. I finished as quickly as she could. They were going to the new toy store in town. It was the biggest one in three counties Momma said. I just couldn’t imagine how so many toys would fit in a store that big. “Let me grab my purse and clean your hands and we’ll be on our way.” I sat up front. Excitement filled every fiber in my being. Momma’s purse was right next to me. One day when I’m older, Momma said she would get me a purse just like hers. After Momma made sure I had my seat belt on, it was off to the toy store. Momma stopped the car at the light and looked at me. The smile on her face was stunning. It was the most beautiful face I had ever seen.
Candice picked up the purse. She had to have it. She checked the price tag and was heartbroken that she didn’t have enough money to purchase it. She held it in hands as if she was holding on to a priceless jewel.
“Look, Candy girl. See the store up ahead?” Momma said with a smile. Before I could answer, my world was forever changed. As momma stepped on the gas another car came from the left and rammed into the driver’s side door.
Holding the purse tightly, she walked to the cashier. She tried not cry, but a tear fell from her eye and rolled down her cheek. “Excuse me.” She said as she cleared her throat. Taking a deep breath she continued, “I was wondering if you could hold this purse for me until next week. I don’t have enough right now, but I can give you a partial payment.”
The old woman behind the counter took one look into Candice’s eyes and asked, “Oh, my dear. What’s the matter?”
“I . . . I . . . this purse reminds me of my mother. She had one just like it.”
“Is she no longer with you?”
I remembered being in the hospital, holding on to mother’s purse with a bruise around my waist where the seat belt was fasten. I couldn’t get the image of mother’s bloodied body from my mind. Momma didn’t move. Her head had cracked the windshield. My world had stopped. I tried to scream for help but no sound came out. I didn’t speak for weeks. I just held on to her purse.
“No. She died when I was little. My aunt came over to help pack away my mother’s things . . . and this purse . . . it was taken by mistake.”
The old woman placed her hand on top of Candice’s. “It’s okay honey. You’re the only one who has ever shown any interest in that old thing. You would be doing me a favor if you took it off my hands.”
Now the tears flowed freely. The kindness of this stranger touched her deeply. She managed to say, “Thank you.”
© Nadine Zawacki 2009
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Inspiration
The dictionary defines the word inspiration as: a divine influence; action on a person believed to qualify him/her to receive and communicate sacred revelation; the action or power of moving the intellect or emotions or the act of influencing or suggesting opinion.I’ve not been inspired in a while to write any blog posts. Why? I don’t know.
On my fan page on Facebook, I’ve been inspired daily. But those were little bursts of inspiration. Playing writing games have been lots of fun for me and those who participate.
Sometimes, I just need to slow down enough in order to put aside all the distractions so I can be inspired. I find when I stop to listen to what God has to say, I’m inspired. I get ideas and I’m able to express them in writing. Help me Lord to be more focused. My goal is to set time aside to be inspired.
So what inspires you?
© Nadine Zawacki 2009
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Creativity Unleashed
© Nadine Zawacki 2009
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Quote Me This . . .
I love quotes. On my fan page on Facebook, I’ve been posting writing quotes. Here are a few of my favorites:If you would not be forgotten as soon as you are dead, either write things worth reading or do things worth writing. - Benjamin Franklin
Writing is the only profession where no one considers you ridiculous if you earn no money. - Jules Renard (1864-1910)
There is no agony like bearing an untold story inside you. - Z.N. Hurston
A synonym is a word you use when you can't spell the other one. ~ Baltasar Gracián
I try to leave out the parts that people skip. ~ Elmore Leonard
What makes a quote memorable is it touches something inside of you. It sparks emotion, hope, laughter or a memory among other things. It makes you think especially if you connect with the quote in some way.
Scripture verses do all of that and more. When I feel like I’m just floundering and feel like God has forgotten me, this verse comes to mind:
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. - Jeremiah 29:11
God has a plan and purpose for my life. I matter to Him. When I look back on the things that happen to me I realize how true Jeremiah 29:11 is. Sometimes in the midst of the confusion, I just can’t see clearly enough to see the end game. I’m glad sees the end game on my behalf.
My friend, Larry Randolph, once said: “God factors our stupidity into our destiny.”
What are some of your favorite quotes or scripture verses?
© Nadine Zawacki 2009
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
How Well Do You Handle Correction?
Correction is never an easy thing. I have not met one person in my 47 years of life that loved or welcomed correction.When I was a child, I didn’t deal with correction well. It wasn’t easy for me to take correction because I saw it as being rejected. I would shut down emotionally. If that was a problem still then editing my book would have been torture. I learned so much during that process and believe it or not it was a pleasant experience.
I’m grateful that God helped me to learn that this was part of life. If I want to be a writer then rejection is in my future. One of my favorite authors, besides Ted Dekker, is Frank Peretti. His first novel was rejected 17 times before a publisher took a chance on him. I’m so glad he didn’t give up.
Correction is hard to take, but I do believe I handle it much better now. After I stick my head in the sand and realize it’s hard to breathe down there, I brush myself off and forge ahead. Whenever I do this, my reward comes quickly. I’ve grown as a person. There is satisfaction in not quitting and completing a task.
Dealing with correction gets easier, but still it’s not fun. Don’t give up. Don’t quit. Forge ahead to the end of the rainbow.
© Nadine Zawacki 2009
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Writing Quotes
I stumbled upon writing quotes that I’ve been posting on my fan page on Facebook. The first one I posted really tickled me:I try to leave out the parts that people skip. ~Elmore Leonard
I love to read books. I love to gleam from the creativity of others. I appreciate the different styles writers use to communicate their imagination. My prose is more simplistic in style. I never graduated from college. English was my least favorite subject in high school. If you had to diagram a sentence to get to heaven, then I wouldn’t make it.
When I write I try to use less words to convey what I’m trying to say. I don’t know why I do that, it was probably something I picked up from one of my writing friends. I don’t have the most sophisticated style of writing, but I love doing it.
I read many blogs that convey many different styles of writing. Some of you out there would not consider yourselves writers, yet you write all the time and convey your thoughts with humor and keep the interest of your readers.
Merriam-Webster defines an author as:
1. One that originates or creates and
2. The writer of a literary work (as a book).
Hmmm. I find it interesting that the second meaning, not the first, is a person who wrote a book. Sometimes we get hung up on titles. I know many authors and some never had a book published. They are excellent writers that I learn so much from and I know it’s just a matter of time before their work is published.
So all you authors – those that originate or create – keep writing.
© Nadine Zawacki 2009
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Three Years and Counting
Three years ago today I stated blogging. I had no idea what I was doing. I was encouraged by Tom to start writing as a creative outlet. That first post, First Entry, had one comment on it. It wasn’t even from Tom. I didn’t write for the comments and I learned I had many lurkers who read my blog that first year. It doesn’t matter, thank you for reading.Now over 400 posts later, 70,6007 (approximate) hits on my blog from people all over the world and 52 followers (never to late to follow), I find myself blessed. I’m blessed because I have had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people through the world of blogging. Some of you have been reading my musings from the beginning and others joined me somewhere along the way. I’ve gotten to meet three of you in person and spoken to a few of you on the phone. I’ve not been disappointed because you were just as you represented yourselves to be.
In the past three years you have joined me on this journey called life. Supported me through Tom’s fight with cancer, followed me on my road trips and cruises, celebrated birthdays and anniversaries. You followed my journey as I prepared to self publish my first novel and were there with your support when it finally came to pass.
Your support and encouragement have been invaluable.
I want to thank you for letting me peek into your world as well. I’ve enjoyed pictures of your kids as they grow up and the stories you share about them. I’ve loved your humor at life and laughed along with you. I’ve been uplifted by your spiritual journey and encouraged by your faith.
Why do I blog? In my first post, I mentioned how I love to tell a story. I still do.
I’ll continue to blog until I feel I have nothing else to say. Thank you - all of you who comment and those of you who don’t, but keep coming back to hear what I have to say. Thank you for reading.
© Nadine Zawacki 2009
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Look Inside
You will probably think I’m a big geek, but the “Look Inside” feature is now operational on my Amazon page. I love this feature. When I’m checking out a new book it lets me take a peek at the first few pages or it randomly picks a section for me to read. I take this opportunity to thank those of you who have read the book already and did reviews on Amazon. Thank you for your kind words, but more on that later.I was wondering what if we came with a “Look Inside” feature? When someone meets us for the first time they can take a peek at the type of person we are. This could help when you are dating. Imagine how much time it can save you from dating those guys who pretend to be studs but really are big duds.
It’s easy to see the bad, but it takes effort to see people the way God sees them. If they had a “Look Inside” feature, than maybe we can see the good that’s there…or the pain…or the betrayal they suffered…or how lonely they may be. I’ve written before about the outreaches we’ve done at the fair and the boat race back in Washington. Giving people an encouraging word at a booth is easy because they approach you – doing it at a restaurant to the waitress is not (at least not the first time). When I’m truly listening to God, He will sometimes tell me to “Look Inside” more deeply at the person in line at the grocery store or the guy at Starbucks. Then He urges me to go and give them that word of encouragement.
Sometimes, people just need a “word hug.” What I mean is a word that gives them hope. I know my weaknesses, but I’m not always sure about my strengths. A word of support goes a long way.
It’s like the reviews on my book. They have encouraged me and spurred me to start another book. I’m enjoying this new project. Hopefully this one won’t take as long to write.
“Look Inside” and what do you see?
© Nadine Zawacki 2009
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
And The Winners Are . . .
I want to thank everyone for participating in the Prisoner of Circumstance giveaway. It has been fun to track all the comments, the blog posts, the fans and the followers. I appreciate each and everyone one of you. What a blessing to know that so many people were so excited and supportive. It's been a long process, but I'm so grateful it's a done. Some of you have purchased books already and I want to thank you. I hope you enjoy it.I used Random.org to pick the winners. The two winners from blogland (those who commented, followed or posted) are:
Blue Seehorse and Rhoda@Southern Hospitality.
The winner from the Fan page on Facebook is:
Dawn Writes
Thank you all so much for your support. You have no idea how much this has blessed me at this time.
© Nadine Zawacki 2008
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Prisoner of Circumstance Giveaway
The moment you all have been waiting for is finally here. Prisoner of Circumstance, my first novel, is available! You can purchase a copy right now on Amazon.com. To celebrate the release I’m giving away not one, not two but three copies of the book! You have four chances to win…1. Leave a comment, any comment on this post.
2. Become a fan of “Nadine” on Facebook. Click here to enter.
3. Post about my giveaway on your blog, and comment here letting me know or…
4. Become a follower of my blog (see side bar)
Multiply your chances of winning by doing all four!
I want to thank all of you for your love and support through the years. I will announce the winners next Tuesday, December 3oth.
© Nadine Zawacki 2008
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Coming Soon
I’ve finally got my author proof in the mail and it’s only a matter of time before it will be available on Amazon.com. I’m told it will take one to two weeks for the page to be built. I will let you all know by having a giveaway of my first novel. Stay tuned for your chance to win Prisoner of Circumstance.© Nadine Zawacki
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Mildly Disappointed
I want to thank everyone for their kind words of support and love on the passing of my dear friend. Your kindness was so appreciated. I felt the love and the prayers. Thank you.In light of my friend’s passing, life’s little disappointments really have been put in perspective. I still feel a bit disappointed but not as much as I would have a week ago.
When I spoke to the people at BookSurge in November, I was supposed to get my actual book this week. I called today and someone there dropped the ball or told me the wrong information. They are expediting the process but now I won’t get the final copy until next week. This means once I've approved it, it will take another five to ten days for it to be launched on Amazon. I know that doesn’t sound bad, but if I didn’t ask for this rush, it wouldn’t be ready for Christmas. I’m still not sure if it will be. As soon as I know, I’ll let pass on the information.
The worst part is that my personal copies that I ordered won’t be ready for two to three weeks, which means I won’t have them by Christmas. So, I’m disappointed. I was assured that won’t be the case for those who order directly from Amazon when the book becomes available. It’s the regular shipping schedules. Funny, I have to wait longer to get my own books.
I’ve waited a long time for this and it’s just around the corner (but not as close I had thought). It’s really okay because in the scope of life’s bigger issues this is a small annoyance.
© Nadine Zawacki 2008
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Virtual Personal Assistant
I have a job! I’m working as a virtual personal assistant for 10 hours a week for a lady who lives in Nebraska. What is a virtual personal assistant? I’m glad you asked. She checks voice mail, email, does research and other administrative duties by email. Don’t you just love the electronic age? She’s a very busy lady and very nice. I’m looking forward to it. She’s been thinking about writing a book and had asked if I ever was a ghost writer. I haven’t but, hey, I’m willing.I still have 30 hours left in my week if anyone out there needs a virtual personal assistant.
Side note: I should be getting a completed copy of my book in ten working days. I’m very excited. If I approve that copy, then it’s another ten working days for Amazon to build me a page on their site. Sweet. Did you notice the cover tease on the sidebar?
Until next time, be blessed.
© Nadine Zawacki 2008
Sunday, November 09, 2008
It Figures
As you all know I’ve been looking for a job. It’s been a process, but I haven’t panicked about it. I have a friend here in Dallas that’s been sending me leads for jobs I could do from home.I was very excited about one that had to do with writing. This company was seeking writers to work on articles from home. I thought to myself – sweet, a job doing something I love. They wanted references and examples of previous articles I’ve written.
Hummmm. Considering I’ve never worked as a “writer” before or had any articles published anywhere other than my blog, I got creative. I mentioned my new book that’s due to be released and linked some of my favorite posts from my blog. I conveyed an air of confidence that I was worth taking a chance on.
It worked. I got an email explaining further the type of work I would be doing to start with and was asked if I was still interested.
Apparently the type of work that was currently available (even though it represents 10% of their business) was work in the “adult entertainment” field. Considering what my husband does for a living and the fact that God would have a problem with it, I declined.
I guess if I wanted to change my name to Fifi LaRue I could go for it…no, I don’t think so. It figures that the first writing job I got offered would be questionable. I told them that even though I could write about other things that have nothing to do with God, this was at the other extreme and I would pass. They understood.
I always knew in my heart that I would really love to write full time, but I have my limits.
© Nadine Zawacki 2008
Monday, November 03, 2008
Phase 2 is Done
I'm so very excited that Phase 2 of my book is done. What does this mean? It means that the publishers have to make changes and then submit to me a copy in writing. Yeah!!! Once that phase is done and I give the FINAL okay, then it's Amazon's turn.Amazon will then work on setting up an Amazon page for me. That way you can type in my name or book title in order to buy a copy. It comes complete with a "look inside" feature and synopsis. This part should take about two weeks.
Once I know what the release date is, then the fun begins. I will be calling on all my friends out there to help me advertise this book. I will be having a giveaway (two on my blog and one on Facebook). More details about the giveaway to follow.
Until then, I sing, "Hallelujah! Hallelujah!" I'm in the home stretch and I can't wait. I want to thank all of you who have been so encouraging and supportive throughout this process. I appreciate all your kind words. Thank you.
© Nadine Zawacki 2008
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
I've Done It!
It's official. I have signed with BookSurge a print-on-demand publishing company and a division of Amazon.com. Now the work continues. I know I have not been around a lot lately, but finishing the final, final edits is taking lots of my time. Hopefully by the end of August it will all be done. I also have to get the manuscript ready for submission and meet their submission requirements.I'm also working with a graphic artist on the book cover. It's all very exciting. I have it narrowed down to two different concepts and I'm excited to see what he comes up with.
I promise to pop up now and again and keep you updated as to the progression of this process. Life is very busy, but I want you all to know that I'm thinking of you all. I'm still here.
Thank you all for continuous support, love and encouragement. I'm truly grateful.
Have a great week.
© Nadine Z. 2008
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Editing Update
I’m in the final, final stage of editing. The last run through before it can be submitted for publishing. Between working full time and the responsibilities of church life, I’m exhausted. I’ve been truly excited about this process. My editor, Lauren, has been great at challenging me to make changes (some very minor) that I feel has made the story better. It looks like I’m going to go with a print on demand company that works with Amazon.com. If all goes well, my book will be available sometime in October or November. Don’t worry, as soon as I have a release date, you’ll be amongst the first to know. I plan to do a giveaway and ask for all your help in promoting my book.
I’ve learned a lot about myself during this process. I’ve learned I take criticism well. I’ve learned that there is always room for improvement. I’ve learned that every editor or reader will have a different opinion on your story. I’ve learned to stay true to myself and what I believe with an open mind to another person’s opinion. Finding balance in the creative process is like walking a tight rope.
I’m grateful for all the love and support I’ve been given through it all. I want to thank Tom, not only has he given me his love and support, but the financial backing to pursue my dream.
I don’t know if anyone will ever buy this book, but I know this – when I hold it my hand and put it on my shelf, I will be truly content that I’ve done what God has called me to do in this. It’s not about selling thousands of copies, even though that would be nice, it’s about completion. Finishing what I’ve started means a lot to me.
© Nadine Z. 2008