THE PROMISE OF AN ANGEL - Ruth Reid - Free Book

Ruth Reid Bio:

Ruth Reid is a full-time pharmacist who lives in Dade City, Florida, with her husband and three children. Her fascination for the Amish began twenty-years ago when she skipped college classes to watch a barn-raising. Today, she’s still captivated by the simple ways of the Amish lifestyle, and in her debut novel, The Promise of an Angel, she writes about what started her curiosity with the Amish—a barn raising. When Ruth is not working, she loves photography.   

Welcome, Ruth. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

A friend told me after reading my first book how she looked for me, but found herself. I told her she would have to piece together a little from every character to find me.

In Brush of Angel’s Wings, the second book in the Heaven on Earth series, the main character is a bad cook and unable to keep her sewing stitches straight. That’s me; my quilting friends would confirm that I spend more time ripping out stitches then sewing them right the first time.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I gave my sister, Joy, a haircut. She asked me to trim her straight, no bangs, shoulder length hair, and by the time I finished evening-up the sides, she had sideburns and spiked bangs. I should be dead—but Joy is much more understanding than anyone I know.  I still don’t know why I thought I could cut hair…

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I was in 5^th grade when a teacher encouraged me to enter the Young Author’s Writing Contest. Writing that 12 page short story ignited the desire in my heart.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

My interest ranges from non-fiction, pharmacology journals and frontier medicine, to most genres of fiction. I love a good “who done it” mystery and, one day, I plan to use my pharmaceutical background to write a medical thriller…or, a historical romance rich with frontier medicine.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

As the song goes, “…Without God, I can do nothing. Without Him I’d surely fail…” I’ve learned that when my sanity starts slipping it’s because I’ve allowed myself to become distracted and I’ve taken my focus off of God. When this happens, I increase my prayer time, take long baths, and talk to friends who help get me back on track.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Since most Amish names are Biblical, I tend to choose my character’s names from the Bible. Another resource I use is a log a dear friend provided of the district divisions, family names, dates of births, deaths, and when the family moved to the Michigan settlement that I write about in my books.    

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

My three children love the Lord.

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

I’d like to be an Eagle. Two reasons: They soar, and Eagles are protected species.

What is your favorite food?

Pepperoni and black olive pizza.   

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

I don’t know that I’ve totally overcome it, but I fear sharing my work. Let’s face it not everyone will respond to your writing with the same unconditional love like mom. I remember how nerve racking it was when I first joined the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) critique group, but I am so grateful I did. I found out everyone in my group was nervous.  

Tell us about the featured book.

Interrupting the ordered routine of the Mecosta County Amish settlement, an angelic visitor awakens Judith to a new faith.

All Judith Fischer has ever wanted is to marry within her community and raise a family of her own. She longs for the day when her parents will allow Levi Plank to officially court her.

But on the day Judith suspects Levi will ask her parent’s permission, her younger brother Samuel has an accident under her charge. Rushing to Samuel’s aid, Judith spies a strange man helping him; a man she later believes was an angel.

When she shares her conviction with her family and close friends, she is shocked to find that no one believes her, including Levi. In the days following the accident, the angel visits Judith with information that may guide her down the path of faith, should she choose to follow. 

As her community slowly distances themselves, only one person is willing to stand up for her – the bishop’s son, Andrew Lapp. But can he convince the settlement to listen to her? With a show of faith that flies in the face of her conservative upbringing, can Judith hold strong to the promise that there are even greater things in store for those who believe?

Please give us the first page of the book.

Readers can find the first two chapters posted on my website. (see link below)

http://ruthreid.com/

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website (where the first two chapters are posted)  http://ruthreid.com/

My facebook page (I’d love the readers to “like” my page)

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Ruth-Reid/183828688320022

Amishliving.com (A site where readers and authors talk about the Amish lifestyle.)

http://www.amishliving.com/profile/RuthReid

Thank you, Ruth, for stopping by my blog.

Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link.

Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com 

Last July Winners!!!!!!

Some of the people who leave comments aren't in the drawing because they don't follow the instructions at the bottom of the post. 

Sarah (OK) is the winner of Love Finds You in Groom, Texas by Janice Hanna. (I just started reading this one, and I'm loving it.)
Judy Cooper (LA) is the winner of A Vision of Lucy by Margaret Brownley.
Teleah (MI) is the winner of Livvie's Song by Sharlene MacLaren.
Kristie (OH) is the winner of Out of Control by Mary Connealy. (I just finished reading this one. It's Mary's best book yet. I can't wait to read the next one.)
Sharlene (MI) is the winner of From Ashes to Honor by Loree Lough.
Amber (TX) is the winner of Freedom's Stand by Jeanette Windle.

If you won a book, please give the author the courtesy of writing a review on Goodreads, Amazon.com, Christianbooks.com, Barnes & Noble, or other Internet sites. Also, tell your friends about the book. Thank you.

Congratulations, everyone. Send me your mailing address: 
Click the Contact Me link at the top of the blog, and send me an Email. 
Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.
If you didn't win and you plan to order the book, please use the link provided on the individual interview. By using that link when you order, you will help support this blog.

PURSUED - Lillian Duncan - Free Book

Welcome, Lillian. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

I try not to model my characters on myself or my friends. Writing experts warn beginning writers not to do that because it tends to limit the characters. But the truth is bits and pieces of myself pop up when I least expect it.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

Mmm. You mean besides being a writer?

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I’m not sure it’s something you discover as much as something that happens over time. It took several years and many, many hours of writing before I decided I was a writer.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. 

I enjoy reading all sorts of books, both Christian and secular. Suspense, mysteries, and thrillers are my favorite and if they have some romance in them, all the better.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

I walk.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

For me, this is one of the hardest things when I first start creating a story. One MS I worked on and then set aside. When I came back to it, I realized all the major characters had names from the old Gunsmoke series, including Miss Kitty, Amanda Blake, Matt Dillon, James Arness. It was very bizarre! I have a baby book of names that I use now to help. Some of my characters change names several times before their real name is discovered.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?  

Wow! Talk about a tough question. I’ve written and erased several different answers because they sounded too much like bragging. I could talk about putting myself through college, or working and retiring from a large urban school district, or finally accomplishing my dream of being a published author but...The truth is I’m proud of the way I live my life now. I don’t always succeed (not by a longshot) but I try to act in a way that makes God smile. I’ve been a Christian since I was a teen-ager, but haven’t always made the right choices. With God’s help, I’m getting better at that...and I’ve never had more peace and joy.                       

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

A puppy, of course! There’s nothing cuter, sweeter, or more loveable than a puppy. Who wouldn’t want to cute, sweet, and loveable?

What is your favorite food?

Pasta without a doubt! Spaghetti—lasagna—macaroni and cheese! If it’s got pasta in it, then I’m a happy camper. As I’m sitting here writing, I can smell the spaghetti my wonderful husband is cooking for dinner. Yummy!

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

 I’d say I was and am my own greatest roadblock. My shyness, my insecurities, and the limitations I put on myself. It has taken lots of prayer and studying God’s Word to understand that He wouldn’t give me the dream of being a writer without giving me what I need to accomplish it. With each step of faith I take, God is there waiting just as He promised.

Tell us about the featured book.   

                       

PURSUED is a romantic suspense. When a big city lawyer crashes into a laid-back farmer, the fun (and the terror) begins.

Reggie spends her time pursuing the American Dream and is sure wealth and success will make her happy, even though it hasn’t yet. Dylan describes himself as a simple farmer who already has everything he needs to be happy—family, friends, and God.

In the normal course of events, their lives would never intersect but some accidents just aren't meant to be avoided. When Reggie crashes into Dylan, it makes a bad day even worse or so she thinks. Dylan on the other hand is intrigued by the feisty lady lawyer and wrangles a way to spend a bit more time with her by offering to drive her home. But when someone shoots at Reggie, they begin a journey that will change both their lives forever.

Please give us the first page of the book.

“Unacceptable,” Jeffrey Howard whispered.

Heads whipped around as if a bomb had exploded, instead of a whisper.

No, no, no! This can’t be happening. Reggie Meyers’s insides turned to mush, but she turned toward the head of the table with a smile pasted on her face. She laid the pen down on the contract. It wouldn’t do for others to notice her hand shaking. A trembling pen would be a dead giveaway.

“I’m sorry. Did you say unacceptable?” Reggie looked at the owner of Lightning Bolt Enterprises.

“That’s what I said.” The older man’s snow white mustache twitched.

Maybe, it was a joke and he was trying not to smile. She waited for the punch line. It didn’t come. If she blew this deal, with Lightning Bolt, she’d get fired for sure. Her future at Benton and Greene, Attorneys at Law looked bleak.

“I’m sorry. I don’t understand.”

The man stood. “I thought you were a lawyer.”

“I am—”

He marched over to her. Leaning down, he jabbed at a word. “Right there, can’t you see? It says if but it should say when. It makes the contract unacceptable.”

“It’s just a clerical error, Mr. Howard. We can cross it out and write in the correct word and initial it. It’s no big deal.”

“Missy, it may not be a big deal to you, but it is to me. I won’t deal with a company that doesn’t know the difference between if and when.”

Reggie glanced around the table. Not one person looked at her. Not a good sign.

Ignoring his disrespectful tone and words, she spoke again, hoping not to sound like she was begging. She stood, almost nose to nose, except he was over six foot tall and she was a foot shorter. “I’ll have a new contract printed up and it will be ready in thirty minutes.”

Mr. Howard looked at his watch.

He was going to agree. It would be OK.

He gave the famous lightning bolt smile that had made him and his company renowned.

“Sorry, these negotiations are now over.” His blue eyes twinkled, and then he turned and walked out the room.

            Her mouth fell open. Three months of negotiating over. Just like that. 

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I’m on Facebook as Lillian K. Duncan and my website is  www.lillianduncan.net




Thank you, Lillian, for spending this time with us.



Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.


Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link.
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

LOVE FINDS YOU IN SUNDANCE, WYOMING - Miralee Ferrell - Free Book

So wonderful to have you back with us Miralee. What are some of the spiritual themes you like to write about?

Great question, because I have a reoccurring theme in many of my books, one of restoration and acceptance. My books portray strong lead characters, and especially strong women dealing with difficult circumstances, but they’re often also struggling with internal issues. Some of those issues are: wanting to be accepted for who they are, putting their past behind them and finding healing or restoration from a broken past, and finding ways to trust again when they’ve been betrayed. Readers can expect to find a message of hope, healing and restoration in all of my books.

What other books of yours are coming out soon?

My newest is Love Finds You in Sundance, Wyoming, and Love Finds You in Tombstone, Arizona released earlier this year. I have two other three-book series going to committee in mid August, so I’m hopeful I’ll have some good news to announce about upcoming releases soon. Both are historical romance, but one has a strong women’s fiction thread as well.

If you could spend an evening with one contemporary person (not a family member of yours), who would it be and why?

I’m going to answer this a little differently, Lena, because I’ve been privileged to meet many of my heroes who are authors, and I’m not a huge fan of TV or movies, and I do get to spend time with special friends. If I could meet any contemporary person (you didn’t say they HAD to be real) it would be Father Tim and Cynthia from Mitford. For readers who don’t know, they’re the main characters in Jan Karon’s Mitford series books. I think it would be lovely to sit down in their kitchen, chat with them, meet Dooley, and pet Barnabas, their big dog. And maybe stroll down the street to the coffee shop and meet a few of the other residents, as well!

What historical person would you like to meet (besides Jesus) and why?

Again, I’m going to think outside the box just a bit. It might be awkward to sit down and try to find something to visit about with a historical person I’ve never met, but if I could transport myself back there (instead of bringing them here) and plop myself down in the middle of a time period or event I think it would be Egypt while they were building the pyramids and tombs…and visit one of the palaces and meet one of the pharaohs. Wouldn’t it be awesome to see HOW they did that? And discover some of the secrets that scientists are still trying to figure out?

                 

By going outside the box, you're revealing more of yourself to our readers, and that's a good thing. How can you encourage authors who have been receiving only rejections from publishers?

You’ve arrived if you’ve been rejected. No rejections mean you probably haven’t done a lot of work or taken many risks. If we only sit at home and write, and are too afraid to send our work out for fear of rejection, we’ll never attain our goals. So honestly, rejection is a sign of success. You’re moving forward, you’re paying the price—now put that rejection behind you and don’t take it to heart. Realize that there’s not a published author out there who hasn’t been rejected at some stage of their career—and many of us multiple times. It’s not personal, it’s business. You might apply for a dozen jobs and only get hired at one. You may not have been a good fit for the other 11, or they may have filled their quota, it’s not a direct reflection of who you are. Shake it off and get back to work. That next proposal may be the one that lands you that contract!

Tell us about the featured book.

It’s not just a historical romance, it’s a Western. I’m having a ball writing books set in the Old West with lots of action, adventure, good-looking cowboys, strong heroines, and a subtle (and believable) faith thread. Here’s the back cover blurb to give you a feel for the story line:

Angel Ramirez is tired of living a lie. But can she live like a lady?

On the run from a dangerous outlaw, Angel works her way across several states disguised as a boy and working as a varmint tracker and horse wrangler. After taking a job on a Wyoming ranch owned by a bachelor and his widowed sister, she finally reveals her true identity and must fight to prove her worth as a ranch hand while somehow discovering her role as woman.

Hiring a woman doesn’t sit well with Travis Morgan, and the dark-haired beauty is causing a
ruckus among his cowboys. Just as Angel decides she’ll never be able to please her boss, an
unexpected surprise arrives from across the ocean and makes trouble on the ranch. Will Angel leave with the person who’s come so far to claim her? 

As you know, I love to write western romances, too, since I just won the Will Rogers Medallion Award for western fiction. Please give us the first page of the book.

Texas Panhandle, 1887

Angel Ramirez woke with a start, her heart pounding a rolling beat in her chest. Someone was in her room.

Inching her fingers under the edge of her pillow, her hand brushed against the cold steel of her Colt revolver. She eased the gun out and waited, allowing her vision to adjust to the partial darkness of the muggy August night. Uncle Jose had taught her to wait, never to rush when confronting an intruder—the first shot might be her only one.

Rolling over onto her side, she pointed the gun at the door. “Who’s there?”

A half moon sent tentative fingers of light through the small window near the foot of her bed. A dark form stepped forward. “It’s Jose. Put your gun down, m’ija.” Her uncle’s accented drawl was absent—the words short and clipped. “Get dressed and meet me outside. Hurry now.” He slipped out the door and closed it carefully behind him.

Angel drew on her trousers and long-sleeved shirt, tugged on her boots, and shoved her sombrero onto her close-cropped curls. After a quick look around the room, she grabbed her rifle and headed outside. Jose raised his hand for silence and drew her into the nearby stand of trees, not far from their small, three-room cabin. “Keep your voice down. I don’t want any of the men in the banda to hear.”

The hair on the back of Angel’s arms stood on end. “What’s wrong?”

“Another cattle raid. I won’t leave you behind. It’s not safe for you here.”

“With the men?”

“Yes. Bart Hinson’s up to something.”

Angel sucked in a breath between her teeth. “Hinson. He’s the worst of this bunch. I don’t like the way he looks at me.”

Jose stifled what sounded like a curse and gripped her arm. “If anything happens to me tonight, promise you’ll ride out of here and never come back.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Facebook:   www.facebook.com/miralee

Web site:    www.miraleeferrell.com   (you can find pictures of our research trips to the historical locations, my journey into writing, family pics & info about my books)

Blog:          www.miraleesdesk.blogspot.com  (I do an occasional book giveaway for my book & other authors, as well as random posts on daily life)

I'm giving away gifts to anyone who purchases my new release (an Old West romance...or a "Western"), Love Finds You in Sundance, WY, from Amazon on August 1st, the release date. You must purchase ON that day to get the gifts. If you do, you'll also get your name put in a drawing for gift cards & copies of three of my other titles. Summerside is also kicking in a few books to give away.

Here are the four gifts you'll automatically get, besides being entered into the drawing for the gift cards & books.

You'll receive.....
...
* A four page epilogue that tells you what happens after the story ends (the book doesn't contain an epilogue...this was written just for you!)
* Five pages of recipes, some old family favorites used by my mother and grandmother
* A Sneak Peek at the first chapter of the new book I'm working on. That's right, you'll be the only group of people who get to read the first chapter BEFORE it releases!
* A fun list of baby names that were popular in 1889, when Angel Ramirez was riding the range in Sundance.

For more details you can check out my blog at www.miraleesdesk.blogspot.​ com

Miralee, what a fun idea. I just might have to do something like that when my next book comes out. Thanks for dropping by and sharing with us.

Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.


Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link.
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

WINGS OF PROMISE - Bonnie Leon - Free Book

Welcome, Bonnie.Tell us about your salvation experience.

I was born into a good family, but life brought painful challenges. When I was five years old, I was sexually assaulted, and at fifteen I was raped. I told no one and chose to carry my wounds and my anger alone. As a child, I also lived with a speech impediment, which drew barbs from my peers. With the help of a speech therapist I learned to communicate, but the damage to my self-worth was already done. I saw myself as worthless as a piece of trash.

Through the years, the Lord reached out to me through teachers and friends, but I refused to surrender to Him. God didn’t give up, and out of love He allowed a series of misfortunes to hit all in one clump. He knew if I were ever to come to Him I needed to be broken. In a matter of a few months, two people I loved deeply died. One of them was my father. I lost a baby and my husband walked out of my life, stating that he didn’t love me anymore.

I was crushed and without hope. One day an old friend stopped by to visit and while she was at my home she told me about Christ. We watched the 700 Club together, which I pretended didn’t interest me.  Before my friend left that night, she said, “Bonnie, I just want to tell you one thing. Jesus loves you.”

I acted as if what she’d said made little difference to me, but on the inside I rejoiced. Someone loved me! I clung to her words. Several days later, I turned on the 700 Club and when Pat Robertson explained the gospel and invited viewers to come to Jesus, I got down on my knees right there in front of the television and prayed with him. I placed my life in the hands of Christ.

I cried buckets and realized that I was not a piece of trash and that my life had value. God had created me. I was special. And I was loved. When I got up off my knees I was a new person.

I began to pray for my husband and God restored our marriage. Two months after that, my husband gave his life to Christ. We’ve been walking God’s path together ever since. This August we will celebrate our 40th anniversary.

That is a very powerful testimony. I’m glad God sent that woman to your house that day. You’re planning a writing retreat where you can only have four other authors. Who would they be and why?

This is a really difficult question. I am in fact, planning a writing retreat with my critique group in October. But . . . if I can invite anyone, any authors . . . First I’d invite Christ. I write for Him and my prayer is that His will I what falls upon the pages of my books. Secondly, I’d love to spend a weekend with Abraham Lincoln. He was a man of honor and courage. Two traits I find invaluable in writers. Thirdly, Corey Ten Boom. She was a woman of great faith. I’d love to know her better and experience her strength and faith face to face. Finally, I’d ask John Steinbeck. His writing is a bit dark, but I love the melodies he creates with words. He’s a spectacular author.

I realize all of these people are unavailable, except Christ, but you didn’t say they had to still be living. J

You’re right, I didn’t. So you did just fine. Do you have a speaking ministry? If so, tell us about that.

I love to speak. I’ve addressed women’s groups, writers, readers and church groups. One of my stronger spiritual gifts is exhortation and so I have a natural bent for encouraging others. It gives me a lot of joy.  And teaching writers is especially fun. I love to see a group gather, wondering if they are really writers and then after a day-long workshop they walk out, convinced they can do it. It’s extremely gratifying.

Because of a back injury I’ve been on hiatus for more than a year, but I’m stepping back in, slowly. In fact, I’ll spoke at a conference July 16^th and I’m teaching at the Oregon Christian Writers Summer Conference in August. I’m looking forward to spending time with other writers and readers.

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you and how did you handle it?

I have a list of embarrassing moments, but the most recent was at a women’s retreat. I was the guest speaker for the weekend and my back seized up the first evening. I retired to my bed, heavily medicated and praying for a better tomorrow. God had something else for me. I was no better the next day, but I managed to fulfill my speaking obligations. While at retreats I always enjoy spending time with the ladies, but at this event I spent the weekend flat on my back most of the time. I felt humiliated and hated letting the ladies down.

The women were gracious and kind. When it was time for me to head home, the ladies didn’t let me lift a finger. They packed all my things in my car and I climbed in and headed for home. It was a five hour trip, but I dared not get out of the car and so I drove straight home and went to bed.

People are always telling me that they’d like to write a book someday. I’m sure they do to you, too. What would you tell someone who came up to you and said that?

I always tell them, “Don’t write for money. There may not be any. Write only because you love it. And grow a tough outer skin. You’ll need it.”

Tell us about the featured book.
Wings of Promise is book two in my Alaskan Skies series, which takes place in Alaska during the 1930’s. I think the back cover does a good job of describing the core of the story. So here it is—

Her spunk has always gotten her through tough times. But does she have what it takes to go the distance?

                                               

Kate Evans may be a woman in a man’s profession, but as Alaskan bush                                               Pilots go,  she’s one of the best. If only her personal life wasn’t so                                                complicated. Torn between her affection for fellow pilot Mike Conlin

and doctor Paul Anderson, Kate longs for clarity in her heart. But when a terrible tragedy occurs, her mind may be made up for her.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Kate pulled her Plymouth coupe to the side of the road in front of the Townse’s place. They were good friends, and she was thankful for their invitation to share Christmas with them. Still, she was unable to hold back a sigh as she turned off the ignition. Bear Creek, with Paul, would have been more fun but frigid temperatures had cornered her in Anchorage. She knew better than to count on anything when it came to Alaskan weather.

She sat in the car a few minutes to rein in her thoughts. The calendar said December 25, but without Paul, it didn’t feel like Christmas. It was to be their first Christmas together as a couple. They’d planned a celebration with a tree, gifts, and dinner. And maybe even a trip up Bear Creek on the sled with the dogs. Kate had imagined a romantic evening huddled together, sipping hot chocolate and gazing at a glittering Alaskan sky. They’d talk about their future and, with any luck, share the beauty of northern lights dancing across the sky.

Maybe she could get Sidney’s permission to use the shop’s radio to call Patrick out on the creek. Paul would most likely be there. Would calling him be too forward?

Maybe we can celebrate the New Year together. It was almost as good as spending Christmas with each other. According to predictions, there was reason to rejoice—1937 might be the year the country actually crawled out of the ruinous depression.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I’m easy to find. Just go to www.bonnieleon.com .


Thank you, Bonnie, for visiting with us today.


Readers, you'll love this book. I was privileged to read it for an endorsement, and I couldn't put it down.



Here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.


Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)


Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal or international law. 


The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.


If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link.
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com 

GIVE THE LADY A RIDE - Linda Yezak - Free Book

Welcome, Linda. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

Most of my heroines have been wounded in the past in bad marriages or relationships, as I was, and they all receive the blessing of a second chance at love, as I did. That is the primary commonality between me and my characters. I also draw on my experiences to illustrate character emotions, but that's as far as the similarities go. My characters lead far more interesting lives than I do.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I don't know how quirky this is, but the most impulsive thing I've done in recent years is to pull off the highway on the way to Mom's house, cross the cattle guard to a rodeo ranch, and request an interview with the former professional bull rider who owns it. I've always worked under that popular assumption, “It never hurts to ask,” and every time, I prove it true. The interview produced wonderful insight into the world of cowboys, bull riders, rodeo, and ranching.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I'm not sure I can remember back that far. I think I was a story-teller the moment I learned to talk. I probably started writing soon after.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

Oh, goodness! I love just about everything—I'm even learning to love fantasy. I'm not too crazy about Sci-Fi, and there are some genres I simply won't touch. Otherwise I love it all, from classic to contemporary and everything in between, particularly if it's well-written.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

We're assuming that I have kept my sanity, which is still in doubt. On days when I do feel like I have a handle on things, it's because I've made to-do lists and have been able to follow it. However, when putting out brushfires usurps my list, I tiptoe along the edge of sanity.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

By their personality traits and socio-economic status, and by the setting. One lady who read my new release, Give the Lady a Ride, commented on the names of my male characters (Talon and Chance), saying they were “over the top.” Ride is set on a ranch in Texas, and bull riding plays a major part in the plot.  While “Talon” remains a unique nickname, “Chance” is fairly common in the world of riding and rodeo, and I've seen some names that were far more “over the top” than these. The names are appropriate for the setting.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Ten years of “I'll never do that again!” lapsed between my failed marriage and my new love, so the fact Billy and I will be celebrating our twentieth wedding anniversary this year is my biggest honor, blessing, and pride. Of course, being published now ranks right up there!

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

That's a toss-up between river otter and dolphin. I love the water, love to swim and fish, but I sunburn so easily, I'm limited to how much outdoor activity I can participate in. I'd want to be one of the water critters that has a huge personality and lots of fun in life.

What is your favorite food?

The kind that's edible. There are few things I don't like; I'm pickier about how something is prepared than I am about what it is.

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

For the longest time, structure was killing me. I read James Scott Bell's book about it, and that helped, but it wasn't until I got Larry Brooks's ebook about structure that the barrier totally shattered.

Tell us about the featured book.

New York socialite Patricia Talbert has lost faith in herself, but it isn't until she comes to the Circle Bar Ranch that she learns the faith she lost in God is a far deeper problem. In Give the Lady a Ride, Patricia tries to regain that faith by riding on the back of a bull—and a handsome cowboy is intent on teaching her how.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Chapter One

“Company’s coming!” Chance Davis’s voice rang over the stomping hooves of bawling calves in the holding pen at the Circle Bar Ranch.

Talon Carlson pulled open the head gate and freed a freshly vaccinated steer to allow in another bull calf. He looked where Chance pointed to a white dust cloud rising from the caliche ranch road.

Ears perked and tongues flapping, the border collies tore out of the pens, scattering the calves, and streaked toward a silver Mercedes pulling up the drive. The car slowed to a stop in front of the main house, and two classy-looking women climbed out, a tall brunette and a short blonde. In their high heels and dressy slacks, neither looked suited for a ranch.

Chance rode his bay closer to Talon and tipped back his Co-op Feed cap. “Reckon they’re lost?”

“Don’t know, but I guess I’d better find out.” He dusted off his jeans and strode toward the pipe-rail gate. He called back to Chance in the pen. “Soon as y’all are done here, get the guys to throw some hay in with the culls. Tide ’em over ’til the auction.”

Talon made his way through the maze of fencing and headed toward the ranch house, where the dogs jumped on the ladies as if greeting long lost friends. The two ritzy women pushed at them, shouting Down! and Get off of me! while they brushed off their fancy britches and scurried onto the front porch.

Nothing like having to shoo away enthusiastic face-lickers to shatter a woman’s snobby appearance.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I have two blogs: in 777 Peppermint Place (http://lindayezak.com) readers can learn about me and what's going on in my crazy life, but in my shared site AuthorCulture (http://authorculture.blogspot.com), they can learn writing tips and techniques from me and four other published authors. Aside from these two sites, my favorite hangout is Facebook. I'm also on LinkedIn, Goodreads, and christianwriters.com.


Thank you, Linda, for stopping by to chat with me.



Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.


Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

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WINTER - Keven Newsome - Free Book

Welcome, Keven. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

There’s definitely a little of me in every one of my characters. What is writing but a mild form of schizophrenia with a healthy outlet, anyway? Secretly, though, there’s a little bit of my friends in my characters too. But I’m not telling who.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

That’s an unfair question. We’re all OCD about something. I suppose that my writing OCD has to do with my typing. I’ve often backspaced through an entire sentence as punishment for a typo. That may be the extreme, but I delete entire phrases on a regular basis. But there’s a practical side to this. Sure I could just use my mouse and directly correct the typo, but that would require me to move my hands from first position. And I can’t do that when I’m in the groove. I just can’t. It messes with my head.

Outside of writing, my biggest OCD would be symmetry. If things are supposed to be symmetrical and are not… that will not do. I have to fix it. I can bear asymmetry to a point, as long as it’s obviously on purpose. But if it’s not… Take for example the choir loft chairs at church. Seriously, how hard is it to center them??

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I first started writing in 5^th grade, with a couple hand written pages of fan-fic for a RPG video game I was really into. I don’t think I knew I was a writer then, but in Junior High the writing bug certainly began to gnaw. I didn’t really start writing until High School. I think that’s when I realized I wanted to make at the very least a hobby out of it. My first attempt at a book in High School was full of narrative summary, anachronistic dialogue, and teen angst, all wrapped up in a medieval candy shell.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

Good grief. What is the range of air that you like to breathe? I have a top ten list of books that I maintain. Most of them are fantasy of some sort. There’s a few paranormal type thrillers and a couple of sci-fi. I like stories with depth. I call it “story-first” writing, as opposed to plot or character first writing. What I want is some underlying theme that transcends the basic plot. I want the story to change me in some way. Every book in my top ten has done that. You want to know what they are, don’t you? Okay. I’ll tell you. 10) Alpha Redemption, by PA Baines. 9) Harry Potter. 8) Lord of the Rings. 7) Red, by Ted Dekker. 6) This Present Darkness, by Frank Peretti. 5) Thr3e, by Dekker. 4) Perelandra, by CS Lewis. 3) The Visitation, by Peretti. 2) Voyage of the Dawn Treader, by Lewis. 1) The Hero and the Crown, by Robin McKinley.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

I don’t, really, considering I’m a full-time graduate student. But my attempt to do so includes planning and compartmentalizing. In other words, I try to plan my to-do list months a head so that I don’t get behind on any one project and fall into reactionary mode. I work towards the goals I’ve set for that day, week, or month, and once I’ve accomplished the prescribed goals, I stop. I compartmentalize my work from everything else in my life. When work is over, I close the compartment and stop thinking about it. Then I’m free to enjoy time with my family. My wife thinks I’m insane for being able to do that, because if she has a deadline she can’t relax until she’s done. Maybe I am a little. Like I said, I don’t really keep my sanity at all.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Well, since each character is different, each name is chosen with different methods. I’ve chosen some names based on meaning, the way they sound, and even the way they look typed. Both Winter and Summer were chosen because they reflect the personalities of the characters. Peter’s name was chosen for its meaning. Kaci’s name was chosen for its sound. But outside the first-team of characters, names are usually just chosen at random.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Coming to a place in my life with my wife that we genuinely want to do whatever it takes to stay in God’s will. It’s easy to speak of doing things for God or to talk about his will for your life, but to actually get up and follow is something entirely different. For years, my wife and I were stuck in a rut of wanting to do but never actually doing. God whittled away at us until we finally reached the point where we couldn’t stand not doing anymore. I think I take this for granted sometimes, but I’m reminded of it every time a friend says how much they admire us for actually doing what God leads us to do. We’re not perfect. We still have much to learn about this journey. But being willing to actually begin the journey is huge. And taking that first step out the door with my family in pursuit of God, is the thing I am most proud of. God has never let us down or caused us to regret our decision. We are happier now than we’ve ever been.

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

A liger. It’s pretty much my favorite animal. (Lol. Sorry, I couldn’t help myself. I wonder how many of your readers will get that?) Seriously though, how about a tortoise? They mate for life, have a ginormous life-span, carry their homes on their backs, have virtually no natural predators, and are protected by the government. Sounds good to me.

What is your favorite food?

Chocolate, of course.

A man after my own heart. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

Using narrative summary, prose, and passive voice. I grew up reading and studying classics. I was always told that these were the masters, so naturally I wanted to emulate them. Verne, Wells, Tolkien, Lewis, Poe, Stevenson, ect. These were great writers of sci-fi, fantasy, and adventure. But people don’t write like this anymore. Publishers don’t want this kind of writing. I shudder to think if these books would even stand a chance in today’s publishing environment. When I started writing, it was this classical kind of style that I tried to copy. It’s taken years of slow evolving for me to transition to the modern active style that publishers want. Even in my current book, my editors have slammed me for this old fall-back style.

Tell us about the featured book.

Winter is the story of a Goth girl…a Goth girl that is a Christian with the gift of prophecy. As she struggles to adjust to college life, she also struggles to understand her new gift. Students are being attacked, and Winter knows there’s more than flesh and blood at work. Because of her gift, she’s the only one who can stop it. Interwoven with the college story, is the story of Winter’s first year of high school, where she has to deal with the slow death of her mom and a new life with her estranged dad.

But the story of Winter is deeper than the plot might suggest. It is the story of Winter’s fall and eventual redemption. On the one hand, we see her descent into the Gothic subculture and experimentation with witchcraft. On the other, we see her being used by God in a miraculous way. It is a story to bring hope that no life is too broken to be used by God.

There is a scripture that prefaces the book and is quoted in the promo trailer. To me, this scripture sums up the book better than anything else. Micah 7:8, “Do not rejoice over me, O my enemy. Though I fall, I will rise. Though I dwell in darkness, the Lord is a light for me.”

Winter is a paranormal thriller and is the first of a four book series. It was released June 1, 2011 by Splashdown Darkwater, a new imprint of Splashdown Books.

Please give us the first page of the book.

The stairs wandered to the right—old wooden stairs. With the first step they groaned, and she hesitated. Small candles sat on the steps, spread out—only one every four or five steps. They oozed lifeless blood that pooled at their base and coagulated into white scabs. She broke a candle free and continued her ascent, tilting it so it bled on the steps.

Darkness pressed in from beyond the candlelight. The shadows behind taunted her by name, while the shadows above beckoned with false hope. More than once, she thought she recognized a shape—a person or animal—in the shadows, only to have the light flicker and send the phantom away. Slotted windows perforated the outer wall every few feet, staring at her with cold, lidless eyes.

She passed a rough wooden door with an iron handle. It was not her destination, so she continued. On her journey she passed many doors the same as the first. The stairs dissolved into black eternity. Her feet hurt, her knees hurt, and her heart pounded with cold dread. Each footstep echoed in the empty stairwell, answered by moans from the wooden steps. She wanted to flee—to turn and go back. But she couldn’t. She must continue. Sweat leaked from her body, matting her clothes to her skin. A bitter breeze drifted through a window and she shuddered.

Finally, the endless line of candles stopped before a door just like all the others she had passed. She reached out and brushed the handle with the tips of her fingers. It felt cold. Cold radiated from the door like heat from a furnace. Evil waited beyond this door…expecting her. She could feel it, and the instinct to flee seized her stronger than ever. Every hair on her body stood rigid, and she trembled with anticipation. Her arms and legs numbed, but she knew she must enter. Here lay her destiny—her calling. She grabbed the handle, took a deep, desperate breath, and pushed.

Inside was a round room. She hesitated before entering, heart pounding. Fear grabbed her and wouldn’t let go, and her knees threatened to buckle. Never had she seen such a sight.

Blood flowed down the walls like cascading waterfalls. Blood rained down from the ceiling like a summer shower. Blood pooled over every inch of the floor like glassy oil. It was as if she had stepped into the very bowels of Hell itself.

In the center stood a man. No…not a man. A demon. The grotesque black creature reached out a scaly, bony hand to her. It smiled, revealing long, pointed teeth.

“Winterrrr,” it hissed, calling her by name with a roll of the final R. “Winterrrr.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

www.KevenNewsome.com (Mind the E’s. There are four.)

www.facebook.com/thewordcrafter Come be a fan!

www.twitter.com/kevennewsome

http://newauthors.wordpress.com I’m the founder and administrator of this very awesome joint blog!

Thank you for sharing a look into your life and your new book with us, Keven.

Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link.

Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com