Saturday, July 17, 2010

Special Feature: Carla Stewart and her debut novel, Chasing Lilacs

Carla Stewart, a two-time ACFW Genesis winner, is a Guideposts Writers Workshop alumna who has been published in Guideposts, Angels on Earth, and several regional magazines and anthologies. Her debut novel, Chasing Lilacs, released in June 2010 with FaithWords (Hachette). Carla enjoys a good cup of coffee, weekend getaways with her husband, and the antics of their six grandchildren.

Chasing Lilacs, a powerful and touching novel about a girl searching for the truth about her mother's love, is listed #19 on the August CBA bestseller list. It's back cover reads:

"It's the summer of 1958, and life in the small Texas community of Graham Camp should be simple and carefree. But not for Sammie Tucker. She has plenty of questions about her mother's "nerve" problems, shock treatments, and whether her mother loves her. When tragedy strikes, Sammie's life careens out of control and she must choose who to trust with her deepest fears: her best friend who has an opinion about everything, the mysterious boy from California whose own troubles plague him, or her round-faced neighbor with gentle advice and strong shoulders to cry on.

"Trusting is one thing, but accepting the truth may be the hardest thing Sammie has ever done."

Endorsements by other authors also give us insight into the book:

"A remarkable debut novel. Carla Stewart cleverly captures the stark simplicity of a young girl's voice with all the masterful qualities of powerful prose. Unforgettable." ––Susan Meissner, author of The Shape of Mercy

"CHASING LILACS is the kind of coming of age story that sticks to you beyond the last page. Unforgettable characters, surprising plot twists, and a setting so southern you'll fall in love with Texas. Carla Stewart is a new talent to watch!" ––Mary E. DeMuth, author of Daisy Chain and A Slow Burn

Congratulations go out to Carla for this heartwarming debut novel. You can read more about her on her website, www.carlastewart.com, follow her blog at www.carlastewart.blogspot.com, and find her on Twitter @ChasingLilacs.

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