Lena Nelson Dooley's Blog, page 113
November 27, 2017
LADY JANE DISAPPEARS - Joanna Davidson Politano - One Free Book
Dear Readers, I love introducing you to books that catch my fancy. Lady Jane Disappears is just such a book. I personally am not fond of novels written in first person, but this one grabbed me from the first page. The storyline is unique, and the characters three-dimensional. The plot twists often surprised me, and the storyline kept me turning pages. I know you’ll like this story.
Bio: Joanna Davidson Politano freelances for a small nonfiction publisher but spends much of her time spinning tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives. Her manuscript for
Lady Jayne Disappears
was a finalist for several contests, including the 2016 Genesis Award from ACFW, and won the OCW Cascade Award and the Maggie Award for Excellence. She is always on the hunt for random acts of kindness, people willing to share their deepest secrets with a stranger, and hidden stashes of sweets. She lives with her husband and their two babies in a house in the woods near Lake Michigan and shares stories that move her at www.jdpstories.com.
Welcome, Joanna. Tell us a little about Lady Jayne Disappears. This book is the result of asking, “What if an overlooked girl happened to secretly write her family into novels and publish them under a pen name?” Aurelie Harcourt has always created stories, and it’s the way she handles life in a home where she does not belong. She is writing the story of her mother, Lady Jayne, and the family that knew her before she disappeared. Aurelie begins digging into secrets and long-ago love stories to understand the people around her, but more than that, to discover what happened to the mother she’s never met.
Here’s more about the story.Author Joanna Davidson Politano’s engaging novel, Lady Jayne Disappears, will delight readers with its highly original plot, lush setting, vibrant characters, and reluctant romance.
When Aurelie Harcourt’s father dies in debtor’s prison, he leaves her with just two things: his famous pen name, Nathaniel Droll, and his wealthy family, who want very little to do with her.
As Aurelie struggles to adjust to her father’s family and learn the rules of society, she relishes in his parting gift—the beginning of his last story. The story she always wanted to hear about her mother’s mysterious disappearance from the home where she now lives. To complete the novel, she must keep her identity as Nathaniel Droll hidden while searching for clues from her relatives and one enigmatic houseguest. Lynhurst Manor is a house built on secrets. Can the arrival of Aurelie Harcourt reveal them all?
Why did you decide to write about serial fiction? Why do you think it had such a great appeal? Serial fiction resembles those addictive television shows we all anxiously await each week and then discuss passionately with friends. We become attached to characters and eagerly follow their struggles and victories to a grand conclusion, and working-class Victorians felt the same way about their serialized novels. Writing about serial fiction allowed me to delve into a charmingly vintage world while also presenting attitudes and circumstances that resemble our modern world, making the story relatable and relevant to our modern faith walks.
How did you develop the setting of the story? Did you visit a mansion that inspired you?Big old houses are like characters to me. Each has a distinct personality and backstory just waiting for someone to unravel and understand. I’ve toured, stayed in, and climbed among the ruins of old houses throughout Great Britain, and many of my story ideas come from some unique aspect of a house I saw. I’m deeply fascinated with the people who have resided in these places, and their stories are so full of shadows and interesting corners with dark hallways just beyond. Lynhurst is based on a few different country houses I saw, but most of the layout and character are taken from Tyntesfield in Somerset. It’s a lovely old house with a wealth of stories.
What was the most interesting thing you learned while doing research for this book? Debtor’s prison fascinates me. Charles Dickens spent time there when his father was a debtor, and his experiences made it into several of his books. It’s such an odd system, jailing people and keeping them from working until they can pay a debt, and my heart just ached for some of the individual stories I read of debtors. The place was run as a business, designed to scrape up anything of value the prisoners had or acquired from visiting relatives, and that still baffles me.
I’m also enchanted by the idea of pen names, which is an element of my heroine’s story. The Brontë sisters were famous for using them, and I loved the image of them revealing themselves to their publisher in person, as my heroine does in the opening of this novel. There’s also something so captivating to me about a seemingly nondescript person having a sort of secret super power.
Do you relate to Aurelie in any way? Did you have real people that inspired your characters?Oh yes! Aurelie’s writer heart mirrors my own in so many ways. It was easy to create her struggles through writing and everything that hinders it, because they are problems I’ve walked through countless times. Stories have been a part of my heart and a lens for viewing the world as long as I can remember, just like Aurelie. Her inability to overlook hurting people, her desire to help, and her love of beautiful words are all pages torn out of my own life story. The most similar aspect of her nature, however, is the daughter-heart that looks up to her father as larger than life, painting over all his flaws and embracing him and everything he values. My father is a storyteller and book lover like Aurelie’s, and although he does not struggle with the vices that gripped Aurelie’s father, he has cultivated a strong father-daughter bond with me. It was easy to wring her heart when it came to her father, because mine is just as dear to me as hers is to her.
What lesson(s) do you hope readers will take away from reading your book? There is one lesson my own heart has had a hard time learning over the years, and it’s the one Aurelie struggles with—if the world fits, you’re the wrong size. Just as Aurelie tries in vain to become a part of her wealthy socialite family, most of us have experienced the desire to belong somewhere, even if it was as unhealthy and broken as Aurelie’s family.
There’s a book I found in college that impacted me on this topic, and years later the truths from it remain with me. It convinced me that if we sometimes didn’t fit in to our earthly surroundings, that was all right. In fact, it was a sign we were doing things well. We all know this world is broken and sinful and messy, so why should we strive to fit into it? The more we resemble Christ, the more we feel at odds in this world. God designed us for a completely different environment that was ruined by sin, and now nothing will ever quite feel right until we’re reunited with God and saturated in his presence for eternity.
In what way would you say your faith is worked into the book? As I wrote the book, I wrestled with how comfortable I should be in this world. Was it okay to be bothered by certain things, to be rejected by certain people? Should I seek to be content with what was in reach, or was a certain amount of discontent healthy? As my writer mind walked through this story with Aurelie, my Jesus-seeking spirit was working on realigning my motives and efforts with a larger focus than the here-and-now.
I began to appreciate and even embrace some of the countercultural parts of my personality and thinking as I reminded myself that Jesus was the most countercultural thinker ever! Jesus’s answers on success, wealth, priorities, and the value of certain people turned his listeners’ expectations upside down. The biggest one for me is that last one—the value of people. Why does the world automatically write off certain people? The elderly. The introverted. The homeless. Those who messed up in some way.
I’m infinitely content to be countercultural in this respect, and it’s been a passion of mine to reveal hidden value in the people the world so easily sidelines. I bring that into the book through Aurelie—not only does she see value in the debtorsWhat are you working on next? My next story takes place in an English vineyard that holds a delightful secret. It features an artist whose only canvas is her room, from furniture to ceiling. Painting is her escape from a competitive search for her family’s fortune, which her father hid before his sudden death. The love story includes little nuggets of my own story, which was a joy to write.
How can readers connect with you?Readers will find a glimpse of my writer heart and my passions on my website, http://www.jdpstories.com .
I’m also on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/joannadavidsonpolitano/ and Twitter at https://www.facebook.com/joannadavidsonpolitano/.
For visual portrayals of my book concepts, find me on Pinterest at https://www.pinterest.com/sunshine39n/.
Thank you so much, Julianna, for allowing me to share this unique story with my blog readers. I know they’ll be as eager to read the book as I was.
Readers, here are links to the book.
Lady Jayne Disappears - Kindle[image error]
Lady Jayne Disappears - 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
Bio: Joanna Davidson Politano freelances for a small nonfiction publisher but spends much of her time spinning tales that capture the colorful, exquisite details in ordinary lives. Her manuscript for
Lady Jayne Disappears
was a finalist for several contests, including the 2016 Genesis Award from ACFW, and won the OCW Cascade Award and the Maggie Award for Excellence. She is always on the hunt for random acts of kindness, people willing to share their deepest secrets with a stranger, and hidden stashes of sweets. She lives with her husband and their two babies in a house in the woods near Lake Michigan and shares stories that move her at www.jdpstories.com.Welcome, Joanna. Tell us a little about Lady Jayne Disappears. This book is the result of asking, “What if an overlooked girl happened to secretly write her family into novels and publish them under a pen name?” Aurelie Harcourt has always created stories, and it’s the way she handles life in a home where she does not belong. She is writing the story of her mother, Lady Jayne, and the family that knew her before she disappeared. Aurelie begins digging into secrets and long-ago love stories to understand the people around her, but more than that, to discover what happened to the mother she’s never met.
Here’s more about the story.Author Joanna Davidson Politano’s engaging novel, Lady Jayne Disappears, will delight readers with its highly original plot, lush setting, vibrant characters, and reluctant romance.
When Aurelie Harcourt’s father dies in debtor’s prison, he leaves her with just two things: his famous pen name, Nathaniel Droll, and his wealthy family, who want very little to do with her.
As Aurelie struggles to adjust to her father’s family and learn the rules of society, she relishes in his parting gift—the beginning of his last story. The story she always wanted to hear about her mother’s mysterious disappearance from the home where she now lives. To complete the novel, she must keep her identity as Nathaniel Droll hidden while searching for clues from her relatives and one enigmatic houseguest. Lynhurst Manor is a house built on secrets. Can the arrival of Aurelie Harcourt reveal them all?
Why did you decide to write about serial fiction? Why do you think it had such a great appeal? Serial fiction resembles those addictive television shows we all anxiously await each week and then discuss passionately with friends. We become attached to characters and eagerly follow their struggles and victories to a grand conclusion, and working-class Victorians felt the same way about their serialized novels. Writing about serial fiction allowed me to delve into a charmingly vintage world while also presenting attitudes and circumstances that resemble our modern world, making the story relatable and relevant to our modern faith walks.
How did you develop the setting of the story? Did you visit a mansion that inspired you?Big old houses are like characters to me. Each has a distinct personality and backstory just waiting for someone to unravel and understand. I’ve toured, stayed in, and climbed among the ruins of old houses throughout Great Britain, and many of my story ideas come from some unique aspect of a house I saw. I’m deeply fascinated with the people who have resided in these places, and their stories are so full of shadows and interesting corners with dark hallways just beyond. Lynhurst is based on a few different country houses I saw, but most of the layout and character are taken from Tyntesfield in Somerset. It’s a lovely old house with a wealth of stories.
What was the most interesting thing you learned while doing research for this book? Debtor’s prison fascinates me. Charles Dickens spent time there when his father was a debtor, and his experiences made it into several of his books. It’s such an odd system, jailing people and keeping them from working until they can pay a debt, and my heart just ached for some of the individual stories I read of debtors. The place was run as a business, designed to scrape up anything of value the prisoners had or acquired from visiting relatives, and that still baffles me.I’m also enchanted by the idea of pen names, which is an element of my heroine’s story. The Brontë sisters were famous for using them, and I loved the image of them revealing themselves to their publisher in person, as my heroine does in the opening of this novel. There’s also something so captivating to me about a seemingly nondescript person having a sort of secret super power.
Do you relate to Aurelie in any way? Did you have real people that inspired your characters?Oh yes! Aurelie’s writer heart mirrors my own in so many ways. It was easy to create her struggles through writing and everything that hinders it, because they are problems I’ve walked through countless times. Stories have been a part of my heart and a lens for viewing the world as long as I can remember, just like Aurelie. Her inability to overlook hurting people, her desire to help, and her love of beautiful words are all pages torn out of my own life story. The most similar aspect of her nature, however, is the daughter-heart that looks up to her father as larger than life, painting over all his flaws and embracing him and everything he values. My father is a storyteller and book lover like Aurelie’s, and although he does not struggle with the vices that gripped Aurelie’s father, he has cultivated a strong father-daughter bond with me. It was easy to wring her heart when it came to her father, because mine is just as dear to me as hers is to her.
What lesson(s) do you hope readers will take away from reading your book? There is one lesson my own heart has had a hard time learning over the years, and it’s the one Aurelie struggles with—if the world fits, you’re the wrong size. Just as Aurelie tries in vain to become a part of her wealthy socialite family, most of us have experienced the desire to belong somewhere, even if it was as unhealthy and broken as Aurelie’s family.
There’s a book I found in college that impacted me on this topic, and years later the truths from it remain with me. It convinced me that if we sometimes didn’t fit in to our earthly surroundings, that was all right. In fact, it was a sign we were doing things well. We all know this world is broken and sinful and messy, so why should we strive to fit into it? The more we resemble Christ, the more we feel at odds in this world. God designed us for a completely different environment that was ruined by sin, and now nothing will ever quite feel right until we’re reunited with God and saturated in his presence for eternity.
In what way would you say your faith is worked into the book? As I wrote the book, I wrestled with how comfortable I should be in this world. Was it okay to be bothered by certain things, to be rejected by certain people? Should I seek to be content with what was in reach, or was a certain amount of discontent healthy? As my writer mind walked through this story with Aurelie, my Jesus-seeking spirit was working on realigning my motives and efforts with a larger focus than the here-and-now.
I began to appreciate and even embrace some of the countercultural parts of my personality and thinking as I reminded myself that Jesus was the most countercultural thinker ever! Jesus’s answers on success, wealth, priorities, and the value of certain people turned his listeners’ expectations upside down. The biggest one for me is that last one—the value of people. Why does the world automatically write off certain people? The elderly. The introverted. The homeless. Those who messed up in some way.
I’m infinitely content to be countercultural in this respect, and it’s been a passion of mine to reveal hidden value in the people the world so easily sidelines. I bring that into the book through Aurelie—not only does she see value in the debtorsWhat are you working on next? My next story takes place in an English vineyard that holds a delightful secret. It features an artist whose only canvas is her room, from furniture to ceiling. Painting is her escape from a competitive search for her family’s fortune, which her father hid before his sudden death. The love story includes little nuggets of my own story, which was a joy to write.
How can readers connect with you?Readers will find a glimpse of my writer heart and my passions on my website, http://www.jdpstories.com .
I’m also on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/joannadavidsonpolitano/ and Twitter at https://www.facebook.com/joannadavidsonpolitano/.
For visual portrayals of my book concepts, find me on Pinterest at https://www.pinterest.com/sunshine39n/.
Thank you so much, Julianna, for allowing me to share this unique story with my blog readers. I know they’ll be as eager to read the book as I was.
Readers, here are links to the book.
Lady Jayne Disappears - Kindle[image error]
Lady Jayne Disappears - 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 26, 2017
WINNERS!!!!
Vera (NC) is the winner of
Murder in Disguise
by Donn Taylor.
Jane (TX) is the winner of Christy by Catherine Marshall.
Sara (TX) is the winner of Dangerous Illusions by Irene Hannon.
Becky (MO) is the winner of Callum's Compass by Sara L Foust.
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.
Jane (TX) is the winner of Christy by Catherine Marshall.
Sara (TX) is the winner of Dangerous Illusions by Irene Hannon.
Becky (MO) is the winner of Callum's Compass by Sara L Foust.
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.
November 25, 2017
A CHRISTMAS DECEPTION (A CHRISTMAS MASQUERADE) - Cynthia Hickey and 6 other authors - One Free Ebook
Dear Readers, this looks like a real fun collection, don’t you think?Bio: Multi-published and Amazon and ECPA Best-Selling author Cynthia Hickey has sold over a million copies of her works since 2013. She has taught a Continuing Education class at the 2015 American Christian Fiction Writers conference, several small ACFW chapters, and RWA chapters. She and her husband run the small press, Winged Publications, which includes some of the CBA’s most well-known authors. She lives in Arizonawith her husband, one of their seven children, two dogs, one cat, and three box turtles. She has eight grandchildren who keep her busy and tell everyone they know that “Nana is a writer.”
Welcome back, Cynthia. How did your story for the collection come about?To me, masquerades mean you can be anything you want to be. I’m also a huge fan of The Phantom of the Opera. There is a scene in the play where he pretends to be someone else. I thought what if a rich socialite had her maid take her place.Are these stories connected in some way? If so, how?All the stories have a Christmas masquerade that either starts the romance or fulfills it.
The more I read about it, it’s sounding like more fun. Cynthia, what are you reading right now?Atonement by Winter Austin
How many other books have you had published?Counting novels, novellas, and boxed sets, I’ve written 129.
What is the hardest thing about writing a part of a collection?Making sure the stories relate to each other in the way the collection was planned
How did collaborating with this team impact you?This was a great group of women to work with. Everyone loved the idea of a Christmas masquerade.What did you want the reader to take away from your story?That deception can risk everything you hold dear
Please give us a peek into your story.Ladies maid Lydiais coerced into attending social functions in place of her mistress. When she meets her mistress’s long-time and handsome friend, she no longer wants to pretend. There are more deceptions at stake though than her filling in for her mistress.
What is the best piece of advice you received as an author?Write the books you like to read
Where can my readers find you on the Internet?Connect with me on FaceBookTwitterSign up for my newsletterand receive a free short storywww.cynthiahickey.comFollow me on AmazonWebsite at www.cynthiahickey.com
Thank you, Cynthia, for sharing this new collection with me and my blog readers. It will be a good addition to our Christmas ebooks collection.
Readers, here’s a link to the book.A Christmas Masquerade: 7 historical romances at a Christmas ball[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 22, 2017
A CHRISTMAS MEASURE OF LOVE - Linda Brooks Davis - One Free book
Dear Readers, Linda Brooks Davis came on the writing scene a couple of years ago with an award-winning novel I was privileged to read for an endorsement. The characters were well-rounded and people with depth. Authentic scenes pulled the reader into the story. She’s had two Christmas novellas published with some of the characters of her first novel. A Christmas Measure of Love is this years addition. I loved all three of these books.
Welcome back, Linda. Why do you write the kind of books you do?When I was growing up and my parents’ families gathered, old tales would be told and retold. Invariably, the stories involved hardship, grief, and occasional shame, but they were always set alongside joy, faith, and grit. Often a family member would say, “Someone ought to write a book about that.” As a school child of the 1950s, I knew no hardship, grief, or shame. Life was good. But my family’s stories about life in Indian Territory prior to Oklahoma statehood and in the southern tip of Texas in the 1920s and 1930s intrigued me. I wondered even as a child if I might be that someone and how I’d go about it.
I’m glad you did. Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?By far, the happiest day of my life was in the fall of 2004 when I learned my first grandchild was coming—in triplet form. When my daughter called with the news, I was in my assigned spot on the second floor of an office building, but every speck of inhibition flew out the window at the news. I jumped and, as we say in Texas, whooped and hollered. I danced and shouted between others’ assigned spots, announcing the unbelievable news to each astounded individual: My daughter’s expecting triplets! When the occupants of the first floor of that particular office building showed up wondering what in the world was going on upstairs, I realized for the first time I might have overdone it a bit. Thankfully, my co-workers understood and shared my joy.
How has being published changed your life?When I won the Jerry Jenkins Operation First Novel Award in January, 2015, I was almost as astounded as that “day at the office” in 2004. But when the excitement settled, I realized I felt vulnerable. And responsible for handling myself in a way that would honor the Lord—and Jerry Jenkins.
When I received the ACFW Carol Award in August, 2016, the Lord separated me from my vulnerability—and inhibitions—as far as the east is from the west. That night was the time of my life. I’m 71 years old, and no single event, other than the news I was to be a grandmother three times over in one fell swoop, has affected me with such joy as that one.
That said … Being a published author has enlarged my circle of acquaintances and friends. I love this aspect of being published more than anything.
What are you reading right now?Dare I admit I read something other than Christian fiction? I love legal, John Grisham-type suspense, but other than a handful of Christian authors like Randy Singer and Robert Whitlow, whose books I’ve been known to read twice, there aren’t many to choose from in the Christian market. I recently finished Loving Luther by Allison Pittman and was completely mesmerized by Allison’s depiction of the life of Katarina von Bora—Martin Luther’s wife.
What is your current work in progress?I’m nearing completion of my second full-length novel. It’s set in 1914 and follows the life of one of the secondary characters in The Calling of Ella McFarland, which is set in 1905. A sequel to Ella’s story in novella form—A Christmas to Remember, which is set in 1908—released in 2016. A prequel to my current work in progress, also in novella form— A Christmas Measure of Love , which is set in 1910—released in October of this year.
What would be your dream vacation?If I possessed unlimited resources, I would travel around the world to find where my ancestors lived and loved, died, and are buried. Those sites would include Eastern Europe, Switzerland, Germany, Scandinavia, Scotland, Ireland, England, and France.
How do you choose your settings for each book?The settings for my books thus far have sprung from my family’s old stories, but my imagination plays a huge role. For example, from The Calling of Ella McFarland and both novellas that follow, as well as my current novel in progress, Glover County, Rock Creek, Needham, and surrounding communities, Broadview, the cottage in the woods, and the McFarland farm are all imaginary. These environs develop as I imagine the lives of the characters.
What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?I love genealogy and my grandchildren. My love for both knows no limits. I also enjoy painting pottery—nothing serious, mind you. I’m not an artist. I just enjoy the peace that surrounds me when I’m painting a piece of pottery. Invariably, it’s something for a family member, which could be why I love it so.
I also love Bible study. I love theology and biblical history and apologetic reasoning.
What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?Keeping my world in balance is my greatest challenge. I know it’s not good for me to concentrate on research, writing, and social media so much that I neglect other, more important aspects of life, but when I’m “on a roll,” it’s very difficult to shut it down.
What advice would you give to a beginning author?Know why you’re writing. If you’re pursuing writing for accolades or remuneration, you might want to consider another field.
Tell us about the featured book.
A Christmas Measure of Love
springs from words spoken by the character Lily in The Calling of Ella McFarland: Ma says love can’t be earned. Love’s immeasurability is the heart of this Christmas novella.
Lily, a girl on the cusp of womanhood has learned to stand as erect as her starched collar. Ma, a woman at the nadir of her life, is as bent as a shepherd’s crook. Joined by blood and separated by circumstance nine years prior, mother and daughter reunite.
What will Lily and Ma find in the old shack where their sweat and tears once mingled? It’s Christmas 1910, and Lily’s in for a Yuletide surprise she hasn’t reckoned for.
Please give us the first page of the book for my readers.August 1910Other girls measure their heights, waistlines, and bosoms. I measure my scars. And wonder why my pa never loved me. Eighteen years old today, I’m perched alone on a parlor settee reserved for the birthday girl. Adelaide Fitzgerald, my benefactor, has invited Glover County, Oklahoma’s socially elite to celebrate at Broadview, her grand estate on the banks of Rock Creek. Trouble is, when these precisely coiffed young women were girls romping at garden parties, I was toiling in a cotton field across the way. These party guests boast fathers who are bankers and lawyers and doctors. But I can claim naught but Walter Sloat for my pa—a scoundrel, a criminal, a former sharecropper who never lifted a hand in the fields. He expected Ma and me to do his share of the crop tending and accept his abuse when we returned home.
How can readers find you on the Internet?Website: http://lindabrooksdavis.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LindaBrooksDavis/Twitter: https://twitter.com/LBrooksDavisPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ljbd1946/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindadavis1321/Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B018J4J8EWGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14537350.Linda_Brooks_Davis
To purchase The Calling of Ella McFarland: http://amzn.to/2ixn4pe To purchase A Christmas to Remember: http://amzn.to/2yxAk8hTo purchase A Christmas Measure of Love: http://amzn.to/2j3vwjK
Thank you, Linda, for sharing this heart-warming novella with me and my blog readers.
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
Welcome back, Linda. Why do you write the kind of books you do?When I was growing up and my parents’ families gathered, old tales would be told and retold. Invariably, the stories involved hardship, grief, and occasional shame, but they were always set alongside joy, faith, and grit. Often a family member would say, “Someone ought to write a book about that.” As a school child of the 1950s, I knew no hardship, grief, or shame. Life was good. But my family’s stories about life in Indian Territory prior to Oklahoma statehood and in the southern tip of Texas in the 1920s and 1930s intrigued me. I wondered even as a child if I might be that someone and how I’d go about it. I’m glad you did. Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?By far, the happiest day of my life was in the fall of 2004 when I learned my first grandchild was coming—in triplet form. When my daughter called with the news, I was in my assigned spot on the second floor of an office building, but every speck of inhibition flew out the window at the news. I jumped and, as we say in Texas, whooped and hollered. I danced and shouted between others’ assigned spots, announcing the unbelievable news to each astounded individual: My daughter’s expecting triplets! When the occupants of the first floor of that particular office building showed up wondering what in the world was going on upstairs, I realized for the first time I might have overdone it a bit. Thankfully, my co-workers understood and shared my joy.
How has being published changed your life?When I won the Jerry Jenkins Operation First Novel Award in January, 2015, I was almost as astounded as that “day at the office” in 2004. But when the excitement settled, I realized I felt vulnerable. And responsible for handling myself in a way that would honor the Lord—and Jerry Jenkins.
When I received the ACFW Carol Award in August, 2016, the Lord separated me from my vulnerability—and inhibitions—as far as the east is from the west. That night was the time of my life. I’m 71 years old, and no single event, other than the news I was to be a grandmother three times over in one fell swoop, has affected me with such joy as that one.
That said … Being a published author has enlarged my circle of acquaintances and friends. I love this aspect of being published more than anything.
What are you reading right now?Dare I admit I read something other than Christian fiction? I love legal, John Grisham-type suspense, but other than a handful of Christian authors like Randy Singer and Robert Whitlow, whose books I’ve been known to read twice, there aren’t many to choose from in the Christian market. I recently finished Loving Luther by Allison Pittman and was completely mesmerized by Allison’s depiction of the life of Katarina von Bora—Martin Luther’s wife.
What is your current work in progress?I’m nearing completion of my second full-length novel. It’s set in 1914 and follows the life of one of the secondary characters in The Calling of Ella McFarland, which is set in 1905. A sequel to Ella’s story in novella form—A Christmas to Remember, which is set in 1908—released in 2016. A prequel to my current work in progress, also in novella form— A Christmas Measure of Love , which is set in 1910—released in October of this year.
What would be your dream vacation?If I possessed unlimited resources, I would travel around the world to find where my ancestors lived and loved, died, and are buried. Those sites would include Eastern Europe, Switzerland, Germany, Scandinavia, Scotland, Ireland, England, and France.
How do you choose your settings for each book?The settings for my books thus far have sprung from my family’s old stories, but my imagination plays a huge role. For example, from The Calling of Ella McFarland and both novellas that follow, as well as my current novel in progress, Glover County, Rock Creek, Needham, and surrounding communities, Broadview, the cottage in the woods, and the McFarland farm are all imaginary. These environs develop as I imagine the lives of the characters.What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?I love genealogy and my grandchildren. My love for both knows no limits. I also enjoy painting pottery—nothing serious, mind you. I’m not an artist. I just enjoy the peace that surrounds me when I’m painting a piece of pottery. Invariably, it’s something for a family member, which could be why I love it so.
I also love Bible study. I love theology and biblical history and apologetic reasoning.
What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?Keeping my world in balance is my greatest challenge. I know it’s not good for me to concentrate on research, writing, and social media so much that I neglect other, more important aspects of life, but when I’m “on a roll,” it’s very difficult to shut it down.
What advice would you give to a beginning author?Know why you’re writing. If you’re pursuing writing for accolades or remuneration, you might want to consider another field.
Tell us about the featured book.
A Christmas Measure of Love
springs from words spoken by the character Lily in The Calling of Ella McFarland: Ma says love can’t be earned. Love’s immeasurability is the heart of this Christmas novella. Lily, a girl on the cusp of womanhood has learned to stand as erect as her starched collar. Ma, a woman at the nadir of her life, is as bent as a shepherd’s crook. Joined by blood and separated by circumstance nine years prior, mother and daughter reunite.
What will Lily and Ma find in the old shack where their sweat and tears once mingled? It’s Christmas 1910, and Lily’s in for a Yuletide surprise she hasn’t reckoned for.
Please give us the first page of the book for my readers.August 1910Other girls measure their heights, waistlines, and bosoms. I measure my scars. And wonder why my pa never loved me. Eighteen years old today, I’m perched alone on a parlor settee reserved for the birthday girl. Adelaide Fitzgerald, my benefactor, has invited Glover County, Oklahoma’s socially elite to celebrate at Broadview, her grand estate on the banks of Rock Creek. Trouble is, when these precisely coiffed young women were girls romping at garden parties, I was toiling in a cotton field across the way. These party guests boast fathers who are bankers and lawyers and doctors. But I can claim naught but Walter Sloat for my pa—a scoundrel, a criminal, a former sharecropper who never lifted a hand in the fields. He expected Ma and me to do his share of the crop tending and accept his abuse when we returned home.
How can readers find you on the Internet?Website: http://lindabrooksdavis.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/LindaBrooksDavis/Twitter: https://twitter.com/LBrooksDavisPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ljbd1946/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindadavis1321/Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B018J4J8EWGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14537350.Linda_Brooks_Davis
To purchase The Calling of Ella McFarland: http://amzn.to/2ixn4pe To purchase A Christmas to Remember: http://amzn.to/2yxAk8hTo purchase A Christmas Measure of Love: http://amzn.to/2j3vwjK
Thank you, Linda, for sharing this heart-warming novella with me and my blog readers.
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
November 21, 2017
THE GIFT OF CHRISTMAS PAST - Cindy and Erin Woodsmall - One Free Book
Dear Readers, The Gift of Christmas Past, is my favorite among all the Christmas books I’ve read this year. It’s poignant, and it stayed with me for days after I read the last page. I’ve loved Cindy’s writing for a long, and with the addition of her daughter, this book continues the tradition of stories that really grip your heart, characters who pull you into their world, and both a strong romantic thread as well as a strong spiritual thread. A very satisfying read.
Welcome Erin, and welcome back, Cindy. I know that this is a collaboration. How did this story come about?Cindy: This story began in November 2016. Erin and I had written another Christmas novella together, but it wouldn’t be released until 2018, so there was a chance to create something new and different. We brainstormed during the holidays, working around the birth of Erin’s third child, Silas. Then we put our feet on the ground in Asheville for the research and got to work! Erin: I’ve been doing various things for Cindy’s writing career for around a decade, working on the website and blogs, brainstorming, outlining, and more. After I lost a baby in January 2016, I needed a creative outlet. Cindy saw that, because she’s very intuitive, and we started collaborating on an Amish Christmas novella about a pharmacy, with the tentative title of A Spoonful of Christmas. It went so well we wanted to do it again!
Did you find it easy to work together on it?Erin: Actually, yes. Our personalities mesh well together. I consider Cindy one of my closest friends and it’s been a joy to work with her.Cindy: Definitely easy. Moreover, the brainstorming and writing together brought new and unexpected excitement to my workday.
How did collaborating with this team impact you?Cindy: It’s hard to explain—we went from understanding each other on one level to understanding each other on a much deeper level. Collaborating means I have someone close to me who gets what I do, who is excited about the process of writing, and who knows what it takes to get the story from the “drawing board” to the written page. Going places to research has been so much fun, and we’ve made memories that will last a lifetime. We have our brainstorming sessions at our favorite coffee shop. I’ve never experienced anything like this, and I never expected to, so it’s changed me. (As of November 2017, we’ve written three books together, two for Random House.)Erin: It’s impacted me much more than I can succinctly put into words. I learned a new skill—going from the “behind the scenes” work to creating stories and getting into the heads and hearts of characters, and in that I found a new side of myself. Cindy and I were already close, but like she mentioned earlier, after working together on novels, we have a new level of understanding with each other. What is the hardest thing about writing as a team?Erin: The hardest part, surprisingly, has been figuring out a file system that works for both of us! There are a lot of files with specific information that has to be updated almost daily as we move forward—the chapter-by-chapter outline, the research notes, the character chart, our personal thoughts, and the actual chapters. It’s vital that we don’t save over each other’s work or make changes to a document without the latest information. I thought using Dropbox would be a good solution, because if either of us makes a change, it updates the document for both of us. But that system didn’t work for Cindy because of how changes show up on her computer. Cindy: Computers. Don’t get me started on my propensity for technology glitches! Sharing information and making sure each person has the most updated files is so important. For all documents that aren’t actual chapters or the master copy, we figured out that Google Docs is a good solution.
What are you reading right now?Both: Edits for next year’s novel!Erin: I just downloaded Laura V. Hilton’s new Christmas novella collaboration, Love’s Thankful Heart. Novellas are so fun to enjoy during Christmastime!Cindy: I love Katie Ganshert’s work. I’ve just cracked the first pages of Life After.
How did you choose your characters’ names?Erin: I have three children, and with each one my husband and I found ourselves in … uh, spirited debates over names. Hadley, Monroe, and Chloe were all on my list of names that were rejected.Cindy: Typically, I go through an Amish address book, so it was a lot of fun that we were able to hash out contemporary names. I just love the name Elliott for a girl.
Would you want to work on another book together?Both: We already have! We feel like we’re just now getting really good at it. Next year we have two coming out through Random House’s WaterBrook Press imprint, one in August and one in October. The tentative titles are Ocean Roads and A Spoonful of Christmas. And we have at least three more ideas for future books!
I’ll want to feature both of them on my blog. What do you want to tell us about The Gift of Christmas Past?Erin: This is Cindy’s first indie and her first non-Amish book. We’re able to offer it at a great price, in stores as a paperback, as well as free for readers on Kindle Unlimited. It’s a well-researched story with heart. We hope it feels like you’re stepping into the characters’ worlds.Cindy: Promises made.
Lies spoken. Dreams shattered.
She was arrested.
He returned to the safety of his wealthy parents.
Almost ten years later, Hadley and Monroe are both specialists in the field of speech therapy. They meet again . . . thrown together to help a four-year-old-girl rendered mute after being rescued from a fire.
Years of secrets and anger beg to be set free as Hadley and Monroe try to push aside past hurts and find common ground in order to help the traumatized child and her family.
Can the love of Christmas past drift into the present, bringing healing and hope for all?
Please give us the first page of the book for my readers.Hadley’s mind reeled with disbelief as her foster mom shoved her clothes into an old suitcase. “But…but I’m innocent.”
“Maybe.” Dianna gave a half-hearted nod. “I hope so. It’d be an awful thing to squander the opportunities we’ve offered you.”
“I…I am. The investigation will prove it. I promise. You’ve got to believe me. Please.”
“Like I said, maybe you are innocent…of this incident. You had seemed to be making great strides since you went to anger-management classes. I’ll give you that, Hads.”
“Then don’t send me back. Please. My friends are here. Monroeis—”
“Decision’s made. You made it when you broke curfew for the third time.”
“But I was only a little late and for good reasons. You said so—”
“I’m aware.” Dianna didn’t pause her movements as she packed Hadley’s toothbrush.
Hadley bit back tears, hating any sign of being vulnerable. “Then why?”
“They’ve found two witnesses who place you in the Reeds’ yard.”
“What?” Hadley’s knee-jerk gasp was the totally wrong response. Stay cool. Remain calm.
“Yeah, apparently you were there.” Dianna released a slow sigh. “Imagine that.”
Regret twisted through Hadley. She never should’ve set foot on the Reeds’ property. “Okay, I was at their place, but I never—”
“Interesting.” Dianna stood up straight, the top of her head now even with Hadley’s nose. She yanked a beautiful red sweater off a hanger, a Christmas gift from Scott and her to Hadley a mere three weeks ago. “You’ve denied being anywhere near there until right now. They said they saw you start a fire using leaves, sticks, and what appeared to be some kind of accelerant.” She shoved the sweater into the suitcase with the other clothes as if it and Hadley no longer mattered.Should she explain her actions? The moment the question came to her she knew the answer. No matter the subject or the situation, adults couldn’t be trusted. Anything Hadley said would be passed along to the authorities, distorted, and used against her.
Dianna jammed two pairs of wool socks into the suitcase. “Anyway, Scott and I think it’s in everyone’s best interest if you don’t live here anymore.”
(To read the rest of Chapter One, go here: http://www.cindywoodsmall.com/excerpt-the-gift-of-christmas-past/
Where can our readers find you on the Internet?We can be found on Cindy’s Facebook, where we both answer readers. https://www.facebook.com/authorcindywoodsmall
Also on Cindy’s website and blog: www.cindywoodsmall.com
Thank you, Cindy and Erin, for sharing this book with me and my blog readers. I know they will love it as much as I have.
Readers, here are links to the book. - Amazon paperback
The Gift of Christmas Past - 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 Erin, and welcome back, Cindy. I know that this is a collaboration. How did this story come about?Cindy: This story began in November 2016. Erin and I had written another Christmas novella together, but it wouldn’t be released until 2018, so there was a chance to create something new and different. We brainstormed during the holidays, working around the birth of Erin’s third child, Silas. Then we put our feet on the ground in Asheville for the research and got to work! Erin: I’ve been doing various things for Cindy’s writing career for around a decade, working on the website and blogs, brainstorming, outlining, and more. After I lost a baby in January 2016, I needed a creative outlet. Cindy saw that, because she’s very intuitive, and we started collaborating on an Amish Christmas novella about a pharmacy, with the tentative title of A Spoonful of Christmas. It went so well we wanted to do it again! Did you find it easy to work together on it?Erin: Actually, yes. Our personalities mesh well together. I consider Cindy one of my closest friends and it’s been a joy to work with her.Cindy: Definitely easy. Moreover, the brainstorming and writing together brought new and unexpected excitement to my workday.
How did collaborating with this team impact you?Cindy: It’s hard to explain—we went from understanding each other on one level to understanding each other on a much deeper level. Collaborating means I have someone close to me who gets what I do, who is excited about the process of writing, and who knows what it takes to get the story from the “drawing board” to the written page. Going places to research has been so much fun, and we’ve made memories that will last a lifetime. We have our brainstorming sessions at our favorite coffee shop. I’ve never experienced anything like this, and I never expected to, so it’s changed me. (As of November 2017, we’ve written three books together, two for Random House.)Erin: It’s impacted me much more than I can succinctly put into words. I learned a new skill—going from the “behind the scenes” work to creating stories and getting into the heads and hearts of characters, and in that I found a new side of myself. Cindy and I were already close, but like she mentioned earlier, after working together on novels, we have a new level of understanding with each other. What is the hardest thing about writing as a team?Erin: The hardest part, surprisingly, has been figuring out a file system that works for both of us! There are a lot of files with specific information that has to be updated almost daily as we move forward—the chapter-by-chapter outline, the research notes, the character chart, our personal thoughts, and the actual chapters. It’s vital that we don’t save over each other’s work or make changes to a document without the latest information. I thought using Dropbox would be a good solution, because if either of us makes a change, it updates the document for both of us. But that system didn’t work for Cindy because of how changes show up on her computer. Cindy: Computers. Don’t get me started on my propensity for technology glitches! Sharing information and making sure each person has the most updated files is so important. For all documents that aren’t actual chapters or the master copy, we figured out that Google Docs is a good solution.
What are you reading right now?Both: Edits for next year’s novel!Erin: I just downloaded Laura V. Hilton’s new Christmas novella collaboration, Love’s Thankful Heart. Novellas are so fun to enjoy during Christmastime!Cindy: I love Katie Ganshert’s work. I’ve just cracked the first pages of Life After.
How did you choose your characters’ names?Erin: I have three children, and with each one my husband and I found ourselves in … uh, spirited debates over names. Hadley, Monroe, and Chloe were all on my list of names that were rejected.Cindy: Typically, I go through an Amish address book, so it was a lot of fun that we were able to hash out contemporary names. I just love the name Elliott for a girl.
Would you want to work on another book together?Both: We already have! We feel like we’re just now getting really good at it. Next year we have two coming out through Random House’s WaterBrook Press imprint, one in August and one in October. The tentative titles are Ocean Roads and A Spoonful of Christmas. And we have at least three more ideas for future books!
I’ll want to feature both of them on my blog. What do you want to tell us about The Gift of Christmas Past?Erin: This is Cindy’s first indie and her first non-Amish book. We’re able to offer it at a great price, in stores as a paperback, as well as free for readers on Kindle Unlimited. It’s a well-researched story with heart. We hope it feels like you’re stepping into the characters’ worlds.Cindy: Promises made.
Lies spoken. Dreams shattered.
She was arrested.
He returned to the safety of his wealthy parents.
Almost ten years later, Hadley and Monroe are both specialists in the field of speech therapy. They meet again . . . thrown together to help a four-year-old-girl rendered mute after being rescued from a fire.
Years of secrets and anger beg to be set free as Hadley and Monroe try to push aside past hurts and find common ground in order to help the traumatized child and her family.
Can the love of Christmas past drift into the present, bringing healing and hope for all?
Please give us the first page of the book for my readers.Hadley’s mind reeled with disbelief as her foster mom shoved her clothes into an old suitcase. “But…but I’m innocent.” “Maybe.” Dianna gave a half-hearted nod. “I hope so. It’d be an awful thing to squander the opportunities we’ve offered you.”
“I…I am. The investigation will prove it. I promise. You’ve got to believe me. Please.”
“Like I said, maybe you are innocent…of this incident. You had seemed to be making great strides since you went to anger-management classes. I’ll give you that, Hads.”
“Then don’t send me back. Please. My friends are here. Monroeis—”
“Decision’s made. You made it when you broke curfew for the third time.”
“But I was only a little late and for good reasons. You said so—”
“I’m aware.” Dianna didn’t pause her movements as she packed Hadley’s toothbrush.
Hadley bit back tears, hating any sign of being vulnerable. “Then why?”
“They’ve found two witnesses who place you in the Reeds’ yard.”
“What?” Hadley’s knee-jerk gasp was the totally wrong response. Stay cool. Remain calm.
“Yeah, apparently you were there.” Dianna released a slow sigh. “Imagine that.”
Regret twisted through Hadley. She never should’ve set foot on the Reeds’ property. “Okay, I was at their place, but I never—”
“Interesting.” Dianna stood up straight, the top of her head now even with Hadley’s nose. She yanked a beautiful red sweater off a hanger, a Christmas gift from Scott and her to Hadley a mere three weeks ago. “You’ve denied being anywhere near there until right now. They said they saw you start a fire using leaves, sticks, and what appeared to be some kind of accelerant.” She shoved the sweater into the suitcase with the other clothes as if it and Hadley no longer mattered.Should she explain her actions? The moment the question came to her she knew the answer. No matter the subject or the situation, adults couldn’t be trusted. Anything Hadley said would be passed along to the authorities, distorted, and used against her.
Dianna jammed two pairs of wool socks into the suitcase. “Anyway, Scott and I think it’s in everyone’s best interest if you don’t live here anymore.”
(To read the rest of Chapter One, go here: http://www.cindywoodsmall.com/excerpt-the-gift-of-christmas-past/
Where can our readers find you on the Internet?We can be found on Cindy’s Facebook, where we both answer readers. https://www.facebook.com/authorcindywoodsmall
Also on Cindy’s website and blog: www.cindywoodsmall.com
Thank you, Cindy and Erin, for sharing this book with me and my blog readers. I know they will love it as much as I have.
Readers, here are links to the book. - Amazon paperback
The Gift of Christmas Past - 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 19, 2017
WINNERS!!!!
Dear Blog Readers, there were several people this week who couldn't be included in the drawing, because they didn't follow instructions on how to enter. I don't like leaving people out, so please read all the instructions on each post.
Darlo (AL) is the winner of Murder in Disguise by Donn Taylor.
Sharon (SC) is the winner of An Accidental Messiah, by Dan Sofer.
Lourdes (NY) is the winner of Christmas Double Cross by Jodie Bailey.
Melanie (TX) is the winner of Pendant by M L Hamilton.
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.
Darlo (AL) is the winner of Murder in Disguise by Donn Taylor.
Sharon (SC) is the winner of An Accidental Messiah, by Dan Sofer.
Lourdes (NY) is the winner of Christmas Double Cross by Jodie Bailey.
Melanie (TX) is the winner of Pendant by M L Hamilton.
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.
November 17, 2017
CALLUM'S COMPASS - Sara L Foust - One Free Book
Welcome, Sara. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.Oh man, I think each of my female characters has some little piece of me in them. Maybe a past fear or doubt or a career I find interesting. I try to put myself in their shoes when I am writing an emotional reaction scene, using my past experiences with that particular emotion to help create authenticity for the scene.What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? This is hard! I don’t feel like I’m a very quirky person (my hubs may disagree ha!). I’m usually a planner and so quirky isn’t really my go-to nature. I do have some quirky pet peeves, though. I don’t like the sound of liquids being poured (I know, weird) and I do not like the feel of slime (which my kids think is hilarious). Oh! I did call in sick to work one time to go to a kissing contest sponsored by a local radio station. Actually, my husband called in sick too. And we won the concert tickets! That’s pretty quirky, I guess.
That sounds like fun. When did you first discover that you were a writer? I wrote my first story before kindergarten. I brought my mom a purple note pad and said, “You write. I draw the pictures.” Then in second grade I won an award for a story I wrote, “My Amaginary Friend.” It was that moment I knew I wanted to write.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. I will pretty much read anything. I love Zane Grey westerns, Robert Morgan’s Appalachian fiction, Kelly Irvin’s contemporary Amish fiction. As long as it isn’t a book that’s too graphic or full of curse words, I will try it.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? Lots and lots and lots of prayer. I try to study in God’s word each morning while my coffee is making and that helps me start my days out calmly and in meditation. My mom also notices that I sigh a lot, and I guess that must be my way of expelling extra stress throughout the day haha!
How do you choose your characters’ names? My character’s names are usually ones that have connotations in my mind toward the personality traits I want them to display. In Callum’s Compass , Kat is my heroine, and to me the name Kat says, “Adventurer.” Ryan is the hero, and to me that says, “Strong and a little goofy.” Of course, everyone has different associations with names, and may not feel the same connotations I do. But it works for me.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? I’ve dreamed of finishing a novel and seeing it in print since that second grade award. So holding my book in my hands for the first time and seeing my name on the cover was extremely gratifying.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? I’d have to say a dolphin. I could hold my breath forever and see the underwater world, then leap above the waves and play. And also still be considered an intelligent mammal.
What is your favorite food? I have a hard time picking a favorite. I do love pizza. And Mexican.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? My biggest roadblock was definitely self-doubt and fear. It was scary putting pieces of myself into the world for people to criticize. And in the early stages of getting those first critiques, not everyone was kind. I have a very supportive family, especially my cousin and best friend Becky and my husband. Neither of them would let me give up. Plus, I knew I felt I had been called to share God’s love through the written word, so giving up would be failing Him. And I have no desire to do that!
Tell us about the featured book.
Callum’s Compass
is a story very near and dear to my heart. It is set in the East Tennessee mountains that I love, and in fact, in my hometown for a large portion of the book. It also has a treasure hunt, which is a huge part of my childhood and early adult life memories. My Uncle Jim used to set up treasure hunts for us on family vacations. One time he even buried gold coins on the beach and we had to use a metal detector to find them. It is also a story about love and the journey to accept God’s forgiving and unconditional love.Please give us the first page of the book.A persistent knock at the front door dragged Kat Williams awake. She rubbed her eyes and slipped a sweatshirt over her pajama top. Hadn’t she just fallen asleep? The past week was a blur. Visiting her neighbor Clayton at the hospital every day was taking its toll on her physically and emotionally.
She stumbled to the door and peeked through the curtain-covered glass. Clayton’s daughter stood with her back to the window, arms crossed over her chest.
Kat pulled the door open. “Nicole.”
“Can I come in?”
“Of course. How’s Clayton?”
Nicole slumped onto the couch and buried her face in her hands. “Dad’s dead. I can’t believe it.” Tears leaked around the fingers hiding her eyes. Kat’s golden retriever, Scout, put his head in her lap and licked her elbow, but Nicole didn’t seem to notice. “What am I going to do?”
Kat sat and rubbed her friend’s back, fighting her own tears. “I’m so sorry. Everything’s going to be okay, though.” Did she really believe that herself? A fist held her heart, squeezing until she couldn’t breathe. Clayton was such a good friend. He never judged Kat or asked too many questions about the burdens she carried. She could be herself with him, and she would miss that.
“No it’s not.” Nicole sniffled and jumped up, bashing Scout’s chin with her knee.
How can readers find you on the Internet? My website is the best place: www.saralfoust.com. I have blog stories, author interviews, and devotionals there. As well as my newsletter sign-up. I’d love to have some more subscribers. And, when you sign up, you will receive a free digital scrapbook detailing some of the real-life locations that inspired scenes in Callum’s Compass ! Readers can also find me on Facebook, Twitter, and, of course, Amazon!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaraLFoust/Twitter: https://twitter.com/Sfoust25Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/saralfoust
Thank you, Sara, for sharing this book with us. I’m eager to read it.
Readers, here are links to the book.Callum's Compass: Love, Hope, and Faith Series[image error] - Paperback
Callum's Compass: Love, Hope, and Faith Series - 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 15, 2017
DANGEROUS ILLUSIONS - Irene Hannon - One Free Book
Three-Time RITA Award Winner Begins Explosive New Code of Honor Series
“Hannon is a master at her craft, and her unique way of handling suspense makes her a cut above the other writers in the genre.”—RT Book Reviews on Thin Ice
Bio: Irene Hannon is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than fifty novels, including Buried Secrets, Thin Ice, and Tangled Webs, as well as the Heroes of Quantico, Guardians of Justice, and Private Justice series. In addition to many other honors, she is a seven-time finalist for and three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of RWA’s elite Hall of Fame and has received a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews. Learn more at www.irenehannon.com.
Welcome, Irene. Can you please tell us about your new series?The Code of Honor series features three childhood friends whose bond has been strengthened by time—and danger. As children, they vowed to help make the world a better place when they grew up, and each chose a career that does just that. Colin, the hero of Dangerous Illusions , is a police detective. Kristin, the heroine of book 2, runs a fair-trade shop. And the hero of book 3, Rick, joined the military but now runs a camp for foster kids. This is a group of honorable high-achievers, and I love the dynamic among the three friends.
How did you come up with the plot for Dangerous Illusions?I wanted to start this series off with a story that had a very unusual plot twist, and I think the idea I came up with will truly give readers a “wow” moment when they realize what’s going on. I can’t say more than that without giving the surprise away!
Which character is your favorite and why?That’s like asking a mother to pick her favorite child! Every character in this book—bad and good—has a unique story, and all of them fascinate me.
How did you choose the setting for your novel? Since this is a book with a strong psychological suspense element versus an action/adventure novel in which the setting plays a critical role, it could have taken place almost anywhere. The book did, however, require huge amounts of research—so I chose a setting I know well, which shaved some research hours off the writing process.
What was the most interesting thing you learned while doing research for your book? I learn a tremendous amount with every book I write. But if I shared the most interesting things I learned while working on this one, I’d give away some significant plot surprises!
What lesson(s) do you hope readers will take away from reading Dangerous Illusions? That even in the toughest times, God is at work in our lives. I want readers to finish the book uplifted, filled with hope, and more cognizant of the tremendous power of love to transform lives.
What can you tell us about the story?Trish Bailey is on overload trying to deal with a demanding job, an ailing mother, and a healing heart. When a series of unsettling memory lapses leads to a tragic death—and puts Trish under police scrutiny—her world is once again thrown into turmoil.
Detective Colin Flynn isn’t certain what to think of the facts he uncovers during his investigation. Did Trish simply make a terrible mistake, or is there more to the case than meets the eye? As he searches for answers, disturbing information begins to emerge—and if the forces at work are as evil as he suspects, the situation isn’t just dangerous . . . it’s deadly.
What are you working on next?I recently turned in the next book in my Oregon coast Hope Harborseries, Pelican Point, which will be out in April 2018. That’s a contemporary romance/women’s fiction novel. I’m now fine-tuning book 2 in my Code of Honor series, which is due at the end of the summer and will release in October 2018.
How can readers connect with you? They can visit my website at www.irenehannon.com or follow me on Facebook and Twitter. I’m very active on Facebook and love to interact with readers there.
Thank you, Irene, for sharing this new book with us. I’m eager to read it.
Readers, here are links to the book. - Amazon paperback
Dangerous Illusions (Code of Honor Book 1)[image error] - Kindle
Dangerous Illusions: Code of Honor, Book 1 - Audio[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
“Hannon is a master at her craft, and her unique way of handling suspense makes her a cut above the other writers in the genre.”—RT Book Reviews on Thin Ice
Bio: Irene Hannon is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than fifty novels, including Buried Secrets, Thin Ice, and Tangled Webs, as well as the Heroes of Quantico, Guardians of Justice, and Private Justice series. In addition to many other honors, she is a seven-time finalist for and three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of RWA’s elite Hall of Fame and has received a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews. Learn more at www.irenehannon.com.Welcome, Irene. Can you please tell us about your new series?The Code of Honor series features three childhood friends whose bond has been strengthened by time—and danger. As children, they vowed to help make the world a better place when they grew up, and each chose a career that does just that. Colin, the hero of Dangerous Illusions , is a police detective. Kristin, the heroine of book 2, runs a fair-trade shop. And the hero of book 3, Rick, joined the military but now runs a camp for foster kids. This is a group of honorable high-achievers, and I love the dynamic among the three friends.
How did you come up with the plot for Dangerous Illusions?I wanted to start this series off with a story that had a very unusual plot twist, and I think the idea I came up with will truly give readers a “wow” moment when they realize what’s going on. I can’t say more than that without giving the surprise away!
Which character is your favorite and why?That’s like asking a mother to pick her favorite child! Every character in this book—bad and good—has a unique story, and all of them fascinate me.
How did you choose the setting for your novel? Since this is a book with a strong psychological suspense element versus an action/adventure novel in which the setting plays a critical role, it could have taken place almost anywhere. The book did, however, require huge amounts of research—so I chose a setting I know well, which shaved some research hours off the writing process.
What was the most interesting thing you learned while doing research for your book? I learn a tremendous amount with every book I write. But if I shared the most interesting things I learned while working on this one, I’d give away some significant plot surprises!
What lesson(s) do you hope readers will take away from reading Dangerous Illusions? That even in the toughest times, God is at work in our lives. I want readers to finish the book uplifted, filled with hope, and more cognizant of the tremendous power of love to transform lives.What can you tell us about the story?Trish Bailey is on overload trying to deal with a demanding job, an ailing mother, and a healing heart. When a series of unsettling memory lapses leads to a tragic death—and puts Trish under police scrutiny—her world is once again thrown into turmoil.
Detective Colin Flynn isn’t certain what to think of the facts he uncovers during his investigation. Did Trish simply make a terrible mistake, or is there more to the case than meets the eye? As he searches for answers, disturbing information begins to emerge—and if the forces at work are as evil as he suspects, the situation isn’t just dangerous . . . it’s deadly.
What are you working on next?I recently turned in the next book in my Oregon coast Hope Harborseries, Pelican Point, which will be out in April 2018. That’s a contemporary romance/women’s fiction novel. I’m now fine-tuning book 2 in my Code of Honor series, which is due at the end of the summer and will release in October 2018.
How can readers connect with you? They can visit my website at www.irenehannon.com or follow me on Facebook and Twitter. I’m very active on Facebook and love to interact with readers there.
Thank you, Irene, for sharing this new book with us. I’m eager to read it.
Readers, here are links to the book. - Amazon paperback
Dangerous Illusions (Code of Honor Book 1)[image error] - Kindle
Dangerous Illusions: Code of Honor, Book 1 - Audio[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 14, 2017
CHRISTY Giveaway, Blog Tour, and Facebook Live Party - One Free Book on This Blog
Some stories are evergreen, their themes and lessons standing the test of time and connecting with readers generation after generation. Reconnect with Catherine Marshall's beloved Christy as it celebrates its 50th anniversary with a new edition! As nineteen-year-old teacher Christy struggles to find acceptance in her new home of Cutter Gap, some see her-and her one-room school as a threat to their way of life. Her faith is challenged and her heart is torn between two strong men with conflicting views about how to care for the families of the Cove. Yearning to make a difference, will Christy's determination and devotion be enough?
Celebrate the new 50th anniversary edition of Christy by entering to win one of TWO $50 Visa cash cards (details below) and by attending a Facebook Live party on December 5!
TWO grand prize winners will receive:
One copy of ChristyOne $50 Visa Cash CardEnter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 5. The winner will be announced at the Christy Facebook Live Party . RSVP for a chance to connect with authors who've been impacted by Christy and other readers, as well as for a chance to win other prizes!
RSVP today and spread the word-tell your friends about the giveaway and Facebook Live party via social media and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 5th!
Dear Readers, Christy was a favorite book of mine. I think I first read it about 40-45 years ago. I'm so glad I was invited to be part of the 50th anniversary celebration.
The train taking nineteen-year-old teacher Christy Huddleston from her home in Asheville, North Carolina, might as well be transporting her to another world. The Smoky Mountaincommunity of Cutter Gap feels suspended in time, trapped by poverty, superstitions, and century-old traditions.
But as Christy struggles to find acceptance in her new home, some see her - and her one-room school - as a threat to their way of life. Her faith is challenged and her heart is torn between two strong men with conflicting views about how to care for the families of the Cove.
Yearning to make a difference, will Christy's determination and devotion be enough?Learn more, download a free map of Cutter Gap, and purchase a copy.
Bio:Catherine Marshall (1914-1983), The New York Times best-selling author of 30 books, is best known for her novel
Christy
. Based on the life of her mother, Christy captured the hearts of millions and became a popular CBS television series. Around the kitchen table at Evergreen Farm, as her mother reminisced, Catherine probed for details and insights into the rugged lives of these Appalachian highlanders. Catherine shared the story of her husband, Dr. Peter Marshall, Chaplain of the United States Senate, in
A Man Called Peter
. A decade after Dr. Marshall's untimely death, Catherine married Leonard LeSourd, Executive Editor of Guideposts, forging a dynamic writer-editor partnership. A beloved inspirational writer and speaker, Catherine's enduring career spanned four decades and reached over 30 million readers.
Find out more about Catherine at http://gileadpublishing.com/christy/.
Readers, as you know, there isn’t an author interview. But leave your comments as always for a chance to win a copy of the hardback book.
Have you read Christy?
Did you ever see the TV series based on 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
Celebrate the new 50th anniversary edition of Christy by entering to win one of TWO $50 Visa cash cards (details below) and by attending a Facebook Live party on December 5!
TWO grand prize winners will receive:
One copy of ChristyOne $50 Visa Cash CardEnter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 5. The winner will be announced at the Christy Facebook Live Party . RSVP for a chance to connect with authors who've been impacted by Christy and other readers, as well as for a chance to win other prizes!
RSVP today and spread the word-tell your friends about the giveaway and Facebook Live party via social media and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 5th!Dear Readers, Christy was a favorite book of mine. I think I first read it about 40-45 years ago. I'm so glad I was invited to be part of the 50th anniversary celebration.
The train taking nineteen-year-old teacher Christy Huddleston from her home in Asheville, North Carolina, might as well be transporting her to another world. The Smoky Mountaincommunity of Cutter Gap feels suspended in time, trapped by poverty, superstitions, and century-old traditions.
But as Christy struggles to find acceptance in her new home, some see her - and her one-room school - as a threat to their way of life. Her faith is challenged and her heart is torn between two strong men with conflicting views about how to care for the families of the Cove.
Yearning to make a difference, will Christy's determination and devotion be enough?Learn more, download a free map of Cutter Gap, and purchase a copy.
Bio:Catherine Marshall (1914-1983), The New York Times best-selling author of 30 books, is best known for her novel
Christy
. Based on the life of her mother, Christy captured the hearts of millions and became a popular CBS television series. Around the kitchen table at Evergreen Farm, as her mother reminisced, Catherine probed for details and insights into the rugged lives of these Appalachian highlanders. Catherine shared the story of her husband, Dr. Peter Marshall, Chaplain of the United States Senate, in
A Man Called Peter
. A decade after Dr. Marshall's untimely death, Catherine married Leonard LeSourd, Executive Editor of Guideposts, forging a dynamic writer-editor partnership. A beloved inspirational writer and speaker, Catherine's enduring career spanned four decades and reached over 30 million readers.Find out more about Catherine at http://gileadpublishing.com/christy/.
Readers, as you know, there isn’t an author interview. But leave your comments as always for a chance to win a copy of the hardback book.
Have you read Christy?
Did you ever see the TV series based on 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 13, 2017
THE CHRISTMAS BLESSING - Melody Carlson - One Free Book
Dear Readers, I’m thrilled to introduce you to Melody Carlson’s Christmas book this year. I’ve enjoyed her Christmas novels for several years. This one is historical, a real heartwarming story of loss and reconciliation. The characters really grabbed my heart and held on until the end of the story. I know you’ll love it, too.
Welcome back, Melody. What is the title of your most recent book?
The Christmas Blessing
Who is the primary audience for The Christmas Blessing? Readers of all ages, who want to read an uplifting Christmas story.
What was your inspiration for writing a book set in World War IIHow do ideas for books or storylines or characters come to you?Usually in a small snippet—and usually in the form of a character who has a specific problem and in a setting that interests me. Then I simply jump in and find out how it all works out.
What do you hope readers can gain from reading The Christmas Blessing?That God is loving and good—and there is hope for everyone and anyone.
What are you working on next?I almost always have something in the works. Even though I’m trying to slow my writing down, there’s always a story brewing—sometimes it’s just putting down notes for a future project. Right now I’m finishing my Christmas novella (for 2018) and am about to get back to the fourth and final book in my historical Mulligan Sisters series (set in WWII San Francisco).
Tell us about the story, for my readers.During World War II, Amelia Richards had been serving as USO hostess, when she met James Bradley at the USO New Year’s Eve dance. They immediately fell in love and he proposed 4 days later. That same afternoon he was commanded to report back to the ship. In late 1944, Amelia received news from the War Department that his plane was shot down in the South Pacific. Now she is alone with their infant son Jimmy and the dilemma of contacting James’ parents in Montana to let them know that they are grandparents. Amelia prays that they will accept this grandchild even if she and James did not have the chance to marry?
Thank you, Melody, for sharing this book with us. I loved reading it.
Readers, you can find out more about Melody here:https://www.melodycarlson.com/
Here are links to the book. - Amazon
The Christmas Blessing - 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, Melody. What is the title of your most recent book?
The Christmas Blessing
Who is the primary audience for The Christmas Blessing? Readers of all ages, who want to read an uplifting Christmas story.
What was your inspiration for writing a book set in World War IIHow do ideas for books or storylines or characters come to you?Usually in a small snippet—and usually in the form of a character who has a specific problem and in a setting that interests me. Then I simply jump in and find out how it all works out.
What do you hope readers can gain from reading The Christmas Blessing?That God is loving and good—and there is hope for everyone and anyone.What are you working on next?I almost always have something in the works. Even though I’m trying to slow my writing down, there’s always a story brewing—sometimes it’s just putting down notes for a future project. Right now I’m finishing my Christmas novella (for 2018) and am about to get back to the fourth and final book in my historical Mulligan Sisters series (set in WWII San Francisco).
Tell us about the story, for my readers.During World War II, Amelia Richards had been serving as USO hostess, when she met James Bradley at the USO New Year’s Eve dance. They immediately fell in love and he proposed 4 days later. That same afternoon he was commanded to report back to the ship. In late 1944, Amelia received news from the War Department that his plane was shot down in the South Pacific. Now she is alone with their infant son Jimmy and the dilemma of contacting James’ parents in Montana to let them know that they are grandparents. Amelia prays that they will accept this grandchild even if she and James did not have the chance to marry?
Thank you, Melody, for sharing this book with us. I loved reading it.
Readers, you can find out more about Melody here:https://www.melodycarlson.com/
Here are links to the book. - Amazon
The Christmas Blessing - 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
