Lena Nelson Dooley's Blog, page 127

A SILENCE IN THE HEART - Carolyne Aarsen - One Free Book

Welcome back, Carolyne. It’s been a long time since you were on my blog. We’re so glad to have you. Why do you write the kind of books you do?I have always loved reading romance, and I've always loved the Lord. So writing for Love Inspired has been a blessed confluence of both of the things I hold very dear. I love taking my hero and heroine on a journey that challenges their beliefs about themselves and about their faith.
Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?I have been a Christian my whole life, so I never had a “day” that I came to know the Lord. As far as the happiest day in my life, it's so difficult to put a point on one.  I've had so many happy days in so many areas of my life. It was a happy day when I got married, when my first child was born, when my fourth child was born, when my first book was published, my first child married, my first grandchild born. Each of these has been a happy day in various parts of my life.
That’s true. Wait until you have great grands. How has being published changed your life?I was very blessed to be a stay-at-home mom. It was a choice my husband and I made early on in our marriage. So when I got published, I essentially had my first job. Suddenly there were more things I had to accomplish in the day, then doing laundry making suppers and lunches and breakfasts and all the other things required to maintaining a household. I felt I had gained my own identity. Besides all the things I loved being, I was now a writer. That was something that was only mine. I learned the language of writing – synopsis, proposal, line edits, copy edits - and my world expanded. Now it is so much a part of who I am, that I don't even think about it.
What are you reading right now?I'm reading a book about talent. The author is putting forth the idea that talent isn't necessarily inherent. The people who are very good at what they do have spent a lot of time practicing and rehearsing and working. It's rather interesting and rather inspiring. I don't know if I agree with everything he says, but it's challenging my way of thinking. And it's a reminder to me to do the work. That I need to always be challenging myself and working harder if I want to become a better writer. And in spite of how many books I've written, I still feel like I have a ways to go.
As writers, I don’t thing we ever stop growing and learning. What is your current work in progress?Currently I'm editing the fifth book in my Holmes Crossing series. I hope to get that to the editor in the next couple of weeks, and then it should be out in a month. I'm also finishing up a proposal for Love Inspired. This is a short two-book series about two brothers, who are completely different from each other and each approach life from a different point of view. The one is the solid, stay-at-home kinda guy. Follow the rules. Do what you are supposed to. The younger brother, naturally, does what he wants and doesn't always think about the consequences.
What would be your dream vacation?I would love to go back to Paris, and I would love to visit Rome as well as Greece. In a few weeks, my husband and I will be traveling to Europe, but we will only be going to the Netherlands and England. I tried to talk my husband into Rome, but he said that was outside his comfort zone. So my dream vacation will have to wait until I can find a willing participant.
How do you choose your settings for each book?A lot of my books tend to take place in southern Alberta, because that's solid ranching country. I write cowboy romances, so I need to set my stories in ranching country. It's beautiful country, prairies that roll up to hills that edge the Rocky Mountains. So you have the open spaces in the mountains – a beautiful combination of two amazing landscapes.
If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?I can't really think of anyone. There are a few well-known people that I would love to sit down and give a good solid talking to, but I highly doubt they would listen to me. So what's the point? As I grow older, I find I'm becoming more of an introvert. So the thought of meeting someone new seems a little stressful. I like spending time with my husband, and we get along really good so that's not stressful at all. Unless were discussing where were going to go on vacation.
What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?I love making cards and photo books. I like taking pictures and putting them into photo books. I still knit from time to time but I have to be careful with that because writing has taken its toll on my neck and shoulders and knitting just adds to the strain.
My knitting and crocheting affects my shoulders, so I can only do a few rows at a time. I hardly ever do either. What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?Procrastination. I don't know if that's considered an obstacle, but it sure is to me. Every single time I sit down to the keyboard there's a part of me that would seem to be doing something else. Which is rather ironic, because when I'm away from the keyboard and away from the computer I'm always thinking about my stories. But procrastination is a bear. I watched a video a while back on Facebook. I forget who did it. But the woman was talking about organization and doing tasks. Especially tasks that seem overwhelming. She said, "Do one small thing." Don't take on the whole job, just do one small thing. So I think of that every time I want to put off what I have to do. Just write a little bit. You don't have to finish that chapter. Just do one small thing. And once I start, things seem to fall into place.
What advice would you give to a beginning author?Do not compare. You are on your own journey and it's always going to be different from other authors. You are going to find one author who makes a sudden breakout with a book that you don't think is nearly as good as yours. But that's just the way things go sometimes. Things come together in different ways that you have no control over so stay focused on your work and do your job and do it diligently. And take note from the previous answer. There was always going to be something that will keep you away from your writing. You have to make the choice. I've sat in a room with a floor scattered with popcorn, books and papers, and assorted other detritus and had to fight to ignore it to get the work done. As for the comparing you know what you need to do. I've looked at other writers and wondered why they are doing better than me and then I listen to them talk and I realize how hard they are working. And my answer is right there.
Yes, the Lord let me know that I’m only to compare my writing to what I’ve done before, not to the writing of other authors. Tell us about the featured book.A silence in the heart is the book that I got reissued back to me from Love Inspired. So it's not a brand-new story. But I had my Holmes Crossing series in place, and I wanted to continue it. So I reworked the book to fit better with the series and updated it a bit. I found it interesting as I read, how much I had learned in the meantime. So I was thankful to be able to apply some of that to this book.
Please give us the first page of the book.She thought she heard the cry of a child.
The haunting sound slid through the early-morning quiet just as Tracystepped out of her car. Still holding the door, she canted her head to one side, listening.
There it was again. Softer this time.
Tracystrode around the concrete-block building, trying to pinpoint the origin. But when she came around the side, the street in front of the clinic was empty as well.
The tension in her shoulders loosened, and she shivered, pulling her thin sweater closer around herself. Ever the optimist, she had left her warmer jacket hanging in the hallway closet of her apartment this morning, counting on the early-September sun to melt away the coolness of the fall morning.
Then a movement caught her eye.
She stopped and turned to face whatever might come.
Then a small boy shuffled cautiously around the corner of the clinic, his head angled down, his thin arms cradling something. He looked to be about six or seven.
Tracyrelaxed as she recognized him. For the past two weeks, she had seen him walking past the clinic in the early morning on his way to school. The last few days, he had stopped to look in the window. It had taken a few encouraging waves and smiles from her to finally tease one from his wary face.
She always felt bad for him, going to school on his own, remembering too well her own early-morning treks as a young child.
Tracymight have been inadequately dressed for the weather, but this little boy was even more so. He wore a short-sleeved T-shirt, faded blue jeans, and in spite of the gathering chill, sandals on bare feet. As she watched, he shivered lightly.
How can readers find you on the Internet?You can find me on my new, very spiffy, website. www.carolyneaarsen.com - if you sign up for my newsletter you will receive a free book!Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CarolyneAarsenAuthorPinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/caarsen/Twitter - https://twitter.com/CarolyneAarsenYou can follow me on Book Bub to find out about new releases - https://www.bookbub.com/authors/carolyne-aarsenAnd Amazon for the same reason - https://www.amazon.com/Carolyne-Aarsen/e/B001HD1OJU
Thank you, Carolyne, for sharing this book with us. I'm eager to read it, and I'm sure my readers are, too.
Readers, here is a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.A Silence in the Heart (Holmes Crossing Book 4)[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

LOVE AT SUNSET LAKE - Sally Bayless - One Free Book

Dear Readers, our author today is a debut author. I’ve read the featured book. I loved it. Sally is an author to keep an eye on. Her writing is very good and her characters own the stage.
[image error] Welcome, Sally. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.Quite a bit! For instance, in Love at Sunset Lake , the main character, Tess, alphabetizes her spices, makes endless lists, and is very fond of colored gel pens. I’m guilty on all counts.
Another character in Love at Sunset Lake , Stacey, struggles with a recently purchased order of French fries and a realization that she needs to eat healthier food. Stacey, in a fit of tremendous willpower, eventually throws the French fries away uneaten. In my life, the struggle to eat healthy food is very real. I, however, would never throw away perfectly good fries.

J 

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?Hmm… Lots of options here. How about the time, back before the days of Internet shopping, that a friend and I drove five hours (each way) to go to a shoe store in Pennsylvania?
When did you first discover that you were a writer?I started writing in high school. At the time, I focused mainly on writing for the school newspaper. My first serious attempt at writing a novel was when my kids, who are now 17 and 21, were in grade school.
I was on the high school newspaper staff, too. Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.I read mostly Christian romance and cozy mysteries. I also read some literary fiction, an occasional biography, some narrative nonfiction (Erik Larson), mainstream contemporary romance, some suspense (especially Dick Francis), and a wide range of mystery novels. I’m always on the lookout for a book that will make me laugh out loud, usually because of its unusual characters.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?I’m blessed to be able to write as my fulltime job. That helps a lot! Also, with my youngest now 17 and driving, I don’t run nearly as much as I used to. I even traded in my mommyvan for a little SUV. Beyond that, the things that keep me sane are starting each day with Bible study and prayer and being able to talk things over with my very logical engineer husband.
How do you choose your characters’ names?Oh, I struggle with this one, especially the male names! So many names that used to be male are now female. Years ago, I made a giant list of names that I liked, drawn from a name-your-baby website. I usually look there and find some that appeal. Then I look up the meanings of the names and look at data on the Social Security website, which will tell you how popular a name was in a given year. Some character names, though, just come to me.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?Raising our two children.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?I would like to be a dolphin. I love swimming, and I could hang out in some warm, tropical ocean.
What is your favorite food?Answering “all” would be wrong, I suppose. I’ll say it’s a tie between seedless Concordgrapes (I think the variety is actually Mars) that I buy at our local farmer’s market in the fall, anything chocolate, and spaghetti and meatballs.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?Plotting. In college I studied journalism. The plot of a news story is very straightforward. At first, the only way I could really see the three-act structure of a novel was by visualizing each book as a play. To understand plotting, I read many, many books and took several classes online and at conferences. I’m happy to say that plotting is now one of my favorite parts of writing a book.
I use a timeline of events, but not plotting. Tell us about the featured book. Love at Sunset Lake is a contemporary Christian romance that features a small-town setting, down-to-earth characters, a touch of humor, and the healing power of God’s love. The heroine is struggling caterer Tess Palmer, who inherits her great-aunt’s home at Sunset Lake, Missouri. She thinks she’s found the way to save her business. Selling the property can provide just the infusion of capital she needs to pay off her debts and move to a larger commercial kitchen.The hero is wildlife painter Jack Hamlin, who lives across Sunset Lake, and wants the area kept exactly as it is—a place where waterfowl can thrive and where he can find peace and solitude to ease his troubled heart. Although he’s drawn to Tess’s honesty and beauty, he’s appalled to learn she would welcome a deal with a developer, and he vows to stop her.
Please give us the first page of the book for my readers.Tess Palmer didn’t need to be perfect. She only needed to get every detail right.
Every time.
And as a special events caterer, her to-do list this Friday ran for three entire pages of details.She stopped at a light in a pricey St. Louis suburb and glanced at the clipboard on the console of her van. For the next event, a simple surprise birthday party, she’d gone over her list so many times that the edges of the paper curled. The future of her catering business was at stake, after all.
She drove two blocks farther, passed a row of dogwoods in full bloom at the entrance to a subdivision, and parked as instructed in the client’s three-car garage, where her commercial van could be hidden from the guest of honor.
Up since five, Tess had triple-checked the food, recounted the plates, and examined every tablecloth for spots. She’d even taken more care than normal with her appearance, using a double coating of hairspray to keep her hair in a bun, dousing her white blouse with extra starch, and wearing her newest black pants. This event was going to be a success. She’d make sure of it.
How can readers find you on the Internet?My website is www.sallybayless.com. Readers can find excerpts from all my books there, can email me, and can sign up for my newsletter and my street team. Newsletter subscribers are the first to learn when I release a new book. My street team reads books before they’re even published and helps promote them on social media.
I’m on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/authorsallybayless/. Facebook is my favorite social media, so I check it often.
I’m also on Pinterest at https://www.pinterest.com/sally_bayless/and Twitter at https://twitter.com/sally_bayless.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.Love at Sunset Lake: The Abundance Series Book 1[image error] - Paperback
Love at Sunset Lake: The Abundance Series Book 1 - Kindle

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

WINNERS!!!

Cleda E (OK) is the winner of The Fabric of Hope by Susan G Mathis.

Tiffany (LA) is the winner of Picture Perfect by Emily C Reynolds.

Alison (MI) is the winner of  Love's Eternal Breath  by Naomi Rawlings.

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.

WINNERS!!!!!

Linda (PA) is the winner of  The Lost Generation  by Erica Marie Hogan.

Apple Blossam (ND) is the winner of Crocodile in the Closet by Jamie Bryant.

Barbara (LA) is the winner of A Rocky Mountain Christmas by Misty M Beller.

Winnie (MS) is the winner of  One Liner's from God  by Patsy Moore.

Melissa O (NC) is the winner of  The Zookeeper's Wife  tickets.

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.

GLIMPSING HOPE - Carol Moncado - One Free Book

Welcome back, Carol. Why do you write the kind of books you do?Because it’s what I’m good at. I know that seems kind of simplistic, but I’ve tried writing romantic suspense (we don’t talk about that one) and historicals (it’s decent but I don’t want to write them full time!) so I write contemporary romantic dramedy - they have definite comedic moments, but they have their serious side as well.
Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?Oh goodness. That’s a tough one. Can I pick five? For different reasons. Wedding day - because I get to spend the rest of my life with the love of my life (it’ll be 20 years in just a few weeks!) and the days each of my children were born. Some of those days were tougher than others, but I absolutely adore my kids and wouldn’t trade any of them for anything!
How has being published changed your life?Being published, indie published in particular, has allowed me to write full time. I did teach part time at a community college, but last spring was my last semester. There were a number of other factors that led to the decision but the reason we were able to make that choice is the income from my books. I’ve also learned SO MUCH about the whole process! I’m far more capable than I would have thought (though paperbacks continue to be taxing - in fact I’m a couple behind there :p) and I really enjoy writing what I want to write without the restrictions an outsider can impose (they know their readers so I know it works for them; I know mine though ;)). I enjoy my own schedule, too. In just under 2.5 years, my 20th book is about to release, and I fully expect to hit 25 before three years is up.
What are you reading right now?Right this minute, nothing, but I’m looking forward to an advance copy of Mikal Dawn’s Count MeIn this weekend or next week. I’ve also got Laura Frantz’s On A Moonbow Night waiting on me. I’ve heard it’s FANTASTIC!
What is your current work in progress?I am “this close” to done with Reclaiming Hearts, the third book in the Serenity Landing Second Chances series. The hero is Prince William, so it also wraps up the next generation of royals from the three countries in Belles Montagnes, but it introduces us to the royal family of Eyjania - their stories will start later this year. I’m also working on the first book in the series that will likely have both the Eyjanian family and the San Majorian family in it. It’s called Heart of a Prince and should release this summer. Reclaiming Hearts is available for preorder and likely releases 4/21 (though Amazon currently says 4/30).
What would be your dream vacation?We just took it! My husband and I took our whole family on a Caribbean cruise for spring break. Eight days and seven nights on board Libertyof the Seas. We did excursions in Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and Jamaica. We loved all of them for different reasons. Most of my family loved all there was to see and do on board the ship. I loved finding a quiet spot to read and relax. I would do it again in a heartbeat (though I think I’d get three rooms instead of two - the kids were a little crowded and getting on each other’s nerves by the end of it). 
James and I have been on a cruise to those three places, too. We loved it. How do you choose your settings for each book?Hmm. I don’t really know. Sometimes it just comes to me. More often, it depends on where the character is from geographically. Since Glimpsing Hope is about Christopher Bayfield who lives in Serenity Landing, that’s where it takes place. Reclaiming Hearts is about William, Crown Prince of Mevendia, so a chunk of it takes place there, though it also goes to Serenity Landing and Eyjania.
If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?Queen Elizabeth. She fascinates me! The history she’s seen and been a part of. The changing royal family and how they’re perceived by the public, changing customs (how different was Prince Charles’s marriage from Prince William’s), and so on. Plus hanging out at Buckingham Palacewould be fascinating! And surely Prince Philip would stop by to say hello! There’s another fascinating character!
What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?I’m a band mom :D. That takes up A LOT of my time! Otherwise, I watch a lot of television. I’m currently working my way through Star Trek: Deep Space 9.
What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?This is probably a weird one, but I write best late at night in a very daytime world. At 9 or 10 pm, I can write as much in an hour as it would take me all day to write. My optimal time, is 9 or 10 until about 1 or 2 in the morning. That’s not easy when you have to be up in the morning :/. Since writing full time though, I’m able to work late. I get up about 6:30 to take the freshman to school (her tenor saxophone is rather unwieldy on the bus), come home, and two mornings a week I get my son ready for school as my husband’s already gone. Once those things are done, I go back to bed and sleep until late morning. In the afternoons, I don’t usually write, but often do other writing related stuff, like graphic design, then go back to work writing as the kids go to bed.
What advice would you give to a beginning author?Write. Write. Write some more. And read just as much. A lot. Good books. Okay books. Even bad books. In your genre and others. Good writing is good writing no matter what the genre. Join a group like ACFW and learn everything you can. Finish one book. Make it as good as you can on your own. Send it out to the world either by querying or rounds of edits with others to indie publish (tip: your first book probably isn’t nearly as ready as you think it is; get professionals or at least other writers who’ve been at this a lot longer to help you get it ready). Then start another one.
Tell us about the featured book.They say writers are weird… and they’re not wrong. About two weeks before I started writing Glimpsing Hope , this little girl showed up in my head and said, “What about me?”Me: Who are you?Her: I’m his daughter.Me: I didn’t know he had a daughter.Her: Neither does he.
And there she was. I know how strange it sounds, but that conversation actually happened in my head! So, Glimpsing Hope gained a little girl - named for a friend of mine’s daughter who went to be with the Lord far, far too young.
Glimpsing Hope Christopher Bayfield enjoys his single life. Unencumbered by relationships, he works and travels whenever he wants. He can even drop everything to do something he's been dreaming of for a while - return to acting in a Happily Ever After TV Network movie. But before he can leave a knock on the door changes his life.
Julia Quisenberry never planned to have one child out of wedlock, much less be pregnant with number two, but this was what her life had become. Unemployed and barely making ends meet with her knitting patterns and teaching, she's almost desperate enough to take a handout from her best friend.

A phone call from Christopher changes Julia's plans. He offers her a job and a lifeline, in more ways than one. So when the paparazzi threaten all he holds dear, she'll do anything to help him out - even marry him. Can they overcome the obstacles in their path to find a glimpse of hope for their own happily ever after?

Author’s note: The first chapter of  Glimpsing Hope  picks up at the end of Winning the Queen's Heart and before the events of Protecting the Prince. The second chapter begins in the universe’s “present day” - after the events of Discovering Home.
Please give us the first page of the book.May 2017“I’ll pay for them to fly commercial.” Christopher Bayfield crossed his arms over his chest and stared down the duke. He could do that because the duke was also his twin brother. No one else would understand why he wanted to avoid this flight.
Alexander tugged on the bottom of his tuxedo jacket and frowned into the mirror. “Someday I’ll figure out how to make this look right with the sash on the first try.”
“It’s your own fault for marrying a queen, Ander, but don’t think you’re getting out of this. I’ll pay for them to fly back, first class.”
Alexander turned away from the mirror to face Christopher. “Christiana, your pregnant sister-in-law, asked you to fly them back on the family plane. You’re really going to turn her down?”
“If you won’t let me pay for them to go back first class, I’ll rent a plane for them.”
“You get to tell the queen you don’t want to do the one thing she asked you to do for the woman who saved her life, and the life of your niece or nephew.”
Christopher hated it when his brother was right. “Then they can take the plane home, and I’ll rent one of my own. Or buy my own first class ticket.”
“Don’t be ridiculous, Topher.” Alexander limped to the door of Christopher’s room, his leg still recovering from the recent shoot out with the man who tried to kill his wife. Alexander had come to Christopher’s room to guilt trip him into doing this. Help fixing his tie was just an excuse. “Just ride home in the plane with them. Sit at the table and work the whole time or take the couch and sleep. I’m not saying you have to become bosom buddies with the gal, just make sure she and her son don’t die in a horrid plane crash on the way back. Once you land, put them in the car Jonathan will provide and go on your merry way.”
I’m eager to read this one. You know how much I love your books. How can readers find you on the Internet?They can follow me on Facebook (use the Follow button) at www.facebook.com/AuthorCarolMoncado- that’s the best place to find me!I have a Twitter but don’t use it often - www.twitter.com/CarolMoncado I blog monthly at InspyRomance www.inspyromance.comMy website is www.carolmoncado.com
Thank you, Carol, for sharing this new book with us. I really look forward to reading it, and the next ones that come out, too.
Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.Glimpsing Hope: Contemporary Christian Romance (Serenity Landing Second Chances Book 2)[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

DEACON BROWN'S DAUGHTERS - Michelle Stimpson - One Free Book

Welcome back, Michelle. How did you come up with the idea for this story?This story has been on my heart for years, and I know it’s an experience that far too many have gone through. When parents get separated from their children, there’s a lot of pain. Misunderstandings. Rejection. I’ve read quite a few books from the children’s perspectives, but I wanted to explore what must be going on in the heart and mind of a man who walks away from his children. A part of me is like, “What’s wrong with you?” But parents are imperfect people, too. I wanted to go there and explore this character, Stanley Brown, and what made him do what he did.
If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why?This is going to sound bad, but I’m not a huge fiction reader. I read mostly non-fiction and then take the lessons I learn from that and use them in fiction books. So, I’m going to have to invite some non-fiction folks to he party (and only 5 – sorry)!
Nancy Leigh DeMoss Wolgemoth – She has a lot to say to women, and since she recently married for the first time in her late 50s, I’d like to know how her thoughts about marriage and being a woman of God have changed—or not.
CaSandra McLaughlin– She’s the co-author of Deacon Brown’s Daughter. I would invite her because she’s fun and because she knows how to cook.
Jen Hatmaker – I don’t agree with Jen about a lot of things, but I love her heart. She would make the party fun, I’m sure.
Rhonda McKnight – Rhonda makes everyone feel welcome, and she’s got a perspective on writing/publishing that would lend itself well to any conversation about Christian literature.
Steve McVey – He sprinkles grace on everything. I’d love to hear what he has to contribute to the party conversation.
Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what people would you invite and why?Lena Nelson Dooley – Because you’re very experienced in the genre and can tell us more about the previous century than anyone, probably!
Piper Huguley – She’s a sweetheart and a powerball all in one. Her work is winning lots of awards already.
Michael Phillips– His was the first historical fiction book I ever read, and I thoroughly enjoyed Angels Watching Over Me.
I'd really enjoy being at that party. I don't know Piper, but I read a lot of Michael Phillips books, and I always love spending time with you, Michelle. 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?My most difficult problem right now is a wonderful problem. My first granddaughter is here and I can’t tear myself away from her long enough to write – LOL! But she’s two months old now, so I’ve got to get myself back on track. I recently downloaded an app that keeps track of my “clocking in” and “clocking out” so that I am more aware of how I’m using my time. Balancing work and family has always been a challenge for me. When I do work (I’m a part-time education consultant), it gives me a greater appreciation for my more relaxed life as a writer. But I have to be careful not to get too relaxed or distracted. I also have to be careful not to overwork and neglect the things and the people who are most important to me. It’s a constant self-check.
Tell us about the featured book. Deacon Brown’s Daughters is the story of a man (Stanley Brown) who sired four children by four different women back when he was younger. Now that he’s older and has come into the saving knowledge of Christ, he wants to make things right with the adult children. But they’re not all so happy to see him. Stanley is confused about things. He doesn’t understand why people (women especially) always want to drudge up the past in order to move forward. He doesn’t know how many times he can say “I’m sorry” before giving up again. The idea for Deacon Brown’s Daughters isn’t exactly a new one, but to explore it from the absent parent’s perspective brings a unique voice to the conversation about absentee fathers, single mothers, and even blended families.
Please give us the first page of the book.He was used to getting messages from random women. These days, the messages usually came through his phone in the form of a text or an email. Whoever wrote this one must have had a lot on her mind because she had taken the time and effort to write neat, cursive letters on the front and use an oversized envelope.
It was addressed To: Stanley David Brown, Care of: Effie Brown, followed by his mother’s address in Big Oak, TX.
Stanleychuckled to himself as he laid the envelope on his nightstand. Whatever this blast from the past had to say to him would have to wait until he got out of his work clothes and had a glass of Jack Daniels to warm up.
No. Not Jack Daniels. He had to remind himself that he was a changed man. Even a whole year after accepting Christ, his mind returned to its old default ways without conscious resistance. Though Stanley had never been an alcoholic, he recognized alcohol as a gateway to the past for him. No need in going back there.
Besides, it was two in the afternoon. Saturday overtime was always finished before he knew it. Coffee was still in order.
“Stan-laaaaay!”
He ignored his mother. She would call at least three more times before adding his middle and last name.
I want to know who that letter came from! How can readers find you on the Internet?www.MichelleStimpson.comhttps://www.facebook.com/MichelleStimpsonWritesTwitter @StimpsonWrites
Thank you, Michelle, for sharing this book with us. I’m intrigued with the concept. I know my readers will be, too.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.Deacon Brown's Daughters[image error]Deacon Brown's Daughters[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

DRAMA FREE - Cindi McMenamin - One Free Book

Welcome, Cindi. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. I write nonfiction and use a lot of other women’s stories, as well as stories of women of the Bible. But I also use enough of my own stories to show my weaknesses, where I needed God’s help and how I learned (and am continuing to learn) what I write.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? I often spelled out words in cursive with my fingers in the air when I was trying to remember how they were spelled. (On occasion, I’m known to still do this!)
When did you first discover you were a writer? I learned to read when I was four years old and began writing stories at 5 years old for my little brother, my dolls, my stuffed animals, and my imaginary friends. I basically wrote for anyone who would “listen.” J
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. I love reading Christian nonfiction, devotional books, and anything that will deepen my love for and understanding of God. Recently, I’ve begun reading more fiction and enjoying it.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? I make it a habit to practice rest through long reflective prayer walks outdoors, finding a beautiful spot and taking in the quiet, and disciplining myself to get away alone with God. In 2004, I wrote my fourth book, When Women Long for Rest, about how to sit at God’s feet while the rest of the world rushes by. I told my own story of how I realized that God would rather have me spend time with Him than do a bunch of things for Him.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? I raised a lovely daughter, Dana, who is now living her dream and working for the Walt Disney Company. In 2013, Harvest House Publishers released my book, When a Mom Inspires Her Daughter, which I wrote with Dana’s help when she was 21. I loved learning more about her through her sidebars and insights that are published in the book.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? A cat. I’ve always loved cats. They are mysterious, neat and clean, and each one is quirky in his or her own way.
What is your favorite food?  I love eating anything at Chick-fil-A!
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? My greatest problem with writing, at any given time, is lack of inspiration and then the feeling that my writing is manufactured and fake if I don’t become inspired. To this day, if I’m not genuine and honest with myself and with God, then my words will be stale and processed. When my soul is fresh and my relationship is right with God, the words flow onto the pages, (or rather, the computer screen).
Tell us about the featured book. Drama Free : Finding Peace When Emotions Overwhelm You is a practical book about how to dial down the drama in your life, whether it’s from unexpected events that take you by surprise or petty instances that evoke emotional reactions rather than careful responses. 
Please give us the first page of the book.(book is not yet in e-format, but if you’d prefer, you can include a link for your blog readers to read the first 40 pages of the book on my website at this address:  http://strengthforthesoul.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Pages-from-Drama-Free.pdf
I’m also including the text of the first page here:
Can We Really Be Drama Free?
I’m no stranger to drama.
I wish that weren’t so.
I wish I could tell you that there has never been a dramatic day in my life and that I have never, personally, played into drama, contributed to drama, or let drama control my circumstances or responses.
But then I’d be lying to you. And that would be more drama.
The truth is, like you, I know drama. I have lived and breathed it–and even abhorred it–because I live in a world where drama happens. And because I see it in the thousands of women I work among and minister to every year.
It probably doesn’t help that I’m a child of a recovering alcoholic, that I’m a “recovering enabler” myself (who just recently figured out what the term enabler really means), and that I have been called–on more than one occasion in my life–“dramatic” when all I really want to be is a woman with a gentle, quiet spirit who is pleasing in the sight of the Lord.
I’d much rather be called discerning than dramatic. I’d much rather be considered wise than a woman who occasionally wigs out. And my goal, spiritually, as well as practically, is to become more mature, not more of a mess, the older I get.  Daily I receive emails from women who have read my books, or stumbled across my website or an article of mine, asking my advice on how they can manage their lives and be more spirit-led. And as I answer those emails I get the inkling that I just might be in that place where I’ve finally become a woman whose head governs her heart, and who is able to instruct others on how to be more practical than emotional. But at night, as I lie in bed talking to the God who knows me inside and out, I face the sobering reality that I am just as emotionally volatile as you, and I daily need His peace when emotions threaten to overwhelm me.
Oh, how I long to be drama free.
How can readers find you on the Internet? See my website, www.StrengthForTheSoul.com. I also have a facebook fan page: Strength For the Soul: https://www.facebook.com/strengthforthesoul/
Thank you, Cindi, for sharing this book with us today.
Readers, here’s a link to where you can buy the book.http://strengthforthesoul.com/product/drama-free/
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

ALICE'S NOTIONS - Tamera Lynn Kraft - One Free Book

Welcome back, Tamera. God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon?That is an understatement. I know God has blessed me with my writing. I have two novellas published already through Pelican Book Group and Desert Breeze, and my first full length novel, Alice’s Notions , is set to be released any day now. The horizon holds more historical novels that show God at work in people’s lives.
Tell us a little about your family.I have been married to the love of my life, Rick, for 38 years. He is a wonderful Christian and the best man I know. I have two grown married children. My son is living in Tennesseewith his wife and has two sons. My daughter is finishing graduate school in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She and her husband plan to start a family soon. My greatest joy is my entire family loves the Lord.
Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how?Writing has changed my reading habits in two ways. First, I’m more intentional when I read to discover how good novels are crafted. Second, I’m so busy writing, I don’t have as much time to read. I wish I did. I have about fifty books on my to-be-read list at the moment.
What are you working on right now?At the moment, I’m writing the first of a three book series about women who came to Jamestown Colony to become brides. These women, our founding mothers, faced many hardships and were as every bit as important to forging this nation as their husbands.
What outside interests do you have?Of course, reading, but I also love classic movies, knitting, and ministering to children.
How do you choose your settings for each book?Truthfully, the setting chooses me. I get my story ideas from events in history. I start wondering what it would be like for the people living through that event in time, then the story starts to take shape.
If you could spend an evening with one historical person, who would it be and why?That’s a difficult question because there are so many. I don’t know how to choose only one. I think might choose George Washington as president because he started so many of the American traditions we now take for granted. Also George Whitefield, the Great Awakening Preacher, was the most popular man in the American colonies during the First Great Awakening, and God used him to form this nation on Biblical principles. Then there’s Abraham Lincoln, Charles Finney, Abigail Adams, Jim Eliot. No, I can’t choose one.
When I wrote curriculum for The School of Tomorrow, I did a lot of research on Jim Eliot, because they wanted me to write about him. Very interesting life, well lived. What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels?I wish I knew how long it takes to succeed. So many writers are in too big of a hurry to “make it” and take shortcuts on the way to publication. It’s a long process, but through that process, I have become a better writer.
Amen to that. What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?The Lord is teaching me that when I spend time gaining my satisfaction in Him and yielding my life to His, the stress and problems of this life become dim. I am learning to abide more in Him.  
Ah, yes, the great blessing of abiding in Him. What a wonder! What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful?Read a lot – not only writing books. Reading a variety of good books is one of the best ways to learn to write. Read intentionally and pay attention to how authors tell their stories. Then decide how God wants you to tell yours.
Patience is essential. I read somewhere the average author write seven book before he or she is published. This is not an overnight success business. The authors who succeed are not always the ones who are the best writers. They are usually the ones who never give up.
Learn the business. Writers like to write good stories, and they need to learn how to become better writers, but the successful ones also learn about publishers, agents, and marketing. Even though this is a creative business, it is still a business. The more you learn, the more successful you’ll be.
Tell us about the featured book. Alice’s Notions is a post World War II romantic suspense. Here’s the blurb.
In this quaint mountain town, things aren't always what they seem.
World War 2 widow Alice Brighton returns to the safety of her home town to open a fabric shop. She decides to start a barn quilt tour to bring business to the shop and the town, but what she doesn’t know is sinister forces are using the tour for their own nefarious reasons.
Between her mysterious landlord, her German immigrant employee, her neighbors who are acting strange, and a dreamboat security expert who is trying to romance her, Alicedoesn’t know who she can trust.
Please give us the first page of the book.January 1945Fifty miles outside BerlinOSS Sergeant Joe Brighton wished he was fighting Nazis in Belgium instead of hiding in the shadows waiting to meet a double agent. He paced the length of the small barn, illuminated by a partially shaded lantern. The man should have been here an hour ago.
An owl hooted, but nothing indicated anyone was around. Soldiers could be hiding in the woods during this cloudy, moonless night; after all, they were in the heart of Germany. Most likely he would hear them coming. Their Russian informant knew how to be invisible until he gave the code word and stepped inside, or he wouldn’t have survived this long.
The Soviets, of course, were considered allies fighting to defeat the Nazi war machine, but after the intelligence he gathered, Joe had a hard time believing they were on the same side. The war in Europewould be over soon, and he couldn’t seem to shake that nudging in his gut they were as much of a threat to the free world as Hitler had been.
“Will you light somewhere?” Bear leaned against the wall with his arms crossed. Joe’s lieutenant hated the nickname, but since he’d growled his first order at the men, it stuck. “What’s got you so jumpy? You know Krysov is on the up and up. He’ll be here.”
“I know.”
Joe sat on a nearby hay bale and blew in his hands to warm them. The information the Soviet agent had given them made him edgy. It was hard to swallow Burning Bush, the small town in West Virginia where he’d grown up, had been infiltrated by Soviet spies. He had considered dismissing it at first, until his commanding officer reminded him Burning Bush was only an hour’s drive from at least five important military targets.
Colonel Myers had ordered Bear and Joe to find out as much as they could. The colonel had chomped on his cigar as he spouted out orders. “Find out who the Soviet agent in Burning Bush is. Who are his associates? What is his target? How does he plan to communicate with his fellow agents? General Command needs answers before they risk relations with the Russians by letting Krysov defect.”
If the report checked out, Joe’s orders were to take charge of this operation in Burning Bush. He’d make up some story about being discharged early. His past relationship with the town would alleviate any suspicion about why he was there.
Alicewouldn’t be happy about moving back home. Even though they’d been born and raised in the small town in West Virginia, she’d fallen in love with big city life. They moved to New York Cityafter he’d been recruited by COI, Coordinator of Information. He could imagine her turning up her nose and giving him that look. His chest tightened. It would be good to see her again. He missed her so much.
“What’s that?” Bear stepped away from the barn wall and tilted his ear toward the door.
Joe started toward the crackling sound.
“Wait for the signal.”
The barn door burst open, and three Soviet soldiers surged through with SVT-40 rifles. Two Russian sergeants moved behind to encircle them. Joe took a step toward the door, but the captain stood in front of the opening, rendering it impossible for them to make a run for it.
“Drop your veapons,” the soldier to his right said in a thick Russian accent.
Joe set his Colt .38 Army special on the ground, not daring a side glance to see if Bear would try to make them heroes. The Soviet captain lowered his rifle, closed the barn door, and smiled under his big bushy mustache as if Joe had just told him a joke. “Commander Krysov won’t be coming.” He said it in Russian, but both Joe and Bear had been trained in Russian, German, and a number of other languages. “We executed the traitor this morning.”
Joe swallowed the lump in his throat and tried to remember Russian verb tenses. “Who is this Krysov you speak of? Why do I care what you do with your men?”
“Come now, Sergeant.” The captain patted him on the shoulder as if they were best friends. “What did Krysov tell you? Give us what we want to know, and you and your friend can live to fight another day.”
The image of Aliceand their lives together flashed through his mind. He wouldn’t betray his country no matter how persuasive their techniques, but as he pictured his wife getting a telegram from the war department and considered the future they would never have, a profound sadness came over him.
You have me hooked. How can readers find you on the Internet?You can contact me at these sites:Website: http://tameralynnkraft.netWord Sharpeners Blog: http://tameralynnkraft.comFacebook: http://facebook.com/tameralynnkraftTwitter: http://twitter.com/tamerakraftNewsletter Link: http://eepurl.com/cdybpbPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tamerakraft/Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/TameraLynnKraftAmazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Tamera-Lynn-Kraft/e/B00H9EW5XU/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1489587585&sr=8-1
Thank you, Tamera, for sharing this new book with us. 
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

LOVE'S ETERNAL BREATH - Naomi Rawlings - One Free Book

Welcome back, Naomi. Why do you write the kind of books you do?Because I love being able to share my faith and God’s love in my writing. I hope my books are an encouragement for other believers.
Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?The day I got married. (You can tell I’m a romance writer, can’t you?)
How has being published changed your life?My oldest son has a lot of medical expenses, so the money I earn from my writing had gone almost exclusively to pay for that. It’s a huge blessing to be able to provide for my son’s needs without having to work outside the home.
What are you reading right now?I just started Debra Clopton’s Windswept Bay Series.
I love her writing. What is your current work in progress?Love’s Bright Tomorrow. It’s the sixth book in the Eagle Harbor Series, and it will probably be the last book for that series as well.
What would be your dream vacation?Somewhere with a warm beach and no children. At this stage of my life, quiet and relaxation are more important than an actual location.
How do you choose your settings for each book?When I first moved to the coast of Lake Superior, I was entranced by both the beauty and the danger the lake held. It was only natural for me to set a novel in this rugged location, which then turned into a series of novels. You get the idea.
If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?My best friend, Melissa Jagears. Because sometimes being with friends is nicer than being with strangers, no matter how famous those strangers are.
I so agree. What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?Hiking. I love hiking, but I don’t find the time nearly as often as I’d like.
What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?At the moment, finding time to write. I try to set aside certain times each day where I write and don’t let other things interfere, but sometimes life ends up happening instead.
What advice would you give to a beginning author?Write every day, and study the authors whose books you love. What makes you love their writing? Figure it out and try to do the same in your own novels.
Tell us about the featured book. Lindy Marsden once dreamed of having a husband, a house, some children, and maybe even a sewing machine. But since she grew ill five years ago, those dreams have become too much to hope for. Now she just wants to provide for herself and help the abandoned children she found living in the woods until their father returns … and avoid doctors for the rest of her life. Their medicine never leads to any good, and she has the scars to prove it.
Seth Harrington loves being a doctor, but treating patients in the small town of Eagle Harbor is nothing like working at a prestigious Bostonhospital, especially with the other doctor in town trying to steal Seth's patients. When he’s called to treat a reluctant woman, Seth finds Lindy Marsden’s fiery dislike for him rather insulting. He has the ability to help her, but she wants nothing to do with him. Until she shows up on his doorstep one night ...
When the plight of a young abandoned boy brings Seth and Lindy irrevocably together, Seth finds himself in the most difficult situation of his career. His expertise can help him heal the sick, but will his love be enough to soothe Lindy’s wounded soul?
Come visit the rugged yet beautiful coast of Lake Superior and the remote historical town of EagleHarbor that readers can’t get enough of.
Please give us the first page of the book.Eagle Harbor, Michigan; August, 1883“I told you not to come back.”
Lindy Marsden looked into Jenny O’Byrne’s brown eyes and attempted to scowl as fiercely as the irate woman in front of her—if Jenny could even be called a woman. Given her youthful face and unblemished skin, Jenny couldn’t be more than sixteen or seventeen.
“I brought you bread and flour, even some sourdough starter from the bakery so you can make your own bread.” Lindy would have made the words louder, her voice firmer, had she the breath to do so. But after walking two miles uphill to reach the cabin, her lungs were wound tighter than a jack-in-the-box and nearly ready to burst. She sucked in a small breath. The burning sensation would abate. Eventually. If she rested long enough.
She hoped.
She set the sack with the dough and flour on the rickety table, then straightened and held out the loaf of bread to Jenny, drawing in another small breath before she spoke. “Don’t be upset with me.”
Even with the door open, the cabin was so dim it should’ve been impossible to see Jenny’s anger. But the woman’s fiery eyes burned through the shadows nonetheless. “What part of ‘don’t come back again’ is that difficult for you to understand?”
The part that entails leaving children to starve in the woods. But if she ever hoped to return, she dare not speak the words.
I’m eager to read the book. How can readers find you on the Internet?One of my books is free right now, so if readers want to try my writing, they can grab a copy of the first book in the Eagle Harbor Series, Love’s Unfading Light.Get your copy here:Amazon ~.~.~ iBooks ~.~.~ Nook ~.~.~ Kobo ~.~.~ Google Play
Otherwise readers can find me on Facebook or on my website: www.naomirawlings.com. One of my favorite ways to stay in contact with readers is through my author newsletter. Those who sign up also get a free bonus novella.
Thank you, Naomi, for sharing this book with us.
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

PICTURE PERFECT - Emily C Reynolds - One Free Book

Bio: I grew up in a small town in southern Maineand had a childhood that was wonderful in all the ways that matter. My parents were in fulltime Christian ministry, so we didn’t have a lot of “extras” growing up, but we saw firsthand what it means to invest in things of eternal significance. I’m so grateful that God gave me humble, loving, self-sacrificing parents who taught us to love God and put Him first, above all else.
I graduated from GordonCollege in Massachusetts with degrees in English Language and Literature as well as Biblical Studies. I’ve earned my living as a professional wedding photographer, high school English teacher, newspaper copy editor, piano teacher, and women’s self-defense instructor.
And now I can officially add author to that list! My first book, Picture Perfect , released March 2 from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. A dream come true!
The best thing that ever happened to me was walking into a coffee shop one morning and walking out, leaving my heart with the fine-looking barrista working behind the counter. My husband Jason is the inspiration for my storybook heroes and my biggest cheerleader on this writing journey. We are blessed with a teenage son, two cats, and a dog named Boomer.
Welcome, Emily. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.A ton! So many people give writers the advice “write what you know,” and I think it’s natural for our passions to flow into our stories in some form or another.
A perfect example in Picture Perfect is the scenes relating to martial arts. Micah, the hero in the story, practices jujitsu. Lily, the heroine, studies boxing. One of the underlying currents of the story is the concept of self-defense and safety.
Having grown up in a Christian “bubble,” as a teen I was anxious about leaving for college. It didn’t help that the first college I attended was on the outskirts of New York City. The summer before freshman year, I asked a family friend (a police detective) if he would teach me self-defense. We got together and he showed me a few tactics, but I remember at the end of the evening feeling more worried, because as he showed me scenarios, my mind started to run. I realized how little I knew, and how many different ways a person could attack another person. (To be clear, it wasn’t his fault. He taught me simple techniques to use in an emergency. In retrospect, what I wanted was training and that’s not something that happens in one night!)
In college, I took an 8-week course that was an intro to martial arts. Again, nothing wrong with the instructor or the class. But it was about precision of strikes, blocks, and kicks, and step-by-step attack/defense sequences. It was not “down and dirty” self-defense. (It wasn’t designed to be, but in my ignorance, I equated “martial arts” with “women’s self-defense” and left feeling frustrated and vulnerable.)
Fast forward a few years. Not long after meeting my husband, I learned he studied jujitsu (a soft-style martial art). He asked if I wanted to learn. I said no. I wasn’t interested in jujitsu. I wanted to learn self-defense. So he invited me to meet his instructor, who was excited to teach me techniques geared for women. I started coming early, before jujitsu class, to learn. I learned about women’s areas of strength, awareness and alertness, and the physics of the human body. I practiced palm strikes and knees to the groin until I developed muscle memory and instinct and earned the nickname “Lethal Knees.”
Then my session would end, and jujitsu class would begin. It didn’t take long before I was joining them on the mat. J
I love teaching self-defense because I've seen wonderful things happen when a woman learns she really can protect herself physically. We have a vested interest in our physical and sexual safety and should not leave it up to chance or assume it's someone else's responsibility.
Learning self-defense helps develop confidence, which has far-reaching effects—women discover inner strengths they never knew they had and become "stronger" on different playing fields of life, whether it be work, relationships, communication, setting boundaries, the list goes on.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?Tried to put diesel in my Nissan Sentra. The nozzle didn’t fit (of course) and I got frustrated. I tried dribbling fuel into the reservoir, and the guy in the gas station gave me a weird look. I dribbled about 17 cents worth in the tank before I gave up, all huffy about “this stupid gas station,” and went in to pay. Except I’d forgotten my wallet. The gas station attendant was not impressed. 
When did you first discover you were a writer?I’ve always loved reading but never thought I’d be able to write a whole story. That sounded daunting. I wrote a short story in high school and poetry in college, but that was it until about seven years ago when I started a story. Then I realized I needed to learn the craft and mechanics of story-building, so I joined American Christian Fiction Writers. I got connected to other writers, critique groups, and a storehouse of publishing information that I soaked up, realizing how little I really knew!
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.I read everything except Sci-Fi, and I haven’t read much fantasy. I grew up devouring every mystery I could find and still love everything from cozies to political thrillers. In high school, it was Russian lit, where I learned about symbolism and first discovered the power of using words to show rather than tell. In college, it was every other lit—Irish, British, women’s… Now I read a good deal of Christian publishing, and again it’s a wide range. If it’s good writing, count me in!
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?The easiest escape is to tie on my sneakers and take my dog Boomer for a run through the nearby trails. It clears my head, releases stresses, and puts me in a good mood. I also have several hobbies, so when I start getting “burned out” with one, I shift attention to something else for a while—piano, photography, writing. Housework hasn’t managed to find its way on the list. ;)
How do you choose your characters’ names?I choose names randomly, often from people I know or names I like. But when I choose a name of someone I know, the personality and physical description don’t come along for the ride. It’s just the name.
As my characters develop, they become very real to me. Probably too real. While I was writing Picture Perfect , one of the funniest things occurred one morning during my devotions. I use index cards to list prayer requests, friends’ names, or praises. Flipping through cards helps me stay focused when I’m praying, because my mind often wanders.
Well, I’d been working the night before on some scenes where Lily was feeling defensive and bitter toward Micah. The next morning as I pulled out my prayer cards and settled in, I started with couples on my prayer list, saying their names and praying for specific needs. “Lord, please be with Sarah and Shawn and their financial need… Please be with Mary and Aaron that they’d grow closer to you, that their marriage would be strong… And, Lord, please help Lily forgive Micah for the grudge she’s harboring, and help Micah as—”
And I burst out laughing. I’d just prayed for my imaginary characters.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?Well, it’s not something I can take credit for. Nine years ago we adopted a four-year-old boy from China. It was the biggest unknown we’d ever faced. It was frightening and daunting, but amid all the questions was an overriding peace. It was in God’s hands. True, there was no way to know the outcome. Every step was faith.
During the adoption journey, I read Zech 4:10 and wrote this on our blog: Our job is to take that first step and let God do His part by seeing us through. We're learning that we can't leap ahead and plan it all NOW. God meets us one step at a time.
When people hear about us adopting they often say, “Wow! He is so blessed!” And we shake our heads and smile, because inside we know we’re the ones who are so blessed.
I love this quote from The Voice of Adventure in which Max Lucado says, “There is a rawness and a wonder to life. Pursue it. Hunt for it. Sell out to get it. Jesus says the options are clear. On one side there is the voice of safety. You can build a fire in the hearth, stay inside, and stay warm and dry and safe. Or you can hear the voice of adventure—God’s adventure … Follow God’s impulses. Adopt the child. Move overseas. Teach the class. Change careers. Run for office. Make a difference. Don’t listen to the whines of those who have settled for a second-rate life and want you to do the same so they won’t feel guilty. Your goal is not to live long; it’s to live. Sure it isn’t safe, but what is?”
What is your favorite food?     Sushi!
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?The biggest challenge on my path to publication was twofold—not giving up and, well, not giving up. By that I mean not giving up on the dream of one day seeing my book in print, but also not giving up the fun of writing. Don’t let anyone fool you. Writing is hard. Many people don’t realize the years of labor involved. I had no idea what I was doing when I first started writing, so Picture Perfect got completely revamped multiple times. Was it hard? Yes. Was it worth it? Yes! I loved learning how to plot a good story, and I absolutely love the result. But it took seven years to get to this point.
I also had to learn to accept who I am as an author. I’m not a particularly fast writer. The story doesn’t unfold in a straightforward manner for me. I’m much more seat-of-the-pants than plotter. So I have to constantly remind myself that it’s okay that the course is not charted; that’s part of the fun for me (I get to be surprised when a character says or does something). Only it’s not always fun! Sometimes it’s downright awful. It means the story doesn’t journey in a straight line from start to finish. There will be detours and dead ends and “wasted” time. But that’s just how it works for me. I can choose to get frustrated and think I’m less of a “real writer” because of it, or I can choose to accept that it’s just one of the weird ways I work.
Tell us about the featured book. Picture Perfect is a light-hearted, hope-filled humorous romance. In this story, a photographer and a martial artist partnered for swing dance lessons also become unknowingly pitted against each other in a real estate tug-of-war. As romance heats up, secrets from the past close in. Agendas collide, and when the truth comes out, one wrong move could trip them up for good. 
Here’s the back cover copy:Professional photographer Lily Caswell has one goal in mind—opening her own photography studio in her charming New England town. Too many months of working odd jobs has taken its toll, and Lily is determined to earn the coveted studio space in the heart of the downtown district. With the help of her friends and support of her church community, Lily sets out to make her dreams of Picture Perfect come true.
Micah Wyland is used to taking punches—just not in the usual way. He returns to his hometown with the intention of opening his own martial arts studio, but putting his past behind him proves harder than anticipated when Lily Caswell comes back into his life.
When they get thrown together for swing dance lessons, romance heats up on—and off—the dance floor. As Lily gets to know Micah, she believes he’s changed. But forgetting the past isn’t easy, especially when she discovers they’ve both set their sights on the same piece of real estate. And a dark secret from Micah’s past is quickly catching up ...
Please give us the first page of the book.The critter had gulped its last breath in church, surrounded by coffee and donuts.
Not a bad way to go.
Lily Caswell stood in the muggy fellowship hall and stared into the wastebasket, frowning at the bat. It lay squashed between a chocolate glazed donut and a half-eaten bagel, its delicate webbed toes curled around a Styrofoam cup from Sunday’s fellowship time.
When had pest control become part of her job description as part-time janitor?
She bent closer and scrunched her nose. Gross. Hitching a shoulder to catch the sweat trickling down the side of her face, she contemplated the not-so-dearly departed.
You can do this. Tip the canister and dump everything into the plastic bag. Lily screwed her eyes closed. Despite the June heat, she shivered. Then she straightened her shoulders. It’s not hard. Come on.
She grabbed the wastebasket, keeping it at arm’s length, and upended it.
The dead thing moved.
But it didn’t slide into the bag with the rest of the trash. Defying gravity, the creature bolted straight for her face.
Lily’s scalp prickled. She shrieked and ducked, covering her head. Blood pounded up her neck, filling her ears with a whooshing noise. Almost as quickly, the roar in her ears faded, and she heard only her fast breathing.
And a few final thip-thip-thips as the bat flapped away.
Then blessed silence.
Except for the random creak from the back corner as a floorboard or joist in the ancient building settled. After several years, she should be used to hearing sounds she couldn’t trace, but at times, especially as light began to fade, being alone here still creeped her out.
Lily peeked between her crossed arms. The furry brown thing had folded itself into a corner of the rafters and nestled in.
Ugh. She stood, knees spongy, then grabbed the vacuum and fled. She backed out of the room and slammed the door. She tried to scratch away the prickly feeling on the back of her neck. But being alone in a 200-year-old New England church amplified the spook factor, especially with creepy little heavenly hosts flapping around, the echo of batwings still reverberating in the silence.


I love your writing style. How can readers find you on the Internet?I love to connect with readers! Find me on Facebook under Emily C Reynolds or at my web site. My web site is: www.emilycreynolds.com
Picture Perfect is available for purchase on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_1_22?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=picture+perfect+emily+c+reynolds&sprefix=picture+perfect+Emily+%2Caps%2C218&crid=15R6WKWGLU35T
Picture Perfect is also available through Lighthouse Publishing here:http://shoplpc.com/product/picture-perfect/
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