Brenda S. Anderson's Blog, page 20
July 14, 2016
ABOARD PROVIDENCE Cover Reveal! + Giveaway
*** Win an autographed copy of Aboard Providence ***
See below for more information
I’m so excited for author friend, Keely Brooke Keith. She’s recently signed a book contract with CrossRiver Media Group — Yeah, Keely! — and her first book with them, Aboard Providence, will be releasing on October 20, 2016!
I had the privilege of reading and advance copy of Aboard Providence, and it’s a fabulous story, one I highly recommend.
And today she’s finally revealing the cover! Isn’t it gorgeous?!
While you’re waiting for Aboard Providence to release, I encourage you to pick up Keely’s Uncharted Series. All excellent reads!
Author: Keely Brooke Keith
Publisher: CrossRiver Media Group
Released Date: October 20, 2016
Pre-order Link: CrossRiver Media
About Aboard Providence ~
A voyage aboard Providence changes Jonah’s plans, but can it change his heart?
In November 1860, Jonah Ashton is determined to finish his studies at Penn’s Medical School before rumors of Southern rebellion erupt into all-out war. When he learns his father has joined a group of Virginia families planning to sail from America to form a new settlement elsewhere, he travels to his family’s estate intent on saying goodbye. However, when an accident leaves his father in need of a physician, Jonah agrees to serve as ship’s doctor, but he resolves to return to medical school as quickly as possible.
While aboard the Providence, Jonah falls in love with former classmate Marian Foster. Despite their love for each other, Marian has no desire to return to America with him.
After an arduous voyage, Providence runs aground on an uncharted land in the South Atlantic Ocean. While the rest of the settlers celebrate finding the land they wanted, Jonah takes off to explore the island and he soon discovers a startling truth that changes everything, but can it change his heart?
Praise for Aboard Providence ~
“A delightful adventure reminiscent of Swiss Family Robinson, Aboard Providence is one of those novels that will stick with me because I feel I’ve lived it. A captivating, well-researched, and deftly written tale I can confidently recommend to a wide range of readers.”
–Heather Day Gilbert, author of Amazon Norse bestseller God’s Daughter
“With vivid settings and multi-layered characters, Keely Brooke Keith whisks her readers off on a page-turning journey, not just across the ocean, but within the heart. You won’t be able to put Aboard Providence down until the final word is read and then you will long for more.”
–Brenda S. Anderson, author of the Coming Home series
“A blend of history and romance with a compelling inspirational message, Keith expertly weaves an intriguing tale. Fans of the Uncharted Series won’t want to miss this journey.”
–Heidi McCahan, author of Unraveled
“Keely Brooke Keith is a master storyteller, weaving adventure, love, and wonderful characters into a vivid story that will take readers on an unforgettable voyage to a new place. Full of inspirational messages and tales of God’s love, readers will find themselves longing for more. Keely’s story teaches all of us that the journey is just the beginning!”
–Christina Yother, author of the Hollow Hearts series
About Keely Brooke Keith ~
Keely Brooke Keith is the author of the Uncharted series (Edenbrooke Press) and Aboard Providence (CrossRiver Media). Her novels are known for blending genres in surprising ways. When she isn’t writing stories, Keely enjoys playing bass guitar, preparing homeschool lessons, and collecting antique textbooks. Originally from St. Joseph, Missouri, Keely resides with her husband and their daughter on a hilltop south of Nashville where she dreams up stories, hoping to encourage, comfort, and inspire readers. She is a member of ACFW.
Connect with Keely at ~
Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Instagram | Pinterest
Find Keely’s books online ~
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iTunes | Audible
Giveaway Info ~
July 5, 2016
RISKING LOVE ~ Now Available for Pre-Order!
Risking Love, book one in my Where the Heart Is series, is now available for pre-order on Amazon! (Order >hereThink Cap Design Studios? It perfectly captures both the heroine, hero, and hero’s daughter. I can’t help but smile whenever I look at it. 
July 4, 2016
Big News Tomorrow!
Look for a couple of big reveals on my blog tomorrow, having to do with my next release. No spoilers today.
June 27, 2016
Congratulations, Carol Award Finalists!
Congratulations to all the Carol Award Finalists! For those of you unfamiliar with this award, it’s given by the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) in recognition of the best Christian fiction published during the previous calendar year. As a Christian fiction author, this is one of the most highly coveted awards out there.
I’m especially excited for friends Erica Vetsch (who swept the Novella category with three finals!) and Elizabeth Goddard who’s a finalist in the Romantic Suspense category.
Another author to note is Robin Patchen, a finalist in the mystery/suspense/thriller category with Finding Amanda. What makes her stand out is that she’s a Qualified Independent Author (QIP). In other words, her novel in independently published. To see Finding Amanda make the final’s list is definitely a boost for all indie-published authors in Christian fiction. This book has now moved to the top of my must-read list.
The winners will be announced on August 27 at the ACFW Awards Gala in Nashville, TN.
Congratulations to all the 2016 Carol Award Finalists!
Contemporary:
Finding Me by Kathryn Cushman, Bethany House (Baker) Publishing, editors David Long, Charlene Patterson
The Art of Losing Yourself by Katie Ganshert, Waterbrook/Multnomah (Random House), editors Shannon Marchese, Lissa Halls-Johnson
As Waters Gone By by Cynthia Ruchti, Abingdon Press, editors Ramona Richards, Jamie Chavez
Historical:
Shadows of Ladenbrooke Manor by Melanie Dobson, Howard (Simon & Schuster), editors Beth Adams, Jenny Baumgartner
Secrets She Kept by Cathy Gohlke, Tyndale House, editors Stephanie Broene, Sarah Riche
Luther and Katharina by Jody Hedlund, Waterbrook/Multnomah (Random House), editor Shannon Marchese
Historical Romance:
Beyond All Dreams by Elizabeth Camden, Bethany House (Baker) Publishing, editor Raela Schoenherr
Through Waters Deep by Sarah Sundin, Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group, editor Vicki Crumpton
A Worthy Pursuit by Karen Witemeyer, Bethany House (Baker ) Publishing, editors Dave Long, Charlene Patterson
Mystery/Suspense/Thriller:
The Aleppo Code by Terry Brennan, Kregel Publications, editors Dawn Anderson, Jannelle Tromp
Blessings in Disguise by Nancy Mehl, Guideposts Publications, editors Susan Downs, JoAnne Simmons
Finding Amanda by Robin Patchen, ACFW QIP (Independently Published), editor Holly Lorincz
Novella:
A Bride for Bear from The Convenient Bride Collection by Erica Vetsch, Barbour Publishing, editor Rebecca Germany
A Palace on the Plains from The Most Eligible Bachelor Romance Collection by Erica Vetsch, Barbour Publishing, editor Rebecca Germany
The Archaeologist’s Find from The Homestead Brides Collection by Erica Vetsch, Barbour Publishing, editor Rebecca Germany
Romance:
The Beekeeper’s Son by Kelly Irvin, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, editor Becky Monds
Until the Harvest by Sarah Loudin Thomas, Bethany House (Baker) Publishing, editor David Long
Crazy Little Thing Called Love by Beth K. Vogt, Howard (Simon & Schuster), editors Jessica Wong, Beth Adams
Romantic Suspense:
No Place to Hide by Lynette Eason, Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group, editor Andrea Doering
Submerged by Elizabeth Goddard, Love Inspired (Harlequin), editor Elizabeth Mazer
Miracle Drug by Richard L. Mabry, M.D., Abingdon Press, editor Ramona Richards
Short Novel:
Covert Justice by Lynn Huggins Blackburn, Love Inspired (Harlequin), editor Elizabeth Mazer
The Christmas Family by Linda Goodnight, Love Inspired (Harlequin), editor Allison Lyons
The Doctor’s Second Chance by Missy Tippens, Love Inspired (Harlequin), editor Emily Rodmell
Speculative:
Vinnie’s Diner by Jennifer AlLee, Abingdon Press, editors Ramona Richards, Katherine Johnson
Heir of Hope by Morgan L. Busse, Enclave Publishing, editor Karen Ball
The Five Times I Met Myself by James L. Rubart, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, editors Amanda Bostic, Erin Healy
Young Adult:
Angelhood by A.J. Cattapan, Vinspire Publishing, editor Jessica Damien
The Golden Braid by Melanie Dickerson, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, editor Becky Monds
Dauntless by Dina L. Sleiman, Bethany House (Baker) Publishing, editor Karen Schurrer
Debut:
The Thornbearer by Pepper Basham, Vinspire Publishing, editor Jessica Damien
The Calling of Ella McFarland by Linda Brooks Davis, Mountainview Books LLC, editor Carol Kurtz Darlington
The First Principle by Marissa Shrock, Kregel Publications, editor Dawn Anderson
June 21, 2016
Help Wanted – Book Boosters
With my next book, Risking Love – a Where the Heart Is romance, set to release in October, and the pre-order to go live the first part of July, I’m looking for a few readers who’d love to join my Book Boosters. What are Book Boosters you ask? They’re a team of people who help spread the word and create buzz about my books. See below to learn what being on this team would entail.
Book Booster Benefits
Receive a mobi (Kindle) or epub (Nook) file of the book prior to release
You’ll receive free bookmarks and/or promotional items to share with friends… church…library…coffeeshops…wherever you can think of spreading the word
Contests among members only, to win paperback books and other prizes
You’re the first to know of upcoming plans and to see book covers
Book Booster Requirements
Subscribe to my blog: click >here<
Sign up for my e-newsletter >here
Leave a review on Amazon and Goodreads within two weeks of the release date of the novel. Reviews are also welcome at Barnes and Noble and/or your blog or other reader venues.
Like Brenda S Anderson Author on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/BrendaSAndersonAuthor
Talk about the book! Tell your Facebook and Twitter followers. Talk it up to your best friends and neighbors and fellow churchgoers and co-workers and the person you pass on the street and … well, you get the idea!
Other Street Team Suggestions
Follow Brenda S Anderson on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/BrendaSAnders_n
Talk up the book on Facebook and Twitter. Tell your best friends and neighbors and fellow church goers and co-workers and the person you pass on the street and … well, you get the idea!
Follow Brenda S Anderson on Pinterest:
http://www.pinterest.com/brendabanderson/
Pin my books on Pinterest
Like my Amazon author page
amazon.com/author/brendasanderson
Ready to Join?
After you’ve signed up for my e-newsletter and subscribed to my blog, e-mail me at Brenda (at) BrendaAndersonBooks (dot) com. In your e-mail, let me know why you’d like to join my Book Boosters and what else you will do (or have done) to spread the word, and I will consider you. Also, I’d love to know how you heard of me! You’ll receive a response within 24 hours.
You will also be added to a private Facebook Book Booster page where I will share updates, promotional ideas, and contests.
I look forward to hearing from you!
~Brenda
June 13, 2016
Summer Bucket List
Five activities on my summer bucket list, in no particular order:
See a movie at a drive-in theater
Take in a few Minnesota Twins baseball games (in spite of how absolutely awful they’re playing this year!)
Go to Orchestra Hall with my daughter to hear Laura Osnes and Santino Fontana sing Broadway tunes (http://www.minnesotaorchestra.org/buy/tickets/browse-calendar/eventdetail/788/-/a-broadway-romance)
Hike around Minnehaha Park, home of Minnehaha Falls.Relax by Lake Superior, my favorite place!
What activities are on your summer bucket list?
June 1, 2016
Chain of Mercy Updates + Sale + Giveaway!
Chain of Mercy, my debut release, is closing in on 100 Amazon reviews. As of this posting, it has 91 reviews, and all but a couple are very positive. Yes, I’m pleased that so many like this book, and I’m relieved that it’s not a stinker in the eyes of most readers.
With 100 reviews on my radar, I’ve decided that once I reach that level, I’ll celebrate with a giveaway. Not just a single book giveaway, but a Kindle-with-all-my-books-plus-a-few-others giveaway. So stay tuned. If you haven’t already reviewed Chain of Mercy or any of my other books, I’d be very grateful if you did.
If you haven’t yet read Chain of Mercy, I’m having a $1 off sale for the Kindle version (click >here
And finally, I’m taking part in a Kindle Fire Giveaway (or $50 cash) at Spirit Filled eBooks (Spirit Filled eBooks giveaway post). Enter to win below:
7″ Kindle Fire or $50 Cash Giveaway
May 23, 2016
Getting to Know Nicole Petrino-Salter + Giveaway!
See Contest Rules Below
I had the pleasure of *meeting* Nicole Petrino-Salter a handful of years ago via her blog, Into the Fire. I was immediately drawn to her honesty and openness when talking about the state of Christian fiction, and quite often, we share the same opinion. Since then she’s become a sounding board and a prayer warrior and best of all, a very dear friend.
Nicole has just released a new romance, Sweet Release, so I’m thrilled to welcome Nicole back to tell us a little about herself and the new story.
First, here’s the back cover blurb for Sweet Release (and isn’t that cover just gorgeous!):
Love is just a four letter word until its true revelation hits hard in the hearts of six people who have yet to experience it in its purest form. The journey these individuals make to realize the origin and reality of genuine love is both gut-wrenching and rapturous, searching to find the sweet release to love freely. A film critic, an architectural designer, a rape victim, a computer wizard, a lonely divorcée, and a longtime bachelor pastor discover love is far more powerful than anything they’ve experienced in their pasts.
Nicole, thank you for stopping by today! And congratulations on your fantastic new release! So excited for you!!! What do you hope your readers take away from the story?
In the Foreword for Sweet Release I give a warning to readers stating this particular story is definitely Christian Fiction and heavy on romance. I’m not pulling any punches with this one. If a reader doesn’t like stories about the journey to and in faith, this is probably not the book for them. Six characters in this book have either had bad experiences with love, have never known love, and/or wonder if they will ever experience it the way it was “meant to be” if such an ideal even exists. One of my hopes for readers of this story is that they will be able to feel what one – or all of – these individuals experience physically, emotionally, and spiritually as they seek the road to romance and love.
What are you working on right now?
At this time I have three novels in various stages of progress, but they’ve been this way for a long time. I trust the Lord will redirect me to them anytime, and I’m praying He will restore me to their completion. He once said to me during the long endeavor to write my first novel, a huge tome that took years to finish, “If you pick up the pen, I’ll give you the words.” I put it on my business card, and I’ve never forgotten it. At the time, I wrote that 700+ page novel in longhand, thus “the pen”. Now I need to do my part to get back to the keyboard and allow Him to fulfill His words to me.
What keeps you writing during the difficult times?
I wish I could give you a genuine answer/solution to this question. I’m not the most disciplined writer at any time, let alone during difficult times. I’m exceptionally emotional and difficult times tend to crush me where creativity is required. Honestly, it’s like a I lose all confidence and am stunted until they pass. I do find that afterward the restoration taps into a deep expressive part of me, and I can usually translate that into writing again.
About Nicole ~
Nicole Petrino-Salter writes love stories with a passion. After spending over 30 years in Thoroughbred horse racing, she wrote her first novel Hope of Glory about racing and life on the track. Since then she has written several books. Nicole lives just south of Seattle, Washington, and is devoted to the Lord Jesus Christ, her family, friends, pets, and writing novels for His glory. You can find her most days at hopeofglory.typepad.com.
Nicole writes Love Stories and Romance.
Get in touch with Nicole ~
Purchase Sweet Release ~
Other books by Nicole Petrino-Salter ~
*** Book Giveaway ***
Nicole has graciously offered to give away one ebook copy of Sweet Release to one commenter who answers this question:
Why do you read romance novels that don’t adhere to the “squeaky clean” mantra of most Christian romance?
This contest ends Sunday, May 29, 2016 at 11:59 pm CST. I will post the winner on Monday, May 30, 2016. Winner will be chosen via Random.org.
May 16, 2016
New Book Release Schedule!
Back on March 8, 2016 I posted a tentative book release schedule. A mere two months later, that schedule has changed drastically, so here’s the new *tentative* schedule:
October 4, 2016 – Risking Love (Where the Heart Is book #1) – As I will likely–hopefully–soon be recognized as a Qualified Independent Publisher, I’m moving Risking Love‘s release up by four months. Releasing this novel in 2016 means I’ll be able to enter it in some of the big Christian fiction literary contests in 2017. Look for the cover reveal the first part of July (I’ve seen it already, and it’s absolutely gorgeous! George at Think Cap Design Studio created another masterpiece!)
February 6, 2017 – Capturing Beauty (Where the Heart Is book #2) – I’ve got to have one book come out in time for Valentine’s Day, right?
May 2017 – Planting Hope (Where the Heart Is book #3) – This is a very tentative date as I’ve got most of the book to write yet, but it’s my goal.
As for the Coming Home Series novella’s, they’re still a work-in-progress and will release as they are completed.
May 9, 2016
Just Breathe …
“Be still and know that I am God…”
Psalm 46:10
Here’s a song most of us can identify with in our chaotic lives, in this crazy-busy society. Take time to rest at Jesus’ feet and just breathe.
