Lena Nelson Dooley's Blog, page 183
July 2, 2015
TEARS OF THE SEA - MaryLu Tyndall - One Free Book
Welcome back, MaryLu. If you weren’t an author, what would be your dream job?Either an oil painter or I’d love to work in an aquarium taking care of the fish and marine lifeIf you could have lived at another time in history, what would it be and why?Definitely colonial America. What an exciting time! The birth of a new nation, the struggle for freedom from tyranny. How incredible it would have been to have seen that and been a part of it.
What place in the United Stateshave you not visited that you would like to?There’s so many places I’ve yet to visit, the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, New England. I’d also love to see Boston. There’s so much history there. We don’t have much history out here in California, so I’d love to visit places with historic landmarks and museums. One of my favorite things to do is walk through old graveyards and read the gravestones!
How about a foreign country you hope to visit?Definitely Israel. But aside from that, I’d love to visit England. I’ve never been overseas.
I’ve been to other countries, but they are in Central America, so I have’t been overseas either, except on a cruise in the Caribbean. What lesson has the Lord taught you recently?To be more accepting of the differences in others, to be more tolerate of people’s weaknesses and failings and their level of faith. We are all so different and have come from different pasts with different struggles and trials, that in my limited understanding, I have no right to judge anyone else.
I’m with you on that. Please tell us about the featured book.
Tears of the Sea
is a Mermaid Romance, but it is much more than that. It is an allegory of the Gospel story of the sacrificial love of Jesus in order to rescue mankind from the curse of eternal doom. Here’s the back cover:Doomed by the evil warlock Forwin to wander the ancient seas as a mermaid for all eternity, Perdita longs for the release death would bring. Every ten years she has a chance to break the curse when she emerges from the sea fully human for one month. The catch? She must find a man willing to die for her. Captain Savion Ryne wants nothing to do with beautiful women. It was one such woman whose betrayal ruined his life and his reputation. After nearly drowning in a storm at sea, he wakes on an island with visions of a dark haired mermaid pulling him from the water. When a woman similar in appearance begs for his protection, he is suspicious.
Perdita has never met anyone as honorable as Savion. Even though he shuns her every advance, she falls for him. But as the end of her time on land approaches, she faces the hardest decision of all, save Savion and remain cursed for all eternity or break the curse and watch the man she loves die.
I’m reading the book now. Please give us the first page of the book for my blog readers.Immortality ends tonight.
Standing on the ledge of a mountainous cliff, Perdita gazed over the majestic storm raging beneath her. Mountainous swells thrust foamy claws into the sky. Black, slick as ink, spewed from angry heavens. Lightning hurled white-hot forks toward Erden, while thunder announced the doom of all in the tempest’s path.
Perdita had been waiting endlessly for such a violent squall. Mayhap this would be the night. Mayhap this would be the moment the unbearable pain in her heart would end. Oh, let it be so! What would it be like to die, to finally close her eyes forever? To know naught but darkness and emptiness. Nothingness. Part of her feared it. Most of her yearned for it. At least her agony would be no more. The pain, the loneliness gripping her heart would finally cease.
Tears spilled from her eyes but the wind stole them away. Even her tears were not her own. After tonight, she would cry no more. Finally, her three hundred-year nightmare would come to an end.
Wind whipped her naked body, forcing her against the cliff wall. Jagged rock slashed her skin as the tempest roared madly all around her—berating voices from a thousand rejections. She jammed her hands over her ears, but the voices taunted her mercilessly…reminding her that no matter how hard she tried, she failed to obtain the one thing she desperately craved, the one thing that continually eluded her, the one thing—the only thing—that could liberate her from infinite torment.
She trembled. Rain pelted her like rocks from a cruel god. Welts rose on her skin. Ignoring the pain, she drew a deep breath and fought through the wind to the edge of the cliff. It wrenched around her, punching her, pulling her hair, beating her for being so worthless, so useless. Then lifting her arms, she closed her eyes, and leaned over the precipice. At first, like a benevolent friend unwilling to let her go, the wind held her back, buffeting her in place. But soon even the gale couldn’t hold her up, and she felt herself tumbling down … down … down …
She shattered the surface. Seawater engulfed her, ramming into her from all sides. Deeper and deeper she descended. The jolts mutated to gentle caresses and the sounds of the storm muffled to mere whispers. Her legs melded together. Awkward kicks transformed into one efficient, powerful stroke. Tingling skittered over her body, molding skin into scale.
Perdita released her breath. Bubbles rose. She gulped. Water flooded her lungs—always uncomfortable at first, but then as her skin breathed in the sea, more natural than she cared to admit. More normal to her than breathing air. As normal as the grief that ripped through her every time she dove in the water and became a creature she loathed.
Slipping with ease through the dark sea toward her destination, she soared upward and punched through the surface into the storm once again. Wind spit salty foam in her face. A massive wave carried her high into the night sky like a princess on her chariot. Scanning the turbulent scene, she spotted the monstrous rock—the one they called Hades’ Gate—just half a mile away, aptly named for the number of sailors who had died upon its barbed spikes. Sharp, craggy spears stuck out in every direction as if Natas himself crouched in the sea with a thousand claws extended.Natas or not, Perdita hoped she would be the next victim.
How can readers find you on the Internet?Website: http://www.marylutyndall.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/marylu.tyndall.authorTwitter: https://twitter.com/MaryLuTyndallPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mltyndall/Google Plus: https://plus.google.com/u/0/104594006329583771780/posts
Thank you, MaryLu, for sharing the book with us. I knew I had to feature it on my blog when I found out about it.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
- Amazon
Tears of the Sea - Kindle
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (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
July 1, 2015
SUMMER'S LIST - Anita Higman - One Free Book
Dear Readers, here's another Texas Author.
Welcome back, Anita. How did this book come about?My mother read me fairytales when I was a little girl—my favorite being Cinderella. These whimsical stories had quite an influence on me. People have told me my novels read a little bit like modern fairytales. That might be how
Summer’s List
came into being—from my delight in adding a few fairytale elements to my stories—such as exploring human weaknesses, innocent characters facing malevolent people, an honorable quest in the form of an adventure list, and of course, a happily-ever-after.
Tell us about the book’s cover and what makes it unique.My daughter seems to think this is the best cover I’ve ever had on one of my books. Maybe she’s right. I think it’s different because it’s a bright and breezy cover that looks like a summer beach read. I hope you’ll consider taking my characters on vacation with you!
Please explain and differentiate between what’s fact and fiction in the book.Most of Summer’s List is fiction. However, Laney, the little Chihuahuain the story, was based on a real dog that belonged to my daughter-in-law. Laney was such a blessing to my daughter-in-law, helping her get through a particularly hard crisis in her life. Laney passed away, and Summer’s List is dedicated to the memory of this beloved dog.
How much research did you have to do for this book?I didn’t have to do a lot of research for this book. At least not as much research as I had to do with my other Moody novel—Winter in Full Bloom—which dealt with identical twins and was partially set in Australia.
What are some of the most interesting things you found about this subject that you weren’t able to use in the story?I am learning about Cystic Fibrosis because I have a relative who suffers with this terrible disease. I was going to have my hero have a mild form of CF, but in the end, I decided to reserve that character-struggle for a future novel.
What inspired and surprised you while you were writing the book?I was inspired by Summer’s grandmother because of her growth as a character and her acceptance of God’s will. On the surprise side, I discovered that I can have just as much fun writing male characters as female characters.
What do you hope the reader takes away from the story?I am hoping readers will be entertained, challenged, and inspired by Summer’s List .
What is the next project you’re working on?I’m heading out on a new adventure in my writing career. I’m writing young adult books with my daughter, Hillary. I’m very excited about the future, and I hope you will follow along with me on this new journey!
What do you do when you have to get away from the story for a while?I run errands or read or watch a movie. That all helps me to get recharged so I won’t get burned out or feel like I’ve degenerated into a word-machine. So, refreshment is essential in this creative business.
Please give us the first page of the book.
The engagement ring was stuck—just like her life. Summer glanced toward the heavens and sighed the sigh of love gone awry. Again.
Martin, where are you now, and what would you think of me? Here she was, thirty-three years old, and still floundering in every part of life that mattered. In Martin’s fanciful vernacular, he’d probably say that her life had gone the way of monsters. How true. And so went the mental ramblings of Summer Snow as she continued to twist Elliot’s engagement ring on her finger, trying to pull it off. She looked across the table at her fiancé and said, “Honestly, Elliot, you don’t need a wife. What you need is a good PR person.”
Elliot smoothed a crimp in the linen tablecloth. “You’d think a five-star restaurant could have wrinkle free linens.” He emitted a slow breath that strangled itself into a groan. “Now, no more talk of leaving me, my pearl. You’re going to make the perfect senator’s wife. You’re articulate. You’re beautiful. You can hold a smile for hours.” He grinned. “With a few tweaks, you could be my Summer Eleanor Roosevelt. And with you by my side I now have an eight point lead over my opponent,” he added in his pretend British accent, the one he used when he was kidding around. “Come on. You know I’m joking.”
I can’t wait to see if she gets that ring off. How can readers find you on the Internet?Feel free to drop by my website at www.anitahigman.comor connect with me on my Facebook Reader Page at https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAnitaHigman. I would love to hear from you!
Thank you, Anita, for sharing this new book with us. I know my readers will be interest in it.
Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
- Amaon
Summer's List - Kindle
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (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, Anita. How did this book come about?My mother read me fairytales when I was a little girl—my favorite being Cinderella. These whimsical stories had quite an influence on me. People have told me my novels read a little bit like modern fairytales. That might be how
Summer’s List
came into being—from my delight in adding a few fairytale elements to my stories—such as exploring human weaknesses, innocent characters facing malevolent people, an honorable quest in the form of an adventure list, and of course, a happily-ever-after. Tell us about the book’s cover and what makes it unique.My daughter seems to think this is the best cover I’ve ever had on one of my books. Maybe she’s right. I think it’s different because it’s a bright and breezy cover that looks like a summer beach read. I hope you’ll consider taking my characters on vacation with you!
Please explain and differentiate between what’s fact and fiction in the book.Most of Summer’s List is fiction. However, Laney, the little Chihuahuain the story, was based on a real dog that belonged to my daughter-in-law. Laney was such a blessing to my daughter-in-law, helping her get through a particularly hard crisis in her life. Laney passed away, and Summer’s List is dedicated to the memory of this beloved dog.
How much research did you have to do for this book?I didn’t have to do a lot of research for this book. At least not as much research as I had to do with my other Moody novel—Winter in Full Bloom—which dealt with identical twins and was partially set in Australia.
What are some of the most interesting things you found about this subject that you weren’t able to use in the story?I am learning about Cystic Fibrosis because I have a relative who suffers with this terrible disease. I was going to have my hero have a mild form of CF, but in the end, I decided to reserve that character-struggle for a future novel.
What inspired and surprised you while you were writing the book?I was inspired by Summer’s grandmother because of her growth as a character and her acceptance of God’s will. On the surprise side, I discovered that I can have just as much fun writing male characters as female characters.
What do you hope the reader takes away from the story?I am hoping readers will be entertained, challenged, and inspired by Summer’s List .
What is the next project you’re working on?I’m heading out on a new adventure in my writing career. I’m writing young adult books with my daughter, Hillary. I’m very excited about the future, and I hope you will follow along with me on this new journey!
What do you do when you have to get away from the story for a while?I run errands or read or watch a movie. That all helps me to get recharged so I won’t get burned out or feel like I’ve degenerated into a word-machine. So, refreshment is essential in this creative business.
Please give us the first page of the book.
The engagement ring was stuck—just like her life. Summer glanced toward the heavens and sighed the sigh of love gone awry. Again. Martin, where are you now, and what would you think of me? Here she was, thirty-three years old, and still floundering in every part of life that mattered. In Martin’s fanciful vernacular, he’d probably say that her life had gone the way of monsters. How true. And so went the mental ramblings of Summer Snow as she continued to twist Elliot’s engagement ring on her finger, trying to pull it off. She looked across the table at her fiancé and said, “Honestly, Elliot, you don’t need a wife. What you need is a good PR person.”
Elliot smoothed a crimp in the linen tablecloth. “You’d think a five-star restaurant could have wrinkle free linens.” He emitted a slow breath that strangled itself into a groan. “Now, no more talk of leaving me, my pearl. You’re going to make the perfect senator’s wife. You’re articulate. You’re beautiful. You can hold a smile for hours.” He grinned. “With a few tweaks, you could be my Summer Eleanor Roosevelt. And with you by my side I now have an eight point lead over my opponent,” he added in his pretend British accent, the one he used when he was kidding around. “Come on. You know I’m joking.”
I can’t wait to see if she gets that ring off. How can readers find you on the Internet?Feel free to drop by my website at www.anitahigman.comor connect with me on my Facebook Reader Page at https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAnitaHigman. I would love to hear from you!
Thank you, Anita, for sharing this new book with us. I know my readers will be interest in it.
Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
- Amaon
Summer's List - Kindle
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (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
MY CANDY VALENTINE - Darlene Franklin - One Free Ebook
AUTHOR BIO: Darlene Franklin’s greatest claim to fame is that she writes full-time from a nursing home. She lives in Oklahoma, near her son and his family, and continues her interests in playing the piano and singing, books, good fellowship, and reality TV in addition to writing. She is an active member of Oklahoma City Christian Fiction Writers, American Christian Fiction Writers, and the Christian Authors Network. She has written over thirty books and has written more than 250 devotionals. Her historical fiction ranges from the Revolutionary War to World War II, from Texas to Vermont.
Dear Readers, Darlene and I met online years ago, because we were writing for the same publisher at that time. We’ve remained friends, and I love reading her stories.
Welcome back, Darlene. Why did you become an author?I began writing in the aftermath of my divorce. After that book, I was hooked. Stories drive me. Just a few days ago I asked my editor about four possible series ideas. I suspect I’ll be writing until God takes the pen out of my hand—or the stories out of my mind.
If you weren’t an author, what would be your dream job?I would love to be an effective teacher. I am a good teacher, but a terrible disciplinarian. I would love to teach groups of woman, but God has never opened that door.`1
If you could have lived at another time in history, what would it be and why?Maybe in the 1950s. Everything seemed possible, science exploded, and I suspect I would have done the ostrich thing with the threat of the Cold War and wondered why kids liked Elvis. That is, if I was 60 in the 1950s.
What place in the United Stateshave you not visited that you would like to?I have wanted to visit California all my life. I grew up in Maine; I’d like to make it coast to coast. The farthest west I’ve traveled is Utah, but I’ve traveled through all the steps east of the Mississippi.
How about a foreign country you hope to visit?I’d like to visit either Great Britain (each of the countries) or New Zealand. Perhaps return to Mexico or Spain and see how far my Spanish takes me. J
What lesson has the Lord taught you recently?I probably have less than 15 years to live, and I live in a nursing home where I can see just how lost some of those years may be. I’m not trying to be morbid, but focused. I want to know the Lord more clearly, so that if I lose my mind, He still shines through. There are several precious senior saints here, and some of them are shining with His light in spite of their dementia.
It also means today to strive for that balance—spending time with the Lord, spending time with people, especially my family, exercising, and writing. My temptation is to squeeze as much writing in as possible; but isn’t healthy, and that’s not all God intends to do with my life.
Tell us about the featured book.
My Candy Valentine
is a celebration of Valentine’s Day, but who doesn’t love chocolate all year long? The story takes place in the real town of Loveland, Oklahoma, in 1916. My heroine, Catrina Jensen, is a talented chocolatier. The hero, Gilbert Williams, comes to Lovelandspecifically to meet the Jensens, and make them an offer they can’t refuse. The more he gets to know Catrina, the more he wonders if the price is too high.
Please give us the first page of the book.Catrina Jensen stepped back from her New Year’s display at the Jensen Mercantile. Now that Christmas had ended, she greeted 1916 in bold letters. Two cherubs held up a banner that read, “May All Your Dreams Come True.” A variety of merchandise designed to aid shoppers in realizing their dreams was spread across the table: a date book, to make plans to make the dreams come true: pens, a desk blotter, a sewing basket, and the like.
“Perfect,” she whispered under her breath.
A single clap alerted her to the presence of another person. Pasting a smile on her face, she turned around to greet the customer with the attention he or she deserved.
A man handsome enough to be Gilbert Blythe waited behind her. Anne Shirley would find the tall stranger swoon-worthy—hair smoothed back with the latest product and dressed in a slate gray sack coat with matching waistcoat that brought out highlights in his blue eyes. She found herself reaching her hand to her hair, to tuck away stray curls.
His eyes swept up and down and side to side. “It’s a tempting display.”
Warmth swept into her cheeks at the compliment.
“Male customers might respond more to Old Man Time and a New Year’s baby than cherubs.”
Cocking her head, she grudgingly admitted the truth of his comment. “I will change it. Thank you for speaking for the male half of the population.” What was she thinking? She extended her hand. “How may I assist you?”
“You may start by telling me your name.”
The man’s smile weakened Catrina’s knees, but she spoke with a clear voice. “Catrina Jensen.”
“Miss Jensen?” He placed the slightest emphasis on her surname.
“Yes, sir. I am the daughter of the owner.” Catrina lifted her head. “As the daughter of the owner, I am well acquainted with all the store’s merchandise. Whatever your needs, I can assist you.”
Again he parted his mouth in that dazzling smile. “I’m certain you can. In fact, your display here has reminded me of my need for office supplies for the New Year. I will take the desk pad, calendar, journal. . .” He continued until he had listed half the items on her table.
Catrina’s sales acumen perked up at his enthusiasm. “Let me show you the options we have available.”
Sell the customer quality, which might cost more than what they intended to buy. Someone prepared to buy half of her display surely had money to spare. They spent an hour discussing the benefits of different brands of pens, blotters, date books, and the like.
When he inquired about business cards, she mentioned a local printer. “Sir, you have the advantage of me. You know my name, but I don’t know yours.”
He laughed. “I’m Gilbert Williams.”
How can readers find you on the Internet?https://www.facebook.com/Poet.Darlene.Franklinhttp://www.amazon.com/Darlene-Franklin/e/B001K8993A/
Thank you, Darlene, for sharing this book with us. I know that I and my readers will really enjoy finding out what comes next.
Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
My Candy Valentine (Holidays of the Heart Book 2)
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (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, Darlene and I met online years ago, because we were writing for the same publisher at that time. We’ve remained friends, and I love reading her stories.
Welcome back, Darlene. Why did you become an author?I began writing in the aftermath of my divorce. After that book, I was hooked. Stories drive me. Just a few days ago I asked my editor about four possible series ideas. I suspect I’ll be writing until God takes the pen out of my hand—or the stories out of my mind.If you weren’t an author, what would be your dream job?I would love to be an effective teacher. I am a good teacher, but a terrible disciplinarian. I would love to teach groups of woman, but God has never opened that door.`1
If you could have lived at another time in history, what would it be and why?Maybe in the 1950s. Everything seemed possible, science exploded, and I suspect I would have done the ostrich thing with the threat of the Cold War and wondered why kids liked Elvis. That is, if I was 60 in the 1950s.
What place in the United Stateshave you not visited that you would like to?I have wanted to visit California all my life. I grew up in Maine; I’d like to make it coast to coast. The farthest west I’ve traveled is Utah, but I’ve traveled through all the steps east of the Mississippi.
How about a foreign country you hope to visit?I’d like to visit either Great Britain (each of the countries) or New Zealand. Perhaps return to Mexico or Spain and see how far my Spanish takes me. J
What lesson has the Lord taught you recently?I probably have less than 15 years to live, and I live in a nursing home where I can see just how lost some of those years may be. I’m not trying to be morbid, but focused. I want to know the Lord more clearly, so that if I lose my mind, He still shines through. There are several precious senior saints here, and some of them are shining with His light in spite of their dementia.
It also means today to strive for that balance—spending time with the Lord, spending time with people, especially my family, exercising, and writing. My temptation is to squeeze as much writing in as possible; but isn’t healthy, and that’s not all God intends to do with my life.
Tell us about the featured book.
My Candy Valentine
is a celebration of Valentine’s Day, but who doesn’t love chocolate all year long? The story takes place in the real town of Loveland, Oklahoma, in 1916. My heroine, Catrina Jensen, is a talented chocolatier. The hero, Gilbert Williams, comes to Lovelandspecifically to meet the Jensens, and make them an offer they can’t refuse. The more he gets to know Catrina, the more he wonders if the price is too high.Please give us the first page of the book.Catrina Jensen stepped back from her New Year’s display at the Jensen Mercantile. Now that Christmas had ended, she greeted 1916 in bold letters. Two cherubs held up a banner that read, “May All Your Dreams Come True.” A variety of merchandise designed to aid shoppers in realizing their dreams was spread across the table: a date book, to make plans to make the dreams come true: pens, a desk blotter, a sewing basket, and the like.
“Perfect,” she whispered under her breath.
A single clap alerted her to the presence of another person. Pasting a smile on her face, she turned around to greet the customer with the attention he or she deserved.
A man handsome enough to be Gilbert Blythe waited behind her. Anne Shirley would find the tall stranger swoon-worthy—hair smoothed back with the latest product and dressed in a slate gray sack coat with matching waistcoat that brought out highlights in his blue eyes. She found herself reaching her hand to her hair, to tuck away stray curls.
His eyes swept up and down and side to side. “It’s a tempting display.”
Warmth swept into her cheeks at the compliment.
“Male customers might respond more to Old Man Time and a New Year’s baby than cherubs.”
Cocking her head, she grudgingly admitted the truth of his comment. “I will change it. Thank you for speaking for the male half of the population.” What was she thinking? She extended her hand. “How may I assist you?”
“You may start by telling me your name.”
The man’s smile weakened Catrina’s knees, but she spoke with a clear voice. “Catrina Jensen.”
“Miss Jensen?” He placed the slightest emphasis on her surname.
“Yes, sir. I am the daughter of the owner.” Catrina lifted her head. “As the daughter of the owner, I am well acquainted with all the store’s merchandise. Whatever your needs, I can assist you.”
Again he parted his mouth in that dazzling smile. “I’m certain you can. In fact, your display here has reminded me of my need for office supplies for the New Year. I will take the desk pad, calendar, journal. . .” He continued until he had listed half the items on her table.
Catrina’s sales acumen perked up at his enthusiasm. “Let me show you the options we have available.”
Sell the customer quality, which might cost more than what they intended to buy. Someone prepared to buy half of her display surely had money to spare. They spent an hour discussing the benefits of different brands of pens, blotters, date books, and the like.
When he inquired about business cards, she mentioned a local printer. “Sir, you have the advantage of me. You know my name, but I don’t know yours.”
He laughed. “I’m Gilbert Williams.”
How can readers find you on the Internet?https://www.facebook.com/Poet.Darlene.Franklinhttp://www.amazon.com/Darlene-Franklin/e/B001K8993A/
Thank you, Darlene, for sharing this book with us. I know that I and my readers will really enjoy finding out what comes next.
Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
My Candy Valentine (Holidays of the Heart Book 2)
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (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
June 30, 2015
A WORTHY PURSUIT - Karen Witemeyer - One Free Book
Welcome back. Karen. How did you come up with the idea for this story?There is usually a single spark that gets a book idea started. For A
Worthy Pursuit
, that spark was the idea of incorporating gifted children—child prodigies, each having a gift in a different field. And the one who doesn't consider himself gifted ends up being the one who saves the day, proving he is, in fact, remarkable.I also wanted to play with the idea of opposites attracting. So I chose a refined, educated headmistress who doesn't trust men and paired her with a man of action and intrigue who practically walks off the pages of a dime novel. Charlotte has to learn to trust the man who was sent to destroy her in order to protect the children in her care, and Stone must dig deep to unearth the patience it will take to win the heart of the plucky woman he comes to admire.
If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why?Well, parties are always so much more fun when you are with people you know, so for my contemporary fiction party I'm going to invite some of my closest author friends – Becky Wade, Dani Pettrey, Lisa Wingate, and Kellie Coates Gilbert. Then I would also include a couple ladies who I know would keep things lively – Rachel Hauck and Susan May Warren.
I’d love to peek into that party. That’s a group of some of my favorite people. Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why?Again I would go with my closest friends. Regina Jennings and I recently roomed together at the RT Booklovers Convention and had a fabulous time. She even got me line dancing at one of the sessions. Ha! In addition to ReginaI would invite Mary Connealy – always a hoot to have around. Jody Hedlund – Jody and I started out at Bethany House together and have shared many facets of our publishing journey. Kristi Hunter – she's about to debut her first book with Bethany House. She and I met at the last ACFW conference and really hit it off. Next, I would invite Lorna Seilstad, another great buddy. And finally the irrepressible Jen Turano. There's going to be a lot of laughing at this gathering.
That sounds like fun. More of my favorite people. 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?The most difficult part is finding the time to get everything done. I still work a full-time job in addition to writing full-time. I also have 3 teenagers at home. With all the marketing we are asked to do, blog writing, and social media interactions on top of family, church, and work responsibilities, it's hard to find the time needed to write the next project. Yet that is the most important commodity an author has. If you throw together a shoddy book, you're going to lose readers. Besides that, as Christians, we are called to always work as if working for the Lord and not for man. That means creating excellent work, which is something I continually strive to achieve. I write slowly and really have to guard my time. Not an easy task.
Tell us about the featured book.
Stone Hammond is the best tracker in Texas. He never comes home empty-handed. So when a wealthy railroad investor hires him to find his abducted granddaughter, Stone eagerly accepts.Charlotte Atherton, former headmistress of Sullivan's Academy for Exceptional Youths, will do anything to keep her charges safe, especially the little girl entrusted to her care after her mother's death. Charlottepromised Lily's mother she'd keep the girl away from her unscrupulous grandfather, and nothing will stop Charlottefrom fulfilling that pledge. Not even the handsome bounty hunter with surprisingly honest eyes who comes looking for them.
When the teacher he's after produces documentation that shows she's the little girl's legal guardian, Stone must reevaluate everything he's been led to believe. Is Miss Atherton villain or victim? She acts more like a loving mother than an abductress, and the children in her care clearly adore her.
Then a new danger threatens, and Charlotteis forced to trust the man sent to destroy her. Stone becomes determined to protect what he once sought to tear apart. Besides, he's ready to start a new pursuit: winning Charlotte's heart.
Please give us the first page of the book.PrologueFebruary 1891 - Austin, TXSullivan's Academy for Exceptional Youths"I'm closing the school, Miss Atherton, and that's my final word on the subject." Dr. Keith Sullivan closed the attendance ledger on his desk with an ominous snap and pushed to his feet, forcing Charlotte to stand as well. "I've sent wires to all the students' parents, informing them of the closure and offering to reimburse a percentage of the tuition to compensate them for the inconvenience of ending the school term earlier than expected."
A reimbursement of funds? From the man who'd refused to purchase a single new text in the last five years? It was all Charlotte could do to keep her jaw from coming unhinged. There must be another source of income—one large enough to overshadow the loss of tuition. Dr. Sullivan charged exorbitant fees for his exclusive school. Only the most noteworthy students were accepted into the small academy. Unless, of course, a particularly wealthy family sought entree for one of their children. In that case, a well-placed donation seemed to make up for any lack in giftedness. She could only imagine how large a donation would have to be to convince him to close the school entirely.
Backing out of the way as her employer strode around his desk, Charlottefiddled with the cameo at her neck then marched after him. "What of Stephen Farley? His parents are in Europe. They couldn't possibly collect him before we close the doors. And John Chang is an orphan here on scholarship. He has no place to go."
I am looking forward to reading this one. How can readers find you on the Internet?The best way to find me is on my website. I have an occasional newsletter that will keep you up-to-date on my newest releases, and everyone who subscribes will be automatically entering in my monthly drawings for 2 Christian Historical Romance Novels. I also love to connect on Facebook and Goodreads. Please find me on the links listed below.
Website: www.karenwitemeyer.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/KarenWitemeyersAuthorPage
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3114906.Karen_Witemeyer
Thank you, Karen, for sharing this new book with us. You know how much I love reading your stories. I'm sure my readers do, too.
Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog. - Amazon
A Worthy Pursuit - Kindle
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (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
TORRENTS OF DESTRUCTION - Robin Caroll - One Free Book
Welcome back, Robin. I know you speak at various conferences and meetings. What do you have coming up?I’ll be at ICRS, signing copies of my latest Samantha Sanderson book in the Zondervan booth on July 1st at 11:00am. I’ll also be at the ACFW conference in September.If you were planning a women’s retreat, what would be the theme for it?Living in His grace. I’m really aware of His grace for us these days. His extraordinary grace in our everyday lives.
Who would you want as speakers and why? I’m a huge follower of Joyce Meyer because her teaching helps me personally apply Biblical truths into my life.
Where would you hold the retreat and why? Oh, on a cruise ship. To the Caribbean.
I’d sign up for that retreat in a minute. Do you read print books or ebooks? Or a combination of the two? I read both. As I get older, my eyesight is making it a little harder for me to read, so I’m finding I read more often on my Kindle so I can make the font bigger.
That’s an interesting title. How did you come up with it? Torrents of Destruction was taken straight from the Scripture reference of the book, PSALM 18:4-6. This book was inspired after my husband and his friend, Wade, went on a rafting trip on the Gauley River. Hearing about their adventure and watching their video…well, I knew I had to use it as a setting.
So what is the book about?As a white water rafting guide, Katie Gallagher must battle the forces of nature on a daily basis. When sabotage becomes apparent on a weekend rafting trip, Katie must determine who she can trust—and who has their own agenda. Hunter Malone has a mission on a business adventure trip on the Gauley River, a mission that didn’t include a spunky guide who could handle the class-five rapids better than he’d ever imagined. But can she handle the truth?Please give us the first page of the book.Thunder crashed over the West Virginia sky. Clouds cast eerie shadows, foreboding and ominous. Katie Gallagher quickened her pace down the gravel path. The approaching storm interfered with her determined strides. Shadow, her Blue Heeler and ever-present companion, trotted at her side.
She pushed into the store with Shadow on her heels, headed to the counter, and dropped onto the stool. She flipped to this evening’s appointment log and grabbed a pencil from the holder, rolling it between her thumb and forefinger.
Her elder brother Gabe’s soft smile enhanced his tanned face. “Your group should arrive after seven tonight. Ready?”
Katie’s gaze moved to the bank of windows across the front of the store. Lightning flashed in the bright afternoon sky over the Gauley River. While no rain pelted the area yet, foul weather would arrive soon enough.
Gabe adjusted the display rack of wetsuits a fraction of an inch, then hobbled back to study his handiwork, dragging his walking cast.
She scuffed the toe of her sandal against the tile, letting the shoe slip to the floor. “I still don’t see why Christian can’t take this group. I need to run the projection numbers for next month.”Seemed like as of late, their younger brother constantly shirked his duties.
“We’ve been over this.” While Gabe didn’t sigh aloud, the implication was clear.
“But you and I aren't the only Gallaghers working Gauley Guides. Dad left the business to all three of us.” She let out an exaggerated breath and tapped her pencil against the cash register. “I hate baby-sitting power executives who think they can tame the river.”
“It’s not like I asked to have my leg broken, Katie. I’d do it if I could.”
And he would. Gabe carried the brunt of the responsibility for the family business. Good thing he had such broad shoulders. Katie didn’t envy his load.
Guilt circled her heart, but the tight knot of irritation wouldn’t let loose of her nerves. She had a stack of bills she needed to figure out how they were going to pay, and she wanted to check out the new equipment they’d just received. Besides, she yearned for some solitude after last weekend’s trip with a group of rowdy college kids. “Christian’s better suited for these guys.”
I can’t wait until my copy arrives to see what happens.How can readers find you on the Internet? www.robincaroll.comand follow me on facebook: facebook.com/author.robincaroll and twitter: robincaroll
Thank you, Robin, for sharing this book with us. You know that I love your books.
Readers, here’s a link to the book.http://www.amazon.com/Torrents-Destruction-Robin-Caroll/dp/0692457976/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1435262938&sr=8-1&keywords=Robin+Caroll&pebp=1435262957846&perid=00M5Y63NG2T2AK52YVC2
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (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
June 29, 2015
THE ATLANTIS DECEPTION - Nick Thacker - 4 Ebooks and 2 Audiobooks
Note to my readers: These books were written by a Christian author for the general. It's possible there may be a few elements in them that are objectionable to you.
Welcome, Nick. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.A lot. I get this question a lot, too, and I think that’s probably the best way to answer it. I’ve actually never been very good at “characters,” as I tend to be moved more toward plot and leave the characters struggling without me. However, I’ve been specifically on building more believable characters with my most recent books, and to do that I’ve been inserting a little bit of my personality into each of them. I’m not sure I’ve nailed it each time, but it’s fun trying to explore the particular aspects of “me” that gets into each of them.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?Hmm, wow. I don’t know. Probably more things than I’ll ever admit, though I’m not sure if the question wants me to include “stupidest” things as well… Once story my writer friend Will Flora likes to tell is about the time (in college, obviously) some friends of mine and I tried to hang a poker table from our dorm ceiling on a pulley system that elegantly descended when we wanted to play.
It didn’t… work.
When did you first discover that you were a writer?I hesitantly gave myself that label only after I finished my first book, The Golden Crystal. It wasn’t any good, hadn’t been edited (or rewritten), and generally lacked focus. I had a hard time believing that something like that could make me a writer.
But I eventually came around to the idea, as I kept blogging and teaching anyone who would listen that “you’re a writer if you write.” That was a good enough definition to give to them, so I realized it needed to be a good enough definition for me as well, or it was a double standard.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.I’m picky, but mostly because I know I only have a limited amount of time to read (I thought having a kid would allow me to read while changing diapers, feeding bottles, and while they slept. I was… wrong.). My favorite authors are James Rollins (shoutout Jim!), Matthew Reilly, Dan Brown, and Jeremy Robinson, as I like that particular blend of history/science fiction, worldwide adventure, and lots of nonstop action.
That said, I’ve been broadening my horizons quite a bit these last few months as I’ve been writing more sci-fi and techno thrillers, so I’ve been reading things like Leviathan Wakes, the Avagadro Corp thrillers, and some other related books that pop up as recommendations at Amazon.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?Margin is extremely important to me, and even though I’m never going to be perfect at keeping a good balance, I’ve gotten a lot better after I’ve started focusing and scheduling it. Seriously – scheduling things like fun, hanging out, and date night sounds like a no-brainer, but so many people just wait for “time.”
I’ll give you a hint: no one has time. You make time. If it’s important, make the time. People ask me all the time how I have time to write. My answer? No one does. I just chose to add it to my schedule late at night and sometimes early in the morning, and I’ve given up some other things I could be doing instead. There’s really no “magic secret” to it!
How do you choose your characters’ names?Good question! I am terrible with names. Often I use the first name that comes to mind, but sometimes that comes back to bite me. After I finished The Depths and my editor sent it back, she told me the last thing she wanted to change was “all the ‘J’ names.” I had named 90% of my characters a name that started with ‘J.’ She gave me a few alternate ideas (Jason became Mark, Jesse became Reese), and I used Scrivener’s built-in name generator to come up with the rest.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?I wrote a symphony when I was 17 – I don’t talk about it much because “writing symphonies as a child” rarely comes up in conversation.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?Probably a tortoise or a sea turtle. Since Finding Nemo is an accurate portrayal of the life of sea turtles, it seems like they have a pretty chill life. Tortoises are just awesome, and I can’t imagine being disappointed if my job was to “have to walk around slowly and sleep and eat a lot” my entire life.
What is your favorite food?Contrary to my answer above, it’s not grass or flowers. I like steak – medium-rare ribeye with a side of fully-loaded baked potato. And bacon. And carbohydrates.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?
Finishing the book. When I started The Golden Crystal, I got stuck in the middle and had no idea what to do to finish it. I took a multi-month hiatus and read as many books on outlining and planning a novel as I could find. I re-outlined the entire book, and tried to get as granular as possible using Dwight Swain’s “scenes and sequels” method (see Techniques of the Selling Writer), then tried again.
It wasn’t easy, but it was possible. I finished the first book and haven’t stopped since!
Tell us about the featured book.Amazon Publishing called me out the blue and asked me to write a book in A.G. Riddle’s Atlantis Origins world for the launch of his Kindle Worlds world. He’d had a lot of success with the three-book series, and I was flattered he’d recommended me, so I said yes.
…the catch was that I had to finish the thing in a month. I hadn’t even finished reading Riddle’s second and third books, and I had to write, edit, and design the entire book. Long story short, I finished it and was extremely happy with how it turned out.
It’s been described as “Jurassic Parkin space,” which is certainly flattering but hard to live up to. I think it’s fun to read, it’s short, and Kindle Worlds has it priced at $1.99, so it’s easy to get started!
Please give us the first page of the book.Here’s the first chapter: The look on the man's face told her everything she needed to know. His eyebrows were creased in a dark, brooding sort of way, and his eyes were glassy. Aware, yet distant all at once, as if he'd just been given a death sentence.
And a death sentence, at least for their research funding, might be exactly what they would receive upon their arrival back home.
“What?” she asked him. “You were in the meeting, and you heard the results.”
“The results?” He shot back. “The results were almost unanimous. Except for a few of those dreadfully incompetent volunteers, we decided this was far too risky.”
“Those ‘incompetent’ volunteers are the reason we’re allowed out here in the first place,” Isis said. She knew she had stretched the truth a little, but she was content with her response. She also knew Mercer couldn’t disagree.
His jaw tensed, then relaxed, an ongoing cycle of teeth-clenching and unclenching that told Isiseverything she needed to know.
He knows I’m right, but he still doesn’t like it.
“I still don’t like it,” Mercer said. His voice had dropped now to a conversational level. She nodded. “I don’t either, Mercer. You of all people should know that. How long have we been doing this?”
The question was meant as rhetorical, but Mercer seemed to be searching for an answer. “In local years?”
She waited.
“Twenty years since I signed on. Same as you.”
A thousand years, at least, on their home world.
“Twenty years. And during those twenty years, how often have I been inclined to do something rash?”
Isis let her shoulders slump, and her voice lost its edge. “Mercer, I do believe there’s scientific value here. We all do.”
She turned to the wall panel next to her and spoke a command. A voice echoed in response through speakers hidden in the walls and ceiling of the massive hallway. “Janus is currently in his quarters. Would you like me to alert him?” Mercer raised an eyebrow.
“No, thank you.” Isisturned back to Mercer. “You should discuss this with him. He’ll be at dinner, but I’d suggest bringing it up after, when you can catch him alone. You don’t want a repeat of this morning.”
Mercer nodded, then turned abruptly and began walking toward his room. Isis watched him for a moment, the broad-shouldered man receding around the slight bend in the hallway.
The hallway, stretching around the massive arc at the center of the ship, housed everything from the crew and scientists’ quarters to the research labs, medical facilities, and engineering and maintenance rooms. It was a giant circle, joining itself back at the front of the vessel at the bridge and main flight deck.
Rax and Galene would be there now, prepping the ship for its return voyage and setting the proper coordinates. Much of the flight was completely automated, thanks to the centralized intelligence of the ship's computer. Takeoff, flight prep, and landing, however, were usually considered good times to "check in" on control status, systems, and any troubleshooting needs the computer would display.
Isis walked toward the flight deck, opposite the direction of Mercer’s room. Her room was adjacent to Janus’, one of the perks of being second-in-command. The rooms shared a floor plan and each was twice the size of the other quarters. All of the rooms on the ship were equally well-appointed, providing their inhabitants with a full suite of entertainment, medical, and research tools for individual needs. They were comfortable, luxurious, and connected into the standardized communications array the ship used.
It was always surprising to Isishow little time they all spent in their rooms. They were certainly communal creatures, evidenced by the fact that almost all research was conducted in the multipurpose labs, meals were consumed in the the dining hallreas, and the preferred style of recreation among the team was an intellectual team game of some sort.
Isis and Janus were different, though. She’d known Janus longer than she’d known the rest of their small team, and his reputation for being a reclusive genius was not altogether untrue. He was much kinder than she’d originally expected, and he wasn’t one to shy away from interaction, but she felt he was happiest alone in his room, his own thoughts and the computer’s AI his only companionship.
Isis too was far more individualistic than her counterparts. Their society was massively social, grown over thousands of years to be networked, organized, and people-centric. Interstellar exploration wasn’t a very crowded line of work, and she found herself in the midst of fewer and fewer crew members and scientists with every departure.
She reached her room and the door immediately slid open, aware of her presence. The lights faded on, gently aligning themselves to her programmed preferences for this time of the day. The computer spoke with the same soft voice they were all familiar with. “Isis, would you like a preview of tonight’s scheduled activities?”
She shook her head.
The computer read the movement and processed her nonverbal cues. The lights dimmed slightly, and the wall at the corner of the room swiveled inward and revealed her casual wardrobe.
The small closet featured only two options: a casual, two piece outfit of a single gray color, and the field-ready version she was wearing now, with a hardened exterior and light, stretched fabric bottoms. This set was the clothing choice the crew wore most of the time, as it was more versatile for the myriad of tasks a scientist or engineer would need to perform during their working hours.
Isis stripped out of the fieldsuit and dressed in one of the casual sets. She placed the dirty clothes at the bottom of the wardrobe on a bench-like section that would recede into the wall, clean the uniform, and hang it to be worn again.
When she finished, she sat down on the bed in the center of the room.
“I am sensing unusual levels of stress,” the computer said. “A combination of 37 local minutes of REM sleep and three units of Beramin should be enough to —”
Isis waved her hand left to right across her chest and the computer immediately stopped.
“Thank you, but I’m fine,” she said. As someone who usually preferred solitude, it was always surprising to Isiswhen she felt herself longing for someone to talk with. It might be her nature to seek solace, but it was her species’ nature to seek camaraderie. This internal struggle was one she’d considered her entire life — what were the peculiar genetics that allowed an organism the complexity to battle with itself? To allow one to feel loneliness even in the midst of knowing that being alone was what made it truly happy?
The gene sequences that governed her own unique character began to spill into her mind. She’d memorized the general traits that differentiated her from everyone else long ago, a sort of homage to her passion for genetics.
But quickly the comforting, itemized data turned into a barrage of unwarranted, unexpected emotion.
The confrontation with Mercer, Janus’ quiet retreat to his room, the reaction from the volunteers, all of it. Isishad her own feelings on the matter, but it wasn’t her place to inject her own opinion into the mix. They looked to her for…
For what?
Janus was the team lead and the one most capable of making decisions. But even he turned to her, his second-in-command, for the difficult decisions.
They trusted her.
But did she trust herself?
How can readers find you on the Internet?
I’m easy to find – thankfully, “Nick Thacker” isn’t a common name. Google can get you most places, but I have a personal site (three free books available to download!) at nickthacker.com, a writing/self-publishing blog at writehacked.com, and an Amazon.com author page as well.
Thank you, Nick, for sharing your work with us.
Readers, here’s a link to the books. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.https://affiliate-program.amazon.com/gp/associates/network/build-links/individual/main.html?marketplace=amazon&searchSubcategory=all&fieldKeywords=Nick+Thacker&go.x=3&go.y=0&go=1&submit=1&selectedSearchIndex=books
Nick said: I’ll not only give away The Atlantis Deception, but I’ll give away The Depths, The Golden Crystal, and The Enigma Strain in ebook format. I can also offer The Depths and The Golden Crystal in professional audiobook format.
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (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, Nick. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.A lot. I get this question a lot, too, and I think that’s probably the best way to answer it. I’ve actually never been very good at “characters,” as I tend to be moved more toward plot and leave the characters struggling without me. However, I’ve been specifically on building more believable characters with my most recent books, and to do that I’ve been inserting a little bit of my personality into each of them. I’m not sure I’ve nailed it each time, but it’s fun trying to explore the particular aspects of “me” that gets into each of them. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?Hmm, wow. I don’t know. Probably more things than I’ll ever admit, though I’m not sure if the question wants me to include “stupidest” things as well… Once story my writer friend Will Flora likes to tell is about the time (in college, obviously) some friends of mine and I tried to hang a poker table from our dorm ceiling on a pulley system that elegantly descended when we wanted to play.
It didn’t… work.
When did you first discover that you were a writer?I hesitantly gave myself that label only after I finished my first book, The Golden Crystal. It wasn’t any good, hadn’t been edited (or rewritten), and generally lacked focus. I had a hard time believing that something like that could make me a writer.
But I eventually came around to the idea, as I kept blogging and teaching anyone who would listen that “you’re a writer if you write.” That was a good enough definition to give to them, so I realized it needed to be a good enough definition for me as well, or it was a double standard.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.I’m picky, but mostly because I know I only have a limited amount of time to read (I thought having a kid would allow me to read while changing diapers, feeding bottles, and while they slept. I was… wrong.). My favorite authors are James Rollins (shoutout Jim!), Matthew Reilly, Dan Brown, and Jeremy Robinson, as I like that particular blend of history/science fiction, worldwide adventure, and lots of nonstop action.
That said, I’ve been broadening my horizons quite a bit these last few months as I’ve been writing more sci-fi and techno thrillers, so I’ve been reading things like Leviathan Wakes, the Avagadro Corp thrillers, and some other related books that pop up as recommendations at Amazon.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?Margin is extremely important to me, and even though I’m never going to be perfect at keeping a good balance, I’ve gotten a lot better after I’ve started focusing and scheduling it. Seriously – scheduling things like fun, hanging out, and date night sounds like a no-brainer, but so many people just wait for “time.”
I’ll give you a hint: no one has time. You make time. If it’s important, make the time. People ask me all the time how I have time to write. My answer? No one does. I just chose to add it to my schedule late at night and sometimes early in the morning, and I’ve given up some other things I could be doing instead. There’s really no “magic secret” to it!
How do you choose your characters’ names?Good question! I am terrible with names. Often I use the first name that comes to mind, but sometimes that comes back to bite me. After I finished The Depths and my editor sent it back, she told me the last thing she wanted to change was “all the ‘J’ names.” I had named 90% of my characters a name that started with ‘J.’ She gave me a few alternate ideas (Jason became Mark, Jesse became Reese), and I used Scrivener’s built-in name generator to come up with the rest.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?I wrote a symphony when I was 17 – I don’t talk about it much because “writing symphonies as a child” rarely comes up in conversation.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?Probably a tortoise or a sea turtle. Since Finding Nemo is an accurate portrayal of the life of sea turtles, it seems like they have a pretty chill life. Tortoises are just awesome, and I can’t imagine being disappointed if my job was to “have to walk around slowly and sleep and eat a lot” my entire life.
What is your favorite food?Contrary to my answer above, it’s not grass or flowers. I like steak – medium-rare ribeye with a side of fully-loaded baked potato. And bacon. And carbohydrates.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?
Finishing the book. When I started The Golden Crystal, I got stuck in the middle and had no idea what to do to finish it. I took a multi-month hiatus and read as many books on outlining and planning a novel as I could find. I re-outlined the entire book, and tried to get as granular as possible using Dwight Swain’s “scenes and sequels” method (see Techniques of the Selling Writer), then tried again.
It wasn’t easy, but it was possible. I finished the first book and haven’t stopped since!
Tell us about the featured book.Amazon Publishing called me out the blue and asked me to write a book in A.G. Riddle’s Atlantis Origins world for the launch of his Kindle Worlds world. He’d had a lot of success with the three-book series, and I was flattered he’d recommended me, so I said yes. …the catch was that I had to finish the thing in a month. I hadn’t even finished reading Riddle’s second and third books, and I had to write, edit, and design the entire book. Long story short, I finished it and was extremely happy with how it turned out.
It’s been described as “Jurassic Parkin space,” which is certainly flattering but hard to live up to. I think it’s fun to read, it’s short, and Kindle Worlds has it priced at $1.99, so it’s easy to get started!
Please give us the first page of the book.Here’s the first chapter: The look on the man's face told her everything she needed to know. His eyebrows were creased in a dark, brooding sort of way, and his eyes were glassy. Aware, yet distant all at once, as if he'd just been given a death sentence.
And a death sentence, at least for their research funding, might be exactly what they would receive upon their arrival back home.
“What?” she asked him. “You were in the meeting, and you heard the results.”
“The results?” He shot back. “The results were almost unanimous. Except for a few of those dreadfully incompetent volunteers, we decided this was far too risky.”
“Those ‘incompetent’ volunteers are the reason we’re allowed out here in the first place,” Isis said. She knew she had stretched the truth a little, but she was content with her response. She also knew Mercer couldn’t disagree.
His jaw tensed, then relaxed, an ongoing cycle of teeth-clenching and unclenching that told Isiseverything she needed to know.
He knows I’m right, but he still doesn’t like it.
“I still don’t like it,” Mercer said. His voice had dropped now to a conversational level. She nodded. “I don’t either, Mercer. You of all people should know that. How long have we been doing this?”
The question was meant as rhetorical, but Mercer seemed to be searching for an answer. “In local years?”
She waited.
“Twenty years since I signed on. Same as you.”
A thousand years, at least, on their home world.
“Twenty years. And during those twenty years, how often have I been inclined to do something rash?”
Isis let her shoulders slump, and her voice lost its edge. “Mercer, I do believe there’s scientific value here. We all do.”
She turned to the wall panel next to her and spoke a command. A voice echoed in response through speakers hidden in the walls and ceiling of the massive hallway. “Janus is currently in his quarters. Would you like me to alert him?” Mercer raised an eyebrow.
“No, thank you.” Isisturned back to Mercer. “You should discuss this with him. He’ll be at dinner, but I’d suggest bringing it up after, when you can catch him alone. You don’t want a repeat of this morning.”
Mercer nodded, then turned abruptly and began walking toward his room. Isis watched him for a moment, the broad-shouldered man receding around the slight bend in the hallway.
The hallway, stretching around the massive arc at the center of the ship, housed everything from the crew and scientists’ quarters to the research labs, medical facilities, and engineering and maintenance rooms. It was a giant circle, joining itself back at the front of the vessel at the bridge and main flight deck.
Rax and Galene would be there now, prepping the ship for its return voyage and setting the proper coordinates. Much of the flight was completely automated, thanks to the centralized intelligence of the ship's computer. Takeoff, flight prep, and landing, however, were usually considered good times to "check in" on control status, systems, and any troubleshooting needs the computer would display.
Isis walked toward the flight deck, opposite the direction of Mercer’s room. Her room was adjacent to Janus’, one of the perks of being second-in-command. The rooms shared a floor plan and each was twice the size of the other quarters. All of the rooms on the ship were equally well-appointed, providing their inhabitants with a full suite of entertainment, medical, and research tools for individual needs. They were comfortable, luxurious, and connected into the standardized communications array the ship used.
It was always surprising to Isishow little time they all spent in their rooms. They were certainly communal creatures, evidenced by the fact that almost all research was conducted in the multipurpose labs, meals were consumed in the the dining hallreas, and the preferred style of recreation among the team was an intellectual team game of some sort.
Isis and Janus were different, though. She’d known Janus longer than she’d known the rest of their small team, and his reputation for being a reclusive genius was not altogether untrue. He was much kinder than she’d originally expected, and he wasn’t one to shy away from interaction, but she felt he was happiest alone in his room, his own thoughts and the computer’s AI his only companionship.
Isis too was far more individualistic than her counterparts. Their society was massively social, grown over thousands of years to be networked, organized, and people-centric. Interstellar exploration wasn’t a very crowded line of work, and she found herself in the midst of fewer and fewer crew members and scientists with every departure.
She reached her room and the door immediately slid open, aware of her presence. The lights faded on, gently aligning themselves to her programmed preferences for this time of the day. The computer spoke with the same soft voice they were all familiar with. “Isis, would you like a preview of tonight’s scheduled activities?”
She shook her head.
The computer read the movement and processed her nonverbal cues. The lights dimmed slightly, and the wall at the corner of the room swiveled inward and revealed her casual wardrobe.
The small closet featured only two options: a casual, two piece outfit of a single gray color, and the field-ready version she was wearing now, with a hardened exterior and light, stretched fabric bottoms. This set was the clothing choice the crew wore most of the time, as it was more versatile for the myriad of tasks a scientist or engineer would need to perform during their working hours.
Isis stripped out of the fieldsuit and dressed in one of the casual sets. She placed the dirty clothes at the bottom of the wardrobe on a bench-like section that would recede into the wall, clean the uniform, and hang it to be worn again.
When she finished, she sat down on the bed in the center of the room.
“I am sensing unusual levels of stress,” the computer said. “A combination of 37 local minutes of REM sleep and three units of Beramin should be enough to —”
Isis waved her hand left to right across her chest and the computer immediately stopped.
“Thank you, but I’m fine,” she said. As someone who usually preferred solitude, it was always surprising to Isiswhen she felt herself longing for someone to talk with. It might be her nature to seek solace, but it was her species’ nature to seek camaraderie. This internal struggle was one she’d considered her entire life — what were the peculiar genetics that allowed an organism the complexity to battle with itself? To allow one to feel loneliness even in the midst of knowing that being alone was what made it truly happy?
The gene sequences that governed her own unique character began to spill into her mind. She’d memorized the general traits that differentiated her from everyone else long ago, a sort of homage to her passion for genetics.
But quickly the comforting, itemized data turned into a barrage of unwarranted, unexpected emotion.
The confrontation with Mercer, Janus’ quiet retreat to his room, the reaction from the volunteers, all of it. Isishad her own feelings on the matter, but it wasn’t her place to inject her own opinion into the mix. They looked to her for…
For what?
Janus was the team lead and the one most capable of making decisions. But even he turned to her, his second-in-command, for the difficult decisions.
They trusted her.
But did she trust herself?
How can readers find you on the Internet?
I’m easy to find – thankfully, “Nick Thacker” isn’t a common name. Google can get you most places, but I have a personal site (three free books available to download!) at nickthacker.com, a writing/self-publishing blog at writehacked.com, and an Amazon.com author page as well.
Thank you, Nick, for sharing your work with us.
Readers, here’s a link to the books. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.https://affiliate-program.amazon.com/gp/associates/network/build-links/individual/main.html?marketplace=amazon&searchSubcategory=all&fieldKeywords=Nick+Thacker&go.x=3&go.y=0&go=1&submit=1&selectedSearchIndex=books
Nick said: I’ll not only give away The Atlantis Deception, but I’ll give away The Depths, The Golden Crystal, and The Enigma Strain in ebook format. I can also offer The Depths and The Golden Crystal in professional audiobook format.
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (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
June 25, 2015
UNLIKELY MERGER - Marji Laine - One free Book
Dear Readers, here’s another collection from Write Intgrity Press. They are always a fun read!
Bio: Marji Laine is a wife and homeschooling mom with teenage twins left in the nest. Having just released her debut novella Grime Beat, she spends her non-writing time transporting to and from volleyball, directing high school classes at a local coop, and leading the children’s music program at her church. From suburban Dallas, she loves to create scintillating suspense with a side of Texas sassy. She invites readers to unravel their inspiration, seeking a deeper knowledge of the Lord’s Great Mystery that invites us all.
Welcome back, Marji. I know that this is a collaboration. How did this story come about? I love answering that question. This is the third book in a series of stand-alone collaborations. The first, A Dozen Apologies, had a heroine who met with 12 different men. The readers chose the man they liked the best, and he won the girl. The 2nd place guy became the next book star and The Love Boat Bachelor was born. The hero was stuck on a single’s cruise with women constantly surrounding him, but he met a different special lady at each port of call. Again the readers decided on their favorite who ultimately married the hero. The 2nd place gal in that vote was my heroine, Mercy Lacewell. So this is her book,
Unlikely Merger
.
Did you find it easy to work together on it? You know, it’s really amazing how it all works together. I got to be on the inside a little more than normal because I needed to help with character continuity. But it amazed me how the authors grasped the concept and characters and did an outstanding job with their individual chapters. And with this book, we offered the chance for a new author to come on board and join us. Out of all the submissions, we actually chose two and those blend perfectly, just like the others. Seamless. If you didn’t know there were 10 authors, you’d never guess it on your own.
I just finished reading The Love Boat Bachelor, and it’s amazing how the stories blend together. How did collaborating with this team impact you? It’s inspiring to see how each of the authors dug into her chapter. In the book, Mercy visits a number of different businesses on behalf of her father’s company. The authors got to choose the businesses for their chapters and the places. Incredible! The diversity is amazing. And some of the businesses are downright genius!
I can hardly wait to read this new one. What is the hardest thing about writing as a team? Timing issues. The more people working on a project, the more schedules come into play. Other books were coming out, some authors were traveling or dealing with family issues. Sometimes I have trouble just scheduling lunch with a friend and there are only 2 of us. Compound that to 10 authors and add in editors as well and time becomes a huge issue. But happily, the book cranked off right on schedule!
What are you reading right now? I’m currently reading Beth Goddard’s latest, Backfire, but by the time you post this, I’ll have reviewed it at the Suspense Sisters review page. My next book might be Margaret Brownley’s Undercover Bride. That sounds like a fun one.
How did you choose your characters’ names? I really worked hard on Mercy’s name. I searched for a name that meant compassionate and found the name Dara, but I had a bit of a problem with that name because it is so like the heroine in A Dozen Apologies, Mara, who broke the hero’s heart. So my editor suggested Mercy, which also means compassionate. I loved the name!
Would you want to work on another book together? I always enjoy these collaborations. This time I’m getting to work with several whom I’ve worked with before: Jennifer Hallmark, Fay Lamb, Betty Owens, Phee Paradise, Pat Dyer, and I love working with Tracy Ruckman, editor at Write Integrity Press. I’m also delighted to be working with an online bud, Julie Arduini, and Carole Towriss, who is one of my critique partners. Our other two authors are excellent! Suzy Moore and Rachel Tear. I’m looking forward to getting to know them better. But I’d be thrilled to work with any/all of them again. This is a fun group!
What do you want to tell us about the book?
Well, during Mercy’s Caribbeancruise (The Love Boat Bachelor) she nurses her ailing father who is recuperating from a stroke. But
Unlikely Merger
finds him better, stronger, and back to working at his office.
No longer needed as her father’s nurse, Mercy Lacewell attempts to step into his shoes at his acquisitions firm. That means travel, engaging strangers, and making final decisions—nothing she feels equipped to do. If her best friend has her way, Mercy will simply marry one of the single, available men she meets, but they overwhelm her. So handsome and kind. And so many. Even if she felt obliged, how could she ever choose?
Should she shove all attraction aside and focus on her father’s business, or is God warming her heart with the possibility of forever?
Please give us the first page of the book. Lacewell Limited, Denver, ColoradoMercy Lacewell turned away from her computer’s flat-screen and faced the open doorway of her office. The squeak of her father’s wheelchair in the hallway was unmistakable. He lifted his hand as he rounded the entrance. “Darts or Tiddly-Winks?”
“Huh?” Had she heard him right?
His administrative assistant, Madeline Conroy, gave the door a shove with her foot as she followed him in. “See there, you’re confusing her.” She marched to Mercy’s desk and began setting her files and paperwork aside.
“What are you doing?” Seemed like Mercy never knew what her dad wanted from her nowadays. Taking on the position at Lacewell Limited when Daddy decided to return to work threw her into an unfamiliar environment, but at least Madeline came with the job. The petite lady practically ran the company by herself, and she’d been almost a mother to Mercy.
His blue eyes twinkled. “Thought I might do something for you.”
Oh, dear. The last time he said that, he wanted to go on a cruise to visit his friend in St. Maarten. Enjoyable as it was, she didn’t need another vacation, especially after only a week at her dad’s company. “Okay? What’s on your mind?” She stood. Her bangs flopped over her eyes, and she pushed them back, tucking the longest behind her ear.
He set a folded packet on her desk and scooted aside a penholder. Madeline unfolded the paper and spread it flat.
“A map?” Exactly what she feared. How could she leave again, now, when she was only starting to understand her new position?
“Not a simple map, sugar. All of these yellow marks”—he ran his hand over the map of the United States—”are potential additions to our company’s repertoire.”
So many places. “How do you choose where to go?”
He shrugged. “Going back to my original question. Darts or Tiddly-Winks?”
She rolled her eyes, and he chuckled.
Madeline laid a dime on Denver. “You won’t need to make any of the in-town visits. Your dad can take care of these places.”
Mercy stifled a groan. Not that she didn’t enjoy helping Dad, even during his travel. But she floundered right now, with no sense of direction for her life. And she’d finally experienced some success at this job. At least enough to wrap her mind around her new duties.
“Well?” Dad tilted his head to the side.
“Oh, you want me to choose the destination.” She picked up the dime. This wasn’t her preferred way of making a decision, but her dad had to do the actual evaluating.
“I thought you should.” He folded his hands in his lap. “Since you’re the one who’s going.”She flinched, and the dime toppled to the smooth carpet. Mercy retrieved it but couldn’t fathom what her father was thinking. She blinked and stared at the coin.
“Sorry.” Madeline straightened the map. “I couldn’t find a Tiddly-Wink, and I didn’t think you’d want to use a dart on your new desk.
“But …” Synapses slowed. Choosing the businesses for investment or purchase was the most crucial task that Dad had done. “I thought Uncle Thomas took care of that.” He had since Dad’s stroke.
“Tom’s retired, sugar. He’s been a great help this last year, but I don’t want to burden him.”
Mercy gave her head a shake. “So you want me to visit all these places?” Put her life on hold again?
Sounds interesting. Where can our readers find you on the Internet? I’m at MarjiLaine.comand on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Goodreads, and they can find me at my Amazon Author page as well.
Thank you, Marji, for sharing this new book with us.
Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
Bio: Marji Laine is a wife and homeschooling mom with teenage twins left in the nest. Having just released her debut novella Grime Beat, she spends her non-writing time transporting to and from volleyball, directing high school classes at a local coop, and leading the children’s music program at her church. From suburban Dallas, she loves to create scintillating suspense with a side of Texas sassy. She invites readers to unravel their inspiration, seeking a deeper knowledge of the Lord’s Great Mystery that invites us all.
Welcome back, Marji. I know that this is a collaboration. How did this story come about? I love answering that question. This is the third book in a series of stand-alone collaborations. The first, A Dozen Apologies, had a heroine who met with 12 different men. The readers chose the man they liked the best, and he won the girl. The 2nd place guy became the next book star and The Love Boat Bachelor was born. The hero was stuck on a single’s cruise with women constantly surrounding him, but he met a different special lady at each port of call. Again the readers decided on their favorite who ultimately married the hero. The 2nd place gal in that vote was my heroine, Mercy Lacewell. So this is her book,
Unlikely Merger
.Did you find it easy to work together on it? You know, it’s really amazing how it all works together. I got to be on the inside a little more than normal because I needed to help with character continuity. But it amazed me how the authors grasped the concept and characters and did an outstanding job with their individual chapters. And with this book, we offered the chance for a new author to come on board and join us. Out of all the submissions, we actually chose two and those blend perfectly, just like the others. Seamless. If you didn’t know there were 10 authors, you’d never guess it on your own.
I just finished reading The Love Boat Bachelor, and it’s amazing how the stories blend together. How did collaborating with this team impact you? It’s inspiring to see how each of the authors dug into her chapter. In the book, Mercy visits a number of different businesses on behalf of her father’s company. The authors got to choose the businesses for their chapters and the places. Incredible! The diversity is amazing. And some of the businesses are downright genius!
I can hardly wait to read this new one. What is the hardest thing about writing as a team? Timing issues. The more people working on a project, the more schedules come into play. Other books were coming out, some authors were traveling or dealing with family issues. Sometimes I have trouble just scheduling lunch with a friend and there are only 2 of us. Compound that to 10 authors and add in editors as well and time becomes a huge issue. But happily, the book cranked off right on schedule!
What are you reading right now? I’m currently reading Beth Goddard’s latest, Backfire, but by the time you post this, I’ll have reviewed it at the Suspense Sisters review page. My next book might be Margaret Brownley’s Undercover Bride. That sounds like a fun one.
How did you choose your characters’ names? I really worked hard on Mercy’s name. I searched for a name that meant compassionate and found the name Dara, but I had a bit of a problem with that name because it is so like the heroine in A Dozen Apologies, Mara, who broke the hero’s heart. So my editor suggested Mercy, which also means compassionate. I loved the name!
Would you want to work on another book together? I always enjoy these collaborations. This time I’m getting to work with several whom I’ve worked with before: Jennifer Hallmark, Fay Lamb, Betty Owens, Phee Paradise, Pat Dyer, and I love working with Tracy Ruckman, editor at Write Integrity Press. I’m also delighted to be working with an online bud, Julie Arduini, and Carole Towriss, who is one of my critique partners. Our other two authors are excellent! Suzy Moore and Rachel Tear. I’m looking forward to getting to know them better. But I’d be thrilled to work with any/all of them again. This is a fun group!
What do you want to tell us about the book?
Well, during Mercy’s Caribbeancruise (The Love Boat Bachelor) she nurses her ailing father who is recuperating from a stroke. But
Unlikely Merger
finds him better, stronger, and back to working at his office. No longer needed as her father’s nurse, Mercy Lacewell attempts to step into his shoes at his acquisitions firm. That means travel, engaging strangers, and making final decisions—nothing she feels equipped to do. If her best friend has her way, Mercy will simply marry one of the single, available men she meets, but they overwhelm her. So handsome and kind. And so many. Even if she felt obliged, how could she ever choose?
Should she shove all attraction aside and focus on her father’s business, or is God warming her heart with the possibility of forever?
Please give us the first page of the book. Lacewell Limited, Denver, ColoradoMercy Lacewell turned away from her computer’s flat-screen and faced the open doorway of her office. The squeak of her father’s wheelchair in the hallway was unmistakable. He lifted his hand as he rounded the entrance. “Darts or Tiddly-Winks?”
“Huh?” Had she heard him right?
His administrative assistant, Madeline Conroy, gave the door a shove with her foot as she followed him in. “See there, you’re confusing her.” She marched to Mercy’s desk and began setting her files and paperwork aside.
“What are you doing?” Seemed like Mercy never knew what her dad wanted from her nowadays. Taking on the position at Lacewell Limited when Daddy decided to return to work threw her into an unfamiliar environment, but at least Madeline came with the job. The petite lady practically ran the company by herself, and she’d been almost a mother to Mercy.
His blue eyes twinkled. “Thought I might do something for you.”
Oh, dear. The last time he said that, he wanted to go on a cruise to visit his friend in St. Maarten. Enjoyable as it was, she didn’t need another vacation, especially after only a week at her dad’s company. “Okay? What’s on your mind?” She stood. Her bangs flopped over her eyes, and she pushed them back, tucking the longest behind her ear.
He set a folded packet on her desk and scooted aside a penholder. Madeline unfolded the paper and spread it flat.
“A map?” Exactly what she feared. How could she leave again, now, when she was only starting to understand her new position?
“Not a simple map, sugar. All of these yellow marks”—he ran his hand over the map of the United States—”are potential additions to our company’s repertoire.”
So many places. “How do you choose where to go?”
He shrugged. “Going back to my original question. Darts or Tiddly-Winks?”
She rolled her eyes, and he chuckled.
Madeline laid a dime on Denver. “You won’t need to make any of the in-town visits. Your dad can take care of these places.”
Mercy stifled a groan. Not that she didn’t enjoy helping Dad, even during his travel. But she floundered right now, with no sense of direction for her life. And she’d finally experienced some success at this job. At least enough to wrap her mind around her new duties.
“Well?” Dad tilted his head to the side.
“Oh, you want me to choose the destination.” She picked up the dime. This wasn’t her preferred way of making a decision, but her dad had to do the actual evaluating.
“I thought you should.” He folded his hands in his lap. “Since you’re the one who’s going.”She flinched, and the dime toppled to the smooth carpet. Mercy retrieved it but couldn’t fathom what her father was thinking. She blinked and stared at the coin.
“Sorry.” Madeline straightened the map. “I couldn’t find a Tiddly-Wink, and I didn’t think you’d want to use a dart on your new desk.
“But …” Synapses slowed. Choosing the businesses for investment or purchase was the most crucial task that Dad had done. “I thought Uncle Thomas took care of that.” He had since Dad’s stroke.
“Tom’s retired, sugar. He’s been a great help this last year, but I don’t want to burden him.”
Mercy gave her head a shake. “So you want me to visit all these places?” Put her life on hold again?
Sounds interesting. Where can our readers find you on the Internet? I’m at MarjiLaine.comand on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Goodreads, and they can find me at my Amazon Author page as well.
Thank you, Marji, for sharing this new book with us.
Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (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
June 24, 2015
HUTTERITE DIARIES - Linda Maendel - One Free Book
Dear Readers, there is a lot of interest in the Amish and Mennonites right now. I knew both of these groups came from the historical group Anabaptists. That’s all I knew about. However, I met a couple of women who are German Baptists that also came from the Anabaptists. This book is memoir that gives us a peek into another group—the Hutterites.
Welcome, Linda. What would you like for our readers to know about you personally?I’ve lived on a Hutterite colony my entire life, and love it! When I’m not working in our school, I enjoy reading, writing, or spending time with my two nephews and niece. During the summer months, I also enjoy gardening. I have one flower garden in front of our house, and I also plant and tend the flowers in the community cemetery.
Tell us about your family.I have five sisters and one brother, and we all live on the same colony. My mom lives here too. My dad has passed away. While my immediate family is in the same colony, I have a host of uncles, aunts, and cousins in many other colonies all over Manitoba and in South Dakota as well.
Have you written other nonfiction books? I’ve written a German children’s book, Lindas glücklicher Tag, (Linda’s Happy Day). It’s about a childhood memory when my uncle made me a sled. My sister, Sonia illustrated it.
Do you have any other books in the works right now?Only in my dreams, at this point. Right now, I think it’s best for me to celebrate Hutterite Diaries , and see how that goes. If it does well, which is what I hope, I may consider writing another one. But at this point, I don’t know what that might be.
What kinds of hobbies and leisure activities do you enjoy?Besides reading and writing, I sometimes crochet and do a little bit of sewing. In the past I’ve also done some scrapbooking. I enjoy going for long walks, sometimes with a camera to capture some of the beautiful things in nature I happen to see.
Why did you write the featured book?I love to write and when Herald Press gave me the opportunity to be part of their Plainspoken Series, I grabbed it. There are very few books about Hutterites, written by Hutterites and I firmly believe that should change. For no one can tell our stories like we can. From what I’ve learned since my book got published, there are many people who’ve never heard, or know very little about Hutterites. People seem very interested in our communal way of life, and tell me they’re grateful that I’ve shared my stories with them.
I know my blog readers will be very interested, too. What do you want the reader to take away from the book?I want readers to get a glimpse of my Christian community. I hope my collection of stories does that; may they come away a little wiser in regards to their knowledge of Hutterites and that they enjoy reading my book.
That’s what all us authors hope that very same thing. Is there anything you’d like to tell my readers about you or your book?Since Hutterite Diaries has been released, it’s been gratifying to read many reviews, and have many others tell me verbally and via my blog how much they’ve enjoyed it. As much as I enjoyed the writing and revising stages, this part of the journey is definitely an added bonus. My sincere thanks to everyone who’s taken an interest in my book and my Hutterite life, and for taking time to share your thoughts with me.
One of the lovely surprises since my book’s release is the fact that it’s been on a bestseller list for two weeks straight now. June the 3rd, I had a launch at Grant Park McNally Robinson in Winnipeg, which resulted in Hutterite Diaries making their bestseller list the last two weeks. I knew there would be people interested in my book, but never dreamed of it making it on to any bestseller lists.
Where on the Internet can the readers find you?Twitter: @HuttWriteVoice and on my blog: http://hutt-writevoice.blogspot.com
Thank you so much for sharing this book with us, Linda.
Readers, here’s a link to the book. http://www.amazon.com/Hutterite-Diaries-Prairie-Community-Plainspoken/dp/0836199464/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1435195344&sr=8-1&keywords=hutterite+diaries&pebp=1435195353935&perid=1F5ESK1CBYGYPS3HDDPS
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (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, Linda. What would you like for our readers to know about you personally?I’ve lived on a Hutterite colony my entire life, and love it! When I’m not working in our school, I enjoy reading, writing, or spending time with my two nephews and niece. During the summer months, I also enjoy gardening. I have one flower garden in front of our house, and I also plant and tend the flowers in the community cemetery.Tell us about your family.I have five sisters and one brother, and we all live on the same colony. My mom lives here too. My dad has passed away. While my immediate family is in the same colony, I have a host of uncles, aunts, and cousins in many other colonies all over Manitoba and in South Dakota as well.
Have you written other nonfiction books? I’ve written a German children’s book, Lindas glücklicher Tag, (Linda’s Happy Day). It’s about a childhood memory when my uncle made me a sled. My sister, Sonia illustrated it.
Do you have any other books in the works right now?Only in my dreams, at this point. Right now, I think it’s best for me to celebrate Hutterite Diaries , and see how that goes. If it does well, which is what I hope, I may consider writing another one. But at this point, I don’t know what that might be.
What kinds of hobbies and leisure activities do you enjoy?Besides reading and writing, I sometimes crochet and do a little bit of sewing. In the past I’ve also done some scrapbooking. I enjoy going for long walks, sometimes with a camera to capture some of the beautiful things in nature I happen to see.
Why did you write the featured book?I love to write and when Herald Press gave me the opportunity to be part of their Plainspoken Series, I grabbed it. There are very few books about Hutterites, written by Hutterites and I firmly believe that should change. For no one can tell our stories like we can. From what I’ve learned since my book got published, there are many people who’ve never heard, or know very little about Hutterites. People seem very interested in our communal way of life, and tell me they’re grateful that I’ve shared my stories with them.
I know my blog readers will be very interested, too. What do you want the reader to take away from the book?I want readers to get a glimpse of my Christian community. I hope my collection of stories does that; may they come away a little wiser in regards to their knowledge of Hutterites and that they enjoy reading my book.
That’s what all us authors hope that very same thing. Is there anything you’d like to tell my readers about you or your book?Since Hutterite Diaries has been released, it’s been gratifying to read many reviews, and have many others tell me verbally and via my blog how much they’ve enjoyed it. As much as I enjoyed the writing and revising stages, this part of the journey is definitely an added bonus. My sincere thanks to everyone who’s taken an interest in my book and my Hutterite life, and for taking time to share your thoughts with me.
One of the lovely surprises since my book’s release is the fact that it’s been on a bestseller list for two weeks straight now. June the 3rd, I had a launch at Grant Park McNally Robinson in Winnipeg, which resulted in Hutterite Diaries making their bestseller list the last two weeks. I knew there would be people interested in my book, but never dreamed of it making it on to any bestseller lists.
Where on the Internet can the readers find you?Twitter: @HuttWriteVoice and on my blog: http://hutt-writevoice.blogspot.com
Thank you so much for sharing this book with us, Linda.
Readers, here’s a link to the book. http://www.amazon.com/Hutterite-Diaries-Prairie-Community-Plainspoken/dp/0836199464/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1435195344&sr=8-1&keywords=hutterite+diaries&pebp=1435195353935&perid=1F5ESK1CBYGYPS3HDDPS
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (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
June 22, 2015
WINNERS!!!!!
Brenda A (VA) is the winner of
Backfire
by Elizabeth Goddard.
Beth (IA) is the winner of Saving Mossy Point by Donna Winters.
Caryl (TX) is the winner of Hearts Made Whole by Jody Hedlund.
Rebecca (OR) is the winner of Every Bride Needs a Groom by Janice Thompson.
If you won a book and you like it, 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 of the book you won, so I won't have to look it up.
Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.
Beth (IA) is the winner of Saving Mossy Point by Donna Winters.
Caryl (TX) is the winner of Hearts Made Whole by Jody Hedlund.
Rebecca (OR) is the winner of Every Bride Needs a Groom by Janice Thompson.
If you won a book and you like it, 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 of the book you won, so I won't have to look it up.
Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.
WHERE DID I DISAPPEAR TO?
Dear Readers, I have not abandoned you.
I've had another serious problem with my knee that wasn't replaced. I've missed a week's worth of interviews. I will catch up as quickly as I can.
Now I will have that knee replaced, hopefully next week. I will work at trying not to miss any more posts. But, if I do, please bear with me.
I've had another serious problem with my knee that wasn't replaced. I've missed a week's worth of interviews. I will catch up as quickly as I can.
Now I will have that knee replaced, hopefully next week. I will work at trying not to miss any more posts. But, if I do, please bear with me.
