May I Borrow From Your Book? ~ The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight

About this Feature: Writing letters to characters and/or authors is nothing new, but here's the twist: these letters will be all about borrowing, in keeping with our blog title. They can be funny or serious, sweet or sassy, short or more in-depth. My hope is that the letters will be entertaining or inspiring to read and will show appreciation to authors - and to the Lord for giving us creativity! (You can click the button and then scroll down to read previously posted letters.)

If you'd like to submit a letter of your own to be posted here, feel free to e-mail me at amberstokes@corban.edu.

Today's letter is for Jennifer E. Smith, author of The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight:

 

Dear Jennifer,

As I'm preparing to dive into edits for my WIP, I sure would love to borrow some of your creativity! It's so clever that The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight is set over a 24-hour time period. So many possibilities with that! And yet, your writing had to be so tight and confident and engaging to accomplish such a feat. I've had suggestions from an early reader about playing around with the timing of my WIP... "Time is funny stuff," as Hap says in the movie Always. You convey that so well in your book. :)

I also love your "balance" in the book. Familial relationships and romantic relationships...time together and time apart...the present and the past...sweetness and pain. All mixed just so. The whole story is so quirky and yet so true to life - very memorable, in that way. (It also struck a chord with me because of my own unexpected airport miracle.) It's great to read books like yours that inspire and stir the imagination. I'm hoping I've borrowed a bit of your imagination just through the reading experience. 

And might I add that your book's title is just plain awesome? 

Sincerely,

Amber

You can purchase the book now at Amazon.com! 

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May I Borrow From Your Book? ~ Pieces of Me

About this Feature: Writing letters to characters and/or authors is nothing new, but here's the twist: these letters will be all about borrowing, in keeping with our blog title. They can be funny or serious, sweet or sassy, short or more in-depth. My hope is that the letters will be entertaining or inspiring to read and will show appreciation to authors - and to the Lord for giving us creativity! (You can click the button and then scroll down to read previously posted letters.)

If you'd like to submit a letter of your own to be posted here, feel free to e-mail me at amberstokes@corban.edu.

Today's letter is for Ian from Pieces of Me by Eisley Jacobs:

Dear Ian,

Everyone loves a good mystery, right? And you, Ian, enter Braidan's story as a mystery. (Of course, so does everyone else...including Braidan.) You're sweet and a bit of a flirt. But you're also tenacious, determined to discover truth and cling to it, as well as stand your ground for what is right. I admire that.

Of course, you sometimes have limited knowledge on which to move forward, and you aren't without a desire for affection and acknowledgment. (After all, you are human...right?) 

But I would love to borrow a handful of your drive for truth, as well as a pinch of your courage mixed with your compassion. With my work and my hobbies (editing and book reviewing and the like), it can be hard sometimes to balance honesty with encouragement. I want to motivate people to strive for truth - to not be satisfied with false impressions and hazy ideals. And yet, you and I both know that sometimes we are the ones most in need of accepting hard truths. 

At this busy time, I'll borrow however much of your tenacity you might be willing to share. 

Keep on motivating others and fighting and caring - you've got a lot to share with others besides me. And keep hold of that air of mystery around you. I think it's rather appealing. *wink*

~Amber

You can purchase Pieces of Me now on Amazon.com!

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May I Borrow From Your Book? ~ Ring of Secrets

About this Feature: Writing letters to characters and/or authors is nothing new, but here's the twist: these letters will be all about borrowing, in keeping with our blog title. They can be funny or serious, sweet or sassy, short or more in-depth. My hope is that the letters will be entertaining or inspiring to read and will show appreciation to authors - and to the Lord for giving us creativity! (You can click the button and then scroll down to read previously posted letters.)

I'll plan on sharing a letter every other week. If you'd like to submit a letter of your own to be posted here, feel free to e-mail me at amberstokes@corban.edu.

Today's letter is for Roseanna White, author of "The Culper Ring" series:

Dear Roseanna,

You write in a genre that I love to read and write in, myself! (Yay for historical romance!) And you bring everything together so well - an intriguing cast of characters, subtle suspense, inspiring thoughts to ponder, interesting historical details/characters, and some swoon-worthy romantic moments. I really enjoyed your latest stories, and it sounds like you have some great ones coming!
 
I'm currently participating in Speedbo (a writing challenge hosted by Seekerville), with hopes of finishing my current WIP by the end of March. Then it's on to editing, and - dare I hope? - self-publishing later this year! Would you mind if I borrow some of your talent for excelling in writing for this genre? I know you've got a lot of current projects you'll need that talent to complete, but even a small portion to assist me through the coming months would be fabulous!

I wish you the best in your writing endeavors - keep those great historical romance books coming!

Sincerely,
Amber 

You can purchase Ring of Secrets now at Amazon.com, and you can also pre-order Whispers from the Shadows (releases August 2013)!

And here are links to my reviews of those two books: Ring of Secrets and Whispers from the Shadows

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May I Borrow From Your Book? ~ Grave Consequences

About this Feature: Writing letters to characters and/or authors is nothing new, but here's the twist: these letters will be all about borrowing, in keeping with our blog title. They can be funny or serious, sweet or sassy, short or more in-depth. My hope is that the letters will be entertaining or inspiring to read and will show appreciation to authors - and to the Lord for giving us creativity! (You can click the button and then scroll down to read previously posted letters.)

I'll plan on sharing a letter every other week. If you'd like to submit a letter of your own to be posted here, feel free to e-mail me at amberstokes@corban.edu.

Today's letter is for the Kensington family from Grave Consequences by Lisa T. Bergren:

Dear Kensington Family,

I hardly know how to address such an illustrious and prosperous family, but I could not forego the opportunity to tell you how much I am enjoying reading about your travels. The first chronicle of your Grand Tour was quite engaging. Please find included in this letter a link to my critique of the book. I am not even a quarter of the way through this second chronicle, but I am already intrigued by your continuing trek. I must admit that Cora's adventurous spirit is admirable - as is that of your whole company. The suspense that follows you, the dangers you embrace, and the places you have visited thus far are thrilling!

I realize that it is hardly appropriate for me to ask this question, but might I be able to borrow some funds, as well as your bear [tour guide] and his nephew, for a few weeks? I would dearly love the opportunity to take a tour of my own. Since I have recently graduated from university, I feel this would be a wonderful time in my life to tour Europe, study the past, explore different places, experience new cultures, and see a little more of the world than what I have been exposed to thus far. 

I cannot offer much by way of interest on such extensive loans, as I currently owe much on loans used to help pay for my education. But your generosity would be very highly appreciated, and I would be pleased to speak of such kindness far and wide. With the general acceptance of Cora Diehl into the Kensington family, I am given reason to hope.

I eagerly await your response. Should your answer be in the negative, though, I will understand. I have been given many blessings, and just as you all must be discovering, being with family and friends, no matter where that may be, is an especially dear blessing.

With Regard,

Miss Amber Stokes

You can purchase Grave Consequences now on Amazon.com! (Grave Consequences is the sequel to Glamorous Illusions.)

And be looking for my review of this book on my personal blog, Seasons of Humility - coming in March for the Litfuse Publicity blog tour!

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May I Borrow From Your Book? ~ Piece de Resistance

About this Feature: Writing letters to characters and/or authors is nothing new, but here's the twist: these letters will be all about borrowing, in keeping with our blog title. They can be funny or serious, sweet or sassy, short or more in-depth. My hope is that the letters will be entertaining or inspiring to read and will show appreciation to authors - and to the Lord for giving us creativity! (You can click the button and then scroll down to read previously posted letters.)

I'll plan on sharing a letter every other week. If you'd like to submit a letter of your own to be posted here, feel free to e-mail me at amberstokes@corban.edu.

Today's letter is for Lexi, the heroine of Piece de Resistance by Sandra Byrd:

Dear Lexi,

It was great catching up on all the exciting happenings in your life! (I missed your big trip to France, but it sounds like it was quite the experience!) A few months ago, when I read about your initial after-college adventures and misadventures, I could really relate to your uncertainties and struggles to find where you belong and what you really love to do - and discover how to support yourself and find some independence. I'm still in that stage of my life, but look at you! You've gained so much confidence and really opened yourself up to God's leading. Not to mention the wonderful people you've met along the way! *wink* 

I'm inspired by your honest faith and your ingenuity. I recently started a business of my own (freelance editing - a bit different than wedding cakes, I suppose!). I love how you navigate the marketing waters! In fact, would you mind if I borrow some of your business savvy? We could meet up at Bijoux and brainstorm for a bit. I know this is still pretty new to you, too, but you've got some great ideas, and I would love a heart-to-heart chat, some friendly advice, and maybe a few cake samples... 

Sincerely,
Amber 

The first book in this series, Let Them Eat Cake, is currently FREE for Kindle! And the second and third books (Bon Appetit and Piece de Resistance) are only $.99 each for Kindle! This special deal (plus a scrumptious petit fours giveaway) lasts through Valentine's Day - a great treat for the holiday!

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May I Borrow From Your Book? ~ The Fairest Beauty

About this Feature: Writing letters to characters and/or authors is nothing new, but here's the twist: these letters will be all about borrowing, in keeping with our blog title. They can be funny or serious, sweet or sassy, short or more in-depth. My hope is that the letters will be entertaining or inspiring to read and will show appreciation to authors - and to the Lord for giving us creativity! (You can click the button and then scroll down to read previously posted letters.)

I'll plan on sharing a letter every other week. If you'd like to submit a letter of your own to be posted here, feel free to e-mail me at amberstokes@corban.edu.

Today's letter is for Sophie, the heroine of The Fairest Beauty by Melanie Dickerson:

Dear Sophie,

I really admire your strong spirit! You endured so much throughout your childhood, from spiteful words to physical cruelty. Yet when your story starts - at the age of seventeen - you are clinging to Scripture, showing humility in times of hardship, embracing the "family" of fellow servants, and refusing to give in to despair or thoughtless actions. 

I would love to borrow some of your bravery and fortitude. Such traits would be wonderful to have at all times, but there is one particular impending event in my life that I would love to have more courage to face: my behind-the-wheel driving test. Don't be alarmed by the foreign words! Driving is how many people travel in the 21st century. It's a much faster and more dangerous mode of travel than horseback. Fortunately for you, you never need worry about it! Although I imagine that if you ever did visit the future, you would have the wherewithal and the pluck to engage in the activity.

The beginning of the next month possibly heralds a new chapter in my life, one where I can be a little more independent and perhaps helpful to my family. The thought is exciting, but frightening in its way. I would appreciate any courage you could impart to me for a time. 

And should I fail, might Lord Gabehart be willing to let me borrow his horse, Gingerbread? 

With Admiration,
Amber

You can purchase The Fairest Beauty now at Amazon.com. (It just released January 22, 2013!)

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May I Borrow From Your Book? ~ The Tutor's Daughter

About this Feature: Writing letters to characters and/or authors is nothing new, but here's the twist: these letters will be all about borrowing, in keeping with our blog title. They can be funny or serious, sweet or sassy, short or more in-depth. My hope is that the letters will be entertaining or inspiring to read and will show appreciation to authors - and to the Lord for giving us creativity! (You can click the button and then scroll down to read previously posted letters.)

I'll plan on sharing a letter every other week. If you'd like to submit a letter of your own to be posted here, feel free to e-mail me at amberstokes@corban.edu.

Today's letter is for Emma Smallwood, the heroine of The Tutor's Daughter by Julie Klassen:

Dear Miss Smallwood,

As I write this letter, I am about a quarter of the way through your lovely story. Cornwall sounds like such an interesting place to visit, although I do believe it is the house in which you are residing at this part of the story, rather than the countryside, that holds so much to engage the imagination. 

Regrettably, a trip to Cornwall entails a much farther distance to travel for me than it was for you, and I am not acquainted with the Westons, so I would not presume to ask for an invitation to visit them at Ebbington Manor. Would you perhaps be willing to let me borrow some of the mystery in which you find yourself embroiled? 

I do not wish to imply that my life is dull. But I would not be adverse to a little bit of romance and excitement. You must think me sillier than Lizzie to want such things! I do love my books, as you do yours, but it might be nice to have something or someone interrupt my reading in order to remind me of the thrills and grandeur of life. 

In these long winter months, a little mystery would do nicely, indeed. Of course, I would only want to borrow a very little, as you will need it more than I for your story to be properly told. I am eager to find out more about Ebbington Manor, as well as those four eligible young men living there. I am not yet aware of whether or not the young men are scoundrels, but should one of them be respectable and not attached to you by the end of the story, I might wish to borrow one of them, as well...

Yours Most Sincerely,

Miss Amber Stokes   

You can purchase The Tutor's Daughter now at Amazon.com.

And stay tuned for my review of the book - coming soon!

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May I Borrow From Your Book? ~ The Language of Souls

Happy New Year's Eve, dear readers!

In honor of the new year, I'm going to put my on-again, off-again feature, "Where the Past Meets the Present" (which has been more "off-again" than "on-again"!), to rest and start up a new feature: "May I Borrow From Your Book?"

"Where the Past Meets the Present" was a feature geared for writers, where I gleaned writing tips from the classics I read and shared them with all of you. I started it when I was still in college - i.e., when I was reading more classics.

"May I Borrow From Your Book?" will be a feature geared more for readers, although it should hopefully encourage writers, as well. =) Writing letters to characters and/or authors is nothing new, but here's the twist: the letters will be all about borrowing (continuing the theme of our blog title!). Examples: borrowing an author's ability to create fantastic worlds in order to do better on a school project; borrowing the hero for a day in order to have a gentleman-ly escort to a dance; borrowing the heroine's pet in order to have a bit of comfort on a lonely evening; etc. These letters can be funny or serious, sweet or sassy, short or more in-depth. My hope is that the letters will be entertaining or inspiring to read and will show appreciation to authors - and to the Lord for giving us creativity!

I'll plan on doing this every other week (as long as I don't run out of ideas or time, LOL!), and I hope you have fun reading them! It would be really awesome if you'd like to submit a letter of your own to be posted here, as well! You can e-mail me at amberstokes@corban.edu with your letter or any questions you might have.

Oh, and on the weeks I'm not posting about this feature, I'll probably be posting book reviews or doing a book-spotlight, as usual!

Today's letter is for author Lena Goldfinch regarding her novella, The Language of Souls:

Dear Lena,

As 2013 is peeking around the corner at me, would you mind terribly if I borrowed your knack for combining simple but powerful imagery with such a tender romance? I keep setting my WIP to the side - after writing a difficult scene, it's hard to get started again. But in the new year I want to continue it, and your sweet and evocative writing style inspires me. 

I love how you fit so much adventure and heart into a shorter story! I'm sure I'm not the only one who would love for you to write more novellas like this... In which case, perhaps I could just borrow your imagination for about a week? That should be enough time to kick-start some sort of writing schedule again! After that, I'm sure you'll want it back so you can keep blessing others with it. =)

Sincerely,
Amber

You can purchase The Language of Souls in e-book or paperback format at Amazon.com.  (The e-book is currently only $.99!)

Huge thanks to Juju from Tales of Whimsy for introducing me to this author and her novella!

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