Lena Nelson Dooley's Blog, page 109

LIAR'S WINTER - Cindy K Sproles - One Free Book

Welcome, Cindy. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.I definitely write my heart. If there are subjects that make my heart cry, then I can easily draw those into my work. I was raised in the Appalachian Mountains, though not on a farm, I spent lots of time there with my grandmother and at an aunt and uncle’s small farm. So I learned the tools of the mountains, the ways, the heart of the Appalachian people. It makes it very easy to write this knowledge, first hand, into my stories.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?Oh my – I’m impulsive, so quirky is right up there. But I suppose becoming an outbacker on the Appalachian Trailin my younger years. (If that qualifies as quirky.) I’m impulsive, but not ridiculous or haphazard. So, something like skydiving would never be in my quirky place.
When did you first discover that you were a writer?As a child. That seems to be the classic answer but for me it’s true. I am 12 years younger than my brother, so basically an only child. He was grown before I was in 3rd grade. My friends were in my imagination, so I was spinning tales in a hole at the base of an oak tree when I was just small.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.I actually like reading Christian Living books. I love books on the aspects of prayer and knowing God better. As far as fiction goes – I’m a lover of everything but fantasy and I don’t have the brain for that. My two favorite books are Christy and Redeeming Love.
Two of my all-time favorite novels, too. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?I am grounded in prayer. This summer I gave a friend a prayer bowl with cards for her to write her prayers on. She surprised me with one at Christmas. Every time I walk past it, I glance at a prayer card. It keeps me grounded when life is overwhelming.
How do you choose your characters’ names?Some are old family names. Others are regional names I learned when I worked the Appalachian Trail or when I lived in south Knoxville, traveling back and forth with work to Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg, Tennessee. I worked for a newspaper and got to deliver stacks of papers to lots of out of the way places in the Smoky Mountains.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?I can say, beginning a ministry with a good friend. The ministry of Christian Devotions is now 10 years old and we’re worldwide, putting devotions out daily. I’ve learned a lot through saying yes when God called – even when I was afraid. Without a doubt, seeing Christian Devotions thrive in the industry is an accomplishment I share with my ministry partner and give all the glory to God for calling and making a way for us.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?Easy! I’d be a hound dog. I’ve often been told I was as faithful as an old hound. So, as we say in the mountains, I reckon I can’t beat that with a stick.
What is your favorite food?The obvious is chocolate. But I digress. Chicken and dumplings.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?Well, I learned things backward. By that I mean, I attended my first conference not knowing what classes to take and I ended up in author’s classes that I’d read their books. To my dismay, I was a new writer in advanced classes and I learned things out of sync. To overcome – well, I had to put the brakes on and go back to the basics. It took me a year or two, but I actually think I’m a better writer. I understood why I needed to do specific things. Don’t be like me. Learn the craft in the right order.
Tell us about the featured book. Liar’s Winter – An Appalachian Novel – is the story of Lochiel Ogle, a young woman born with the portwine birthmark on her face and neck. In the mountains this was called the mark of the devil, mainly because folks just didn’t understand what the birthmark was. In Liar’s Winter , Lochiel was stolen from her mother’s arms at birth and raised, hidden away from the world. She was told she was a devil and folks would as soon kill her than look at her. So her plight begins when she meets up with a peddler who helps her escape the bondage she was in and as she moves through this phase of her life, she meets her father and grandmother who lovingly teach her about the good Lord and how their prayers were answered. It’s a story of hardship, learning to make good choices, and understanding the choices we make have consequences. Along the way, she learns, and the reader learns, that God has a plan even when we don’t see it. The Christian message is threaded very gently through the story. It’s not a preachy, come to Jesus book. But it’s the story of how determination and perseverance build who we are, and when we learn to trust in the Lord, that is strengthened.
Please give us the first page of the book.The first time I ever seen that girl she was squallin like a banshee. Her whole face was beet red so I didn’t notice her mark right off. She was such a tiny thing. Before I could think twice, I’d picked her up.
Her screams was what brought me to the door of the shack. The door wasn’t latched. I poked my head in and hollered, but there wasn’t no answer. Probably couldn’t hear me over the racket of the baby. I’d been squirrel huntin and left my catch on the front step.
The baby was wrapped tight by its momma’s side. Its momma laid real still. “You alright?” She didn’t wiggle so much as a finger. If she didn’t hear that baby bellerin, she sure wasn’t gonna hear me. When I grabbed aholt and tugged that baby outa its momma’s arm, her arm flopped and I about jumped outa my skin.
That baby commenced to nuzzle at me and quieted to a whimper. Then I hightailed it outa there. I was smart enough to know I couldn’t talk a body back to life. Momma would know what to do with the baby. She needed a new youngin anyway, to replace the ones she’d lost, the ones that kept on dyin when they was born. Momma just sit and stared these days. Hardly ever talked. Havin this youngin would make her happy again. I smiled just thinkin about it. This baby would do just fine. And Poppy would be proud I’d done such a fine thing for Momma.
I forgot my squirrels on the step though. And it was a ways back home. I’d wandered farther than I’d figured. Long before I made it home, I was right tempted to just leave the baby lyin in the woods. My arms was tired.
Wasn’t ’til I got home I realized I’d left my gun leanin against that shack.
It goes without sayin that Poppy wasn’t happy I’d lost my gun. And Momma wasn’t happy when she laid eyes on the mark that spilled down one side of that baby’s face. That marked baby for my gun, worst trade I’d ever made. Right from the start, that girl brung me nothin but trouble.
Love the voice. How can readers find you on the Internet?On my website at http://www.cindysproles.com/viewproduct/2
Or Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Liars-Winter-Appalachian-Cindy-Sproles/dp/0825444535/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1515109793&sr=8-1&keywords=Liar%27s+winter
Or with Kregel Publicationshttp://www.kregel.com/busqueda?txt=Liar%27s%20Winter
Thank you, Cindy, for sharing this book with us. I'm eager to read it.

Readers, here are links to the book. - Amazon paperback
Liar's Winter (Appalachian) - Kindle[image error]

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

ISAIAH'S DAUGHTER - Mesu Andrews - One Free Book

Welcome back, Mesu. What are some of the spiritual themes you like to write about?God’s sovereignty always seems to pop up in my stories, which means His perfect goodness also comes out. Lots of folks struggle with “the wrathful God of the Old Testament,” so I try to show His perfect goodness and overwhelming love that helps explain some of the human condition seen in Old Testament stories. Our finite human wrestling with an infinite God is another theme I can’t seem to escape. Maybe because I’ve wrestled my whole life with how to know and understand Him more.
What other books of yours are coming out soon?My first novella will release in Summer 2018 as part of a series in which each author chooses a favorite Psalm and fictionalizes the story behind it. I’ve chosen Psalm 137, the captives’ Psalm, and titled the book By the Waters of Babylon. It will be a great warm-up for Daniel’s life story, tentatively titled Of Fire and Lions, that’s scheduled to release Spring 2019. In Spring 2020, we’re hoping to release the sequel to Isaiah’s Daughter and tell the rest of Hephzibah’s story.
If you could spend an evening with one contemporary person (not a family member of yours), who would it be and why?Celebrities, athletes, and politicians have never fascinated me. I’ve never been a star-gazer or fan girl, never cared about autographs or T-shirts. I want to spend an evening with someone who oozes Jesus, someone who has remained authentic and humble in spite of earthly blessing, and someone who wants to talk about the eternal—not the trivial or temporary. Liz Curtis Higgs would probably be my first choice.
I love Liz. She’s fun to be around. What historical person would you like to meet (besides Jesus) and why?Eve. I have sooooooo many questions for her! What was it like to wake as an adult in God’s perfect world? How does perfection feel? Why in the world did she talk to that serpent? How many years did she live? How many kids did she have—300-400? How did she handle the guilt? I loved Tosca Lee’s book, Havah, because she explores some of these questions through fiction. But I hope to discover the truth someday in eternity!
How can you encourage authors who have been receiving only rejections from publishers?Read those rejections carefully. Are they a rubber-stamped No, or do they give you helpful feedback? Editors don’t love sending out rejections, and many editors actually take the time to offer insightful critique if they believe a writer has potential to eventually publish. When I received three years of “no” on my non-fiction projects (even with the help of a top-notch agent), a friend suggested I try teaching my Bible studies through fiction. I took a few months off (an extended break can be a good idea) and then began studying the craft of fiction. I’m still learning, but God opened the door for publication when I was willing to try a different direction. The most important lesson I’ve learned in publishing is to always be flexible and teachable. Learn from rejections and let God lead you through them.
Tell us about the featured book. I love the quiet women in the Bible. Scripture mentions Hephzibah only twice, once as King Manasseh’s mother (2 Kings 21:1), which also makes her King Hezekiah’s wife. And again in Isaiah 62:4, when the prophet labels the restored Jerusalemby her name. Why did Isaiah (and Yahweh) choose to call Jerusalem, Hephzibah?
Jewish tradition teaches that Hephzibah was Isaiah’s daughter. Almost thirty years ago, my husband’s seminary professor asked, “When Isaiah gave Hephzibah as a bride to King Hezekiah, did the prophet think he was giving her to the ‘Root of Jesse’ (Messiah) of his prophecies?” Wouldn’t that be great—having the Messiah as your son-in-law?
Hezekiah’s reign began with a bang, and many of Isaiah’s prophecies seemed fulfilled by this go-gettum young king. Unfortunately, Isaiah’s later prophecies reveal his recognition that Hezekiah was NOT the Messiah. (Talk about in-law troubles!) My mind began to spin with those two fabulous words that make every author’s heart race: What if…
Hephzibah was married to Hezekiah, the most righteous king of Judah, and was mother of Manasseh, the most wicked king. Her story spans two books. The first, recalling her childhood and marriage to Hezekiah, is Isaiah’s Daughter. The second (as yet untitled) will explore the ruin and redemption of Manasseh’s reign.
Please give us the first page of the book.Songs are written of sons, but daughters are left to whispers. So, gather near, friend, to hear of a daughter beyond imagining. She had the heart of a lion. Braver than a soldier. Wiser than a king. She was queen in Judahlong after King David’s bones had turned to dust. Long after the arrogance of Solomon’s son split Israelinto two nations.
When the northern tribes seized the name Israel, the southern tribes called their new nation Judahand placed David’s descendants on their throne. Judah’s capital city was the city of Jerusalemand its God was named Yahweh. But Israelbowed to pagan gods and even led some of Judah’s kings astray.
Yahweh’s prophets spewed out warnings, and Judah’s brave daughter, the lion-hearted queen, dared ask the prophets why? When? And how will Yahweh’s judgment fall?
One incomparable prophet answered, foretelling Assyria’s cruelty as Yahweh’s weapon of wrath. Isaiah, a man born to royalty, shouted at kings and comforted beggars. The records proclaim him husband to a prophetess and father of two sons. This is recorded, detailed, written. But what of his daughter?
Her story begins when the northern kingdom of Israel joins forces with Aram, a neighboring nation. They attack Judah in retribution for refusing to join their coalition against Assyria. Isaiah delivers God’s Words to Judah’s King Ahaz—a promise and a warning. Ahaz ignores both. His decision forever changes the life of Isaiah’s Daughter.
How can readers find you on the Internet?Connect InfoPlease visit http://www.mesuandrews.com/to order free bookmarks, download Bible studies or group discussion questions. Facebook: Mesu AndrewsTwitter: MesuAndrewsPinterest: MesuAndrewsGoodreads: Mesu AndrewsInstagram: Mesu AndrewsPurchase Link:http://mesuandrews.com/books/isaiahs-daughter/
Thank you so much, Lena, for taking part in the blog tour. You are a gracious host, and I so appreciate the ministry of your blog to authors and readers. May the Lord bless you abundantly for your faithfulness!In His Arms With You,Mesu
It’s my great pleasure to feature you and your new book on my blog.
Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

WINNERS!!!!!

New instructions for winners in 2018 - When you send me the email, make sure your subject line says this: Winner - (book title) - (author's name) 

Sharon (SC) is the winner of  In Search of Christmas Past  by Leeann Betts.

Kay (AR) is the winner of an ebook of  In Search of Shiloh  by Patricia Clark Blake.

Diane (IN) is the winner of an ebook of  Surgeon's Choice  by Richard L Mabry, MD.

Vivian (CO) is the winner of  A Flute in the Willows  by Carole Brown.

Pam (OH) is the winner of  Mission: Memory Recall  by Virginia Vaughan.

If you won a book and you like it, please consider giving the author the courtesy of writing a review on Goodreads, Amazon.com, Christianbooks.com, Barnes and Noble, or other Internet sites. 

Also, tell your friends about the book ... and this blog. Thank you.

Congratulations, everyone. If you won a print book, send me your mailing address:
Click the Contact Me link at the top of the blog, and send me an Email.

If you won an ebook, just let me know what email address it should be sent to.

When you contact me, please give the title and author of the book you won, so I won't have to look it up.

Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.

AN UNTIDY END - Candice Prentice - One Free Ebook

Welcome back, Candice. It’s been a long time since you were on my blog. By the way, I love your head shot. You are looking so good. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.A lot, I've discovered. Funny about that. At first I didn't think so, but I realized that each heroine has a piece of me. It might not be a big piece, but there are parts of my personality or my experiences, or maybe just things I've learned along the way, in every main character.  
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?The latest quirky thing? Nasal irrigation. Weird, right? Sounds awful, but it's recommended by doctors for sinus health, which is why I'm doing it. And it's an experience like none other except maybe inhaling water up your nose while swimming.
When did you first discover that you were a writer?I can't say for sure. As a kid, I wrote stories in my head. As a 9th grader, I wrote them during Biology—not the best way to get a good grade. In 10th grade, I discovered the thesaurus. And in 11th grade, I was blessed to attend a school that had a creative writing class as an option instead of just plain English. I think that's when I first became conscious of my love for writing.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.Mysteries first (cozies in particular, which is what I write). Both contemporary and historical. I like suspense, too, although I avoid the graphically scarier ones now. I don't want to think about serial killers when I walk my dog at night.
I really enjoy historical non-fiction, and that includes journals. I have quite a collection of non-fiction on my shelves. I tend to read about a certain topic or period of time all at once, and I collect books about it. For instance, I began reading about women homesteaders, so then I read and collected all the books I could find about them. But my most interesting "book-ish" collection is an assortment of antique Victorian autograph books. While they aren't exactly books, or informative like journals, they do give an interesting insight into that period of time.
I’d love to see that collection. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?I don't run. (Laughing, here.) Seriously, my schedule is my own to make, and I refuse to be driven by circumstances or unreasonable demands as much as possible. In the past, I tended to just go with the flow. I didn't stop to consider whether or not I should do an activity, I just did whatever came along. I wasn't disciplined with my time, and that affected my ability to accomplish the things I needed to accomplish. It also affected my health. Now I approach my days with prayer, planning, and purpose.
Things really changed for me in the past few years. I've had some serious health issues, and I finally had to make some hard and fast rules about how much exposure I would allow myself to craziness, drama, and activity. With the Lord's help, I've developed habits that help me survive and stay well enough to write and live a quality life. I eat good food, I exercise, I meditate in the Word, and I spend time in prayer every day. I limit my television viewing, exposure to the news, and online activity, particularly things that stir up negative emotions. I strive for peace in my home. And while I love and care for other people, especially when they're hurting, I don't allow their emotional state to affect my emotions—at least to the best of my ability. I just can't afford to.
How do you choose your characters’ names?I eliminate all the names I've used in recent books, then I look in a baby name book for names the might be appropriate for the characters in question. And I try to avoid using names with the same first letters or similar sounding syllables in a book. If a character has a particular nationality or heritage, I'll pick a name that is appropriate for that.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?I don't have one single accomplishment I look at and think that's what I'm most proud of. Usually my favorite accomplishment is last the big one I finished. At the moment, that's a quilt I made as a gift for my sister.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?I would be a horse. Horses can run fast and jump high—there's a feeling of freedom when I imagine that. And they're strong, graceful, and beautiful. Horses are intelligent enough to be service animals. They're also capable of deep bonds, with each other and with humans.
What is your favorite food?That's a hard question to answer right now because (due to health issues) my diet is severely limited. So . . . at the moment, my favorite food would have to be oatmeal. A close second is a fresh, red delicious apple.
I love both of those, too. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?My health. I reached a point where I couldn't write due to the issues I was suffering. But I'm so much better now. God is faithful. Through a number of sources, including a holistic medical doctor and some insight into neuroplasticity, the Lord showed me how to make changes that took me from being mostly bedridden to being up, living, and working again. I am truly grateful to be writing again!
And I’ve missed your stories. I’ve always loved them. Tell us about the featured book.It's a cozy mystery called An Untidy End . The thing that makes it special to me is the characters. Instead of one sleuth, I have three: the main heroine named Lily, an elderly woman named Florence, and a ten-year-old girl named Maddie. The interplay between them is fun. Lily is an ex-Navy chief with a degree in Homeland Security, who chose the unlikely job of personal assistant to a wealthy widow. While walking the estate one day, she stumbles upon a body.
Lily is on a journey of restoration. In future books, she will continue to grow and heal from things in her past—and Florence will help.  Florenceis a feisty seventy-five-year-old, and she's a particular favorite of mine.  She's witty and quick to say what's on her mind, but she's also kind and loving. I love her reactions to certain thing, like social media. Here's what Florence says about that:
"Social media?" She [Florence] glanced over at me. "Lily, this is exactly the problem with computers and this online phenomenon. It's irrational. You call something on the World Wide Web social? When individuals sit alone and stare at a computer screen? How can something be social when people aren't in the same room together?" She shook her head. "And they say I'm demented."
Please give us the first page of the book.During the twenty years I served in the Navy, I willingly endured certain indignities on behalf of my country, especially when I was out to sea. Things like lack of privacy and the constant drama of all the sailors who lived and worked in close quarters.
When I retired and made the unlikely decision to take employment as a personal assistant to a wealthy widow, I thought those days were behind me. I anticipated that I would do my job and then disappear into the background, like vanilla extract in chocolate cake. I naively assumed that no one would have expectations of me beyond those required by my job. And, I thought, I'd finally be able to avoid human drama.
The irony of my foolish assumptions wasn't lost on me as I slid under Florence Beasley's king-sized bed to retrieve the upper plate from her dentures. Her television blared from the sitting room of her suite as I scooched along, inch-by-inch.
Being under the bed brought to mind weird thoughts about living. Perhaps because that's where some people hide their clutter. Or maybe because that's where drooling childhood monsters live. But, for whatever the reason, I was struck by the messiness of life. Birth is turbulent. Living is unpredictable. And death is. . .untidy.
From the side of my eye, I saw the toes of two brown leather shoes belonging to the other Beasley in the room, my employer, Belle Beasley, otherwise known as Lady B to her staff.
"Lily, do you see it?" The crisp, white bed skirt quivered as she began tapping her foot.
"Not yet," I said with all the vigor I could muster while confined in a fifteen-inch-high space.
As I wiggled farther under the bed, a shriek came from Florence's television, accompanied by swelling waves of eerie music. Perhaps that was why I was thinking about the untidiness of life and death. The victim on the crime show flickering across the room was about to die. A very untidy ending, indeed.
"Turn that down, Florence!" Lady B snapped at her elderly sister-in-law.
"If I do that, I can't experience the drama." Florence's words were muddled minus her top plate in her mouth.
"We don't need more drama. You've provided quite enough.""Lady B, I think I see it," I said, forestalling an argument between the two. "Florencewas right. It landed in the corner."
"Good."
Another scream ripped through the room then gurgled to a stop. The music continued in a frenzy of violins that brought to mind spurting blood and tell-tale splatter on walls.
Lady B murmured something under her breath and stepped away from the bed. I heard the click of her low stacked heels on the hardwood floor. Then the clamor from the television abruptly ended.
"I declare, Belle," Florence said. "Body Count is one of my favorite shows. It's only on Wednesday mornings. Now I'll never know what happened."
"I'm sure the show is a repeat, and you've seen it at least once." Lady B's harsh words reverberated through the suddenly silent room.
"Well, I never," Florence said. "You're a little hostile today, aren't you? What's wrong? Did you fall out of the wrong side of the bed?"
"I'll refrain from answering, otherwise I'll say something I regret. . .something about throwing dentures and acting like a toddler, perhaps?" Lady B walked back across the length of the two rooms. The bed skirt billowed as she returned to her original position at the edge of the bed.
I’m eager to see what happens next. How can readers find you on the Internet?You can find my book here: An Untidy EndMy website:  www.candiceprentice.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCandicePrentice/
I really enjoy interacting with my readers and would love for people to visit me, make comments, and read my blog articles, now that I'm back and writing again.
Thank you, Candice, for sharing this new book with us.
Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the ebook. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING (A Bouquet of Brides Collection) - Pegg Thomas - One Free Print or Ebook, plus More

Dear Readers, this is a new author to this blog. I’m thrilled to introduce you to Pegg, and later in the year, we’ll have stories in the same novella collection Great Lakes Lighthouse Brides.
Welcome, Pegg. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. Quite a bit with this story. In Sheep’s Clothing in A Bouquet of Brides Collection is about a spinner and weaver who lives in Milford, Connecticut, in 1702. I’m a spinner and although I’m primarily a knitter, I have done some weaving too. There are also sheep in my story. I’ve been raising sheep since 1993. I chose Milfordto set the story in because I discovered the town while researching my family tree. My family has roots there in the 1700s.
What fun. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? Golly. How to judge which thing is quirkier than all the others?! I recently bought an antique spinning wheel. I’ve restored it to working condition and in my research have established that it is around 200 years old.
Cool. I love authentic antiques that work. When did you first discover that you were a writer?My grandma told me many, many years ago that I should write a book. This was back when a long-distance phone call wasn’t in the budget. I guess my letters were a bit … um … lengthy. It was always in the back of my mind to do it, but I didn’t get started in earnest until the dreaded empty nest, when I needed something to do.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. Historical fiction is my first love, hands down. I also read a lot of historical romance but I enjoy an occasional fantasy, a western or two, and I still enjoy an engaging biography.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? I refuse to run, run, run. I prefer to saunter through life. My husband and I are happy to scale back and keep things simple. Our idea of a good time is camping—preferably some place without wifi or cell phones. We live on a small hobby farm, growing much of what we eat. We’re not off the grid, but we could slide off pretty easily.
Sounds wonderful to me. How do you choose your characters’ names? I don’t have set formula for that, but since I write historical stories, I like to check the census for the closest year and place to where I set my story. I’ll pick a last name from there and look to see what first names were popular. Sometimes I just mix and match what I find in the census, sometimes I only use the last name.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? Being a wife and mother.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? Oh, probably a grizzly bear. I’d rather be at the top of the food chain.
What is your favorite food? Bread. Pretty much any type at all. So as you can rightly guess, I’m not a gluten-free gal.
People shouldn’t eat gluten-free unless they have a real physical problem with gluten. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? Fear of failure. I’m not sure I’ve totally overcome it yet. Writers conferences helped the most. Without attending those, I don’t think I would have achieved my goal of being traditionally published.
Tell us about the featured book. A Bouquet of Brides is a collection of seven historical romance stories with heroines who have a flower for their first name. My story, In Sheep’s Clothing, is the very last. It could be an alphabetical thing … but I like to think they just saved the best for last. My story is about a woman who has been jilted and left a spinster—in more ways than one—and a handsome young journeyman fuller who moves to town. Both have something to hide and both need to let it go, but it’s an orphan lamb that brings them together.
Sounds wonderful. Please give us the first page of the book. April 10, 1702—Milford, ConnecticutWith a final snip, another layer of guilt fell into Yarrow Fenn’s lap. It landed amid the soft folds of wool from her loom. This cloth was quite possibly the best she’d ever made. She ran her fingers over the loosely woven threads. Once finished at the fulling mill, it would make a splendid gown. But not for her. The guilt pressed against her chest, tightening her shoulders. The traveling peddler would buy this bolt of cloth when he arrived in a few weeks. He’d sell it in Boston—in direct conflict with the king’s law.
She cast a glance out the window, the sun already well above the horizon. Pushing aside the guilt, she folded her cloth into a flat bolt. After several futile attempts to tame her wayward hair under its linen cap, she pinned her straw hat over the top and slipped on her shawl before gathering the newly woven cloth into her arms.
Her room on the back of the saltbox-style house had its own entrance. She nudged the door shut behind her with her foot, then hurried around the front of the house. She was neither quick nor quiet enough.
“Where are you going?” Pennyroyal, Yarrow’s younger sister, stood in the front doorway with her hands on her eighteen-year-old hips, her belly straining against the pleats of her apron.
“’Tis the opening day of Tucker’s Fulling Mill.” That Penny could forget the main topic of conversation after church yesterday, the opening of the mill and the impending arrival of the new journeyman fuller, testified to her preoccupation with the coming babe.
“I had quite forgotten.” Penny pressed the back of her wrist to her forehead. “Hurry back. I feel poorly again today. You shall need to start supper.” She shut the door.
Pray the babe would come soon. Penny, ever the spoiled youngest of the three sisters, had bordered on tyrannical these past few weeks. But one must make allowances at a time like this. Yarrow shrugged and walked on.
Their house rested on the northern edge of Milford. Yarrow followed the road toward town. When she turned onto the main road, the steeply pitched roof of the new fulling mill on Beaver Creek was just visible. Excitement bubbled and eclipsed, for the moment, her guilt.  How can readers find you on the Internet?Facebook Twitter GoodreadsGoogle+PeggThomas.comAmazonColonialQuillsNovelPASTimes
Readers, Pegg has a special giveaway:To celebrate the release of In Sheep’s Clothing, I’m giving away one of my signature wool shawls. My shawls are made of wool from my sheep. I shear the sheep, wash, dye, card, spin, and knit them. They are 100% hand made in the U.S.A. To enter the drawing, simply sign up for my newsletter .
Thank you, Pegg, for sharing this new book with us. I’m eager to read it, and I know my readers are, too.
Readers, here are links to the book. -  Amazon paperback
A Bouquet of Brides Romance Collection: For Seven Bachelors, This Bouquet of Brides Means a Happily Ever After - Kindle[image error]

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book, your choice of either a print or ebook. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

MISSION: MEMORY RECALL - Virginia Vaughan - One Free Book

Welcome back, Virginia. Why do you write the kind of books you do? I’m a huge fan of true crime so romantic suspense suits me well. I get my happily-ever-after story along with a dose of danger.
Sounds good to me. Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life? I have two of them—the days my sons were born. They’re now 28 and 25 so I’m still waiting on what I know will be my next happiest day—grandbabies!
Oh, yeah. Those grandbaby days are marvelous. After my first one was born, I went home and wrote a children’s picture book about it. How has being published changed your life? My life has changed a lot since I got published. I’m doing what I love and what I’ve dreamed of for so long. I’ll admit, it was a jolt to discover that there are parts of this job I don’t like doing and days when I wish I was anything but a writer, but in the end, I’m telling stories for a living. What could be better than that?
What are you reading right now? I’m currently reading a true crime book by Ann Rule titled In the Still of the Night, and a book about overcoming Dyslexia which one of the nephews I’m currently raising has.
What is your current work in progress? I’m currently working on the second book in my new series for Love Inspired Suspense. The series is called Covert Operatives and the first book, Cold Case Cover-Up is due to release in August of 2018.
What would be your dream vacation? I haven’t done a lot of traveling in my life so just about any trip would be great, but I would love to travel to England.
How do you choose your settings for each book? In choosing settings, I try to stay as close to my home in Mississippi as possible. As I’ve stated, I haven’t done much traveling so southern culture is what I know. Therefore, I limit my settings to the Southeastern states like Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana. I’d love to expand that one day soon.
If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?Wow, that’s a difficult question. I would probably choose Robert Downey, Jr. mostly because I love to laugh and he’s one actor who always cracks me up. Also, he’s overcome drug addiction and I have that in my family.
What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading? I love going to the movies as well as listening to true crime podcasts. I’ve also recently discovered painting and doing crafts with my nephews. But my favorite thing is finding a new television series I adore and binge watching it from start to finish.
What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it? I usually hit a creative wall when I hit the 30,000 word mark. I’ve tried all sorts of things to overcome it but what I’ve found helps the best is simply reading. It gets my creative juices flowing like nothing else.
What advice would you give to a beginning author? My best advice for a beginning writer is to read in the genre in which you want to write. It’s the best way to get a feel for what publishers and readers want.
Good advice. Tell us about the featured book. Mission : Memory Recall is the sixth and final book in my Rangers Under Fire series with Love Inspired Suspense. CIA analyst Bethany Bryant has risked her career to prove her former love, soldier Marcus Allen, actually survived a military ambush—and betrayed his country. But when she finally tracks the rugged army ranger to a remote Texastown, Marcus doesn’t remember who he is…or why someone’s trying to kill him. With an assailant determined to silence them both for good, Bethany and Marcus must go on the run in the hope he’ll regain his memories. But will Bethany’s risky gambit to expose the truth clear his name and give them a future…or end their second chance at forever?
Please give us the first page of the book. CIA Analyst Bethany Bryant’s heart raced as she parked her rented SUV in a parking space in front of Milo’s Diner in Little Falls, Texas. Taking out her gun, she checked it then slid it back into the holster beneath her jacket. She hoped she wouldn’t have to use it, but she was ready in case she did. Her pulse was pounding with both excitement and angst.
She stared through the front windows of the diner and braced herself. For two years she’d been stalking a shadow across several countries and most recently to this sleepy little town. Social Security files showed employment activity at this diner on a false identity she’d been tracking as recently as two months ago. Now she was here and this place might finally hold the answers she’d been seeking for so long.
Bethanyclosed her eyes. She couldn’t handle any more disappointments, any more false hopes. Taking a deep breath, she stared ahead and couldn’t help wondering if her friend Dillon was right.
Yeah, we want to know, too. How can readers find you on the Internet? Readers can find me online through my website at http://virginiavaughanonline.com  or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ginvaughanbooks. Thank you so much for having me, Lena!
And thank you for sharing this new suspense book with us. I love reading romantic suspense. So do most of my blog readers.
Readers, here are links to the book.Mission: Memory Recall (Rangers Under Fire)[image error] - Paperback
Mission: Memory Recall (Rangers Under Fire) - Kindle[image error]

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

A FLUTE IN THE WILLOWS - Carole Brown - One Free Book

Welcome back, Carole. Tell us about your salvation experience.My parents accepted Christ right before I entered my teens, and I did soon afterwards. From then on, I was involved in church and activities pertaining to churchy events. I strayed some but always felt the desire to serve Christ, always felt the pull to return to the Shepherd’s fold. I had several plans for my life, but God had others, and I can see the hand of God on my life and how he led me to and in the paths he wanted me to journey upon.
You’re planning a writing retreat where you can only have four other authors. Who would they be and why?First, I would choose mostly authors who have great talent, but little recognition. I would decide whether to have a retreat of:·       readers where authors could share interesting information about their lives and books, where readers could ask questions and learn and where the writers could offer contests and fun events for readers to win books and gifts, like live scavenger hunts, etc. or...·       beginning writers could learn from more experienced ones who have so much to share but little opportunity to do so. Classes where the newbies could experience firsthand what published authors must learn and accept to reach publication. Assignments, creative writing activities to complete and many other things.·       The whole event would have to be relaxed and fun—except when classes would demand a certain tension in creating a real-life part of a published author's one.
Do you have a speaking ministry? If so, tell us about that.Speaking is not my first choice of activity, but it’s still a valuable part of a writer’s life, and I know some writers consider it so. I like to think it as a marketing tool for my writing. If it increases my visibility or possibly bring sales, then it’s what I want. I’ve spoken at writing classes including conferences and retreats on different topics.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you and how did you handle it?Since I'm probably the clumsiest female alive, I could give you several examples, like: falling over my own feet, forgetting I have the introductory part of a class, speaking when I really have no idea what I'm saying, making a joke that didn’t go over, etc.  But how to handle it?Laugh. Don’t let the embarassment conquer you. Laugh, and others laugh with you. Be distressed—and show it—and it not only makes you uncomfortable, but your friends too. Slow down, think before you speak, take notes and make lists for yourself, etc. as reminders. Move on. We are make mistakes. Some more than others. Don’t be defeated.
People are always telling me that they’d like to write a book someday. I’m sure they do to you, too. What would you tell someone who came up to you and said that?I never like to be negative or discouraging. Who knows but what I might be talking to the next millionaire best seller? But I also want them to realize what they’re getting into. If they’ll listen, I try to gently explain what all is necessary to get there. Wishing they could and being disciplined enough to do it are two different things. Here’s some things I would say:Take your time. Consider your decision and once you know you’re determined and strong enough to complete your mission, then move on.Study others’ books. What do you like? What style of writing impresses you/lures you to the book? Decide what genre interests you.Read a few writing books. Ask for suggestions on what to read. If you’re a little rough on grammar, etc., think about taking a class or two to bring you up to speed. Join some writing groups. Listen. Ask questions. Learn.Practice some shorter writing pieces. An article for a magazine? A blog post? Maybe enter a few writing contests. Whether you win or not is not as important as taking note of suggestions and critiques that will help you progress as a writer.Whether you feel you’re a pantster or outliner, do take time to jot down ideas, names, a few scenes, thoughts about what you might want to include in your book, and anything else that will help you get through.Begin, but remember, you’ll probably reach some rough patches where you’ll want to give up. That’s normal, but don’t! Talk to a writing buddy, take a break, think about where and how you reached this point and figure out how to get past it. Don’t give up. If you’ve reached this spot, you’ll probably make it! Keep going. You’ll love typing “The End.”
Tell us about the featured book. Both rebels in their own way, Josie and Jerry Patterson must figure out how to keep the other’s love ... and keep the German enemy at bay.
She has two loves—her skating and Jerry, her husband. But when he returns home looking like a skeleton trying to return to life, she’s scared. What happened in Germanyto change a man so much? Has another woman captured his heart?
Jerry has vowed to let Josie live her own glamourous life...especially after what happened in Germany. But when his wife’s life is threatened, Jerry realizes he can’t stand by and do nothing. Jerry has to risk all for the very soul and life of himself—Josie.
These two damaged, rebellious people learn the hard way that leaning on God instead of their ownselves and abilities is the only true way to love and happiness.
Please give us the first page of the book.1943Jerry Patterson stared out the yawning black hole in the side of the plane. Seconds to go before he dropped. Night time parachuting was always a risky thing, but the pilot was one of the best who’d keep this baby right on target, lessening the chances he’d have to hit water. Trees were another matter, but with any kind of luck, the landing would go smooth.
Then to meet his contact and move into the German military high life. His pulse revved up. It was a dangerous game he was about to play.
Josie’s face flashed in his mind, and Jerry felt his heart soften. How he loved his tomboy wife. She was a beautiful butterfly dancing on ice, but put her in a social setting, and she was like a wild creature let lose in a maiden aunt’s prim parlor.
Three weeks of marital bliss. It’d been heaven on earth for him. One rapturous day—and night—after another. She’d cried the night before he’d left, but had been strength personified when he’d boarded the train the next morning.
If—no, when—he got home, he’d wrap his arms around her and not let her out of his sight.
Jerry stepped into the hole and dropped rapidly, counting. One thousand...One thousand one...One thousand two... With a jerk he pulled, the parachute opened above him, and he drifted earthward toward his assignment.
How can readers find you on the Internet?Personal blog: http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaroleBrown.authorAmazon Author Page:  http://www.amazon.com/Carole-Brown/e/B00EZV4RFY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1427898838&sr=8-1Twitter:  https://twitter.com/browncarole212Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sunnywrtr/boards/Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brownLinkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=67381031Google+:    https://plus.google.com/u/0/113068871986311965415/postsStitches in Time:  http://stitchesthrutime.blogspot.com/Word Sharpeners:  https://wordsharpeners.wordpress.com/2017/04/14/what-easter-means-to-me/
Thank you, Carole, for introducing this book to me and my blog readers. I’m eager to read it.
Readers, here are links to the book.A Flute in the Willows (The Spies of World War II) (Volume 2)[image error] - Paperback
A Flute in the Willows (The Spies of World War II Book 2)[image error] - Kindle

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

SURGEON'S CHOICE - Richard L Mabry, MD - One Free Ebook

Dear Readers, with the coming of the new year, we have a new story from one of my favorite suspense authors. I know many of you have enjoyed his work as much as I do.
Welcome, Richard. How did you come up with the idea for this story?Like most of my novels and novellas, the impetus for this story was my asking, “What if?” In this case, I wondered how a surgeon would handle things if he suspected the father of his fiancé might be involved with drugs. Throw in a contentious relationship with a senior surgeon (of questionable character) and the result was a novella I think the reader will enjoy.
I’ve really been looking forward to it. If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why?This will be difficult, because I’m sure I’ll leave someone out. However, why don’t we start with Jim Rubart and Alton Gansky to make certain we explore non-traditional slants? Then Candace Calvert and Jordyn Redwood could introduce a medical aspect to our conversation. And, to help us if we decide to kill off a character or two, how about DiAnn Mills and Brandilyn Collins? See what kind of contemporary fiction I envision?
Yes, and I love their work, too. Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why?This is a tough assignment, because I don’t usually read historical fiction, but I know I’ll want Liz Curtis Higgs in order to tap her knowledge of Biblical times, as well as Lauraine Snelling to contribute information about sod houses and pioneer days. Then there’s Sarah Sundin to help answer our questions about World War II and I can’t forget our co-host, Lena Dooley, who has won awards for her fiction of the old West. Finally, how about Kim Vogel Sawyer, whose historical fiction has lots of devotees, and Francine Rivers, whose book, Redeeming Love, is the yardstick by which others are measured? That should give us a lively discussion.
I would really enjoy being included in that party. I love the books of all the others, and I have recommended Redeeming Love to men and women who need to understand how deeply God loves them. Many times, people (and other authors) think you have it made with so many books published. What is your most difficult problem with writing at this time in your career?Nothing in the writing process—ideas, writing, revising—comes easy. But the hardest thing doesn’t occur at the computer. Even though I’ve had eleven novels and four novellas published, because I’m a mid-list author (my work sells, but not at blockbuster pace), I still have to convince a publisher to partner with me. Since some authors, myself included, don’t have a “lifetime” relationship with a publisher, I’ve always found myself looking around to see who’d give me a contract next. I think that’s one benefit I’ve noted from “going indie” with my last few books.
I’m right there with you, Richard. Tell us about the featured book. My novella, Surgeon’s Choice , features a young surgeon engaged in a contentious relationship with an older doctor in town. Then he finds that there are some things he doesn’t know about the divorce of his fiancé’s parents.
Dr. Ben Merrick and his fiancé, Rachel Gardner, can’t get her divorced parents to stay in the same room, much less attend their wedding together.  He is also looking over his shoulder expecting more trouble from a very senior surgeon who has shown he is still smarting from a previous dust-up. Ben doesn’t know if a series of mishaps and accidents are caused by a disgruntled patient’s relatives or represent more from the older surgeon.
Then his prospective father-in-law approaches him, needing money for reasons about which Ben isn’t sure. Rachel has an idea about the cause behind the request, but she doesn’t want to accept it. Then, when the deaths begin, Ben and Rachel begin to wonder if they can escape unscathed…and alive.
Please give us the first page of the book.In the emergency room, Dr. Ben Merrick worked feverishly over the middle-aged Caucasian male. He glanced up briefly at the anesthesiologist. “Got him intubated yet?”
Dr. Rick Hinshaw answered from his position at the patient’s head. “Just got the tube in and hooked him up to positive pressure.” The rhythmic chuff of the machine pumping oxygenated air into the patient’s lungs underscored the statement. “Now I’m about to put in a second IV with a large bore needle.”
“Blood status?” Ben asked.
“A cross-match is going for six units,” the head emergency room nurse said.
Dr. Carl Rosser, the ER doctor, looked at Ben. “What would you like to do until that’s ready?”
Ben’s gaze never strayed from the man on the gurney. “More O negative blood.”
Dr. Rosser gave the order to a nurse. Then he took a penlight from the breast pocket of his white coat and shined it into the man’s eyes. He ran his gloved fingers over the patient’s bloody skull. “I’m pretty sure he has a depressed skull fracture, and it looks like his pupil’s blown on that side.”
Ben spared a moment to glance at the patient. “We need a neurosurgeon stat. See if you can get one here ASAP.”
With a nod, another nurse turned from the group gathered around the gurney and headed for the phone.
Ben turned back to his work and put his stethoscope on the patient’s abdomen, then percussed the area with his fingers. “He’s most likely got free air under the diaphragm. I’ll need a film to confirm it, but that can wait. A ruptured bowel is probably the least of his problems.”
For maybe an hour, possibly more, the doctors and the nurses assisting them worked to save the man’s life. But at last a sad look painted Ben’s countenance. He shook his head and looked at the two other doctors gathered around the gurney—first at Rosser, then at Hinshaw. They grudgingly nodded their agreement with the decision everyone had worked so hard to prevent. “That’s it,” Ben said. “He’s gone.”
Ben’s shirt was plastered to his body with sweat. He felt weak. He held out his hands and saw the fine tremor there,
the effect of adrenaline pouring into his body. He took a deep breath and tried to shut down for a moment, but his mind wouldn’t leave the problem. Had he done all he could? Was there something more?
And then, as he’d done countless nights in the months since Lawton Harrison died in the ER, Ben awoke suddenly from the nightmare. Sometimes he screamed, sometimes not. This time his dream ended in a silence that was somehow more terrible than any noise he could utter.
Good opening with a hook ending. How can readers find you on the Internet?I blog twice a week—Tuesdays and Fridays. I’m also active on Facebook and Twitter. I have a Goodreads page, although I don’t visit it very often. And people can always email me at Dr R L Mabry at gmail dot com (I’ve used this format to avoid web crawlers).
Thank you, Richard, for sharing this new book with us. I’m eager to read it.
Readers, here’s a link to the book.Surgeon’s Choice[image error]

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

IN SEARCH OF SHILOH - Patricia Clark Blake - One Free Ebook

Welcome, Patricia. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.I think all writers put themselves into their characters to some degree. I, like Laurel, am a teacher, I wear glasses, and grew up in rural Arkansas. Other parts of her personality are borrowed from friends’ lives, imagined incidents, and character studies from my background in counseling. When I look carefully at Laurel, I see pieces of at least four people in my life that go into making her the complex person she is. She is much more interesting because she has all these pieces in her. At the same time, I see at least one part of Mac that is most definitely me. He’d have been a much more sympathetic character, perhaps, if I’d noticed it earlier and written that part of me out of his personality. That flaw becomes more noticeable in later volumes of the saga.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?I boiled a dozen eggs in a microwave oven one Christmas morning when I received the appliance as a gift. That was pretty stupid! Needless to say, they didn’t work very well to make deviled eggs for Christmas dinner.
When did you first discover that you were a writer?I am still surprised by it every day. When I think of my profession, I think of myself as a teacher. I feel so totally blessed and awed when people compliment me on my book. I guess I have been writing a good part of my life as a part of my work as an English teacher, but I never tried to write anything to share with others until I retired. In Search of Shiloh is the first thing I have published. I wanted to tell a story that showed my state in a positive light, and I’m overwhelmed with the reception it has received. Am I a writer? I think that may be up to my reader to decide.
Arkansas was my home state. We moved away when I was twenty. Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.I read historical fiction, Arkansas history, Christian inspirational books, and books to help me prepare Sunday school lessons and Bible study classes when I teach those. I especially enjoy Francine Rivers, Janette Okes, Margaret Mitchell, Joyce Meyer, Max Lucado, Andy Stanley, John Jakes, Irving Stone, and even William Faulkner, but I avoid his books when I have a headache because of his convoluted sentences.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?Priorities on what is important are a must if we are to make time to write (and edit). Faith and family have to come first. I volunteer at my church, I lead water wellness at the local gym twice a week, and I make time for my wonderful family. I look after my eighty-nine-year-old mother, and communicate nearly daily with my beautiful daughter, and as often I am able with my grandchildren, a college sophomore and a high school junior. Then I try to do something with my writing every day—either work on my platform or edit or write.
How do you choose your characters’ names?Names come from lots of places in my writing. Some of them are from my genealogy. I have been a root digger for more than twenty-five years and at times I come across a name that has a significant story attached or becomes meaningful to me for some reason. I also find names in census records for particular regions. I think that helps to keep the story authentic. I use the name of historical characters when they are pertinent to the story, but my primary characters are fiction. I chose the names of MacLayne and Campbell because those two names represent the ethnic groups that were prominent in settling early Arkansas, both the Irish and the Scotch. My heritage is also predominantly Scotch-Irish.
Laurelwas chosen because the name is synonymous with honor and victory. Grace will become Laurel’s source of strength as she goes through the trials of her life. Patrick means noble. I should have paid more attention because it is also the masculine version of my own name, but I didn’t think about that when I named my protagonist.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? I am very proud of my book In Search of Shiloh , but it is a small accomplishment compared with the wonderful daughter I raised as a single parent and the forty years I spent as an educator in the Arkansas public schools. I also have a fantastic granddaughter and a fine grandson, but I can only take partial credit for them.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?Would it not be glorious to be an eagle? Imagine what it would be like to view the world as you soared hundreds of feet above God’s beautiful creation. I can only imagine the views available to eagles with their keen vision and gift of flight not granted to us humans. A second honor would be to represent our great nation. That would certainly be a source of great pride. One drawback would be living in the South in hunting season! Every year, overly zealous hunters mistake eagles for game birds, and we lose some of these magnificent birds.
What is your favorite food?  Believe it or not … I love fried rabbit, especially the back legs, and banana pudding. I truly believe it is the food served in heaven. Both have to be made by my mother though. I’m really picky when it comes to the custard in my pudding.
Several times in our married life, we raised rabbits to eat. I love rabbit, too. I haven’t had any in a long time, but I want some. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?The original manuscript of ‘Til Shiloh Come, the first handwritten draft of the story was 685,000 words. Being a novice writer, I had no idea that was a bit long for a story. The first publisher I talked to about my story laughed at me and told me no one would consider my book because they couldn’t guarantee the pages would stay in the binding. He later went on to give me some more helpful advice and told me that I needed to break the long manuscript into readable parts. So, I have spent nearly a year breaking my long story into four novels, the first of which is In Search of Shiloh . The roadblocks have come in the form of having to develop new opening chapters for the novels and making sure they can stand alone as independent stories. I have spent hours reworking the original manuscript to meet these new standards, but I think I have finally finished the second volume. The Dream of Shiloh, the second in the series, will be finished on Valentine’s Day.
It’s good that you took the advice. I have a dear friend who has written a very long book like that. I and others, including an editor or two, have urged her to make it a series. But here we are way over a decade later, and the book is still too long and unmarketable. Tell us about the featured book. In 1857, the new state of Arkansas is seven years younger than Laurel Campbell. Single at the ripe old age of twenty-eight, both Laurel and the people of Hawthorn consider her the local spinster. When Laurel’s father announces he’s arranged a marriage for her, Laurel’s world transforms overnight.
Suddenly, she’s Laurel MacLayne, wife of homesteader Patrick MacLayne. Proud and headstrong, Laurelresents being married off but has little say in the matter.
As for Patrick, a painful past keeps him from getting too close to his new bride. He’s a good man, though, so when he asks Laurel to step out into the world with him in faith, she agrees. She may not love him, but she at least can give him her respect and support. Whether or not that’s enough to build a marriage on will be decided on the road to Shiloh.
They spend the next four weeks traveling across three hundred miles of wilderness Arkansas going from Laurel’s Washingtoncounty home to Mac’s homestead in Greene County. They cross military roads, barely hinted at paths, lazy trickling creeks, and rolling rivers, both on ferries and in their wagon. They find shelter under a wagon bed and in the homes of new Christian friends along the way. They see the riches, the glory, diversity, and beauty the Lord has blessed their chosen state with and find hope. In their travels, they meet promise and problems, and at the end of their journey, they know the promise is theirs for the taking. If they are willing to work hard, keep the vows they made, and trust, the dream of Shiloh is within their reach. They have found Shiloh lies within the shadow of Crowley’s Ridge.
Please give us the first page of the book.And we know all things work together for good to them that love the Lord, to them who ae called according to His purpose.
 “Laurel, I wanna talk to you. Darlin’, leave the dishes and come set with me a spell.” Mark Campbell pointed to the chair near his bed.            With a confused look on her face, Laurel looked across the room to the nook on the other side of the hearth where her father lay. Mark Campbell was not given to endearments, nor had he ever asked her to leave morning chores to sit with him. “Papa, are you hurtin’ this mornin’?”            “No more’n usual. Come over here and set yerself down, like I asked.”            Even at such an early hour, Laurel saw the weariness in her father’s eyes. He was mortally ill, and she knew his main concern was what would become of her when he was no longer around. Laurelsat in her Granny Wilson’s chair, brushed her fingertips across his cheeks, and breathed a sigh of relief that she felt no fever.            “Daughter, my time’s short. This blame cough’s gittin’ worse ever day, and my strength’s all but gone. Don’t mind so much for me…” Her father glanced up at the pen and ink drawing of her beautiful mother, which hung over the mantle. “Spendin’ eternity with your mama in paradise ain’t exactly a scary thought.” A severe bought of coughing interrupted his remarks. Laurel handed him a handkerchief and turned her head. She knew the cloth would be stained with blood. He’d often told her that he hated this weakness. He closed his eyes and took a couple of sharp breaths.            “Rest now, Papa. We’ll talk more after your nap. Just sleep a while.”            “No.” Laurel’s father’s sharp reply suggested a renewed strength Laurelhadn’t seen in days. “We gotta talk. Gotta tell you the plans I made for ya.” Again, a hacking cough stopped him.
I’m eager to hear those plans, too. How can readers find you on the Internet?I have an author’s page on Facebook at Patricia Clark Blake.http://www.patriciaclarkblake.comMy blog: https://patriciaclarkblake.com/the-shiloh-saga/
Thank you, Patricia, for sharing this book with us. As a native Arkansan, I’ll love reading it.
Readers, here are links to the book.In Search of Shiloh: A Journey Home Through Arkansas (The Shiloh Saga) (Volume 1)[image error] - paperback
In Search of Shiloh: A Journey Home Through Arkansas (The Shiloh Saga Book 1) - Kindle[image error]

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Happy New Year - 2018 - TODAY - A Special Message from Lena Nelson Dooley

Here we are on the first day of 2018. 

I saw this meme on Facebook yesterday, and I wanted to share it with you:

One of my best friends is a missionary who lives in the Rio Grande Valley, near the southern tip of Texas. We've been friends for over 40 years. We've been through a lot of life events together and shared family prayers and praises.
Several years ago, we started asking God for a word for the next year before the end of the last one. We started discussing it in a phone call on October 2017. I had participated in an author/reader event the day before the American Christian Fiction Writers Conference in September. The event was CRAVE HIM! It was a very special time of worship, interviews, getting acquainted times, games, food, fun, and books. 
As I talked to her about it, she said, "Lena, maybe Crave Him should be your word for 2018. Your voice comes alive when you are talking about that."
I thought about it and decided it might be a good ideas. But I'm always open to hearing the word straight from God.
In late November and December, we had two or three sermons at our church that spoke another word to me.
Today!
You might be asking, what does that mean as it relates to a word for the year?
What brought it on was when someone near and dear to me chose to do something that hurt me. Now this person didn't do it to hurt me, but this person should have realized that it might.
I don't know if you've experienced anything like this, but I figure most everyone has. The problem with something like this is that the Enemy of Our Souls will jump right in immediately and start reminding us of everything that person ever did that hurt us.
Those remembrances start playing through our minds like recordings whispering in our ears."Remember when ______ did this? And remember when ______ did this ..." and on ... and on. All of the things happened, but that person didn't really do any of it to hurt you.
God began to tell me to let go of things in the past. They were done and gone ... and I had forgiven the person already for everything from the past.
At the same time, there was something that will happen sometime in the future that has been a long time coming. When I have a personal promise from God, I always want it now, not on His timetable (which is always the PERFECT time). 
Yes, God wants us to cling to His personal promises to us, but He doesn't want us to try to make them happen in our own strength.
One of the things that spoke so loudly in my spirit about the word TOPDAY was a part of a sermon Max Lucado preached at our church. I contacted his ministry to see if I could use it on my blog. So with his permission, I'm using a passage from his book. 
 MEDITATION
Today, I will live today.Yesterday has passed.Tomorrow is not yet.I'm left with today.So, today, I will live today.Relive yesterday? NO.I will learn from it.I will seek mercy for it.I will take joy in it.But I won't live in it.The sun has set on yesterday.The sun has yet to rise on tomorrow.Worry about tomorrow? To what gain?It deserves a glance, nothing more.I can't change tomorrow until tomorrow.Today, I will live today.I will face today's challenges with today's strengths.I will dance today's waltz with today's music.I will celebrate today's opportunities with today's hope.TodayAnxious for Nothing copyright 2017, Max Lucado.

So I will thank God for what He is doing in my life today, and I pray His special blessings for you every day of 2018. All of you are so precious to me.