Last but Certainly not Least!

Well Folks, we’ve come to the end of the Blog Fest and once again, I’d like to THANK Ginger for allowing us to come out and play.

I’ve certainly enjoyed introducing myself and sharing with you my life, my Tempered series and my TWRP titles.

But before I say good bye, I’d like to share with you my Upcoming Release from Enspiren Press – The Visionary.

The Story Behind The Visionary:
Although I may have come a long way from penning stories in 5-subject notebooks, my writing techniques are the same; I simply write what God puts on my heart.

The Visionary started out as a "light" romance. The twins, Taylor and Trevor introduced themselves to me and I found them intriguing. They were talented, good looking, successful, and I just knew I would have a ball writing their story!

Until the day they revealed their deep, dark secrets and the horrors they'd experienced as children. I’ll never forget that day as long as I live.

A friend had commented that the twins were awfully close for a m/f set which made me wonder why they were so close. I walked out of my office into the living room where my husband watched a talk show. On the stage a man was crying and apologizing to his sisters because he could not stop the abuse they’d suffered. That’s when it struck me why my twins were so close. Believe me when I tell you that my heart literally stumbled in my chest and every drop of blood drained from my being. In that moment I knew the FULL meaning of the old adage: be careful what you pray for.

You see, in 1989 I recommitted my life to Christ and committed my writing to Him, asking that I never write "just another romance, but something that would glorify Him." This was one moment I had second thoughts about that whole commitment. This was one time I actually doubted I could write what He wanted me to write, and believe me, I did everything I could think of to get out of it...I whined, I pleaded, I told Him that I just couldn't do it, I'm not strong enough or talented enough. After all, we're told to write what we know and I knew nothing about child abuse!

Except that it is disgustingly prevalent in today's society.

As a Christian I'm urged to listen to the still, small Voice inside--the Voice of God's Spirit, and He will guide and direct me. So, when that still, small Voice whispered, "who do you write for anyway?" I repented, surrendered and submitted.

I wrote the story.

Set in my native area of Lake Charles, Louisiana, The Visionary revolves around twins Taylor and Trevor Forrestier (pronounced ‘foresjay’).

Blurb: A visionary is someone who sees into the future, Taylor Forrestier sees into the past but only as it pertains to her work. Hailed by Architectural Digest and Architectural Review as “a visionary with an instinct for beauty and an eye for the unique” Taylor is undoubtedly a brilliant architect and gifted designer. But she and twin brother Trevor, share more than a successful business. The two share a childhood wrought with lies and deceit and the kind of abuse that’s disgustingly prevalent in today’s society. Can the love of God and the awesome healing power of His grace and mercy free the twins from their past and open their hearts to the good plan and the future He has for their lives?

The Visionary is already getting great reviews. Amanda Killgore, a reviewer for Huntress Reviews said, “Once again, I am struck by Ms. Thibodeaux's ability to create realistic characters and situations that both portray things the way they truly are for Christians and honor God, while never becoming graphic. While many romance writers feel it necessary for people in love to automatically say "yes," she shows that it is possible to do the right thing and in a way that can be seen as the hero and heroine being strong, not white Wonder bread milquetoasts. This story in particular tackles tough, dark gritty subjects, not the least of which being how difficult forgiveness can be. It is a true crime she is not on the NY Times bestseller list; the world desperately needs to read things like this timely, relevant tale.”

So there you have it folks, now you know all about me and my work. For more information, visit my website and/or blog or read my articles @ Associated Content.

Readers Pay Attention! I will continue to monitor comments on my posts for 1 week at the end of which (Sunday, March 16th) I will contact the lucky winners!

Until later….take care, be BLESSED! and remember….when the going gets tough, the tough get on their knees!

Pamela S Thibodeaux
“Inspirational with an Edge!”

A Day in the Life of This Writer

A Day in the Life of This Writer

Everyone tells us writers that readers want to know more than your books; they want to know about your life. So here’s an example of my weekday:

4 am – Get up, make coffee, check email then work on edits, new story or promotion.

7:30 am – Take shower, get dressed and leave house by 8.

8:00 am – 6:00 pm work 8 of those 10 hours at my day job as an Insurance Sales Producer, the other hour is traveling time and of course one hour for lunch (about my only real time to relax!)

6 – 8 or 9 pm Write, edit, promote – take an occasional night off to watch a movie with hubby or read.

Weekends – basically follow above procedures except during 8am – 6pm in lieu of going off to work, I spend the majority of those hours writing, editing or promoting.

I do, however, take time off to spend with hubby and/or granddaughter and when the occasion arises, extended family.

Oh, of course, I take time to attend church services on a semi-regular basis. Prayer time? Unceasingly with occasional spurts during my day for longer conversations with the Lord (hello-I get an hour for lunch). J

Is this crazy or what!?

If you read my introductory post, you’ll see that I’ve been writing for more than 25 years and for that entire time, this has been my routine (even when writing in 5-subject notebooks). The exception was when I worked different shifts at a local hospital…during those years (when on evening shift), I wrote from about 7:30 am until 1pm then got ready in order to be to work @ 2:30.

About the only time I really take a break is when we go off on vacation…and then I still manage to at least check email at least once-a-day.

I’ve often considered purchasing a laptop, however knowing myself so well, if I did, I’d NEVER rest and probably end up a divorced recluse LOL!

Why do we writers put ourselves through this?

As with most authors, that answer is multi-faceted. Though “with an edge,” I write inspirational, therefore I write to glorify God and to get His message of love, hope, faith, trust and forgiveness to a hurting world. But no matter for what other reasons an author may write, they all boil down to one main focus: You – Dear Readers!

So the next time you pick up a book from your favorite author….realize what goes into that story (besides our heart and soul).

Writers, I’d like to hear more about your day!

Readers leave a comment and one lucky person will win a pdf (your choice) of any of my titles!

Pamela S Thibodeaux

"Inspirational with an Edge!"

My TWRP Titles by Pamela S Thibodeaux

Wow, so many great posts, blurbs and excerpts! I really love the interviews with characters...that is so neat! Maybe when I get my "to do" list shortened a bit, I'll interview my characters.

Just in case you're wondering what the TWRP stands for in my title for this blog, it is The Wild Rose Press. Though fairly new in the publishing industry TWRP is making a splash, releasing titles in Ebook and print in every romantic sub-genre imaginable. Writers, check out their submission guidelines here. Readers, find out about their lines and what's happening here!

This year TWRP is spotlighting their individual lines in a monthly promo extravaganza with games and prizes. This month is the White Rose (Inspirational) line and TWRP is having a Jelly Bean Hunt!

I have 3 titles available through the White Rose line.
My debut single-title novel, The Inheritance was released last year and is available in Ebook and Print.

The Inheritance is about the chance we all long for…the chance to start over. Widowed at age thirty-nine and suffering from empty nest syndrome, Rebecca Sinclair is overshadowed by grief and loneliness. Her husband has been deceased for a year, her oldest child has moved to New York in pursuit of an acting career and her youngest child is attending college in France. Having spent over half of her life as a wife and mother, she has no idea what God has in store for her now. Will an unexpected inheritance in the wine country of New York bring meaning and purpose to her life and give her the courage to love again?

US Postal worker Raymond Jacobey has been in love with the little widow since he first set eyes on her. A wanderer searching for the ever-illusive soul mate, Ray has never stayed in one place too long. Raised by self-centered, high-power executives, he’s longed for the idyllic life of residing in a cozy house in a small town with the love of his life. Will he gain the heart of the lovely widow or will he lose her to the wine country of New York?

As well as novels, TWRP offers short ebooks for your reading pleasure!

My short story Cathy's Angel received a "Recommended Read" from MyBook Cravings!

Single mom Cathy Johnson is tired of running her life alone…what she needs is a well-trained angel to help out. Jared Savoy gave up the dream of having a family when he discovered he is sterile. Can a confirmed bachelor and the mother of four find love amid normal daily chaos?

Choices won Reviewer's Top Pick from Night Owl Romance!
Best-selling novelist and songwriter, Camie Rogers has penned numerous accounts of the secret love she holds in her heart. Country-Music Superstar Kip Allen has changed from the shy, humble boy, to the epitome of “star.” Can the two rediscover each other after one night of his Home is where the Heart is Tour?

A Hero for Jessica is coming March 26th!
Anthony Paul Seville is known as the ‘most eligible bachelor’ in New Orleans, possibly even the entire state of Louisiana, but finds himself alone—completely and explicitly alone. Jessica Aucoin is a writer on her way to fame and fortune, but is haunted by a man from her past. Will the “champion” lawyer and the author of romantic suspense find love written in their cards?

Well folks, I hope you've enjoyed this sneak peek at my TWRP titles. Don't forget to run over there and participate in the Jelly Bean Hunt!

Until later take care, be BLESSED! and remember......There are Angels among us and if you make the right Choices in your life, God will set YOU apart for an Inheritance and very possibly bless you with a Hero of your own.

Pamela S Thibodeaux

"Inspirational with and Edge!"

PS: Attn. Readers! Leave a comment and one lucky person will WIN a pdf of one of my TWRP titles!

Introduction to the Tempered Series by Pamela S Thibodeaux

Hello Friends!

In my last post, I forgot to say THANK YOU to Ginger for allowing us to come out and play on her blog.

I'm doing so now.....THANK YOU GINGER!!
Today I'd like to introduce to you my 4- part (maybe 5 one day) Tempered series.
Book 1 Tempered Hearts © 2005 Publisher: ComStar Media ISBN# 0-9769960-2-2

Rancher Craig Harris and veterinarian Tamera Collins clash from the moment they meet. Innocence is pitted against arrogance as tempers rise and passions ignite to form a love as pure as the finest gold, fresh from the crucible and as strong as steel. Thrown together amid tragedy and unsated passion, Tamera and Craig share a strong attraction that neither accepts as the first stages of love. Torn between desire and dislike, they must make peace with their pasts and God in order to open up to the love blossoming between them. It is a love that nothing can destroy when they come to understand that only when hearts are tempered, minds are opened and wills are softened can man discern the will of God for his life.
Book 2 Tempered Dreams © 2005 Publisher: ComStar Media ISBN# 0-9769960-3-0

Dr. Scott Hensley (introduced in Tempered Hearts) has built a wall around his heart since the death of his wife and parents. Katrina Simmons is recovering from scars inflicted on her as a battered wife. Can dreams be renewed and faith strengthened? Can they find joy and peace in God’s love and in love for one another?
Book 3 Tempered Fire © 2006 Publisher: ComStar Media ISBN# 1-933866-08-X

Amber Harris is a good girl on the brink of womanhood. Stanley Morrison is a young man at the start of his life. For each other, they have always felt the fireworks that two people in love should feel. But the questions about his past, his pride, and Amber's father might be the end of what could be a strong relationship. As the two try to protect their budding romance, some unlikely but powerful forces conspire to keep them apart. Will they survive the wishes of everyone around them with their relationship intact?

Book 4 Tempered Joy © 2008 Publisher: ComStar Media ISBN# tba

All around rodeo cowboy and heir to the Rockin’ H Ranch, Ace Harris is determined not to fall in love. He’s only loved one woman in his life, his mother, and no one can even come close to filling her boots. Lexie Morgan thinks rodeo cowboys have rocks for brains and a death wish for a soul. A broken childhood and the death of her father and best friend leave her doubting and questioning God (despite her years of religious upbringing) and afraid of love. Can two young people who clash from the onset learn to trust in the healing power of God and find love and happiness amidst tragedy and grief?

Books 1, 2 & 3 are available NOW! in Ebook and Print

Book 4 is coming this year!

Well folks, that's all I have time for this morning. Until later remember.....only when hearts are tempered, minds are opened and wills are softened can man discern the will of God for his life.

Pamela S Thibodeaux
"Inspirational with an Edge!"

ATTN Readers: Leave a comment and one lucky person will WIN a pdf of your choice of these titles!

Introducing Pamela S Thibodeaux, Author of "Inspirational with an Edge!"

I've always been an avid reader, from Dr. Seuss before school age, to Walter Farley's "Black Stallion" series as a preteen, then on to romance where I found my passion. Mainstream, contemporary, historical...it did not matter. If it was a romance, I read it! They say 'don't judge a book by its cover' but I refused to listen....if it looked good, I read it.

One day while pregnant with my daughter I flung the book I currently attempted to devour in disgust and muttered, "I can do better than that!" I'm still not sure if the book was really that bad or if I merely had a hormonal moment, but thus began my writing journey.

That incident occurred more than twenty-five years ago and I must say I, as an author as well as a human being, have evolved a great deal in a quarter of a century.

Oh boy, doesn't that make me sound old LOL!!

For years I was a closet writer who wrote in 5-subject notebooks, shy and afraid of what people would think. I had no idea that there were rules to writing or anything similar. I simply wrote as the characters and story unfolded in my mind. Once I bought my first word processor, my secret was out. The one defining moment when I thought I just may be on to something was when my mother, also an avid reader but a sports fanatic, missed the Super Bowl to read my manuscript. If you know any sports fanatics you'll know that it takes something very special or drastic to pull them away from that game.

I've come a long way since those years as a closet writer. Today I am multi-published in romantic fiction and creative non-fiction. My writing has won awards such as Coeur de Louisianne’s 1999 Diamond in the Rough and their 2000 Ruby and in 2001 I earned my Pro Pin from RWA.

My romantic fiction novels have been tagged as, "Inspirational with an Edge!" and reviewed as, "steamier and grittier than the typical Christian novel without decreasing the message" and consistently receive high praise and good reviews.

My short stories have received awards such as Reviewers Top Pick from Night Owl Romance & Recommended Read from My Book Cravings. My non-fiction has been featured in publications such as Cross & Quill, Fellow Script, and Vocational Biographies and much of it can be found online at Associated Content.

I’ve also contributed to publications such as Bylines Writers Desk Calendar, Crumbs in the Keyboard; Stories from Courageous Women Who Juggle Life & Writing and Penned from the Heart Daily Devotionals (volumes xi, xiii, & xiv)

Well folks, now you know all about me. Next time I'll tell you more about my books!

Until later...take care, God BLESS and remember...with God ALL things are possible!

Pamela S Thibodeaux

"Inspirational with an Edge!"