Trish Perry's Blog, page 25

Martha Rogers and Free Books!

A wounded heart and a wounded hero find healing on their Mission of Love.

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

rsuebell@...

Congratulations! We'll e-mail 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 Martha Rogers, author of the romance novella, Mission of Love, in the National Parks Romance Collection (Winged Publications Forget Me Not Romances, June 2017).

Martha lives in Houston, Texas with her husband of 58 years. She's been writing as long as she can remember making up stories. She writes the Verse of the Week for ACFW, and she is the director of the Texas Christian Fiction Writers’ Conference in Houston.

Martha and her husband are active in First Baptist Church in Houston where she teaches a Bible class and sings in the choir. They have been blessed with nine grandchildren, two grandsons-in-law and four great-grandchildren.

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

I earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from Baylor University and taught homemaking for over 18 years before switching to English and earning my Master of Education Degree.

I had no idea! Very cool, Martha.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Mission of Love.

Chelsea and Ryan both have wounded hearts that haven't completely healed, but Ryan has the added burden of being disable due to a mine explosion in Afghanistan and a sordid past in college. They find themselves together on a mission trip with the youth from the church they attend. Through the antics of the teens and wise counsel from other adults on the trip, the mission trip to spread God's love to others becomes a mission of finding love for each other in the midst of their past heartache and disappointment.

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

Chelsea’s fiancé broke off their engagement only weeks before the wedding. She moves to a new city and a new church where she becomes involved as a teacher in the youth division with no time to be concerned about a man in her life. She loves the teenagers both at church and in the middle school where she teaches eighth grade English. She’s not sure she’s ready to trust another man with her heart, but she’s wants to move on with her life and be the woman God wants her to be.

Many readers enjoy reading seasonally set novels (Christmas, summer beach reads, etc.). Have you written anything seasonally set? If not, which season would you like to focus on in a novel?

I’ve written several Christmas novels and novellas as well as one for Valentine’s Day. My favorite is Christmas. I suppose that’s why I’ve written more of them than any other holiday.

What are you working on now?

I have several novellas due the next few months. One is a turn of the century novella for Barbour, First Love Forever. I’m also working on another Christmas novella for an October deadline.

Where else can readers find you online?

My website is www.marthawrogers.com, and I’m a contributor to a history blog at www.hhhistory.com

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



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

When you see a book with a great cover, what convinces you to actually buy the book?

Thanks, Martha, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Martha has offered to give away an e-copy of her book. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Martha'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.

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

Kimberly Rose Johnson and Free Books!

The theater ties them together but a painful past could pull them apart.

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Heartbreaker Hero: Eddie’s Story, by Susan Page Davis, is:

jhdwayne@...

Congratulations! I'll email you for your snail mail address, and we'll mail 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 Kimberly Rose Johnson, author of the contemporary romance, An Encore for Estelle (Sweet Rose Press, May 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.

When I was a kid I received an invitation to a casting call for the Mickey Mouse Club. We had just moved to Oregon from California. I loved the Mickey Mouse Club and wanted to try out, but my parents said no. I never knew how I got on that list.

And you might have ended up Mrs. Justin Timberlake or Mrs. Ryan Gosling, lol. 

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of An Encore for Estelle.

The theater ties them together but a painful past could pull them apart.

At a crossroads, former movie star Estelle Rogers, returns to the place that set her life on a new course. Although she expects a rough reception she is pleasantly surprised and quickly settles into her new position at the local children's theater. But her road back to acting isn't as smooth as she would like.

Tragedy brought Blake Price to Oak Knoll, Oregon, but it's love that keeps him there. His late wife and daughter loved acting, and he owes it to them to honor their memory with the children’s theater, but his new assistant is making changes he isn’t ready for both at the theater and in his heart. Can he forgive himself and move forward, or will he forever be tied to the biggest mistake of his life?

What is it about your lead characters that will make your readers care about them?

They are both relatable because they have faced hurt and loss.

Many readers enjoy reading seasonally set novels (Christmas, summer beach reads, etc.). Have you written anything seasonally set? If not, which season would you like to focus on in a novel?

Yes. I enjoy writing seasonally set books. ☺ I have four Christmas books, one Valentine book—the first book in this series opens on Valentine’s Day, I also have several books set in the summer, and one that covers Easter.

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

When Angels Cry , by MaryLu Tyndall. It was an end times kind of story that captivated me. I even bought a copy for my dad and recommended it to my husband. It’s the kind of book both men and women would enjoy.

What are you working on now?

I’m currently writing the next book in my Melodies of Love series. A Waltz for Amber will release in October.

Where else can readers find you online?

You can sign up for my newsletter via my website: www.kimberlyrjohnson.com

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



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

What is your favorite thing to do in the summer?

Thanks, Kimberly, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Kimberly has offered to give away an e-copy of her book. To enter, leave a comment 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. 

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.

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

Susan Page Davis and Free Books!

Detective Eddie Thibodeau may be ruined for undercover work when a video of him rescuing a toddler goes viral.

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the e-copy of Upon a Spring Breeze, by Kelly Irvin, is:

susanlulu@...

Congratulations! I'll email you for your snail mail address, and we'll mail 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 Susan Page Davis, author of the romantic mystery, Heartbreaker Hero: Eddie’s Story (Tea Tin Press, July 2017).

Susan Page Davis is a Maine native now living in western Kentucky with her husband of 41 years, Jim, who is a retired news editor. They have six children and ten grandchildren. Susan has published more than 70 novels, mostly in the Christian romance, historical romance, mystery and suspense genres.

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

Once upon a time, many (many) years ago, I was a waitress at a Howard Johnson’s restaurant, and I served Bob Dylan a cup of tea. With lemon.

How fun! I'm sure your gracious attention led to a well-crafted song in his repertoire.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Heartbreaker Hero: Eddie's Story.

Eddie Thibodeau is a detective in the Priority Unit, a fictional special unit in the Portland, Maine police department. The unit is called in to investigate when a man is found dead in the police chief’s back yard. Eddie is a young Christian with a checkered past. He is now dating his boss’s sister-in-law, Leeanne Wainthrop.

On New Year’s Eve, he and Leeanne are involved in a multi-car accident. They aren’t hurt, and Eddie helps the people in the vehicle ahead of them, putting out an engine fire and hauling a toddler from the back seat. Someone posts a video of his heroic actions, and that starts a frenzy over the dashing detective.

Leeanne isn’t sure what to think when scores of women join a Facebook poll that asks how many women have cried over Eddie. Living down his past may be harder than facing his future.

What is it about Eddie that will make your readers care about him?

Eddie used to like being the “bad boy.” He had his pick of the women in his circle. Now that he’s a Christian, he wants to clean up his act, but he finds himself in an awkward position, given his reputation. As his friend says, he doesn’t want to play with the bad girls anymore, but the good girls want nothing to do with him. Eddie has to prove that he’s trustworthy, which is made difficult by gossip and unsought publicity.

Many readers enjoy reading seasonally set novels (Christmas, summer beach reads, etc.). Have you written anything seasonally set? If not, which season would you like to focus on in a novel?

The featured book, Heartbreaker Hero, is set in December and January in Maine, which means lots of snow, a power outage, and more seasonal happenings. I think I’ve set books in every season now, but I haven’t done a lot with holidays other than Christmas. I have included Thanksgiving in some books. This one also includes New Year’s Eve, and The Saboteur and The Priority Unit include Memorial Day.

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

I just finished Ann Gabhart’s Murder at the Courthouse. It was a fun read.

What are you working on now?

I’m finishing up a cozy mystery for Guideposts in the Tearoom Mysteries series, and also working on Book 5 in the Maine Justice Series (The House Next Door). Harvey dabbles in real estate, but he has no idea of the terror it will bring to his family.

Where else can readers find you online?

Website: www.susanpagedavis.com
Twitter: @SusanPageDavis
Facebook
Sign up for my occasional newsletter.

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



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

Eddie unintentionally becomes the city’s hero. Do you have a secret hero?

Thanks, Susan, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Susan has offered to give away a signed copy of her book. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Susan'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. 

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.

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

Kelly Irvin and Free Books!

Can a close-knit group of Amish friends help a new widow and mother find her way back to hope, joy, and even the possibility of love?

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the e-copy of Finding Love, by Toni Shiloh, is:

katie07edgar@...

Congratulations! We'll email 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 Kelly Irvin, author of the Amish contemporary romance, Upon a Spring Breeze (Zondervan, April 2017).

Two-time ACFW Carol Award finalist Kelly Irvin is the author of the critically acclaimed Amish of Bee County, Bliss Creek Amish, and New Hope Amish series. Her latest work is Upon a Spring Breeze, the first novel in the four-book series Every Amish Season. Her work has also appeared in two Amish anthologies, An Amish Market and An Amish Christmas.

Kelly is a retired newspaper reporter and public relations professional who lives with her husband in Texas. They have two children, two grandchildren, and two cats.

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

I have a phobia of snakes. If I found one in my house, I would have to move.

Oh, yes. I'm with you on that. I've mentioned here before that, in my last house, I once found a very large, shed snake skin in the basement. No snake. WHERE was he? I shudder just remembering it.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Upon a Spring Breeze.

After a devastating year, a spring breeze promises more than new flowers.… It promises a new chance at love.

Bess Weaver, twenty and expecting her first child, is in the kitchen making stew for her beloved mann, Caleb, one minute, and the next she’s burying him after a tragic accident. Facing life as a young widow, Bess finds comfort only in tending the garden at an Englisch-owned bed and breakfast—even as she doubts that new growth could ever come after such a long winter.

Aidan tries to repress his guilt over his best friend Caleb’s death and his long-standing feelings for Bess by working harder than ever. But as he spends time with the young son his friend left behind, he seems to be growing closer to the boy’s beautiful mother as well.

When a close-knit group of widows in her Amish community step in to help Bess find her way back to hope, she begins to wonder if Gott has a future for her after all. Will she ever believe that life can still hold joy—and the possibility of love?

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

Readers will relate to Bess’s struggle to rearrange her life to fit her new circumstances. She never saw it coming, and now she has to trust God that her life will still have meaning.

What kind of brainstorming do you do at the beginning of your novels?

With Amish romances, I start with my heroine and what obstacles she faces in life and in her spiritual walk. I do the same with the hero. What keeps them apart and what brings them together? I’m a seat-of-the-pants writer so I don’t outline. I’m always amazed at what happens to my characters as I write the story. The backstory frequently writes itself. I love it when they do something that surprises me.

I have a lot of respect for seat-of-the-pants authors. I'd wander around aimlessly if I tried that.

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

People might be surprised to know I don’t read a lot of straight romance. I’m a huge romantic suspense and mystery reader. One of my favorite new-to-me authors is Laurie R. King, who writes the Mary Russell—Sherlock Holmes series in which Sherlock is married. I recently finished The God of the Hive [image error] and loved it. I love how she’s remained true to the Sir Conan Doyle character and style while adding this strong, intelligent, and astute female character to the mix. Much more fun to read, I think.

I absolutely loved the Sherlock series on BBC. Watson's wife, Mary, was a sharp cookie in that version. 

What are you working on now?

I just finished a novella for the Amish Heirloom collection that will release in April 2018. I’m about halfway through the third book in the Every Amish Season series. It’s called Through the Autumn Air. The second book, Beneath the Summer Sun, is in line-edits right now. Lots of balls in the air!

Where else can readers find you online?

www.kellyirvin.com
Facebook
Twitter(@Kelly_S_Irvin)
Pinterest


The book can be purchased online via the following button:


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

I’m writing a series in which the heroine in each book will be from an older generation (mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, etc.) How do you feel about featuring older heroines? Does their age matter to you?

Thanks, Kelly, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Kelly has offered to give away a signed copy of her book next week. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Kelly'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. 

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.

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

Toni Shiloh and Free Books!

Can Delaney Jones find love with army soldier Luke Robinson?

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Under a Summer Sky, by Melody Carlson, is:

ahenderson312@...

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 Toni Shiloh, author of the Christian contemporary romance, Finding Love (Celebrate Lit, June 2017).

Toni Shiloh is a wife, mom, and Christian fiction writer. Once she understood the powerful saving grace thanks to the love of Christ, she was moved to honor her Savior. She writes to bring Him glory and to learn more about His goodness.

She spends her days hanging out with her husband and their two boys. She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and president of the Virginia Chapter.

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

I don’t like coffee and fill my mug with black tea, milk, and sugar.

You sound like a Brit, Toni! 

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Finding Love.

Delaney Jones has finally started to pick up the pieces of her shattered life after the death of her husband, Parker. Just as life enters a new normal, in walks Army soldier, Luke Robinson. Just when she makes the decision to trust him, life deals her a heavy blow.

 Sergeant First Class Luke Robinson can’t get over his part in the death of Delaney’s husband. In hopes to assuage his guilt, he offers to lend a hand. Only, he never counted on the feelings she evokes with just a smile. Will his secrets widen the gulf or will he finally find absolution?

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

Delaney Jones is a widow with two twin boys. As aggravating as she was in book one, Buying Love, you get to take a deeper look at her story and learn how the death of her husband changed her.

What kind of brainstorming do you do at the beginning of your novels?

Honestly, it depends on the book. With Finding Love, Delaney told me her deepest fear: falling in love with another military man. My brain took over from there.

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

The last book I read was Looking Glass Lies , by Varina Denman. It is such a poignant tale of a woman learning to love herself and her looks that I can’t help but recommend it. We all struggle with self-image, some more than others. This book will help you see yourself in a new light.

What are you working on now?

I’m working on a Christmas novella. I’m so excited to be writing. It seems like it’s been awhile, lol. Once a book is finished, you edit, market, interact with readers (probably my fave next to writing). So, I’m excited to be writing a new story again.

Where else can readers find you online?

Everywhere! Lol, I’ll be more specific.

Facebook
Pinterest
Google+
Instagram
Goodreads
Bookbub.

I also blog at Putting on the New, Heart”wings", Diversity Between the Pages and my own: tonishiloh.weebly.com/blog.


The book can be purchased via the following button:



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

Have you ever had a traumatic experiencing that froze you and you swore to yourself, you wouldn’t put yourself in that position again? If so, did you or how did you overcome that fear?

Thanks, Toni, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Toni has offered to give away an e-copy of her book next week. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Toni'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. 

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.

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

Melody Carlson and Free Books!

Nicole Anderson accepts a dream job managing an art gallery and quickly discovers the nightmares involved, but the promise of romance combined with the beauty of Savannah entice her to persevere.

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of A Stolen Heart, by Amanda Cabot, is:

paulams49@...

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 Melody Carlson, author of the contemporary romance, Under a Summer Sky (Revell, June 2017). Tell us about yourself, Melody.

I’m probably one of the most prolific writers (more than 200 books published) but it wasn’t anything I set out to do—I simply enjoy writing and do it quickly. I’m mostly known for teen and women’s fiction and like to write realistic stories with hope.

I live with my husband of 39 years in Oregon and enjoy the ‘great outdoors.’ We have two grown sons and a thirteen year old granddaughter, and a yellow lab dog named Audrey.

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

I’m restoring a 1963 travel trailer—just for fun!

What fun! I hope travels are in your future, then.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Under a Summer Sky.

Nicole is an art teacher who feels ‘stuck’ in Seattle. When a family friend invites her to spend the summer managing a Savannah art gallery and house-sitting in a gorgeous home, Nicole bites. Her hope is to work in lovely place and earn some money, pursue her own art dreams, and to relax in luxury.

Unfortunately she soon discovers some obstacles to her carefree summer plans, including a resentful gallery employee who challenges Nicole’s every move, a pair of brothers suddenly vying for her attention, and a ‘squatter’ in her house.

But her attraction to this beautiful and historic old town, combined with the promise of a true romance keep Nicole from giving up.

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

In many ways Nicole is just an ‘ordinary girl.’ An art teacher and frustrated artist, Nicole has a big heart, but she’s recovering from a bad relationship and somewhat disillusioned with her life. She’s ripe for a fresh start in a new and interesting place . . . and ready for a truly good guy.

What kind of brainstorming do you do at the beginning of your novels?

I always start with a character—and then I give them a problem. After that I add a setting, and then I just leap into writing, discovering the story along the way.

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

I’ve read several novels lately that I can’t recommend, but last year I read Take Me With You by Catherine Ryan Hyde, and I’ve recommended that delightful read to lots of people. I absolutely loved this book!

What are you working on now?

I’m actually just beginning my annual Christmas novella (I think it’s about #16 and won’t be out until 2018). This year’s offering is called The Christmas Blessing.

Where else can readers find you online?

www.melodycarlson.com

The book can be purchased via the following button:



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

Where do you usually find your books?

Thanks, Melody, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Melody has offered to give away a signed copy of her book next week. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Melody'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. 

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.

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

Amanda Cabot and Free Books!

After her plans for the future are shattered by the revelation that her fiancé has married another, a young woman finds both love and danger in the Texas Hill Country as she and the sheriff struggle to unravel the town’s secrets and unmask a murderer.

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the free e-copy of Coming Home ~ A Tiny House Collection, featuring the novella, Love is Sweeter in Sugar Hill, by Ane Mulligan, is:

donvelma@...

Congratulations! I'll forward your email address to Ane, 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 meet novelist Amanda Cabot, author of the historical romance, A Stolen Heart (Revell, March 2017).

Amanda Cabot is the bestselling author of more than thirty novels including the Texas Dreams trilogy, the Westward Winds series, the Texas Crossroad trilogy, and Christmas Roses.

A former director of Information Technology, she has written everything from technical books and articles for IT professionals to mysteries for teenagers and romances for all ages. Amanda is delighted to now be a fulltime writer of Christian romances, living happily ever after with her husband in Wyoming.

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

I enjoy sewing and make most of my own clothes as well as dressing dolls for the local women’s shelter.

How kind that you use your talent for the shelter.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of A Stolen Heart.

From afar, Cimarron Creek seems like an idyllic town tucked in the Texas Hill Country. But when former schoolteacher Lydia Crawford steps onto its dusty streets in 1880, she finds a town with a deep-seated resentment of Northerners—like her. Lydia won’t let that get her down, though. All will be well when she’s reunited with her fiancé. 

But when she discovers he has disappeared—and that he left behind a pregnant wife—Lydia is at a loss about what to do next.

The handsome sheriff urges her to trust him, but can she trust anyone in this town where secrets are as prevalent as bluebonnets in spring?

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

Lydia’s an ordinary woman caught in an extraordinary situation, and – like most women – she learns that she’s stronger than she realized.

What kind of brainstorming do you do at the beginning of your novels?

I start by choosing a setting – in this case the Texas Hill Country – then ask myself what kind of people would live there and what problems would they encounter.

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

I just finished Irene Hannon’s Sandpiper Cove and absolutely loved it. It’s a story that tugged on my heartstrings. The hero’s situation is almost heartbreaking, and even though I knew she’d give him a happy ending, I wasn’t sure how that would happen.

What are you working on now?

I’m currently writing the first draft (my least favorite part of the writing process) of A Tender Hope, the third of the Cimarron Creek books. Even though I don’t enjoy writing first drafts, I’m excited about this book, because this is where all the plot points are resolved and the last of Cimarron Creek’s secrets are revealed.

Where else can readers find you online?

www.amandacabot.com
Facebook
Twitter
amandajoycabot.blogspot.com

The book can be purchased via the following button:



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

What is the most important thing you look for in an historical romance?

Thanks, Amanda, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book.
Readers, Amanda has offered to give away a signed copy of her book next week. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Amanda'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. 

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.

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

Ane Mulligan and Free Books!

She has a tiny house; he lives in a mansion. She vows to charge a doctor with malpractice; his job depends on that doctor's finances. Can two hearts see beyond the chasm that separates them?

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of The Pony Express Romance Collection, featuring the novella, Echoes of the Heart, by Donna Schlachter, is:

kmgervais@...

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 meet novelist Ane Mulligan, author of the romance novella, Love is Sweeter in Sugar Hill, in Coming Home ~ A Tiny House Collection (Penwrights Publishing, May 2017).

While a large, floppy straw hat is her favorite, award-winning author Ane Mulligan has worn many different ones: hairdresser, legislative affairs director (that's a fancy name for a lobbyist), creative and managing director for a Community Theatre, playwright, humor columnist, and bestselling novelist.

She firmly believes coffee and chocolate are two of the four major food groups.

Ane resides in Sugar Hill, GA, with her artist husband and a wooly mammoth … uh, English mastiff.

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

I have an alarming fear of alarm systems; ever since the day I set one off accidentally … at City Hall.

Laughing here, Ane. I can absolutely see you in that situation. You're so much fun.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Love is Sweeter in Sugar Hill.

Nurse Lyndsey Beaumont has more important things on her mind than romance—like saving lives. With a staffing shortage and an egotistical doctor who continually puts patients at risk, she’s got no choice but to turn to the handsome hospital administrator … a man who only sees things in dollars and cents.

Carter Elliot is that man. He wants to save lives as much as Lyndsey, yet if he can’t keep the hospital budget under control, they’ll all be out of a job. But feisty nurse Lyndsey is determined to make him see more than numbers—and he does. He discovers she’s more than a thorn in his side.

When a doctor’s lack of oversight causes a patient to attack Lyndsey, Carter is faced with protecting the biggest donor to the hospital--or the woman he loves.

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

She's a strong patient advocate and badgers her employer for more staff to care for them properly.

What is something you’ve thanked God for this week?

I thank Him daily for the way He's gotten hold of my son's heart. He was saved at the age of 13, but a year later, slipped away. After 25 years of indifference to God, the Lord grabbed him in a way for which my heart glorifies Jesus. He is 100% sold out. He will tell you he isn't Christian but a disciple of the Lord Jesus. Everything he does is with Jesus in mind. He's become an example to his dad and me. So if anyone has a Prodigal, keep praying for Him. God is faithful!

I love that story, Ane! Don't we all pray that our children and grandchildren will know Him?

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

A Fragile Hope by Cynthia Ruchti. It's a story so many can take hope from. All her books are about finding hope, and she's one of my favorite authors.

Yes, Cynthia's prose often reads like poetry.

What are you working on now?

In High Cotton is set in 1929 at the onset of the Great Depression. It's an ensemble cast of strong women helping each other, and really not so different to my Chapel Springs series. But I love doing the research.

The blurb is:

Southern women may look as delicate as flowers, but there's iron in their veins.

While the rest of the world has been roaring through the 1920s, times are hardscrabble in rural Georgia. Widow Maggie Parker is barely surviving while raising her young son alone. Then as banks begin to fail, her father-in-law threatens to take her son and sell off her livelihood—the grocery store her husband left her. Can five Southern women band together, using their wisdom and wiles to stop him and survive the Great Depression?

Oh, I do love to read about strong women working together!

Where else can readers find you online?

I'm all over! Readers can find me on my website, Amazon Author page, Novel Rocket, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+.

The book can be purchased via the following button:



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

First, I want to thank you for allowing me to share with your readers. You know you are one of my favorite authors and one of my early encouragers. Now, my question: Do your readers prefer series or stand alone books?

That's so touching, Ane. Thank you so much for saying that. And thank you for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. 

Readers, Ane has offered to give away an e-copy of her novella collection next week. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Ane'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. 

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.

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

Donna Schlachter and Free Books!

Can a woman running from her past and a man with no foreseeable future find love along the Pony Express trail?

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Fatal Mistake, by Susan Sleeman, is:

alekee02@...

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 meet novelist Donna Schlachter, author of the historical romance, Echoes of the Heart (in The Pony Express Romance Collection from Barbour Publishing, April 2017).


Donna lives in Denver with husband Patrick, her first-line editor and biggest fan. She writes historical suspense under her own name, and contemporary suspense under her alter ego of Leeann Betts. She is a hybrid publisher who has published a number of books under her pen name and under her own name.

Her current release, Echoes of the Heart , a 9-in-1 novella collection titled Pony Express Romance Collection. Donna is also a ghostwriter and editor of fiction and non-fiction, and judges in a number of writing contests. She will be teaching an online course for American Christian Fiction Writers in June 2017, “Don’t let your subplots sink your story”.

Donna loves history and research, and travels extensively for both.

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

I once ice danced with a gold medalist figure skater.

How exciting! I'm sure many of us would be unable to ice dance with anyone, let alone a gold medalist.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Echoes of the Heart.

Catherine answers an advertisement for a mail order bride on behalf of her best friend, who soon dies of TB. After the master of the house makes indecent advances to her, she assumes the identity of her friend and travels to Kansas.

Benjamin, the illiterate station master at the Hollenberg Station who was crippled by a horse and thinks no woman would want him, depends on his friend to place an advertisement for a cook-housekeeper, but his friend knows he needs more, so he places the ad for a wife for him. When Catherine arrives, it's obvious Benjamin doesn't want her.

Benjamin wants her, but doesn’t think she wants a cripple for a husband. Can they get over their pasts and weave a future together, or are they determined to run from love forever?

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

We all have a past, and Catherine—and we—need to realize that God is bigger than our past.

What is something you’ve thanked God for this week?

For a second bathroom being almost finished in my house.

Oh, yes. It's been many years since I've had to share a bathroom, so I really notice the difference when my circumstances are temporarily changed. That blessing is definitely worthy of thanksgiving.

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

Like a River from Its Course , by Kelly Stuart, weaves the stories of lives impacted by the second world war. It's told in a diary format, which makes it seem really intimate.

What are you working on now?

Two more novellas for Barbour that will come out early in 2018, and Book 6 in my Carly Turnquist cozy mystery series, Hidden Assets.

Where else can readers find you online?

www.HiStoryThruTheAges.wordpress.com
www.HiStoryThruTheAges.com
Facebook
Twitter
Books

The book can be purchased via the following button:



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

What would be your ideal book and why?

Thanks, Donna, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Donna has offered to give away a signed copy of her novel next week. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Donna'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. 

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.

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

Susan Sleeman and Free Books!

When the Lone Wolf Bomber sets his sights on Tara Parrish, each day could be her last...but not if FBI Agent Cal Riggins can help it.

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Sunset in Old Savannah, by Mary Ellis, is:

danandlyndaedwards@...

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 meet novelist Susan Sleeman, author of the romantic suspense novel, Fatal Mistake (HBG/FaithWords May).

Susan Sleeman is a bestselling and award-winning author of more than 25 inspirational/Christian and clean-read romantic suspense books.

In addition to writing, Susan also hosts the popular website TheSuspenseZone.com.

Susan currently lives in Oregon, but has had the pleasure of living in nine states. Her husband is a retired church music director and they have two beautiful daughters, a very special son-in-law, and an adorable grandson.

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

I never road a roller coaster until I was twenty-one.

Me too! Sometimes I think my life was way too sheltered when I was under my parents' roof!

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Fatal Mistake.

Tara Parrish is the only person ever to survive an attack by the Lone Wolf bomber. Scared and emotionally scarred by her near death, she goes into hiding with only one plan–to stay alive for another day. She knows he’s coming after her, and if he finds her, he will finish what he started.

Agent Cal Riggins has had only one goal for the past six months–to save lives by ending the Lone Wolf’s bombing spree. To succeed, he needs the help of Tara Parrish, the one person who can lead them to the bomber. Cal puts his all into finding Tara, but once he locates her, he realizes if he can find her, the Lone Wolf can, too. He must protect Tara at all costs, and they’ll both need to resist the mutual attraction growing between them to focus on hunting down the bomber, because one wrong move could be fatal.

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

Tara Parrish is your everyday woman who is faced with an extraordinary challenge. At first she runs from the seemingly insurmountable problem, but then digs in and starts to fight back. I think this is how many of us first face a challenge, and that the reader can easily see themselves in her and can imagine being in her shoes.

How true. I think shock is often our first reaction to uncommon, violent adversity, before our sense of survival kicks in. 

What is something you’ve thanked God for this week?

I had an infection and hospital stay, and I thanked God for giving me the right doctor who provided the right medicine to clear it up.

Good to hear! 

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

It’s actually a novella written by Dr. Richard Mabry called Doctor's Dilemma . I love how he integrates his knowledge of the medical field in a suspense story as I love learning new things while enjoying fiction. He brings a great sense of realism to the story and, of course, the creative suspense plot kept me engaged as well.

What are you working on now?

I am working on book two, Kill Shot, in the White Knights series. This book features the White Knight’s ballistics and weapon’s expert, Rick Cannon who is about to face his worst nightmare. He knows the Department of Defense is developing self-steering bullets. Rick has long feared these smart bullets that show one hundred percent accuracy in hitting mobile, evading targets, making even a gun novice a lethal sniper, would eventually end up in the wrong hands. But since the ammunition was still in the development stage, he figured they had plenty of time before the bad guys got their hands on this ammo. He was wrong.

When a military vet suffering from PTSD is killed with a smart bullet, it’s clear that the ammunition has been stolen, and the Knights are called in to find the thief and stop the killings. Their investigation soon leads Rick to Dr. Olivia Dobbs whose PTSD client holds the dubious honor of being the first person killed with a smart-bullet. When they discover another of Olivia’s clients has been murdered with a self-guiding bullet and the sniper trains his rifle on Olivia, Rick is convinced that she is the key to solving this investigation. Rick must recall all of his Marine Scout Sniper skills to apprehend the lethal sniper before the kill shot is fired and ends Olivia’s life.

Susan, considering your plot lines, I suspect that--unlike writers like me--you probably have a sizable male readership! 

Where else can readers find you online?

Website - www.susansleeman.com
Facebook
Twitter
Review Site - www.TheSuspenseZone.com
Pinterest
Instagram
Goodreads

The book can be purchased online via the following button:




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

What book have you read lately that you would highly recommend?

Thanks, Susan, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Susan has offered to give away a signed copy of her novel next week. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Susan'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. 

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.

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