Lena Nelson Dooley's Blog, page 144
September 7, 2016
IN THE LAND OF WHITE NIGHTS - Bonnie Leon - One Free Book
Bio: Bonnie Leon is the author of twenty-one novels, including the recently released
In the Land of White Nights
, the popular Alaskan Skies and bestselling The Journey of Eleven Moons.Bonnie’s books are being read internationally and she hears from readers in Australia, Europe, and even Africa.
She enjoys speaking for women’s groups and teaching at writing seminars and conventions and especially delights in mentoring young authors. These days, her time is filled with writing, being a grandmother and relishing precious time with her aged mother.
Bonnie and her husband, Greg, live in Southern Oregon. They have three grown children and seven grandchildren.
Welcome back, Bonnie. How did you come up with the idea for this story?The Northern Lights series emerged from my family history. My mother, who is an Alaska native, was the only one of eight children to leave the state when she reached adulthood. Her mother’s home was Unalaska and the opening chapters of book one came from an incident she experienced as a young woman. She stood on a bluff overlooking a beach as a tsunami swept ashore. That and other family stories sparked my imagination and the series grew from there.
I’ve always been drawn to the stories handed down by my family, but not until I dug in and did the research did I fully appreciate my native roots. It was a thrilling experience.
If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why?Beverly Lewis – It would be great to meet her and tell her how much I love her book, The Shunning.Hillary Manton Lodge – She was an early student of mine. I love her stories, especially her atypical and humorous Amish tales. Plus she’s lots of fun.Susan Meissner – Her book, The Shape of Mercy, is contemporary and historical. An amazing tale. I’d love to find out how she does her story processing.Christa Parrish – I admire her gutsy writing voice and would love to meet her. John Moore – He’s written several novels, but his story, The Land of Empty Houses, was a daring tale for the Christian market when it released in 1998. It has a stunning ending that took me completely by surprise.Joyce Scott – She is a mystery writer I met many years ago. She is a gifted writer. Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why?Francine Rivers – She wrote one of my all-time favorite Christian romances, Redeeming Love.Camille Eide – Camille is a friend and fellow Ashberry Lane author. Her most recent book, The Memoir of Johnny Divine is ... divine. Lauraine Snelling – She writes touching stories and is a lovely person, full of optimism and fun. Lynn Austin – The depth of her characters and historical accuracy is breathtaking. It would be a privilege to meet her.Lori Benton – She is a dear friend and one of my favorite historical authors. I absolutely love her books.Ann Shorey – Ann has been a critique partner of mine for many years. She writes beautiful historical novels and is a lovely woman who would brighten any 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?I’ve been forced by time and circumstances to slow down. For me that means writing fewer books, less exposure, and fewer sales. It’s not been an easy transition.
Now in my mid-sixties I no longer have the energy I once did. And so much more is required of authors these days. We are asked to be a social media expert, a teacher, speaker, a publicist and a writer. There just aren’t enough hours in a day. I’ve reached a place where I value my time and refuse to expend all of my energy on my career. There are so many important things in life, specifically people—my children, grandchildren, and friends.
In the last year I started having difficulty with my vision and was recently diagnosed with bilateral macular puckering—a funny name, but not a humorous condition. It distorts my vision and creates blind spots, especially when I’m reading or working on my computer. The condition slows me down, and it takes me longer to get my work completed. I’m praying it doesn’t progress. Only time will tell.
I’ll pray for you and your eyes. Tell us about the featured book. In the Land of White Nights is book two in the Northern Lights series. The story began with The Journey of Eleven Moons which opens on an Alaskan shore in 1868 where a tsunami changed the lives of two native girls, Anna and her sister Iya and the life of an American adventurer, Erik Engstrom. The three set off in search of a new home for the sisters, but when book one ends there’s a lot more story still to tell.
Book two picks up with the three travelers heading to Sitka and a new adventure. Erik and Anna are caught up in the painful transition that takes place in Alaska soon after it becomes an American territory and the first of many gold finds threatens to strip away the distinctive qualities of the territory. Anna and Iya struggle against intolerance as well as the threats of an old nemesis, Jarvis Moyer, whose blackened heart can think of little else but their destruction.
Interesting. I love your writing, Bonnie. How can readers find you on the Internet?https://www.bonnieleon.com https://www.facebook.com/BonnieLeonAuthor https://www.bonnieleon.blogspot.comhttps://www.@bonnie_leonhttps://www.pinterest.com/bonnieleon/
Thank you, Bonnie, for sharing this new book with me and my readers.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.In the Land of White Nights (Northern Lights) - Paperback
In the Land of White Nights (Northern Lights Book 2) - Kindle
Comments Starting Questions: Have you ever been to Alaska? Have you wanted to go to Alaska, but haven't yet?
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[image error]
She enjoys speaking for women’s groups and teaching at writing seminars and conventions and especially delights in mentoring young authors. These days, her time is filled with writing, being a grandmother and relishing precious time with her aged mother.
Bonnie and her husband, Greg, live in Southern Oregon. They have three grown children and seven grandchildren.
Welcome back, Bonnie. How did you come up with the idea for this story?The Northern Lights series emerged from my family history. My mother, who is an Alaska native, was the only one of eight children to leave the state when she reached adulthood. Her mother’s home was Unalaska and the opening chapters of book one came from an incident she experienced as a young woman. She stood on a bluff overlooking a beach as a tsunami swept ashore. That and other family stories sparked my imagination and the series grew from there.I’ve always been drawn to the stories handed down by my family, but not until I dug in and did the research did I fully appreciate my native roots. It was a thrilling experience.
If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why?Beverly Lewis – It would be great to meet her and tell her how much I love her book, The Shunning.Hillary Manton Lodge – She was an early student of mine. I love her stories, especially her atypical and humorous Amish tales. Plus she’s lots of fun.Susan Meissner – Her book, The Shape of Mercy, is contemporary and historical. An amazing tale. I’d love to find out how she does her story processing.Christa Parrish – I admire her gutsy writing voice and would love to meet her. John Moore – He’s written several novels, but his story, The Land of Empty Houses, was a daring tale for the Christian market when it released in 1998. It has a stunning ending that took me completely by surprise.Joyce Scott – She is a mystery writer I met many years ago. She is a gifted writer. Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why?Francine Rivers – She wrote one of my all-time favorite Christian romances, Redeeming Love.Camille Eide – Camille is a friend and fellow Ashberry Lane author. Her most recent book, The Memoir of Johnny Divine is ... divine. Lauraine Snelling – She writes touching stories and is a lovely person, full of optimism and fun. Lynn Austin – The depth of her characters and historical accuracy is breathtaking. It would be a privilege to meet her.Lori Benton – She is a dear friend and one of my favorite historical authors. I absolutely love her books.Ann Shorey – Ann has been a critique partner of mine for many years. She writes beautiful historical novels and is a lovely woman who would brighten any 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?I’ve been forced by time and circumstances to slow down. For me that means writing fewer books, less exposure, and fewer sales. It’s not been an easy transition.
Now in my mid-sixties I no longer have the energy I once did. And so much more is required of authors these days. We are asked to be a social media expert, a teacher, speaker, a publicist and a writer. There just aren’t enough hours in a day. I’ve reached a place where I value my time and refuse to expend all of my energy on my career. There are so many important things in life, specifically people—my children, grandchildren, and friends.
In the last year I started having difficulty with my vision and was recently diagnosed with bilateral macular puckering—a funny name, but not a humorous condition. It distorts my vision and creates blind spots, especially when I’m reading or working on my computer. The condition slows me down, and it takes me longer to get my work completed. I’m praying it doesn’t progress. Only time will tell.
I’ll pray for you and your eyes. Tell us about the featured book. In the Land of White Nights is book two in the Northern Lights series. The story began with The Journey of Eleven Moons which opens on an Alaskan shore in 1868 where a tsunami changed the lives of two native girls, Anna and her sister Iya and the life of an American adventurer, Erik Engstrom. The three set off in search of a new home for the sisters, but when book one ends there’s a lot more story still to tell.
Book two picks up with the three travelers heading to Sitka and a new adventure. Erik and Anna are caught up in the painful transition that takes place in Alaska soon after it becomes an American territory and the first of many gold finds threatens to strip away the distinctive qualities of the territory. Anna and Iya struggle against intolerance as well as the threats of an old nemesis, Jarvis Moyer, whose blackened heart can think of little else but their destruction.
Interesting. I love your writing, Bonnie. How can readers find you on the Internet?https://www.bonnieleon.com https://www.facebook.com/BonnieLeonAuthor https://www.bonnieleon.blogspot.comhttps://www.@bonnie_leonhttps://www.pinterest.com/bonnieleon/
Thank you, Bonnie, for sharing this new book with me and my readers.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.In the Land of White Nights (Northern Lights) - Paperback
In the Land of White Nights (Northern Lights Book 2) - Kindle
Comments Starting Questions: Have you ever been to Alaska? Have you wanted to go to Alaska, but haven't yet?
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[image error]
September 6, 2016
WINNERS!!!!!
Angela (KY) and Sharon (SC) are the winners of
The Looming Storm
by Diane and David Munson.
Raechel (MN) is the winner of To Follow Her Heart by Rebecca DeMarono.
Dianna (TN) is the winner of Where Healing Starts by Angela D Meyer.
Ginger (AL) is the winner of Mountain Christmas Brides by Darlene Franklin and others.
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.
Raechel (MN) is the winner of To Follow Her Heart by Rebecca DeMarono.
Dianna (TN) is the winner of Where Healing Starts by Angela D Meyer.
Ginger (AL) is the winner of Mountain Christmas Brides by Darlene Franklin and others.
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.
ENTANGLED - Julie Arduini - One Free Book
Welcome, Julie. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.Each book is different, I think. In ENTRUSTED, Jenna is very much my personality and some of my own experiences. However, in my latest release, ENTANGLED, there really wasn’t any of myself in the heroine. I did “embed” myself into the story when the teen character told his mom, Carla, that “Brian’s mom couldn’t wait for Carla to get her cosmetology license so Carla could color the white out of Brian’s mom’s hair.” I am Brian’s mom, and I do color my hair to keep the white away. JMy daughter is a hairdresser, so my hair is my chosen color, too. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?As I talk to friends, I guess I do a lot of things. One that comes to mind is when I was in a Youngstownsuburb, there was an odd intersection where at the light where I was at, if you did not pull up to the line, the light never changed to green. Never. I sat through three red lights and there was a trail of cars behind me. It was dusk, and it wasn’t the safest part of town. The car ahead had not pulled up, and it had tinted windows. I said a quick prayer, opened my car door and approached the car. This poor kid was scared of me! He cracked the window and I explained that I didn’t mean to be rude, but that light was never going to change if he didn’t pull up. He didn’t say a word. I got back in my car, he pulled up, light turned green, and I noticed driving by was a police car probably wondering what the traffic was, and what was this lady doing out of her car, anyway?
When did you first discover that you were a writer?I first knew I loved it and that people were paying attention to it in middle school. I wrote for the school paper and a few times I was asked if I truly wrote the piece. Things like that. However, in high school I was told I wasn’t strong enough in grammar and that I should never pursue it as a career. That stopped me for decades. Finally, when I was 35, I realized this was God’s call on my life. I surrendered all my fears and made a vow from that moment on, I would always write for Him.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.Contemporary romance, romantic suspense, historical romance, devotionals, Bible studies.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?Prayer is everything to me. Not only is it something I’m doing, but I have a team of ladies that pray for me, my writing and speaking ministry, and for my family.
How do you choose your characters’ names?It varies. Sometimes I happen to be watching TV and hear a name and I’m looking for one, so I use a last name that sounds like that one I just heard. With my current work, I have two characters I named because I felt helpless in a real life situation, so I gave a couple characters first names that reminded me of those people.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?We have two children that take their relationship with Jesus seriously, and individually. They didn’t just follow our lead, they found Him on their terms.
That is awesome. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?I guess a dog. They are an instant friend.
What is your favorite food?Anything chocolate, of course!
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?I think the mind games that after the fact I realized was the true defeated one trying to deflect his defeat and make me feel like a failure, instead. Especially with book two, I felt haunted by thoughts that it would never be received as well as ENTRUSTED. That I have no business writing. Negative thoughts came at me from all sides, every day. It emotionally paralyzed me. I couldn’t write for the longest time. Prayer again was the answer. I had so many people praying for me. I stayed in the Word and I joined an online Bible study so I had interaction with others, and they also prayed. Now that I am receiving feedback from readers, it all makes sense. Readers are finding freedom through surrendering their regrets. They are going to God and asking for help. It’s amazing what God is doing to help and love on these precious readers.
I believe those negative thoughts are the “fiery darts” from the enemy of our souls. We need to remember that he can’t read our minds, so the only way he can tell if they are effective is when we stop doing things for the Lord. One time, he was coming against me and my writing so hard that I spoke out loud to him that I was going to let each of those negative thoughts he was sending me become a trigger for me to start worshipping God out loud. As I did this consistently, the fiery darts came more infrequently. Now Julie, tell us about the featured book.
ENTANGLED is the second book in the Surrendering Time Series. The Surrendering Time series is an entertaining yet reflective adventure to the Adirondack Mountains. Each book takes an element of time (past, present, future) and explores through flawed and humorous characters what a surrender journey looks like. In ENTANGLED, Carla Rowling has been given her dream of attending cosmetology school. The gift is so generous she feels unworthy because of choices she made as a teen. The pressure mounts as Carla juggles school, is a single mom, helps her best friend Jenna plan her wedding, spends time with boyfriend Will Marshall, and deals with the fact that her son's father is back in their lives.
Will Marshall is the one Speculator Fallsresident everyone can count on. His truck deliveries are reliable. He's the first to help friends like Ben Regan with boat work or be a card partner with Bart Davis. Will's ready to settle down with Carla, loving her is natural. He's bonded with her son, Noah. But when Carla starts cosmetology school, she puts emotional distance between herself and Will.
Can Carla release her past and create a future full of highlights, or, will she burn her options worse than a bad perm?
Please give us the first page of the book.A twenty-minute run. That’s all I need. Just enough time to feel free.
Instead, the Hamilton County DAplaces a neon green gift bag in my hand. He then looks to the crowd. “In forty-eight hours and our very own Carla Rowling will go from handcuffs to haircuts.”
The Piseco Inn meeting room is wall-to-wall people. My fellow law enforcement, paramedic, and fire and rescue colleagues hand me gifts and joke at the idea of me leaving for beauty school. I paste on a smile as I lift a pair of black running shoes with hot pink trim from layers of tissue paper, but my focus is on my breathing. Steady and even. Like when I’m running.
“From squad car to standing all day. What a switch.” Fred Beebe, retired bank president, grins.
I stand and balance my arm on Joanie, the county dispatcher, as I slip off the three-inch heels I borrowed from my best friend Jenna and try on the comfy shoes.
“Hey, Carla! Will you wear those as you run with scissors to chase perps out of your hair salon?” Jack Hunt, my replacement, snorts from laughing too hard.
“Do they fit?” Joanie looks to the empty box on the floor where wrapping paper and ribbon litter the area.
I nod, let go, and sit. “They’re so comfortable I’m going to wear them for the rest of my party.” And as soon as I can, break these sneakers in. There's nothing like the feel of new running shoes, and no better time to use them than when the walls feel like they’re closing in.
How can readers find you on the Internet?My website is http://juliearduini.com, and on any social media, including Snapchat, you can find me @JulieArduini. The same for my Amazon and Goodreads author pages.
Thank you, Lena!
It's my pleasure to share you with my readers.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.Entangled: Surrendering the Past (Surrendering Time) (Volume 2)[image error] - Paperback
Entangled: Surrendering the Past (Surrendering Time Book 2) - 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[image error]
September 5, 2016
WORTH FORGIVING - Janet K Brown - One Free Book
Bio: Janet K. Brown lives in Wichita Falls, Texaswith her husband, Charles.
Worth Forgiving
, an inspirational women’s fiction, is the second in her Wharton Rock series. Her only non-fiction is Divine Dining: 365 Devotions to Guide You to Healthier Weight and Abundant Wellness.
Worth Forgiving
marks Brown’s fourth book. Who knew she had a penchant for teens and ghosts? She released her debut novel, an inspirational young adult, Victoria and the Ghost, in July, 2012. Janet and her husband love to travel with their RV, work in their church, and visit their three daughters, two sons-in-law and three perfect grandchildren. Janet teaches workshops on writing, weight loss, and the historical settings of her teen books. The author uses her platform of recovering compulsive overeater to weave stories of hope for addiction, compulsion, or impossible situations.
Welcome back, Janet. Why do you write the kind of books you do?My writing motto is “Writing God’s Message of Hope.” All my books address impossible situations, times with no hope. But God . . . He gave me hope. I must send the message to others, so I must write.
Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?That’s a hard question. What a day when I married my high school sweetheart? God blessed me at the birth of each daughter and each grandchild. Besides these special times, I guess I would say it was the day I got my first book contract. I was “over the moon.” Ha!
How has being published changed your life?It made me a lot busier. When I retired from my medical bookkeeping job, I went into writing as a second career. I studied I went to conferences and workshops, as well as took courses online. I submitted and was rejected over and over. All my work, besides studying, evolved around writing, editing, rewriting, and writing again. I received my first contract in 2011. The YA released in 2012. Immediately, I added book promotion to my resume and suddenly had a hard time finding time to write because of the “third” career.
What are you reading right now?The Destruction of the Books by Mel Odom. I don’t usually read fantasy, but a dear writing friend recommended his books. She was right. He is an excellent writer.
What is your current work in progress?I’m working on book 3 of the Wharton Rock series. All of this series deals with addictions and despair healed by the Lord. The first book was about food addiction and depression. The book that released on Sept. 1 focuses on drug addiction and prejudice of an ex-con. Book 3 will deal with pornography. It will release in 2017.
What would be your dream vacation?I would love to visit Alaska. So many beautiful pictures and praise from friends makes me want to see it for myself. I will say I’ve already enjoyed several “dream vacations.”
How do you choose your settings for each book?Most of my finished novels, and all of my published ones, take place in North Texas near where I live. It’s what I know. The only few I’ve written that don’t happen here is set in places I’ve visited. The personal viewpoint gives it more reality.
With my YA ghost series, I use real settings that are known because of a ghost legend. The first one was Clara, 20 miles from my house. The second was Collin County about 150 miles away.
My Wharton Rock series happens in a fictional North Texas town called Wharton Rock, but it resembles a real town about twenty miles from me. I write what I know.
If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?I’d love to sit and pick the mind of Margaret Daley. She’s been a fantastic mentor in the past. My second wish would be to actually visit in person with some precious writers I’ve “met” online. Friends and mentors are an extra blessing to a writing ministry. We talk the same language.
What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?I do line dancing at our 50 plus zone in Wichita Falls twice a week. I love it, and it’s good exercise. My all time favorite pastime is to travel with my hubby and our RV and camp out in God’s majesty. Oh, and I collect dolls and salt and pepper shakers.
What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?As I alluded to before, I struggle with balancing writing and promoting. My husband is semi-retired and I try to be semi-retired. I want to freely travel with our RV. That’s my most difficult writing obstacle.
How I overcome it is constantly setting priorities and goals. When I get too much on my plate, I back off and think about what’s most important. The biggest answer to overload is to never forget my daily quiet time with the Lord.
I also battle not putting in enough setting to situate my readers and failing to power-up the emotion, but I keep working at it. Edit, and edit again.
What advice would you give to a beginning author?Study, Join groups. Go to conferences and workshops. Network. Write every day, and read every day. Never give up.
Tell us about the featured book. Worth Forgiving Prejudice and mistrust hinders an ex-con, drug addict’s new beginning.
The state of Texasreleases from prison Katie Smith. Full of optimism, she sets out to get a job, rent her own place, and make a home for her eight-year-old daughter, but Katie gave away her daughter three years ago. She could use a friend, but her past choices threaten to doom her to continued failure.
Larry Pullman graduated from seminary with high marks, but the fact that he has no wife makes finding a preaching job almost impossible. It doesn’t help that running from God as a teenager gave him a past that he can’t undo. All he needs is an ex-con, drug addict messing up his life, but then why did God lead him to her? Or did He?
Isn’t it enough that Lacey Chandler gave her sister’s daughter a home? Does that mean she has to clean up Katie’s messes forever?
Could it be that Katie is not Worth Forgiving?
Please give us the first page of the book.Twin doors swung open to the outside world, and Katie Smith stepped out. Thunk! The heavy doors slammed. Sweet honeysuckle along the outside wall smelled like freedom. The sounds of passing traffic were foreign to her ears.
She smiled and glanced up at the sign giving the bus schedule. Two hours. Dropping on the park bench to the right of the exit, she prepared to wait, twisting the coins for bus fare in her hands.
A dove sang a mournful melody. A cold wind howled. If only she had asked Mom to send her a jacket. Three years ago when she went into prison, it had been hot Texassummertime. Add that to lessons learned the hard way.
She reached into her pocket and retrieved a now wrinkled picture of a girl with two front teeth missing. Katie blinked back tears, jutted her chin, and sat taller. All she had to do was stay clean, get her own place, and move her daughter back in with her.
A red Hyundai Santa Fe pulled to the curb. A tall, shapely brunette climbed out of the driver’s seat. “Care for a ride?”
Katie blinked. She barely recognized her older sister, Lacey, since she’d lost so much weight.
“Mom said she couldn’t pick me up?”
“She couldn’t, but Toby agreed that I should.”
“Humph.” Katie should’ve known Mr. Police Chief would keep tabs on her. “Thanks, but I’ll wait for the bus.”
“Your choice.” Lacey shrugged but waited.
How can readers find you on the Internet?Find me at http:/ /www.janetkbrown.comon Twitter at https://twitter.com/janetkbrowntxon Facebook http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Janet-K-Brown-Author/143915285641707E-mail: Janet.hope@att.net
Thank you for sharing this book with us. My copy just came, and I'll start reading it later today.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.Worth Forgiving[image error] - Paperback
Worth Forgiving[image error] - Kindle
Comment Starting Questions: Have you ever wondered if some was worth forgiving? Have you ever wondered if you were worth forgiving?
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, Janet. Why do you write the kind of books you do?My writing motto is “Writing God’s Message of Hope.” All my books address impossible situations, times with no hope. But God . . . He gave me hope. I must send the message to others, so I must write.Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?That’s a hard question. What a day when I married my high school sweetheart? God blessed me at the birth of each daughter and each grandchild. Besides these special times, I guess I would say it was the day I got my first book contract. I was “over the moon.” Ha!
How has being published changed your life?It made me a lot busier. When I retired from my medical bookkeeping job, I went into writing as a second career. I studied I went to conferences and workshops, as well as took courses online. I submitted and was rejected over and over. All my work, besides studying, evolved around writing, editing, rewriting, and writing again. I received my first contract in 2011. The YA released in 2012. Immediately, I added book promotion to my resume and suddenly had a hard time finding time to write because of the “third” career.
What are you reading right now?The Destruction of the Books by Mel Odom. I don’t usually read fantasy, but a dear writing friend recommended his books. She was right. He is an excellent writer.
What is your current work in progress?I’m working on book 3 of the Wharton Rock series. All of this series deals with addictions and despair healed by the Lord. The first book was about food addiction and depression. The book that released on Sept. 1 focuses on drug addiction and prejudice of an ex-con. Book 3 will deal with pornography. It will release in 2017.
What would be your dream vacation?I would love to visit Alaska. So many beautiful pictures and praise from friends makes me want to see it for myself. I will say I’ve already enjoyed several “dream vacations.”
How do you choose your settings for each book?Most of my finished novels, and all of my published ones, take place in North Texas near where I live. It’s what I know. The only few I’ve written that don’t happen here is set in places I’ve visited. The personal viewpoint gives it more reality.
With my YA ghost series, I use real settings that are known because of a ghost legend. The first one was Clara, 20 miles from my house. The second was Collin County about 150 miles away.
My Wharton Rock series happens in a fictional North Texas town called Wharton Rock, but it resembles a real town about twenty miles from me. I write what I know.
If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?I’d love to sit and pick the mind of Margaret Daley. She’s been a fantastic mentor in the past. My second wish would be to actually visit in person with some precious writers I’ve “met” online. Friends and mentors are an extra blessing to a writing ministry. We talk the same language.
What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?I do line dancing at our 50 plus zone in Wichita Falls twice a week. I love it, and it’s good exercise. My all time favorite pastime is to travel with my hubby and our RV and camp out in God’s majesty. Oh, and I collect dolls and salt and pepper shakers.
What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?As I alluded to before, I struggle with balancing writing and promoting. My husband is semi-retired and I try to be semi-retired. I want to freely travel with our RV. That’s my most difficult writing obstacle.
How I overcome it is constantly setting priorities and goals. When I get too much on my plate, I back off and think about what’s most important. The biggest answer to overload is to never forget my daily quiet time with the Lord.
I also battle not putting in enough setting to situate my readers and failing to power-up the emotion, but I keep working at it. Edit, and edit again.
What advice would you give to a beginning author?Study, Join groups. Go to conferences and workshops. Network. Write every day, and read every day. Never give up.
Tell us about the featured book. Worth Forgiving Prejudice and mistrust hinders an ex-con, drug addict’s new beginning.
The state of Texasreleases from prison Katie Smith. Full of optimism, she sets out to get a job, rent her own place, and make a home for her eight-year-old daughter, but Katie gave away her daughter three years ago. She could use a friend, but her past choices threaten to doom her to continued failure.Larry Pullman graduated from seminary with high marks, but the fact that he has no wife makes finding a preaching job almost impossible. It doesn’t help that running from God as a teenager gave him a past that he can’t undo. All he needs is an ex-con, drug addict messing up his life, but then why did God lead him to her? Or did He?
Isn’t it enough that Lacey Chandler gave her sister’s daughter a home? Does that mean she has to clean up Katie’s messes forever?
Could it be that Katie is not Worth Forgiving?
Please give us the first page of the book.Twin doors swung open to the outside world, and Katie Smith stepped out. Thunk! The heavy doors slammed. Sweet honeysuckle along the outside wall smelled like freedom. The sounds of passing traffic were foreign to her ears.
She smiled and glanced up at the sign giving the bus schedule. Two hours. Dropping on the park bench to the right of the exit, she prepared to wait, twisting the coins for bus fare in her hands.
A dove sang a mournful melody. A cold wind howled. If only she had asked Mom to send her a jacket. Three years ago when she went into prison, it had been hot Texassummertime. Add that to lessons learned the hard way.
She reached into her pocket and retrieved a now wrinkled picture of a girl with two front teeth missing. Katie blinked back tears, jutted her chin, and sat taller. All she had to do was stay clean, get her own place, and move her daughter back in with her.
A red Hyundai Santa Fe pulled to the curb. A tall, shapely brunette climbed out of the driver’s seat. “Care for a ride?”
Katie blinked. She barely recognized her older sister, Lacey, since she’d lost so much weight.
“Mom said she couldn’t pick me up?”
“She couldn’t, but Toby agreed that I should.”
“Humph.” Katie should’ve known Mr. Police Chief would keep tabs on her. “Thanks, but I’ll wait for the bus.”
“Your choice.” Lacey shrugged but waited.
How can readers find you on the Internet?Find me at http:/ /www.janetkbrown.comon Twitter at https://twitter.com/janetkbrowntxon Facebook http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Janet-K-Brown-Author/143915285641707E-mail: Janet.hope@att.net
Thank you for sharing this book with us. My copy just came, and I'll start reading it later today.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.Worth Forgiving[image error] - Paperback
Worth Forgiving[image error] - Kindle
Comment Starting Questions: Have you ever wondered if some was worth forgiving? Have you ever wondered if you were worth forgiving?
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
September 2, 2016
MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS BRIDES (DRESSED IN SCARLET) - Darlene Franklin - One Free Book
Dear Readers, I’m thrilled to feature this book today. Mountain Christmas Brides just released yesterday. It’s a Barbour novella collection with stories from 9 of their most popular authors. I’m blessed to be included in it along with my friends. I’m interviewing one of my long-time author friends from Oklahoma.
Welcome back, Darlene. Let’s do some fun questions first. What song most closely resembles your life?Let’s see. Special music at church yesterday was a classic hymn I haven’t heard for years, but it describes the truth of my life so well. “Day by Day (and with each passing moment.)” “He whose heart is kind beyond all measure/gives unto each day what He deems best/lovingly its part of pain and pleasure/mingling toil with peace and rest.”
I love so many of the classic hymns. Do you have a favorite Bible verse? And why is it a favorite?One of my latest discovery is from Lamentatians 3:28-30 MSG:
“When life is heavy and hard to take, go off by yourself. Enter the silence. Bow in prayer. Don’t ask questions: Wait for hope to appear. Don’t run from trouble. Take it full-face. The ‘worst’ is never the worst.”
I’ve been reading, memorizing, meditating, and writing devotions from Proverbs, Jeremiah – Ezekiel, Hebrews – 1 Peter for an upcoming devotional project. This verse comes from a longer passage that includes the familiar “great is your faithfulness” phrase, I love the phrase “wait for hope to appear.” The word “hope” (which also happens to be my middle name, lol) has been popping up over and over again. Don’t try to force it. Face trouble. Hope will appear. And in a place (nursing home) where troubles show up on a regular basis, I need all the advice I can get.
That certainly is a verse of encouragement. Thank you for sharing it with us. What is the one thing you wish you could go back and change in your life?Oh, that’s a tough one. A part of me wishes I had agreed to change to a major in music theory and completed my master’s degree in music when they said I couldn’t continue in piano. If I think about all the things I’ve done wrong in my life, I’ll end up with a long list of regrets—but they have made me the person I am today.
And I love the person you are today. Your inner beauty shines like the noonday sun. You are an inspiration to me in many ways. What is the most important characteristic for a good friend to have?Listening! When needed and without judgment.
What extracurricular activities did you participate in when you were in school?I was in band and choir and also participated in the math club and the Spanish club. A real nerd.
What is your favorite movie of all times?Field of Dreamsand It’s a Wonderful Life never disappoint.
I love It’s a Wonderful Life, but I’ve never seen Field of Dreams. I’ll have to change that. Tell us about why you wrote this book.
Oh, I remember the thrill of when I first wrote
Dressed in Scarlet.
Within the Barbour community, many authors started by writing a novella and then moved on Heartsong novels. I wasn’t even aware of the novellas until after they published my first book. Then I was invited to take part in a four-person historical novella with Susan Page Davis, a fellow Mainer and good friend, Tamela Hancock Murray, who became my agent, and you, Lena. Even better, I got to write about my beloved Colorado! And now it's included in this new collection.
I discovered the joy of writing historical romance, which has become my niche; writing novellas; and writing Christmas stories. At first, I couldn’t imagine writing a Christmas story every year; now the season feels incomplete without a new story for the season. So far I’ve written ten of them.
Please give us the first page of the book.Denver, December 1913Fabrizio Ricci glanced around the garage at the Brown Palace, making sure everything was in order. Roadsters jostled next to Cadillac Phaetons and a single Ford Model T, a bit of an oddity for the Brown’s well-heeled clientele. Big or small, fancy or plain, he loved all his charges, even the smell of motor oil that permeated the air. His job was to keep the cars running and available to hotel guests. He loved driving cars he could never otherwise afford. Whatever money he didn’t give to help his family, he saved toward having his own shop. No one would drive anywhere tonight in the storm that hit Denver yesterday. More than twenty-four hours later, the snow had not even slowed down. Anyone would be a fool to drive in weather like this. Even the trolleys that he sometimes took had stopped running. It was a good thing he kept a pair of Nordic skis in the garage. If he didn’t leave soon, he would have to spend the night at the hotel, or longer, if the snow kept up. As the only son remaining at home, he knew his parents depended on his help. Fabrizio changed his work shoes for boots and strapped on the skis. He hadn’t planned for the cold, but he didn’t think that would be a problem, not with the long woolen scarf knitted in green and yellow by Mama. He would dress like that character in the Christmas story. What was his name? Bob Cratchit, that was it. A Christmas Carol had to be one of the best stories in the English language. Not as beautiful as Italian, of course, or that’s what Papa would say. Fabrizio looked out the window at the swirling snow, wishing he had taken the time to go to the kitchen for a last cup of hot coffee before he left. Too late now. The snow danced in the air before landing gracefully on the ground. Bella neve. Beautiful snow. Wrapping his scarf around his nose and throat before winding its length around his body, Fabrizio pulled his cap as far down on his head as it would reach and turned the collar of his coat up over the scarf. He hadn’t brought any mittens, but his work gloves should do the job. He pulled them on and hoped the oil stains wouldn’t get on his clothes. Mama complained about his soiled work clothes; four sisters created enough laundry without him adding any more.
How can readers find you on the Internet?Website and blogFacebookAmazon author pageTwitter: @darlenefranklinPurchase Matchmaker Mixup
Thank you, Darlene, for helping share this new collection to my readers.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
- Amazon
Mountain Christmas Brides: Nine Historical Novellas Celebrate Faith and Love in the Rocky Mountains[image error] - Kindle
Comments Starter Questions: Do you look for Christmas novels each Christmas? Do you like reading the Christmas novella collection? What are some of your favorites?
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, Darlene. Let’s do some fun questions first. What song most closely resembles your life?Let’s see. Special music at church yesterday was a classic hymn I haven’t heard for years, but it describes the truth of my life so well. “Day by Day (and with each passing moment.)” “He whose heart is kind beyond all measure/gives unto each day what He deems best/lovingly its part of pain and pleasure/mingling toil with peace and rest.”I love so many of the classic hymns. Do you have a favorite Bible verse? And why is it a favorite?One of my latest discovery is from Lamentatians 3:28-30 MSG:
“When life is heavy and hard to take, go off by yourself. Enter the silence. Bow in prayer. Don’t ask questions: Wait for hope to appear. Don’t run from trouble. Take it full-face. The ‘worst’ is never the worst.”
I’ve been reading, memorizing, meditating, and writing devotions from Proverbs, Jeremiah – Ezekiel, Hebrews – 1 Peter for an upcoming devotional project. This verse comes from a longer passage that includes the familiar “great is your faithfulness” phrase, I love the phrase “wait for hope to appear.” The word “hope” (which also happens to be my middle name, lol) has been popping up over and over again. Don’t try to force it. Face trouble. Hope will appear. And in a place (nursing home) where troubles show up on a regular basis, I need all the advice I can get.
That certainly is a verse of encouragement. Thank you for sharing it with us. What is the one thing you wish you could go back and change in your life?Oh, that’s a tough one. A part of me wishes I had agreed to change to a major in music theory and completed my master’s degree in music when they said I couldn’t continue in piano. If I think about all the things I’ve done wrong in my life, I’ll end up with a long list of regrets—but they have made me the person I am today.
And I love the person you are today. Your inner beauty shines like the noonday sun. You are an inspiration to me in many ways. What is the most important characteristic for a good friend to have?Listening! When needed and without judgment.
What extracurricular activities did you participate in when you were in school?I was in band and choir and also participated in the math club and the Spanish club. A real nerd.
What is your favorite movie of all times?Field of Dreamsand It’s a Wonderful Life never disappoint.
I love It’s a Wonderful Life, but I’ve never seen Field of Dreams. I’ll have to change that. Tell us about why you wrote this book.
Oh, I remember the thrill of when I first wrote
Dressed in Scarlet.
Within the Barbour community, many authors started by writing a novella and then moved on Heartsong novels. I wasn’t even aware of the novellas until after they published my first book. Then I was invited to take part in a four-person historical novella with Susan Page Davis, a fellow Mainer and good friend, Tamela Hancock Murray, who became my agent, and you, Lena. Even better, I got to write about my beloved Colorado! And now it's included in this new collection.I discovered the joy of writing historical romance, which has become my niche; writing novellas; and writing Christmas stories. At first, I couldn’t imagine writing a Christmas story every year; now the season feels incomplete without a new story for the season. So far I’ve written ten of them.
Please give us the first page of the book.Denver, December 1913Fabrizio Ricci glanced around the garage at the Brown Palace, making sure everything was in order. Roadsters jostled next to Cadillac Phaetons and a single Ford Model T, a bit of an oddity for the Brown’s well-heeled clientele. Big or small, fancy or plain, he loved all his charges, even the smell of motor oil that permeated the air. His job was to keep the cars running and available to hotel guests. He loved driving cars he could never otherwise afford. Whatever money he didn’t give to help his family, he saved toward having his own shop. No one would drive anywhere tonight in the storm that hit Denver yesterday. More than twenty-four hours later, the snow had not even slowed down. Anyone would be a fool to drive in weather like this. Even the trolleys that he sometimes took had stopped running. It was a good thing he kept a pair of Nordic skis in the garage. If he didn’t leave soon, he would have to spend the night at the hotel, or longer, if the snow kept up. As the only son remaining at home, he knew his parents depended on his help. Fabrizio changed his work shoes for boots and strapped on the skis. He hadn’t planned for the cold, but he didn’t think that would be a problem, not with the long woolen scarf knitted in green and yellow by Mama. He would dress like that character in the Christmas story. What was his name? Bob Cratchit, that was it. A Christmas Carol had to be one of the best stories in the English language. Not as beautiful as Italian, of course, or that’s what Papa would say. Fabrizio looked out the window at the swirling snow, wishing he had taken the time to go to the kitchen for a last cup of hot coffee before he left. Too late now. The snow danced in the air before landing gracefully on the ground. Bella neve. Beautiful snow. Wrapping his scarf around his nose and throat before winding its length around his body, Fabrizio pulled his cap as far down on his head as it would reach and turned the collar of his coat up over the scarf. He hadn’t brought any mittens, but his work gloves should do the job. He pulled them on and hoped the oil stains wouldn’t get on his clothes. Mama complained about his soiled work clothes; four sisters created enough laundry without him adding any more.
How can readers find you on the Internet?Website and blogFacebookAmazon author pageTwitter: @darlenefranklinPurchase Matchmaker Mixup
Thank you, Darlene, for helping share this new collection to my readers.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
- Amazon
Mountain Christmas Brides: Nine Historical Novellas Celebrate Faith and Love in the Rocky Mountains[image error] - Kindle
Comments Starter Questions: Do you look for Christmas novels each Christmas? Do you like reading the Christmas novella collection? What are some of your favorites?
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
September 1, 2016
WHERE HEALING STARTS - Angela D Meyer - One Free Book
Welcome, Angela. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. When it comes to my personality, likes and dislikes, only bits and pieces. I probably write more of what I wish were true about myself than what actually is. However, in Where Hope Starts, my first book, I did draw in part from some personal life experience both in what happened and how the main character responded. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? I sat on a baby chick. Okay, I was only 2 at the time. My parents gave us colorful chicks for Easter. My intent was to keep the chick warm. And how do mother chicks do that? Yep. They sit on them. Thankfully, I have no memories of this event. I only know this story because I was told by my family.
When did you first discover that you were a writer? I began writing in junior high school with poetry in my journals. From there, I moved on to essays and devotionals, then picture books, although nothing was published until I turned my attention to novels.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. I enjoy almost any good story, well told. Once you catch my attention, I will read even genres I wouldn’t normally read. Though, no horror, please.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? I’m not sure I’ve succeeded fully. Life does get crazy. But putting God first, time with my family, laughing, and taking care of my health are the areas I attempt to pay close attention to. It helps most days.
How do you choose your characters’ names? On occasion, I will choose a name based on what the meaning is or because I need a certain nationality. But so far, as I am writing, the name will usually just pop in my head and it seems to fit.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? Learning everything I have had to learn on this publishing journey. I’ve done all the techie stuff DIY style. That has been extremely satisfying.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? This isn’t something I think about much, but I’ll go with what the Bible says about me and animals. Isaiah says that if I wait on the Lord I will mount on wings like eagles. Habakkuk says the Lord makes my feet like the feet of a deer, enabling me to walk on the heights.
What is your favorite food? There’s no one thing that is my favorite, but I like all things breakfast better than any other meal.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? The marketing side of writing. It consumes more time than I like and threatens to steal my joy of writing. Overcoming it means just getting through it one day or one project at a time. I know I’ll eventually get back to the keyboard. And next time marketing calls, I try not to bite off as much of a project in one bite.
Tell us about the featured book.
Where Healing Starts
continues the story of the Hannigan family which began in the first book of the Applewood Hill series. After turning his life over to God, Charles Hannigan is seeking to restore the family to wholeness, but Joanna and Blake want no part of their dad’s efforts. Still hurting from his past anger and rejection, each sibling is on a path toward self-destruction.
Blake is unwittingly following in his father’s footsteps, anger punctuating all his relationships. His brief time serving in the Marines led to PTSD, increases his volatility.
Rejected by the only one she ever trusted, Joanna runs to addiction and men to salve her pain. She eventually finds herself with nowhere else to turn and asks their older sister Karen for a job and a place to stay.
Both Blake and Joanna are determined to hang onto their anger, refusing to forgive. They see no reason to trust God. This novel is about their journey toward healing.
Please give us the first page of the book. Here’s a link where you can preorder the print copy of the book and receive a free ebook as well:http://www.crossrivermedia.com/portfolio/where-healing-starts/gallery/bookstore/)
How can readers find you on the Internet? Website Facebook Pinterest Google+ Twitter Newsletter
Thank you, Angela, 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
August 30, 2016
TO FOLLOW HER HEART - Rebecca DeMarino - One Free Book
Bio: REBECCA DEMARINO inherited her love of baking and gardening from her mother; a love of horses, reading, and writing from her dad—and the wanderlust gene from both parents. Her new novel,
To Follow Her Heart
released last month from Revell. She is the author of A Place in His Heart and To Capture Her Heart, books one and two of The Southold Chronicles. A free prologue to The Southold Chronicles series available here: www.RebeccaDeMarino.com
Welcome back, Rebecca. God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon?I feel very blessed with my next project. Set in colonial times after the American Revolution, it is once again based on the lives of real people—although not my ancestors!
Tell us a little about your family.My husband and I just celebrated our tenth anniversary! We both have grown children and eleven grandchildren with one more on the way for an even dozen :o) My father is now 93 and wrote started his first novel at age 86. He had a stroke before he finished it, but he did two years later. I had the privilege to help him write the last four chapters, him telling the story, me typing! Talk about an inspiration!
Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how?Yes. I’ve always enjoyed fiction and my reading choices are pretty eclectic. But because I do so much historical research I mainly read nonfiction nowadays. And I love it!
What are you working on right now?My third novel in The Southold Chronicles series released last month! And I’ve just finished a novel set in the late 1700’s, early 1800’s.
What outside interests do you have?I enjoy gardening and baking, neither of which I’ve done a lot of lately! Travel is one of my passions too, and I’m gearing up for a bit of a book tour—starting in Hood River, Oregon, on September 2nd, followed by a week in Mowsley, England, and ending with a two-day book signing on Long Island, the setting for my series.
That sounds like a lot of fun. How do you choose your settings for each book?My setting chose me, and I’ve loved it! My mother and I traveled to Long Island in 1999 to see the lighthouse named after our ancestor, Barnabas Horton. We learned so much about him at the historical society and library. His grave was covered with a large slab of blue slate. When we got home I wondered about his wife Mary—a young woman when she married this recent widower with two little boys. I decided to write a novel giving her a Point Of View. The setting began in Mowsley, England, and followed them to Southold, Long Island, where they were one of thirteen founding families.
If you could spend an evening with one historical person, who would it be and why?It would have to be Mary Langton Horton. I’d ask her how much of her goals, motivations, and conflicts I got right!
What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels?That I’d become obsessed and somewhat of a hermit! I focus everything on my research and writing—but I love it. And at this stage in my life, with my children grown, I can devote my days, and nights if need be, to my passion!
What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?That He is faithful and His love never fails. And that God defines my success.
Amen to that. What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful?I love this question. I would say write your passion(s). Be diligent in the time you have for writing—be it 30 minutes or all day. Try to turn off your internal editor and just get the story out. This one is a hard one for me! I at least try to limit my editing to a quick review of the previous day’s chapter—only minor fixes allowed. Finish your story—then go back. There are many people who start a book, far fewer finish them.
Tell us about the featured book.
In 1664, Patience Terry is devastated to learn that Captain Jeremy Horton’s ship has been shipwrecked off the coast of Barbados. There were no survivors. She had hoped that Jeremy would someday give up the sea and settle down with her in Southold, Long Island.
Unaware his memorial service is being planned, Jeremy sails aboard a British warship with secret orders to attack New Amsterdam and claim it for the British Crown. When he makes his surprise return to Southold—and to an overjoyed Patience—it’s not quite the happily-ever-after his beloved had hoped for.
Please give us the first page of the book.July 16, 1664, Southold, Long Island“Did you hear me?”
Patience Terry stood silent, her mind awhirl. Had she not guarded her heart against this day? Against this pain that ripped through her like a thunderbolt? She looked into Mary Horton’s teary hazel-blue eyes. The Swallow had shipwrecked off the coast of Barbados, tattered and abandoned. No survivors. Captain Jeremy Horton and his crew lost at sea. Some bodies recovered, but no survivors.
Her mouth opened, but no words came out. Her lungs ached, so bereft were they of any air, she of any hope. As her legs gave way, she fell to the pillowed bench in front of the hat display and buried her face in the folds of her blue silk skirt. Her shoulders heaved with each silent sob.
Her friend knelt and drew her into her arms. “That’s good, dear. Cry. Let the tears fall.”
Patience could no longer hold back as torrents of tears soaked her friend’s shoulder.
Mary’s gentle hands patted her back to comfort, but Patience’s temples pulsed with each new thought. Would she never be able to look up and see Jeremy’s form framed in the doorway again? Or could he lie hurt somewhere? She’d begged him at his last visit to give up the sailing, to make a home here in Southold. One she dreamt would include her.
“What if he’s not dead? What if he needs me?” She’d always prayed he would come to know he needed her in his life, but Lord, this was not how she’d envisioned it.
“You mustn’t think like that. The ship has sunk. There was such a storm. And if survivors were able to make land at all, they would have landed on the shores of Barbados. Nathaniel Sylvester brought the news himself. He’s just returned from his meetings there. ’Tis such a shock to know both of Barney’s brothers are gone. It was so difficult when Thomas died. And now Jeremy. He was more than a friend to me, he was a dear brother.” Mary’s voice trailed as Patience’s sobs began anew.
The door blew open as hurricane-strength wind and summer rain swept in with Lizzie Fanning’s arrival, nearly lifting one of her own hat creations from her silvery curls. Mary’s older sister and Patience’s business partner, Lizzie looked in control as she slid the burgundy wool from her head, gave it a good shake, and settled it on a hat stand. “Mary told me on her way over here. I’m so sorry.” She enveloped her friend in a hug, her own tears trickling from violet eyes. She looked up at Mary. “I came immediately after I got my loaves out of the oven. Zeke is on his way to your house.”
Patience didn’t try to hide her pain as the tears escaped in rivulets down her cheeks. She’d never told them in so many words of her love for Jeremy, but the two sisters had pulled her into their family long ago, and matters of the heart were understood rather than spoken.
I love your writing, Rebecca. How can readers find you on the Internet?I would love for readers to check out my website, www.RebeccaDeMarino.com and stop in to say hello on Facebookand Twitter ~ and I can also be found on Pinterest!
Thank you, Rebecca, for sharing this new book with us. I look forward to the new series, too.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
To Follow Her Heart (The Southold Chronicles Book 3): A Novel: Volume 3 - 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[image error]
Welcome back, Rebecca. God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon?I feel very blessed with my next project. Set in colonial times after the American Revolution, it is once again based on the lives of real people—although not my ancestors!Tell us a little about your family.My husband and I just celebrated our tenth anniversary! We both have grown children and eleven grandchildren with one more on the way for an even dozen :o) My father is now 93 and wrote started his first novel at age 86. He had a stroke before he finished it, but he did two years later. I had the privilege to help him write the last four chapters, him telling the story, me typing! Talk about an inspiration!
Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how?Yes. I’ve always enjoyed fiction and my reading choices are pretty eclectic. But because I do so much historical research I mainly read nonfiction nowadays. And I love it!
What are you working on right now?My third novel in The Southold Chronicles series released last month! And I’ve just finished a novel set in the late 1700’s, early 1800’s.
What outside interests do you have?I enjoy gardening and baking, neither of which I’ve done a lot of lately! Travel is one of my passions too, and I’m gearing up for a bit of a book tour—starting in Hood River, Oregon, on September 2nd, followed by a week in Mowsley, England, and ending with a two-day book signing on Long Island, the setting for my series.
That sounds like a lot of fun. How do you choose your settings for each book?My setting chose me, and I’ve loved it! My mother and I traveled to Long Island in 1999 to see the lighthouse named after our ancestor, Barnabas Horton. We learned so much about him at the historical society and library. His grave was covered with a large slab of blue slate. When we got home I wondered about his wife Mary—a young woman when she married this recent widower with two little boys. I decided to write a novel giving her a Point Of View. The setting began in Mowsley, England, and followed them to Southold, Long Island, where they were one of thirteen founding families.
If you could spend an evening with one historical person, who would it be and why?It would have to be Mary Langton Horton. I’d ask her how much of her goals, motivations, and conflicts I got right!
What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels?That I’d become obsessed and somewhat of a hermit! I focus everything on my research and writing—but I love it. And at this stage in my life, with my children grown, I can devote my days, and nights if need be, to my passion!
What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?That He is faithful and His love never fails. And that God defines my success.
Amen to that. What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful?I love this question. I would say write your passion(s). Be diligent in the time you have for writing—be it 30 minutes or all day. Try to turn off your internal editor and just get the story out. This one is a hard one for me! I at least try to limit my editing to a quick review of the previous day’s chapter—only minor fixes allowed. Finish your story—then go back. There are many people who start a book, far fewer finish them.
Tell us about the featured book.
In 1664, Patience Terry is devastated to learn that Captain Jeremy Horton’s ship has been shipwrecked off the coast of Barbados. There were no survivors. She had hoped that Jeremy would someday give up the sea and settle down with her in Southold, Long Island. Unaware his memorial service is being planned, Jeremy sails aboard a British warship with secret orders to attack New Amsterdam and claim it for the British Crown. When he makes his surprise return to Southold—and to an overjoyed Patience—it’s not quite the happily-ever-after his beloved had hoped for.
Please give us the first page of the book.July 16, 1664, Southold, Long Island“Did you hear me?”
Patience Terry stood silent, her mind awhirl. Had she not guarded her heart against this day? Against this pain that ripped through her like a thunderbolt? She looked into Mary Horton’s teary hazel-blue eyes. The Swallow had shipwrecked off the coast of Barbados, tattered and abandoned. No survivors. Captain Jeremy Horton and his crew lost at sea. Some bodies recovered, but no survivors.
Her mouth opened, but no words came out. Her lungs ached, so bereft were they of any air, she of any hope. As her legs gave way, she fell to the pillowed bench in front of the hat display and buried her face in the folds of her blue silk skirt. Her shoulders heaved with each silent sob.
Her friend knelt and drew her into her arms. “That’s good, dear. Cry. Let the tears fall.”
Patience could no longer hold back as torrents of tears soaked her friend’s shoulder.
Mary’s gentle hands patted her back to comfort, but Patience’s temples pulsed with each new thought. Would she never be able to look up and see Jeremy’s form framed in the doorway again? Or could he lie hurt somewhere? She’d begged him at his last visit to give up the sailing, to make a home here in Southold. One she dreamt would include her.
“What if he’s not dead? What if he needs me?” She’d always prayed he would come to know he needed her in his life, but Lord, this was not how she’d envisioned it.
“You mustn’t think like that. The ship has sunk. There was such a storm. And if survivors were able to make land at all, they would have landed on the shores of Barbados. Nathaniel Sylvester brought the news himself. He’s just returned from his meetings there. ’Tis such a shock to know both of Barney’s brothers are gone. It was so difficult when Thomas died. And now Jeremy. He was more than a friend to me, he was a dear brother.” Mary’s voice trailed as Patience’s sobs began anew.
The door blew open as hurricane-strength wind and summer rain swept in with Lizzie Fanning’s arrival, nearly lifting one of her own hat creations from her silvery curls. Mary’s older sister and Patience’s business partner, Lizzie looked in control as she slid the burgundy wool from her head, gave it a good shake, and settled it on a hat stand. “Mary told me on her way over here. I’m so sorry.” She enveloped her friend in a hug, her own tears trickling from violet eyes. She looked up at Mary. “I came immediately after I got my loaves out of the oven. Zeke is on his way to your house.”
Patience didn’t try to hide her pain as the tears escaped in rivulets down her cheeks. She’d never told them in so many words of her love for Jeremy, but the two sisters had pulled her into their family long ago, and matters of the heart were understood rather than spoken.
I love your writing, Rebecca. How can readers find you on the Internet?I would love for readers to check out my website, www.RebeccaDeMarino.com and stop in to say hello on Facebookand Twitter ~ and I can also be found on Pinterest!
Thank you, Rebecca, for sharing this new book with us. I look forward to the new series, too.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
To Follow Her Heart (The Southold Chronicles Book 3): A Novel: Volume 3 - 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[image error]
August 29, 2016
THE LOOMING STORM - Diane and David Munson - 2 Free Books
Dear Readers, Diane and David are giving a free copy of the print book, which is available to a commenter in the US, and a code for a free audible copy of the book, which is available to a commenter outside the US,
Welcome back, Diane and David. As an author, I know it takes a lot of people to birth each book. Who were the people involved in the birthing of this book, and what were their contributions? We call our thrillers “factional fiction” because each one is inspired by real events and our cases in the legal system that we were involved in as a Federal Prosecutor (Diane) and Federal Agent (David). In the The Looming Storm , we draw from people we worked with in the Congress, The White House, and in the Justice Department when we lived and served in Washington D.C.Our latest novel is influenced by a group of drug smugglers who once owned an island in the Florida Keys, where David as an undercover DEA agent was their guest. They remain unnamed, as they were convicted and served time in prison. Our research visit to the Florida Keys led to many themes and scenes in The Looming Storm , a merging of Washington authorities locked in a battle with culprits in the Florida Keys intent on harming our nation.
If you teach or speak. What’s coming up on your calendar? When we’re asked to speak at churches and/or civic groups, we often speak about the exciting and dangerous events that occurred during our careers. It’s amazing to remember the examples of God’s intervention and protection. We also do mystery dinners, where we create a scenario to share with diners. Each table receives a clue from us, which when read by the diners, leads the group to discover “who done it,” or as happens in our thrillers, who appears to “have done it.” Often it’s not the obvious culprit. Our next mystery dinner is on February 7, 2017 at North Lake Presbyterian Church, Lady Lake, Florida.
That sounds like fun. If you had to completely start over in another place, where would you move, and why? We had a lively debate before settling on a favorite spot. In Jackson Hole, Wyoming, we could spend more time roaming the wonderful region, including Yellowstone, which we absolutely love. Could it be one of our next thrillers might be set in the West?
If you could only tell aspiring novelists one thing, what would it be?It’s actually two things. First is to pray for God’s leading and guidance, which is the most important. Secondly, write from your heart, what you love, and what you are passionate about.
You’ve been asked to be in charge of a celebrity cruise. Who would you ask to take part, and why? (AS in what program, singers, etc. [it doesn’t have to be writing related])This is a fun question. The program will be inspirational – helping participants to see/find where God is moving in their lives. Number one speaker we’d invite is Franklin Graham as he is doing so much through Samaritan’s Purse to help soldiers, children, and hurting people in the name of Jesus, who is our hope and the hope for all the world. Alex and Stephen Kendrick will be wonderful to hear from as they co-produced such “giant” Christian films as, Facing the Giantsand War Room. Many will want to meet Ken Ham, the Christian man who built Noah’s Ark and is following a call on his life to proclaim the truth of the Bible at the Creation Museum. Also, Tony Dungy and his wife Lauren will add much about living for and standing up for Jesus. There will be an author track, with Joel Rosenberg, Robert Whitlow, Terri Blackstock, and Lena Nelson Dooley leading panels about infusing fiction with faith and story.
Music is a must. The Collingsworth Family and Charles Billingsley are favorites. So are Kristian Stanfill, Hillsong, MercyMe, Chris Tomlin, Casting Crowns, Matt Redman, Laurie Story, and Steven Curtis Chapman. Choirs from Prestonwood and Brooklyn Tabernacle will greet us when we all walk onto the ship. As we both sing in the choir at our church, it is such a blessing for us to listen to praise songs and hymns as we write. So, who wants to sign up for this cruise?
I’m honored to be included in your list, and I’d absolutely love the cruise. Tell us about the featured book.
What is our rock in the midst of every storm? In our last book, Embers of Courage, we revealed persecution of Christians in the past and in the present. As tumult continues in the world, the words to the hymn, “The Solid Rock,” kept reverberating in our minds while we plotted
The Looming Storm
. So did verses in Mark 4:35-41 when Jesus the Christ rebuked a terrific storm on the Sea of Galilee by telling the winds and waves, “Quiet! Be still!” The waters and winds instantly obeyed and became absolutely still. What power Jesus has! This is the hope we convey in The Looming Storm .
Tomorrow’s headlines leap from the pages when Federal Agent Eva Montanna’s daughter Kaley travels to Eastern Europeon a class trip. Their lives are altered in the blink of an eye. The gutsy federal agent must cling tightly to her faith in God as Eva discovers a menacing threat to harm Eva, husband Scott (the press secretary for the Speaker of the House in D.C.), and their three children. To stop the threat, Eva and Griff Topping, her FBI partner, use every trick to infiltrate a band of Florida smugglers. The agents are shocked when their undercover charade exposes the full measure of the sinister plot.
Secrets are shredded in our tenth stand-alone thriller, and readers may find it surprising how we rip the veil from a labyrinth of covert criminal enterprises. We hope readers will also enjoy lighthearted moments with Eva and family as well as a hint of romance for a new character we introduce, DEA agent Brett Calloway, who is from the south and loves his Harley and his momma’s gumbo.
Please give us the first page of the book. Monday began with a burst of turbulence, like many workdays did for Federal Agent Eva Montanna. Her awakening to a boisterous alarm quickly morphed into a hectic struggle to pry three sleepy kids out of bed and brew coffee before Scott left for work. A moment of calm touched her life when at six a.m. she stood on tiptoe to kiss her husband’s cheek. “Sure you can’t wait for me to fix an egg with your bagel?” Eva stifled a yawn. Scott shook his head, a lock of his brown curly hair falling loose. “I’m needed early on the Hill to fend off the media circus. A new Supreme Court nominee doesn’t happen every day. The Speaker wants to keep pressure on the Senate.”
He winked before stepping into the garage. Eva’s heart overflowed with love as she watched him back the car out of the garage. His job as press secretary to the Speaker of the House kept him plenty busy. So did hers as Federal Agent for Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Eva ran to change into work attire. She flipped the light on to her walk-in closet. The bulb fizzled out in a blinding flash. Not willing to search for a spare or find the ladder, she snatched navy slacks and a white blouse off the rod using her smartphone for light.
Minutes later, she was buttering toast when her youngest son ran in the kitchen.
“Mom, I banged my toe,” Dutch cried.
“Let me see.”
He held up his tiny bare foot. Blood squirted from a gash in his big toe. She rushed to the half-bath and found a bandage to stop the bleeding. Breakfast was hurried and at last, she corralled her children off to school. Eva had a few spare minutes to pull herself together. A quick flick of a brush through her wheat-colored, shoulder-length hair, and a dab of pale gloss to her lips completed her look.
Wait, were those new lines around her eyes?
Oh well. Scott still found her pretty; he’d told her so just yesterday. And life presented issues more important than wrinkles, though when she’d started pursuing criminals, Eva had youthful skin and clear periwinkle eyes. Under the harsh bathroom lights, her face revealed long days and nights of surveillance, car chases and foot chases, and scrapes and bruises from tackling guys bigger than her.
Where can my readers find you on the Internet?Website: www.DianeAndDavidMunson.comFaceBook: Diane and David Munson
Thank you, Diane and David, for sharing this new book with us.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
The Looming Storm[image error] - paperback
The Looming Storm - 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[image error]
August 28, 2016
WINNERS!!!!!
Kim (NE) is the winner of the ebook
Burnin' for You
by Susan May Warren.
Amanda G (NY) is the winner of Collision of the Heart by Laurie Alice Eakes.
Mary P (Aus) is the winner of the ebook Resurrection of Hope by Tamera Lynn Kraft.
Elly (IN) is the winner of More Than Meets the Eye by Deborah Heal.
Melanie (TX) is the winner of Starving Hearts by Janine Mendenhall.
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.
Amanda G (NY) is the winner of Collision of the Heart by Laurie Alice Eakes.
Mary P (Aus) is the winner of the ebook Resurrection of Hope by Tamera Lynn Kraft.
Elly (IN) is the winner of More Than Meets the Eye by Deborah Heal.
Melanie (TX) is the winner of Starving Hearts by Janine Mendenhall.
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.
August 27, 2016
WINNERS FOR LAST WEEKEND
I'm so sorry. Last weekend was very busy. I totally forgot to announce the winners from the week before.
I uploaded the post in the August 21 slot. Check it out to see if you won a book.
Here is the link to that post:
http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/2016/08/winners_21.html
I uploaded the post in the August 21 slot. Check it out to see if you won a book.
Here is the link to that post:
http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/2016/08/winners_21.html
