SHATTERED - Dani Pettrey - One Free Book on This Blog, Plus Much More

Why do you write the kind of books you do?

I write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things I love—the thrill of adventure, nail-biting suspense, the deepening of one's faith and plenty of romance.

Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?

They day I married my husband, and the births of both our daughters.

How has being published changed your life?

I’m much busier than I realized I’d be. There is so much more involved than simply writing books. You have line edits, galleys, marketing, publicity, and my favorite part—getting to interact and spend time with readers.

What are you reading right now?

The Survivor by DiAnn Mills.

What is your current work in progress?

I am working on line edits for Stranded—the third book in my Alaskan Courage series, which will be out this fall.

What would be your dream vacation?

I love to travel, so choosing just one place is really difficult, but I’d love to visit Alaska. My dream trip there would include seeing the Aurora Borealis, cruising along the Inside Passage, sea kayaking in Prince William Sound, bear viewing in Kodiak, hiking Denali, a flightseeing trip of Mt. McKinley, Glacier/Wildlife Cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park, and of course, being a moose fan, no trip would be complete without seeing my favorite animal.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

For my current series, I wanted a setting that worked well for adventure and suspense. Alaska is a gorgeous state full of adventurous possibilities, and there is an inherent risk of danger if you aren’t properly prepared. It seemed the perfect fit.

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

Billy Graham. I’ve never had the pleasure of hearing him speak. I think he’s an amazing example of a life of faith and I’d love to chat with him before he heads home to Heaven.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I love traveling, spending time outdoors (hiking, white-water rafting, swimming at the beach), and watching international soccer—Go Barca!     

What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?

Time management. Being a fairly new author, it’s been an adventure learning to juggle all the different facets—marketing, deadlines, home life, etc.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Keep writing. Keep reading. It sounds so simple, but it’s true. The more you read and write, the stronger the writer you become. If God put the love of story in your heart, keep at it. Don’t give up on your dream.

Tell us about the featured book.

Shattered is the second book in my Alaskan Courage series, and Piper McKenna couldn't be more thrilled that her prodigal brother, Reef, has returned to Yancey, Alaska, after five years. But her happiness is short-lived when Reef appears at her house covered in blood. A fellow snowboarder has been killed--but despite the evidence, Reef swears he's innocent. And Piper believes him.

Deputy Landon Grainger loves the McKennas like family, but he's also sworn to find the truth. Piper is frustrated with his need for facts over faith, but he knows those closest to you have the power to deceive you the most. With his sheriff pushing for a quick conviction, some unexpected leads complicate the investigation, and pursuing the truth may mean risking Landon's career.

With Piper waging her own search, the two head deep into Canada's rugged backcountry-and unexpected complications. Not only does their long friendship seem to be turning into something more, but this dangerous case is becoming deadlier with each step.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Piper bolted upright, sweat dampening her pj’s despite December’s chill.

What was that?

Her bleary gaze flashed to the clock—1:30—then to Aurora standing like a sentinel at her bedroom door. The husky’s white fur rippled down her back, her ears alert.

Piper shifted the tangle of snowflake flannel sheets binding her legs, listening.

There it was again. Creaks echoed along the floorboards below. Heavy steps. Not Kayden’s.

Aurora lunged at the door, pawing the battered wood frame. A low growl rumbled through the dog’s throat.

Piper got to her feet, ignoring the cold shock of the floor as she crossed the room.

She cracked her door ever so slightly and peered into the darkness.

Another creak echoed from the downstairs hall. The footsteps paused at the base of the stairs.

Aurora whimpered, nudging at the opening with her muzzle.

Piper reached down to grab Aurora’s collar but wasn’t quick enough. Aurora charged into the hallway.

Piper shot out after her, but her sister pulled her up short— with a rifle in her hand. Kayden released her grasp on Piper and raised her finger to her lips.

Great hook. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Website: www.danipettrey.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/danipettrey

Twitter: www.twitter.com/danipettrey

Dani Pettrey is celebrating the release of Shattered with a Nook HD giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat Party {3/14}. 

One winner will receive:

• A brand new Nook HD
• Submerged and Shattered by Dani Pettrey {Be caught up in this riveting series.}

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 13th. Winner will be announced at the "Shattered" Author Chat Party on 3/14. Connect with Dani for an evening of book chat, trivia, and a chance to win gift certificates, books, and other fun prizes!

So grab your copy of Shattered and join Dani on the evening of the March 14th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 14th!

Thank you, Dani, for sharing your book, and your special party news, with us today.

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

Shattered (Alaskan Courage) - paperback
Shattered (Alaskan Courage Book #2) - 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 Google +, 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

SWEPT AWAY - Mary Connealy - One Free Book

Bio: Mary Connealy writes romantic comedy with cowboys. She is a Carol Award winner, and a Rita and Christy and Inspirational Reader's Choice finalist. She is the author of bestselling Kincaid Brides Series: Out of Control, In Too Deep, Over the Edge, Lassoed in Texas Trilogy, Montana Marriages Trilogy and Sophie's Daughters Trilogy. Mary is married to a Nebraska rancher and has four grown daughters and two spectacular grandchildren.

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

Wow, Lena. This is a hard question. I’ve got a book to write you know? The song that comes to mind is one of my all time favorites by Rich Mullins called “If I Stand”.

The chorus:

So if I stand let me stand on the promise That you will pull me through
And if I can't, let me fall on the grace That first brought me to You
And if I sing let me sing for the joy That has born in me these songs
And if I weep let it be as a man Who is longing for his home

I just love that, stand on His promise, fall on His grace. That’s how we should all live and how I’ve had to live, plenty of falling on His Grace in my life.

A very good choice, Mary. Do you have a favorite Bible verse? And why is it a favorite?

I’ve got so many that have touched me at different times but one I love and use a lot, whether outwardly or just the attitude, in my books is Psalm 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

It just seems to me that if we could remember that, cling to that, God is with us, whom shall I fear, we would live lives of incredible peace and happiness.

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

Okay, you can’t tell because typing on Word documents can’t be carbon dated, but I’ve been stumped by this for a long, long time. I wish I could change a lot of things about myself. I wish I could have been a better mom, a better housekeeper, I wished I’d kept up with the sit-ups. But you know what? My kids are great, in spite of me probably rather than because of me. My house is a mess but we haven’t died of dust inhalation. The sit-ups, well, I don’t think this belly was going to go away quietly so why spend time in regrets, huh? So I’m going to say nothing. I like where I am right now and I guess I needed to do all the things I did to get to where I am.

What you said is so true for me, too. What is the most important characteristic for a good friend to have?

You are now speaking to an almost utterly friendless person. And most of my really good friends are authors. So, based on that, I’d say the best characteristic, if you want to stay good friend with me, is to live five states away. Apparently, up close, I wear on people.

Or maybe it’s just that writing is such a solitary endeavor and only writers really understand. I'm your friend, and I only live three states away. What extracurricular activities did you participate in when you were in school?

I was in everything. Sports, speech, music. I was one of THOSE kids who joined every group. Not saying I was any good at any of that stuff, but I had fun.

That’s probably why you’re more of a no regrets person. What is your favorite movie of all times?

FINALLY an easy question. My favorite movie of all time is While You Were Sleeping, starring Sandra Bullock and Bill Pullman. I absolutely love every second of that sweet romantic comedy.

James and I love that movie, too. Of course, we are really into Sandra Bullock movies. Tell us about why you wrote this book.

I got the idea for Swept Away while I was doing research for the Kincaid Brides Series, which is the series I just finished. I found such interesting info about Andersonville Prison and explored the lives of soldiers after they’d gotten out. No CRAZY soldiers like Seth, just regular, decent men who’d bonded in the ugliest place on earth.

I’ve read the book and absolutely loved it, and I love the cover. Please give us the first page of the book for my blog readers.

Swept Away

By Mary Connealy

Chapter One

October 1, 1868

The sharp crack of a cocking pistol brought Lucas Stone’s head around.

“I’ll shoot if you so much as twitch.” The deputy’s badge gleamed in the dim lantern light of the stable and his aim was true.

“What’s the problem here?” Luke straightened away from his horse, his hands spread wide and raised slightly. He hoped this didn’t count as twitching, he didn't want to give the deputy an excuse to flinch.

“Those your saddle bags?” The lawman looked at the bags Luke had just thrown onto his horse and used the gun to point at them. Not a careful man. He looked to be about twenty, and none too bright.

“They are. What’s going on?”

“I got a tip I’d find money in those bags. Money from a stagecoach robbery that happened in these parts last week. Had a man killed.”

A shiver went up Luke’s spine. He’d noticed his saddle bags were moved. He’d left them here with his horse and, since there was nothing worth stealing in them, he hadn’t thought much of someone shoving them to the side, even going through them. Now he had a bad feeling that if he opened those bags, or let the deputy open them, there’d be something tying Luke to robbery and murder.

“You got a tip?” Luke tried to stall for time as he wondered who’d tried to frame him. Only one name came to mind. Flint Greer. A man who had good reason to not want Luke to make it home alive. “From who? I’ve only been in town a few hours. Just passin’ through on my way home to Texas.”

More honestly, on his way to reclaim his home in Texas. “I just came in from far north. I have a bill of sale dated yesterday that proves I’m new to these parts.” Luke reached for the breast pocket of his brown, broadcloth shirt.

“Don’t move!” The deputy’s gun came up and his finger visibly trembled on the trigger.

“Easy.” Luke wondered how the kid could believe there was a gun hidden in Luke’s shirt pocket, but he slowly moved his hands away from his body. “You want to get the bill of sale yourself?”

Luke hoped he came within grabbing distance.

Nodding, the lawman edged toward Luke.

Luke knew plenty about being tough having grown up in north Texas, a land of stark rock canyons and roving bands of Comanche and Kiowa. That alone was enough, but he’d also spent years fighting in the War Between the States, more time living off the land after the war. And he was boiling with anger as he made his way home to avenge his father’s death. Those things combined to make him a careful, knowing man. A dangerous man.

This deputy was none of those.

Luke was close to home now and Greer, the man who'd killed his father, knew he was coming because Luke had sent a letter, with a legal document, telling Greer to get off Stone land. Greer didn’t want Luke to make it home.

Luke knew a set-up when he saw one. Which meant there was little or no chance he could talk his way out of this. Which left fighting his way out. He braced himself, determined not to hurt a lawman—at least not too bad. But once a jail house door clanked shut, Lucas expected the only way out would be as he was led to a gallows.

How can readers find you on the Internet?
Seekerville Petticoats & Pistols
My Blog
My Website
My Newsletter
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maryconnealy
Twitter: http://twitter.com/maryconnealy

Thank you, Mary, for visiting with us today. I know my readers will want to get a copy of Swept Away.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Swept Away (Trouble in Texas) - paperback
Swept Away (Trouble in Texas Book #1) - 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 Google +, 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

FIREFLY ISLAND - Lisa Wingate - One Free Book on This Blog - Plus Much More

Bio: Lisa Wingate is a magazine columnist, inspirational speaker, and the author of eighteen mainstream fiction novels, including the national bestseller, Tending Roses, now in its seventeenth printing. She is a seven-time ACFW Carol award nominee, a Christy Award nominee, and a two-time Carol Award winner. She has found success in both the Christian and general fiction markets, writing mainstream fiction for Penguin Putnam and Bethany House. Recently, the group Americans for More Civility, a kindness watchdog organization, selected Lisa along with Bill Ford, Camille Cosby, and six others, as recipients of the National Civies Award, which celebrates public figures who work to promote greater kindness and civility in American life. More information about Lisa’s novels can be found at www.Lisawingate.com

How did you come up with the idea for this story?

Firefly Island, like all of my stories, is a combination of real life and fiction. In the story, Mallory’s life in Washington D.C. takes a sudden right turn when her love-at-first sight flame, Daniel Everson, is offered a job on a remote ranch in far-away Texas. Some years ago, my life took a similar turn when, through a series of family connections, my husband was offered the chance to leave his corporate job and operate a ten thousand acre ranch in the Texas Hill Country. Like Daniel in the story, he really did walk out of the bedroom after a phone call (looking quite peaked and somewhat terrified) and say, “I … ummm … think I’ve just been offered a … ummm… job in… Texas.”

That was the beginning of wild adventure that would last several years. We knew we’d never get the chance to do something like this again, so we sold our home and went for it. We were scared to death. We had a three and a half year old son at the time (the age of Daniel’s son Nick in the story). Like Mallory, we worried about what the schools would be like that far out in the country, how we would find playmates for our son, and whether he would be lonely, living miles from other families. It never occurred to me to wonder whether I would be lonely. I figured that part out after we started our new life ;o)

The political scandal that eventually threatens Mallory’s new life on the ranch was largely a product of serendipity and timing. As I was writing the book, a local political controversy was brewing in Central Texas. I learned about it when I happened to attend an event in my hometown and sit next to someone who’d been fighting a David-and-Goliath style battle against political powerbrokers. While the events in the story were only partially inspired by the ugly reality brewing, that little nugget of local controversy generated the perfect challenge to Mallory’s newfound life – a battle that she, with her political experience, is uniquely suited to fight.

If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why?

Any party of mine would probably include far more than six Christian authors of contemporary fiction, because I know so many wonderful people who fit that bill. I’ll struggle with the number, but I would definitely include my fellow blogging gal-pals on www.SouthernBelleViewDaily.com , Beth Webb Hart, Julie Cantrell, Rachel Hauck, and Shellie Rushing Tomlinson. Shellie isn’t technically a fiction author, but she’s the Queen of All Things Southern, and we all write Southern stories, so she would be there even if it is a fiction authors party. I think we’d all just sit out on the porch with a big pitcher of sweet tea and see who shows up. Maybe Susan May Warren or Jenny B. Jones or Judy Christie would liven up the party? If Debbie Macomber happened to wander up the street, we wouldn’t kick her off the porch, either. Debbie is one-hundred percent delightful!

Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why

I’d invite Julie Klassen, because she was my editor at Bethany House and I love her books. I’d invite Carla Stewart because Carla’s delightful personality is an asset at any party. I’d invite Francine Rivers because she’s a fascinating person and has enjoyed such long-standing success in the industry. A historical party wouldn’t be nearly as much fun without Dee Gist (dressed in historical costume of course). Then, I think we’d just see who else wanders by, looking to hang out. Maybe Tamara Alexander or Elizabeth Ludwig would happen by… or… who knows? Lena, you could join us and share a story or two. How about it?

Since I’m a Texan, too, I’d love to drop by. Besides, I love those authors, too. Many times, people (and other authors) think you have it made with so many books published. What is your most difficult problem with writing at this time in your career?

Other than just the highs and lows of the business – one day, you’re on top of the world at an awards ceremony, and the next day someone is panning your book in a review, and you can’t imagine why anyone would be that mean to something you care deeply about – I think the toughest thing is time management. The more your world and your writing expands, the more people and activities you’re connected to. It’s easy to get so busy with your work life that you let work chip little pieces from the rest of your life. Finding balance is important and not always easy, at any stage in your career.

I so agree. Tell us about the featured book.

Mallory Hale’s life veers unexpectedly off course when she falls hopelessly in love. After a whirlwind romance, Mallory finds herself leaving the bustle of Capitol Hill for the remote town of Moses Lake, Texas—with husband, stepson, and a U-Haul in tow.

A sweet, mishap-filled journey into marriage, motherhood, and ranch living ensues. But despite the adventure of her rosy new life, she soon discovers that even small towns have secrets.

When hints of a scandal emerge, Mallory comes to realize that this middle-of-nowhere home—the one she wasn’t sure she wanted—is the very place she’ll risk everything to save.

Mallory, in many ways experiences the life of a mail-order bride. Because she and Daniel have only known each other a short time when the job move forces a huge leap of faith in their relationship, she finds herself married to a man she adores, but barely knows. Like any newly-married couple, they have much to learn about each other, but Mallory is also facing sudden step-parenthood and the trials of leaving behind her family, her career, her friends, her identity, and all that is familiar. The challenges of life on a ranch are completely foreign to her.

In days of old, mail-order brides faced many of the same challenges. Our great-great grandmothers attempted to solve the problem by writing letters home, joining in sewing circles and ladies’ societies in their new locations, and sometimes by documenting their experiences in journals. Mallory finds herself unwillingly drawn into the tradition of journaling, but in a much more modern way, when she stumbles into the blogging life. As the blog draws fans, she becomes The Frontier Woman, and her world expands more than she could have ever dreamed.

At its heart, even with the larger issues of political scandal and local challenges, Firefly Island is a story about families, friendships, about community--how it develops and why we need it. Human beings are, at the most basic level, communal creatures. There’s so much evidence that people are happier and healthier, that we’re more generous and open with one another, that families are stronger and children achieve more when strong ties of friendship and community are there. These days, technology, busy schedules, and an on-the-go lifestyle compete with relationship-building activities, chipping away at the very thing we need the most. So often, our society tells people, especially young people like Mallory, that success is in not having to rely on anyone, but we were created to give and take, to need each other. I hope that Firefly Island provides a challenge to all of us, to see what we can contribute and what we can gain from the people we cross paths with in our neighborhoods and communities.

I’ve read this book and had a hard time putting it down when I needed to do something else. Please give us the first page of the book for my readers.

Chapter 1

When we no longer know which way to go,

We have begun our real journey – Wendell Berry

(Written on the Wall of Wisdom,Waterbird Bait and Grocery, Moses Lake, Texas)

There are those times when life is a cursor on a blank page, blinking in a rhythm a bit like an electronic heartbeat, tapping out a question in three little words.

What.  Comes.  Next?

Time and space and life wait for an answer. A blank page is an ocean of possibilities. The producer from CNN wants to know how I ended up here. Did I realize, when I started this thing, where it would lead?

The cursor would like an answer to that question. Or maybe it is challenging me. A wink instead of a heartbeat. A wink and a little chuckle that says, Go ahead and try. It’s like one of those bad jokes told by lonely traveling salesmen in hotel lounges, What do a milk cow, An Irish love legend, and a political scandal have in common…

But I couldn’t make this stuff up if I tried, much less explain it. It’s easier to just look out the window, scan a DC skyline that seems out of place now, and let it fool me as it whispers, It’s summertime, Mallory. It’s balmy out here—can you feel it? Don’t you hear the crickets chirring and the hens plucking June bugs off the porch? 

I let myself sink into the fantasy, let it wrap around me like a comfortable old shirt—the oversized sort with the neck torn out and the fabric washed so many times that the tag is bleached bare and the logo is only a smattering of color clinging to individual threads.

I imagine that I am home, not here in DC. I hear the waters of Moses Lake lapping at the shore, feel the rhythm of it beneath my feet. My eyes fall closed, and I drink in the water-scented Texas air, the oleander blooming, the sound of small, bare feet tramping up the hallway, a favorite blanket dragging behind. The honey-sweet tastes of a summer morning.

I’m ready to cuddle a knobby-legged little body in my lap, snuggle a case of bed head under my chin, feel the soft, downy hairs tickle my neck, hear the first snuffly breaths of morning before there’s any need to talk, or ask questions, or face the rest of the world. I’m aching for all the things I never thought I’d want, for the place that has wound its way over me like the silk of a web, soft yet strong. I am a prisoner of it, content in ways I could never have imagined. It’s strange how quickly a life can become your life, and how hard you’ll fight for it when someone tries to take it away…

I absolutely love that first page. How can readers find you on the Internet?

I love getting to know readers and new friends across the miles. People can find me on:

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/lisawingate

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lisa-Wingate-Readers-Circle/132187520154779

Blogging Mondays at: www.SouthernBelleView.com

My website: www.Lisawingate.com

Lisa Wingate is celebrating the release of Firefly Island with an iPad Mini giveaway and a fun Facebook Author Chat Party (March 19th).  

  One fortunate winner will receive:

• An iPad Mini
• The Moses Lake series (Firefly Island, Blue Moon Bay and Larkspur Cove)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 18th. Winner will be announced at the "Firefly Island Author Chat Party on March 19th. Connect with Lisa, get a sneak peek of her next book, try your hand at the trivia contest, and chat with readers just like you. There will also be many fun giveaways -- gift certificates, books, and more!

So grab your copy of Firefly Island and join Lisa on the evening of the March 19th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun, RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 19th!

Thank you, Lisa, for visiting with us again. Your interviews are always interesting.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Firefly Island Firefly Island (The Shores of Moses Lake Book #3) -  paperback

Firefly Island (The Shores of Moses Lake Book #3) - 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 Google +, 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

WHEN PIGS AND PARROTS FLY - Gail Sattler - One Free Ebook

My good friend, Gail Sattler, is back with a book in the Bloomfield Series. Welcome, Gail. Tell us about your salvation experience.

I didn’t have a specific experience. I was born and raised going to church, then fell away when I was about 16. After I got married my husband and I returned to church, and one day it just clicked.

You’re planning a writing retreat where you can only have four other authors. Who would they be and why?

I can’t answer that for only four, but I did have an immediate answer. I’d have the other 9 people in my critique group. It’s a fantastic and diverse group of people writing at different genres and levels – a group that most people would say shouldn’t work, but it does, both on a professional and personal level.

Do you have a speaking ministry? If so, tell us about that.

I don’t have a specific speaking ministry, but I’m feeling poked to start. I’ve taught a few classes at the ACFW conferences, and I’ve keynoted for an OCW conference. I’m starting to make enquiries to teach and/or keynote at other conferences. I’ve got excellent reviews from those, so I feel led that this is the time for me to move forward with that, much in the same way I felt led to start writing. And when God speaks, we have to listen. J

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

I can’t say the most embarrassing, I have a list or could write a book on that. One year, upon returning from an ACFW conference, I had a list of 10 very embarrassing things that happened, in the space of 5 days. Whatever it is I do, the only way I can handle it is to laugh, learn, and move on. Or maybe, write a book about it.

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?

Don’t quit your day job. Writing a book harder than it looks. The first thing I say is that the easier a book is to read, the harder it was to write. My advice is to start writing something, then attend a few classes or workshops and a writing group, and see where it goes.

Tell us about the featured book.

My featured book just out is the next book in the Bloomfield Series, called When Pigs And Parrots Fly. The Bloomfield series is being compared to Mitford, and is about a group of quirky but loveable characters who all belong to the Bloomfield garden club, but once membership is established, similarity ends. While they love to garden, gardening is a minor point in the series – it is more about the foibles and relationships of the growing amount of members.

It’s always fun reading a series because the characters I’ve come to know and love keep reappearing, and it’s fun to see what they’re up to next.

Please give us the first page of the book.

When Pigs (and Parrots) Fly

by Gail Sattler

CHAPTER 1

            “I’m not so sure of this.” Josh Tavendish ran his fingers down the conglomeration of colored shapes. “Do you really think it’s going to work?”

            Beside him, Sarah stood reading the now-empty box. He figured that being a veterinarian, she would be the one who would know what would attract, and keep, a parrot’s attention.

            “It has to,” she mumbled. “Quite frankly, I don’t know why they’re insisting on this. Half the children are terrified of Murray.”

            Josh nodded. “Not to mention a lot of adults aren’t too comfortable with him, either. Andy isn’t sure it’s going to work, but he couldn’t say no. You know how he feels about expanding the burn unit for the hospital. For that, he’s willing to give anything a try. If including Murray in the fundraiser raises more funds, then Andy will do it.” Although, Andy wasn’t the only one who had doubts if the whole thing was going to work. Not only did Murray not have the most friendly disposition, neither did Andy.

            A few years ago Andy, ever the responsible fire chief, had dressed up as Santa for another hospital fundraiser. Even though he hadn’t been the cheeriest Santa on record, the event had been a success, and therefore sealed Andy’s fate. For this season’s hospital fundraiser, the theme was swashbucklers. With Andy’s disposition, Josh could well imagine Andy as a swarthy pirate.

            But Josh couldn’t imagine Murray, Andy’s cranky parrot, behaving himself in a crowd. He especially couldn’t imagine the bird posing for photographs.

            He poked at the red plastic square and watched it swing. “Do you really think this is going to make Murray behave? What’s it supposed to do, hypnotize him?”

            Sarah tapped the blue circle. “They didn’t teach us much about parrots in veterinary college, but I do know they’re smarter than people think. The most important thing I learned about parrots is that a bored parrot is an unhappy parrot. Andy needs to keep Murray distracted, so this thing just might work.”

            Josh turned his head to look over his shoulder. For the first time since he opened his pet supply store four years ago, people were waiting in line outside. He wished it had something to do with the ad he’d taken out in the Bloomfield Gazette, or the small poster he’d put up at Sarah’s veterinary clinic, but he knew it wasn’t so. Nor did it matter what new pet toys he had on sale.

            The people outside crowding the sidewalk weren’t coming to check out his new stock.

            Like a twisted Groundhog Day, everyone was here to see how Murray reacted to the new parrot toy.

            This was worse than reality television. And it was happening in his store.

            The buzz of conversation outside increased.

            He didn’t know the last time Bloomfield had seen so much action. There would be no middle ground for what happened today. It would either go really good, or really, really bad, and he didn’t have a good feeling about it.

Gail, I know my readers will love this book. How can they find you on the Internet?

I can be found at my website at www.gailsattler.com - I also have a blog there, everyone is invited to leave a comment.

I’m also on my jazz band’s website at www.goldenearsjazzband.com Please come for a visit. J

Thank you, for the interesting interview and fun peek into your book.

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

When Pigs and Parrots Fly


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 Google +, 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

Apple Blossom (ND) is the winner of Homeschooling Can Be Murder by Susan Lyttek. (Many people who left comments on this post didn't follow the instructions at the bottom of the blog.)  
Susan Fryman (NM) is the winner of Congo Dawn by Jeanette Windle. 
Pol (GA) is the winner of Still Faithful by Jewell Tweedt.
Bonnie Jean (FL), Cheryl (IL), Cindy W (IN), Lyndie Blevine (TX), and Roanna (OH) are winners Texas Wildflowers by Anita Higman.

If you won a book and you 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. If you won a print book, 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.

ASHTON PARK - Murray Pura - One Free Book

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

I don’t suppose it’s always conscious but I’m sure a lot of me gets in there, especially into the hero and what I think is the right thing to do or say. I think I always put into my leading characters, male or female, the qualities I most admire and which I want to exhibit more of myself.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

Dressing up as a Puritan – hat, shirt, pants, shoes – and daring to present a major paper on the Puritans at a college seminar in that outfit. I used an English accent as well. Both of the profs were Oxford men with a good sense of humor and I got away with an A, thanks be to God.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I was writing stories on 3x5 index cards when I was eight or nine and the passion never left me.

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

One bookshelf has US, British, and Canadian history as well as the history of many other nations or eras or events. Another has literature from around the world – Ireland, England, France, Spain, Israel, Vietnam, America, Canada, etc. Another has the literature of ancient Greece and Rome. Another has historical fiction and sea fiction and westerns. Another has books on Christian life and prayer and theology. Another has books that aid in the study of the Bible, books on Greek and Hebrew and Aramaic, as well as commentaries. And so on. Pretty eclectic.

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

Each day has to have its balance of fresh air, slow walks, prayer, meditation, making-your-heart-beat-fast exercise, work (in my case writing), interaction with others, enjoyment of books, movies, TV, computer, and decent food and sleep. You have to be disciplined to try and get as much of that balance as you can but it pays off.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Many times I use the names of friends or acquaintances, though never giving them their actual surnames. In the case of the Amish I look up different Biblical names. When it comes to other cultures or eras I search out names authentic to the culture and time period.

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

An Alaskan Malamute has the beauty of the North and the wolf but the friendliness of a good dog. I’d like that mix of the wild and the free and the devotedness to humans.

What is your favorite food?

I like 1% cottage cheese a lot – tastes good, fills you up, lots of protein, low calories. I also like sweet potatoes a lot, also very tasty and nutritious.

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

Getting noticed by larger publishers who reached a larger market of readers. An agent made the difference with that but, of course, getting an agent didn’t do it all. Once he opened opportunities for me I still had to produce good books and stories that editors and readers would think highly of.

Tell us about the featured book.

Ashton Park takes place between 1916 and 1923. It centers around a wealthy Church of England family on their estate in Lancashire. All their sons are in uniform when the book opens while one daughter is nursing wounded soldiers in France and another is marching in the streets for an end to the war and to win voting rights for women. The Danforths, a Christian family, do their best to deal with the ups and downs of life on their estate and the calamity of world war and revolution in Ireland by means of prayer, faith, courage, and their devotedness to one another.

Please give us the first page of the book.

April 1916

“Go girl, go!”

Victoria Danforth leaned into her horse’s neck as it broke out of the forest and drove toward the sea cliff at full gallop.

“Come on, Robin! The man is gaining!”

A green ribbon flew from Victoria’s head and her long auburn hair burst loose. She struck the sorrel’s flanks with the heels of her black leather boots.

Give me more, my girl, just a bit more!”

The shining sea drew closer and closer. A wind that carried the bite of salt water stung Victoria’s nostrils. Face flushed by the wild ride, eyes glittering like a cat’s, she cried out a final time.

“All you’ve got, my beauty!”

And then she hauled back on the reins, turned the mare’s head to the left, sprang from the saddle, and hit the ground boots-first with a shout. The horse dug in all its hooves and tossed up mud and stone and grass. The cliff edge was only a few yards away when she stopped.

“Good, girl, that was lovely, that was grand!” Victoria stroked the animal’s neck and mane. Both horse and rider were panting. “What a gorgeous view! I’ll never tire of it.”

The brisk ocean breeze pushed back the auburn hair from Victoria’s

How can readers find you on the Internet?

 My website is www.murraypura.com  where readers will also find my blog Murmurings.

 My author page on FB is https://www.facebook.com/pages/Murray-Pura-Writing/125082457581805?ref=hl

Thank you, Murray, for the interesting interview.

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

Ashton Park (The Danforths of Lancashire) - paperback
Ashton Park (The Danforths of Lancashire) - 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 Google +, 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

SECRETLY SMITTEN - Colleen Coble, Kristin Billerbeck, Diann Hunt, and Denise Hunter - One Free Book on This Blog Plus Much More

Today, I'm introducing you to a dynamic writing team. I think you'll love them and the book they wrote. This the second book in this series that they've written. I know you'll probably want to go back and get a copy of the first one. Now introducing, Colleen Coble.

I know that this is a collaboration. How did this story come about?

Diann had always moaned the fact she’d never been able to do a project with the three of us. Denise, Kristin and I had done several projects together. I went to our editor Ami McConnell and pitched the idea to her. She was very enthusiastic, and Smitten was the result.

Did you find it easy to work together on it?

Not just easy but a dream! We know each other so well, and we could anticipate even the dialogue each of us might have our characters say.

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

It’s made us even closer.

What is the hardest thing about writing as a team?

In this case, there wasn’t anything hard about it for me. I can see where it might be difficult if any of us had had egos or didn’t know each other so well.

What are you reading right now?

Gone Girl. Those characters are downright scary crazy.

How did you choose your characters’ names?

I use a book titled The Baby Name Survey Book: What People Think About Your Baby’s Name. It’s super helpful!

I may have to get a copy of that book myselg. Would you want to work on another book together?

Not only would I want to, but we’re in that process right now! J

Good. I know the readers want more. What do you want to tell us about the book?

It’s a heartwarming, romantic book with a fun mystery running through all four romances. You’ll want to visit Vermont after reading it!

Please give us the first page of the book.

Wrapping paper lay strewn around the floor in a happy crumple of color. Tess Thomas handed her cousin one last gift and suppressed a smile. Nat would blush when she saw the filmy negligee Tess had bought. But Tess knew if anyone would look great in the gown, it was her cousin. It was something Tess would never purchase for her- self. But then what need would she have of a honeymoon gown anyway?

While Natalie began to rip paper with abandon, Tess glanced around the packed parlor of their grandmother’s old house. Their friends had all shown up for the bridal shower and there wasn’t space for another chair. A few women even sat on the floor with their backs propped against the wall. That was what Tess loved about the small town of Smitten, Vermont. Neighbors were like family. And they’d all pulled together in amazing ways this past year as they worked to put Smitten on the map as a town based on tourism—a romantic destination, in fact. There were so many new businesses, including a big hotel that had taken over the old lumber mill.

Their Great-aunt Violet bustled in with a tray of cookies and tea. “Tess, dear,” she whispered. “I’m not sure these gluten free things are worth eating.”

The cookies were as lopsided as Violet’s red lipstick.

Where can our readers find you on the Internet?

My website is www.colleencoble.com . I love to hear from readers!

Thank you, Colleen. Now, readers, here's Kristin Billerback.

I know that this is a collaboration. How did this story come about?

We have been friends for so long.  Writing is such a lonely sport and our connection online, helping each other to get published, was born of a love for the written word and each other.  Denise Hunter, Colleen Coble, and Kristin Billerbeck had all done novellas together, but Diann Hunt was missing from our collaborations and we wanted to do one that featured all of us.  That’s how Smitten was born.

Did you find it easy to work together on it?

We know each other very well, so for the first book we used the personalities as we are, but changed the names to protect the innocent. (Or the guilty, depending upon your take.)  It’s so easy for us to work together because we know each other’s strengths and weaknesses.  So one person can pick up the slack in one area and in the end, we have a cohesive story because that’s how friendship is – connections based on similarities and differences.

What is the hardest thing about writing as a team?

Finding the time to get all the facts straight on the overarching theme of the book.  Even though we meet together to write and come up with our storylines, it’s not always possible to fit together the puzzle pieces in that short amount of time.

What are you reading right now?

East of Eden by John Steinbeck.

How did you choose your characters’ names?

Colleen picked Zoe, my heroine.  She was a minor character in the first Smitten. William means to protect and because Zoe craved small town life and the safety of her location, I wanted a name that provided for her that element of guarding over her.

Would you want to work on another book together?

Of course.  It’s so much easier to be motivated when someone else is expecting something of you.

What do you want to tell us about the book?

I think this book (Secretly Smitten) is very tightly woven together.  I loved the overarching theme story that runs through each novella and how it all comes together in the end.

Please give us the first page of the book.

CHAPTER ONE

Zoe Thomas perched herself atop the metal ladder and straightened the wooden sign that read Cupid’s Arrow Matchmaking Services. She looked down at her older sister, who stood on Main Street’s brick walkway. “Better?”

“A little higher on the right,” Clare called up. Zoe wondered if it would ever be straight according to Clare’s exacting standards.

She pressed upward and peered down again to the brick sidewalk. “Now?”

“Perfect,” Clare confirmed.

Zoe breathed a sigh of relief, amazed that Clare hadn’t produced a level from the overalls she wore. Clare could survive in the woods for an eternity with all that came out of those gardener pockets of hers. Zoe jumped from the ladder and brushed her hands together. Seeing the hand-painted calligraphy announcing her business made everything so real.

“Can’t you just feel the love? Imagine Smitten being bitten by its own love bug. And Nat’s marriage to Carson was the perfect kickoff to my new business.” Zoe’s heart filled with possibilities, seeing the fruits of her labor. The tired storefront looked fresh and inviting with its newly painted, wood-paned windows and a gold-framed “services offered” announcement. She’d draped two small crystal chandeliers

Where can our readers find you on the Internet?

www.KristinBillerbeck.com

www.GirlsWriteOut.Blogspot.com

www.GirlyGirl.typepad.com

Thank you, Kristin. Now we'll talk to Diann Hunt. 

Please share something unique about your leading lady and man.

My heroine learns about sheep while my hero learns about his leading lady. J

Did you anticipate when writing Smitten that it would become a series?

That was my hope, mainly, because I love the whole concept of Smitten and it’s a “town” I enjoy visiting.

What has been your favourite experience of this collaboration with friends?

Growing a town together—starting with the blossoming friendship that began between us years ago.

Do readers get to find out how Natalie, Julie, Shelby and Reese are doing in Secretly Smitten?

There are snapshots here and there of former townsfolks.

What is it about this series that has captured readers’ imaginations?

Life gets crazy busy and sometimes it’s nice to slow down and get to know people. Like stopping for pie in Mayberry (if you’re lucky enough to not get arrested by Barney Fife).

How do you like to be romanced?

Unexpected surprises, shared coffee in the morning, a movie, an impulsive slow dance in the family room.

Thank you, Diann. Now we'll welcome Denise Hunter to the blog.

I know that this is a collaboration. How did this story come about?

Since Smitten is a series, and there are 4 authors working together, we were pretty deliberate about planning the plot. We met at a cabin in Indiana and brainstormed the idea for Secretly Smitten with our editor. Since we’re all such close friends, it was not only productive, but loads of fun as well.

Did you find it easy to work together on it?

It sure helps that we’re besties! Working together was so much fun.

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

It was fun to turn something that’s normally done alone into a group project. I think working together drew us closer.

What is the hardest thing about writing as a team?

With this project, it was definitely the coordination of details. Since our characters overlap each story and since there’s an overarching plot throughout the 4 novellas, it was challenging to divvy up what goes into whose story and make sure we didn’t contradict one another. Having great editors helped too!

What are you reading right now?

Actually I’m judging the RITA contest, so I’m reading those entries.

How did you choose your characters’ names?

I have a baby name book that lists the names by personality types. I always fall back on this book for naming my characters.

Would you want to work on another book together?

We’ve already done 2 Smitten books and are currently working on our 3^rd, so yes!

What do you want to tell us about the book?

One of my favorite elements about the Smitten books, other than the yummy romances, is the friendship factor. Each of the Smitten books feature the friendship of our 4 heroines. We really need women in our lives to come along side us and cheer us on.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Love Blooms by Denise Hunter

Chapter One

Clare Thomas smoothed out the hardwood mulch, spreading it under the newly planted hostas. Partridgeberry now carpeted her mother’s flower bed with green, but soon it would bloom with fragrant white flowers, and its red fruit would add a splash of color come fall. 

The realization that it looked ten times better than it had three hours ago soothed her wounded spirits.

Anna Thomas dumped the last load of mulch from the wheelbarrow. “That should do it.” She blew her long bangs from her face, picked up the shovel, and spread the load with the vigor of someone half her age.

“It looks beautiful, girls.” Clare’s sister Tess set a tray of iced lemonade on the porch table. Her blue eyes were lit with a joy that only comes from new love.

Not that Clare knew anything about that.

“Thank goodness we’re almost done.” Her younger sister, Zoe, pulled off her pink garden gloves and appraised the sky. “Looks like it’s about to rain.”

Clare breathed in the scent of loamy dirt and rain, hoping the organic fragrance would relieve her unrest. “Smells like it too.”

“God’s going to water my new plants,” Anna said. “Isn’t he thoughtful?”

Oh, yeah, all was coming up roses now that everyone was in love. Everyone but her. Clare chided herself for the selfish thought. She was happy for her sisters, thrilled for her mom. Still, they all had romance and candlelit dinners and kisses, and she had . . .

Plants.

Where can our readers find you on the Internet? 

www.DeniseHunterbooks.com and at https://www.facebook.com/authordenisehunter

Thank you, ladies for this fun interview.

Secretly Smitten, an Evening of Giggles, Gab, and Prizes

The "gals" are celebrating the release of Secretly Smitten with a fun Live Webcast on February 28th. It was changed from the February 5th date on the graphic above. They'll be debuting the *NEW* animated Smitten trailer, giving away tons of prizes, dishing on the book and their friendship. They'll also be wrapping up the Secretly Smitten blog tour, answering audience questions and testing your trivia skills. Don't miss the fun and bring your friends. Click here to RSVP and set up a reminder.


Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Secretly Smitten - paperback
Secretly Smitten - 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 Google +, 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