Robin E. Mason's Blog: Robin's Book Shelf, page 96
August 19, 2019
BLOGWORDS – Monday 19 August 2019 – NEW WEEK NEW FACE – GUEST POST – EDIE MELSON – GIVEAWAY WINNER
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NEW WEEK NEW FACE – GUEST POST – EDIE MELSON – GIVEAWAY WINNER
WINNER! WINNER!
Congratulations to
JODI HASSEL
Edie will be in touch with you to send your gift!
Thanks to everyone who entered!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
[image error]Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. No matter whether she’s talking to writers, entrepreneurs, or readers, her first advice is always “Find your voice, live your story.” As an author, blogger, and speaker she’s encouraged and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. Her numerous books reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives.
https://www.amazon.com/Edie-Melson/e/B0060PWSPE
https://www.facebook.com/edie.melson
https://twitter.com/EdieMelson
https://www.instagram.com/stop2pray/
GIVEAWAY
Edie is offering a Kindle or print copy of Soul Care for Writers.
#Blogwords, New Week New Face, Guest Post, Edie Melson, Giveaway Winner, #WINNER
August 18, 2019
BLOGWORDS – Monday 19 August 2019 – NEW WEEK NEW FACE – GUEST POST – MESU ANDREWS
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NEW WEEK NEW FACE – GUEST POST and GIVEAWAY – MESU ANDREWS
Does Every Writer Need a Street Team?
Authors write books because we have a passion for writing, not because we love marketing. But in today’s publishing world, no matter how talented the author or how large your traditional publisher—an author must learn to market. But who has time for marketing when we’re honing craft, writing books, and—oh yes, seeking first God’s Kingdom (i.e. ministering locally and abroad—Acts 1:8)?
A great STREET TEAM can become a fantastic partner in our writing journey.
What Is a Street Team?
Wiki says a street team is, “a group of people who ‘hit the streets’ promoting an event or a product.” In my experience, a street team is a group of people who love our writing so much that they’re excited to help us share it with as many of their friends as possible—in every way available.”
Street team members are “super fans” who are crazy about our books and don’t mind telling people so. They tell the store clerk, the dental hygienist, and their child’s teacher. When the store clerk, hygienist, and teacher become rabid fans, we can add them to our street team too!
Launch Team vs. Street Team
Launch Team
Though I’ve never heard an “official” distinction, in my experience, a street team is different than a launch team. My publisher gathers a launch team for a period of time to help market the launch of a single book. About three months before each book’s release, my publisher opens their own launch team applications (separate from my BFFs). Launch team members receive an advanced readers’ copy (ARC) of my book in exchange for an honest review on an online retailer of their choice. Since this is all done through the publisher, I often don’t even see the list of If you’d like to apply for a launch for one of Waterbrook Multnomah’s books, CLICK HERE.
Street Team
Distinctly different is my street team, some of whom have been helping me market biblical fiction (mine and others) since we released Love in a Broken Vessel in 2013. Many I’ve never met in person but have become close friends. The team is called, “Mesu’s BFFs”—BFFs short for Biblical Fiction Fans—and we promote the biblical fiction genre all year long.
Some BFFs have stepped off the team, allowing new members to apply and join. We’ll open applications for new members during the month of September 2019, and lock in our new team to begin Isaiah’s Legacy pre-release marketing by mid-October. My street team has been active for more than six years now, and their marketing power has become a crucial part of my marketing plan.
How Do You Build a Street Team?
I’m often asked, “How do you find people to join your street team?” I started with family and friends who loved my books. Then added their family and friends who became super fans too! But the goal is to reach outside our immediate circles of influence, which is the reason we require an application to join the street team. CLICK HERE TO VIEW 2018 BFF APPLICATION. We give existing members a chance to take a break and then fill their spots with new applicants to build a well-rounded team that reaches all four corners of the book-buying market.
Book Bloggers/Reviewers (Individual or team blogs)
Social Media (My main platforms: Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, YouTube)
Online Book Communities (Goodreads, Litsy, LibraryThing, etc)
Church/Community Influencers (On-site bookclub leaders, Librarians—public and church, Women’s ministry leaders, etc.)
With our balanced team assembled, we start pre-release promotion at least five months before it hits bookstore shelves. Independently (indie) published authors usually begin pre-release promotion much later but should consider assembling their street teams with the same balanced approach.
Since a street team is a group that stays together long-term, personalization and rapport is essential. Each member wants to feel like they know the author personally. A Facebook Group Page is helpful for this kind of team building. Occasional and informal Facebook Lives or Google Hangouts are also fun. Members want more than just a free book. They want the author to know them!
A team member’s goal is to promote a book in all four of the categories. If they don’t have a personal blog or aren’t a member of a book club, ask if they’d consider starting one. Make it a team-only contest and offer a $20 Starbucks gift card if a minimum of five members participate. You’ll build team rapport, and one thriving new book club could pay for that team prize.
How Many People Should Be on My Team?
I’ve heard of street teams with as few as ten members and as many as several hundred. If we’re with a traditional publisher, our team number may be limited by the number of paperback ARCs they’re willing to offer. If, however, the publisher shares ARCs through digital files (NetGalley, Book Funnel, etc.), the number of members is limited only by our time and energy to manage the team. Volunteer coordinators can help select, organize, and brainstorm BFF team selection and activity. I have found two coordinators and fifty-five members are sort of a sweet spot for my teams rapport and efficiency.
When Should I Begin Building a Street Team?
If you dream of publishing a book someday, start building super fans now with family and friends who love your writing!
If you’re seeking an agent or looking for a traditional publisher, build a street team into the marketing section of your book proposal. Your members don’t have to be super organized yet, but this commitment to marketing will make a good impression.
If you’re indie/self-published(ing), build your street team DURING YOUR WRITING AND PUBLISHING PROCESS. Involve potential super fans in choosing character names, settings, and cover options. Notice people who comment most and ask them to join your team!
Those already published with a trad house should ask the marketing department how building a street team might help with the marketing department’s planned campaign. Today’s publishers tend to enter long-term relationships with authors who take marketing seriously. My publisher even mentions my BFFs in my author bio—that’s how much they appreciate my super fans!
And, believe me, I love them even more!
A great street team loves your writing so much that they share it with as many friends as possible in every way available. @MesuAndrews #mesusbffs #streetteams #bookmarketing
The number of street team members is limited only by your time and energy to manage them. @MesuAndrews #mesusbffs #streetteams #bookmarketing
First step to build a street team? Get your family and friends hooked on everything you write. @MesuAndrews #mesusbffs #streetteams #bookmarketing
Mesu Andrews is the Christy Award winning author of Isaiah’s Daughter whose deep understanding of and love for God’s Word brings the biblical world alive for readers. Andrews lives in North Carolina with her husband Roy and enjoys spending time with her growing tribe of grandchildren.
https://www.amazon.com/Mesu-Andrews/e/B00424KQ4U
https://www.facebook.com/MesuAndrews
https://www.youtube.com/user/MesuAndrews
https://www.instagram.com/mesuandrews/
https://www.pinterest.com/mesuandrews/
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3513697.Mesu_Andrews
GIVEAWAY
Mesu is offering an e-copy of Isaiah’s Daughter, or a print copy to a U.S. address.
Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Giveaway will begin at 12:00 A.M. on Monday 19 August and end at 12:00 A.M. on Monday 26 August. Giveaway is subject to the policies found on Robin’s Nest.
RAFFLECOPTER
ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE.
#Blogwords, New Week New Face, #NWNF, Guest Post and Giveaway, Mesu Andrews
August 17, 2019
BLOGWORDS – Sunday 18 August 2019 – FRONT PORCH FELLOWSHIP – YOUR LIGHT IN ME
BLOGWORDS – Sunday 18 August 2019 – FRONT PORCH FELLOWSHIP – YOUR LIGHT IN ME
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FRONT PORCH FELLOWSHIP – YOUR LIGHT IN ME
The past months—summer months—have been a confoundng time for me. Weakness is part and parcel of the RA, but I began feeling a new level of malaise sometime in May. Doctor visits didn’t identify the culprit, not even my physical in July. Not until the telltale rash developed—I had Scabies! And lemme tell ya, that is a level of torment I’d not wish on anyone. (For the record, it is passed from an infected person; it is not from having or living in a filthy house, as was suggested to me.)
Once the correct diagnosis was made, and treatment administered, I began to feel better, and am now mostly back to how great I felt in April and early May. The upswing of this recovery is my writing, both the new book and the blog.
Today I give you a poem I wrote during one of my lowest points of depression—correction, a poem Holy Spirit wrote via the pen in my hand. Only the first line was from my desperate mind; the rest flowed through me like a refreshing spring of cool water on a hot day. A short time later, He also gave me the melody to go with it.
YOUR LIGHT in ME
Oh, my sweet Jesus, I long for your presence
My heart is not whole, except you are there
Wash me anew with Your great Holy Spirit
And grant me the power Your goodness to share.
Heavenly Father, I need You with me,
Your strength and Your mercy my soul to sustain.
Let nothing dwell in me ‘twould bind me from You
By Your grace, Lord, perfect me that I might bear Your name.
Pour Your anointing into my spirit
Kindle Your love in my soul every day
To set me in motion, to reach out around me,
To witness Your grace and Your Word to proclaim.
Put wings to my words, Lord, let me serve You in ways
That others might see You and ask of Your plan.
Use my feet as Your feet, Lord, my hands as Your own
And manifest things that only You can.
Send me out to the world, God, Your flock to help gather.
Grant me words of wisdom to help the lost see
Your perfect salvation, Your will for us all.
Oh show the world, Jesus, Your light in me.
© Robin E. Mason
April 1989
#Blogwords, Front Porch Fellowship, #FPF, Sunday Devotion, Your Light in Me
August 16, 2019
BLOGWORDS – Saturday 17 August 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – WALLY’S MISADVENTURE by CHRYS WIMER
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TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – on – SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – WALLY’S MISADVENTURE by CHRYS WIMER
THE BLURB
Wally had been cooped up all winter and was ready for a great adventure! His chores came first, then after his father reminded him of the rules, Wally was off. The first rule was to never go exploring alone, but when none of Wally’s friends could go, he was determined to go anyway. Look inside to find out what Wally faces on his adventure!
THE AUTHOR
Chrys Wimer was born and raised in Fresno, California. She graduated from The Master’s College in Santa Clarita, California with a degree in Psychology. She went on to get her Multiple Subject teaching credential from California State University, Fresno. She taught grades K-4 in private schools and is now a substitute teacher for Clovis Unified School District. She enjoys reading, photography, traveling, crafting, cooking/baking, and singing. She is involved in various ministries at her church.
MY REVIEW
A valuable lesson in obedience.
The cover is darling, with a happy grin on Wally’s cute face.
The illustration colors are rich and vibrant, and I especially loved the bright spots of flowers and butterflies and dragonflies. The cute characters and colorful background will engage children in the story. I appreciated the color behind the text versus a plain white background. The font could have been bigger though, for younger readers.
As Wally went from one friend to another I was reminded of Chicken Little. Except that Chicken was looking for friends to help her work, and Wally was asking friends to come and play.
Wally tried to follow the rules but adventure beckoned, and temptation swayed him. And when he faced first danger and then hunger, Wally realized why the rules were there, and he was only too eager to get home where it was safe.
As Wally learns his lesson, the story and illustrations will encourage young readers to obey their parents, too.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
[image error]ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Saturday, #TRD, Book Review, Wally’s Misadventure, Chrys Wimer
August 15, 2019
BLOGWORDS – Thursday 15 August 2019 – CHAT THURSDAY – AUTHOR INTERVIEW – VIKKI KESTELL – GIVEAWAY WINNERS
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CHAT THURSDAY – AUTHOR INTERVIEW – VIKKI KESTELL – GIVEAWAY WINNERS
“Faith Filled Fiction”
“Writing is the best job ever… and the most demanding.”
WINNER! WINNER!
Congratulations to
BRANDI DAGWAN
and
TONYA HAMILTON
and
ASHLEY SAPP
and
DYAN LYNESS
Vikki will be in touch with you to send your gift!
Thanks to everyone who entered!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vikki Kestell’s passion for people and their stories is evident in her readers’ affection for her characters and unusual plotlines. Two often-repeated sentiments are, “I feel like I know these people,” and “I am right there, in the book, experiencing what her characters experience.”
Vikki holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Learning and Instructional Technologies. She left a career of twenty-plus years in government, academia, and corporate life to pursue writing full time. “Writing is the best job ever,” she admits, “and the most demanding.”
Also an accomplished speaker and teacher, Vikki and her husband Conrad Smith make their home in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
https://www.amazon.com/Vikki-Kestell/e/B007OLYM0M
https://www.facebook.com/TheWritingOfVikkiKestell
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/vikki-kestell
https://twitter.com/FaithFilledFic
“A genre to me is more the setting than the objective. My characters are real to me. I could put them in any genre and they would thrive..”
GIVEAWAY
Vikki is offering five free Kindle copies of Laynie Portland Spy Rising.
#Blogwords, Chat Thursday, Author Interview, Vikki Kestell, Giveaway Winners, #WINNERS
August 14, 2019
BLOGWORDS – Thursday 15 August 2019 – CHAT THURSDAY – AUTHOR INTERVIEW – HOPE TOLER DOUGHERTY
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CHAT THURSDAY – AUTHOR INTERVIEW – HOPE TOLER DOUGHERTY
“Trading guilt and misery for God’s grace and mercy.”
“I don’t present the Gospel message in my books, but God is evident throughout the stories. My characters struggle with everyday problems, pray to and receive strength and wisdom from a loving God.”
Please join me in giving a feathered welcome to Hope Toler Dougherty.
FAST FAVES
Cake or Cookies
Facebook or Twitter
Paperback or Kindle
Thornton or Darcy
rem: Hullo, Hope, and welcome to my little nest. Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
HOPE: I was born in North Carolina. I lived in Pittsburgh, PA, with my husband and family for 14 years before moving back to NC in 2004. We built a house on land my great-grandfather owned.
rem: Oh, I love that—living in a family home! Tell us three random things about yourself no one knows.
HOPE: I would love to play the banjo in a Bluegrass band. Teenagers scare me. I would love to work in radio.
rem: Teenagers are scary creatures!! And Bluegrass is such fun music! Do you have a favorite Bible verse? And why is it a favorite?
HOPE: One of my favorites is Ephesians 3:20 “[God] is able to do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine.” God is big, and He knows what’s best for us.
rem: Oh, yes, ma’am, He surely is and does! What is your favourite quotation and why?
HOPE: I’m not sure the author of this quotation, but I really like it. “Amazing things happen on the other side of fear.” Too often we miss things because fear holds us back. I’m trying not to let that be my legacy.
rem: And how sad it is when we let fear hold us back from the good things Father God has for us! What’s the most random thing in your bag or on your desk?
HOPE: A ball of cotton yarn and a crochet hook. I like making wash cloths to give people if I’m stuck in a meeting.
rem: How fun is that! I used to crochet but haven’t in an age! If you could spend an evening with a fictional character, who would it be and why?
HOPE: Jane Eyre!! She’s so fearless. She’s so confident in who she is and what she believes.
rem: Great choice! Take me with you. What do you think is significant about Christian fiction? How has being a novelist impacted your relationship with Christ?
HOPE: Christian fiction has a purpose beyond simple entertainment. CF offers hope which is what God offers us. My relationship with Jesus Christ is more mature. He’s taught me so much about Himself as well as about myself.
rem: I love how the two intertwine—our writing and our identity in Him. When reading, what makes or breaks a story for you? Your fiction pet peeve?
HOPE: Preachiness. (rem:AMEN SISTER!) Boring dialog. Sloppy editing—when something happens on Saturday in one chapter and it’s Sunday in the next, when gas logs are mentioned in one chapter and ashes in the fireplace are described in the next.
rem: Yes, yes, yes!! Drives me batty! (and yes, my inner editor goes bonkers, looking to see if I missed a clue or reason it would change… ) What are you reading right now?
HOPE: I just finished The Wife Between Us for our book club. I also read Educated and Where the Crawdads Sing this summer. I’m looking forward to reading Heart on the Line by Karen Witemeyer, but I have tons more on my bedside table, on the floor beside my bed, on my desk, on the floor beside my desk…
rem: Oh, so your TBR is about like mine… You flew a plane!! I may or may not be insanely jealous! (I am! hee hee) Tell us about that experience.
HOPE: While I was single, I decided to take flying lessons. I loved the experience and soloed a Cessna 150 a few times, but I never earned my pilot’s license. So much math, and science, and physics!
rem: Well darn! That would have done it for me too! As a speaker, what topics do you present? What is your favorite?
HOPE: I’ve spoken on God’s gifts and lessons from my writing journey, different aspects of writing a novel, the idea of changing career paths, the inspiration behind each of my novels. I can adapt my presentation to the audience. I’m not sure I have a favorite topic. I just love interacting with audiences.
rem: One day, I’d love to attend one of your presentations. In a blog post titled, “Doing the Hard Things… Again,” (25 June 2018) you quoted, “If children don’t learn to do difficult things while they’re growing up, how will they do hard things when they’re adults?” I so, so agree with this. What does this quote mean to you and how do we implement it in the lives of our children?
HOPE: First of all, thanks for reading some of my posts! That one is one of my favorites, by the way. We live in a fallen world, so life is hard. We’re not preparing our children for real life if we rake every stone from their path. Parents teach grit by making children honor a commitment to a team by finishing the season, by writing thank you notes, by taking swim lessons even if the water is cold, by apologizing if they’ve messed up, by speaking to the college professor if they’ve bombed an exam. Parents then encourage, support, and pray for them.
rem: I love your answer as much as I loved the original post. (and it was my pleasure reading through [some of] your past posts!) I read your post about the inspiration for Rescued Hearts. What are the “what if” moments for an author?
HOPE: The “what ifs” are ideas that float into my mind, and I begin wondering. They help me contemplate possibilities.
rem: The most powerful tool in an author’s arsenal! #winkwink Tell us a little about your writing journey.
HOPE: I’ve always enjoyed writing and sporadically published non-fiction pieces but never wrote fiction because I didn’t think I could. In 2009 when our oldest daughter prepared to leave our nest (!), a daydream about Ireland came to me and wouldn’t go away. I started writing Irish Encounter then, began attended writing conferences and started writing a new project, met my agent in 2013, signed contracts in 2014, and had two books published in 2015.
rem: So literally, your dream came true! Fictionally speaking… What are your top 3 recommendations for a new writer? What 3 things would recommend not doing?
HOPE: 1. Read all kinds of books, especially the genre you want to write and also writing craft books. 2. Write every day. 3. Attend writing conferences to take classes and to meet other writers. (And for a bonus one—PRAY!) 1. Don’t compare yourself with other writers. God blesses people differently. 2. Don’t let discouragement derail your dreams. 3. Don’t give up.
rem: YES to pray for one another. OUCH to write every day… (I’ve had a rough spell for a long while… ) How do you choose your characters’ names?
HOPE: Naming is such a hard thing for me. My family sometimes took weeks to name a pet! I have a baby name book, and I sometimes try out several names before I choose the right one. I think about the character’s age and the possible reasons behind a name.
rem: Oh my! I’m totally the opposite—usually, though not always, when I meet a character I know their name! Do you think of the entire story before you start writing?
HOPE: No. I try to fill out character sketches as much as I can before I begin, but I’m a seat-of-the-pants writer. I like being surprised at my laptop.
rem: With my first novel I just sat and wrote… Seven books in, I now have reams of notes on who’s who and who likes what, etc. Tell us a little about your latest book? What is your current project?
HOPE: My fourth manuscript is under contract for a May, 2020, release. (rem:YAY) It’s the story of Josie and Ches…A college professor is good at nurturing. An attorney is good at keeping secrets. When their lives intersect, sparks fly, changing hearts and lives forever.
rem: What is YOUR favorite part about the book or why do you love this book? Why should we read it?
HOPE: I love the texting scenes between Josie and Ches and the sibling interaction with Josie and her three brothers I explored the idea of emotional affairs in this story. With the ease of finding old boyfriends and girlfriends on the Internet today, we need to be aware of and discuss emotion affairs.
rem: You are so right! So often we forget about the emotional connection when the official relationship ends. Please give us the first page of the book.
HOPE:
Josie Daniels blew a hot breath into the neck of her white collared shirt, desperate for any kind of breeze. Summer heat in Charlotte wilted tough people in billowy seersucker. Her Park ‘n Go uniform, navy blue chino pants and an oxford cloth button-down, could stifle the hardiest of constitutions. She wiped a final sweep across the headlight of an SUV, and Kenny, her co-worker, grabbed her attention.
“Hey, Josie.” He nodded to the car eating up the entrance ramp. “Your turn.”
A new Lexus Sport Coupe prowled through the parking lot just this side of speeding and jerked to a stop in front of her. Leaving the car idling, the driver jumped out and motioned to her. “Get in. I’ll be back.”
Nice manners. But accompanying travelers up to the drop off and driving their cars back to park them for the duration of the trip was her extra job for the summer, so she’d work hard to tamp down any miffed feelings.
The air conditioner, blowing at full blast, chilled the sheen of perspiration on her face. Sitting in rich cars with icy air added to the perks of working at the Park ‘n Go. Every business person who dressed in several layers, long sleeves, and long pants despite the heat had to keep the A/C pumping all the time.
What a sweet ride. Leather seats, of course. Still smelled new, for heaven’s sake. A bottle of ibuprofen in a cupholder. Interesting. A screen in the middle of the dashboard. Cool.
Her brothers would choke when she told them she drove a brand new—
The driver slid into the seat and buckled the seat belt. A light fragrance of a pleasant aftershave wafted her way. Score one point for not wearing an obnoxious amount of cologne. Good job, Mr. Hot Shot Something.
rem: Oh what a fun scene! What is one take-away from your book(s) that you hope readers identify with?
HOPE: God is big, and His plan for us is always better than our plan. In the middle of God’s will is the best place to be. When I pray for the safety of my family every day, I also pray that we stay in God’s will.
rem: Couldn’t agree with you more! Anything you’d like to add?
HOPE: Thanks for having me on your blog. You asked some interesting questions!
rem: My pleasure, Hope. Happy to have you visit my little nest!
https://hopetolerdougherty.com/
https://www.amazon.com/Hope-Toler-Dougherty/e/B00X62XX7Q
https://www.facebook.com/AUTHORHOPETOLERDOUGHERTY/
https://www.instagram.com/hopetolerdougherty/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hope-toler-dougherty-20097834/
https://www.pinterest.com/hopetdougherty/
https://twitter.com/hopetdougherty
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13941031.Hope_Dougherty
“Sometimes the writer’s life borders on the lonely side–unless you count spending time with imaginary characters, that is… Spending time with other writers, especially Christian writers, is always such an encouragement, and spending that time at a beach (with lots of chocolate)? All the better!”
GIVEAWAY
Hope is offering an e-copy of Rescued Hearts, or a print copy to a U.S. reader.
Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Giveaway will begin at 12:oo A.M. on Thursday 15 August and end at 12:oo A.M on Thursday 22 August. Giveaway is subject to the policies found on Robin’s Nest.
RAFFLECOPTER
ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE
“Can I worship in jeans or shorts or pajamas? Yes.
Have I done it? Yes—beside Niagara Falls, around a campfire, at my desk. The Red Rock State Park in Arizona brought me to tears contemplating our Creator.”
#Blogwords, Chat Thursday, Author Interview and Giveaway, Hope Toler Dougherty
BLOGWORDS – Tuesday 13 August 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE RETURN OF THE KING’S RANGER by ANGELA K. COUCH
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TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE RETURN OF THE KING’S RANGER by ANGELA K. COUCH
THE BLURB
The war for American freedom is over, and the British have gone back to England. Myles Cunningham wants to go home as well, not knowing what has become of his family since he was forced into the Continental Army nine years earlier. He returns to the Mohawk Valley with the understanding that he is believed to have been shot for deserting—fiction that might be made real if anyone recognizes him as the son of a Tory, and a King’s Ranger.
Everything is wonderful in the growing community along the Mohawk River, except Nora Reid is still alone. With her brother happily settled and both of her younger sisters starting families of their own, Nora feels the weight of her twenty-four years. A long walk leads her to the overgrown rubble of the Cunningham homestead where a bearded stranger begins to awaken feelings she’d lost hope of ever experiencing.
With secrets abounding—including whether Myles even cares for her—Nora must determine what she is ready to give up and how far she will go to secure his affections. She begins to break through his defenses, but Myles can’t risk staying. Not if he loves her.
THE AUTHOR
[image error]Always a romantic, I anxiously waited for my “hero” to enter the scene. I waited a while. Meanwhile, I tried to keep myself busy.
Besides writing, I learned to start horses. There is something thrilling about being the first person to ride a young horse, not knowing how they will react. I enjoyed learning how to speak their “language, to communicate.
I trained in martial arts. First, Hap Ki Do, a Korean martial art that pretty much covers everything from Taekwondo and Judo to Aikido, and just a bit of western boxing (in case you need to defend against it). I instructed for a while and earned my second degree black belt. I have also dabbled in Karate and currently enjoy Capoeira…so yes, I love writing action/fight scenes and will often choreograph the fight with whoever happens to be around.
For about 16 months I lived in Russia as a missionary and thoroughly enjoyed learning the language and making some great friends.
Aside from these things, I love reading, gardening, camping, hiking in the beautiful Canadian Rockies, painting, and so much more.
In short, I love living!
MY REVIEW
Reading this book was like a reunion with old friends. Many of the same characters from previous books in the series roam the pages of this story.
Ms. Couch wraps her story in conflicting loyalties and the price we pay when forced to choose. The conflict of our conscience and faith—and the opinions of those we know and love.
Nora’s heart tangles with the attraction, and stirs the dream she thought long lost.
Myles, too, tangles with the attraction, but resists and fends it off for all he’s worth.
With so much conflict on every side, and coming from within, can Nora and Myles know peace? How can there be a happy ending for them?
This story is deep and poignant, and tugs on the heart, evoking angst and tears, hope and faith.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
[image error]ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Book Review, The Return of the King’s Ranger, Angela K. Couch
August 11, 2019
BLOGWORDS – Monday 12 August 2019 – NEW WEEK NEW FACE – GUEST POST and GIVEAWAY – EDIE MELSON
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NEW WEEK NEW FACE – GUEST POST and GIVEAWAY – EDIE MELSON
Book Launch Teams
What is a launch team & do I really need one?
A launch team—also called a street team, dream team, tribe, posse, road crew, etc—is a group of readers passionate about your book. These are people who believe in what you’ve written and see the value of sharing it with others. They agree to post reviews, mention it on Goodreads, share about it on social media, and of course talk about it in person.
In today’s publishing paradigm, finding a tribe of people who will advocate for our books is worth pure gold. There is nothing better than word of mouth for helping a book get off to a strong start.
How do I Find These People?
We find them anywhere readers hang out—online and in person. They can be reviewers, bookstore managers, readers and/or friends. Social media is a good way to spread the word that you’re looking for a team. The key is to find people who aren’t just excited, but will also be willing to truly help. The key is to get the ball rolling and people on the street team will recruit new members.
What’s in it for Them?
An author’s street team is a big priority. They always receive advance copies of the book (ebook or soft cover). In addition they get postcards, bookmarks, and other extras. They also get the inside scoop on a book and author they love.
In return, we as authors have a strong commitment to the people on this team. We pray for them regularly, stay in close touch and value their advice. They also get to make suggestions for promotions, blog posts, giveaways, and contests. Their input is valued and rewarded.
How do We Communicate?
That’s up to you. You can set up a Yahoo Group, secret Facebook page, or even a regular Google Hangout. The most important thing is the fact that it’s regular communication. Many of those on your street team will be there for multiple books.
Make a Specific Plan
One of the things I urge you to do is to come up with a detailed plan of how you’re going to interact with your team. I utilize a launch team for approximately six weeks. I find that people are happy to help out when there’s a specific time commitment, rather than an ongoing commitment.
Before I enlisted my team, I had a six-week schedule of what I wanted them to do and what I would be doing for them. Each week I had:
A message of encouragement (this could be a newsletter, email, or even a Facebook live if you’re doing everything through a Facebook group.) I tried to tie this encouragement directly to the content of the book. This works equally well whether the book I’m promoting is fiction or nonfiction.
A giveaway they would be automatically entered in when they participated that week.
Several pre-made social media updates for them to share.
A meme with a quote or Bible verse from the book for them to share.
Something they could do to raise awareness about the book in person (like visit a local bookstore or library).
The reason I had so many things each week is because everyone has different strengths. I made it clear that I never expected any one person to do all the things listed. I wanted everyone to do what they were comfortable with. By each one doing one or two things, the word spread rapidly.
By having this all mapped out at the beginning, it was much easier to manage in the midst of the excitement and busyness of launching a book.
Now it’s your turn. What questions do you have about launch teams and what experiences can you share?
Blessings,
Edie
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
[image error]Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. No matter whether she’s talking to writers, entrepreneurs, or readers, her first advice is always “Find your voice, live your story.” As an author, blogger, and speaker she’s encouraged and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. Her numerous books reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives.
https://www.amazon.com/Edie-Melson/e/B0060PWSPE
https://www.facebook.com/edie.melson
https://twitter.com/EdieMelson
https://www.instagram.com/stop2pray/
GIVEAWAY
Edie is offering a Kindle or print copy of Soul Care for Writers (U.S. address only).
Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Giveaway will begin at 12:00 A.M. on Monday 12 August and end at 12:00 A.M. on Monday 19 August. Giveaway is subject to the policies found on Robin’s Nest.
RAFFLECOPTER
ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE
Soul Care for Writers
Our lives are busier each day, and the margin we have available for recovery and peace is shrinking. Edie Melson helps you find Soul Care solutions using devotions and prayers and opportunities for creative expression. She has learned that sensory involvement deepens our relationship with the Father and gives rest to our weary souls. She will teach you to tap into your creativity. Reconnect with God using your tactile creativity. Warning! This book may become dog-eared and stained. Draw in it. Experiment with your creative passions. Learn the healing power of play. Allow God’s power to flow through creativity. Soul Care for Writers will become your heart treasure.
#Blogwords, New Week New Face, #NWNF, Guest Post and Giveaway, Edie Melson
August 10, 2019
BLOGWORDS – Saturday 10 August 2019 – TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE UNVEILING by TAMARA LEIGH
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TUESDAY REVIEWS-DAY-on-SATURDAY – BOOK REVIEW – THE UNVEILING by TAMARA LEIGH
THE BLURB
12th century England: Two men vie for the throne: King Stephen the usurper and young Duke Henry the rightful heir. Amid civil and private wars, alliances are forged, loyalties are betrayed, families are divided, and marriages are made.
For four years, Lady Annyn Bretanne has trained at arms with one end in mind—to avenge her brother’s murder as God has not deemed it worthy to do. Disguised as a squire, she sets off to exact revenge on a man known only by his surname, Wulfrith. But when she holds his fate in her hands, her will wavers and her heart whispers that her enemy may not be an enemy after all.
Baron Wulfrith, renowned trainer of knights, allows no women within his walls for the distraction they breed. What he never expects is that the impetuous young man sent to train under him is a woman who seeks his death—nor that her unveiling will test his faith and distract the warrior from his purpose.
THE AUTHOR
[image error]Tamara Leigh signed a 4-book contract with Bantam Books in 1993, her debut medieval romance was nominated for a RITA award, and successive books with Bantam, HarperCollins, and Dorchester earned awards and places on national bestseller lists.
In 2006, the first of Tamara’s inspirational contemporary romances was published, followed by six more with Multnomah and RandomHouse. Perfecting Kate was optioned for a movie, Splitting Harriet won an ACFW Book of the Year award, and Faking Grace was nominated for a RITA award.
In 2012, Tamara returned to the historical romance genre with the release of Dreamspell and the bestselling Age of Faith and The Feud series. Among her #1 bestsellers are her general market romances rewritten as clean and inspirational reads, including Lady at Arms, Lady of Eve, and Lady of Conquest. In winter 2018/2019, watch for the new AGE OF CONQUEST series unveiling the origins of the Wulfrith family. Psst!–It all began with a woman.
Tamara lives near Nashville with her husband, a German Shepherd who has never met a squeaky toy she can’t destroy, and a feisty Morkie who keeps her company during long writing stints.
Connect with Tamara at her website http://www.tamaraleigh.com, Facebook, Twitter and tamaraleightenn@gmail.com.
For new releases and special promotions, subscribe to Tamara Leigh’s mailing list: www.tamaraleigh.com
MY REVIEW
A good story draws the reader in, the story world convincing and real.
This story wrapped around me like a blanket, and transported me right into its midst. Ms. Leigh envelops the reader from the first page, her manner of telling—nay, conveying the story compelling, convincing. Ms. Leigh’s use of the language and syntax of the day made her story more vibrant and vivid.
Annyn frustrated me with her insistence on vengeance. I felt her hurt and anger, and bitterness, though, and urged her to heed voices from her past to forgive and know peace. I cringed at her status as a woman, her life at the whim of man—and championed her for fighting against the standard of the day.
I admired Wulfrith from the start, despite Annyn’s animosity toward him. No spoilers but to say he was a man of honor and faith.
Reading The Unveiling has whetted my reading appetite for the rest of the series.
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
[image error]ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I purchased this book, and offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my own honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day-on-Saturday, #TRD, Book Review, The Unveiling, Tamara Leigh, Age of Faith
August 7, 2019
BLOGWORDS – Thursday 8 August 2019 – CHAT THURSDAY – AUTHOR INTERVIEW and GIVEAWAY – VIKKI KESTELL
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CHAT THURSDAY – AUTHOR INTERVIEW and GIVEAWAY – VIKKI KESTELL
“Faith Filled Fiction”
“Writing is the best job ever… and the most demanding.”
Please join me in giving a feathered welcome to Vikki Kestell.
FAST FAVES
Call or Text
Eggs or Pancakes
Facebook or Twitter
Paperback or Kindle
Thornton or Darcy
Yoga Pants or Jeans
rem: Hullo, Vikki, and welcome to my little nest. Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
VIKKI : Robin, I was born in California but raised in eastern Washington State, where my father worked at Hanford. He took a job at Los Alamos National Lab in New Mexico just prior to the start of my senior year of high school, so we moved. It was a pretty traumatic time for me, made difficult for several reasons. I’d just become a Christian in May, and we moved in September. I loved my new Christian friends, and I had a serious love interest at the time, but I had to leave them all behind.
It was also difficult time to move because music was integral to my life, and I was in the high school swing choir, an ensemble for which you had to compete to get a slot. When I arrived in Los Alamos, the alto slots in Chamber Singers (their ensemble comparable to swing choir) was full. Fortunately, they were short on tenors and I had a great low range. I sang tenor all year! (Loved being “one of the guys.”) I formed my own Christian folk band and sang with a high school jazz ensemble, too.
Following high school, I moved back to Washington and lived in the Pacific Northwest until 1991. That’s when I returned to New Mexico to be near family. I have lived in Albuquerque ever since.
rem: Ohhh! A fellow ensemble singer! I was, too, both in high school and college. Tell us three random things about yourself no one knows.
VIKKI : Three things no one knows? Hmm. Thinking.
rem: un huh, I see how it is. LOL Do you have a favorite Bible verse? And why is it a favorite?
VIKKI : My favorite verse is, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.” 1 Peter 5:6. This has been my life verse for more than 30 years. It spoke (and continues to speak) to my pride and competitive spirit; it taught me to seek the Lord for his plans for my life rather than my own, to be patient, faithful, and diligent, and to leave the “due time” up to him.
rem: It just doesn’t work any other way. But oh! when we humble ourselves before Him—watch out world! Nothing and no one can hold us back. What is your favourite quotation and why?
VIKKI : Goodness! I’m such a practical dork. I really like, “Let us begin as we mean to go on.” I’m not sure where I picked it up, but it means, (Vikki’s explanation) “Look, if you want things to work a certain way, then you need to establish those expectations from the beginning. Why? Because it’s practically impossible to change people’s behaviors (including your own), if you start [a project, job, relationship, habit] one way and think you can change things later on. Just try it: You’ll have a nasty fight on your hands, and you’ll probably lose.” (Single girls? Are you listening? This applies double to future husbands.)
rem: Such simple (sounding) words, such powerful impact! What about those three random things no one knows about you?
VIKKI : Still thinking.
rem: Still waiting… What’s the most random thing in your bag or on your desk?
VIKKI : Wow. Very telling, because I spend so much time in my office! Well, all my makeup is on my desk (nice and tidy in a basket) because I watch/listen to Joyce Meyer on my computer when I’m putting on my makeup.
rem: That’s just practical, plain and simple—two tasks at once! If you could spend an evening with a fictional character, who would it be and why?
VIKKI : I’m still trying to come up with the three random things. Good grief. I’m not being very “random,” am I?
rem: Sounds like you’re very orderly and settled… What do you think is significant about Christian fiction? How has being a novelist impacted your relationship with Christ?
VIKKI : In Christian fiction, we have the opportunity to do more than provide clean entertainment. We have the opportunity to share the Gospel in the most organic way—through story telling. With imaginative stories, we can bring Jesus into any and every situation and genre and do it as naturally as breathing.
How has writing CF impacted my relationship with Jesus? The thing is, I taught and wrote Bible studies for years before I wrote fiction, so I rather think it’s the other way around for me: My relationship with Jesus impacts the way I write. (rem: way cool!) My writing brings biblical truths into my books along with a powerful redemption story. When I’m drafting a storyline, I feel like I’m pulling from the many years I’ve studied God’s word, and I’m relating how I’ve seen him move in my own life.
I will say, though, that my readers have humbled me with their letters, with the reports of how my books have ministered to them. What they say makes me even more careful today than I was, say, last year or the year before, to never approach a day of writing without seeking the Lord’s limitless wisdom, power, anointing, and creativity. My heart is to win as many souls for Jesus with my books as I can, but without his help and inspiration, I’m just a good story teller—and the world is full of good story tellers. What we need are lifelike tales that embody the love, grace, and healing of Jesus.
rem: Tales, not so unlike the parables Jesus told… When reading, what makes or breaks a story for you? Your fiction pet peeve?
VIKKI : I have a few pet peeves regarding Christian fiction. One is the story with perfect people and a perfect ending. (rem: OH.MY.GOODNESS, YES!) I love a happy ending as much as the next person (and reading needs to provide an escape from the pressures of life), but I feel that a character who has no real struggles or flaws (and I’m not talking about breaking a nail or superficial physical attributes such as having an overly large nose) can project an unrealistic picture of the Christian life.
The truth is, no one is perfect, will ever be perfect in this fallen world, or have a perfect life; the only solution to imperfection is daily, ongoing dependence upon Christ: Lord, in my weakness, you are strong; when I falter, you will not allow me fall. I can do what’s on my plate today because you are with me. Whatever comes, I trust you. You will lead me in paths of righteousness for your Name’s sake.
rem: Vikki, you are so right. I like stories with characters I can relate to. What are you reading right now?
VIKKI : I just started Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate last night. So far, so intriguing!
rem: She is one of the many authors who, I fear, I have yet to read… OY You hold a Ph.D. in Organizational Learning and Instructional Technologies. Can you tell us what that is?
VIKKI : I have to laugh. Most people think Organizational Learning means I’ve learned how to organize stuff! LOL, no, that’s not it at all. “Organizations” are human “organisms,” such as businesses, corporations, schools, families, churches, etc. Organizational Learning is the study of how organizations as a whole learn, grow, change, adapt to change, produce, and so on. The Body of Christ is THE greatest organization (human organism) on the face of the planet because it crosses every racial, ethnic, national, social, economic, and gender barrier. We, as the church universal and the church local, can do a better job at helping the whole of the body learn, grow, change, adapt to change, and produce—that is, be fruitful and multiply for Christ.
rem: What?? You mean your desk is a mess like mine??? tee hee hee Seriously, Vikki, that sounds fascinating. And I agree with you that we, as Christians, can and need to do a much better job of being the body of Christ. What prompted you to leave your government / corporate career for writing?
VIKKI : Looking back, I can see God’s hand in it, how he wanted me where I am now. I worked at a Department of Energy school here in Albuquerque and was part of a large RIF (reduction in force). I was a contractor/director at this school, but the pressure and upheaval at that time was so tremendous that I was actually grateful to leave. In the 13 months that followed, I could not find another job (which was unheard of for me), so I began to indie publish. I then worked briefly for a Department of Defense school and wrote a new book during that time. I’d only been at the DOD school eight months when Sequestration budget cuts killed the entire contract my position was on! (rem: OY!)
I was great with the layoff, however, because, by then, my books were starting to take off. I told my husband, Conrad, “I really don’t want to go back to government work. I want to write and see where the Lord takes me.” He said, “Then do it.” (Lord, bless him!) I’ve been writing full-time since the summer of 2013, six years now, and have written 14 full-length novels in addition to the two I’d already published, plus two short stories. I have also published a five-volume Bible study entitled, Growing Up in God, that speaks to various aspects of Christian maturity. Some of the volume titles are “Godly Emotional Maturity” and “How to Belong to a Church—and Love It.”
rem: Vikki, I love love love reading stories like yours, seeing God’s hand in the “uh oh” moments of our lives, directing us where we’d not think to look. In an older interview, you said you wrote your first book on Commodore 64. Tell us about that experience.
VIKKI : I actually wrote my first book, A Rose Blooms Twice, longhand, then typed it out on the Commodore. This was 1988, and I’d never touched a computer until then. Well, I found out something interesting: I’m a technophile, that is, I love technology, and I have a natural affinity for computers and software. At this point, I’m probably an MS Word professional and could teach advanced classes, lol! I also do most of my own cover design, having taught myself Photoshop over the past 15 years.
rem: Can’t say I’m so advanced as to teach, but I’m absolutely a technophile and have been since the 60’s when my dad would take me to work with him and let me play with the key punch cards! (Might hit ya up for some Photoshop help in the future… #winkwink ) What are your top 3 recommendations for a new writer? What 3 things would recommend not doing?
VIKKI : Although not an exhaustive list, here are my three top recommendations.
1) Most people have at least one book, one burning message within them. Look inside: Do you have many stories to tell? Be honest. If you’re a one- or two-book person, that’s okay, but understand that to succeed as an independent author/publisher, most authors need to write and publish two or more books a year for at least five years before his or her work “takes off” and garners a readership/following.
2) That recommendation brings me to writing discipline. When you’re writing a book’s first draft, set a daily and a weekly word count goal. Mine is 2,000/daily, six days a week. That’s 12,000 words a week. (Your goals will likely be different than mine.) Are they all “good” words? I’ve found that if I write to a goal, most of what I write fits somewhere—besides, no one can steer a stationary vehicle. Get moving. As you roll along, God will provide the direction.
3) Independent publishing is a big job, and you’ll either wear a lot of hats or need to hire qualified people to help you. The one hat no author can wear or go without, however, is “Proofreader.” Why? because no one sees their own work with clear, objective eyes. The mind inserts what you intended to type, and skips right over typos and missing words. Every author need a good, reliable proofreader. I have two. Greg and Cheryl have been my teammates for five years. I could not do what I’m doing without them or our fellowship. They have become precious friends.
Three things would recommend not doing.
1) Writing without prayer
2) Writing without commitment
3) Writing without a self-imposed schedule. (What gets measured, gets done.)
rem: Such good, clear directives. How do you choose your characters’ names?
VIKKI : Carefully. (Ha ha!) I’m careful not to choose names that begin with the same letter as another character. I pick memorable names that seem to embody the same persona as the character.
rem: Oh yes, the name has to fit the character! I mean, how do you get on board with a nanny named Brutus? Do you think of the entire story before you start writing?
VIKKI : Nope. I usually have only vague goals or a few scenes in my head. Along the way, I meet new characters, and they do things I didn’t plan for them to do. I’m often surprised by the direction the story takes and how it ends. Some of my characters are incorrigible!
rem: YES!!! That’s pretty much how I do it, too! Tell us a little about your latest book? What is your current project?
VIKKI : I’ve just published the first two books in my Laynie Portland series, Laynie Portland, Spy Rising, and Laynie Portland, Retired Spy. They came out a month apart, June and July. I wrote Retired Spy first; while I was writing it, I told my team, “I think I should write a little prequel.” Reminds me of that riposte, “It’ll be fun, she said.” Oh, my! That little prequel, Spy Rising, became a 60,000 word novella, while the second book, Retired Spy, burgeoned to 125,000 words. Suffice it to say, I had a very busy January-July! (It’ll be fun, she said? Riiiight!)
rem: Of COURSE it’ll be fun!!! Isn’t it always? What is YOUR favorite part about the book or why do you love this book? Why should we read it?
VIKKI : My books usually (not always, but usually) feature strong female characters who don’t start out as Christians but who encounter God in a powerful way. Spy Rising follows young Laynie as she is recruited by Marstead International, a global technology/aeronautics firm. Marstead is actually a front for a joint U.S./NATO intelligence gathering organization, and they know talent when they see it.
Laynie, however, has some deep flaws hidden away in her heart, hidden from Marstead: She and her baby brother were adopted when Laynie was three years old, and Laynie has painful memories of a loss that she cannot recall. During her childhood, she internalized that loss. She took the blame of her biological parents’ absence/abandonment upon herself. As a result, she’s never felt worthy of God’s love. In fact, she considers herself without value or worth. She believes that if the work she does has meaning, then her life won’t be a waste. When Marstead offers her that “important” work, she determines to pass their training—no matter what or how. From the blurb:
“This statement is true: No one is born a spy. Laynie’s journey into a life of counterintelligence and espionage required intense training and dedication, but that journey is also a tale of choices, of decisions often made for the wrong reasons and on the basis of faulty belief and rationale. Laynie’s story discloses the inexorable breaking down of moral restraint as the pressure of what she desires overrules what she knows is right . . . when the innocence of her youth is stripped away, and the shape of her destiny is set. Many of us will relate.”
rem: I had one thing in common with Laynie—I didn’t feel worthy of love or anything else from anyone, not even God. What is one take-away from your book(s) that you hope readers identify with?
VIKKI : Like the blurb above suggests, we’ve all been guilty of making wrong choices. I think most readers will find themselves shouting at Laynie, “No; don’t do that! It’s a trap, a snare!” and perhaps know the sad outcome of her ill-advised choices.
In Retired Spy, we see an older, “wiser” Laynie, a woman who realizes how far from God she is. And that’s when he begins to work! It’s a heart-pounding, suspenseful read with a few truly unexpected twists. The third book in the series, Renegade Spy, comes out in December.
rem: Isn’t that a component of this life—wrong choices? Regrets? And the golden moment of grace when Father God touches those moments and turns them for our good and His glory.
Anything you’d like to add?
VIKKI : Robin, I love to hear from new readers! I’d also like to offer five free Kindle copies of Laynie Portland, Spy Rising to your readers.
rem: Vikki, that’s wonderful! How generous of you! Thank you so much for chatting with us at my little nest today!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vikki Kestell’s passion for people and their stories is evident in her readers’ affection for her characters and unusual plotlines. Two often-repeated sentiments are, “I feel like I know these people,” and “I am right there, in the book, experiencing what her characters experience.”
Vikki holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Learning and Instructional Technologies. She left a career of twenty-plus years in government, academia, and corporate life to pursue writing full time. “Writing is the best job ever,” she admits, “and the most demanding.”
Also an accomplished speaker and teacher, Vikki and her husband Conrad Smith make their home in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
https://www.amazon.com/Vikki-Kestell/e/B007OLYM0M
https://www.facebook.com/TheWritingOfVikkiKestell
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/vikki-kestell
https://twitter.com/FaithFilledFic
GIVEAWAY
Vikki is offering five (5) free Kindle copies of Laynie Portland Spy Rising.
Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Giveaway will begin at 12:oo A.M. on Thursday 8 August and end at 12:oo A.M on Thursday 15 August. Giveaway is subject to the policies found on Robin’s Nest.
RAFFLECOPTER
ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE
“A genre to me is more the setting than the objective. My characters are real to me. I could put them in any genre and they would thrive..”
#Blogwords, Chat Thursday, Author Interview and Giveaway, Vikki Kestell
Robin's Book Shelf
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