Lena Nelson Dooley's Blog, page 82

I AM MY BELOVED - Caryl McAdoo - One Free Book

Dear Readers, we’ve had several of Caryl’s books on the blog. I love her American historical novels. This is the first biblical novel of hers that I’ve featured.

Welcome back, Caryl. How did this book come about?Reading the story about when King David was dying, the young Shunammite damsel they brought to keep him warm, he married yet it says he never “knew” his last queen. Also, I loved that Abishag cherished him. David has long been my favorite Bible hero as I felt a kinship in my love of praise and singing new songs. She just stuck out—you know how the Holy Spirit does that.

Then I read how Adonijah wanted to marry her after his death, and Solomon killed him for it. What happened to her intrigued me. Plus, I’d always loved the love speech in the Song of Solomon . . . written in his later years. He speaks of a Shulamite, and in researching Jewish material, found agreement that Abishag was Solomon’s Shulamite.
Tell us about the book’s cover and what makes it unique.For one, the model on the front is perfect for a beautiful young Shulamite. I’d wanted the purple of royalty to be prominent, and the gold accent was a natural choice. I wanted Israel to be in the background scene, and it’s there, but gets pretty covered up.
Please explain and differentiate between what’s fact and fiction in the book.When I write Biblical fiction, I never, ever change God’s story. I often use other scriptures found in the Bible –not always in the story—to draw some conclusions. That Abishag IS the Shulamite in Song of Solomon, there is no proof. It was gratifying to find that Jewish historians also saw Abishag as the Shunamite.

She’s only mentioned in five verses found in I Kings’ first and second chapters. So the majority of the story is conjecture based on what we know of Jewish ways and her story that IS revealed in the Bible . . . that was not changed, only embellished for the story’s sake. I love Biblical fiction as long as God’s story isn’t changed.
How much research did you have to do for this book?A lot! Mostly from the Word itself, for instance Rehoboam’s part, the actual building of the temple, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon. In Song of Solomon, he calls her his sister which is covered by her relationship with Bathsheba in I AM My Beloved .

What are some of the most interesting things you found about this subject that you weren’t able to use in the story?Can’t think of anything we didn’t use. I wonder about the title. If it throws people that there’s no possessive “s” on Beloved. I wanted the title to say that God—the Great I AM—is my Beloved.
What inspired and surprised you while you were writing the book?Finding the Shulamite versus Shunamite was the big inspiration. And it surprised me to discover in Ecclesiastes that Solomon wrote it in his later years.
What do you hope the reader takes away from the story?A deeper love of the Lord and understanding that it is possible to live a life without the things hoped for and it still be a fulfilled, wonderful life when the choice is made to accept His plan. I pray my readers will experience the kind of praise and worship Abishag did.

When writing this book, sitting at the computer, typing, I often just stopped and worshipped, weeping at His goodness, grace, and mercy. For me, Abishag’s story proved very impactful.
What is the next project you’re working on?I’m working now on TEXAS TEARS, book three in the Cross Timbers Romance Family Saga and my contribution to this year’s Thanksgiving Books and Blessings Collection coming out in early September.
As far as Biblical fiction, I’m planning on a multi-author Kings and Prophets Collection to launch in early 2020. My book will be on Jeremiah.
What do you do when you have to get away from the story for a while?Every day, at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Ron and I play a game of Quirkle while we’re having dinner. We play bridge twice a week, every Tuesday evening in a club and every Friday night, a couple comes over to our house for dinner and bridge, and then there’s a 3rd Thursday once-a-month club.
Please give us the first page of the book.Abishag held the cups level and took small ladylike steps, careful not to slosh. She grinned then placed the wine—except water really, her mother wouldn't allow her real wine—on the stone table.
“The bread isn't quite ready, but almost. Can you stay longer?”
He shook his head. “No, my dear. Regrettably not.”
Leaning in close, he whispered in her ear, stood, then vanished just as he had come. She waited a thumb’s worth of the sundial, emptied both cups, then took them back inside, her parched throat revived.
“Sweetheart, there you are. The bread is ready. Would you want two loafs? Or will you share?” Her mother gave her ‘the look.’ That one that told it all. She never believed her when he came.
All the time, Mother kept talking with Father in hushed tones about her make-believe friend. But she hadn't made him up at all. Namrel was real.
“He whispered in my ear just now. Right before he vanished. He couldn't stay.”            “I see.” Her mother wiped her hands on her apron then knelt down. “What did he tell you?”            “That I will lie with kings but be mother of none.” Abishag smiled then continued in a breathy whisper. “He said my beauty will only be exceeded by my purity.”
Her friend telling her the future, she liked, but not what he said about never being a mother. She wanted real babies, not her rag dolls. That's what one did, grew, got married, and had babies. That part troubled her.            Her mother's eyes opened so wide the white showed all around her dark circles in the middle. “Abishag! Where have you heard such a thing? Little girls know not of such things.”            “I told you, Mama. My friend told me.”
 “And again, who is this friend? What is his name? Have you asked him as I instructed?”
“Yes, Mama. He says his name is unimportant. My guardian angel sent from Heaven.
How can readers find you on the Internet?Author Pages:      Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/Caryl-McAdoo/e/B00E963CFG     BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/authors/caryl-mcadoo?follow=true  
Website: http://www.CarylMcAdoo.com    Newsletter: http://carylmcadoo.com/sign-up-to-the-caryler/

Influencers’ Group:  
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_1hQx6UZbWi3OYwmKKxh6Q                             (Hear Caryl sing her New Songs!)Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CarylMcAdoo.author
Blogs:
    The Word & the Music http://carylmcadoo.com/blog/    HeartWings (Devotional) - http://www.HeartWingsBlog.com    Sweet Americana Sweethearts (Historical) -                  http://www.SweetAmericanaSweethearts.blogspot.com
GoodReads:  http://tinyurl.com/GoodReadsCaryl Google+: http://tinyurl.com/CarylsGooglePlusLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caryl-mca... http://www.twitter.com/CarylMcAdooPinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/CarylMcAdoo
Thank you, Caryl, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. I know they will want to read it as much as I did.
Readers, here are links to the book.I AM My Beloved[image error] - Paperback
I AM My Beloved - 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

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.

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HEARTBEATS IN TIME - Mary Davis plus other authors - One Free Book

Bio: MARY DAVIS is a bestselling, award-winning novelist of over thirty titles in both historical and contemporary themes. Her 2018 titles include; “Holly and Ivy” in A Bouquet of Brides Collection (January), Courting Her Amish Heart (March), The Widow’s Plight (July), Courting Her Secret Heart (September), “Zola’s Cross-Country Adventure” in The MISSAdventure Brides Collection  (December), and Courting Her Prodigal Heart (January 2019). Coming in 2019, The Daughter's Predicament (May) and “Bygones” in Thimbles and Threads (July). She is a member of ACFW and an active critique group member.
Mary lives in the Pacific Northwestwith her husband of over thirty-four years and two cats. She has three adult children and two incredibly adorable grandchildren.
Welcome back, Mary. Why do you write the kind of books you do?I write Christian romance because that’s what I most like to read. It’s what speaks to my heart and soul. The Lord has infinite ways to touch our hearts and souls, mine is romance. I write both historical and contemporary romance and some mystery romance.
Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?The day my first child was born. I had always wanted to be a mother, and I’d had a miscarriage before him, so he made me a mommy. Now he has given me two adorable granddaughters.
Grandchildren are fun, aren’t they? So are great-grandchildren. How has being published changed your life?It gave me a validation that this was indeed what the Lord called me to do and not just selfish musings.
As writers, we all need that validation. What are you reading right now?I’m reading two past novella collections I’m in. I didn’t have time when they came out to read the other authors’ stories in them and am enjoying them. One is The MissAdventure Brides Collection and the other is The American Heiress Brides Collection. I’m also reading A Grace Disguised by Jerry Sittser, a book about dealing with loss.
What is your current work in progress?I’m writing book 3 in my Quilting Circle series, The Damsel’s Intent ~ A hermit comes out of the mountains to snag a husband, and the quilting circle ladies are just the ones to help her succeed. Book 1 in this series, The Widow’s Plight, is included in the HEARTBEATS IN TIME box set. Book 2 in my quilting series, The Daughter’s Predicament, released May 1st.
What would be your dream vacation?Lately, I’ve been dreaming of taking my adult children, their spouses, and my grandchildren to Disneyland. I went there as a child and then again for my honeymoon. I want to go back. There are many other places I dream of going, but right now, as silly as it may sound, Disneyland is at the top of my list. What better place than a land based on make-believe for an author who makes up stories?
You’re right about that. How do you choose your setting for each book?Each book is different. It really depends on the story and what setting it needs. If I can, I try to set stories in my home state of Washington. It has such a rich history. And now that I'm back, it’s easier to do local research. But if a story demands another location, then that’s where I set it. Historical events and people will also determine location and setting. I’ve set stories in many locations outside of Washington State.
If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?My granddaughter Katie. She just turned one, and I haven’t even met her in person yet. Over the computer just isn’t the same. I’m dying to hold her.
My youngest great-granddaughter turned one this month. What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?I love doing various crafts; quilting, sewing, porcelain doll making, crocheting, knitting, and I’m eager to try my hand at making junk journals.
What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?Spelling! I can’t spell my way out of a wet paper bag to save my life. One of these days, SpellChecker is going to quit telling me how to spell the same words over and over and over and over. I’m dyslexic, so spelling is a bit of a mystery to me. There are some words I can’t get close enough for SpellChecker to even have a guess at what I’m trying to spell. “No Spelling Suggestion.” Grrr. So I pull out my trusty thesaurus, look up a synonym that I do know how to spell, and in its synonyms is the word I want.
What advice would you give to a beginning author?Read. Read. READ. Write. Write. WRITE.
Read in the genre you want to write. Read in other genres as well. Read books on the craft of writing.
Write every day even for just a few minutes (or most every day). You can’t get better if you don’t write consistently. Give yourself permission to write badly—really badly. You can fix it when you go back and edit. But you can’t fix what’s not on the page.
Very good advice, especially the last sentence. Tell us about the featured book.HEARTBEATS IN TIME is a set of 5 historical books of Old West Christian Romance (4 novels and 4 novellas) by 7 bestselling, award-winning authors. I’m proud to be in a set with these awesome authors! (Buy link: https://amzn.to/2VzRBoI)THE NOVELS:The Widow’s Plight(Book 1 in the Quilting Circleseries) by Mary DavisA single mother steps out of the shadows of abuse and into the sunshine. But will a secret clouding her past cost her the man she loves? Finding Love In Last Chance, Californiaby Miralee FerrellA young woman on her own after the death of her father, tries to run the family ranch while solving the mystery of sabotage--can a wandering cowboy with a young son help solve her problems and possibly bring love into her life?Dreams of My Heartby Barbara ScottCan a reluctant bride and her new husband fall in love despite their wounded hearts? Hills of Nevermoreby Janalyn VoigtCan a young widow hide her secret shame from the Irish preacher bent on helping her survive? Based on actual historical events during a time of unrest, Hills of Nevermoreexplores faith, love, and courage in the Wild West. THE NOVELLAS:Heart of a Cowboy Novella Collection--four Old West romances“Hearts in Pursuit” by Susan Page Davis~Can Abby and Sam fight their way through danger and violence and live long enough to find love? “Hearts Reunited” by Miralee Ferrell~Tayloris determined to save her ranch after her father’s death, but she won’t let anyone help—especially not her old friend Jesse Townsend.“Have Dress, Will Marry” by Yvonne Lehman~Julie Hayes must escape from Wildcat Mountain. Her only hope is to approach the cowboy, saddleback preacher Timothy Sullivan, and ask him to marry her.“The Hand-Me-Down Husband” by Vickie McDonough~Ellen didn’t want a hand-me-down husband, but could their marriage be God’s will for them both?
I love reading books by all these authors.Please give us the first page of the book.The Widow’s Plight, Central Washington State1893
Lily Lexington Bremmer would never let anyone hurt her son again. She stared at the fading green and yellow bruises on her five-year-old son’s neck and pictured the others on his small body. As he lay with his head in her lap, the train rocked back and forth, his arm wrapped around the little toy train engine she’d bought him at one of the stops. It was carved of wood and painted. He didn’t play with it, merely held it in the crook of his arm.
She combed her fingers through his nearly black soft curls. Her poor son hadn’t had toys to play with. But now things were different. The toy train would be the first of many.
The train they rode rattled along the track. The Pullman passenger car held nearly thirty people in the twenty seats. Most of the passengers hadn’t taken notice of her or her son. People had come and gone, come and gone over the week-long trip. She was ready to leave this train for good, stretch her legs, breathe fresh air, and wash off the soot and dirt of the journey.
She had moved near the front of the car when a seat had opened up. She didn’t know why, but she felt safer there. Closer to the door. Closer to an escape.
The well-groomed man across the aisle in a charcoal-gray business suit tossed glances her direction every few minutes. His attention heightened the nervousness of her already jittery insides. Was he interested in her? Or was he trying to puzzle out how a fair-skinned, blond-haired, blue-eyed woman could have a son with olive skin, dark hair, and rich brown eyes? No matter their contrasting appearances, he was her son.The train’s steam whistle blew long and loud. Then the conductor strolled through the car. “Next stop Kamola.”
Leaning down to where her narrow-brimmed straw hat rested against the wall under the window, she retrieved it and pulled out the two adorned hatpins. She secured the hat onto her head as the train rolled into the station and shuddered to a stop.
Lily had run almost as far from her past as she could physically get. Clear across the country.Toby would be safe here.
I’m eager to read the rest of the book. How can readers find you on the Internet?Newsletter  Blog  FB  FB Readers Group  Amazon  GoodReads  BookBub
Thank you, Mary, for sharing this new book with my blog readers and me. I know they will enjoy all of the stories by these wonderful authors.
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

DREAMS DEFERRED - June Foster - One Free Book

Bio: June Foster is an award-winning author who began her writing career in an RV roaming around the USAwith her husband, Joe. She brags about visiting a location before it becomes the setting in her next contemporary romance or romantic suspense. June's characters find themselves in precarious circumstances where only God can offer redemption and ultimately freedom. To date June has seen publication of 17 novels and 1 devotional.
Welcome back, June. As an author, I know it takes a lot of people to birth each book. Who were the people involved in the birthing of this book, and what were their contributions?Wonderful question. I haven't seen one like this. First, my dear sister-in-law, Helen Lynch, was a great resource for information about the Catholic Church. Since I'm not a Catholic, I don't have as much knowledge as she. She read my first draft to make sure all the plot elements were correct concerning the church, and she patiently answered my many questions. My husband, who grew up Catholic, helped as much as he could. He's been out of the church for quite a few years, and we now attend a protestant church. Another person who was a great help was the principal at SacredHeart CatholicSchool, housed in the church by the same name in Cullman, Alabama, our hometown. She gave us a tour of the school and answered tons of questions. I also looked around the church and took many pictures which were great references when I wrote my scenes set in the fictional church of St. Aloysius of San Antonio, Texas. Since the book is inspired by my great grandfather and great grandmother, I needed to discover more about the history of these two people. My daughter went on Ancestry.com and did additional research for me.
If you teach or speak. What’s coming up on your calendar? So far I have not had to opportunity to teach or speak about writing other than in casual situations. I'm hoping for the chance one day soon.
If you had to completely start over in another place, where would you move, and why? Interesting question as my husband and I are preparing for an extended road trip in our RV. We're hoping to head to the northeast to tour the New England states. As far as starting over, I expect my next and permanent location is going to be in eternity.
If you could only tell aspiring novelists one thing, what would it be? Pray, pray, pray. Seek the Lord about what He'd like you to write and write it! If you're writing for fun or for your own enjoyment, it won't be nearly as exciting as the stories God puts on your heart.
You’ve been asked to be in charge of a celebrity cruise. Who would you ask to take part, and why? (AS in what program, singers, etc. [it doesn’t have to be writing related])I'd check with Randy Alcorn, Jerry B. Jenkins, and Franklin Graham to offer inspirational classes. Then I'd ask Wayne Watson, J. Michael Finley, and Mercy Me to perform the entertainment. Then Emeril Lagasse and Glada De Laurentiis would be in charge of cuisine.
Sounds wonderful. I’d go. Tell us about the featured book. Frances Matthew Hall is obedient to family tradition: all firstborn sons will serve as a priest. Now Matt officiates at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in San Antonio, Texas. But when on Easter Sunday, he notices a beautiful young woman who takes his breath away. He must fight against his attraction to her or leave the priesthood and alienate his entire family.
Mary Louise Graham is a middle school teacher and devout catholic. Yet no amount of service to the community can ease the heavy load of guilt she carries. God can never forgive her unspeakable mistake. But when Father Matt tells her about a forgiving God through His son Jesus Christ, she's free. Only thing, the Godly priest now means more to her than he should.Can two people find their way to each other amidst insurmountable obstacles? Dreams Deferred is inspired by the author's great grandfather and great grandmother's story.
Please give us the first page of the book."Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of good will." Father Matthew Hall lifted his eyes to the crucifix above the altar. Jesus hanging on the cross—the symbol of his faith. "We praise You, we bless You, we adore You, we glorify You."
The words of adoration for the crucified Savior of the world slipped from his lips so naturally, he barely looked at the lectionary. He lifted his baritone voice, offering the mass in song, something he didn't usually do, but since today was Easter Sunday, he would. Easter,—the most significant date on the Christian calendar, was the perfect day to exalt God with the talent He'd given Matt. He took a breath and opened his mouth again. "We give You thanks for your great glory, Lord God, heavenly King." If Matt sang a billion words at each mass, it wouldn't be sufficient to praise his Lord Jesus Christ, the mighty God Who'd created Heaven and Earth.
At the end of the gospel readings, Matt stepped to the podium and looked out at the parishioners. The homily he'd worked on last night would surely convey the joy of Christ's resurrection.
He scanned the congregation again. Some sat, eyes wide, as if soaking up every word of his twenty minute homily. In the back of the sanctuary, two women whispered to each other and another filed her nails.
Where can we find you on the Internet?http://www.junefoster.com https://www.amazon.com/author/junefosterhttps://twitter.com/vjifosterhttps://www.facebook.com/authorjunefoster
Purchase Link: https://tinyurl.com/y3g555tz
Thank you, June, for sharing this 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

DOVE STRONG - Erin Lorence - One Free Book

Welcome, Erin. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.I love humor. My husband is the funniest guy I know, and I like to think I have a good sense of humor as well. So, it’s important that at least a couple of my main characters can highlight the ridiculous and deliver their lines in ways that hopefully make readers smile too.
In Dove Strong , my main character, Dove, is the opposite of me in most ways. She is super blunt when she speaks, she doesn’t care for others’ opinions—especially what they think of her—and she rarely apologizes. It was so refreshing writing from the perspective of someone so confident!
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?I can’t think of anything truly “quirky” that I’ve ever done! How sad.
Here are two unique things about myself off the top of my head: 1) I raised guide dogs as a teenager, so I often embarrassed my young self by having to wrestle with a dog in public. Looking back, there were some hilarious moments...like lugging my 50-pound dog out of JCPennys in my arms when she started to pee.  2) I’m currently a lunch lady, which can be humbling as well as fun. Chicken-wich and tots anyone?
When did you first discover that you were a writer?Roughly six years ago, a mind-blowing story idea popped into my head while I shoveled snow. I decided to sit down and type it up. I finished shoveling. Then I did!
Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.I am addicted to reading, but I am also probably one of the world’s pickiest readers. I don’t read anything that plants disturbing images in my head. Because of that, I read and reread a wide range of young adult books—from anything written by good old Betsy Byars to The Hunger Games. Of the adult genre, I choose older books, such as ones written by Agatha Christie, Georgette Heyer, and Mary Stewart. My favorite Christian author of all time is Grace Livingston Hill. I do read some modern books too, but I’m pretty selective.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?I quit working full time when our first daughter was born, and God has super blessed us. For the past eleven years, I’ve been able to stay home and work only a few hours a week, mostly from home. Jobs have included medical transcript work, a part-time church manager position, and my current job moonlighting as a lunch lady at my daughter’s elementary school.
This opportunity to be a stay-at-home mom and wife has allowed me to have a close and precious relationship with both my daughters, the youngest who is now eight, and with my husband. He and I work well together as a team, and because I’m able to get most the household tasks done during the day, we have time most evenings to take walks, laugh, and share what’s going on. We might not have the biggest house or go on fancy vacations, but it sure helps my sanity to spend daily time with my family and just talk. 
How do you choose your characters’ names?I chose the Christian characters in Dove Strong to have nature-related names or Biblical names. Examples are Reed, Stone, and Gilead. I named my non-Christian characters anything I wanted, though some of their names sound pretty worldly to me. One of my favorite characters is a spunky, nonbeliever little girl named Jezebel. Biblically, her name is associated with not so great stuff, but names can fool you!
I have a self-proclaimed Jezebel in my book The 12 Gifts of Christmas that released in September. What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?Becoming a published author through Pelican Book Group is definitely up high on my list of accomplishments!
If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?How funny! I just discussed this question with my eight-year-old last week. I’d choose to be a giant panda. I’m not a panda expert, but I believe that due to their size, they are not prey to predators. Whew! They also are strictly vegetarian; I don’t relish ripping up other animals as my main food source. Pandas seem to live peaceful lives in the bamboo forests. Plus, Kung Fu Panda is an awesome movie. 
What is your favorite food?If I lived as a hermit with no one to judge me, I’d probably eat nothing but homemade cookies and cake. And I’d wash the sweets down with a never-ending supply of Diet Pepsi.
What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?My greatest challenge in my Dove Strong journey came when my first publishing house closed its doors a month before my book’s release. I was so distraught, I felt sick. Then I spent quite a bit of time talking with God about the situation and put it in His hands. I came away totally at peace—no anger or frustration. I followed my husband’s good advice about submitting to a different publishing house...and ta-da! 
Tell us about the featured book.Here is the book’s official blurb:  Dove Strong loves God. She loves standing chin up, fists clenched when facing Satan’s attacks. But there’s one thing she doesn’t love—other people. So when this spiritually-gifted, antisocial teenager is chosen to join other believers in a trek across Satan’s territory, rattlesnakes and evil-intentioned Heathen aren’t her biggest challenges. But failure isn’t an option. In a month, the Christian Councils will decide the Reclaim, a vote on whether there’ll be a war between Christ’s and Satan’s followers to take back America. It is up to Dove, God’s messenger for peace, to reach her Council in time. Because if she doesn’t, things could get bloody.
Please give us the first page of the book.I had two choices.             Either ignore my brother, Gilead. Or knock him out of the tree.             Then, the limb under my feet tried to buck me off.             “Quit it.” I snatched at an iffy branch near my ears while widening my stance.             How dumb of me not to have acted quicker. So what if a major reason I was about to risk my life trekking across the enemy’s territory was to save my brother’s? It would be kind of pointless if I killed Gileadnow. But at least he wouldn’t be here, twenty feet in the air, annoying me.             The shaking lessened some, but I still grappled with the branches next to me.             “So help me, Gilead, I will tell Grandpa if you break my neck. What’s more, breaking my neck won’t help my survival rate for the trip. I’ll jump when it’s time, and it’s not time yet, so go home.”            As the shaking eased off, I squinted through the sunlit greenery at my brother. A foot taller than me, he perched on nearby limbs in the shade at the oak’s trunk with one foot still planted on my branch. His arm, one that could haul me over his shoulder without trying, gestured at a limb below us. It was the first step in a climb down into dead bushes and the water I’d soon land in.
Interesting! How can readers find you on the Internet?My website is www.erinlorence.com. They can also find me on Facebook and Twitter.
Thank you, Erin, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me.
Readers, here are links to the book.Dove Strong[image error] - Paperback
Dove Strong - 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

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.

Lourdes (NY) is the winner of a mp3 or CD edition of the 20th Anniversary audio book edition of  The Princess   by Lori Wick. 

Sharon (SC) is the winner of  When the Clock Strikes Fourteen   by C Kevin Thompson.

Connie (KY) is the winner of  As the Ink Flows   by Melony Teague and other authors. 

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.

THE PROMISE - Carolyn Torbett-Johnson - One Free Book

Welcome, Carolyn. What has drawn you to writing for children? I love kids, their enthusiasm, and their joy of new things. I especially love their openness to the gospel of truth. I wanted to write books for them that were Biblically sound to guide them on their walk through life.
What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? I probably shouldn’t share this but when I was twelve I ran my dignified camp counselor’s nightie up the flag pole. The poor thing screamed when she came out of breakfast. She never said a word about it. I grew up, became a pastor’s wife and fifteen years later happened to go to a minister’s meeting where I once again met Sis. Eflin, my counselor. I was thrilled to see her. “Sis. Eflin, it nice to see you again. Do you remember years ago you were my camp counselor?” She squinted her eyes at me. “Yes, and you were the one who put my nightie up the flagpole.” Blushing, I had to admit my deed.
When did you first discover that you were a writer? Not until I hit my fifties. I’d always been a voracious reader but in my fifties I decided to take a writing course. I was amazed that I could get lost in writing just as I lost myself in reading.
I was in my forties when I became a professional writer. Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.  I love, love, love the classics. I’m just finishing Jane Eyre for the upteenth time, Le Miserables, Silas Marner. I’m inspired by true stories: The Hiding Place, Giana, aborted and lived to tell about it, A Boy Called It. Oh, there are too many to name. Also I like lighter fare. Anything from Jeanette Oke or Lori Wick.
I recently featured The Princess by Lori Wick. It was which re-released as a a collectors edition print book and an audio book in two formats. What other books have you written published or not? I have made this book into a trilogy as there was so much I needed to share concerning the Orphan Train Riders. The second book, Oklahoma Bound, is published and the third in the trilogy is waiting for the artist to finish the cover. I also have an adult book in progress concerning a woman disillusioned by God and finding her way back while working on a Quilt of Valor.
How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? Good question, I lead the youth group, teach kid’s church, oversee a Quilt of Valor group plus I’m the pastor’s wife and all that goes with that job. The time management classes help. I focus on one day and what needs to be done that day and preparations for the next. I try not to let aimless computer rambling and TV rob me of constructive pursuits. Plus I make time for devotions, preferably in the flower garden.
What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of, besides family? That’s a tough one. I guess it’s when I conquered stage fright. I grew up in a singing family but fear starting taking over. It had become debilitating. God spoke to me one day and said He had not given me a spirit of fear. So, with a lot of prayer I began to face each fear. God brought me through. Thank God!
If you were an animal, which one would you be and why? I think I would choose to be a golden retriever. They’re so trusting (sorry to Sugar, my Schnauzer) and loyal. Just to look at them gives me a feeling of peace and relaxation. I would love people to feel peace and relaxation around me and know that I am loyal and trustworthy.
What is you favorite food? The easier question would be what isn’t my favorite food. I like to eat but I try to keep it under control. Hands down, the favorite would be chocolate but I enjoy a great steak, too. Good thing as I live in cattle country.
Is it hard to break into the children’s market?  I think it’s hard to break into any market. If you just want to sit and type stories (my dream), forget it. Marketing is just as big a part as writing the book. It takes a lot of work. It’s a job, no mistake. But, if you love what you’re doing, then it’s all okay.
What advice would you give to an author wanting to do that?   Be prepared to commit yourself to a schedule. Work on research - research for your book but also research for your market. Get together with as many kids as possible, try to get them to talk and then sit back, shut up, and really listen. Kids today think way different from when I was a kid.
What would you like to tell us about the featured book?   I first heard of the Orphan Train Riders through a documentary on PBS while I was taking my second writing course. I’d never heard of them and became fascinated by their story. A research assignment came up so I chose this subject. The more I read of their plight, the more I felt I had to share it with others. Over 200,000 children in the late 1800s and the early 1900s left cities in the eastern United Statesto find homes in the rest of the country. My first book tells what their life may have been like living on the streets of New York.
I’ve been interested in the Orphan Trains, too. I have a proposal being shopped by my agent, and the heroine is from an orphan train. One of the lines ended at Fort Worth, near where I live. How can readers find you on the Internet?  My books are on www.Amazon.com and www.barnesandnoble.com . You can find me at www.CarolynTorbettJohnson.com. I look forward to hearing from you.
Thank you, Carolyn, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me.
Readers, here are links to the book.

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

PRESSURE POINTS - Shelby Abbott - One Free Book

Welcome, Shelby. What are a few of the stressors students wrestle with in today’s culture that Pressure Points directly addresses? How are the challenges of today different from those of previous generations?The book is divided into three main sections, addressing purpose, relationships and difficulties. Under those mains sections, I dive into relevant topics such as: God’s will, drinking, sex, pornography, relating to parents, friends, dating, authentic community, the fear of missing out (FOMO), struggling with failure, blocked goals, and even spiritual warfare.  It’s a lot of helpful advice in one concise package that aims for practical gospel solutions.
Because of technology and a smartphone in nearly everyone’s pocket, culture is quite different from previous generations. New temptations, means of gathering information, social constructs, and solution attempts are all approached through the lens of a technology-driven culture, and this presents new gospel opportunities to speak to unique cultural challenges. I cannot ignore the obviousness of technological influence on students while pointing them to biblical answers.
What exactly do you mean by “gospel solutions”?When you begin to unpack the gospel, you discover very quickly that it is a bottomless pit of grace. The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ is the answer to all of our struggles, but it can be difficult to see that when you are in the midst of feeling life’s pressures. This book is an attempt to lovingly guide young men and women toward the good news we read about in the pages of Scripture and help them understand that there are practical applications of the gospel in the big and small of everyday struggles. The gospel helps us to understand and know our place in life, and hopefully see how relevant it is to any and everyone, regardless of what the culture may look like today.
Can you share a little of your background with college students and why your experience helps you speak to them in a relevant and compelling way? How has humor helped you break down walls with college students in your ministry?Because of my close interaction with college students for nearly 20 years as a minister on campus and director of summer mission trips with university students, I’ve been uniquely tuned in to what they experience and struggle with on a consistent basis. I address those issues head-on in ways others perhaps only write about in theory. I’ve also periodically done stand-up comedy in front of college students for the last 19 years, so I’m well aware of what they find funny and what can bomb, so this book attempts to speak to them poignantly while peppering in humor where appropriate.
Humor has the ability to break down walls in ways that practically no other medium can. As a result, it can be a powerful conduit for delivering gospel truth because so many students are willing to listen and accept a message that comes on the heels of something that makes them laugh.
Why is the fear of missing out (FOMO) so prevalent among today’s college students? How does technology shine a light on some of the pressure points in a student’s life?Because of technology’s ability to show us everything that’s going on in the world right now, today’s young generation has been consumed by the idea that other better options are prevalent and attainable to them. Most college-aged Christians wrestle with FOMO all the time, and it has dramatically affected how they go about life. Their anxiety has increased, and they aren’t experiencing the abundant life Jesus promises to us. I explore some practical gospel solutions to this in the book, and I like to re-read those parts to myself regularly because this is an ongoing struggle for me too.
I wouldn’t say technology itself is the problem, rather I’d say technology forces the real problems to the surface of our lives so they become easy to spot. Fear, laziness, apathy, and the like are all attitudes that have always been around for generations, but technology has made them more clearly visible.
Dating has always been a pressure point for college students, but how has technology changed the modern dating scene? In what ways is the digital, online presentation of a person not an accurate picture of their true self?Dating in general doesn’t really exist in the way it did before the age of the smartphone. What I’d call “traditional dating” is considered very old-fashioned and unbearably awkward for so many young people, to the point people are no longer asking one another out on dates, they’re just succumbing to the norm of “hook-up culture.” Sadly, that way of interacting with the opposite sex has quickly bled over onto the Christian scene. No, not as many Christian college students are hooking up and engaging in random sexual flings as compared to non-believing students, but the noncommittal kind of “whatever” attitude about relationships with the opposite sex is definitely present. Young people can hide behind the safety of their phones and protect themselves from any kind of face-to-face social anxiety simply by texting the opposite sex instead of engaging with them in person. The person-to-person interaction still has to happen, however, and I’ve found that part of relational interaction between the sexes is still a source of significant pressure for them.
Why has escapism become such a problem for college students?Escapism has essentially become an idol that college students run to in order to fill the void they’re wrestling with in college. Post high school is often a time of self-reflection and discovery about who you are and what you want to do. Inevitably, young people are being pushed in ways they’re not used to because there’s the element of being on your own and feeling like an adult for probably the first time in your life. And when the pressures of college begin to squeeze, college students look to almost anything for a sense of relief. Often times, this can lead to drinking, drugs, sexual promiscuity, pornography, or a ton of other damaging things. What I want young people to see is t the false gods they run to will ultimately fail them because the void can only be filled by the true God in a relationship with Christ.
How does having a sense of belonging change young men and women and how they respond to life’s pressures? How important is authentic Christian community?The Christian life was never meant to be lived in solitude, and the “I am an island” mentality of our modern culture comes into direct collision with that. Responding to life’s pressure points in seclusion will usually produce a life of disappointment and failure. However, when a student plugs in to a community like a church and campus ministry, he or she then has the opportunity to lean on fellow believers and really begin to tackle the pressures of life in a healthy way. It’s an admission of need (another modern cultural faux pas), but it shapes a heart of humility and character within a student.
Readers may find a few subjects they may not expect in Pressure Points. How important is it for college students to understand concepts such as what it means to wait or to suffer?Impatience is one of the main character flaws our culture is guilty of today. Since we’ve gotten so used to the fast-paced speed of nearly everything, waiting is not a discipline we value or appreciate at all anymore. The Bible is full of examples of waiting on the Lord, because waiting is a faith exercise and it builds character in a way nothing else can. When young people actively wait on the Lord, it builds a depth in them that leads to the kind of integrity you can’t fake.
Another roadblock young adults stumble upon is suffering. College students don’t often see suffering in the proper way because we’ve been conditioned from a very early age to eliminate suffering of any kind once it enters our lives. I try to help them see that if we want to become more Christ-like, we are inevitably going to suffer in some form or fashion. And as we suffer, we are not alone. Jesus is right beside us in the hard times, both small and big.
How can parents best encourage their children as they transition to college and beyond? There are, of course, many exhortations a parent can communicate to their soon-to-be college student, but one I think should be underscored is the importance of plugging in to a biblically sound gospel community of fellow believers. Not so their child can be “safe” or “shielded” from the negative aspects of the college environment, but so they can grow in their faith, share their faith, and multiply their faith in a way that invests in the lives of others for the glory of Jesus. The Lord calls us to lean into godly environments of fellow believers who will stretch us and foster an atmosphere of spiritual growth and multiplication (Matthew 28:18-20) that we might pass on our wisdom to others who should do the same.
How is the advice you share in Pressure Points particularly applicable for recent graduates/young adults entering the workforce? We never graduate from walking in the power of the Holy Spirit, and focusing our lives on bringing glory to God, and this book certainly contains that overarching message. Practically, however, making and being a good friend, joining a church, navigating the tricky environment of modern romance, and other valuable subjects I cover in Pressure Pointsare highly applicable topics to recent graduates and young adults entering the workforce. Undoubtedly, young twenty-somethings can greatly benefit from what I’ve shared as they look toward beginning life post cap and gown.
Readers can find Abbott online at www.shelbyabbott.com .
Thank you, Shelby, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. It’s important to understand how we can help our students become successful adults.
Readers, here are links to the book. - Amazon paperback
Pressure Points: A Guide to Navigating Student Stress - 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

WINNERS!!

IMPORTANT: Instructions for winners  - When you send me the email, make sure your subject line says this: Winner - (book title) - (author's name) If you don't do this, your email could get lost in my hundreds of emails per day. I WILL SEARCH FOR POST TITLES STARTING THAT WAY.

Linda (CA) is the winner of  The Watch on the Fencepost   by Kay DiBianca. 

Lana (TX) is the winner of  How to Stir a Baker's Heart   by Candice Sue Patterson.

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.

AS THE INK FLOWS - Melony Teague and other authors - One Free Book

BIO: Melony Teague is a freelance writer who believes everyone has a story to tell and each story is unique and sometimes wilder than fiction. She loves to uncover the good news in society and writes human interest and community pieces. As co-author of As the Ink Flows, she loves to inspire and motivate others through her written words. In her spare time, she reviews books and interviews authors on her website. She also teaches seniors in her local community to write their own personal story. She writes Contemporary Romance with a dash of humor. Member of ACFW. Melony Teague was born in South Africa and now lives in Torontowith her husband, their two teenagers, and two cats.
Welcome, Melony. What would you like our readers to know about you personally? I am been blessed to part of a writers group who have been my loudest cheerleaders and dearest friends. And writing our devotional together bonded us in such a way that we are like family. God knew what He was doing when he put us together. We still meet and cheer each other on after all these years.
That is a special blessing. Tell us about your family.My husband and I were born in South Africa and we arrived in Toronto, Canada, to make a new home in 1999. I now have two Canadian teenagers and have made a life with my beloved husband, although the winters are a tad too long for my liking.
Have you written other nonfiction books? I am honored to be included in an all-Canadian anthology called, Christmas with Hot Apple Cider, where I was able to tell the story of our first new year’s eve in Canadafrom the perspective of new immigrant who was still getting used to North American ways.
I’d love to feature that book during this year’s Christmas season. Do you have any other books in the works right now? Yes, I am dabbling in fiction at the moment. I write Contemporary Romance with a dash, okay, a large helping of humor on the side. My aim is to bring laughter and escape to those who are facing the difficulties of life. I’m also in the midst of revisions on a YA Rom Com.
I’d love to feature those when they are published. What kinds of hobbies and leisure activities do you enjoy? Does drinking coffee and eating chocolate count as hobbies? I sure hope they do. I excel at those. I also am good at answering to the demands my two cats put on me. When they are that cute, I am helpless to resist. I also love to read. And if I won the lottery, I’d travel more.
Why did you write the featured book? Our writers group wanted to write a devotional that would inspire and uplift writers and speakers. We particularly felt it was important to address issues pertaining to writers and the challenges we face. It was important to us to include a writing prompt at the end of each entry so that there would be a call to action.
Sounds wonderful. I look forward to reading my copy. What do you want the reader to take away from the book? First, my co-authors and I want the reader to be inspired and to know they are not alone in their journey. As Christians, faith plays a role in what we write because of our worldview and how we write because we do it with and for Christ.
Is there anything else you’d like to tell my readers about you or your book? The book of 90 devotions is divided into themed sections: The Craft, Inspiration, Know Yourself, Well-Being, Personalities, and Faithfulness. This enables the reader to pick out whatever they need on any given day based on which themes appeal to them at the time.
Please give us the first page or two from the book. Here is a sample link of the book: Grab your free sample copy of the e-book here: https://bookgrabbr.com/books/38096-as-the-ink-flows
Where on the Internet can the readers find you?   WEBSITE: https://www.melonyteague.com/FOLLOW ON TWITTER: https://twitter.com/MelonyTeagueFOLLOW ON FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/melonyteague/FOLLOW ON GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14249646.Melony_Teague
Book links:Amazon: https://amzn.to/2NmyU4vChristianbook.com: http://ow.ly/6Z7K30nNIigJudson Press: https://www.judsonpress.com/Products/J237/as-the-ink-flows.aspx?bCategory=JPBKS!JPINSPBarnes & Noble: http://ow.ly/A0EP30nNIzZ
Thank you, Melony, for sharing this devotional with my blog readers and me.
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