Anne Patrick's Blog, page 9
May 10, 2012
Trespasses, Wounded Heroes Series: Book Two
Releases tomorrow! Leave a comment with your contact info for a chance to win a PDF copy of the ebook. And drop by http://apenforyourthoughts.blogspot.com/ for a chance to win another copy. Two chances are better than one, right?
BLURB:
When the skeletal remains of three young women are discovered on the vacation estate of a U.S. Senator, the local sheriff enlists the help of Special Agent Gabe Sullivan and a local forensic sketch artist, to help him solve the murders. A profiler for fourteen years, Gabe knows his skills are useless until they discover the identity of the victims. That’s where the beautiful and talented Mackayla Kensington comes in.
Mackayla knows all too well the heartache of not knowing the fate of a loved one. The brutal murder of her own daughter is the driving force behind her determination to bring closure to families missing loved ones.
Using her artistry skills, Mackayla works frantically to put faces to the skulls so that their identities can be revealed and the killer can be caught. When the killer realizes how good she is it appears she may be the next to die.
EXCERPT:
Gabe scanned the departing passengers, wishing he'd thought to bring a sign or something with her name scribbled on it. The only description he had was she's around five-eight, slender, very pretty, with long brown hair.
"Agent Landry," a woman's voice called out.
He turned to his left and saw a woman, or at least what he thought was a woman, approach him. She wore hiking boots, blue jeans, gray sweatshirt, and a backwards baseball cap. On her back, she toted a backpack almost as big as she was. She looked like she'd been trekking across the Himalayas. "They switched gates on us at the last minute." She offered her hand, along with a beautiful smile. "Mackayla Kensington. It's nice to meet you."
"How'd you know who I was?"
"I phoned Adam from the plane. He told me a federal agent would be meeting me, and you G-men all look alike."
"Do you have luggage?"
"I'm wearing it. I figured you wouldn't be leaving without me so I saved you a trip to baggage."
"Thanks. Appreciate it."
The trip from the airport to the parking lot was filled with polite conversation, mostly consisting of how much cooler it was compared to El Salvador. Arriving at his rental car, a gray Crown Victoria, he helped her off with her backpack. As heavy as it was, he wondered if she had taken along her whole wardrobe. "Do you want to pick up something to eat on the way to the lab, or do you need to get some sleep first?" he asked, slipping the pack into the trunk.
"I slept on the plane, and I'm not hungry."
Relieved of the pack, she was a lot smaller in appearance. A few inches shorter than him, he guessed she couldn't weigh much more than one-thirty. She was still wearing the backwards baseball cap, her brown hair neatly braided, draped loosely over her left shoulder. She looked to be in her mid to late thirties, somewhat older than he'd expected.
"You've only been a forensic sketch artist for six years?" he asked as he maneuvered his way onto the interstate.
"Yes. I was an art teacher previous. Seventh and eighth graders. I like this job better, the skulls don't talk back."
Gabe smiled at her. He liked her sense of humor. "So how long before you can get started?"
"I can get started tonight if you have the forensic data and Forrester left me his notes."
He liked her enthusiasm too. "Are you sure you're up to it?"
"The sooner we get started the sooner we can get these women home to their families."
"And the murderer behind bars," he added.
Trespasses will be available at most online bookstores or through my publisher. http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-293/Wounded-Heroes-Book-Two-cln-/Detail.bok
BLURB:When the skeletal remains of three young women are discovered on the vacation estate of a U.S. Senator, the local sheriff enlists the help of Special Agent Gabe Sullivan and a local forensic sketch artist, to help him solve the murders. A profiler for fourteen years, Gabe knows his skills are useless until they discover the identity of the victims. That’s where the beautiful and talented Mackayla Kensington comes in.
Mackayla knows all too well the heartache of not knowing the fate of a loved one. The brutal murder of her own daughter is the driving force behind her determination to bring closure to families missing loved ones.
Using her artistry skills, Mackayla works frantically to put faces to the skulls so that their identities can be revealed and the killer can be caught. When the killer realizes how good she is it appears she may be the next to die.
EXCERPT:
Gabe scanned the departing passengers, wishing he'd thought to bring a sign or something with her name scribbled on it. The only description he had was she's around five-eight, slender, very pretty, with long brown hair.
"Agent Landry," a woman's voice called out.
He turned to his left and saw a woman, or at least what he thought was a woman, approach him. She wore hiking boots, blue jeans, gray sweatshirt, and a backwards baseball cap. On her back, she toted a backpack almost as big as she was. She looked like she'd been trekking across the Himalayas. "They switched gates on us at the last minute." She offered her hand, along with a beautiful smile. "Mackayla Kensington. It's nice to meet you."
"How'd you know who I was?"
"I phoned Adam from the plane. He told me a federal agent would be meeting me, and you G-men all look alike."
"Do you have luggage?"
"I'm wearing it. I figured you wouldn't be leaving without me so I saved you a trip to baggage."
"Thanks. Appreciate it."
The trip from the airport to the parking lot was filled with polite conversation, mostly consisting of how much cooler it was compared to El Salvador. Arriving at his rental car, a gray Crown Victoria, he helped her off with her backpack. As heavy as it was, he wondered if she had taken along her whole wardrobe. "Do you want to pick up something to eat on the way to the lab, or do you need to get some sleep first?" he asked, slipping the pack into the trunk.
"I slept on the plane, and I'm not hungry."
Relieved of the pack, she was a lot smaller in appearance. A few inches shorter than him, he guessed she couldn't weigh much more than one-thirty. She was still wearing the backwards baseball cap, her brown hair neatly braided, draped loosely over her left shoulder. She looked to be in her mid to late thirties, somewhat older than he'd expected.
"You've only been a forensic sketch artist for six years?" he asked as he maneuvered his way onto the interstate.
"Yes. I was an art teacher previous. Seventh and eighth graders. I like this job better, the skulls don't talk back."
Gabe smiled at her. He liked her sense of humor. "So how long before you can get started?"
"I can get started tonight if you have the forensic data and Forrester left me his notes."
He liked her enthusiasm too. "Are you sure you're up to it?"
"The sooner we get started the sooner we can get these women home to their families."
"And the murderer behind bars," he added.
Trespasses will be available at most online bookstores or through my publisher. http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-293/Wounded-Heroes-Book-Two-cln-/Detail.bok
May 3, 2012
JoAnn Carter's The Roarin' Twenties
Book One: The Floating Palace
ELLIE DUNKLING’S life long dream has been to work on one of Lake Champlain’s steamships, the Ticonderoga. There’s only one problem. Men, not women, are hired to work on ships. Ellie, however is determined to change that. After all, it is 1923 and far from the dark-ages.
Captain PHILIP LAWHORN is a man’s man. When Champlain Transportation Inc. informs him a woman has been hired to work on his ship as stewardess, he’s anything but pleased. First of all, he doesn’t appreciate the fact someone’s hired on his twenty-eight-member crew without his knowledge. Secondly, how is he supposed to handle this company mandated—sure to be—disaster?
Want a deal? Then check out these titles at CBD... The Floating Palace is on sale at CBD for $4.79 (Usual retail $5.99)
http://www.christianbook.com/roarin-t...
You can also purchase the book directly from Desert Breeze Publishing as well as Amazon, B&N and other e-book retailers.
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing....
EXCERPT:
"Excuse me, captain?"
Philip whirled on his heel. A petite woman with a creamy complexion stared at him with wide, hazel eyes. "Yes?" The lady hesitated then put one foot into his room. She held out a gloved hand, which he took automatically. No matter how glad he might be for a distraction, passengers weren't supposed to be in his quarters. He made a mental note to have a word with his crew later. For now, he had to find an inoffensive way to get rid of this interloper.
"What can I do for you, miss?"
She withdrew her hand and lifted her chin. Determination sparked in her eyes, and Philip hoped what he'd heard about redheads wasn't true. The last thing he needed right now was a hot-tempered, stubborn woman -- however beautiful she may be -- to upset things even more. He took a step closer and held out his elbow. "Let me escort you back to the purser's desk to find someone to help you locate your stateroom."
The woman frowned as if he spoke a different language. Finally, she smiled. Her whole face radiated warmth that enveloped him. "I don't think you understand. I'm Ellie Dunkling, your new stewardess."
"My... my what?" So much for distracting him, she was the distraction.
"Your new--"
He cut her off with a wave of his hand. "I heard you, but I don't agree." He wheezed, "You are not a steward."
Her arched brows drew together. "There must be some misunderstanding. Mr. Trembley said you were expecting me."
Expecting her? Not hardly.
"Lady." He shook his head. "You have no idea." The situation was so ludicrous he was tempted to pinch himself. However, the only thing he was sure to wind up with was a bruise for his efforts. Before him stood an elegant woman in a long, drop-waist garment, insisting she had a place of employment... here.
If there had to be a stewardess, shouldn't it be a frumpy, gray-haired spinster with thick round glasses and a substantial waistline? At least then he wouldn't feel as uncomfortable about the dirty, difficult responsibilities she would need to carry. Nor would he have half the worry over the reputation of his crew and boat, or even the state of his heart for that matter.
--
Author's Note about The Floating Palace
I was inspired to write The Floating Palace when my family and I visited the S. S. Ticonderoga at its current home at the Shelburne museum in Shelburne, VT. As soon as I stepped foot on this boat, I fell in love with it.
While walking around this beautiful steamboat, I read and soaked up every sign there was on board expounding on the history. That's when one fact totally captured my imagination. In 1923, the first female stewardess was hired. It didn't take long for seeds to be planted for Ellie and Philip's story. Although the plot is fictional, I stayed as historically accurate as possible such as with the number of crew, their job descriptions, the boat description and layout. However, the route and schedule that the Ti ran was much more complicated than what is seen in this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed researching the Ticonderoga and writing this story. I hope it has been a blessing and inspiration to you. If you are interested in seeing photos of the Ti as well as information about its later years, you may enjoy this Web site: http://www.vermonter.com/shelburne-mu...
In the meantime, I hope you'll consider joining me again on the Ti's next journey. The second book in this series, Mercies in Disguise. We'll be starting right back here on Lake Champlain then heading to the Pine Barren's of New Jersey.
Book Two: Mercies in Disguise—
Abigail Madison, a gentle quiet spirit, has always dreamed of a life away from her mother’s controlling ways. Even more than that, she’s dreamed of finding someone with whom she could share her life with. However, her shyness is often taken as aloofness and no marital prospects were anywhere to be found. What was to become of her hopes?
Stanley Fisher, the Steamboat pilot of the Ticonderoga, was drafted and fought in World War I. The experiences he lived though on the battlefield left him wounded -- but not in a way that the naked eye could see. Yet, when he meets Abigail, he yearns for a love like his best friend and Captain of the Ti, Philip found in Ellie. However, with his recurring nightmares from war, what does he have to offer to this special woman?
PURCHASE LINK: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.... (Also available through B&N, Amazon, and other e-book retailers.)
*DEAL ALERT~ Mercies in Disguise is on sale at CBD for $3.99
http://www.christianbook.com/roarin-t...
EXCERPT
Abigail's dark hair hung to her shoulders, framing her fair face in shiny curls and her green eyes sparkled when he asked if he could take her bag. A slight blush colored her high cheekbones. He was in trouble -- deep trouble. She was every bit as beautiful in person as she was in the photograph Ellie had given him earlier today when she asked him to pick up her friend at the train station. Like a magnet, the picture had held him captive. And now that he saw her in person... he gulped. As his fellow bell bottoms would say, she was a doll. And although she was very quiet, the longer they talked he couldn't help but notice her beautiful, expressive eyes. They held a sort of tempered peace, or perhaps it was contentment, which he found completely unattainable.
Never before had he been so enamored, nor had he ever had as much reason to keep far away from that allure. He needed to stay strong. The serenity in her eyes would vanish if she knew the sorrow buried within his heart and how it affected him. Granted, his war wounds didn't leave any scars on the outside, but they were too numerous to count on the inside.
Lord, help me overcome the past.
He took a deep breath and stepped back, widening the space between them. If he could just turn off his thoughts and stop dwelling on his recurring nightmares, he'd be great.
Time.
He was sure that's all it would take... time to put his experiences behind him. Meanwhile, he had God, work, friends, and most importantly, the determination to make it through -- somehow, someway -- without being a total killjoy and dragging a beautiful woman into the mess of his life.
Abigail finished the letter, tucked it into her handbag, and gazed trustingly into his eyes. "Will you please take me to the steamboat now?"
Stanley nodded and offered her his elbow. "I'd love to."
--
Author's Note about Mercies in Disguise story:
What rich history the Pine Barren's of New Jersey holds. I'm looking forward to sharing more about this area, their customs, and the 1920's time-period with you in the third book in this Roarin' 20's series, Shifting Sands. For those of you who are history buffs you may be interested to know that the Fairview sanitarium was indeed established in the early 1920's in New Lisbon, N.J but not by a Dr. Reily, but rather by Marcus W. Newcomb, M.D. It was one of the first of several in the area. They truly believed the air, cedar water, and natural springs in the pines were beneficial to the ill. Fairview was just a few miles from the New Lisbon train station, situated a short distance away from the Burlington County Almshouse, where the Buttonwood Hall Hospital now resides on Pemberton - Browns Mills Road.
As for the town of Brown's Mills, the Pig'n Whistle, where Stanley resides in this story was actually in operation until a fire claimed the facility in 1972. This community has seen many changes since the year 1923. The Springs are no longer in operation, and the tourist population has depleted. Therefore, hotels like the Pig'n Whistle are not available, the sanitarium is long since gone, people are not excited to swim in cedar water, and Camp Dix is now part of a mega base, McGuire-Dix.
However, some things haven't changed over time. The pine trees still grow, scrawny, yet thick in the Pine Barrens. The sandy soil will always make growing grass a challenge, and I imagine that the blueberry bushes will always love to grow there. Likewise, although Abigail and Stanley are fictional characters set in the past, the lessons they learn and the truths revealed within their story remains the same and unchanged. God does often bring us "Mercies in Disguise." We may be tempted to identify ourselves from our experiences rather than who we are in Christ. It is my hope and prayer that this book will/has given you things to think about and that in some way this story has blessed your heart.
For any who may be interested, Book Three: Winds of Change will release Sept. 15, 2012.
ELLIE DUNKLING’S life long dream has been to work on one of Lake Champlain’s steamships, the Ticonderoga. There’s only one problem. Men, not women, are hired to work on ships. Ellie, however is determined to change that. After all, it is 1923 and far from the dark-ages.
Captain PHILIP LAWHORN is a man’s man. When Champlain Transportation Inc. informs him a woman has been hired to work on his ship as stewardess, he’s anything but pleased. First of all, he doesn’t appreciate the fact someone’s hired on his twenty-eight-member crew without his knowledge. Secondly, how is he supposed to handle this company mandated—sure to be—disaster?
Want a deal? Then check out these titles at CBD... The Floating Palace is on sale at CBD for $4.79 (Usual retail $5.99)
http://www.christianbook.com/roarin-t...
You can also purchase the book directly from Desert Breeze Publishing as well as Amazon, B&N and other e-book retailers.
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing....
EXCERPT:
"Excuse me, captain?"
Philip whirled on his heel. A petite woman with a creamy complexion stared at him with wide, hazel eyes. "Yes?" The lady hesitated then put one foot into his room. She held out a gloved hand, which he took automatically. No matter how glad he might be for a distraction, passengers weren't supposed to be in his quarters. He made a mental note to have a word with his crew later. For now, he had to find an inoffensive way to get rid of this interloper.
"What can I do for you, miss?"
She withdrew her hand and lifted her chin. Determination sparked in her eyes, and Philip hoped what he'd heard about redheads wasn't true. The last thing he needed right now was a hot-tempered, stubborn woman -- however beautiful she may be -- to upset things even more. He took a step closer and held out his elbow. "Let me escort you back to the purser's desk to find someone to help you locate your stateroom."
The woman frowned as if he spoke a different language. Finally, she smiled. Her whole face radiated warmth that enveloped him. "I don't think you understand. I'm Ellie Dunkling, your new stewardess."
"My... my what?" So much for distracting him, she was the distraction.
"Your new--"
He cut her off with a wave of his hand. "I heard you, but I don't agree." He wheezed, "You are not a steward."
Her arched brows drew together. "There must be some misunderstanding. Mr. Trembley said you were expecting me."
Expecting her? Not hardly.
"Lady." He shook his head. "You have no idea." The situation was so ludicrous he was tempted to pinch himself. However, the only thing he was sure to wind up with was a bruise for his efforts. Before him stood an elegant woman in a long, drop-waist garment, insisting she had a place of employment... here.
If there had to be a stewardess, shouldn't it be a frumpy, gray-haired spinster with thick round glasses and a substantial waistline? At least then he wouldn't feel as uncomfortable about the dirty, difficult responsibilities she would need to carry. Nor would he have half the worry over the reputation of his crew and boat, or even the state of his heart for that matter.
--
Author's Note about The Floating Palace
I was inspired to write The Floating Palace when my family and I visited the S. S. Ticonderoga at its current home at the Shelburne museum in Shelburne, VT. As soon as I stepped foot on this boat, I fell in love with it.
While walking around this beautiful steamboat, I read and soaked up every sign there was on board expounding on the history. That's when one fact totally captured my imagination. In 1923, the first female stewardess was hired. It didn't take long for seeds to be planted for Ellie and Philip's story. Although the plot is fictional, I stayed as historically accurate as possible such as with the number of crew, their job descriptions, the boat description and layout. However, the route and schedule that the Ti ran was much more complicated than what is seen in this book.
I thoroughly enjoyed researching the Ticonderoga and writing this story. I hope it has been a blessing and inspiration to you. If you are interested in seeing photos of the Ti as well as information about its later years, you may enjoy this Web site: http://www.vermonter.com/shelburne-mu...
In the meantime, I hope you'll consider joining me again on the Ti's next journey. The second book in this series, Mercies in Disguise. We'll be starting right back here on Lake Champlain then heading to the Pine Barren's of New Jersey.
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Book Two: Mercies in Disguise—
Abigail Madison, a gentle quiet spirit, has always dreamed of a life away from her mother’s controlling ways. Even more than that, she’s dreamed of finding someone with whom she could share her life with. However, her shyness is often taken as aloofness and no marital prospects were anywhere to be found. What was to become of her hopes?
Stanley Fisher, the Steamboat pilot of the Ticonderoga, was drafted and fought in World War I. The experiences he lived though on the battlefield left him wounded -- but not in a way that the naked eye could see. Yet, when he meets Abigail, he yearns for a love like his best friend and Captain of the Ti, Philip found in Ellie. However, with his recurring nightmares from war, what does he have to offer to this special woman?
PURCHASE LINK: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.... (Also available through B&N, Amazon, and other e-book retailers.)
*DEAL ALERT~ Mercies in Disguise is on sale at CBD for $3.99
http://www.christianbook.com/roarin-t...
EXCERPT
Abigail's dark hair hung to her shoulders, framing her fair face in shiny curls and her green eyes sparkled when he asked if he could take her bag. A slight blush colored her high cheekbones. He was in trouble -- deep trouble. She was every bit as beautiful in person as she was in the photograph Ellie had given him earlier today when she asked him to pick up her friend at the train station. Like a magnet, the picture had held him captive. And now that he saw her in person... he gulped. As his fellow bell bottoms would say, she was a doll. And although she was very quiet, the longer they talked he couldn't help but notice her beautiful, expressive eyes. They held a sort of tempered peace, or perhaps it was contentment, which he found completely unattainable.
Never before had he been so enamored, nor had he ever had as much reason to keep far away from that allure. He needed to stay strong. The serenity in her eyes would vanish if she knew the sorrow buried within his heart and how it affected him. Granted, his war wounds didn't leave any scars on the outside, but they were too numerous to count on the inside.
Lord, help me overcome the past.
He took a deep breath and stepped back, widening the space between them. If he could just turn off his thoughts and stop dwelling on his recurring nightmares, he'd be great.
Time.
He was sure that's all it would take... time to put his experiences behind him. Meanwhile, he had God, work, friends, and most importantly, the determination to make it through -- somehow, someway -- without being a total killjoy and dragging a beautiful woman into the mess of his life.
Abigail finished the letter, tucked it into her handbag, and gazed trustingly into his eyes. "Will you please take me to the steamboat now?"
Stanley nodded and offered her his elbow. "I'd love to."
--
Author's Note about Mercies in Disguise story:
What rich history the Pine Barren's of New Jersey holds. I'm looking forward to sharing more about this area, their customs, and the 1920's time-period with you in the third book in this Roarin' 20's series, Shifting Sands. For those of you who are history buffs you may be interested to know that the Fairview sanitarium was indeed established in the early 1920's in New Lisbon, N.J but not by a Dr. Reily, but rather by Marcus W. Newcomb, M.D. It was one of the first of several in the area. They truly believed the air, cedar water, and natural springs in the pines were beneficial to the ill. Fairview was just a few miles from the New Lisbon train station, situated a short distance away from the Burlington County Almshouse, where the Buttonwood Hall Hospital now resides on Pemberton - Browns Mills Road.
As for the town of Brown's Mills, the Pig'n Whistle, where Stanley resides in this story was actually in operation until a fire claimed the facility in 1972. This community has seen many changes since the year 1923. The Springs are no longer in operation, and the tourist population has depleted. Therefore, hotels like the Pig'n Whistle are not available, the sanitarium is long since gone, people are not excited to swim in cedar water, and Camp Dix is now part of a mega base, McGuire-Dix.
However, some things haven't changed over time. The pine trees still grow, scrawny, yet thick in the Pine Barrens. The sandy soil will always make growing grass a challenge, and I imagine that the blueberry bushes will always love to grow there. Likewise, although Abigail and Stanley are fictional characters set in the past, the lessons they learn and the truths revealed within their story remains the same and unchanged. God does often bring us "Mercies in Disguise." We may be tempted to identify ourselves from our experiences rather than who we are in Christ. It is my hope and prayer that this book will/has given you things to think about and that in some way this story has blessed your heart.
For any who may be interested, Book Three: Winds of Change will release Sept. 15, 2012.
April 30, 2012
Jean Thompson Kinsey's The Light Keeper's Daughter
[Anne] Congratulations on your new release, Jean. Please tell us a little bit about it.
[Jean]THE LIGHT KEEPER'S DAUGHTER is an historical romance set in the WWl era. In one day, young Belle Montague's life changes from "belle of the ball" to one of hiding out in a lonely lighthouse, after being falsely accused of a crime by the mother of her wealthy beau. When Captain Fred Logan discovers her, she isn't sure if he'll turn her in to the authorities or help her clear her name.
[Anne] Where did you come up with the idea for it?
[Jean] Lighthouses have always fascinated me. I was in awe, also, as my grandmother told me tales about her life in the time of the Great War and the influenza pandemic. It seemed natural for me to put the two fascinations together.
[Anne] Tell us about the setting. What made you chose this location?
[Jean] I simply chose South Carolina at random. It is closer to my state of Kentucky than some others. I am familiar with southern customs.
[Anne] Did a lot of research go into it?
[Jean] Yes. It took longer to research than it did to write it. I read fiction, poems and facts. I also watched movies with lighthouse settings and others about WWl times and places. The movie "1918" gave me much insight into the flu epidemic.
[Anne] Tell us about your next project.
[Jean] Ann, I am so excited about my three book Willow Shade Series, contracted with Desert Breeze Publishing. The series is set in Logan County, KY. where I grew up. My characters and plot are fiction, but almost everyone in the small rural community will recognize "Daddy" as my dad. Several others of my family members will also peep their heads in, in disguise of course. And my siblings will recognize our old homestead as Willow Shade Farm. From there on all is fiction.
Blurb The Light Keeper's Daughter
A broken heart and trouble with the law washes Belle's dreams of a beautiful life with wealthy Lawrence Rinehart out into the sea. Unjustly accused of a crime by Lawrence's mother, Belle seeks refuge in a lighthouse on the shore of a secluded little seaport.
Captain Fred Logan, penetrates her wall of defense and persuades Belle to come out of isolation. Together they face WWl, rescue a baby from the sea, and battle the deadly flu epidemic. Will Belle choose Fred or the wealthy ex-boyfriend when Lawrence's boat capsizes and she braves a vicious storm to save him? Will Divine Guidance give Belle courage to do what she must in order to truly be free?
Excerpt:
Planting each boot on the rickety steps with caution, Belle picked her way up, praying the stairs would not plummet from under her. She held onto the chest with the intensity of an overboard sailor clinging to a raft, as a muffled, hoarse cry came from inside of it. The wind yowled. The stairs trembled. If she could make it a half-dozen steps more. One -- two -- three -- four. Now just a couple more, and she'd be to the top.
Dear Lord, hold them together. Hold them in Your hands just a few more steps. Help me take care of what I fear is in this little wooden chest. Finally, soaked in seawater, with salt and sand in her hair, Belle stepped into the watch room where William met her with a ghost-white face and outstretched arms.
"William! Help me!"
She removed her rain garments with William's help, letting them crumple in a pile on the floor. Inside the box lay a bundle tied to the sides with twine, wrapped in a water-soaked, blue eiderdown quilt, a tiny fist fighting the air. The cries were barely audible. The child had used its last bit of strength screaming from terror out on the sea. It was a miracle the box had not capsized or the waves not filled the basket covering the baby's nose and mouth. Another miracle permitted Belle to hear the crying at all. God must have meant for this baby to survive as He did another child in a basket thousands of years before.
Its little voice was gone. Belle's fingers shook as she lifted the cover off the face of the infant. "A baby. What am I to do with a baby? Oh, William, is it alive? I mean it is, but is it dying? It's turning green."
"That's the sea water, I think." William rubbed the tiny foot protruding from under the blue batiste dress.
The baby made choking noises from way down in its chest and drew its knees into its belly. It tried to cry, but gurgled a slight hiccup. Its lips turned deep purple. Belle picked up the infant and held it in outstretched arms. She was afraid of the miniature little person. "We need a doctor."
William took the child and turned it over on its belly, slapped its back with gentle, firm pats. Seawater oozed from the corner of its mouth. The baby cried.
Purchase The Light Keeper's Daughter:
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-276/The-Light-Keeper's-Daughter/Detail.bok
http://www.amazon.com/The-Light-Keepers-Daughter-ebook/dp/B007K1ODKK
Bio for Jean Thompson Kinsey
Jean Thompson Kinsey, originally from Franklin Kentucky, now lives at Brooks, KY. Jean has always wanted to write, but life continued to get in the way. She retired from real estate sales when she was diagnosed with a rare debilitating illness, syringomyelia, and dedicated her energy to raising her three children. She likes to read, play with her grandchildren, teach Sunday School and travel.
It wasn't until she became a widow in 2005, that she began seriously writing. Jean's creative non-fiction can be found in multiple Chicken Soup for the Soul and Cup of Comfort books. Her fiction is published in Disciple's World, Live, Living, Harpstring and Splickety. Jean writes inspirational fiction and non-fiction. Her suspense trilogy of Willow Shade Farm will release in August 2012, March 2013 and October 2013.
[Jean]THE LIGHT KEEPER'S DAUGHTER is an historical romance set in the WWl era. In one day, young Belle Montague's life changes from "belle of the ball" to one of hiding out in a lonely lighthouse, after being falsely accused of a crime by the mother of her wealthy beau. When Captain Fred Logan discovers her, she isn't sure if he'll turn her in to the authorities or help her clear her name.
[Anne] Where did you come up with the idea for it?
[Jean] Lighthouses have always fascinated me. I was in awe, also, as my grandmother told me tales about her life in the time of the Great War and the influenza pandemic. It seemed natural for me to put the two fascinations together.
[Anne] Tell us about the setting. What made you chose this location?
[Jean] I simply chose South Carolina at random. It is closer to my state of Kentucky than some others. I am familiar with southern customs.
[Anne] Did a lot of research go into it?
[Jean] Yes. It took longer to research than it did to write it. I read fiction, poems and facts. I also watched movies with lighthouse settings and others about WWl times and places. The movie "1918" gave me much insight into the flu epidemic.
[Anne] Tell us about your next project.
[Jean] Ann, I am so excited about my three book Willow Shade Series, contracted with Desert Breeze Publishing. The series is set in Logan County, KY. where I grew up. My characters and plot are fiction, but almost everyone in the small rural community will recognize "Daddy" as my dad. Several others of my family members will also peep their heads in, in disguise of course. And my siblings will recognize our old homestead as Willow Shade Farm. From there on all is fiction.
Blurb The Light Keeper's Daughter
A broken heart and trouble with the law washes Belle's dreams of a beautiful life with wealthy Lawrence Rinehart out into the sea. Unjustly accused of a crime by Lawrence's mother, Belle seeks refuge in a lighthouse on the shore of a secluded little seaport. Captain Fred Logan, penetrates her wall of defense and persuades Belle to come out of isolation. Together they face WWl, rescue a baby from the sea, and battle the deadly flu epidemic. Will Belle choose Fred or the wealthy ex-boyfriend when Lawrence's boat capsizes and she braves a vicious storm to save him? Will Divine Guidance give Belle courage to do what she must in order to truly be free?
Excerpt:
Planting each boot on the rickety steps with caution, Belle picked her way up, praying the stairs would not plummet from under her. She held onto the chest with the intensity of an overboard sailor clinging to a raft, as a muffled, hoarse cry came from inside of it. The wind yowled. The stairs trembled. If she could make it a half-dozen steps more. One -- two -- three -- four. Now just a couple more, and she'd be to the top.
Dear Lord, hold them together. Hold them in Your hands just a few more steps. Help me take care of what I fear is in this little wooden chest. Finally, soaked in seawater, with salt and sand in her hair, Belle stepped into the watch room where William met her with a ghost-white face and outstretched arms.
"William! Help me!"
She removed her rain garments with William's help, letting them crumple in a pile on the floor. Inside the box lay a bundle tied to the sides with twine, wrapped in a water-soaked, blue eiderdown quilt, a tiny fist fighting the air. The cries were barely audible. The child had used its last bit of strength screaming from terror out on the sea. It was a miracle the box had not capsized or the waves not filled the basket covering the baby's nose and mouth. Another miracle permitted Belle to hear the crying at all. God must have meant for this baby to survive as He did another child in a basket thousands of years before.
Its little voice was gone. Belle's fingers shook as she lifted the cover off the face of the infant. "A baby. What am I to do with a baby? Oh, William, is it alive? I mean it is, but is it dying? It's turning green."
"That's the sea water, I think." William rubbed the tiny foot protruding from under the blue batiste dress.
The baby made choking noises from way down in its chest and drew its knees into its belly. It tried to cry, but gurgled a slight hiccup. Its lips turned deep purple. Belle picked up the infant and held it in outstretched arms. She was afraid of the miniature little person. "We need a doctor."
William took the child and turned it over on its belly, slapped its back with gentle, firm pats. Seawater oozed from the corner of its mouth. The baby cried.
Purchase The Light Keeper's Daughter:
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-276/The-Light-Keeper's-Daughter/Detail.bok
http://www.amazon.com/The-Light-Keepers-Daughter-ebook/dp/B007K1ODKK
Bio for Jean Thompson Kinsey
Jean Thompson Kinsey, originally from Franklin Kentucky, now lives at Brooks, KY. Jean has always wanted to write, but life continued to get in the way. She retired from real estate sales when she was diagnosed with a rare debilitating illness, syringomyelia, and dedicated her energy to raising her three children. She likes to read, play with her grandchildren, teach Sunday School and travel.
It wasn't until she became a widow in 2005, that she began seriously writing. Jean's creative non-fiction can be found in multiple Chicken Soup for the Soul and Cup of Comfort books. Her fiction is published in Disciple's World, Live, Living, Harpstring and Splickety. Jean writes inspirational fiction and non-fiction. Her suspense trilogy of Willow Shade Farm will release in August 2012, March 2013 and October 2013.
April 25, 2012
Interview with Christian Romance Author Stephenia McGee
Thanks so much for dropping by, Stephenia. Congratulations on the release of Legacy of Lies. It sounds like a very interesting read and I've added it to my TBR list. Now to learn a little more about you.
[Anne] Before we were writers, we were all readers. Tell us what your favorite book was as a child.
[Stephenia] I used to go to the library with a paper sack, fill it up, and return all the read books two weeks later. My favorites were the House of Winslow series by Gilbert Norris and Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte.
[Anne] Other than writing, what do you enjoy doing?
[Stephenia] I love to paint. I do most of my artwork to sell as a fundraiser for my ministry. (I am the chairman for Spirit Horse Ministries , a MS non-profit youth outreach program). Most of my paintings feature sunsets, farm life and horses. I also like decorating my house with custom pieces. I can get exactly the size and colors I want, and it’s much less expensive!
[Anne] What was the most interesting research you did for a book?
[Stephenia] I went to a plantation they were auctioning off in North Mississippi. Because it was for sale, we got to go everywhere. On most plantation tours you are very restricted, but this time I got to explore everything. The kitchen, the potato house and the slave quarters. It was fascinating. I had been mulling over a new book idea, and this place really got my mind going. I talked to one of the grandchildren that owned it, and she gave me some history on the plantation. It had been in her family since before the civil war. I gathered up as much information on it as I could and now it is now the center of my new work in progress.
[Anne] What are you working on now?
[Stephenia] This new book is about a girl that grows up as an orphan, but inherits a plantation in Mississippi from a long-lost great-aunt. In the house she finds a hidden diary from an ancestor that lived in the house during the civil war. The diary holds clues to the secrets of Ironwood plantation and a mystery she longs to solve. When she hires the local contractor, and surprisingly the local preacher as well, she finally starts to let someone touch the deep scars in her heart. Will Emily sell the place, take the money and run? Or will she find both her past and her future in a small town in Mississippi?
[Anne] You’ve just landed a multi-book contract with a major publisher! Which vehicle would we be more likely to see you driving after you’ve collected your huge advance: a Hummer, RV, truck, muscle car, or BMW?
[Stephenia] A muscle car! When I was in high school I had a 1986 black Ford Mustang convertible. Custom all the way! I put in a 302 boss engine with 60 over bored pistons (lost yet?), chrome side pipes, Leather bucket seats and two massive speakers where the backseat used to be. Yeah, those were the days. I can’t tell you how much fun it was to out-car teenage boys! My best friend and I used to cruise Virginia Beach in style! If I had the money, I would go for a ‘69 cherry red mustang convertible or a Corvette stingray.
[Anne] Awesome choice! If given the choice, which would you rather have: A custom closet or a custom kitchen?
[Stephenia] Custom kitchen! I want one with professional appliances and loads of counter space. I love to cook, and it’s something fun my husband and I enjoy doing together. We always joke that if we built our own house 75% of the budget would be in the fancy kitchen and a spa master bath!
[Anne] What’s your favorite television show? Movie?
[Stephenia] Right now I am in love with Once Upon a Time. I love the twist on the fairy tales. My favorite movie of all time, hands down, is The Princess Bride. That movie never gets old. I can quote almost every line, but still laugh each time I watch it. Humm, now that you’ve got me thinking about it, I think I’ll dig it out for tonight!
To learn more about Stephenia, please visit her website: http://www.stepheniamcgee.com/ and be sure to check out her new release Legacy of Lies. You'll find the book blurb and excerpt below.
[Anne] Before we were writers, we were all readers. Tell us what your favorite book was as a child.
[Stephenia] I used to go to the library with a paper sack, fill it up, and return all the read books two weeks later. My favorites were the House of Winslow series by Gilbert Norris and Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte.
[Anne] Other than writing, what do you enjoy doing?
[Stephenia] I love to paint. I do most of my artwork to sell as a fundraiser for my ministry. (I am the chairman for Spirit Horse Ministries , a MS non-profit youth outreach program). Most of my paintings feature sunsets, farm life and horses. I also like decorating my house with custom pieces. I can get exactly the size and colors I want, and it’s much less expensive!
[Anne] What was the most interesting research you did for a book?
[Stephenia] I went to a plantation they were auctioning off in North Mississippi. Because it was for sale, we got to go everywhere. On most plantation tours you are very restricted, but this time I got to explore everything. The kitchen, the potato house and the slave quarters. It was fascinating. I had been mulling over a new book idea, and this place really got my mind going. I talked to one of the grandchildren that owned it, and she gave me some history on the plantation. It had been in her family since before the civil war. I gathered up as much information on it as I could and now it is now the center of my new work in progress.
[Anne] What are you working on now?
[Stephenia] This new book is about a girl that grows up as an orphan, but inherits a plantation in Mississippi from a long-lost great-aunt. In the house she finds a hidden diary from an ancestor that lived in the house during the civil war. The diary holds clues to the secrets of Ironwood plantation and a mystery she longs to solve. When she hires the local contractor, and surprisingly the local preacher as well, she finally starts to let someone touch the deep scars in her heart. Will Emily sell the place, take the money and run? Or will she find both her past and her future in a small town in Mississippi?
[Anne] You’ve just landed a multi-book contract with a major publisher! Which vehicle would we be more likely to see you driving after you’ve collected your huge advance: a Hummer, RV, truck, muscle car, or BMW?
[Stephenia] A muscle car! When I was in high school I had a 1986 black Ford Mustang convertible. Custom all the way! I put in a 302 boss engine with 60 over bored pistons (lost yet?), chrome side pipes, Leather bucket seats and two massive speakers where the backseat used to be. Yeah, those were the days. I can’t tell you how much fun it was to out-car teenage boys! My best friend and I used to cruise Virginia Beach in style! If I had the money, I would go for a ‘69 cherry red mustang convertible or a Corvette stingray.
[Anne] Awesome choice! If given the choice, which would you rather have: A custom closet or a custom kitchen?
[Stephenia] Custom kitchen! I want one with professional appliances and loads of counter space. I love to cook, and it’s something fun my husband and I enjoy doing together. We always joke that if we built our own house 75% of the budget would be in the fancy kitchen and a spa master bath!
[Anne] What’s your favorite television show? Movie?
[Stephenia] Right now I am in love with Once Upon a Time. I love the twist on the fairy tales. My favorite movie of all time, hands down, is The Princess Bride. That movie never gets old. I can quote almost every line, but still laugh each time I watch it. Humm, now that you’ve got me thinking about it, I think I’ll dig it out for tonight!
To learn more about Stephenia, please visit her website: http://www.stepheniamcgee.com/ and be sure to check out her new release Legacy of Lies. You'll find the book blurb and excerpt below.
April 12, 2012
A Legacy of Lies: A New Christian Romantic Suspense by Stephenia McGee
Genre: Christian romance, suspense, modern cowboy, supernatural
Blurb:
Sarah Sanders is so stressed-out at college that she’s having fainting spells. She’s behind on the rent and facing eviction. Dropping out of school feels inevitable. Needing a break, she accepts her boyfriend’s invitation to visit his parents’ ranch out west. But she finds much more in Montana than fresh air and mountain trails.
Ranch hand Jim Anderson has suffered from night terrors for over a year. But despite this secret struggle, his life at the ranch had been a welcomed escape from his past. Until those terrifying dark shadows started coming for him in the middle of the afternoon.
Brought together by an unseen hand, Sarah and Jim must travel across the country to unravel a web of deceit and uncover Jim’s long history of lies before the evidence is sealed away forever.
Excerpt:
It was cold.
Too cold.
The eerie silence of a moonless, starless night engulfed him.
Jim shivered. It had been high noon only a few minutes ago. Had he fallen asleep? He didn't remember being tired. He shook his head and tried to focus his groggy mind. He peered around cautiously. Where was his horse?
A rustling sound in the bushes startled him. His eyes darted to investigate.
Nothing.
No, wait. There it was again. Off to the left. His eyes strained, searching for the slightest movement or shape. Something. Anything.
Silence.
He felt like a kid afraid of the dark.
Get a hold of yourself, man.
Fingers of fear teased along the back of his neck. The hairs stood on end. He shivered. Where was that horse?
"Ciervo!" His voice sounded weak even to his own ears. He tried again. Now he was completely hoarse.
Swallowing the panic rising from the pit of his stomach, he took a cautious step forward. He heard stirring in the woods behind him. Squirrels? He listened intently.
The noise came again. No. Definitely not a squirrel. Something was pacing in the woods. Deliberate. Stalking. Jim's mouth went dry.
Mountain lion.
His heart raced and he looked desperately around, scanning the darkness. Blackness blanketed the meadow. Jim hoped Ciervo hadn't wandered too far. He started to walk. Slowly. Calculating. He couldn't tell in what direction he moved.
His cell! He could use it as a light source. Jim's hand brushed at his hip. It wasn't there. He frowned. It always stayed on his belt. He never left the ranch without it.
Jim's eyes strained, but he could barely make out his surroundings. The farther he walked, the darker it got. His breathing came in quick, rapid intakes.
A shrill sound broke the silence. His heart leaped.
"Ciervo?"
Where was he? Was the mountain lion after him?
Hoof beats. Thank goodness.
They were pounding quicker than his rapidly drumming heart. A shadow appeared about thirty feet in front of him.
It wasn't his beloved horse. It looked like something galloping up from Hell.
The horrid creature ran wildly toward him. The cold air caused the hot breath to billow from its nostrils like a smoking dragon.
The monster's eyes looked like no earthly thing he had ever seen. The bulging orbs had a luminescent shine that came from deep behind the pupils. In the pitch black they glowed like a ghostly beacon.
The horse-shaped beast lowered his head. The creature was preparing to slam into him. Jim threw himself out of its path and landed sharply on his hip. His right thigh slammed into a large, extruded boulder. Fire shot down his leg. Ignoring the pain, he jumped to his feet, eyes probing the darkness for the crazed brute. The ghostly version of Ciervo had vanished.
Despite the cold, he began to sweat. Jim felt eyes boring into him. Someone or something watched him. He was exposed. Unprepared. His heart hammered in his chest. His body refused to move.
Another sound. Different. It wasn't rustling limbs or bushes, and it certainly wasn't the horse's wild hoof beats. It was quiet, like a soft whisper. Crying? No, calling out for something.
He strained to catch the garbled words. The voice grew louder. More urgent. Still he couldn't make out the woeful tone. Then, as if his brain finished translating some cryptic code, the word became clear.
"James!"
Again. Louder this time. "James... James..." The voice rose and fell in the darkness. Its eerie sound slithered into his ears.
"Hello?" His voice echoed hoarsely. He held onto a feeble hope the voice came from someone nearby lost in the dark along with him. No one here knew him by that name. He stood holding his breath, listening.
Suddenly, a freight train of frigid air knocked him backward. Terrified, he dared not to move. The voice came again.
"You must help. Soon it will be too late--"
An insidious roar erupted around him. Hot, musty breath bathed Jim's face. He struggled backward. He couldn't quite make out the figure standing over him. The silhouette was enormous. Its shoulders spanned at least four feet. An odd-shaped head swayed from side-to-side.
It growled.
Paralyzed with fear, Jim lay helpless. The creature rose to stand upright. Seven. Eight feet tall. Jim gasped for air. His feet tore into the soft ground, trying to gain footing. Desperately trying to get away. The creature came crashing toward him.
Book Links:
http://www.amazon.com/A-Legacy-of-Lies-ebook/dp/B007K1LS58/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1334280447&sr=1-1
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-legacy-of-lies-stephenia-mcgee/1107713261?ean=2940014338950
About the Author:Christian Romance...with a little bit of flair! Stephenia McGee writes stories that blend mystery, adventure, love and a little of the unexplained and supernatural.
In addition to writing, Stephenia also enjoys painting and working with horses. She has a bachelor's degree from Mississippi State University in animal science and has worked and trained for several equestrian farms. She is the Chairman at Spirit Horse Ministries, and continues to use these skills in the youth programs.
She is a lifetime member of the AQHA and a member of the Fort Rosalie chapter of the DAR.
Stephenia is married to her best friend and greatest blessing, Jason, and they currently live in Mississippi with their two sons.
To learn more, please visit her website: http://www.stepheniamcgee.com/
April 6, 2012
Book Trailer for Trespasses, Book Two: Wounded Heroes Series
Coming May 15th!
A huge THANK YOU! goes out to my wonderful cover artist, Jenifer Ranieri at Desert Breeze Publishing!
A huge THANK YOU! goes out to my wonderful cover artist, Jenifer Ranieri at Desert Breeze Publishing!
April 4, 2012
Reservations for Two Giveaway!
To enter the drawing for a PDF copy of
Reservations for Two
go to my website and use the contact form and leave me a message telling me you would like to enter this months drawing. That's it!
Widower's Maggie O'Brien and Carson Jennings are both on a journey to rediscover who they are. Maggie, an adventurous former pastor's wife of thirty-nine years, hopes to find closure in the place she and her husband spent their honeymoon. Carson, a retired judge, is living his lifelong dream of traveling across the U.S. in his RV. When their paths cross in the tranquil setting of Mason Springs, New Mexico, love is the last thing that either of them expects to find.
When this mix matched pair comes together they find themselves in some hilarious and even precarious situations that will make you laugh and sometimes cry. As the romance begins to blossom they face many obstacles that threaten to tear them apart and what Maggie discovers about herself in New Mexico will redefine her future and alienate one of her children.
Will Carson and Maggie's love for one another be strong enough to weather the storms or will their love for their children keep them apart?
Interview with Maggie:
Joining us today is Maggie O'Brien, the heroine from Reservations for Two . I had to travel all the way to Mason Springs, New Mexico, and then hike up a mountain just to find Maggie so I could interview her. And sadly I have to admit she's in much better shape than I am. She could put the Energizer Bunny to shame.
Anne spots Maggie on the trail ahead, taking in the beauty of the valley below, and pauses to catch her breath. The sixty-two year old woman with salt and pepper hair and small build looks like she just took a stroll through a garden instead of up a mountain.
[Maggie] You look like you could use some oxygen there, kiddo.
*Anne makes a face at her. She's still trying to catch her breath*.
*Maggie saunters over and takes a seat on a nearby log.* Are you sure you're okay?
[Anne] I'm fine. We couldn't have done this down at the inn? *her voice still a tad shaky*
*Maggie grinned* I suppose we could of, but then you would have missed this. *She makes a sweeping motion with her hands*
*Anne cautiously gazed over the side of the cliff and over the tops of huge aspens and conifers to the spectacular view of the valley below* So is this why you traveled all the way from Nebraska on a bus?
*Maggie shrugs a shoulder* These trails hold some very fond memories of when Joe and I spent our honeymoon here, so I guess you could say I came here to find closure.
[Anne] I know you and Joe were very close, but it's hard to picture the two of you together.
*Maggie laughs* I wasn't your typical pastor's wife. Nor was I a very good missionary…at least not as good as Joe.
[Anne] You spent nineteen years in the mission field, right?
[Maggie] That's right. We met in Brazil, corresponded a while, married here in the states, and then I moved there. We also lived in Africa. Can you tell I like to travel?
[Anne] What brought you back to the United States?
[Maggie] After Joe's dad passed on the church where he served offered Joe the pastoral position.
[Anne] Do you ever miss serving in the mission field?
[Maggie] I miss the traveling the most. I've always wanted to visit other countries, learn the different cultures, and see how the rest of the world lives.
[Anne] You recently met someone who also likes to travel, would you care to enlighten us about him. According to Joann, down at the inn, the two of you have been spending a lot of time together.
*Maggie blushes* Joann needs to mind her own business.
[Anne] Oh come on. I traveled a long ways to get the scoop on you and Carson. Now give.
[Maggie] Carson's okay I guess. I'm not really in the market for another husband though. We're just friends, with similar interests, spending part of our vacations together. That's all. Besides, even I did care for him…which I don't…my kids would have a conniption fit. They're under the impression I'm going senile or something. They're always harping on me to move closer to them so they can keep an eye on me. I swear, you'd think I was standing at death's door or something the way they carry on sometimes.
[Anne] Wouldn't you want to live closer so you can spend time with your grandchildren?
[Maggie] I can spend time with my grandchildren without living next door…or in the same house with them. Now that I'm retired I plan to do that as often as I can. When I'm not traveling that is.
[Anne] So you're really serious about recapturing your dream of seeing the world?
[Maggie] You bet I am. I'm in the prime of my life here.
[Anne] So will Carson be joining you on this journey of yours?
[Maggie] Good heavens, give me a break, I just met the man. Not only that, but he doesn't really strike me as much of an adventurer…if you know what I mean. He's more the type to live out his retirement on the golf course.
[Anne] But he has a motor home, so he must like to travel.
[Maggie] That's true, I guess. He did agree to go hiking with me.
*Anne peers over the edge of the mountain again, wondering how's she's going to get down without breaking her neck* If he's agreed to go hiking with you I'd say he's an adventurer.
*Maggie grins* We'll see about that.
[Anne] So how'd the two of you meet anyway?
[Maggie] I was rollerblading up town and had a bit of a mishap and he sort of came to my rescue.
[Anne] You're being awful vague, Maggie. What sort of mishap? Was anything broken…did anyone get hurt?
[Maggie] Of course not, I'm a better skater than that. I've been rollerblading with my grandchildren for years. Is this interview about over? I promised Carson we'd go out tonight and I want to get in a few more miles before heading back to the inn. You could join me, if you want.
*Anne considers the invitation only briefly* No thanks. I don't mind hiking, but I don't care too much for heights. So you and Carson are going out tonight?
*Maggie stands up and slips on her daypack* Yeah. He wouldn't tell me where we're going though. He said it was a surprise.
[Anne] Well I better let you get back to your hike then. I wouldn't want you to be late for your date on account of me. You two have fun.
*Maggie blushes* Oh I'm sure we will. He comes up with some of the best surprises.
What sort of surprise do you reckon Carson has in store for Maggie?
Reservations for Two can be purchased at Amazon.com or from the publisher.
Widower's Maggie O'Brien and Carson Jennings are both on a journey to rediscover who they are. Maggie, an adventurous former pastor's wife of thirty-nine years, hopes to find closure in the place she and her husband spent their honeymoon. Carson, a retired judge, is living his lifelong dream of traveling across the U.S. in his RV. When their paths cross in the tranquil setting of Mason Springs, New Mexico, love is the last thing that either of them expects to find.When this mix matched pair comes together they find themselves in some hilarious and even precarious situations that will make you laugh and sometimes cry. As the romance begins to blossom they face many obstacles that threaten to tear them apart and what Maggie discovers about herself in New Mexico will redefine her future and alienate one of her children.
Will Carson and Maggie's love for one another be strong enough to weather the storms or will their love for their children keep them apart?
Interview with Maggie:
Joining us today is Maggie O'Brien, the heroine from Reservations for Two . I had to travel all the way to Mason Springs, New Mexico, and then hike up a mountain just to find Maggie so I could interview her. And sadly I have to admit she's in much better shape than I am. She could put the Energizer Bunny to shame.
Anne spots Maggie on the trail ahead, taking in the beauty of the valley below, and pauses to catch her breath. The sixty-two year old woman with salt and pepper hair and small build looks like she just took a stroll through a garden instead of up a mountain.
[Maggie] You look like you could use some oxygen there, kiddo.
*Anne makes a face at her. She's still trying to catch her breath*.
*Maggie saunters over and takes a seat on a nearby log.* Are you sure you're okay?
[Anne] I'm fine. We couldn't have done this down at the inn? *her voice still a tad shaky*
*Maggie grinned* I suppose we could of, but then you would have missed this. *She makes a sweeping motion with her hands*
*Anne cautiously gazed over the side of the cliff and over the tops of huge aspens and conifers to the spectacular view of the valley below* So is this why you traveled all the way from Nebraska on a bus?
*Maggie shrugs a shoulder* These trails hold some very fond memories of when Joe and I spent our honeymoon here, so I guess you could say I came here to find closure.
[Anne] I know you and Joe were very close, but it's hard to picture the two of you together.
*Maggie laughs* I wasn't your typical pastor's wife. Nor was I a very good missionary…at least not as good as Joe.
[Anne] You spent nineteen years in the mission field, right?
[Maggie] That's right. We met in Brazil, corresponded a while, married here in the states, and then I moved there. We also lived in Africa. Can you tell I like to travel?
[Anne] What brought you back to the United States?
[Maggie] After Joe's dad passed on the church where he served offered Joe the pastoral position.
[Anne] Do you ever miss serving in the mission field?
[Maggie] I miss the traveling the most. I've always wanted to visit other countries, learn the different cultures, and see how the rest of the world lives.
[Anne] You recently met someone who also likes to travel, would you care to enlighten us about him. According to Joann, down at the inn, the two of you have been spending a lot of time together.
*Maggie blushes* Joann needs to mind her own business.
[Anne] Oh come on. I traveled a long ways to get the scoop on you and Carson. Now give.
[Maggie] Carson's okay I guess. I'm not really in the market for another husband though. We're just friends, with similar interests, spending part of our vacations together. That's all. Besides, even I did care for him…which I don't…my kids would have a conniption fit. They're under the impression I'm going senile or something. They're always harping on me to move closer to them so they can keep an eye on me. I swear, you'd think I was standing at death's door or something the way they carry on sometimes.
[Anne] Wouldn't you want to live closer so you can spend time with your grandchildren?
[Maggie] I can spend time with my grandchildren without living next door…or in the same house with them. Now that I'm retired I plan to do that as often as I can. When I'm not traveling that is.
[Anne] So you're really serious about recapturing your dream of seeing the world?
[Maggie] You bet I am. I'm in the prime of my life here.
[Anne] So will Carson be joining you on this journey of yours?
[Maggie] Good heavens, give me a break, I just met the man. Not only that, but he doesn't really strike me as much of an adventurer…if you know what I mean. He's more the type to live out his retirement on the golf course.
[Anne] But he has a motor home, so he must like to travel.
[Maggie] That's true, I guess. He did agree to go hiking with me.
*Anne peers over the edge of the mountain again, wondering how's she's going to get down without breaking her neck* If he's agreed to go hiking with you I'd say he's an adventurer.
*Maggie grins* We'll see about that.
[Anne] So how'd the two of you meet anyway?
[Maggie] I was rollerblading up town and had a bit of a mishap and he sort of came to my rescue.
[Anne] You're being awful vague, Maggie. What sort of mishap? Was anything broken…did anyone get hurt?
[Maggie] Of course not, I'm a better skater than that. I've been rollerblading with my grandchildren for years. Is this interview about over? I promised Carson we'd go out tonight and I want to get in a few more miles before heading back to the inn. You could join me, if you want.
*Anne considers the invitation only briefly* No thanks. I don't mind hiking, but I don't care too much for heights. So you and Carson are going out tonight?
*Maggie stands up and slips on her daypack* Yeah. He wouldn't tell me where we're going though. He said it was a surprise.
[Anne] Well I better let you get back to your hike then. I wouldn't want you to be late for your date on account of me. You two have fun.
*Maggie blushes* Oh I'm sure we will. He comes up with some of the best surprises.
What sort of surprise do you reckon Carson has in store for Maggie?
Reservations for Two can be purchased at Amazon.com or from the publisher.
April 2, 2012
Lessons from the Open Road by K. Dawn Byrd
Bio:
K. Dawn Byrd is an author of inspirational romance, romantic suspense, and non-fiction. She is an avid blogger and gives away several books per week on her blog at www.kdawnbyrd.blogspot.com, most of which are signed by the authors. She's also the moderator of the popular facebook Christian Fiction Gathering group at http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?....
When not reading or writing, K. Dawn Byrd enjoys spending time with her husband of 16 years while walking their dogs beside a gorgeous lake near her home and plotting the next story waiting to be told.
Lessons from the Open Road
A couple of years ago, the idea of writing a devotional about the lessons I learned while riding a motorcycle came to me. I had no idea what I was getting into and how much writing devotionals would minister to me as an author. I jotted down notes for weeks, hoping to come up with enough lessons to take the reader through a month. Lessons from the Open Road ended with 33 lessons, each followed by Scripture and prayer.
Sometimes life is hard. Sometimes learning new things is hard. Just when I thought I'd mastered the parking lot where I was learning to ride my little Yamaha Virago starter bike, I pulled out, forgot to hit the brake, did an Evel Knievel, and jumped a short concrete wall, landing in some trees. My poor little bike limped home with a hole in the crankcase the size of a quarter. J-B Weld to the rescue!
I'm stubborn, too stubborn to quit. After I recovered from the sore neck that resulted from my stunt, I climbed back on the old iron horse. Eventually, I graduated from the parking lot and hit the streets. When I'd learned to ride well enough to satisfy hubby, he bought himself a new Harley and I inherited his anniversary edition Harley Davidson Sportster. And, when I graduated with my masters degree, you'd never guess what I wanted. Yep, a new bike. I became the proud owner of a Screamin Eagle V-Rod (picture attached.)
All good things must eventually come to an end. I enjoyed my days on the road, but found another passion. Writing. I work a full-time job and since there's only so much time in the day, I have to choose what's most important to me. The bike had to go. Occasionally, I miss it, but for the most part, I'd rather be writing. I'm hoping the devotions in Lessons from the Open Road will minister to your heart as much as writing them did to mine.
Lessons from the Open Road is currently available in ebook format and will be coming soon in print. I had planned to list it at no cost, but Amazon wouldn't allow me to do so. I've listed it at the lowest price Amazon allows, 99 cents, and all proceeds will be donated to my church's building fun for the new church that's currently under construction.
For more information about Lessons from the Open Road, you can check it out on Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/Lessons-Open-Road-ebook/dp/B007OYYG64/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332895452&sr=8-1
Links:
Book giveaway blog: www.kdawnbyrd.blogspot.com
Young adult blog: www.zoe-mack.blogspot.com
Website: www.kdawnbyrd.com
I'm also on Twitter (kdawnbyrd) and facebook (K Dawn Byrd.) I am the moderator of the Christian Fiction Gathering facebook group (http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?...) If you join this group, you'll get reminders about the weekly book giveaways.
K. Dawn Byrd is an author of inspirational romance, romantic suspense, and non-fiction. She is an avid blogger and gives away several books per week on her blog at www.kdawnbyrd.blogspot.com, most of which are signed by the authors. She's also the moderator of the popular facebook Christian Fiction Gathering group at http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?....
When not reading or writing, K. Dawn Byrd enjoys spending time with her husband of 16 years while walking their dogs beside a gorgeous lake near her home and plotting the next story waiting to be told.
Lessons from the Open RoadA couple of years ago, the idea of writing a devotional about the lessons I learned while riding a motorcycle came to me. I had no idea what I was getting into and how much writing devotionals would minister to me as an author. I jotted down notes for weeks, hoping to come up with enough lessons to take the reader through a month. Lessons from the Open Road ended with 33 lessons, each followed by Scripture and prayer.
Sometimes life is hard. Sometimes learning new things is hard. Just when I thought I'd mastered the parking lot where I was learning to ride my little Yamaha Virago starter bike, I pulled out, forgot to hit the brake, did an Evel Knievel, and jumped a short concrete wall, landing in some trees. My poor little bike limped home with a hole in the crankcase the size of a quarter. J-B Weld to the rescue!
I'm stubborn, too stubborn to quit. After I recovered from the sore neck that resulted from my stunt, I climbed back on the old iron horse. Eventually, I graduated from the parking lot and hit the streets. When I'd learned to ride well enough to satisfy hubby, he bought himself a new Harley and I inherited his anniversary edition Harley Davidson Sportster. And, when I graduated with my masters degree, you'd never guess what I wanted. Yep, a new bike. I became the proud owner of a Screamin Eagle V-Rod (picture attached.)
All good things must eventually come to an end. I enjoyed my days on the road, but found another passion. Writing. I work a full-time job and since there's only so much time in the day, I have to choose what's most important to me. The bike had to go. Occasionally, I miss it, but for the most part, I'd rather be writing. I'm hoping the devotions in Lessons from the Open Road will minister to your heart as much as writing them did to mine.
Lessons from the Open Road is currently available in ebook format and will be coming soon in print. I had planned to list it at no cost, but Amazon wouldn't allow me to do so. I've listed it at the lowest price Amazon allows, 99 cents, and all proceeds will be donated to my church's building fun for the new church that's currently under construction.
For more information about Lessons from the Open Road, you can check it out on Amazon at http://www.amazon.com/Lessons-Open-Road-ebook/dp/B007OYYG64/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332895452&sr=8-1
Links:
Book giveaway blog: www.kdawnbyrd.blogspot.com
Young adult blog: www.zoe-mack.blogspot.com
Website: www.kdawnbyrd.com
I'm also on Twitter (kdawnbyrd) and facebook (K Dawn Byrd.) I am the moderator of the Christian Fiction Gathering facebook group (http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?...) If you join this group, you'll get reminders about the weekly book giveaways.
March 26, 2012
Free Reads!
Christmas with Hope - A Companion piece to my WOUNDED HEROES series:
Hope Erickson, a Blackhawk pilot, and Nick Cunningham, an army ranger, renew their acquaintance on the battlefields of Iraq. Will they risk their hearts to one another or does fate have other plans in store for them?
Download link: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing....
Dangerous Deception - Journalist Gwen Jacobs thrived on dangerous assignments. That is until her ambition led to the massacre of an entire African village. Now, a year later, she’s been offered a chance at redemption and the opportunity to expose the men behind the slaughter. But when a rebel commander learns who she is, not only is Gwen’s life on the line, the whole group may die.
Download links: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/...
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dange...
Also, this months giveaway on my website is a free PDF of one of my books, winners choice. Go to my contact page and leave me a message telling me you want to enter the giveway. www.annepatrick.weebly.com
Hope Erickson, a Blackhawk pilot, and Nick Cunningham, an army ranger, renew their acquaintance on the battlefields of Iraq. Will they risk their hearts to one another or does fate have other plans in store for them?
Download link: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing....
Dangerous Deception - Journalist Gwen Jacobs thrived on dangerous assignments. That is until her ambition led to the massacre of an entire African village. Now, a year later, she’s been offered a chance at redemption and the opportunity to expose the men behind the slaughter. But when a rebel commander learns who she is, not only is Gwen’s life on the line, the whole group may die.
Download links: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/...
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dange...
Also, this months giveaway on my website is a free PDF of one of my books, winners choice. Go to my contact page and leave me a message telling me you want to enter the giveway. www.annepatrick.weebly.com
March 24, 2012
COTT's Fiction Flash Clash
*guest post by Michelle Massaro and April Gardner
Last week, COTT posted a "Flash Clash" in which readers had just 2 days to cast their votes between two 100-word excerpts. It was a fast one! But not so fast that voters didn't have time for their say.
To add to the tension, the winner took the clash by a margin of one vote. That's right. ONE vote difference. Both excerpts were so good, readers were split almost exactly down the middle. I love clashes that are this close!
The winner of our Flash Clash First Hundred is…
Rebecca Carey Lyle's Winds of Wyoming.
CONGRATULATIONS, BECKY!!
Winds of Wyoming clashed against Tom Blubaugh's Night of the Cossack . It was a pleasure getting to know both authors during this fun, super-speedy clash. We wish many blessings on their writing paths!
Here's what readers had to say about both books:
*Great excerpts...both caught my interest immediately!
*Wow - two really great flashes that sound like amazing stories! Love it!
*Keep writing and don't give up!
*Both excerpts were great, especially given the short time to convey what was happening in the story. Keep up the good work!
COTT is taking a spring break starting immediately. We will begin clashing again on April 2, 2012 when hostess Gail Pallotta brings us a brand new clash--Comparable Covers!
In the meantime, check out these other Splashdown Books…
Last week, COTT posted a "Flash Clash" in which readers had just 2 days to cast their votes between two 100-word excerpts. It was a fast one! But not so fast that voters didn't have time for their say.
To add to the tension, the winner took the clash by a margin of one vote. That's right. ONE vote difference. Both excerpts were so good, readers were split almost exactly down the middle. I love clashes that are this close!
The winner of our Flash Clash First Hundred is…
Rebecca Carey Lyle's Winds of Wyoming.
CONGRATULATIONS, BECKY!!
Winds of Wyoming clashed against Tom Blubaugh's Night of the Cossack . It was a pleasure getting to know both authors during this fun, super-speedy clash. We wish many blessings on their writing paths!
Here's what readers had to say about both books:
*Great excerpts...both caught my interest immediately!
*Wow - two really great flashes that sound like amazing stories! Love it!
*Keep writing and don't give up!
*Both excerpts were great, especially given the short time to convey what was happening in the story. Keep up the good work!
COTT is taking a spring break starting immediately. We will begin clashing again on April 2, 2012 when hostess Gail Pallotta brings us a brand new clash--Comparable Covers!
In the meantime, check out these other Splashdown Books…
