Lena Nelson Dooley's Blog, page 118
September 8, 2017
RULE OF LAW - Randy Singer - One Free Book
Bio: Randy Singer is a critically acclaimed author and veteran trial attorney. He has penned more than ten legal thrillers, including his award-winning debut novel Directed Verdict. In addition to his law practice and writing, he serves as a teaching pastor for TrinityChurch in Virginia Beach, Virginia. He also teaches classes in advocacy and ethics at Regent Law School and serves on the school's Board of Visitors.Find out more about Randy at http://www.randysinger.net.
Welcome, Randy. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. I would say I write a fair amount of things I have experienced and my own personality into my characters. As a lawyer, I see a lot of crazy stuff and will catch myself thinking: That’s got to make it into my next book.
In particular, this book starts with a SEAL Team rescuing hostages captured by the Houthi Rebels in Yemen. I am actually representing some clients who worked for the UN and were captured in Yemen so a lot of those details come from real life.
At another point in the book, the main character turns the beach into her sanctuary using a prayer ritual that I’ve used before. The hearings and legal proceedings take place in the courtrooms I inhabit. The lawyers posture and get nervous and make dumb mistakes just like. . .well, like other lawyers I know.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? I am a pretty quirky guy so this is really hard to answer. The problem is that quirky people don’t think the things we do are quirky. They seem natural to us.
I like my habits. My morning ritual of coffee, quiet time, journaling, and exercise. I like my books and pens and papers stacked neatly on my desk, all in a row, like little soldiers. I like my legal files organized a certain way. I dictate all my first drafts of my books. I don’t want any pictures or plaques or diplomas on my walls—plain, institutional off-white is just fine for me. I carry my index cards with my to-do list in my back pocket. Sometimes, I will write something on the list just to cross it off.
And for some reason, people think I’m quirky.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, my dog Lambeau wants me to get his bed out because he goes to bed at the exact same time (8 pm) in the exact same spot every night.
When did you first discover that you were a writer? When I wrote my first novel. I somehow managed to make it through high school, college, and law school without realizing I had a gift for writing. I certainly never tried creative writing. But I was always a storyteller. In the courtroom. In my sermons. Around the dinner table. With friends. Then, when I was in my 40s, I discovered that this is what writers do—give birth to stories. Years later, I still love the whole process.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. Wow, it’s a huge range. I like novels of all types. I also read a lot of biographies and books about famous (and infamous!) lawyers and judges. I like other non-fiction that makes me think as well, especially historical stuff. I’m not the kind that has to finish a book. If I’m bored after a couple of chapters, on to the next one.
I’m with you on that. Life’s too short to waste it on a novel that hasn’t caught my attention. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? As the lawyers would say: This assumes facts not in evidence. Who says I’m sane?
Actually, this is a great question, especially for somebody who is juggling three jobs (pastor, lawyer, author). Here are the things that work for me: (1) Start every day with the Lord and my Bible. Prayer, journaling, Bible study, and coffee first thing in the morning—it’s the absolute best part of my day. (2) I trust the fabulous people I work with to do their part. And I really enjoy the teams that I’m part of at church, the firm, and with my publisher. (3) Exercise—this gives me energy and a fresh perspective. (4) Setting and reviewing goals to keep me focused on the big things and not sweating the small ones. (5) Focusing, as Scripture says, on the things that are true, noble, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy (which means not focusing on the things that cause us to worry and bring us down).
How do you choose your characters’ names? I’m not good at names so I get help. My wife, Rhonda, is excellent and can always think of several good options. I also ask friends. It basically takes a village to name my characters.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? That’s a hard question. Being a good husband and father is probably number one.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? This is easy—my black lab: Lambeau. Nobody has it easier than that guy and he pretty much runs the house. Plus, he’s just a happy fella.
What is your favorite food? Pizza. And there’s not even a close second.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? Because I am a pastor who wants his novels to make a spiritual impact, I had to resist the urge of sounding preachy in my novels. I have worked really hard to make the spiritual aspects of my books seem natural and organic, rather than sounding like I have an agenda or a formulaic way to weave religion into the story. I studied the way Jesus used stories and the way great authors would capture the heart without seeming like they had an agenda. Basically, I became an insatiable student of the craft. I believe this helped me become a better and more natural storyteller as both an author and a pastor.
As a side note, I am so grateful that I write for a publisher (Tyndale) that allows me and encourages me to make the spiritual elements a normal part of the story. I think authors who leave out the spiritual are creating stories that are less realistic because they are missing such an essential part of our lives.
Tell us about the featured book.
It’s a book about a team of Navy SEALs that go into Yemento rescue some hostages only to discover that their mission has been compromised. Good men die and the rumor begins to circulate that the president knew the mission had been compromised, but sent them anyway for political reasons. Our heroes are two lawyers (Aren’t lawyers always heroes?)—one is a young woman who was dating one of the SEALs and another is a crusty (and ethically-challenged) old warhorse of a lawyer. They join forces to take on the president and her cabinet.
Is the president above the law?
As we say on the back of the book: The stakes are huge, the alliances shaky, and Paige Chambers will be left to wonder if the saying on the Supreme Court building still holds true.
Equal justice under law.
It makes a nice motto. But will it work when one of the most powerful people on the planet is also a defendant?
Please give us the first page of the book.Sanaa, YemenThey descended like vultures from the C-17 transport plane, silhouettes against a quarter moon in a tar-black sky. Invisible, silent predators. Arms and legs spread wide, free-falling for the first few seconds, the wind rushing past their arched bodies at 120 miles per hour. Adrenaline surging with every heartbeat.
Twenty men had stepped out of the cargo hold at 31,000 feet, into the frigid air above the sovereign territory of Yemen. Twenty-two seconds later, at 27,000 feet, they snapped their chutes open, checked their Nav Boards, and adjusted their flights. They would float through the thin and biting air for nearly twenty minutes, landing within a few hundred yards of the first rally point on a desolate mountain plateau nearly five kilometers outside the city of Sanaa.
The men were part of a Tier 1 special forces “asset,” the best Americahad to offer. Among them were a farmer from New York, a swimmer from California, a hunter from Texas, a lacrosse player from Connecticut. They had trained their entire adult lives for a moment like this, a presidential mission, one the suits in DC were following in real time. The president herself would monitor progress from the mahogany-lined Situation Room, watching video from the team leader’s camera, listening to every spoken word on the command net, the radio frequency used by the team leader and headquarters staff. These men were part of the famed SEAL Team 6, officially known as the Naval Special Warfare Development Group or DEVGRU, and this team, from the secretive Black Squadron, would be notching their own place in the history books tonight. It wasn’t quite bin Laden, but unlike other covert operations, this one would not go unnoticed. In fact, if all went according to plan, the world would later watch selected portions of the video. They would see the lethal efficiency of this team. Freedom for condemned prisoners. A statement that Americawas entitled to respect.
The mission was code-named Operation Exodus, a name Patrick Quillen and his men secretly disliked. They wanted to call it Alcatraz, because it would be a spectacular jailbreak, but then the president weighed in, followed by the PR geeks. The Houthi rebels running Yemen had provided no trials or due process for the two noncombatants the SEAL team had been sent to extract. The Houthis had threatened to execute the prisoners by hanging them on Easter Sunday. It was a blatant violation of international law, a thumbing of the nose at the United States and Saudi Arabia. The president had dispatched this team to put things right, to set the captives free. Operation Exodus was born. The first prisoner was an American journalist named Cameron Holloman, a flamboyant reporter for the Washington Post, one of those pretty boys who inserted themselves into wartorn countries and dreamed of Pulitzers. He had flown into Saudi Arabiaand snuck across the Yemeni border so he could report on the plight of the people caught in the crossfire between the Saudi air raids and the Houthis’ counterattacks. But after two weeks in Yemen, he had been
What a way to leave us hanging. I can’t wait to see what happens next. Thank goodness, my copy of the book is on my dining room table. How can readers find you on the Internet? They can go to www.randysinger.net. If they go to www.randysinger.com they will find a harmonica player with my name. His songs, by the way, are really good.
Thank you, Randy, for sharing this book with my readers and me.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog. - Amazon paperback
Rule of Law[image error] - Kindle
Rule of Law - Audio book[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, Randy. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. I would say I write a fair amount of things I have experienced and my own personality into my characters. As a lawyer, I see a lot of crazy stuff and will catch myself thinking: That’s got to make it into my next book.In particular, this book starts with a SEAL Team rescuing hostages captured by the Houthi Rebels in Yemen. I am actually representing some clients who worked for the UN and were captured in Yemen so a lot of those details come from real life.
At another point in the book, the main character turns the beach into her sanctuary using a prayer ritual that I’ve used before. The hearings and legal proceedings take place in the courtrooms I inhabit. The lawyers posture and get nervous and make dumb mistakes just like. . .well, like other lawyers I know.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? I am a pretty quirky guy so this is really hard to answer. The problem is that quirky people don’t think the things we do are quirky. They seem natural to us.
I like my habits. My morning ritual of coffee, quiet time, journaling, and exercise. I like my books and pens and papers stacked neatly on my desk, all in a row, like little soldiers. I like my legal files organized a certain way. I dictate all my first drafts of my books. I don’t want any pictures or plaques or diplomas on my walls—plain, institutional off-white is just fine for me. I carry my index cards with my to-do list in my back pocket. Sometimes, I will write something on the list just to cross it off.
And for some reason, people think I’m quirky.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, my dog Lambeau wants me to get his bed out because he goes to bed at the exact same time (8 pm) in the exact same spot every night.
When did you first discover that you were a writer? When I wrote my first novel. I somehow managed to make it through high school, college, and law school without realizing I had a gift for writing. I certainly never tried creative writing. But I was always a storyteller. In the courtroom. In my sermons. Around the dinner table. With friends. Then, when I was in my 40s, I discovered that this is what writers do—give birth to stories. Years later, I still love the whole process.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. Wow, it’s a huge range. I like novels of all types. I also read a lot of biographies and books about famous (and infamous!) lawyers and judges. I like other non-fiction that makes me think as well, especially historical stuff. I’m not the kind that has to finish a book. If I’m bored after a couple of chapters, on to the next one.
I’m with you on that. Life’s too short to waste it on a novel that hasn’t caught my attention. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? As the lawyers would say: This assumes facts not in evidence. Who says I’m sane?
Actually, this is a great question, especially for somebody who is juggling three jobs (pastor, lawyer, author). Here are the things that work for me: (1) Start every day with the Lord and my Bible. Prayer, journaling, Bible study, and coffee first thing in the morning—it’s the absolute best part of my day. (2) I trust the fabulous people I work with to do their part. And I really enjoy the teams that I’m part of at church, the firm, and with my publisher. (3) Exercise—this gives me energy and a fresh perspective. (4) Setting and reviewing goals to keep me focused on the big things and not sweating the small ones. (5) Focusing, as Scripture says, on the things that are true, noble, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy (which means not focusing on the things that cause us to worry and bring us down).
How do you choose your characters’ names? I’m not good at names so I get help. My wife, Rhonda, is excellent and can always think of several good options. I also ask friends. It basically takes a village to name my characters.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? That’s a hard question. Being a good husband and father is probably number one.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? This is easy—my black lab: Lambeau. Nobody has it easier than that guy and he pretty much runs the house. Plus, he’s just a happy fella.
What is your favorite food? Pizza. And there’s not even a close second.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? Because I am a pastor who wants his novels to make a spiritual impact, I had to resist the urge of sounding preachy in my novels. I have worked really hard to make the spiritual aspects of my books seem natural and organic, rather than sounding like I have an agenda or a formulaic way to weave religion into the story. I studied the way Jesus used stories and the way great authors would capture the heart without seeming like they had an agenda. Basically, I became an insatiable student of the craft. I believe this helped me become a better and more natural storyteller as both an author and a pastor.
As a side note, I am so grateful that I write for a publisher (Tyndale) that allows me and encourages me to make the spiritual elements a normal part of the story. I think authors who leave out the spiritual are creating stories that are less realistic because they are missing such an essential part of our lives.
Tell us about the featured book.
It’s a book about a team of Navy SEALs that go into Yemento rescue some hostages only to discover that their mission has been compromised. Good men die and the rumor begins to circulate that the president knew the mission had been compromised, but sent them anyway for political reasons. Our heroes are two lawyers (Aren’t lawyers always heroes?)—one is a young woman who was dating one of the SEALs and another is a crusty (and ethically-challenged) old warhorse of a lawyer. They join forces to take on the president and her cabinet.Is the president above the law?
As we say on the back of the book: The stakes are huge, the alliances shaky, and Paige Chambers will be left to wonder if the saying on the Supreme Court building still holds true.
Equal justice under law.
It makes a nice motto. But will it work when one of the most powerful people on the planet is also a defendant?
Please give us the first page of the book.Sanaa, YemenThey descended like vultures from the C-17 transport plane, silhouettes against a quarter moon in a tar-black sky. Invisible, silent predators. Arms and legs spread wide, free-falling for the first few seconds, the wind rushing past their arched bodies at 120 miles per hour. Adrenaline surging with every heartbeat.
Twenty men had stepped out of the cargo hold at 31,000 feet, into the frigid air above the sovereign territory of Yemen. Twenty-two seconds later, at 27,000 feet, they snapped their chutes open, checked their Nav Boards, and adjusted their flights. They would float through the thin and biting air for nearly twenty minutes, landing within a few hundred yards of the first rally point on a desolate mountain plateau nearly five kilometers outside the city of Sanaa.
The men were part of a Tier 1 special forces “asset,” the best Americahad to offer. Among them were a farmer from New York, a swimmer from California, a hunter from Texas, a lacrosse player from Connecticut. They had trained their entire adult lives for a moment like this, a presidential mission, one the suits in DC were following in real time. The president herself would monitor progress from the mahogany-lined Situation Room, watching video from the team leader’s camera, listening to every spoken word on the command net, the radio frequency used by the team leader and headquarters staff. These men were part of the famed SEAL Team 6, officially known as the Naval Special Warfare Development Group or DEVGRU, and this team, from the secretive Black Squadron, would be notching their own place in the history books tonight. It wasn’t quite bin Laden, but unlike other covert operations, this one would not go unnoticed. In fact, if all went according to plan, the world would later watch selected portions of the video. They would see the lethal efficiency of this team. Freedom for condemned prisoners. A statement that Americawas entitled to respect.
The mission was code-named Operation Exodus, a name Patrick Quillen and his men secretly disliked. They wanted to call it Alcatraz, because it would be a spectacular jailbreak, but then the president weighed in, followed by the PR geeks. The Houthi rebels running Yemen had provided no trials or due process for the two noncombatants the SEAL team had been sent to extract. The Houthis had threatened to execute the prisoners by hanging them on Easter Sunday. It was a blatant violation of international law, a thumbing of the nose at the United States and Saudi Arabia. The president had dispatched this team to put things right, to set the captives free. Operation Exodus was born. The first prisoner was an American journalist named Cameron Holloman, a flamboyant reporter for the Washington Post, one of those pretty boys who inserted themselves into wartorn countries and dreamed of Pulitzers. He had flown into Saudi Arabiaand snuck across the Yemeni border so he could report on the plight of the people caught in the crossfire between the Saudi air raids and the Houthis’ counterattacks. But after two weeks in Yemen, he had been
What a way to leave us hanging. I can’t wait to see what happens next. Thank goodness, my copy of the book is on my dining room table. How can readers find you on the Internet? They can go to www.randysinger.net. If they go to www.randysinger.com they will find a harmonica player with my name. His songs, by the way, are really good.
Thank you, Randy, for sharing this book with my readers and me.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog. - Amazon paperback
Rule of Law[image error] - Kindle
Rule of Law - Audio book[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
September 7, 2017
MERCY TRIUMPHS - Jana Kelley - One Free Book
Welcome back, Jana. God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon? I’d like to write a third devotional book. I grew so much in my own relationship with the Lord when I wrote the first two. Just like the first ones, I plan for these devotionals to be taken from my experiences of living in a cross-cultural setting and learning how to be a follower of Christ even when I am in the minority. Yep, I do have a series of novels in my brain, but I don’t know when I’ll move those ideas to the front. For now, that’s on the back burner.Tell us a little about your family. I am learning all about being the mother of a college student. Our oldest son is studying in Texas, and that is a long way from Southeast Asia where our family lives! Our other two sons are in high school and live at home with us. We are blessed to live on a tropical island surrounded by the sea, botanical gardens, and friendly people.
I live in North Central Texas. Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how? I have always enjoyed reading but I am not a fast reader. Nowadays, I keep busy with more than only writing projects, so if I sit down to read, I often fall asleep! I have found joy in listening to audio books and I go through many more books that way. The more I write, the more I want to read. I like to read a variety of books. I want to read good writing if I am reading fiction. I love to also read books about writing. But for my spiritual growth, I want to read nonfiction as well. I can play an audio book while cooking, getting ready for the day, or driving down the road. I usually have two paper books and one audio book that I am working through.
Several of my books have been turned into audio books. What are you working on right now? Right now, I am working to keep my blog consistent and beginning research for a future devotional book. I also do a lot of journaling as I process the lessons the Lord is teaching me. Those entries are not for others to read . . . but I enjoy the process anyway.
What outside interests do you have? I love to learn about the island we live on. Any chance I get to learn a bit more of the local language, or meet a new local friend, I am all for it.
How do you choose your settings for each book? Up to now, I’ve only written about places I have lived in or visited. I love to write about other countries and cultures. Because living in countries that are not my own has always been a part of my life, I’m not sure I could write about anything different than that.
If you could spend an evening with one historical person, who would it be and why? Can we call Mother Teresa a historical person? I know a lady who once met her and was very impressed. I would love to have a chance to sit down with Mother Teresa and hear her heart.
What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels? I wish I had better understood the need for solid characters on the front end. I think that would have made my writing much easier along the way.
What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now? “Keep in step with the Spirit” (Galatians 5:25) is what I am learning right now. I don’t see very many steps down the way, but I can see the next step He has for me. I need to obey Him in each step and then trust Him for the future steps.
What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful? 1. Don’t give up! A novel is written one word at a time, so keep writing the words.2. Be willing to have your manuscript edited. Listen to the editors and beta-readers. You may not agree to make every change, but you should at least consider their perspective.3. Read about writing, or listen to podcasts. There is always more to learn so be humble and learn it!
Tell us about the featured book.
Mercy Triumphs
is all about . . . well . . . mercy! Mia, Rania, and Halimah are the main characters of this novel and each one is presented with significant challenges. The stories of these ladies are very realistic for both Christians and Muslims who live in predominately Muslim countries. I wrote the characters and scenes with the faces of my friends and locations I have lived in or visited in my mind.Please give us the first page of the book:Khartoum, SudanMia Weston closed her eyes and rubbed her right cheek, feeling the heat that emanated from the swollen area. She winced. The tooth had been hurting for quite some time, but she had no idea a cavity could escalate to an ordeal like this. She laid her head against the dentist's chair, expecting to feel the soft padding. Instead she felt a rough hard surface.
With her other hand Mia reached back and pulled tree bark out of her hair. What in the world? She turned to look behind her and realized she was not in a dentist chair at all. She was sitting on the dusty ground, leaning against a giant tree. The dental equipment and x-ray screen that had filled her vision faded away, replaced by desert sand.
Then she remembered. She was in a village. In Sudan. Sudan was the worst place in the world to have a dental emergency. But she and Michael decided that with an abscessed tooth, there wasn't much else they could do. She was at the mercy of a dentist in Africa.
“Salaam aleykum.” The voice of the female dentist scraped like a tin can dragging across gravel. The old woman wore a white coat and carried a tray of stainless steel tools. As she approached, her lips spread into a giant grin.
Mia recoiled. The woman's teeth, the few that remained, were crooked and stained. One of them wobbled as if about to fall out. Suddenly, bit of gravel and sand began to fall onto Mia's face. She tried to brush them away but they kept hitting her. And then it was no longer sand and gravel. Teeth were falling on her.
Mia opened her mouth to scream for help, but the only sound leaving her throat was a pathetic groan.
And then she opened her eyes. She was lying on her bed at home. Flies danced and hopped about on her face. She brushed them away, sat up straight, and looked around her. She was safe. Breathing a sigh of relief, she instinctively held a hand to her right cheek. It was not feverish or swollen. Another sigh of relief.
Interesting. How can readers find you on the Internet?I love to hear from readers!www.JanaKelley.comSocial MediaFacebook: Jana Kelley AuthorTwitter: @KelleyJanaReaders, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.Mercy Triumphs: A Contemporary Novel[image error] - Paperback
Mercy Triumphs: A Contemporary Novel - 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
September 6, 2017
DEFIANCE - L R Burkard - One Free Book
Welcome back, L R. By the way, I love your author photo. What are some of the spiritual themes you like to write about?For my historical fiction I emphasize salvation by faith alone through grace alone—to show that it can’t be earned by being religious. In the early 19th century in England, which is an era I write about, Church membership and attendance was thought to suffice for one’s spirituality. So bringing the message of true faith to that backdrop works to highlight its simple truth. In my contemporary novels, I also emphasize the simplicity of the gospel. I never imply that living out a life of faith is easy, but that salvation is never more than a prayer away—for the heart that is sincere and turns to Christ. What other books of yours are coming out soon?With the completion of Defiance , The Pulse Effex Series is now a trilogy, so I’m turning my focus back to regency romance for the time being. The next regency ought to be out by around June of 2018, if not sooner. I hope to follow that with a couple of other romances, both historical and contemporary, that are in the works right now.
If you could spend an evening with one contemporary person (not a family member of yours), who would it be and why? Amy Grant. I’ve been an Amy fan since my college days and I always felt Amy and I would hit it off as friends if we met. I actually botched a real opportunity to meet her—at her invite! (via her management company)—to my sorrow. But I would love to meet her and talk a night away together.
What historical person would you like to meet (besides Jesus) and why?Well, as a Jane Austen fan, I look forward to meeting Miss Austen in heaven, but I’m not certain I’d want to meet her on earth. Why? Because she possessed a caliber of intelligence probably quite beyond my own. I’d be afraid of boring her, to be honest. I don’t doubt that if she had been less polite and more in society, her reputation would have mirrored Oscar Wilde’s for ready wit and brilliance. As it stands, Jane was polite—in public—and sometimes surprisingly cutting in her private remarks (which we know from surviving letters). If I could, I’d love to observe her at a public gathering—from a safe distance—until I gathered my courage and dared approach her!
How can you encourage authors who have been receiving only rejections from publishers?There are real reasons for authors to be encouraged by rejections, and here are two: One is that they are in good company. A bona fide writer gets rejections. Nearly every famous writer throughout history has had to face them. So it’s really a rite of passage. In addition, a rejection is merely a notice that they haven’t found the right home for their work yet. It does NOT mean that home doesn’t exist. So they have to keep trying.
The second reason to be encouraged is that publishers are no longer the only gatekeepers of what gets published. As long as an author’s work has been thoroughly edited and rewritten until it shines, self-publishing is a viable option. It’s a different path with its own set of challenges and shouldn’t be embarked upon lightly, but after counting the cost and studying best practices, self-published authors today can do just as well if not better than traditionally published authors.(A word of caution: It is far easier to get one’s book out there via self-publishing, but in most cases far more difficult to get as wide a distribution as traditional publishers have access to. )
Tell us about the featured book.DEFIANCE is book three in the Pulse Effex Series, which shows the aftermath of a catastrophic EMP (electromagnetic pulse) as seen through the eyes of three teens and their families. It’s a cautionary tale, a survival tale, and a journey of faith in very dark times. The response from people who usually don’t read YA/suspense has been wonderful—the first book hooks them, and they’re really glad to have read about what life could look like if an EMP were to really happen. Part of my motivation was to help the church get prepared for just an event—or one like it. I felt moved by the Lord, actually, to write this series. Please give us the first page of the book.I think your readers would enjoy the SNEAK PEEK from the front of the book, first. Which I’ll follow with the first page. SNEAK PEEKAngel took a handgun out of a side holster and handed it to me. “We’re gonna need you, Sarah.”
“I—I’ve only had a few lessons,” I said, weakly.
“Just aim and shoot when you need to,” she said, quietly. “It’s already chambered. Remember what we taught you—when a bullet’s chambered, it’s ready. Don’t aim it until you’re gonna use it and don’t put your finger on the trigger until you’re gonna shoot.” “Here they are!” Richard cried.
The gang of marauders appeared, descending upon the cabin with hoots and shouts that made my blood curdle. I took the gun with a sense of unreality. How could this be happening? It couldn’t be, because I, Sarah Weaver, did not take part in real battles! Sarah Weaver was an anxious, fear-filled teenager with enough insecurities for ten girls. I was the one to have panic attacks when alone; the one who’d been taking anti-depressants for two years—until the pulse stopped that.
I held the pistol up with shaky hands. And I knew: This was reality now. This was life, and there was no room for the old Sarah. I could not allow myself to crumple in weakness or fear.
PAGE ONEI saw him through the morning fog, appearing like a phantom out of the haze. You’d think the sight of a man approaching through the field would send me scurrying to the house in alarm. You’d think it would have me shouting for Angel and Tex to come with rifles at the ready. But I knew who it was. I recognized the wearied determination. That deliberate walk. But not at first. I’d been out at dawn fetching the morning’s water at the pump. I froze when he came into sight, my heart thumping with fear. People were about the scariest thing you could encounter these days. Then I saw: Richard! He’d left me here at Tex and Angel McAllister’s homestead three weeks ago. When he left without a word to any of us, the McAllisters let me move from the barn loft to their living-room so I wouldn’t be alone at night. See, the McAllisters took us in, letting us sleep in the barn. After the EMP knocked out the electric grid in the dead of winter seven months ago, we were forced from our apartment by a building fire. At first we’d taken shelter in the town library—everyone from our building did. But the library was dirty and crowded, and we were slowly starving. As soon as the weather allowed, we took off to make our way to Aunt Susan’s farm. It was a treacherous journey and we never got there—instead, we ended up here with Tex and Angel. They were wonderful to me and extra kind since Richard took off. But I missed my brother.
A huge lump filled my throat when I saw how defeated and beaten he looked. But I swallowed it and slammed down my half-filled bucket, and ran. I barreled into him, crying on his shirt. “Hi, sis.” He wrapped a weak arm around me. Poor Richard! He must have endured a lot out there.
Here are some additional links that might be handy.Free Excerpt of Book One, PulseFree Excerpt of Book Two, ResilienceFree Excerpt of Book Three, Defiance
THANK YOU, Lena!
And thank you, Linore, for allowing me to introduce my readers to this series.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.Defiance: A Post-Apocalyptic YA Tale of Survival (The Pulse Effex Series) (Volume 3)[image error] - Paperback
DEFIANCE: A Post-Apocalyptic YA Tale of Survival (The PULSE EFFEX Series Book 3) - Kindle[image error]
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
September 4, 2017
THE CHRISTMAS ADMIRER - Laura V Hilton - One Free Book
Bio: Laura V. Hilton is an award-winning, sought-after author with almost twenty Amish, contemporary, and historical romances. When she’s not writing, she reviews books for her blogs, and writes devotionals for blog posts for Seriously Write and Putting on the New.
Laura and her pastor-husband have five children and a hyper dog named Skye. They currently live in Arkansas. One son is in the U.S. Coast Guard. She is a pastor’s wife and homeschools her two youngest children.
When she’s not writing, Laura enjoys reading and visiting lighthouses and waterfalls. Her favorite season is winter, her favorite holiday is Christmas.
Welcome back, Laura. How did you come up with the idea for this story? We were on vacation and visited a glassblower shop in Springfield, Missouri. Plus I was reading a book about Chasing Lions. God merged them together.
If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why? Susan May Warren, Liz Johnson, Colleen Coble, Denise Hunter, Rachel Hauck, and Beth Vogt. Because they could talk and talk and have a seriously good time and I wouldn’t have to say anything.
That would be a fun party. I love those women, too. Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why? Margaret Brownley, Mary Ellis, Jan Drexler, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Vickie McDonough, and you. Same reason.
That would be great fun party for the same reason as the other one. Many times, people (and other authors) think you have it made with so many books published. What is your most difficult problem with writing at this time in your career? I have a lot of outside stress in my home and life. I’m doing more sinking than swimming and honestly, I’d like to curl up in a cave and hide. Creativity is a struggle I have to give God daily. The story is His.
That is so true. Tell us about the featured book.
Benaiah Troyer has loved Susanna King for as long as he can remember, but other than a lone summer filled with romantic buggy rides, marrying her remains an elusive dream. When his parents died in an accident a year ago, he broke up with her—for her own good. After all, they left him as the sole caregiver for his three younger sisters and his grandparents. What woman wants to step into a ready-made family like his? Still, he leaves her monthly gifts from “A Secret Admirer,” hoping she’ll know that someone loves her, even though he isn’t free to step forward.
Susanna has never gotten over losing Benaiah, and hopes he’s her secret admirer, but now the clock is ticking. Susanna’s father is remarrying in January and his wife-to-be doesn’t want to leave her Amish community and family in Iowa. So when Susanna’s daed sells his glass-blowing business to his right-hand man, Benaiah, she’s left with three options: 1) Go with Daed to his new home with a new frau and step-kinner, 2) Flush out her mysterious secret admirer, or 3) Resign herself to life as an old maid. She doesn’t want to follow Daed where his new frau is leading him. And number three isn’t happening. Marrying Benaiah is her greatest desire—but he broke her heart, and now he treats her like a pesky younger sister. Can she make him see her as a woman, one who could stand by his side as he cares for his family?
As Christmas approaches, Susanna and her friends start making gingerbread houses for select members of the community. Susanna plans for hers to go to Benaiah’s family. But while her gingerbread may find a home—will her heart?
Please give us the first page of the book.Susanna King paused midway through the door to the kitchen and stared at the single, long-stemmed red rose, artfully arranged with baby’s breath and a green fern-type plant, sitting in the middle of the table.
She’d been the last one to bed the previous nacht. She’d stayed up late reading A White Christmas in Webster County and had trailed Daed upstairs over an hour after he’d gone.
There’d been no rose, red or otherwise, on the table then, for sure and certain.
With trembling fingers, she set the lit lantern on the table and touched a soft red petal. She pulled the white envelope free from the long plastic card holder. Susanna was written on it in a neat, block print.
Her breath quickened and she looked around, hoping for some clue to who had been in the unlocked haus.
Nothing. Not even a footprint left on the recently swept and scrubbed floor.
She carefully lifted the flap and pulled the card free. White, with a red rose on the left side. “With love” was printed in gold script on the upper right corner.
How can readers find you on the Internet?visit my blogs: http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com/ & http://lauravhilton.blogspot.com/ twitter: @Laura_V_HiltonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Laura-V-Hilton/161478847242512Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/vernetlh/
Purchase my books:
Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Laura-V.-Hilton/e/B004IRSM5Q CBD: http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/easy_find?Ntt=laura+hilton&N=0&Ntk=keywords&action=Search&Ne=0&event=ESRCG&nav_search=1&cms=1Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/laura-hilton?store=allproducts&keyword=laura+hilton
Deeper Shopping http://www.deepershopping.com/index.php?query=laura+hilton&x=0&y=0&module=productsearch&_logmode=Y&querymodule=SPX
Thank you, Laura, for sharing this holiday season book with us. I love reading the new Christmas stories each year.
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
Laura and her pastor-husband have five children and a hyper dog named Skye. They currently live in Arkansas. One son is in the U.S. Coast Guard. She is a pastor’s wife and homeschools her two youngest children.
When she’s not writing, Laura enjoys reading and visiting lighthouses and waterfalls. Her favorite season is winter, her favorite holiday is Christmas.
Welcome back, Laura. How did you come up with the idea for this story? We were on vacation and visited a glassblower shop in Springfield, Missouri. Plus I was reading a book about Chasing Lions. God merged them together. If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why? Susan May Warren, Liz Johnson, Colleen Coble, Denise Hunter, Rachel Hauck, and Beth Vogt. Because they could talk and talk and have a seriously good time and I wouldn’t have to say anything.
That would be a fun party. I love those women, too. Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why? Margaret Brownley, Mary Ellis, Jan Drexler, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Vickie McDonough, and you. Same reason.
That would be great fun party for the same reason as the other one. Many times, people (and other authors) think you have it made with so many books published. What is your most difficult problem with writing at this time in your career? I have a lot of outside stress in my home and life. I’m doing more sinking than swimming and honestly, I’d like to curl up in a cave and hide. Creativity is a struggle I have to give God daily. The story is His.
That is so true. Tell us about the featured book.
Benaiah Troyer has loved Susanna King for as long as he can remember, but other than a lone summer filled with romantic buggy rides, marrying her remains an elusive dream. When his parents died in an accident a year ago, he broke up with her—for her own good. After all, they left him as the sole caregiver for his three younger sisters and his grandparents. What woman wants to step into a ready-made family like his? Still, he leaves her monthly gifts from “A Secret Admirer,” hoping she’ll know that someone loves her, even though he isn’t free to step forward. Susanna has never gotten over losing Benaiah, and hopes he’s her secret admirer, but now the clock is ticking. Susanna’s father is remarrying in January and his wife-to-be doesn’t want to leave her Amish community and family in Iowa. So when Susanna’s daed sells his glass-blowing business to his right-hand man, Benaiah, she’s left with three options: 1) Go with Daed to his new home with a new frau and step-kinner, 2) Flush out her mysterious secret admirer, or 3) Resign herself to life as an old maid. She doesn’t want to follow Daed where his new frau is leading him. And number three isn’t happening. Marrying Benaiah is her greatest desire—but he broke her heart, and now he treats her like a pesky younger sister. Can she make him see her as a woman, one who could stand by his side as he cares for his family?
As Christmas approaches, Susanna and her friends start making gingerbread houses for select members of the community. Susanna plans for hers to go to Benaiah’s family. But while her gingerbread may find a home—will her heart?
Please give us the first page of the book.Susanna King paused midway through the door to the kitchen and stared at the single, long-stemmed red rose, artfully arranged with baby’s breath and a green fern-type plant, sitting in the middle of the table.
She’d been the last one to bed the previous nacht. She’d stayed up late reading A White Christmas in Webster County and had trailed Daed upstairs over an hour after he’d gone.
There’d been no rose, red or otherwise, on the table then, for sure and certain.
With trembling fingers, she set the lit lantern on the table and touched a soft red petal. She pulled the white envelope free from the long plastic card holder. Susanna was written on it in a neat, block print.
Her breath quickened and she looked around, hoping for some clue to who had been in the unlocked haus.
Nothing. Not even a footprint left on the recently swept and scrubbed floor.
She carefully lifted the flap and pulled the card free. White, with a red rose on the left side. “With love” was printed in gold script on the upper right corner.
How can readers find you on the Internet?visit my blogs: http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com/ & http://lauravhilton.blogspot.com/ twitter: @Laura_V_HiltonFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Laura-V-Hilton/161478847242512Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/vernetlh/
Purchase my books:
Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Laura-V.-Hilton/e/B004IRSM5Q CBD: http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/easy_find?Ntt=laura+hilton&N=0&Ntk=keywords&action=Search&Ne=0&event=ESRCG&nav_search=1&cms=1Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/laura-hilton?store=allproducts&keyword=laura+hilton
Deeper Shopping http://www.deepershopping.com/index.php?query=laura+hilton&x=0&y=0&module=productsearch&_logmode=Y&querymodule=SPX
Thank you, Laura, for sharing this holiday season book with us. I love reading the new Christmas stories each year.
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
September 3, 2017
WINNERS!!!
Christine K (MN) is the winner of
A Mother for Leah
by Rachel Miller.
Amada (NM) is the winner of Peach Blossom Rancher by Ada Browning.
rbooth43 (NC) is the winner of Carolina Dream by Regina Rudd Merrick.
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.
Amada (NM) is the winner of Peach Blossom Rancher by Ada Browning.
rbooth43 (NC) is the winner of Carolina Dream by Regina Rudd Merrick.
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.
September 1, 2017
A TWISTED STRAND - Lynne Tagawa - One Free Book
Welcome, Lynne. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.A fair amount. I’m a biology teacher, and in
A Twisted Strand
, my protagonists are medical professionals. In my current WIP, a story set in the 1740s, my heroine’s main interest is botany. On the other hand, I have to imagine a lot of their experiences and feelings.
A Twisted Strand
is by no means a memoir. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?In high school, I attended the “Computer Dance” as the computer. A couple of us set up a box-like structure with instructions on the outside. I hid inside. I can’t remember what I told inquirers. Who they should dance with, maybe.
When did you first discover you were a writer?Good question. “Discover” is the right word—I never wrote stories or took any creative writing classes in my youth. But after I took pity on my own students and wrote a Texas History curriculum in “novel” (narrative) form, others started calling me a writer and desired me to teach writing classes. Looking back, I see that I’ve always loved to read. Now I’ve been bitten by another kind of bug—I enjoy writing the story myself.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.Wow. “Range” is a good word. I read history and historical fiction, and some romance. I’ve read most of Michael Crichton (my geeky side), and one of my new favorite authors is Charles Martin. Occasionally I’ll read something theological. And I can’t forget the classics. I’ve read To Kill a Mockingbird and The Lord of the Rings numerous times each.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?I do have a physical infirmity that keeps me from constantly working. Well, occasionally I overdo it. But writing itself is perfect in the sense that I can do it at my own pace, and the editing functions of Word are marvelous when compared to the clunky typewriter I used in college. Back then, I had two drafts: longhand, and the final edit as I typed.
How do you choose your characters’ names?Some of it’s a bit random. I like strong names, but strong names can be very common. In my historical fiction I am very careful to choose both given names and surnames that existed in the time and location of my story.
What is the accomplishment you are most proud of?My husband and I raised four sons by the grace of God. Repeat: by the grace of God!
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?If you had asked me this question in the fourth grade, it would have been easy: a horse, of course. Yes, I went through a horse phase and read every single horse book I could lay my hands on.
What is your favorite food?Does coffee count? Starbucks’ Sumatrais total awesomeness.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?I ran into a roadblock with A Twisted Strand because it was my first novel, and I didn’t understand story structure all that well. I was writing by instinct. I read a few books on the craft, including John Scott Bell’s on writing the middle scene early on, and so I stopped and did that. I wrote the middle “turning point” scene, and that solved it. I’ve learned that while I might not need a detailed outline, I do need something to structure my story so that I know where I’m going. With A Twisted Strand I ended up using a flowchart showing plot and character threads.
Tell us about the featured book.A man cheats on his wife and they divorce. That’s the backstory. Then a genetically engineered virus invades South Texas—everything I write about bioterrorism is true, except for this particular made-up virus. Anyway, the woman works for an epidemiologist, and the guy is a doctor who ends up helping, and thus they are thrown back together. They are also both confronted by scriptural truth. There’s a lot of solid doctrine in this book, but I worked hard to keep it natural and user-friendly.Please give us the first page of the book. [this is page two]She took another deep breath. The country settled her, reminding her of why she had decided against a stuffy city apartment, despite the long commute to her office in San Antonio. At eleven, Jason was old enough to care for Buttercup, and Abby could ride Brownie, the pony. Well, with supervision. The kids seemed happy.
Last weekend’s storm had brightened the limp lawns of the houses scattered along the country road. The live oaks dotting the fields on either side were always green, but the mesquite and other brush country flora along the fences were now bursting with new leaves, painting the landscape in the pastel green of spring. Refreshing. It almost reached that hard knot deep inside her chest.
“Look, Mom, bluebonnets!” At his age, Jason rarely showed such child-like enthusiasm.
Yes. Swaths of soft indigo brightened the ditches. By next week the humble flowers would be entrancing motorists to stop their cars, wade in, and take pictures.
One final familiar live oak cheered her heart. They were home. After checking the mailbox, she eased the vehicle down their long unpaved drive.
“Mom, is there something wrong with Buttercup?” Jason sat rigidly alert, peering ahead at their property: ten acres with a small mustard-colored stone house, several spreading oaks, and their animals. Rachel blinked, trying to focus, and as they approached she saw what her clear-eyed son had spotted. The heifer was down.
How can readers find you on the Internet?The best way is to go to www.lynnetagawa.com, my website. I’m also on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Thank you, Lynne, for sharing this book with my readers and me.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.A Twisted Strand: A Story of Faith and Second Chances[image error] - Paperback
A Twisted Strand: A Story of Faith and Second Chances - 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
August 31, 2017
TARGETED FOR DANGER - 8 Christian Romantic Suspense Novelists - One Free Book
TARGETED FOR DANGER
CROSSFIRENEW from RITA, Christy, and Carol Award-winning, and USA Today Bestselling Author SUSAN MAY WARREN
The woman he loves is caught in the crossfire of revenge…but he’ll have to face his crimes to save her.
Bio: Susan May WarrenWith over one million books sold, critically acclaimed novelist Susan May Warren is the Christy, RITA, and Carol award-winning author of over forty-five novels with Tyndale, Barbour, Steeple Hill, and Summerside Press. Known for her compelling plots and unforgettable characters, Susan has written contemporary and historical romances, romantic-suspense, thrillers, rom-com, and Christmas novellas.
With books translated into eight languages, many of her novels have been ECPA and CBA bestsellers, were chosen as Top Picks by Romantic Times, and have won the RWA's Inspirational Reader's Choice contest and the American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year award. She’s a three-time RITA finalist and an eight-time Christy finalist.
Publishers Weeklyhas written of her books, “Warrenlays bare her characters’ human frailties, including fear, grief, and resentment, as openly as she details their virtues of love, devotion, and resiliency. She has crafted an engaging tale of romance, rivalry, and the power of forgiveness.”
Susan is also a nationally acclaimed writing coach, teaching at conferences around the nation, and winner of the 2009 American Christian Fiction Writers Mentor of the Year award. She loves to help people launch their writing careers. She is the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.comand www.LearnHowtoWriteaNovel.com, a writing website that helps authors get published and stay published. She is also the author of the popular writing method The Story Equation.www.susanmaywarren.com
TAKEN BY DARKNEW from Award-winning, Bestselling Author CHRISTY BARRITT
Willa Shields is being taunted by someone desperate to get her attention. When the threats escalate, the only person who can help her is her new neighbor, FBI agent Parker Stone. But will he reach her before the darkness overcomes them both?
Bio: Christy BarrittUSA Today has called Christy Barritt's books “scary, funny, passionate, and quirky.”A Publishers Weeklybestselling author, Christy writes both mystery and romantic suspense novels that are clean with underlying messages of faith. Her books have won the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery, have been twice nominated for the Romantic TimesReviewers’ Choice Award, and have finaled for both a Carol Award and Foreword Magazine’s Book of the Year.
She is married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she's not trying to be. Christy is a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado.
When she's not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident-prone she is.www.christybarritt.com
LETHAL HOMECOMING
A Reader-favorite from Award-winning, Bestselling Author LYNETTE EASON
Callie Ainsworth just wants to go home. When her stepfather dies, she believes it’s safe to do so. But when someone tries to kill her minutes before she reaches her mother’s driveway, she realizes that danger still lurks—but this time, she’s not running away.
Bio: Lynette EasonLynette Eason is the best selling, award winning author of almost forty books including the Women of Justice series, the Deadly Reunions series, the Hidden Identity Series and the currently releasing Elite Guardians series. She writes for Revell and Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line. Her books have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists. She has won several awards including the 2013 and 2016 Carol Award in the Romantic Suspense category. She also placed in the top ten (out of thousands of entries) in the James Patterson 2016 co-writer contest. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), Romance Writers of America (RWA), Mystery Writers of America (MWA), International Thriller Writers (ITW), and Faith, Hope, and Love chapter of RWA as well as the Kiss of Death (KOD) chapter. www.lynetteeason.com
TREASURENEW from Critically-acclaimed Author GINNY AIKEN
Freelance writer Chloe Williams's first find at the newest Qumran Cavesdig is the dead C/OPS Security guard. Steven “Ridge”Ridgeway, founder of C/OPS, must deal with the murder of his man while keeping the two of them alive. It won't be easy, now that he and Chloe have seen the stolen treasure, since assassins don't give up until all witnesses are dead.
Bio: Ginny AikenBorn in Havana, Cuba, and raised in Valenciaand Caracas, Venezuela, Ginny Aiken discovered books early. She wrote her first novel at age fifteen while she trained with the Academia de Ballet Clasico Venezolano de Nina Novak. She burned that tome when she turned a “mature” sixteen. Stints as reporter, paralegal, choreographer, language teacher, and retail salesperson followed. Her life as mother of four sons and herder of their many friends brought her back to books and writing in desperate search of her sanity. She’s now the author of more than forty published works. Ginny lives with her husband of forty years in northwest Indiana, and they’re the grandparents of three amazing young men.
DEADLY SECRETNEW from USA Today Bestselling Author MARGARET DALEY
Secrets. Revenge. Reunion. The past comes back to haunt Sarah Patterson, and she turns to the only man who can help her—the man she left at the altar.
Bio: Margaret DaleyUSA Today Bestselling author, Margaret Daley, is multi-published with over 100 titles and 5 million books sold worldwide. She had written for Harlequin, Abingdon, Kensington, Dell, and Simon and Schuster. She has won multiple awards, including the prestigious Carol Award, Holt Medallion, and Inspirational Readers' Choice Contest.She has been married for over forty-five years and is enjoying being a grandma. When she isn't traveling, she's writing love stories, often with a suspense thread and corralling her three cats that think they rule her household. www.margaretdaley.com
DOUBLE EXPOSURENEW from Award-winning, Bestselling Author ELIZABETH GODDARD
Tara Blackburn witnesses a village decimated at the hands of armed men. Grant McCall is working undercover in a race against time to find Tara before the hired killers, but even more deadly is the illness to which she was exposed.
Bio: Elizabeth GoddardElizabeth Goddard is the ECPA bestselling, award-winning author of more than thirty-one romance novels and novellas and counting, including the romantic mystery, The Camera Never Lies—a 2011 Carol Award winner. She's a double finalist in the 2016 Daphne Du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense for her books Buried and Backfire in the Mountain Cove series, and a 2016 Carol Award romantic suspense finalist for Submerged.
A 7th generation Texan, Elizabeth graduated from North Texas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and worked in high-level software sales for several years before retiring to home school her children and fulfill her dreams of writing full-time. www.elizabethgoddard.com
COLD TERRORNEW from Award-winning, Bestselling Author SUSAN SLEEMAN
Forensic artist Hannah Perry and her young son barely escape from a killer and nearly lose their lives to the cold terror of the ocean. Former Navy SEAL Gage Blackwell comes to their rescue and appoints himself their bodyguard. Suddenly, not only is Hannah’s and her sons life at risk—so is her heart.
Bio: Susan SleemanSUSAN SLEEMAN is a bestselling and award-winning author of more than 30 inspirational/Christian and clean read romantic suspense books. In addition to writing, Susan also hosts the popular website TheSuspenseZone.com. Susan currently lives in Oregon, but has had the pleasure of living in nine states. Her husband is a retired church music director and they have two beautiful daughters, a very special son-in-law, and an adorable grandson.www.susansleeman.com
ONCE A THIEFNEW from USA TodayBestselling Author JAN THOMPSON
She sets a thief to catch a thief.
Will he also steal her heart?
Private investigator Helen Hu must team up with art thief Reuben Costa to rescue her mother, who has vanished while trying to return a bejeweled egg she stole fifteen years ago. That is, if Reuben still wants to cooperate after what the Hu family has done to his father.
Bio: Jan ThompsonUSA Today bestselling author Jan Thompson writes clean and wholesome multi-ethnic contemporary Christian romance, Christian romantic suspense, and inspirational international romantic thrillers. Her books are for readers who enjoy stories of faith, hope, love, and happy endings. Always.
Jan graduated from the University of Georgiawith a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and worked as a database programmer and information technology consultant for over a decade before transitioning from writing software programs to her lifelong dream job of writing fiction books that she wants to read. When she is not busy writing and publishing, Jan is a wife, mother, educator, family scribe, avid reader, and chief of staff to the family cat.
Jan loves to hear from her readers. Join her mailing list to receive book publication news, sales and specials, cover reveals, and exclusive details and content.http://www.JanThompson.com
Thank you, authors, for sharing this new collection with my readers and me. Y’all are some of my favorite suspense novelists.
Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.Targeted for Danger: Eight Christian Romantic Suspense Novellas[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
CROSSFIRENEW from RITA, Christy, and Carol Award-winning, and USA Today Bestselling Author SUSAN MAY WARRENThe woman he loves is caught in the crossfire of revenge…but he’ll have to face his crimes to save her.
Bio: Susan May WarrenWith over one million books sold, critically acclaimed novelist Susan May Warren is the Christy, RITA, and Carol award-winning author of over forty-five novels with Tyndale, Barbour, Steeple Hill, and Summerside Press. Known for her compelling plots and unforgettable characters, Susan has written contemporary and historical romances, romantic-suspense, thrillers, rom-com, and Christmas novellas.
With books translated into eight languages, many of her novels have been ECPA and CBA bestsellers, were chosen as Top Picks by Romantic Times, and have won the RWA's Inspirational Reader's Choice contest and the American Christian Fiction Writers Book of the Year award. She’s a three-time RITA finalist and an eight-time Christy finalist.
Publishers Weeklyhas written of her books, “Warrenlays bare her characters’ human frailties, including fear, grief, and resentment, as openly as she details their virtues of love, devotion, and resiliency. She has crafted an engaging tale of romance, rivalry, and the power of forgiveness.”
Susan is also a nationally acclaimed writing coach, teaching at conferences around the nation, and winner of the 2009 American Christian Fiction Writers Mentor of the Year award. She loves to help people launch their writing careers. She is the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.comand www.LearnHowtoWriteaNovel.com, a writing website that helps authors get published and stay published. She is also the author of the popular writing method The Story Equation.www.susanmaywarren.com
TAKEN BY DARKNEW from Award-winning, Bestselling Author CHRISTY BARRITTWilla Shields is being taunted by someone desperate to get her attention. When the threats escalate, the only person who can help her is her new neighbor, FBI agent Parker Stone. But will he reach her before the darkness overcomes them both?
Bio: Christy BarrittUSA Today has called Christy Barritt's books “scary, funny, passionate, and quirky.”A Publishers Weeklybestselling author, Christy writes both mystery and romantic suspense novels that are clean with underlying messages of faith. Her books have won the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Suspense and Mystery, have been twice nominated for the Romantic TimesReviewers’ Choice Award, and have finaled for both a Carol Award and Foreword Magazine’s Book of the Year.
She is married to her Prince Charming, a man who thinks she’s hilarious—but only when she's not trying to be. Christy is a self-proclaimed klutz, an avid music lover who’s known for spontaneously bursting into song, and a road trip aficionado.
When she's not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys singing, playing the guitar, and exploring small, unsuspecting towns where people have no idea how accident-prone she is.www.christybarritt.com
LETHAL HOMECOMING
A Reader-favorite from Award-winning, Bestselling Author LYNETTE EASONCallie Ainsworth just wants to go home. When her stepfather dies, she believes it’s safe to do so. But when someone tries to kill her minutes before she reaches her mother’s driveway, she realizes that danger still lurks—but this time, she’s not running away.
Bio: Lynette EasonLynette Eason is the best selling, award winning author of almost forty books including the Women of Justice series, the Deadly Reunions series, the Hidden Identity Series and the currently releasing Elite Guardians series. She writes for Revell and Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense line. Her books have appeared on the CBA and ECPA bestseller lists. She has won several awards including the 2013 and 2016 Carol Award in the Romantic Suspense category. She also placed in the top ten (out of thousands of entries) in the James Patterson 2016 co-writer contest. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW), Romance Writers of America (RWA), Mystery Writers of America (MWA), International Thriller Writers (ITW), and Faith, Hope, and Love chapter of RWA as well as the Kiss of Death (KOD) chapter. www.lynetteeason.com
TREASURENEW from Critically-acclaimed Author GINNY AIKENFreelance writer Chloe Williams's first find at the newest Qumran Cavesdig is the dead C/OPS Security guard. Steven “Ridge”Ridgeway, founder of C/OPS, must deal with the murder of his man while keeping the two of them alive. It won't be easy, now that he and Chloe have seen the stolen treasure, since assassins don't give up until all witnesses are dead.
Bio: Ginny AikenBorn in Havana, Cuba, and raised in Valenciaand Caracas, Venezuela, Ginny Aiken discovered books early. She wrote her first novel at age fifteen while she trained with the Academia de Ballet Clasico Venezolano de Nina Novak. She burned that tome when she turned a “mature” sixteen. Stints as reporter, paralegal, choreographer, language teacher, and retail salesperson followed. Her life as mother of four sons and herder of their many friends brought her back to books and writing in desperate search of her sanity. She’s now the author of more than forty published works. Ginny lives with her husband of forty years in northwest Indiana, and they’re the grandparents of three amazing young men.
DEADLY SECRETNEW from USA Today Bestselling Author MARGARET DALEYSecrets. Revenge. Reunion. The past comes back to haunt Sarah Patterson, and she turns to the only man who can help her—the man she left at the altar.
Bio: Margaret DaleyUSA Today Bestselling author, Margaret Daley, is multi-published with over 100 titles and 5 million books sold worldwide. She had written for Harlequin, Abingdon, Kensington, Dell, and Simon and Schuster. She has won multiple awards, including the prestigious Carol Award, Holt Medallion, and Inspirational Readers' Choice Contest.She has been married for over forty-five years and is enjoying being a grandma. When she isn't traveling, she's writing love stories, often with a suspense thread and corralling her three cats that think they rule her household. www.margaretdaley.com
DOUBLE EXPOSURENEW from Award-winning, Bestselling Author ELIZABETH GODDARDTara Blackburn witnesses a village decimated at the hands of armed men. Grant McCall is working undercover in a race against time to find Tara before the hired killers, but even more deadly is the illness to which she was exposed.
Bio: Elizabeth GoddardElizabeth Goddard is the ECPA bestselling, award-winning author of more than thirty-one romance novels and novellas and counting, including the romantic mystery, The Camera Never Lies—a 2011 Carol Award winner. She's a double finalist in the 2016 Daphne Du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense for her books Buried and Backfire in the Mountain Cove series, and a 2016 Carol Award romantic suspense finalist for Submerged.
A 7th generation Texan, Elizabeth graduated from North Texas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and worked in high-level software sales for several years before retiring to home school her children and fulfill her dreams of writing full-time. www.elizabethgoddard.com
COLD TERRORNEW from Award-winning, Bestselling Author SUSAN SLEEMANForensic artist Hannah Perry and her young son barely escape from a killer and nearly lose their lives to the cold terror of the ocean. Former Navy SEAL Gage Blackwell comes to their rescue and appoints himself their bodyguard. Suddenly, not only is Hannah’s and her sons life at risk—so is her heart.
Bio: Susan SleemanSUSAN SLEEMAN is a bestselling and award-winning author of more than 30 inspirational/Christian and clean read romantic suspense books. In addition to writing, Susan also hosts the popular website TheSuspenseZone.com. Susan currently lives in Oregon, but has had the pleasure of living in nine states. Her husband is a retired church music director and they have two beautiful daughters, a very special son-in-law, and an adorable grandson.www.susansleeman.com
ONCE A THIEFNEW from USA TodayBestselling Author JAN THOMPSONShe sets a thief to catch a thief.
Will he also steal her heart?
Private investigator Helen Hu must team up with art thief Reuben Costa to rescue her mother, who has vanished while trying to return a bejeweled egg she stole fifteen years ago. That is, if Reuben still wants to cooperate after what the Hu family has done to his father.
Bio: Jan ThompsonUSA Today bestselling author Jan Thompson writes clean and wholesome multi-ethnic contemporary Christian romance, Christian romantic suspense, and inspirational international romantic thrillers. Her books are for readers who enjoy stories of faith, hope, love, and happy endings. Always.
Jan graduated from the University of Georgiawith a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and worked as a database programmer and information technology consultant for over a decade before transitioning from writing software programs to her lifelong dream job of writing fiction books that she wants to read. When she is not busy writing and publishing, Jan is a wife, mother, educator, family scribe, avid reader, and chief of staff to the family cat.
Jan loves to hear from her readers. Join her mailing list to receive book publication news, sales and specials, cover reveals, and exclusive details and content.http://www.JanThompson.com
Thank you, authors, for sharing this new collection with my readers and me. Y’all are some of my favorite suspense novelists.
Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.Targeted for Danger: Eight Christian Romantic Suspense Novellas[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
August 30, 2017
An Unexpected Afterlife - Dan Sofer - One Free Book
Welcome, Dan. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.A bit of me goes into every character. I like to say that writing is acting for people with stage fright, and the techniques of method acting apply to writing convincing characters too.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?
Not sure I’m the quirkiest of people. I leave the really quirky stuff to my characters.
When did you first discover you were a writer?
I have always loved creative writing. My first book was a comic book that I created (age six?) from the stationery in my father’s law offices. In the decades that followed, I wrote a number of (really bad) short stories, but I only focused on writing seriously in my late twenties.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.
My taste is very eclectic: from literary to mystery, sci-fi to historical. All I need is a good story and then my curiosity gets the better of me.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?
Good question. I’m not sure I do! But I try to make time for fun activities with the family and, every once in a while, splurge on an exotic vacation.
How do you choose your characters’ names?
With great difficulty! Some names just make sense in the context of the story and match the character’s ethnic and religious background. Character names have changed between drafts of a novel. I try to pick names that start with different letters to make things easier on the reader (and writer).
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?
My kids, of course, although I’m not sure I can take all the credit for them. I am proud of the dreams I’ve fulfilled (writing novels is way up there at the top of the list) and the moments when I stood up for myself and others in the face of adversity. Sometimes it’s the small but meaningful things that you remember.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?
An owl. I don’t know why; it just seems right.
What is your favorite food?
Biltong – it’s a South African beef jerky. (We’re carnivores.)
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?
Writing complex and believable characters. I had to work on that, studying, practicing and digging deeper. Funnily enough, readers often say they love my complex and believable characters, so the hard work seems to have paid off.
Tell us about the featured book.An Unexpected Afterlife follows the story of Moshe Karlin, who wakes up one morning naked and alone in the Mount of Olives Cemetery. He doesn't remember dying two years ago but he has to work very hard to win back his perfect old life... and his wife. In fact, he has to work hard just to survive his first week on the streets of Jerusalem.
An Unexpected Afterlife is the first novel in the Dry Bones Society series, a humorous and heartwarming exploration of the question: what if the Messianic Era began today?
Jewish traditions about the End of Days (based on the Old Testament) involve a Resurrection of the Dead, a Messiah King, an Ingathering of Exiles, a Rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem, a World War, great upheavals, and a very large banquet of fish (or, in the very least, one very large fish).
The Dry Bones Society series serves up one possible scenario of how all that might pan out, along with healthy side helpings of romance and action, humor, and adventure, as well as an introspective look at the State of Israel and, while we're at it, the state of humanity.
Please give us the first page of the book.
Moshe Karlin emerged from a deep and dreamless sleep with a premonition of impending doom. The world seemed out of place. The dawn chorus of summer birds filled his ears, but louder than usual, as though an entire flock had perched on the windowsill above his bed. The mattress pressed against his back, hard and coarse. A chill breeze tickled the hair on his bare chest.
Bare chest?
His eyelids snapped open. The endless blue velvet canopy of heaven stretched overhead, and as he gazed, a star winked out. His heart thumped in his rib cage. He was not in his bed. Or his bedroom. Or even his house.
He craned his neck forward. He lay on his back in a stony field, as naked as the day he was born.His head slumped to the ground.
Moshe Karlin, you are in deep trouble.
Galit would kill him when he got home. That is, if she ever found out.As his bold plan for sneaking home unnoticed grew flesh and sinew, the crackle of a loudspeaker jarred his thoughts, and a nasal voice boomed: Allahu akba-a-ar! Allahu akba-a-ar!
Moshe heard the East Jerusalem muezzin most mornings but always from a safe distance. This morning, however, the blaring call to morning prayers seemed to issue from only a stone’s throw away.
Correction. You are in very deep trouble.
How can readers find you on the Internet?
Visit me at http://dansofer.com (and get a free ebook).
Thank you, Dan, for sharing this book with us. The premise sounds very interesting.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.An Unexpected Afterlife (The Dry Bones Society) (Volume 1)[image error] - Paperback
An Unexpected Afterlife: An Adventure in the Jewish Resurrection (The Dry Bones Society Book 1)[image error] - Kindle
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
August 28, 2017
PICNICS AND PROMISES - Various Authors - 6 Free Ebooks
Picnics and Promises Box Set
Marion Ueckermann – A Courtship for Clover
Are the stories in Picnics and Promisesconnected in some way? If so, how?The stories are not connected in any way in the sense of characters or storyworld. Rather, their connection lies in each story having at least one picnic scene (with pie), much of the story set in summer, and a great recipe at the end for the pie used in the story. Most of the authors had collaborated on a similar box set last Christmas called Frosting and Flurries, and we thought it would be fun to do the same thing again this summer. We’re already planning Christmas 2017’s set.
Please give us a peek into your story.
Jonathan thanked heaven he’d glanced up from his phone in time to shout a warning before colliding with Clover Blume. “Well, hello. I was hoping to run into you. Just not quite like this, although this is way better.” He grinned, not in the least eager to release his hold on Clover. “But what are you doing in the kitchen? Aren’t you supposed to be a bridesmaid?”
“And aren’t you meant to be a groomsman? A little late, aren’t you?” she shot back as she wriggled out of his arms. A frown crinkled her forehead.
Jonathan slid his cell phone into his pocket. “Miss me?” He couldn’t resist the tease.“I— Uh— Hardly. But you certainly missed something.”
His grin widened. “You?”
“The rehearsal,” she snapped back, her frown deepening. “And the dinner where we all were supposed to get to know each other.”
By golly, she was far cuter up close and personal. She’d always seemed so collected in her pristine chef’s jacket with her name embroidered at the side, it was rather refreshing to see her flustered. And disheveled. He kind of liked her untidiness. Hopefully he had something to do with her apparent unravelling.
“That’s why I was headed for the kitchen when you ran me over.”
Her lips pursed, and she folded her arms. “I did not run you over. You should have seen me coming, so clearly you weren’t looking where you were going, either. Too busy texting one of your girlfriends?”
His brows rose.
“Oh yes. Don’t attempt to deny it. I saw you try to hide that cell phone your nose had been buried in.”
She was right on one thing. He had been on the phone. But he hadn’t been texting anyone.
Where can my readers find you on the Internet?Readers can find me on my website. They can also find me on social media.
Autumn Macarthur – Imperfectly Proverbs 31
What did you want the reader to take away from your story?
Here’s the Dear Reader letter included in the book, which I hope will answer the question perfectly:
Have you ever compared yourself to other people in your life and felt second-best? Samantha Rose, the heroine of this book does, and I admit, I do as well, at times. But if we’re not careful, comparing can lead to jealousy or despair (or its wicked stepsister, pride). That’s not part of what God intends for us!
Sam’s lesson is to learn that God has given us different gifts and talents, for His own purposes. In His eyes, we are all equal. Equally valued, equally loved.
Lisa TerKeurst says: Many people think Proverbs 31 is a picture of a perfect woman; but the Proverbs 31 woman is, at her core, someone who seeks the Lord in everything she does and trusts Him wholeheartedly with her life. We are simply...women sold out to saying yes to God—and He truly does the rest.
Any time we find ourselves comparing, we can hand those feelings of inadequacy over to Him, trusting that He does have a loving plan and purpose for every single one of us.I hope you enjoy Samantha and Daniel’s story, and that it blesses and uplifts you!
Please give us a peek into your story.
The gray clapboard cottage with a bright blue front door and even brighter pink flowers in hanging baskets on the porch looked like the right place for a homemaking blogger with a rose-pink website to live in. The odor of baking wafting through the open window smelled like the right way for her house to smell, too.
Cookies.
The cookie shop he walked past daily on the way to the office pumped that same mouthwatering odor out onto the street, to entice people in.
It worked for them, and it worked for Samantha Rose.
His knock on the door was answered almost immediately. Definitely the woman he’d seen in the store. No makeup, blonde hair in a soft wispy up-do, and a pink flowered apron over her white T-shirt and slim jeans. Instead of the earlier wary glance, she smiled welcome, though the smile didn’t light up her eyes.
And there, in her oven-mitted hand, was the source of the delicious scent. A tray of chocolate chip cookies. They looked as good as they smelled.
“Ms. Rose? I’m Daniel Novak.”
She swung the door wide, revealing an entry hall with braided rugs on the polished wood floors.
“Come in. We have a picnic lunch all prepared. As it’s such a lovely day, we can eat by the lake. But I wanted to bake some cookies for the girls to have later. I’ll just set them cooling before we go.”
“Thank you for agreeing to an interview at such short notice, Ms. Rose.”
“Please call me, Sam.”
Nodding acknowledgment, though the boyish name didn’t suit her in the least, he followed her into a spacious old-fashioned kitchen. A huge oak table filled the center of the room. As she wielded a spatula to lift the cookies onto a metal rack, he admired her graceful movements and hoped he’d get one of those cookies, too.
He pulled out his small voice recorder and flicked it on. “Do you agree to me recording the interview?”
For a fleeting moment, apprehension gleamed in her blue eyes. He’d been right to suspect she wanted to hide something. He filed the observation away.
Where can my readers find you on the Internet?
Readers can visit me at my website, or on social media.
Cecelia Dowdy – Sweet Delights
What are you reading right now? Above All Things by Deborah Raney. I like this book because it deals with the subject of race. The hero is happily married, expecting his first baby. When his African-American ex-fiancée is suddenly ill and hospitalized, he shockingly discovers that he has a biracial daughter. Bringing this child into his home wreaks havoc in his life and marriage.
This book resonates with me because it’s so realistic. I could imagine the reactions for both of the main characters. Also, Deborah Raney did her research! She did an awesome job of describing how an African-American woman has to take care of her hair! So authentic. Cheers to Deborah!
Please give us a peek into your story.
“Patty-Lynn.” His loud voice echoed down the street. Several pedestrians stared at him, as if he were disturbing their peaceful morning.
She stopped. Slowly turned toward him, her pretty brown eyes widened when she spotted him. He rushed toward her. Hopefully she wouldn’t run away like a scared rabbit. He recalled the wedding reception. Granted, she’d had to get back to work but their interaction had been awkward. The circumstances surrounding their massive breakup had been awful, and he’d hurt her badly. Maybe they could work through those issues.
No way did he want to give her the opportunity to scurry away before they talked. Her jaw hardened, and her brown eyes narrowed to slits. “What do you want?”
He stopped, took a few steps back. Uh oh. Looked like she hated him. It seemed as if she wasn’t going to be able to forgive him for all of his past mistakes. “Are you okay?”
Her frown softened like butter spread over warm toast. “Sorry for snapping at you, Sam. I’m just worried is all.”
Her smooth southern drawl lulled him, made him want to spend some time with her. He wanted to catch up on all that had happened to her over the last seven years. “What’s wrong?” The memory of his helping her with her dental bill floated through his mind. “Are you having money problems?”
She’d had a ton of those while she’d worked near the college campus.
Her eyes narrowed again. “Not everything is about money. Just because you’re rich don’t mean you can fix everything.”
He held his hands in the air. He felt he was being attacked for no reason. “Hey, I was just asking.” He lowered his voice. “I’m just remembering all you’d gone through when I knew you while you worked near the college. That’s all.”
Her pale skin reddened. She clutched the strap of her purse and refused to look directly into his eyes. “Well, you can’t help me. Not now anyway.”
Where can my readers find you on the Internet?Readers can visit my website for more of my books, or on social media.
Mary Manners – A Pocketful of Wishes
Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?Family is so important to me, as evidenced by the theme of my story, A Pocketful of Wishes . So, I would have to say that the happiest day of my life was the day my daughter, Danni, was born—and all the days that have followed. Life is truly an adventure. Danni is twenty-three now and has come into her own. I am excited to see what the future holds for her. I’m also looking forward to grandchildren!
Please give us a peek into your story.Carter saw clearly now. This was Jenna…his Jenna. After all these years, he still thought of her that way.
He’d never forgotten her. Truth be told, he’d loved her once. And, if the odd tug at his heart that came with seeing her again was any indication, he still did. But after all these years, she probably didn’t even remember him. She obviously didn’t recognize him.
But he couldn’t fault her for that. He hadn’t recognized her at first glance, either. The years could change a person.
They’d changed him. And not just on the outside.
Had they changed Jenna, too?
A moment lingered in Carter’s memory. Their kiss…his first kiss…still got his pulse thrumming. There was an innocence in that single touch, as well as a truth so real he could feel it even now, after so much time. A hurricane of thoughts raged through his brain, stirring up a storm that mirrored the one pelting his shoulders.
How long had Jenna been back in Maple Ridge? How long was she planning to stay?Had she looked for him?
Jenna’s long-ago plea suddenly whispered to him. “Don’t forget me.”
He hadn’t…not even for a day. But had she forgotten him?
Carter took a moment to study her features. Blonde hair twisted and piled atop her head to expose the gentle curve of her neck. A smile brightened sunshine-summer eyes he could easily get lost in all over again.
He had so many things he longed to say to her…to share with her.
The time would come for that, but not now. Not here.
“You’d better get to the hospital.” Carter handed the badge back to her. His thumb bumped her cheek, grazing the flawless porcelain skin. He allowed it to linger there for a moment or two before pulling away. “But we’re not done here. I’ll see you again soon and we’ll finish this, Jenna.”
Where can my readers find you on the Internet?Readers can visit my website for more of my books. They can also find me on social media.
Clare Revell – Zara’s Folly
What is your current work in progress?
Right now I have about three books on the go. Can be confusing, yes, but I have a cast iron system in place to prevent that. I’m finishing off Quinn’s Choice, which is kind of a follow up to Zara’s Folly. Quinn is the doctor who puts in a fleeting appearance at the end of Zara’s story. He demanded a story of his own, and when he informed me of what it was, I had to write it. This will be in the Christmas box set we are planning. And yes, Zara and TJ make a guest appearance in the end of the book. I figured it was only fair.
I’m also writing a new four book series based on the childhood prayer - Now I lay me down to sleep. It’s a crime thriller series – four books, ten murders, two Christian cops with enough flaws and issues between them to sink the proverbial battleship. Starring Zander and Isabel, this one is due to my editor in a year’s time.
And then there is the multi-author Tuscany box set, which should be out next year some time. I’m writing book 5. This one is still in the planning stages and there are sheets of paper all over my desk with notes on.
My cast iron system for keeping them separate? I cast each and every book I write. Print off their photos and attach them to my notes and have them on the desk or my side when I hand write the first draft. I do reuse actors, but never for the books being written concurrently – unless in the case of Zander and Isabel where they are in all four books.
Please give us a peek into your story.
Zara Michaels ran down the stairs to the platform, praying the train wouldn’t leave before she boarded it. The guard was closing the doors as she reached the train. “Wait,” she called.He turned and held the last door open long enough for her to plunk her case inside and climb in after it. “Have a good trip, miss.”
“Thank you.”Somehow she stowed her case and rucksack in the one remaining space on the luggage rack. The automatic doors to the main carriage hissed open. Zara made her way down the already swaying carriage in search of her seat. She’d almost missed the train, thanks to her sister Kim’s incessant meddling, not to mention yet another lecture from her father.
One blessing in disguise. At least her forward facing seat was empty. These days not even a reserved sign guaranteed that. And the way the day was going she’d expected to find someone already sitting there.
She regarded the old lady in the aisle seat and managed a faint smile. “Excuse me. May I get past you, please?”
“Of course, dear.” The old lady stood to allow Zara access to her seat.
“Thank you.” Zara suddenly teetered into her seat as the train jolted over the junction points to the main line. She put her handbag on her lap, squashing it between the table and her middle. She turned to the window, pushing her glasses up her nose as the train sped up. The houses and factories of Yorkslid by, becoming sparser before turning into fields and trees as the city was left behind.
Zara focused on the window, the trees and forests, fields and streams zipping by. Faster and faster, clickety-clack, the train sped through the English countryside—relentlessly taking her into pastures unknown, but at the same time along a path she knew all too well.
“Tickets, please, ladies and gents.”
Zara pulled her ticket from her bag, along with the reservation card and held them out to the conductor. He glanced at them and nodded as he handed them back. Zara returned them to her purse. Her phone beeped and she sighed. The photo of Jordan was obscured by a message that read Kim Mob.
Can’t you leave me alone for an hour, sis? What do you want now?
The message made her heart sink lower. are you really going to do this? aunt agatha loves that place. tell dad no more. so what if he disinherits you b/c you want a life of your own and don’t want to do his dirty work anymore? is the money really more important?
Where can my readers find you on the Internet?Readers can visit my website for more of my books, and can find me on social media.
Jan Elder – Moosed Opportunities
Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?I know this is going to sound really cliché, but it’s so true. Just thinking about my wedding day makes my toes wiggle. My Prince Charming came in the shape of one of my closest friends, a man I had known for over twenty years by the time we finally tied the knot.
My first marriage was difficult for many reasons, but life with my Stevie is a true blessing from God. And lest you think we are newlyweds and haven’t passed the honeymoon stage yet, you are half right. We have been married for fourteen years, but every day (um, ALMOST every day) is still a honeymoon.
To what do I attribute this bliss? First, our personalities are very similar, as are our love languages (physical touch followed by quality time spent with each other). But more than that, he is a true man of God and the most thoughtful guy I’ve ever met.
As I write my novels, I try to put a touch of Steve in every hero I dream up. And Eric, the kind, considerate gentleman in the Moose Creek series, is a close approximation. The main difference? My Steve is not a forest ranger wrangling moose in the northernmost county of Maine! But he does wrangle my heart. (Okay, cut it out. I can hear the groans from here).
Please give us a peek into your story.
With only a split second of indecision, Eric flung himself off the bank, half-skating on the ice, the breeze stinging his ears as he zipped forward. If he had any hope of catching that bundle of fur, he was going to have to slide. If a full-grown deer could make it across the wide creek…The ice creaked, but it held fast. Thankfully, he was gaining on the dog. Halfway across the river, he caught up to Apollo and grabbed his collar with his right hand. They kept sliding. They were going to make it.
Crack! The ice on the other side of the stream gave way and he plunged into the frigid water, his breath whooshing from his lungs. The animal slithered from his grasp as Eric fought to keep his head above water.
Apollo’s soft brown eyes grew impossibly large as he bobbed to the surface a few feet away. Before Eric’s frightened dog could be carried away by the loosed current, he managed to grab onto the leather collar, hauling the animal to his upper body.
Water swirled around them. He kicked his legs to bring them to shore, grateful he only had to push against the current a few more feet before he was able to stand. His sodden cold-weather clothes weighed him down, but he stumbled through the cripplingly cold water, laboring each step of the way, his boots as heavy as if he had a brick strapped to each foot.
The poor dog whimpered and Eric clutched him closer as he stumbled onto land. “It’s okay, boy. We’re safe now.”
His gaze traveled up the hill. An entire herd of deer gaped at him. “Lotta help you guys were.”
He crashed down on a log and surveyed his soaking body, chest heaving. No doubt about it, he was in a pickle.
Where can my readers find you on the Internet?If you enjoy reading heartwarming stories with depth and light touches of humor, please visit my website for more of my books. You can also find me on social media.
The authors will be gifting seven eBooks of the box set—one to our gracious hostess, Lena, and six readers who comment will be drawn at random to receive a copy of this delicious box set.
For only $0.99, you can get your copy Picnics and Promises to enjoy on your own summer picnic.
Thank you so much for allowing me to feature this set of romances. I'm eager to read each story.
Here is a link to the book collection:
Picnics & Promises: Six Delicious Summer Romances[image error]
Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win one of the ebooks. 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
Marion Ueckermann – A Courtship for Clover
Are the stories in Picnics and Promisesconnected in some way? If so, how?The stories are not connected in any way in the sense of characters or storyworld. Rather, their connection lies in each story having at least one picnic scene (with pie), much of the story set in summer, and a great recipe at the end for the pie used in the story. Most of the authors had collaborated on a similar box set last Christmas called Frosting and Flurries, and we thought it would be fun to do the same thing again this summer. We’re already planning Christmas 2017’s set.
Please give us a peek into your story.
Jonathan thanked heaven he’d glanced up from his phone in time to shout a warning before colliding with Clover Blume. “Well, hello. I was hoping to run into you. Just not quite like this, although this is way better.” He grinned, not in the least eager to release his hold on Clover. “But what are you doing in the kitchen? Aren’t you supposed to be a bridesmaid?”
“And aren’t you meant to be a groomsman? A little late, aren’t you?” she shot back as she wriggled out of his arms. A frown crinkled her forehead.
Jonathan slid his cell phone into his pocket. “Miss me?” He couldn’t resist the tease.“I— Uh— Hardly. But you certainly missed something.”
His grin widened. “You?”
“The rehearsal,” she snapped back, her frown deepening. “And the dinner where we all were supposed to get to know each other.”
By golly, she was far cuter up close and personal. She’d always seemed so collected in her pristine chef’s jacket with her name embroidered at the side, it was rather refreshing to see her flustered. And disheveled. He kind of liked her untidiness. Hopefully he had something to do with her apparent unravelling.
“That’s why I was headed for the kitchen when you ran me over.”
Her lips pursed, and she folded her arms. “I did not run you over. You should have seen me coming, so clearly you weren’t looking where you were going, either. Too busy texting one of your girlfriends?”
His brows rose.
“Oh yes. Don’t attempt to deny it. I saw you try to hide that cell phone your nose had been buried in.”
She was right on one thing. He had been on the phone. But he hadn’t been texting anyone.
Where can my readers find you on the Internet?Readers can find me on my website. They can also find me on social media.
Autumn Macarthur – Imperfectly Proverbs 31
What did you want the reader to take away from your story? Here’s the Dear Reader letter included in the book, which I hope will answer the question perfectly:
Have you ever compared yourself to other people in your life and felt second-best? Samantha Rose, the heroine of this book does, and I admit, I do as well, at times. But if we’re not careful, comparing can lead to jealousy or despair (or its wicked stepsister, pride). That’s not part of what God intends for us!
Sam’s lesson is to learn that God has given us different gifts and talents, for His own purposes. In His eyes, we are all equal. Equally valued, equally loved.
Lisa TerKeurst says: Many people think Proverbs 31 is a picture of a perfect woman; but the Proverbs 31 woman is, at her core, someone who seeks the Lord in everything she does and trusts Him wholeheartedly with her life. We are simply...women sold out to saying yes to God—and He truly does the rest.
Any time we find ourselves comparing, we can hand those feelings of inadequacy over to Him, trusting that He does have a loving plan and purpose for every single one of us.I hope you enjoy Samantha and Daniel’s story, and that it blesses and uplifts you!
Please give us a peek into your story.
The gray clapboard cottage with a bright blue front door and even brighter pink flowers in hanging baskets on the porch looked like the right place for a homemaking blogger with a rose-pink website to live in. The odor of baking wafting through the open window smelled like the right way for her house to smell, too.
Cookies.
The cookie shop he walked past daily on the way to the office pumped that same mouthwatering odor out onto the street, to entice people in.
It worked for them, and it worked for Samantha Rose.
His knock on the door was answered almost immediately. Definitely the woman he’d seen in the store. No makeup, blonde hair in a soft wispy up-do, and a pink flowered apron over her white T-shirt and slim jeans. Instead of the earlier wary glance, she smiled welcome, though the smile didn’t light up her eyes.
And there, in her oven-mitted hand, was the source of the delicious scent. A tray of chocolate chip cookies. They looked as good as they smelled.
“Ms. Rose? I’m Daniel Novak.”
She swung the door wide, revealing an entry hall with braided rugs on the polished wood floors.
“Come in. We have a picnic lunch all prepared. As it’s such a lovely day, we can eat by the lake. But I wanted to bake some cookies for the girls to have later. I’ll just set them cooling before we go.”
“Thank you for agreeing to an interview at such short notice, Ms. Rose.”
“Please call me, Sam.”
Nodding acknowledgment, though the boyish name didn’t suit her in the least, he followed her into a spacious old-fashioned kitchen. A huge oak table filled the center of the room. As she wielded a spatula to lift the cookies onto a metal rack, he admired her graceful movements and hoped he’d get one of those cookies, too.
He pulled out his small voice recorder and flicked it on. “Do you agree to me recording the interview?”
For a fleeting moment, apprehension gleamed in her blue eyes. He’d been right to suspect she wanted to hide something. He filed the observation away.
Where can my readers find you on the Internet?
Readers can visit me at my website, or on social media.
Cecelia Dowdy – Sweet Delights
What are you reading right now? Above All Things by Deborah Raney. I like this book because it deals with the subject of race. The hero is happily married, expecting his first baby. When his African-American ex-fiancée is suddenly ill and hospitalized, he shockingly discovers that he has a biracial daughter. Bringing this child into his home wreaks havoc in his life and marriage.
This book resonates with me because it’s so realistic. I could imagine the reactions for both of the main characters. Also, Deborah Raney did her research! She did an awesome job of describing how an African-American woman has to take care of her hair! So authentic. Cheers to Deborah!
Please give us a peek into your story.
“Patty-Lynn.” His loud voice echoed down the street. Several pedestrians stared at him, as if he were disturbing their peaceful morning.She stopped. Slowly turned toward him, her pretty brown eyes widened when she spotted him. He rushed toward her. Hopefully she wouldn’t run away like a scared rabbit. He recalled the wedding reception. Granted, she’d had to get back to work but their interaction had been awkward. The circumstances surrounding their massive breakup had been awful, and he’d hurt her badly. Maybe they could work through those issues.
No way did he want to give her the opportunity to scurry away before they talked. Her jaw hardened, and her brown eyes narrowed to slits. “What do you want?”
He stopped, took a few steps back. Uh oh. Looked like she hated him. It seemed as if she wasn’t going to be able to forgive him for all of his past mistakes. “Are you okay?”
Her frown softened like butter spread over warm toast. “Sorry for snapping at you, Sam. I’m just worried is all.”
Her smooth southern drawl lulled him, made him want to spend some time with her. He wanted to catch up on all that had happened to her over the last seven years. “What’s wrong?” The memory of his helping her with her dental bill floated through his mind. “Are you having money problems?”
She’d had a ton of those while she’d worked near the college campus.
Her eyes narrowed again. “Not everything is about money. Just because you’re rich don’t mean you can fix everything.”
He held his hands in the air. He felt he was being attacked for no reason. “Hey, I was just asking.” He lowered his voice. “I’m just remembering all you’d gone through when I knew you while you worked near the college. That’s all.”
Her pale skin reddened. She clutched the strap of her purse and refused to look directly into his eyes. “Well, you can’t help me. Not now anyway.”
Where can my readers find you on the Internet?Readers can visit my website for more of my books, or on social media.
Mary Manners – A Pocketful of Wishes
Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?Family is so important to me, as evidenced by the theme of my story, A Pocketful of Wishes . So, I would have to say that the happiest day of my life was the day my daughter, Danni, was born—and all the days that have followed. Life is truly an adventure. Danni is twenty-three now and has come into her own. I am excited to see what the future holds for her. I’m also looking forward to grandchildren!
Please give us a peek into your story.Carter saw clearly now. This was Jenna…his Jenna. After all these years, he still thought of her that way.
He’d never forgotten her. Truth be told, he’d loved her once. And, if the odd tug at his heart that came with seeing her again was any indication, he still did. But after all these years, she probably didn’t even remember him. She obviously didn’t recognize him.But he couldn’t fault her for that. He hadn’t recognized her at first glance, either. The years could change a person.
They’d changed him. And not just on the outside.
Had they changed Jenna, too?
A moment lingered in Carter’s memory. Their kiss…his first kiss…still got his pulse thrumming. There was an innocence in that single touch, as well as a truth so real he could feel it even now, after so much time. A hurricane of thoughts raged through his brain, stirring up a storm that mirrored the one pelting his shoulders.
How long had Jenna been back in Maple Ridge? How long was she planning to stay?Had she looked for him?
Jenna’s long-ago plea suddenly whispered to him. “Don’t forget me.”
He hadn’t…not even for a day. But had she forgotten him?
Carter took a moment to study her features. Blonde hair twisted and piled atop her head to expose the gentle curve of her neck. A smile brightened sunshine-summer eyes he could easily get lost in all over again.
He had so many things he longed to say to her…to share with her.
The time would come for that, but not now. Not here.
“You’d better get to the hospital.” Carter handed the badge back to her. His thumb bumped her cheek, grazing the flawless porcelain skin. He allowed it to linger there for a moment or two before pulling away. “But we’re not done here. I’ll see you again soon and we’ll finish this, Jenna.”
Where can my readers find you on the Internet?Readers can visit my website for more of my books. They can also find me on social media.
Clare Revell – Zara’s Folly
What is your current work in progress?
Right now I have about three books on the go. Can be confusing, yes, but I have a cast iron system in place to prevent that. I’m finishing off Quinn’s Choice, which is kind of a follow up to Zara’s Folly. Quinn is the doctor who puts in a fleeting appearance at the end of Zara’s story. He demanded a story of his own, and when he informed me of what it was, I had to write it. This will be in the Christmas box set we are planning. And yes, Zara and TJ make a guest appearance in the end of the book. I figured it was only fair.
I’m also writing a new four book series based on the childhood prayer - Now I lay me down to sleep. It’s a crime thriller series – four books, ten murders, two Christian cops with enough flaws and issues between them to sink the proverbial battleship. Starring Zander and Isabel, this one is due to my editor in a year’s time.
And then there is the multi-author Tuscany box set, which should be out next year some time. I’m writing book 5. This one is still in the planning stages and there are sheets of paper all over my desk with notes on.
My cast iron system for keeping them separate? I cast each and every book I write. Print off their photos and attach them to my notes and have them on the desk or my side when I hand write the first draft. I do reuse actors, but never for the books being written concurrently – unless in the case of Zander and Isabel where they are in all four books.
Please give us a peek into your story.
Zara Michaels ran down the stairs to the platform, praying the train wouldn’t leave before she boarded it. The guard was closing the doors as she reached the train. “Wait,” she called.He turned and held the last door open long enough for her to plunk her case inside and climb in after it. “Have a good trip, miss.”“Thank you.”Somehow she stowed her case and rucksack in the one remaining space on the luggage rack. The automatic doors to the main carriage hissed open. Zara made her way down the already swaying carriage in search of her seat. She’d almost missed the train, thanks to her sister Kim’s incessant meddling, not to mention yet another lecture from her father.
One blessing in disguise. At least her forward facing seat was empty. These days not even a reserved sign guaranteed that. And the way the day was going she’d expected to find someone already sitting there.
She regarded the old lady in the aisle seat and managed a faint smile. “Excuse me. May I get past you, please?”
“Of course, dear.” The old lady stood to allow Zara access to her seat.
“Thank you.” Zara suddenly teetered into her seat as the train jolted over the junction points to the main line. She put her handbag on her lap, squashing it between the table and her middle. She turned to the window, pushing her glasses up her nose as the train sped up. The houses and factories of Yorkslid by, becoming sparser before turning into fields and trees as the city was left behind.
Zara focused on the window, the trees and forests, fields and streams zipping by. Faster and faster, clickety-clack, the train sped through the English countryside—relentlessly taking her into pastures unknown, but at the same time along a path she knew all too well.
“Tickets, please, ladies and gents.”
Zara pulled her ticket from her bag, along with the reservation card and held them out to the conductor. He glanced at them and nodded as he handed them back. Zara returned them to her purse. Her phone beeped and she sighed. The photo of Jordan was obscured by a message that read Kim Mob.
Can’t you leave me alone for an hour, sis? What do you want now?
The message made her heart sink lower. are you really going to do this? aunt agatha loves that place. tell dad no more. so what if he disinherits you b/c you want a life of your own and don’t want to do his dirty work anymore? is the money really more important?
Where can my readers find you on the Internet?Readers can visit my website for more of my books, and can find me on social media.
Jan Elder – Moosed Opportunities
Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?I know this is going to sound really cliché, but it’s so true. Just thinking about my wedding day makes my toes wiggle. My Prince Charming came in the shape of one of my closest friends, a man I had known for over twenty years by the time we finally tied the knot.
My first marriage was difficult for many reasons, but life with my Stevie is a true blessing from God. And lest you think we are newlyweds and haven’t passed the honeymoon stage yet, you are half right. We have been married for fourteen years, but every day (um, ALMOST every day) is still a honeymoon.
To what do I attribute this bliss? First, our personalities are very similar, as are our love languages (physical touch followed by quality time spent with each other). But more than that, he is a true man of God and the most thoughtful guy I’ve ever met.
As I write my novels, I try to put a touch of Steve in every hero I dream up. And Eric, the kind, considerate gentleman in the Moose Creek series, is a close approximation. The main difference? My Steve is not a forest ranger wrangling moose in the northernmost county of Maine! But he does wrangle my heart. (Okay, cut it out. I can hear the groans from here).
Please give us a peek into your story.
With only a split second of indecision, Eric flung himself off the bank, half-skating on the ice, the breeze stinging his ears as he zipped forward. If he had any hope of catching that bundle of fur, he was going to have to slide. If a full-grown deer could make it across the wide creek…The ice creaked, but it held fast. Thankfully, he was gaining on the dog. Halfway across the river, he caught up to Apollo and grabbed his collar with his right hand. They kept sliding. They were going to make it.Crack! The ice on the other side of the stream gave way and he plunged into the frigid water, his breath whooshing from his lungs. The animal slithered from his grasp as Eric fought to keep his head above water.
Apollo’s soft brown eyes grew impossibly large as he bobbed to the surface a few feet away. Before Eric’s frightened dog could be carried away by the loosed current, he managed to grab onto the leather collar, hauling the animal to his upper body.
Water swirled around them. He kicked his legs to bring them to shore, grateful he only had to push against the current a few more feet before he was able to stand. His sodden cold-weather clothes weighed him down, but he stumbled through the cripplingly cold water, laboring each step of the way, his boots as heavy as if he had a brick strapped to each foot.
The poor dog whimpered and Eric clutched him closer as he stumbled onto land. “It’s okay, boy. We’re safe now.”
His gaze traveled up the hill. An entire herd of deer gaped at him. “Lotta help you guys were.”
He crashed down on a log and surveyed his soaking body, chest heaving. No doubt about it, he was in a pickle.
Where can my readers find you on the Internet?If you enjoy reading heartwarming stories with depth and light touches of humor, please visit my website for more of my books. You can also find me on social media.
The authors will be gifting seven eBooks of the box set—one to our gracious hostess, Lena, and six readers who comment will be drawn at random to receive a copy of this delicious box set.
For only $0.99, you can get your copy Picnics and Promises to enjoy on your own summer picnic.
Thank you so much for allowing me to feature this set of romances. I'm eager to read each story.
Here is a link to the book collection:
Picnics & Promises: Six Delicious Summer Romances[image error]
Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win one of the ebooks. 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
August 27, 2017
WINNERS!!
Kay G (AR) is the winner of
The Copper Box
by Suzanne J Bratcher. (I just finished reading this suspense novel. Really loved it.)
Barbara (LA) is the winner of A Heart Reclaimed (Cherish) by Elizabeth Maddrey.
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.
Barbara (LA) is the winner of A Heart Reclaimed (Cherish) by Elizabeth Maddrey.
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.
