I am super excited about the next 10 days, y’all!
Starting today and running until May 29th, ReadingIsMySuperPower is hosting TEN top authors for their Reader Appreciation Giveaway!!
Each day, you’ll hear from a different author with a special message for YOU, their readers. Each day, you’ll have opportunities to enter the superawesome giveaway! (10 books, $100 GC!!! Can I enter too?!?)
But TODAY, we’re going to hear from ALL TEN authors! YAY!
I asked them each this question (separately, so they couldn’t compare notes LOL) :
I know for a fact that – even in this age of more access to authors via social media – readers are not above fanflailing when meeting their favorite authors face to face. Though you are all authors yourselves, I’m sure you’re readers as well. So I want to know – which author/authors turn YOU into a fangirl?
Here’s what they said:
Okay, there are lots of authors I adore. Authors whose books turn me into a gooey, happy mess of fangirliness. But lately, probably the author that more than any other makes me go crazy fangirl is Lori Benton. I just went on a binge of rereading all four of her books and oh. my. word. They are so gorgeous. Actually, the word I keep using to describe them is soul-stirring. I just…I can’t…ahh! I’m also a massively huge Elizabeth Camden fan. And a Susan May Warren fan. Oh, and Julianne Donaldson and Julianna Deering <–near name twinsies.
Connect with Melissa Tagg: website | Facebook | Twitter
The very first time that I saw Rachel Hauck at a writers’ conference I ran over my feet with my suitcase and completely lost the ability to speak coherently! Thankfully she walked right past without noticing me making a complete idiot of myself 😉
These days it is a VERY long list but I will say that I always struggle to keep hold of my fangirl gushing whenever I’m in the company of either Becky Wade or Katie Ganshert!
Connect with Kara online: website | Facebook | Twitter
I’m the quiet type, so though I may “fangirl” on the inside, not much of that flailing shows up on the outside. But this introvert might not be able to entirely control herself were she to meet two of her favorite authors: Bernard Cornwell and Sharon Kay Penman, both of whom write the most extraordinary stories set during the middle ages. When this writer grows up, guess who she wants to be?
Connect with Tamara online: website | Facebook | Twitter
Oh my goodness! How long can the list be?
I’m an embarrasing mess around Laura Frantz EVERY time I see her. I just want her creativity and elegance in writing to pour onto me!
I love Denise Hunter too. I get really giddy when I have a chance to read one of her new books. They’re sooooo romantic. Julie Lessman, Siri Mitchell, Janice Thompson, Mary Connealy, Dawn Crandall…the list could go on! I am thrilled to read their writing and glean from their beautiful ability to tell stories!
Connect with Pepper online: website | Facebook | Twitter
Pretty much everyone participating in this giveaway…and at least two dozen more authors on top of that. I may have even called a few of my author crushes and asked them not to get virtual restraining orders due to my social media stalking *blush*.
Connect with Sarah online: website | Facebook | Twitter
Total fangirl! The highlight of my writing conference last year? Taking a picture with Francine Rivers. Close second was meeting Charles Martin at a book signing the year before. Both were just as nice as expected. Pics attached for proof!
Connect with Janet online: website | Facebook | Twitter
Well, here’s the thing…I’m not really the fangirl type. Not because I don’t love certain authors/actors/musicians or whatever, but because I’m afraid
a) I’ll be a bother,
b) I’ll come across as creepy,
c) why the heck would they notice me or care what I think about their work anyway?
(My husband says I’m ridiculous, because I don’t think that way about other people contacting me—in fact it totally makes my day. He says I’m overly concerned with what others think. Man, did I pick a bad occupation!)
However…if I were the fangirl type, I’d be messaging Susan Meissner, Katie Ganshert, and Tammy L. Gray all the time. (I have actually worked up the courage to tell them I enjoyed a book. Once each. That’s all I could manage. Baby steps.) I love their unique voices, the ability to look at the hard things in life and find hope, and the way their stories stay with me. They are my writing heroes. 🙂
Connect with Jennifer online: website | Facebook | Twitter
So I am a DIEHARD fan girl of Tahereh Mafi and her Shatter Me series. A few years ago, I had the privilege of meeting her in person at a small library event near my home. When it was my turn to go up to her signing table and introduce myself, I started sobbing. And not the nice, swipe-a-few tears kind of crying. I mean, the UGLY, belly-shaking, try-to-speak-but-only-guttural-noises-come-out kind of crying. I was so overcome by the full-circle moment of being there, in front of her, that my emotions were simply off the charts. You see, it was her writing that encouraged me to write my debut novel, All for Anna. Her emotional prose and poignant voice in fiction gave me the courage to live my dream. So coming face-to-face with such a beautiful source of inspiration was overwhelming to say the least. And then Tahereh, who was gracious and kind and everything lovely, got out of her chair and came around the table to where I stood. She threw her arms around me and just hugged me for several minutes and I tried to explain my tears. (I get all choked up about it even now.) Oh, and she cried too!
That was truly one of the most beautifully significant moments of my life, as a reader, and as a writer. I pray I will be as gracious an author to my readers as she was to me.
Connect with Nicole online: website | Facebook | Twitter
This is so hard there are so many. But I will say my dream is to meet Lynn Austin someday. When I wrote a comment on her facebook page and she wrote back I nearly fell off my chair. I had the opportunity to send her some interview questions for the (now defunct) website Novel Crossing and when the content editor sent them to me, I giggled with glee. I just think she is the most amazing writer.
I have so many, though. Authors have been my rockstars since I was a little kid. I wrote a letter to Martha Grimes (an all time FAVOURITE author) and she wrote a hand-written letter back and I couldn’t sleep that night I was so excited.
Connect with Rachel online: website | Facebook | Twitter
Francine Rivers! She attended the American Christian Fiction Writers conference last fall. The night of the gala awards ceremony, she happened to be sitting at a table near mine and directly within my line of sight. She received a lifetime achievement award that evening for basically being mind-blowingly awesome. Yet, her acceptance speech was so kind and humble and faith-filled.
I handled my fanflailing of Francine very maturely and suavely. I spent the dinner sneaking round-eyed peeks at her while thinking, ‘There’s Francine Rivers!’ and ‘She wrote Redeeming Love!’ and ‘Eeek! It’s Francine!” Did I say so much as a peep to her? No, I did not.
Connect with Becky online: website | Facebook | Twitter
Did anyone else besides me just adore these answers?!? So glad I’m not the only one who ends up speechless in front of my fave authors or runs over my own feet with my luggage 😉
These FABULOUS fangirling authors have all gotten together to fangirl over someone else – YOU, the readers! They’ve pooled their resources and have put together a FABULOUS Reader Appreciation Giveaway (the giveaway is fab and so are the readers!)
One randomly-selected reader will win one copy of each of the following:
- Like Never Before by Melissa Tagg
- Close to You by Kara Isaac
- Lady Undaunted by Tamara Leigh
- A Twist of Faith by Pepper Basham
- Finders Keepers by Sarah Monzon
- Leaving Oxford by Janet W. Ferguson
- The Carpenter’s Daughter by Jennifer Rodewald
- A Season To Love by Nicole Deese
- The Bachelor Girl’s Guide to Murder by Rachel McMillan
- Her One and Only by Becky Wade
PLUS, a $100 Amazon Gift Card!!!
US mailing addresses only please. Giveaway will end at 11:59PM on May 29th. Winner will be selected via Rafflecopter and will have ONE WEEK to respond. If I haven’t heard from you in a week, another winner will be chosen.
Come back tomorrow for more chances to win and a special message from Melissa Tagg!
This is such a treat! Makes me wish I was going to Nashville for the convention and book-signing. Nice job, ladies!
I wish you were tooooooo!!
AND… I followed ya’ll on twitter and then realized I was logged in to my company twitter account. oops. slinks away….
hahaha!!!
I hope I can go again! I just loved the worship with everyone, too!
Oops. Forgot to say I’m Team Pepper, because I absolutely adore Laura Frantz as much as her top-notch fiction!
she is pretty amazing!
Debra is a very smart lady 😉
I think I am probably most like Jennifer Rodewald. If I actually had a chance to meet one of my favorite authors in person, I am sure I wouldn’t have the nerve to go talk with them. I would probably just be acting crazy in my own mind arguing with myself as to whether I could actually speak to them and then talking myself out of it.
i think i might end up a little like that too
Ellen, I argue with myself in my own mind too! Sometimes the shy side wins, sometimes the impulsive side. Hence the pictures, ha!
Yes! Actually I’m meeting Jennifer Rodewald in person in Aug! Eeeeek! I actually asked her if we were going to hug or wave or handshake because…well….yes, I am that awkward.
haha!
Oh, Becky Wade and Janet Ferguson hit on another of my fin girl authors. Francine Rivers! Oh my goodness, when I got to meet her last fall I was totally starstruck.
And I love love love Becky Wade’s books!! And Becky Wade, as a matter fact. She’s just as lovely as her books are
I would be completely starstruck over Francine Rivers too. Well…probably Becky Wade too for that matter haha!
Except apparently Becky Wade is too polite to crouch beside Francie at a meal and take a pic like I did. I waited until she finished eating.:) Both Becky and Francine were lovely at conference!
hahaha!
So I seriously almost bid on the auction for a coffee date with Becky Wade and Dani Pettrey just to get to hang out with them! I mean…ahhhh!!! But then I realized I would have to SAY something, probably something intelligent, and I chickened out.
snicker. I am so the same way.
P.S. – you do realize they will both be at the CFRR in Aug? You can have lunch with them 🙂
Agreed!
Wow! What fun! Love this question! I think I’m most like Pepper. I get all giddy and smiley when i meet them and I might get like Kara when they hug me at the Christian Fiction Readers Retreat this summer! Speechless, klutzy and total tongue tied. (I dropped my phone when Dani Pettrey hugged me)!
Hahahahahahaha!!!
Annie, I bet that retreat was awesome! I’m klutzy most of the time anyway.
Annie! You’d better plan on coming right up to me and giving me a hug without hesitation!?!? I’m expecting it!
Tamera Leigh best describes me as a “fan girl”, but I am with Melissa Tagg on loving Lori Benton’s books, and I could read Becky Wade, Pepper Basham, Susan May Warren, Karen Witemeyer, Regina Jennings, Melissa Wade, Roseanna White, Irene Hannon, . . . . . to name a few, all day long.
Me. Too.
Aren’t they great!! I was super excited in a big way to be in this Reader Appreciation with these ladies. Like face numb excited!
lol!
My list is sooooo lonnng, tooo!
Aww, thanks! Love this good company I’m in–especially all these awesome readers who make what we authors do possible. Blessings!
Probably Tamara Leigh. Being an introvert too, I play it pretty cool, but like Tamara, who knows what would actually happen if I met some of my favorite authors.
Lol true
Rebecca, If you’re with me, I’ll help you get a pic!
We introverts must stick together–well, sort of 🙂
Separately. In spirit. 🙂
Becky Wade. I would be standing in the corner saying quietly to myself, “Ahhh….there’s Robin Jones Gunn. I finally get to see her in real life. God is so…Oh…is that who I think it is? What? Laura Frantz is right over there? Oh, help. I love her books. Sigh. I would definitely be taking sneak peaks!
LOL!!!
Jennifer Rodewald describes me as a “fan girl” or why I’m not the fan girl type. Guess I’ll have to get over that ridiculous feeling.
😀
Hi Patricia! I could so help you get over it! 🙂
It wasn’t until I started getting messages from readers and knew how excited they made me and how it just made my day that I got the courage to even leave a note for an author on social media.
🙂
It’s rough being so painfully self-conscious, isn’t it Patricia?!
Tamara Leigh 🙂 I’m a little on the quiet side but I think I could do a little happy dance if I would meet any of these ladies!
Haha! Happy dances are fun 🙂
Deanna, I’m doing a happy dance to be included with these amazing authors on the giveaway!!
Merci beaucoup, Deanna! We could happy dance together 🙂
Tamara Leigh sounds like me, I have only had a Fan Girl moment on the inside or event online. Wyoming doesn’t a lot of authors to visit in person. Thank you for having this event so I can fan girl online!!! You authors rock!!!
Fangirling online is loads of fun 😀
It is and worth it when the toddler and I can’t travel ?
Hi Bree! So glad you’re here! Wow, Wyoming! That’s one of the states I haven’t gotten to visit yet. I want to go some day!
It’s a beautiful state and holds many different views. The scenery changes just as much as the weather!
You readers rock, Bree 🙂
You authors rock, it’s like the question which comes first the chicken or the egg? In this case, which comes first the author or the reader? We are a strong cycle!
I would be like Becky Wade all the way. In awe, but too shy to say anything.
Heehee
I am most like Becky Wade. Staring from afar… 🙂
Lol!!
I would totally flip out if I came within eyesight of my most favorite author, Lauraine Snelling. I would freeze up if I got within reach of her, but hope I would settle down long enough to get an autograph and/or picture with her.
LOL!
Debbie, Pictures are great! They’re proof! Of course I posted mine everywhere! I’m in a Christian fiction book club and they were so jealous, oopps, I mean excited. It is a Christian fiction book club…
haha!
I would probably resemble Rachel McMillan closest! I’ve had some authors connect with me via this wonderful social media world and I literally fall out of my seat every time! They are so kind!!
I’ve had the same experience, Nicole! And I do still fall out of my seat and squeal like a little girl. lol. I need to work on curbing that impulse before August and Nashville 😉
Holy cow! August is going to be INCREDIBLE! Yes I fall out of my chair on a regular basis!
i cannot even. We’re going to have to provide seatbelts.
LOL! They may have a seatbelt for me after last year!
LOL!!
I rarely need a recent fall out of my chair, because I’m so good at it naturally, but meeting awesome authors definitely inspires me to fall out of my chair 🙂
LOL
I very much agree I did that in your event party! It was awesome to get to chat with you! It
Evidently I’m a “fin girl” based on my earlier comment 🙂 who knew? I’ve always wanted to be a mermaid
that made me smile 🙂
LOL
That’s how I type most of the time
I love mermaids!!!!
I would definitely fangirl like (and over!) Becky Wade. Admiring from afar, gushing to anyone who would listen and chickening out from actually saying a word.
LOL!
Going to my first Christian writers conference last year, it was hard not to just sit and gush the whole time at so many amazing authors in one place. I tried to contain myself, but…
😀 I will be that way too, I fear
I totally identified with Jennifer Rodewald. In fact I think I have had that same conversation with my husband. =)
lol!
The men in our life, right? Here to keep it real. 🙂
ha!
Francine Rivers hands down is a legend. But I too would probably jut sneak peaks and not approach her.
exactly!
i mean, she wrote Redeeming Love, for cryin’ out loud!
She is the writer who got me to read Christian fiction. She’s made such an impact! If you hang out with me, I’ll help you get a pic, ha! Oh, and she’s even nicer than I imagined, if possible, and so humble!
so…. we’re all gonna be mobbing Janet at the next Francine Rivers attended event 😀
I think I am with Tamara on this one although I am probably not incapable of running over my own foot!
hahahaha!
Me too!
Wow! This is really cool! You don’t think about the authors that you fangirl over (not that I ever fangirl over anything;)) fangirling over other authors. Mind=Blown?
😀
I was a reader first,and still am (wait, I might need an editor to check this grammar) so I’m in awe over so many on this list. When I read great writing, my eyes well up. But now, I also take notes, ha!
lol!
HAHAHA!, Baley. Yes. It’s embarrassing how ‘fangirly’ we get! (or at least I do) And I’m not shy about it. If I’m going to embarrass myself, it’s going to be out for the whole world to see 🙂
that’s one reason i love you so much, dear Pepper 🙂 haha!
Like-minded, Carrie dear?
ummm… yes 🙂
I’m definitely like Jennifer Rodewald. I want to like jump up and down screaming, “your book is SO amazing!” but I’m afraid I’ll be annoying or creepy, so I generally just either let it be, or post something more sedate like “I loved your newest book!” on one of their posts. Although I have messaged a couple of my favorite authors on Facebook to tell them how much I enjoyed their book and they have all been so incredibly nice about my fangirling.
Authors are my superheroes. 🙂
oh my goodness, YES!
Oh Sarah, mine too!! I look at this list up here and I’m like “wowzah!” And then I think of actually HUGGING Laura Frantz or Densie Hunter or FRANCINE RIVERS…and then I’m all stuttery with episodes of hot flashes and spontaneous fits of giggles
hahaha!
That’s so awesome that you message authors when you like their books! This is a tough business sometimes, and your encouragement makes a difference! Nice readers are our superheroes!
😀
Sarah…sedate! That’s the perfect word! 🙂 My mom says I’m like a duck, totally cool on the surface, paddling like made underneath. Pretty much true of me in everything.
LOL!
This is such an awesome giveaway!! I think Becky Wade’s fangirl experience describes me the best… Very calm and collected, but FREAKING OUT on the inside!!! 😉
LOL me too!
Wow! Great giveaway. I would fan girl over Francine Rivers too.
who wouldn’t?!? She wrote REDEEMING LOVE! lol
I’ve had my name in the same sentence as her!! Does that count as cool? 😉
it counts as VERY COOL!
Definitely!!
Yay! Someone else who would fangirl over Francine! Would you ask for a pic, too?
It would depend on the experience. If I were at a book signing, I would probably be all over the gushing. If it were a chance thing, I’d probably be trying to sneak a peek like Becky, afraid that I would be a nuisance! Love getting to “know” these authors through social media. It’s so fun to see that they are regular ladies with a fascinating job! And I get to read their books!!!
getting to know authors is such a cool part of this book blogging gig. You are right – just regular ladies with a fascinating job! 🙂
And zillions of imaginary friends in our heads….so if we seem distracted, please understand 😉
LOL … some have more imaginary friends than others, right Pepper? 😉
Are you implying something, my sweet friend? Oh wait…gotta run, have another idea…
hahahahahaha
Most of us are regular. I may be the oddball… I love getting to know authors and readers through social media, too!
lol!
I would have to say Jennifer and Tamera are who I would be most like. I’m afraid to even say boo to any of my fancrushes for fear of bothering them. I assume they get it all the time so I don’t ever want to be “one of those” who does. I know it’s silly, but that is the introvert in me!
i think most introverts (like me) probably feel similarly
I want to start using the term ‘fancrushes’ all of the time. love it!
it’s a great term
That how I felt too until I started getting messages myself and realized how great it is to hear from readers.
That’s just who we are. Must learn to embrace it 🙂
My tastes are similar to both Kara and Pepper! I love Becky Wade, Denise Hunter, Mary Connealy, and some of Siri Mitchell’s books. Rachel Hauck is also on my TBR pile!
some of my faves as well!
Isn’t Mary Connealy hilarious! Is your TBR pile huge like mine? I want to take a break from writing to read at the beach this summer!
I think if I’m fangirling a certain person than I’d be Becky wade because of Francine rivers but I’d also be fan girl with Melissa Tagg if I ever got to meet her. As far as how I’d react idk I’m not the crazy fan girl type.
ohhh but being a crazy fangirl type is so much FUN 😉 lol
Rachel, So glad to meet another Francie fan! I didn’t know I’d jump up and ask for a pic. It was a debate in my head about when to do it once I decided to, though! She was so kind!
Um, I would probably fangirl like Nicole Deese. I tend to get emotional when I get excited, so I can see myself just bursting into tears. And then I would just go hide in a bathroom somewhere!
LOL!
Birttaney!!! Oh my goodness, I just saw that scene in my mind like a movie!! Totally brilliant!
I love just about all these authors and would love to read all these books! Would be so fun to win!
such a great giveaway they’ve put together!
Lindsey, It’s always fun to win, isn’t it 🙂 Good luck!
Becky Wade and Nicole Deese
Since Laura Frantz and Lori Benton are my favorites, I’d have to agree with Melissa Tagg and Pepper Basham. However, when I write a comment on an author’s facebook or email them and get a response, I don’t care who it is, I’m super excited and tell everyone I talk to that such and such author responded to me! Isn’t it a great world where great authors are the celebrities! 🙂
YES! So much fun!
*sending two thumbs up to Jeanette* LAURA FRANTZ!!!!!!!
I got so excited once when Terri Blackstock emailed me back! She lives in my area, and I’d asked if she knew any Christian writers groups I could meet with. She wrote back and suggested ACFW. I was doing the happy dance at my computer. That’s how I ended up meeting many of these amazing ladies! It is neat that people still love to read in our technology age!!
ahhhhhhhhhhhhh YOU EMAILED TERRI BLACKSTOCK???? AND SHE EMAILED YOU BACK?!?! and YOU HAVE PICTURE WITH FRANCINE RIVERS?!?! I need your autograph for sure, Janet!
Janet, we need to compare photos. I’m pretty sure in the photo I have of Francine Rivers …she has a halo. There’s this distinct glow in the general direction of her head.
It could be my near-faint aura, but I think it might be a halo!
LOL!
Going to check for the aura now! Let’s make pics next time we’re together at conference for another “fancrush” blog, ha!
LOL!
I love reading works from authors I’ve never read before. One book read and I’m usually hooked. I then spend the next few weeks reading everything they’ve ever written.
oh good, i’m not the only one who does that then lol
Cathy, you are awesome! That’s exactly what authors need! Word of mouth support!! Bless you!
This is so me. And exactly what I did with Nicole Deese. I read her A Season to Love and LOVED it so I went back and read every single one of her books and now I’m waiting impatiently for the next.
This is exciting!
it is!!!
Hi, Dawn! I’m super excited, too! Glad you stopped in!
I love this!
Thanks Carrie for putting these wonderful authors together and letting us get to know them more.
I too feel like a stalker. I love following them on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instragram. One day I’d love the opportunity to meet any of these wonderful ladies.
Sarah Monzon is the one for putting the authors together -I’m just the alien host LOL.
LOL!!! Alien host!!! And Sarah is the mastermind. Sounds like a book idea to me! (just add Amish vampires and we have a hit, people!)
LOL LOL!
Pepper…YES!!! HAHA!
And I must say I hyperventilated a little and had to give myself a pep talk before contacting these authors. I mean, why would they want to do a giveaway with little ol me? I was floored that they all agreed!
hahaha!
Well, I’m floored you invited me 🙂 Thank you, Sarah!
Marilyn, I love this, too! We’d love to meet you! Maybe one of us is having a book signing in your area!
I’d react much the wayas Becky Wade. I would likely watch from afar but never say anything. 🙂
I’ve met Cindy Woodsmall and Karen Kingsbury and was pretty fangirly excited about that! I would also adore meeting Melissa Tagg. I think she and I would be friends in real life. 😀
i know, right?
Hi Erin! Funny that you mentioned Karen Kingsbury! My book club friend sat on an airplane by her, and my daughter was in the hospital at the time. My friend asked Karen if she minded writing a note to my daughter, and of course, she was so kind to do so. It was really cool!
how sweet!
We would totally be friends in real life!!
😀
Melissa, Are you talking to me? Because, I’d like to get a picture with you…
hahahahaha, Janet!
Ummm….probably bawling my eyes out! When I started reviewing, I had no idea that I would get connected with authors as much as I have! Anytime I get to talk to ANY of them, or they reply to a fb post etc…I have to remind myself to breathe! I love this world of authors and readers.. So much encouragement! <3
yes! exactly! some of the most encouraging bunch of people around <3
I’ve made so many interesting, Christian friends across the country, and the world even! Thank the Lord for Christian fiction!!
amen!
Second that Amen!
Oh my goodness, these answers crack me up! More because I can’t imagine the authors *I* fanflail over have authors *they* fanflail over!! 😀 I die. <3 😉
😀 LOL!!
Hi Mikal! Glad you can laugh with us! You should know, some of us are totally goofy. By that, I mean me. So glad you stopped in!
*snicker* I for suuuuure know half of these ladies are goofy. Bahaha!! But it’s very good to know you are, too! Goofy is fun. Who wouldn’t want to be goofy???
Well, Mikal, I prefer Mickey – but everyone has a favorite 😉
Mikal, I’m not sure who wouldn’t, but I’ve embraced it fully! 🙂
Becky Wade’s story for sure!
isn’t it hilarious?
I would say Becky Wade. I discovered herbooks last year. I have loved all her books. I believe I would giggle if I ever met her. She is one author that I am wanting to buy her books and add them to my ‘do not touch momma’s special books’. I received money for mother’s day and went to go buy her lasted book, but alas all the book stores around here only sell online. So I am still searching for that awesome store that carries them.
Stephanie, there are currently THREE chances to win a copy of Her One and Only on my blog right now lol. This giveaway, and two more on my interview with Becky from yesterday.
O, I am trying .
😀
Hi Stephanie! Isn’t Becky great! I still have momma’s special books, and my kids are 19 and 23. I miss having lots of bookstores around! I hope you win something!
My kids are from the age of 11 to 20. They just roll their eyes at me when I want to go to the book store.
Oh yeah! They know it will not be a short trip, ha! I’ve seen that eyeroll!
LOL
You were going to spend your Mother’s Day money on Her One and Only?!!!!! That means so much to me. Thank you! Send me an email at becky@beckywade.com to let me know your address and if you live in the USA, I’ll mail you a signed copy. My treat. ?
😀 😀 😀
I got chills when I read this! Christian authors are the best!
i know – me too! and yes!!! They so are!!!
I would either be like Becky Wade and just watch in awe without saying anything, or I would babble to them incoherently. Pretty sure I’d not have an in-between.
hahahahaha!
Katy, I babble a good bit, too! I’m sure Francine thought I was babbling on about how much I loved Hadassa in the Mark of the Lion series. (I hope I spelled Hadassa right. I’m a terrible speller, ha!)
I babble!! Oh good grief, as a speech language pathologist by day it’s pretty embarrassing to babble like I’ve never spoken a real word in my whole life. I totally get that.
snicker.
I would probably react like Becky did! 🙂
me too!
I think I would react more like Becky Wade. Just watching from a distance while in amazement.
me too!
Love Melissa Tagg. In fact, the library here just got LNB at my request.
yay! It’s a great book!
Hi Debi! Oh goodness! I read one of her books last summer and laughed out loud at the doctor’s office while reading it!So much fun!
What a fantastic blog post! Since I fan girl most of these awesome authors farrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr too much, its really cool to read about their author idols. That we share many of the same faves and inspire me to pick up an author or two I hadn’t heard of!
hahahahaha yay!
Hi Amy! Isn’t this fun! We all have the fangirl moments.
Um, I would fangirl like Nicole Deese. I get emotional when I’m excited so I could see myself bursting into tears.
😀
Brittaney, I may have teared up and texted a bunch of people when I first saw Francine. My friend and I couldn’t stop smiling when we saw Charles Martin…
Wow! Some of my favorite authors and some new authors! This is great!
Hi Karen! There are some amazing authors! I’m the newby on the block and feel so blessed to be included!!!
Karen!!!!! YAY!!! Hello, wonderful lady!
I am like Jennifer Rodewell. I feel like I wouldn’t matter so I wouldn’t say anything
oh but you DO matter!
Hi Becky! You so matter! I would love to meet you, and I’m sure most of these ladies would, too!
Oh my goodness, YES, Becky! To know that our hard work, passion, sweat and tears we pour into our stories MEANT something to you! Yes…that matters to us! Without a doubt!
Becky, I just have to say, one of the absolute coolest things about writing books is when we get to meet readers–or even just chat with them online. Readers are the very reason we write! So you matter more than you realize. 🙂
Sayin’ an Amen to Melissa’s statement here!
feel you, sister! 😉
Ha ha! These are great. I’d fangirl so hard if I met Laura Frantz IRL. I’d probably pull a Becky Wade though and not be able to speak. I’m like super shy offline, so even though we’ve chatted on the interwebs, if I saw her I’d be tongue-tied! ☺️
Laura Frantz is so gracious IRL and sweet and gives the best hugs! She would put you right at ease!
Amen, Carrie and that she would!! Laura has such an elegance, just as her writing does – yet, is one of the most gracious, sweet, humble and “down-to-earth” people I’ve ever met!!
Yes! Absolutely. Such a sweetheart.
Renee,
I’m totally with you!! When Laura agreed to endorse my debut novel (and that pretty little endorsement is right on the COVER of my book FOREVER) I almost started crying. I mean that ugly kind of crying too! I was super thankful and overwhelmed at her generosity and kindness. But she’s truly a wonderful lady – as beautiful and elegant as her writing.
Kara Isaac I would totally run over my feet and probably trip if I met one of my favorite authors!
This is so fun! Can’t wait to spend th next 10 days with some of my favorite authors!!
it’s a blast to put together! 😀
I know, right! Me, too!
I don’t know for sure what my reaction would be. It would probably depend on the author. There are some authors I have interacted with over the internet and they’ve been so nice, so friendly, so down to earth that if I were to meet them in person, there would probably be some blushing and gushing, but I would feel pretty confident in going up and officially meeting them. There are some others though that I would probably stand and watch wide-eyed with my mouth hanging open and not be able to move, probably feeling more than a little terrified and intimidated to actually meet them.
haha me too
Hi Julie! Yes, the reactions can be different depending on who it is. It’s so funny, but a lot of authors are introverts. Hence the writing…
Tamara Leigh is my fave would love to meet her! What a great author, love her riveting stories! And she’s such a sweet person!
Thank you, Leslie! You totally made my day brighter. So blessed 🙂
I think I would have to say I am most like Jennifer Rodewald. I have my favorite authors but I try not cyber stalk! Lol!
LOL!
Don’t you just imagine that the word “stalker” is branded over your profile if you start messaging authors? I can just picture it. It keeps me up at night.
hahahaha!
Definitely Becky Wade!
Rachel McMillian and I are twins! I felt the same way about Lynn Austin commenting BACK on something I wrote to her. 🙂
isn’t it fun?!?
I’d probably react most like Jennifer Rodewald – I wouldn’t want to be a bother, but my extroverted nature would take over, and I’d feel compelled to introduce myself anyway! This is an amazing giveaway and project – thanks to all involved. The next 10 days will be SO much fun!
YAY!!! I’m having fun putting it together – so glad y’all are having fun too 😀
Ahh…the extroverted introvert. Or is it the introverted extrovert? We’re complicated, aren’t we, Valerie!
Hi Carrie and and all of you awesome authors! I’d probably be like Becky Wade the most. I’m more of an introvert, so I’d probably be a little hesitant to talk to them. And if I did, I’m not sure I’d be coherent. I’d probably be a blabbering mess! What a great group of authors in this giveaway! I’m so glad they are willing to share their talents with all of us! And thanks for interacting with us on social media. It’s so much fun to get to know you and to hear the stories behind the stories. It would totally make my year to win this contest! Now I have to go put some more books on my TBR list!
yes – a big thank you for interacting with us!
YAY! Hi Winnie!! ‘blabber’ yes. I get that! Right there with you.
Hi Pepper! Yep, all coherent thoughts would immediately exit my brain, and gibberish would come out my mouth. At least I can edit things on Facebook! In person, not so well! Thanks for not unfriending me! 😀
hahahaha!
Thanks for not unfriending me either 🙂 Those who are on my street team get to see me at my usual crazy. Those on my brainstorming team get to see my neurotic side. They’re still my friends so I guess they enjoy the comic relief.
LOL! We adore you 🙂
The feeling is mutual 🙂
I love your usual crazy! You and your family are so fun and always good for a laugh or smile! If you ever need any more brainstormers, my neurotic side would be glad to meet your neurotic side! 😀 I love the banter between you and Carrie. I think we all need lots of laughter to get through life!
LOL LOL my neurotic side is happy to know you both 🙂
Hi Winnie! I write characters who babble because I’m so good at it personally! I love interacting with people who have a heart for God and great, redeeming stories! More on my TBR list, too!
Well, I could be the poster child for your books then! I’m pretty good at it, if I must say so myself!
I am so awkward, so I could totally see me having an experience like Kara Isaac if I saw a beloved author, such as Kate Breslin, Jeannette Oke or Beverly Lewis, for example.
I could also picture me acting like Becky Wade did when she was in the same room with Francine Rivers.
Case in point, when we went to Black Dawg Salvage, home to the show Salvage Dawgs, I stood starstruck when Mike Whiteside came out of his office into the retail area. Oh,my goodness! I’m a total nut case,lol.
lol!
Connie, I am now googling Black Dawg Salavage. I don’t get out much or control the TV remote. I’m usually reading or writing, ha!
Fangirl in on social media I feel pretty safe doing. In real life though?? Ah! Just the thought of meeting my favorite authors gives me anxiety hives!
😀
yes … but… you ARE a favorite author 🙂
Like Becky Wade, I’ve always admired Francine Rivers. At first it was her books . . . then I met her when she was the keynote speaker at ACFW. We rode together to a dinner event and had 30 minutes in the far back seat of a van to chat. She was very gracious and kind. I enjoyed learning more about her family and interests besides writing. That was a special memory.
YOU RODE WITH FRANCINE RIVERS?!?! ahhhh!!
Carrie T, I totally fangirled over getting to have my picture made with you last September at ACFW. And then EVERY time you comment on my pics on FB, I have this stupid grin on my face because I’m so honored.
The same thing happens with Becky, or Beth Vogt, or Mary Connealy, or Julie Lessman, or any of those other amazing ladies leaves a comment.
Totally amazed!
Wow! So cool you rode in a van with her!! I loved how her friends called her Frannie at the conference.
My fangirling would be like Kara Isaac… if I ever met an author that might be how I would act!
haha right! me too!
Definitely Becky Wade. I’m sure I’d be so awestruck and excited I wouldn’t be able to think of anything intelligent to say.
lol me too!
I completely identify with Jennifer. I am completely a fangirl of DiAnn Mills. I have had the privilege of hearing her speak at a few small conferences and I even talked to her once while I was buying all the books on her table! But I find myself getting all shy in the midst of her greatness 🙂 She is such a sweet person though. WOW what a great giveaway Carrie! Thanks for all you do.
BTW, I think I would probably be shy meeting you too.
LOL! LOL! Oh Loraine, no need at all to be shy around me! I’m just a big goofball who loves to read 🙂
Yes, Carrie is another humble sweetheart who would immediately put you at ease, Loraine!!
Awww Bonnie <3 As would you!
I’d be like Tamarah Leigh I think. I’m too much of an introvert to say much. I’d just end up staring silently. But that’s not at all creepy, right?
no… not at all 😉
Hi Teish! Writers do a lot of silent staring! We probably wouldn’t notice, or if we did, we might make you a character in a book, ha!
LOL!!!!
Go, introverts! 🙂
LOL!!
AWESOME giveaway! Great question too!
I would have to say I’m most like Tamara Leigh. If I were to meet one of my favorite authors, I might not be able to speak. I like talking to them on Facebook though. Although…I did speak to Barbara Johnson at a Women Of Faith convention.I met her husband while he was looking for a restroom. They changed all the men’s rooms to Ladies rooms for the event and he couldn’t find a place to go. I took him over to the out of the way handicapped restroom where I had just come from and told him I would guard the door for him. He laughed and accepted my offer. I was in line to buy a calendar from Barbara, he came by and gave me a hug, she asked me why. I told her the story, she laughed, gave me a hug, signed the calendar and her latest book and gave them to me. I tried to pay, she said “no, no, no, you’ve given me a laugh and a story to tell for years to come.” While I am an introvert, I do try to be helpful to strangers. I sat next to actor Brian Dennehy at an airport once, I was FREAKING out on the inside, he said hello, I squeaked out a hello, then he asked me where the closest men’s room was and could I watch his bag. I told him where and said yes. All I could think was “I have a knack for meeting famous people that need to pee!”
P.S. I think I might have messed up on the Freebie entry, I hit the enter button by mistake.
LOL LOL LOL LOL!! That’s hysterical! (And nope – you did the entry right on that!)
Andrea,
LOL!!! Remind me if we ever meet to ask YOU where the restroom is. You seem to be in the know 😉
Bhahaha!! But only the men’s restroom lol
LOL, Pepper, Carrie, & Andrea!!
😀
I must admit, finding the restroom is the first thing I do, everywhere I go. Just in case I have to go. 🙂
Hahaha!!
Oh my! Andrea, I just laughed out really loud! You must be very approachable and look knowledgeable
I usually know where most things are in stores, especially the restrooms.
Glad you had a laugh 🙂
Oh my goodness this is hysterical!!
🙂
Thank you so much for the laugh! I don’t LOL much, but you did it to me 🙂
You are so very welcome! We all need to laugh more.
That’s hilarious! I was at my daughter’s high school volleyball game and went into the restroom. As I came out of the stall, I noticed that there were urinals on the wall! Thank heavens no guys came in while I was in there! I really high-tailed it out of there! So embarassing! Where were you when I needed you, Andrea? 😀
bhahahahahaha!!!!! Poor Winnie
That’s funny! I saw a woman high-tailing out of the men’s room at Walmart today. I’m not generally found at high school volleyball games or I would have helped you.
Too funny, Andrea!!
I would probably be somewhere in between Kara Isaac and Tamera Leigh. I’m an introvert, so I would probably be pretty quiet. Yet nervous enough to find a way to embarrass myself. ?? Thank you so much for hosting such a great giveaway with these amazing authors.
Stephanie C.
hahaha! (And you’re welcome 🙂 )
Oh Stephanie… I find all kind of ways to embarrass myself. Even when I’m not nervous.
Ah, nervous enough to find a way to embarrass yourself? Yep, we have lots in common 🙂
I’m a closet fan girl. Kinda. I worry about somebody thinking I’m creepy, when I’m really excited.
Thanks for this great contest! You’ve got so many great authors and such great books. I can’t wait to read these books even if I don’t win.
Aren’t these authors great?!? I was so honored when they asked me to host the giveaway!
Hi my friend Jackie! You are so sweet, no one would ever think you are creepy!! I hope you win!
That was so much fun! I can’t wait to research more of these authors. Nicole Deese had me crying. Thanks for the fun giveaway.
Awww 🙂
Mine would be a combo reaction of Tamera and Melissa. Like Tamera I am the quiet type and like Melissa authors I like I will often reread them. If it is a first read it’s usually involves reading as fast as I can because I can’t wait to see how it ends!
Lol! Yes, me too!
I would probably be like Jennifer. I would be to nervous to know what to say to my favorite author.
Heehee
I just babbled about their books and characters 🙂 They seemed cool with it. I think… 🙂
heehee
Everyone wants to be like Jennifer! She’s awesome!
Okay. I think Jennifer Rodewald’s a.b.c’s…..are totally me. I couldn’t have said it better. So I think that means we have to be bff’s or something. Or not. since I’d be worried about those she stated in her a.b.c’s. But if an author is standing right in front…I sometimes manage to smile and speak like a normal person. 🙂
i think you totally should be bffs 🙂
Two votes…I suppose that makes it official 🙂
of course!
Haha, we can be a,b,c bffs, Megan! Love it. 🙂
haha!
Jennifer is amazing. Totally bff material.
Definitely like Tamera…quiet on the outside, yet screaming on the inside. LOL
This is a great giveaway, thanks for the opportunity to win.
Screaming on the inside… That sounds like what I do with my kids, sometimes, ha 🙂 Good luck with the giveaway!
You weren’t supposed to tell anyone we’re screaming on the inside 🙂
Tamara, at least Janet didn’t say WHAT we were screaming on the inside to our kids 😉
I would love to meet Becky Wade!! Thank you so much for doing this! I love learning about the authors!
aren’t they fun? 🙂
I’m so excited about this giveaway. Several of the books are on my reading “short list”!
oh yay!!
Hi Ashley! You have a short list?? Ha! Good luck! 🙂
Ashley, I can’t believe you have a reading “short list”! My reading list is so long I could wrap it around the block a couple of times and still have some left over! So many books, so little time! It would help if I didn’t have to sleep every night. Maybe I could make a dent in my list!
hahahahahahaha!! Seriously! Sleeping is SO tedious!
Carrie, what a crazy fantastic blog conversation you have going. A blast! And the giveaway…I’ve got as many fingers and toes crossed as possible. I’m totally going to look up Jennifer’s book now because a published author being so human- cool! I most related to her story. And, Pepper- how fun to read that you’re so down to earth with your talent. A Twist of Faith was sooooooo good. Now I’m going back to Thorn Bearer. And for fear of making any of the other AMAZING writers sad, I’ll stop because there is some incredible talent here, and I don’t want to hog blog space giving shout-outs. Thanks again for these interviews and giveaway.
Hahaha!!! They are ALL so great & down to earth!
Amanda, Jennifer and I have critiqued together for a couple of years now, but not yet met since we are on opposite parts of the country. I can tell she is awesome from our emails and hope to get to meet my internet friend at our conference this year! Good luck on the prize!
fully and hopelessly human, here, Amanda. 🙂 And thank you Janet…can’t wait to see you in 3D!
Jennifer’s books are amazing! Definitely read them!
Amanda!! Thank you for those kind words about my books. And down to earth? I’m not quite sure how to be anything else. 🙂 I’m a fan-girl for sure! And so thankful to be able to write stories 🙂
I have to agree with Jennifer in that I’m not the fangirl type. The fear of coming across as creepy or quirky makes me nervous about attending the CFRR. As an introvert, I prefer the safety of social media stalking. 🙂
LOL social media stalking is the best, isn’t it? Not that I would know of course 😉
Nope, Carrie, I wouldn’t know anything about that either! Good thing we never do any of it!
oh exactly! lol
annnnddd…you just nailed pretty much why I’m not going to be at that event, Amanda. 🙁 So sorry! Conference was the most I could work myself up to this year.
awwwww Jennifer – phooey 🙁
Jennifer, I’m going to just have to sign up for conference now and force you and Sarah to fangirl!
oh yes you should, Janet!
Social media stalking is the ONLY form I Could participate in. Anything else and I’d be struck mute in a ball of nerves.
hahahahaha
I Love Any books by Dani Pettrey and Dee Henderson. Some of the Authors on here I’ve not read their books yet, but they sound just as good as these ladies’ books. So, I’d have to say I’d relate most to Dee Henderson’s stories, because I’m always out to “Finding the Truth” about things; Especially with My Teenagers!! Lol
haha!
Hahaha – oh, this made me laugh SO hard. If I had to pick out of their answers, I would probably be most like Becky Wade and never talk to them. However, I may or may not sneak my phone from my pocket and snap a photo of them (after putting it on mute of course!) and freak out to my best friend via text. Lol!
LOL!! That’s what phone & best friends are for 🙂
Probably more like Pepper Basham with a mix of Tamara Leigh. I will go total fangirl when I see Pepper and a few others. I won’t have to go total fangirl when I meet Laura Frantz. Just be totally excited to see her again. My introverted self will probably be absent that day and fangirl Nancy will be in attendance! LOL!
LOL LOL that will be fun 😀
Nancy,
I’m all for hugs!! Big fan of them, actually. So just prepare to get one (or 10) when we meet, okay? I’m exactly the same in person as I am online…or at least I think I am. What would you say, Carrie? (hats, flaws, and all 😉
Yes, absolutely! You are just as delightful and hilarious 😀
Aww, sending cyber hugs your way right now, Carrie
right backatcha my friend <3
and genuine 🙂
I have such a high appreciation for all authors. I am so shy that I would have a hard time talking to any of them. I subscribe to so many different authors it is unreal. Plus I like a bunch on Facebook too. It takes me forever to read through all of the posts but I am afraid I might miss something.
lol i know the feeling!
Hi Jan! I love your name! We’re all a bit shy at times, too, so we may have a hard time talking back, ha!
Jennifer Rodewald would totally be me!
Lots of great authors mentioned in their comments, Lori Benton might make me go all fangirl. ?
oh me too!
I’m feeling better and better about myself! ? Honestly, I read all the other answers yesterday morning and was all like, I’m such a dork!
LOL!
Jennifer and Becky pretty much nailed it. Peeping from far away and not wanting to be a nuisance. This was funny!
haha!
Ohhhh…you put me in the same sentence with Becky Wade. I die. ?
Haha!
Jennifer! That’s how I felt when a reader compared my novel to Francine Rivers!!! I blinked about twenty times and sat sort of dazed for a good five minutes!
I would be like Jennifer. I am too shy/introverted to show my fangirling on the outside. I would definitely fangirl a little over Julie Klassen, Jody Hedlund and Elizabeth Camden though 🙂
Oh, I’m so glad there are others like me out there!
I’m like Tamara, I’d probably just let my fave pass by while quietly fangirling on the inside!
lol!
Hi Robin! I’ve loved my few visits to North Carolina! So pretty!
Robin! I’m in NC too 🙂
Yep, two peas in a pod 🙂
I’ve never met any authors, but if I did, I’d probably be like Jennifer Rodewald.
I would probably be like Becky. Sneaking looks and watching from afar. I don’t know though!
haha!
My favorite authors are Melissa Tagg, Janice Thompson, Becky Wade, Robin Jones Gunn just to name a few. I have way too many to list.
it really is an impossible task
Can everybody that has been posting join me at my cabin in southern Idaho for a big party? Wouldn’t that be a huge blast? So many awesome personalities!!!
oh my goodness YES! That would be a riot!
Idaho is just one state over!
I’m in northern Utah, close to the Idaho border so our cabin is only an hour away. It’s pretty easy for us to get to, and it’s in the mountains which is a huge plus!
Carrie, thank you for this fun “fangirl” post. I am seeing “stars”!!!! I relate to Tamara. Last year I had the pleasure of meeting Lynne Gentry. I want to bless the author while not making a fool of myself.
blessing the author – yes!
This is amazing! Thank you!
I’m with Sarah and the social media stalking! It’s available to us, so why not?!
absolutely! lol
And as far as I know there isn’t a virtual restraining order ??
I love Tamara Leigh books!
Hi Renee! You bless me. Thank you for dropping by. <3
Hmmmm so hard to choose one. Bet id be like Kara Isaac. 😀 I’ve never met any authors yet. At least ones who’ve written books that ive read. Hopefully I’ll be able to go to the Christian Fiction Readers Event in Nashville, in August! I really want to go! And it would bw awesome to meet so many fantastic authors. Thanks for the fabulous giveaway!
yeeeeeessssss i hope you can tooo!!!
So hope you are able to attend our Christian Fiction Readers Retreat, Abigail – likewise with all those who’ve commented!! So many of the authors you’ve mentioned will be there – I’m envisioning one big “hug fest”, LOL!!Such sweet fellowship and fun with authors and readers alike – as well as games, inspiration, author round tables, chats and speakers, chocolate, swag bags full of treats, free books, prayer and praise/worship led by your fave authors, book signings, food, many other giveaways, and so much more!! Such a joyful time full of special memories, our authors seem as excited as the readers!!
YES – so true!
I’d probably pull a Becky Wade – silent stalking and inner flailing 🙂 I’m an introvert, so getting up the gumption to actually say something would take a lot for me.
haha! “silent stalking and inner flailing”
I’m probably closest to being like Tamera, since I’m also rather quiet. I’ve met several authors (Deb Raney, Kim Vogel Sawyer, Nancy Moser, Stephanie Grace Whitson, Judith Miller, Deborah Vogts, Nancy Mehl, and Rene Gutteridge) with my book club. We also Skyped with Tamera Alexander and Meg Moseley. I was fairly quiet but did manage to ask some coherent questions. Meeting them was fun not only because I like their books, but because we learned how down to earth they are. I’ve received some books won on blogs that have come with some really sweet notes from the authors and I do admit to giggling giddily then. It is also very nice when an author replies to a random comment I’ve made about their book on Facebook. My impression of Christian fiction authors in general is that they not only write terrific books, they are generally nice people.
this is so true!!
I appreciate all the Christian fiction authors SOOOOO much! Before I found all these awesome authors, I was having a hard time finding books I enjoyed that didn’t have profanity and steamy scenes in them. I definitely don’t need that taking up space in my mind! Some of the authors I used to enjoy were getting raunchier, and I had to quit reading their books. So a big shout-out to these 10 fantastic authors and all other Christian fiction writers for giving us lots of great reading material! Thanks for sharing your talents!!
YES!!! So well said, Winnie! I may hire you for the blog. Do you accept chocolate as payment? 😉
YES!! Chocolate rules, especially when eaten while reading books! Would that eliminate my eligibility to enter your giveaways, though? Hmmmm, I’ll have to think about that! Oh, and Kara Isaac has the best chocolate down there in New Zealand! She sent me some all the way from NZ! Yummy! Her book is yummy too, by the way! 😀
Mmmm… I wonder what I have to do to get some of that NZ chocolate lol
Carrie, you have to be selected from her newsletter subscribers. At least, that’s how I got it. Maybe you could bribe, er. . persuade her some other way, though. I’ve heard that she loves Oreos and can’t get them there! Isn’t that right, Kara?
oh that’s a marvelous idea… a trade, perhaps 🙂
I think I most closely identify with Becky Wade and her vote for Francine Rivers. Some of the very first Christian fiction I ever read was by Francine Rivers, and wow, what a foundation that laid for me as a newly-saved teenager growing up in a non-Christian home!
awwww!!!!! I love this!
Great post! I’m definitely with Tamara Leigh on fangirling on the inside more than outside. I’ve met both Frank Peretti and Tracie Peterson, both favorite authors, and I managed to speak coherently even though I said very little.
Blessings!
Jasmine
coherent is good! haha!
This was such a fun post! It was so fun to read about what authors some of my favorite authors like.
i had a lot of fun putting their answers together! 🙂
I would probably be like Kara Issac and be tripping over everything in my path if I was in the presence of Karen White or Mary Kay Andrews.
Lol!
I’d say I identify most with Melissa Tagg. I am a huge Elizabeth Camden fan and get all gooey over a good love story. ?
Ohhh me too!!
I’m so glad I discovered this today, Carrie! It looks like our reading tastes are very similar, so I’m looking forward to following future blog posts 🙂 I think I would be most like Becky Wade – watching and admiring without getting up the courage to actually talk to the author.
Welcome, Laurie! I’m so glad to have you here 🙂
I would love to meet Jan Karon
That would be great!
Like Rachel McMillan, I am a huge fan of Lynn Austin. Love her books!
Me too!!
Amanda, Lynn Austin is great! I loved her gods and kings series!
I’m lovin’ these responses! I’d probably be most like Becky Wade and just sneak peeks… but then again, I might get up the courage to tell the person I really enjoyed their books. ? The list is a pretty long one… several have been mentioned! What a great giveaway! Thanks!
Aren’t the responses fun?!?
I think I’m most like Tamara Leigh and Jennifer Rodewald, not really the fan girl type but I would love to just sit back and listen to Mary Balogh tell about her writing process.
That would be fun!
You know, Jeanna there’s a lot to sitting back and listening! ?
I’m on the shy side, so while I’d love to meet some of my favorite authors…I’d be so nervous I’d probably ramble on about who knows what, probably be red faced too? BUT I’d be squealing on the inside 🙂
Reading through these, I can relate to Jennifer Rodewald, especially c)why the heck would they notice me or care what I think about their work anyway? I had to laugh at her a,b,c’s ’cause I could so see myself in her shoes 🙂
I think a lot of us can relate to those abcs lol!!
(Not much of a shock…) Pepper’s, for sure. LOLOL
Haha!!
Meghan…. Girlfriend!!!!
I’d be like Becky Wade, taking lots of peeks but not approaching. Fun question!
I might be like that too! Thanks, Heidi 🙂
I’d be like Becky Wade…
Id be like Jennifer…afraid! Not just for the three reasons. I LOVE several authors. Were I to meet them in person, I’d either hide in a corner and stare in awe…or pass out. Truth…I’m scared of people I don’t know, and if I were to see one of my favorite authors I’d be terrified of not knowing what to say. There it is…in all its honesty. Rather pathetic,huh? I mean I did face brain surgery as a choice…but people scare me. Yeah, it makes no sense, but we all have our quirks! 😉
Hide in a corner or pass out – yep that sounds about right lol
People totally scare me too, Rachael! And if I did work up the nerve to say anything, I’d agonize for hours over whether or not I came across as an idiot! We can be pathetic together! ?
Such an enjoyable post that gave me some laughs and a feeling of camaraderie, – thank you, Carrie!!
Years ago, I would have been much like Becky Wade – quiet and shy, but I’ve become bolder as I’ve aged. Making the most of the years I have left, I guess, LOL!! I’ve met numerous Christian Fiction authors – I feel, as a whole, they are some of the most gifted writers ever, yet, also some of the most humble, friendly, and caring people. I think their fans hesitancy to approach them is due to a mixture of awe at their incredible talent and an appreciation and gratefulness for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration that talent brings their readers.
I’m exceptionally blessed in that my 4 fave Christian Fiction authors are also personal friends and all such Godly women, as well as gifted writers whose work speaks to and inspires me!!
the camaraderie in this post is really fun!! You are right 🙂 Let’s see… I can name two of your 4 …. now I want to know the other two LOL
I am more like Tamara Leigh. As excited as I might be, I wouldn’t make a bid deal about it. I would never approach unless it was an event where it was expected. As much as I love my favorite authors, I don’t really care about autographs, etc. I would just love to casually meet them and then become their best friend. haha
LOL LOL yes, me too!
Thanks for the giveaway! I haven’t read any of those books, so I don’t know which one that I relate to. Have a great weekend.
You too, Debra!
Oh my Gosh. I get so fan girly over so many authors. I recently got to meet Meg Cabot at Book Con which was so surreal. I was shaking and trying to tell her how much I love her Mediator books lol. I have to say though, I would be an ABSOLUTE mess and probably ugly cry if I met Robin Jones Gunn (whose Christy Miller series gave me hope of love existing when my parents marriage was crumbling) or Tracie Peterson because I’ve read her books for ages and I LOVE THEM.
Kathryn, that’s so sweet! I know Robin would be so incredibly touched to hear your story <3
Thank you! I tell everyone that Todd Spencer is THE guy to look for. Not perfect, but perfect for Christy. I needed to hear that at that time in my life… still do sometimes! 😉
he was pretty great 🙂
I have four multi-picture photo frames in my office filled with photos with authors I met in 2013 including these lovelies: Tamara Leigh, Ronie Kendig, Dorothy Adamek, Katherine Reay, Rachel Hauck, Frank Peretti, Jim Rubart, Jenny B Jones, Beth Vogt, Katie Ganshert, Olivia Newport and a few more 🙂 Such amazing memories. And I think I remained mostly composed…at least on the outside!!
ahhhhh so jealous!!! 🙂 I have met ONE in real life so far – Laura Frantz – and she was so incredibly sweet and gracious.
The lovely Laura wasn’t at ACFW in 2013, much to my dismay 🙁 I’m so thrilled to be catching up with her in August – can’t wait!
yay!
I’ve met a few in person. RaeAnne Thayne is not a Christian Fiction writer (although she is a Christian and writes fiction–just not Christian Fiction.) She lives near me and knew my sister very well. She’s a pretty popular contemporary fiction author. I’ve met her and I’m on her street team. 🙂 Also my daughter-in-law is an author. Her name is Candace J. Thomas, and she writes fantasy/science fiction/YA type books. She has 2 books out with the third in the series coming out soon. I think we tend to put authors on a pedestal, but most of them are ordinary people who just happen to be authors, and they have their own insecurities and challenges just like the rest of us. It’s been fun to interact with some of them on Facebook, etc. and hear their thoughts and find out more about their everyday lives.
And now, dear Aussie, you’re among my favorite people in the whole world. Adore you! Looking forward to another visit to Sopapillas with you this August! We can update our mutual fangirling pics. And if Dorothy wants to join us… Squeeeee!
You bet, dear Tam 🙂 Mmmm…I still talk about Sopapillas! The meal was almost as divine as the company xo
hmmmmm i may have to check this restaurant out whilst I’m in Nashville!
The best Mexican food ever in Hendersonville TN, about 25 minutes north of Nashville!
http://sopapillas.com
My mouth just watered 🙂
<3
I’ve met Rel Mollet!!!!!! Totally fangirled!! And then drooled over her lovely accent
I would have to say that I am either like Melissa Tagg with some squeals or I am like Becky Wade. It depends on who it is and what kind of fandom experience it is. I tend to get all shy and embarrassed though almost like I don’t belong in their presence.
awww Halita! They are just regular people 🙂
I would be most like Becky Wade.
it would depend on the author but i might be too!
I think I most relate with Becky Wade’s story. I still remember the first time I read “Redeeming Love.” I stayed up for hours so I could finish it. It is such an awesome, beautiful, and powerful story. I would love to meet Francine Rivers!
me too! But then… yeah… i’d probably react like Becky lol
I have to honestly say that I’m a mix of every single one of these amazing authors when it comes to fan-girling!!
i probably am too
Oh my! Oh my! I would be flabbergasted if I met any of my favorite authors. Dee Henderson, Ted Dekker, Frank Perretti, Mary Connealy and so many more. I just love reading books, my favorite childhood author was Lois Gladys Shepard and Louisa May Alcott.
those are all great ones!!! yes!
Mary Connealy is sooooo sweet and down to earth!!
I guess I would have to say Carrie that I am most like
Tamara Leigh! I would be screaming on the inside but chalant on the outside. Unless I have become friends with them I am a Hugger!
huggers are great! 🙂
Exactly! 🙂
Huggers unite!!!! 🙂
i so wish i could go to Nashville and meet authors, I would have two of my dreams fulfilled
i wish you could too!!
Debbie – adding you to my prayer list for those wanting to go to Nashville, so hope you make it to CFRR. It truly would fulfill some of your dreams, I guarantee you will leave filled with joy & inspiration, and it’s a bargain compared to the price of the ACFW conference!!
I think I’m most like Rachel. I’m an internal fangirl. God has used so many authors to touch my life that I’m over-the-top excited about even the possibility of meeting one…even if it doesn’t look like it on the outside. 😉
Like Becky, I’m more likely not to interact…even if you’re only a few feet away even though I can’t believe you’re really standing that close to me. With that said, I have stepped out of my comfort zone a few times (and oh, I’m so glad I did) to meet Becky Wade at a book signing. Love you Becky!! You’re so sweet anf genuine. A joy to meet.
Others that I would be beside myself about meeting…Dee Henderson, Francine Rivers, Robin Jones Gunn, Susan May Warren, Melissa Tagg, Dani Pettrey…oh, the list goes on and on. 🙂
My list is infinite as well! 🙂
Oops…brain freeze…I meant to say like Tamara, not Rachel. 😉
I am most like Becky Wade. Sneaky stalking. I like it.
Lol!!
awesome!!!
Yay! I want to read them :3
This was so fun. I was a little giddy reading that many of the authors that THESE authors fangirl over are my FRIENDS! Jesus has blessed me so much in this industry. I still fangirl about some of them myself.
I would probably still embarrass myself in front of Kiera Cass,though.
Well… As one does in front of Kiera Cass 😉
Pepper Basham. I’d be a mess if I ever got to meet Laura Frantz, too!
I got to meet her last year & she totally floored me by squealing my name when she saw me in line & jumping up to give me a hug. I was like… WAIT. Laura Frantz just squealed over ME?!? Surreal. She is so sweet & lovely & gracious.
Just so you know, Joan, Carrie had me in her pocket 🙂 by phone. So I got to say hi to Laura too!!!
LOL LOL the adventures of Pocket Pepper still makes me laugh 🙂
I would probably be like Becky Wade
I would probably most react like Nicole Deese. I fan girl over Melissa Tagg, and similarly to Nicole, her books helped me face some of my writing fears. We’ve chatted online before, but if we ever get to meet in person, I’ll probably start crying!
lol that would totally be okay 🙂
Ellen!
I’m with Becky Wade! Would totally geek out, but not have the nerve to actually go and say something 🙂
you’re going to have to flex those vocal muscles in August 😉
we’ll be brave together 😀
I am going to have to say I am probably most like Tamara Leigh. I totally talk authors up and all, but when I actually meet them I totally fan girl it inside. Except for maybe that really goofy grin on my face because of how excited I am to meet the author (and hopefully get books signed). 😀
lol yes!!
I would honestly have a difficult time in choosing my favorite. Thanks for the giveaway. You are the best!
Marilyn
These authors are so awesome, aren’t they?!?
I woukd love to meet Laura Frantz or Lori Benton
Laura Frantz is so delightful in person 🙂
So I’ve been following all these comments and felt a little fangirl that Rel Mollet chimed in. Relzreviewz has helped me find great books, authors and has had me on the hunt for other great blogs- this landing at this one. Just had to throw that in.
Oh my GOODNESS. I know!!! The first time that Rel commented here I nearly went into apoplexy lol.
Carrie! You make me smile xo
Sweet Amanda, you sure know how to bless a girl! Thank you for kind and generous words. I’m so grateful to you xo
I’m probably with Jennifer in that I don’t really fangirl. I’m too cool for that. Kidding! I’d probably end up stalking them from behind bushes, but never making actual contact. I did fall fast and hard for Gilbert Morris and Kathleen Morgan years ago.
LOL! we’ll bail you out when they find you in the bushes 😉
I totally identify with Jen Rodewald. I overthink the whole thing and miss the opportunity.
I’m so blessed she dedicated Carpenter’s Daughter to the girls in our church. She always asks how they are doing and how to pray for them. I KNOW she uses her writing as a ministry. Such a blessing to give good character models of how romance works God’s way. Bless you dear friend!
I love this <3
Two of my favorite authors are Melissa Tagged and Becky Wade! I thoroughly enjoy reading their books! Great giveaway!
“Booth” is my maiden name, Rebecca! 🙂
I would be like Becky Wade. Although I’d be fangirling on the inside, I would be too shy to go up to my favorite author and make a scene.
Pretty sure I’d be a lot like Becky Wade – standing behind the ficus, staring and squealing internally. I’ve met Karen Kingsbury and was thrilled by that. My list of those I’d love to meet gets longer the more I read!
I think I am most like Jennifer Rodewald. I hate to be a bother.
I LOVE this interview!! I feel like I most closely resemble Kara Isaac’s answer. Last week I went to my first book event ever (BookCon) and when I saw Lorie Langdon, Carey Corp, and Meg Cabot I kinda just open-mouth stared at them like a creep. 😛 And then when I actually got to talk to them…forget about it! Lol! Thanks for the chance to win – this is AWESOME! 🙂
Hahahaha!!
I would be a fangirl like Jennifer Rodewald.