THE CHASE - DiAnn Mills - Free Book

Welcome back, DiAnn. Let’s do some fun questions first. What song most closely resembles your life?

“Great is Thy Faithfulness”

           

Do you have a favorite Bible verse? And why is it a favorite?

Jeremiah 20:9 ESV: If I say, “I will not mention him, or speak any more in his name,” there is in my heart as it were a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I am weary with holding it in and I cannot.

This verse is the story of my life in Christ.

What is the one thing you wish you could go back and change in your life?

That I’d have taken writing classes from the masters before making mistakes and having to edit them! Seriously, more wisdom before making choices.

What is the most important characteristic for a good friend to have?

Trust. Without that essential ingredient, two people cannot be friends. And second, although you didn’t ask :) is respect.

What extracurricular activities did you participate in when you were in school?

Choir, band, Latin club. I was very shy then, so it was hard to get involved. :) I did attempt girl’s basketball once ... nice a good move with my height.

           

What is your favorite movie of all times?

Now that’s tough. Used to be Gone with the Wind, but now I’d say the Lord of the Rings trilogy. The characterization, plot line, setting, and the symbolism is so rich that I haven’t         seen anything since that compares.

Tell us about why you wrote this book.

I heard about the cold case, Beloved Doe, from a friend, who is the media coordinator for Houston’s FBI. The case was cold for five years, 2003 - 2008. A child was found in a dumpster, died of starvation. The FBI, Houston Police Department, Texas Rangers, and Crime Stoppers couldn’t let the case go, and they worked together to eventually solve it. The case wouldn’t let me go either ... a helpless child with no identity. Like the heroine in The Chase, I had to write the story.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Present day

June

Kariss had fulfilled all her dreams but one by age thirty-five. Most women would bask in such a claim, but not Kariss. The one mountain yet to climb beckoned her to strap on hiking boots and make her approach. The peak held her in fascination, and failing meant losing everything she’d ever gained.

Her heels clicked along the marble flooring of the Marriott hotel’s lobby adjoining Houston’s Intercontinental Airport. Ten minutes early for her appointment with her literary agent and she could use the time to make sure her responses to Meredith were gracious and resolute. A mouthful for sure.

Sinking into a plush chair, she took a deep breath and waited. With all of her prolific abilities, why couldn’t she respond with words that relayed her passion for this story? But now she had the opportunity to convince Meredith of her sincerity. A little encouragement went a long way when calling up the powers of inspiration and creativity.

Right on time, Meredith Rockford slipped into a chair across from Kariss, sipping on a cup of tea, no doubt Earl Gray. Dressed in a black traveler’s knit jacket and pants, the only color emitting from Meredith was her crimson lipstick.

“You could have texted me that you were early,” Meredith said.

Kariss smiled. “Just got here. Did you have a good night’s rest?”

Meredith lifted a brow while taking a sip of her tea. “My head is killing me. I had to fly from New York to Houston. Arrived late and had to cancel our dinner appointment, and you ask me if I slept well?” She set the cup on a table in front of them. “The only thing that will give me a good night’s sleep is for you to abandon this ludicrous idea of changing genres.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Thank you!

www.diannmills.com

www.facebook.com/diannmills


Thank you, DiAnn, for giving a peek inside your new book.


Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
The Chase: A Novel (Crime Scene: Houston) - paperback
The Chase: A Novel (Crime Scene: Houston) - Kindle


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

subMISSION - Zeke Lam - Free Book

ZEKE LAM is the founder of SUBMISSION Ministries—a ministry devoted to seeing lost souls encounter God and live lives fully surrendered to the risen Christ. A graduate of Liberty University, Zeke’s deep passion for following Christ’s will has led him through many years of youth ministry and itinerant evangelism. Both of these experiences have enriched and fueled his desire to hand others the keys to a Christ-centered life. Zeke resides in Virginia with his beautiful wife, Kathleen, and a growing family of future world-changers.

What is the greatest challenge that the Church is facing today? 

Zeke Lam suggests that one word is the greatest challenge:  submission, or the lack thereof. It is not external forces that nullify the testimony of a Christ-centered believer, but rather the failure to humbly submit to the voice of the Lord. This book will help you to live a surrendered life abiding in Christ.

  Is the approval of God more important to you than the approval of man?

  Is the presence of God evident in your life?

  Do you fiercely protect your intimacy with Christ?

  Do you desire to live a life of truth, free from the lies of the devil?

  Is God’s divine character visible to those around you?

Learn how to submit your life wholeheartedly to the Lord so that you can dwell continually in the secret place—a place of intimacy, surrender and joy.


 What would you like for our readers to know about you personally?

Since the age of 18, I have served as a youth minister and evangelist. It appears that that the Lord is now taking us through a season of transition which may embark us into a more “full time ministry” role. I currently operate a small ornamental concrete business which makes provisions for my family. We know however that writing and pastoral callings are leading us into a season of change.

Tell us about your family.

I have been married for 6 years to my beautiful wife Kathleen. We have three precious babies (two boys and a new baby girl) whom we adore very much.

Have you written other nonfiction books?

This is the first work, but we think that many more are to follow.

Do you have any other books in the works right now?

Yes. Although it is not in the publishing process, another book in the subMISSION series is in the works.

What kinds of hobbies and leisure activities do you enjoy?

I enjoy working with my hands so the concrete construction work is a great activity for relaxation even though most would consider it quite laborious. As a family, we enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, trips to the park, and of course, the beach.

Why did you write the featured book?

The Lord placed strongly on my heart the importance of submission as it relates to spiritual strength and revival. As I stepped into this realm of total surrender, God began to illuminate some very practical and powerful truths. Despite never aspiring to write a book, the concept of submission burned so intense in my heart that it flowed to paper with ease. I wrote the book in order to share this message and passion with those whom I may never get the opportunity to meet.

What do you want the reader to take away from the book?

I want readers to take away a strong desire to surrender every area of their lives to Him. I want them to realize that revival, in our hearts, homes, and nation, begins with submission to only the voice of God. I want them identify and delete any obstacles that keep them from knowing Him more and experiencing fullness in Christ.

Where on the Internet can the readers find you?

We are located at www.submissionministries.org 

Our publisher is www.burninglampmap.com

Thank you, Zeke, for stopping by and sharing your work and your book with us.

Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
subMISSION: heeding only His voice

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 

WINNERS!!

LizR (AL) is the winner of The Irish Healer by Nancy Herriman.
Little Lady (MI) is the winner of The Fall by Chana Keefer.
Gail (GA)  is the winner of Always the Designer Never the Bride by Sandra D Bricker. 
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If you won a book and you really like it, consider giving the author the courtesy of writing a review on Goodreads, Amazon.com, Christianbooks.com, Barnes and Noble, or other Internet sites. 

Also, tell your friends about the book ... and this blog. 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.
When you contact me, please give the title of the book you won, so I won't have to look it up.

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.

SHATTERED IDENTITY - K Dawn Byrd - Free E-Book

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

I try not to write any of myself into my characters, but occasionally will let them like something I do, such as a certain food or sports car.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

Quirky? Hummm. I'm a pretty serious person and so analytical that I usually think before I act. I guess I'm kind of quirky when it comes to new hobbies. When I endeavor to learn something new, I go at it like gangbusters. I absolutely MUST know everything there is to know about a subject. Once I feel I've mastered it, I usually move on to something else. Right now, I'm into ferrets and begging my husband for one or two of the furry little critters. We're in the process of building onto the house and he said I can have one when we're done. Oh....the wait is killing me!

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I don't think I ever discovered it and am just now beginning to feel like a writer. I guess it took getting several publications under my belt for the writing gig to feel real.

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

I enjoy reading pretty much anything, but refuse to read horror or anything that's sad. I don't like to cry. I adore young adult romance and I love romantic suspense.

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

In addition to writing, I work a full-time job. I attribute my keeping my sanity to the fact that I'm very organized by nature. It helps that I keep reminders in my Blackberry, forcing it to notify me to complete certain tasks.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

I usually find an internet website on names that were popular the year my characters were born and choose from there.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

I'm most proud of getting a masters degree and becoming licensed as a therapist.

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

If I were an animal, I would be a fish. They look so calm and peaceful treading water. Is a fish even an animal? Oh well!

What is your favorite food?

My favorite food? I have more than one. Chinese. Spaghetti. Anything sour...like pickles, kraut, and olives. And let's not forget the great Mexican restaurant in my small town. I visit it at least once a week.

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

My greatest roadblock was not having patience. I want what I want and now. This industry moves slower than a snail's pace. It reminds me of the Army slogan, Hurry up and wait. I had to either overcome it or quit. I chose to overcome.

Tell us about the featured book.

Here’s the blurb:

Lexi Branson thinks she's found the guy of her dreams. So what if he's older? Her new motto is, "Love knows no boundaries or age limits." Zack Bane loves her and treats her like a princess and that's all that matters.

Lexi soon discovers that she doesn't know Zack as well as she thought. He has secrets, the kind that shatter the lives of those who love him. When faced with the truth, Lexi tries to hang onto him because she has a secret of her own.

When Lexi ends up in danger, she discovers she has no one to turn to except her ex-boyfriend, Jeremy. Can Jeremy, who is still in love with her, keep her safe from Zack? When faced with a choice will Lexi choose to stay with the guy who has become a stranger or will she choose Jeremy, the guy who loves her with all his heart?

Please give us the first page of the book.

I told myself I didn't need Eden and maybe I didn't, but I sure did miss her. When she left my life, I lost my one and only true friend. Everyone seemed so shallow, so out to fulfill their own agendas, and I missed having someone around who told me the truth no matter how much it hurt.

Paula Botts plopped down on the beach towel beside mine, the one I'd spread out for Zack. "Hey, Lexi."

I rose up on one elbow and took a swig of my soft drink. "Hey." Just one look at the ditzy blonde, and I missed level-headed Eden even more. Her blonde ponytail swung back and forth with every movement and the oversized sunglasses she wore looked ridiculous.

Paula was such a pushover, always telling me exactly what she knew I wanted to hear. Eden had been the one who kept me in line. Okay, maybe she didn't exactly keep me in line, but she sure told me what she thought and most of the time it had something to do with morals and sin. Religion wasn't my thing, and that was part of the reason I wrote her off as my BFF.

Paula popped her gum. "So, what's up?"

"I'm waiting for Zack."

She pulled her hair back into a ponytail, tying it with a snap. "Have you told your mom about him yet?"

"No."

"What are you waiting for?"

"She'll say he's too old for me."

She popped her gum again and I cringed. "Could you please not do that?"

"What?"

"Stop popping your gum. It's driving me crazy."

Paula lay down and propped her head on her hands. That's okay, Zack would tell her to get lost when he arrived. She was okay when I didn't have anyone else to hang out with and was pretty enough to draw lots of attention from the guys, so I kept her around.

She pulled off her sunglasses and squinted into the sun, an annoying habit that caused her to sneeze. "So, when are you going to tell her?"

"I'm not." I sighed, wishing I'd never told Paula Mom didn't know I was dating an older guy. Maybe I was overreacting. Maybe Mom wouldn't even care. She stayed messed up most of the time anyway. Apparently, rehab hadn't done her much good.

"You're nineteen. What's it matter if you want to date a twenty-five year old guy?"

I rolled over on my stomach, breaking eye contact and hoping to end the conversation. "Exactly."

"Guess who I saw yesterday?"

I didn't bother to answer. She'd tell me anyway. She was the kind of person who could carry on a conversation with herself.

Paula flipped over on her stomach. "That Eden girl you used to hang out with. I saw her yesterday."

"So?"

"In the pizza parlor where she works. Channing was with her. They're still together. Can you believe it?"

How can readers find you on the Internet?

 website: www.kdawnbyrd.com

blog: www.kdawnbyrd.blogspot.com

young adult blog: www.zoe-mack.blogspot.com

Thank you for the interesting interview.


Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
Shattered Identity - Kindle edition


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

THE MARSHAL'S PROMISE - Rhonda Gibson - Free Book

Welcome, Rhonda, you have a very hunky cover there. God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon?

You are so right, Lena. God has blessed my writing life and I give Him all the glory. I’m prayful that I will continue to sell to Harlequin in their Love Inspired Historical line. 

Tell us a little about your family.

Grin… just a little. You know how I love to talk about my family J First off, James and I have been married 27 years this coming May. He was my high school sweetheart. We have two beautiful children and two perfect grandgirls. Yes, I said perfect! LOL

You are married to a James as I am. So many of my good writing buddies have their own wonderful James. We are blessed. Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how?

I’m afraid so. I still read romance but now when I want to read for pure pleasure, I read cozy mysteries, fantasy, YA, and even kids books.

Why? Because when I’m reading romance, I tend to pick the book apart. How so? Well, I want to see how soon their hero and heroine meet, what is their conflict, I ask myself if I think this author is a seat of the pants writer or a plotter. I love romance and continue to read them and the author has to do an outstanding job to suck me totally into the book.

What are you working on right now?

I just started a third book for Love Inspired. It too is a historical. It is Hannah’s story. She is one of two best friends to my heroine, Rebecca, in The Marshal’s Promise.

What outside interests do you have?

Recently, James and I have started Geocaching. We both love it! For those who don’t know what geocaching is, a real-world outdoor treasure hunting game. Players try to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, using GPS-enabled devices and then share their experiences online. I love it because, I love the outdoors and this game is an outdoor game and I’ve been getting LOTS of exercise.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

Each book is different. Sometimes the editors ask for a certain setting. Other times I stumble across a place I would like to learn more about or visit. As I explore these settings either via internet or actually visiting them, I soon see characters in these settings.

If you could spend an evening with one historical person, who would it be and why?

Mary Fields because she was born a slave but once freed she lived by her wits and her strength. In 1895 she found a job that suited her, as a U.S. mail coach driver for the Cascade County region of central Montana. She and her mule Moses, never missed a day, and it was in this capacity that she earned her nickname of "Stagecoach," for her unfailing reliability. I would love to ask her to let me write her biography. I’d like to know why she never married. The romantic in me wanted her to find love on that coach. Someday she might, if I get the chance to write her story J

I love historical tidbits like that. What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels?

How to plan out a full time writing schedule. It has taken me years to figure it out and a steady schedule is still hard to maintain for me.

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

Patience. Like everyone else I want everything now! Don’t ask for patience, unless you are willing to have it tested and tested and tested. J God is a good God. When I fail, He lets me keep working on it until I get it right. So we are still working on being patient with others, especially when they are moody, wrong (in my eyes) and just not doing things “my” way.

What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful?

1.      Pray before you start writing.

2.      Always consult the Lord before taking on a new project.

3.      Remember, you are a writer/author and you have to learn to say NO. Guard your writing time.

Tell us about the featured book.

My husband and I often brainstorm books together. The Marshal’s Promise was born from one of those brainstorming sessions and the concept of the book was James’s idea. He loved the title Jesse’s Girl and suggested I do a mail-order bride book where the hero falls in love with Jesse’s girl. I took that idea and came up with this:

Mail-order bride Rebecca Ramsey arrives in the New Mexico territory full of dreams—but they're shattered when she discovers her intended husband has been killed. If it weren't for U.S. marshal Seth Billings's housekeeping job offer, she'd have nowhere to go. Rebecca loves tending to Seth's home, but the strong and silent lawman is harder to figure out. What secret is he hiding?

Caring for Jesse Cole's would-be bride is the least Seth can do. If it weren't for him, the young man would still be alive. Seth had promised to look after Rebecca—and to keep her safe from Jesse's enemies. Now if only he can keep his heart safe, as well.

Sounds like a story I’ll love reading. Please give us the first page of the book.

Fictional town: Cottonwood Springs, New Mexico Territory

1885   

“Please don’t cry, Miss Rebecca.”

“I’m not crying,” Rebecca Ramsey brushed at the tears that had caught her by surprise. “I-I’ve got something in my eye.”

Grace Miller’s young eyes chided her less than honest answer.

“Yes I am crying. I shouldn’t have fibbed about it. Please forgive me?” At the child’s nod Rebecca continued, “I never expected Mr. Cole to be dead.”

Rebecca tried to ignore the presence of Marshal Seth Billings standing beside the door. He had been the bearer of the bad news and now he held his hat in his hands, waiting for her reaction. She could feel his sorrowful brown eyes boring into her.

The rich texture of his voice drifted across the short space between them. “I’ll be happy to pay your train ticket back to Maryland, Miss Ramsey.”

What did she have to go back to Maryland for? Her stepmother had made it clear she was no longer needed in her father’s house. The only job for a woman of twenty was personal maid to the daughter of one of the wealthiest men in Ellicott City.  She didn’t like the job or the daughter. No, Rebecca Ramsey would not be returning to Maryland any time soon. She squared her shoulders and stood. “Thank you, Marshal but that won’t be necessary.”

Seth Billings gritted his teeth, the muscles worked in his jaw. “What will you do then?” His harsh words cut through her tattered emotions. 

Fresh tears threatened to spill over. Rebecca cleared her throat. She wouldn’t let it close up on her now. “I will think of something, Marshal. Thank you for coming by and telling me about …” She couldn’t finish the sentence and the words hung in the tense room like the scent of burnt bread.

Yes. I definitely must read this book. How can readers find you on the Internet?

My webpage is: www.rhondagibson.net

My blog is: http://rhondagibson.blogspot.com/

And if you like recipes, I have a blog where other writers as well as I share our recipes.

http://recipesfromrhondascollection.blogspot.com/

Thank you, Rhonda, for another fun interview.


Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
The Marshal's Promise (Love Inspired Historical) - paperback
The Marshal's Promise (Love Inspired Historical) - Kindle


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

HOMEFRONT HERO - Allie Pleiter - Free Book

Since you’re being published regularly, what new avenues will your future books take?        

I’ll continue to write for Love Inspired Historical and Love Inspired contemporary series romances.  Even after 15 books, I feel like I’m just hitting my stride.

What conferences will you be attending this year? Will you be a speaker at any of them?      

Being the raging extrovert that I am, public speaking is a real draw for me.  I need the interaction to counteract the isolation writing brings.  I speak about once a month (often more), with audiences ranging from 16 to 6,000.  All my engagements are listed at http://alliepleiter.com/calendar.html

If you were in charge of planning the panel discussion at a writing conference, what topic would the panel cover, and who would you ask to be on the panel, and why?      

I’ve been focusing a lot on writing through adversity, having come through a difficult year in 2010 when my son was seriously ill (he’s fine now).  I’ve come to know many other authors who have weathered deep personal storms while continuing to work, and I’d ask each of them to share their strategies, what they learned, and what they’d do differently now.  I couldn’t really name names without asking permission, but times are tough everywhere so it should come as no surprise that they’re tough in publishing.

How important is it to you to be active in writing organizations?

Oh, right up there with oxygen!  I need personal interaction, and I believe that those of us with established careers have an obligation to nurture writers coming up after us.  I’m involved with my local chapters of both Romance Writers of America and American Christian Fiction Writers.

Where in the community or your church do you volunteer?       

I am a sitting elder at Yorkfield Presbyterian Church, where I also write many of the church dramas and run the church’s prayer shawl knitting ministry.  I serve on the boards of the charitable foundations for both our town’s school districts, and for many years was active in Young Life.

Who are the five people who have made the most impact on your life, and how?        

My mother gave me my fiercely independent strength and the ability to disagree with grace.  My high school English teacher Leonard Krill was the first person to introduce me to a love of the written word.  My husband Jeff taught me to value relationships over accomplishments.  I’ll never have sufficient thanks for editor/agent Gail Fortune for the dare that got me into this business (that’s a very funny story for another day). The vibrant author Charlene Baumbich taught me the ropes of speaking and authorship, and has remained both a colleague and a dear friend for longer than either of us would probably care to admit.

If you could write the inscription on your tombstone, what would it be?           

“She said a brave YES to every adventure God laid in front of her and encouraged others to do the same.”

Tell us about the featured book.     

I’m deeply proud of HOMEFRONT HERO.  It’s the story of John Gallows, a WWI hero who is admired on the outside but deeply wounded on the inside.  As a press stunt, he’s forced into the Red Cross campaign to encourage boys to knit socks for soldiers.  The campaign shoe-horns him into a partnership with nurse Leanne Sample who proves more his equal than he ever imagined.  When the Spanish Influenza epidemic strikes their Army base, each of them is tested far beyond their character, and they learn extraordinary things about themselves, God’s unconditional love, and each other.

Please share the first page with us. 

Camp Jackson Army Base Columbia, South Carolina, September 1918

I still can't believe it." Leanne Sample gazed around at the busy activity of Camp Jackson. Even with all she'd heard and seen while studying nursing at nearby University of South Carolina, the encampment stunned her. This immense property had only recently been mere sand, pine and brush. Now nearly a thousand buildings created a self-contained city. She was part of that city. Part of the monumental military machine poised to train and treat the boys going to and coming from "over there." She was a staff nurse at the base army hospital. "We're really here."

"Unless I'm seein' things, we most definitely are here." Ida Landway, Leanne's fellow nurse and roommate at the Red Cross House where they and other newer nurses were housed, elbowed her. "I've seen it with my own eyes, but I still can barely believe this place wasn't even here two years ago." Together they stared at the layout of the orderly, efficient streets and structures, rows upon rows of new buildings standing in formation like their soldier occupants. "It's a grand, impressive thing, Camp Jackson. Makes me proud."

Leanne had known Ida briefly during their study program at the university, but now that they were officially installed at the camp, Leanne already knew her prayers for a good friend in the nursing corps had been answered. Different as night and day, Leanne still had found Ida a fast and delightful companion. Ida's sense of humor was often the perfect antidote to the stresses of military base life. As such, their settling in at the Red Cross House and on the hospital staff had whooshed by her in a matter of days, and been much easier than she'd expected.

Still, "on-staff nursing life was tiring. "There was so much to do," Leanne said to Ida as she tilted her face to the early fall sunshine as they chatted with other nurses on the hillside out in front of the Red Cross House. "Too many things are far more complicated in real service then I ever found them in class."

"A free afternoon. I was wondering if we'd ever get one. Gracious, I remember thinking our class schedules were hard." Ida rolled her shoulders. "Hard has a whole new meaning to me now." This afternoon had been their first stretch of free time, and they'd decided to spend an hour doing absolutely nothing before taking the trolley into Columbia to attend a war rally on the USC campus that evening.

"However are you going to have time to do this?" Ida pointed to a notice of base hospital events pinned to a post outside the Red Cross House. "I feel like I've barely time to breathe, and you're already lined up to teach knitting classes."

"I've managed to find the time to teach you," Leanne reminded her newest student.

"Don't I know it. I tell you, my mama's jaw would drop if she saw I've already learned to knit. I guess you've found right where you fit in the scheme of things around here."

Ida was right; Leanne had found her place on base almost instantly. As if God had known just where to slot her in, placing an opening for a teacher in the Red Cross sock knitting campaign. If there was anything Leanne knew for certain she could do, it was to knit socks for soldiers. She'd run classes for her schoolmates at the university; it seemed easy as pie to do the same thing here. And it would help her make friends so quickly—hadn't she already? In only a matter of days the vastness of the base seemed just a wide-open ocean of possibilities.

Where can my readers find you on the Internet?

My website is www.alliepleiter.com and my knitting blog is www.destiKNITions.blogspot.com


Thank you, Allie, for sharing your new book with us.


Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Homefront Hero (Love Inspired Historical) - paperback
Homefront Hero (Love Inspired Historical) - Kindle


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

THE RESTORER'S SON - EXPANDED EDITION - Sharon Hinck - Free Book Bag

AUTHOR BIO:

Sharon writes “stories for the hero in all of us,” about ordinary people experiencing God’s grace in unexpected ways. Known for their authenticity, emotional range, and spiritual depth, her novels include contemporary fiction such as The Secret Life of Becky Miller or Stepping into Sunlight and the groundbreaking Sword of Lyric fantasy series which includes The Restorer’s Son–Expanded Edition. She’s been a Christy finalist and won three Carol awards.

Sharon’s undergrad degree is in education, and she earned an M.A. in Communication. When she isn’t wrestling with words, Sharon enjoys speaking to conferences, retreats, and church groups. She loves interacting with visitors at her website and blog: sharonhinck.com 

ABOUT THE BOOK:
The Restorer’s Son-Expanded Edition

Book two in the groundbreaking Sword of Lyric series, The Restorer’s Son won a Carol Award for speculative fiction.

Plunged again into the gray world of Lyric and Hazor, Susan and Mark search frantically for their teenage son, Jake. All signs hint that a trusted ally has betrayed them and threatens their son. A target of assassins and more political intrigue, false leads and near misses beset their path, which leads them into the dark prisons of Hazor before the One’s purpose is revealed.

Cast out by those he trusts, the new reluctant Restorer prefers to cross swords with the One rather than submit to His will. Pursued by his calling, he journeys to Sidian, where he finds a boy without a home, a king with burning questions, and a nation torn by darkness. As he embraces the tasks the One has set before him, this new Restorer learns that the One requires his all—perhaps even his life.

This new expanded edition of The Restorer’s Son includes an in-depth devotion guide for readers who want to dig into the spiritual themes of the book, bonus scenes providing glimpses of the story through a variety of characters, and fun extras including links to songs and recipes.

INTERVIEW: 

What was it like developing new material for this new edition?

Books are like children. I treasure each of them in different ways, and among the novels I’ve written, I try not to have favorites. However, I confess that The Restorer’s Son has an extra special place in my heart. Because of that, it was fun to revisit the characters and world of this story. Kieran’s attitudes were loosely inspired by a verse in Judges where Gideon is told God will use him to save his people. Gideon’s response is basically, “If God is for us, why have all these bad things happened to us?” It’s a question many can relate to, and part of the reason that Kieran is such a beloved character. 

The new devotion guide gives readers an opportunity to dig deeper into the Biblical inspirations that helped inform the book, as well as find personal application. About forty pages of new content, including bonus scenes and a new song composed for the book, make this edition a new experience.

How did you decide where to put in bonus elements?

Working with the publisher, we decided it was important to keep the flow of the story intact and free from distractions. So the book is designed with a large back-of-the-book section that can be used either after finishing the story, or during the reading of the main story. Small symbols and page numbers at the end of chapters direct readers to bonus scenes, and QR symbols in the margin invite readers to explore audio files, or recipes, or rules for playing Perish – all without interrupting the story.

It was important to me that people would feel that it was worth the investment to own The Restorer’s Son-Expanded Edition, even if they had a copy of the original edition, so we packed this book with lots of added value.

Besides an entertaining read, what do you hope people experience in The Restorer’s Son-Expanded Edition?

My hope is that readers will catch glimpses of the way the One speaks to each of us in the language we understand, and that we can go to Him with our difficult questions. For those who are walking very painful roads, I hope the story will help them feel acknowledged. The journey is hard, heroic, and sometimes frightening. But we are never alone.

Where can people find the book?

www.sharonhinck.com

http://sharonswriting.blogspot.com/

To order The Restorer’s Son-Expanded Edition: http://urlcut.me/aM3

Kindle version: http://urlcut.me/aM2


Sharon, thank you for visiting with us.


Readers, I read the original, and I know you'll love this book.


For a chance to win a special book bag, leave a comment. 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 

THE SOUL SAVER - Dineen Miller - Free Book

I have really looked forward to the publication of your first novel. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

Usually, not too much, but for The Soul Saver, a fair amount of Lexie’s story is my story and many others who are spiritually mismatched. Oddly (or should I say godly?) sometimes elements in my stories parallel my life in an almost prophet way. As I started to write The Soul Saver, I knew Lexie and Hugh lost a child to a brain tumor. And Hugh was a physics professor at Stanford. Shortly after I started writing the story, my teenaged daughter was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. Lots of miracles happened through that time, including a successful complete resection (removal) of the tumor and only radiation was needed for her treatment, which was designed by a physics professor at Stanford. God-bumps anyone?

I call them God-incidences, instead of coincidences, and yes, I remember the time with your daughter. All our prayers. God's miraculous work. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

Let’s see. I once made the screwiest face I could think of, took a picture and texted it to my daughter. She was living away from home for the first time and I wanted to make her laugh. It worked. And may that picture never resurface as long as I’m alive. J

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

Fourth grade. I wrote a story about an Irish Setter who broke his leg. He healed quite nicely I think.

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

I like to read all kinds of books, including nonfiction. I’m especially partial to books that have a supernatural thread as it relates to how God and the spiritual realm works and interacts in our lives. I love thrillers, suspense, women’s fiction, romance. And I love nonfiction books that bring to life God’s Word and His amazing love, grace and mercy for us all.

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

I pray...a lot! If I keep close to God and make sure the running is for Him, life moves a long pretty well and I can leave my office most days feeling like I accomplished something that matters to Him.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

By instinct, I think. I think of the character and research names. It’s the one that just seems to fit the character. Sometimes it takes a while. I look at baby name books and name websites sometimes. I also collect names. I have a list I add to anytime I hear a really cool name that would make a great character.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

My husband and I will celebrate 25 years of marriage in September and I love the guy more than when I married him. And from that came these two incredible young women who make me proud to be their mama. So, yep, my family. Though I don’t take full credit for any of it. God is truly the good and faithful one in the mix.

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

A dog. LOL! I love dogs more than I ever thought I would. I have seen my daughter’s dog make a huge difference in her recovery from depression and cancer and I just know this furry rescue mutt was a gift from God. I can’t think of a better thing to be to someone than a gift from God. Can you?

What is your favorite food?

Depends on what day you ask me. LOL! I love all food, which is part of my problem, but right now, I can’t seem to get enough unfrosted strawberry poptarts. Other than that, I absolutely love Pringles low fat plain potato chips paired with a really good green onion dip. That’s a rare treat for me though.

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

Doing it! The ministry I’m part of is growing and The Soul Saver is about to release (May 1^st). So, there’s lots to do with both. I had to create a schedule where I actually leave the house two days a week to write at a coffee shop. Otherwise, all that other cool stuff wants my attention and being the task motivated person that I am, I tend to do the stuff I can get and see done fast. LOL! The coffee shop lets me leave that all behind and just settle into my story.

Tell us about the featured book.

God wakes Lexie in the night with a vision of a place she needs to go to. Then she has to go into her studio to sculpt the face of the person she’s supposed to help. That’s just how God uses her to reach the lost, to restore hope, or whatever it is God needs her to do. She’s also married to an atheist. The book explains better how that happened, but he’s the one she can’t seem to reach, nor does God seem to be “sending” her his way.

Part of the conflict is the spiritual warfare waging around her and her husband. The enemy is working hard to destroy Lexie’s marriage to keep her husband from being saved. And he’s using a pastor of all people to do it. Does he succeed? Does Lexie’s husband get saved? You’ll have to read the book to find out.

What an intriguing concept. Please give us the first page of the book.

The tremble of wind chimes roused her from slumber, beckoning with their familiar call. Darkness blanketed the room in peaceful silence. The last vestiges of her dream seeped away like sun-kissed mist, leaving only the clear image of a seedy bar—and her trepidation.

Where was God sending her this time?

As she freed herself from the covers, Lexie Baltimore touched Hugh’s arm, whispering a prayer of blessing and protection over her husband. His sleepy warmth tempted her to snuggle next to him, but her fingers itched to reveal the face of her next mission.

She stepped into her slippers and slung a cotton robe over her shoulders then left the room and her husband undisturbed. At the end of the hallway, she peeked into the small bedroom that once belonged to her as a child, confirming the rise and fall of her son’s chest. In sleep, Jeremy’s lips still puckered like they did when he was a baby. Awake, he was all boy and a “young man of eight” by his own definition.

Last night’s salmon dinner met her nose at the bottom of the stairs. She crossed the kitchen to the door leading into the ...

Okay, that leaves us hanging and wanting more. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Everywhere! No, just kidding. Here are some links to my favorite hangouts. Hope you’ll come visit!

Websites:

http://www.dineenmiller.com

http://spirituallyunequalmarriage.com

Facebook:  

https://www.facebook.com/dineen.miller

Facebook pages:

https://www.facebook.com/DineenMiller.AuthorSpeaker

https://www.facebook.com/SpirituallyUnequalMarriage

Blogs:  http://authordineenmiller.com/journal/

Twitter:  @dineenmiller

GoodReads:  http://www.goodreads.com/dineenmiller 


Thank you, Dineen, for letting me be a part of promoting your debut novel. It's a blessing to me.


Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
The Soul Saver - paperback
The Soul Saver - Kindle


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

BARONESS - Susan May Warren - Free Book

Susan May Warren is the RITA award-winning novelist of over thirty novels. A five-time Christy award finalist, a two-time RITA Finalist, she’s also a multi-winner of the Inspirational Readers Choice award, and the ACFW Carol Award.

A seasoned women’s events speaker, she’s a popular writing teacher at conferences around the nation and the author of the beginning writer’s workbook: From the Inside-Out: discover, create and publish the novel in you!.

She is also the founder of www.MyBookTherapy.com, a story-crafting service that helps authors discover their voice. You can find her online at www.susanmaywarren.com.

Baroness – Book Two in the Daughters of Fortune series

Lily and Rose, daughters of an empire coming of age in the roaring twenties, can have anything they want ... except freedom.

Expected to marry well and to take the reins of the empire, they have their lives planned out for them. But, Lily, Esme's daughter longs to return home to Montana, to adventure outside the confines of New York City. And Jinx's daughter Rosie dreams of the bright lights of the newly emerging silver screen. But following their dreams - from avant garde France, to Broadway, to the skies in the world of barnstormers and wing-walkers will take all their courage.

And if they find love, will they choose freedom or happily ever after?

Find out more from Behind the Pages: http://www.susanmaywarren.com/books/baroness

Baroness Roaring 20s Kindle Fire Giveaway from @SusanMayWarren! Find out what the reviewers are saying here!

Expected to marry well and to take the reins of the family empire, they have their lives planned out for them. But following their dreams -- from avant garde France, to Broadway, to the skies in the world of barnstormers and wing-walkers -- will take all their courage.  And if they find love, will they choose freedom or happily ever after?

Celebrate with Susan by entering her Roaring 20's Giveaway!

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire
• Signed copies of Baroness and Heiress by Susan May Warren

But hurry, the giveaway ends on 5/7/12. The winner will be announced on 5/9/12 on Susan’s blog, Scribbles!

Just click one of the icons below to enter! Tell your friends about Susan's giveaway on FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.

BARONESS: DAUGHTERS OF FORTUNE - paperback
Baroness (Daughters of Fortune) - Kindle

In addition to this, one person who leaves a comment on this blog will 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