Trish Perry's Blog, page 34

Roseanna White, September Releases, and Free Books!

Discovering she’s the heiress to a Yorkshire estate reunited Brook with the father she never knew…but threw her straight into the path of the same mystery that killed her mother.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of The Cranbury Papermaker, by Maureen Lang, is:

alekee02@ . . .

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 revisit with novelist Roseanna White, author of the historical romance suspense novel, The Lost Heiress (Bethany House, September 2015).

Roseanna M. White pens her novels beneath her Betsy Ross flag, with her Jane Austen action figure watching over her. When not writing fiction, she’s homeschooling her two children, editing and designing, and pretending her house will clean itself.

The Lost Heiress is Roseanna’s tenth published book. Her novels range from biblical fiction to American-set romances to her new British series.

She lives with her family in West Virginia.

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

-- I have 2 kids, 9 and 7, who I homeschool.

-- I finished my first novel (the original version of this one!) when I was 13.

-- I hate vegetables. I make myself eat them, but seriously. Blech.

Good girl!

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of The Lost Heiress.

Brook Eden has never known where she truly belongs. Though raised in the palace of Monaco, she’s British by birth and was brought to the Grimaldis under suspicious circumstances as a babe. When Brook’s friend Justin uncovers the fact that Brook is likely a missing heiress from Yorkshire, Brook leaves the sun of the Mediterranean to travel to the moors of the North Sea to the estate of her supposed family.

The mystery of her mother’s death haunts her, and though her father is quick to accept her, the rest of the family and the servants of Whitby Park are not. Only when Brook’s life is threatened do they draw close—but their loyalty may come too late to save Brook from the same threat that led to tragedy for her mother.

As heir to a dukedom, Justin is no stranger to balancing responsibilities. When the matters of his estate force him far from Brook, the distance between them reveals that what began as friendship has grown into something much more. But how can their very different loyalties and responsibilities ever come together?

And then, for a second time, the heiress of Whitby Park is stolen away because of the very rare treasure in her possession—and this time only the servants of Whitby can save her. Soon Brook is swept up in the same dangerous business that killed her mother and sent her, as a baby, into the arms of a stranger.

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

Ah, Brook. =) I think modern readers will relate to this historical heroine’s streak of independence, her insistence that she can do anything a boy can do—and do it better.

But all her bravado is just to cover the aching heart that wants to know where it belongs. She also has an impulsive streak to match that independent one, and though her blood’s all English, being raised along the Mediterranean resulted in a bit of an Italian temper that keeps everyone on their toes.

She’s a really fun mix of wit, bold moves, and a broken heart that I hope makes her as special to readers as she’s been to me for so many years!

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

Assuming I have access to a time machine, I would definitely cast Diane Kruger (when she was in the 18-20 range) as Brook.





No need for said time machine for Justin—he’s William Mosley, who was kind enough to land a role on Royals after his Narnia days so that I could find lots of up-to-date pictures of him.




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

Oh, interesting question! As someone who has helped her husband start a small publisher, this is more than a hypothetical for me, it’s my life’s work, LOL.

What I pray we can change is the idea among my generation that Christian fiction doesn’t offer them what they want and expect. So many 20- and 30-somethings end up in the general market because they think Christian fiction is too [preachy, unrealistic, fluffy, shallow]. I want to prove to them that it isn’t!

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

If you’re looking for something serious that will really make you think, Susan Meissner’s The Shape of Mercy . Simply breathtaking!

But if you need a fun read, you gotta go Jen Turano. I read After a Fashion and quickly snapped up another of her titles to keep for the next time I needed a fun romantic comedy.

I loved The Shape of Mercy! Susan is an excellent author.

What are you working on now?

I just turned in the final book in this series, Ladies of the Manor, so between edits on the next two books I’m working on another Edwardian series, my next biblical fiction, and toying with an idea for a contemporary supernatural thriller that may or may not amount to anything.

Where else can readers find you online?

Everywhere! And I love little more than hearing from my readers.

Website: www.roseannamwhite.com
Blog: www.roseannamwhite.blogspot.com
Facebook: /RoseannaMWhite
Twiter: @RoseannaMWhite

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





     CBD


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

A question of the utmost relevance to Brook – coffee or tea? (And Trish is asking: what brew or blend?)

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

Readers, Roseanna has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, September 14. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Roseanna'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.

As you scroll to the bottom of this post to answer Roseanna's question, take a look at some of the excellent Inspirational fiction being released this month!

Contemporary Romance:

Moments of Truth by Sandra D. Bricker -- Divorced blogger Regan Sloane's new book club meetings quickly morph into evenings with her friends trying out recipes and decompressing by sharing their most private thoughts, fears and ponderings. With the first writing tip she'd ever received - Write what you know! - skipping around her brain, the fodder those gatherings provide is just too delicious to resist, and Regan gravitates toward them and their various romantic challenges for blog content. (Contemporary Romance from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas)

The Birdhouse by Laura V. Hilton -- Josh Yoder wants to court Greta, but years ago, he made the mistake of rejecting her during a seemingly innocent game-which resulted in him leaving the Amish. Three years later, he's back, but Greta wants nothing to do with him. When Greta's father is injured in a farming accident, Josh steps in to help. Greta admires one of his birdhouses, and he gives it to her, hoping that it will open the door to more. But as their friendship begins to grow, a series of unfortunate events pull Greta away from the Amish, leaving her rejected by those she loves. Will Greta prove her innocence, get beyond her family's distrust and return home? (Contemporary Romance from Whitaker House)

The Bishop's Son (The Amish of Bee County) by Kelly Irvin -- Leila Lantz has been in love with Jesse Glick from the day she first saw him at his father's store, but she can't make sense of his intentions. Jesse may be the bishop's son, but his faith has been wavering of late. Is it fair to give Leila false hope for a future he doubts he can provide? Then there's Will, Jesse's cousin, who has been trying to keep his feelings for Leila a secret, but he also knows Jesse is wrestling with his faith. Would declaring his feelings for Leila be in her best interest or simply serving his own selfish desires? Leila knows Will is the "safe" choice, but when her heart speaks, it's Jesse's name she hears. Could leaving everything she knows-even her own faith-be a part of God's plan? (Contemporary Romance from Zondervan)

A Tide Worth Turning by Beth Wiseman -- Successful real estate agent Addison Burke is forced to find a caregiver for her estranged mother following a stroke. She hires an agency to fill the position, and to her surprise, they send a man for the job. Logan has to make enough money caring for Lee Ann Burke to flee the country before his world comes crashing down around him. But when Lee Ann's beautiful daughter, Addison, begins to awaken feelings in him that he thought died long ago, he begins to question whether or not fleeing from the past is worth leaving Addison forever. And why is Lee Ann selling everything she owns on EBay and Craig's List? (Contemporary Romance Novella, Independently Published)

Contemporary Women's Fiction:

When Love Returns by Kim Vogel Sawyer -- It wasn't easy to move back to the Old Order Mennonite community from which quiet, responsible Suzanne Zimmerman was shamefully sent away as a pregnant teen. Returning twenty years later to take care of her mother, Suzanne and Alexa—the daughter she raised as her own-have spent months rebuilding relationships with her family.Now with the upcoming wedding of their biological daughter, Suzanne and Paul find themselves drawn to one another once again-but with new challenges to face. They have been single parents with painful pasts. Can Paul and Suzanne find the strength to rebuild the loving relationship that was torn apart by their teen pregnancy so long ago?

Suzanne must also let go of Alexa as she heads back to Indianapolis to visit friends--and as her chance to find her birth parents. Leaving the bed-and-breakfast in Suzanne's apprehensive hands, Alexa embarks on a journey that will certainly change her life completely. Can mother and daughter trust God to restore all things in His timing? (Contemporary Women's Fiction from Waterbrook/Multnomah [Random House])

The Sea Keeper's Daughters by Lisa Wingate -- Restaurant owner Whitney Monroe is desperate to save her business from a hostile takeover. The inheritance of a decaying Gilded Age hotel on North Carolina's Outer Banks may provide just the ray of hope she needs. But things at the Excelsior are more complicated than they seem. Whitney's estranged stepfather is entrenched on the third floor, and the downstairs tenants are determined to save the historic building. Searching through years of stored family heirlooms may be Whitney's only hope of quick cash, but will the discovery of an old necklace and a Depression-era love story change everything? (Contemporary Women's Fiction from Tyndale House)

A Texas Christmas by Ramona K. Cecil, Lena Nelson Dooley, Darlene Franklin, Pamela Griffin, Cathy Marie Hake and by Kathleen Y'Barbo, -- Spend Christmas in the Old West with six unconventional women who take on Texas-sized challenges-and unexpected romance. Bridget falls for a man opposed to her teaching Indian orphans. Polly is trying to hold her family together when her childhood love returns to town. Rugged rancher Charlsey is inexplicably attracted to a tenderfoot accountant. Vivian shuns marriage until meeting a nomadic photographer. Lacey's cooking draws a quiet blacksmith out of his shell. Tracker Bessie Mae helps a ranger hunt down a villain. (Contemporary Women's Fiction from Barbour Publishing)

General Fiction:

Hungry for Home by Brenda S. Anderson -- After a troubling encounter with a pregnant teen, Sheila Peterson-Brooks hurries from the crisis pregnancy center into the frigid Minnesota winter where she is mugged and left for dead. After a frantic search, Richard, her husband, finds her, and the police quickly nab the mugger…who turns out to be a hungry, homeless teen. The brother of the pregnant girl Sheila had just counseled. The girl pleads for her brother, and Sheila and Richard choose not to press charges. Instead, they open their home to the boy, a move that could cost them their possessions, and their hearts. And, in the process, teach them the true meaning of home. (General Fiction, Independently Published)

Historical General Fiction:

Secrets She Kept by Cathy Gohlke -- In this time-split story, Hannah Sterling (1972) seeks to uncover the secrets of her estranged mother's past (WWII), only to learn that she has a grandfather still living in Germany, hiding tragic wartime secrets that stretch across the generations. (Historical General Fiction from Tyndale House)

Historical Romance:

12 Brides of Summer, Novella Collection #4 by Diana Brandmeyer, Vickie McDonough, and Davalynn Spencer -- The Columbine Bride: Lucy Powell is determined to get her neglected homestead up and running again after a winter filling in as the school marm in town. But can she keep neighboring rancher, Buck Reiter from helping her when he seems just as determined to work his way into the lives of her children as well as her heart? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

A Noble Masquerade by Kristi Ann Hunter -- Lady Miranda Hawthorne acts every inch the lady, but inside she longs to be bold and carefree. Approaching spinsterhood, she pours her innermost feelings out not in a diary but in un-mailed letters to her brother's old school friend, a duke. Meanwhile, she also finds herself intrigued by Marlow, her brother's new valet. When Marlow accidentally discovers and mails one of the letters to her unwitting confidant, Miranda is beyond mortified. And even more shocked when the duke returns her note with one of his own that initiates a courtship-by-mail. Insecurity about her lack of suitors shifts into confusion at her growing feelings for two men--one she's never met but whose words deeply resonate with her heart, and one she has come to depend on but whose behavior is more and more suspicious. (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker] Publishing)

Romantic Suspense:

The Methuselah Project by Rick Barry -- In World War II, fighter pilot Roger Greene wants only three things in life: fast planes to fly, a chance to serve his country, and to find the perfect girl to love. All three ambitions screech to a halt--seemingly forever--when his P-47 is shot down over Nazi Germany. Captured, Roger becomes a guinea pig in a hush-hush Nazi experiment. The war may end, but the Methuselah Project will continue. Escape is constantly on Roger's mind, but is escape possible? (Romantic Suspense from Kregel Publications)

Beyond the Cherokee Trail by Lisa Carter -- When Linden Birchfield arrives in the Snowbird Cherokee community to organize the 180th commemoration of the Trail of Tears, she runs head on-literally-into arrogant former army sniper Walker Crowe. A descendant of the Cherokee who evaded deportation by hiding in the rugged Snowbird Mountains, Walker believes no good can result from stirring up the animosity with the white Appalachian residents whose ancestors looted the tribal lands so long ago. Though at odds, Linden and Walker must unite against an unseen threat to derail the festival. (Romantic Suspense from Abingdon Press)

Expert Witness by Rachel Dylan -- Minutes after testifying in a murder trial, sketch artist Sydney Berry is almost killed in a drive-by shooting. United States Marshal Max Preston saves her life then whisks her away to safety. She's his first protected witness, and he'll do everything in his power to keep her safe. But Sydney doesn't want to hide from danger. She is determined to finish her testimony and put a killer away. With potential suspects coming from all corners, Sydney will have to trust Max with her deepest secrets-and her life. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Young Adult:

A Reluctant Assassin by JC Morrows -- Her mission is simple - get close to the Prince, and kill him. . . Kayden entered the palace under a lie, one designed to get her close to the Prince. On the outside, she may look like a princess but beneath the mask, a killer lays in wait - for the perfect moment. Dvarius is not ready to take the crown, nor is he ready for a wife. But due to his father's unexpected death and an archaic law - he must find a bride before he is allowed to take his rightful place on the throne. (Young Adult, Independently Published)

Happy reading!

Maureen Lang and Free Books!

Will he save her inheritance . . . or steal it?

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Stealing Jake, by Pam Hillman, is:

scaramouche9999@ . . .

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 Maureen Lang, author of Inspirational historical romance, The Cranbury Papermaker (591 Press, March 2015).

Maureen Lang writes stories of history and romance and is the author of fifteen novels and three novellas. An avid reader since childhood, she figured out at a young age how to write what she feels like reading. Her work has won a Holt Medallion, a Selah Award and FHL’s Inspirational Reader’s Choice Contest, as well as finaling in a variety of other contests, including the Christy, Carol and Rita.

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

--I chose to name my new publishing business 591 Press, after the number on the armband my father wore during his 3½ years of captivity in a Japanese prison camp during World War Two.

--I don’t like coffee, but I enjoy a chai tea latte every day.

--Although I never watched the sitcom Frasier when it originally aired, I discovered it in reruns and have since seen every episode multiple times.

--The Cranbury Papermaker is Indie Published (my first!), printed under my own company 591 Press. 





Please tell us a bit more about the plot of The Cranbury Papermaker.

Arianne Casterton is still mourning the death of her beloved father when the papermaking business he left to her is in danger of being taken over by an unexpected co-heir, Jonas Prestwich. Jonas's resentment of her father's memory is impossible to understand or tolerate, but when he suggests changing the way Arianne makes paper to gain a bigger market she wants to shut him out of their so-called partnership. If only she could shut him out of her heart . . .

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

Arianne is full of faith. Not only in God, but in the memory and work her father left behind. She’s devoted herself to carrying on his legacy of papermaking, continuing in the meticulous way he tutored her, as he was tutored by the generation before him. Papermaking is what Castertons do, and she has no intention of failing. Jonas’s resentment of God and her father challenge Arianne’s faith in both, but her faith is stronger than even she realized.

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

Okay, this is not only going to date me, but will likely make people wonder if all I watch on TV is reruns. But honestly, I think Donna Reed would be perfect as Arianne. She’s beautiful, of course, but there was a sort of innocent yet quiet determination about her that fits my character. I think that’s what drew me to choose the model for my cover. Somehow she reminded me of Donna Reed!

And for Jonas, perhaps Jim Caviezel would be a good fit. This is probably a strange idea considering Caviezel played the role of Christ and my Jonas has a huge struggle with his faith, but there is a sort of underlying strength about him that I think perfectly fits the role for Jonas.


Who is one of your favorite fictional characters?

Whatever book I’m currently enjoying stays my favorite until the next book I enjoy! So right now my favorite is Jacky Faber, from the Bloody Jack series. She presents a great blend of fear and courage, stupidity and brilliance, greed and generosity.

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

Speaking of the Bloody Jack series . . . warning, though, this is a secular series with some rather colorful sailor’s lingo. However, this girl who sneaks aboard pretending to be a cabin boy is one of the best drawn characters I’ve met in some time, and her adventures are epic!

I often give that warning with books I recommend, Maureen. I would never want anyone to be offended, but there are some amazing mainstream novels out there that definitely would not be published by the Inspirational publishing houses.

What are you working on now?

My second Indie title will release this fall, which I’m hoping to market in September. It’s my latest Christian historical romance, titled The Matchmakers Match.

Mara Madison has been traveling the world, evading her family and the faith she knew as a child. But she can’t escape God’s pursuing love, and ultimately surrenders her future to God. To prove her faith is finally sincere, if only to herself if not to others, she must first return to face the sister she never got along with.

Mara is convinced faith means nothing without love. Because of her independent past, she’s vowed to make up for her selfish ways and remain unmarried so nothing will distract her from complete devotion to God.

Little did she know she and her sister would be competing once again, this time as matchmakers. Her sister is convinced Mara is perfect for her husband’s business partner, but Mara quickly realizes the family governess is already in love with the man. So both endeavor to match the man, with the governess as Mara’s choice and Mara herself as her sister’s. However, when Mara dreams of marrying the man she’s trying so hard to match to another, she soon realizes this is one competition with her sister she hopes to lose.

Where else can readers find you online? 

www.maureenlang.com

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












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

Are you a peeker? Do you peek at the end of a book before you’ve read that far?

OR:

If you’re a reader of Christian fiction, do you prefer your heroes and heroines to have faith from the very beginning of the story, or to have a (sometimes rocky) journey toward faith at the end?

Both of those questions are interesting. Readers, if you want to answer both, I'll enter your name an extra time in the book drawing (which could mean three entries for you, if you're a subscriber).

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

Readers, Maureen has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, September 7. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Maureen'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.

Pam Hillman and Free Books!

Livy didn’t want to go back to that life. Ever.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Brightest and Best, by Olivia Newport, is:

JFWisherd@ . . .

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 Pam Hillman, author of Inspirational Historical Romance, Stealing Jake (Tyndale House, August 2015).

CBA Bestselling author Pam Hillman was born and raised on a dairy farm in Mississippi and spent her teenage years perched on the seat of a tractor raking hay. In those days, her daddy couldn’t afford two cab tractors with air conditioning and a radio, so Pam drove a ratty old Allis Chalmers 110. Raking hay doesn’t take much thought so Pam spent her time working on her tan and making up stories in her head. Now, that’s the kind of life every girl should dream of!

Her second novel, Claiming Mariah, won the Inspirational Readers Choice and is a CBA Bestseller. Her latest novel, Stealing Jake, released in August 2015.

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

-- I was caught in a stampede once. On foot.

-- I hyperventilate when someone describes injuries or surgical procedures in excruciating detail, but oddly enough, manage to hold my own in a medical emergency.

-- In high school, I wanted to be an Air Comptroller, but the closest school was in CA, and I was too chicken to fly. lol

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Stealing Jake.

Livy O’Brien is looking for a job in town when she spies a young boy jostling a man walking along the boardwalk, and she recognizes the act for what it is. After all, she used to be known as Light-Fingered Livy. But that was before she put her past behind her and moved to the growing town of Chestnut, Illinois, where she’s helping to run an orphanage. Now she’ll do almost anything to protect the street kids like herself.

Sheriff’s deputy Jake Russell had no idea what he was in for when he ran into Livy―literally—while chasing down a pickpocket. With a rash of robberies and a growing number of street kids in town―as well as a loan on the family farm that needs to be paid off―Jake doesn’t have time to pursue a girl. Still, he can’t seem to get Livy out of his mind. He wants to get to know her better . . . but Livy isn’t willing to trust any man, especially not a lawman.

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

While Jake and Livy both have sympathetic backstories, as a reformed pickpocket, Livy’s is much more emotionally gut-wrenching than Jake’s. The reader is going to cheer extra loud for her when she faces, and overcomes, her fears. On the other hand, Jake faces his fears and overcomes them, too. But Livy has just a bit of an edge when it comes to pulling readers’ heartstrings.

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

I don’t think we could go wrong with Taylor Kinney as Jake





and Natalie Portman as Livy.






Who is one of your favorite fictional characters?

Orrin Sackett. Doesn’t hurt that Tom Selleck played Orrin on the big screen, but I was a fan of The Sacketts long before I saw any of the movies. Just a good old cowboy intent on doing what’s right. No matter what situation he found himself in, he eventually took the high road and saved the girl, shot it out with the bad guys, saved the cat, etc. A true-blue cowboy through and through. And then there’s Tell, and Tyrel, and … ☺

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

The Creole Princess , book two of The Gulf Coast Chronicles, by Beth White. The research is amazing and Lyse is a worthy heroine. Even when I had to put the book down, I worried and wondered how she was going to get out of her latest predicament and couldn’t wait to get back to Lyse’s story.

What are you working on now?

I’m working on a historical Christmas novella to be independently published with my Seeker sisters before Christmas 2015. Working title is All Aboard: Destination Christmas. Based on an actual event, an avalanche strands my characters on a train just out of Portand, Oregon in the days leading up to Christmas.

Next up is a novella for Barbour Publishing’s California Gold Rush Brides Collection coming in 2016.

Where else can readers find you online?

Website: www.pamhillman.com
Facebook
Twitter or @PamHillman
Goodreads
Pinterest
Group blogs: www.seekerville.blogspot.com
and http://hhhistory.com

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



    CBD




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

I’m always fascinated by why readers prefer a particular genre. Why do you think you enjoy reading historical romance, or science fiction, or contempory romance, [fill in the blank]? Do you think personality plays a part in your choices? Or maybe you gravitated to a certain genre because of other factors--geographical location, city/county life, siblings, available books and movies/tv shows)? Which carries the most weight: nature or nurture?

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

Readers, Pam has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, August 31. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Pam'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.

Olivia Newport and Free Books!

When a one-room schoolhouse collapses, Ella finds herself losing traction as familiar ground slips away—along with her wedding date.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Where Treasure Hides, by Johnnie Alexander, is:

wpd_2@ . . .

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 Olivia Newport, author of the Historical Amish novel, Brightest and Best (Barbour/Shiloh Run, August 2015).

Olivia Newport’s novels twist through time to find where faith and passions meet. She lives in stunning Colorado, where daylilies grow as tall as she is.

Her past work includes the Avenue of Dreams series set in 1890s Chicago; the Valley of Choice series of intertwining contemporary and historical Amish stories; Hidden Falls, a digital-first contemporary small-town series; and the Amish Turns of Time series exploring real historical moments of Amish values.

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

-- My favorite pizza toppings are artichoke hearts and black olives.

-- I have been to nine other countries.

-- My yard is a wild mess of larkspur and I love it.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Brightest and Best.

Ella Hilty’s deepest desire is to marry Gideon Wittmer and be a mother to his children. But Ella’s 1918 Ohio Amish community gets caught in a storm of controversy when English authorities dictate that Amish children must attend consolidated public schools and attend past the eighth grade.

English schoolteacher Margaret Simpson had given up thoughts of marriage years ago, and she’s content with her peaceful life. But a budding romance and conflict with the neighboring Amish community lead Margaret down a path she never expected.

Citing freedom of religion rights, Amish parents stand their ground against progressive English laws, but their stance doesn’t come without consequences. Soon Margaret puts her last chance for romance at risk for the only choice her conscience can abide, and all eyes turn to Ella to bring unity to the Amish and understanding to the English.

What is it about Ella and Margaret that will make your readers care about them?

This story has two female leads whose lives present them with unexpected choices, and they dig deep to discover the right thing to do. Their stories orbit each other and finally find a rhythm together. I hope readers will follow the paths of Ella and Margaret and be inspired to listen to surprising callings on their own lives in service to others.

Who is one of your favorite fictional characters?

One that has stayed with me for many, many years is Asher Lev from Chaim Potok’s My Name Is Asher Lev . It’s a burning story, but it doesn’t back away from living fully in a place of tension and intention. I first read it when I was in college, but the older I get the more I appreciate that life is not as black and white as we often hope it will be.

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

I just finished reading A Broken Kind of Beautiful by Katie Ganshert. All the nominations and awards it’s won are well-earned. Readers who enjoy crisp contemporary stories will appreciate Katie’s terrific delivery of a story that reminds us all of the brokenness we share and the power of community to be a healing balm.

What are you working on now?

I am in the final throes of finishing Hope in the Land, a Depression-era Amish historical that brings to life the contribution that Amish women make to the productivity of their households at a time when so many people grasped for hope that their futures would not leave them abandoned. Hope in the Land will release April 2016.

Where else can readers find you online?

www.olivianewport.com , @OliviaNewport, Facebook


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



     CBD




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

Since personal recommendations are a great way to find new books or authors, I’d like to know what everyone’s reading and loving. Think of it as a book club meeting! Let’s load up our TBRs.

What a fun question! I'm looking forward to hearing those comments.

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

Readers, Olivia has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, August 24. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Olivia'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.

Johnnie Alexander and Free Books!

A talented artist protects art and children from the Nazis while the man she loves must fight his own battles against Hitler’s evil regime.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of The Potter's Lady, by Judith Miller, is:

augustlily06@ . . .

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 Johnnie Alexander, author of historical novel, Where Treasure Hides (Tyndale, August 2015).

Johnnie Alexander writes inspiring stories that linger in the heart. Where Treasure Hides, her debut novel, won the ACFW Genesis Contest (2011) and Golden Leaf Award (2014). Her first contemporary romance, Where She Belongs (Misty Willow Series; Revell), and her first novella, “The Healing Promise” (Courageous Bride Collection; Barbour), release in 2016.

She also has won Best Novel and Best Writer awards (Florida Christian Writers Conferences), and Bronze Medalist (My Book Therapy Frasier Contest). She volunteers as a category coordinator for the ACFW Genesis Contest, judges various contests, and serves as marketing director for the MidSouth Christian Writers Conference.

A graduate of Rollins College (Orlando) with a Master of Liberal Studies degree, Johnnie treasures family memories, classic movies, road trips, and stacks of books. She lives in the Memphis area with a small herd of alpacas and Rugby, the princely papillon who trees raccoons.

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

--I’ve worn my mom’s class ring for decades. She lost the onyx stone, so it’s polished gold but still has her graduation year on it and her initials engraved inside.

--I once wrecked my car to avoid hitting a chair that was in the road. As my car went sailing through the air, I squeezed my eyes shut and thought, “This is like a ride at Disney World.”

--I don’t like lemon meringue pie but my favorite pie of all time is O’Charley’s lemon meringue pie. (I know, it doesn’t make sense to me either.)

You may have wrecked your car, but you saved the life of that chair. We must have our priorities!

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Where Treasure Hides.

a href="http://s73.photobucket.com/user/Trish..." target="_blank">Artist Alison Schuyler spends her time working in her family’s renowned art gallery, determined to avoid the curse that has followed the Schuyler clan from the Netherlands to America and back again. She’s certain that true love will only lead to tragedy—that is, until a chance meeting at Waterloo station brings Ian Devlin into her life.

Drawn to the bold and compassionate British Army captain, Alison begins to question her fear of love as World War II breaks out, separating the two and drawing each into their own battles. While Ian fights for freedom on the battlefield, Alison works with the Dutch Underground to find a safe haven for Jewish children and priceless pieces of art alike. But safety is a luxury war does not allow.

As time, war, and an old rival struggle to keep them apart, will Alison and Ian have the faith to fight for their love, or is it their fate to be separated forever?

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

Alison is a gifted artist who faces extraordinary challenges. Her heart yearns for one man, a soldier and a hero, but for a time she considers an alternative that at first seems safer. Later in the story, she insists on staying in Holland to help protect the art and the Jewish children while her father is equally insistent she return to the United States. Through her struggles, Alison learns to trust God with her future.

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

This is a hard question for me because I don’t use celebrities for inspiration. But after spending some time searching around the internet, I selected Lily James (from Downton Abbey) to play Alison


and Theo James to play Ian.






But if we could time travel, then Ingrid Bergman plays Alison




and Joseph Cotten plays Ian.





Who is one of your favorite fictional characters?

Jean Valjean, the prisoner who becomes a savior to young Marius in Les Miserables. After his conversion, and no matter the stakes, Valjean endeavors to do the right thing. He embodies grace and sacrificial love.

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

I recently read Ann Tatlock’s Once Beyond a Time , and absolutely loved it. Ann has a lyrical writing style yet creates characters with their own distinct voices. The story, set in the late 1960s, centers on a broken family who move into a house that’s a strange nexus in time. Characters from the past and from the future help the family find healing and hope.

That's a fascinating story premise! What are you working on now?

I’m finishing up Book #2 in the Misty Willow Series for Revell. The first book, Where She Belongs, releases in January.

Where else can readers find you online?

These links will take you to my online hangouts:

Blog http://johnnie-alexander.com
Facebook Profile (Friend or Follow!)
Facebook Author Page
Twitter
GoodReads
Amazon Author Page









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

I once had what I considered a pipe dream—to own an alpaca. Now I have twelve.

What’s a pipe dream you have? (But be careful because it just might come true.)

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

Readers, Johnnie has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, August 17. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Johnnie'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.

Judy Miller, New Releases, and Free Books!

Rose McKay has convinced her family to invest everything in a new business and has promised she can make it a success…but will her endeavors put the pottery works—as well as her heart—at risk?

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Amish Zombies from Space, by Kerry Nietz, is:

ginny@ . . .

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 Judith Miller, author of the historical romance, The Potter’s Lady (Bethany House Publishers, August 2015).

Although born and reared in a small suburb of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Judy moved to Kansas at the age of seventeen and has considered the sunflower state ‘home’ ever since. She currently lives in Topeka, and in her spare time enjoys reading, traveling, researching history, and Bible study.

Writing Christian fiction is Judy’s second career. For many years she worked as a legal assistant in law firms and later worked in government law offices. She has retired from legal work in order to write fulltime —a vocation she considers both a ministry and a blessing from the Lord.

Judy has authored or co-authored more than twenty-five books since she began writing in 1996. Her love of history and her desire to point readers to the love and grace of Jesus are reflected in all of her books.

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

--Cooked spinach and liver make me gag.

--I like to knit—even if I can’t follow difficult patterns.

--I like having lunch with girlfriends.

Just as long as lunch isn't spinach and liver, right? I'm with you on the liver!

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of The Potter's Lady.

When Rose McKay convinces her brother, Ewan, to invest in a pottery business, she’s determined to assist him in making the venture a success. Having just graduated from the Philadelphia School of Design for Women, she believes she can design pieces that will sell well. In her efforts to help the pottery flourish, Rose reconnects with Joshua Harkness, who oversees his own family’s potteryworks in a nearby town.

Rylan Campbell has never liked change, but the new owners of the pottery seem to be the decent sort. He just wishes Rose wouldn’t insist on cleaning and moving everything. But when McKay Pottery starts losing business to the Harkness company, Rylan realizes Joshua might be taking advantage of Rose.

Then Franklin Hotels announces a design contest. Winning the Franklin contract would be exactly the boost McKay Pottery needs, so Rose and Rylan work closely together to create something magnificent. With Joshua’s company as their main competition, can Rylan convince Rose her trust in Joshua may be misplaced?

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

Rose McKay is an intelligent and eager young woman who wants to help her family create a new business as well as use the skills she’s learned while attending the Philadelphia School of Design. At times, she “pushes” her personal agenda too much, but her intentions are influenced by her fear of failure and feelings of insecurity caused by several incidents that occurred while she attended school.

And you already have me stressed about her relationship with Joshua!

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

Carrie Coon for the female lead of Rose McKay.





Chris Hemsworth for the male lead of Rylan Campbell.






Who is one of your favorite fictional characters?

Nancy Drew. She was spunky and I like spunky characters. Besides, reading Nancy Drew books instilled me with a love of books.

It's so important to catch that reading bug early in life! I recently saw a graphic on Facebook about how few people read these days. I can't even imagine making such a choice.

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

Love of the Summerfields by Nancy Moser. I recommend it because of the rich historical details and interesting characters as well as my enjoyment of books that are reminiscent of Downton Abby. I highly recommend it.

What are you working on now?

I’m completing edits on the final book in this series, which has been titled The Artisan’s Wife. This final book in the Refined by Love series will take readers to another town in West Virginia where the family enters into the decorative tile business.

Where else can readers find you online?

www.judithmccoymiller.com

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





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

Has your reading increased or decreased over the past five years? What has caused the change in your reading habit?

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

Readers, Judy has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, August 10. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Judy'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.

As you scroll to the bottom of the post to answer Judy's question, take a look at some of this month's excellent releases!

Contemporary Romance:

Be My Valentino by Sandra D. Bricker -- Now that the whole truth has come out about her husband's double life-including the fact that she and Jack were never legally married-Jessie is standing on her own for the first time in her life. As she struggles to put Adornments, her rental store for designer labels, on the map in Tinsel Town, her relationship with private investigator Danny Callahan gains momentum. Can Jessie afford to put her faith-and heart-into another relationship when she's so obviously handicapped in the good judgment department? (Contemporary Romance from Abingdon Press)

One More Wish by Robin Jones Gunn -- As Christy blows out the 26 candles on her birthday cake, she closes her eyes and makes a wish. Could this be the year that she and Todd finally have a baby? As her closest friends announce they are expecting, Christy's heart carries an ache for a child of her own. On their way home from Sierra's wedding, Todd opens up the discussion of adoption and soon a simple invitation turns into a life-changing season. Christy's patience and understanding are stretched beyond her limits, and she finds herself holding not just one baby in her arms, but two. Everything Christy and Todd thought about family and hospitality shifts as the two of them dare to make one more wish and believe that God's timing is flawless. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Island Dreams by Kimberly Rose Johnson -- When a land developer comes to Wildflower Island Chase fights to keep the island the way it is. But there is a problem, he's falling for the developer and if he stops her, he may never see her again. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

An Unexpected Family by Jill Kemerer -- After five years apart, Tom Sheffield is shocked to find his ex-wife, Stephanie, on his doorstep. The news that they share a child he's never met sends him reeling. Four-year-old Macy has his eyes, his mouth and, from their first encounter, his heart. Things with her mother are much more complicated. He doesn't understand what went wrong between them or why she kept their daughter a secret. And he's afraid of falling in love all over again. Yet he feels a glimmer of hope that somehow he can convince Macy and Stephanie to stay in Lake Endwell-and with him-for keeps. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Historical Romance:

Stealing Jake by Pam Hillman -- She used to be known as Light-fingered Livy. But that was before she put her past behind her and moved to the growing town of Chestnut, Illinois, where she's helping to run an orphanage. Now she'll do almost anything to protect the street kids like herself. Sheriff's deputy Jake Russell had no idea what he was in for when he ran into Livy--literally--while chasing down a pickpocket. With a rash of robberies and a growing number of street kids in town--as well as a loan on the family farm that needs to be paid off--Jake doesn't have time to pursue a girl. Still, he can't seem to get Livy out of his mind. He wants to get to know her better . . . but Livy isn't willing to trust any man, especially not a lawman. (Historical Romance from Tyndale House)

Through Waters Deep by Sarah Sundin -- In 1941, as America teeters on the brink of World War II, Mary Stirling works at the Boston Navy Yard and renews an old friendship with naval officer Ens. Jim Avery. Jim's destroyer escorts British convoys across the North Atlantic, but problems on his ship point to a saboteur at the shipyard. As Mary works to find the culprit and Jim battles U-boats, could their friendship blossom into something more? Or could the dangers they face keep them apart? (Historical Romance from Revell - A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

12 Brides of Summer, Novella Collection #3 by Margaret Brownley, Miralee Ferrell, and Pam Hillman -- Love Is Buzzing in the Good Old Summertime! Spend the sunny days of summer relaxing with an ice cold glass of lemonade and revel in the dreams of twelve brides who are a bit surprised by how the men of their dreams come into their lives. Journey to the Old West, stay on the prairie, and visit quaint small towns. . .without leaving the comfort of your own front porch with the third release in this collection. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Romantic Suspense:

Smokescreen by Jodie Bailey -- When her life is on the line, Ashley Colson is rescued by the last person she ever expected to see again. Military officer Ethan Kincaid might have disappointed her once in the past, but now he's the only person who can keep her safe. They're under the gun to decode top secret files that can save the life of a friend who is in enemy hands. But the killers will pull out all the stops to get their hands on the files...and Ashley. With time running out, can they put aside their past and find the answers that could give them a future? (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Mystery/Suspense/Thriller:

Midnight on the Mississippi by Mary Ellis -- As a newly minted PI and a New Orleans stockbroker encounter sophisticated shell games, blackmail and death threats, danger swirls around them like the mysterious black water of the bayou. (Mystery/Crime from Harvest House Publishers)

The Bones will Speak by Carrie Stuart Parks -- A killer with a penchant for torture has taken notice of forensics expert Gwen Marcey . . . and her daughter. (Suspense/Thriller from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan])

Speculative Fiction:

Take and Give by Amanda G. Stevens -- To escape the oppressive Constabulary and gain freedom in a newly formed country, four people must embark on a road trip fraught with danger and distrust. (Speculative Fiction from David C. Cook)

Young Adult:

A Perilous Assignment by JC Morrows -- The Order of the Moonstone is not just another shadowy underground resistance operation. They have a much more sinister purpose. Kayden is about to find out just how sinister. Go back to the very beginning with us... see how Kayden was chosen for her most important and most dangerous assignment yet. (Young Adult, Independently Published)

Happy reading!

Kerry Nietz and Free Books!

First, vampires in space. And now...zombies. Really?

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Summer's List, by Anita Higman, is:

happygrammaof3@ . . .

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 revisit with novelist Kerry Nietz, author of the very entertaining science fiction (with a smattering of suspense/thriller, and a buggy-full of Amish) novel, Amish Zombies from Space (Freeheads, May 2015).

Kerry Nietz is a refugee of the software industry. He spent more than a decade of his life flipping bits, first as one of the principal developers of the database product FoxPro for the now mythical Fox Software, and then as one of Bill Gates's minions at Microsoft. He is a husband, a father, a technophile and a movie buff.

Kerry has one non-fiction book, a memoir entitled FoxTales: Behind the Scenes at Fox Software. Amish Zombies from Space is his sixth novel.

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

-- I once transported an alpaca in a minivan. She didn’t wear a seatbelt.

-- We live in a woods, which means there is always some wildlife nearby that’s worth watching. I once had a red fox walk through my front yard, and this year we had a robin nest on the windowsill of our upstairs bathroom. Fun for the kids. Though I think mother robin was a little nervous.

-- I’ve twice competed in a Pump and Run event. The goal is to do as many bench presses as you can and then run a 5K. A fun challenge.

-- I have a motorcycle license and a scuba license.

But did you have a license to transport an unsecured llama?

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Amish Zombies from Space.

Amish Zombies from Space is the sequel to last year’s Amish Vampires in Space. That book follows a group of plain folk that find themselves forced into space. Unfortunately, aside from the spaceship’s modern crew, there are less altruistic occupants onboard—vampires.


So there is this interesting conflict between the pacifism of the Amish, the caught-in-the-middle ship’s crew, and the vampires who want to eat them all. Amish Vampires had a solid endpoint, but there were enough lingering questions that I, as a reader, wanted answered. Plus I was curious what happened to the surviving characters. Did they recover and flourish or were they forever scarred?

Amish Zombies is my attempt at addressing all that. It takes place five years later. The Amish have a new planet named Resolve, and the other characters are all over the galaxy—flying private ships, running their own businesses, etc. One is getting out of jail.

An unexpected ship shows up on Resolve. Things go downhill from there.

I really enjoy tongue-in-cheek science fiction. Your titles alone signal that.

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

Amish Zombies is a bit unusual (well . . . maybe more than a bit ☺) in that it has more of an ensemble cast than the previous book. There are a handful of characters, each with their own important role to play. The two most important characters are an Amish man named Mark and a female doctor named Darly.

Darly is a problem-solver to the point of being obsessive. She’s dependable and resourceful. One of those people everyone would like to know, I think.

Mark is the Bishop of his community and so has a lot of responsibilities. But he’s also emotionally damaged. So he has all these things that are required of him, yet all he really wants is to be by himself. To heal. I think we’ve all had periods when we’ve felt like that.

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

I think Agents of Shield’s Ming-Na Wen would make a good Darly.





And Philip Seymour Hoffman would’ve made a good Mark, at least in temperament.





Imagine you’ve been contracted to write a novel about a real person. About whom would you most want to write?

One of my friends, Tosca Lee, writes novels based on biblical characters and does an amazing job at it. I think it would be fun to try something like that, but pick a more obscure character than she typically does. Maybe a John Mark, or a Jabez, or even Joseph the father of Jesus.

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

The last novel I finished was The City of Gold and Lead by John Christopher. It is the second novel in a series (the Tripod series) too, and takes place years after an alien invasion has occurred. All of humanity are servants of these aliens, and in fact, don’t remember a time before them. At a young age people are required to have a skullcap installed that helps keep them in line. The main character is a boy who manages to avoid the skullcap, so he’s one of the few free-thinking humans. The City of Gold and Lead is about his adventures inside an alien city. Lots of great world building and a tight, tense story.

The series is aimed at younger readers (7th grade and up) yet it is sophisticated enough that anyone would enjoy it. It has been around for decades, but somehow I missed it growing up. It's a fun read, and also short—maybe 200 pages. A good choice for when reading time is at a premium.

What are you working on now?

I’ve been working on Amish-something for the better part of three years now. Both books were large and complicated—around 300,000 words total—and I’m mentally exhausted. So lately I’ve been catching up on all the things I’ve let slide over the last three years. At least until something creative strikes me.

Where else can readers find you online?

Website: www.kerrynietz.com
Facebook
Twitter: @KerryNietz

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






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

What crazy plot/subject/idea would you like to see a book written about? Or even better, what monster should I tackle next?

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

Readers, Kerry has offered to give a signed copy of his book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, August 3. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Kerry'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.

Anita Higman and Free Books!

Life and love keep going awry for Summer Snow, until her grandmother sends her on an unexpected adventure with one Martin Langtree—a kind and quirky young man from Summer's past.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Mocha Sunrise, by Julie Carobini, is:

andrealschultz@ . . .

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 revisit with novelist Anita Higman, author of Inspirational Women's Fiction novel, Summer’s List (Moody Publishers, June 2015). Best-selling and award-winning author, Anita Higman, has been writing for thirty years and has forty books published. She’s been a Barnes & Noble “Author of the Month” for Houston and has a BA in the combined fields of speech communication, psychology, and art.

Anita and her husband are building a storybook home in the woods and plan to move there by the end of the year. A few of Anita’s favorite things are good movies, fairytales, traveling, gardening, exotic teas, and brunch with her gal friends.

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

--I love licorice ice cream.

--I once worked in a pillow factory.

--I love to hike, but after I get all dirty I don’t want to camp-out—I want to go to a nice resort and clean up, relax, and graze across a nice buffet.

A licorice ice cream fan. That's a new one for me! 

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Summer's List.

Life hadn't been easy for Summer Snow. In acts of selflessness--caring for her ailing parents and running her grandmother's bookstore--she had forfeited her youth and dreams for the needs of others. And the only tries she had at love... didn't turn out. She had the bookstore, she had her beloved granny, but she was missing something--or someone.

Opportunity strikes when Granny sends Summer on an unexpected adventure with one Martin Langtree, a kind but gangly young man from Summer's past. A childhood friendship is rekindled, a romance is sparked, and mysteries are solved in one magical Texas summer. Will Summer strike out on love again, or will things finally go her way?

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

Summer Snow is a wonderful person. She is somewhat impulsive, but she also has a good heart. I love this character so much that I’d like to be Summer Snow when I grow up. I hope readers grow to care about Summer the way I did.

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

If we go back in time, I’d love to see what Jimmy Stewart





and Donna Reed would do with my characters.





They were wonderful together in It’s a Wonderful Life.




Imagine you’ve been contracted to write a novel about a real person. About whom would you most want to write?

Barbra Streisand, because I’ve been a fan of hers most of my life.

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

Meant to Be Mine by Becky Wade. It was fun ride with an upbeat message. Great entertainment.

What are you working on now?

I’m heading out on a new adventure in my writing career. I’m writing young adult books with my daughter, Hillary. I’m very excited about the future, and I hope you will follow along with me on this new journey!

Where else can readers find you online?

Here are two of my media links. I’d love to hear from you!

www.anitahigman.com
Facebook

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





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

I love fairytales, my favorite being Cinderella. What is your favorite fairytale?

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

Readers, Anita has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, July 27. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Anita'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.

Julie Carobini and Free Books!

While dealing with a secret problem at home, soft-hearted Livi finds herself pursued by a former admirer and a surf-loving minister with demons of his own.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Wait for Me, by Jo Huddleston, is:

JFWisherd@ . . .

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 revisit with novelist Julie Carobini, author of the Inspirational beach romance, Mocha Sunrise (Dolphin Gate Books, November 2014. Also available as book three in The Chocolate Beach Collection in ebook format only).

Julie Carobini is the author of the Chocolate Series, as well as the Otter Bay Novels: Sweet Waters, A Shore Thing, and Fade to Blue. She has won numerous awards from The National League of American Pen Women and ACFW, and RT Book Reviews says, "Carobini has a talent for creating characters that come alive."

Julie lives with her family in California and loves all things coastal (except sharks).

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

-- I used to be a phantom shopper for Taco Bell.

-- Personally, I love to kayak—even though my heroine in Truffles by the Sea had a kayaking … mishap ☺

-- I worked for a year inside an 80-year-old Christian publishing house, until our division was sold.

I didn't know you worked at one of the publishing houses, Julie! What great experience for an author.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Mocha Sunrise.

The chocolate series is set by the beach and contains, of course, chocolate, but it’s more than that: It’s about the indelible connection of girlfriends—Bri, Gaby, and now with Mocha Sunrise (book 3)—Livi. What a joy to tell Livi’s story! Readers will see Livi’s roommate drama come to a tipping point … and they’ll also find out who wins her heart—and how.

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

Soft-hearted Livi Daniels has for years tolerated a bad roommate situation, a less-than happy job situation, and she often puts her friends’ needs before her own. Yet she’s always dreamed of seeing Italy … and, of course, finding her dream guy. Readers will care about her because, really, who doesn’t want to root for the underdog? ☺

Exactly.

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

Amanda Seyfried





and Chace Crawford.







Imagine you’ve been contracted to write a novel about a real person. About whom would you most want to write?

Several come to mind, but Sir Richard Branson has led such an interesting life that it would likely make a good novel. The billionaire businessman is dyslexic and on his last day of school his headmaster told him he’d either end up in prison or become a millionaire.

I didn't know that! The headmaster had it right. Branson is definitely a colorful guy!

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

Undeniably Yours by Becky Wade. A romance that’s both sexy and sweet, filled with love and faith—and a heart-clutching twist of suspense.

What are you working on now?

Set in a quirky seaside town, a young and newly divorced woman falls for a thirty-something widower who lost his wife to cancer—only to discover that she is facing a serious illness of her own. This book is close to my soul, as I’ve experienced something similar in my life—and lived to tell about it ☺.

Where else can readers find you online?

Readers, please stop by and say hello on my Facebook page:Or nab a free e-novella on my website (and while there, be sure to visit my Beach Lovers gallery!) www.juliecarobini.com

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








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

I’ve traveled the California coast, across the US, and I’ve also visited London and Paris. Where do you like to vacation—or hope to visit someday?

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

Readers, Julie has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, July 20. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Julie'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.

Jo Huddleston, New Releases, and Free Books!

Can Julie, an only child raised with privilege and groomed for high society, and Robby, a coal miner’s son, break the shackles of polite society and spend their lives together?

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of The Rancher Takes a Cook, by Misty Beller, is:

teamob4@ . . .

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 revisit with novelist Jo Huddleston, author of the Inspirational southern historical romance, Wait for Me (Forget Me Not Romances, a Division of Winged Publications, March 2015).

Jo Huddleston is a multi-published author of books, articles, and short stories. Her debut novels in the Caney Creek Series and her latest book, Wait for Me, are sweet Southern historical romances.

She is a member of ACFW, the Literary Hall of Fame at Lincoln Memorial University (TN), and holds a M.Ed. degree from Mississippi State University.

Jo lives in the U.S. Southeast with her husband, near their two grown children and four grandchildren.

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

--I don’t like being in the dark.

--I can’t jump rope.

--I played girls’ varsity basketball in high school.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Wait for Me.

This is a tragically beautiful love story of a simple yet deep love between two soul mates, Robby and Julie.

The American South’s rigid caste system and her mother demand that Julie chooses to marry an ambitious young man from a prominent and suitable family. Julie counters her mother’s stringent social rules with deception and secrets in order to keep Robby in her life.

Can the couple break the shackles of polite society and spend their lives together? Will Julie’s mother ever accept Robby?

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

Julie’s mother is a snobbish socialite who criticizes Julie’s every move. She forbids Julie to socialize with the coal miners’ children, even though Julie lives in the coal community. Julie can never please her mother and never does anything correct in her mother’s judgmental opinion.

Ugh. Some parents really don't deserve the role, do they?

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

A young Elizabeth Taylor




and a young Montgomery Clift.




Imagine you’ve been contracted to write a novel about a real person. About whom would you most want to write?

Amelia Earhart. I’ve always been fascinated by aviation and would like to write about how Amelia Earhart spent the last hours on her flight around the world. I would give her a happy ending.

The power of fiction, right? That would be terrific, to imagine a good end for such an interesting woman.

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

Beyond All Dreams by Elizabeth Camden. It’s a historical novel in which Elizabeth Camden writes beautiful descriptions and great characterizations laced with a thread of romance. I love her novels because she weaves historical events into her stories so well that the reader hardly notices that they are one of the engine that propels the story.

What are you working on now?

Book 2 in the West Virginia Mountains series of which Wait for Me is Book 1. I don’t have a title for Book 2; I usually come up with the title from a scene or chapter as I write.

Where else can readers find you online?

Website www.johuddleston.com
Blog
LifeLine Blog
www.sharonhinck.com
Goodreads Facebook
The Book Club Network, Inc.

The book can be purchased via the following button:







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

After reading a book you really enjoyed do you ever think about the characters for a time?

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

Readers, Jo has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, July 13. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Jo'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.


As you scroll to the bottom of this post to leave your answer to Jo's question, take a look at what's releasing in the inspirational fiction market this month!

Amish Romance:

Her Brother's Keeper by Beth Wiseman -- Charlotte Dolinsky disguises herself as an Amish woman to investigate her brother's death never, expecting to fall in love with quiet Amish man Isaac Miller. (Amish Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan])

Contemporary Romance:

The Cowboy's Surprise Baby by Deb Kastner -- Navy veteran Cole Bishop returns to Serendipity Texas to make a new life with his son, only to find he has to work with his high school flame, Tessa Applewhite. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

A Father's Second Chance by Mindy Obenhaus -- Businesswoman Celeste Thompson has one goal: to make her restaurant and hotel a success. She doesn't need any distractions, even from handsome contractor Gage Purcell and his two adorable little girls. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Historical Romance:

Among the Fair Magnolias by Tamera Alexander, Shelley Shepard Gray, Dorothy Love and Elizabeth Musser -- In the most turbulent decade of our nation's history, four Southern women--destinies forged by birth, hearts steeled by war--face near impossible choices on their journeys in life . . . and in love. (Historical Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson and Zondervan])

The Daughters of Jim Farrell by Sylvia Bambola - Three sisters seek to prove their father innocent of murder in spite of great danger and the possibility they will loose the men they love. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

The Convenient Bride Collection by Amanda Barratt, Andrea Boeshaar, Mona Hodgson, Melissa Jagears, Maureen Lang, Gabrielle Meyer, Jennifer Uhlarik, Erica Vetsch and Renee Yancy -- God can take the best-laid plans and turn them into something even better, as nine couples who marry for convenience soon learn. In fascinating settings from America's history, the convenient brides take their nuptials out of necessity. . .never dreaming that God might turn them into true love stories for His glory. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

The Lady and the Mountain Fire by Misty M. Beller -- Care-giving granddaughter Claire Sullivan and Bryan Donaghue, a doctor with a bad reputation, can't seem to get along-until disaster strikes their wild Montana mining town, and Claire's desire to help lands her in the midst of the fire. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

To Capture Her Heart (The Southold Chronicles) by Rebecca DeMarino -- In 1653, when Heather Flower, a princess of the Montauk tribe, is kidnapped by a rival tribe, she finds herself rescued by handsome Dutch Lieutenant Dirk Van Buren. Torn between her affection for Dirk and her long friendship with family friend Benjamin Horton, Heather Flower must make a difficult choice--stay true to her friend or follow her heart. (Historical Romance from Revell [Baker Publishing])

A Bride at Last by Melissa Jagears -- Can Silas, Kate, and Anthony's wounded souls bind them together as a family, or will past hurts and new resentments leave them lonely forever? (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing])

Irish Meadows (Courage to Dream) by Susan Anne Mason -- Two O'Leary sisters search for love and independence from their domineering father in 1911 Long Island, New York. (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing])

The Cactus Creek Challenge by Erica Vetsch When a sheriff and a schoolmarm swap jobs for a month, the town of Cactus Creek is thrown into an uproar. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Romantic Suspense:

To Soar on Eagle's Wings by Renee Blare -- Spring arrives to the Snowy Range and instead of relaxation, Rachel finds herself the center of a Timber Springs crime spree, but she isn't too upset when she discovers the new game warden's an old family friend. (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Gone Without a Trace by Patricia Bradley -- Homicide detective Livy Reynolds's cousin had disappeared from Logan Point. The last person she wants working the case with her is self-assured private investigator Alex Jennings. But when Alex contacts her with a lead, she'll have to find a way to work with him-before it's too late. (Romantic Suspense from Revell [Baker Publishing])

Emergency Reunion by Sandra Orchard -- Paramedic Sherri Steele refuses to believe someone's out to get her-until she's held at knifepoint in her own ambulance. With every emergency call to the paramedics turning into an attack on Sherri's life, it still takes her high school crush, deputy sheriff Cole Donovan, to convince her she needs protection. Cole is certain Sherri has a stalker-worse, his brother's the lead suspect. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Happy reading!