Trish Perry's Blog, page 33

Kimberly Rose Johnson and Free Books!

Should Rachel take a risk, or play it safe and possibly lose the man who could help fulfill her dreams?

Today we're chatting with novelist Kimberly Rose Johnson, author of the Inspirational women's fiction novel, Island Christmas (Mountain Brook Ink, October 30, 2015).

Kimberly Rose Johnson writes sweet inspirational romance.

She married her college sweetheart 25 years ago. Her hobbies include reading, watching chick flicks, playing the piano, long walks with her hubby and their yellow lab, drinking coffee and eating way too much dark chocolate.

Kimberly holds a degree in Behavioral Science and is a member of ACFW.

Please tell us three random things we might not know about you.

--As a kid I wanted to be a secret agent when I grew up.

--When I first started writing I wrote romantic suspense, but never sold any of those manuscripts. I switched genres to contemporary romance and sold the first one I wrote.

--I changed my major three times in college. I started as an elementary education major, switched to piano performance and ultimately ended up with a degree in Behavior Science with a minor in music.

I like the flexible spirit suggested by your three items.

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

Sous Chef Rachel Narrelli returns to Wildflower Island looking for a fresh start for herself and her young son, but discovers that life has a lot of bumps in the road even on idyllic Wildflower Island. She is grateful when new friend Chris Campbell offers support as she faces obstacles with her new job and new life. She cares for Chris but must decide if she is willing to risk her heart to a man with an uncertain future.

A self-proclaimed workaholic, Chris Campbell comes to Wildflower Island hoping to take life at a slower pace. When a new guest at the Wildflower B&B catches his eye, he is drawn to her. But how will a woman and her young son fit into his future—a future that’s uncertain at best? And most of all, how can he reconcile her lack of faith in God with his strong religious beliefs.

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

Rachel is a courageous young widowed mother who has worked hard to get where she is, but life keeps knocking her down.

All the men in Chris’s family have died young from heart attacks. Chris believes this could be his fate as well and has worked hard to stay heart healthy, but when it’s not enough he moves to Wildflower Island for a slower pace. While there he meets Rachel and her young son and suddenly he’s not content to accept his family history.

If you were the casting director for the film version of your novel, who would play your lead roles?

Chris would be played by Bradley Cooper





and Rachel would be played by Alexis Bledel—I’m a huge Gilmore Girls fan and would be honored to have her play the part. ☺

What is something in your writing-industry experience that made you laugh or at least smile?

Several years ago at one of the summer Oregon Christian Writer’s Conferences, Liz Curtis Higgs was the keynote speaker. My goodness she is funny. I think I was crying at times from laughing so hard.

Oh, yes. She was the keynote at one of the American Christian Fiction Writers conferences several years ago. She is hilarious. And terrifically motivational.

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

I just finished reading My Brother's Crown by Mindy Starns Clark and Leslie Gould. At first I wasn’t sure I would like it because it has two stories within the story line, one takes place in present day the other several hundred years ago. Then I realized how important one story was to the other and how you wouldn’t have the present day story without the historical one. It was exceptionally written and a page-turner. It’s also part of a series so there is a continuing mystery thread.

I also really liked Kept by Sally Bradley. This book is unlike most books Christian books I’ve read. It’s one of those stories you need to read to understand what I’m saying, but I couldn’t put it down.

What are you working on now?

I’m currently writing Island Hope the fourth book in the Wildflower B&B Romance Series. This book will release in April 2016. The release spread between books is further on this one. I hope readers will subscribe to my newsletter so I can let them know when it releases. It’s easy to subscribe from my website.

Where else can readers find you online?

My website ☺ www.kimberlyrjohnson.com and I am a contributing blogger at www.inspyromance.com

The book can be purchased online via the following button:














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

Since this is a Christmas book, what is your favorite Christmas memory?

I’ll share mine. When I was a kid my family drove to California to spend Christmas with my Grandma. We were still traveling Christmas morning and had stopped at a rest stop. In those days seatbelts weren’t required and my sister and I sat in the back of our Datsun pickup on beanbags. There was a boot that connected the back to the cab. Anyway, my parents stopped to give us our Christmas stockings and handed them to us through the boot. She opened our gifts in full view of anyone who cared to watch through our windshield. I’ll never forget this one woman who stood there the entire time with a big smile just watching my sister and I enjoy our Christmas morning stocking at the rest stop. ☺

Thanks, Kimberly, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel.

Readers, Kimberly has offered to give an e-copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, November 23. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Kimberly's question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. 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 HERE.

Cookies and Kisses and Free Books!

Relax and enjoy these Christmas love stories while you munch on a handful of delicious cookies made from the recipes at the end of each novella in this collection of contemporary romances set in Bethlehem, Connecticut. 

Four childhood friends keep their beloved holiday tradition of a sleepover and Christmas cookie exchange that they started as teenagers.

This e-novella collection is currently free on Amazon!

Before giving you the details and link, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Better Than Chocolate: Tasty Morsels of God's Goodness, by Debby Maybe and me, is:

mauback55@ . . .

Congratulations! I'll email you for your mailing address, and I'll get your book to you right away.

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, just to give you a little more information on the four novellas in this fun new romantic e-collection, here's a thumbnail description:

The love stories in Cookies and Kisses show how these four friends' lives have changed over the years and what motivates them when they meet the men who make them weak at the knees.


In Love's First Stage , by Trish Perry, Anna has a chance to pursue her dream career and the possibility of love, but at what cost? In Kissing Carly , by Debby Mayne, after years of a secret crush on the boy next door, Carly has to face some important realities that can alter the direction of her future. In Loving Luke , by Cecelia Dowdy, Kim's life is a mess, so she returns to Bethlehem to run the family bakery and runs into someone who dredges up some old feelings she thought she'd lost.  In A Recipe for Family , by Lynette Sowell, single mom Heather has to decide whether or not to let her daughter's father back into her life—and possibly into her heart.
For a limited time the set is available for free download on Amazon by clicking on the following button:














I hope you'll take advantage of the offer before the set goes back to its regular selling price.

And I hope you'll get in the mood for a lovely Christmas holiday while reading these entertaining, uplifting stories!

 Happy reading!

Better Than Chocolate, Free Books, and November Releases!

Every woman has time for chocolate. Taking a moment to delight in the Lord is even better.

Before we consider today's book, I want to announce that the winner of the e-copy of The Reliable Cowboy, by Susan Page Davis, is:

teamob4@ . . .

Congratulations! We'll get your e-book to you right away.

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 I'd like to draw your attention to (and give away) one of my latest releases, Better Than Chocolate: Tasty Morsels of God's Goodness (Broadstreet Publishing, August 2015), a book of devotions I wrote with Debby Mayne.

Better Than Chocolate is a collection of daily devotionals that busy women can read and enjoy while having their morning cup of coffee, running errands with the kids, waiting for an appointment, or ending the day and turning off the light.

Debby and I have put together 365 nuggets for you to savor each day of the year, addressing the joys and concerns we all share as women.

The book is small but hefty and would make a fantastic Christmas gift for the women on your gift list!

Better Than Chocolate can be purchased at fine bookstores and online via the following buttons and links:




     CBD



And next week I'm going to randomly draw a name from commenters, below, to send a free, signed copy of the book. To enter the drawing, please tell us your experience with devotionals. Do you use them daily? Sometimes for me, a devo is my only "study" for the day, and I'm always glad to have a good devotional book on hand.

"Please enter me" won't get you entered. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. 

And as you scroll to the bottom of this post to leave your comment, take a look at the phenomenal inspirational fiction being released this month!

Biblical Fiction:

The Master's Calling by Amber Schamel -- A young Jew travels to Jerusalem in hopes of becoming a disciple of the Messiah, only to discover that Jesus has already been crucified. Did Israel's deliverance die with him? (Biblical Fiction, Independently Published)

Contemporary Romance:

Merry Kisses by Valerie Comer -- Can a disillusioned toy store clerk and a mall Santa resolve their differences in time for merry kisses at Christmas? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Catch of a Lifetime by Candee Fick -- When his star receiver teeters on the brink of ineligibility, the rookie college coach and the bitter tutor must work together to salvage the season ... without igniting a scandal. (Contemporary Romance from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas)

Yuletide Cowboys by Arlene James and Deb Kastner -- The Cowboy's Yuletide Reunion by Deb Kastner When Sarah Kendrick meets her high school sweetheart again, she's ashamed to show Marcus Ender how far she's fallen. But when they're snowed in on her ranch, and he returns holiday joy to her family, Sarah could have a merry Christmas…if she'll say yes. The Cowboy's Christmas Gift by Arlene James An injury forces rodeo rider Matt Ender home to his family's ranch—where he clashes with his grandmother's pretty business partner. Former cowgirl Neely Spence has no time for love. Can they open their hearts and find family this Christmas? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Island Christmas by Kimberly Rose Johnson -- Sous Chef Rachel Narrelli returns to Wildflower Island looking for a fresh start for herself and her young son. When she starts to care for Chris Campbell, can she risk her heart? A self-proclaimed workaholic, Chris comes to Wildflower Island hoping to invest in the hot real estate market and take life at a slower pace. When a new guest at Wildflower B&B catches his eye he is smitten, but how will a woman and her young son fit into his future, when he’s not even sure he will have a future due to a heart condition? (Contemporary Romance from Mountain Brook Ink)

Rancher for the Holidays by Myra Johnson -- Downsized from his corporate job, Ben Fisher's donning boots and a cowboy hat to try ranching through the holidays on his uncle's spread. The handsome city slicker turns heads wherever he goes—but he soon begins to fall for one special redhead. Marley Sanders has the work-obsessed bachelor doing the unthinkable—volunteering in the community and dreaming of wedding bells and babies. But his sweet country girl insists she's never leaving Alpine, Texas, and he's set to ride out with the first job offer. Unless Marley can convince him to take the job of her forever cowboy. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Isle of Hope by Julie Lessman She's the town flirt serving up trouble; He's a pastor's kid bent on serving God, but when time and tragedy separate them for eight years, the tables are turned, begging the question: Can a wild girl gone good rebuilt bridges she's burned? (Contemporary Romance, ACFW QIP [Qualified Independently Published])

Romance:

Christmas with the Colburns by Keely Brooke Keith -- It’s Christmastime in Good Springs, and Lydia Bradshaw is eager for the light at the end of her year—the Colburn family’s big holiday gathering. When she discovers none of her siblings are coming back to the village this year, she believes Christmas will be ruined. As Lydia faces a gloomy holiday in the Colburn house, an unexpected romance brightens her favorite season. Will it be enough to rekindle the light of Christmas? (Romance, Independently Published)

Historical Romance:

Fragile Blessings by Susan M. Baganz -- In the late 1800’s, Grant and Lily have established their farm amongst the bluffs of western Wisconsin. As they anticipate the birth of their first child, tragedy strikes. With shaken faith and grief driving a wedge between them, is it possible for three orphans to heal Grant and Lily’s heart and relationship? (Historical Romance from Inspired [Prism Book Group])

Tabitha by Vikki Kestell -- Rescued from a life of depravity, fiery-haired, fiery-tempered Tabitha Hale gives her heart to God and her life to nursing. But what will Tabitha do with her feelings for British pilot Mason Carpenter, the man who refuses to give up on her? When the Great War erupts, Carpenter leaves for England to train British pilots. Soon after, Tabitha hears God’s call to nurse the war wounded. Will the elite British Nursing Service accept the services of an American volunteer? Is it possible for two people with such different callings upon their hearts to share a future? (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

In This Together by Gail Elaine Kittleson -- After losing her son in World War II and her husband soon after, Dottie makes do, but her next door neighbor's sudden interest in her, his haunting World War I memories and her faraway daughter's dire need intersect in unexpected ways. Can Dottie overcome her fear of enclosed spaces to board a train and step into a new life? (Historical Romance from Wild Rose Press)

Sofia's Tune by Cindy Thomson -- Scrambling to keep her job and care for her mother, Sofia is convinced confronting the past will heal all wounds, but her old world Italian family wants to keep the past in the past. (Historical Romance, Independently Published) Historical: The Last Truth by Leann Harris -- Linette Van Linder enters into a marriage of convenience to fight the Nazis and free her family. (Historical Romance, ACFW QIP [Qualified Independently Published]) The Peacock Throne by Lisa Karon Richardson -- When Miss Lydia Garrett's guardian is murdered, and the authorities refuse to investigate the odd circumstances, she vows to catch the culprit. The same night the Earl of Danbury is murdered in his bed. Against all odds it appears that the murders are related?and Anthony Douglas, the new Lord Danbury, is bent on revenge. The clues point to the former earl’s first naval command. In 1758 the earl spirited away and hid the magnificent Peacock Throne at the behest of the Indian royal family. To draw out the murderer, Anthony and Lydia agree that they must locate the throne. They are not the only ones interested in the Peacock Throne, however. Marcus Wiltshire, a British intelligence, has received hints that Bonaparte intends to return the throne to India and leverage its mystical significance to foment rebellion and cut England off from her most important trading partner. When the amateur sleuths join forces with the professional agent, the quest for the throne leads them around the globe on an adventure steeped in danger, treachery, and romance. (Historical from Lion Fiction [Monarch Publishing])

Romantic Suspense:

The Christmas Bell Tolls by Robin Caroll -- When an FBI agent's child is abducted, he is forced to sit on the sidelines of the investigation and put his faith in the one woman he's not sure he can trust. (Romantic Suspense, ACFW QIP [Qualified Independently Published])

High-Caliber Holiday (First Responders) by Susan Sleeman -- Sniper Brady Owens has lost his confidence on the FRS team’s last callout, but he better find it fast if he’s to protect Morgan Thorsby from a stalker bent on murder. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Supernatural Thriller:

Trial & Tribulations by Rachel Dylan -- High-powered attorney Olivia Murray arrives in Windy Ridge to defend a New Age tech company and discovers there is much more to the case than the legal claims—forces of darkness are at work. Windy Ridge quickly turns from quiet Chicago suburb to spiritual battleground, and Olivia must rely on her faith to defend against legal and spiritual attacks. Olivia finds a friend and unlikely ally in Opposing Counsel Grant Baxter. Once a skeptic about faith, he ultimately comes to her aid when she needs it most. Will she be able to help good triumph over evil before the town of Windy Ridge is torn apart? (Supernatural Thriller, Independently Published)

Young Adult:

The Golden Braid by Melanie Dickerson -- In this Rapunzel story set in Medieval Germany, Rapunzel discovers her true identity and falls in love with a noble knight who needs some saving of his own. (Young Adult Historical Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan])

Happy reading!

Susan Page Davis and Free Books!

What would keep a cowboy away from his own wedding?

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Another Way Home, by Deb Raney, is:

happygrammaof3@ . . .

Congratulations! I'll email you for your mailing address, and we'll get your book to you right away.

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 historical romance, The Reliable Cowboy (Forget-Me-Not Romances, August, 2015).

Susan Page Davis is the author of more than sixty published novels.

A Maine native, she now lives in Kentucky with her husband Jim, a retired news editor. They have six grown children and ten grandchildren.

Susan is a two-time winner of the Inspirational Readers’ Choice Award, and also a winner of the Carol Award and the Will Rogers Medallion, and a finalist in the WILLA Awards and the More Than Magic Contest.

Please tell us three random things we might not know about you.

--I am a certified farrier (blacksmith).

--My zucchini bread has won a blue ribbon at a state fair.

--I’ve been to Lake Louise, Mammoth Cave, Montezuma’s Castle, and Stonehenge.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of The Reliable Cowboy.

Isabella Johnston lost her husband to the sea, and now she wants to get as far from the coast as she can. She is tired of always worrying about men on the water. When she hears about a plan to send mail-order brides from her church to Wyoming Territory, she sees it as the ideal chance to move far from the ocean. She leaves Maine to marry a cowboy, reasoning that he will be safe on the ranch.

Edwin Gray puts his name on the list for a mail-order bride. Afterward, he wonders if that was a mistake. If a bride comes for him, and he doesn’t get the promotion to foreman, how can he marry her? Isabella arrives, and they wait for word from his boss.

Every time Edwin is late for an engagement, she finds herself worrying. Has he had an accident, the way her first husband did? What could be horrible enough to make him late for their wedding?

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

Isabella has left all her friends and family behind in Maine to start a new life with a man she has never met. She wants to be a good wife to him, but she’s terrified.

If you were the casting director for the film version of your novel, who would play your lead roles?

Jennifer Lawrence





and Liam Hemsworth.





How do you restart the creative juices when you feel a block coming on?

Take a break—watch Jeopardy or solve a puzzle.

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

I read an advance copy of Kim Vogel Sawyer’s upcoming book Room for Hope , and I loved it. It’s a historical novel with an unusual twist. It releases in February, 2016.

And I believe it's available on pre-order now.

What are you working on now?

I’m working on a new project I’m very excited about. Guideposts is presenting a new series called Tearoom Mysteries, and I am writing the first book. I will also have a new novella, The Cowboy Poet, coming out in March in the collection called The Cowboy’s Bride (from Barbour Publishing).

Where else can readers find you online?

www.susanpagedavis.com. On my website, you can see all my books, sign up for my newsletter, enter a monthly drawing, and read a short story on my “Romance” tab.

Facebook is my author page.

www.hhhistory.com is a history blog where I post on the 23rd of each month.
Follow me on Twitter @SusanPageDavis

The book can be purchased online via the following button:














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

What do you feel, and what do you do, when someone you care about is late for an important appointment?

Thanks, Susan, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel.

Readers, Susan has offered to give an e-copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, November 2. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Susan's question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. 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 HERE.

Deborah Raney and Free Books!

Danae and Dallas Brooks have been trying for years to start their family, but with no baby in sight, they’re beginning to wonder why God keeps saying “no” to their dreams.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Embers, by Ronie Kendig, is:

kystorywriter@ . . .

Congratulations! I'll email you for your mailing address, and we'll get your book to you right away.

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 Deborah Raney, author of Women’s Fiction novel, Another Way Home (Abingdon Press, October 2015).

Deborah Raney's first novel, A Vow to Cherish, inspired the World Wide Pictures film of the same title and launched her writing career after 20 happy years as a stay-at-home mom.

Since then, her books have won numerous awards including the RITA, National Readers Choice Award, HOLT Medallion, the Carol Award, and have three times been Christy Award finalists. Deb's newest novel, Another Way Home, released this month as the third book in The Chicory Inn Novels series for Abingdon Press Fiction.

Deb enjoys teaching at writers' conferences across the country. She and her husband, Ken Raney, recently traded small-town life in Kansas ––the setting of many of Deb's novels––for life in the (relatively) big city of Wichita where they enjoy gardening, antiquing, movies, and traveling to visit four children and a growing brood of grandchildren who all live much too far away.

Please tell us three random things we might not know about you.

— I speak Pig-Latin fluently! (It was the secret language my parents spoke when they didn’t want us five kids to know what they were talking about. My mom was none too happy when Daddy taught us how to speak it!)

— I gave birth to our first son in the ‘70s, a son and daughter in the ‘80s, and an “oops” baby, our youngest daughter in 1990. This means we had kids at home for thirty-three years of our lives! We are really enjoying the empty nest!

Ronie Kendig and Free Books!

He’s coming for them. And the kingdom.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of A Husband for Christmas, by Gail Gaymer Martin, is:

tissakay@ . . .

Congratulations! I'll email you for your mailing address, and we'll get your book to you right away.

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 Ronie Kendig, author of the epic fantasy novel, Embers (Enclave Publishing, October 20145).

Ronie Kendig is an award-winning, bestselling author who grew up an Army brat. After twenty-plus years of marriage, she and her hunky hero husband have a full life with their children, a Maltese Menace, and a retired military working dog, Vvolt N629, in Northern Virginia.

As a national speaker and teacher, Ronie enjoys connecting with readers and mentoring new writers.

Please tell us three random things we might not know about you.

-- By Christmas, I will be a black belt in Taekwondo.

-- I was raised by a strict Irish mom, who was so intent on honoring God in life that she wouldn’t let me watch Star Wars or E.T.

-- I am the proud “mom” of a retired military working dog named Vvolt N629.

I can't remember if I ever mentioned it, but I also have a black belt in Taekwondo! I haven't kept up with it for the past 7+ years. I hope you stick with it, Ronie. I was never in better shape!

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Embers.

Haegan and Kaelyria Celahar are royal heirs of the Nine Kingdoms, but Haegan is physically crippled. What chance does he have against Poired Dyrth, the greatest enemy the kingdom has ever faced, who wields fire with a power none can match?

Their only hope is forbidden: Kaelyria must transfer her fire-wielding abilities to Haegan. When she does, it comes with a terrible price: Haegan's disability is healed, but only by being transferred to Kaelyria. This act unleashes their father-king's wrath.

Haegan must flee the kingdom alone with two impossible tasks: Find a cure for Kaelyria and stop the coming war with the omnipotent Poired Dyrth.

What an amazing sacrifice on Kaelyria's part! 

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

Haegan is an every-day teen, yearning for adventure outside the walls of his life. I think that’s something so many of us can relate to. Also, because of wounds he’s incurred in his childhood, Haegan’s running low on confidence in this book as he faces unexpected challenges and conflict.

If you were the casting director for the film version of your novel, who would play your lead roles?

I think a long-haired version of Tom Hopper from the BBC’s Merlin, which gave me inspiration for the story itself and the characters, would be a very good fit for Haegan Celahar.


And Thiel would probably be best portrayed by Victoria Justice (maybe).





How do you restart the creative juices when you feel a block coming on?

Either by doing Taekwondo or by walking/playing with my retired military working dog, Vvolt N629.

What are you working on now?

I’m working on edits for a suspense novella, Warrior’s Seal, that will launch my new suspense series, The Tox Files, with Bethany House Publishers, but I’m also starting Accelerant, the sequel to Embers.

Where else can readers find you online?

Website: www.roniekendig.com
Facebook
Twitter: @roniekendig
Goodreads
Pinterest
Instagram: @kendigronie

The book can be purchased online via the following buttons and links:












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

Embers is truly a story about loyalty and love, both in a family and among friendships. Is there a relationship that has borne out deep love/loyalty to you, one that is unique and special, in your life?

Thanks, Ronie, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel.

Readers, Ronie has offered to give an signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, October 19. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Ronie's question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. 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 HERE.

Gail Martin, October Releases, and Free Books!

Successful businessman and bachelor Doug Billings is clueless when it comes to caring for his young niece, especially at Christmas time, but Nina Jerome, healing from a painful divorce, sees Doug’s struggle and volunteers to help, unaware that life is about to take an amazing turn, offering her a second chance at love.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the e-copy of Murder by Suspicion, by Veronica Heley, is:

KellysShining@ . . .

Congratulations! I'll get your email address to Kathleen, and we'll get your book to you right away.

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 revisit with novelist Gail Martin, author of Inspirational Romance novel, A Husband for Christmas (Love Inspired, October 2015).

Multi-award-winning novelist, Gail Gaymer Martin is the author of Christian contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and women’s fiction with 60 contracted novels and four million books sold.

CBS local news listed Gail as one of the four best writers in the Detroit area. Her books have received numerous awards, including: ACFW Carol Award, Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice, Booksellers Best, National Readers Choice, Holt Medallion, Award of Excellence.

Gail is a cofounder and member of American Christian Fiction Writers, a member of Advanced Speakers and Writers, and Christian Authors Network. She is a keynote speaker at churches, civic and business organizations and presents workshops at conferences across the country.

Gail is a lifetime resident of Michigan.

Please tell us three random things we might not know about you.

-- I’ve had three knee replacements, and don’t ask where I acquired the third knee.

-- For years, I played piano for the Sunday school opening each Sunday.

-- I tap danced in a review at the Michigan State Fair.

Tap dancing and three knees . . . you are an enigma.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of A Husband for Christmas.

Spending her holidays in picturesque Lilac Circle, Michigan is the perfect place for Nina Jerome to start anew. She's determined to put her painful divorce in the past and focus on the future. She hadn't planned on being distracted by her sweet neighbor, Doug Billings.

The successful businessman and temporary dad is clueless when it comes to taking care of his little niece. Getting help from Nina is the perfect setup—but something about the pretty new nanny makes him think about the unthinkable: having a wife and a family of his own.

Can he convince Nina that she's worthy of a second chance at love—just in time for Christmas?

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

Doug Billings' kindness and generosity is exceptional, and though a successful man in business, his parenting skills cause him to feel inadequate, but he tries which makes him a loveable character.

If you were the casting director for the film version of your novel, who would play your lead roles?

Add a couple years to Patrick Schwarzenegger and he is a good replica.





How do you restart the creative juices when you feel a block coming on?

I rarely run into a block, but I do struggle on occasional with the question which scene works best next. When this happens I stop writing and exercise. I find during the mundane process of doing something physical, ideas snap into my head.

It is amazing what the brain can do when we get out of its way!

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

Though not Christian fiction, I would recommend The Girl on the Train as an example of a twisted plot and style. If you are a fan of Downton Abbey, I would recommend the non-fiction book, Lady Catherine, the Earl, and the Real Downton Abbey , which tells the real story and history of Highclere Castle, the setting for Downton Abbey.

Yes, The Girl on the Train was quite twisted! Gripping.

What are you working on now?

A three book proposal for Love Inspired to continue the series, Lilac Circle and a novella for Winged Publications that will later go into an anthology called State Flowers.

Where else can readers find you online?

Website: www.gailgaymermartin.com.
Facebook.
Twitter
Goodreads
LinkedIn
Google Plus

The book can be purchased online via the following buttons and links:




     CBD


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

Most readers enjoy getting to know authors as people, so what additional features, from or about the author, do you enjoy finding beneath the cover of the book besides a biography?

Thanks, Gail, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel.

Readers, Gail has offered to give an signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, October 12. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Gail's question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. 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 HERE.

As you scroll to the bottom of this post to answer Gail's question, take a look at the exciting novels releasing this month!

Contemporary Romance:

Her Christmas Hero by Lorraine Beatty -- Gemma Butler has a grand vision to transform Dover, Mississippi's fledgling Christmas celebrations and bring visitors to the town. It's also the single mom's last chance to provide for her son and revive her event planning business. But Gemma's not the only one with something to prove. Linc Montgomery has the weight of the family business on his shoulders. And he'll go down swinging before he'll let anyone disrupt the traditions he holds dear. Yet when a storm threatens to destroy the holiday, he'll join forces with the beautiful planner and discover she just might be the love he's been searching for. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Anna's Healing by Vannetta Chapman -- Anna Schwartz's life is changed forever when she suffers a spinal cord injury and suddenly finds herself learning to live as a paraplegic. Three people--Chloe Roberts, Jacob Graber, and Ruth Schwartz--join forces to help Anna through her darkest days. Chloe is an Englischer who writes for the local paper. Jacob has recently arrived in town and stays on as a hired hand at her uncle's. And Ruth is her grandmother, a woman of deep faith and a compassionate spirit.Then one morning Anna wakes and finds herself healed. How did it happen? Why did it happen? And what is she to do now? Her life is again turned upside down as the world's attention is drawn to this young Amish girl who has experienced the unexplainable. (Contemporary Romance from Harvest House Publishers)

An Amish Christmas Gift by Amy Clipston, Kelly Irvin, and Ruth Reid -- Naomi's Gift by Amy Clipston: Naomi has started to think that she isn't meant to find love, but she might receive more than she ever hoped for this Christmas. A Christmas Visitor by Kelly Irvin: Frannie Mast returns to Bee County for Christmas, but her heart stays back in Missouri with an Englisch farm boy. An Unexpected Joy by Ruth Reid: Abigail has driven other suitors away, but can Micah find a way to show her he cares? (Contemporary Romance Novella Collection from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan])

Team Bride by Valerie Comer -- After meeting as part of a wedding party, can Corbin convince Sarah he’s ready to settle down and make her the head of her own Team Bride, or will their past keep getting in the way? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Intertwined by Jennifer Slattery -- Abandoned by her husband for another woman, Tammy Kuhn, an organ procurement coordinator often finds herself in tense and bitter moments. After an altercation with a doctor, she is fighting to keep her job and her sanity when one late night she encounters her old flame Nick. She walks right into his moment of facing an unthinkable tragedy. Because they both have learned to find eternal purposes in every event and encounter, it doesn’t take long to discover that their lives are intertwined but the ICU is no place for romance….or is it? Could this be where life begins again? (Contemporary Romance from New Hope Publishers)

Every Girl Gets Confused by Janice Thompson -- Katie Fisher and Brady James may be a match made in heaven, but that doesn't seem to guarantee them a happily ever after accompanied by angelic choirs. Katie's parents are nagging her to get out of Dallas and come home to tiny Fairfield where her former boyfriend Carson is waiting for her, ready to rekindle their relationship. Oy vey! What's a girl to do? And will she ever be able to wear that gorgeous wedding dress she won? (Contemporary Romance from Revell - A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

Love in the Details by Becky Wade -- Eight years have passed since Holly last saw her high school sweetheart Josh. Now the wedding of Josh’s best friend has brought Josh back to Martinsburg, Texas. As they work behind-the-scenes to plan a beautiful November wedding for their friends, Holly and Josh are forced to confront painful reminders of what might have been. Holly broke up with Josh all those years ago to give him a better life, but it turns out that she was the future he’d always dreamed of. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan])

Contemporary Women's Fiction:

Another Way Home: A Chicory Inn Novel by Deborah Raney -- Danae and Dallas Brooks have been trying unsuccessfully to start a family for years, and when Dallas refuses to discuss adoption, it effects their once-happy marriage. Despairing of ever having a family of her own, Danae decides to pour her passion and energies into volunteer work with a newly opened women’s shelter in town. Then heart-wrenching events on Thanksgiving weekend threaten to pull her entire family into turmoil—and leave them all forever changed. (Contemporary Women's Fiction from Abingdon Press)

An Endless Christmas: A Novella by Cynthia Ruchti -- On the way to Christmas with his family, Micah asks Katie to marry him. She says no, but there is no getting out of Christmas now. The Binder family celebrates every Christmas as if it were their last. Too many people, too much snow, and too little room should be a recipe for disaster. But sometimes too much is just enough. Especially when it's Christmas. (Contemporary Women's Fiction Novella from Worthy Inspired)

General Fiction:

A Reason to Stay: A Texas Gold Novel by Kellie Coates Gilbert -- s the host of her own television news show, Faith Marin works to expose the truth for her viewers. But in her personal life, she's anchored her world with firm boundaries in order to hide a family history she'd like to forget. Her pro bass fisherman husband Geary's life is an open book, and unfortunately his busybody family doesn't know the meaning of boundaries. Deception and crippling differences soon derail their tender relationship, leading Faith to believe her only option is to end the marriage. But while Faith considers whether divorce is the only answer to their issues, tragedy strikes and her heartrending decision is interrupted. With her life in the balance, Faith finds that the one she has been shutting out may be the very one she cannot bear to lose. (General Fiction from Revell - A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

Historical Romance:

The Lady and the Mountain Promise by Misty M. Beller -- Guatemalan American Lilly Arendale has fought the anger of prejudice all her life. Now, orphaned and alone in the mining town of Butte in the Montana Territory, the effects of racism have left Lilly with a one-year old daughter and a fierce desire to avoid men at all costs. Marcus Sullivan is a born adventurer, and the new preacher in town. He’s his ways may be unconventional, but he’s determined to add some joy into the lives of these townspeople. Especially the beautiful young mother who won’t have anything to do with him. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

The 12 Brides of Christmas Collection by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Margaret Brownley, Amanda Cabot, Mary Connealy, Susan Page Davis, Miralee Ferrell, Pam Hillman, Maureen Lang, Amy Lillard, Vickie McDonough, Davalynn Spencer, and Michelle Ule -- Christmas is the time for love--and weddings--and twelve historical women are on their way to the altar, whether they know it or not. In nineteenth-century settings across the heartland of America, readers will experience heartfelt gifts, old-fashioned Christmas traditions, sweet romance, and inspiring faith from twelve acclaimed Christian authors. (Historical Romance Novella Collection from Barbour Publishing)

Fire and Ice by Mary Connealy -- Skilled rancher Bailey Wilde has been living disguised as a man for a while, but when Gage Coulter comes to drive her off her homestead, he quickly realizes he's dealing with a woman--a very tough, very intriguing woman at that. Five thousand acres of his best range land is lost to him because Bailey's homestead is located right across the only suitable entrance to a canyon full of lush grass. Gage has to regain access to his land--and he's got to go through Bailey to do it. Can these two independent, life-toughened homesteaders loosen up enough to earn each other's respect--and maybe find love in the process? (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker] Publishing)

The Sound of Silver by Rachelle Rea -- After Dirk rescues Gwyneth from the Iconoclastic Fury, she discovers that faith is sometimes fragile and hope is not as easy as it may seem. Now truly orphaned yet not alone, Gwyneth continues her quest to learn more about the love of God preached by Protestants she once distrusted. Dirk's quest is to prevent his sullied name from staining hers. Will his choice to protect her prove the undoing of her first faltering steps toward a Father God? Once separated, will Dirk and Gwyneth's searching hearts ever sing the same song? (Historical Romance from WhiteFire Publishing)

A Refuge at Highland Hall by Carrie Turansky -- The Great War shakes the world of a spirited young woman and the brave British pilot she loves, taking her from the busy streets of London to her family’s magnificent country estate, and sending him into the war-torn skies over France. Can their love and faith see them through the heartbreak of war? (Historical Romance from Waterbrook/Multnomah [Random House])

Romantic Suspense:

Flee from Evil by Connie Almony -- A pastor with a past uses his underworld connections to try and save the child of the woman he wronged many years ago. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Deadlock by DiAnn Mills -- Special Agent Bethany Sanchez never dreamed her new partner in solving violent crime would be Special Agent Thatcher Graves, the same agent who'd sent her brother to jail. An attempt on their lives turns up the heat and brings them closer together. Two murders have rocked the city of Houston, and a third victim might yield the clue that will help them zero in on a killer. This could be the case of their careers . . . if they can survive long enough to solve it. (Romantic Suspense from Tyndale House)

Speculative Fiction:

A Time To Speak (Out Of Time Series Book 2) by Nadine Brandes -- What happens when you live longer than you wanted to? Parvin Blackwater wanted to die, but now she's being called to be a leader. The only problem is, no one wants to follow. The Council uses Jude's Clock-matching invention to force "new-and-improved" Clocks on the public. Those who can't afford one are packed into boxcars like cattle and used for the Council's purposes. Parvin and Hawke find themselves on a cargo ship of Radicals headed out to sea. What will the Council do to them? And why are people suddenly dying before their Clocks have zeroed-out? (Speculative Fiction from Enclave Publishing)

Embers by Ronie Kendig -- A prince flees for his life when his sister transfers her fire-wielding gift to him, leaving the kingdom vulnerable against its most powerful enemy. (Speculative Fiction from Enclave Publishing)

Happy reading!

Veronica Heley and Free Books!

Ellie Quicke’s new housekeeper is heavily involved with the charismatic leader of a cult who aims to get money from Ellie’s charitable trust . . . but tearful Claire’s background turns out to be highly suspicious.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Firefly Summer, by Kathleen Y'Barbo, is:

klmc_37@ . . .

Congratulations! I'll get your email address to Kathleen, and we'll get your book to you right away.

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 Veronica Heley, author of the gentle crime novel, Murder by Suspicion (Severn House Publishers, June 2015 UK, October USA).

Veronica Heley celebrates the publication of her 75th book this year, having been in the business for over 40 years.

She is currently writing two gentle crime series; the Ellie Quicke Mysteries and the Abbot Agency series. She also writes a short story once a quarter for the Methodist Recorder. Her early books, which include more crime and some historical novels, are currently being brought out as audio and as e-books.

She’s involved with her local church and community affairs, likes to break for coffee with friends and does the garden when she has time. She has been a member of a book reading club for 40 years, but has decided that life is too short to read depressing literature any more.

Please tell us three random things we might not know about you.

-- I reward myself with a piece of chocolate when I finish a piece of work.

-- I grow sweet peas in pots.

-- When I buy a new book, I have to get rid of an old one.

I'm so with you on the book exchange. At one point I kept every book I had, even after reading it. I finally realized that was selfish. I can't possibly live long enough to read every book I own, let alone re-reading any of them. Now I love giving books to the library as soon as I finish them. 

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Murder by Suspicion.

Ellie is desperate to find someone to look after their elderly housekeeper, whose health is failing, but Claire makes some bizarre changes to the household.

Claire also introduces Ellie to Pastor Ambrose, the charismatic leader of a cult, who is after money from Ellie’s charitable trust. Ambrose is unstoppable in his quest for funds, and Claire dissolves into tears whenever her past is questioned . . . which includes her connection with two teenage girls who have disappeared.

Review, Kirkus, 1st August 2015:

Heley offers another solid outing for Ellie, who isn’t slowed down a bit by the passage of time.

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

Ellie is a widow who was always put down by her husband and scheming, ambitious daughter. She has inherited money, which she has learned to administer through a trust, but she has never learned to drive a car. She likes people and is good with them, but is not easily taken in by liars. A spot of gentle humour helps her through the day.

If you were the casting director for the film version of your novel, who would play your lead roles?

Ellie would be a good part for any of our older actresses who don’t care too much about appearing fashionable. Likewise her second husband, the Reverend Thomas – who has a beard and a figure which is far from sylphlike.

What’s one thing you would change about the current Inspirational fiction market?

I would steer more writers towards family values.

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

The Children Act by Ian McEwan. A judge, who is a woman, has to decide some difficult cases involving minors. In each case, the welfare of the child is paramount, but this can lead to much heart-searching, and can affect the lives of all concerned – including the judge.

What are you working on now?

I have just finished another Bea Abbot story, called False Wall, and now I am turning back to Ellie Quicke, who is drawn into investigating a possible murder at a fashionable boutique. She discovers that no two people agree on exactly what happened and who is to blame, while the one person who could sort out the tangled relationships, has disappeared.

Where else can readers find you online?

My website is at www.veronicaheley.com. I send out a monthly newsletter with lots of news and views on it. A shortened version of this is later posted as a blog on my website,  blog.veronicaheley.com Both can be accessed through the home page of my website.

The book can be purchased online via the following buttons and links:








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

Some of my readers like the fact that Ellie Quicke remarried but some don’t. Now my other heroine, Bea Abbot, is being forced to think about it. My agent thinks my readers would like her to have a love interest, but I’m not sure that’s true. What do you think?

Thanks, Veronica, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel.

Readers, Veronica has offered to give an e-copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, October 5. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Veronica's question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. 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 HERE.

Kathleen Y'Barbo and Free Books!

A Texas artist who repairs antique carousel horses for the Smithsonian falls in love with the former rodeo cowboy turned surgeon who did prison time for the murder of her son.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of A Noble Masquerade, by Kristi Ann Hunter, is:

patkf2007@ . . .

Congratulations! I'll email you today to get your mailing address, and we'll get your book to you right away.

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 Kathleen Y'Barbo, author of Southern contemporary romance, Firefly Summer , Book 1 of the Pies, Books & Jesus Book Club (Redbud Press, June 2015).

Bestselling author Kathleen Y’Barbo is a multiple Carol Award and RITA nominee of more than sixty novels with almost two million copies in print in the US and abroad. A tenth-generation Texan, she has been nominated for a Career Achievement Award as well a Reader’s Choice Award and is the winner of the 2014 Inspirational Romance of the Year by Romantic Times magazine.

Kathleen is a paralegal, a proud military wife, and an expatriate Texan cheering on her beloved Texas Aggies from north of the Red River.

Sadie's Secret (The Secret Lives of Will Tucker) an historical romantic suspense novel, is in stores now.

Please tell us a couple of random things we might not know about you.

-- The gold and platinum wedding band that marks my marriage to Robert was first worn by my maternal grandmother back in the 1930s. I am also named after her.

-- -- My favorite pie is buttermilk.

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

Artist Sessa Chambers may never recover from losing her prodigal son. Even as she grieves the tragic decisions that led to his death, and left her with a toddler to raise, she’s asked to work on her dream project—restoring carousel horses for the Smithsonian. But she can’t do it on her own…

Dr. Trey Brown can’t pick up a scalpel again. Yes, he acted in self-defense, but the events of that awful night haunt him. He was trained to save lives, not take them. When he goes to the young man’s widowed mother to apologize, she’s not at all what he expected.

For one thing, she’s not as alone as he thought—not with the fearsome ladies of the Pies, Books, and Jesus Book Club in her corner. For another, she’s beautiful, and being in her presence is more jolting than any eight-second bronco ride from his former rodeo days. Before he knows it, she’s captured his heart as easily as they capture the fireflies gracing Sessa’s Texas ranch.

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

Rodeo cowboy turned surgeon Dr. Trey Brown has been forgiven for killing a young man in self defense, first by the State of Texas and then by the woman he’s fallen in love with, Sessa Chambers. Forgiving himself will take much longer, if he manages to do this at all. How many of us have found it difficult to get past something we’ve done, to forgive ourselves? Most of us, I would guess.

If you were the casting director for the film version of your novel, who would play your lead roles?

Blake Shelton is who I had in mind when I wrote Dr. Brown.






For Sessa, I see Kate Hudson.






If you could change one thing about the current Inspirational fiction market, what would you change?

More steampunk and more Southern fiction!

Yeah, there really is so little steampunk in Christian fiction, right? Maybe with so many authors publishing indie works, we might see more of both of those categories in the near future.

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

I read Tending Roses by Lisa Wingate, and I would highly recommend it.

What are you working on now?

I am working on the third book in the Pies, Books and Jesus series, title TBA.

Where else can readers find you online?

Please check out my website at www.kathleenybarbo.com. While you’re there, be sure and sign up for my newsletter. I’m also on Facebook and on Twitter.

The book can be purchased online via the following buttons and links:









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

What is your favorite pie?

Oh, man. I don't think I've ever met a pie I didn't like. Personally, pineapple chess pie is one of my top choices. I haven't had that in years!

If anyone wants to include their recipe in their comments, feel free--I'll enter you an additional time in the drawing.

Thanks, Kathleen, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel.

Readers, Kathleen has offered to give an e-copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, September 28. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Kathleen's question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Leave your email address, in case you win, 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 HERE.

Kristi Ann Hunter and Free Books!

When Lady Miranda Hawthorne starts to develop affections for two men, she uncovers secrets that will put more than her heart at risk.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of The Lost Heiress, by Roseanna White, is:

k.morris713@ . . .

Congratulations! I'll email you today to get your mailing address, and we'll get your book to you right away.

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 Kristi Ann Hunter, author of Inspirational Regency Romance, A Noble Masquerade (Bethany House Publishers, September 2015).

Kristi Ann Hunter graduated from Georgia Tech with a degree in Computer Science but always knew she wanted to write more than code. The power of stories and their ability to bring people together has always enthralled her.

Kristi is an RWA Golden Heart contest winner, an ACFW Genesis contest winner, and a Georgia Romance Writers Maggie Award for Excellence winner.

She lives with her husband and three children in Georgia, where she divides her time between family, church, and the pursuit of the next perfect story.

Please tell us three random things we might not know about you.

-- I lead middle school Bible study using kids’ meal toys as teaching aides.

-- I have a collection of stress toys in a myriad of shapes including a potato, a brain, and an astronaut. It now includes a book shaped one with my name on it!

-- I have a bad habit of starting to say my thoughts out loud and then… (finishing the sentences in my head.)

LOL. That was cute, Kristi.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of A Noble Masquerade.

Lady Miranda Hawthorne acts every inch the lady, but inside she longs to be bold and carefree. Entering her fourth Season and approaching spinsterhood in the eyes of society, she pours her innermost feelings out not in a diary but in letters to her brother's old school friend, a duke--with no intention of ever sending these private thoughts to a man she's heard stories about but never met, until one of these letters accidentally gets posted.

Meanwhile, she also finds herself intrigued by Marlow, her brother's new valet, and although she may wish to break free of the strictures that bind her, falling in love with a servant is more of a rebellion than she planned.

Insecurity about her lack of suitors shifts into confusion at her growing feelings for two men. When it becomes apparent state secrets are at risk and Marlow is right in the thick of the conflict, one thing is certain: Miranda's heart is far from all that's at risk.

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

Everyone feels restricted by expectations from time to time. The balancing act of being true to oneself and meeting the expectations of those you care about can leave a person feeling lost and confused. Part of what draws the lead characters together is their ability to give each other the freedom to be themselves. As they figure out who they really are, they discover they may be stronger than they initially thought.

If you were the casting director for the film version of your novel, who would play your lead roles?

I always pictured Miranda looking very similar to Reese Witherspoon, though with green eyes.




The man she falls in love with bears a striking resemblance to David Boreanaz.


I like that you didn't make it clear whether that male character is the duke or the valet...

If you could change one thing about the current Inspirational fiction market, what would you change?

The discoverability. I often talk to people who would love to read Inspirational fiction, but think it's limited to one or two types of stories. Getting the books in front of the people who would enjoy them is difficult across the entire industry, but I think even more so when it comes to Christian novels. Many people don't realize the variety of Christian fiction that is now available from both traditional publishing houses and the self-publishing authors.

Absolutely agreed. 

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

I have to pick just one? That's so tough. I really enjoyed After a Fashion by Jen Turano. There are a lot of rich man/poor girl books on the market right now, but Jen sets hers apart by giving her hero real dimension with some flaws that a man of that background and time period would very likely have. Oliver is by no means the perfect guy, but there's something very endearing about him as he tries to be. That depth makes it very easy for the reader to be pulled on the same journey Harriet is as she finds the man to love in spite of his flaws, and perhaps in spite of her own flaws as well.

If I can get away with mentioning two I also want to say I thoroughly enjoyed Fair Catch by Cindy Roland Anderson. The heroine was very different from your normal Christian book and allowed me to really get a new perspective on the all too common situation of the divorced, single mom.

Thanks for those recommendations! I like hearing about books that aren't the norm in the industry.

What are you working on now?

The next book in the series, of course. Miranda's sister, Georgina, has had a tough time of it with nothing going as she planned. She's got a very personal secret driving her desperation and God's going to use that to change her world by throwing her into the path of a man that doesn't possess a single one of her requirements.

Where else can readers find you online?

I can be found at my website, www.KristiAnnHunter.com as well as Facebook and Twitter

The book can be purchased online via the following buttons and links:



     CBD


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

I get a lot of my reading done on the treadmill or exercise bike, but I've also been known to read while folding laundry, cooking dinner, or creeping forward in the carpool line at my kids' school (but never actually while driving on the road! That's what audiobooks are for.) What's the strangest or most difficult thing you've ever tried to do while reading because you just couldn't put down the book?

Thanks, Kristi, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel.

Readers, Kristi has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, September 21. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Kristi's question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Leave your email address, in case you win, 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 HERE.