Getting to Know Author Renee Andrews

Renee Andrews spends a lot of time in the gym. No, she isn't working out. Her husband, a former All-American gymnast, co-owns ACE Cheer Company, an all-star cheerleading company. She is thankful the talented kids at the gym don't have

a problem when she brings her laptop and writes while they sweat. When she isn't writing, she's typically traveling with her husband, bragging about their two sons or spoiling their bulldog.

Renee is a kidney donor and actively supports organ donation. She welcomes prayer requests and loves to hear from readers! Write to her at Renee@ReneeAndrews.com or visit her Web site at www.reneeandrews.com.

Writing is a journey. How did your journey to publication begin?

I’m from the South, and we’re natural born storytellers. I’ve been writing stories ever since I first held a pencil and told my teachers in school that I wanted to be a writer when I grew up. After college, I was a technical writer for a while but always longed to write fiction. Ten years later, I began submitting my stories and sold my first book two years after my first submission. However, I’d completed 21 full manuscripts before that first sale. I didn’t send them all out, because I knew they weren’t ready. Moral of the story – practice, practice, practice – and when you have that book ready, send it on!

Reflecting back, what do you see as most significant to your publication journey?

The support of my family. I have an amazing husband and two wonderful sons who have supported me every step of the way.

What’s your biggest challenge in balancing writing time with your other responsibilities?

Because my husband travels nonstop, I do a large portion of my writing on the road and in hotels. The biggest challenge is staying focused and getting those pages complete when the beach, mountains, etc. are outside the window. However, I know that when I meet the day’s goal, I can go out and enjoy the beautiful scenery with my wonderful Cajun.

How do your faith and spiritual life play into the picture and affect your storytelling?

Many of my stories revolve around the theme “God has a plan.” My faith in His plan finds its way into every story. And since I’m writing romance, it’s easy to include the love of God, because if you have Him at the center of your relationship, everything else will fall into place and thrive.

What do you think makes your style of storytelling unique?

My stories are Southern-based and have Southern flavor, but I also have a quirky sense of humor that often finds its way on the pages as well.

Finish this sentence. The best piece of advice I can give to a new author is . . .

Write, write, write and pray, pray, pray!

Cubby Hole, corner of the couch, or office, where do you write?

I have a desk, but I honestly write all over the house and/or at a hotel. The sunroom is one of my favorite places to write in my home, and I’m including a picture. My bulldog Roman is usually

nearby snoring, but he woke up for the photo.

What writing tool(Flip Dictionary, workshop, index cards) have you found to enrich your writing?

Discovering Story Magic. I love that workshop and have taken it at least three times. It gives a method to the madness of plotting – what’s not to love about that? Website is www.discoveringstorymagic.com

What’s next for you?
I just turned in the revisions for my October release, Love Reunited, for Love Inspired. I have a single title romantic suspense that my agent is getting ready to send out and another Love Inspired book due May 31 (it is going to be a busy year, but I love being busy!)

Any parting words?
A big thank you to Novel Rocket for this opportunity! Have a blessed day!

Picture Perfect Family

"I Made A Promise."

Intending to keep her vow to raise her orphaned nephew, photographer Mandy Carter is concerned when the boy's uncle appears in town. Handsome youth minister Daniel Brantley is determined to take over little Kaden's upbringing. Once upon a time Mandy was in love with Daniel, but he left her behind to do mission work overseas. Now he's back—and seems to think she's the same girl she once was, with big dreams a small town and motherhood can't fill. Turns out marriage and motherhood are all Mandy wants. It'll take winning Daniel's heart, though, to make this family complete.

Contact Renee Andrews on: Facebook:www.facebook.com/AuthorReneeAndrews.KelleyBowersZeringue

Renee Andrews on Twitter: www.twitter.com/reneeandrews