Linda Shenton Matchett's Blog, page 59
May 14, 2020
Release Day: The Mechanic and the MD
Release Day: The Mechanic and the MD
I hope you've enjoyed Spies & Sweethearts, Book 1 of my Sisters in Service trilogy.
Book 2 is now available!
All’s fair in love and war. Or so they say.High school and college were a nightmare for Doris Strealer and being an adult isn’t much better. Men won’t date a woman of her height, and they don’t understand her desire to repair car engines rather than work as a nurse or a teacher. When her father’s garage closes, and no one will hire a female mechanic, she joins the Red Cross Motor Corps, finally feeling at home. Until she comes face to face with her past in the form of Ronald McCann, the most popular boy in school.On the brink of a successful career as a surgeon, Ron’s plans crumble when he’s drafted and assigned to an evacuation hospital in England, the last place he expects to run into a former schoolmate. The gangly tomboy who was four years behind him in high school has transformed into a statuesque beauty, but a broken engagement in college leaves him with no desire to risk his heart ever again.Will the hazards of war make or break this unlikely couple?
Use the link below to purchase from your favorite online retailer:Purchase Link: https://books2read.com/u/3RNpjY
May 13, 2020
Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Trish Perry
Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Trish Perry
Linda: Welcome to my blog. Congratulations on your latest release, A Special Kind of Double. What was the inspiration for the story, and why did you decide to enter the realm of romantic suspense?Trish: Thanks, Linda! Actually, my reading practices led me to writing romantic suspense. I found myself reading far more suspense than I have in the past, so the genre began to rub off on me. In August 2018 I released A Midnight Clear, a romance which had an element of suspense to it, and I felt compelled to heighten that suspense in the next book I wrote. When Winged Publications looked for romantic suspense, I jumped at the chance.Linda: What sort of research did you have to do for the story? Did you unearth any tidbits you knew needed to be included?Trish: I was fairly new to the Los Angeles area, and I set the book there, so that required some research into the sites I used in specific scenes. Since writing the book, I’ve been to some of the places I included in the book, which was a lot of fun, after the fact. I also did practical research to learn which elements were needed to keep the book suspenseful—sometimes as readers we don’t notice those elements, but we notice a lack of intrigue if they’re missing.LM: You moved from the Northern Virginia/metro Washington, DC area to California. How has the move/change in location impacted your writing?Trish: I’ve written books set here in California before—both Beach Dreams and Sunset Beach are set in Mission Beach, San Diego—and I’ll likely set more books in California, now that I live here. As far as how the move itself has affected my writing, I’m currently living with my daughter’s family, rather than on my own (which I’m more used to). Life has become quite a bit more interactive, especially with regard to my grandchildren. So, it’s taking a while for me to find my footing, schedule-wise. It’s a season, and I want to follow God’s will. His will appears to involve my focusing more on family than on my regular writing schedule. But that will change again, I’m sure.One unexpected outcome from my move is that I’ve essentially retired from my day job, so eventually I expect to have more time to focus on writing.
LM: What do you do to prepare yourself for writing? For example do you listen to music or set up in a specific place?Trish: I always prefer writing at my Mac, and although I’m not ADD, I absolutely cannot focus on my writing with music or noise going on around me. So, you can see how living with kids in the house has affected my writing, lol. My creative flow often gets going by reading good books and watching creatively written films and television. When I have a basic idea for what I want to write, I put together a loose outline, plotting out the major plot points. That's usually enough to get me into my first chapter, and there are often significant changes to my initial idea as the story unfolds. Structured by flexible–that's key for me.LM: What are some of the lessons you’ve learned on the path to publication?Trish: I learned in my first few years of publication that you needn’t worry if something you write doesn’t make it to publication. If you’re a writer, you just keep on writing. Maybe your work will find a publisher later, and maybe it won’t. But you’ll always be able to come up with new storylines, God willing, and the experience helps you grow as a writer.I’ve also learned that, if a story or a scene is dancing around in your head, you need to get it down! Either jot it down (or enter it into your phone) enough to bring it back later, or get to your computer and type it up. Those ideas flit through one’s head sometimes, and even the best ones have a way of disappearing. Creative thoughts don’t just show up every time you sit down to write, and you can’t always wait for them, especially if you’re under a deadline. Treasure your creativity when it’s high!LM: You live in a beautiful area of the country, one which many people choose to visit. If money were no object, what is your idea of the ultimate vacation?
Trish: Yes, this area is gorgeous, all year long. I’ve long dreamed of living in this kind of climate, so I’m thrilled that my kids and grandkids all moved out here from the east coast, which was my final incentive.Obviously, this year travel has become taboo for the most part. But I’ve done very little travel overseas. I’d love to go to Great Britain. My mother was British, and I’d like to visit where she lived and where she and my U.S. Air Force father met and dated before they married and moved to the States.LM: What is the quirkiest thing you’ve ever done?Trish: Goodness, that’s a tough one. I suppose one of the weirdest things I’ve ever done was when I was married and quite pregnant, my husband and I dressed up for a big costume contest at a dance club in downtown Washington, DC. This was during the disco days, and I dressed as a very fat man in one of my husband’s stylish three-piece suits and a ridiculous fedora hat, and he squeezed himself into a very stretchy dress of mine. His hair was longish, and we used a curling iron on it, so it looked a bit like a middle-aged woman’s hair. I penciled a mustache and five-o’clock shadow on my face and full makeup on his. We were without doubt the most unattractive couple there. But we won second place.LM: What are you currently working on?Trish: I’m in the early stages of either a novel or a script, and I can’t decide yet which I want it to be. I want to write a contemporary version of one of my favorite classic novels, and it won’t be an easy undertaking. I’m praying for guidance on this one. I’m studying scriptwriting--it seems like a sensible thing to do, living in L.A.!LM: Where can folks find you on the web?Trish: My website is http://www.www.trishperry.comMy Amazon author page is https://www.amazon.com/Trish-Perry/e/B001IOFFKW?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1585698617&sr=8-1My Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/TrishPerryAuthor/I’m new to Bookbub, and I’d love followers, if your readers are so inclined! My Bookbub page is https://www.bookbub.com/search?search=trish+perryThanks, Linda!About A Special Kind of Double:
Franny and Grace Otterbridge were always the closest of sisters. But after their father's death, Grace veered off in a different direction. Now, Franny feels she's lost her. Literally-Grace has gone missing. Franny assumes she's taken off on another wild hair, but signs soon suggest otherwise, Franny accepts amateur sleuthing help from new flame Nevan Burns, a young fine artist (who's also a fine young artist). He proves himself more than good company, and Franny finds herself swinging from one emotion to another, from joy to fear, from anticipation to dread. She's not equipped to search for Grace alone. She's even less prepared for what she finds.Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/2LeLliv
Linda: Welcome to my blog. Congratulations on your latest release, A Special Kind of Double. What was the inspiration for the story, and why did you decide to enter the realm of romantic suspense?Trish: Thanks, Linda! Actually, my reading practices led me to writing romantic suspense. I found myself reading far more suspense than I have in the past, so the genre began to rub off on me. In August 2018 I released A Midnight Clear, a romance which had an element of suspense to it, and I felt compelled to heighten that suspense in the next book I wrote. When Winged Publications looked for romantic suspense, I jumped at the chance.Linda: What sort of research did you have to do for the story? Did you unearth any tidbits you knew needed to be included?Trish: I was fairly new to the Los Angeles area, and I set the book there, so that required some research into the sites I used in specific scenes. Since writing the book, I’ve been to some of the places I included in the book, which was a lot of fun, after the fact. I also did practical research to learn which elements were needed to keep the book suspenseful—sometimes as readers we don’t notice those elements, but we notice a lack of intrigue if they’re missing.LM: You moved from the Northern Virginia/metro Washington, DC area to California. How has the move/change in location impacted your writing?Trish: I’ve written books set here in California before—both Beach Dreams and Sunset Beach are set in Mission Beach, San Diego—and I’ll likely set more books in California, now that I live here. As far as how the move itself has affected my writing, I’m currently living with my daughter’s family, rather than on my own (which I’m more used to). Life has become quite a bit more interactive, especially with regard to my grandchildren. So, it’s taking a while for me to find my footing, schedule-wise. It’s a season, and I want to follow God’s will. His will appears to involve my focusing more on family than on my regular writing schedule. But that will change again, I’m sure.One unexpected outcome from my move is that I’ve essentially retired from my day job, so eventually I expect to have more time to focus on writing.
LM: What do you do to prepare yourself for writing? For example do you listen to music or set up in a specific place?Trish: I always prefer writing at my Mac, and although I’m not ADD, I absolutely cannot focus on my writing with music or noise going on around me. So, you can see how living with kids in the house has affected my writing, lol. My creative flow often gets going by reading good books and watching creatively written films and television. When I have a basic idea for what I want to write, I put together a loose outline, plotting out the major plot points. That's usually enough to get me into my first chapter, and there are often significant changes to my initial idea as the story unfolds. Structured by flexible–that's key for me.LM: What are some of the lessons you’ve learned on the path to publication?Trish: I learned in my first few years of publication that you needn’t worry if something you write doesn’t make it to publication. If you’re a writer, you just keep on writing. Maybe your work will find a publisher later, and maybe it won’t. But you’ll always be able to come up with new storylines, God willing, and the experience helps you grow as a writer.I’ve also learned that, if a story or a scene is dancing around in your head, you need to get it down! Either jot it down (or enter it into your phone) enough to bring it back later, or get to your computer and type it up. Those ideas flit through one’s head sometimes, and even the best ones have a way of disappearing. Creative thoughts don’t just show up every time you sit down to write, and you can’t always wait for them, especially if you’re under a deadline. Treasure your creativity when it’s high!LM: You live in a beautiful area of the country, one which many people choose to visit. If money were no object, what is your idea of the ultimate vacation?
Trish: Yes, this area is gorgeous, all year long. I’ve long dreamed of living in this kind of climate, so I’m thrilled that my kids and grandkids all moved out here from the east coast, which was my final incentive.Obviously, this year travel has become taboo for the most part. But I’ve done very little travel overseas. I’d love to go to Great Britain. My mother was British, and I’d like to visit where she lived and where she and my U.S. Air Force father met and dated before they married and moved to the States.LM: What is the quirkiest thing you’ve ever done?Trish: Goodness, that’s a tough one. I suppose one of the weirdest things I’ve ever done was when I was married and quite pregnant, my husband and I dressed up for a big costume contest at a dance club in downtown Washington, DC. This was during the disco days, and I dressed as a very fat man in one of my husband’s stylish three-piece suits and a ridiculous fedora hat, and he squeezed himself into a very stretchy dress of mine. His hair was longish, and we used a curling iron on it, so it looked a bit like a middle-aged woman’s hair. I penciled a mustache and five-o’clock shadow on my face and full makeup on his. We were without doubt the most unattractive couple there. But we won second place.LM: What are you currently working on?Trish: I’m in the early stages of either a novel or a script, and I can’t decide yet which I want it to be. I want to write a contemporary version of one of my favorite classic novels, and it won’t be an easy undertaking. I’m praying for guidance on this one. I’m studying scriptwriting--it seems like a sensible thing to do, living in L.A.!LM: Where can folks find you on the web?Trish: My website is http://www.www.trishperry.comMy Amazon author page is https://www.amazon.com/Trish-Perry/e/B001IOFFKW?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1585698617&sr=8-1My Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/TrishPerryAuthor/I’m new to Bookbub, and I’d love followers, if your readers are so inclined! My Bookbub page is https://www.bookbub.com/search?search=trish+perryThanks, Linda!About A Special Kind of Double:
Franny and Grace Otterbridge were always the closest of sisters. But after their father's death, Grace veered off in a different direction. Now, Franny feels she's lost her. Literally-Grace has gone missing. Franny assumes she's taken off on another wild hair, but signs soon suggest otherwise, Franny accepts amateur sleuthing help from new flame Nevan Burns, a young fine artist (who's also a fine young artist). He proves himself more than good company, and Franny finds herself swinging from one emotion to another, from joy to fear, from anticipation to dread. She's not equipped to search for Grace alone. She's even less prepared for what she finds.Purchase Link: https://amzn.to/2LeLlivMay 12, 2020
Wartime Wednesday: Hospitals
Wartime Wednesday: Hospitals
The logistics of caring for wounded soldiers, sailors, and airmen were lengthy, and various types of hospitals were involved in the process. Patients had to be moved where they could be best treated from the time first treated by a medic until the injured party was returned to duty or evacuated further to the rear.About a mile from the front (and remember this line often moved), physicians and medics worked in battalion aid stations, adjusting splints and dressings or administering plasma or pharmaceuticals. Collecting stations were located about two miles from the front and handled further adjustment of splints and dressings, administration of plasma and drugs, as well as treatment of shock.
After treating minor wounds and shock, clearing stations (4-10 miles from the front) grouped patients for transport for field hospitals that were located about thirty miles away. This is where surgery occurred. Evacuation hospital treated illnesses and less urgent surgical cases. From here, patients could return to the front.“Fixed hospitals” were either located a safe distance from combat or stateside, and they typically remained in one location. Three types of fixed hospitals treated the wounded:
Station hospitals: often attached to a military base, they treated illnesses and injuries among to those stationed on the base.
General hospitals: These administered long-term treatment. Sometimes these facilities specialized in certain types of illnesses or injures.Convalescent hospitals: Created during WWII, these facilities focused on rehabilitation of the severely wounded patient who would receive a medical discharge.
Check out this short video about the 74th General Hospital (U.S.) in Bristol, England: https://www.bbc.com/news/av/uk-england-gloucestershire-35745059/ww2-film-offers-rare-glimpse-of-life-at-us-hospital-in-england
________________________
All’s fair in love and war. Or so they say.High school and college were a nightmare for Doris Strealer and being an adult isn’t much better. Men won’t date a woman of her height, and they don’t understand her desire to repair car engines rather than work as a nurse or a teacher. When her father’s garage closes, and no one will hire a female mechanic, she joins the Red Cross Motor Corps, finally feeling at home. Until she comes face to face with her past in the form of Ronald McCann, the most popular boy in school.
On the brink of a successful career as a surgeon, Ron’s plans crumble when he’s drafted and assigned to an evacuation hospital in England, the last place he expects to run into a former schoolmate. The gangly tomboy who was four years behind him in high school has transformed into a statuesque beauty, but a broken engagement in college leaves him with no desire to risk his heart ever again.
Will the hazards of war make or break this unlikely couple?
Purchase Link: https://books2read.com/u/3RNpjY
May 11, 2020
Traveling Tuesday: England During WWII
Traveling Tuesday: England During WWII
Two days after Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939, Britain declared war on the Nazis. A far flung empire that had direct or de facto political and economic control of twenty-five percent of the world’s population, the United Kingdom also held political ties to four semi-independent Dominions: Australia, Canada, South Africa, and New Zealand, as part of the Commonwealth. Did they believe their power would enable them to defeat the Germans in short order?
Unfortunately, victory would not come for another six years.
The first eight months of the war, often referred to as the “Phoney War,” was a time of great optimism (“the war should be over by Christmas”), yet great bureaucratic muddle (as one report called it). Very little in the way of “war” happened. Requirements such as evacuations and blackouts were unpopular with civilians.
Then, the defeat at Dunkirk was followed by the fall of France in June 1940. War was now a harsh reality. Neville Chamberlain’s government was outed and Winston Churchill replaced him. Firm and resolute, Churchill inspired the British people during their lonely stand against Hitler for the next eighteen months until the U.S. joined the conflict as a result of the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Britain endured the Blitz as well as further attacks from bombs and rockets throughout the war. Over sixty thousand people were killed and nearly ninety thousand seriously injured. Thousands of homes and buildings were damaged or destroyed. Civilians sought in their basements, the subway systems, or structures such as Anderson and Morrison shelters. Rationing of food began in January 1940 and clothes in June 1941. By 1943, nearly every household item was either in short supply or unobtainable. (An interesting note is that boys had to wait until age 12 before being allowed to wear long pants.)
Families were often separated because of evacuation and fathers and husbands going away to fight. Uncertainty and hardship defined each day. Women worked long hours in the defense industry or joined one of the many service organizations to do their bit. The Women’s Land Army planted, maintained, and harvested produce for the country that before the war had imported over half their food.
Despite their exhaustion and hunger, Britons emerged from the war justifiably proud of their role in gaining Allied Victory.
_________________________
All’s fair in love and war. Or so they say.
High school and college were a nightmare for Doris Strealer and being an adult isn’t much better. Men won’t date a woman of her height, and they don’t understand her desire to repair car engines rather than work as a nurse or a teacher. When her father’s garage closes, and no one will hire a female mechanic, she joins the Red Cross Motor Corps in England, finally feeling at home. Until she comes face to face with her past in the form of Ronald McCann, the most popular boy in school.
On the brink of a successful career as a surgeon, Ron’s plans crumble when he’s drafted and assigned to an evacuation hospital in England, the last place he expects to run into a former schoolmate. The gangly tomboy who was four years behind him in high school has transformed into a statuesque beauty, but a broken engagement in college leaves him with no desire to risk his heart ever again.
Will the hazards of war make or break this unlikely couple?
Purchase Link: https://books2read.com/u/3RNpjY
Two days after Germany invaded Poland on September 1, 1939, Britain declared war on the Nazis. A far flung empire that had direct or de facto political and economic control of twenty-five percent of the world’s population, the United Kingdom also held political ties to four semi-independent Dominions: Australia, Canada, South Africa, and New Zealand, as part of the Commonwealth. Did they believe their power would enable them to defeat the Germans in short order?Unfortunately, victory would not come for another six years.
The first eight months of the war, often referred to as the “Phoney War,” was a time of great optimism (“the war should be over by Christmas”), yet great bureaucratic muddle (as one report called it). Very little in the way of “war” happened. Requirements such as evacuations and blackouts were unpopular with civilians.
Then, the defeat at Dunkirk was followed by the fall of France in June 1940. War was now a harsh reality. Neville Chamberlain’s government was outed and Winston Churchill replaced him. Firm and resolute, Churchill inspired the British people during their lonely stand against Hitler for the next eighteen months until the U.S. joined the conflict as a result of the attack on Pearl Harbor.Britain endured the Blitz as well as further attacks from bombs and rockets throughout the war. Over sixty thousand people were killed and nearly ninety thousand seriously injured. Thousands of homes and buildings were damaged or destroyed. Civilians sought in their basements, the subway systems, or structures such as Anderson and Morrison shelters. Rationing of food began in January 1940 and clothes in June 1941. By 1943, nearly every household item was either in short supply or unobtainable. (An interesting note is that boys had to wait until age 12 before being allowed to wear long pants.)
Families were often separated because of evacuation and fathers and husbands going away to fight. Uncertainty and hardship defined each day. Women worked long hours in the defense industry or joined one of the many service organizations to do their bit. The Women’s Land Army planted, maintained, and harvested produce for the country that before the war had imported over half their food.Despite their exhaustion and hunger, Britons emerged from the war justifiably proud of their role in gaining Allied Victory.
_________________________
All’s fair in love and war. Or so they say.High school and college were a nightmare for Doris Strealer and being an adult isn’t much better. Men won’t date a woman of her height, and they don’t understand her desire to repair car engines rather than work as a nurse or a teacher. When her father’s garage closes, and no one will hire a female mechanic, she joins the Red Cross Motor Corps in England, finally feeling at home. Until she comes face to face with her past in the form of Ronald McCann, the most popular boy in school.
On the brink of a successful career as a surgeon, Ron’s plans crumble when he’s drafted and assigned to an evacuation hospital in England, the last place he expects to run into a former schoolmate. The gangly tomboy who was four years behind him in high school has transformed into a statuesque beauty, but a broken engagement in college leaves him with no desire to risk his heart ever again.
Will the hazards of war make or break this unlikely couple?
Purchase Link: https://books2read.com/u/3RNpjY
May 6, 2020
Talkshow Thursday: Andrea Chatelain
Talkshow Thursday: Andrea Chatelain
Linda: Thanks for stopping by. Congratulations on being part of Drawing Near: 90 Day Devotional. Tell a bit about the book and how did the opportunity come along?Andrea: Drawing Near is a simple but profound way to deepen your faith each day. I was part of a midwest ministry called Wholly Loved and was fortunate to partner with some really authentic authors. Our devotionals are full of real struggles and point to Jesus, His grace, and love.LM: You write for several organizations, teach English to immigrants and refugees, and raise three kids. How do you balance all of your responsibilities?Andrea: Well, I had to throw out unreal expectations. My house is usually a mess because I use my free-time to write. And I decide each season, which area of my life is God calling me to give my time to and in what manner. Sometimes I have to make hard cuts so I can focus on the more important things. For example, because of the pandemic, I’m currently taking a step back from certain ministry opportunities and professional teaching because my kids need me here at home to be their teacher. I’m learning it’s easier to let go of roles if my identity is dug deep in Christ because then I can ask Him where He wants me to be and have peace in that decision.Andrea: I write out of my weaknesses because I figure it may help others struggling with the same problems. Because I know how hard life, motherhood, marriage, and faith can feel, my compassion for others makes it pretty easy to open up about myself. It’s about showing how God is working in my weaknesses, how He is my hope! I also read my Bible and write down what God is teaching me through His wisdom. His words will last when I’m long gone, so I feel confident pondering and sharing His wisdom with my readers because I know it’s what will really make the difference when someone feels broken.LM: Do you have a set routine to prepare for writing (e.g. listening to music, etc.) and is there a time of day you are more productive?Andrea: I usually read my Bible first before I write. Otherwise I feel as though I’m writing out of my limited capacity instead of His power. Sometimes I need to do another activity, usually outside, like walking the dog or digging in my garden to give my mind time to process what I want to say before sitting down at the computer.LM: What is one thing you’d like to learn how to do?Andrea: I love learning new things! I’ve learned how to garden, so I’d love to learn how to can/preserve my produce. I have a neighbor near me who has lived on a farm for decades and is going to teach me her methods to make pickles and jam this season. It may sound simple and old fashioned to some, but I think it’s so interesting to learn the ways previous generations provided for their families.LM: Here are some quickies:Andrea:Favorite Season: FallFavorite childhood book: Stone SoupFavorite Bible verse: Depends on the day, but Galatians 5:22 for this season.
LM: Can you tell us what writing projects are on your plate right now?Andrea: I’m so excited and thankful to partner with Our Daily Bread as a video devotional writer. They are creating some really amazing and accessible content for this generation. And I’m finishing a group Bible Study on the topic of joy with the amazing ladies of WhollyLoved again. Working with others on these projects teaches me so much about God because we all see Him through different life experiences.Linda: Where can folks connect with you?Andrea: I write weekly on my website www.glory-be.org. Follow me on Instagram andFacebook for real life encouragement. And watch for WhollyLoved’s upcoming Bible study I contributed to along with some amazing writers at www.youarewhollyloved.com.
___________________________
About Drawing Near
Each day, God beckons us to Himself, calling us to rest in His love and grace. As we do, He heals our hurts, overpowers our fears with love, and restores us to the women He created us to be. This 90-day devotional, written by women who are learning themselves to live anchored in God's grace, will help you deepen your faith and grow your relationship with Christ.
Purchase Link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/179757826X
Linda: Thanks for stopping by. Congratulations on being part of Drawing Near: 90 Day Devotional. Tell a bit about the book and how did the opportunity come along?Andrea: Drawing Near is a simple but profound way to deepen your faith each day. I was part of a midwest ministry called Wholly Loved and was fortunate to partner with some really authentic authors. Our devotionals are full of real struggles and point to Jesus, His grace, and love.LM: You write for several organizations, teach English to immigrants and refugees, and raise three kids. How do you balance all of your responsibilities?Andrea: Well, I had to throw out unreal expectations. My house is usually a mess because I use my free-time to write. And I decide each season, which area of my life is God calling me to give my time to and in what manner. Sometimes I have to make hard cuts so I can focus on the more important things. For example, because of the pandemic, I’m currently taking a step back from certain ministry opportunities and professional teaching because my kids need me here at home to be their teacher. I’m learning it’s easier to let go of roles if my identity is dug deep in Christ because then I can ask Him where He wants me to be and have peace in that decision.Andrea: I write out of my weaknesses because I figure it may help others struggling with the same problems. Because I know how hard life, motherhood, marriage, and faith can feel, my compassion for others makes it pretty easy to open up about myself. It’s about showing how God is working in my weaknesses, how He is my hope! I also read my Bible and write down what God is teaching me through His wisdom. His words will last when I’m long gone, so I feel confident pondering and sharing His wisdom with my readers because I know it’s what will really make the difference when someone feels broken.LM: Do you have a set routine to prepare for writing (e.g. listening to music, etc.) and is there a time of day you are more productive?Andrea: I usually read my Bible first before I write. Otherwise I feel as though I’m writing out of my limited capacity instead of His power. Sometimes I need to do another activity, usually outside, like walking the dog or digging in my garden to give my mind time to process what I want to say before sitting down at the computer.LM: What is one thing you’d like to learn how to do?Andrea: I love learning new things! I’ve learned how to garden, so I’d love to learn how to can/preserve my produce. I have a neighbor near me who has lived on a farm for decades and is going to teach me her methods to make pickles and jam this season. It may sound simple and old fashioned to some, but I think it’s so interesting to learn the ways previous generations provided for their families.LM: Here are some quickies:Andrea:Favorite Season: FallFavorite childhood book: Stone SoupFavorite Bible verse: Depends on the day, but Galatians 5:22 for this season.
LM: Can you tell us what writing projects are on your plate right now?Andrea: I’m so excited and thankful to partner with Our Daily Bread as a video devotional writer. They are creating some really amazing and accessible content for this generation. And I’m finishing a group Bible Study on the topic of joy with the amazing ladies of WhollyLoved again. Working with others on these projects teaches me so much about God because we all see Him through different life experiences.Linda: Where can folks connect with you?Andrea: I write weekly on my website www.glory-be.org. Follow me on Instagram andFacebook for real life encouragement. And watch for WhollyLoved’s upcoming Bible study I contributed to along with some amazing writers at www.youarewhollyloved.com.___________________________
About Drawing Near
Each day, God beckons us to Himself, calling us to rest in His love and grace. As we do, He heals our hurts, overpowers our fears with love, and restores us to the women He created us to be. This 90-day devotional, written by women who are learning themselves to live anchored in God's grace, will help you deepen your faith and grow your relationship with Christ.
Purchase Link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/179757826X
May 4, 2020
Traveling Tuesday: Mexico and Cinco de Mayo
Traveling Tuesday: Mexico and Cinco de Mayo
Today is my birthday, and I typically celebrate by going to the local Mexican restaurant where I can pretend the festivities are for me. In reality, the music and decorations are a celebration for Cinco de Mayo (literally Fifth of May), the commemoration of the Mexican Army’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla that occurred on May 5, 1862. Sometimes the day is mistakenly referred to as Mexico’s Independence Day which is actually September 16. A relatively minor holiday in Mexico, the day has evolved into a commemoration of Mexican culture and heritage in the U.S.
In 1861, lawyer and member of the Zapotec tribe, Benito Juárez, was elected president of Mexico. At the time, the country was in a state of upheaval and financial ruin after years of internal conflict. With an inability to repay monies owed to European governments, the government defaulted on their debt payments. In response, France, Britain, and Spain sent naval forces demanding repayment. Mexico successfully negotiated with Britain and Spain who withdrew their forces.
Under General Charles Latrille, Comte de Lorencez 6,000 troops set out to Puebla de Los Angeles, a small town in east-central Mexico. Juárez managed to pull together a force of approximately 2,000 soldiers and sent them to Puebla where they fortified the town and prepared for the assault. The battle commenced at daybreak on May 5, 1862 and lasted into the evening when the French retreated after losing almost five hundred soldiers. Fewer than one hundred Mexicans had been killed.
Although the battle was not a major strategic win in the overall war with the French, the Battle of Puebla represented a great symbolic victory and bolstered the resistance movement. Unfortunately, it would be another five years before the war with France ended. In 1867, after its own Civil War, the United States provided military support and political pressure, and the French finally withdrew.
___________________
All’s fair in love and war. Or so they say.High school and college were a nightmare for Doris Strealer and being an adult isn’t much better. Men won’t date a woman of her height, and they don’t understand her desire to repair car engines rather than work as a nurse or a teacher. When her father’s garage closes, and no one will hire a female mechanic, she joins the Red Cross Motor Corps, finally feeling at home. Until she comes face to face with her past in the form of Van Toppel, the most popular boy in school.On the brink of a successful career as a surgeon, Van Toppel’s plans crumble when he’s drafted and assigned to an evacuation hospital in England, the last place he expects to run into a former schoolmate. The gangly tomboy who was four years behind him in high school has transformed into a statuesque beauty, but a broken engagement in college leaves him with no desire to risk his heart ever again.Will the hazards of war make or break a romance between this unlikely couple?Pre-order Link: https://amzn.to/2WA3vRh
Today is my birthday, and I typically celebrate by going to the local Mexican restaurant where I can pretend the festivities are for me. In reality, the music and decorations are a celebration for Cinco de Mayo (literally Fifth of May), the commemoration of the Mexican Army’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla that occurred on May 5, 1862. Sometimes the day is mistakenly referred to as Mexico’s Independence Day which is actually September 16. A relatively minor holiday in Mexico, the day has evolved into a commemoration of Mexican culture and heritage in the U.S.
In 1861, lawyer and member of the Zapotec tribe, Benito Juárez, was elected president of Mexico. At the time, the country was in a state of upheaval and financial ruin after years of internal conflict. With an inability to repay monies owed to European governments, the government defaulted on their debt payments. In response, France, Britain, and Spain sent naval forces demanding repayment. Mexico successfully negotiated with Britain and Spain who withdrew their forces.Under General Charles Latrille, Comte de Lorencez 6,000 troops set out to Puebla de Los Angeles, a small town in east-central Mexico. Juárez managed to pull together a force of approximately 2,000 soldiers and sent them to Puebla where they fortified the town and prepared for the assault. The battle commenced at daybreak on May 5, 1862 and lasted into the evening when the French retreated after losing almost five hundred soldiers. Fewer than one hundred Mexicans had been killed.
Although the battle was not a major strategic win in the overall war with the French, the Battle of Puebla represented a great symbolic victory and bolstered the resistance movement. Unfortunately, it would be another five years before the war with France ended. In 1867, after its own Civil War, the United States provided military support and political pressure, and the French finally withdrew.___________________
All’s fair in love and war. Or so they say.High school and college were a nightmare for Doris Strealer and being an adult isn’t much better. Men won’t date a woman of her height, and they don’t understand her desire to repair car engines rather than work as a nurse or a teacher. When her father’s garage closes, and no one will hire a female mechanic, she joins the Red Cross Motor Corps, finally feeling at home. Until she comes face to face with her past in the form of Van Toppel, the most popular boy in school.On the brink of a successful career as a surgeon, Van Toppel’s plans crumble when he’s drafted and assigned to an evacuation hospital in England, the last place he expects to run into a former schoolmate. The gangly tomboy who was four years behind him in high school has transformed into a statuesque beauty, but a broken engagement in college leaves him with no desire to risk his heart ever again.Will the hazards of war make or break a romance between this unlikely couple?Pre-order Link: https://amzn.to/2WA3vRhMay 1, 2020
New Releases!
Here are May's Upcoming Releases!
Be sure to pre-order your copies, so you won't miss out on these great stories.
Untraceable Evidence (Romantic Suspense)
https://amzn.to/2Ss0Tn1
Sharee Stover
05/01/20
Someone's after a deadly weapon...and only she can stop them.
Hadley Beckett's Next Dish (Contemporary Romance)
https://amzn.to/35ms9sf
Bethany Turner
05/05/20
A heaping helping of humor and romance with this thoroughly modern story centered on cooking, enemies, and second chances.
Stay with Me (Christian Contemporary Romance)
https://amzn.to/2yYZsFW
Becky Wade
05/05/20
Loving her is a risk he can't afford...and can't resist.
This Wandering Heart (Contemporary Romance)
https://amzn.to/3aTBqcD
Janine Rosche
05/05/20
Every heart needs a home...
The Mechanic & The MD (Historic Romance)
https://amzn.to/2YnC7bn
Linda Shenton Matchett
05/15/20
Will the hazards of war make or break the love between this unlikely couple?
Be sure to pre-order your copies, so you won't miss out on these great stories.
Untraceable Evidence (Romantic Suspense)
https://amzn.to/2Ss0Tn1
Sharee Stover
05/01/20
Someone's after a deadly weapon...and only she can stop them.
Hadley Beckett's Next Dish (Contemporary Romance)
https://amzn.to/35ms9sf
Bethany Turner
05/05/20
A heaping helping of humor and romance with this thoroughly modern story centered on cooking, enemies, and second chances.
Stay with Me (Christian Contemporary Romance)
https://amzn.to/2yYZsFW
Becky Wade
05/05/20
Loving her is a risk he can't afford...and can't resist.
This Wandering Heart (Contemporary Romance)
https://amzn.to/3aTBqcD
Janine Rosche
05/05/20
Every heart needs a home...
The Mechanic & The MD (Historic Romance)
https://amzn.to/2YnC7bn
Linda Shenton Matchett
05/15/20
Will the hazards of war make or break the love between this unlikely couple?
April 29, 2020
Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Michelle Connell
Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Michelle Connell
Linda: Thanks for joining me today. Congratulations on the release of your third novel Accident Encounter. What was your inspiration for the story?Michelle: Unfortunately, Accident Encounter, is on hold. Due to the Corona Virus, I didn’t get the third reader copy back in time to get it published. And there are many more problems than at first thought. I am also unfortunately one of those writers who can’t concentrate and write right now. Accident Encounter may not be available until next year.LM: The age old question: are you a plotter or a pantster, and what is your writing routine?Michelle: I am definitely a pantster. I never planned to write novels until my writer’s group convinced me back in 2006 to try National Novel Writing Month (NanoWrimo). I thought they were crazy. I had three kids at the time and the youngest was 10 months old. But I found I could do it and I enjoyed it!LM: Lots of research goes into writing a book. Did you unearth a particularly interesting tidbit you just knew had to be included in the story?Michelle: I used to live in Kansas City where my book takes place, but it has been years, so I looked up some restaurants and parks in the area that are in my book.LM: What is one thing you wish you knew how to do?Michelle: I would like to learn how to watercolor. Someday, in my spare time. Ha!LM: In addition to your novels, you have written a non-fiction book to aid writers. How is writing
fiction vs. non-fiction different? The same?
Michelle: The non-fiction book was our writer’s group’s experience with writing prompts. That one was more personal experience, so it didn’t require any research. But like fiction, it still needed editing, and a logical order.LM: If money were no object, where would you choose to vacation?Michelle: I would either choose an around-the-world cruise, or a resort in someplace warm and sunny, with lots of sand and pretty water. We are praying right now we can go on our planned vacation next month to Myrtle Beach, if they open the beaches. But because of the virus, we aren’t sure yet.LM: If you could interview anyone (living or dead), who would you talk to, and what is one question you’d ask them?
Michelle: One of my favorite authors is Agatha Christie, and I would ask her how she developed Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot so thoroughly, so that readers feel they know them as real people. At least I do!LM: What is your next project?Michelle: Once I get Accident Encounter out, I have another Chance Encounter novel or two to choose from to finish. One takes place in Lincoln, Nebraska, where I grew up, Love Letter/Mail Encounter (working title) or Bible Encounter (working title), where an airman puts a small New Testament in his pocket and it saves his life from shrapnel.LM: Where can folks find you on the web?Michelle: website: www.michelleconnellwrites.netTwitter: @MCromancewriterGoodreads: www.Goodreads.com/michelleconnellBookbub: www.bookbub.com/michelleconnellPinterest: www.pinterest.com/mconnellwritesThanks so much, Linda, for having me!
Linda: Thanks for joining me today. Congratulations on the release of your third novel Accident Encounter. What was your inspiration for the story?Michelle: Unfortunately, Accident Encounter, is on hold. Due to the Corona Virus, I didn’t get the third reader copy back in time to get it published. And there are many more problems than at first thought. I am also unfortunately one of those writers who can’t concentrate and write right now. Accident Encounter may not be available until next year.LM: The age old question: are you a plotter or a pantster, and what is your writing routine?Michelle: I am definitely a pantster. I never planned to write novels until my writer’s group convinced me back in 2006 to try National Novel Writing Month (NanoWrimo). I thought they were crazy. I had three kids at the time and the youngest was 10 months old. But I found I could do it and I enjoyed it!LM: Lots of research goes into writing a book. Did you unearth a particularly interesting tidbit you just knew had to be included in the story?Michelle: I used to live in Kansas City where my book takes place, but it has been years, so I looked up some restaurants and parks in the area that are in my book.LM: What is one thing you wish you knew how to do?Michelle: I would like to learn how to watercolor. Someday, in my spare time. Ha!LM: In addition to your novels, you have written a non-fiction book to aid writers. How is writing
fiction vs. non-fiction different? The same?Michelle: The non-fiction book was our writer’s group’s experience with writing prompts. That one was more personal experience, so it didn’t require any research. But like fiction, it still needed editing, and a logical order.LM: If money were no object, where would you choose to vacation?Michelle: I would either choose an around-the-world cruise, or a resort in someplace warm and sunny, with lots of sand and pretty water. We are praying right now we can go on our planned vacation next month to Myrtle Beach, if they open the beaches. But because of the virus, we aren’t sure yet.LM: If you could interview anyone (living or dead), who would you talk to, and what is one question you’d ask them?
Michelle: One of my favorite authors is Agatha Christie, and I would ask her how she developed Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot so thoroughly, so that readers feel they know them as real people. At least I do!LM: What is your next project?Michelle: Once I get Accident Encounter out, I have another Chance Encounter novel or two to choose from to finish. One takes place in Lincoln, Nebraska, where I grew up, Love Letter/Mail Encounter (working title) or Bible Encounter (working title), where an airman puts a small New Testament in his pocket and it saves his life from shrapnel.LM: Where can folks find you on the web?Michelle: website: www.michelleconnellwrites.netTwitter: @MCromancewriterGoodreads: www.Goodreads.com/michelleconnellBookbub: www.bookbub.com/michelleconnellPinterest: www.pinterest.com/mconnellwritesThanks so much, Linda, for having me!
April 28, 2020
Wartime Wednesday: The Crypt of Civilization
Wartime Wednesday: The Crypt of Civilization
Eighty years ago, a 2,000 square foot room in the granite basement of Phoebe Hearst Memorial Hall at Oglethorpe University was welded shut, not to be opened until the year 8113 A.D. Devised by Thornwell Jacobs, who is considered to be the father of the modern time capsule, the room contains hundreds of items including microfilm of more than 800 “authoritative books on every subject of importance known to mankind.”
A professor, writer, and clergyman, Jacobs refounded Oglethorpe after its devastation during the Civil War. While researching and teaching about past civilizations, he was struck with the lack of available information, giving him the idea to create a running record of everyday life. Inspired by the Egyptian pyramid and tomb openings in the 1920s, he wrote an article for the November 1936 issue of Scientific American proposing the creation of a time capsule.
The article solicited recommendations and aid from scientist, industry leaders, and philanthropists to supplement his own suggestions of books, films, phonograph records, food furniture, machines, toys, and cars. The final inventory is diverse, including items such as a wrist watch, plastic fork, lighting fixtures, beer, a pair of mannikins, cigarettes and a lighter, and recordings of Hitler, Stalin, Roosevelt, and Chamberlain, as well as the voices of Popeye the Sailor and a champion hog caller.
The target date of 8113 A.D. for the crypt’s future opening was determined by considering 1936 (the year the idea was devised) to be the halfway point to the future. By Jacobs’s calculations, six thousand one hundred and seventy-seven years had passed since the establishment of the Egyptian calendar in 4241 B.C.
In an effort to prevent the opening of the capsule before its prescribed date, a stainless steel plaque is mounted above the door assuring would-be “grave robbers” that the items are “encyclopedias, histories, scientific works, special editions of newspapers” and that “no jewels or precious metals are included.” The plaque goes on to appeal to their “sense of sportsmanship of posterity for the continued preservation of this vault until the year 8113.”
Today, the crypt remains sealed along with dozens of other time capsules under the watchful eye of the International Time Capsule Society headquartered at the university.
_________________________
All’s fair in love and war. Or so they say.
High school and college were a nightmare for Doris Strealer and being an adult isn’t much better. Men won’t date a woman of her height, and they don’t understand her desire to repair car engines rather than work as a nurse or a teacher. When her father’s garage closes, and no one will hire a female mechanic, she joins the Red Cross Motor Corps, finally feeling at home. Until she comes face to face with her past in the form of Ronald McCann, the most popular boy in school.
On the brink of a successful career as a surgeon, Ron’s plans crumble when he’s drafted and assigned to an evacuation hospital in England, the last place he expects to run into a former schoolmate. The gangly tomboy who was four years behind him in high school has transformed into a statuesque beauty, but a broken engagement in college leaves him with no desire to risk his heart ever again.
Will the hazards of war make or break a romance between this unlikely couple?
Pre-order Link: https://amzn.to/2Y89P4S
Eighty years ago, a 2,000 square foot room in the granite basement of Phoebe Hearst Memorial Hall at Oglethorpe University was welded shut, not to be opened until the year 8113 A.D. Devised by Thornwell Jacobs, who is considered to be the father of the modern time capsule, the room contains hundreds of items including microfilm of more than 800 “authoritative books on every subject of importance known to mankind.”
A professor, writer, and clergyman, Jacobs refounded Oglethorpe after its devastation during the Civil War. While researching and teaching about past civilizations, he was struck with the lack of available information, giving him the idea to create a running record of everyday life. Inspired by the Egyptian pyramid and tomb openings in the 1920s, he wrote an article for the November 1936 issue of Scientific American proposing the creation of a time capsule.The article solicited recommendations and aid from scientist, industry leaders, and philanthropists to supplement his own suggestions of books, films, phonograph records, food furniture, machines, toys, and cars. The final inventory is diverse, including items such as a wrist watch, plastic fork, lighting fixtures, beer, a pair of mannikins, cigarettes and a lighter, and recordings of Hitler, Stalin, Roosevelt, and Chamberlain, as well as the voices of Popeye the Sailor and a champion hog caller.
The target date of 8113 A.D. for the crypt’s future opening was determined by considering 1936 (the year the idea was devised) to be the halfway point to the future. By Jacobs’s calculations, six thousand one hundred and seventy-seven years had passed since the establishment of the Egyptian calendar in 4241 B.C.
In an effort to prevent the opening of the capsule before its prescribed date, a stainless steel plaque is mounted above the door assuring would-be “grave robbers” that the items are “encyclopedias, histories, scientific works, special editions of newspapers” and that “no jewels or precious metals are included.” The plaque goes on to appeal to their “sense of sportsmanship of posterity for the continued preservation of this vault until the year 8113.”Today, the crypt remains sealed along with dozens of other time capsules under the watchful eye of the International Time Capsule Society headquartered at the university.
_________________________
All’s fair in love and war. Or so they say.High school and college were a nightmare for Doris Strealer and being an adult isn’t much better. Men won’t date a woman of her height, and they don’t understand her desire to repair car engines rather than work as a nurse or a teacher. When her father’s garage closes, and no one will hire a female mechanic, she joins the Red Cross Motor Corps, finally feeling at home. Until she comes face to face with her past in the form of Ronald McCann, the most popular boy in school.
On the brink of a successful career as a surgeon, Ron’s plans crumble when he’s drafted and assigned to an evacuation hospital in England, the last place he expects to run into a former schoolmate. The gangly tomboy who was four years behind him in high school has transformed into a statuesque beauty, but a broken engagement in college leaves him with no desire to risk his heart ever again.
Will the hazards of war make or break a romance between this unlikely couple?
Pre-order Link: https://amzn.to/2Y89P4S
April 22, 2020
Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Back Amanda Cabot!
Talkshow Thursday: Welcome Back Amanda Cabot!
Linda: Welcome back and thanks for joining me today. It’s always a pleasure to have you. Congratulations on your latest release Out of the Embers. For those who haven’t visited your website to read the Story Behind the Story, what was your inspiration for the plot?
Amanda: I’ve always been fascinated by the way that events of the past shape us, so I started brainstorming worst-case scenarios. What if a young girl’s parents were murdered and she never knew why? What if she still felt as if someone was watching her and planning to kill her too, even though it’s been ten years? What if she narrowly missed being inside her new home when it was destroyed and everyone died? These were the seeds of Out of the Embers.
LM: Sounds fascinating! Many of your books are set during the 1800s. What about that time period draws you?
Amanda: I’m drawn to what many think of as the simpler lifestyle of that time. Reality, of course, is that life wasn’t simple, but being able to portray close-knit communities with deep family values against the background of some intriguing historical events appeals to me. And, judging from readers’ reactions, stories with those elements appeal to them too.
LM: In addition to your historical novels, you’ve written a contemporary trilogy. How was the writing process different for those books? Did you need to do the same amount of research as for your historicals?
Amanda: The writing process was the same: synopsis, chapter-by-chapter outline, two drafts, and a final polishing stage. Those steps seem to be hardwired into me. As for research, it was probably the same amount, but what I researched was quite different. Instead of looking for historical events at the time of my books and obsessing over whether a word would have been in common usage then, I checked trademark databases to be certain that product and company names I was using weren’t protected. I also called various sites that I mentioned in the books to ensure that I had all the details as accurate as possible.
LM: What is the quirkiest thing you’ve ever done?
Amanda: That would be participating in the annual Treasure Hunt at a friend’s summer home. What’s a Treasure Hunt? Picture twenty-five to thirty cars, each filled with six people, spending an evening driving down country roads at speeds we won’t mention, occasionally skidding to a stop. As soon as that happens, the passengers hop out, flashlights in hand, to run through fields, farms, ditches – you name it, we’ve been there – trying to find clues in coffee cans that have been buried in the ground. Whoever finds the clue runs away from the site (because no one wants to help a different team find the clue) and yells the team’s code word. That’s the signal for everyone on the team to race back to the car and start deciphering the new clue while the driver heads in what everyone hopesis the correct direction. Each clue leads to the next, with the car that reaches the final destination with all clues and the shortest elapsed time winning. What do they win? Money? Fame? No. They have the privilege of running the Treasure Hunt the next year. Yep, the winner has to draw maps, decide where to hide the clues, write the clues (Did I mention that they’re supposed to rhyme?), obtain permission to use private property, notify the state and local police. You get the idea. It’s a ton of work. So, why would anyone do that? Are we crazy? That’s exactly what we say each time we win. But it’s fun, in a crazy kind of way.
LM: Here are some quickies:Amanda:Mountains or Ocean for a vacation: OceanSweet or Salty for a snack: SweetCoffee or tea as your “go-to” drink: Tea
LM: You’ve got over thirty-five books published. What is one piece of advice you can offer to fledgling writers?
Amanda: Never give up. If you choose the traditional publishing route, rejection is a fact of life. I won’t sugarcoat it: rejection hurts. But if you let it defeat you, if you stop sending out your manuscript because it was rejected, you’re only hurting yourself. Believe in your book and in yourself.
LM: What is your next project?
Amanda: I’m currently in the first phase of edits for the second book in the Mesquite Springs trilogy, which will be released next March. In it, Dorothy, whom readers meet in Out of the Embers, gets her chance at a happy ending. It’s not easy, though, because the town is disrupted by the arrival of a man determined to establish Mesquite Springs’s first newspaper and an itinerant artist with an agenda of his own.
LM: Where can folks find you on the web?
Amanda: The easiest way is to go to my website: www.amandacabot.com I call it the “one stop shopping” site, because in addition to information about my books, it has links to my blog, Facebook, and Twitter.
About Out of the Embers:
A young woman with a tragic past has arrived in town . . . and trouble is following close behind
Ten years after her parents were killed, Evelyn Radcliffe is once more homeless. The orphanage that was her refuge and later her workplace has burned to the ground, and only she and a young orphan girl have escaped. Convinced this must be related to her parents’ murders, Evelyn flees with the girl to Mesquite Springs in the Texas Hill Country and finds shelter in the home of Wyatt Clark, a talented horse rancher whose plans don’t include a family of his own.
At first, Evelyn is a distraction. But when it becomes clear that trouble has followed her to Mesquite Springs, she becomes a full-blown disruption. Can Wyatt keep her safe from the man who wants her dead? And will his own plans become collateral damage?
Suspenseful and sweetly romantic, Out of the Embers is the first in a new series that invites you to the Texas Hill Country in the 1850s, when the West was wild, the men were noble, and the women were strong.
Purchase Link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VNHD638
Linda: Welcome back and thanks for joining me today. It’s always a pleasure to have you. Congratulations on your latest release Out of the Embers. For those who haven’t visited your website to read the Story Behind the Story, what was your inspiration for the plot?Amanda: I’ve always been fascinated by the way that events of the past shape us, so I started brainstorming worst-case scenarios. What if a young girl’s parents were murdered and she never knew why? What if she still felt as if someone was watching her and planning to kill her too, even though it’s been ten years? What if she narrowly missed being inside her new home when it was destroyed and everyone died? These were the seeds of Out of the Embers.
LM: Sounds fascinating! Many of your books are set during the 1800s. What about that time period draws you?
Amanda: I’m drawn to what many think of as the simpler lifestyle of that time. Reality, of course, is that life wasn’t simple, but being able to portray close-knit communities with deep family values against the background of some intriguing historical events appeals to me. And, judging from readers’ reactions, stories with those elements appeal to them too.
LM: In addition to your historical novels, you’ve written a contemporary trilogy. How was the writing process different for those books? Did you need to do the same amount of research as for your historicals?
Amanda: The writing process was the same: synopsis, chapter-by-chapter outline, two drafts, and a final polishing stage. Those steps seem to be hardwired into me. As for research, it was probably the same amount, but what I researched was quite different. Instead of looking for historical events at the time of my books and obsessing over whether a word would have been in common usage then, I checked trademark databases to be certain that product and company names I was using weren’t protected. I also called various sites that I mentioned in the books to ensure that I had all the details as accurate as possible.
LM: What is the quirkiest thing you’ve ever done?
Amanda: That would be participating in the annual Treasure Hunt at a friend’s summer home. What’s a Treasure Hunt? Picture twenty-five to thirty cars, each filled with six people, spending an evening driving down country roads at speeds we won’t mention, occasionally skidding to a stop. As soon as that happens, the passengers hop out, flashlights in hand, to run through fields, farms, ditches – you name it, we’ve been there – trying to find clues in coffee cans that have been buried in the ground. Whoever finds the clue runs away from the site (because no one wants to help a different team find the clue) and yells the team’s code word. That’s the signal for everyone on the team to race back to the car and start deciphering the new clue while the driver heads in what everyone hopesis the correct direction. Each clue leads to the next, with the car that reaches the final destination with all clues and the shortest elapsed time winning. What do they win? Money? Fame? No. They have the privilege of running the Treasure Hunt the next year. Yep, the winner has to draw maps, decide where to hide the clues, write the clues (Did I mention that they’re supposed to rhyme?), obtain permission to use private property, notify the state and local police. You get the idea. It’s a ton of work. So, why would anyone do that? Are we crazy? That’s exactly what we say each time we win. But it’s fun, in a crazy kind of way.LM: Here are some quickies:Amanda:Mountains or Ocean for a vacation: OceanSweet or Salty for a snack: SweetCoffee or tea as your “go-to” drink: Tea
LM: You’ve got over thirty-five books published. What is one piece of advice you can offer to fledgling writers?
Amanda: Never give up. If you choose the traditional publishing route, rejection is a fact of life. I won’t sugarcoat it: rejection hurts. But if you let it defeat you, if you stop sending out your manuscript because it was rejected, you’re only hurting yourself. Believe in your book and in yourself.
LM: What is your next project?
Amanda: I’m currently in the first phase of edits for the second book in the Mesquite Springs trilogy, which will be released next March. In it, Dorothy, whom readers meet in Out of the Embers, gets her chance at a happy ending. It’s not easy, though, because the town is disrupted by the arrival of a man determined to establish Mesquite Springs’s first newspaper and an itinerant artist with an agenda of his own.
LM: Where can folks find you on the web?
Amanda: The easiest way is to go to my website: www.amandacabot.com I call it the “one stop shopping” site, because in addition to information about my books, it has links to my blog, Facebook, and Twitter.
About Out of the Embers:
A young woman with a tragic past has arrived in town . . . and trouble is following close behind
Ten years after her parents were killed, Evelyn Radcliffe is once more homeless. The orphanage that was her refuge and later her workplace has burned to the ground, and only she and a young orphan girl have escaped. Convinced this must be related to her parents’ murders, Evelyn flees with the girl to Mesquite Springs in the Texas Hill Country and finds shelter in the home of Wyatt Clark, a talented horse rancher whose plans don’t include a family of his own.At first, Evelyn is a distraction. But when it becomes clear that trouble has followed her to Mesquite Springs, she becomes a full-blown disruption. Can Wyatt keep her safe from the man who wants her dead? And will his own plans become collateral damage?
Suspenseful and sweetly romantic, Out of the Embers is the first in a new series that invites you to the Texas Hill Country in the 1850s, when the West was wild, the men were noble, and the women were strong.
Purchase Link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VNHD638
