Lena Nelson Dooley's Blog, page 51
December 23, 2020
SOWN IN PEACE - Joy Avery Melville - One Free Book
Bio: As an award winning author, Joy Avery Melville’s heart’s desire is to be the author God has called her to be by sharing Him with readers in such a way they long to have a deeply committed personal relationship with Jesus Christ as Lord.
Fully intending to write Historical Romance—had in fact— she had no plans to deviate from that. God had something else in mind for that “call” He’d made on her life back in 1967. A mere eighth grader at the time, she had no clue about the topics she’d be drawn to write about.
Surrendering to the genre God placed on her heart has given Joy new insight into the hearts and lives of those who too often hurt in silence.
The settings of Joy’s books are near where she lives in Schoolcraft, Michigan, with her husband of nearly 47 years and their 2-year-old Yorkie, Is-A-Bella Bindi, (Is-a-beautiful little girl) who thinks she’s a much larger breed with tomboy tendencies.
Joy loves to hear from readers and will respond!
Welcome back, Joy. Why do you write the kind of books you do? Believe me when I tell you, IT WAS ALL GOD! I was happily writing Historical Romance, and he brought me to an abrupt halt with a newscast. He nudged, prodded, until I got the message that He wants me to write Christian Contemporary Women’s Fiction, and He's allowed me the joy of writing Romance into the stories.
Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life? When I married Jerry, my husband of 47 years. I don’t even think having children and grandchildren surpasses the marrying the man-of-my dreams, though they’ve all ranked pretty high.
How has being published changed your life? I have been so blessed by the FB messages, emails, and reviews on Amazon as to how my books have touched the hearts of readers. Lots have said how good a read they are, but the personal things that have been said have humbled me so much. A couple really had me in tears – one was after a gal had read Meant For Her, telling me that something that a character did due to his spiritual beliefs, touched her in such a way, she went to God about it. The second was from a younger woman who read Sown In Peace, who suffers with PTSD. She thanked me profusely for affirming all she’s gone and is going through with it. She has refused to loan her copy out, because she fears not getting it back, so she directs family and friends to the Amazon link, telling them they haveto read it.
God has affirmed His calling in so many ways, but those messages tell a story of their own.
What are you reading right now? I’ve put aside my writing, editing, mentoring until after the holidays, so I got out all of my Christmas books with the hope I can settle in my cozy library with a cup of hot cocoa and read, read, read!
What is your current work in progress? In January, I plan to pick up my Kept For Her (book 2 of the Intended For Her Series) and work on the self-edits. I had to write a Prologue, and change the first two chapters, because I had used that portion of the story when I revised Meant For Her – oops. I would love to have the story ready for a professional editor later in January and start working with her to get it set to publish in early Spring – LORD WILLING!
Of course, I’ll want to feature it on my blog when it releases. What would be your dream vacation? A cabin in the north woods (even if it’s the piney wood just to the north of our house on our own property – but a cabin would have to be built first – gulp-) I’d love to have the sound of a stream nearby, a fire in the fireplace, enough creature comforts that I wouldn’t have to use an outhouse or go without running water. Lol – I’d take my writing, knitting, some good books to read after putting in hours of writing/editing. Yes. I write/edit/revise on vacation, because I love, love, love what I do!
How do you choose your settings for each book? Since I write about places near where I live, the settings come fairly naturally to me. I do take author-license by putting houses where there may be none in order to fit the story, but in my Author’s Note, I make sure readers know that.
If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why? That’s hard to answer. Many come to mind... spiritual giants, authors who’ve really touched me with their stories, and I’m honestly not sure which one to choose. Gail Gaymer Martin (author) was used by God to touch my life at a very significant point, and I’d love to spend some more time with her – catching up and conversing about our writing. Franklin Graham would be a spiritual giant I’d love to spend an evening talking to... my husband would jump at that as well. The man has done so very many things to touch lives in so many different areas. His work with the men and women of the military with PTSD is phenomenal and gets very little deserved attention. I’d love to know how he knows which new thing to begin.
Probably the way you know which thing to begin. What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading? I touched on that question earlier when I said I’d take knitting on vacation. I also do crocheting and stamp art. I do very little of it now, because I’m so caught up in writing and revising my work. I do edit and mentor other writers, but I even get to do that at the level I used to.
What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it? Satan and his attempt to derail the books God has asked me to write. He didn’t use to bother me during the writing of my first books, but got irritated by the message in the novels as I got closer to publication with two of them. My health has been a big issue this last year, so it’s tough getting my brain to function on all cylinders. Overcoming the things has been through prayer and the many prayers of my Journeys To Joy Influencer Team. Those women are warriors. Sometimes, I have to set a timer, work until the timer goes off. Then I spend some time walking and praying and maybe getting a cup of coffee or tea before going back to my chair and resetting the timer. Perseverance is a word God whispered into my heart for 2019. I found out why before the year was up.
What advice would you give to a beginning author? I’d give the very same advice Ane Mulligan gave me back in 2012 or 13 when she said, “Joy, I sense you’re trying to hurry right to publication. Step back... Don’t rush the process. Enjoy the journey.” She went on to tell me, “Learn all you can about the writing industry, the guidelines about the best way to write, but listen to the inner voice, telling and showing you when you’ve done it well.”
Incidentally, Ane later brainstormed my tag and marketing brand with me one afternoon. Between the two of us, we came up with FICTIONAL JOURNEYS TO JOY BY JOY. Most of my novels begin with one or more characters having faced a detour on their personal journey to joy.
Tell us about the featured book. Sown In Peace is my first wounded warrior novel. Like my other stories, I researched and read, and listened to those who’ve been through the issue(s) in the novel. I wanted to speak to some who’d been there/done that in regards to war, and the Lord gifted me two amazing men. I thought I’d learn statistics, logistics, and those acronyms used by the military, but what I came away with was way beyond those things. Sown In Peace is about a female soldier who came home with PTSD and had no idea what really was going on in her head and heart. The story takes place in 2014-15, before many of the things were instituted that they have today to help our men and women coming back from war, having lived through much they’ve not been really prepared for. She has some interpersonal conflicts with her family, and that does not help her situation, but God had a plan for her life, as He does for everyone. She journeys through her issues to find joy.
Please give us the first page of the book.
“But the wisdom from above is first pure, then Peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruit, unwavering, without hypocrisy. And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” ~ James 3:17-18
Afganistan ~ Foward Operating Base (FOB)
~July 4, 2014
Heated words pinged against the outside wall of the port-a-john. Military Police Staff Sergeant Victoria Archer leaned, dipping her head, trying to catch the rapid torrent of dialogue. Why was the angry conversation in Dari at a U.S. FOB camp? Men’s voices. Too bad she was suffering brain-fog. If only she’d studied the local language more.
Spending a lot of time with children in the village at her last post, she’d traded some English for Dari. Ten-year-old Adiva had caught on fast, and one of her little sisters, Lina, hadn’t been far behind her. A grin tugged at her dust-crusted lips. Port-a-johns weren’t as soundproof as the latrines on stateside bases. Well, unless you don’t count the ones when in the field at For Hood. Different story with those. She’d have traded any one of them for her private bathroom back in Three Rivers, Michigan. That would have been nice.
Tori, back from a forty-eight-hour convoy mission, had hurried to the latrine area as soon as she could leave after the after action review, having obtained her post-mission assignment. The AAR had taken longer than normal with two jokers in their midst.
How can readers find you on the Internet?
joyjournaling@gmail.com(email)
https://twitter.com/Journeystojoy
https://www.joyaverymelville.com(website)
https://www.journeystojoy.net(blog)
https://mewe.com/i/joyaverymelville
http://facebook.com/joy.averymelville
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19615880.Joy_Avery_Melville
https://www.amazon.com/Joy-Avery-Melville/e/B07Y9BQLHX
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/joy-avery-melville
Thank you, Dear Friend, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. I’m eager to read it. I have a grandson who came home from Afghanistan suffering from PTSD.
Readers, here are links to the book.
https://amzn.to/3hfCufC - Paperback
https://amzn.to/3nXN0KU - Kindle
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, 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:
December 22, 2020
SABOTAGED CHRISTMAS - Carole Brown - One Free Book
Bio: Besides being a member and active participant of many writing groups, Carole Brown enjoys mentoring beginning writers. An author of ten books, she loves to weave suspense and tough topics into her books, along with a touch of romance and whimsy, and is always on the lookout for outstanding titles and catchy ideas. She and her husband reside in SE Ohio but have ministered and counseled nationally and internationally. She has found that the traveling and ministering has served her well in writing her novels. Together, they enjoy their grandsons, traveling, gardening, good food, the simple life, and did she mention their grandsons?
Welcome back, Carole. As an author, I know it takes a lot of people to birth each book. Who were the people involved in the birthing of this book, and what were their contributions? It all began when my first agent wanted me to write a few romance novels for a certain publisher. That's where it began, with that agent. I didn't get a contract then, but several years down the road...
I reworked the story into a romantic cozy mystery...and found my niche and a publisher.
My critique partner is always a big help. I hire a professional editor who tightens the story. Of course, there's the cover artist.
If you teach or speak. What’s coming up on your calendar? Right now, I have a marketing topic to present in March, 2021 online. With all going on in the world, physical events are put on hold. But I also stay busy promoting through various avenues with contacts, fans, etc.
If you had to completely start over in another place, where would you move, and why? Hmmm. Probably an island (or a warm beach) with a few people and a few stores to carry the necessary items I might want. Give me that, my family and some friends, and I'd be happy in paradise!
If you could only tell aspiring novelists one thing, what would it be? My favorite would be: Never, never, never quit. Learn, study, get over yourself, and keep going. Find YOUR journey. It won't be the same as others, probably, but it will be yours. Clasp it tight and write.
Tell us about the featured book.
Blurb: Toni DeLuca, the Italian owner of DeLuca Construction, finds herself confronted with doubts about her father and his possible deceptions—all because of the mysterious pink notes she's been receiving.
Relations with Perrin Douglas who has a troubling history—but the first man in years who's interested her—is building to a peak. Yet Perrin's own personal problems and his doubts about women and God, keep getting in the way.
Gossip, a Spanish proposal, an inheritance, and a sabotaged construction business may ruin Christmas for Toni's employees as well as her own happiness.
Will a mysterious person succeed in pulling off the biggest scam Appleton, West Virginia, has ever seen? And will this culprit destroy Toni's last chance at happiness with the man of her dreams?
Buy the book here:
Please give us the first page of the book.
Antonietta DeLuca’s glance probed the dark shadows in the front yard of the Wisecup job. The streetlight lit up the orange-leafed maple tree, setting it on fire. The tree limbs dipped and swayed to the whispering music from the autumn wind. Fallen leaves crackled to the left of the empty house she faced. Something moved, and Toni shifted to stare at the spot. With a screech, two cats shot past her and crossed the street, yowling like demons in the night. Hands shaking, Toni glared at the scattering offenders and leaned against the mailbox, dragging in deep breaths.
She shouldn’t have come by herself, but she’d never worried about that before. Her supervisor had begged her to avoid lonely places by herself. Yet she’d needed to do the final inspection of the repairs before signing off on one of their last big projects of the year. With Christmas coming and a long winter ahead, that meant money in her pocket and her employees’ pockets.
Drawing in another deep breath, she started up the sidewalk and pulled from her pocket the key to the house. The lock clicked, and a faint, far-off shuffle brushed against her senses. Head cocked, she listened. Had that sound come from inside the house? Her lips whispered a prayer even as she twisted the knob and gave the door the slightest push.
Down the long hallway a light bounced from one of the side rooms.
Bounced?
A candle? No, a flashlight. Someone was in this house.
Where can we find you on the Internet?
Personal blog: http://sunnebnkwrtr.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaroleBrown.author
FB Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/183457429657732/
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Carole-Brown/e/B00EZV4RFY/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1427898838&sr=8-1
Twitter: https://twitter.com/browncarole212
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/carole-brown
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/browncarole212/?hl=en
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/sunnywrtr/boards/
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5237997-carole-brown
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-brown-79b6951a/
Thank you, Carol, for sharing this Christmas book with my blog readers and me. I just love reading holiday stories.
Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, 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:
December 21, 2020
JESUS CAME FOR ME - Jared Kennedy - One Free Book
Bio: Jared Kennedy, MDiv, ThM, is the co-founder and managing editor of Gospel-Centered Family, a ministry that helps churches and families share Jesus with the next generation. He also serves as the Children’s and Family Ministry Strategist for the Sojourn Network, and is an adjunct professor at Boyce College.
He is the author of The Beginner’s Gospel Story Bible, Are You Close to God?, Jesus Rose for Me, Jesus Came for Me, and God Made Me for Worship. He has also helped to develop two VBS programs, Proof Pirates and Clap Your Hands, Stomp Your Feet.
Kennedy blogs regularly at Gospel Centered Family and contributes to The Gospel Coalition, ERLC and He Reads Truth. He and his wife, Megan, have three daughters.
Welcome, Jared. I'm happy to introduce you to my blog readers.
About the book: Every Christmas, we celebrate the coming of the Messiah, but what does that mean for the youngest members of the family? Jesus Came for Me: The True Story of Christmas by Jared Kennedy helps little ones learn about the birth of Christ in a personal, memorable way. Created for children ages two to five, this beautifully illustrated board book begins with the announcement of John the Baptist’s birth to Zechariah and ends with the visit of the wise men. They will learn that Jesus is always present, and he helps us believe and wait for him.
Q: Jesus Came for Me sets out to teach toddlers and preschoolers about the true story of Christmas. How much are children that young able to grasp the importance of Jesus as the promised Savior? You know, toddlers and young preschoolers are learning by rote and by recognition. Here’s what I mean by that. Little kids are learning to repeat back stories, verses, and biblical truth; sometimes they do that without a whole lot of thought about what the words and stories mean. But those basic concepts are foundational; learning these truths are essential for kids if they’re going to grow up to have a more mature faith later in life.
Think about this for a moment. Two-year-olds typically have a 200-word vocabulary while three-year-olds have a 1,500-word vocabulary. That’s 1,300 words in a year! Even if we’re faithfully learning the “word of the day” along with Alexa, adults might only learn 350 or so new words in a year. But our youngest kids are learning so many brand-new truths! So, when you read to your preschooler about basic Bible concepts—God’s promise, Jesus being both God and man, his miraculous birth and the angels’ announcement, or even the word, Christmas—they’re just learning those words and their significance for the first time. Later on, preschoolers will be able to recognize biblical concepts that have been taught before. And, by God’s grace, they’ll spend their whole lives learning to trust the God those stories point them to.
Q: Do you begin the retelling of the story on the night of his birth or do you tell more leading up and following his actual birth? The board book begins with the announcement of John the Baptist’s birth to Zechariah and ends with the visit of the wise men.
Q: How do you interject thoughts and questions into the book to make the Bible story more personal to the little readers? Each of the three stories that make up the book is accompanied by brightly colored illustrations by Trish Mahoney that both highlight the story and add fun interactive elements to keep even the youngest child’s attention. Each of the stories also ends with a question that parents and caregivers can use to further reinforce a key truth such as: “Have you ever had a wait a long time? Will you share the good news like the shepherds?”
I’d encourage parents to read the book slowly, to point out the facial expressions on the people’s faces, and talk with their children about how each person in the story reacted to the events of Christmas. Point out how the birth of Jesus in a Bethlehemstable and the announcement to poor shepherds isn’t what we’d expect when a king is born.
Q: Jesus Came for Me isn’t your only new release. Can you tell us a little about your other new book, God Made Me for Worship? God Made Me for Worship focuses on teaching kids about the key movements in a church worship gathering, including the call to worship, praise and adoration, confession, assurance, passing the peace, ministry of the Word and sacraments, and benediction and sending.
My goal with that book was to help parents help their kids understand why we’re intentional about worship, encouraging them to engage not just to manage behavior during a worship gathering, but to invite kids to respond to God along with the whole church body.
Q: How can my readers find you on the Internet? gospelcenteredfamily.com. I can also be found on Twitter (@jaredskennedy).
Thank you, Jared, for sharing this new book with my blog readers and me. It looks like a wonderful way to help children learn about God.
Readers, here’s a link to the book.
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, 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:
December 20, 2020
WINNERS!!!
IMPORTANT: Instructions for winners - When you send me the email, make sure your subject line says this: Winner - (book title) - (author's name) If you don't do this, your email could get lost in my hundreds of emails per day. I WILL SEARCH FOR POST TITLES STARTING THAT WAY .
Some people don't read the instructions of how to enter. Unfortunately, they don't have a chance to win. so next time you come and leave a comment, be sure to read all the instructions if you want a chance to win.
Wendy (NE) is the winner of Jessie's Hairy Christmas by Laura Domino.
Marie S. (TX) is the winner of Two AUTUMNS ONE Spring by Elizabeth Ann Boyles.
If you won a book and you like it, please consider giving the author the courtesy of writing a review on Goodreads, Amazon.com, Christianbooks.com, Barnes and Noble, or other Internet sites. Reviews are such a blessing to an author.
Also, tell your friends about the book you won ... 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 or audio book, just let me know what email address it should be sent to. Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.
December 17, 2020
A TEXAS MOON - Laura Kestner - One Free Book
Welcome back, Laura. Why do you write the kind of books you do? I want to write something suitable for any member of my family to read. Something entertaining and uplifting. Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life? I find it difficult to pick just one day. My wedding day, birth of my children, birth of grandchildren, seeing my name on the cover of a book, all rank right up there. I’m blessed and grateful.
I agree with those choices, but I can add birth of great-grandchildren. How has being published changed your life? I work longer hours, for less pay, than I did in my previous jobs (newspaper work), but I’m happier and more fulfilled.
What are you reading right now? His HolidayPrayer by Tina Radcliffe.
What is your current work in progress? I’m working on the fourth book in my current series (the first three were Remember Texas, A TexasPromise, and A TexasMoon). I’m also working on a cozy mystery, and I’m in the editing stage of a romantic suspense. Hope to finish all three in 2021.
What would be your dream vacation? Visiting England, Ireland, and Scotland.
How do you choose your settings for each book? So far, my books are all set in the tiny town of Moccasin Rock, Texas. The setting, and characters, were inspired, in part, by research I did for newspaper stories, particularly historical features. Small Texastowns are rich in history: gun-toting preachers who presented the gospel in brush arbors and tabernacles, train-robbing outlaws, etc. So, I asked myself two questions when I stumbled across something interesting: What if? and What Now? Then I let my imagination run wild.
If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why? I would enjoy a chance to spend time with a Texas Ranger, for research purposes.
What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading? Photography, genealogy, and visiting small town museums (a treasure trove of inspiration and information for an author). But my favorite pastime is spending time with my family.
What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it? I have a short attention span. I would love to say that I sit down at my computer and write a chapter, or even a scene, every morning at a specific time, but I’m easily distracted. I write in fits and spurts. I’m most productive when I don’t fight that. Some of my best scenes have come to me while washing dishes, or riding in the car, or trying to sleep. I’ve learned to keep notebooks and pens in every room of the house and in the car.
What advice would you give to a beginning author? Don’t quit. There’ll be days you want to, maybe days on end, but there truly is nothing like holding your first book in your hand. The hard work is worth it. Also, look for contests to enter in your genre. Judge commentary and critique can be so valuable.
Tell us about the featured book. When a medicine show stops near Moccasin Rock, Texas, life changes for Dr. Nathaniel Calhoun in a way that has nothing to do with elixirs and tonics, and everything to do with the arrest of a beautiful young woman named Lenore.
She’s a swindler, a pickpocket, and a part of his past he’d rather forget. Lenore Adams spent her life traveling across the south with a medicine show, dreaming of a home, family, and roots—and for a brief time after meeting Nathaniel—believing it was all possible. Lenore understands why he isn’t glad to see her in Moccasin Rock though. She once tricked him, robbed him, and wronged him in other ways he doesn’t even know about.
Now, Lenore longs to be the kind of woman Nathaniel wants…and will want to keep. But will he ever trust her? Forgive her?
They are both still struggling with just those questions when a tornado strikes Moccasin Rock and suddenly there’s no time to focus on regrets or second chances.
In addition to caring for the injured, mourning the dead, and helping rebuild the town, Lenore and Nathaniel must deal with an escaped outlaw, questions of faith…and friends who aren’t at all what they seem.
Please give us the first page of the book.
Moccasin Rock, Texas
April 1892
Nathaniel Calhoun dropped down on the side of his bed, yawned and closed his eyes.
He’d spent most of the night sewing up a man who’d picked a fight with a bull, and lost, but thankfully, would live to tell about it. Now all Nathaniel wanted was sleep. He leaned toward the bedside candle just as a sharp knock sounded at the back door.
“Come on, open up,” his brother called out. “I got a prisoner at the jail that needs doctoring.”
Nathaniel was up, into the kitchen, and throwing the door open while still pulling his clothes on. Buttoning his shirt, he tried to read the expression on Eli’s face.
“Saloon fight?”
“Headache.”
That was different.
Within minutes Nathaniel was fully dressed and following his brother out onto the street and into the jail, then nearly running him over when Eli stopped just inside the door.
Craning his neck to look past him, Nathaniel caught sight of a woman pushing open a cell door and slipping through. She froze when she saw Eli.
Raising her hands, she gave him a shaky smile. “Sheriff, I didn’t expect you back so soon.”
“And I didn’t expect you to make such a miraculous recovery while I was gone,” Eli said. He turned to Nathaniel. “Sorry, looks like I got you out of bed for nothing. The way this woman was carrying on I thought…”
Eli continued talking but Nathaniel was no longer listening. He was looking. And not believing his eyes. The woman wore a resigned expression when addressing his brother, now she was gazing at Nathaniel, wide-eyed and fearful.
And she should be afraid.
Eli glanced back and forth between them. “Everything okay?”
Was it? Nathaniel couldn’t answer that question.
“Do you know her?” Eli said.
And he didn’t want to answer that one.
How can readers find you on the Internet?
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lauraconnerkestner/
On Twitter: @LauraConnerKest
My website: lauraconnerkestner.com
Thank you, Laura, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. I will be reading it soon after the holidays.
Readers, here are links to the book.
https://amzn.to/3r8ZelU - Paperback
https://amzn.to/34oPw5r - Kindle
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, 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:
December 15, 2020
THE BILLIONAIRE'S CHRISTMAS WISH - Laura Haley-McNeil - One Free Book
Welcome, Laura. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. I’m sure there’s something about myself in my characters. After all, I know myself best of all, but I try to write my characters bold and fearless, which doesn’t always apply to me. Though they are compassionate, which I hope that I always am. We’re always faced with challenges in life, which are the challenges I want my characters to face, and even though the consequences won’t always be favorable, we want to do what is right. Knowing what we want and knowing what we should do can always make for an interesting conflict. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? I’m thinking about this question. Quirky may be normal for me.
When did you first discover that you were a writer? For as long as I can remember, I have written. I took creative writing in high school and college. It was a rewarding experience to step into different worlds and create different characters, create different situations and work with the characters as they faced difficulty and decisions that would change their lives. The imagination is a wonderful place to be and when I can take others with me, that’s the most rewarding.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. If the book is well written, most subject matter appeals to me. I wouldn’t consider myself a fan of science fiction or fantasy, but who doesn’t love books by Isaac Asimov and J. R. R. Tolkien? I’m also a huge fan of biographies and love it when an author can portray the individual as someone who was a living human being who faced adversity and was a better person for it.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? It’s very kind of you to assume I’ve kept my sanity. Others may disagree. Thankfully, my faith in God helps so that throughout my day I turn to Him to freely receive His love, peace, and mercy. I can control what happens in my books, but life is different. There is much out of my control, and perhaps accepting that helps. I focus on what I want to do and how I want to do it, but if my plans get sidetracked, I find another way to accomplish what I want. The mind is an amazing thing in that it consumes information then works with that to create solutions. Thankfully we are blessed with this amazing part of our bodies that doesn’t seem to understand defeat only how to make things work.
How do you choose your characters’ names? When I come across an interesting name, I make a note of it, but I have to careful that I use names that won’t pull readers out of a story. I don’t want them stumbling over pronunciations. I say the first and last names aloud to make sure they sound good together, and I make sure they fit well with the names of other characters in the book. I also look for the names on the internet and make sure it doesn’t belong to someone well-known for any reason.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? I don’t know if that I’m proud of something or that I’m amazed I accomplished something. When I finished my first book, I was amazed. It took me years to write it and every day I prayed God would give me the strength to persevere. Mercifully, He did. Now I’m much more confident that when I start a book, I’ll finish it.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? I’m grateful God thought it better that I be human rather than an animal, but if I were an animal, I’d want to be something unique, unique to me anyway, like maybe a land-based, herbivorous dinosaur, because I don’t want to be an animal that would need to take another animal’s life to survive, but I’d be big and happy like in a Disney animated feature film. I hope anyway.
What is your favorite food? Tough choice here, because food is such wonderful thing and I’m blessed to live in a country that has plenty of everything. My food at any moment depends on my mood, so it can change at a moment’s notice. I do prefer foods that are salty and fried, the bane of my existence, so right now I’d be happy with a bag of sour cream and chive chips, but I have moments when a slice of chocolate cake layered with rich creamy frosting would be absolutely divine. Anybody else feel the need to start scrounging through the kitchen cupboards?
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? I guess I touched on this earlier, but I needed the confidence that I had the strength to finish a book. I’m amazed when someone tells me reading a book is the same as writing a book. I wish! There’s so much planning that goes into a book. I make notes and outlines, but my characters don’t always pay attention to what I’ve planned for them and take detours that lead to an ending I’d never thought of. That solution oriented mind that I mentioned earlier at work again. Sometimes I’ll think of something that needs to be in the book and write toward that ending, but if I’ve already written the beginning, I have to go back and put in the clues so the reader understands character motivations. I once heard someone say it’s like juggling which is exactly how I feel when I’m writing. The book needs the appropriate beginning. The characters have to grow and learn. And the reader needs to turn that last page and feel that her time was well spent. Sometimes I get a little anxious when I finally publish a book, but a reader’s quick note to let me know how much she enjoyed the book makes it all worthwhile.
Tell us about the featured book. The Billionaire’s Christmas Wish is Book 2 of the Christmas Billionaire Series. This book took me by surprise because River Jackson is a professional quarterback, and I don’t even watch football. That’s where an online critique group comes in handy because authors who are avid football fans gave me very good advice. Soledad was a character I’d wanted to write about because she isn’t American and came to this country because she’d lost everything in her own country. Dealing with secrets from their pasts, love was the last thing Riverand Soledad had on their minds, but love is full of surprises. Please give us the first page of the book. River Jackson stood on the sidewalk and stared at the old Denverschoolhouse. The three story building with its darkened windows looked like a multi-eyed creature staring back at him. A string of Christmas lights framed the entrance doors. Someone had attempted to bring this relic some holiday spirit.
He dragged fingers through his hair and glanced around The Grid neighborhood—tiny brick houses, some trimmed with Christmas lights, some with Christmas trees in the front windows. Most of the homes looked older than the schoolhouse, which had to be ancient.
Quiet fell over the area. Probably most of the neighbors were at work, but if anyone were home, would they wonder why the Denver Flyers’ starting quarterback was standing in front of the old schoolhouse? More likely they wouldn’t notice, because he wouldn’t stay long.
Looking back at the building, he wondered about the woman he’d meet—Mrs. Soledad Marcos. Coach Vato Diaz, the Flyers’ head coach, had told him she ran a learning center for the neighborhood children. Though the program focused on academics, Mrs. Marcos wanted a well-rounded curriculum that included physical activities and had emailed Denverteams asking if they could donate used sports equipment.
River heard the prep school he’d attended would donate their old uniforms, so River volunteered to deliver the equipment to Mrs. Marcos’ school. Since injuring his shoulder, he had a lot of free time, and he had an hour to kill before he met with Morris, his agent.
He released a rough exhale. Climbing the steps, he stood in front of the double oak doors and stared at the bronze handles. Should he knock? Coach had told him Mrs. Marcos lived at the school. How did anyone live in a schoolhouse?
How can readers find you on the Internet? I love it when readers contact me and I answer every email and post. You can find me at the following sites:
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Thank you for the lovely visit. I’m so glad to spend time with you and get to know your followers.
Have a wonderful and blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Thank you, Laura, for sharing your book with my blog readers and me. I’ve received my copy, and it is on top of my to-be-read pile.
Readers, here are links to the book.
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
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December 14, 2020
THE PROMISE KEEPER - Sherri Stewart - One Free Book
Welcome, Sherri. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. “Write what you know,” is a common theme for writers. Of course, I know myself best, having lived with myself for more years than I’d care to mention. Often the conflicts dealt with in my stories are ones that I’ve dealt with. In my latest book,
The Promise Keeper
, Meadow deals with guilt over her last words to her father. That happened to me. Meadow was a principal as was I. I’d be interested in knowing if other authors write about themselves.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? There are so many things I could write about. How about the fact that I spend an hour every day learning to speak Welsh, which is a difficult language, and I’ll probably never use it?
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. I’m in a book club that meets monthly, and we try to read broadly, which I really appreciate. Last month we read, Travels with Charlie, by Steinbeck, and this month we’re reading Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston. However, I draw the line at erotica, the occult, and gore. And I’ve thrown away more than a few books after reading a chapter or two.
I’m with you on that. Why continue to read a book that isn’t very good when there are so many really good ones out there to read? How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? I don’t think we live in a run, run, run world, at least not at the moment with COVID. The question now is how do we keep our sanity in a stay-at-home world away from our families and friends. Like most writers, I’m an introvert, so I’m not as bothered by isolation as some people are. Yet I keep my sanity by reading the Bible every morning, keeping a journal, and memorizing Psalms. I’ve memorized three Psalms and I’m on my fourth since March when COVID started.
I’m actually an extrovert, so I really like being with people. But in this time of isolation, I too rely on the Lord. How do you choose your characters’ names? Often I name my characters after family members. In my next-to-be-released book in February, A Friend in High Places, all the characters are named after my favorite cousin’s family. I had to change around a few names when I realized the main character was falling in love with a guy with her brother’s name.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? The hardest thing I ever did was take the CaliforniaBar exam. I was in my late fifties, working full time as a high school teacher and studying law at night and on weekends, and I didn’t even live in California. I only passed it because I begged God, and He probably got tired of listening to me.
Tell us about the featured book. Meadow meets Jonathan by chance when they end up with the same seat ticket to an Eagles’ concert in London’s Wembley Stadium. By the end of the evening, they both are smitten, and Jonathan believes that their meeting each other is more than mere coincidence. It’s God’s providence that’s brought them together. How else could two Americans share the same ticket?
Although Meadow would like to believe that God has brought them together, she’s not so sure. She’s leaving for Walesto visit the castles the next morning with other summer school students from Kings College. If Jonathan is right about providence, he should be able to find her with little help. Even so, Meadow will be returning to Atlantato finish her last year of college, and Jonathan will be heading back to law school in New York.
They promise to keep in touch. Jonathan takes it a step further. He suggests that they meet at Cardiff Castleat Christmas in two years as long as they aren’t in another relationship at that time. Will Jonathan keep his promise? Meadow wants to believe he will, but her father never kept his promise to be there for the family, so her trust level is low. If you enjoyed Serendipity and Sleepless in Seattle, The Promise Keeper is the book for you.
Please give us the first page of the book.
August 23, 2010
“Sorry,” Meadow Spencer said for the twentieth time. She maneuvered around another pair of knees to her seat, which appeared to be in the center of the row. There was no way she was going to look down, having only been able to stretch her budget to buy a nosebleed seat. One glimpse at the stage before she reached her seat, and she’d suffer more than a nosebleed.
Seeing the Eagles at Wembley stadium in London made her feel a kinship with the American band. Meadow had bought the ticket on a whim but couldn’t convince anyone else in her dorm at Kings College to go with her, so she had to go by herself. Who goes to a concert by themselves? It was like going to a movie alone. She’d done that a few times. Difficult to sit there alone with the lights still up, so she always brought a book to read, but she’d look ridiculous reading a book up here.
Meadow kept her eyes alert for seat number 119, but each pair of knees she knocked against concealed the numbers, so she searched ahead for the empty seat. The place was packed. When she wasn’t bumping and apologizing, the red bag holding her sweater banged into shoulders and even a belly or two. Finally she almost reached the row’s center and glanced ahead, but the seat was filled. No, had she wasted this effort on the wrong row, the wrong section? It figured, she usually did things wrong the first time around.
A guy about her age with black hornrims—the cool kind—sat in 119. Tousled dark hair, probably the result of the London August wind, but cute nonetheless, and the longest jeaned legs ever. At least she didn’t have to climb over them. He glanced up and tried unsuccessfully to move his legs to the side.
“I believe that’s my seat.” Meadow held out the ticket. Luckily, the warm-up band was playing so he’d have time to find his seat. Who crashes the nosebleed section anyway?
Motions from the row behind to stop blocking their view made her kneel down.
The guy glanced up at her and she locked into the bluest eyes. “Let me see that,” he said. American accent. Hm. “119. Block 501 Row 33 Seat 119. Maybe I picked the wrong row.” He fumbled in his back pocket, took out his own ticket, and compared the two. “Hm. Appears we have the same ticket. Wonder how that happened.” He looked up at her, handed her back the ticket, then stood. “You sit here. I’ll find another seat. Sorry about this.”
“No,” she said. “Check the date on your ticket stub. The Eagles are performing tomorrow night as well.” She glanced down at hers. “Mine’s tonight.”
“As is mine.”
“Sit down,” somebody bellowed from above and behind.
The guy gestured toward the seat, then they maneuvered around each other’s waists. The heat in her face deepened, more from the ruckus she was causing than the energy from climbing to this section.
How can readers find you on the Internet? I would love for you to subscribe to my monthly newsletter. It’s all about food, faith, field trips, and fun. http://eepurl.com/gZ-mv9
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Thank you, Sherri, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. I’m eager to read it.
Readers, here are links to the book.
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
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December 13, 2020
WINNERS!!!
IMPORTANT: Instructions for winners - When you send me the email, make sure your subject line says this: Winner - (book title) - (author's name) If you don't do this, your email could get lost in my hundreds of emails per day. I WILL SEARCH FOR POST TITLES STARTING THAT WAY .
Some people don't read the instructions of how to enter. Unfortunately, they don't have a chance to win. so next time you come and leave a comment, be sure to read all the instructions if you want a chance to win.
Pam (OH) is the winner of Melodies of Christmas Love by Dawn Kinzer + other authors.
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December 10, 2020
Two AUTUMNS One SPRING - Elizabeth Ann Boyles - One Free Book
Welcome back, Elizabeth. God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon? From January, I will take a break from teaching a college course. This should allow more time for creating stories and for adding posts to my website. I’m looking forward to having blocks of uninterrupted time for writing. That will be wonderful. Tell us a little about your family. My husband of fifty years passed away in March. He left a huge hole, but I am thankful he is with our Savior and that I will see him again. We have two grown children and three grandsons. Our son and grandsons live close by, and we often get together on Sundays. All three grandsons have been involved in music, so I’ve enjoyed seeing them in concerts. Our daughter, whom I love to visit, lives in Colorado Springs.
Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how? For many years, I read primarily Christian biographies and autobiographies. I still love the true accounts, but I also thoroughly enjoy well-written Christian fiction and general market best sellers. I began reading fiction when I started writing fiction.
What are you working on right now? I’ve started a story about three young people marooned on an uninhabited island with a pirate. The end of the story will connect with the characters in Two Autumns, One Spring.
I’ll be eager to feature that on my blog, too. What outside interests do you have? I’ve been enjoying getting to know students from the U.S.and from many different countries while teaching a course called Developing the Christian Mind at Dallas Baptist University. I’m thankful for my church and the ladies’ Bible study. Much to my amazement, when we moved three years ago, we bought a house next door to a fine couple who host a writing critique group, so I’m an eager participant in the group.
How do you choose your settings for each book? The settings all center on the fascinating country of Japan. The first book includes scenes in the U.S.and Shanghai as well because the male protagonist is journeying into the Far East. My current work-in-progress is set on an island close enough to Japan for the characters’ ship to have been blown there from the Okinawa area.
If you could spend an evening with one historical person, who would it be and why? Outside of the awesome people found in the Bible, I’d choose my great-great uncle to hear about his real life as consul in Nagasaki.
What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels? I wish I’d been told to read books on the craft of writing fiction. Academic writing and fiction are totally different. When I attended my first critique meeting, the members said my story’s first chapter sounded like a history book, which they politely hinted was pretty boring.
What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now? I’m realizing more and more the importance of focusing on God, not the loss of my husband, problems, or wrong desires. He is teaching me to trust His presence in my daily life.
What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful? Learn as much as you can about the craft of writing fiction. Write about a subject that you are passionate about. Put words on the page and persevere so that you will actually finish writing a story.
Very good advice. Tell us about the featured book. Of the three stories in the Dragonfly Trilogy,
Two Autumns, One Spring
is the one I feel most passionate about. While I was working on the story, the movie, Silence, premiered. The film’s portrayal of God’s “silence” during the persecution of Japanese Christians distressed me. In
Two Autumns, One Spring
, I took delight in demonstrating God’s reality in the direst of circumstances. In order not to spoil previous stories in the series, I’ll just hint at what happens. A mother-in-law tries to end the marriage of two people deeply in love. A new Christian faces conflicts with the Japanese traditional beliefs, and a bitter official seeks revenge. How can readers find you on the Internet?
Please visit my website: https://elizabethannboyles.com.
Also I have an author page at www.facebook.com/elizabethannboyles.
Thank you, Elizabeth, for sharing all three books in this series on my blog. Your writing has a sense of authenticity, and the characters are so well-developed. I know my blog readers have enjoyed hearing about each book.
Readers, here are links to the book.
https://amzn.to/33YEtzK - Paperback
https://amzn.to/373wbbI - Kindle
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, 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
December 8, 2020
THE ESCAPE - Lisa Harris - One Free Book
Welcome back, Lisa. It’s always such a joy to feature you on my blog. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. I don’t purposely write any of myself into my stories, but that said, I think it is inevitable to a degree. JFor example, sometimes I find the spiritual thread my characters wrestle with to be my own search. And I’m sure there are other instances that I don’t even see, as my mother has mentioned it a time or two!
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? I don’t know if this is the quirkiest, but I have this quirky thing about eating peanut butter and jelly. Please do not get any peanut butter in the jelly jar! You have to use separate utensils.
I’m like you. I use a table knife for the peanut butter and a spoon for the jelly. When did you first discover that you were a writer? I’ve wanted to write stories for as long as I remember. My mom talks about dictating my stories before I knew how to write. Stories and characters have always been running around in my mind.
Isn’t that fun? Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. I read primarily romantic suspense, historicals, medical thrillers, internationally set stories, and mysteries.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? It’s hard, especially this year. I’ve spent a lot of time in praise and worship and just letting Him cover me with His peace. On the positive side, I think this year has helped us all realize what is really important in life. We’ve been forced to slow down and be appreciative of the little things.
How do you choose your characters’ names? I have a list of hero/heroine names I’ve used before so I make sure I don’t use them again. I jot downs names I hear that I like and then see what story they fit into. I have to have the names nailed down before I start writing, and I’m not sure how, but when it’s the right name, it just clicks!
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? Writing accolades are temporary, and I’ve realized over the years that I want to hold instead onto what’s eternal. I was reminded of this again over Thanksgiving. When the quarantine started and I had my kids with me, we started a thankful jar. We read through them after Thanksgiving dinner and the repeated theme was thankfulness for our family. Despite all the ups and downs, I’m so grateful for my family. We’re not perfect, but we love each other and that’s such a blessing.
This pandemic has made most of us realize what’s really important and Who we need to put all trust in. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? I think a cat. They just lounge around, eat, and purr. J Sounds perfect to me!
What is your favorite food? Probably TexMex.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? I think it would be fear. Afraid to put myself out there. Afraid of rejection and bad reviews. Putting out a story is scary. You want people to love it, but there will always be someone who doesn’t. You have to focus on putting out there what God puts on your heart as you continue to learn to write the best story you can.
Tell us about the featured book? I’m having so much fun with this series! The Escape is book one of my new US Marshal series. Deputy US Marshals Madison James and Jonas Quinn are thrust into a high-profile case when they are called on to transport two prisoners across the country on a private plane. But when the plane experiences engine trouble en route from the Pacific Northwest to Colorado, the pilots crash-land the aircraft deep in the heart of the sprawling Salmon-Challis National Forest.
When Madison and Jonas regain consciousness, they find both pilots and one prisoner dead—and one fugitive on the run. They'll have to negotiate the rugged and remote backcountry through Idaho, Wyoming, and Coloradowhile tracking a murderer who is desperate to disappear—and will do anything to stop them.
Please give us the first page of the book.
There is a razor-thin edge between justice and revenge, where the two easily blur if left unchecked. Five years after her husband’s murder, Madison James was still trying to discover which side of the line she was on—though maybe it didn’t matter anymore. Nothing she did was going to bring Luke back.
Her pulse raced as she sprinted the final dozen yards of her morning run, needing the release of endorphins to pick up her mood and get her through the day. At least she had the weather on her side. After weeks of spring rains, typical for the Pacific Northwest, the sun was finally out, showing off blue skies and a stunning view of Mount Rainierin the distance. Spring had also brought with it the bright yellow blooms of the Oregon grape shrubs, planted widely throughout Seattle, along with colorful wild currants.
You couldn’t buy that kind of therapy.
Nearing the end of the trail, she slowed down and grabbed her water bottle out of her waist pack. Seconds later, her sister, Danielle, stopped beside her and leaned over, hands on her thighs, as she caught her breath.
How can readers find you on the Internet?
You can visit my website, www.lisaharriswrites.com or find me on facebook https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLisaHarris
Thanks so much for having me on your blog, Lena!!
Lisa, I love sharing your wonderful books with my readers, and they love them, too.
Readers, here are links to the book.
- Amazon paperbackThe Escape (US Marshals Book 1)[image error] - KindleThe Escape: US Marshalls, Book 1 - [image error]AudioLeave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, 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:
