Julie Arduini's Blog, page 19

Interview with Michael Garrett, Part Two

Miss Part One? You can catch up HERE.

LET’S PUT OUR HEADS TOGETHER AND SELL SOME BOOKS!

The biggest challenge to today’s Christian fiction authors is not getting published,

but is selling published books.

WHAT HAS SURPRISED YOU ABOUT MARKETING YOUR OWN BOOKS?

Well, when my first novel was traditionally published over thirty years ago, it was available everywhere—supermarkets, drug stores, and of course, book stores. Today’s writers can’t get that kind of distribution unless they’re already best-selling authors. My first Christian novel published three years ago received high critical acclaim and was an American Fiction Award finalist, yet it didn’t help sell the book. I’m as baffled as anyone else as to selling books in 2022. How do we let potential readers know that our books exist?

WHERE DO YOU THINK CHRISTIAN READERS FIND THEIR FICTION?

That’s the million dollar question. Book stores, both Christian and secular, stock only best-selling authors these days. It’s virtually impossible to get a book on their shelves if you’re a newcomer, so I guess the even bigger question is how do Christian readers discover new authors? I’m hoping that part of the answer is finding them online on sites such as mine through Google searches. Hopefully, similar websites will be developed to help readers discover new talent.

WHAT ROLE DOES AMAZON PLAY IN SELLING OUR BOOKS?

Obviously, Amazon is a huge resource, but most new authors grossly overestimate its potential in selling books. With the millions of books available on Amazon, how likely is it for a reader to stumble across yours? Don’t hold your breath. Unless very specific search terms are used, it just won’t happen. The only way readers will find our books on Amazon is if they already know it’s there, thus the importance of making potential readers aware that our books exist, then refer them to Amazon.

SO THEN WHY IS AMAZON SO IMPORTANT?

It’s the easiest place to tell readers where to buy our books. Plus, I think it adds credibility to our books in the eyes of potential readers. An Amazon presence seems to legitimize our books.

DO YOU THINK READER REVIEWS ON AMAZON ARE IMPORTANT TO BOOK BUYERS?

I can only speak for myself, but I place a lot of confidence in reader reviews. I won’t read anything that has less than four star reviews. The ratings are not infallible, though. I’ve read best-selling novels that I thought were awful.

DO YOU THINK REVIEWS SHOULD REHASH THE STORYLINE?

My preference is no. Potential buyers can get that from Amazon. I think reviews should be brief and merely point out what works and doesn’t work in the book. For my own novels, I like to extract quotes from reviews for my website. Also, it’s easier to get someone to write a review if you don’t expect a long one. For my tastes, some of the best reviews are one-liners.

ARE BOOK REVIEWS IMPORTANT TO SALES?

I think so, but asking someone to review your book is a huge imposition on their time. It takes hours and hours to read a book, then write a review. Then there’s that agonizing wait for the results. I’m reluctant to ask someone to devote that much time and energy.

DO YOU HAVE A SOLUTION?

Actually, I do. I’ve developed a quick and easy way to get numerous reviews posted on our Amazon listings without imposing on anyone, and I’ll share it with other authors soon. We’ve just got to work together to make it happen.

HOW WILL YOU LET US KNOW?

I’m reluctant to publish it for the world to see, so I’ll explain it via private email to interested authors who contact me and are willing to participate. When the time is right, I’ll call for serious inquiries on Twitter, so for those of you reading this, if you want to get multiple reviews posted on your Amazon listings quickly, watch my Twitter feeds and let’s start interacting. This is a an excellent example of how Christian authors should support each other.

ANY CLOSING THOUGHTS?

I’m anxious to join forces with other Christian authors to find the marketing answers that we’ve been searching for. If you’re a serious author, please follow me on Twitter (@SuspenseWriters) and interact with the posts. Many blessings to you all!

MICHAEL GARRETT is a devout Christian and life-long resident of Alabama. His world revolves around God, his wife Sharon, two adult children, and five grandchildren. He has published two successful traditional novels with a third to be released soon. He has also worked in an editorial capacity with best-selling authors, has served over 2600 international clients as an independent editor, and holds the distinction of having been Stephen King’s first editor and publisher. He has also taught highly acclaimed writing workshops at colleges and universities across the nation and was an Editorial Associate of the Writer’s Digest School. His editorial services are available at https://manuscriptcritique.com and his new website to promote Christian suspense novels is https://christiansuspensenovels.com

Interview with Michael Garrett, Part One

LET’S PUT OUR HEADS TOGETHER AND SELL SOME BOOKS!

The biggest challenge to today’s Christian fiction authors is not getting published,

but is selling published books.

Here with us today is Michael Garrett, who holds the distinction of having been Stephen King’s first editor and publisher. Michael is also an internationally published author who hopes to bring Christian authors together to promote each other.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR OWN PUBLISHING EXPERIENCES.

I have two traditionally published novels with another on the way. I’ve also independently published three books, so I’m well acquainted with both traditional publishing as well as self-publication.

WHY DO YOU FEEL THAT AUTHORS SHOULD PROMOTE EACH OTHER?

Because we’re not competitors. Anyone who encourages readers to buy books is an ally, not a competitor. As creatives, we should admire and inspire each other, as in the music industry. The Beatles and the Rolling Stones, the two biggest bands of all time, could often be heard in each other’s songs. We should be fans of our peers.

DO YOU CARE TO ELABORATE?

Sure. Readers are always on the lookout for new authors. Likewise, no reader settles on just one author to the exclusion of all others. Readers limit themselves to certain genres, not authors. If a reader in your genre doesn’t select your book today, perhaps he/she will tomorrow.

TELL US ABOUT THE WEBSITE YOU’VE CREATED TO HELP AUTHORS CONNECT.

I originally started christiansuspensenovels.com to promote my own books, but quickly realized that my novels could receive more attention if promoted as part of a group. Being surrounded by other similar books lends more credibility to them all.

IS THE SITE LIMITED TO CHRISTIAN SUSPENSE NOVELS ALONE?

Yes, the site is, but its Twitter account, @SuspenseWriters, is open to all Christian genres. It’s where I hope authors will exchange ideas and connect with each other.

IS THERE A CHARGE FOR A SUSPENSE NOVEL TO BE FEATURED ON THE SITE?

Absolutely not. There’s limited space available, but if a suspense novel has received decent reviews, I will seriously consider adding it.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO ACCOMPLISH?

As my Twitter profile states, the biggest challenge to today’s Christian fiction authors is not getting published, but is selling published books. This is true whether you’re traditionally published or independently published. Making your reading audience aware that your novel exists is extremely challenging. They can’t buy it if they don’t know it’s there. Perhaps if we put our heads together, we can find ways to help our readers find us.

WHY DO YOU FEEL CHRISTIAN AUTHORS SHOULD SUPPORT EACH OTHER?

Well, first of all, the mission of Christian authors is to spread the Word through wholesome entertainment. We should be willing to help each other accomplish this as a service to our Savior, who gave us these skills in the first place. And second, we can learn from each other. Every writer shouldn’t be forced to re-invent the wheel when it comes to marketing. Through positive dialogue, we can learn from each other what works and what doesn’t when it comes to selling books. It’s all about sharing.

SEE PART TWO TOMORROW

MICHAEL GARRETT is a devout Christian and life-long resident of Alabama. His world revolves around God, his wife Sharon, two adult children, and five grandchildren. He has published two successful traditional novels with a third to be released soon. He has also worked in an editorial capacity with best-selling authors, has served over 2600 international clients as an independent editor, and holds the distinction of having been Stephen King’s first editor and publisher. He has also taught highly acclaimed writing workshops at colleges and universities across the nation and was an Editorial Associate of the Writer’s Digest School. His editorial services are available at https://manuscriptcritique.com and his new website to promote Christian suspense novels is https://christiansuspensenovels.com

Game Night!

I love events like this, and I will be participating. It’s a great way to interact with authors and readers, and I happen to be both!

What’s nice about these events is if you can’t be there the whole time, no worries. Come late? That’s okay. Just pop on over to Burrows Book Buds and join the fun!

My author time will be at 5:15, but I definitely plan on interacting throughout.

Fiction Finder: October 2022 New Releases

 

October 2022 New Releases

More in-depth descriptions of these books can be found on the ACFW Fiction Finder website

 

Amish Romance:

 

The Story of Love by Beth Wiseman — With little left to tie her to her home state of Texas and yearning for a slower life, Yvonne Wilson jumps at the chance to shake things up with a move to Montgomery, Indiana. A dream job awaits her—managing an Amish bookstore for her good friends Jake and Eva. Besides the slow-paced setting and the comfort of beloved books, Yvonne hopes the change will help distract her from the emptiness she feels after the death of her fiancé. No longer a part of the Amish community but still a resident of Montgomery, Abraham Byler finds himself in over his head with his job as a police officer combined with a new but fast-moving relationship with the wealthy and aggressive New York native Brianna Stone. When Abraham realizes that his old crush Yvonne is back in town, he’s not just in over his head—he suddenly finds himself head over heels for Yvonne—and in hot water with Brianna. (Amish Romance from HarperCollins Christian Publishing (Thomas Nelson and Zondervan))

 

Contemporary Romance:

 

Christmas at Whispering Creek by Barbara Britton — All Samantha Williams wants to do is to use her teaching degree to instruct a classroom of second graders. But, after a breast cancer diagnosis at the age of twenty-three, and failed reconstruction surgery, Sam finds herself without a job and temporarily living with her parents. This isn’t the life Sam expected. When a family friend dies and leaves Sam a house and land in Whispering Creek, Tennessee, Sam must decide if leaving Wisconsin for Southern living is in her lesson plans. Nashville native, Cole Donoven, left his family’ s electrical business to write country music. When Cole’ s song-writing partner and girlfriend dumps him for a country music star, Cole abandons Nashville to hole up in Whispering Creek and compose one more song. The last thing Cole expects to find in the sleepy small town is a deceased friend, estate squabbles, and a Northern beauty. Will the chaos in Whispering Creek help create a bestselling song for Cole and possibly help him find a life-long collaborator? (Contemporary Romance from White Rose Publishing (Pelican))

Destination Christmas by Cathe Swanson, et. al. — This Christmas, pack your bags for a holiday away from home. Join the Christmas Lights Collection authors as we travel to Colorado, New Mexico, Wisconsin, and New Cheltenham for warm and wonderful stories of love and Christmas cheer. Destination Christmas offers a stress-free travel experience without traffic, delayed flights, or forgotten toothpaste. Instead, you’ll enjoy wonderful destinations, delightful new friends, and a heartwarming experience! (Contemporary Romance from Havilah Press)

Keeping Christmas by Cathe Swansona — In castles far and near, long ago and yesterday, find happily-ever-afters wrapped in love and tied with Christmas joy. (Contemporary Romance from Celebrate Lit)

To Believe in You by Emily Conrad — Can she trust her heart to a man who can’t trust himself? Since his dismissal from the rock band Awestruck, former bassist and addict Matt Visser has been transformed by faith and a year of sobriety. If he can repay his parents for one last major debt from his years of irresponsible living, he can move into the future with a clear conscience. Now if only his latest stunt hadn’t gotten him fired from the family business. After Lina Abbey’s fiancé gambled away their wedding savings, she surrendered her hopes of a family of her own—what man could she trust enough to marry—and moved for a fresh start in Wisconsin. She busies herself with her jobs managing Awestruck’s social media and directing Key of Hope, a non-profit funded by the band to teach music lessons to kids from low-income families. She would never hire a man with Matt’s track record as a bass guitar instructor, but Awestruck’s manager, Tim, forces her hand. In need of a job and eager to clear his debts, Matt begins work. Unable to resist a challenge, he soon adds the goal of winning the trust of his beautiful but cautious coworker. Lina is impressed that Matt resists Tim’s ongoing efforts to reconnect him with Awestruck, but when a new truth about Matt’s past reveals a wrong he can never right, he and Lina both need something more trustworthy than Matt to believe in. Otherwise, history will repeat itself in all the worst ways (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

Lost in Winter’s Wonderland by Sandra Ardoin — Sometimes getting lost takes you right where you belong. Seeking a peaceful week before the annual Callahan Christmas migration, Kelsey Callahan retreats to her mountain cabin in Tennessee. When a snowstorm dumps a lost love on her doorstep, Kelsey must choose between trusting in Justin’s appeal for a second chance at romance or giving in to fear and losing him forever. A humiliating mistake steered Justin Strong away from the woman his teenaged-self had planned to marry and onto the path of business success. Years later, after being rescued by her, those old feelings reawaken, and he questions his past decision. But with the lure of a long-sought client, Justin is torn between redeeming his youthful blunder and proving he’s a man Kelsey can rely on. How much will each of them sacrifice to build a future together? (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

The Misadventures of Itchy Izzy by N Y. Dunlap — Life has imploded for Isabelle Chavalier, MBA, knocking the silver spoon from her mouth. Her cushioned inheritance can buy her anything, almost anything. She desperately desires another moment with her mother. Now, a family feud has threatened to rip apart the little sanity Isabelle has left. And with it, all she ever believed in . . . hope. (Contemporary Romance, Independently Published)

 

Historical Romance:

 

Restoring Miss Hastings by Edwina Kiernan — Harriet Hastings has nowhere left to turn: after losing both her parents within a few months of each other, she is penniless and alone. So when a distant relative makes arrangements for her future, Harriet faces another loss — leaving the place she calls home to go and live with strangers. (Historical Romance, from Moliant Publishing)

A Hope and a Prayer by Julie Lessman — She’s in love with her best friend. He’s in love with her cousin.
But when the war reveals a gift so rare, will they be saved by a hope and prayer? As Head Nurse at 2d Hospital in Nancy, France, Lieutenant Hope Dennehy is known for her healing touch, especially when it comes to mending the wounds and spirit of her best friend, Lieutenant Bren O’Neill. When Hope’s cousin breaks Bren’s heart, Hope is always there, helping to heal him with a friendship so anointed and deep, it threatens to break her heart too. Flying high as a daredevil aeromedical evac pilot in the European Theatre, “Lieutenant Love” O’Neill crashes and burns when the woman he loves falls for another. Depending on the support and prayers of Nurse Hope Dennehy to save him, Bren re-evaluates his free-wheeling lifestyle when he witnesses the heinous atrocities of the Buchenwald concentration camp. Suddenly nothing in life is as important as taking care of those he loves … or is it? Battling demons from his past, Bren learns that only one thing can truly save him from himself. (Historical Romance, Independently Published)

Freedom’s Flight by Penny Zeller — When she discovers the handsome Reverend Matthias Sorenson assisting runaway slaves, can Annalise VanHouten convince him to allow her to help? Or will mistrust prove fatal for all involved? (Historical Romance from Maplebrook Publishing)

The Lady’s Mission by Mary Davis — Will Cordelia abandon her calling, for love?
Cordelia Armstrong wants nothing more than to escape the social norms for her station in society that require her to look pretty and do as she is told. However, unless she can skillfully maneuver her father into giving up control of her trust fund, she might have to concede defeat—as well as her freedom—and marry. To ward off potential suitors, she puts on a giggly persona. Every time Lamar Kesner finds a fascinating lady, her heart belongs to another. He doesn’t merely want a beautiful wife. He wants an intriguing partner with intelligence and wit. Is he asking too much of any woman? When a vapid socialite is offered up as a prospective bride, he contemplates flying off in his hot air balloon instead. Is Lamar the one to finally break the determination of Cordelia’s parents to marry her off? Or will this charming bachelor fly away with her heart? (Historical Romance from Mountain Brook Ink)

The Lost Melody by Joanna Davidson Politano — When concert pianist Vivienne Mourdant’s father dies, he leaves to her the care of an adult ward she knew nothing about. The woman is supposedly a patient at Hurstwell Asylum. The woman’s portrait is shockingly familiar to Vivienne, so when the asylum claims she was never a patient there, Vivienne is compelled to discover what happened to the figure she remembers from childhood dreams. The longer she lingers in the deep shadows and forgotten towers at Hurstwell, the fuzzier the line between sanity and madness becomes. She hears music no one else does, receives strange missives with rose petals between the pages, and untangles far more than is safe for her to know. But can she uncover the truth about the mysterious woman she seeks? And is there anyone at Hurstwell she can trust with her suspicions?. (Historical Romance, from Revell – A Division of Baker Publishing Group)

 

Romance:

 

A Nanny for the Rancher’s Twins by Heidi Main — Returning to small-town Texas was her fresh start. She never expected a ready-made family. What could be better than running a rustic wedding venue? Event planner Laney Taylor has it all laid out…except for the serious renovations her inherited property needs. Rancher Ethan McCaw will help—but only if she’ll nanny his toddler twins. Laney’s all about planning weddings for others and shielding her own heart, but Ethan, Zoe and Tori might be just the ones to change her mind. (Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

Keeping Christmas, Vol. 2 by Tabitha Bouldin, et. al. — The King’s Promise: In a world of airships and kings, a prince makes a promise that tears him away from his love. An ordinary baker’s daughter finds herself caught in the middle of a game where the winner earns the queen’s crown. They both want what they can’t have as they struggle toward a seemingly impossible happily ever after. Plus, five other stories! (Romance from Celebrate Lit Publishing)

Uncharted Christmas by Keely Brooke Keith — As Dr. Lydia Bradshaw makes her rounds in the village of Good Springs this Christmas season, each family she visits seems to be blessed in ways she is not. All the homes are beautifully decorated for the holiday, and every woman is expecting another baby. Every woman but her, that is. While the haze from the volcanic ash cloud outside the Land looms on the horizon, calls for the doctor force Lydia to work around the clock. Torn between fighting for the home life she craves and the career that defines her, Lydia needs a Christmas miracle. Meanwhile, at Falls Creek…Philip Roberts spends his lonely nights in the parsonage next to the humble chapel. Pastoring the church across from the Land’s only inn means encouraging many a road-worn traveler to carry on, whatever their journey might be. Philip also watches the ever-changing rotation of guests for the one person he prays will stay at Falls Creek forever. Only he doesn’t know her name. (Romance, Independently Published)

 

General Contemporary:

 

Where the Blue Sky Begins by Katie Powner — When confident and handsome Eric Larson is sent to a rural Montana town to work in the local branch of his uncle’s financial company, he’s determined to exceed everyone’s expectations, earn a promotion, and be back in Seattle by the end of summer. Yet nothing could prepare him for the lessons this small town has in store. At forty-six years old, eccentric and outspoken Eunice Parker has come to accept her terminal illness and has given herself one final goal: seek forgiveness from everyone on her bucket list before her time runs out. But it will take more courage than she can muster on her own. After an accident pushes Eric and Eunice together, the unlikely pair is forced to spend more time with each other than either would like, which challenges their deepest prejudices and beliefs. As summer draws to a close, neither Eric nor Eunice is where they thought they would be, but they both wrestle with the same important question: What matters most when the end is near? (General Contemporary from Bethany House (Baker) Publishing)

 

General Historical:

Mary by Shannon McNear — Worlds Collide Along the Shores of the Outer Banks. Immerse yourself in the “what if” questions related to the Lost Colony of Roanoke. What if an English boy and a native girl met in the wilderness? The push-and-pull between two very different worlds begins as one seeks simple friendship and the other struggles to trust. And can it–dare they–allow it to be more? Sparks fly between Mushaniq, free-spirited daughter of Manteo, and Georgie Howe, whose father was brutally murdered by undiscovered native warriors before they’d been on Roanoac Island a full week. As Georgie struggles to make sense of his life and to accept that not all they call “savage” are guilty of his father’s death, Mushaniq grapples with her own questions about who Manteo has become. As tentative friendship becomes more, forged in the fire of calamity and attack upon their community, both must decide whether the One True God is indeed who He claims to be and whether He is worthy of their trust. (General Historical from Barbour Publishing)

 

 

Mystery – Cozy:

The Merchant’s Curse by Antony B. Kolenc — When a merchant appears to be cursed by a witch, a peasant boy in medieval England races against time to save the man’s life while avoiding capture as a suspected traitor to the king. (Mystery, from Loyola Press)

 

FIVE DAYS LOST by Luana Ehrlich — Mylas agrees to investigate a bizarre incident from a prominent senator’s past, but as he tries to untangle the clues from a dead woman’s diary, he’s faced with an unexpected threat. Is it related to his investigation or is it something far more dangerous? (Crime Mystery, ACFW QIP (Qualified Independently Published))

Dog Days of Summer by Kathleen Y’Barbo — Mishaps Abound as Second Chance Ranch Struggles to Get Its Start. Trina Potter, Nashville country music star, buys a ranch near her hometown in Brenham, Texas, to help her niece open a rescue facility for dogs. Her presence in town stirs up some old high school rivalries—and romance. Finding property to buy is a challenge, convincing her mother to move there with her is daunting, and navigating a string of strange accidents is perplexing. Then there’s the handsome man from her past who just might convince her not to go back to Nashville. Sometimes Trina feels like she’s purchased her own three ring circus instead of a beautiful piece of land. But her first priority will be figuring out who wants Second Chance Ranch shut down before they even have the grand opening. (Mystery – Cozy, from Barbour Publishing)

The Plot Thickens by Susan Page Davis — Jillian only wants to redecorate one room at the Novel Inn—but first she has to deal with murder. Murder strikes Skirmish Cove during the coastal town’s winter carnival. Jillian Tunney, part owner of the nearby Novel Inn, discovers the body of a clerk at her favorite bookstore. With her sister Kate and brother, Officer Rick Gage, she tries to find out who killed him. Meanwhile, Jillian is immersed in redecorating one of the themed rooms, but Kate is annoyed when a mysterious guest at the inn doesn’t want to leave his room. The innkeepers find they have way too many secrets to solve.. (Mystery – Cozy from Scrivenings Press)

 

Speculative Fiction/Fantasy:

 

Dream of Kings by Sharon Hinck — The Future Never Sleeps. In the glacial nation of Norgard, Jolan the Dream Teller serves every seeker, whether peasant or high lord. Though she loves using her gift, she struggles to navigate the corrupt and dangerous court and the jealousies of the Guildagard. When an old man’s nightmare imparts a dire warning, Jolan realizes her entire nation is in danger. But before she can sound the alarm, she is betrayed by the guilds and sold into slavery in a rival kingdom far to the south. As a slave in a foreign land, at first Jolan can’t see beyond her singular focus: return home to warn Norgard of the coming calamity. After facing new dangers, making new friends, and forgiving old wrongs, she must fulfill the purposes the Provider has set before her. Only then can she face a decision that could cost her the man she loves, her calling, and her freedom—all to save a people who abandoned her. (Speculative Fiction/Fantasy from Enclave Publishing)

 

Thriller/Suspense/Crime:

 

Circle of Vengeance by Ramona Richards — Twenty-five years ago, a body was discovered in the Turney family barn–and folks around town were all too ready to believe that killing blood ran through all the Turney’s veins. Every member of the family came under suspicion, their reputations crumbled to pieces, and with no convictions, no one could be cleared. Daughter Jill, now a Chicago lawyer, is ready for this case to be solved and for her broken family to be repaired at last. Who better to find the answers than cold-case P.I. Star Cavanaugh? But as Star begins to dig into generations-old secrets, the killer resurfaces to make sure none of those skeletons leave the closet–no matter what the cost. As the danger mounts, Star again joins forces with police chief, Mike Luinetti, and begins to uncover truths that the whole town has kept hidden. But becoming the target of the determined killer isn’t the way Star wants to find the answers. It’s a race to solve the case before it becomes a matter of her life or death. (Thriller/Suspence/Crime from Kregel Publications)

 

Thriller/Suspense/Romance:

 

Concrete Evidence by DiAnn Mills — On the family’s Brazos River Ranch in Texas, Avery Elliott helps run her grandfather’s commercial construction business. Raised by Senator Elliott, Avery has never doubted her grandfather is the man of integrity and faith she’s always believed him to be . . . until the day she finds him standing with a gun over the body of a dead man. To make matters worse, Avery’s just discovered a billing discrepancy for materials supposedly purchased for construction of the Lago de Cobre Dam. Desperate for answers, Avery contacts FBI Special Agent Marc Wilkins for help. As Marc works to identify the dead man Avery saw, threats toward Avery create a fresh sense of urgency to pinpoint why someone wants to silence her. With a hurricane approaching the Texas coast and the structural integrity of the Lago de Cobre Dam called into question, time is running out to get to the bottom of a sinister plot that could be endangering the lives of not only Avery and her loved ones but the entire community. (Thriller/Suspense/Romance from Tyndale House)

Defending Honor by Kelly Underwood — Laila Rabbinowitz is all business. Tough and stoic, she was the perfect Mossad agent…until a terrible betrayal led to her worst nightmare. Being a bodyguard with the Elite Guardians allows her to keep her heart safe-she’ll never let anyone close enough to betray her again. And she’s certainly not going to trust anyone who doesn’t earn it. Billionaire and former playboy Preston Whittaker walked away from his famous family after a terrible event, but then his father and brother are killed in a suspicious boating accident. Since he’s next in line to helm the family business, now someone wants him dead. Preston needs someone by his side 24/7, and the only solution is a fake marriage. In order to keep him safe, Laila will have to convince everyone that she and Preston are in love. She’s used to putting her life on the line for a client. But what will this case cost her heart? (Thriller/Suspense/Romance from Sunrise Publishing)

Explosive Christmas Showdown by Darlene L. Turner — A bomber brings terror to Christmas as the presents go tick…tick…boom. With criminal investigative analyst Olive Wells at the center of a bomber’s dangerous game, she’ll do anything to catch the culprit—even work with her ex-fiancé and his K-9 detector dog. But with the Christmas rampage drawing ever closer, Zac Turner’s convinced the attacks are personal. Can they piece together their ties to the bomber…before another gift explodes? (Thriller/Suspense/Romance from Love Inspired (Harlequin))

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Wreathed in Disgrace by Robin Patchen — When she discovers the handsome Reverend Matthias Sorenson assisting runaway slaves, can Annalise VanHouten convince him to allow her to help? Or will mistrust prove fatal for all involved? (Thriller/Suspense/Romance, Independently Published)

 

Western Romance:

 

A Model of Devotion by Mary Conneally — She’s finally claimed her independence . . . how far will she go to keep it? A brilliant engineer, Jilly Stiles has been educated since childhood to help run her father’s lumber dynasty. With the company safe from her stepfather after the marriages of her two sisters, Jilly can now focus on her dream of building a mountaintop railroad–and never marry. Nick Ryder came into Jilly’s life when he saved her mother from her no-good stepfather, and he’s prepared to protect Jilly from anything that threatens to harm her–as long as he keeps his heart from getting involved. But when a cruel and powerful man goes to dangerous lengths to make Jilly his own, she must make a decision between her safety and her hard-won independence. (Western Romance from Bethany House (Baker) Publishing)

 

Women’s Fiction:

 

The Choices She Made by Felicia Ferguson — In 1997, seventeen-year-old Madeline Williams is torn between continuing her family ranching legacy and accepting her Army-bound boyfriend’s marriage proposal. But when an assault by John David Billings, the son of a wealthy rancher, leaves her pregnant, Madeline sacrifices both options, choosing to leave town and raise the child alone. It’s been several years, and when she returns to her hometown to meet with her father, rumors circulate about John David’s trial–for assaulting other women. Madeline struggles with the secret she’s kept from her daughter–and everyone but her father–all of these years. If she testifies, John David could be put away for good. It doesn’t help that he’s hired a killer lawyer, and it would take a testimony like hers just to put him behind bars. But if she unveils her past, that could have some dangerous repercussions for her daughter.She has trusted God throughout her entire life, but can she trust him to carry her through this trial? (Women’s Fiction from End Game Press)

Plus check out these recent additions to Fiction Finder published within the past month:

 

  The Scarlet Cord by Carlene Havel, Rahab is forced to make an immediate decision, knowing the wrong choice will cost her life. (Biblical)

 

 

  Turfmen and the Prodigal by John Malcolm Cunningham, Jr., Will Gideon and Sam reconcile in time to save Joe and Johnny Boy? Will Ned and Becky escape to freedom, or will they continue to suffer the Sturgises’ cruelties? (General Historical)

 

 

  A Heart to Trust by Judith McNees, Can two broken hearts learn to trust each other…and God? (Contemporary Romance)
   Bella’s Beautiful Miracle by Kimberly Novak, Adventure awaits as Bella the caterpillar discovers hidden treasures in secret places! (Children’s)

 

 

  The Bride of Blackfriars Lane by Michelle Griep, As Kit digs into the mystery of what happened, she unwittingly tumbles into her own history and endangers her future happiness with Jackson. (Historical Romance)

 

 

  The Brightest Star by Patti Jo Moore, When she volunteered to head up the children’s Christmas program at her church, Macy Crawford never expected to become so attached to a shy, orphaned girl in the program. (Contemporary Romance)

 

 

  Her One in a Million by Rachelle Paige Campbell, With the odds stacked against them, can they both achieve the financial and personal success they crave?. (Contemporary Romance)

 

 

  The Dark Atonement by Sarah Hamaker, As their lives intersect, the pair find themselves in a race to discover the whereabouts of her grandfather—and whoever wants to silence him—before the past catches up with the present. (Thriller/Suspense/Romance)

 

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Estelle’s Endeavor by Linda Shenton Matchett

Estelle’s Endeavor: The Story Behind the Story

By Linda Shenton Matchett

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday, so when I was asked to participate in the Thanksgiving Books & Blessings series, I jumped at the chance. Growing up, we traveled to my maternal grandparents’ house every year where we’d feast with aunts, uncles, and cousins. There was typically a turkey, roast beef, and ham as well as every vegetable imaginable. Multiple desserts were available and always included my great-aunt’s coconut cake. Good times.

As I sat down to outline Estelle’s Endeavor that would take place during World War II, I realized the story might not be as easy to write as anticipated. After all, the war was a time of great deprivation. Gas rationing was stringent, so families who lived far apart would be unable to get together. Food rationing meant that certain items were limited, while other items weren’t available even if allowed in larger portions. In addition, many husbands, sons, and fathers were missing from the table, some temporarily, but some permanently having lost their lives.

Then I read I Thessalonians 5:18 that says, “In everything give thanks for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Having come through a difficult year myself, the verse resonated with me. I decided to explore what it means to have a spirit of thanksgiving in spiteof circumstances rather than because of circumstances. Frankly, more easily said than done. Wouldn’t you agree?

My husband and I had a dear friend who’d been part of a tank battalion at the Battle of the Bulge which was the last major German offensive campaign on the Western Front, so I was able to use the memories he’d shared to create my male protagonist, a man badly injured who struggled with feelings of bitterness rather than thankfulness. In keeping with the secondary theme of books, I made my female protagonist a librarian, but the Armed Services Edition books, a series of more than 1,200 paperbacks designed to fit in uniform pockets that were shipped to troops around the globe, also played a role in the story.

Paul and the church members in Thessalonica also knew about difficult times. Angry that Paul’s teachings were drawing people out of the synagogue, the Jewish leaders managed to get Paul’s host, Jason, been arrested for harboring traitors to Caesar. Then Paul had to defend himself against a slander campaign and persecution of the church was strong. Almost immediately upon being forced to leave the city, he sat down and wrote a letter to the Thessalonians exhorting them to remain strong and thankful.

Are you going through tough times? Do you struggle with remaining thankful in spite of circumstances? I encourage you to read I Thessalonians and take Paul’s words to heart.

About Estelle’s Endeavor

Will a world at war destroy a second chance at love?

Estelle Johnson promised to wait for Aubry DeLuca, but then she receives word of his debilitating injuries. Does she have the strength to stand by him in his hour of need?

Aubry DeLuca storms the beaches at Normandy, then wakes up in the hospital, his eyes bandaged. Will he regain his sight? Will the only woman he’s ever loved welcome him home or is he destined to go through life blind and alone?

Purchase Link:

Author Bio: Linda Shenton Matchett writes about ordinary people who did extraordinary things in days gone by. She is a volunteer docent and archivist for the Wright Museum of WWII and a former trustee for her local public library. A native of Baltimore, Maryland, Linda was born a stone’s throw from Fort McHenry (of Star-Spangled Banner fame) and has lived in historical places all her life. She now makes her home in central New Hampshire where her favorite activities include exploring the outdoors and immersing herself in the imaginary worlds created by other authors.

Social Media Links:

Website/Blog: http://www.LindaShentonMatchett.com

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You’re Invited to Tea Time!

I love as a reader when I have the opportunity to stay in sweats, have my coffee, and connect with authors. Guess what? I love it as an author as well. I learn from my peers and feel less alone in this isolating business. With readers? You are so encouraging and thoughtful. Events that include us all make my day. Week. Month.

Friday, the 23rd I get the best of both worlds because I’ll be joining Burrows Book Buds Tea Time from 4-7. Join 13 authors as they chat without any “buy my book” agenda. I will be sharing at 4:30, but my plan is to be there for the duration, because I love reading and sharing comments.

I hope you will join me, and let others know about this as well. I might freak out if 1000 people show up to an in-person event, but online? I love it.

See you there!

I’m Still Standing, the Newsletter Edition

Yep, that’s Sir Elton John. Why do I have a picture of him? What’s the connection between his music and my life? What else is going on?

If those are your questions, I have answers. Twice a month I send out a newsletter. The first one is writing related. It can be an excerpt, more about a character, something about the process. The second, usually sent out around the 15th of each month, contains a personal update. Both editions also feature promotions and “reader news you can use.”

My latest newsletter is out and already I’ve received kind emails about the personal update. Whether I stay a little ole’ indie author or a giant recognized name in the field, my intention is to stay engaged with readers. They love hearing how my family is doing. I enjoy reader updates when they communicate with me.

I’d love for you to be one of them.

You can subscribe for free, and in doing so, you receive my first book in the Surrendering Time series, Entrusted, PLUS a bonus. This downloadable edition contains an exclusive epilogue. That’s not even the bonus.

To give you a taste, here’s my most recent edition. Enjoy!

Guess How Much God Loves You by Karen Ferguson

I’m so excited to share about my new release, Guess How Much God Loves You, the first of a six book series that teaches children ages 4-8 all about the never-changing, never-failing, never-ending love of God. 

In this first book you’ll meet Lucy-Lu, a colorful, creatively curious first grader who is starting to have serious questions about God. Questions like: How old is He? Does He sleep? What does He do all day? And the biggest one of all – does God love me?

Quote: One day after dinner Lucy crawled up into her papa’s lap, and she asked him the big question, “Papa Joe, does God really love me?”

It’s this question that launches Lucy and her papa on an exciting adventure through the Bible, where they find themselves in the middle of it all, on each page of the powerful story of God’s love and faithfulness for all people, throughout all history. 

This first book is all about God’s intentional and miraculous Creation as recorded in Genesis.

Quote: “As he opened it to read what he called the ‘days of creation,’ its light grew even brighter. Lucy sat back, closed her eyes, and listened to how God created the whole, wide world in just six days, and she could see it all in her mind. It was like she was there…”

By the end of the book Lucy understands three simple, yet powerful truths: God is the Creator of the World, God created every person in His image on purpose and for a purpose, and God loves them. 

She also discovers that Creation is only the beginning of their journey through the Bible.

Quote: Papa Joe chuckled. “You are full of many, many questions, and that is good. But what I read is not the end of it; this book is all about the never-changing, never-failing, never-ending love of God. Creation is only a part of it. There is so much more to tell.”

The initial inspiration for this book, was one of my very favorite books to read to my girls when they were young, Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney, and I got to thinking that while it’s important for children to know that the special adults in their lives love them, how much more important for them to know that God loves them. So that’s where the title twist came in. 

But I knew this book would have to be longer and more complex to cover the deep truths of the Bible, presented in a simple way. Something young readers could grow with, both spiritually and in their reading skills. My mission was to teach Biblical principles in a creative, dynamic way, because I was disappointed with a lot of what I was seeing on bookshelves and frustrated with what seemed to be a rise in anti-Christian content. 

As a mom and grandmom, with a background in K-8 education, I knew there would be three important things needed for this book to resonate with young children. It had to be simple enough for kids to understand and relate to, creative enough to capture and hold their attention, and I knew it had to address two of the greatest needs common to us all, and especially important to a child’s development: the need to be loved and to belong. 

Guess How Much God Loves You is now available on Amazon, and I hope you’ll pick up one (or two to share with the special child(ren) in your life. I want every child to know their life matters!

You can also sign up for my newsletter, and you’ll be the first to know about upcoming events, giveaways, freebies, and new books. 

Karen Ferguson is a freelance writer and small business owner with a background in K-8 education. A grateful wife, mom, and grandmom, she loves words and the Word of God and is passionate about writing stories that grab and hold young readers’ attention, while teaching them all about God’s unchangeable truths, and His unchanging love for them. 

The first book in the Guess How Much God Loves You picture book series is available on Amazon and wherever books are sold.  

You can connect with Karen on her website or on social media at Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Goodreads, Bookbub and Amazon.

Book Review: Hearts Unbroken by Kathleen Friesen

To Logan Rockwell, Paige Donnelly is his younger sister’s flirty friend—nothing more—until he rescues her from a horrific accident and yearns to be more than her hero.

Paige’s crush on Logan and dreams of catching his attention began years ago. Although the crash brought them together, her dreams died with a choice she’d made and would always regret.
Can Paige find forgiveness for what she feels is an unforgivable wrong? Can Logan be her forever hero, or will his ambition destroy their chance at lasting love?

Hearts Unbroken embraces the aftermath of abortion in this story of faith, love, and abundant grace.

Julie’s Review:

This is the second book in the Rockwell Chronicles series, and although it can be read as a standalone, you’re missing out if you don’t start out with Book 1, Hearts Unfolding. The Rockwell family could be your neighbors, your friends, maybe even you and your family. Kathleen Friesen develops believable characters and turn-the-page fast romance that won’t make you blush. She also has a redemptive theme in her writing that leaves the reader inspired, encouraged, and dare I say, challenged. In a good way!

With Hearts Unbroken, I was rooting for Logan and Paige immediately. There’s always that one guy that just seems a tad out of reach, so I was interested right away. There’s a wall between them keeping them apart at every turn. When the truth is revealed, it’s a faith journey for both of them.

I’m a fan of Kathleen Friesen’s work, and I am in love with this series. Hearts Unbroken is no exception. I highly recommend!

Forgotten Memories by Penny Zeller

Forgotten Memories Author Interview with Penny Zeller

Congratulations on the release of Forgotten Memories! What was your favorite part about writing this book? Thank you, Julie! I would have to say going in-depth into the personality of the characters. Forgotten Memories has so many fun and humorous parts, but it also has some serious and emotional scenes as well. My favorite part was the challenge of writing a complete character arc, especially for Annie and Caleb, but also for the strong secondary characters of Reverend Solomon, Charlotte, John Mark, and Zeb. To really see life through their eyes and imagine how they would respond to both the happy times and the times of struggle.

Speaking of characters, what is your favorite part of the writing process as a whole?
I love to create characters. There is something exciting about being able to give characters personalities and create situations and dialogue.

What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?
My most difficult writing obstacle is setting priorities, sticking to them, and not wasting time on less important things on my “to-do list.” Besides writing, I am also a fitness instructor, blog regularly, am involved in ministry, and volunteer. To help myself overcome that obstacle, each morning before I climb out of bed and face the day, I ask the Lord to prepare my heart, that He guide my day, that I would use my time wisely, and that I would get accomplished only what He would have me do that day.

What made you love books? 

I have loved books from the time I was a little girl. I would climb onto my mom’s lap and she would read some of my favorite books, one of which was Harry the Dirty Dog. In first grade, I won second place for most books read in a month. And when I was ten, my Aunt Kerry passed her entire collection of Trixie Belden books to me. I instantly fell in love with the series and read the books over and over again. Trixie was, of course, my favorite character. The Nancy Drew Series, Caddie Woodlawn, and Little House on the Prairie were some of my other favorites.  

When I became a mom, I read to my own girls from the time they were infants. We read everything from Bible stories to Click, Clack, Moo, Cows that Type and Little Whistle.  

I’ve always been an avid reader. Books take us on adventures we would never be able to go on if we never turned the pages. 

Why is the theme/message of the novel important to you?

The main theme in Forgotten Memories is that we are new creations in Christ, based on 2 Corinthians 5:17. That’s important because so many times we think we are hopeless. That God couldn’t love us based on what we’ve done. That we are the sum of what we’ve done (or not done). But when we surrender our lives to Him, we are new creations. As the verse says, “the old has passed, the new has come”. This is good news! We can begin afresh and are forgiven by the One who gave His very life for us.

What are you working on right now? I am super excited to be working on the second book in the Wyoming Sunrise Series, Dreams of the Heart. This time, readers will catch a glimpse of John Mark Eliason in his own book. It’s currently available for preorder with a release date of March 2023.

Thank you again for having me as your guest, Julie. It was great to be here!

Blurb:

Some memories are best forgotten…

The Wyoming Territory is rife with lawlessness and disorder, something Annie Ledbetter and her parents discover when their wagon train is robbed. Seven years later, Annie settles into her lifelong dream as a teacher in the small town of Willow Falls. When she meets handsome rancher Caleb Eliason through a humorous misunderstanding, she is quickly drawn to his kind heart and charming smile.

Former outlaw Caleb Eliason embraces his chance at a fresh start. Gone are the days of robbing stagecoaches and wagon trains. When he falls in love with the new Willow Falls teacher, he doesn’t realize they’ve met before—under much different circumstances. When his past comes to light, will it put the growing love between them at risk?

Can forgiveness and redemption heal two broken hearts or will the past keep them from sharing a future?

Bio:

Penny Zeller is known for her heartfelt stories of faith and her passion to impact lives for Christ through fiction. While she has had a love for writing since childhood, she began her adult writing career penning articles for national and regional publications on a wide variety of topics. Today, Penny is the author of over a dozen books. She is also a homeschool mom and a fitness instructor.

When Penny is not dreaming up new characters, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters, camping, hiking, canoeing, reading, running, cycling, gardening, and playing volleyball.

She is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency and loves to hear from her readers at her website www.pennyzeller.com and her blog, random thoughts from a day in the life of a wife, mom, and author, at www.pennyzeller.wordpress.com.

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Add Forgotten Memories to your Goodreads TBR: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61166004-forgotten-memories?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=JxLU3k3mt3&rank=2