Lena Nelson Dooley's Blog, page 71

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.

Linda (CA) is the winner of  Joy Express   by Jody Day.

Wendy (NE) is the winner of  Courtships and Carriages   by Janet Syas Nitsick.

Our Army of Six (KS) is the winner of  The Major's Daughter   by Regina Jennings.

Melanie (TX) is the winner of  Play Me Back Home in Texas   by Connie Lewis Leonard.

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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.

CHRISTMAS WITH A MOUNTAIN MAN - Ellie Hall - One Free Ebook

Welcome, Ellie. How much of yourself do you write into your characters?
It’s hard to disconnect my experiences and worldview from the characters that I write, but I do my best to create original and unique protagonists (and antagonists) as much as possible. 
But there is definitely some of “me” that trickles in there … My love for dogs, for instance, my gratitude for the military and first responders, and my faith.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?This is probably the best question I’ve ever been asked in an interview. The quirkiest thing I’ve ever done is almost twenty years ago I was pregnant with my first child. My husband and I wanted to go camping, knowing we probably wouldn’t be able to do so for quite some time. We got all our gear together and set out. Forgetting that it was a holiday weekend, all the sites at our favorite campground were booked. However, to our surprise, there was a vacancy at a nearby hotel. We got a room, but my husband was disappointed we didn’t get to camp. Well, I set up the tent, in the room, fastening the ropes to the furniture and doing my best to “recreate” a camp-like atmosphere with the windows open, etc. Suffice it to say, it was memorable!
When did you first discover that you were a writer?I started writing around 2007, but I didn’t feel like a “real” writer until I completed my first full-length manuscript, which was probably around 2011. Before that, I was dabbling and not dedicating, but that’s just my personal definition. At the end of the day, if you write, you’re a writer. 
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.I read everything from nonfiction (self-improvement types of books and personal finance for example) to young adult fantasy, contemporary, and of course, my favorite, sweet romance!
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? I’m not entirely sure that I do keep my sanity. I’ve found it really important to get clear on my daily priorities, which start with prayer, nutrition, exercise, and hydration. After that, I have a list of what I need to do that day. 
I treat writing like I would any other job. I clock in around 8 AM every morning, write at least until lunchtime. Then in the afternoon I’ll write more or do “administrative” tasks before clocking out around 3 pm. Within that timeframe, I mute all distractions—tough when working from home, but necessary. 
Another way I think about it is this: my readers will be a lot happier if I am writing and publishing rather than getting distracted by the frenetic pace of modern life. 
On top of that, of course, there’s family life! So yes, it can be tricky!
How do you choose your characters’ names? Carefully! It can be hard because many names have associations, but I try to be unique or give the character a name with meaning. For instance, Rocky, in Christmas with a Mountain Man has a rocky past. Frankie aka Francesca was named in honor of her grandfather (whose past plays a role in her present life) and she has 6 brothers so she can be a bit of a tomboy. 
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? My proudest accomplishment is definitely my family. I had a difficult childhood and my husband and children bring me great joy (yes, even amidst the teenage years). I always think about how I want to look back on things so that helps make the best of our time together in the present.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? Ooh! Tough call. I think I’d be a dog. I adore them! 
What is your favorite food?Do I have to pick one? Ha ha. Okay fine ;-)  If I have to pick one main course it would probably be pizza and one dessert it would be cookies. Chocolate chip is my favorite! The bigger the better!
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? For years, I wrote whatever struck my fancy or what I thought was the best expression of my creativity. While I still do that to a degree, I realize now what I love most about stories is when they hit certain beats — in many ways, this is writing to market. For example, when the main characters have objections for getting together, turning points, and the dark moment before they get their happily ever after. When stories are successful in this, I walk away feeling satisfied so I do my best to make sure I include them in my own work.
Tell us about the featured book.When I’m writing, every “book baby” is my favorite, but Christmas with a Mountain Man has a special place in my heart for numerous reasons. It’s the final chapter in the Hawkins Brothers Romance series (though readers have said they can stand alone). Also, there’s some major hate to love dynamic going on, which I really enjoy! Both characters experience a transformation and the backdrop is Christmas and New Year’s, which can difficult and joyful. I tried to capture that while leaving the reader with a sense of hope and a major happily ever after.  
Please give us the first page of the book.The jingle of bells and the sound of Christmas carols came from a nearby shop as the door opened and closed. Frankie wasn’t feeling festive. In fact, she felt as green as the Grinch. She’d told herself not to let the situation get her down. But she was not feeling the comfort and joy the song playing professed.
Frankie locked the door to Mangia Bella for the last time. The restaurant had been her baby, her pride and joy, and a culinary hub. She’d lost it to a bad building owner who’d written a loophole into her lease. She wasn’t able to find a new suitable space—and she’d looked. Her patrons, employees, her family—everyone had tried to help her land a new spot, but property in New York City was at a premium and location meant everything.
She still gripped the doorknob as though unwilling to let go of her dream. Not just her dream, but her livelihood, along with everyone else who’d relied on her for employment.
Her phone chimed with an incoming call. Her heart leaped. Maybe it was good news.
“Hey, Frankie,” a male voice with a strong New York accent said after she answered. It was Mauricio, another restaurant owner. “I’m sorry, kid. I tried, but, well, you know how it is.”
“Thank you. I owe you dinner. You’ll be among the first I serve when I get back on my feet.”
“I know you will.”
They chatted another moment and hung up. Frankie had pulled favors with every other restauranteur and chef in the five boroughs—Isabella and Matteo from Il Bacio were especially generous, knowing a thing or two about loss. Frankie managed to get her former waitstaff, cooks, and bussers interviews, but she still felt like she’d let everyone down. She’d let herself down. If anything, Frankie was tenacious, but as her fingers stiffened around the cold knob on the chilly December morning, her shoulders dropped. Her drive and her passion were inside those four walls and she had to return the key.
A guy with a breakfast sandwich in one hand elbowed her aside and rattled the doorknob. “I’m here with Ace Construction. You the manager of the new restaurant movin’ in?” he asked around a mouthful.
Frankie shook her head. She was the old owner and shuffled away, feeling the weight of disappointment pressing against her.
Crossing the busy street, she climbed the stairs to the property management company. The landlord hadn’t managed the eviction himself but had hired a third party to do his dirty work.
Her parents were back in Italy and she’d begged her brothers not to tell them—not yet. They’d worked hard their entire lives and finally had some peace. She didn’t want to disappoint or, as was more likely the case, worry them. She was their bambina—their little girl and the youngest of seven. If they caught wind, they’d be on a flight back to Manhattan, fretting and threatening to break someone’s knees. Not really. They were both originally from Italy but had moved to the United States before they had children. After settling in New York, they quickly became aware of the stereotypes surrounding the Italian mafia. Her father was as gentle as they came—at least after getting to know him. Her mother was fiery—probably where Frankie got her passionate personality.
On the other hand, her brothers weren’t joking when they offered to take care of things. As if channeling her thoughts, her phone rang with the sound of a starting bell for a boxing match. She checked the message. It was one of her brothers who was a trainer at a boxing gym uptown.
Need me to throw knuckles?
Probably not the best solution, but thanks she wrote back. She hardly had the energy to lift a finger and didn’t want to have to break up any brawls.
There were six Costa brothers and that intimidation factor alone could make the landlord rethink his decision if he’d ever show his face.
Frankie had a lawyer look at the lease—something she should’ve done before she signed it. Unfortunately, it was valid. The landlord’s sneaky plan became clear as day to lease the space, wait until the business was successful, and then go in and replace it with a restaurant that he backed, hoping to edge in on her customer base.
When Frankie reached the top of the stairs in the building, she glared out the window. The new sign filled the spot that had previously said, Mangia Bella. He was so slimy, he’d even named his new restaurant Mangia Mama. Frankie couldn’t bring herself to fight. She just wanted to go somewhere quiet and lick her wounds.
Frankie entered the office and presented the key to the property management assistant, a young man wearing a bowtie—in a hipster, ironic way. He had neatly trimmed hair and deliberate movements.
“That look on your face,” he said, alarmed.
Frankie arched an eyebrow, taken aback.
The man held his hands up in surrender. “Don’t shoot the messenger. You look like you might start sending laser beams out of your eyes.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?
http://www.elliehallauthor.comhttp://www.facebook.com/elliehallauthorAnd subscribe to my newsletter for a free novella:https://www.subscribepage.com/w4z2y0

Thank you, Ellie, for sharing this book with my readers and me.
Readers, here’s a link to the book.Christmas with a Mountain Man (Rich & Rugged: a Hawkins Brothers Romance Book 5)[image error]
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the ebook. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, 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

THE GINGERBREAD MAN OF MY DREAMS - Lisa Crane - One Free Ebook

Dear Readers, here’s another Christian Romantic Comedy you won’t want to miss. Lisa writes characters that you can really love, usually with one you can really hate. This book has one of those, too. The unique storyline kept my attention to the end of the book. And I smiled at the satisfying ending. Her characters live on in my mind for a while, I love them so much. I don’t want to give any of the plot away, but you don’t want to miss this wonderful holiday read. I give it 5 stars. This book is an ebook only.

Welcome back, Lisa. God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon? Someone recently asked me how I deal with writer’s block. I had to think about that because honestly, as long as I’m praying, my writing doesn’t often slow down. So right at the moment, the horizon has several ideas percolating. It’s exciting and a little exhausting. J
Tell us a little about your family. Last month I celebrated 26 years of marriage with the love of my life, Charles. We have two children. Harley is 24 and wants to go into IT. Chloë is majoring in secondary education at the University of Mississippi, with a minor in Southern Studies. We had a really nice Thanksgiving with Chloë able to be home for a full week, and we’re looking forward to having her home again for Christmas for over a month! We also have three four-footed family members. Jingles is a 14-year-old Jack Russell terrier who thinks he’s still a puppy. Socks is a fluffy tuxedo cat who thinks he’s a doily meant to drape over the arm of the sofa. And then there’s Cash, my daughter’s chiweenie. Let’s just say it’s a good thing he’s cute.
Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how? That’s a really interesting question. I write romantic comedy, and that’s still my preferred genre for reading. I will say, though, being a part of a good group of authors has changed the way I read. I see mistakes and questionable writing that I didn’t see before—and that includes in my own earlier work. Yikes.
What are you working on right now? I’m working on two different books, and I’m trying really hard to focus on one. It’s a romance, of course, but it has a heavy element of suspense. In fact, it starts out with the heroine locked in the trunk of a car. Although I’ve written a bit of light suspense in a couple of books, this much suspense is really out of my wheelhouse, so it’s taking me a lot longer to finish this book. But I’m pretty excited about it.
What outside interests do you have? I love crafting and creating, but I joke that my creative visions don’t always translate from my brain to my hands. Fortunately, I work for a faith-based non-profit organization, and I’m able to create a lot of printed things like postcards, T-shirts, staff gifts, and that type of thing.
How do you choose your settings for each book? I’m a Texasgirl, born and bred. I know small towns and big cities in the Lone Star state. If I don’t use an actual city or town, even my fictional towns are based on somewhere I know in the state. I’ve only written two books that aren’t set entirely in Texas.
If you could spend an evening with one historical person, who would it be and why? Wow, that’s one of the hardest questions I’ve ever been asked. In fact, I think I answer it differently every time I’m asked. So many people have so much to offer, from wisdom and faith, to knowledge, to plain old fun. A few I can think of would include Teddy Roosevelt, C.S. Lewis, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Eleanor Roosevelt, Susan B. Anthony, the apostle Paul, Minnie Pearl … I did say it was a tough question, didn’t I?
What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels?Another toughie! I’ve learned so, so much from you and other authors since I first started publishing. I really can’t pick just one thing.
What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now? I’ve been in a season lately where I can’t get enough of His word. I realized—or maybe I should say I remembered—a few weeks ago, when I’m in the Word, and the Word is in my heart, there’s no room for the enemy. There’s just not. And that’s where I want to be all the time.
What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful? First, just write. So many people have a story inside them, but they don’t think they can do it. You never know if you don’t write it. Second, develop the ability to accept feedback from other authors and yes, critics (on Goodreads, Amazon, etc.). Even if the feedback is negative, it may be something you need to hear about your work. Finally, and this one really is my first piece of advice, pray. I really do pray about my writing, and so far, God has answered my prayers abundantly.
In my life, your last piece of advice is most important. Prayer. And I agree with you that God will answer your prayers and give you more than you could ever come up with on your own. Tell us about the featured book. Since I started publishing, I’ve tried to write a short story or novella as a Christmas “gift” for my readers. I offer it for free for the length of time Kindle will allow, and $.99 after that. This particular story came from a word puzzle in which two phrases—gingerbread man and man of my dreams—were joined. I thought it was one of the funniest things I’d ever heard, and my imagination took off. The funny thing is, the title is usually the last thing I come up with when I’m writing. In this case, the whole thing was based on my wanting to use that title, The Gingerbread Man of My Dreams.
I also want your readers to note something about the heroine in this novella, Nixie Daniels. So many romances have these petite little heroines, and the hero is always gazing down at her or picking her up or protecting her. Nixie is six-foot-two. The hero, Rye Larson, is just over six feet. Nixie doesn’t believe most men will think she’s beautiful because of her height. This issue is kind of near and dear to my heart because my beautiful, brilliant, godly daughter is six-foot-two. The number of young men who have been unable to see past her height is heart-wrenching, and I specifically wanted to write a hero for her, the kind of man I pray God is shaping for her now.
Please give us the first page of the book for my readers. Nixie Daniels slowed as she turned into the cul-de-sac.
Unbelievable.
Her driveway was completely blocked by a moving truck. She knew the house beside hers had sold, but she’d hoped the new people would be nice. Friendly even. But no, they were the kind of people who left their moving truck so it blocked someone else’s driveway.
She parked in the street, grabbed her things, and stomped up the drive to her front door. Juggling her laptop bag, her purse, and her lunch bag, she managed to find her keys. As she unlocked the door, she mentally grumbled about the new neighbor.
Normally, she’d be parking in her garage, and she’d be out of the frigid wind. In fact, she’d already be inside by now. Ah, well. Getting all riled up wouldn’t do any good. They’d move the truck soon enough.
She set her things down on the island in the kitchen, listening for the sound of claws clicking on the hardwood floors. Sure enough, Totino came skidding into the kitchen, managing to stop before he slid into Nixie’s legs. The slender Italian greyhound sat in response to her command, then offered a delicate paw.
Nixie shook his paw, then scrubbed her fingertips around his ears. “Who’s a handsome boy? Who’s the best dog in the world? That’s right. Totino is. Tino’s the best doggie ever.”
She opened the back door, and Totino bounded out. He ran a few laps around the perimeter of the yard, following the fence. He sniffed the air in the direction of the neighboring house, then barked, his sharp voice loud in the relative quiet of the evening.
“Shut up already!” Another voice—this one human—came from the house next door.
How can readers find you on the Internet? I don’t have an author page on Facebook, but I’m pretty active on my personal page as Lisa Miller Crane. I frequently ask my Facebook friends and followers questions; you never know when you might get to help me name a character. I’m also on Twitter and Instagram as @happyheart1993. My email address is happyheart1993@yahoo.com, and I love to hear from readers.
Thank you, Lisa, for sharing this new book with my blog readers. I know they will love it as much as I did.
Readers, here’s a link to the book.The Gingerbread Man of My Dreams: A romantic Christmas novella[image error]

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

CALL TO LOVE - Mary A Felkins - One Free Ebook

Welcome, Mary. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.
Some of this happens organically, some intentionally. I believe there are bits and pieces of the essence of my identity in every character.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?I went through a phase years ago when each time I filled my gas tank, I clicked the pump handle until the final cost registered a multiple of five. Don’t know why. Today I’m just thankful to have the means to fill the tank at all.
When did you first discover that you were a writer?Following a conversation with my husband back in 2012 about our troubled financial situation—during which I said I wanted to write a book—God gave me a poignant vision of a book in His hand that represented the finished work. Soon thereafter I sought to learn and apply the craft of writing. For me, this isn’t a “one and done” career. God made His irrevocable call clear (Romans 11:29) and has continued to chisel other manuscripts out of me since that time.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.I’ve been largely coached by award winning authors Susan May Warren and Rachel Hauck who suggest we write the kind of books we like to read. For me, I primarily enjoy contemporary romance and also a good current non-fiction on marriage and/or Christian living.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?For stress relief, I exercise four mornings a week at the gym and spend the first part of my work day in Bible reading and prayer. It doesn’t guarantee a smooth-sailing day but moors my attitude to unchanging truth that then equips me to respond well to circumstances.
That is so true. How do you choose your characters’ names?Ah, the fun! Once I have a good feel for the character, I choose names I believe fit their personality. Everywhere I go I’m on the hunt for the ideal name for my characters.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?Being a mom to four amazing children who cheer for me and shower grace.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?As a mom of four children, married to the same man for 30 years, I can definitely relate to the female Emperor Penguin (though my Lone Star heart shivers at the thought of temperatures dropping below 72 degrees). She is considered among the top ten most resilient creatures and has only one partner. The female entrusts her male partner with her baby while she sacrificially treks a long journey to the sea for food.
What is your favorite food?Peanut M-and-Ms. Coupled with a deep dish veggie pizza and Coke Zero and I could write for hours.
I didn’t used to like the peanut ones, but now I do. How our tastes change as we get older. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?Not fully establishing a character’s dark moment story of their past that shapes who they are when they show up on the page. Without knowing what’s been broken inside the—the lie they believe—I can’t “fix” it.
Tell us about the featured book. Call to Love features two crisis-driven careers that are trained to answer emergency calls but refuse to answer God’s call to love again.
What if saying yes to love means trusting the kind of man you said you’d never marry? What if pursuing a woman’s heart means restoring a painful past?
Tracy Cassidy, a fiercely independent ER nurse, must choose between her dream job or staying in her hometown to help support her mother’s faltering ministry. Even if it means risking her heart in love with the kind of man she said she’d never marry.
Why sign up to be Laurelton’s next cop widow?
Tom DeLaney, a hyper-vigilant cop and new hire from Texas, is wearied by years of failed rescue attempts to save his marriage to his ex. A free man, he moves to the foothills of North Carolina. Thing is, he hadn’t expected to fall for Tracy, his supervisor’s sister. But when his adolescent son is diagnosed with a chronic illness, he faces the risk of loving another woman with keep-out issues.
Fears related to the death of Tracy’s cop father and Tom’s inability to forgive the past threaten to sabotage any chance at love.
Please give us the first page of the book.Tracy Cassidy’s life plan read like a doctor's script: wear lead apron over heart and manage affairs on own. If Plan A fails and pain persists then, and only then, a shout-out to God would be considered. After all, life was a vapor.
Hungry as Tracywas following a twelve-hour shift in the emergency department, the area outside Joe’s Hot Dog Shack needed to clear out stat. The command rose in her throat, but she reasoned that having to wait in line when hungry didn’t justify an irritable disposition. Mom said it marred the beauty of biblical femininity.
The hot dog stand, the likes of a tiny, roofed house, sat square in the parking lot of a small shopping strip. Cars whizzed along Highway 127, the four-lane, divided road beside it. Burning tobacco wafted from the customer ahead and tinged the air. Like those Atlantic league baseball games with her father. She pivoted toward a distant siren wail. Could be her brother Jack on patrol. Faithful to a family ritual, Tracy prayed. Keep him safe. Always safe.
Beneath summer’s sun, Tracy’s feet marinated inside her neon pink Nike’s. She slung her stethoscope behind her neck and inhaled the calming scent of Appalachian handcrafted rose and jasmine shea butter soap on her skin. A ‘just because’ gift from Mom, likely meant to dissuade Tracy’s consideration of leaving her hometown of Laurelton.
An older couple sat at one of two pine picnic tables beside the food stand. Tracypeered at them over her shoulder. A cheery yellow umbrella shaded them from the gauze of August heat. Their shoulders touched, eyes brightening like jewels. The gentleman tucked strands of graying hair behind her ears. He reached a napkin to her mouth. “Marilyn, whadya say we get married?”
The woman angled her face away then returned his smile. “Oh, Wilburn. You’ve been proposing since our wedding day sixty years ago.”
He cupped her cheek and kissed her lips. Jeremiah Clark’s classic, Trumpet Voluntary, sounded in Tracy’s head and drew her thoughts to the unquenchable power of her parents’ love. Their story could have looked the same. If it hadn’t been for Dad’s badge.
Tracy gazed across the sloping Catawba Valleyfoothills that rose into indigo waves of sculpted Appalachian Mountains. Artistic brushstrokes of white cloud streaked an azure blue, mid-afternoon sky. Summer would soon give way to the glory of fall with sugar maple leaves, a sheer radiance of golden yellow, amber, and ruby red. A metal street sign colored in patriotic shades and anchored in the fertile road verge along the main road boasted Laurelton as an All-America Citywinner.
Yanking her thoughts back to business, Tracy considered her options. “So, if Cheryl tells me I got the promotion, I’m meant to stay in Laurelton and support Mom with Safe Shores Women’s Rescue Mission. But if not, I’ve got that dream job opportunity as assistant manager at DukeRegional MedicalCenter in Durham.” Sure tasted sweet. And she could forever darken the images of her fallen father that mocked her pain at every corner.
Her cell phone vibrated inside the pocket of her purple scrubs and disrupted the review of her carefully planned agenda. Another text from Robbie, Tracy’s former high-school sweetheart turned gorgeous-and buff-pharmaceutical rep. They’d been dating for over eight months since he’d first called on Dr. Rainer at the hospital.
Where are you?
“Persistent man,” she muttered.
Joe cupped a hand behind his ear. “Excuse me?”
Slipping the cell back into her pocket, Tracy advanced to the open, sliding glass window only to draw back at the pungent smell of chopped onion. She flapped her hand. “It’s nothing.”
Now, review agenda. Quell hunger, return home by close of business day, and contact Joanna Graves in Human Resources at Duke Regional Medical Center. Then she’d figure a way to wrap her mind around trading the beauty of the mountains for flat, granite landscape. Which was so not the picture of an All-America City. No matter. She’d make life work.
How can readers find you on the Internet?Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MaryAFelkinsInstagram https://www.instagram.com/maryafelkins/Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19582128.Mary_A_FelkinsBookBub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mary-a-felkinsTwitter https://twitter.com/MaryAFelkins
Thank you, Mary, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. I’m eager to read it.
Readers, here is a link to the book.Call to Love[image error]

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

WINNERS!!

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.

Tina (PA) is the winner of  Sew in Love   by Darlene Panzera Plus Others.

Paula (MO) is the winner of  Dead End   by Susan Sleeman.

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.

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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.

PLAY ME BACK HOME IN TEXAS - Connie Lewis Leonard - One Free Book

Welcome back, Connie. What are some of the spiritual themes you write about?
All of my books contain the message of redemption. I didn’t set a goal to write about redemption, but it happened every time. Perhaps that is because, as a teacher and pastor’s wife, I have known many people who have been beat up by life and wounded by church people. These people need to know that God loves them always and forever. No matter where they are, what they’ve done, or what has been done to them, Christ is calling them to Him. Another recurring theme in my books is hope. As long as there is life, there is hope for things to be better. For Christians, our greatest hope is the promise of eternal life.
What other books of yours are coming out soon?The next book is the fourth in my In Texas series. It’s titled Hidden Away Somewhere in Texas. I try to publish one book a year, but sometimes life gets in the way. I spent over two years on my first novel, Big C, little c. I had begun writing it, and did some major revisions while going through Jerry Jenkins’ Christian Writer’s Guild Craftsman Course. I’ve had the basic story idea of Hidden Away floating around in my head for about thirty years. Hopefully it will be available before the end of 2020.
If you could spend an evening with a contemporary person, who would it be and why?I would love to meet Franklin Graham and listen to him. He is a godly man who is aware of worldly issues. I would love to participate in one of his humanitarian mission trips.
What historical person would you like to meet and why?Annie Oakley was my hero when I was growing up. She was an amazing little lady. She overcame adversity and worked hard to help provide for her family. She was humble and made all her own costumes. She generously donated so underprivileged children would have more opportunities than she had. She achieved great success in a man’s world, while still preserving her femininity.
How can you encourage other authors who have been receiving only rejections from publishers?Stay true to your calling. If writing is a calling from God, then keep writing. If you have a story to tell, write it and share it. I knew I wanted to write from the time I was in the eighth grade. I always knew I would write someday—someday when the kids were grown, someday when I retired. A potentially terminal cancer diagnosis showed me the reality that someday may never come. I started writing, going to workshops and conferences, and pitching my work. I kept hearing, “This is good, but . . .” I was discouraged, but God spoke to my heart while attending an outdoor concert. It was like He said, “Look at these people. They are not rich and famous, but they are talented. They enjoy sharing their talents, and the audience enjoys listening to them.” So I decided to Indie publish Big C, little c. I am not rich and famous, but I love what I’m doing. I haven’t even tried to publish my In Texas books with a traditional publisher. It’s rewarding to have people tell me how much they loved my book and can’t wait for the next one.
Tell us about the featured book.Here’s the back cover blurb.What if the things you left behind are better than you remembered, better than you ever imagined? Thirty years ago LeAnn Kane left the dust and dirt of West Texasbehind, vowing never to return. After a successful career with the Chicago Symphony, now she’s running back home—running for her life. While hiding from a murderer, the last person she expects to see is her high school sweetheart, her first and only love. His laughter sounds better than any melody she could play on her violin. His smile, as smooth as butter on hot cornbread, melts her insides, tempting her to stay in Texas. But her life is in Chicago—or is it?
 Donald Howard worked hard to rise above the back-breaking work of the oil fields. The sought-after success hasn’t brought happiness or fulfillment. His failed marriage to a Houston socialite didn’t help, either. Seeing LeAnn again brings back the raw emotion of his first love, his innocent love, his trusting love, full of fantasies and hopes. After thirty years of telling himself he hated her, his heart betrays him. Or maybe he has betrayed his heart all these years. She’s dead set on returning to Chicago. He’s going with her—even if it kills him.
Young love first love, too young then to know what they had. If they survive the dangers of December, can their love blossom and grow into their forever and ever love?
Hang on to your hats for a rollercoaster ride in this contemporary Christian romantic suspense filled with danger, doubt, and deliverance.
I’m reading your book right now and loving it. Please give us the first page for my blog readers.PrologueThirty years ago, “Texasin My Rearview Mirror” was my theme song. I couldn’t wait to get away from the dust and dirt and wind of the West Texas ranch where I grew up. Our grandparents raised my younger brother Richard and me. They were so old fashioned, strict no-drinking, no-dancing Baptists. I blamed them for my mama running off with a country western band and leaving us behind when our daddy died in some freak airplane crash.
Then our momma was killed in an automobile accident. I was mad at the world. The only thing that made me happy was playing the fiddle. The gift of music was one good thing our grandparents did for us. They actually did a lot of good things. They loved us, provided for us, protected us from the “wicked ways of the world.” They tried to teach us right from wrong: honesty, dependability, and hard work. Yes, lots of hard work. I hated mucking stalls, gathering eggs, hoeing weeds in the family garden just so I could help my grandmother shell peas, snap beans, shuck corn, and sweat to death canning.
Violin was my ticket out of Texas. All my teachers told me I was gifted. The professors at Texas Tech, who taught summer clinics and gave me private lessons, bragged on me and built my ego up higher than the clear blue sky high above the Caprock. I thought I was hot stuff—better than my naturally talented grandfather, better than my brother Richard, but not quite as good as my mama who played background on a couple of records.
I already had my sights set on a scholarship to The Music Conservatory of the Chicago College of Performing Arts when I met Donald Howard. In our little school, new students stood out, but he would stand out anywhere he went. I had heard about weak knees and butterflies in the belly, but I never believed it until I saw him—tall, broad shouldered, rugged, muscular, and manly. His smile, as smooth as butter on hot cornbread, melted my insides. His laughter sounded better than any melody I could play on my violin. He led our six-man football team to a district championship, which made him the hero of the feed store and café domino-playing groups.
He invited me to go to the Homecoming Dance, but my grandparents wouldn’t allow it. Donald started coming to church so they would let us go to Pat’s for a hamburger and coke. The first time he kissed me, lightning lit up the Sunday afternoon sky like a fireworks display on the Fourth of July. Thunder shook the ground like a 5.0 magnitude earthquake—the energy nearly sucking me under. And I knew I was in love. For two years I was happy. I almost understood how my mamma could run off and leave her own babies for love. Almost.
How can authors find you on the internet?I am most active on Facebook. Visit me at Connie Lewis Leonard, author Facebook page.I have a book launch page: Play Me Back Home in Texas Facebook group, which has some fun discussions about the bookThank you, Connie, for sharing this new book with my blog readers and me. I know they’ll love it as much as I am.
Readers, here are links to the book.Play Me Back Home In Texas[image error] - Paperback
Play Me Back Home In Texas - Kindle[image error]

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
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THE MAJOR'S DAUGHTER - Regina Jennings - One Free Book

Bio: Historical romance author Regina Jennings is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University with a degree in English and a minor in history. She’s the winner of the National Reader’s Choice Award, a two-time Golden Quill finalist and a finalist for the Oklahoma Book of the Year Award. Reginahas worked at the Mustang News and at the Oklahoma National Stockyards. Her latest book, The Major’s Daughter is set in Oklahoma Territory, at Historic Fort Reno. She lives outside of Oklahoma Citywith her husband and four children.

Welcome back, Regina. Why did you become a historical author?Because it gave me something to do with all the research I’ve acquired over the years.
If you weren’t an author, what would be your dream job?Something that requires reading a lot of books and organizing the information.
If you could have lived at another time in history, what would it be and why?That’s a difficult question, because the most interesting times in history are also the most dangerous. Danger aside, I’d like to witness the founding of our country and see the courage of the people and the genius of the founders.
That would have been awesome. What place in the United States have you not visited that you would like to?South Carolina.
How about a foreign country you hope to visit?Ireland.
What lesson has the Lord taught you recently?I’ve been memorizing the first chapter of James, and it reminds me of the inevitably of trials and temptations in our life. We should waste no time wondering why they happen, but instead should prepare and cling to God so that we can endure.
Tell us about the featured book. Caroline Adams returns to Indian Territory after tiring of confining society life. She wants adventure, and when she and her friend Amber come across swaggering outlaw Frisco Smith, they find his dreams for the new territory are very persuasive. With the much-anticipated land run pending, they may just join the rush.

Growing up parentless, all Frisco Smith wanted was a place to call his own. It's no wonder that he fought to open the Unassigned Lands. After years of sneaking across the border, he's even managed to put in a dugout house on a hidden piece of property he's poised to claim.

When the gun sounds, everyone's best plans are thrown out the window in the chaos of the run. Caroline and Frisco soon find themselves battling over a claim—and both dig in their heels. Settling the rightful ownership will bring these two closer than they ever expected and change their ideas of what a true home looks like.
Please give us the first page of the book.April 16, 1889Purcell, Chickasaw Nation“We're getting a town lot and it's purt near guaranteed. You see, we ran into this man selling town lots in Fort Worth, so we've already put our money down for a corner spot, but we're going to run anyway. I figure, why not? Make a claim on a 160-acre homestead, and then we can decide whether we cotton to the farm or the town. There'll be plenty of losers out there to sell out to when we decide which one we want. Easy money. That's what I'm saying.”
The train from Garber, Texas, didn't need steam power. Caroline Adams was of the opinion that it could be propelled solely on the hot air provided by its passengers. She turned her face toward the window to squelch the impulse to challenge the braggadocious man seated behind her. Did he not understand the nature of the race? Why did he think someone in Texas could sell town lots in the Unassigned Lands when no one was permitted in yet? And what town? Besides some depot workers, no one lived in the region. There were no roads, no houses, no neighbors. The whole idea was ludicrous.
Having grown up on the fort that protected the lands, Caroline had insight that no one else on the train possessed, but they wouldn't credit it to her. They’d believe her to be too fine a lady to know about the untamed lands they were headed toward—just as the society people in Galveston thought she was too uncouth to know her way around a drawing room.  A sharp jab on her leg and Caroline turned to see her friend Ambrosia Herald wielding her parasol against her.
“You have that look on your face, Caroline.” Amber's blue eyes twinkled. “Scowls can cause irreversible damage to your skin and once a wrinkle appears on the surface, it will never completely disappear. It lurks there waiting for fatigue or age to summon it and mar your complexion.”
“You and your faux facts,” Caroline retorted. “You're as full of malarkey as every other speculator on this train.” But while Amber was jesting, the passengers on the overcrowded train believed the tall tales they were spouting.
“Do you think you’ll see him?” Amber asked. “Do you think the infamous Frisco Smith will make the run?”
Caroline rubbed her nose. It’d been two years since she’d seen the man, and his name still left her perplexed.
Frisco Smith—roguish frontiersman and boomer—spent more time in the guard house at her father’s post than at the illegal homesteads he tried to establish. She shouldn’t feel foolish about her youthful infatuation with him. He was, after all, uncommonly handsome and debonair. But when she left the isolated fort to move into society, she learned what her father had known all along. Men like Mr. Smith had nothing to offer a lady. She had to think about her future, which was exactly why she’d returned to Oklahoma Territory.
How can readers find you on the Internet?Website: http://www.reginajennings.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/ReginaLJenningsTwitter: www.twitter.com/#!/ReginaJenningsPinterest: http://pinterest.com/reginaljennings/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reginajenningsauthor/Thank you, Regina, for sharing this new book with us. I always love your books. I know many of my readers do, too.
Readers, here are links to the book. - Amazon Paperback
The Major's Daughter (The Fort Reno Series Book 3)[image error] - Kindle
The Major’s Daughter: Fort Reno Series, Book 3 - Audio book[image error]

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

COURTSHIPS AND CARRIAGES - Janet Syas Nitsick - One Free Book

Welcome back, Janet. Why do you write the kind of books you do?
I write sweet, clean, Christian romances with suspense and/or mystery because those are the movies or television shows I like to watch, and those also are stories I enjoy reading. In addition, I want to spread God’s faithful and steadfast message through my characters and their interactions and trials.
Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life? One summer evening before my husband and I got married, we walked hand in hand through Memorial Park in Omaha. The peaceful evening was graced with a nice summer breeze, which flowed around us, and row after row of fragrant, colorful roses marking our path. We took in the fresh air while we continued to hike up the hill to see the memorial for veterans who served in World War II. In front of the stone semicircle memorial is a statue of a kneeling army man who carries a wounded soldier. A flagpole stands beside the statue with the American flag flapping in the wind. The excitement of that quiet night, which occurred forty years ago, has never left me.
How has being published changed your life? I do a lot of book signings at craft shows. People remember me and stop by to admire my costume, which goes along with my most recent book cover. They will say how beautiful I look and readers, who have read my books, will express their appreciation for my writing and the stories I write. For example, one person stopped by and said she bought all my books a few months ago and loved every one of them. In other words, I stand out in a crowd, which is quite different from my childhood where I was so shy I barely spoke to anyone. In fact during my grade school years, I never used the bathroom because I was too shy to ask where they were located.
What are you reading right now? The One-Flesh Covenantwritten by S. T. Theophanie, a pen name used by my friend. This is not a book I normally would have chosen; however, this friend has read all of my books. I owe her my loyalty in reading her only book. She wrote this several years ago but was forced to republish it since the original publisher went bankrupt. I have not finished it. Her biblical research states when someone enters a marriage that bond will not be lifted until their spouse dies. Only then can the widow/widower remarry.
What is your current work in progress? The Librarian’s Secret. This is the second book in my Bonnets and Beaus series with the first in the series being The Heiress Comes to Town. I plan on releasing The Librarian’s Secret Feb. 15, 2020. This clean, Christian romance includes mystery and suspense and takes place in 1896 and is set in Nebraska City, Neb.
The librarian’s secret… held inside a father’s journal … two hearts intertwine
What would be your dream vacation? My husband and I would like to visit Ronald Reagan’s library in Simi Valley, Calif. Since we are caretakers of our oldest and nonverbal autistic son, we would have to do this on a long weekend trip. We would love to do this next year to celebrate our 40th anniversary. However, getting away for such a trip without our son is going to be a challenge. We cannot go this far with him because we do not know if we would cooperate in seeing the museum once we got there.
How do you choose your settings for each book? All my books are set in Nebraska. I write about places I have visited and know.
If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?I would love to meet and talk to Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. His beautiful story shows us how in America you can rise from poverty to importance through hard work and determination. My father knew his wife’s parents. They lived in Nebraska. The Justice also is a big fan of the Universityof Nebraska football, and in Nebraska, that is a big thing.
What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading? Singing. I have sung solos and enjoy being a member of my church’s choir. Right now, we are practicing for our Christmas cantata, which relays the story of Christ’s birth through song.
What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it? This year has been my most difficult writing obstacle. On March 21, I carried two coats down the basement stairs. These are narrow steps. One of the coat’s belts got caught in the corner of the stairwell. I tugged on it and missed a couple of steps and landed face down on concrete. For three months, I was on a walker and could not put pressure on my left foot. I finally moved from that to the cane. Right now, I am pivoting from the cane to walking unassisted.
Besides this, my eldest son’s wife passed away in June and now my oldest granddaughter is separated from her husband. It has been one of those years. All of this has hindered my writing and only now has my stamina returned.
2019 has been my most difficult year, too, with a serious problem with one daughter and my husband having seven skin cancer surgeries. But I praise the Lord that He was with us every step of the way. What advice would you give to a beginning author? I was a former journalist, which taught me to write tight. This helped me in going from non-fiction writing to fiction. However, it also hindered me, for in journalism you deal with facts, no emotions are allowed. Thus, I went for about three years to this critique group. Their input helped me develop my fiction writing skills. I would suggest a new writer go to such a group and listen and implement their suggestions. The more you carry out their recommendations the better your work will become.
Tell us about the featured book. Courtships and Carriages is the first in my Great Plains series. There are three in the series: Courtships and Carriages , The Bride List, and When Hearts Rekindle.
Courtships and Carriages , a sweet Christian romance, returns readers to the Midwest in 1893, where men who drove fancy carriages like debonair Nolan Bradford could make ladies’ hearts flutter, such as Gwen Ward’s. Her heart raced every time she saw him, especially when these rides included secret rendezvous, pretty flowers, and stolen kisses.  
Her decision could be an easy one if only her dear-childhood friend, Russ Knudson, a kindhearted, humble man, a man who works with his hands – a farmer – was not also vying for her hand. He may not be as refined as Nolan, but his feelings were just as sincere, and Gwen’s love for him ran deep. And, if only Nolan was not the son of the corrupt mayor and her father, the publisher of a local paper, was not investigating that mayor.
The answer is in her court in Courtships and Carriages , which includes intrigue and suspense when a trunkful of mayoral electoral ballots comes up missing.
Please give us the first page of the book.Winter 1893Omaha, Nebraska“Be careful,” Gwen yelled to her mother as the snowflakes fell around them. She shrugged, thinking about how these wet flakes had to come as they headed for this boring inaugural. Stepping onto the boardwalk, she planted her feet firmly on the wooden planks dusted with snow before pressing forward. The biting air stung her face and hands. She thrust her cold-gloved hands further inside the fox muff. Glancing at her ma, who wore a blue coat trimmed with fur sleeves, she asked, “Am I going too fast?”            Her mother took a deep breath. “No. I’m able to keep up. I’m more concerned about being late.”             Gwen gazed ahead of her. “I don’t know why the mayor decided to have his ceremony at the train station.”            “Pa said it’s because it’s the city hub of business activity, and the mayor wants to highlight that.”            “But it’s on the other side of town,” Gwen said with disgust. She jerked her hand from the muff to brush the snow off her shoulders. She shivered. Horses hoofs pounded the brick pavement. Gwen turned and stared at the yellow-wheeled carriage approaching. What a beauty. …
How can readers find you on the Internet?Web site: www.JanetSyasNitsick.comBlog: http://janetsyasnitsick.wordpress.comFacebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/authorjanetnitsick/Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/janetnitsickTwitter: JanNitsickLinkedIn: Janet NitsickE-Mail: janet@janetsyasnitsick.com
Thank you, Janet, for sharing this book with us. I’m eager to read it.
Readers, here are links to the book.Courtships and Carriages[image error] - Paperback
Courtships and Carriages (Great Plains Series Book 1)[image error] - Kindle

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

JOY EXPRESS - Jody Day - One Free Ebook

Welcome, Jody. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.
There’s a lot of me in Bailey Brown, the heroine of my Washout Express Series. A past of rejection leading to low self-esteem. It is such a great joy to share Bailey’s journey to wholeness through learning who she is in Jesus Christ. It’s easy to express that joy because I went through the same transformation.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? I just don’t know. I consider myself a card carrying nerd, actually, so everything is quirky. Crocheted 1000 candy corn amigurami to go with my book Yellow Bottom Bob? Gave them away to schools? The fact that I still write snail mail to famous people I admire? I have a little stack of letters from Jan Karon, and one from Sheldon Vanauken (a student of C. S. Lewis) who wrote A Severe Mercy. That’s the only fruit I’ve gleaned from that quirky snail mail habit.
When did you first discover that you were a writer? I was in the 5th grade when I won a poetry contest at Newman Elementary Schoolin El Paso, Texas. I got to go to the office and letter the poem on poster board, which was displayed in the school foyer. I don’t remember anything about it except I based it on the Charlie Brown craze at the time, “Happiness is…” I remember that the last line was “and at schoolwork, doing your best.” The idea that words out of my head and heart could make an impact on others captured me and never let go.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. I work at a library so I dip my reading foot in all kinds of various genre pools. I read a lot of books for review as well, so when I get to read for pleasure, I tend toward biographies, and inspirational fiction.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? When I figure that out, I’ll let you know. Seriously, though, I’m a pretty organized person so that helps, but sometimes it overwhelms me. I feel like the ocean is slamming and overflowing me. During those times, I just try to “float” on the help of God.
Good answer. How do you choose your characters’ names? I’m terrible at it! I rely on name generators and the help of my writers’ group, Critique Café. I’m even worse at titles!
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? Hard to say. I’ve been around for a long time, lol. The first thing that came to my mind when I read the question though is my six living epistles. I’m very proud of the five daughters and one son that we’ve raised, and the 15 grandchildren we’ve been blessed with so far. Recently, I became acquainted with a pastor in Juarez, Mexico, that pastors a church that is 80% children. These precious children are suffering the results of the drug culture. A friend of mine helped me make 120 children’s blankets (crocheted) and gather Christmas gifts and Spanish Bibles. Our church got involved and we’re going to be able also take money to help Pastor Vicki feed the children. We are so excited to help this little church at Christmas time. I guess I’m more grateful than proud of this. Wrapped in Prayer Blanket Ministry grew out of that effort.
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? I think I would choose to be a horse. I respond to given love, and love to serve, carry others on my back, if you will.
What is your favorite food? Fried chicken (which I don’t eat very often anymore) but since my mom passed away, there will never be any fried chicken like hers again. I never learned to cook it well. My husband is not a fan of chicken! I tell him there will be a star in my crown for feeding six children and a pastor husband without chicken!
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? Time. I still work full time, and will for a few more years. I’ve had to learn to get up early and to steal time when I can get it to write. National Novel Writers Month is a lifesaver. I draft all my books that month usually. My job is also flexible. I can write at work if my work is done, but there are too many distractions. You know what they say: “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”
Tell us about the featured book. Joy Express is Book 3 in the Washout Express series. In Books 1 and 2, we watch Bailey and Scott find each other, and through many obstacles finally reach the altar. Book 3 is a little different in that there is some serious tragedy and trauma that must be overcome. All their former demons threaten to derail the progress they’ve made. They are expecting twins – double the blessing, but where’s the joy? (This book is dedicated to some dear friends of ours who lost a child while I was writing this book. Their faith has been an inspiration.)
Please give us the first page of the book. Sure:0)I squeezed the couch cushion with both hands as a Braxton Hicks contraction tightened my lower back. Or was it a real one? Eight months in, so it could happen right now. I focused on ivy shadows dancing behind the lacy window curtains until it passed. Moving around in the mid-morning air would help.            My usual get-off-the-couch ritual proved more difficult every day. I spread my swollen feet, anchored one hand on the arm of the couch, pushed off with the other hand, and propelled the basketball stomach into the air. The few feet from the living room couch to the front porch of the inn stretched miles away, but I waddled there anyway.            I wiggled into a porch rocker and willed a cooler breeze to materialize. My perfect, snowy wedding nearly a year ago spoiled me for every December to come. The piney woods across the road shone green in the sunlight. Normally I’d seek refuge from the heat with a stroll on the fragrant, dead pine needles. My football-sized feet prevented any pleasure jaunts among the cool shadows.            Could I even find shoes that didn’t hurt for the Barkley House dedication this afternoon? Maybe I could get away with dressy flip-flops. That was standard East Texas footwear all year round anyway, except maybe three days in February. The snow last December surprised everyone.
I decided to just rest for five more minutes. My speech needed practicing. I also needed to pull our wedding cake topper from the freezer. Maybe there’d be time for a private first-anniversary celebration tonight. Two weeks early, but the actual date was too close to my due date.            My sweet, hard-working husband balked at leaving me alone. I’d shooed him on. I’d promised to keep my cell phone near me and Phoebe was just up the road at the diner. So much work to be done and I couldn’t help Scott with any of it.            “Welcome to the Grand Opening of the Helen Barkley Missionary Retreat,” I whispered. I planned to keep it short, given I couldn’t stand very long. “I may never be able to erase the picture of Pinewood Manor, my grandmother’s home, and one of Marshall’s finest antebellum mansions, smoldering in ashes in the spot just a little over a year ago. But the building of Barkley House has brought healing. Mother and I know that Gran would be pleased that we have a resting place for missionaries, because they were so close to her heart.”            There was that old, black vehicle again. I’d seen the classic car creeping around Exit 477 several times over the last couple of days. The canopied lane that banked the road to our home seemed to draw strays. I’d been one of them.            Now, how did the rest of it go? “On this special day…”            The car pulled into the driveway.            My tortoise speed preempted a stand-up greeting, but I leaned forward in the rocker.            The reflection of tall pines on the windshield hid the driver’s face from view.            My heartbeat sped up, and I placed a protective hand on my stomach. I reached for the phone in my maternity jeans pocket. I’d left it on the coffee table. So much for my promise.            The driver climbed out but stood by the door. He ran a hand through a head of hair more gray than brown. He hesitated as if he might slide his fiftyish, slight build back into the car. Instead, determination flashed in his dark eyes as he took a step away from his vehicle and slammed the door.            Probably just someone scouting out a weekend stay at the inn for Christmas. Couldn’t he see the CLOSED UNTIL SPRING sign?            I rubbed my damp palms on my jeans, and tried to swallow.            “Bailey!”            A shock raced up my spine, and my vision blurred. The pines, the black car, and the ivy covered porch rails melded into blackish, green waves. I was five years old again, crouching in the back of a Pinewood Manor hall closet. The musty coats making me cough. The fear he’d hear. He’d raged at Mom for a long time. I’d covered my ears. But as he’d stormed down the hall, I heard the words that became my prison.            “You baby her too much, she’s too fat, and she’ll never amount to anything!” Slam.            Beloved, you are free.            The heavenly whisper steadied me a bit. I remembered. Yes, Father. The present returned and my dad’s words that I’d work like skin all my life fell away. Move, Bailey. Get up and go in the house. What does one say to the father who abandoned my precious mother and me in a molten rage and never so much as called in over twenty years? “What do you want?” formed in my brain, but never registered with my mouth.            He stepped onto the porch and lunged right into my space, both his fists tightly knotted by his side. His eyes narrowed into sinister slits. “You’re coming with me.”            “No, I’m not.” I managed to push out of the rocker and tried to turn toward the front door.            He grabbed my arm and pain shot to my fingers as he pulled me down the stairs.            I stumbled, but managed not to fall. I jerked my arm as hard as I could, but his grip only tightened. A sharp pain and a kind of pop ripped inside, below my babies. “Help!” A pain and incredible pressure gripped my lower back. “Please, I’m due any minute. Let me go!”            “I can see that. It does complicate things a bit, but it’s all up to you.” He jerked me toward the sedan. He opened the car door, pulled the driver’s seat forward, and shoved me in the back. “Lie down, and shut up!”            I screamed until he pulled a pistol from behind his back and pointed it at my stomach. His hand shook. “I said shut up. Lie down and don’t get up until I tell you.”            Tears slid down my face as I lay on the car set. I rubbed the red stripes on my arm and watched the pines whiz by in a green haze. My son and daughter moved within me.
Wow! How can readers find you on the Internet?Email: jodybooks@faithwriters.netWashout Express “fan” page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/187909868038111/Twitter: @jodybaileydayInstagram: jodybaileydayBlog: www.jodysdevotionaljournal.blogspot.com
Thank you, Jody, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. I can hardly wait until my copy arrives. I’m eager to find out what’s going on.
Readers, here is a link to the book.Joy Express[image error]

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