Judy Miller

Traveling Book Contest

WELCOME!

This isn’t your typical contest, so please read on to learn more. I have sent out ten copies of A Hidden Truth, my latest release set in the Amana Colonies. As time passes, we’ll be following the books on my website to see how far they travel.

If you did NOT receive one of the traveling books, but have read A Hidden Truth, please leave your name and email address along with a comment telling me your favorite character in the book. From among those readers, I will conduct a drawing of 50 names on December 15, 2012, and will email the 50 winners for your mailing addresses. Each of those 50 readers will receive a small gift. Even though you didn’t receive a traveling book, I hope you’ll come back to the website often to check the progress of the traveling books.

If you DID receive one of the traveling books which I sometimes refer to as traveling “sheep,” I’d ask that you read the book and pass it along as quickly as possible. In case you’re wondering why I’m occasionally referring to the books as “sheep,” it’s because sheep play a role in this book.

About Passing Along the Traveling Book:

Because we want the traveling books (there are eleven) to be shared with as many people as possible, we’re asking that you read it as soon as possible and then pass it to a friend, someone who is ill, someone you believe needs the Shepherd’s touch. Ask the recipient to do the same—read the book and pass it along. When you pass the book, make sure the recipients understand they are to read it, pass it along and fill out the form on this website or on the postcard. There are brief instructions inside the book.

About the Form:

For those with traveling books, after you’ve read the book, I’d be grateful if you would fill out the form below. Sheep - Judith McCoy MillerTo show my appreciation for your participation, I’d like to send you a small gift. You will need to post your mailing address in the form below. (Only your city and state will be shown on the website, not your street address). If you don’t wish to receive a gift, then you need not leave your street address, but please post your city and state as it will help us track the whereabouts of the “sheep.” The form also requests you list the name of your flock as well as the city and state of the person to whom you have given the book. This is a way for us to track the books on their journey. Please keep the “sheep” within the U.S. in order to keep them swiftly on their travels—unless you’ve received the Australian Merino and it should be kept in Australia. There is a space to leave a message about the book and/or to encourage other readers.

I’ll be doing some blogs to give you updates and you’ll be able to check comments on the contest page to see how much progress your “sheep” is making along the journey. Stuffed Sheep - Judith McCoy MillerThe Flocks are named: Cotswold, Cambridge, Lincoln, White Suffolk, Ryeland, Rhoen, American Romney, Icelandic, Hampshire, Shropshire, Australian Merino. (If you’re counting, that’s really eleven sheep, but the Australian Merino escaped to Australia and will be our only sheep traveling outside the United States. If you’re interested in seeing a picture of each breed, you can go to: http://www.sheep101.info/breeds.html to learn more.

On December 15, I’ll conduct a drawing from the five flocks that have the most readers. One person from each of those flocks will receive one of these cute little sheep (not the live ones—the stuffed animals). So read quickly, post your information, and send your “sheep” along the way.

PLEASE FILL OUT THE FORM BELOW AFTER YOU’VE READ THE BOOK.

An asterisk ( * ) Indicates a required field.

Your Name*:

Your Flock's Name*:

Your Email:

Your Street Address: (only if you want to receive a gift; it will be kept private)

Your City:*

Your State:*

Your Zip Code:

Who did you mail the book to?

Their City:

Their State:

33 Comments

  • Jami says:

    My favorite character, believe it or not, was not a main character. I just really appreciated Dovie’s father. He made selfless decisions during what had to be a difficult time in his life. He let his daughter pursue her heart and then let her return and marry a man that would keep her from living near him in Texas. While I loved Karlina’s sense of right and wrong, her love of the sheep, and her logical way of looking at things, Dovie’s father was such a wonderful example of the kind of parent I hope to be once my kids reach ages where what they want may take them farther from me than I’d prefer. Loved it!

    • Judy Miller says:

      Loved your comments, Jami. In the beginning Dovie’s father took a little convincing, but he became a parent who revealed selfless love for his child–and a reflection of God’s love for us. Glad you enjoyed the book.

    • Ella Reed says:

      Most characters were believable, however the secondary character whom I appreciated was Jacob. It was a clever writer to include him in the story and I found myself wondering just where that would lead for obviously Jacob also loved Dovie, but she was wise to love a man of the same faith. I enjoyed being involved with characters of such high character and integrity. A blessing to read a story that would not be embarrassing to share with my grandchildren.

      • Judy Miller says:

        Thanks for your comments, Ella. Glad you enjoyed reading about Jacob. I wanted to incorporate a bit of Czech culture into the story since there are large Czech settlements in Iowa. The Czech museum in Cedar Rapids just reopened in July after being flooded in 2008 and I can’t wait to visit and see the restoration. Thanks so much for your comments. Blessings, Judy

  • Judy Miller says:

    To all the “non-flock” members–please type your comments at the bottom where it says “Leave a Reply.” For the “flock” members, please use the form at the top that says Please Fill Out After You’ve Read the Book. Thanks so much! ~Judy

  • Unfortunately I didn’t get one of the traveling books and have not read it yet but will be looking for it when I can get out again. My husband has been seriously ill, after a surgery, he was in the hospital 24 out of 28 days and is having a slow recovery at home. He is walking better, with his walker, but not well enough to be left alone.

    I have read many of your books and enjoyed them all. What an interesting way to do a contest, great idea.

    • Judy Miller says:

      Hi Wendy, Sorry you didn’t receive one of the traveling books, but I hope you’ll have an opportunity to read it in the future. I’m sorry to hear about your husband’s health problems and will be praying for both of you as you meet daily challenges. Thanks for your kind comments about my books.
      Blessings, Judy

  • Very nice post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wished to mention that I have truly enjoyed browsing your blog posts. In any case I will be subscribing in your rss feed and I am hoping you write again very soon!

  • Rosie says:

    Judy, AHT truly captivated my interest,which didnot waiver throughout the entire book.
    To me,it portrays the simple, disciplinary (but not without sensitivity) lifestyle, of Dovie and her family.I was impressed by the manner in which the Grossebruderrat handled a delicate situation with their decision,reshaping the future of Dovie and Karlina. I particularly liked the charisma and caring attitiude of Anton and Berndt which became very evident as the story unfolded.
    As a reader of your books, I feel you have provided us with an interesting insight, into the lives of the people in the Amana Colonies and I thank you for furthering my knowledge.
    Very much looking forward to your next book.

  • Judy Miller says:

    Thanks, Rosie. I’m glad you enjoyed the book and that you’ve sent it along to another reader! The Amana Colonies are truly a wonderful place and I’m hoping even more of the folks who read my books will plan to visit and see the historic villages.

  • Jane Squires says:

    My favorite character was Anton. He had so much to learn about controlling his temper. Through him one learned out Jesus our Good Shepherd.
    Reviews posted on Amazon, Alibris, and Christianbook for you.

  • Judy Miller says:

    Hi Jane! So glad to hear you enjoyed Anton. He made it hard for anybody to like him in the beginning, but like most of us–he learned who can help us make those changes!
    Thanks for your reviews!

  • I loved this book. The only word I can use is “peaceful”. All of the Amana Colony books are so peaceful. I loved all the characters, and Ireally don’t have a favorite. I hated for the series to end, but I’m sure we’ll hear more from them. Thanks for writing such wonderful books.

    • Judy Miller says:

      So glad you’ve enjoyed the Amana books, Kat. There will be a total of three books in the Home to Amana series. A Hidden Truth is the first one in this new series. Just like the Daughters of Amana series, the books in Home to Amana are an independent series so they can be read in any order. Each one is set in a different village with unique characters. Thanks so much for dropping by!

  • Debbie Nelson says:

    Hi Judith,
    This story was fanstatic, thank you for the wonderful stories you have given us.
    This book was dear to my heart and I can relate to the way Dovie felt. Only I don’t have letters to read or a cousin like Louise to ask questions about my mother’s father and his family. The Amana kuche brought back all the gut memories of my Oma’s cooking. I look forward to your next book.

  • Dovie was one determined young woman. But she assumed too much which not only caused problems for her but for those around her. I can usually solve mysteries really easy but this on about her mother kept me guessing. Was surprise and happy with the ending. Thanks for having me on the tour. From Icelandic group! The book is on the move.

  • Sandi Robertson says:

    Favorite Character-woo-that’s hard.
    Dovie-determination-to find out about her mom
    Karlina-for her caring but stick to the rules attitude
    Anton-for representing “us” when we are learning how to change when it is hard
    Berndt-for his patience and love for Dovie
    George-for being a good shepherd for his sheep and his family-patience and love
    MY FAVORITE has to be Louise for being able to “have it all together” with all the things she was responsible for. Yet I do not see her as a “controlling person” who doesn’t care about anyone but herself–she was able to recognize what every person needed in his daily life–she truly cared about her family and her Amana community. Lovely book thought I knew the ending but I was wrong. Love the Amana Colonies.

  • Lorena Finnerty says:

    Hi Ms Judith,
    I am please to let you know that Breed Rhoen is not an extinct breed!!! I finally finished “A Hidden Truth” and LOVED it. I found my self caught in the German dialect (I have a little German in my family) and was reading and hearing the accent. Putting the German words in really made you feel like you were there. The scripture quotes and references were very comforting to see. A good book I can pass to my daughter (13) to read. I ditto all the previous comments!!
    Pages 199 and 335 made me squeal with joy as I read the word “tatted”, “tatted edging” and “lace I’ve tatted”. I have been Tatting for 30 years and was so excited to see this beautiful craft mentioned in a book. Now, do you tat? My friend I am passing this book to tats too but she knows the reference is there…I HAD to call her!!
    Thank you for the opportunity to read your new book and I look forward to the next ones. I love the “Postcards From Pullman” series and still have book three to read so that is next. Then the “Daughters of Amana” series.
    Thank you and God Bless

  • jamauthor says:

    Thanks for your comments, Lorena. I’m delighted to hear you like the book. I’d like to tell you that I know how to tat, but I’ve yet to learn. I have it on my list of things to try when I find some spare time. :) One of my dear friends used to tat and I marvelled at her patience and the beauty of the handwork. Hope you enjoy the Daughters of Amana series! Blessings, Judy

  • Sharon K Leslie says:

    I just finished reading ‘A PATCHWORK CHRISTMAS’ Your contribution to this book, “SEAMS LIKE LOVE” was a good indicator that even when someone has lost whom she thought was her true love, God always has someone even better for us in mind. I enjoyed reading more about the Amana people and how “normal” to us English folks you write them. Having been a fan of Tracie Peterson’s books for several years, I have readsome of the books you have written with her. May God continue to use you to spread His Gospel through Christian writings.

    • jamauthor says:

      Thanks for your kind comments, Sharon. I’m glad you enjoyed the novella. I have truly enjoyed writing about the Amana Colonies and doing the novella provided a welcome opportunity to tell a little more about their traditions. I’m glad you’ve enjoyed some of the co-written books, as well. Blessings, Judy

  • Diane Estrella says:

    I didn’t see a place for comments above. My 12 year old daughter also read your book and gave it a 7 out of 10 stars. Not bad! ;)

    Good luck and have a wonderful book tour.

  • Sharon says:

    I liked Dovie best… Thanks for writing!

  • Susan says:

    I just started my own personal Christmas celebration with the book, A Patchwork Christmas, and it is a great beginning to this year’s Christmas season! A few years ago, I started buying one Christmas book per season. Seams Like Love was a delight and takes me to that place in time and culture. Thank you for sharing your gifts and talents! I look forward to reading more of your books.

    • jamauthor says:

      Hi Susan, Thanks so much for letting me know that you enjoyed Seams Like Love. It was such fun to do a novella collection with Stephanie and Nancy, and writing about Christmas is always a joy. Glad you’re doing the scavenger hunt and hope you have fun1 Blessings, Judy

  • Lori Petisca says:

    Dear Ms Judith Mccoy Miller,
    Thank you for being inspired to write books, let alone books with Faith in God! It is not always easy to find such well quality novels that touch the heart and heals the spots we didn’t know were there. I have yet to have the opportunity to read the Hidden Truth or To Honor and Trust. However, I do look forward to reading them. I had the opportunity to read Seams of Love – purchased in the 3 book combo “A Patchwork Christmas Collection”. Thank you for listening to the heart of God and reaching His people through writing. It is greatly appreciated. I would love to be added to your list of sending books out randomly and being able to ship them around the world once they are read. I beleive I will do that will this book collection and see where my friends send it to. Enjoy and again, thank you for obey your call in Life! Warmest REgards, Lori

    • jamauthor says:

      Hi Lori,
      Thanks so much for your kind words. It is always a pleasure to hear from readers. I’m delighted to learn that you enjoy Christian Fiction. The next time I host a contest, I hope you’ll participate. I sometimes host drawing at my blog for books or at http://www.writespassages.blogspot.com where I blog with other Christian authors. Blessings, Judy

  • Connie Saunders says:

    I just cataloged a copy of “A Patchwork Christmas Collection” for our library and saw the contest info in the back. I would love to be entered in this contest and I look forward to reading your contribution to this book.

  • Darlene Newell says:

    I’m just finishing the book”A Patchwork Christmas”. I loved your story, “Seams like Love”. It truly has meaning for me since I’m single, never married and 44 yrs. old. I feel that the chance for love has passed me by so many times that maybe I’m meant to stay single all my life. Your story taught me that this may not be the case and maybe I need to open my heart up more to others. I’m learning to knit so the classes and struggle of the poor girl that struggled with her knitting. I’m making a scarf for a friend for Christmas. I hope to make my Dad a hat and hope that I’ll soon be able to move on to socks and mittens. I’d love to get a pair of the mittens in the book as encouragement and a model. I also quilt and would like to have some time to do some of that as well. Merry Christmas and thanks for making mine merrier!

  • Janice Richison says:

    I am in the process of reading Seams Like Love in a Patchwork Christmas Collection and am enjoying it tremendously. I only wish it were longer. I will be definitely be reading more of your books. I wish you and your family a Wonderful Christmas. God bless you.

    • jamauthor says:

      Thanks so much for your kind words, Janice. I’m delighted to hear you enjoyed Seams Like Love. Since you liked the story, you might also enjoy some of the other books in the Amana series. Merry Christmas! Blessings, Judy

  • Kaylene says:

    Beautiful story, I felt I could really relate to both Dovie and Karlina in so many ways. I really appreciate a good romance that promotes the merits of truth and integrity. Thankyou

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