April Newsletter and Giveaway

April 29, 2009

Dear Reader,

This newsletter is shorter than usual for the simple reason that I'm swamped. Since the release of Fatal Illusions on March 31, my life has been hectic with a blog tour, a book signing, and several online interviews, including Brandilyn Collins's Forensics & Faith blog. Be sure to check my Web site and my Events page for the latest on what's been happening. So far, reviews of Fatal Illusions (like this one and this one) have been very positive. Family and friends will feel pressured to say nice things, so when perfect strangers who have nothing to lose post positive reviews at their blogs, I can't help feeling excited. If you have read the novel and liked it, please consider writing a review at Amazon.com, CBD.com, or Barnes & Noble. My local newspaper also gave the novel a wonderful review. Friends have reported book sightings from a Barnes & Noble in Minnesota to the campus bookstore at Bob Jones University. A friend in Germany also bought a copy across the big pond.Answers to Commonly Asked Questions

How can I get a copy of your novel? Because I don't know which bookstores will put the novel on their shelves, the best way is to buy it at Amazon.com or CBD.com. If my novel isn't at your local bookstore, simply order it. With my name and the novel's title, you should be able to order the novel from any bookstore in the country.

How can I get a signed copy of your novel? Unfortunately, I'm not selling my own autographed copies. And unless you attend one of my signings, I may not have a way to personally sign your book. But there is an alternative. As a special thank you to those who are purchasing a copy, upon request I will mail you a free signed bookplate as my way of saying thank you for your support. (A bookplate is a sticker you may affix inside your book.) Simply send me your mailing address, and I'll mail you a bookplate soon.

How is the novel selling? To be honest, I'm not sure. One indicator is CBD's listing of Kregel's bestselling fiction. Another indicator is my sales rank at Amazon.com, which fluctuates like the U.P. weather. Sometimes the numbers are down; sometimes they're up. The rank shows that somebody somewhere is buying the novel at various times; Amazon.com then compares the sales to those of other books. On the whole I'm encouraged.

Keep praying for my dad, who is almost finished with his first stage of chemo and radiation. I'm posting regular updates here for those interested.

My first book signing at the Hopehouse in Iron Mountain on April 18 went well. Thank you to those who sacrificed part of a beautiful Saturday afternoon to drop by and support me. I appreciate your encouragement. Copies are still available at the store for those who couldn't make it.

Book Giveaway Winner—Congratulations to Julie Broadworth for winning my April book drawing for a free copy of Fatal Illusions. For my next drawing, starting today through the end of May, I will be giving away another free copy of Fatal Illusions. If you would like to enter the drawing, request Fatal Illusions at your library, church bookstore, or local Christian bookstore. Let me know you have completed this action by replying to this e-mail. If you have already requested the novel at one of those places, just let me know; you'll be entered in the drawing. I'll announce the winner in my May newsletter.

What's Next for Me? Right now, I'm doing whatever I can to help spread the word about my novel after my regular responsibilities. I'm also working on the sequel. Thanks again for your support and encouragement. May the Lord receive all the glory!