Trish Perry's Blog, page 23

Johnnie Alexander and Free Books!

When you need a new beginning, sometimes the best place to start is home.

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Enchanted Isle, by Melanie Dobson, is:

rkcjmomma@...

Congratulations! I'll email you for your snail mail address, and we'll get your book right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to participate in future book give-aways! Subscribers are entered a second time when they comment.

And now let's chat with novelist Johnnie Alexander, author of the contemporary romance, What Hope Remembers (Revell, May 2017).

Johnnie Alexander imagines heart-tugging stories in multiple genres whether she’s at home in Florida or Tennessee. Her award-winning debut novel, Where Treasure Hides, is a CBA bestseller which has been translated into Dutch and Norwegian. She’s also the author of the popular Misty Willow Series: Where She Belongs, When Hope Arrives, and What Hope Remembers.

Since Johnnie also enjoys talking about writing, she hosts Novelists Unwind, which features videotaped interviews with inspirational authors, and Writers Chat, a weekly online show. She also teaches at writers conferences and for Serious Writer Academy.

Johnnie volunteers as marketing director for the Mid-South Christian Writers Conference. She is a founding member and past president of both the American Christian Fiction Writers’ Memphis and Central Florida chapters.

Sharing Johnnie’s vagabond life are Griff, her happy-go-lucky collie, and Rugby, her raccoon-treeing papillon.

Please tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

This past October, my sister and I spent a week traveling from one city to another on the Eurail. Then we spent a week in Lisbon. I wish I could say we were backpacking through Europe, but our backpacks were actually strapped to two-wheeled luggage carts. Even so, the experience was phenomenal.

How wonderful! I've only taken one trip to Europe--a single week--and the idea of having two full weeks to explore further sounds great. There's so much to see. Also, no judgment on the luggage carts! We stayed in pensiones all the way, and I remember constantly complaining about the mosquitoes and the heat. I can't imagine backpacking it!

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of What Hope Remembers.

When Amy Somers loses her job as a lobbyist, she moves to Misty Willow, well aware that she’s crossing bridges she’d burned years before. With all the mistakes she’s made and the uncaring things she’s done–even to her own family–she can hardly believe that happiness will find her, especially when Gabe Kendall, her first crush and her first kiss, rides back into her life atop a buckskin mare.

A former Marine, Gabe is at loose ends after serving a prison sentence for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. He sees beyond Amy’s hard exterior to the girl he once knew and loved, and he longs to see her open her heart. Yet with his vision clouded by shame for his past and fears about the future, he finds it difficult to see the path ahead.

But the memory of that long-ago kiss just may have the power to reignite a romance that brings out the best in both of them.

What is it about Amy and Gabe that will make your readers care about them?

Both Amy and Gabe feel unworthy of each other—Amy because of past choices and Gabe because of circumstances beyond his control. They come to realize that even though the past cannot be changed, it doesn’t have to define who they can become. Many of us hold onto guilt despite being forgiven. Like Amy and Gabe, we can trust in God’s steadfast love.

So true. Sometimes we believe in God's forgiveness but have a had time forgiving ourselves.

What is the most positive thing you can tell my readers about the state of Christian fiction today?

I recently talked to new writers at a conference about their story ideas. Christians are talented, imaginative, and creative. Even though it’s hard to break into traditional publishing, we’re blessed to have other alternatives so these wonderful stories can be shared with readers.

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

Murder Is No Accident is the third novel in A. H. Gabhart’s Hidden Springs Mystery Series. I read Ann’s first mystery in this series while preparing to interview her for my Novelists Unwind website. Though the series may be considered cozy mysteries, Ann breaks a few of the cozy mystery genre “rules.” The stories are fun, but also have emotional depth.

Yes! I featured Ann (HERE in September, when she discussed one of her historical novels, These Healing Hills. She's multi-talented!

May I also mention Julian Fellowes' novel,   Belgravia ? Many may recognize Mr. Fellowes as the creator of Downton Abbey. Belgravia is a lovely story with well-rounded characters who are affected by a long-ago scandal.

Fellowes definitely knows how to spin a good tale incorporating the social classes and secrets!

What are you working on now?

While waiting to get the edits back on two projects, I’m doing research for a novella proposal and another historical.

Where else can readers find you online?

My favorite place to connect with readers is on Facebook—both on my author page and my profile.

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

What plot device or theme do you feel has been used too often in Christian fiction? (I’m speaking on this topic at a 2018 conference so I very much value your input.)

Thanks, Johnnie, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Johnnie has offered to give away a signed copy of her novel. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to Johnnie's question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. Many commenters are left out of the drawing because they forget to include a way for me to notify them of their win (their email).

Also readers, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post.

Remember, if you'd like information on additional new releases, check out Christian Book Heaven, a new email newsletter for Christian book deals in whatever genres you select. You can subscribe here: ChristianBookHeaven

Annoying legal disclaimer: drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, as well as my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

Melanie Dobson and Free Books!

Enchanted Isle is a historical romance about a young woman who visits England's magical Lake District in the 1950s and begins to uncover what happened to a treasure lost in an abandoned amusement park there.

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the e-copy of The Case of the Clobbered Cad, by Debra Marvin, is:

wpd_2@...

Congratulations! We'll get your e-book right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to participate in future book give-aways! Subscribers are entered a second time when they comment.

And now let's chat with novelist Melanie Dobson, author of the historical romance, Enchanted Isle (Waterfall Press, August 2017).

Writing fiction is Melanie Dobson's excuse to explore abandoned houses, travel to unique places, and spend hours reading old books and journals. She enjoys stitching together historical and time-slip stories, and her novels have won awards for historical romance, romantic suspense, and historical fiction.

Melanie lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and their two teen daughters.

Please tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

I love hidden places, and I enjoy exploring the world both aboveground and underground by climbing and crawling through caves.

Just reading "crawling through caves" triggers my claustrophobia! That's very cool that you enjoy that.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Enchanted Isle.

My main character in Enchanted Isle is an aspiring photographer named Jenny who sees beauty in unexpected places. With paper and a pen, I built an amusement park from the 1930s for her to explore, set on an island in England’s magical Lake District with a dozen old rides inspired by the sea—a wooden roller coaster that once surfed through the trees, a boat excursion around sunken ships in an ocean cave, and the Magic Lagoon, a merry-go-round with brightly colored sea creatures instead of horses, the eaves of the carousel plated with gold leaf and stained glass.

In the novel, Jenny and a British man named Adrian search together for ancient coins his father purportedly hid on the island. As she learns the legends in this district, Jenny begins to discover beauty among the ruins of the park and she ultimately determines to restore all that’s been lost—the hidden treasure, shattered dreams, and relationships broken in years past after one of the park’s owners disappeared.

That's a fascinating premise, Melanie. 

What is it about Jenny that will make your readers care about her?

Jenny is a unique young woman with a vivid imagination. Her grandfather is a domineering man, but her widowed mother wants Jenny to use the gifts that God has given her. In this novel, Jenny decides to embrace who God made her to be and her unique gifts ultimately lead to beauty and restoration.

What is the most positive thing you can tell my readers about the state of Christian fiction today?

When I was younger, there weren’t many novels being written that were founded in themes of faith. We are so blessed today to have a variety of well-written inspirational novels available online and through bookstores. As a writer, I’m continually grateful for the opportunity to be able to share the stories that God has placed in my heart.

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

I really enjoyed reading Lisa Wingate’s time-slip novel Before We Were Yours . I like stories that slip between the past and present, and I thought Lisa did a remarkable job pulling readers into her powerful fictional account of a true, heart-wrenching story from the mid-1900s.

Lisa's book has done so well, too! I'll have to put that on my massive TBR list.

And, readers, in case that term, time-slip, is new to you, time-slip is a plot in which a person or group of people seem to travel through time within the novel. Time-slip brings together different points in time, so events from one time might be experienced at another time.

What are you working on now, Melanie?

Fifteen years ago my husband and I backpacked across Europe, and our favorite place to explore was Hallstatt in Austria with its medieval village, alpine lake and castle. I’m now writing a time-slip story about Jewish heirlooms hidden near Hallstatt during World War II. The historical plot is about a young man and woman who determine to help their Jewish friends hide what the Nazis were trying to steal away. In the contemporary story, my main character discovers a list in an old book that connects her with the Austrian woman who was hiding this treasure for her friends—a woman who is guarding a secret of her own.

Where else can readers find you online?

The best places to find me online are on my website www.melaniedobson.com,  Facebook), and Goodreads.

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

I love stories! I’d enjoy hearing something miraculous or surprising that God has done in your journey.

I look forward to hearing those stories too! I'll post one of my own in the comments section.

Thanks, Melanie, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Melanie has offered to give away a signed copy of her novel. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to Melanie's question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. Many commenters are left out of the drawing because they forget to include a way for me to notify them of their win (their email).

Also readers, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post.

Remember, if you'd like information on additional new releases, check out Christian Book Heaven, a new email newsletter for Christian book deals in whatever genres you select. You can subscribe here: ChristianBookHeaven

Annoying legal disclaimer: drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, as well as my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

Debra Marvin and Free Books!

Can Heather Munro’s youthful devotion to The Girl Detective help her stay out of jail when she finds herself implicated in the death of a handsome professor?

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the e-copy of A Waltz for Amber, by Kimberly Rose Johnson, is:

stacey_dale@...

Congratulations! We'll get your e-book right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to participate in future book give-aways! Subscribers are entered a second time when they comment.

And now let's chat with novelist Debra Marvin, author of the historical cozy mystery, The Case of the Clobbered Cad (Journey Fiction, August 2017).

Debra E. Marvin tries not to run too far from real life but the imagination born out of being an only child has a powerful draw. Besides, the voices in her head tend to agree with all the sensible things she says.

She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers, Sisters in Crime, and serves on the board of Bridges Ministry in Seneca Falls, NY. She is published with WhiteFire Publishing, Forget Me Not Romances, Journey Fiction and Barbour Publishing, and has been a judge for the Grace Awards for many years.

Debra works as a program assistant at Cornell University, and enjoys her family and grandchildren, obsessively buying fabric, watching British programming and traveling with her childhood friends.

Please tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

I travel with a gnome named Gnorman.

How very Travelocity of you!

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of The Case of the Clobbered Cad.

Inspired by the famous Girl Detective, the members of the Olentangy Heights Girls' Detective Society, affectionately known as the Nosy Parkers, spent their formative years studying criminology, codes, and capers. Unfortunately, opportunities to put their unique skills to work were thin on the ground and they grew up to pursue more sensible careers. Until...

Heather Munro’s youthful sleuthing led to a passion for digging around in history. Now pursuing her Master's Degree in Celtic Studies, Heather must balance exploring Edinburgh with her determination to excel in her classes. Unfortunately, on her first night working in the Archaeology collection, she discovers the dead body of a visiting professor, one she’d hoped never to see again.

As clues come to light, it’s clear someone hopes to frame Heather. Besides her quirky landlady, whom can she trust? The police and the American Consul have plenty of suspects, but only two seem to have both motive and opportunity: Heather and the quiet Scottish archaeologist she longs to believe in.

That sounds like a fun read, Debra!

What is it about Heather that will make your readers care about her?

Heather Munro is smart, kind and enjoys witty conversation. She could easily be the gal you’re glad to have as a good friend. She’s used to working hard toward her goal and while she’s always been open and giving, the pain of a recent betrayal causes her to be extra tough on herself when she almost falls for a charming professor. Things get worse when he’s murdered and she has to face too many embarrassing reminders!

What is the most positive thing you can tell my readers about the state of Christian fiction today?

Christian fiction continues to provide entertaining and thought-provoking fiction with a Christian worldview and its genres are ever-widening.

I agree. That widening has increased with the emergence of independent publishing, I think. 

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho , by Susanne Dietze. Susie found just the cutest way to make a simple complication in a mail-order bride story into a super entertaining and sigh-producing novel!

What are you working on now?

I’m plotting my second mystery with Heather, which will be published n 2018 and set in Ireland.

Where else can readers find you online?

Far too many places! I’d suggest my Facebook Author page or my Amazon Author page. Both are under Debra E. Marvin, and easy to find.

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

Do you find you have an abundance of options for reading Christian fiction, and if so, does it make you more likely to put a book aside and start a new one?

Thank you, Debra, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Debra has offered to give away a free e-copy of her novel. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to Debra's question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. Many commenters are left out of the drawing because they forget to include a way for me to notify them of their win (their email).

Also readers, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post.

Remember, if you'd like information on additional new releases, check out Christian Book Heaven, a new email newsletter for Christian book deals in whatever genres you select. You can subscribe here: ChristianBookHeaven

Annoying legal disclaimer: drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, as well as my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

Ends Tonight! Win a new eReader and 30-Romance Collection!

Today is your last chance to enter BookSweeps 30-Romance give away!


There will be two lucky winners,  and  the  Grand Prize winner will receive  a brand new eReader.

You can win my novel, Local Girl, plus books from authors like Elizabeth Ludwig, Debby Mayne, and Elizabeth Goddard.

Enter the giveaway by clicking here: http://bit.ly/inspy-oct2017 Good luck, and enjoy!

Win a New eReader and a 30-Romance Collection!

Today, I have a fun surprise that I’d like to share with you. 

I’ve teamed up with 29 fantastic authors to give away a huge collection of inspirational romances to 2 lucky winners, PLUS a brand new eReader to the Grand Prize winner!

Oh, and did I mention you'll receive a collection of FREE ebooks just for entering?

You can win my novel, Local Girl, plus books from authors like Elizabeth Ludwig, Debby Mayne, and Elizabeth Goddard.

Enter the giveaway by clicking here: http://bit.ly/inspy-oct2017 Good luck, and enjoy!

Kimberly Rose Johnson and Free Books!

Their passion for the arts divides them. Can they overcome their differences and find true harmony?

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the e-copy of Puzzle House, by Lillian Duncan, is:

paulams49@...

Congratulations! We'll get your e-book right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to participate in future book give-aways! Subscribers are entered a second time when they comment.

And now let's chat with novelist Kimberly Rose Johnson, author of the contemporary Christian romance, A Waltz for Amber (Sweet Rose Press, October 2017).

Kimberly Rose Johnson married her college sweetheart and lives in the Pacific Northwest. From a young child Kimberly has been an avid reader. That love of reading fostered a creative mind and led to her passion for writing.

She especially loves romance and writes contemporary romance that warms the heart and feeds the soul.

Kimberly holds a degree in Behavioral Science from Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers.

Please tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

I love flowers and I will sometimes buy them for myself even though I’m allergic to most of them.

They really do brighten up a room, don't they? I remember my father-in-law saying he always griped at his wife about spending money on them, until she stopped, and he realized how much he missed them.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of A Waltz for Amber.

Amber, a struggling dance teacher, is desperate to make a success of her studio. The quickly approaching Christmas recital should help except for one problem—the high school music teacher scheduled the holiday program on the same night, causing a conflict for her students. Will she be able to sustain her business or will she lose everything in the pursuit of her dream?

Chris is thrilled to be back in his hometown. However, his past won’t stay in the past, and the pretty dance instructor is a constant reminder of his failings. He wants to make up for his youthful mistake directed at her, but how?

What is it about Amber that will make your readers care about her?

Amber has a big heart, and she loves people. She faces adversity head on and she’s not a quitter.

What’s a news story from the last year or so that you think would make a good basis for a novel? 

The hurricane in Texas is sure to provide many writers inspiration.

Yes! Lillian Duncan said the same thing last week, and I mentioned that a novel was recently released based on characters during Hurricane Katrina.

What are you working on now?

I should be working on the next book in this series by the time this interview goes live, but at the moment I’m working on a new book. It’s a contemporary romance with mystery.

Where else can readers find you online?

Facebook
Twitter
My website: kimberlyrjohnson.com

You can sign up for my newsletter via my website.

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

Do you have a favorite season and if so, why is it your favorite?

Thank you, Kimberly, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Kimberly has offered to give away a free e-copy of her novel. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to Kimberly's question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. Many commenters are left out of the drawing because they forget to include a way for me to notify them of their win (their email).

Also readers, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post.

Remember, if you'd like information on additional new releases, check out Christian Book Heaven, a new email newsletter for Christian book deals in whatever genres you select. You can subscribe here: ChristianBookHeaven

Annoying legal disclaimer: drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, as well as my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

Lillian Duncan and Free Books!

As Rachel Summers' life hangs in the balance, she has a visitor who asks if she wants to be healed or to be a healer—and that’s when the adventure begins!

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the e-copy of Moonstone Secret, by Dawn Cahill, is:

lelandandbecky@...

Congratulations! We'll get your e-book right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to participate in future book give-aways! Subscribers are entered a second time when they comment.

And now let's chat with novelist Lillian Duncan, author of the women's fiction book, Puzzle House (Harbourlight Books, October 2017).

Lillian Duncan…stories of faith mingled with murder & mayhem.

Lillian is a multi-published author who lives in the middle of Ohio Amish country with her husband and a menagerie of pets. She was a speech pathologist for more than 34 years but retired in 2012 after being diagnosed with brain tumors as a result of Neurofibromatosis Type 2.

As an educator, speech pathologist, and a writer, she believes in the power of words to transform lives, especially God’s Word. Lillian writes the types of books she loves to read—fast-paced suspense with a touch of romance that demonstrates God’s love for all of us.

Please tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

I have two parrots, Rocky and Jasper. Jasper loves calling me a bookworm!

How cute. When I call my friend who has talkers, I think they get jealous. Or maybe they always make a lot of noise!

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Puzzle House.

The story revolves around Rachel Summers and Nia Johnson.

Rachel was all about Rachel until the day she crashed headlong into a semi-truck. While unconscious she has a very special visitor who ask if she wants to be healed or to be a healer.

Nia is a young teenager who’s dying. She’s been told by the doctors that there’s nothing left to do and she’s very angry about that. Against her wishes, she’s spending the week with Rachel at Puzzle House—a place of healing and hope but the only thing Nia feels in anger and hopelessness.

As the two work on Nia’s puzzle, they share a journey that will change both their lives.

What is it about Rachel that will make your readers care about her?

Early on Rachel is diagnosed with brain tumors because of a genetic disease (Neurofibromatosis Type 2). Instead of feeling sorry for herself, she focuses on God’s Will for her life.

Wow, talk about writing what you know...

What’s a news story from the last year or so that you think would make a good basis for a novel?

As I write this Hurricane Harvey devastated Houston and Texas a week ago and now Irma is heading for Florida. I’m sure there’s a story in there somewhere!

Interesting you would say that. I read recently about a new novel with characters in the midst of (and aftermath of) Hurricane Katrina.

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

I’m reading Beast by Chawna Schroeder at the moment—actually re-reading it. The main character is Beast but it’s really about the beast in all of us and how God’s love can change us.

What are you working on now?

I just completed the sequel to Puzzle House a few weeks ago—The David Years. It focuses on one of the characters you’ll meet in Puzzle House. Right now, I’ve started a new Christmas-themed novel—A Christmas Stolen.

Where else can readers find you online?

To learn more about me, visit me at www.lillianduncan.net or www.lillian-duncan.com. I also have a devotional blog at www.PowerUpWithGod.com.

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

Do you feel cheated when a story ends without a happy ending?

Thank you, Lillian, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Lillian has offered to give away a free e-copy of her novel. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to Lillian's question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. Many commenters are left out of the drawing because they forget to include a way for me to notify them of their win (their email).

In addition, Lillian wanted me to post this giveaway:

GIVEAWAY INFO: To celebrate the release of Puzzle House, I’m having a very special giveaway on my blog, Tiaras & Tennis Shoes at www.lillian-duncan.com. Leave a comment on one of my Puzzle House posts and you’re entered to win. Easy Peasy!

Thanks, Lillian. Also readers, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post.

Remember, if you'd like information on additional new releases, check out Christian Book Heaven, a new email newsletter for Christian book deals in whatever genres you select. You can subscribe here: ChristianBookHeaven

Annoying legal disclaimer: drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, as well as my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

Dawn Cahill and Free Books!

One missing boyfriend…one dead ex-wife…. If DeeDee pursues their secrets, will she put herself in danger, too?

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Christmas at Carnton, by Tamera Alexander, is:

mstalgal1966@...

Congratulations! We'll get your book right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to participate in future book give-aways! Subscribers are entered a second time when they comment.

And now let's chat with novelist Dawn Cahill, author of the contemporary mystery, Moonstone Secrets , Book II-Seattle Trilogy (Spring Mountain Publishing, April 2017).

Author Dawn V. Cahill, an indie author from the land of hipsters and coffee snobs, pens “Stories of Victorious Faith for the 21st Century,” nearly always with a crossword puzzle, sudoku, or dark chocolate nearby.

“The world we live in today is vastly different than the one I grew up in,” she says. “And that’s the world I write about.” She has written several newspaper articles, three Christian contemporary novels, and more limericks than she can count. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW).

Please tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

When I test for my MBTI (Meyers-Briggs Type Indicator) temperament, the result is usually split between INFP & INFJ. To this day, I’m not sure which one I am! But whichever one it is, it sure explains why I’ve always felt like an “oddball” around more normal people.

I notice that my ENFJ edges closer to INFJ as I get older, Dawn. We clearly can change incrementally over time.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Sapphire Secrets.

As the Christmas season sparkles around her, DeeDee McCreary eagerly anticipates visiting magical Victoria, BC, with her boyfriend, Nick, and meeting his family. But the trip proves disastrous.

First, Nick finds his bank account cleaned out. Then he disappears. Frantic, she determines to uncover what happened. When she discovers something far worse than she anticipated, she questions everything she believes to be true about him.

With the man she loves in jail for an unspeakable crime, DeeDee knows the truth lies somewhere in Nick and his ex-wife’s past. But if she pursues their secrets, will she put herself in danger, too?

What is it about DeeDee that will make your readers care about her?

DeeDee McCreary is a strong, modern woman who rarely shows her vulnerable side. Only when she’s with her twin, Livy, does her true heart shine through.

Readers, here are a couple of the intriguing memes Dawn designed for her novel:


















What’s a news story from the last year or so that you think would make a good basis for a novel?

All these school shootings and other public shootings. I just finished the first draft of my novel Paint the Desert about that very subject. A shooting at a college kills three and injures a young man, tearing apart a family and a community in the aftermath.

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

Stain of Guilt by Brandilynn Collins. I love the suspense/thriller genre with all their twists and turns, and she’s a masterful plot-twister. I’ve read most of her books, and plan to read them all someday.

I remember when I was a newly published author, waiting at the airport for a flight home from the American Christian Fiction Writers conference years ago. Brandilynn happened by and just started passing out copies of her latest novel to a group of us there. Very generous woman, besides being a compelling author.

What are you working on now?

The first draft I mentioned earlier, Paint the Desert, needs some serious rewrites before I send it to my editor. But just having that first draft finished is a huge step, and feels so good!

Where else can readers find you online?

Follow these links:

Amazon author page
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest


The book can be purchased online via the following button:



Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

Which author would you most like to be trapped in an elevator with, and why?

Thank you, Dawn, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Dawn has offered to give away a free e-copy of her novella. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to Dawn's question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. Many commenters are left out of the drawing because they forget to include a way for me to notify them of their win (their email).

Also, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post.

Remember, if you'd like information on additional new releases, check out Christian Book Heaven, a new email newsletter for Christian book deals in whatever genres you select. You can subscribe here: ChristianBookHeaven

Annoying legal disclaimer: drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, as well as my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

Tamera Alexander and Free Books!

Amid war and the fading dream of the Confederacy, a wounded soldier and a destitute widow discover the true meaning of Christmas—and of sacrificial love.

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Christmas Admirer, by Laura Hilton, is:

donitacorman@...

Congratulations! We'll get your book right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to participate in future book give-aways! Subscribers are entered a second time when they comment.

And now let's chat with novelist Tamera Alexander, author of the historical romance, Christmas at Carnton (Thomas Nelson, October 2017).

Tamera Alexander is a USA Today bestselling novelist and one of today's most beloved authors of inspirational historical romance. Her works have been awarded and nominated for numerous industry-leading honors—among them the Christy Award, the RITA Award, the Carol Award, Library Journal's top honors—and have garnered the distinction of Publisher's Weekly Starred Reviews. Her deeply drawn characters and thought-provoking plots have earned her devoted readers worldwide.

Tamera and her husband reside in Nashville, Tennessee, where they live a short distance from Nashville's Belmont Mansion and Belle Meade Plantation, the setting of Tamera’s #1 CBA bestselling Southern series. Her brand new series, the Carnton Novels, recently launched with Christmas at Carnton (released October 3, 2017), a (hefty!) Christmas novella, which is set in Franklin, Tennessee at the historic Carnton Plantation.

Please tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

I eat bacon. Every day. I love bacon. Adore bacon. It’s just one of the blissful benefits of living a Keto (low carb gluten free) lifestyle!

I'm a big fan, as well! Everything's better with bacon.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Christmas at Carnton.

Recently widowed, Aletta Prescott struggles to hold life together for herself and her six-year old son. With the bank threatening to evict, she discovers an advertisement for the Women's Relief Society auction and applies for a position—only to discover it's been filled. Then a chance meeting with a wounded soldier offers another opportunity—and friendship. But can Aletta trust this man?

Captain Jake Winston, a revered Confederate sharpshooter, suffered a head wound at the Battle of Chickamauga. When doctors deliver their diagnosis, Jake fears losing not only his greatest skill but his very identity. As he heals, Jake is ordered to assist with a local Women's Relief Society auction. He respectfully objects. Kowtowing to a bunch of "crinolines" isn't his idea of soldiering. But orders are orders, and he soon discovers this group of ladies—one, in particular—is far more than he bargained for.

Set against the backdrop and history of the Carnton Plantation in Franklin, Tennessee, Christmas at Carnton is a story of hope renewed and faith restored at Christmas.

I love the sound of your characters. What is it about Aletta that will make your readers care about her?

She’s a real woman. Familiar with pain and loss. Yet even when faced with the most trying circumstances, she still holds to the possibilities of good in life—until all she knows to be true is shattered.

What’s a news story from the last year or so that you think would make a good basis for a novel?

There have been several news stories in recent years about "secret rooms" being discovered. From a historical standpoint, that always intrigues me.

You can't beat secrets for intrigue!

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

I recently reread Christy by Catherine Marshall (actually listened to the audio book—I LOVE audio books). Christy is a classic that I reread every few years. And I’d highly recommend it because of the wonderful variety of characters, the colorful Appalachian history (and breathtaking scenery) Marshall intertwines into the story, the depth of the faith message woven throughout—and, of course, the romance!

I love audio books. I always have one playing as I drive.

What are you working on now?

I’m working on the first full-length Carnton novel in the The Carnton Novels trilogy (title TBD). It’s the real love story of Captain Roland Jones and Elizabeth Clouston (the nanny at Carnton Plantation) who met the night of the Battle of Franklin on November 30, 1864 in Franklin, Tennessee (near Nashville). I’ve been in contact with the great-great-great-great grandson of Captain Jones (a Confederate soldier wounded in the battle that night), and he’s shared the couple’s love letters and so many details about their lives. I’m grateful for this opportunity to share Roland and Lizzie’s love story!

How wonderful to have those letters! That sounds like a great novel idea.

Where else can readers find you online?

Website: www.TameraAlexander.com
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram

And Christmas at Carnton has a Spotify playlist that readers are enjoying: open.spotify.com/user/zeldasayre58/playlist/1gfVLtS6vIxmoZ2ZeG3xya











The book can be purchased online via the following button:



Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

I’d love for them to answer a "lightning round" of their own "personal Christmas preferences:"

1. Real tree or fake?
2. Egg nog or wassail?
3. Open presents Christmas Eve or Christmas morning?
4. Turkey or Ham?
5. Figgy Pudding or Chocolate Chess Pie?

Thank you, Tamera, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Tamera has offered to give away a signed copy of her novella. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to Tamera's question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. Many commenters are left out of the drawing because they forget to include a way for me to notify them of their win (their email).

Also, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post.

Remember, if you'd like information on additional new releases, check out Christian Book Heaven, a new email newsletter for Christian book deals in whatever genres you select. You can subscribe here: ChristianBookHeaven

Annoying legal disclaimer: drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, as well as my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

Laura Hilton and Free Books!

His lions were coming out of the darkness. Would God shut their mouths?

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the e-copy of These Healing Hills, by Ann Gabhart, is:

tumcsec@...

Congratulations! We'll get your book right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to participate in future book give-aways! Subscribers are entered a second time when they comment.

And now let's chat with novelist Laura Hilton, author of the Amish contemporary romance, Christmas Admirer (Whitaker House, September 2017).

Laura V. Hilton is an award-winning, sought-after author with almost twenty Amish, contemporary, and historical romances. When she’s not writing, she reviews books for her blogs, and writes devotionals for blog posts for Seriously Write and Putting on the New.

Laura and her pastor-husband have five children and a hyper dog named Skye. They currently live in Arkansas. One son is in the U.S. Coast Guard. She is a pastor’s wife, and homeschools her two youngest children.

When she’s not writing, Laura enjoys reading, and visiting lighthouses and waterfalls. Her favorite season is winter. Her favorite holiday is Christmas.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Christmas Admirer.

Benaiah Troyer has loved Susanna King for as long as he can remember, but other than a lone summer filled with romantic buggy rides, marrying her remains an elusive dream. When his parents died in an accident a year ago, he broke up with her—for her own good. After all, they left him as the sole caregiver for his three younger sisters and his grandparents. What woman wants to step into a ready-made family like his? Still, he leaves her monthly gifts from “A Secret Admirer,” hoping she’ll know that someone loves her, even though he isn’t free to step forward.

Susanna has never gotten over losing Benaiah, and hopes he’s her secret admirer, but now the clock is ticking. Susanna’s father is remarrying in January and his wife-to-be doesn’t want to leave her Amish community and family in Iowa. So when Susanna’s daed sells his glass-blowing business to his right-hand man, Benaiah, she’s left with three options: 1) Go with Daed to his new home with a new frau and step-kinner, 2) Flush out her mysterious secret admirer, or 3) Resign herself to life as an old maid. She doesn’t want to follow Daed where his new frau is leading him. And number three isn’t happening. Marrying Benaiah is her greatest desire—but he broke her heart, and now he treats her like a pesky younger sister. Can she make him see her as a woman, one who could stand by his side as he cares for his family?

As Christmas approaches, Susanna and her friends start making gingerbread houses for select members of the community. Susanna plans for hers to go to Benaiah’s family. But while her gingerbread may find a home—will her heart?

What is it about Susanna that will make your readers care about her?

Susanna’s life is falling apart when her father announces he’s getting remarried, selling her home and moving to another state – with a woman who has ten children and clearly doesn’t want Susanna tagging along. Only her secret admirer can save her. But he’s too busy battling his own “lions”.

What’s a news story from the last year or so that you think would make a good basis for a novel?

Amish moved in to the Sault Ste. Marie area.

I wasn't even aware there was a sizable Amish population in Michigan and Ontario, but apparently Michigan is home to the sixth largest Amish population. I do see articles about an influx of Amish to that area last year. Write it, Laura!

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

Over Maya Dead Body , by Sandra Orchard. It’s a cozy mystery that kept me guessing and held my interest.

What are you working on now?

I have another Amish story contracted called Firestorm and yes, there’s a volunteer firefighter and a wildfire involved.

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



Where else can readers find you online?

Visit my blogs: lighthouse-academy.blogspot.com and lauravhilton.blogspot.com
twitter: @Laura_V_Hilton
Facebook
Pinterest

Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

Have you ever had a secret admirer? Whether you did or didn’t, what type of gifts do you think he would bring?

Thank you, Laura, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Laura has offered to give away a signed copy of her book. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to Laura's question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. Many commenters are left out of the drawing because they forget to include a way for me to notify them of their win (their email).

Also, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post.

Remember, if you'd like information on additional new releases, check out Christian Book Heaven, a new email newsletter for Christian book deals in whatever genres you select. You can subscribe here: ChristianBookHeaven

Annoying legal disclaimer: drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, as well as my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE