Trish Perry's Blog, page 38

Davalynn Spencer and Free Books!

Ara Taube will do almost anything to escape her heartless uncle—including hiding in a stranger’s buckboard and praying she survives the blizzard swirling around her as well as the blizzard in the eyes of a rugged horseman.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Danger at the Border, by Terri Reed, 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 Davalynn Spencer, author of the e-novella,  The Snowbound Bride (Barbour, December 2014).

Davalynn Spencer writes Western romance, and it all started when a dark-eyed cowboy sauntered into her life and carried her off on the road to adventure.

As the wife and mother of professional rodeo bullfighters, Davalynn began her writing journey in the national rodeo market and as a newspaper journalist, winning awards in both arenas. Today she continues to win acclaim with her Western romance, placing second in the 2014 Inspirational Reader’s Choice Awards, and finaling for the Selah Award and the Holt Medallion.

Davalynn teaches writing at Pueblo Community College, and with her handsome cowboy has three children and four grandchildren. They make their home on Colorado’s Front Range with a Queensland heeler named Blue.

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

-- I don’t like shoes I have to tie.

-- I could live on Tootsie Rolls and Gummy Bears, and my husband feeds my habit.

-- I once used my Jeep to help the Colorado State Patrol with a roadblock and received a thank you letter from the local commander.

That last one sounds like a novel in the making, Davalynn! 

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of The Snowbound Bride.

Arabella Taube flees her heartless family and takes a position as a private tutor in Leadville, Colorado. But when a blizzard piles enough snow on the train tracks to strand her in Spruce City, she is certain she’s spied her uncle’s minion following her. Hastily, she hides in the back of the nearest buckboard, too stunned to alert the driver when he pulls away from the station.

Nate Horne hears a sneeze and it’s not his dog Beetle. He pulls his wagon to the roadside and his gun from its holster and orders the stowaway to show himself. But it’s a her. Far from town with a blizzard blowing, he insists the woman ride beside him the rest of the way to the ranch. Snowbound for several weeks, the gal joins in the family’s life and works into Nate’s heart.

Could his ma be right? Is Ara the answer to a prayer and the hope for his future?

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

Ara Taube is determined to make her own way—until she can’t. She can’t walk through the snow back to town, and she can’t send a message to her waiting employer explaining her delay. Nor can she explain what it is about the Horne family that makes her feel as if she belongs with them. Unloved by her own relatives, she’s never known such affection and acceptance.

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

Nate Horne – Chris Hemsworth




Arabella Taube – Daniela Ruah




If the sky were the limit, what is one writing-related gift you would love to receive for Christmas?

Time.

Oh, boy, do I hear that.

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

I recently read Rachel Hauck’s The Wedding Dress and Jody Hedland’s A Noble Groom . Both are gripping tales that go deeper than a simple romance and reach to the core of love and commitment.

What are you working on now?

I’m working on a contemporary cowboy romance that begins with a chance meeting between a rodeo producer and a thoroughbred farm manager, continues with a long-distance (California-Kentucky) effort, and grows into … well, I don’t want to give too much away.

I also have a couple of historical romances, with cowboys of course.

One is set in 1910 during the silent movie era in Colorado prior to Hollywood. A cattleman falls for the movie company’s wardrobe gal, cropped hair and all, and helps her learn that though she’s suffered physically and emotionally, she can still love again.

The other story takes place in 1881 along the Arkansas River when a rancher hires a woman for the summer to help teach his daughter enough so he won’t lose the child to the conniving sister of his deceased wife. He just didn’t count on falling in love.

Where else can readers find you online?

www.davalynnspencer.com
Facebook
Twitter
Goodreads
Pinterest

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



CBD.com



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

How important is a character’s physical appearance to you? In other words, does every hero have to be handsome and every heroine beautiful?

Thanks, Davalynn, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel. Readers, Davalynn has offered to give a free Kindle copy of her e-book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, December 22. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Davalynn'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.

Be sure to check out my interview with Gina Welborn, below. Leave an appropriate comment at the bottom of the post to enter the drawing for a free copy of the book.

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.

Gina Welborn and Free Books!

A desperate textile mill owner turns to his quilter aunt for help in saving his business and winning the woman he loves.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Petticoat Detective, by Margaret Brownley, is:

lotsofbooks1@ . . .

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 Gina Welborn, author of Masterpiece Marriage (Abingdon Press, December 2014).

Gina Welborn worked in news radio scripting copy until she fell in love with writing romances. She has written three Barbour novellas, including the 2014 Selah Award-finalist Mercy Mild in ECPA-bestselling Mistletoe Memories, with more novellas releasing in the next two years. She is also the author for three short historical romances.

A moderately obsessive fan of Community, Chopped, and Once Upon a Time, Gina lives in Cache, Oklahoma with her pastor husband, their five Okie-Hokie children, a boxer-lab, two rabbits, four guinea pigs, and a fancy Russian dwarf hamster named Tom Bob Deucalion.

Quite a menagerie! Please tell us three random things we might not know about you.

-- I have a wheat-sensitivity.

-- I lived in West Germany while my army father was stationed there.

-- This summer I played laser tag at Circus Circus with six teenage boys and my three girls, and I easily was the top point scorer. By hundreds of points. Not that I'm bragging. The facts are facts.

Sharp shootin' there, Tex.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Masterpiece Marriage.

Mary Varrs prefers botany to romance.

She thinks studying the growth pattern of her tomato seedlings is more time-worthy than pursuing a mate. When she needs illustrations of her prized plants, Mary turns to Priscilla Dane Osbourne for help.

Zenus Dane also seeks help from his Aunt Priscilla. In order to salvage his flooded textile mill, he wants to sell her hand drawn quilt patterns alongside his repurposed fabric scraps. No quilter had national name recognition like his aunt, but Priscilla is fiercely protective of her patterns. Convincing her would not be easy.

It seems Priscilla is the answer to both their prayers. But Priscilla would rather weave a masterpiece marriage for her nephew than save his flooded business. Trouble is, her plans don’t include Mary, whose own growing attraction for the textiler could jeopardize Priscilla’s good will toward her. If faced with a decision between love and ambition, will Mary be able to choose?

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

For all his handsomeness, Zenus doesn’t always say the right thing around single women to whom he’s attracted. Who hasn’t experienced the embarrassment of saying something stupid or awkward to someone you like? I’m guilty.

My heroine Mary is caught between Society’s and the Church’s expectations of what a woman should be and what she wants to be. We don’t want to disappoint people we love. On the other hand, sometimes what the people we love want for us isn’t necessarily the best thing for us. Maybe not even what God desires.

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

When I was writing Masterpiece Marriage, I had just started watching the Teen Wolf TV series with my oldest daughter and youngest son. I’m not advocating Teen Wolf as a show for everyone to watch. Please exercise discretion and caution. Two actors on the show are Jill Wagner
and Tyler Hoechlin. Tyler is a little younger than Zenus and Jill a little older than Mary, but I think both could capture the personality of my leads.



If the sky were the limit, what is one writing-related gift you would love to receive for Christmas?

A new laptop.

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

Undeniably Yours by Becky Wade and Five Days in Skye by Carla Laureano are the two best Christian romances I read this year. Both are award-winning, and deservedly so. I’ve never met Becky or Carla in person and have no writing connection to them other than we’re Facebook friends and members of ACFW. Both stories had spiritual threads intricate to the story. The sexual tension between the leads was realistic and plausible. The ending wasn’t clichéd or easy.

What are you working on now?

I just finished writing my next Barbour novella to release in May 2015. Baker’s Dozen is part of the Most Eligible Bachelor Collection. It’s my take on The Bachelor TV show. In addition, I have a fifth Barbour novella releasing in spring of 2016. All’s Fair is part of the Lassoed by Marriage Collection. I hope to have additional contract news to share soon.

Where else can readers find you online?

The easiest place to start is at my website, www.GinaWelborn.com. There you will find links to Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, e-mail, and more. The easiest and quickest way to contact me, though, is through Facebook.

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



CBD.com


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

A few Christmases ago, my older sister gave me a Pampered Chef Mix’n’Chop. I thought it was the stupidest gift ever. Once I used it to chop ground beef, I was so thankful. What disappointing Christmas gift did you receive that ended up turning into something you were quite glad to have?

Thanks, Gina, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel. Readers, Gina has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Thursday, December 18. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Gina'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.

Be sure to check out my interview with Sydney Avey, below. Leave an appropriate comment at the bottom of the post to enter the drawing for a free copy of the book.

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.

Terri Reed and Free Books!

A fish biologist and a US Border Patrol agent team up to uncover a mysterious toxin polluting a lake in the Pacific Northwest, but what they find is so much more dangerous than they ever excepted.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of The Lyre and the Lambs, by Sydney Avey, is:

lisajcowell@ . . .

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 Terri Reed, author of Danger at the Border (Love Inspired Suspense, September 2014).

Terri Reed’s romance and romantic suspense novels have appeared on Publisher’s Weekly top 25, Nielsen’s Bookscan top 100 and featured in USA Today, Christian Fiction Magazine and Romantic Times Magazine. Her books have finaled in Romance Writers of America’s RITA contest, National Reader’s Choice Award contest and three times in American Christian Fiction Writers The Carol Award contest.

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

--I was a champion gymnast in high school.

--I have taught pre-school, coached gymnastics, modeled and worked in retail.

--I lived in Italy as an exchange student.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Danger at the Border.

When a mysterious toxin threatens lives and livelihoods near the border between the U.S. and Canada, Dr. Tessa Cleary is called to trace the source. But when the no-nonsense doctor is forced to work with border patrol agent Jeff Steele, she finds the lone wolf's dedication to his job—and country—chipping away at the walls around her heart.

Just as Tessa and Jeff are about to uncover the toxin's deadly source, armed thugs kidnap them in the forest. Now they must trust each other to survive before time runs out for everyone.

Northern Border Patrol: Keeping the U.S.–Canadian border safe.

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

Dr. Tessa Cleary struggles to understand her place in the world, including her faith. She grew up in a broken home and questioned her parents love for her, just as she questions God’s love. She feels she must be independent at all times and must learn that being strong sometimes means leaning on someone else.

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

Rachel Leferve as Dr. Tessa Cleary




and Alex O’Loughlin as US Border Patrol agent Jeff Steele




If the sky were the limit, what is one writing-related gift you would love to receive for Christmas?

A treadmill desk.

Those certainly do look like they'd solve the problem of so much sitting, but I can't imagine being able to create while on one! I'm far too easily distracted. 

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

Five Days in Skye by Carla Laureano. I really enjoyed the story. I want to go to Skye now.

What are you working on now?

I’m working on the third installment of my Northern Border Patrol series. This will be a November 2015 release. The story centers around a Christmas tree farm, a drug smuggling ring and a DEA agent and the widow who owns the farm.

Where else can readers find you online?

www.terrireed.com
craftieladiesofromance.blogspot.com
books.harlequin.comd
loveinspiredauthors.blogspot.com

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



CBD.com



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

As the publishing world changes so does the way people buy their books. How often do you buy a book based on reviews? Do you find reviews helpful? Do you post reviews of books you read?

Thanks, Terri, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel. Readers, in honor of the Christmas holidays, Terri has offered to give a signed copy of her Christmas book, Her Christmas Protector, to the winner of our drawing on Monday, December 15. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Terri'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.

Be sure to check out my interview with Margaret Brownley, below. Leave an appropriate comment at the bottom of the post to enter the drawing for a free copy of the book.

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. 

Margaret Brownley, December Releases, and Free Books!

Working undercover is no job for a lady. But come Hades or high water, Jennifer Layne always gets her man.

Today we're revisiting Margaret Brownley, author of Petticoat Detective (Barbour, December 2014).

New York Times best-selling author Margaret Brownley has penned more than 30 historical novels and novellas. Her books have won numerous awards, including Readers' Choice and Award of Excellence. She's a former Romance Writers of American RITA® finalist and has written for a TV soap. She is currently working on a new series.

Not bad for someone who flunked eighth grade English. Just don't ask her to diagram a sentence.

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

--I work in a Monet purple office and sit on a big purple ball.

--I wrote my first novel at age 10.

-- I've been to all 50 states.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Petticoat Detective.

Pinkerton detective Jennifer Layne is no stranger to undercover work. But posing as a lady companion named Amy at Miss Lillian’s Parlor House and Boots is a first for her.

She’s finally landed a high-profile case and is on the trail of the notorious Gunnysack Bandit, when one of Miss Lillian’s girls essential to her investigation meets an untimely demise. Only a handful of people are in the house at the time of her death, including handsome Tom Colton, a former Texas Ranger determined to clear his brother’s name.

Amy has many reasons to suspect Tom of murder—and one very personal reason to hope that she’s wrong about him.

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

Jennifer Layne is haunted by something that happened when she was twelve years old. It's why she became a Pinkerton Detective. Her job is looking for bad guys, but her heart is searching, always searching, for someone else.

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

It would have to be Jennifer Lawrence.

Yes, she's always good at that tough/vulnerable type!

If the sky were the limit, what is one writing-related gift you would love to receive for Christmas?

I would love to receive more hours in the day. Also a live-in cook. Hey, writers have to eat.

Both very smart choices, Margaret! I don't know many women who wouldn't love both of those gifts.

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

I'm behind on my novel reading because of all the research I've had to do, but the last novel I read was The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion. It's not for everyone, but I thought it was a quirky, delightful and entertaining read about a socially-inept man who turns finding a wife into a scientific project.

What a fun concept. I'll have to look into that one. I really enjoy quirky.

What are you working on now?

I just finished book three of my Undercover Ladies series and turned in a new novella. I'm about to start a new series that takes place in Two-Time, Texas.

Where else can readers find you online?

Pinterest
Website: www.margaretbrownley.com
Facebook
Twitter

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



CBD.com



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

The heroine of my book is a Pinkerton detective. Who is your all-time favorite literary, film or TV detective?

Great question. For me, it's a toss-up between Monk and Benedict Cumberbatch's Sherlock. Both quirky characters!

Thanks, Margaret, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel. Readers, Margaret has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Thursday, December 11. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Margaret'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.

Be sure to check out my interview with Sydney Avey, below. Leave an appropriate comment at the bottom of the post to enter the drawing for a free copy of the book.

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 comment, take a look at some of the excellent Inspirational fiction releasing this month!

Amish Romance:

Murder Tightly Knit (An Amish Village Mystery) by Vannetta Chapman -- As fall blankets the Pumpkinvine Trail with colorful leaves, a local Amish man is found dead on the path. For the federal investigator called in on the case, everyone is suspect. Even the Amish village knitting shop, The Cat's Meow, is implicated. Amber Bowman and Hannah Troyer know who isn't guilty-they know this community down to the last buggy, but can they find the guilty party before someone else is in danger? (Cozy Mystery from HarperCollins Christian Publishing [Thomas Nelson & Zondervan])

Contemporary Romance:

Raspberry Kisses by Cecelia Dowdy -- Facing eviction, pastor's widow Rhea Morrison must save her failing bakery. Her recently-injured twin sister, Raven, loans her money on one condition. Rhea must attend a singles retreat to spy on Martin Lane, Raven's new love interest. Disgruntled, Rhea attends the retreat and is attracted to Martin. When he, a former successful bakery owner, formulates a plan to save her business, will she be forced to choose between her twin sister's love and a second chance at romance? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Wayward Hearts by Susan Anne Mason -- Hairstylist Maxi North is thriving in one of Manhattan's classiest salons. But her father's death puts her plans on hold while she travels home to face her past. There, she is forced to confront unrequited feelings for her former best friend, Jason Hanley, as well as her deeply buried guilt over her younger brother's death. When his friend, Maxi North, and her mother almost perish in a fire, firefighter-in-training Jason Hanley becomes involved in helping them re-build their farmhouse. Can he and Maxi ever put aside their differences to find a future together? (Contemporary Romance from White Rose Publishing [Pelican])

Deep Freeze Christmas by Marian P. Merritt -- Louisiana Chef Leona Buquet agrees to cook at a Colorado mountain lodge during the Christmas holiday, never expecting to be taken by the friendly and good-looking son of a movie producer. Trouble is, with glamorous actresses clamoring for his attention, why would he even notice Leona? Cameron Fleming struggles with a career he hates in order to please his famous father. Then he meets Leona and determines to get to know her. That is hard to do while dodging starlets...and the woman he wants is avoiding him. Can love sizzle, along with the Cajun dishes, in subzero temperatures? (Contemporary Romance from White Rose Publishing [Pelican])

Historical Romance:

Her Honorable Enemy by Mary Davis -- For Charles Young, All's fair in love and war. The British soldier scorns the trappings of society life-including a society wife. So a posting in the remote San Juan Islands is perfect for him. But when an American girl crosses enemy lines, she turns his structured world upside down. As smart as she is fetching, Rachel Thompson's only experience with romance is the books she devours. But her father is determined that his spirited daughter make a suitable match. And a British officer could never be suitable. Can this real-life Romeo and Juliet triumph over the odds...or will their romance trigger the unthinkable-war? (Historical Romance from Heartsong Presents [Harlequin])

Love Unexpected (Beacons of Hope) by Jody Hedlund -- Stranded at Presque Isle port after her steamboat sank, Emma Chambers can't find work or even a place to stay. When a widowed lighthouse keeper and his young son arrive in town, a traveling preacher believes they might be the answer to each others' problems. After a hasty marriage, Emma is headed back to the lighthouse with this handsome but quiet stranger. Struggling with her new tasks of motherhood and domesticity at every turn, Emma also suspects Patrick may be keeping something hidden from her. In town she hears whispers about strange circumstances surrounding his previous wife's death, and it seems as though Emma's answered prayer for a home and family may actually be something much more dangerous. (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing])

A Most Inconvenient Marriage by Regina Jennings -- Having fled a difficult home life, Civil War nurse Abigail Stuart feels like her only friend in the world is sweet but gravely wounded patient Jeremiah Calhoun. Left with few options and fearing he won't survive, Abigail agrees to marry the dying Confederate soldier, then look after his sickly sister and take ownership of his farm back home. Just when his sister learns to accept her, the real Jeremiah Calhoun appears, puzzled to find a confounding woman posing as his wife. Jeremiah is determined to have his pre-war life back, but his own wounds limit what he can do on his own. Not fully convinced Abigail isn't duping him, he's forced to let the woman stay and help him--not admitting to himself she may provide the healing his family needs. (Historical Romance from Bethany House [Baker Publishing])

Colorado Dawn by Erica Vetsch -- Watch as God lights the way of love, despite the resolve of three Colorado men. A collapsing mine shaft made David Mackenzie blind and bitter, but Karen Worth will not give up on her unconditional love for him. Disillusioned by love, Sam Mackenzie reluctantly escorts a jobless and homeless Eldora Carter plus three orphans cross country. And just when that challenge seems too overwhelming, an avalanche descends. . . . Pastor Silas Hamilton falls for Willow Starr, an actress bound for New York City. But he's fairly sure the love between a pastor and an actress could never survive. . .could it? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Masterpiece Marriage by Gina Welborn -- After a flood damages the looms at Zenus Dane's Philadelphia textile mill and the bank demands loan payment, Zenus turns to his aunt for help repurposing his textiles. Trouble is . . . his aunt has already been hired by the lovely yet secretive Englishwoman Mary Varrs. Eager to acquire his aunt's quilt patterns, Zenus attends the summer Quilting Bee, a social event his aunt has uniquely designed with the secret purpose of finding Zenus a wife. However Zenus only has eyes for Mary, but Mary has no such desire for him. Can he realize that love requires stepping out of his routine? And will she recognize that following her heart doesn't mean sacrificing her ambition? (Historical Romance from Abingdon Press)

The Snowbound Bride by Davalynn Spencer -- On the run from a heartless uncle, Arabella Taube hides in Nate Horne's farm wagon just as a harsh winter storm sweeps into Colorado. Despite Ara's mysterious background, Nate's mother thinks she is the answer to a prayer and the hope for his future. (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Historical Suspense:

Embers of Courage by Diane and David Munson -- ICE Special Agent Eva Montanna discovers the world is ablaze with danger when militants capture her task force teammate, NCIS Special Agent Raj Pentu, during a CIA operation in Egypt. She risks her life to defeat tyrants oppressing Christians, and is plunged into a daring rescue mission. Eva's faith is tested like never before as mysterious ashes, her ancient family Bible, and fifteenth century religious persecution collide with modern-day courage under fire. (Historical Suspense, Independently Published)

Romantic Suspense:

One Among Men by Connie Almony -- Samantha Hart is looking for purpose, like her missionary best friend, but is forced to take a job as a resident director of the all-male party dorm at the major state university where her prodigal past haunts her. Chris Johnson, a rock guitarist, has come back to school as a music major, and finds himself in a business relationship with the ruthless supplier of an on-campus drug ring. He's intrigued by the lady RD, while learning more about his musical gift and the God who gave it to him. Can he manage his two worlds without risking Samantha's life? (Romantic Suspense, Independently Published)

Navy SEAL Noel by Liz Johnson -- Abducted by a drug cartel, scientist Jessalynn McCoy's orders are simple-produce a deadly toxin, or be killed. She's desperate for help...she just never expected it from Will Gumble. The boy who let her down years ago is now a navy SEAL. She trusts his skills, his experience. Trusting the man is a different matter. Will's Christmas wish is to heal their damaged relationship and get them to safety. But time is running out and the stakes keep rising. Any mistake could mean the difference between facing the holidays together or apart forever. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Women's Fiction:

Love Defined (Remnants) by Elizabeth Maddrey -- July (pronounced "Julie") and Gareth have reached the end of their infertility treatment options. With conflicting feelings on adoption, they struggle to discover common ground in their marriage. Meanwhile, July's twin sister, June, and her husband, Toby, are navigating the uncertainties of adoption and the challenges of new parenthood. How much stretching can their relationships endure before they snap? (Women's Fiction from HopeSprings Books)

Happy reading!

Sydney Avey and Free Books!

A feast of family can be a plate load of problems!

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of A Christmas Promise, by Tamera Kraft, is:

pollydk1944@ . . .

and the winner of the signed copy of Swept Away, by Cindy Loven, is:

marthacfe@ . . .

Congratulations! I'll email you today to get your mailing addresses, and we'll get your books 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 Sydney Avey, author of The Lyre and the Lambs (HopeSprings Books, September 2014).

Sydney and her husband divide their time between the Sierra Nevada foothills of Yosemite, California, and the Sonoran Desert in Arizona, with side trips to the Ozarks in Arkansas to visit their 91-year-mom; Bainbridge Island, Washington, to cavort with their daughter and grandchildren; and Santa Cruz, California to catch up with their son and his wife.

Sydney has a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of California, Berkeley, and a lifetime of experience writing news for non profits and corporations. Her work has appeared in Epiphany, Foliate Oak, Forge, American Athenaeum, and Unstrung (published by Blue Guitar Magazine) and Ruminate. She has studied at the Iowa Summer Writing Festival. She is the author of two novels, The Sheep Walker’s Daughter and The Lyre and the Lambs. 

Sydney blogs on topics related to love and mystery, family relationships, conflicts between generations, and how faith functions in real life.

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

-- I taught ballet in my grandmother’s dance studio in Los Altos.

-- I taught ESL to Germans in Bavaria.

-- I taught first grade to migrant workers’ children in Indio, California and creative writing to recovering addicts in a women’s shelter in San Jose.

Teach what you know! It’s a wonderful way to connect with people outside your normal sphere of influence. They will teach you as much as you teach them.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of The Lyre and the Lambs.

It’s the Sixties. Modernity and tradition clash as two newlywed couples set up house together. Dee and her daughter Valerie move with their husbands into a modern glass house Valerie built in a proudly rural Los Altos, California neighborhood. When their young relatives start showing up and moving in, the neighbors get suspicious. Then a body is found in the backyard and the life they are trying to build comes undone.

Father Mike is back to guide Dee through a difficult time with humor and grace, even as his own life is unraveling. Now he’s going to have to take some of his own advice about love. The sequel to The Sheep Walker’s Daughter, The Lyre and the Lambs explores the passions that draw people together and the faith it takes to overcome trauma.

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

Dee, love her or hate her, she is real. I will let my reader’s speak for themselves on this one.

“Dee is so believable and familiar that I am thoroughly hooked. I hope there is a follow-on planned soon!! I want to grow old with Dee!!”

“Dee is a woman with a unique and authentic voice; she has an adult daughter, a new marriage, and a living situation that rattles some of her neighbors. Dee is a woman of faith, but this book is never overbearing or preachy—just real. Every character—from the troubled teen to the suspicious neighbor to the middle-aged priest without a congregation—feels absolutely as if they might step out of the pages of this exquisitely-written novel.”

“I like the lyrical way Dee brings us immediately into the happenings of her day. She loves her family and friends. I like her ability to convey tragic and sad events with compassion and ethos, shepherding and protecting us like lambs with her straightforward comments and introspection in spite of the fact that she is truly affected by the situations around her. I especially like the way the Eichler glass house conveys the idea that all of creation is open and exposed to God’s sight (Hebrews 4:13), and that a life without guile or hidden agendas is a free life indeed. These characters become open in their relationships, quests and connections with one another and for some, an unfeigned faith in God. It’s subtle and effective at the same time.”

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

Honestly, I would toss my novel over the wall and trust the professionals to cast talented actors who would discover nuggets in my book that would cause me to sit up and say, “Really? That’s what you see? Wow!” but if it were me, I would go to the Sundance Film Festival and look for character actors for the older roles and some fun-to-watch quirky types for the young people like Ellen Page



and Mia Wasikowska.



If the sky were the limit, what is one writing-related gift you would love to receive for Christmas?

An all-expenses-paid trip to The Paris Writers Retreat, and a new MacBook Air to take with.

Ooooh, fun! 

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

I just finished Still Alice by Lisa Genova. I don’t know anyone who isn’t terrified on some level of developing Alzheimer’s, or watching a family member or friend succumb to this particularly horrifying disease. Genova tells the story of Alice from her unique point of view as a neuroscientist. More important, she tells a human story with a heart of compassion. Without faith, the temptation of give circumstances a push to end the pain is strong. Genova does readers a service by revealing the issues and inviting us to think deeply about our existence.

Yes, a movie is releasing based on that novel. It looks very sad, but very well done.

What are you working on now?

I’m drafting my third novel about a young man who realizes his potential against great odds. Fleeing an impoverished background, he sets in motion a lifelong struggle with a mentor whose motives are suspect, and a pattern of failed relationships that will entangle three women in his life.

Where else can readers find you online?

You can connect with me a number of ways:

Email: sydneyavey@gmail.com
Website: sydneyavey.com
Blog: sydneyavey.com/blog
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest


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







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

Is there a genre you have never considered reading before that you are tempted to try?

Thanks, Sydney, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel. Readers, Sydney has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, December 8. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Sydney'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.

Cindy Loven and Free Books!

Sara Jane has no interest in falling in love with nor even tolerating Andrew, but Grandma Sari has other plans.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of A Christmas Gift, by Kathi Macias, is:

rackylemaire@ . . .

Congratulations! I'll email you today to get your mailing addresses, and we'll get your books 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 Cindy Loven, co-author (with Laura Hilton) of Swept Away, Quilts of Love Series (Abingdon Press, November 2014.

Cindy Loven, an avid reader all her life, is seeing her dreams fulfilled, with the publication of her first novel, Swept Away, Quilts of Love. She co-authored this novel with Laura V. Hilton.

Born and raised in Arkansas, Cindy loves her home state and is happy to live there with her husband of nearly twenty-nine years and her adult son. She and her family are very active in their local church, serving in many volunteer positions.

Her family is very serious about informing parents about the dangers of the choking game, after loosing their youngest son to this dreadful 'game' in 2009.

When not busy with church or her job as a “pr gal” for another author, you can find Cindy in her craft room, sewing, crocheting or making cards.

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

--I have traveled and lived in 7 states, I have moved over 30 times in my married life. And no, we are NOT on the lam, LOL. We traveled for my husband's work.

– I come from a long line of preachers, my husband is a minister, my daddy, my grandfather and I have 5 uncles and several cousins who are all pastors/ministers.

--I hated English classes in high school, I loved science.

Interesting that you became a writer, then, Cindy! 

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Swept Away.

Sara Jane Morgan is trying to balance teaching with caring for her grandmother who doesn’t want to be cared for. When school lets out for the summer, the plans are for Grandma to teach Sara Jane to quilt as they finish up the Appalachian Ballad quilt Grandma started as a teenager. But things don’t always go as planned.

Andrew Stevenson is hiding from his past—and his future. He works as a handyman to pay the bills, but also as an artisan, designing homemade brooms. When Sara Jane’s grandmother hires him to renovate her home, sparks fly between him and his new employer’s granddaughter. It doesn’t take Sara Jane long to see Drew isn’t what he seems. Questions arise, and she starts online researching him. What she discovers could change her life—and her heart—forever.

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

He is a very deep and caring young man, suffering greatly from the loss of his sister, he is afraid to love anyone, even himself.

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

Josh Duhamel






and Megan Fox.




How much prep work do you usually do before you actually start writing your books?

This book was co-authored, and I was the muse, so I did lots of research about the area of our setting, and about quilts. I love quilts and quilting, so the Appalachian tradition of ballad quilts grabbed my attention. For my children's stories it is a bit different. Usually I come up with an idea, then start playing around with plots etc. Sometimes though I just develop a character and start writing and see what happens.

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

This is always a hard question for me, I read lots of books, and I usually like all of them and recommend them. I have favorites of course. The last one I read that I would recommend is Found by Shelley Shepherd Gray, this book is from 2012 and it is a book I read that I didn't have to review. I enjoy mysteries and this was a good one. I always recommend good clean books to my friends, because sometimes they just are hard to find.

What are you working on now?

I am finishing up a children's story about a turtle named Trevor, I am actually in the final stages of this story, editing and working with an artist on the illustrations. And at this time when I am filling out the interview, I am also planning and thinking about NaNoWriMo for November.

Ah, so now that November is nearly over, you'll have to tell us in the comments section about how you did! 

Where else can readers find you online?

Facebook
Twitter handle: @cndloven
Blog
Pinterest
Amazon Page

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



CBD.com



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

What would or what will you do to help keep good Christian fiction books available in public libraries?

Thanks, Cindy, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel. Readers, Cindy has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, December 1. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Cindy'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.

Be sure to check out my interview with Tamera Kraft, below. Leave an appropriate comment at the bottom of the post to enter the drawing for a free copy of the book.

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.

Tamera Kraft and Free Books!

She holds onto her husband's promise to return home by Christmas, but this is a promise he might not be able to keep.

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of The Bachelor, by Stephanie Reed, is:

tumcsec@ . . .

Congratulations! I'll email you today to get your mailing addresses, and we'll get your books 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 Tamera Kraft, author of the e-book A Christmas Promise (Pelican Book Group, December 2013).

Tamera Lynn Kraft has always loved adventures and writes Christian historical fiction set in America because there are so many adventures in American history. She is married to the love of her life, has two grown children, and lives in Akron, Ohio.

Tamera is the leader of a ministry called Revival Fire For Kids where she mentors other children’s leaders, teaches workshops, and is a children’s ministry consultant and children’s evangelist. She has curriculum published and is a recipient of the 2007 National Children’s Leaders Association Shepherd’s Cup for lifetime achievement in children’s ministry.

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

-- I took dance lessons for 20 years. I wanted to be a Rockette.

-- I am a classic movie buff.

-- I have a rare allergy to foods that are high in folic acid (healthy foods).

Wow, that's a tough allergy, Tamera! 

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

A Moravian Holiday Story, Circa 1773.

During colonial times, John and Anna settle in an Ohio village to become Moravian missionaries to the Lenape. When John is called away to help at another settlement two days before Christmas, he promises he’ll be back by Christmas Day.

When he doesn’t show up, Anna works hard to not fear the worst while she provides her children with a traditional Moravian Christmas.

Through it all, she discovers a Christmas promise that will give her the peace she craves.

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

Anna Brunner loves God and loves her family. Even though she’s having a hard time with anxiety since moving to Schoenbrunn Village in the wilderness of Ohio, her fierce loyalty to her family never wavers.

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

That’s an interesting question. If I could do any time period, it would be Janet Leigh




and Jimmy Stewart.





But I suppose they aren’t available, so I’d choose Jennifer Anniston



and Tom Cruise.

Hey, we're dreaming about our ideal movies, so Janet and Jimmy would be just fine!

How much prep work do you usually do before you actually start writing your books?

When I started writing, I was a panster. As I understood plot and characterization more, I started outlining my major characters motivations and my main plot points. I still don’t do a major outline because I need the freedom to let the story flow. I guess instead of a panster or a plotter, you’d call me a tweener.

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

I just read an advance copy of Carole Brown’s With Music In Their Hearts that I highly recommend. It’s a World War II spy story about a civilian spy. It kept me on the edge of my seat and had enough historical detail to keep me in the time period.

What are you working on now?

I’m writing a novella called Resurrection of Hope about a couple who get married right after World War I and have tons of problems including a tornado that sweeps through their town.

Where else can readers find you online?

Website: tameralynnkraft.net
Word Sharpeners Blog: tameralynnkraft.com
Facebook
Twitter: @tamerakraft

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



CBD.com



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

What time period do you prefer to read about?

Thanks, Tamera, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel. Readers, Tamera has offered to give a copy of her e-book to the winner of our drawing on Thursday, November 20. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Tamera'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.

Be sure to check out my interview with Kathi Macias, below. Leave an appropriate comment at the bottom of the post to enter the drawing for a free copy of the book.

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.

Kathi Macias and Free Books!

Can a simple man and his faith be enough for her to stay?

Today we're revisiting with novelist Kathi Macias, author of A Christmas Gift (New Hope Publishers, October 2014).

Kathi Macias is a multi-award winning writer who has authored nearly 50 books and ghostwritten several others. A former newspaper columnist and string reporter, Kathi has taught creative and business writing in various venues and has been a guest on many radio and television programs.

Kathi is a popular speaker at churches, women’s clubs and retreats, and writers’ conferences. She won the 2008 Member of the Year award from AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association) and was the 2011 Author of the Year from BooksandAuthors.net. Her novel set in China, Red Ink, was named Golden Scrolls 2011 Novel of the Year and was also a Carol Award Finalist; her October 2012 release, Unexpected Christmas Hero, was named 2012 Book of the Year by BookandAuthors.net.

She has recently taken the position of Senior Vice President of Acquisitions for Elk Lake Publishing.

Kathi “Easy Writer” Macias lives in Homeland, CA, with her husband.

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

--I have 17 grandchildren and 5 great-grands.

--One of my first jobs (while in high school) was as a lifeguard.

--My aunt took me to Radio City Music Hall to see the Rockettes and The King and I when I was eight; as a result I wanted to be a Rockette when I grew up (needless to say, that did NOT happen).

I still haven't gotten over the comment about your being a great grandmother, Kathi! You must have started your family at a very young age.

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

Chiapas, Mexico, had proven to be the distraction and escape Julie needed. As a teacher, she had longed to travel and instruct abroad. Now, she was teaching and falling in love with her students in this remote corner of the world where strangers were not welcome—and, in fact, could be in real danger.

But what she didn't expect happened in the short days leading up to Christmas. She didn’t know that her freedom would depend on Ramon, the local pastor, nor did she anticipate the emotions this man of God would stir deep in her spirit. This Christmas Eve service would be unlike any other she had ever experienced.

Would this simple man and his faith be enough to cause her to stay when she had every reason to leave?

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

She is struggling to move past her mourning of her husband’s death and to find a reason to live and love and laugh once again.

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

Julia Roberts would be perfect for Julie in the book.



How much prep work do you usually do before you actually start writing your books?

Just enough to set the stage, which often includes foreign locations, languages, and cultures. Getting that nailed is the primary challenge, not only as I prepare to write but as I continue through the book.

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

Burning Sky by Lori Benton. Captivating story! I absolutely did NOT want it to end, and I can’t recommend it highly enough. I can see why it won several Christy Awards.

What are you working on now?

In addition to working on various projects as Senior VP of Acquisitions at Elk Lake Publishing, I am preparing to start writing my 2015 Christmas novel, which will deal with the issues of PTSD (in a returning vet) and Attachment Disorder (in a young child).

Where else can readers find you online?

In addition to my website (www.kathimacias.com), I am on Facebook (Kathi Macias—personal page; Kathi Macias Author); Twitter (@alandkathi); and Pinterest (Kathi Macias).

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



CBD.com



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

What is your greatest ministry passion? Mine include persecuted Christians around the world and those caught in human trafficking. What about you? I would love to know, as those ministry passions just might become the focus of one or more of my future novels.

Thanks, Kathi, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel. Readers, Kathi has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Monday, November 24. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Kathi'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.

Be sure to check out my interview with Stephanie Reed, below. Leave an appropriate comment at the bottom of the post to enter the drawing for a free copy of the book.

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.

Stephanie Reed and Free Books!

A young Amish woman believes balancing relationships between a draft-dodging hippie and the Amish man she’s always loved is difficult until she loses someone forever.

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

myersalicem@ . . .

and the winner of the signed copy of Veiled at Midnight, by Christine Lindsay, is:

rdewey17@ . . .

Congratulations! I'll email you today to get your mailing addresses, and we'll get your books 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 novelist Stephanie Reed, author of The Bachelor (Kregel Publications, October 2014).

Stephanie Reed lives on the outskirts of Plain City, Ohio, site of a once-thriving Amish community. She gleans ideas for her novels from signs glimpsed along the byways of Ohio, as for her previous books, Across the Wide River, The Light Across the River, and The Bargain.

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

--I wear hearing aids in both ears.

--I worked in a public library for several years.

--I love doughnuts.

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

Betsie Troyer is back home in her Amish community where she knows she belongs. Free from the confusing Englisher way of life, Betsie and Charley Yoder have made promises to each other, and her life is back on track—until she agrees to do a favor for the Englisher family she used to board with.

Now the outside world is again threatening her peace and the man she thought she put behind her is back in her life. She will eventually have to make a decision: does she love Charley or Michael . . . or is she craving a deeper love that only God can give?

Set against the backdrop of the turbulent 1970s, The Bachelor is the compelling sequel to The Bargain in the Plain City Peace series.

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

Betsie is doing her best to keep what’s left of her family together while waiting for her parents to return. She’s steadfast and true.

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

I’m not much of a movie person, so I’d cast from TV stars. For Betsie Troyer, a toned-down Eden Sher from The Middle;




for Charley Yoder, Parker Young from Suburgatory;




and for Michael Sullivan, Jonathan Jackson from Nashville.

How much prep work do you usually do before you actually start writing your books?

It’s all in my head until I start writing. I jot down notes so I won’t forget. Photos of the setting, Plain City, are helpful, too.

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

A Surprise for Lily , by Mary Ann Kinsinger and Suzanne Woods Fisher. I finished Book 4 of the Lily books last night. Mary Ann Kinsinger was raised Old Order Amish but left. She wrote these stories to share her childhood memories of her family with her own children. Reminiscent of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House books, but with Kinsinger’s voice and personal stamp. Irresistible.

How cool that she's writing from such a place of experience.

What are you working on now?

Book Three of Plain City Peace, The Bride. An Amish girl chooses between the handsome Amish farmer she's always loved and the English hippie with a heart of gold.

I really like that your series is set during the 1970's. That isn't what I would typically consider for Amish stories, and the uniqueness of the time frame is compelling.

Where else can readers find you online?

The best places are Stephanie Reed Books, Twitter, and GoodReads.

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



CBD.com



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

What’s your favorite childhood memory?

Thanks, Stephanie, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel. Readers, Stephanie has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Thursday, November 20. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Stephanie'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.

Christine Lindsay and Free Books!

The British empire draws to an end, and Captain Cam Fraser has never been able to put the beautiful Dassah from his mind, ever since they played together at the mission as children, but a British officer and the aide to the last viceroy cannot marry a poor Indian woman, can he?

Before we visit today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the signed copy of Watercolor Dreams, by Sherry Kyle, is:

kalea_kane@ . . .

and the winner of the signed copy of A Holiday Proposal, by Kimberly Rose Johnson, is:

mo1202007@ . . .

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 novelist Christine Lindsay, author of Veiled at Midnight (WhiteFire Publishing, October 2014).

Christine Lindsay was born in Ireland, and is proud of the fact that she was once patted on the head by Prince Philip when she was a baby. Her great grandfather, and her grandfather—yes father and son—were both riveters on the building of the Titanic. Tongue in cheek, Christine states that as a family they accept no responsibility for the sinking of that infamous ship.

Stories of Christine’s ancestors who served in the British Cavalry in Colonial India inspired her multi-award-winning, historical series Twilight of the British Raj, Book 1 Shadowed in Silk, Book 2 Captured by Moonlight. The last book in that series Veiled at Midnight released October 2014.

Londonderry Dreaming is Christine’s first contemporary romance set in Northern Ireland.

Christine makes her home on the west coast of Canada with her husband and their grown up family. Her cat Scottie is chief editor on all Christine’s books.

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

-- I am a tea-a-holic, drink several pots a day.

-- I adore cats and dogs, and have two of each.

-- I think Queen Elizabeth is a wonderful British monarch.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Veiled at Midnight.

As the British rule of India ends in 1947, millions take to the road. Families are separated and rioting breaks out like wildfire. Caught in this turbulence are Captain Cam Fraser and his sister Miriam.

As Cam takes up his prestigious post as Aide de camp to Lord Louis Mountbatten the last viceroy of India, Cam despairs he will never find Dassah, the beautiful Indian woman he loves, and who British society will never allow him to marry.

Miriam rails against the separation of the land of her birth, but is Lieutenant Colonel Jack Sunderland her soul mate or a distraction from what really impassions her heart?

And Dassah, an orphan raised in the mission, who for a short while believed Cam loved her and now believes he only used her, must run and separate herself from the man who holds her heart.

Set against the turbulent 1947 Partition of India, three grown children of Colonial India must find their true home, where they will never again be separated from love.

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

As with my other books there is usually more than one lead character. In Veiled at Midnight there are three—Cam Fraser who struggles with the fact that he may be more like his natural father who was an alcoholic and not like his stepfather. I’m hoping readers from dysfunctional families like mine will care about Cam, because so often we want to break the bonds of our natural tendencies.

Cam’s sister Miriam has the interesting combination of movie-star looks and an academic brain. I’m hoping readers will relate to her desire to be a really caring Christian and not one who only quotes from the good book.

Dassah is my beautiful Indian character, a grownup orphan who longs to be the proper wife of the Englishman she loves, but who also wants to be true to her Indian heritage and to the Christian savior she learned about as a child in the mission.

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

I actually mention Carole Lombard in my book as the moviestar whom Miriam looks like.




Dassah could be played by Navi Rawat the beautiful Indian student on the hit TV show Numbers from a few years ago.




Cam would be played by Channing Tatum.




How much prep work do you usually do before you actually start writing your books?

Much of the prep work for this third book the series was already done with the first book Shadowed in Silk. Finishing up a three-book series allowed me to really get into that world. However, there is always the need for fresh research, and the Veiled at Midnight that was a lot of fun researching the last viceroy of India, Lord Louis Mountbatten, cousin to Queen Elizabeth’s father, King George.

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

I highly recommend The Language of Sparrows by Rachel Phifer, a Carol nominee. Even though I write historical fiction and romance, I love this Women’s Fiction novel.

What are you working on now?

I will soon start writing the non-fiction book on my experience as a birthmother, a woman who relinquishes her child to adoption, and what I learned about God through our painful reunion 20 years later.

Where else can readers find you online?

Connect with me at my website www.christinelindsay.com or follow me on Twitter and be my friend on Pinterest, and Goodreads.

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





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

If you knew that a book with an unfamiliar setting was really good, would you read it? If not…why?

Thanks, Christine, for visiting with us and telling us about your novel. Readers, Christine has offered to give a signed copy of her book to the winner of our drawing on Thursday, November 13. To enter, leave a comment below in answer to Christine'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.

Be sure to check out my interview with Ronie Kendig, below. Leave an appropriate comment at the bottom of the post to enter the drawing for a free copy of the book.

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.