Lena Nelson Dooley's Blog, page 112
December 7, 2017
SEEDS OF HOPE - Barbara Cameron - One Free Book
Bio: Barbara Cameron loves writing stories about the Amish and is the author of four series including the new Harvest of Hope series for Gilead Publishing. Her books have appeared on Christian bestseller lists and been adapted into three HBO-Cinemax movies. Barbara loves visiting friends in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the setting for her Amish books.
Welcome back, Barbara. How did you come up with the idea for this story? I was thinking of the farm where my mom and her eight siblings grew up. The youngest son inherited the farm. I got to wondering what would happen if an Amish man got older and his son had left the community and he had no one to pass the farm down except for his very Englisch grandson . . .
If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why? Ramona Richards, Barbara Scott, Debby Mayne, Cindy Woodsmall, Kathleen Fuller, and the late, very dear Sandie Bricker. I miss Sandie so much. She had such wit and wisdom and above all, loved God so much.
A very good group. I miss Sandie, too. Loved her so much. Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why? I’m afraid my list would be shorter because I tend to read contemporary more than historical. But it would include you, Lena, because you were one of the first I read in this genre. Then Loree Lough and Suzanne Woods Fisher.
Thank you. I’d love to spend time with you, Loree, and Suzanne. 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? Some author once said you are only as good as your most recent book. So every book has to not only be good but I think better than your last. My most difficult problem right now is keeping myself from going back over the previous day’s work and getting bogged down in editing. I do best when I go straight through to the end and then revise. So I make lots of notes for the second (and third…) draft.
Tell us about the featured book. From the back cover blurb: Miriam Troyer has had a secret crush on Mark Byler since they were teenagers. She knows they can never have a relationship:
Mark is a big-city attorney—an Englischer —and Miriam loves her quiet way of life in her Amish community. But when Mark unexpectedly shows up in Paradise, Pennsylvania, Miriam realizes it’s going to get a lot harder to hide her feelings. Even though Mark always loved visiting his grandfather’s farm as a boy, he’s convinced the Amish life is not for him. But when he suddenly finds himself out of a job and without direction, Mark heads back to the farm just in time to help with the harvest. Coming for a visit and coming to stay, however, are two very different things. Everything changes when Mark sees that Miriam, the girl he remembers from his youth, has grown into the kind of faith-filled woman he wants in his future. Could life in this simple world be right for Mark after all? Has Miriam finally found her happily ever after? True love sprouts from seeds of hope. They live in completely different worlds. Can love bring them together?
Please give us the first page of the book. Miriam guided the horse-drawn buggy into the lane that led to John Byler’s home. She was lost in the beauty of the scene that unfolded before her. Wind ruffled the tall grasses about to be cut into hay. Livestock grazed in a pasture. The farmhouse itself was a rambling white wooden home that had been added on to by generations of Bylers as the family grew. The old house was the embodiment of Amish peace and tranquility.
John Byler sat on his front porch, his gray head bent as he wrote in a notebook.
How John loved writing letters, she thought fondly. She hated to interrupt him but when he glanced up and smiled at her she could tell he didn’t regard her dropping by as an unwelcome interruption.
And it wasn’t just because he knew she brought him some baked goods. He had become a good friend, someone who listened and encouraged and offered wise counsel. They were a generation apart but age had never made a difference in their friendship.
She waved her hand at him, called for him to stay where he was but he was already up and making his way to her. He was limping more than usual today. It had rained earlier and she knew his arthritis always acted up worse then. It had become more and more of a problem the last year or so. Still, he was determined to keep going each day and take care of his farm. “If you stop doing, you’ll stop being,” he’d say when she worried about him.
“It’s gut to see you, Miriam.”
“You, too, John.”
He reached for the handle of the basket in her hands.
“I’m not some frail maedel,” she told him. “I can carry this. I put it in the buggy.”
They had their usual tug-of-war which he won like always.
He grinned and laugh lines crinkled around his eyes, the color of faded denim. “We should help each other, shouldn’t we?”
“Ya,” said with a sigh and a smile. His gentle charm and courtesy reminded her of her grossdaadi who had passed years ago.
Both qualities had seemed to be lacking in the men she’d dated.
He set the basket on a small wooden table on the porch and waved a hand at one of the rocking chairs flanking it. “Do you have time to visit a bit?”
Now it was her turn to grin. “And when, I ask you, don’t I have time to visit with you? So, how was your day?”
“Gut.” He gestured at the pad of paper and pen on the table. “Just sitting here writing my grosssohn.”
She didn’t need to ask which one. John had only one. Only one sohn as well. Most Amish families had many kinner and thanked God for them. John had never complained that he hadn’t had a larger family with his fraa, long dead now. But he reveled in the times his grosssohn visited.
How can readers find you on the Internet? Just look me up as Barbara Cameron OR Barbara Cameron Reader Page
Thank you, Barbara, for sharing this new book with use. It sounds really interesting. Because of my own book deadlines, I’m not reading as much fiction as I usually do. This is in my to-be-read-soon pile. And I know my blog readers will love it, too.
Readers, here are links to the book. - Amazon paperback
Seeds of Hope (Harvest of Hope Book 1) - 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
Welcome back, Barbara. How did you come up with the idea for this story? I was thinking of the farm where my mom and her eight siblings grew up. The youngest son inherited the farm. I got to wondering what would happen if an Amish man got older and his son had left the community and he had no one to pass the farm down except for his very Englisch grandson . . . If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why? Ramona Richards, Barbara Scott, Debby Mayne, Cindy Woodsmall, Kathleen Fuller, and the late, very dear Sandie Bricker. I miss Sandie so much. She had such wit and wisdom and above all, loved God so much.
A very good group. I miss Sandie, too. Loved her so much. Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why? I’m afraid my list would be shorter because I tend to read contemporary more than historical. But it would include you, Lena, because you were one of the first I read in this genre. Then Loree Lough and Suzanne Woods Fisher.
Thank you. I’d love to spend time with you, Loree, and Suzanne. 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? Some author once said you are only as good as your most recent book. So every book has to not only be good but I think better than your last. My most difficult problem right now is keeping myself from going back over the previous day’s work and getting bogged down in editing. I do best when I go straight through to the end and then revise. So I make lots of notes for the second (and third…) draft.
Tell us about the featured book. From the back cover blurb: Miriam Troyer has had a secret crush on Mark Byler since they were teenagers. She knows they can never have a relationship:
Mark is a big-city attorney—an Englischer —and Miriam loves her quiet way of life in her Amish community. But when Mark unexpectedly shows up in Paradise, Pennsylvania, Miriam realizes it’s going to get a lot harder to hide her feelings. Even though Mark always loved visiting his grandfather’s farm as a boy, he’s convinced the Amish life is not for him. But when he suddenly finds himself out of a job and without direction, Mark heads back to the farm just in time to help with the harvest. Coming for a visit and coming to stay, however, are two very different things. Everything changes when Mark sees that Miriam, the girl he remembers from his youth, has grown into the kind of faith-filled woman he wants in his future. Could life in this simple world be right for Mark after all? Has Miriam finally found her happily ever after? True love sprouts from seeds of hope. They live in completely different worlds. Can love bring them together?Please give us the first page of the book. Miriam guided the horse-drawn buggy into the lane that led to John Byler’s home. She was lost in the beauty of the scene that unfolded before her. Wind ruffled the tall grasses about to be cut into hay. Livestock grazed in a pasture. The farmhouse itself was a rambling white wooden home that had been added on to by generations of Bylers as the family grew. The old house was the embodiment of Amish peace and tranquility.
John Byler sat on his front porch, his gray head bent as he wrote in a notebook.
How John loved writing letters, she thought fondly. She hated to interrupt him but when he glanced up and smiled at her she could tell he didn’t regard her dropping by as an unwelcome interruption.
And it wasn’t just because he knew she brought him some baked goods. He had become a good friend, someone who listened and encouraged and offered wise counsel. They were a generation apart but age had never made a difference in their friendship.
She waved her hand at him, called for him to stay where he was but he was already up and making his way to her. He was limping more than usual today. It had rained earlier and she knew his arthritis always acted up worse then. It had become more and more of a problem the last year or so. Still, he was determined to keep going each day and take care of his farm. “If you stop doing, you’ll stop being,” he’d say when she worried about him.
“It’s gut to see you, Miriam.”
“You, too, John.”
He reached for the handle of the basket in her hands.
“I’m not some frail maedel,” she told him. “I can carry this. I put it in the buggy.”
They had their usual tug-of-war which he won like always.
He grinned and laugh lines crinkled around his eyes, the color of faded denim. “We should help each other, shouldn’t we?”
“Ya,” said with a sigh and a smile. His gentle charm and courtesy reminded her of her grossdaadi who had passed years ago.
Both qualities had seemed to be lacking in the men she’d dated.
He set the basket on a small wooden table on the porch and waved a hand at one of the rocking chairs flanking it. “Do you have time to visit a bit?”
Now it was her turn to grin. “And when, I ask you, don’t I have time to visit with you? So, how was your day?”
“Gut.” He gestured at the pad of paper and pen on the table. “Just sitting here writing my grosssohn.”
She didn’t need to ask which one. John had only one. Only one sohn as well. Most Amish families had many kinner and thanked God for them. John had never complained that he hadn’t had a larger family with his fraa, long dead now. But he reveled in the times his grosssohn visited.
How can readers find you on the Internet? Just look me up as Barbara Cameron OR Barbara Cameron Reader Page
Thank you, Barbara, for sharing this new book with use. It sounds really interesting. Because of my own book deadlines, I’m not reading as much fiction as I usually do. This is in my to-be-read-soon pile. And I know my blog readers will love it, too.
Readers, here are links to the book. - Amazon paperback
Seeds of Hope (Harvest of Hope Book 1) - 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
December 6, 2017
CHRISTMAS AT GREY SAGE - Phyllis Clark Nichols - One Free Book
Dear Readers, Christmas at Grey Sage was the first Christmas book I read this year. I really liked it—relatable, authentic characters and heart-warming storyline. You don’t want to miss this one.
Bio: Phyllis Clark Nichols believes everyone could use a little more hope and light. Her character-driven Southern fiction explores profound human questions from within the simple lives of small town communities you just know you’ve visited before. With a love for nature, art, faith and ordinary people, she tells redemptive tales of loss and recovery, estrangement and connection, longing and fulfillment, often through surprisingly serendipitous events. Phyllis grew up in the deep shade of magnolia trees in South Georgia. Now she lives in the Texas Hill Country with her portrait-artist husband, where red birds and axis deer are her ever-ravenous neighbors. She is an English major and classically-trained musician, seminary graduate, concert artist, and co-founder of a national cable network for the health and disability-related programming. After retiring as a cable network executive, Phyllis began leading mission teams to orphanages in Guatemalaand now serves on three non-profit boards where she works with others who are equally passionate about bringing hope and light to those who need it most.
Welcome, Phyllis. I’ve been on a mission trip to Guatemala. I love the people there. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. I suppose there is a bit of me in most of my major characters. Because I’m from the South, the Southern culture that is mine seeps into my characters. Music, art, good food, and a healthy faith seem to be important to a many of my major characters because those things are important to me. And honestly, I think I deal with some of my own personal flaws, issues, and hurts by writing them into my characters.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? I have a very strong “should and ought” system, and quirky doesn’t fit into that often. However, the story that my husband likes to tell on me is about the day we went to Houston to interview former President George H.W. Bush. Our cable network was filming this interview about his role in the Americans With Disabilities Act. My assignment was to give President Bush the gift we brought for him and former First Lady, Barbara Bush. Our production crew was ready, the Secret Service had checked us all out, and they called for the President. He entered the room, shook my husband’s hand and, looked around to acknowledge the crew, and sat down. He rubbed his hands together and said, “Let’s get started.” Now remember, I had an assignment which I took very seriously. So, I stepped out from behind the production crew, and said, “Wait, just a minute, Sir.” In about three seconds, I was surrounded by Secret Service men as I stood there with a beautifully-wrapped gift box. The President was most gracious about it, laughed, and then sent for an autographed bookplate to go in the copy of Barbara Bush’s autobiography I had with me. My husband gently reminded me later, “You don’t tell the President of the United States to wait.” But I did.
When did you first discover that you were a writer? Honestly, I can’t remember not writing and inhaling books. But the day I walked into the home of Mr. Thomas C. Chubb to interview him, I knew I wanted to be a writer. Mr. Chubb was a Dante scholar and lived on his plantation just south of my hometown. I was a senior in high school writing a paper, “A Comparative Study of Dante’s Inferno to Aeneas’s Descent into Hell in the Sixth Book of the Aeneid.” But when I spent time with Mr. Chubb in his library, I knew and began to verbalize that writing and books would always be my happy place. And especially after the written review he gave my paper, I just thought I actually could be a writer.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. With fiction, I prefer character-driven stories and gravitate toward those writers who write clean fiction and tell powerful stories through their multi-dimensional characters. A sense of place is always so important to me. In non-fiction, I enjoy books written by writers who are attempting to create paradigm shifts—especially in healthcare and studies about the brain and human personality. I keep a hymn book near for the pure poetry, and I read my Bible and some devotional material every morning.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? I just don’t run, run, run anymore. I sold the big house, down-sized by getting rid of “stuff” that tethered me, and I moved to the hills, literally. Life is quiet and peaceful here, and the view through my window on the world reminds me I should be thinking of eternal things. That’s not so easily done living in the city. I’m committed to my purpose in this season of my life, and that makes it a bit easier to say “no” to things that don’t help me do that.
How do you choose your characters’ names? Sometimes the character reveals the name. Other times, the character reminds me of someone in my life experience, and I use that name. And honestly, I just query on websites with names-baby names, surnames, names associated with certain ethnicities. I also do name studies to find the meaning of certain names, especially those of major characters. I just know when the name is right.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? This was a very thought-provoking question and caused me to reflect on my spiritual life, my family life, and my professional life. There are several things of which I am proud, and many more of which I’m not, but there came a memory to me very quickly, so I’m going with it. Three years ago, I opened my computer one Sunday morning early to find an email from a former student from around thirty-five years ago. He had been searching for me and was inquiring if I was the one who had been his teacher. I remembered him well and immediately responded. Now a man in his mid-forties, he just wanted me to know that I had made a difference in his life, that I had made him feel he was worthy and could accomplish something with his life. He just wanted to say thank you. That started a wonderful email exchange that we have continued. I don’t have words for the way that made me feel. That was an accomplishment of which I’m proud – that I encouraged someone else and something I said made a difference in someone’s life.
I have experienced that joy. Actually, something like that is happening right now in my life. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? Oh, I think I’d like to be a bird. I have the great desire to fly, and I love to sing. And who doesn’t like birds?
What is your favorite food? I’m from the South, and you ask me my favorite food? I would have to say whatever I’m eating at the time. However, I do love sweet potatoes any way you prepare them and fried chicken (although I allow myself to eat it twice a year) and anything green. If I could only have one food for the rest of my life, it would be sweet potatoes. I probably know eighteen ways to prepare them, and they’re all good. I must tell you this—I do know my way around the kitchen, and all my family and friends enjoy putting their feet under my table.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? Making time. For years, I desired to write a book because I had a story to tell, but I was hard at work in the business world. There was no time. Even after I retired, it seemed my life was crowded with activity, good activity and service. But over a period of a few months of really pondering and praying, I realized that I was nearly sixty, and I began to ask myself how many more good years I might have. Nothing like dealing with your own mortality to clarify your thinking and clear your calendar for those things that should be priority. Writing is my priority and why I get up every day.
Tell us about the featured book? CHRISTMAS AT GREY SAGE
Nestled in the snow-covered Sangre de Cristo Mountains near Santa Fe, the Grey Sage Inn is the perfect place for Lily’s Unlikely Christmas Party to spend a couple of days on their Christmas trip. There’s plenty to see in historic Santa Fe during the day, and the inn’s owners, Maude and Silas, are happy to spend their evenings hosting this year’s guests from across the country.
But an unusual snowstorm throws a wrench in the plans of these folks who were escaping Christmas at home. The sprawling inn becomes close quarters as the innkeepers and stranded guests discover this won’t be the Christmas they expected. Tension and fear mount as the storm worsens, and Silas, a retired doctor, is called away in the middle of the night to care for a neighbor. The snow and stress unlock tongues—and in the unexpected conversation that follows, secrets and pasts are revealed, and hearts are healed.
Amidst snowdrifts and fireside conversations of days gone by, the warmth of this Christmas brings renewed hope as these trapped strangers become friends—proof again that the joy, hope, peace, and love of Christmas can be experienced no matter where you are.
How can readers find you on the Internet? Readers can find me on my website where I blog and post regularly: www.phyllisclarknichols.comAlso on Twitter @phylliscnicholsAnd my Facebook author page: Phyllis Clark Nichols
Thank you, Phyllis, for sharing this book with my readers and me.
Readers, here are links to the book. - Amazon paperback
Christmas at Grey Sage - 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
Bio: Phyllis Clark Nichols believes everyone could use a little more hope and light. Her character-driven Southern fiction explores profound human questions from within the simple lives of small town communities you just know you’ve visited before. With a love for nature, art, faith and ordinary people, she tells redemptive tales of loss and recovery, estrangement and connection, longing and fulfillment, often through surprisingly serendipitous events. Phyllis grew up in the deep shade of magnolia trees in South Georgia. Now she lives in the Texas Hill Country with her portrait-artist husband, where red birds and axis deer are her ever-ravenous neighbors. She is an English major and classically-trained musician, seminary graduate, concert artist, and co-founder of a national cable network for the health and disability-related programming. After retiring as a cable network executive, Phyllis began leading mission teams to orphanages in Guatemalaand now serves on three non-profit boards where she works with others who are equally passionate about bringing hope and light to those who need it most.
Welcome, Phyllis. I’ve been on a mission trip to Guatemala. I love the people there. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. I suppose there is a bit of me in most of my major characters. Because I’m from the South, the Southern culture that is mine seeps into my characters. Music, art, good food, and a healthy faith seem to be important to a many of my major characters because those things are important to me. And honestly, I think I deal with some of my own personal flaws, issues, and hurts by writing them into my characters.What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? I have a very strong “should and ought” system, and quirky doesn’t fit into that often. However, the story that my husband likes to tell on me is about the day we went to Houston to interview former President George H.W. Bush. Our cable network was filming this interview about his role in the Americans With Disabilities Act. My assignment was to give President Bush the gift we brought for him and former First Lady, Barbara Bush. Our production crew was ready, the Secret Service had checked us all out, and they called for the President. He entered the room, shook my husband’s hand and, looked around to acknowledge the crew, and sat down. He rubbed his hands together and said, “Let’s get started.” Now remember, I had an assignment which I took very seriously. So, I stepped out from behind the production crew, and said, “Wait, just a minute, Sir.” In about three seconds, I was surrounded by Secret Service men as I stood there with a beautifully-wrapped gift box. The President was most gracious about it, laughed, and then sent for an autographed bookplate to go in the copy of Barbara Bush’s autobiography I had with me. My husband gently reminded me later, “You don’t tell the President of the United States to wait.” But I did.
When did you first discover that you were a writer? Honestly, I can’t remember not writing and inhaling books. But the day I walked into the home of Mr. Thomas C. Chubb to interview him, I knew I wanted to be a writer. Mr. Chubb was a Dante scholar and lived on his plantation just south of my hometown. I was a senior in high school writing a paper, “A Comparative Study of Dante’s Inferno to Aeneas’s Descent into Hell in the Sixth Book of the Aeneid.” But when I spent time with Mr. Chubb in his library, I knew and began to verbalize that writing and books would always be my happy place. And especially after the written review he gave my paper, I just thought I actually could be a writer.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. With fiction, I prefer character-driven stories and gravitate toward those writers who write clean fiction and tell powerful stories through their multi-dimensional characters. A sense of place is always so important to me. In non-fiction, I enjoy books written by writers who are attempting to create paradigm shifts—especially in healthcare and studies about the brain and human personality. I keep a hymn book near for the pure poetry, and I read my Bible and some devotional material every morning.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? I just don’t run, run, run anymore. I sold the big house, down-sized by getting rid of “stuff” that tethered me, and I moved to the hills, literally. Life is quiet and peaceful here, and the view through my window on the world reminds me I should be thinking of eternal things. That’s not so easily done living in the city. I’m committed to my purpose in this season of my life, and that makes it a bit easier to say “no” to things that don’t help me do that.
How do you choose your characters’ names? Sometimes the character reveals the name. Other times, the character reminds me of someone in my life experience, and I use that name. And honestly, I just query on websites with names-baby names, surnames, names associated with certain ethnicities. I also do name studies to find the meaning of certain names, especially those of major characters. I just know when the name is right.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? This was a very thought-provoking question and caused me to reflect on my spiritual life, my family life, and my professional life. There are several things of which I am proud, and many more of which I’m not, but there came a memory to me very quickly, so I’m going with it. Three years ago, I opened my computer one Sunday morning early to find an email from a former student from around thirty-five years ago. He had been searching for me and was inquiring if I was the one who had been his teacher. I remembered him well and immediately responded. Now a man in his mid-forties, he just wanted me to know that I had made a difference in his life, that I had made him feel he was worthy and could accomplish something with his life. He just wanted to say thank you. That started a wonderful email exchange that we have continued. I don’t have words for the way that made me feel. That was an accomplishment of which I’m proud – that I encouraged someone else and something I said made a difference in someone’s life.
I have experienced that joy. Actually, something like that is happening right now in my life. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? Oh, I think I’d like to be a bird. I have the great desire to fly, and I love to sing. And who doesn’t like birds?
What is your favorite food? I’m from the South, and you ask me my favorite food? I would have to say whatever I’m eating at the time. However, I do love sweet potatoes any way you prepare them and fried chicken (although I allow myself to eat it twice a year) and anything green. If I could only have one food for the rest of my life, it would be sweet potatoes. I probably know eighteen ways to prepare them, and they’re all good. I must tell you this—I do know my way around the kitchen, and all my family and friends enjoy putting their feet under my table.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? Making time. For years, I desired to write a book because I had a story to tell, but I was hard at work in the business world. There was no time. Even after I retired, it seemed my life was crowded with activity, good activity and service. But over a period of a few months of really pondering and praying, I realized that I was nearly sixty, and I began to ask myself how many more good years I might have. Nothing like dealing with your own mortality to clarify your thinking and clear your calendar for those things that should be priority. Writing is my priority and why I get up every day.
Tell us about the featured book? CHRISTMAS AT GREY SAGE
Nestled in the snow-covered Sangre de Cristo Mountains near Santa Fe, the Grey Sage Inn is the perfect place for Lily’s Unlikely Christmas Party to spend a couple of days on their Christmas trip. There’s plenty to see in historic Santa Fe during the day, and the inn’s owners, Maude and Silas, are happy to spend their evenings hosting this year’s guests from across the country.But an unusual snowstorm throws a wrench in the plans of these folks who were escaping Christmas at home. The sprawling inn becomes close quarters as the innkeepers and stranded guests discover this won’t be the Christmas they expected. Tension and fear mount as the storm worsens, and Silas, a retired doctor, is called away in the middle of the night to care for a neighbor. The snow and stress unlock tongues—and in the unexpected conversation that follows, secrets and pasts are revealed, and hearts are healed.
Amidst snowdrifts and fireside conversations of days gone by, the warmth of this Christmas brings renewed hope as these trapped strangers become friends—proof again that the joy, hope, peace, and love of Christmas can be experienced no matter where you are.
How can readers find you on the Internet? Readers can find me on my website where I blog and post regularly: www.phyllisclarknichols.comAlso on Twitter @phylliscnicholsAnd my Facebook author page: Phyllis Clark Nichols
Thank you, Phyllis, for sharing this book with my readers and me.
Readers, here are links to the book. - Amazon paperback
Christmas at Grey Sage - 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
December 5, 2017
RENEGADES - Thomas Locke - One Free Book
Bio: Thomas Locke is a pseudonym for Davis Bunn, an award-winning novelist with worldwide sales of seven million copies in twenty-two languages. Davis divides his time between Oxford and Florida and holds a lifelong passion for speculative stories. He is the author of Recruits, as well as Emissaryand Merchant of Alyss in the Legends of the Realm series and Fault Lines, Trial Run, and Flash Point in the Fault Lines series. Learn more at www.tlocke.com .About the book:Twins Sean and Dillon are using their transit abilities for good—but not everyone sees it that way. Arrested and imprisoned by a clandestine group within the highest reaches of the Human Assembly, Sean and Dillon are forced to choose sides between those who wish to serve and those who seek to rule.
At the same time within a distant outpost, a young soldier is coming into his own. Logan has known since childhood that he possesses a special gift—he can detect others who have the ability to transit, or ghost-walk. Though ghost-walking has been outlawed for centuries, Loganis secretly drawing together a crew for a risky quest.
The fates of these three young men will lead them, along with the entire Assembly, to the brink of destruction in this inventive tale of adventure, honor, and the things worth fighting for.
Welcome back, Thomas. Can you please tell us about Renegades?Their prize awaits in the parallel world.
For ten years and counting, Sean and Dillon Kirrell have survived the mayhem of a self-destructive homelife through living a dream. Their bedroom is wallpapered with hand-drawn images of a long, circular train station. Glass trains glide through translucent tunnels, connecting this hub to a world they cannot name, but are certain exists. The travelers move along conveyor belts that curve over walls and ceilings, held in place by a system they have named modulated gravity. This is no dream. This is no fabricated scenario. For a decade and a week and a day, they have known the place is out there. Waiting to welcome them to their real home. But unseen forces aim to thwart their plans, and then redirect their newly-honed powers to destroy a planetary government. By absorbing the lessons and going beyond, Sean and Dillon forge an ambition to be of service to the inter-planetary system. Suddenly it's no longer about being the best. It's about the survival of their ever-expanding community.
Pass or fail. Are you in?
Who is the primary audience for your book?Readers of syfy adventure
We understand Renegades is second in a new series. Have you received any reviews of this series that you would like to share with us? “Locke's newest novel has everything that readers love. Both intelligent and fast-paced, Recruits draws readers in quickly and holds their attention throughout. . .This is definitely a must-read!” RT (4 ½ stars, Top Pick)
“A must-read for science fiction fans! There is something here for everyone.” Compass Book Ratings
“Wow! This story is a remarkable feat, combining adroit storytelling with a delicious mixture of the now and the fantastic. Bunn's writing shows a wonderfully fluid grace. The story brings to mind the poignant beauty of Arthur C Clark's best novels, as well as such modern works as Avatar.” Phyllis Tickle, Senior Editor, Publishers Weekly
What are you working on next? The film version of Emissary , another Locke title.
How exciting! How can readers connect with you? www.TLocke.com
Thank you, Thomas, for sharing this new book with us. Just the descriptions of the book grabbed me. I know they will grab my readers, too.
Readers, here are links to the book. - Amazon paperback
Renegades (Recruits)[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
December 4, 2017
RETURN TO BELLA TERRA - MaryAnn Diorio - One Free Book
Welcome back, MaryAnn. Tell us about your salvation experience.I grew up in the Catholic Church. I considered myself a very devout Catholic, but I was growing increasingly dissatisfied with what, to me, was a lifeless local church. Things started really troubling me when one day, I left church feeling worse than when I entered. This should not be.
I was in my early twenties at the time. I began to cry out to God, saying, “God, there has to be more to You than this!”
Shortly, thereafter, two of my sisters were born again. Frankly, I thought they had gone off the deep end and had lost their Catholic faith. But I could not help but notice the deep peace they had, a peace that had not been a part of their personalities growing up. Although I did not pay much attention to their change since I was involved with a new job, I did file their new attitude in the back of my mind.
It so happened that a fellow teacher in my school system was looking for someone to share apartment expenses. I agreed and later discovered she was a Christian. One weekend, she invited me to attend a gathering sponsored by Campus Crusade for Christ at a local Ivy League university. Not having anything better to do, I agreed to go.
When I arrived, a young woman named Margo approached me. The look in her eyes was something I had never seen in a human being before. Today I know it was the love of Christ in her.
Margo asked me if I had ever accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord. Her question jolted me and frightened me, since it smacked of Protestantism, and I had been taught to stay away from anything Protestant since only Catholics had the truth and only Catholics would go to Heaven.
So, as politely as I could, I said to Margo, “Thank you. I respect what you believe, but I am Catholic, and this is not for me.”
Although she explained that her message was for Catholics, too, I was too frightened to proceed. So I thanked her, and we went our separate ways. The look of love in Margo’s eyes went with me.
Shortly thereafter, I met my husband, we married, and moved to the Midwest where he was in a medical residency. I enrolled in a nearby university and began work toward my PhD.
My life was happy. I had a wonderful husband. We had a beautiful apartment. I was doing what I loved. According to the world’s standards, I “had it all.” But I was empty inside.
One night, while my husband was at work, I turned on the TV. As I flipped through the channels, I noticed that Billy Graham was giving a Crusade. Since there was no other program in which I was interested, I kept the channel on Billy Graham. I had always admired Mr. Graham, despite the fact that he was not Catholic.
As Billy Graham began to speak, he looked straight at me. He said, “You may have everything life has to offer, but you feel empty inside.”
To say that his words astounded me would be an under-statement. I was stunned that he had read my heart and read it so accurately. How did he know? He was talking directly to me.
I began to listen very intently. By the end of the program, I had fallen to my knees and accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord. A deep peace engulfed me and settled in my spirit. When I got up, I knew that something had happened on the inside of me and that I was a different person. A new creation in Christ. Praise His Holy Name!
In His graciousness, our Lord connected me with the wife of another medical resident in my husband’s program. She was a Christian and took me under her wing and began to disciple me. Thus it was that I began my walk with Jesus.
Thank you, MaryAnn, for sharing that very personal, but wonderful, testimony. I pray that hearts will be touched when they read this blog.
Now you’re planning a writing retreat where you can only have four other authors. Who would they be and why?
Francine Rivers—I deeply appreciate Ms. Rivers’ gift of probing the depths of the human heart through fiction. I would love to ask her specific questions about her relationship with Christ that, undoubtedly, reveals itself in her writing.
Frank Peretti—Over the years, I have admired Mr. Peretti’s courage in addressing the Christian supernatural in his stories. I would like to discuss with him the ways in which Holy Spirit has hovered over his writing in implicitly conveying the message of the Gospel. Susan May Warren—Susan is an expert in putting together the elements of a story. I have studied with her and have greatly benefitted from her teaching. I would like to spend more time asking her questions about Story.
James Rubart—In my opinion, James Rubart is the second-generation Frank Peretti. I very much appreciate the controversial topics Mr. Rubart addresses in his novels. His stories take the reader into higher dimensions of God’s Presence, places where, I believe, the Lord wants to take His children. I would ask Mr. Rubart about his novel-writing process that is, obviously, intimately in tune with Holy Spirit.
I so agree with all your choices. I love all of their books, and I’ve met and visited with Francine, Susan, and James. Do you have a speaking ministry? If so, tell us about that.
I used to have a traveling speaking ministry but I discontinued it due to family health issues. I do, however, speak and teach via podcasts, telephone, and the Internet.
What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you and how did you handle it?
My childhood family was very poor and our very modest home reflected the poverty. When I turned thirteen, my precious mother gave me a surprise birthday party—a great financial sacrifice on her part. Sad to say, I felt embarrassed that my friends came to my home and saw in what poor conditions I lived. But they were most gracious and didn’t even notice. We had a wonderful time that day! I never said anything to my wonderful Mom except “Thank you so very much for doing this for me!” I would have never wanted to hurt her feelings. Bottom line, I had a pride problem. Embarrassment is rooted in pride. Needless to say, I duly repented.
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?Just do it! Stop talking about it and start writing. There is no such thing as the perfect moment. If you wait for the perfect moment, you will never write your book. This applies to anything you want to do in life.
But a word of caution here: Make sure that your heart motive is right. Why do you want to write a book? For God’s glory or your own? The only reason to write a book is that God has told you to write one. Make sure that God is directing you to write a book. If He has not called you to write a book, then you are wasting your time. Scripture says this: “Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it” (Psalm 127: 1).
So get God’s mind on it. If He wants you to write a book, then you must write it or else you will be disobeying Him. And that is not a good thing!
Tell us about the featured book.Return to Bella Terra is the third book in The Italian Chronicles Trilogy. It focuses on the story of Nico Tonetta, only a child in Book One, but now a grown man in search of his birth father. It is a compelling story of the deeply emotional challenges facing one who is estranged from a parent in whatever way and reflects the awesome love of the Father for His adopted children.
Please give us the first page of the book.Brooklyn, New York, January 1906 “Dear Maria, you must come quickly! Mama is dying!” Maria Landro’s heart lurched as she leaned forward in the straight-backed chair and grabbed the edge of the kitchen table. Her head spun. Had Mama already died? Outside the balcony door window, the only window in the tiny tenement house flat, a steady snow fell thick and fast. The new year had begun with a fury. And so had Maria’s afternoon. Her throat tightened. Would she ever see Mama again? With trembling hands and tear-filled eyes, she read the letter from her younger sister Cristina. It was dated December 20, 1905. Three weeks earlier. By now, Mama might be dead. Guilt washed over her. When she’d left Sicily eight years earlier, she’d promised Mama she would come back for a visit. A promise never kept. Not for lack of desire, but for lack of money. A lump formed in Maria’s throat. No one had told her and Luca that life in America would be difficult. Discouraging. At times, deeply depressing. The claims of streets of gold had proven false. Instead, they’d discovered streets of gravel. The claims of beautiful houses had turned into crowded, roach-infested tenement houses that often bred violence as well as disease. And the claims of well-paying jobs had turned into long hours of hard labor that barely allowed them to make ends meet. Worst of all, no one had warned them of the deeply felt hatred and prejudice against Italians, particularly Italians from Sicily. No one had warned them of the condescending ethnic slurs, the continual threats on their lives, the horrendous lynchings, and the vicious discrimination in the workplace, particularly against Italian women. No one had warned them of a brutal life that, so often, had made her want to return to Sicily and to Bella Terra, the beautiful hillside farm where she’d grown up. And the home in which Mama still lived and now lay dying. Hot tears spilled from Maria’s eyes onto the letter, smudging the ink. She must leave immediately. It would take about sixteen long days, if not longer, to cross the Atlantic Ocean back to Sicily. She had no time to spare. But what to do first? Luca would not be home from his job on the railroad for two more days. He’d been forced to take the position laying rail for a new stretch of the Pennsylvania Railroad shortly after his release from prison. Should she wait for him to return before booking passage on the next ship? If she did, she would run the risk of a departure delay of several days. Ship manifests filled up quickly. How can readers find you on the Internet?I would love to interact with readers at the following venues:Website: www.maryanndiorio.com
Email: drmaryann@maryanndiorio.comBlog (Matters of the Heart): http://www.networkedblogs.com/blog/maryanndiorioblog
Amazon Author Central: http://www.amazon.com/author/maryanndiorio
Authors Den: http://www.authorsden.com/maryanndiorioBookBub.com: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/maryann-diorio
Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/DrMaryAnnDiorio
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/DrMaryAnnDiorio
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6592603
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=45380421
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/drmaryanndiorio/
Google+: http://plus.google.com/u/0/+DrMaryAnnDiorio
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmaryanndiorio/
LibraryThing: http://www.librarything.com/profile/drmaryanndiorio Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/user46487508
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/drmaryanndiorio/
Thank you, MaryAnn, for sharing this series, and especially this book, with us today. I must confess that I waited to read the first book until this one came out. I knew when I started reading them, I’d want to have the next one and the next one to read immediately.
Readers, here are links to the book.Return to Bella Terra: Book 3 of The Italian Chronicles Trilogy (Volume 3)[image error] - Amazon paperback
Return to Bella Terra: Book 3 of The Italian Chronicles Trilogy (The Italian Chronicles) - 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
December 3, 2017
WINNERS!!!
Emma (PA) is the winner of
The Gift of Christmas Past
by Cindy and Erin Woodsmall.
Bonnie (MN) is the winner of A Christmas Measure of Love by Linda Brooks Davis.
Anne (VA) is the winner of A Christmas Masquerade by Cynthia Hickey.
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.
Bonnie (MN) is the winner of A Christmas Measure of Love by Linda Brooks Davis.
Anne (VA) is the winner of A Christmas Masquerade by Cynthia Hickey.
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.
December 2, 2017
THE GIFT - Shelley Shepard Gray - One Free Book
Welcome back, Shelley. Tell us a little about yourself and your background.There are three things that probably describe me best- I met my husband when I was 17 and we’ve been married almost 30 years. I have two grown children who I don’t see often enough, and I really like dogs…especially dachshunds. How did you become interested in writing? I actually started writing while I was teaching sixth grade. I started writing for fun. I never, ever thought I would be published. I’m still surprised that other people besides myself like my books. What compelled you to write a book on this subject? Ever since I spent a weekend in Hart County, Kentucky, and toured Horse Cave(both the cave and the town) I knew I wanted to have a book where my characters spent a good portion of the book inside the cave. I loved incorporating that experience with Christmas in THE GIFT. (I promise, it really does all make sense.) What is the main theme or point that you want readers to understand from reading your book? Are there any other themes present in the book?
The Gift
refers to unexpected people who come into a person’s life. Some are so special, they become like treasured gifts. I also loved the idea of looking for a glimpse of the Lord’s light during our darkest times. Are there some specific lessons you hope readers will learn and apply to their lives after reading your book?My main goal when I write every book is for the reader to find that reading it was time well spent. Beyond that, I suppose a big part of the novel is that all of us are more than we might seem at first glance.
What makes your book different than any other books similar to yours that are in circulation today?There are a lot of very fine Amish authors in my genre. I’m delighted to be part of this group! I think the most unusual thing about THE GIFT is that it is an Amish Romantic Suspense book set at Christmas. How does the book intertwine with God’s call on your life and how you are currently serving Him?I serve God by sharing His love with others. I think this novel does that, too. Do you have a favorite Scripture verse? I like the verse that guided me through the writing of this novel. It’s from 2 Corinthians: We walk by faith, not by sight. When you are not writing, what do you like to do? Do you have any hobbies? Last year, I decided that I needed to do more things for myself, so I started taking Pilates classes. I now take two classes a week, which has made me much stronger. I also love to take our dogs on walks. My husband and I love to travel, and are always planning another trip. My all-time favorite thing to do is bake. I really do bake too much. As we close, is there anything else you would like to add?I’ll be hosting a Girlfriend Getaway with author Amy Clipston in June of 2018! It’s up in Sugarcreek, Ohio, and about 8 other authors will be joining us! Please visit my website or Facebook page for more information. I’d love for your followers to consider joining us!
It sounds like fun! WheThank you, Shelley, for sharing this book with us. An Amish romantic Suspense book sounds interesting, and I love Christmas books. I know my blog readers do, too.
Readers, here are links to the book.The Gift: The Amish of Hart County[image error] - Amazon paperback
The Gift: The Amish of Hart County[image error] - Kindle
The Gift: The Amish of Hart County - Audiobook[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
December 1, 2017
TEXAS CHRISTMAS DEFENDER (Texas Rangers Holiday Series) - Elizabeth Goddard - One Free Book
Bio: Elizabeth Goddard is the bestselling, award-winning author of more than thirty romance novels and counting, including the romantic mystery, THE CAMERA NEVER LIES—a 2011 Carol Award winner. Four of her six Mountain Cove books have been contest finalists. Buried, Backfire and Deception are finalists in the Daphne Du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery and Suspense, and Submerged is a Carol Award finalist. A 7th generation Texan, Elizabeth graduated from North Texas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and worked in high-level software sales for several years before retiring to home school her children and fulfill her dreams of writing full time.
Welcome back, Elizabeth. Tell us a little about yourself and your background.I have a computer science degree and worked in high-level software sales, traveling the country, but eventually I resigned to stay home and home school my four children. After so many years working in the professional world it was hard to let go of “work” so I turned to an old dream—writing. How did you become interested in writing? I think I answered part of this question already, but writing professionally had always been a dream. I was always a writer “on the inside,” but it wasn’t until I quit my corporate America job that I had the opportunity to pursue publication. What compelled you to write a book on this subject? Ha! Funny question—my editor compelled me. I was invited to participate in the Texas Rangers Holidays continuity series. I’m a seventh generation Texan, and this is my first book set in my home state.
I know what that feels like. For years, I wrote what my publisher wanted. That first Texas book was special. What is the main theme or point that you want readers to understand from reading your book? Are there any other themes present in the book? Theme in my books are usually spiritual, even though the books are romantic suspense. The themes revolve around trusting God and forgiveness. Are there some specific lessons you hope readers will learn and apply to their lives after reading your book?My books are generally meant to be an escape from reality, but I do include small nuggets of encouragement or spiritual wisdom and readers will take away from that what they need. I often receive reader email or letters regarding some hidden message or spiritual theme that was just what they needed to hear. What makes your book different from any other books similar to yours that are in circulation today?Me. What else? The only difference in books is the writer’s voice.
Tell us about the book.Targeted at Christmas
After earning the wrath of her brother, a notorious drug kingpin, Adriana Garcia has been in deep hiding on a remote Texas llama ranch. But when Texas Ranger Brent McCord manages to find her—leading her brother’s men right to her—Adriana discovers she’s a suspect in the murder of a border patrol agent. The handsome, principled ranger, whose life she once saved during a dangerous sting operation, intends to bring her in for questioning…and protection. To prove her innocence, Adriana has to trust Brent with the truth, her heart and her life. Because her brother and his henchman have the ranch surrounded, and Brent’s all that’s keeping this Christmas from turning deadly. How does the book intertwine with God’s call on your life and how you are currently serving Him?
I’m writing because I answered God’s call to write 17 years ago. I’m serving Him by fulfilling His purpose for me, His calling, in writing.
Do you have a favorite Scripture verse? That can change every day. But I love Isaiah 49:16. I’ll paragraph it here. I’ve written your name on the palms of my hands—your walls are continually before me. God deeply loves us! When you are not writing, what do you like to do? Do you have any hobbies?When am I not writing? Ha! I don’t spend a lot of time on hobbies, but I do enjoy knitting, going to malls, reading—I definitely read for enjoyment every day. I love watching movies, baking bread, and nature hikes. As we close, is there anything else you would like to add?Thank you for having me!
My pleasure, Beth. Where can my readers find you on the Internet?Amazon Author Page (https://www.amazon.com/Elizabeth-Goddard/e/B001R1VRI0/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1507554651&sr=8-2-entWebsite: http://Elizabethgoddard.comFacebook: http://Facebook.com/elizabethgoddardauthorBookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/elizabeth-goddardTwitter handle: @bethgoddard
Thank you, Beth, for letting me share this book with my blog readers. You know I love every book you write. And I miss seeing you.
Readers, here are links to the book. - Amazon paperback
Texas Christmas Defender (Texas Ranger Holidays) - 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
Welcome back, Elizabeth. Tell us a little about yourself and your background.I have a computer science degree and worked in high-level software sales, traveling the country, but eventually I resigned to stay home and home school my four children. After so many years working in the professional world it was hard to let go of “work” so I turned to an old dream—writing. How did you become interested in writing? I think I answered part of this question already, but writing professionally had always been a dream. I was always a writer “on the inside,” but it wasn’t until I quit my corporate America job that I had the opportunity to pursue publication. What compelled you to write a book on this subject? Ha! Funny question—my editor compelled me. I was invited to participate in the Texas Rangers Holidays continuity series. I’m a seventh generation Texan, and this is my first book set in my home state.I know what that feels like. For years, I wrote what my publisher wanted. That first Texas book was special. What is the main theme or point that you want readers to understand from reading your book? Are there any other themes present in the book? Theme in my books are usually spiritual, even though the books are romantic suspense. The themes revolve around trusting God and forgiveness. Are there some specific lessons you hope readers will learn and apply to their lives after reading your book?My books are generally meant to be an escape from reality, but I do include small nuggets of encouragement or spiritual wisdom and readers will take away from that what they need. I often receive reader email or letters regarding some hidden message or spiritual theme that was just what they needed to hear. What makes your book different from any other books similar to yours that are in circulation today?Me. What else? The only difference in books is the writer’s voice.
Tell us about the book.Targeted at ChristmasAfter earning the wrath of her brother, a notorious drug kingpin, Adriana Garcia has been in deep hiding on a remote Texas llama ranch. But when Texas Ranger Brent McCord manages to find her—leading her brother’s men right to her—Adriana discovers she’s a suspect in the murder of a border patrol agent. The handsome, principled ranger, whose life she once saved during a dangerous sting operation, intends to bring her in for questioning…and protection. To prove her innocence, Adriana has to trust Brent with the truth, her heart and her life. Because her brother and his henchman have the ranch surrounded, and Brent’s all that’s keeping this Christmas from turning deadly. How does the book intertwine with God’s call on your life and how you are currently serving Him?
I’m writing because I answered God’s call to write 17 years ago. I’m serving Him by fulfilling His purpose for me, His calling, in writing.
Do you have a favorite Scripture verse? That can change every day. But I love Isaiah 49:16. I’ll paragraph it here. I’ve written your name on the palms of my hands—your walls are continually before me. God deeply loves us! When you are not writing, what do you like to do? Do you have any hobbies?When am I not writing? Ha! I don’t spend a lot of time on hobbies, but I do enjoy knitting, going to malls, reading—I definitely read for enjoyment every day. I love watching movies, baking bread, and nature hikes. As we close, is there anything else you would like to add?Thank you for having me!
My pleasure, Beth. Where can my readers find you on the Internet?Amazon Author Page (https://www.amazon.com/Elizabeth-Goddard/e/B001R1VRI0/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1507554651&sr=8-2-entWebsite: http://Elizabethgoddard.comFacebook: http://Facebook.com/elizabethgoddardauthorBookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/elizabeth-goddardTwitter handle: @bethgoddard
Thank you, Beth, for letting me share this book with my blog readers. You know I love every book you write. And I miss seeing you.
Readers, here are links to the book. - Amazon paperback
Texas Christmas Defender (Texas Ranger Holidays) - 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.
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November 30, 2017
DEADLY PROOF - Rachel Dylan - One Free Book
Welcome, Rachel. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. Since I write legal suspense and I’m a lawyer, I think I bring a lot of myself and my life experiences into my books.What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? I’ve accidentally worn two different pairs of shoes to work LOL.
When did you first discover that you were a writer? At a very young age I was writing stories and poems. Then after I had been a lawyer for a couple of years, I decided to write my first novel.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. I love reading suspense and romantic suspense. I also really enjoy nonfiction on a wide range of topics.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? I take it one day at a time. That’s the only way I can handle everything that I have going on in my life.
How do you choose your characters’ names? Sometimes I have a specific name in mind. Other times I search and look at name lists and think about different combinations and how that name works with other characters I have planned.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? In the writing context, I’m super excited about my current series with Bethany House. It’s a dream to be writing for such a wonderful publisher.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? I love animals so much! I’m an introvert by nature and independent, so I’d probably be a catJ
What is your favorite food? Pizza or anything with cheese and carbs.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? My biggest problem is having enough time. It’s a constant struggle, but I take one deadline and task at a time.
Tell us about the featured book.
Deadly Proof
is book 1 in the Atlanta Justice series. The series features women attorneys who take on high stakes and dangerous cases. Please give us the first page of the book.You can’t call that a settlement offer.” Kate Sullivan looked directly into the dark eyes of her opposing counsel, who represented a medical device company. Jerry had just made partner and thought he could play hardball, but she wasn’t going to let him get the upper hand. “You and I both know that amount will never cut it. Come back to me when you have a number I can work with.” She closed her laptop and shoved it in her bag.
“C’mon, Kate. Fifty grand is a good starting point,” Jerry said.
“We’re done here. Call me when you’re actually ready to negotiate.” She stood up and walked out of the conference room before Jerry could say anything else.
He wasn’t taking her client’s claims seriously, so she wasn’t going to waste any more time playing games. He’d come to his senses soon enough. This case shouldn’t go to trial, and he knew it.
Making the quick drive from downtown to Midtown Atlanta, weaving through the usual traffic, she parked in her reserved spot in the garage under a tall office building. The large office tower was home of the world-class plaintiff’s firm Warren McGee.
How can readers find you on the Internet? I love connecting with readers. Here is where you can find me. Website: www.racheldylan.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/racheldylanauthorTwitter: @dylan_rachel
Thank you, Rachel, for sharing this book with us. I love legal suspense novels.
Readers, here are links to the book. - Amazon paperback
Deadly Proof (Atlanta Justice Book 1)[image error] - Kindle
Deadly Proof - Audiobook[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
November 29, 2017
SAVING PARKER - Dan Walsh - One Free Book
Bio: Dan Walsh is the bestselling author of 19 novels including The Unfinished Gift, The Reunion and When Night Comes. He has won 3 Carol Awards (a finalist 6 times), 3 Selah Awards, and 4 of his books have been finalists for Romantic Times Review’s Inspirational Book of the Year. A member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and Word Weavers International, Dan writes fulltime in the Daytona Beacharea. He and his wife Cindi have been married 41 years, have 2 children, both married, and 3 grandchildren (more coming).James and I have three great-grands, with another on the way. It’s exciting to see your family’s later generations. I know you speak at various conferences and meetings. What do you have coming up in 2018?A few things are being discussed, but the only thing confirmed at this point is the Florida Christian Writer’s Conference in late Feb (the one headed up by Eva Marie Everson). I’ll be there the whole day on Saturday teaching a 2-part Continuing Ed series on Indie Publishing, as well doing several coaching/mentoring appointments.
Do you read print books or ebooks? Or a combination of the two?Before 2 years ago, I only read print books. I still love them best, but I’ve found that I mainly read ebooks now (mostly Kindle). My wife got me to switch. The prices are often way better, but the real reason is being able to make the print as large as I need (so I don’t have to use glasses). And I like not having to read with a lamp on in bed.
Saving Parker an interesting title. How did you come up with it?Since Saving Parker is Book 3 in my Forever Home series, I was looking for a way to make all the titles similar in style. And since each of the books features a shelter dog as a main character, I decided to use the dog’s name in each book’s title. Although the books are fiction stories, I borrowed material from my wife, who worked for 5 years as the Animal Behavior Manager at our local Humane Society (she’s also a certified dog trainer). Each of the dog names are actual dogs she’s worked with at some point (though the stories aren’t exactly the same).
Rescuing Finley, Finding Riley, and Saving Parker. Even with that, you wouldn’t believe the number of emails I’ve received by people asking, “Before I buy this, does the dog die at the end? I hate it when the dog dies.”
Another aim of mine was to let readers know—right there in the title—that the dogs in the books don’t die at the end. So, it’s I know how readers are about killing pets in stories, so I expected some negative feedback when a pet was killed by accident in one of my books. The event was so pivotal to the story, I never got a negative comment or review. So what is Saving Parker about?Maybe the easiest thing would be to include the back cover blurb:
After years of abuse and neglect, Parker is found chained in a junk-filled backyard after a drug bust. The little guy’s terrified of people. Officer Ned Barringer brings him to a nearby shelter for medical care. When Ned learns how hard it is for dogs like Parker to get adopted, he must do more. He’s also instantly taken with Kim Harper, one of the shelter managers. She offers to train Parker for free. Ned instantly accepts. That same day, he meets his next-door neighbor, a ten-year-old boy named Russell. Russell is hiding a black eye, compliments of two bullies at school. This angers Ned. He suffered the same fate as a child. It’s the main reason he became a cop. But what can he do? When a near-death tragedy occurs, what role might Parker play in bringing these three lives together?
Some of the hashtags I’m using for the book are #DogLovers #BlueLivesMatter #Bullying #TheDogLives and #CleanRomance
Please give us the first page of the book.Here it is:What was going on? All this yelling and banging. Strangers running across the yard. Cars making loud noises and lights flashing. Parker ran and hid as far back in the shed as he could. It was a dark crawlspace under a roof made of rusty sheet metal perched above a wall of old tires. He wanted no part of whatever was happening out there. He curled up in a tight ball and lay there, trembling.
Not all his tension came from the strange goings-on. Some came from restraining himself from doing the one thing he wanted to do most. To bark at the top of his lungs at these invaders who’d come onto their property. Four men all dressed alike. What were they doing here? They had no right. As soon as they’d arrived, he could tell they weren’t here on friendly terms.
But Parker didn't bark. He didn’t dare make a sound.
His mouth still stung from a kick he’d gotten that morning. The Man hated it whenever Parker barked. Felt like The Man hated everything Parker did. There was no pleasing him, no matter how hard Parker tried. Barking was clearly the worst thing. But how could Parker stop doing something so essential to his main purpose? He existed to serve and protect…this property…this owner. Even if the effort was unappreciated. The need to bark came from deep within, beyond his reach.
Another loud bang. More yelling.
“Come out, Alfredo. Do it, now. Hands over your head where we can see them."
How can readers find you on the Internet?Probably the easiest way for readers to connect with me is to go to my homepage at www.danwalshbooks.com. There you’ll find buttons for Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads. They can also sign up to get my Newsletter. I don’t send many out, but I always let my Newsletter friends get the latest updates on new books or great book deals. Readers can also email me at dwalsh@danwalshbooks.com. It may take me a little while, but I read and respond to each one myself.
Thank you, Dan, for sharing this new book with me and my blog readers. They really like to know about new books.
Readers, here are links to the book.Saving Parker (A Forever Home Novel) (Volume 3)[image error] - Paperback
Saving Parker (A Forever Home Novel Book 3) - 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
November 28, 2017
VANISHING POINT - Lisa Harris - One Free Book
Bio: Lisa Harris is a bestselling author, a Christy Award winner, and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2011 and 2015 from Romantic Times for her novels Blood Covenant and Vendetta. The author of more than thirty books, including Vendetta, Missing, Pursued, and the Southern Crimes series, Harris and her family have spent fourteen years living as missionaries in southern Africa. Learn more at www.lisaharriswrites.com.Ada, Mich.—Bestselling and award-winning author Lisa Harris unveils an unforgettable story of a case that has haunted the public and law enforcement for more than a decade.
During Garrett Addison’s first week on the job as a criminal investigator for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, his team is called out to a murder scene of a young girl. She’s just one in a string of disappearances with a single thing in common—a Polaroid photo of each victim left behind at the crime scene.
The FBI is pulled into the case to help, and Garrett finds himself working with Special Agent Jordan Lambert, the woman he once loved. When yet another girl dies, Garrett blames himself and believes he doesn’t have what it takes to be an agent. What he’ll discover is that, while he may be done with the killer, the killer is not done with him—or Jordan.
Fans of the Nikki Boyd Files will thrill to finally discover what actually happened to Nikki’s sister, Sarah. New readers will become instant fans after devouring this chilling tale.
Welcome back, Lisa. Can you please tell us about your new book? Garrett Addison’s first case as a criminal investigator for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is the murder of a young girl, which is quickly tied to a string of disappearances and a possible serial killer. Special Agent Jordan Lambert, a woman Garrett once loved, joins the case, but another girl is killed and they are unable to find the elusive killer. With a string of murders now spanning over a decade, the case will push those involved to their limits as they search for the truth. Readers who enjoyed the Nikki Boyd Files will be happy to see several appearances of Nikki in the book, from before she became involved in law enforcement to the final showdown and revelation of what happened to her sister, as well as her and Tyler Grant’s relationship.
How did you come up with the plot for Vanishing Point? After writing the Nikki Boyd series, my publisher asked that I write a fourth book that would tie up the series—in particular the story line of what happened to Nikki Boyd’s sister, Sarah, who disappeared over a decade ago. I loved the chance to spend the pages of an entire book telling her story along with the other girls who were victims of the Angel Abductor.How did you choose the setting for your novel? Since this book is tied closely to the Nikki Boyd Files, I kept this fourth novel set in Tennessee as well since that is where Sarah and the other girls vanished.
What was the most interesting thing you learned while doing research for your book? In many ways it was a heartbreaking story to write. Because of this I worked hard to ensure readers are given a satisfying story that completely wraps up the series. While I normally do not like stories about serial killers—and, honestly, avoid them—this is more than just a book about the Angel Abductor. It’s about relationships, loss, and how God is still right there in the midst of tragedy.
Research on serial killers was actually very interesting. And especially the fact that most are not like Hollywood’s stereotypes.
What lesson(s) do you hope readers will take away from reading Vanishing Point? One of the main questions asked in the novel is, where is God when tragedy strikes? It’s a question both Garrett and Jordan struggle with throughout the book. In the end, they come to the same conclusion that I pray my readers will come to. Just because God doesn’t intervene in a situation doesn’t mean he isn’t there. In fact, he is there, but he has decided not to just sweep down and fix our problems every time something goes wrong. Instead he chose to redeem us eternally by sending his Son.
What are you working on next?I’m currently working on a brand-new stand-alone for Revell that will come out in 2018. It’s another fast-paced suspense novel that deals with hackers and a secret worth dying for.
I’m eager to feature that book, too, when it comes out. How can readers connect with you? I really do love hearing from my readers! You can check out my books at my website, www.lisaharriswrites.com, or stop by my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLisaHarris.
Thank you, Lisa, for sharing your new book with me and my blog readers. You know how much I love your writing, and my blog readers do, too.
Readers, here are links to the book.Vanishing Point: A Nikki Boyd Novel[image error] - Kindle
Vanishing Point - Audiobook[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
