Brenda S. Anderson's Blog, page 18

Inspy Contemporary Romance Giveaway!

To celebrate the beginning of fall, I’ve teamed up with more than 40 amazing inspirational contemporary romance authors to give away a huge collection of novels, PLUS a Kindle Fire to one lucky winner!

You can win my novel RISKING LOVE, plus books from authors like SUSAN MAY WARREN, RUTH LOGAN HERNE, SALLY BRADLEY, and my good friend, STACY MONSON! And those are just a few of the authors participating!

You can enter the giveaway by clicking here: http://bit.ly/contemp-inspy

Good luck, and happy reading!

Brenda

(Contest ends Monday, October 17, 2016)

The post Inspy Contemporary Romance Giveaway! appeared first on Brenda Anderson Books.

Book Birthday Celebration Continues!

The celebration continues! Thank you to all who stopped by my blog yesterday to party with me. In case you weren’t able to visit yesterday, I’ve thrown together a few additional Berry Cheesecake parfaits. Trust me, they’re not only delicious, but they’re healthy! For the recipe, go here. The book giveaway goes until October 10 at midnight. If you haven’t entered, fill in the Rafflecopter form below.

This ‘n That

My hero, Caleb Johnson, was interviewed at the WordSowers blog yesterday. Find out more about him here.

And today, I’m spotlighted on the WordSowers site: http://wordsowers.com/author-showcase-brenda-s-anderson/.

Want to read the scene where my hero meets/saves my heroine? Shannon Taylor Vannatter shares that on her Inkslinger blog here. And if you comment on that blog post, you’ll be entered to win an ebook copy of Risking Love.

I’ve received several very gracious blog reviews of Risking Love so far. Check these out:

Into the Fire ~ Nicole Petrino-Salter
ChristianBookaholic ~ Julia Wilson
Fiction, Faith, and Fun ~ Sarah Ruut
Faith, Family, Fiction ~ Michelle Kaderly Welsh

If you haven’t seen this beautiful trailer created by John Martin Keith at Edenbrooke Productions, check it out. He even composed the music especially for Risking Love! How cool is that?!

And lastly, if you haven’t yet purchased Risking Love, you can do so at any of the following links:

Paperback

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

eBook

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iTunes | Kobo | 24 Symbols | Inktera

Want a chance to win an autographed paperback copy of Risking Love? Fill in the Rafflecopter below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The post Book Birthday Celebration Continues! appeared first on Brenda Anderson Books.

Happy Book Birthday, RISKING LOVE

Woo hoo! So excited to celebrate Risking Love‘s book birthday! As of today, you can download the ebook and/or order the paperback from several sites. For those of you who pre-ordered, the book should have arrived on your Kindle this morning. And there’s a special surprise at the end of the paperback and ebook: a sneak peek at the book cover for Capturing Beauty, the second book in my Where the Heart Is series.

If you haven’t ordered Risking Love yet, here are all the links:

Paperback

Amazon | B&N

eBook

Amazon | B&N | iTunes | Kobo | 24Symbols

Now let’s get down to celebrating! I have cake, of course, chosen specifically by my heroine, Lissa: Berry Cheesecake Dessert. Here’s the recipe for this easy-to-make, delicious, and healthy treat:

Makes 2 servings

Prep: 15 minutes

Chill: 4 to 24 hours

Ingredients

1/4 of an 8-ounce tub (1/4 cup) fat-free cream cheese
1/4 cup light ricotta cheese
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon finely shredded orange peel
2 teaspoons orange juice
1-1/2 cups fresh raspberries, blueberries, and/or sliced strawberries
2 crumbled gingersnaps or chocolate wafer cookies (optional)
Fresh mint (optional)

Directions

In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, ricotta cheese, sugar, orange peel, and orange juice. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until smooth. Cover and chill for 4 to 24 hours.

Divide cream cheese mixture between two parfait or dessert dishes and top with berries. If desired, sprinkle with broken cookies and garnish with mint.

Sounds delectable, doesn’t it? And it’s only 109 calories per serving!

And what’s a birthday celebration without a giveaway? One lucky commenter will win a gift package that includes an autographed paperback copy of Risking Love, a book of hearty-healthy recipes, a Go Red for Women lapel pin, plus other surprise goodies. To enter, fill in the Rafflecopter form below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway



~ About Risking Love ~

She holds the key to his heart. And his home.

Can she risk falling for a man whose home she may have to take away?

Bank employee Lissa Morgan likes all the columns of her life to add up. From her job to romance, every major decision is planned out. But before she can go out on a date with Mr. Perfect, she attends a charity auction with her meddling mom who wins Lissa a date with thrill-seeker Caleb Johnson.

Caleb lived for adventure until heart disease stole his wife’s life. Then debt closed his business and now threatens to take his home. With a toddler to raise, he vows that his risk-taking days are over. But then he meets the cautious yet curious Lissa Morgan and decides it’s time to take one more risk—this time on love.

When Lissa learns the extent of Caleb’s debt, she wonders if she can collect on his heart if she forecloses on his home. And why is she falling for the wrong man—one who challenges her to leap from her orderly life and into his waiting arms?

The post Happy Book Birthday, RISKING LOVE appeared first on Brenda Anderson Books.

October 2016 New Releases

Check out the New Releases in Christian fiction for October. Includes my own RISKING LOVE. More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website.

Biblical Fiction:

Providence: Hannah’s Journey by Barbara M. Britton — When the prophet of Israel refuses to heal her, Hannah flees Jerusalem and is captured by an enemy with a curse all his own. (Biblical from Harbourlight [Pelican])

Shadow of the Storm by Connilyn Cossette — In defiance of her mother, Shira pursues her heart’s calling to become an apprentice midwife. When a delivery goes horribly wrong, Shira finds herself bound to a man who betrayed her, the caretaker of three young children, and the target of a vengeful woman whose husband was killed by Shira’s people, the Levites. As contention between the Hebrew tribes and the foreigners fans the flames of another dangerous rebellion, Shira will come face-to-face with the heartbreak of her past that she has kept hidden for so long. How can she let go of all that has defined her to accept the love she’s denied herself and embrace who she truly is? (Biblical from Bethany House [Baker])

Christmas Novella:

Christmas Lights by Chautona Havig, Vikki Kestell, Cathe Swanson, and April Hayman — From historical romance to contemporary cozy mysteries and Christmas wonder, these four “light” reads will warm your heart and ignite your Christmas spirit! (Christmas Novella, Mixed Genres, Independently Published)

Contemporary Romance:

Risking Love by Brenda S. Anderson — Can cautious bank employee Lissa Morgan risk falling in love with a former thrill-seeker, a widowed single dad, when she may have to foreclose on his house? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

A Mom for Christmas by Lorraine Beatty — Noah’s dream of a happy family and Beth’s dream of a continuing ballet career are both dashed, but when they come together they discover that the Lord might have a new dream for both of them. (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Sleigh Bells Ring by Sandra D. Bricker, Barbara J. Scott, Lynette Sowell, and Lenora Worth — Santa Claus is coming to town, and so are the Tucker sisters. The girls have inherited their father’s run-down horse farm for Christmas. It needs some serious TLC in order to make it sell-ready. Joanna knows that by recruiting her sisters and one handsome ranch hand they can fix up the place and even celebrate one last Christmas while they’re at it. However, to Isabella, returning to their home in Kentucky bluegrass country for Christmas seems like an impossible hurdle. Can her Chicago boyfriend make life merry and bright again? One thing’s for sure: nothing is peace on earth for Sophia as a new beau brings up old wounds. And when the fate of the horse farm is put in jeopardy because Amy accidentally fraternizes with the enemy, tensions rise. But it’s not like the land developer stole Christmas . . . just her heart. Can the Tucker sisters have themselves a merry little Christmas? (Contemporary Romance from Gilead Publishing)

Do You Hear What I Hear? by Margaret Brownley — Stranded at the old Star Inn until the road back to his cabin reopens, lumber mill owner Rick Talbot suddenly comes face to face with the past. The only woman he’s ever loved is standing in front of the inn’s blazing fire trying to get warm. Both Rick and Sally regret what happened between them years ago, but his family lumberyard clashes with her tree-hugging ways and neither is willing to try again. It will take the storm of the century, one stage-struck young boy, a certain meddling “angel”–and even a cranky cat–to convince them that in matters of the heart, sometimes the second time around is best. (Contemporary Romance from St. Martin Press)

More Than a Tiara by Valerie Comer — Marisa Hiller abandoned her modeling career to nurse a broken heart in Montana, far from the photographer who ruined everything. Her family farm is now part of a CSA program teaching gardening and cooking to single moms, but when the coordinator begs her to represent the program in the Miss Snowflake Pageant, Marisa balks. God has forgiven Jase Mackie but hasn’t answered his prayer to bring Marisa back into his life… until Jase finds himself out West as the official photographer for a beauty pageant, face to face with the woman he’s never forgotten. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Room at the Inn for Christmas by Mary Connealy — Ambitious hotel executive Amanda Star’s has got her sights set on the CEO job at the multi-national Halston hotel chain. But then she inherits the Star Inn, a place her father had always wanted her to run alongside him. With no time to be away from her job, she rushes home to put the inn up for sale. Once there, she’s struggles against keen regret, sweet memories, and the longing to return, which grows stronger when she is reunited with an old classmate: Anthony Carter, a handyman with a guarded heart. (Contemporary Romance from St. Martin Press)

Can’t Help Falling by Kara Isaac — A funny, heartfelt romance about how an antique shop, a wardrobe, and a mysterious tea cup bring two C.S. Lewis fans together in a snowy and picturesque Oxford, England. (Contemporary Romance from Howard [Simon & Schuster])

A Christmas Homecoming by Kimberly Rose Johnson — Interior design assistant Bailey Calderwood suspects the mysterious admirer sending her cards and flowers is none other than the son of her unpleasable, bed-ridden boss. When Stephen Belafonte’s mom demands he fire Bailey, can he find a way to heal the rift in his family as well his own heart, or will he be forced to let Bailey go? (Contemporary Romance from Mountain Brook Ink)

Where Two Hearts Meet by Liz Johnson — When Caden Holt’s boss asks her to show off their own beautiful Prince Edward Island to impress a visiting travel writer and save the Red Door Inn, the reclusive executive chef is forced to face a world much bigger than her kitchen–and a man who makes her wish she was beautiful. (Contemporary Romance from Revell [A Division of Baker Publishing Group])

Trust My Heart by Carol J. Post — Grant McAllister, a jaded big-city lawyer and small-town reporter Jami Carlisle have no hope for finding true love–except for a zany old matchmaker who won’t give up. In the unspoiled beauty of the Smoky Mountains, there’s healing and forgiveness to be found. And for Grant, this unplanned detour may be just what’s needed to finally guide him home. (Contemporary Romance from Waterfall Press)

Insight by Deborah Raney — She’s having a baby. It’s a blessing that brings comfort to newly widowed Olivia Cline. Yet with no insurance, no job and precious little money, how will Olivia care for herself and her child? The answer is a handsome and brooding artist seeking an assistant. Reed Vincent has recently regained his eyesight thanks to a donor. And through his eyes, Olivia begins to see all the possibilities before her. Before them. Until, in a flash of insight, she knows why his signature is so hauntingly familiar. (Contemporary Romance from Raney Day Press)

Silver Bells by Deborah Raney — As Elvis croons from the radio and Christmas descends upon a small Kansas town, two people find the miracle of love. (Contemporary Romance from Raney Day Press)

A Family Under the Christmas Tree by Terri Reed — In this heartwarming tale set during the Christmas season, a single father and a fashion photographer are brought together by a young boy and a mischievous Bernese mountain dog–but first they must learn to set aside their differences if they are willing to let their relationship bloom. (Contemporary Romance from Howard [Simon & Schuster])

Third Strand of the Cord by Catherine Richmond — Caroline will do anything to keep her ex-husband from putting her son with Down syndrome in an institution–even enroll the boy in a class taught by a know-it-all karate instructor. Lee Marivaux is an expert at reading people. He knows his feisty new student will thrive with firm guidance – and he’s right. He pegs the boy’s mother as a clueless socialite who loafs at the country club – and he’s never been so wrong. When Caroline’s abusive ex shows up, demanding custody, Lee and Caroline must join forces to keep the boy safe. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Buying Love by Toni Shiloh — Impatient for marriage, Nina Warrenton places an ad in the newspaper for a husband–attaching a monetary reward. But when she begins to fall for the small-town chef who answers her add, she realizes how much she wants him to love her and not her money. Dwight Williams needs fast cash to save the family restaurant, but can he let it go to prove his love for Nina? (Contemporary Romance from Celebrate Lit)

Moonlight Over Manahttan by Carrie Turansky — Professional organizer Sarah Montgomery is hired to organize her elderly neighbor’s cluttered apartment by Justin Latimer, her neighbor’s grandson. Sarah believes free-spirited Justin is a lazy, unemployed poet who is taking advantage of his grandmother’s generosity. Though attracted to him, she guards her heart against her growing feelings. As Sarah and Justin work together to help his grandmother and enjoy Christmas events in NYC, romantic sparks fly. When Sarah discovers who Justin really is, she must decide if she will continue to hide behind her protective wall or open her heart and embrace love. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Love Bears All Things by Beth Wiseman — Charlotte Dolinsky needs time to recover after breaking up with her boyfriend, Ryan. But when a surprise visitor shows up on her doorstep in Texas, she’s forced to put aside her own worries to help her Amish friends in Lancaster County. Daniel Byler struggles each day in his Amish community to heal from his fiancée’s betrayal. When he discovers that a member of his family is in danger of being shunned, his pain turns to fear. His only way to help is by partnering with Charlotte, a woman he barely knows who has already deceived them all before. (Contemporary Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing)

General Contemporary (includes Women’s Fiction):

Paint The Storm by Dawn V. Cahill — When Meg is challenged to love her lesbian daughter as Christ would, she struggles to live out God’s command, and when her daughter goes missing, she finds herself joined with the unlikeliest of allies in her search for Linzee, and finally learns of God’s unconditional grace for sinners. (Contemporary Women’s Fiction from Spring Mountain Publishing)

Restoration Road by Elise Phillips — Mallory Andrews’s short trip back to Texas for her mother’s funeral quickly becomes a move home to help her grieving father with his contracting business. When her old crush, Tres, hires them for a restoration project Mallory falls in love with the crumbling old house. And when feelings bloom between her and Tres, she finds herself on the road to a brand new, unexpected life filled with faith, sweet tea, and fresh paint. (General Contemporary from Desert Breeze Publishing)

Above All Things by Deborah Raney — Expecting their first baby, Judd and Evette McGlin are thrilled to become parents. But the couple faces the ultimate test when Judd learns he already has a child: a six-year-old mixed-race girl born amid secrets and lies. Now, Evette must decide if she can accept the child. She thought she was open-minded–until hidden prejudices threaten the future of an innocent little girl, Evette’s marriage and the very notion of who she thinks she is. (Contemporary Women’s Fiction from Raney Day Press)

Restoring Christmas by Cynthia Ruchti — Alexis set out to restore a fieldstone farmhouse in need of repair. She didn’t expect to restore a life in the process. (General Contemporary from Worthy Inspired)

Strings of Faith by Terry Stafford — Darcy is a classically trained violinist who dreams of playing bluegrass and winning The National Oldtime Fiddle Contest in Weiser, Idaho. When tragedy strikes, Darcy lays her gift aside for her family and faces unimaginable pain and loss, leading to dissension with her husband, disappointing judgment from her church, and anger with God Himself. Can her gift of music survive when her life is turned upside down? (General Contemporary, Independently Published)

Historical:

The Lost Generation by Erica Marie Hogan — On August 5th 1914, the world changed forever. For John and Beth Young, it meant the happiness they finally achieved was snatched out from under them. For Emma Cote, it meant that her husband Jared would do his duty, despite her feelings. For Christy Simmons it meant an uncertain future with the boy she loved. The lives of six people, spread across the British Empire to America were changed forever. (Historical from Elk Lake Publishing Inc.)

Aboard Providence by Keely Brooke Keith — When an accident forces Jonah Ashton to serve as a ship’s physician, he boards the Providence with the plan to escort a group of families to their new settlement in South America and then return to Pennsylvania to finish medical school before rumors of Southern rebellion erupt into all-out war. What he doesn’t count on is getting lost at sea… and Marian Foster. When the settlers finally reach land, Jonah makes a startling discovery that changes everything, but will it change his heart? (Historical from Crossriver Media Group)

Historical Romance:

The Rails to Love Romance Collection by Diana Lesire Brandmeyer, Amanda Cabot, Lisa Carter, Ramona K. Cecil, Lynn A. Coleman, Susanne Dietze, Kim Vogel Sawyer, Connie Stevens, and Liz Tolsma — Journey the Transcontinental Railroad along with nine unlikely couples who encounter all the dangers and disappointments of traveling the rails in the late 1800s. From sight-seeing excursions to transports toward new lives, from orphan trains to circus trains, can romances develop into blazing love in a world of cold, hard steel? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

Cowboy Christmas Homecoming by Mary Connealy, Ruth Logan Herne, Julie Lessman, and Anna Schmidt — For widow June Harper, another cold front is about to hit. Most call him Hugh. She’d call him Scrooge, except as the man ensures her needs are met, June can’t help but wonder how to meet the needs of his heart. Netty Lewis can take care of herself, has for a while now. And even if Roy, her hired help for the holidays, does take care of her, that doesn’t mean he cares for her or that he’ll stay past Christmas. Pastor Colton McCabe is not sure he’ll make it through the holidays with his new housekeeper. Grace can’t seem to do anything right but love. Perhaps being a homekeeper will earn her a permanent residence in his heart. Connie Lancaster is determined to return to St. Louis, and no cowboy can change her mind. But if Isaac can change her heart, maybe Connie will see the homecoming she’s been longing for isn’t to a place but a person. (Historical Romance from Gilead Publishing)

The Captive Heart by Michelle Griep — Stranded in a strange land, Eleanor Morgan faces starvation or marriage . . . but who wants to marry a murderer? (Historical Romance from Barbour Publishing)

The Rightful Heir by Angel Moore — Cowboy Jared Ivy must work with stranger Mary Lou Ellison until a judge comes to town and determines which one of them is the rightful heir to his family’s Texas newspaper. Intrepid reporter Mary Lou won’t lose the Pine Haven Record–the legacy he left her–without a fight. But when she and Jared stop sparring long enough to investigate a story together, they become a force to be reckoned with. Will they let their battle over the Record get in the way of something even more newsworthy: true love? (Historical Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Christmas at Stoney Creek by Martha Rogers — When newspaper reporter Tom Whiteman befriends a homeless man named Joe, Tom decides to bring him home to Stoney Creek, Texas for Christmas. As Tom and his childhood friend Faith Delmont set out to learn the truth about the mysterious old man with the kind, sad eyes, they discover that God’s love can turn tragedy and loss to triumph, and that true love comes to those who wait. (Historical Romance from Realms [Charisma Media])

Mystery:

Another Day, Another Dali by Sandra Orchard — In order to regain her grandmother’s favor FBI Special Agent Serena Jones agrees to investigate a missing Salvador Dali painting. But when the evidence points to members of the owner’s own household, it becomes clear that Serena won’t be winning any popularity contests. Then Serena stumbles upon links to her grandfather’s unsolved murder. (Mystery from Revell [A Division of Baker Publishing Group])

Romantic Suspense:

Tangled Webs by Irene Hannon — After a disastrous Middle East mission ends his six-year Army Ranger career, Finn McGregor needs some downtime in the woods. But when someone threatens his neighbor, publishing executive Dana Lewis, Finn and Dana must work together to discover who wants her to leave her lakeside cabin before it costs both their lives. (Romantic Suspense from Revell [A Division of Baker Publishing Group])

Identity Unknown by Terri Reed — When a John Doe washes up on the shores of Calico Bay, no one knows who he is—including him. But one thing’s instantly clear to deputy sheriff Audrey Martin: the man’s marked for murder. And she’s the only one who can protect him from the assassins who lurk at every turn. The arrival of a team of men claiming he’s Canadian Border Services officer Nathanial Longhorn only further complicates the matter. As his memories slowly start drifting back, Nathanial and Audrey work to uncover who wants him dead and why. If they don’t, this Christmas might be their last. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Speculative:

A Time to Rise by Nadine Brandes — What more can you sacrifice than your life? Parvin Blackwater is dead. At least that’s what the Council and the world thinks. But her sacrifice tore down part of the Wall long enough to stir up hope and rebellion in the people. Parvin and Solomon must uncover the mysterious clues that Jude left behind in order to destroy the projected Wall once and for all. Meanwhile, the Council schemes to new levels of technology in its attempts to keep the people contained. Can a one-handed Radical and a scarred ex-Enforcer really bring shalom to the world? (Speculative Young Adult from Enclave Publishing)

Unblemished by Sara Ella — Eliyana can’t bear to look at her own reflection. But what if that were only one Reflection—one world? What if another world exists where her blemish could become her strength? (Speculative Young Adult from HarperCollins Christian Publishing)

Beast by Chawna Schroeder — For as long as Beast can remember, she has lived among her master’s dogs. With them she sleeps. With them she eats. With them she fights and struggles to survive. But through hunger and cold she dreams of one day becoming her master’s favorite, earning bones with meat and a place beside the fire. When her pack scatters after a surprise raid, Beast must defend herself against slavers, hunting down the loners. They are so strong, and she is only a beast . . . or is she? (Speculative Allegory from Enclave Publishing)

Accelerant by Ronie Kendig — He’ll destroy the world. But he must save it first. As the only able-bodied heir to the Fire Throne, Haegan, Prince of Seultrie must return to the Nine Kingdoms and fight for his people. But there are insidious forces at work. When reality itself falls into question, Haegan struggles to know where to fight, who to trust. Caught between duty to his country and duty to the world, Haegan must see clearly enough to choose the right path to save his devastated world. (Speculative High Fantasy from Enclave Publishing)

Thriller/Suspense:

Death in the Mind’s Eye by Rick Acker — It knows what you’re thinking. It knows when you’re lying. Does it know how to kill? San Francisco attorney Mike Webster and Dr. Johanna Anderson, a brilliant and beautiful psychologist, must clear Jo’s name of a malpractice case before the controversial, technologically-assisted Mind’s Eye therapy is seized by a shadowy finance firm and used as a weapon. (Thriller/Suspense from Waterfall Press)

The Warrior’s Seal by Ronie Kendig — A Special Forces team is thrust into a war with the past to save the president after an artifact unleashes a deadly toxin. Special Forces operative Cole “Tox” Russell and his team are tasked in a search-and-rescue–the U.S. president has been kidnapped during a goodwill tour. The mission nosedives when an ancient biblical artifact and a deadly toxin wipe out villages. Tox must stop the terrorists and the toxin to save the president. This is a free e-novella prequel! (Thriller/Suspense from Bethany House [Baker])

Deadly Infiltration by W. Richard Lawrence — Infiltrators inside the American government are betraying undercover agents while helping sneak weapons of mass destruction across our borders. To keep their work hidden, they are willing to murder anyone who gets in their way. Sara, a brilliant computer expert working for the FBI, finds herself caught in the middle. Sara’s young faith in God is gravely tested when she is framed for the murder of an FBI agent, forcing her to go into hiding. Meanwhile, Sara’s fiancé Derry lives up to a promise he made to her, and gives up his future to save her and hopefully the country. (Thriller/Suspense from Boarding House Publishing)

Western Historical:

Refining Fire by Carol Cox — Meet the Arizona Territory Brides. Four strong, independent women–each determined to stand on her own two feet, and not one of them looking for romance. But sometimes love shows up when you least expect it… (Western, Pioneer/Prairie, Independently Published)

The post October 2016 New Releases appeared first on Brenda Anderson Books.

Blog Hopping – Shannon Taylor Vannatter’s Inkslinger

Shannon Taylor Vannatter stopped by for a visit this past Tuesday, so today I’m returning the favor and visiting with Shannon at her popular Inkslinger blog. I share a snippet of how my hero and heroine meet, and I’m offering an ebook giveaway of Risking Love. I’d love for you to click on over and say “hi.”

Inkslinger Visit

Reminders

Risking Love comes out on October 4, 2016 – that’s less than a week away! And yes, I will be having a giveaway celebration.

Getting to Know Shannon Taylor Vannatter + Giveaway

My good friend, and prolific romance writer, Shannon Taylor Vannatter has just released another book! In Reuniting with the Cowboy, Shannon continues with her popular cowboy theme, and no surprise, readers are gobbling it up. (And isn’t the cover beautiful?!)

Here’s the back cover blurb:

The Cowboy Next Door 

A charming cowboy moving in next door shouldn’t be bad news. But veterinarian Ally Curtis knows Cody Warren—she’d never forget the boy who left her when she needed him most. Cody is doing everything he can to show his beautiful neighbor he’s not the wild bull rider he once was, from helping her find homes for her beloved strays, to protecting her when her business is threatened. But Cody has a secret that keeps him from fully reaching out. Yet as they continue to work together to promote her shelter, he can’t keep himself from hoping that Ally might have a home for him…in her heart.

I’m pleased to have Shannon visit once again answering a few questions, along with offering a fun giveaway. See contest rules below.

Hi Shannon! So fun having you visit again! And congratulations on your new release! Could you tell my readers about your faith journey?

When I was young, we went to church sporadically. We’d moved from rural Arkansas where my parents attended a Methodist church with about 30 members to a suburb of Chicago, IL for my dad’s job. The churches there were ginormous and they couldn’t find one they really liked. But even though we didn’t go often, my mom taught me about God and Jesus. When I was seven, we moved to Atlanta, GA for my dad’s job. He used to be a carpenter and we followed the housing booms. I attended church with two friends – one Baptist and one Assembly of God.

When I was twelve, we moved back to Arkansas and went to the church my parents grew up in. By then, there were only twelve members including us and we only had Sunday morning service, but we were there every Sunday. Late in my teens, I went to a Baptist church with one friend and an Assembly of God with another. Eventually, I committed more to the Baptist one. I still attended with my parents on Sunday morning, but went to the Baptist church on Sunday and Wednesday nights. I don’t know where I got the idea, but I thought if I attended church and was a good person, I’d go to heaven.

When I started dating my future husband, he and my Assembly of God friend started talking about getting saved. I had no clue what that was until my husband explained that I had to put my faith and trust in Jesus and ask him to be my savior. This was totally crazy, because at the time, my husband was a pot head – I just didn’t know it yet. But he’d been raised in church, his dad was a pastor, and he’d been saved at nine years old. He just went wild after his parents ended up divorcing. While we dated, he went to church with me. But after a while, I figured out that all the rumors I heard about him were true. We broke up.

I kept going to the Baptist church with my friend for evening services and my Assembly friend kept witnessing to me. Finally, I committed my life to Christ in my bedroom. A few months later, my future husband told me he was quitting all his meanness and I could tell he was different. He started going to church with me again and he recommitted to Jesus. Our relationship completely changed for the better and we dated the rest of high school. A year after we graduated, we got married.

About fourteen years later, he dipped his toe into ministry and became a youth director at my parent’s church which had grown to a hundred people. We had about thirty unchurched, unruly teens. It was difficult for me. While Grant was just glad they were coming to church, I’d get frustrated because I could tell they were only coming to get out of the house and they took advantage of his generosity with them. Out of those thirty – only one is in church that we know of, and one is in prison for murder.

Three years later, Grant answered the call to preach. Though I felt completely unqualified and slightly overwhelmed at the sudden preacher’s wife title, I adjusted. I’m a much better, more patient pastor’s wife than I was a youth director’s wife. He’s been pastoring our current church for ten years and I’m there every time the doors are open, unless our son is sick or I’m REALLY sick.

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

I put a bit of myself in all of my heroines. The heroine in my first published book,  Adrea, was falling for a preacher and feeling like she couldn’t measure up to his deceased wife. I was dealing with my husband answering the call to preach and feeling inadequate.

Even with the bad girls I’ve written, there’s always something about them that reflects me. Shell, Kendra, Natalie, and Tori were all promiscuous – unlike me. But Shell loved her son and tried to do what was best for him. Kendra was falling for a youth pastor. Natalie loved her family as much as I love mine.  Tori, my clothing designer loved dressing up as much as I do.

Another heroine, Raquel had a son who played baseball. My son used to play baseball and when I wrote that book, he had decided he didn’t want to play anymore. I love baseball and had a hard time letting go, especially since he was really good at it. So sometimes, my heroines reflect what’s going in my life and help me deal with changes.

My current heroine, Ally loves animals and is a vet. I considered being a vet once but decided I couldn’t do it because I didn’t want to anesthetize pets. Ally is more tomboyish and doesn’t mind getting dirty, which is so not me. I’m an avid primper.

When you’re not writing, what do you enjoy doing?

I’ve always loved crafting and making things. About four years ago, my husband went from bi-vocational pastor to full time. He suddenly had time on his hands and discovered he likes crafting too. This year, we finally rented a flea market booth. We redo furniture, repurpose unused items, and pretty or rustic stuff up. Our booth is an eclectic mixture of cowhide, burlap, and seashells. I’m in charge of pretty and fabric. He’s in charge of rustic and paint.

I had two old glass lamps – the kind you fill with things. I filled them with burlap, seashells, and seaglass then covered the shades with burlap, and painted a sailboat on one shade, and an anchor on the other. Recently he found the wooden part from an old oxen yoke and turned it into a lighting fixture.

Doing crafty things relaxes us. It rests my mind from writing and takes his off church. Plus we enjoy crafting together. We spend a lot of time shopping flea markets for finds to flip. Our son, fourteen, has come to detest them. We tease him that we’re going to open a flea market of our own and put it in the will that he has to run it and can never sell the business.

About Shannon ~

Shannon Taylor Vannatter is a stay-at-home mom/pastor’s wife/award winning author. She once climbed a mountain wearing gold wedge-heeled sandals which became known as her hiking boots. Shannon writes inspirational contemporary romance and it took her nine years to get published in the traditional market.

Shannon hopes to entertain Christian women and plant seeds in the non-believer’s heart as her characters struggle with real-life issues. Their journeys, from ordinary lives to extraordinary romance through Christ-centered relationships, demonstrate that love doesn’t conquer all—Jesus does. In her spare time, she loves hanging out with her family, flea marketing, and doing craft projects.

Get in touch with Shannon ~

Website | Blog | Facebook | Goodreads | Pinterest | Twitter

Purchase links ~

Amazon | Christianbook | BarnesandNoble

Giveaway Details ~

Giveaway details: Comment to enter the drawing for a copy of Reuniting with the Cowboy. Ten copies will be split among names drawn during the blog tour from Sept 1 – 27. One winner will receive a Noah’s Ark themed memory board personally crafted by the author. This fabric is special since it was in the Vannatter nursery 14 years ago and goes along with the float the characters in the book build for a parade. Great for a shower gift or displaying kids or grandkids. Winners will be revealed on the author’s blog on Oct 8th. Sign up to enter more giveaways: http://shannonvannatter.com/sign-up-for-shannons-newsletter/

Follow the tour:

Sept 1: http://rosemccauley.com/
Sept 3 & 7: https://writingpromptsthoughtsideas.wordpress.com/
Sept 5: http://jenniferhallmark.com/blog/
Sept 5 –http://www.gailkittleson.com/blog/
Sept 12 & 15 – http://www.shannonvannatter.com/blog
Sept 13: http://www.faithfriendschocolate.com/
Sept 16: http://www.jamesrcallan.com/blog/
Sept 21: https://jenpheobus.com/
Sept 27th: http://brendaandersonbooks.com/blog/

The post Getting to Know Shannon Taylor Vannatter + Giveaway appeared first on Brenda Anderson Books.

WHERE HEALING STARTS Character Interview + Giveaway

~ Where Healing Starts Book Giveaway ~

See entry rules below

I’m excited to welcome Joanna Hannigan, the heroine of WHERE HEALING STARTS, to my blog today. Where Healing Starts is the second book in Angela D. Meyer‘s Applewood Hill series, a  family drama that isn’t afraid to deal with real-life topics. This book officially releases this Thursday, September 22, but if you pre-buy it now, you will get Where Hope Stars, book 1 in the Applewood series, FREE! (See link below)

Here’s the back cover blurb to pique your interest:

Joanna, full of bitterness over the past, can no longer ignore the growing storm inside her and is bent on self-destruction as she seeks to ease her pain. But the refuge she seeks is always out of her reach.

Her brother Blake must choose between what has always been safe and what he has always wanted. One mistake after another leads him down a dangerous path.

The one for all, all for one sibling bond can’t help them now. They are both determined to hang onto their anger, never forgetting. Never forgiving. They see no reason to trust God.

After so many years of turmoil, will the Hannigan siblings find refuge in the God who loves them? Or will they get lost along the way?

And now, let’s meet Joanna ~

Joanna, how did you end up working at the after school care program, The Huddle?

 (Joanna shakes her head) You’re really going there! I guess it comes out in the book anyway. Short version? I shoplifted and that was my hand slap. (She averts her eyes) I ended up getting attached to the kids. I actually connected to them better than I do with most adults. To be honest, that caught me off guard. Now, what’s the next question?

Interesting. So, if people you meet could understand one thing about you, what would that be?

(She shrugs) Just because I act like I don’t care…doesn’t mean I don’t. Stuff hurts.

You had a rough childhood. Was there a lot of bullying?

Yeah. And it started with our dad. He was always angry. We never could do anything to his satisfaction. And he never let us forget about it. And then the kids…I guess they saw how our dad treated us and figured they could get away with anything. I’m glad we had the treehouse, Blake and I. It was safe there. (Joanna smiles) I’m learning there is a better safe place. God’s grace.

What was the turning point for you in accepting God’s grace?

I had some unexpected encounters. People I didn’t expect treated me different than everyone else. It’s hard to explain how something impacts you without telling everything that lead up to you. For someone else, it might have just been an ordinary day. Suffice it to say you need to read the book. I promised no spoilers.

You’ve started making changes in your life. Where do you see yourself 5 years from now?

I just want to get to a year down the road. One day at a time. It’s recovery. And I plan to make it. As far as what I would like to do with my life work or relationship wise? If you read the book, I think you’ll get an idea.

What do you hope people will understand after they read your story?

God can redeem anyone from anything.

Before we go I have a fun question for you. If your story were turned into a movie, who would you want to play yourself?

Hmm…(Joanna laughs). Robin Wright. You know,  Forest Gump’s girl. During her hippie phase. Yeah. That would do it. With a rougher edge on her, though.

About Angela ~

Angela D. Meyer, author of The Applewood Hill Series, lives in NE with her husband of 25 years and their high school daughter. Their son serves our country in the Marines. Angela enjoys hanging out with her family, reading, connecting with friends and encouraging women to grow in their faith. One of her dream spots to vacation is next to the ocean and someday she wants to ride in a hot air balloon.

Connect with Angela ~

Website | Facebook | Pinterest | Google+ | Twitter | Newsletter

Purchase Where Healing Starts ~

Click on the graphic below to pre-order your copy of Where Healing Starts, and receive a link to download the Kindle version of Where Hope Starts for free!

Check out this beautiful trailer created by John Martin Keith of Edenbrooke Productions ~

Help Angela get the word out about Where Healing Starts by joining her Thunderclap campaign ~

~ Book Giveaway ~

Angela has graciously offered to give away one ebook copy of Where Healing Starts. To enter, in the comments below answer the question, “Growing up, did you have a treehouse? Tell us about it.”

This contest ends Sunday, September 25, 2016 at 11:59 pm CST. I will post the winner on Monday, September 26, 2016. Winner will be chosen via Random.org.

The post WHERE HEALING STARTS Character Interview + Giveaway appeared first on Brenda Anderson Books.

Tell Your Heart to Beat Again – RISKING LOVE Playlist

In Risking Love (coming October 4!) Caleb Johnson has faced a lot of heartbreak in his young life. His wife passed away a few years ago and now he’s a single father to a spirited toddler. He’s also lost the business he and his wife built together and is in danger of losing his home. The last thing he wants is to risk breaking his heart any more than it already has.

But then he meets Lissa who convinces him to let his heart beat again.

Danny Gokey’s evocative version of “Tell Your Heart to Beat Again” speaks perfectly to Caleb’s story and is wonderful inspiration to all those who are brokenhearted.

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted… Psalm 34:18

RISKING LOVE ebook now available for pre-order on Amazon for only $2.99!

Amazon

About RISKING LOVE ~

She holds the key to his heart, and his home. Can she risk falling in love with a man whose house she may have to take away?

Bank employee Lissa Morgan likes all the columns of her life to add up. From her job to romance, every major decision is planned out. But before she can go out on a date with Mr. Perfect, she attends a charity auction with her meddling mom who wins Lissa a date with thrill-seeker Caleb Johnson.

Caleb lived for adventure until heart disease stole his wife’s life. Then debt closed his business and now threatens to take his home. With a toddler to raise, he vows that his risk-taking days are over. But then he meets the cautious yet curious Lissa Morgan and decides it’s time to take one more risk—this time on love.

When Lissa learns the extent of Caleb’s debt, she wonders if she can collect on his heart if she forecloses on his home. And why is she falling for the wrong man—one who challenges her to leap from her orderly life and into his waiting arms?

The post Tell Your Heart to Beat Again – RISKING LOVE Playlist appeared first on Brenda Anderson Books.

RISKING LOVE Trailer

Check out this beautiful trailer for RISKING LOVE produced by John Martin Keith of Edenbrooke Publications!

Risking Love Trailer by Edenbrooke Productions

Keith not only produced the trailer, but he also wrote the music specifically for my book! How cool is that?! Edenbrooke Productions has also produced music for CBS shows and the Discovery Channel, so when you hire them, you’re getting a true professions. So if you’re looking for a personalized, one-of-a-kind trailer, I’d highly recommend Edenbrooke Productions.

RISKING LOVE, a Where the Heart Is romance, now available for pre-order (Amazon) for only $2.99, that’s half off the original price!

Also, stay tuned to Chain of Mercy on Amazon. I’ll be running a special later this week.

WHERE HEALING STARTS Cover Reveal!

Cover Reveal!

Check out this beautiful cover for Where Healing Starts, the second book in Angela D. Meyer’s Applewood Hill Series!

I had the privilege of reading Where Healing Starts for endorsement, and it’s another winner from Angela D. Meyer. Like me, Angela writes stories about the gritty parts of life and doesn’t shy away from showing characters’ bad choices and actions. In other words, Angela reveals truth, but in doing so, that truth also helps shine a light on where healing actually starts. Check out the book’s description:

Joanna, full of bitterness over the past, can no longer ignore the growing storm inside her and is bent on self-destruction as she seeks to ease her pain.  But the refuge she seeks is always out of her reach.

Her brother Blake must choose between what has always been safe and what he has always wanted. One mistake after another leads him down a dangerous path.

The one for all, all for one sibling bond can’t help them now. They are both determined to hang onto their anger, never forgetting. Never forgiving. They see no reason to trust God.

After so many years of turmoil, will the Hannigan siblings find refuge in the God who loves them? Or will they get lost along the way?

Where Healing Starts is now available for pre-order here, and if you place a pre-order, Angela’s publisher will send you a link to download the Kindle version of Where Hope Starts, book 1 in the Applewood Hill series, for free!

The post WHERE HEALING STARTS Cover Reveal! appeared first on Brenda Anderson Books.