Lena Nelson Dooley's Blog, page 73
November 12, 2019
MARISOL ~ SPANISH ROSE - Elva Cobb Martin - One Free Book
Author Bio: Elva Cobb Martin is a wife, mother, and grandmother who lives in South Carolina with her husband and a mini-dachshund. A life-long student of history, her favorite city, Charleston, inspires her stories of romance and adventure. Her love of writing grew out of a desire to share exciting stories of courageous characters and communicate truths of the Christian faith to bring hope and encouragement. Connect with her on her web site at http://www.elvamartin.com.
Welcome, Elva. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. Not a whole lot. But I do tend to write in my moral sense, strong belief in God and the power of prayer, and love of adventure.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?I guess it would have to be returning to college as an adult married mommy and going to night school for ten years, taking one course, one night per week. But we finally got that degree.
Good for you. There was a local news story this morning about a man who quit school to join the army in WWII. He just graduated from high school, and he’s in his 90s. When did you first discover you were a writer?I started writing stories in seventh grade and loved to compete with my good friend for best stories. My horse hero won the race, even with a broken leg! LOL! My writing grew naturally out of my great love of reading. As a child I read constantly. First, fairy tales, then other fiction, like Black Beauty, Flicka, and Nancy Drew Mysteries. Later, I delved into Charles Dickens, Nathanial Hawthorne, Emily Dickinson, and Poe. In high school, I worked on the school newspaper and began writing poetry (to my first love).
When I started college, I had numerous poems printed in the student anthologies. I married after my first year in college.
About ten years later I returned as an adult student to finish my degree. I joined a new writers’ guild some of the English professors formed at that time, and really began to become a better writer. During these years, I also began writing and selling magazine articles, as well as studying novel writing. Magazines that published my articles include Charisma, Decision, Home Life, Living with Children, Mature Living, Pentecostal Evangel, The Christian Writer, and several newspapers.
My first published piece was in the college anthology my freshman year. Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.Historical romances, Historicals, Mysteries (Robert Whitlow, John Grisham, Agatha Christie)
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?I keep a strong daily prayer and Bible study time and stay in church weekly. Also, I have a prayer team, and we share requests and pray for one another. Otherwise, I’d probably be bananas.
How do you choose your character’s names?In my first novel I inadvertently named my hero and heroine the same names as a twin niece and nephew in another city and didn’t notice until I was in the final draft. I decided to keep the names, but then my sister, their grandmother, remarked that I should also name somebody in the book after their older sister. So-o, like a good Aunt I went back and did a find and replace for a woman lawyer and changed her name to that older sister. But that proved problematic. We kept finding the old name in the proof copies, so I can’t recommend doing this. NOW I am going to use only deceased relative’s names, if any. Other names come to me by my characters reminding me of someone I know, someone who probably will not read the book, for example. :-) I do like Bible names and I do research names for times in history to make sure they were in use. I have a Baby Name book that gives best names by certain years and by country which helps also.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?Something immediately comes to mind, but I really can’t take credit, as I believe the Lord had the biggest hand in it. As an adult mommy, I dreaded going back to college to get a teaching degree because I knew I would have to take Chemistry and I had no high school classes in it or other college prep classes. But I stood up in front of our little church one Sunday, admitted this concern, and then confessed I was going to go on and enroll but I was going to take the Master Chemist with me. I ended up with an “A” in Chemistry which carried so many quality points it threw me up into graduating magna cum laude. I was in a pleasant daze through the graduation, but half-fearful they’d announce this designation an error before it was over. LOL
I graduated with a BA before I married, but I went to graduate school after marrying and having two children. I thought the students would kind of ignore me, but instead, they included me in everything even though I was so much older than most of them. If you were an animal, which one would be, and why?I guess, a horse, as they are lovely on earth and will be in the supernatural future as Christ rides a white horse in Revelation when He returns to earth.
What is your favorite food?Southern corn bread—I guess this goes back to my Cherokee great-grandmother.
What was your greatest writing problem/roadblock, and how did you overcome it?I believe that would be POV and Deep Point of View and staying in it. I’ve done lots of study on it and now teach classes, but still occasionally find myself slipping out of the POV character’s head with a description or something, as my editor knows.
It took me until about my 3rd book to understand POV, and deep POV came later. Tell us about the featured book. Marisol is Book 1 in my new Charleston Brides historical series. I already loved pirate tales set in Charles Town and the Caribbean (my first one was published in 2017, In a Pirate’s Debt). Also the idea of indentured servants who came to America from all over the world grabbed my interest. I began to imagine my heroine being born in the Spanish nobility but being forced to flee to the New World and ending up as an indentured servant. I researched Spanish women names and hit on Marisol, which means Mary of Solitude. I decided just how I could make sure she had to flee Spain in a great crisis, fall into many other problems, and would need God’s help and the hero’s help to find a fresh beginning and Happily-Ever-After in the New World. I also gave her my love of horses and a very special talent of dancing the Flamenco with an Andalusian horse partner.
The hero, Captain Ethan Becket, is a very special person also. I made him a former minister of Charles Town who now sails the seas as a privateer, sometimes pirate, grieving the death of his wife and child during birthing. The time period is also during the Spanish Inquisition. My book tag tells it all:
Escaping to the New Worldis her only option...Rescuing her will wrap the chains of the Inquisition around his neck.
Back cover blurb: Marisol Valentin flees Spainafter murdering the nobleman who molested her. She ends up for sale on the indentured servants’ block at Charles Town harbor—dirty, angry, and with child. Her hopes are shattered, but she must find a refuge for herself and the child she carries. Can this new land offer her the grace, love, and security she craves? Or must she escape again to her only living relative in Cartagena?
Captain Ethan Becket, once a Charles Town minister, now sails the seas as a privateer, grieving his deceased wife. But when he takes captive a ship full of indentured servants, he’s intrigued by the woman whose manners seem much more refined than the average Spanish serving girl. Perfect to become governess for his young son. But when he sets out on a quest to find his captured sister, said to be in Cartagena, little does he expect his new Spanish governess to stow away on his ship with her six-month-old son. Yet her offer of help to free his sister is too tempting to pass up. And her beauty, both inside and out, is too attractive for his heart to protect itself against—until he learns she is a wanted murderess.
As their paths intertwine on a journey filled with danger, intrigue, and romance, only love and the grace of God can overcome the past and ignite a new beginning for Marisol and Ethan.
I would pick up this book because of the cover and the back cover copy. Please give us the first page of the story.Cadiz, Spain 1740
Marisol Valentin pressed her tearful face against the warm neck of her beloved mare, blocking out for a moment the sickening smell of human blood in the barn corridor. “Goodbye, my dear Jada.”
The horse nickered and nuzzled her, as if understanding. Dragging her feet out of the pregnant Andalusian’s stall, Marisol could no longer squelch the sob that escaped her lips.
She averted her eyes from the form lying in the moonlight near the tack room entrance. The still body of Diego Vargas, nobleman of Spain, sprawled across the dirt passage.
She’d killed him, but it had been her only choice.
Her breath strangled in her throat as she inched by. Somehow she made it across the shadowed stable courtyard and up the rear stairs of the hacienda. Bursting into her bedchamber, she shoved the door closed, and leaned against it. The pressure in her chest, the awful bile churning in her middle, they both rose up to strangle her. She drew in ragged breaths as tears flooded down her cheeks and onto her ripped gown.
Her maid Carmela dropped the camisole she was setting out on the bed. “Oh, my lady, what has happened?”
“Diego Vargas came into the foaling barn after I entered to check on Jada and he...” Her voice broke down. She wrapped her hands around herself and clenched her eyes to block out memories of his savage attack. “He’s ruined me, and I stabbed him.” Her lips trembled. “I only meant to stop him. Not kill him.”
Carmela gasped and her hand flew across her mouth. “Madre de Dios!”
13. How can readers find you on the Internet?Blog: http://carolinaromancewithelvamartin.blogspot.comBookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/elva-cobb-martinFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/elvacobbmartinTwitter: http://twitter.com/ElvaCobbMartinPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/elvacobbmartin
Thank you, Elva, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. I’m eager to read this story.
Readers, here are links to the book.Marisol ~ Spanish Rose (Charleston Brides)[image error] - paperback
Marisol ~ Spanish Rose (Charleston Brides 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
Welcome, Elva. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. Not a whole lot. But I do tend to write in my moral sense, strong belief in God and the power of prayer, and love of adventure. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?I guess it would have to be returning to college as an adult married mommy and going to night school for ten years, taking one course, one night per week. But we finally got that degree.
Good for you. There was a local news story this morning about a man who quit school to join the army in WWII. He just graduated from high school, and he’s in his 90s. When did you first discover you were a writer?I started writing stories in seventh grade and loved to compete with my good friend for best stories. My horse hero won the race, even with a broken leg! LOL! My writing grew naturally out of my great love of reading. As a child I read constantly. First, fairy tales, then other fiction, like Black Beauty, Flicka, and Nancy Drew Mysteries. Later, I delved into Charles Dickens, Nathanial Hawthorne, Emily Dickinson, and Poe. In high school, I worked on the school newspaper and began writing poetry (to my first love).
When I started college, I had numerous poems printed in the student anthologies. I married after my first year in college.
About ten years later I returned as an adult student to finish my degree. I joined a new writers’ guild some of the English professors formed at that time, and really began to become a better writer. During these years, I also began writing and selling magazine articles, as well as studying novel writing. Magazines that published my articles include Charisma, Decision, Home Life, Living with Children, Mature Living, Pentecostal Evangel, The Christian Writer, and several newspapers.
My first published piece was in the college anthology my freshman year. Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.Historical romances, Historicals, Mysteries (Robert Whitlow, John Grisham, Agatha Christie)
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?I keep a strong daily prayer and Bible study time and stay in church weekly. Also, I have a prayer team, and we share requests and pray for one another. Otherwise, I’d probably be bananas.
How do you choose your character’s names?In my first novel I inadvertently named my hero and heroine the same names as a twin niece and nephew in another city and didn’t notice until I was in the final draft. I decided to keep the names, but then my sister, their grandmother, remarked that I should also name somebody in the book after their older sister. So-o, like a good Aunt I went back and did a find and replace for a woman lawyer and changed her name to that older sister. But that proved problematic. We kept finding the old name in the proof copies, so I can’t recommend doing this. NOW I am going to use only deceased relative’s names, if any. Other names come to me by my characters reminding me of someone I know, someone who probably will not read the book, for example. :-) I do like Bible names and I do research names for times in history to make sure they were in use. I have a Baby Name book that gives best names by certain years and by country which helps also.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?Something immediately comes to mind, but I really can’t take credit, as I believe the Lord had the biggest hand in it. As an adult mommy, I dreaded going back to college to get a teaching degree because I knew I would have to take Chemistry and I had no high school classes in it or other college prep classes. But I stood up in front of our little church one Sunday, admitted this concern, and then confessed I was going to go on and enroll but I was going to take the Master Chemist with me. I ended up with an “A” in Chemistry which carried so many quality points it threw me up into graduating magna cum laude. I was in a pleasant daze through the graduation, but half-fearful they’d announce this designation an error before it was over. LOL
I graduated with a BA before I married, but I went to graduate school after marrying and having two children. I thought the students would kind of ignore me, but instead, they included me in everything even though I was so much older than most of them. If you were an animal, which one would be, and why?I guess, a horse, as they are lovely on earth and will be in the supernatural future as Christ rides a white horse in Revelation when He returns to earth.
What is your favorite food?Southern corn bread—I guess this goes back to my Cherokee great-grandmother.
What was your greatest writing problem/roadblock, and how did you overcome it?I believe that would be POV and Deep Point of View and staying in it. I’ve done lots of study on it and now teach classes, but still occasionally find myself slipping out of the POV character’s head with a description or something, as my editor knows.
It took me until about my 3rd book to understand POV, and deep POV came later. Tell us about the featured book. Marisol is Book 1 in my new Charleston Brides historical series. I already loved pirate tales set in Charles Town and the Caribbean (my first one was published in 2017, In a Pirate’s Debt). Also the idea of indentured servants who came to America from all over the world grabbed my interest. I began to imagine my heroine being born in the Spanish nobility but being forced to flee to the New World and ending up as an indentured servant. I researched Spanish women names and hit on Marisol, which means Mary of Solitude. I decided just how I could make sure she had to flee Spain in a great crisis, fall into many other problems, and would need God’s help and the hero’s help to find a fresh beginning and Happily-Ever-After in the New World. I also gave her my love of horses and a very special talent of dancing the Flamenco with an Andalusian horse partner.
The hero, Captain Ethan Becket, is a very special person also. I made him a former minister of Charles Town who now sails the seas as a privateer, sometimes pirate, grieving the death of his wife and child during birthing. The time period is also during the Spanish Inquisition. My book tag tells it all:
Escaping to the New Worldis her only option...Rescuing her will wrap the chains of the Inquisition around his neck.
Back cover blurb: Marisol Valentin flees Spainafter murdering the nobleman who molested her. She ends up for sale on the indentured servants’ block at Charles Town harbor—dirty, angry, and with child. Her hopes are shattered, but she must find a refuge for herself and the child she carries. Can this new land offer her the grace, love, and security she craves? Or must she escape again to her only living relative in Cartagena?
Captain Ethan Becket, once a Charles Town minister, now sails the seas as a privateer, grieving his deceased wife. But when he takes captive a ship full of indentured servants, he’s intrigued by the woman whose manners seem much more refined than the average Spanish serving girl. Perfect to become governess for his young son. But when he sets out on a quest to find his captured sister, said to be in Cartagena, little does he expect his new Spanish governess to stow away on his ship with her six-month-old son. Yet her offer of help to free his sister is too tempting to pass up. And her beauty, both inside and out, is too attractive for his heart to protect itself against—until he learns she is a wanted murderess.
As their paths intertwine on a journey filled with danger, intrigue, and romance, only love and the grace of God can overcome the past and ignite a new beginning for Marisol and Ethan.
I would pick up this book because of the cover and the back cover copy. Please give us the first page of the story.Cadiz, Spain 1740
Marisol Valentin pressed her tearful face against the warm neck of her beloved mare, blocking out for a moment the sickening smell of human blood in the barn corridor. “Goodbye, my dear Jada.”The horse nickered and nuzzled her, as if understanding. Dragging her feet out of the pregnant Andalusian’s stall, Marisol could no longer squelch the sob that escaped her lips.
She averted her eyes from the form lying in the moonlight near the tack room entrance. The still body of Diego Vargas, nobleman of Spain, sprawled across the dirt passage.
She’d killed him, but it had been her only choice.
Her breath strangled in her throat as she inched by. Somehow she made it across the shadowed stable courtyard and up the rear stairs of the hacienda. Bursting into her bedchamber, she shoved the door closed, and leaned against it. The pressure in her chest, the awful bile churning in her middle, they both rose up to strangle her. She drew in ragged breaths as tears flooded down her cheeks and onto her ripped gown.
Her maid Carmela dropped the camisole she was setting out on the bed. “Oh, my lady, what has happened?”
“Diego Vargas came into the foaling barn after I entered to check on Jada and he...” Her voice broke down. She wrapped her hands around herself and clenched her eyes to block out memories of his savage attack. “He’s ruined me, and I stabbed him.” Her lips trembled. “I only meant to stop him. Not kill him.”
Carmela gasped and her hand flew across her mouth. “Madre de Dios!”
13. How can readers find you on the Internet?Blog: http://carolinaromancewithelvamartin.blogspot.comBookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/elva-cobb-martinFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/elvacobbmartinTwitter: http://twitter.com/ElvaCobbMartinPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/elvacobbmartin
Thank you, Elva, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. I’m eager to read this story.
Readers, here are links to the book.Marisol ~ Spanish Rose (Charleston Brides)[image error] - paperback
Marisol ~ Spanish Rose (Charleston Brides 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
November 10, 2019
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.
Sharon (SC) is the winner of Taye's Gift by Pat Simmons.
Alicia (TX) is the winner of Lessons on Love by Kathleen L Maher.
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.
Sharon (SC) is the winner of Taye's Gift by Pat Simmons.
Alicia (TX) is the winner of Lessons on Love by Kathleen L Maher.
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.
November 7, 2019
STITCHES IN TIME - Suzanne Woods Fisher - One Free Book
Welcome back, Suzanne. Since you’re being published regularly, what new avenues will your future books take?
Over the next few years, I’ll be continuing to write about the Old Order Amish, while also writing contemporary romance series, while also writing some stand-alone historicals. This last year, my first contemporary romance released, On a Summer Tide(book 1 in the Three Sisters Islandseries). I braced myself, not sure if my loyal readers would transfer to another genre. And they did! And brought their friends, too. On a Summer Tide hit a number of bestseller lists and went into reprints. I’m so grateful.
What conferences will you be attending this year? Will you be a speaker at any of them? This last year, I attended a number of conferences, including ACFW and BookLoversCon. Next year, I’ll definitely be at BookLoversCon. I’m considering a few other conferences: Mount Hermon, ACFW, WCCW. I have taught some workshops in the past, and might do some next year. If you were in charge of planning the panel discussion at a writing conference, what topic would the panel cover, and who would you ask to be on the panel, and why? The topic I would choose would be the craze to publish “Indy.” I’d fill the panel with authors who’ve had experience with traditional publishers and also published Indy, agents and editors. I’d like to hear the pros and cons, from all different angles. It seems like the publishing world is being turned upside down, and I’d like to understand more about where it’s headed.
It has really opened up many options to authors. How important is it to you to be active in writing organizations? At times, it’s been very important, and I’ve benefitted immensely from being involved in organizations (ACFW, for example). The last few years, the needs of my family have claimed most of my spare time. There are seasons in our lives, and I’m learning to respect them.
That is so true. This whole year has been one of those seasons for me. Where in the community or your church do you volunteer? Church: I’m part of the communications team. Community: I’m heavily involved with Guide Dogs for the Blind. I have raised ten puppies, and am currently a breeder custodian for two dogs.
Who are the five people who have made the most impact on your life, and how? My husband, my sister, my children. They’ve championed my writing.
If you could write the inscription on your tombstone, what would it be? The best one epitaph I’ve come across belongs to Ruth Graham, wife of Billy Graham: “End of Construction. Thank you for your patience.” I’m still looking to beat that one! Haven’t found it yet.
Tell us about the featured book.
Stitches in Time
is an Amish novel set in the little town of Stoney Ridge. Schoolteacher Mollie Graber is aware of how fleeting and fragile life can be, and comes to Stoney Ridge for a fresh start, to live life boldly and bravely. When Luke Schrock, new to his role as deacon, asks the church to take in foster girls from a group home, she’s the first to raise her hand. The power of love, she believes, can pick up the dropped stitches in a child’s heart and knit them back together. Mollie envisions sleepovers and pillow fights. What she gets are sleepless nights and police at the door. There’s only one thing that breaks through the girls’ hard shells—an interest in horses. Reluctantly and skeptically, horse trainer Sam Schrock gets drawn into Mollie’s chaotic life. What he didn’t expect was for love to knit together the dropped stitches in his own heart…just in time.
Please share the first page with us. It took a lot to shock Luke Schrock. Generally, he was the one who did the shocking. So on the day that Bishop David Stoltzfus received whispered suggestions from each church member of Stoney Ridge to choose a deacon to replace Amos Lapp, it never once occurred to Luke that his name might be submitted. Never ever crossed his mind. Not once. Why would it? Luke was newly married, only twenty-five years old, and on his best days, he was just now starting to feel like a grown-up. Yet someone had indeed whispered Luke’s name to David as a choice to be deacon. Just one person. Who? Who would do such a thing, think such a thought? Surely not his wife, Izzy. When a man drew the lot to become a minister or deacon, it was a lifelong obligation. The poor wives of church ministers took the brunt of their husband’s responsibilities. Year after year, Luke had seen Amos called away from family gatherings for deacon business and his wife Fern was left to manage alone. No, definitely not his Izzy. Fern wouldn’t have whispered his name, would she? No. No way. She, more than anyone, knew that Luke wouldn’t be any good at deaconing.
Where can my readers find you on the Internet? I love to hear from readers! You can always find me at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com, or hanging out on Instagram @suzannewoodsfisher or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/suzannewoodsfisherauthor. Thanks for hosting me today!
It’s my great pleasure to have you on my blog, Suzanne. I’m eager to read this book, and many of my blog readers will be, too.
Readers, here are links to the book.Stitches in Time (The Deacon's Family)[image error] - Paperback
Stitches in Time (The Deacon's Family Book 2) - Kindle[image error]
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, 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
Over the next few years, I’ll be continuing to write about the Old Order Amish, while also writing contemporary romance series, while also writing some stand-alone historicals. This last year, my first contemporary romance released, On a Summer Tide(book 1 in the Three Sisters Islandseries). I braced myself, not sure if my loyal readers would transfer to another genre. And they did! And brought their friends, too. On a Summer Tide hit a number of bestseller lists and went into reprints. I’m so grateful. What conferences will you be attending this year? Will you be a speaker at any of them? This last year, I attended a number of conferences, including ACFW and BookLoversCon. Next year, I’ll definitely be at BookLoversCon. I’m considering a few other conferences: Mount Hermon, ACFW, WCCW. I have taught some workshops in the past, and might do some next year. If you were in charge of planning the panel discussion at a writing conference, what topic would the panel cover, and who would you ask to be on the panel, and why? The topic I would choose would be the craze to publish “Indy.” I’d fill the panel with authors who’ve had experience with traditional publishers and also published Indy, agents and editors. I’d like to hear the pros and cons, from all different angles. It seems like the publishing world is being turned upside down, and I’d like to understand more about where it’s headed.
It has really opened up many options to authors. How important is it to you to be active in writing organizations? At times, it’s been very important, and I’ve benefitted immensely from being involved in organizations (ACFW, for example). The last few years, the needs of my family have claimed most of my spare time. There are seasons in our lives, and I’m learning to respect them.
That is so true. This whole year has been one of those seasons for me. Where in the community or your church do you volunteer? Church: I’m part of the communications team. Community: I’m heavily involved with Guide Dogs for the Blind. I have raised ten puppies, and am currently a breeder custodian for two dogs.
Who are the five people who have made the most impact on your life, and how? My husband, my sister, my children. They’ve championed my writing.
If you could write the inscription on your tombstone, what would it be? The best one epitaph I’ve come across belongs to Ruth Graham, wife of Billy Graham: “End of Construction. Thank you for your patience.” I’m still looking to beat that one! Haven’t found it yet.
Tell us about the featured book.
Stitches in Time
is an Amish novel set in the little town of Stoney Ridge. Schoolteacher Mollie Graber is aware of how fleeting and fragile life can be, and comes to Stoney Ridge for a fresh start, to live life boldly and bravely. When Luke Schrock, new to his role as deacon, asks the church to take in foster girls from a group home, she’s the first to raise her hand. The power of love, she believes, can pick up the dropped stitches in a child’s heart and knit them back together. Mollie envisions sleepovers and pillow fights. What she gets are sleepless nights and police at the door. There’s only one thing that breaks through the girls’ hard shells—an interest in horses. Reluctantly and skeptically, horse trainer Sam Schrock gets drawn into Mollie’s chaotic life. What he didn’t expect was for love to knit together the dropped stitches in his own heart…just in time. Please share the first page with us. It took a lot to shock Luke Schrock. Generally, he was the one who did the shocking. So on the day that Bishop David Stoltzfus received whispered suggestions from each church member of Stoney Ridge to choose a deacon to replace Amos Lapp, it never once occurred to Luke that his name might be submitted. Never ever crossed his mind. Not once. Why would it? Luke was newly married, only twenty-five years old, and on his best days, he was just now starting to feel like a grown-up. Yet someone had indeed whispered Luke’s name to David as a choice to be deacon. Just one person. Who? Who would do such a thing, think such a thought? Surely not his wife, Izzy. When a man drew the lot to become a minister or deacon, it was a lifelong obligation. The poor wives of church ministers took the brunt of their husband’s responsibilities. Year after year, Luke had seen Amos called away from family gatherings for deacon business and his wife Fern was left to manage alone. No, definitely not his Izzy. Fern wouldn’t have whispered his name, would she? No. No way. She, more than anyone, knew that Luke wouldn’t be any good at deaconing.
Where can my readers find you on the Internet? I love to hear from readers! You can always find me at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com, or hanging out on Instagram @suzannewoodsfisher or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/suzannewoodsfisherauthor. Thanks for hosting me today!
It’s my great pleasure to have you on my blog, Suzanne. I’m eager to read this book, and many of my blog readers will be, too.
Readers, here are links to the book.Stitches in Time (The Deacon's Family)[image error] - Paperback
Stitches in Time (The Deacon's Family Book 2) - Kindle[image error]
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, 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
November 5, 2019
ISLAND OF LAST RESORTS
Dear Readers, I’m thrilled to share this romantic suspense novel with you. Mary Ellis has been a friend for a long time, and I love reading her novels. Each suspense book has a strong plot line with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. This one is a little bit darker than most of them. Being the fourth in a series, many of the characters feel like my real live friends. They pulled me into the story, and I lived it right along with them. And as always there is a happily-ever-after ending. You won’t want to miss this wonderful read.
Welcome back, Mary. Tell us a little about yourself and your background.
I am an author of twenty-six published books, including Amish fiction, historical romance, and romantic suspense. My most recent story, Missing, is a novella which appeared in the Summer of Suspense anthology. My fellow authors and I were thrilled when the book made the USA Today bestseller list. I have a BS in Education and taught middle school for 10 years before I worked in sales and marketing and finally, started writing full-time. I live in Ohio with my husband of many years and my dog. How did you become interested in writing? It seems like I’ve always been interesting in storytelling, but I became interested in fiction writing from the encouragement of a friend. She was already a published author and loved how I could weave a simple sequence of events into a high-drama tale, complete with the possibility of romance. Once I started writing novels, I can no longer say “hello” in less than a paragraph. Twitter, for me, is out of the question. Twitter has doubled the number of letters allowed. Maybe you can now. What compelled you to write a book on this subject? Islands have always held a special appeal for me. I find them wildly romantic, yet oddly mysterious at the same time. There is an air of danger if no road or causeway connects you to the rest of civilization. So I loved the idea of turning a dream getaway at a luxury mansion into survival of the fittest or bravest for a group of coworkers. People don’t know what they’re capable of until they are put to the test. What is the main theme or point that you want readers to understand from reading your book? Are there any other themes present in the book? I believe the major theme of
Island
of Last Resorts
is perseverance. We must not give up in the face of adversity. With God’s help, we never know what we are capable of achieving or enduring. A secondary theme would be trusting those we love and/or respect. Are there some specific lessons you hope readers will learn and apply to their lives after reading your book?Never let fear determine the outcome of your daily battles. Each day we are tested, whether small trials like being trapped in traffic for hours, to major battles like a life-changing diagnosis. We must give control of each outcome to God. We can do virtually nothing without His Grace. That is the truth. My 2019 has been full of situations where we had to completely rely on Him. And He is able. What makes your book different than any other books similar to yours that are in circulation today? I use multiple points of view to tell my story and deepen the mystery because no two people will ever experience a situation in the same way. When up against a wall, people will find a variety of methods to solve their dilemma.
I loved that about the book. How does the book intertwine with God’s call on your life and how you are currently serving Him?I have always found it easier to commune with God while walking the beach or on a path in the forest. There I see His hand in the beauty of nature, and He speaks to me best when I’m alone. So I created a story in which the characters must look deep inside themselves and call upon their faith if they wish to survive this island. Do you have a favorite Scripture verse? “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you: never will I forsake you.’” (Heb. 13-5 NIV) When you are not writing, what do you like to do? Do you have any hobbies?When I’m not writing I love to read, of course, walk my dog, work in my 3-acre yard, and ride my bike. (anything, but housework…lol) I also love walking on the beach and snorkeling, but I can no longer manage those due to bad arthritis.
Arthritis has limited some of my usual activities, too. As we close, is there anything else you would like to add?If readers enjoy my humble story half as much as I enjoyed writing this book, I would be overjoyed!
Then let me pour some joy on you. I loved, loved, loved it. Where can my readers find you on the Internet?Readers may find me at www.maryellis.netor on Facebook at Mary.Ellis.Author.
Thank you, Mary, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. After reading it myself, I’m eager for them to read this novel.
Readers, here are links to the book.Island of Last Resorts (Marked for Retribution series)[image error] - Hardback
Island of Last Resorts (Marked for Retribution series Book 3) - Kindle[image error]
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
Welcome back, Mary. Tell us a little about yourself and your background.
I am an author of twenty-six published books, including Amish fiction, historical romance, and romantic suspense. My most recent story, Missing, is a novella which appeared in the Summer of Suspense anthology. My fellow authors and I were thrilled when the book made the USA Today bestseller list. I have a BS in Education and taught middle school for 10 years before I worked in sales and marketing and finally, started writing full-time. I live in Ohio with my husband of many years and my dog. How did you become interested in writing? It seems like I’ve always been interesting in storytelling, but I became interested in fiction writing from the encouragement of a friend. She was already a published author and loved how I could weave a simple sequence of events into a high-drama tale, complete with the possibility of romance. Once I started writing novels, I can no longer say “hello” in less than a paragraph. Twitter, for me, is out of the question. Twitter has doubled the number of letters allowed. Maybe you can now. What compelled you to write a book on this subject? Islands have always held a special appeal for me. I find them wildly romantic, yet oddly mysterious at the same time. There is an air of danger if no road or causeway connects you to the rest of civilization. So I loved the idea of turning a dream getaway at a luxury mansion into survival of the fittest or bravest for a group of coworkers. People don’t know what they’re capable of until they are put to the test. What is the main theme or point that you want readers to understand from reading your book? Are there any other themes present in the book? I believe the major theme of
Island
of Last Resorts
is perseverance. We must not give up in the face of adversity. With God’s help, we never know what we are capable of achieving or enduring. A secondary theme would be trusting those we love and/or respect. Are there some specific lessons you hope readers will learn and apply to their lives after reading your book?Never let fear determine the outcome of your daily battles. Each day we are tested, whether small trials like being trapped in traffic for hours, to major battles like a life-changing diagnosis. We must give control of each outcome to God. We can do virtually nothing without His Grace. That is the truth. My 2019 has been full of situations where we had to completely rely on Him. And He is able. What makes your book different than any other books similar to yours that are in circulation today? I use multiple points of view to tell my story and deepen the mystery because no two people will ever experience a situation in the same way. When up against a wall, people will find a variety of methods to solve their dilemma.
I loved that about the book. How does the book intertwine with God’s call on your life and how you are currently serving Him?I have always found it easier to commune with God while walking the beach or on a path in the forest. There I see His hand in the beauty of nature, and He speaks to me best when I’m alone. So I created a story in which the characters must look deep inside themselves and call upon their faith if they wish to survive this island. Do you have a favorite Scripture verse? “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you: never will I forsake you.’” (Heb. 13-5 NIV) When you are not writing, what do you like to do? Do you have any hobbies?When I’m not writing I love to read, of course, walk my dog, work in my 3-acre yard, and ride my bike. (anything, but housework…lol) I also love walking on the beach and snorkeling, but I can no longer manage those due to bad arthritis. Arthritis has limited some of my usual activities, too. As we close, is there anything else you would like to add?If readers enjoy my humble story half as much as I enjoyed writing this book, I would be overjoyed!
Then let me pour some joy on you. I loved, loved, loved it. Where can my readers find you on the Internet?Readers may find me at www.maryellis.netor on Facebook at Mary.Ellis.Author.
Thank you, Mary, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. After reading it myself, I’m eager for them to read this novel.
Readers, here are links to the book.Island of Last Resorts (Marked for Retribution series)[image error] - Hardback
Island of Last Resorts (Marked for Retribution series Book 3) - Kindle[image error]
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, 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
November 4, 2019
SARA'S SURPRISE - Susan G Mathis - One Free Book
Bio: Susan G Mathis is a multi-published author of stories set in the beautiful Thousand Islands, her childhood stomping ground in upstate NY. Katelyn’s Choice, the first in The Thousand Islands Gilded Age series, is available now, and book two, Devyn’s Dilemma, releases in April, 2020. The Fabric of Hope: An Irish Family Legacy, Christmas Charity, and Sara’s Surprise are available now. Visit www.SusanGMathis.comfor more.
Susan is also a published author of two premarital books with her husband, Dale, two children's picture books, stories in a dozen compilations, and hundreds of published articles. Susan makes her home in Colorado Springs, enjoys traveling globally with her wonderful husband, Dale, and relishes each time she gets to see or Skype with her four granddaughters.
Welcome back, Susan. God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon?I’m having a blast writing stories of the Thousand Island Gilded Age. Book two of the Thousand Islands Gilded Age series comes to life in Devyn’s Dilemma. It’ll release in April 2020. Here’s the summary of the story: 1910, Thousand Islands, New York. Others may consider The Towers castle on Dark Island an enchanting summer retreat, but to Devyn McKenna, it’s a prison. Yet as she works as a maid for Frederick Bourne, former president of the Singer Sewing Machine Company, her life blossoms under the kindness of his family and fascinating entrepreneurs such as J.P. Morgan, Thomas Lipton, and Captain Vanderbilt. But more than anything, the growing friendship of Mr. Bourne’s valet, Brice McBride, begins to pry away the painful layers that conceal Devyn’s heart.Brice is drawn to the mysterious Devyn even though he’s certain she’s hiding a secret, one far more dangerous than the clues they find in The Towers that hint of a treasure on the island. When Devyn is accused of stealing Bourne’s investment in Vanderbilt’s New York City subway expansion, he might not be able to protect her.
Tell us a little about your family.I’m married to the most amazing man on the planet. He’s my best friend, encourager, and my knight in shining armor. We have five grown children and four granddaughters.
Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how?I have to put my editor self under lock and key so I don’t edit, critique, or correct what I’m reading. Smiles.
I had a hard time learning to turn off my internal editor when reading for pleasure. What are you working on right now?I’m working on my next novella, Reagan’s Reward, which will come out next year.
What outside interests do you have?Besides enjoying time with my grandchildren, I love to travel, especially cruising, spending time with friends, and exploring the Rocky Mountains and the Thousand Islands.
How do you choose your settings for each book?I grew up in the Thousand Islands, and there are so many wonderful stories to tell. The Thousand Islands Gilded Age is full of wonderful islands and characters like George Pullman, Frederick Bourne, and hundred of famous people like J.P. Morgan, Vanderbilt, and others. So I aim to tell at least some of them.
If you could spend an evening with one historical person, who would it be and why?I’d have loved to meet Frederick Bourne and his family who built Singer Castle, the setting for my next novel, Devyn’s Dilemma. As president of Singer Sewing Machine Company and a strong Christian, it’d be thrilling to get to know him and the entire family in person. After writing the story, though, I feel like we’re already friends!
What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels?Everyone said, “show, don’t tell” but very few explained what that really means. I wish I’d had understood that better and glad it finally comes easily to me.
That took me until about my third book to really understand. What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?My husband has been diagnosed with cancer, so I’m learning to hold on to God’s peace in the midst of the storm.
I really understand. We went through skin cancer this year with my husband. He hadn’t wanted to go to the doctor for way too long, so a couple were really serious and two were easily taken care of. Last Thursday, we got the report that there is no more cancer. And yes, God will carry you through. What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful?Never stop learning. Take criticism graciously. Have fun!
Tell us about the featured book.
In
Sara’s Surprise
, Sara O’Neill, works as an assistant pastry chef at the magnificent Thousand Islands Crossmon Hotel where she meets precocious, lovable, seven-year-old Madison and her charming father and hotel manager, Sean Graham. But Jacque LaFleur, the pastry chef Sara works under, makes her dream job a nightmare.Sean Graham has trouble keeping his mind off Sara and Madison out of mischief. Though he finds Sara captivating, he despises LaFleur and misreads Sara’s desire to learn from the pastry chef as affection. Can Sean learn to trust Sara and can she trust herself to be an instant mother?
Please give us the first page of the book.Alexandria Bay, New YorkJuly 1873The St. Lawrence Riversparkled in the early morning sunshine as Sara O’Neill walked toward her new life at the elegant Crossmon House Hotel. An abundant variety of colorful flowers and blooming bushes decorated the entrance. She took in a magical whiff of nature’s loveliest fragrances as she climbed the grand staircase leading to the lobby. On her first day of employment, she wanted to walk through the front doors and experience the grandeur of the famous hotel like an upper-class guest. Just this once.
“Please, miss. Allow me.” A wee girl popped into her path. Where did she come from? Sara glanced at the nearby bush and grinned. The child pulled open the heavy, leaded-glass door with all her might, grunting and nearly losing her balance. Sara tossed her a smile and a nod as she passed over the threshold. The little girl grinned back, a full four—or was it more?—teeth missing.
That explained her adorable lisp.
How can readers find you on the Internet?Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Saras-Surprise-Susan-G-Mathis/dp/1087235715Website: www.SusanGMathis.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusanGMathisTwitter: https://twitter.com/@SusanGMathisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/susangmathisPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/susangmathisautGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6044608.Susan_G_Mathis
Thank you, Susan, for sharing this new book with my blog readers and me. I’m eager to read it.
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:Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com
November 3, 2019
WINNER
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 Meant for Her by Joy Avery Melville.
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.
Tina (PA) is the winner of Meant for Her by Joy Avery Melville.
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.
November 1, 2019
LESSONS ON LOVE - Kathleen L Maher - One Free Print or Ebook (see info below)
Welcome back, Kathleen. God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon?
Amen! With God’s help, I hope to continue my Sons of the Shenandoah indie series, and pick up more contracts through Barbour. So many causes, stories, and thoughts are clamoring to be shared. All to give the glory to God.
He is so good to fill our heads with stories. Tell us a little about your family.My family is my life. I was a single mom to my oldest son for seven years before the Lord brought me my kinsman redeemer. John and I have been married for 21 years. We have another son and daughter together. Katie is at Alfred University, in her second year studying art. My oldest, Dan, teaches digital media arts for the local vocational tech school. And my middle son, Andrew, is a budding author and erstwhile game lounge lizard. Our family is complete with an embarrassment of riches in the pet department—four dogs and four cats.
Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how?Yes, sadly I find I am able to read less often, which is disappointing in many ways. So many great stories are begging to be read, but I seem to have so little time. I learn from each book and author I read. I intend to spend less time on social media and more with a good book. But then, there’s marketing demands…. There’s always a trade-off, isn’t there?
Yes, I’m not sure I’ve found the correct balance yet. What are you working on right now?I am beta reading for a talented new writer, Candace West. She writes stories set in the Ozarks. And I am plotting and putting together proposals for novella collections and possibly some full-length novels. I have two projects I started that need attention. I’m a bad story mom to my book babies—some of them have been suffering neglect. Book 3 in Sons of the Shenandoah is underway, and I hope to have it done for Nanowrimo next month. Gulp! Wish me luck and discipline.
I spent several of my growing-up years in the Ozarks. Be sure and tell Candace, I’d love to feature her books when they are published. What outside interests do you have?Painting has been a hobby of mine for many years, and I’ve recently dabbled in other crafts, such as homemade cinnamon dough ornaments. I paint and create animal art for gifts and keepsakes. I tell my husband it keeps me out of trouble.
How do you choose your settings for each book?Some of my stories are set in my hometown, some are set in places I have visited or where family history occurred. And sometimes, a place I have never been draws me to explore it through imagination and photos and research. Settings help me create atmosphere and almost become another character as I am shaping stories. I try to immerse myself in the sights, scents, sounds and details of each place.
I spend a lot of time researching my settings, too. If you could spend an evening with one historical person, who would it be and why?Believe it or not, I would choose Melania Trump. She and her husband are shaping history in amazing ways, and I would love a glimpse into the woman of grace and refinement behind the man of great power and controversy.
What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels?I wish I had thought to save a list of story ideas over the years, even before I committed to write them. I’ve always had vivid dreams, almost like watching movies, and many of those inspired ideas have been lost to my poor memory.
That’s why I have a pad and pen in each room of my house. What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?It has taken many years for my husband and I to find a vital fellowship where God’s calling on our lives is affirmed. We are learning body life all over again, and it’s a very sweet season. But in the midst, we are crying out for our children to find the same, and the theme of trust and intercession continues. God’s faithfulness never ceases to catch my breath.
James and I have started looking for God in everything that happens, even the things that could be considered bad. What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful?I don’t consider myself successful yet, since I still have so much to learn. But certain things have been indispensable to me in my writing journey. Narrowing it down to three, I’d say:Have at least one good, honest critique partner, and give good, honest critiques for them as well. Cheer for one another, pray for each other, and grow in the craft as a team.Grow your social media presence and engage with people! Love on them, weep when they weep, rejoice when they rejoice. So many are looking for connection and I believe that is one of my primary calls as a writer—to offer genuine connection in a lonely and disengaged world. Word of mouth is still the best way to build an authentic brand.Maintain a hunger for new ideas and embrace the fact that learning never ends. The influx of fresh ideas helps with crafting more original plots and memorable characters, out of the box marketing, and sharpening craft in general. If you can cultivate a relationship with a mentor, even better!
Tell us about the featured book.
Lessons on Love
is a 4-in-1 novella collection of historical romances centered around schoolteachers. The talented and award winning authors Carrie Fancett Pagels, Suzie Dietze, and Rita Gerlach each contributed a story as well as me, to offer a diverse and enchanting sampling of classroom romances, from 1840 New York, 1870 Kansas, 1896 Michigan, and turn of the century Virginia.
“4 Teachers Find More Than They Bargained for in Their Contracts”
Please give us the first page of the book.
“Something Old, Something New”
Cortlandt, Westchester County, NYSeptember 1840“Hadassah, hurry, it’s almost sundown.”
Gilda turned from the stairwell cupping her hand in front of the taper as she moved so the flame wouldn’t sputter out. Keeping one ear attuned for her younger sister’s response from the upper floor, she set her focus on her other sibling.
“Hannah, do you want to be late for Papa’s Kaddish?” After this first year, only four Yizkor dates on the Hebrew calendar provided for mourning. Would it be enough to memorialize Eliezer Jacobs? To light his candle and commemorate a life which had shaped her entire world?
She passed the looking glass hanging in the dining room and instinctively faced it, but a white sheet met her gaze rather than her appearance. Of course, the looking glasses were all covered. She was certain hers would have been a disheveled reflection anyway, running around and making all the preparations for Mama as she was, and giving no thought to vanity on this day. At least, not much thought.
Mama sat, as she had for weeks since Papa’s passing, in her rocking chair by the hearth. The slats made a rhythmic sound over the polished wood floor as she rocked slowly, enshrouded both in silence and her black shawl.
Gilda set her candle in its holder next to the Yahrzeit Mourning candle on the lampstand and approached Mama softly. “Would you like to conduct the Minyan, Mama, or should I?
Deep brown eyes shuttered, and a long sigh escaped her mother’s petite frame. “You say it, Gilda. I have no breath to recite.”
Gilda fixed the shawl that slipped from Mama’s shoulders and nodded assurance. “I’ll do it.”
The click of hardware and tread of boots announced a guest entering the front door. A sigh similar to Mama’s threatened to pull from Gilda’s chest, but she cleared her throat and attended to her mitzvahs—her sacred duties.
“Shalom, Miss Jacobs.”
“Aleichem Shalom, Mr….”
She looked up from her woolgathering to meet a piercingly blue gaze. This man, she’d never met before. Startling and yet heartwarming, that a stranger to her thought enough of her Papa to come. His tailored waistcoat of gray blue fit his trim figure, accentuating a narrow waist and broad shoulders. He could not have been much older than her own age of twenty-one, mayhap a year older. This man was not of great height, apparent once he removed his top hat, nor did he have the rough hands of a laborer. He was neither neighbor, schoolmate, or synagogue congregant. Was he a business associate of Papa’s?
Surely this man, she would have remembered.
How can readers find you on the Internet?I love hearing from readers! They can reach me at my:facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/KLMaherAuthor/
pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/kathleenlmaher/boards/
goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2531698-kathleen-l
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/kathleen-l-maher
Thank you, Lena! I am blessed to be invited back to your blog and look forward to sending a print copy of Lessons on Love to any of your readers within the US, or an e-copy to a winner outside the United States.
Thank you, Kathleen, for sharing this collection with my blog readers and me. I am reading the book right now. I absolutely loved your story. And I like that the second one has Swedish characters. I’m ¼ Swedish.
Readers, here are links to the book.Lessons on Love: 4 Schoolteachers Find More Than They Bargained for in Their Contracts[image error] - Paperback
Lessons on Love: 4 Schoolteachers Find More Than They Bargained for in Their Contracts - Kindle[image error]
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, 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
Amen! With God’s help, I hope to continue my Sons of the Shenandoah indie series, and pick up more contracts through Barbour. So many causes, stories, and thoughts are clamoring to be shared. All to give the glory to God.He is so good to fill our heads with stories. Tell us a little about your family.My family is my life. I was a single mom to my oldest son for seven years before the Lord brought me my kinsman redeemer. John and I have been married for 21 years. We have another son and daughter together. Katie is at Alfred University, in her second year studying art. My oldest, Dan, teaches digital media arts for the local vocational tech school. And my middle son, Andrew, is a budding author and erstwhile game lounge lizard. Our family is complete with an embarrassment of riches in the pet department—four dogs and four cats.
Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how?Yes, sadly I find I am able to read less often, which is disappointing in many ways. So many great stories are begging to be read, but I seem to have so little time. I learn from each book and author I read. I intend to spend less time on social media and more with a good book. But then, there’s marketing demands…. There’s always a trade-off, isn’t there?
Yes, I’m not sure I’ve found the correct balance yet. What are you working on right now?I am beta reading for a talented new writer, Candace West. She writes stories set in the Ozarks. And I am plotting and putting together proposals for novella collections and possibly some full-length novels. I have two projects I started that need attention. I’m a bad story mom to my book babies—some of them have been suffering neglect. Book 3 in Sons of the Shenandoah is underway, and I hope to have it done for Nanowrimo next month. Gulp! Wish me luck and discipline.
I spent several of my growing-up years in the Ozarks. Be sure and tell Candace, I’d love to feature her books when they are published. What outside interests do you have?Painting has been a hobby of mine for many years, and I’ve recently dabbled in other crafts, such as homemade cinnamon dough ornaments. I paint and create animal art for gifts and keepsakes. I tell my husband it keeps me out of trouble.
How do you choose your settings for each book?Some of my stories are set in my hometown, some are set in places I have visited or where family history occurred. And sometimes, a place I have never been draws me to explore it through imagination and photos and research. Settings help me create atmosphere and almost become another character as I am shaping stories. I try to immerse myself in the sights, scents, sounds and details of each place.
I spend a lot of time researching my settings, too. If you could spend an evening with one historical person, who would it be and why?Believe it or not, I would choose Melania Trump. She and her husband are shaping history in amazing ways, and I would love a glimpse into the woman of grace and refinement behind the man of great power and controversy.
What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels?I wish I had thought to save a list of story ideas over the years, even before I committed to write them. I’ve always had vivid dreams, almost like watching movies, and many of those inspired ideas have been lost to my poor memory.
That’s why I have a pad and pen in each room of my house. What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?It has taken many years for my husband and I to find a vital fellowship where God’s calling on our lives is affirmed. We are learning body life all over again, and it’s a very sweet season. But in the midst, we are crying out for our children to find the same, and the theme of trust and intercession continues. God’s faithfulness never ceases to catch my breath.
James and I have started looking for God in everything that happens, even the things that could be considered bad. What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful?I don’t consider myself successful yet, since I still have so much to learn. But certain things have been indispensable to me in my writing journey. Narrowing it down to three, I’d say:Have at least one good, honest critique partner, and give good, honest critiques for them as well. Cheer for one another, pray for each other, and grow in the craft as a team.Grow your social media presence and engage with people! Love on them, weep when they weep, rejoice when they rejoice. So many are looking for connection and I believe that is one of my primary calls as a writer—to offer genuine connection in a lonely and disengaged world. Word of mouth is still the best way to build an authentic brand.Maintain a hunger for new ideas and embrace the fact that learning never ends. The influx of fresh ideas helps with crafting more original plots and memorable characters, out of the box marketing, and sharpening craft in general. If you can cultivate a relationship with a mentor, even better!
Tell us about the featured book.
Lessons on Love
is a 4-in-1 novella collection of historical romances centered around schoolteachers. The talented and award winning authors Carrie Fancett Pagels, Suzie Dietze, and Rita Gerlach each contributed a story as well as me, to offer a diverse and enchanting sampling of classroom romances, from 1840 New York, 1870 Kansas, 1896 Michigan, and turn of the century Virginia. “4 Teachers Find More Than They Bargained for in Their Contracts”
Please give us the first page of the book.
“Something Old, Something New”
Cortlandt, Westchester County, NYSeptember 1840“Hadassah, hurry, it’s almost sundown.”
Gilda turned from the stairwell cupping her hand in front of the taper as she moved so the flame wouldn’t sputter out. Keeping one ear attuned for her younger sister’s response from the upper floor, she set her focus on her other sibling.
“Hannah, do you want to be late for Papa’s Kaddish?” After this first year, only four Yizkor dates on the Hebrew calendar provided for mourning. Would it be enough to memorialize Eliezer Jacobs? To light his candle and commemorate a life which had shaped her entire world?
She passed the looking glass hanging in the dining room and instinctively faced it, but a white sheet met her gaze rather than her appearance. Of course, the looking glasses were all covered. She was certain hers would have been a disheveled reflection anyway, running around and making all the preparations for Mama as she was, and giving no thought to vanity on this day. At least, not much thought.
Mama sat, as she had for weeks since Papa’s passing, in her rocking chair by the hearth. The slats made a rhythmic sound over the polished wood floor as she rocked slowly, enshrouded both in silence and her black shawl.
Gilda set her candle in its holder next to the Yahrzeit Mourning candle on the lampstand and approached Mama softly. “Would you like to conduct the Minyan, Mama, or should I?
Deep brown eyes shuttered, and a long sigh escaped her mother’s petite frame. “You say it, Gilda. I have no breath to recite.”
Gilda fixed the shawl that slipped from Mama’s shoulders and nodded assurance. “I’ll do it.”
The click of hardware and tread of boots announced a guest entering the front door. A sigh similar to Mama’s threatened to pull from Gilda’s chest, but she cleared her throat and attended to her mitzvahs—her sacred duties.
“Shalom, Miss Jacobs.”
“Aleichem Shalom, Mr….”
She looked up from her woolgathering to meet a piercingly blue gaze. This man, she’d never met before. Startling and yet heartwarming, that a stranger to her thought enough of her Papa to come. His tailored waistcoat of gray blue fit his trim figure, accentuating a narrow waist and broad shoulders. He could not have been much older than her own age of twenty-one, mayhap a year older. This man was not of great height, apparent once he removed his top hat, nor did he have the rough hands of a laborer. He was neither neighbor, schoolmate, or synagogue congregant. Was he a business associate of Papa’s?
Surely this man, she would have remembered.
How can readers find you on the Internet?I love hearing from readers! They can reach me at my:facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/KLMaherAuthor/
pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/kathleenlmaher/boards/
goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2531698-kathleen-l
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/kathleen-l-maher
Thank you, Lena! I am blessed to be invited back to your blog and look forward to sending a print copy of Lessons on Love to any of your readers within the US, or an e-copy to a winner outside the United States.
Thank you, Kathleen, for sharing this collection with my blog readers and me. I am reading the book right now. I absolutely loved your story. And I like that the second one has Swedish characters. I’m ¼ Swedish.
Readers, here are links to the book.Lessons on Love: 4 Schoolteachers Find More Than They Bargained for in Their Contracts[image error] - Paperback
Lessons on Love: 4 Schoolteachers Find More Than They Bargained for in Their Contracts - Kindle[image error]
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, 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
October 30, 2019
TAYE'S GIFT - Pat Simmons - One Free Book
Welcome back, Pat. I love your new head shot. What are some of the spiritual themes you like to write about?
I listen for God’s voice for each story’s messages redemption, overcoming, steadfast. My favorite Scripture for my characters is Jude 1:24God can keep us from falling, and my characters want to be kept.
What other books of yours are coming out soon?Book One, LEAN ON ME, in the Family is Forever series, which is about caregivers will be released January 7, 2020.
What historical person would you like to meet (besides Jesus) and why?Because I’m into genealogy, I would like to meet my second great-grandmother Charlotte Jamieson, who is a fictional character in my Jamieson Legacy series. My second great grandmother, Charlotte, was enslaved by Robert Jamieson. A guest in his home, John Wilkinson, fathered 2 children with her, then married the slaveholder’s daughter, Artie. Charlotte lived to be 80 years old and died living in the backyard of one of the largest former slaveholders in Mississippi, the Caradines. I would like to know how she endured slavery.
Interesting. I understand why you would love to meet her. How can you encourage authors who have been receiving only rejections from publishers?Funny you ask that. I attended the annual Christian Book Lovers Retreat last week. There was one woman at a seminar who had received 7 in one day. After a group of us prayed for her, we all gave her encouraging words. I told her about my experience of getting a rejection letter for GUILTY OF LOVE on the same day it hit the shelves with another publisher. Also, I reminded her that God is the Master Chess player, and He moves people and situations around for our good, and He’s partnering her with the right editors and publishing houses.
Tell us about the featured book.
TAYE’S GIFT is Book 6 in the Small Town Christmas series. I guess you can say the stories are modeled after Hallmark movies. The gist of the plot is it’s a race against time to bless someone in need with $1500, in time for Christmas. My story has a different twist, because initially my character thinks the money is for her from a deceased friend. Soon, God shows her that by blessing others, she will get blessed. However, the task she embarks on requires help from two strangers who fast become friends to save two businesses during the holidays.
I love this cover. Please give us the first page of the book.This is insane!
Only for her late friend Charity Hart would Taye Thomas endure the mass pandemonium at an airport on the Friday after Thanksgiving, yet here she was flying Southwest Airlines from Kansas City to Denver.
Had everyone flown into town for a quick hi before consuming hearty helpings of turkey and dressing just to make their exit the next day? This was the worse time to travel.
Taye shut out the chaos around her for a quiet moment of reflection. An old friend from high school had passed away. Taye’s eyes misted as the realization hit that Charity was gone. She sniffed as nearby chatter pulled her out of her reverie.
Although she wasn’t keen on eavesdropping, some travelers’ conversations were too entertaining to ignore. Taye craned her neck as she scanned the line for the person with the high-pitched voice.
“Yeah, I’m nervous. I hope it’s not a bumpy ride,” confessed a pretty girl who attempted to appear older, judging from the makeup artistically applied to highlight her youthful face.
“So, you’re traveling alone?” an older man asked too curiously for Taye’s taste. And was that a hint of pleasure in his tone at her admission?
Didn’t the teenager know her naiveté was making her vulnerable for prey? Taye huffed. Where was the girl’s parents or chaperone? Did anyone give this barely-more-than-a-child instructions about not talking to strangers?
“It’s a nonstop flight, and it should be smooth. We’ll be okay,” another woman assured the girl. @2019 Pat Simmons
How can readers find you on the Internet?It seems like I am everywhere. I invite readers to visit my website at www.PatSimmons.net. I’m on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram too.
Thank you, Pat, for sharing this new Christmas novel with my blog readers and me. We all love Christmas stories, and I love your writing.
Readers, here are links to the book.Taye's Gift (Small-Town Christmas Wishes Series)[image error] - Amazon Paperback
Taye's Gift (Small-Town Christmas Wishes Series Book 6) - Kindle[image error]
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, 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
I listen for God’s voice for each story’s messages redemption, overcoming, steadfast. My favorite Scripture for my characters is Jude 1:24God can keep us from falling, and my characters want to be kept.What other books of yours are coming out soon?Book One, LEAN ON ME, in the Family is Forever series, which is about caregivers will be released January 7, 2020.
What historical person would you like to meet (besides Jesus) and why?Because I’m into genealogy, I would like to meet my second great-grandmother Charlotte Jamieson, who is a fictional character in my Jamieson Legacy series. My second great grandmother, Charlotte, was enslaved by Robert Jamieson. A guest in his home, John Wilkinson, fathered 2 children with her, then married the slaveholder’s daughter, Artie. Charlotte lived to be 80 years old and died living in the backyard of one of the largest former slaveholders in Mississippi, the Caradines. I would like to know how she endured slavery.
Interesting. I understand why you would love to meet her. How can you encourage authors who have been receiving only rejections from publishers?Funny you ask that. I attended the annual Christian Book Lovers Retreat last week. There was one woman at a seminar who had received 7 in one day. After a group of us prayed for her, we all gave her encouraging words. I told her about my experience of getting a rejection letter for GUILTY OF LOVE on the same day it hit the shelves with another publisher. Also, I reminded her that God is the Master Chess player, and He moves people and situations around for our good, and He’s partnering her with the right editors and publishing houses.
Tell us about the featured book.
TAYE’S GIFT is Book 6 in the Small Town Christmas series. I guess you can say the stories are modeled after Hallmark movies. The gist of the plot is it’s a race against time to bless someone in need with $1500, in time for Christmas. My story has a different twist, because initially my character thinks the money is for her from a deceased friend. Soon, God shows her that by blessing others, she will get blessed. However, the task she embarks on requires help from two strangers who fast become friends to save two businesses during the holidays.I love this cover. Please give us the first page of the book.This is insane!
Only for her late friend Charity Hart would Taye Thomas endure the mass pandemonium at an airport on the Friday after Thanksgiving, yet here she was flying Southwest Airlines from Kansas City to Denver.
Had everyone flown into town for a quick hi before consuming hearty helpings of turkey and dressing just to make their exit the next day? This was the worse time to travel.
Taye shut out the chaos around her for a quiet moment of reflection. An old friend from high school had passed away. Taye’s eyes misted as the realization hit that Charity was gone. She sniffed as nearby chatter pulled her out of her reverie.
Although she wasn’t keen on eavesdropping, some travelers’ conversations were too entertaining to ignore. Taye craned her neck as she scanned the line for the person with the high-pitched voice.
“Yeah, I’m nervous. I hope it’s not a bumpy ride,” confessed a pretty girl who attempted to appear older, judging from the makeup artistically applied to highlight her youthful face.
“So, you’re traveling alone?” an older man asked too curiously for Taye’s taste. And was that a hint of pleasure in his tone at her admission?
Didn’t the teenager know her naiveté was making her vulnerable for prey? Taye huffed. Where was the girl’s parents or chaperone? Did anyone give this barely-more-than-a-child instructions about not talking to strangers?
“It’s a nonstop flight, and it should be smooth. We’ll be okay,” another woman assured the girl. @2019 Pat Simmons
How can readers find you on the Internet?It seems like I am everywhere. I invite readers to visit my website at www.PatSimmons.net. I’m on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram too.
Thank you, Pat, for sharing this new Christmas novel with my blog readers and me. We all love Christmas stories, and I love your writing.
Readers, here are links to the book.Taye's Gift (Small-Town Christmas Wishes Series)[image error] - Amazon Paperback
Taye's Gift (Small-Town Christmas Wishes Series Book 6) - Kindle[image error]
Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Goodreads, 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
October 27, 2019
WINNER
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.
bakersdozen (CA) is the winner of Being Black and Republican in the Age of Obama by Karen Watson.
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.
bakersdozen (CA) is the winner of Being Black and Republican in the Age of Obama by Karen Watson.
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.
October 22, 2019
MEANT FOR HER - Joy Avery Melville - One Free Ebook
BIO: 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 didn’t want to deviate from that. God had different plans 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 46 years and their one-year-old Yorkie pup, Is-A-Bella Bindi, (Is-a-beautiful little girl) who thinks she’s a much larger breed with tomboy tendencies.
Welcome, Joy. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.The majority of my characters are made up from my imagination, but the Spiritual portions come from my heart as do the views on marriage.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?That’s hard to say, since I’m a woman of an advanced age and pretty much know better than to do something I might pay for medically. I did take off in our van in May of 2015 to stay for 9 days with a writer, whom I’d only met online and had talked to for about one month before she’d invited me to go stay a couple weeks with them. I had no idea what I’d be facing when I got to their house, It was a 16 hour drive. It turned out to be FUN, INTERESTING, DIFFERENT, and, yes, QUIRKY, and boy, was it ever HOT there.
When did you first discover that you were a writer?My first inkling was in the last marking period of 8thgrade. My parents had moved us to a small village in Michigan, and my poor English teacher had no idea what to do with me for a final exam. She finally asked me to write a short story and hand it in within the week. I had never written a story of any kind. I went home, wrote a 20 page story on both sides of notebook paper (40 page short story) and handed it in the next day. After she’d graded it over the weekend, she asked me to see her after school that Monday afternoon. She told me, I had the gift of story telling on paper, and she advised me to take every conceivable writing class offered from my Freshman year through college. The following Sunday we had a visiting missionary at church, and his words were, “If God has given you a specific gift. Use it to His honor and glory, as He leads you.” I pretty much took that as affirmation of what my teacher had said the Monday before. I allowed a LOT of life to happen between 8th grade and this story, but I wrote several stories in the meantime.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. I love to read. One of my fave genres is Historical Romance. I also read Romance, Amish, Women’s Fiction, and Romantic Suspense. I read non-fiction by Charles Swindoll and David Jeremiah.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? PRAYER – LOTS and LOTS OF PRAYER! I do take my Yorkie, Bella for walks, do a lot of stretching as per doctors’ orders, and I READ LOTS before I go to bed at night.
How do you choose your characters’ names? Most of my character’s names are chosen by how they fit the personality of the individual character. I double check the meanings of names, to be sure it’s not going to be counter the characters’ temperaments. I try to be careful not to have too many characters with the same first letter in their names, but just could not hold back naming my brother and sister in the story with ‘C’ names.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? The accomplishment I’m most proud of is having been married to the same man for 46 years this next month. We are very different personalities with very different likes and dislikes, but God has kept us in love for going on five decades. We met in the first week of September and married the last day of November 1973. Both of us have been committed to making it work. I praise God for it lasting.
James and I have been married for 55 years on November 7. We got married 3 months and 3 days after meeting on a blind date. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?
Easy answer. My Yorkie, Is-A-Bella Bindi (Is-A-Beautiful Little girl) she is so, so lovable and so, so entertaining. I’d like to be loved as we love her.
What is your favorite food? Oh, my. Favorite food? That’s tough. I LOVE FOOD. Probably would say yeast breads. COMFORT FOOD for me. The stress of getting my book revisions done, the marketing plans underway… yup… comfort foods are showing.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?The actual writing of the book was amazing. I wrote a full length novel within a six week period, and did not get to write every single day. My biggest roadblock was trying to tighten it without losing the meat of the story. A lot of prayer went into the revisions and a whole lot of time. More than I’d anticipated, but God brought a terrific editor friend alongside and she helped me deepen, strengthen, and tighten the story to what it has become.
Tell us about the featured book.
The easiest way to do that is to share the Back Cover Blurb, but I do want to share that this book came about after I’d heard a very moving TV news report one evening while doing dishes. I did NOT set out to write Meant for Her without a lot of wrestling with God. By the way, I do NOT recommend that. He ALWAYS wins. My dream was to write Historical Romance and I had written that, but no one wanted to publish it. After I surrendered my will to His, the story flowed, and He’s given me more to this series as well as other series, I’m working on. He did allow me a strong thread of Romance with a sigh-worthy ending, and according to my first two Advanced Reader reviews thus far, the ending is just that.
BCB –Had it all truly been ~ MEANT FOR HER?Dr. Patrick (Mack) MacKevon, long-time friend of Cam’s, watches from the sidelines at the farm, w here his horses are stabled, while Candi struggles to regain a sense of normalcy. His own big-brother tendencies develop into a much deeper emotion over the months he prays for her.
Is it possible for Candi to put all of the pain and trauma behind her and renew her former relationship with the Lord? Will she allow her heart to open enough to discover authentic love, while making decisions of victory on her personal journey to joy?
Please give us the first page of the book.Friday ~ November 15, 2013 ~ Vicksburg, MichiganStinging and prickling throughout her body, accompanied by a beep…beep… beep and muffled voices from a distance, invaded Candi’s senses. Convulsive shivers swept her extremities. She attempted to open her eyes. Too much effort. Where were those voices? They’d been different. Maybe she’d become delusional from prolonged pain. Wait. Hands and ankles free. On a real bed and covered with something heavy. No gag. Mouth dry… as dust. Throat scratchy. Odors different…Clean. Fresh. Antiseptic? No stale smoke. No musty or moldy smells. Candi relaxed when fear met seeming safety and comfort. The shaking eased as she drifted on the edge of sleep.
“Good evening, Pastor Sam, Jaime. You’re the ones who found our Jane Doe?” A man’s words penetrated Candi’s haze. They weren’t harsh or demanding. Friendly, yet authoritative.
“Yes. Jaime did.” Another man’s voice, softer than the first. “She wasn’t awake, Dr. Crandall, and she was icy.” “It’s a good thing you found her when you did, young lady. Pastor, you know anything about her?” “No, and as swollen and bloody as her face was, I couldn’t be sure if I’d ever seen her before. I’d taken Jaime hunting, hoping to get a deer today, and she went off the trail, following some fresh tracks in the snow. Within minutes, she was screaming she’d found a woman. Imagine my shock when I saw how right she was.”
Wow, powerful. How can readers find you on the Internet?Email: joyjournaling@gmail.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Journeystojoy
Website https://www.joyaverymelville.comBlog: https://www.journeystojoy.netFacebook Author Page: http://facebook.com/jamauthorFacebook Personal Page http://facebook.com/joy.averymelvilleAmazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Joy-Avery-Melville/e/B07Y9BQLHX?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1570578449&sr=8-1
I love to hear from readers.
Reviews by Advanced Readers are posted on Goodreads.
Thank you, Joy, for allowing me to promote the release of your debut novel. I am eager to read this story, and I know my blog readers will be, too.
Readers, the book is up for preorder on Amazon.Meant For Her (Intended For Her Book 1)[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
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 46 years and their one-year-old Yorkie pup, Is-A-Bella Bindi, (Is-a-beautiful little girl) who thinks she’s a much larger breed with tomboy tendencies.
Welcome, Joy. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.The majority of my characters are made up from my imagination, but the Spiritual portions come from my heart as do the views on marriage.What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?That’s hard to say, since I’m a woman of an advanced age and pretty much know better than to do something I might pay for medically. I did take off in our van in May of 2015 to stay for 9 days with a writer, whom I’d only met online and had talked to for about one month before she’d invited me to go stay a couple weeks with them. I had no idea what I’d be facing when I got to their house, It was a 16 hour drive. It turned out to be FUN, INTERESTING, DIFFERENT, and, yes, QUIRKY, and boy, was it ever HOT there.
When did you first discover that you were a writer?My first inkling was in the last marking period of 8thgrade. My parents had moved us to a small village in Michigan, and my poor English teacher had no idea what to do with me for a final exam. She finally asked me to write a short story and hand it in within the week. I had never written a story of any kind. I went home, wrote a 20 page story on both sides of notebook paper (40 page short story) and handed it in the next day. After she’d graded it over the weekend, she asked me to see her after school that Monday afternoon. She told me, I had the gift of story telling on paper, and she advised me to take every conceivable writing class offered from my Freshman year through college. The following Sunday we had a visiting missionary at church, and his words were, “If God has given you a specific gift. Use it to His honor and glory, as He leads you.” I pretty much took that as affirmation of what my teacher had said the Monday before. I allowed a LOT of life to happen between 8th grade and this story, but I wrote several stories in the meantime.
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. I love to read. One of my fave genres is Historical Romance. I also read Romance, Amish, Women’s Fiction, and Romantic Suspense. I read non-fiction by Charles Swindoll and David Jeremiah.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? PRAYER – LOTS and LOTS OF PRAYER! I do take my Yorkie, Bella for walks, do a lot of stretching as per doctors’ orders, and I READ LOTS before I go to bed at night.
How do you choose your characters’ names? Most of my character’s names are chosen by how they fit the personality of the individual character. I double check the meanings of names, to be sure it’s not going to be counter the characters’ temperaments. I try to be careful not to have too many characters with the same first letter in their names, but just could not hold back naming my brother and sister in the story with ‘C’ names.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? The accomplishment I’m most proud of is having been married to the same man for 46 years this next month. We are very different personalities with very different likes and dislikes, but God has kept us in love for going on five decades. We met in the first week of September and married the last day of November 1973. Both of us have been committed to making it work. I praise God for it lasting.
James and I have been married for 55 years on November 7. We got married 3 months and 3 days after meeting on a blind date. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?
Easy answer. My Yorkie, Is-A-Bella Bindi (Is-A-Beautiful Little girl) she is so, so lovable and so, so entertaining. I’d like to be loved as we love her.
What is your favorite food? Oh, my. Favorite food? That’s tough. I LOVE FOOD. Probably would say yeast breads. COMFORT FOOD for me. The stress of getting my book revisions done, the marketing plans underway… yup… comfort foods are showing.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?The actual writing of the book was amazing. I wrote a full length novel within a six week period, and did not get to write every single day. My biggest roadblock was trying to tighten it without losing the meat of the story. A lot of prayer went into the revisions and a whole lot of time. More than I’d anticipated, but God brought a terrific editor friend alongside and she helped me deepen, strengthen, and tighten the story to what it has become.
Tell us about the featured book.
The easiest way to do that is to share the Back Cover Blurb, but I do want to share that this book came about after I’d heard a very moving TV news report one evening while doing dishes. I did NOT set out to write Meant for Her without a lot of wrestling with God. By the way, I do NOT recommend that. He ALWAYS wins. My dream was to write Historical Romance and I had written that, but no one wanted to publish it. After I surrendered my will to His, the story flowed, and He’s given me more to this series as well as other series, I’m working on. He did allow me a strong thread of Romance with a sigh-worthy ending, and according to my first two Advanced Reader reviews thus far, the ending is just that.BCB –Had it all truly been ~ MEANT FOR HER?Dr. Patrick (Mack) MacKevon, long-time friend of Cam’s, watches from the sidelines at the farm, w here his horses are stabled, while Candi struggles to regain a sense of normalcy. His own big-brother tendencies develop into a much deeper emotion over the months he prays for her.
Is it possible for Candi to put all of the pain and trauma behind her and renew her former relationship with the Lord? Will she allow her heart to open enough to discover authentic love, while making decisions of victory on her personal journey to joy?
Please give us the first page of the book.Friday ~ November 15, 2013 ~ Vicksburg, MichiganStinging and prickling throughout her body, accompanied by a beep…beep… beep and muffled voices from a distance, invaded Candi’s senses. Convulsive shivers swept her extremities. She attempted to open her eyes. Too much effort. Where were those voices? They’d been different. Maybe she’d become delusional from prolonged pain. Wait. Hands and ankles free. On a real bed and covered with something heavy. No gag. Mouth dry… as dust. Throat scratchy. Odors different…Clean. Fresh. Antiseptic? No stale smoke. No musty or moldy smells. Candi relaxed when fear met seeming safety and comfort. The shaking eased as she drifted on the edge of sleep.
“Good evening, Pastor Sam, Jaime. You’re the ones who found our Jane Doe?” A man’s words penetrated Candi’s haze. They weren’t harsh or demanding. Friendly, yet authoritative.
“Yes. Jaime did.” Another man’s voice, softer than the first. “She wasn’t awake, Dr. Crandall, and she was icy.” “It’s a good thing you found her when you did, young lady. Pastor, you know anything about her?” “No, and as swollen and bloody as her face was, I couldn’t be sure if I’d ever seen her before. I’d taken Jaime hunting, hoping to get a deer today, and she went off the trail, following some fresh tracks in the snow. Within minutes, she was screaming she’d found a woman. Imagine my shock when I saw how right she was.”
Wow, powerful. How can readers find you on the Internet?Email: joyjournaling@gmail.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Journeystojoy
Website https://www.joyaverymelville.comBlog: https://www.journeystojoy.netFacebook Author Page: http://facebook.com/jamauthorFacebook Personal Page http://facebook.com/joy.averymelvilleAmazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Joy-Avery-Melville/e/B07Y9BQLHX?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1570578449&sr=8-1
I love to hear from readers.
Reviews by Advanced Readers are posted on Goodreads.
Thank you, Joy, for allowing me to promote the release of your debut novel. I am eager to read this story, and I know my blog readers will be, too.
Readers, the book is up for preorder on Amazon.Meant For Her (Intended For Her Book 1)[image error]
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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
