Melanie D. Snitker's Blog, page 13

New Releases - May 2017

Find a great book (or two or three) this spring by picking up a new release! All of these are new in the last couple of days or coming out in May.

April 29th
Taste of Tara by Shanna Hatfield

May 12th
Become: Brothers by Meredith Mansfield
The Wayward Heart by Nerys Leigh

May 15th
Spellsmith & Carver: Magicians' Rivalry by H. L. Burke

May 16th
Dance with Me by Staci Stallings
Sprouts of Love by Valerie Comer
Wedding Pets and Kisses by Donna Fosano, Denise Devine, Raine English, Cheryl Harper, Cindy Flores Martinez, Mimi Milan, Mimi Barbour, J. L. Campbell.
Fallen Stone by Jana S. Brown
When Your Melody Fades by Rebekah DeVall
A Book to Die For - Audio Book by Richard Houston
Sweet Dreams by Stacy Claflin

May 18th
Dally (Pendleton Petticoats Book 8) by Shanna Hatfield

May 19th
Mercy's King by Katy Huth Jones

May 20th 
Someone to Trust (Life Unexpected Book 2) - Melanie D. Snitker Check out these new releases from authors involved with  American Christian Fiction Writers . You're sure to find a new favorite! ​ New Releases coming soon!

Introducing: Moonstone Secrets

I'm excited to have Author Dawn V. Cahill on my blog as we learn more about her brand new release, MOONSTONE SECRETS. Continue reading for an author interview!

Ms. Cahill pens “Stories of Victorious Faith for the 21st Century,” nearly always with a crossword puzzle, sudoku, or dark chocolate nearby. “The characters in my stories face situations that would have been unthinkable even 20 years ago. We live in a vastly different world than our parents did, and that’s the world I write about.”
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Ms. Cahill also blogs about puppies, substance abuse, and single parenting…sometimes all in the same day. She’s going to finish that novel she started at age 11 called Mitch and the Martians…someday. She has written several newspaper articles, three Christian contemporary novels, and more limericks than she can count. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). Connect with Ms. Cahill
​Website | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter |  E-mail About Moonstone Secrets: As the Christmas season sparkles around her, DeeDee McCreary eagerly anticipates visiting magical Victoria, BC, with her boyfriend, Nick, and meeting his family. But the trip proves disastrous. First, Nick finds his bank account cleaned out. Then he disappears. Frantic, she determines to uncover what happened. When she discovers something far worse than she anticipated, she questions everything she believes to be true about him.
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With the man she loves in jail for an unspeakable crime, DeeDee knows the truth lies somewhere in Nick and his ex-wife’s past. But if she pursues their secrets, will she put herself in danger, too?

What are readers saying about Moonstone Secrets?

“I couldn’t put it down. The vivid descriptions and the setting pulled me into the story.” – reader Joy

“The sisterly bond was wonderful to see, how they stuck by each other. It was good to meet up with DeeDee and Livy again.” – reader Julia Grab Your Copy Welcome, Dawn! Thank you so much for joining me on my blog today. Congratulations on your new release!  

What inspired you to write MOONSTONE SECRETS?
Dawn: It’s actually a sequel – Book II in my Seattle Trilogy. My husband & I went to Victoria BC on our honeymoon, and I always thought it would make a wonderfully romantic setting for a book!

For those of you who’ve read Book I, Sapphire Secrets, I invite you to beautiful Victoria where the McCreary twins find themselves in danger…again! Learn more here: https://www.amazon.com/Moonstone-Secrets-Christian-Contemporary-Seattle-ebook/dp/B06Y1P9R3Z

If there’s one thing you hope readers come away with after reading your book, what would it be?
Dawn: I want them to remember what it’s like when they first came to know God, how He brought their dead hearts to life. For non-Christians, I want them to see what they’re missing, and maybe start seeking God for themselves. 

I think that's awesome!

Is there a special treat or drink that helps you during your writing process?
Dawn: Not really. Believe it or not, puzzles have a calming effect on me. Like Crosswords or sudokus. When I turn my attention away from my source of stress, it really helps.

Tell us about one of your hobbies.
Dawn: I love limericks, and while in college I discovered this latent talent for whipping out a cute rhyme. In fact, my heroine in When Lyric Met Limerick, Luna, has turned the same hobby into a money-making enterprise: she writes personalized limericks for people at Pike Place Market in Seattle – something I once dreamed of doing. But since it never panned out, I wrote about it instead. Putting your own dreams into your characters is wonderful therapy!

(Read more about my free short story here: https://www.amazon.com/When-Lyric-Met-Limerick-Novelette-ebook/dp/B015DJU5AW)

How fun! I'll have to check that out - thank you!

Are you an introvert or an extrovert?
Dawn: I’m an introvert that is often mistaken for an extrovert, because I enjoy people and I’m friendly.  But I need lots and lots of personal space, and prefer my alone times.

If time and money were not a concern, what one skill would you like to learn?
Dawn: Can’t think of a thing. I’ve spent a lifetime pursuing my interests. If I haven’t done it by the time I’m this age (almost 60), I’m not interested. :-)

That's awesome - good for you!

What project are you working on now?
Dawn: I’m working on Book II of my other series, Golden State Trilogy. I published Book I, Paint the Storm, last October. My WIP is called Paint the Valley. This is the series that tackles tough contemporary topics like same-sex marriage and school shootings.

You can learn more here: https://dawnvcahill.com/my-books/

What inspired the cover for your latest book?
Dawn: Picture this—a remote cabin in the Canadian bush. Howling wind. A barking dog and a dead body….

It sounds intriguing!

Thanks again for joining us and congratulations again on MOONSTONE SECRETS. I wish you all the best with your new release. 

Introducing: Christ Arose by Faith Blum

Hi, everyone! Please join me in welcoming Faith Blum. She has a new release, Christ Arose, which is an interesting story about the resurrection from the viewpoint of the tomb that held Jesus Christ. Scroll down to learn more, read an excerpt, and make sure you enter the giveaway as well! About Christ Arose: A Tomb's Tale​And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.
 
No longer could I say I was lonely. But oh, how I wish I could! Who could have done such a thing to the Creator of the world? Who had so much hatred for Him?Pick Up Your CopyExcerptAs the day slowly drags on, more men approach. Are they here to lend aid or to harm the body of my Creator? Oh, Creator! Give me a way to defend Your Son's body if need be!

The Jewish guards come near and take some wax and put a Roman seal on the stone. Doubly safe. No one could take my Creator’s body without facing whatever penalty the Roman’s gave. I should never have doubted You, Creator and Provider!
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Two of the guards stay behind and stand on either side of the rock. As the day creeps by again, every few hours, new guards replace the ones already there. About the Author Faith Blum is a 20-something author of multiple books in various genres. She loves to write, read, play piano, knit, crochet, sew, watch movies, and play games with her family.  She lives in Wisconsin with her family on a small family farm where they raise goats, chickens, turkeys, ducks, and have 2 dogs and a varying number of cats.
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Faith’s goal in her writing is to encourage Christians in their walk with Christ. If you enjoyed this book, go to her website to sign up for her Monthly Newsletter so you can get an email with fun facts, giveaways, and so much more every month. You will also find links to her other Social Media sites on her website. She loves to hear from her readers, so feel free to contact her.Giveaway ​Faith is offering a really neat giveaway for this tour. The ParLaGrace etsy seller has an April special right now for a really beautifully made block that says He Lives. Isn’t it pretty? You can enter the giveaway here:a Rafflecopter giveaway Blog Tour Schedule​ April 22
Bookish Orchestrations-Intro Post
Letters from Annie Douglass Lima-Book Spotlight
Written Rest-Book Spotlight and Review
 
April 24
Leila Tualla-Book Spotlight
God's Peculiar Treasure Rae-Book Spotlight
In the Bookcase-Book Spotlight and Review
 
April 25
With a Joyful Noise-Book Spotlight and Review
Writings, Ramblings, and Reflections-Book Spotlight
Melanie D. Snitker-Book Spotlight
 
April 26
Frances Hoelsma-Book Spotlight
Perpetual Indie Perspective-Book Spotlight and Review
Zerina Blossoms Books-Author Interview
 
April 27
Bookish Orchestrations-Giveaway Winner

Someone to Trust - Available for Pre-Order

Brooke Pierce thought she'd perfected the art of hiding her feelings from Chess, her best friend and surrogate brother. Then, in a moment of weakness, she reveals the truth. His immediate rejection shatters her heart. After years of waiting for something that clearly wasn’t meant to be, it’s time to break away. Knowing she needs to move on, she must rely on the faith that’s always sustained her.
 
Chess Summers can’t be the person Brooke needs, even though his heart demands otherwise. Determined to protect Brooke from his past, he's refused to tell her about the family he came from or the painful way it fell apart. He’ll do anything to give her the future she deserves, even if it means keeping his distance to prevent history from repeating itself.
 
As they grapple with the changes in their friendship, they realize moving apart won’t end their struggles. Only by taking the journey together can it lead to the redemption and love they both so desperately seek. Pre-Order Now!

Getting to Know Jodie Wolfe

Please welcome Jodie Wolfe to my blog today. She's going to be telling us about her newest release. Scroll down for a fun interview and make sure you enter the giveaway as well! 

Jodie Wolfe creates novels where hope and quirky meet. She's been a semi-finalist and finalist in various writing contests and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW). When not writing she enjoys spending time with her husband in Pennsylvania, reading, walking, and being a Grammie. Keep in touch with Jodie
Website | Facebook | Twitter Jodie's new release, An Angel for the Cowboy, is part of the Let Love Spring: A Historical Spring Collection.

When the bank threatens foreclosure on Essie Love's home, it's up to her to provide for her sisters. She’ll do whatever it takes to save them, even if it means marrying a stranger.

Jud Steele is wanted for a crime he didn't commit. Wounded and left for dead, he lands on Essie's doorstep. While she nurses him back to health, he finds himself longing for a home and family.

Can two desperate people find a path that leads to what they both need?Pick Up Your Copy!Hi, Jodie! Congratulations on your new release!  
Jodie: Thank you. I'm truly blessed to have another story published. I appreciate you having me here today. :)
  
What inspired you to write AN ANGEL FOR THE COWBOY?
Jodie: My heroine, Essie Love, is a dime novelist. I've always wanted to create a character who also wrote novels. :)

If there’s one thing you hope readers come away with after reading your book, what would it be?
Jodie: The overlying theme in all my stories is the hope we can have in Christ. In An Angel for the Cowboy both Essie Love and Jud Steele have to learn the importance of not hiding things. They both have a secret of sorts and when they choose not to share it, things don't go the way they'd hoped.

Your story sounds great!

What is one of the most challenging things you’ve faced as an author?
Jodie: My biggest struggle is staying organized. Sometimes time fritters away and I don't have much to show for my day. I'm thankful that God gives me a chance each new day to make better choices in regard to how I spend my time.

That's something I struggle with as well. It doesn't matter how well I have things scheduled, it always falls apart at some point during the week. Ha! Praise God for new beginnings each and every day!

What is your favorite thing about being an author?
Jodie: For me, writing is a ministry—something God has called me to do. When I hear from readers (reviews) that they were touched by a story I wrote, I can't help but thank God and give the glory to Him.

Are you an introvert or an extrovert?
Jodie: Most definitely an introvert. I love being home.

Do you have any fun or unusual quirks?
Jodie: I'm not sure if it counts as a quirk or not, but come fall through spring, you'll find me praying for snow. :)

I have to admit I'm not a huge fan of snow. Within a week of Christmas is great, otherwise I'm good without it. I hope you get a lot of snow where you live!
 
I’m so glad to host you on my blog and wish you all the best with your new book!
Jodie: Thanks again.Enter the giveaway below for your chance to win a digital copy of HEARTS TIGHTLY KNIT (USA only) or a digital copy of LET LOVE SPRING (international). 

You can enter below or click herea Rafflecopter giveaway

Getting to Know Sarah Monzon

Hi everyone! Thanks for joining me as I welcome author Sarah Monzon to my blog today. I absolutely loved her book, The Isaac Project, and highly recommend it!

Sarah is a Navy chaplain's wife and a stay at home mom to the two cutest littles in the world. Playing pretend all day with them isn't enough, she spends the evenings after their heads hit the pillow to create her own imaginary characters. When she isn't in the world of make believe, she can be found in the pine forests of western Washington taking care of her family, fostering friendships, and enjoying all the adventures each day brings.

Her debut novel, The Isaac Project, skyrocketed to Amazon bestseller status while her sophomore book, Finders Keepers, has finaled in contests such as the Inspy Awards and received a 4 star review from Romantic Times.     Keep in touch with Sarah
​Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram Sarah's newest book, All of You , is available for pre-order now and will be release May 15, 2017. 

All royalties made from pre-orders will be donated to ​The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund.

Maryland, Present Day

Jacqueline Rogers can rebuild anything...except the shambles of her past. A restorer of vintage planes, she's worked hard to earn the reputation of being one of the guys. The last thing she needs is a former Navy pilot fighting his own inner demons stepping in to defend her from dangers she thought she’d outrun long ago. Some battles must be fought alone.

After a freak accident severs Lieutenant Michael “Finch” Carrington’s dreams, as well as two limbs, he’s left with nothing but a fragile faith and a duty-bound promise to watch out for his friend’s baby sister. A promise she insists is as unnecessary as it is unappreciated. But when she turns the tables and begins to weld together the broken parts of his life, it may be his heart that is in need of protection. 

England, 1942

With the world at war yet again, Alice Galloway rejects her father’s traditional expectations and offers her piloting expertise to the Air Transport Auxiliary. She may be a woman in a man’s world, but when she overhears key intelligence, she must find the strength to transcend boundaries and her own fears. Or countless people may die. 

Sometimes the past reaches forward to bring hope to the future. Pre-Order Your Copy! Welcome, Sarah! I’ve read the blurb for ALL OF YOU and it sounds like such a great book. I understand that you’re donating all the proceeds from the pre-orders. Can you tell us a little about that?   

Sarah: Absolutely! While writing ALL OF YOU, and specifically the character of Michael Carrington, doing the research on amputees and veterans, my heart really went out to those among us who served and sacrificed in the military. In the middle of writing ALL OF YOU, my husband joined the navy as a chaplain and now I’m a part of that knit community of service families. I feel a burden and love for service men and women and their families and wanted to give back in a small way. The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund is a leader in supporting the men and women of the Armed Forces and their families. They serve the Unites States military personnel wounded or injured in service to our nation and their families. All royalties made from pre-orders of ALL OF YOU will be donated to this charity.

That's such a wonderful thing to do, Sarah. It sounds like The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund makes a huge difference in the lives of those serving our country in the Armed Forces and their wonderful families.
 
What do you usually use when you’re writing? A computer? Paper and pen?
Sarah: I usually write on my iPad at the gym. My “desk” is a stationary bike. I sit and peddle and type away with my thumbs on the handheld device. I write while my oldest is in preschool and my youngest is at the gym’s childcare.

That's awesome! I love that you're able to work out while writing. I'm not sure I could be as coordinated lol

Is there a special treat or drink that helps you during your writing process?
Sarah: Haha. Since I usually write at the gym, the drink I have handy is water.

Tell us about one of your hobbies.
Sarah: We love to go hiking as a family. Right now we live in a great area to hike and explore. Lots of trees and mountains. One of my friends commented on it being like living in a Bob Ross painting, and it really is. The spring rains has kept us indoors a lot, but I’m looking forward to summer and exploring all the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

Are you an introvert or an extrovert?
Sarah: I’m an ambivert with more introvert tendencies. I don’t like large crowds of people. I don’t like being the center of attention. I don’t like meeting new people. I have absolutely no idea how to do small talk and am really awkward. However, being a stay at home mom for the last five years I’ve noticed I crave being around adult humans every now and again, too.

As a stay at home mom, I completely understand that need to get out and be around adult humans from time to time. lol

If time and money were not a concern, what one skill would you like to learn?
Sarah: I’m not sure there is really a skill I’d want to learn, per se, but there are a lot of things I’d like to do, places I’d like to discover, and experiences I’d love to have. I love doing and trying new things. Having adventures. And I love to travel but of course don’t get to do much of it because of money restrictions.

What part of writing is your favorite? Plotting, writing, editing, etc.
Sarah: I’m not a plotter by any stretch of the word so I love just sitting and listening to my characters as they tell me their story. I guess you could say my favorite stage is the rough draft stage. Getting that story down on paper so the characters can stop talking to me in my head. Haha.
 
Thanks so much for being a guest on my blog today and congratulations on your upcoming new release!

Spirit Filled eBooks Giveaway

Spirit Filled eBooks is giving away a 7" Kindle Fire or $50 Cash via PayPal!to one lucky winner on April 18th!Check out these great reads from our SPONSORSConsider supporting an author or few by buying their books Many of these books are available FREE with Kindle Unlimited, so you can Read them for FREE with your FREE 30 Day Kindle Unlimited Trial!​ [image error] [image error] a Rafflecopter giveaway

LitRing Kindle Unlimited Giveaway

[image error] Hi everyone! I'm participating in a giveaway through LitRing and I wanted to let you all know about it. 

Do you read on Kindle Unlimited? If not, you can try a month for free, and during that month, you can read a number of books for free. That includes all of my titles. LitRing has gathered books across all genres that are available exclusively on Kindle and free through the KU program.

Browse through them all, or go straight to your favorite category (not all are clean, so I strongly recommend selecting by genre).

While you're there, make sure you enter the giveaway! There will be 10 winners and $500.00 in prizes. If you win, you'll have your choice of a Kindle Fire, $50.00 amazon gift card, or six months of Kindle Unlimited. Nice, right? 

The giveaway is open through April 13th.  Enter the Giveaway

Spring in Texas: Backyard Beauty

I absolutely love spring! We may not have a lot of flowers in our yard, but in the spring, the plants that grow along our backyard fence come alive. I took my camera out last night just before sunset to try and capture some of that beauty. 

You're Invited to the Petticoat Ball!

I would like to invite you to attend the 3rd Annual Petticoat Ball! Celebrate Shanna Hatfield's Pendleton Petticoats series and be there for the cover reveal of the next book.

There will be guest authors, games, prizes, giveaways, and a lot of fun! 

Where: On Facebook
When: April 6, 2017 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. PST

I've read almost all of Shanna's books, and this series is my absolute favorite! If you haven't read it yet, you should pick up Aundy , the first book in the series. Trust me, you'll be hooked!  Attend the Ball!