Lena Nelson Dooley's Blog, page 133
January 16, 2017
PENGUIN IN THE PANTRY - Jamie Bryant - One Free Book
Dear Readers, I’ve already featured a couple of Jamie Bryant’s children’s picture books on the blog. They are so colorful with fun stories that really grab preschooler’s attention. My great grandsons, aged 3 and almost 2, love the pictures and the repetition with the animals. At the same time, they’re learning concepts. I know a lot of people have electronic tablet devices for their children. Since these books come both in print and Kindle editions, they are just right for those devices.
Welcome back, Jamie. What compelled you to write a children’s book series?When my children were young, I read to them every day. Now that I have grandchildren finding a great book that I love to read to them has proven to be challenging at times. When I did find a story or character that the children enjoyed, I would usually look for that character or author again. When I sat down to write the first book in this series, Monkey in the Mailbox, my imagination ran wild. That very night I wrote down 9 more potential titles for this series.
How does a story for children come to you?I managed my own home childcare business for eighteen years. The children often would often say to me, “Tell us a Story, Miss Jamie.” Needless to say I had to be always ready and keep my imagination soaring to keep coming up with stories. Also when something happens and it’s funny or interesting I take note of it. One day my husband was eating a sandwich at the table with me and one of the children I was caring for. She was four years old and got extremely excited when she saw a ladybug on his sandwich. She squealed just before the ladybug became his lunch. It’s not yet, but will be a story someday. :)
What do you find most challenging in being a writer? The necessary needed alone time to actually do the writing. Currently I am my own marketing department, so time must be allotted for this daily. Also I’m a People Person. I love being with people and talking to them and miss that. Something I’ve started doing in the last several months is scheduling Interactive Story-times with props at pre-schools and libraries, which gives me my people time.
That was a problem for me when I started writing, too. As you know, I’m also a people person. I almost drove James crazy talking so much when he got home from work. I missed adult conversation. He used to be rather quiet. Now he likes to talk, too. What makes you smile?I smile when I sing worship music. I smile when I see children and especially when they laugh. I smile when I think of my family and all that God has blessed me with.
What’s your favorite dessert?I really love Buttermilk Pie. Someone gave me one as a gift a few years ago and I smiled and said, “Thank you,” thinking the whole time … this is gross. Of course I had to at least try it and give a response. I’ve loved it ever since and make it often with homemade pie crust.
Wow! I never learned to make a good pie crust, so I just buy a quality frozen one. I don’t buy the ones with lard in them. And my mother-in-law introduced me to Buttermilk Pie, and I love it. What would you like to tell us about the featured book?
Penguin in the Pantry
finds young Denny just trying to go to the kitchen pantry and get his morning cereal. This becomes a challenge for him because each time he opens the pantry door he is met by a new animal, that only he can see. Surprisingly enough, all of the animals start with the letter P. This provides a teaching opportunity for parents. In the end….Wait! I can’t tell you that. You’ll have to read the book. :)
How can readers find you on the internet?www.jamiebryantbooks.comTwitter@readjamiebryantFacebook@jamiebryantbooksInstagram@jamiebryantbooksEmail: authorjamiebryant@gmail.comHere are buy links for the book:Penguin in the Pantry on Kindle: Penguin In The Pantry (Denny's Surprise Day Series Book 2)Penguin in the Pantry Paperback: Penguin In The Pantry (Denny's Surprise Day Series) (Volume 2)
Thank you, Jamie, for sharing this book with us. It’s a wonderful gift for children and grandchildren. Teachers in preschools and libraries should have it, too.
Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
Welcome back, Jamie. What compelled you to write a children’s book series?When my children were young, I read to them every day. Now that I have grandchildren finding a great book that I love to read to them has proven to be challenging at times. When I did find a story or character that the children enjoyed, I would usually look for that character or author again. When I sat down to write the first book in this series, Monkey in the Mailbox, my imagination ran wild. That very night I wrote down 9 more potential titles for this series.How does a story for children come to you?I managed my own home childcare business for eighteen years. The children often would often say to me, “Tell us a Story, Miss Jamie.” Needless to say I had to be always ready and keep my imagination soaring to keep coming up with stories. Also when something happens and it’s funny or interesting I take note of it. One day my husband was eating a sandwich at the table with me and one of the children I was caring for. She was four years old and got extremely excited when she saw a ladybug on his sandwich. She squealed just before the ladybug became his lunch. It’s not yet, but will be a story someday. :)
What do you find most challenging in being a writer? The necessary needed alone time to actually do the writing. Currently I am my own marketing department, so time must be allotted for this daily. Also I’m a People Person. I love being with people and talking to them and miss that. Something I’ve started doing in the last several months is scheduling Interactive Story-times with props at pre-schools and libraries, which gives me my people time.
That was a problem for me when I started writing, too. As you know, I’m also a people person. I almost drove James crazy talking so much when he got home from work. I missed adult conversation. He used to be rather quiet. Now he likes to talk, too. What makes you smile?I smile when I sing worship music. I smile when I see children and especially when they laugh. I smile when I think of my family and all that God has blessed me with.
What’s your favorite dessert?I really love Buttermilk Pie. Someone gave me one as a gift a few years ago and I smiled and said, “Thank you,” thinking the whole time … this is gross. Of course I had to at least try it and give a response. I’ve loved it ever since and make it often with homemade pie crust.
Wow! I never learned to make a good pie crust, so I just buy a quality frozen one. I don’t buy the ones with lard in them. And my mother-in-law introduced me to Buttermilk Pie, and I love it. What would you like to tell us about the featured book?
Penguin in the Pantry
finds young Denny just trying to go to the kitchen pantry and get his morning cereal. This becomes a challenge for him because each time he opens the pantry door he is met by a new animal, that only he can see. Surprisingly enough, all of the animals start with the letter P. This provides a teaching opportunity for parents. In the end….Wait! I can’t tell you that. You’ll have to read the book. :)How can readers find you on the internet?www.jamiebryantbooks.comTwitter@readjamiebryantFacebook@jamiebryantbooksInstagram@jamiebryantbooksEmail: authorjamiebryant@gmail.comHere are buy links for the book:Penguin in the Pantry on Kindle: Penguin In The Pantry (Denny's Surprise Day Series Book 2)Penguin in the Pantry Paperback: Penguin In The Pantry (Denny's Surprise Day Series) (Volume 2)
Thank you, Jamie, for sharing this book with us. It’s a wonderful gift for children and grandchildren. Teachers in preschools and libraries should have it, too.
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
January 15, 2017
WINNERS!!!!
Beth (IA) is the winner of The Poison We Drink by Carol McClain.
Donna (IL) is the winner of The Physics of Love by Donna Schlachter.
Elaine (WI) is the winner of The Saboteur by Susan Page Davis.
Susan (TX) is the winner of Somebody Somewhere in Texas by Connie Leonard.
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.
Donna (IL) is the winner of The Physics of Love by Donna Schlachter.
Elaine (WI) is the winner of The Saboteur by Susan Page Davis.
Susan (TX) is the winner of Somebody Somewhere in Texas by Connie Leonard.
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.
January 13, 2017
THE AMISH WANDERER - 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 or blog posts for Seriously Write and Putting on the New.
Laura and her pastor-husband have five children and a hyper dog named Skye and 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. What are some of the spiritual themes you like to write about? I don’t generally pick out spiritual themes, but a lot of them are based on trusting God even when you don’t see His hand moving. The theme of
The Amish Wanderer
is how you react when it seems God doesn’t hear your prayers? The two characters have different views on this.
What other books of yours are coming out soon? There *might* be an Indie published contemporary romance coming out with some other authors later this month, entitled Love in the Skies. My story is First Class, Wrong Flight. There also *might* be another collection with other authors releasing in April or May (these are not for sure, set in stone dates yet!) I don’t know the title of that collection, but my story is called The Kissing Bridge. In August, I have a novella with Barbour Books in the Second Chance Brides collection called Married by Mistake. In September, Whitaker House releases another Amish Christmas story, The Christmas Challenge and in October another Amish book releases, but I don’t yet know for sure what that title will be.
If you could spend an evening with one contemporary person (not a family member of yours), who would it be and why? A random officer in the Coast Guard so I could ask a ton of questions. Either that or one of my favorite authors so we could talk books.
What historical person would you like to meet (besides Jesus) and why? Mary and Martha. The main character in The Christmas Challenge is like Martha and she has some interesting questions about Martha’s attitude and how (and if) she ever learned to sit at Jesus’s feet and listen.
How can you encourage authors who have been receiving only rejections from publishers? Oh, good question. Keep studying and learning the craft, and don’t be afraid to let your pain into the book. Often that is the key to making the characters come alive – YOU know how it feels when you are rejected, go through a life-threatening illness, a life-altering event, or whatever. Let that passion out.
Tell us about The Amish Wanderer.Bethany Weiss has been fascinated by Silas Beiler since he spent a couple of years in Jamesport, Missouri, before he and his family moved to another Amish community. They hadn’t kept in touch, but she hasn’t forgotten the friendly young man who brought her lemonade and took her home once from a Singing years ago. When she finds a man sleeping in her family’s barn, like Jesus sleeping in the hay, she is stunned to recognize Silas. He has left the Amish and is backpacking across the country. She talks him into staying, at least until after Christmas.
Silas’s family has never been happy living in one area for long, and their vagabond ways are wearing on him. He has lived in Amish communities all over the nation, moving whenever his daed became disgruntled with the leaders, and he’s looking for some sense of stability. His intentions are to make it back to Pennsylvaniaand stay with his Englisch onkle and his family—and pursue an education. Will Bethany be the one to bring Silas in from the cold? Or will he continue on his way to his extended family and become Englisch?
Please give us the first page of the book. NovemberThe sky is falling and I’m searching for somewhere to hide. We need someone to help, but all I see are clouds in everyone’s eyes. If my fears could only be forgotten…
If only I could get out of this town.
An unidentified sound, loud in the relative silence, jarred Bethany. Her blue pen made a squiggly line across the page in the fat little notebook where she wrote her thoughts. Maybe she should’ve found a more secluded place than the hay pile beside the loft ladder, but she rarely was disturbed. She raised her head and listened.
Nothing, except the squeak of the wood doors in the back of the barn as her younger brother, Timothy, put the cows out to pasture. The soft lowing of cows. The clucking of free-range chickens.
Hopefully, he was too busy to notice she’d left—and wouldn’t look for her.
But there it was again. From somewhere overhead. A sound that didn’t belong. A creak and a thump.
Hopefully, it wasn’t Hen. She’d hear if he were out of jail, ain’t so? A thread of fear ripped through her, unraveling the tiny bit of peace she’d been able to find.
How can readers find you on the Internet?http://www.amazon.com/Laura-V.-Hilton/e/B004IRSM5Q visit my blogs: http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com/ and 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 Christianbook.com: 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+hiltonDeeper 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 book with us today. It sounds like a good read.
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 and 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. What are some of the spiritual themes you like to write about? I don’t generally pick out spiritual themes, but a lot of them are based on trusting God even when you don’t see His hand moving. The theme of
The Amish Wanderer
is how you react when it seems God doesn’t hear your prayers? The two characters have different views on this. What other books of yours are coming out soon? There *might* be an Indie published contemporary romance coming out with some other authors later this month, entitled Love in the Skies. My story is First Class, Wrong Flight. There also *might* be another collection with other authors releasing in April or May (these are not for sure, set in stone dates yet!) I don’t know the title of that collection, but my story is called The Kissing Bridge. In August, I have a novella with Barbour Books in the Second Chance Brides collection called Married by Mistake. In September, Whitaker House releases another Amish Christmas story, The Christmas Challenge and in October another Amish book releases, but I don’t yet know for sure what that title will be.
If you could spend an evening with one contemporary person (not a family member of yours), who would it be and why? A random officer in the Coast Guard so I could ask a ton of questions. Either that or one of my favorite authors so we could talk books.
What historical person would you like to meet (besides Jesus) and why? Mary and Martha. The main character in The Christmas Challenge is like Martha and she has some interesting questions about Martha’s attitude and how (and if) she ever learned to sit at Jesus’s feet and listen.
How can you encourage authors who have been receiving only rejections from publishers? Oh, good question. Keep studying and learning the craft, and don’t be afraid to let your pain into the book. Often that is the key to making the characters come alive – YOU know how it feels when you are rejected, go through a life-threatening illness, a life-altering event, or whatever. Let that passion out.
Tell us about The Amish Wanderer.Bethany Weiss has been fascinated by Silas Beiler since he spent a couple of years in Jamesport, Missouri, before he and his family moved to another Amish community. They hadn’t kept in touch, but she hasn’t forgotten the friendly young man who brought her lemonade and took her home once from a Singing years ago. When she finds a man sleeping in her family’s barn, like Jesus sleeping in the hay, she is stunned to recognize Silas. He has left the Amish and is backpacking across the country. She talks him into staying, at least until after Christmas. Silas’s family has never been happy living in one area for long, and their vagabond ways are wearing on him. He has lived in Amish communities all over the nation, moving whenever his daed became disgruntled with the leaders, and he’s looking for some sense of stability. His intentions are to make it back to Pennsylvaniaand stay with his Englisch onkle and his family—and pursue an education. Will Bethany be the one to bring Silas in from the cold? Or will he continue on his way to his extended family and become Englisch?
Please give us the first page of the book. NovemberThe sky is falling and I’m searching for somewhere to hide. We need someone to help, but all I see are clouds in everyone’s eyes. If my fears could only be forgotten…
If only I could get out of this town.
An unidentified sound, loud in the relative silence, jarred Bethany. Her blue pen made a squiggly line across the page in the fat little notebook where she wrote her thoughts. Maybe she should’ve found a more secluded place than the hay pile beside the loft ladder, but she rarely was disturbed. She raised her head and listened.
Nothing, except the squeak of the wood doors in the back of the barn as her younger brother, Timothy, put the cows out to pasture. The soft lowing of cows. The clucking of free-range chickens.
Hopefully, he was too busy to notice she’d left—and wouldn’t look for her.
But there it was again. From somewhere overhead. A sound that didn’t belong. A creak and a thump.
Hopefully, it wasn’t Hen. She’d hear if he were out of jail, ain’t so? A thread of fear ripped through her, unraveling the tiny bit of peace she’d been able to find.
How can readers find you on the Internet?http://www.amazon.com/Laura-V.-Hilton/e/B004IRSM5Q visit my blogs: http://lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com/ and 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 Christianbook.com: 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+hiltonDeeper 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 book with us today. It sounds like a good read.
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
January 12, 2017
CHASING FREEDOM - H L Wegley - One Book Giveaway
Welcome back, H L. God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon?For the past 2 or 3 years, I’ve felt led to write about issues in American society, culture, and government. Until God shows me he wants me writing something else, that's where I plan to focus. Writing about the erosion of our freedoms, especially religious freedom, and related issues, has allowed me to draw heavily on 10 years of self-study in Christian apologetics and Christian worldview. Writing novels is not how I originally planned to use my apologetical studies, but it seems to be where God is leading me.I believe you’re putting it to good use. Tell us a little about your family.My wife and I recently celebrated our 50th anniversary with a two-week vacation in Maui, hiking beaches, snorkeling with turtles—a well-deserved rest after selling our big house and downsizing to a townhouse half its size. We have three children, all grown and married, who have given us seven wonderful grandchildren. All of us live in the Northwest.
Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how?My writing has cut deeply into my reading time. I find myself struggling to squeeze in time to read books to review for other authors and to read books from authors who write in my genre. My reading is mostly within the genres I write, thrillers and high-action romantic suspense.
What are you working on right now?My current WIP, which I'm editing and polishing for submittal, is an espionage thriller with roots in the Cold War era and deadly tentacles reaching into the present, endangering an innocent young woman's life.
Sounds wonderful! What outside interests do you have?My wife and I both love beach hiking. If we can’t make it to the beach, we walk the local trails where we live, near Seattle. Whenever the forecast says sunny and warm, we head for the outer Olympic Peninsula and hike the rugged shores of the Pacific. And whenever we manage to save enough for travel, we head for Maui, where we snorkel and walk miles barefoot in the sand. We’re also involved in small group ministry through our church.
How do you choose your settings for each book?The primary settings for my stories usually are places I love and know well. For example, the Olympic Peninsula, Whistler, BC, Crooked River Ranch in Central Oregon, and Lake Chelan in Central Washington. Sometimes, I set a scene at a particular location for special effects, such as depicting irony. In book one of the series featured in this post, I set a fierce battle scene near SteelheadFalls on the DeschutesRiver in Oregonto contrast the ugliness of man's creation, war, with the beauty of God's creation, Steelhead Falls.
If you could spend an evening with one historical person, who would it be and why?I would love to have the chance to tell Charles Darwin about the universe we've discovered inside the cell—something he was oblivious to—especially about the discoveries made since the invention of the electron microscope—RNA, DNA, and their encoding of physical specification. By Darwin’s own admission, I believe what we know today would cause him to abandon his faulty theory. I think he would look in disbelief and horror when he hears how his theories have been forced upon billions of people based upon the philosophical preferences of the “intellectually elite” rather than on science and facts. As to why Darwin—maybe it’s just wishful thinking that changing the past might change the present.
That might make a good novel. A Christian time traveler and Darwin. What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels?I wish I had realized that I needed to learn the craft of writing fiction and about story structure, before I wrote my first novel. It would have spared me a lot of pain and frustration.
Unfortunately, most of us go through that. What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?Over the past year, which included selling our home of 31 years and moving, after I suffered a back injury on day 1 of the move, I've learned how truly blessed I am to have a beautiful, caring, unselfish, and courageous woman as my wife for the past 50 years. While I lay helpless in a zero-gravity chair, she almost single-handedly packed and moved us from a 3,500-sq-ft home to a 1,700-sq-ft townhouse. Young men, if you’re fortunate enough to find a slender, freckle-faced, heart-on-her-sleeve Irish girl who loves the Lord, marry her.
What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful?First, learn the craft. Second, determine what you're passionate about—often this is a God-given passion—and third, write about that.
Tell us about the featured book.I'm featuring
Chasing Freedom
, book 3 in my Against All Enemies trilogy.
Chasing Freedom
is the prequel, but was written to be read last. It's the story of a young woman, an international scholar, whose family flees to the US because of death threats from a drug cartel. It's also the story of a disgraced Olympic decathlete who wants his honor back, and who risks his life to give the young woman and her family a chance at life and liberty as they battle both the drug cartel and an immigration system that has lost sight of the intent of American asylum laws.Please give us the first page of the book.Why had Papa picked this rundown, isolated restaurant to rendezvous with her? The Sinaloa Cartel's personal vendetta against him had frightened them all, but Redding, California, was a thousand driving miles from their home in Nogales. Surely her family was safe here after fleeing to the U.S. from the border town.
Alejandra Santiago steered the compact car she’d rented in Corvallis into the parking lot of the small restaurant on the outskirts of Redding. Above the mountains to the north, the top of Mount Shastaglowed pink in the fading twilight of the sweltering July evening. What little light remained revealed speckled white walls of a building in dire need of paint.
In his brief phone call, asking if Allie could drive down from the university to see them, Papa had mentioned threats made in Nogales against him and some against her little brother, Benjamin. The cartel was good at intimidation and threatening Benjamin would certainly accomplish that.
Allie, tell me again how this drug kills the germs.
As Benjamin's voice replayed in her mind, she pictured his large brown eyes expressing wonder at each new biological fact his sharp mind assimilated. But even her pharmacy program at Oregon Statecouldn’t supply enough medical facts to satisfy his ravenous appetite for knowledge.
She loved her family dearly, but Allie adored Benjamin. If the cartel tried to hurt him, she would shoot them all herself.
How can readers find you on the Internet?Website: http://www.hlwegley.com Facebook author’s page: https://www.facebook.com/HLWegley Many of my readers have friended me and use my FB profile page:Facebook profile: https://www.facebook.com/harry.wegley.1Twitter https://twitter.com/hlwegley Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/H.-L.-Wegley/e/B00B1XMR56Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4460203.H_L_Wegley
Thank you, H L, for sharing this book with us. I’m eagerly awaiting my copy.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.Chasing Freedom: The Prequel (Against All Enemies) (Volume 3)[image error] - paperback
Chasing Freedom: The Prequel (Against All Enemies Book 3) - Kindle
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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
January 11, 2017
THROUGH EYES OF HOPE - Lacey Buchanan - One Free Book
Welcome, Lacey, I’ve been looking forward to this interview. What would you like for our readers to know about you personally?Well, I am a mama who loves my kids madly. I am passionate about what I do in spreading the message of hope through our story because not only does it bring glory to God to share what incredible things He has done for our family. It also makes the world a better place for my boys when one more person understands and accepts the disabled community. Tell us about your family.My husband, Chris, works in insurance. He and I have been together since we were teenagers. Next June will officially make fifteen years together for us, and 9 of those married.
Christian is our first born who was born with a disability. He is hilarious and silly and so intelligent. He loves to make people laugh. He’s so much like his mama that I just want to squeal with delight! J He’s in kindergarten and learning to read Braille. He takes karate and is about to test for his first belt. He loves music and funny enough, recording toys! He wants to be a radio DJ when he grows up. He is just rocking this thing called life and enjoying every minute of it!
Chandleris the baby of the family. He is our wild child. He has been the one to test me and push every button I have, and he is so much like his daddy that sometimes I want to scream. Haha!! He is protective over Christian and acts more like a big brother than a little brother. He is all boy. He loves race cars, trains, trucks, and anything with wheels. He is a joy!
And there’s me! I just graduated from law school in May, sat for my Bar in July, and passed! Woo hoo!!! I hope to start a solo practice and start working some by the summer. I don’t plan to go full force at it just yet because I want to have time to focus my energy on the book!
I can’t forget our critters either. We have two Boston Terriers, Steel and Kal, one sweet kitty named Laney, and four fish, lovingly named by the boys: Otis, Dover, Slinky, and Zebra. J
Very creative fish names. I love little boys. I have three great grandsons who range in age from almost 2 to 9. Have you written other nonfiction books? I have not. This is my very first go with writing a book at all, although I have loosely kept a blog over the years since Christian was born. I say “loosely” because updates have been sporadic, taking a back seat to being a mama and going to law school.
Do you have any other books in the works right now?I just finished up the 40 Day Prayer Journal that will accompany Through the Eyes of Hope . So far, that is all that is going on in that department, but I hope to be able to write more in the future!
What kinds of hobbies and leisure activities do you enjoy?What is this leisure time you speak of? Haha! Just kidding! Sort of. JI do enjoy running! I recently completed my very first half marathon back in October, and it was so much fun! I also love to read! I can get lost for hours in a good book if Chris is able to let me take a few hours to myself on occasion! Other than that, I really just enjoy spending time with my boys and my family!
Why did you write the featured book?I knew that I had to share our story with the world. I knew that our journey was meant to be shared. It was so incredible to see what God did in our lives, and we couldn’t keep it to ourselves. I want to shout hope and encouragement to the world through this book!
I also want to spread awareness for the disabled community. I hope to shed some light on what it’s like to be a family with a disabled member, so that those who have not encountered or experienced something like this can learn and understand and accept people with disabilities, like Christian! I hope this book makes the world a better place for Christian and others like him!What do you want the reader to take away from the book?I want them to hear how God turned our ashes to beauty and our weeping into joy, and how God can do that for them, too. Our tragic circumstances don’t have to define us because we serve a BIG and loving God. We can make it through and come out refined.
Is there anything else you’d like to tell my readers about you or your book?I would love to answer a big question that most people have when they first see photos of Christian or if they encounter us in public. It is absolutely okay to ask questions! We love talking about Christian. And I promise, our skin is not so thin that an innocent question will upset us. JChristian’s disability isn’t a sore spot for us. We love that boy wildly, and we are always happy to explain about his disability and his life! Education is key and I want to educate the world!
Please give us the first page or two from the book.The first few pages of my book open into an introduction that starts at, well, the very beginning! A birth! The reader is welcomed into the operating room of Christian’s birth to hear about the moment that he took his first breath. The reader is also welcomed into my mind’s eye, as I tell my perspective on what was going on around me; the unexplainable mingling of joy and pain, the terrifying days that lay ahead for us, and the relationship between Chris and myself.
The reader is then led into Chapter one, where we jump back in time to the day I found out I was pregnant and the concerning days that followed. I really think the reader will enjoy following along from the very beginning and seeing just how far Christian has come! From there on, I guess you’ll just have to get the book to find out what happens next! J
Where on the Internet can the readers find you?https://www.eyesofhopebook.comhttps://www.facebook.com/LaceyandChristianBuchanan/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel
Thank you, Lacey, for sharing your story with us.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog. Through the Eyes of Hope: Love More, Worry Less, and See God in the Midst of Your Adversity[image error] - Amazon
Through the Eyes of Hope: Love More, Worry Less, and See God in the Midst of Your Adversity[image error] - Kindle
Through the Eyes of Hope: Love More, Worry Less, and See God in the Midst of Your Adversity[image error] - Audio
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
January 10, 2017
THE JOYFUL JELLYFISH - Jamie Bryant - One Free Book
Welcome back, Jamie. Do you have plans to write a book for each of the nine fruits of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22-23?I do. Book Three, The Peaceful Panther, will be available in February 2017. Book four is currently being illustrated and titles for the five others have been created.When it come to children’s books, is a good story all you need?In my opinion, No! For children’s picture books the illustrations are key and go hand in glove with the message. I love to write and am blessed with ideas, however without creative illustrations my writing wouldn’t intrigue young children. A picture is worth a thousand words. That phrase was originally quoted, One look is worth a thousand words, in Printers Ink in December 1921, and still holds true today.
Currently you are Indie publishing. Any advice to someone else considering going this route?There’s an old phrase, “If you build it they will come.” This is not so true in writing. You would think, “If I write it, someone will read it and buy it.” That’s not always the case. You need to either pay someone to market your book, or be prepared to market it yourself. Fortunately, my background is marketing, however I continue to learn daily what works and what doesn’t, and challenge myself in the social media world. Be prepared to daily be doing, scheduling, or calling someone that can move you and your book/books forward for sales.
What do you hope to accomplish with this series, The Fruit of the Spirit Collection?Getting the word of God into the homes and hearts of parents and children with simple yet practical stories.
If you were on a desert island what five things would you want with you?Pencil for writing :)Paper for writing on :)FoodDrinkA lifeboat to get off the island :)
Do you have a favorite TV series?
I absolutely do. Heartland! It’s a series from Canadaand is in its 10th season. It’s the longest running series in Canada. For the most part, it’s a family friendly show and portrays their family overcoming even when it’s tough. I love how they still sit down and eat dinner together … even if the conversation gets messy at times.What would you like to tell us about the featured book? The Joyful Jellyfish is Book Two in the Fruit of the Spirit Collection. In this book about ‘joy’ Jellyfish has the opportunity to encourage her friend Crab, who seems to be mostly crabby. Jelly uses the passage in Galatians 5:22-23 to explain to her friend about this fruit of the Spirit.
How can readers find you own the internet?www.jamiebryantbooks.comTwitter: @readjamiebryantFacebook: @jamiebryantbooks Instagram: @jamiebryantbooksEmail: authorjamiebryant@gmail.com
Thank you, Jamie, for sharing this new book with us. My great grandsons are really enjoying the books you've written.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.The Joyful Jellyfish: The Fruit Of The Spirit Collection-Book Two[image error] - hardback
The Joyful Jellyfish (The Fruit of the Spirit Collection Book 2) - 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
January 9, 2017
ROMANCE GROWS IN ARCADIA VALLEY (SOW IN LOVE) - Valerie Comer - One Ebook Giveaway
Bio: Valerie Comer's life on a small farm in western Canada provides the seed for stories of contemporary inspirational romance. She only hopes her creations enjoy their happily-ever-afters as much as she does hers, shared with her husband, adult kids, and adorable granddaughters. Valerie is a USA Today bestselling author and a two-time Word Award winner.
Welcome back, Valerie. Why did you become an author?
Because the thought of writing out my hallucinations and getting paid to share them with the world was too great to resist! Seriously, though, there are so many stories floating around in my brain, and they need a way out. I’m thankful that God has given me this opportunity.
I know what you mean. If you weren’t an author, what would be your dream job?I once thought I’d like to be an architect and design eco-friendly houses. I now design houses and turn (imaginary) people loose in them without spending a fortune on the college degree … and with no worries about the structures holding up under the snow load or gale-force winds.
If you could have lived at another time in history, what would it be and why?Honestly? I’d take right now. I’m grateful to live in a time period where glasses and computers have been invented. Command-plus is my friend. Not that many years ago, someone with my vision problems would have been functionally blind. I have so much to be thankful for.
What place in the United Stateshave you not visited that you would like to?I’m a Canadian, so I’m not sure how to answer this question! Have you seen that meme going around Facebook where it asks Americans how many states they have visited and says the average is eight? Personally, I’ve visited 23 USstates. I’d like to experience the New England states someday, as well as their Canadian neighbors, the Atlantic provinces.
At least, I’m above average with 17, and I’d love to visit Canada, too. How about a foreign country you hope to visit?My husband and I are planning a month-long trip to the United Kingdomin 3-4 years. I believe those of us who live in western North America tend not to have a deep feeling of history, as everything happened quite recently in the grand scheme of things. I want to experience the depth of that history in England and Wales.
My ancestors came from Norway, Sweden, Ireland, and Germany, so I’d love to visit Europe, but my strongest desire is to visit Australia. What lesson has the Lord taught you recently?My human mind keeps lapsing back into, “Look at this fun story that I wrote! God is blessing it.” And God keeps reminding that I don’t write ‘for’ Him and hope He will bless it, like some heavenly Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval. Instead, writing is an act of worship and dependence on Him, and I need to ask Him daily to tell His stories through my fingertips … the stories He knows the readers He’s brought me need to hear.
I learned to look at my books that way, too. That’s why when a publisher doesn’t contract my proposal, I know it’s because it wouldn’t reach the readers He wants it to. Tell us about the featured book.
When is a box set not a box set? When it’s the gateway to a shared world where six authors are launching brand new contemporary romance series!
Romance Grows in Arcadia Valley
takes place in a fictional Idaho community where a foodie culture and romance grow hand-in-hand. It’s a collection of six novellas, one each by Mary Jane Hathaway, Elizabeth Maddrey, Lee Tobin McClain, Danica Favorite, Annalisa Daughety, and me (Valerie Comer). Each novella is the prequel to a three-book series. An Arcadia Valley Romance will release each month for the next year and a half!
That’s great. I’d love to feature each of them. Please give us the first page of the book.My novella in Romance Grows in Arcadia Valley, Sow in Love, kicks off my Garden Grown Romance series. Here is its description:Real estate consultant Joanna Kraus’s ideas for fulfilling a living trust are shot down by the elderly man’s grandson. In fact, it seems like sending her back to the drawing board is his primary joy. How can a vintage 1960s house and two greenhouses generate income for the church in receipt of the trust?
The more Grady Akers gets to know Joanna, the more he finds himself hoping it takes a long time to find a solution, but his charm may be no match for the armor wrapped around Joanna’s heart. Will the perfect solution for the property be perfect to grow a love that’s just been sown?
Here’s the first page:“No, I don’t think so.”
Joanna Kraus pressed both hands on the boardroom table and stared at the infuriating man at the other end. “No? And why not?”
“I don’t think that’s what my grandfather has in mind.”
Why didn’t the elderly Mr. Akers come and speak to the committee himself? He was only old, not dead. He didn’t always make sense, they said, but the message had to be clearer than coming through a third party. Warning bells rang. Hadn’t Pierce used his dad’s name to stall the deal she’d put together for him?
She lifted her chin and met Grady Akers’ dazzling blue eyes. “Why don’t you explain what your grandfather wants instead of making me guess?” This proposal wasn’t going to fall through like this. Not on her watch. Not again.
Early spring sunshine angled in through the tall, narrow windows of the Grace Fellowship board room. Flames flickered in the gas fireplace. The other three committee members’ heads swung back and forth as though watching a tennis match.
“Ms. Kraus.” Grady flashed a winsome smile. “As I mentioned in my initial request, he wants the property to be used for something that benefits the church and the community. While bulldozing the structures and building a row of townhomes for low-income housing would definitely assist those who live in them, Granddad would prefer an option that is of lower cost and wider benefit.”
Of course, the Akers family dangled the carrot of additional funding in front of Grace Fellowship. No one could blame Joanna for thinking big. All she needed was one or two solid, completed deals in her CV to set her consulting company on the right track again. This deal for her brother’s church — and hers, since she’d moved — should have been a slam-dunk.
I’m eager to see what happens next. How can readers find you on the Internet?http://valeriecomer.comhttp://arcadiavalleyromance.comhttp://facebook.com/valeriecomer.authorhttp://pinterest.com/valeriecomer
Thank you, Valerie, for introducing us to your book and the boxed set.
Readers, here’s a link to the ebook. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.Romance Grows in Arcadia Valley (Arcadia Valley Romance Book 0)[image error] - A link to pre-order the ebook
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
Welcome back, Valerie. Why did you become an author?
Because the thought of writing out my hallucinations and getting paid to share them with the world was too great to resist! Seriously, though, there are so many stories floating around in my brain, and they need a way out. I’m thankful that God has given me this opportunity.I know what you mean. If you weren’t an author, what would be your dream job?I once thought I’d like to be an architect and design eco-friendly houses. I now design houses and turn (imaginary) people loose in them without spending a fortune on the college degree … and with no worries about the structures holding up under the snow load or gale-force winds.
If you could have lived at another time in history, what would it be and why?Honestly? I’d take right now. I’m grateful to live in a time period where glasses and computers have been invented. Command-plus is my friend. Not that many years ago, someone with my vision problems would have been functionally blind. I have so much to be thankful for.
What place in the United Stateshave you not visited that you would like to?I’m a Canadian, so I’m not sure how to answer this question! Have you seen that meme going around Facebook where it asks Americans how many states they have visited and says the average is eight? Personally, I’ve visited 23 USstates. I’d like to experience the New England states someday, as well as their Canadian neighbors, the Atlantic provinces.
At least, I’m above average with 17, and I’d love to visit Canada, too. How about a foreign country you hope to visit?My husband and I are planning a month-long trip to the United Kingdomin 3-4 years. I believe those of us who live in western North America tend not to have a deep feeling of history, as everything happened quite recently in the grand scheme of things. I want to experience the depth of that history in England and Wales.
My ancestors came from Norway, Sweden, Ireland, and Germany, so I’d love to visit Europe, but my strongest desire is to visit Australia. What lesson has the Lord taught you recently?My human mind keeps lapsing back into, “Look at this fun story that I wrote! God is blessing it.” And God keeps reminding that I don’t write ‘for’ Him and hope He will bless it, like some heavenly Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval. Instead, writing is an act of worship and dependence on Him, and I need to ask Him daily to tell His stories through my fingertips … the stories He knows the readers He’s brought me need to hear.
I learned to look at my books that way, too. That’s why when a publisher doesn’t contract my proposal, I know it’s because it wouldn’t reach the readers He wants it to. Tell us about the featured book.
When is a box set not a box set? When it’s the gateway to a shared world where six authors are launching brand new contemporary romance series!
Romance Grows in Arcadia Valley
takes place in a fictional Idaho community where a foodie culture and romance grow hand-in-hand. It’s a collection of six novellas, one each by Mary Jane Hathaway, Elizabeth Maddrey, Lee Tobin McClain, Danica Favorite, Annalisa Daughety, and me (Valerie Comer). Each novella is the prequel to a three-book series. An Arcadia Valley Romance will release each month for the next year and a half!That’s great. I’d love to feature each of them. Please give us the first page of the book.My novella in Romance Grows in Arcadia Valley, Sow in Love, kicks off my Garden Grown Romance series. Here is its description:Real estate consultant Joanna Kraus’s ideas for fulfilling a living trust are shot down by the elderly man’s grandson. In fact, it seems like sending her back to the drawing board is his primary joy. How can a vintage 1960s house and two greenhouses generate income for the church in receipt of the trust?
The more Grady Akers gets to know Joanna, the more he finds himself hoping it takes a long time to find a solution, but his charm may be no match for the armor wrapped around Joanna’s heart. Will the perfect solution for the property be perfect to grow a love that’s just been sown?
Here’s the first page:“No, I don’t think so.”
Joanna Kraus pressed both hands on the boardroom table and stared at the infuriating man at the other end. “No? And why not?”
“I don’t think that’s what my grandfather has in mind.”
Why didn’t the elderly Mr. Akers come and speak to the committee himself? He was only old, not dead. He didn’t always make sense, they said, but the message had to be clearer than coming through a third party. Warning bells rang. Hadn’t Pierce used his dad’s name to stall the deal she’d put together for him?
She lifted her chin and met Grady Akers’ dazzling blue eyes. “Why don’t you explain what your grandfather wants instead of making me guess?” This proposal wasn’t going to fall through like this. Not on her watch. Not again.
Early spring sunshine angled in through the tall, narrow windows of the Grace Fellowship board room. Flames flickered in the gas fireplace. The other three committee members’ heads swung back and forth as though watching a tennis match.
“Ms. Kraus.” Grady flashed a winsome smile. “As I mentioned in my initial request, he wants the property to be used for something that benefits the church and the community. While bulldozing the structures and building a row of townhomes for low-income housing would definitely assist those who live in them, Granddad would prefer an option that is of lower cost and wider benefit.”
Of course, the Akers family dangled the carrot of additional funding in front of Grace Fellowship. No one could blame Joanna for thinking big. All she needed was one or two solid, completed deals in her CV to set her consulting company on the right track again. This deal for her brother’s church — and hers, since she’d moved — should have been a slam-dunk.
I’m eager to see what happens next. How can readers find you on the Internet?http://valeriecomer.comhttp://arcadiavalleyromance.comhttp://facebook.com/valeriecomer.authorhttp://pinterest.com/valeriecomer
Thank you, Valerie, for introducing us to your book and the boxed set.
Readers, here’s a link to the ebook. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.Romance Grows in Arcadia Valley (Arcadia Valley Romance Book 0)[image error] - A link to pre-order the ebook
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
January 8, 2017
WINNERS!!!
Shoba (Aus) is the winner of Ehvah After by Rose Dee.
Vera (NC) is the winner of The Pony Express Romance by Mist M Beller.
Diana (SC) is the winner of The Madonna of Pisano by MaryAnn Diorio.
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.
Vera (NC) is the winner of The Pony Express Romance by Mist M Beller.
Diana (SC) is the winner of The Madonna of Pisano by MaryAnn Diorio.
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.
January 6, 2017
SOMEBODY SOMEWHERE IN TEXAS - Connie Leonard - One Free Book
Dear Readers, Connie is a long-time friend. I’m so glad to introduce you to her new book. She lives not too far from me, and we attend the same ACFW local chapter, so we’re often together.
Welcome back, Connie. Why do you write the kind of books you do?I didn’t plan it that way, but everything I have written has a strong redemption thread. Accepting Christ as our Savior is only the beginning of our journey. Many people are led astray by the sins and lusts of the world. Many people are wounded by the church and fall away. Many people are beat up by life, become discouraged, and lose heart. We all need to know that wherever we are or whatever we’ve done, Christ is ready to reclaim and redeem us. He is in the redemption business.
Amen to that. Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life? I have experienced so many blessings, it’s hard to pick just one. The day I accepted Christ was exhilarating. I know many people say their wedding day, but as wonderful as that was, it was also a day filled with stress and anxiety. It was only the beginning of life’s adventure, which is going stronger than ever after 46 years. The days our children were born were exciting days full of wonder and hope.
How has being published changed your life?Being a published writer is a dream I’ve had since I was thirteen. I have published a Master’s thesis, two novels, and a devotional as well as numerous magazine articles, so it feels good to say I am a “real” writer. It is rewarding to hear how my writing has touched someone. The only way it has changed my life is that I am more in awe of God and His goodness and grace, giving us dreams and bringing them to fruition.
You have been a “real” writer all along. God knit you together in your mother’s womb to be a writer, and I’m glad He did. What are you reading right now?I just downloaded and began reading The Heart of Thornton Creek, by Bonnie Leon.
I’ve read a lot of Bonnie’s books, but not that one. I’ll look for it. What is your current work in progress?I’ve have started the sequel to Somebody Somewhere in Texas . It is about Brooks’s younger sister Andrea after she finishes veterinarian school. It is titled Light up my Life in Texas. I’m excited about it!
I’ll want to feature it on the blog when it releases. What would be your dream vacation?I would love to go on an Alaskan cruise.
James spent time in Alaska when he was in the army before we met. He’s wanted to take me to Alaska, but it hasn’t happened yet. Now we’d love to do an Alaskan cruise, too. How do you choose your settings for each book?I choose to write about someplace I am familiar with. My two published novels take place in Texas. The first two novels I wrote, which are unpublished at this time, are set in the Santa Fe Wilderness where my family vacationed many times.
If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?I would like to meet and talk with President George Bush and his lovely wife Laura. They led our country through a very dark tragedy, and they seem like good, honest, approachable people.
What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?I love to cook and bake.
What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?I am not a time-oriented person, so managing my time is always difficult.
What advice would you give to a beginning author?Study the craft, attend conferences, and join a critique group. Pray continuously. Write what you love, what you feel passionate about, what God called you to do. Don’t hide your talent under a bushel. The traditional publishing industry is shrinking, but Indy publishing is an open door of opportunities. Write, rewrite, edit, and then have a professional editor or other qualified people edit your writing before you publish. Then get a professional cover design. I made my first book cover, and it shows. For this novel, I had Jackie Castle of Castle Designs make the cover, and I love it! Don’t worry about numbers. Pray and trust God to use your work to touch someone in some way.
Tell us about the featured book.Here is the back cover copy:Secrets can’t be hidden forever. Maybe it’s time to pay the fiddler.
Katie Kane fell in love with Brooks Travis at age six. She fell in love with symphony at sixteen. She can’t have both. After the unthinkable happens, she follows her dream to Chicago, vowing never to return to Texas. Now her dad wants her to come home. Mom has cancer, and he needs her.
Brooks loves two things above all else: Katie and country music. Together their talent could have taken them to the top of the charts, but she chose Chicago. He heard she got married, probably to some citified, symphony sissy. Brooks is singing for the Lord in the cowboy church when Katie comes home with a son—a son with the same violet blue eyes he sees in the mirror every day. God has redeemed him, but is there any hope Katie can forgive him and their love be rekindled?
Katie’s life and dreams are in Chicago. Brooks was her first and only love, but he broke her heart. She can’t let her guard down, can’t open the gate and let him back into her life. Everything is different now. Well, maybe not everything. . .
Please give us the first page of the book.“The Yellow Rose of Texas” ringtone shattered the silence in the efficiency kitchen. Katie’s pulse raced two beats faster than the song. How long had it been since he’d called? As she picked up the cell phone, the pulsating vibration jarred her entire body. “Hel—hello.”“Katie, this is Dad.”
Hearing his voice after all those years made her heart do a belly flop.
“Katie, are you there?”
She swallowed hard, closed her eyes, and pictured his brown eyes buried beneath bronzed, weather-beaten skin. Old before his time, working in the wind and rain, the blistering heat, the frigid cold, trying to make a living on the small family ranch. She inhaled. “Yes, Dad, I’m here.”
A prolonged pause before she heard his voice. “I know it’s been a long time since we talked—too long.”
“Six years.” She leaned her head on the doorframe, trying to keep the pain and anger out of her voice.
“That’s what happens when two people are so stubborn.”
“Two people? Which two people, Dad?”
Thank you, Connie, for sharing this book with me and my readers. I know they'll love it.
I am so eager to read this book. How can readers find you on the Internet?My books are available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle version.I write a devotional blog on my website at http://connielewisleonard.webs.com/I have an author Facebook page: Connie Lewis Leonard, authorYou can also visit the Somebody Somewhere in Texas Book Launch Facebook page to find out more about the book, reviews, and updates on the sequel. I set it up as a page instead of an event so people can check in at their leisure.
Here is the Amazon link to Somebody Somewhere in Texas http://ow.ly/dJAh307L9TH
Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
Welcome back, Connie. Why do you write the kind of books you do?I didn’t plan it that way, but everything I have written has a strong redemption thread. Accepting Christ as our Savior is only the beginning of our journey. Many people are led astray by the sins and lusts of the world. Many people are wounded by the church and fall away. Many people are beat up by life, become discouraged, and lose heart. We all need to know that wherever we are or whatever we’ve done, Christ is ready to reclaim and redeem us. He is in the redemption business.Amen to that. Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life? I have experienced so many blessings, it’s hard to pick just one. The day I accepted Christ was exhilarating. I know many people say their wedding day, but as wonderful as that was, it was also a day filled with stress and anxiety. It was only the beginning of life’s adventure, which is going stronger than ever after 46 years. The days our children were born were exciting days full of wonder and hope.
How has being published changed your life?Being a published writer is a dream I’ve had since I was thirteen. I have published a Master’s thesis, two novels, and a devotional as well as numerous magazine articles, so it feels good to say I am a “real” writer. It is rewarding to hear how my writing has touched someone. The only way it has changed my life is that I am more in awe of God and His goodness and grace, giving us dreams and bringing them to fruition.
You have been a “real” writer all along. God knit you together in your mother’s womb to be a writer, and I’m glad He did. What are you reading right now?I just downloaded and began reading The Heart of Thornton Creek, by Bonnie Leon.
I’ve read a lot of Bonnie’s books, but not that one. I’ll look for it. What is your current work in progress?I’ve have started the sequel to Somebody Somewhere in Texas . It is about Brooks’s younger sister Andrea after she finishes veterinarian school. It is titled Light up my Life in Texas. I’m excited about it!
I’ll want to feature it on the blog when it releases. What would be your dream vacation?I would love to go on an Alaskan cruise.
James spent time in Alaska when he was in the army before we met. He’s wanted to take me to Alaska, but it hasn’t happened yet. Now we’d love to do an Alaskan cruise, too. How do you choose your settings for each book?I choose to write about someplace I am familiar with. My two published novels take place in Texas. The first two novels I wrote, which are unpublished at this time, are set in the Santa Fe Wilderness where my family vacationed many times.
If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?I would like to meet and talk with President George Bush and his lovely wife Laura. They led our country through a very dark tragedy, and they seem like good, honest, approachable people.
What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?I love to cook and bake.
What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?I am not a time-oriented person, so managing my time is always difficult.
What advice would you give to a beginning author?Study the craft, attend conferences, and join a critique group. Pray continuously. Write what you love, what you feel passionate about, what God called you to do. Don’t hide your talent under a bushel. The traditional publishing industry is shrinking, but Indy publishing is an open door of opportunities. Write, rewrite, edit, and then have a professional editor or other qualified people edit your writing before you publish. Then get a professional cover design. I made my first book cover, and it shows. For this novel, I had Jackie Castle of Castle Designs make the cover, and I love it! Don’t worry about numbers. Pray and trust God to use your work to touch someone in some way.
Tell us about the featured book.Here is the back cover copy:Secrets can’t be hidden forever. Maybe it’s time to pay the fiddler.
Katie Kane fell in love with Brooks Travis at age six. She fell in love with symphony at sixteen. She can’t have both. After the unthinkable happens, she follows her dream to Chicago, vowing never to return to Texas. Now her dad wants her to come home. Mom has cancer, and he needs her.Brooks loves two things above all else: Katie and country music. Together their talent could have taken them to the top of the charts, but she chose Chicago. He heard she got married, probably to some citified, symphony sissy. Brooks is singing for the Lord in the cowboy church when Katie comes home with a son—a son with the same violet blue eyes he sees in the mirror every day. God has redeemed him, but is there any hope Katie can forgive him and their love be rekindled?
Katie’s life and dreams are in Chicago. Brooks was her first and only love, but he broke her heart. She can’t let her guard down, can’t open the gate and let him back into her life. Everything is different now. Well, maybe not everything. . .
Please give us the first page of the book.“The Yellow Rose of Texas” ringtone shattered the silence in the efficiency kitchen. Katie’s pulse raced two beats faster than the song. How long had it been since he’d called? As she picked up the cell phone, the pulsating vibration jarred her entire body. “Hel—hello.”“Katie, this is Dad.”
Hearing his voice after all those years made her heart do a belly flop.
“Katie, are you there?”
She swallowed hard, closed her eyes, and pictured his brown eyes buried beneath bronzed, weather-beaten skin. Old before his time, working in the wind and rain, the blistering heat, the frigid cold, trying to make a living on the small family ranch. She inhaled. “Yes, Dad, I’m here.”
A prolonged pause before she heard his voice. “I know it’s been a long time since we talked—too long.”
“Six years.” She leaned her head on the doorframe, trying to keep the pain and anger out of her voice.
“That’s what happens when two people are so stubborn.”
“Two people? Which two people, Dad?”
Thank you, Connie, for sharing this book with me and my readers. I know they'll love it.
I am so eager to read this book. How can readers find you on the Internet?My books are available on Amazon in paperback or Kindle version.I write a devotional blog on my website at http://connielewisleonard.webs.com/I have an author Facebook page: Connie Lewis Leonard, authorYou can also visit the Somebody Somewhere in Texas Book Launch Facebook page to find out more about the book, reviews, and updates on the sequel. I set it up as a page instead of an event so people can check in at their leisure.
Here is the Amazon link to Somebody Somewhere in Texas http://ow.ly/dJAh307L9TH
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
January 5, 2017
THE SABOTEUR - Susan Page Davis - One Ebook Giveaway
BIO: Susan Page Davis is the author of more than 60 novels and novellas in the historical romance, mystery, and suspense genres. She is the mother of six and grandmother of ten. A Mainenative, she now lives in western Kentuckywith her husband Jim. Visit her website at: www.susanpagedavis.com.
Dear Readers, Susan and I have been very good friends for a long time. We’ve been involved in several novella collections together. And we’ve attended a retreat for historical fiction authors in south Texas, as well as being at ACFW conferences together. I love her books. She’s a master at grabbing the readers and dragging them straight into the action. And I always love her characterizations.
Welcome back, Susan. How did you come up with the idea for this story?
Well, for one thing, I had my first (and only so far) panic attack, and it terrified me. I was afraid a heroine who suffers anxiety attacks might be unsympathetic, but I’ve tried to make Debra a likeable person. And a town near where I used to live actually had a run-down old building for a police station. I learned from an officer that they had quit using holding cells there because state laws were so stringent on the care of people in confinement, so it sort of sprang into my mind that there might be old jail cells that were no longer being used. I’d better not say any more.
If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why?I’d pick Sibella Giorello (Love her Raleigh Harmon series!), Cara Putman, Sunni Jeffers, and Kristen Eckhardt (I’ve worked on some cozy mystery series with them), James Scott Bell, and Terri Blackstock.
Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why?You, Lena, because you’re always fun to be around! Also, Vickie McDonough, Erica Vetsch, Angela Breidenbach, Julianna Deering (That’s her pen name, but you know—I adore her Drew Fathering series!), and Kim Sawyer. I think that would make a very interesting gathering. A little mystery, a little romance, a little humor.
I’d really enjoy that party. 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? So many ideas, so little time, Lena! I want each book I present to be well done, and that takes time.
Tell us about the featured book, The Saboteur.Debra Griffin takes a job at the local police station as secretary to the detective sergeant, Michael Van Sant. Michael is trying to learn who wants to sabotage his unit, and Debra is soon caught up in his hush-hush investigation—while she tries not to fall head over heels for her boss. But danger is nearer than she thinks. When she confronts the saboteur, Mike and his detectives race against the clock. But is one of the men he trusted is trying to get Debra out of the way and bring them down?
Please give us the first page of the book.Debra Griffin turned her face into the breeze as she pumped gas into the tank of her forest green Sentra. Pale green leaves were just unfurling on the big maple tree at the edge of the parking lot. Another fleeting Mainesummer was on the way. The sun warmed her skin, and she wrinkled her nose as the gas fumes rose around her.
Behind her, the door to the convenience store closed, and she turned her head slightly. A young man hurried toward the Jeep Cherokee parked on the other side of the pumps. He pulled off a knit cap, and she thought he was overdressed for the warm spring day. His tousled brown hair eclipsed the goatee he was growing. He glanced toward her, and their eyes met for an instant. Debra turned away, not liking his sharp expression.
The Jeep started, and he pulled out of the lot onto the main road through town, driving swiftly away to the south. Massachusetts license plate, Debra noted. That figured. An early tourist. They always thought it was chilly.
She replaced the hose in its niche on the pump. Every week when she was at home, she bought gas at Farnham’s. The small general store had somehow survived on the edge of the city of Rushton, catering to people who had lived in the area for many years. Debra entered the little emporium, which sold everything from stovepipe to cappuccino, and was surprised that Belinda was not behind the counter.
She stood for a moment uncertainly, perusing the displays of small items on the counter. Lollipops, fudge, “penny candy” that sold for a dime, Mainekey rings, Slim Jims, and bookmarks. Behind the counter was a lottery ticket dispenser and a rack of cigarette cartons. No other customers were in the store.
Debra turned around and called heartily, “Hey, B’linda! Where are you?”
“Back here!” came her friend’s voice, from the office at the back corner of the store. Debra walked swiftly through the aisles of Band-aids and tube socks.
“It was a guy in a black Jeep,” Belinda said as Debra entered the tiny office.
Belinda put her hand over the telephone receiver. “Sorry, Deb, we’ve been robbed.”
I’m eager to read the rest of the book. How can readers find you on the Internet?Find Susan at:Website: www.susanpagedavis.comTwitter: @SusanPageDavisFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanpagedavisauthor
Buy The Saboteur for kindle: http://amzn.to/2iuHyy8
Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the ebook. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link: Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
Dear Readers, Susan and I have been very good friends for a long time. We’ve been involved in several novella collections together. And we’ve attended a retreat for historical fiction authors in south Texas, as well as being at ACFW conferences together. I love her books. She’s a master at grabbing the readers and dragging them straight into the action. And I always love her characterizations.
Welcome back, Susan. How did you come up with the idea for this story?Well, for one thing, I had my first (and only so far) panic attack, and it terrified me. I was afraid a heroine who suffers anxiety attacks might be unsympathetic, but I’ve tried to make Debra a likeable person. And a town near where I used to live actually had a run-down old building for a police station. I learned from an officer that they had quit using holding cells there because state laws were so stringent on the care of people in confinement, so it sort of sprang into my mind that there might be old jail cells that were no longer being used. I’d better not say any more.
If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why?I’d pick Sibella Giorello (Love her Raleigh Harmon series!), Cara Putman, Sunni Jeffers, and Kristen Eckhardt (I’ve worked on some cozy mystery series with them), James Scott Bell, and Terri Blackstock.
Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why?You, Lena, because you’re always fun to be around! Also, Vickie McDonough, Erica Vetsch, Angela Breidenbach, Julianna Deering (That’s her pen name, but you know—I adore her Drew Fathering series!), and Kim Sawyer. I think that would make a very interesting gathering. A little mystery, a little romance, a little humor.
I’d really enjoy that party. 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? So many ideas, so little time, Lena! I want each book I present to be well done, and that takes time.
Tell us about the featured book, The Saboteur.Debra Griffin takes a job at the local police station as secretary to the detective sergeant, Michael Van Sant. Michael is trying to learn who wants to sabotage his unit, and Debra is soon caught up in his hush-hush investigation—while she tries not to fall head over heels for her boss. But danger is nearer than she thinks. When she confronts the saboteur, Mike and his detectives race against the clock. But is one of the men he trusted is trying to get Debra out of the way and bring them down? Please give us the first page of the book.Debra Griffin turned her face into the breeze as she pumped gas into the tank of her forest green Sentra. Pale green leaves were just unfurling on the big maple tree at the edge of the parking lot. Another fleeting Mainesummer was on the way. The sun warmed her skin, and she wrinkled her nose as the gas fumes rose around her.
Behind her, the door to the convenience store closed, and she turned her head slightly. A young man hurried toward the Jeep Cherokee parked on the other side of the pumps. He pulled off a knit cap, and she thought he was overdressed for the warm spring day. His tousled brown hair eclipsed the goatee he was growing. He glanced toward her, and their eyes met for an instant. Debra turned away, not liking his sharp expression.
The Jeep started, and he pulled out of the lot onto the main road through town, driving swiftly away to the south. Massachusetts license plate, Debra noted. That figured. An early tourist. They always thought it was chilly.
She replaced the hose in its niche on the pump. Every week when she was at home, she bought gas at Farnham’s. The small general store had somehow survived on the edge of the city of Rushton, catering to people who had lived in the area for many years. Debra entered the little emporium, which sold everything from stovepipe to cappuccino, and was surprised that Belinda was not behind the counter.
She stood for a moment uncertainly, perusing the displays of small items on the counter. Lollipops, fudge, “penny candy” that sold for a dime, Mainekey rings, Slim Jims, and bookmarks. Behind the counter was a lottery ticket dispenser and a rack of cigarette cartons. No other customers were in the store.
Debra turned around and called heartily, “Hey, B’linda! Where are you?”
“Back here!” came her friend’s voice, from the office at the back corner of the store. Debra walked swiftly through the aisles of Band-aids and tube socks.
“It was a guy in a black Jeep,” Belinda said as Debra entered the tiny office.
Belinda put her hand over the telephone receiver. “Sorry, Deb, we’ve been robbed.”
I’m eager to read the rest of the book. How can readers find you on the Internet?Find Susan at:Website: www.susanpagedavis.comTwitter: @SusanPageDavisFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanpagedavisauthor
Buy The Saboteur for kindle: http://amzn.to/2iuHyy8
Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the ebook. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link: Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
