RAY OF LIGHT - Shelley Shepard Gray - One Free Book

Meet Shelley:
Shelley Shepard Gray is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Sisters of the Heart, Seasons of Sugarcreek, Secrets of Crittenden County, and Families of Honor series. She lives in southern Ohio, where she writes full-time, bakes too much, and can often be found walking her dachshunds on her town's bike trail.

About Ray of Light:
Bestselling author Shelley Shepard Gray brings inspirational romance to life in this sweet tale of love in the Amish community, Ray of Light, the second installment of her Days of Redemption series.

Roman Keim just wants a break from the family drama at his snowy Ohio home when he heads to an Amish snowbird community in Florida. There he meets Amanda Yoder and her daughter Regina who soon are warming his heart. But will Roman return to Ohio or will he stay and help the young widow embrace a second chance at love?

The author of the series Sisters of the Heart and Seasons of Sugarcreek, Shelley Shepard Gray delivers an honest, tender love story in Ray of Light, featuring the challenges of faith, family, and romance.

Why do you write the kind of books you do?

I love to write inspirational novels because I find them uplifting. I enjoy writing Amish fiction because their faith-centered lifestyle never fails to inspire me.

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

My happiest days are when my husband and children are home and everyone is content. The day my husband asked me to marry him was a pretty wonderful day, though!

How has being published changed your life?

Being published has made me more confident and has given me an outlet for my creativity that feels like a gift. I am a very thankful writer!

What are you reading right now?

I just finished Her Majesty’s Hope by Susan Elia Macneal. It’s a WWII mystery, and I honestly loved every page. I also read it too fast! I was so sad when it was over!

What is your current work in progress?

I do best when I work on several projects at the same time. I’m currently writing Worthington House, an 1893 historical romance set in Chicago, REDEMPTION, an Amish historical set at the end of the Civil War, and THANKFUL, an Amish romance set in Sugarcreek.

What would be your dream vacation?

I love to travel, so any dream vacation is one that I’ve planned! This fall, we’re going to go on a Mediterranean Cruise. We’ll end up in Athens, Greece, which is where my sister has lived for almost 20 years.

That sounds wonderful. How do you choose your settings for each book?

I research a lot of settings on the Internet. I also read a lot. Sometimes a setting will intrigue me, and I’ll want to place a book there. I’m also a huge fan of westerns, so I love a Texas setting.

If you could spend an evening with one person who is no longer alive, who would it be and why?

That would be my father. He passed away many, many years ago. I would love to chat with him about his grandchildren, and hear some of those stories he used to tell me when I was too young to appreciate them.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I love to cook, but I’m not very good at it. So I’m always taking cooking classes or trying out new things. We also have two dachshunds, which I’m very fond of! I love to take them out on our town’s bike trail. I also love to travel~and not just exotic places. I love to go just about anywhere new.

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

Years ago, it took me three years to become published with Harlequin American Romance. I had many, many, many rejections. That time taught me a lot about revising, revision letters, patience, and persistence. Now, I’m grateful for those hard years. I never take anything in publishing for granted!

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

I’d advise a beginning author to believe in herself, and believe in criticism, too. Learning what I can do better always helps me, even if it doesn’t make me feel good. I’d also advise a new author to write every day.

Tell us about the featured book.

Ray of Light is the second book of this year’s Days of Redemption series. It features Roman Keim, a man who goes on vacation in Florida and meets Amanda Yoder, who becomes his ray of light. It’s a positive story about moving forward, finding joy in each day, and appreciating family.

Please give us the first page of the book.

          It hadn’t been easy, but Lovina Keim had gotten her way. This time, she was going to be the person to read aloud her grandson’s letter.

            Holding the letter carefully on her lap, she adjusted her glasses and waited for her twin granddaughters, husband, and daughter-in-law to get settled. Actually, she was drawing out the moment. It was nice to feel like the focal point of the family once again. Too often she sometimes felt like as much of an add-on as her dawdi haus was.

            But, as usual, her granddaughter Viola was anything but patient. “Mommi, open the envelope. We’re all here and sitting quietly.”

            “Patience, Viola. I’ll get to it in my own time. After all, none of us makes you rush to share Edward’s letters.”

            “That’s because she doesn’t share them,” Viola’s twin Elsie said.

            Crossing her legs primly, Viola glared at her sister. “Ed’s letters are far different. He’s my fiancé, you know.”

            “I believe we all know that, dear,” Marie said dryly.

            Standing behind her rocking chair, Aaron leaned over and pushed the kerosene lantern on the table closer to her. “You’d best read Roman’s letter from Florida before this whole family dissolves into another heated discussion.”

Thanks for that preview. How can readers find you on the Internet?

They can find me at www.shelleyshepardgray.com, or on FaceBook!

Thank you, Shelley, 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.
Ray of Light: The Days of Redemption Series, Book Two - paperback
Ray of Light: The Days of Redemption Series, Book Two - 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, Linkedin, 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

STOLEN IDENTITY - Lisa Harris - One Free Book

Readers, don't forget to follow the instructions at the end of the post, so you can be included in the drawing.

I'm thrilled to have my dear friend, Lisa Harris, join us today. She and her husband are missionaries in Africa, so we don't get together in person very often. 

Welcome, Lisa. How did this book come about? 

Several years ago I wrote my first novel for Love Inspired Suspense dealing with Internet scams. I was struck by how many people are affected by these scams and other issues like identity theft and knew I wanted to write another book on the subject—both to entertain and inform. 

Tell us about the book’s cover and what makes it unique.

I love this cover, because it turned out exactly as I imagined it. It’s taken from one of the final scenes in the book, a pier along the Oregon coast where the heroine is running for her life.

Please explain and differentiate between what’s fact and fiction in the book.

The issue of identity theft is very real. I’ve upped the stakes in this story, but in real life the fallout can be devastating and take years to resolve. According to one source I read, almost 10 million American’s were victims of the crime last year alone. We don’t need to be afraid, but we do need to be diligent. For example, do an annual review of your consumer credit reports, along with shredding and destroying unwanted documents with personal information. Also make sure you use strong passwords on line and avoid responding to spam emails and suspicious callers who ask for personal information.

How much research did you have to do for this book?

I did a lot of online research in understanding the problem and how it works. I’ve also heard from people personally who have been victims.

What are some of the most interesting things you found about this subject that you weren’t able to use in the story?

While I focused on identity theft in this story, there are numerous other scams and hacking that can be done. For instance, I read about a test done where they were able to hack into a car’s electronic braking system so the driver couldn’t stop the car. Sometimes truth really is stranger than fiction!

What inspired and surprised you while you were writing the book?

I always seem to gain something personally in the writing process that surprises and challenges me. I love writing stories about ordinary people who face difficulties and come to realize that they are stronger than they think when they turn their lives completely over to God. For me it is a constant reminder of my need to trust in Him for everything, even when I feel weak.

What do you hope the reader takes away from the story?

Hopefully none of my readers will face a situation like Danielle, but the reality is that life often throws us things we aren’t prepared for. In this story, I wanted to remind us that our identity can’t be tied to the securities of this world. Because this world is temporary. We need to keep our hope and security in our Heavenly Father.

What is the next project you’re working on?

I’m currently working book two in a brand new romantic suspense series I’m so excited about. It debuts this fall from Revell. The series revolves around the Hunts, a family from Atlanta who has served their country through the armed service or police department for generations. Despite conflicts that arise between them, they are close knit, and when it comes to fighting injustice, they stick together and do whatever it takes to stop that injustice.

What do you do when you have to get away from the story for a while?

My favorite thing to do is go to Kruger in South Africa, a large game reserve, and take photographs of animals. I don’t get to go near as often as I’d like, but for me it is one of the most relaxing places I can think of. No cell phones, not computers, just driving and watching the amazing wildlife.

And I love it when you share those pictures with us on your web site. Please give us the first page of the book.

Jason Ryan snagged his cell phone from the kitchen table, then fumbled to answer before the caller hung up. The muscles in his jaw tightened as he checked the ID. Great. So the long lost prodigal had finally decided to check in.

He took the call, skipping any formalities with his best friend and business partner. "Where are you, Garrett?"

"Listen, I just have a minute. Some things have come up, and I…I need a few more days off."

"A few more days to do what?" Jason shoved the last file into his briefcase then slammed the lid shut. He didn't have time for more of Garrett's excuses. Not today.

"I can't tell you." His friend's voice faded in and out with the choppy connection.

"You can't or won't tell me? Come on, Garrett. I've put up with your excuses for weeks, and now you won't even answer my phone calls or respond to my emails. What am I supposed to do?"

"You don't understand—"

"No…" Jason let out a loud humph and started pacing the kitchen's mosaic tiled floor. "You're the one who doesn't understand, Garrett. I need you here. I just finished our final analysis of Simon's company and discovered another million dollars' worth of misappropriated funds. Do you realize how much work we have ahead of us?"

"I'm sorry, for everything, but I've gotten involved in something…something serious." 

I can't wait to read it. How can readers find you on the Internet?

You can stop by my website, www.lisaharriswrites.com or visit my blog, http://myblogintheheartofafrica.blogspot.com . Would love to connect with you!

Thanks so much for letting me drop by, Lena!

It's my pleasure and great blessing, Lisa.

Readers, here is the link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
Stolen Identity (Love Inspired Suspense) (The book is also available through Mills and Boon.)

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, Linkedin, 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

AFLOAT - Erin Healy - One Free Book on this Blog, Plus Much More

Meet Erin: Erin Healy is the best-selling co-author of Burn and Kiss (with Ted Dekker) and an award-winning editor for numerous best-selling authors. She has received wide acclaim for her novels Never Let You Go, The Baker's Wife, House of Mercy, and Afloat. She and her family live in Colorado. 

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

Exactly 18.3%. The part of myself that typically appears on the page takes the form of my characters’ spiritual/moral/ethical questions, such as the one that confronts Vance in Afloat: which situations require action, and which require an obedient staying put? Or the one that defines Beth’s struggle in House of Mercy: can I say God is good even when he doesn’t give me what I think I need? I guess I use story to wrestle with questions that don’t always have clear answers.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

That’s a toss-up between ensuring the salvation of my cat by telling Jesus my dear pet was part of the package when He got me, or, after reading Harriet the Spy, keeping a similar spy notebook on people I knew, with bald-faced intentions of using them in a novel someday. By divine intervention, that notebook disappeared before I got the chance.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I didn’t discover it, exactly. Instead “you sure can write” was a message given to me repeatedly by family members, educators, and trusted friends throughout my childhood and young adulthood. I was blessed to receive this message so consistently and positively that I began to believe it. Two defining moments came in college, when a professor urged me to change my major to English (I did), and when a friend sent me to a writers conference (I went). Both changed my life.

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

Oh my. Do you have enough room? In the nonfiction arena I like spiritual insight (there’s a stack of Richard Rohr and Philip Yancey on my nightstand), books that challenge me to grapple with faith issues (like Love Wins and Misreading Scripture Through Western Eyes), nutrition (big fan of Furhman and Weil right now), high-quality memoir (Unbroken—one of the best ever), of course books about writing and editing, and scads of novel research, especially geography, autism, ranching, architecture, and so on. In fiction I’ll read almost anything—huge fan of Louise Penny mysteries, Jane Kirkpatrick historicals, Dean Koontz suspense, Marilynne Robinson’s stunning prose, Tosca Lee’s biblical fiction, and fantastic concepts like Erin Morgenstern’s The Night Circus and Martyn Bedford’s YA novel Flip.

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

Uh, maybe the counselor I’ve been seeing for twelve years would be better equipped to answer that question. In truth, my life seems to be an upwardly maturing cycle of losing my sanity and then, by the grace of God, finding it again. I wish I had a more practical answer to offer, but I’m afraid my how-to is esoteric: I keep learning how to hold things loosely and to not control my life too tightly. On the bright side, it does seem to be getting easier.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

 I have done everything from creating names with intentional, rich meaning (Beth(esda) Borzoi) to blind-pointing in a phone book. While I do try to pick names that “sound right” in their reflection of individual personalities, it turns out that my ear and my readers’ ears differ when it comes to personal prejudices about names. I think every author must cope with this. I can’t stand the name Katniss, for example, but the power of the Hunger Games stories far outweighed my distaste for the protag’s name. Gradually, I’ve come to care less these days about getting names right and more about getting story right.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

At risk of sounding flippant, I might have to say it is that I taught myself (alone) how to replace a bathroom toilet (alone). This became necessary after I (alone) managed to crack the toilet’s water tank. Bear with me: it’s the symbolism of the achievement rather than the achievement itself that’s important. Namely, that I faced a challenge completely out of my intellectual, physical, and educational depth and discovered I was up to the task. Even if I did go through three wax rings before I got it right.

What is your favorite food?

Tiramisu: coffee and sugar in their finest form.

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

Was? Oh for the day when I can completely put it behind me: I am a conceptual rather than concrete-visual thinker. I think of story in terms of themes and ideas rather than people and scenes. As a result I spend too much time writing about abstract notions and interior thoughts. I have written (and cut) whole scenes of characters standing around thinking but not behaving. After nine manuscripts my editor still catches me belly-button gazing through my characters. How I overcome: (1) I accept this weakness as part of my first-draft creative process; (2) I get it out of my system and then cut ruthlessly; (3) I rely on my editor to show me what I am blind to, and I do what she tells me to do; and (4) one note stuck to my computer reminds me to “Begin with the event,” and the other reminds me that “Behavior is character.”

Tell us about the featured book.

Afloat is a supernatural-disaster survival story about a motley bunch of people stranded on a river. They are divided over how to get out alive, and two deaths expose hidden intentions and dark histories. More than this, Afloat is a story about human love in the broadest terms. Can we love well when our survival instincts are running in high gear? What does it mean to “survive” a crisis? Each of my characters grapples with these questions in different ways.

Please give us the first page of the book.

THE WETSUIT and the water are black, and after the man slips into both, he seems to vanish from the world. He has come on a starless night to avoid being seen, to hide a few containers where they won’t be found. He will be underpaid for this task by his anonymous employer, but times are hard so he takes what he can get.

He has gone into the water between his bobbing boat and twelve shadowy structures that float. They are gathered under the weak moon in a semicircle like disciples awaiting their teacher. But he is not the one they wish for. As instructed he will secure his packages under the second unit, which is squat and unfinished. Which will never be finished.

The silky surface between him and building 2 reflects the sky’s silver stars. For a moment, before he lowers the diving mask, he is distracted by the glittering scene. The understanding gives him a jolt: because it is a starless night, and these are not reflections. They are sardine-sized creatures flashing with their own energy, flickering randomly, tricking his eyes.

He lets go of the boat and reaches out to touch one, expecting it to dart away. It flares instead, flaming like a struck match though fully submerged, and sends a tingling shock through the palm of his hand. He jerks back. The flame dies. With the thumb of his other hand he tries to rub the sting away.

The pain won’t die. Nor will his sudden certainty that more secrets than his are hidden in this place.

He would turn back, if not for the money.

He dives into darkness to do his work, avoiding contact with the silver things, and as he swims they fade away. Fear hurries him along. He needs to be gone before the sun rises, before everything concealed comes to light.

What a hook! How can readers find you on the Internet?

www.erinhealy.com Here you’ll find details about each of my books, free sample chapters, and links to my presence on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, and Goodreads.

Erin Healy is celebrating the release of her latest novel Afloat (Thomas Nelson) with an iPad Mini giveaway.

One winner will receive:

• An iPad Mini 
• iTunes gift card
• Afloat by Erin Healy 

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 15th. Winner will be announced on Erin's blog on June 17th. Save the date and click HERE to see if YOU won the iPad Mini!

Don't miss a moment of the fun; ENTER today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Visit Erin's blog on the 17th!

Thank you, Erin, for visiting with us today. The book sounds awesome.

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

Afloat - paperback
Afloat - Kindle

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book on this blog. 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, Linkedin, 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 OFFERING - Angela Hunt - One Free Book on This Blog, Plus Much More

Bio: With nearly four million copies of her books sold worldwide, Angela Hunt is the bestselling author of more than one hundred books, including The Tale of Three Trees, Don't Bet Against Me, and The Nativity Story. Her biggest bestseller, The Note, sold over 141,000 copies. Hunt is one of the most sought-after collaborators in the publishing industry. Her nonfiction book Don't Bet Against Me, written with Deanna Favre, spent several weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Angela's novel The Note (with sales of over 141,000) was filmed as the Hallmark Channel's Christmas movie for 2007 and proved to be the highest rated television movie in the channel's history. Angela's novels have won or been nominated for several prestigious industry awards, including the RITA, the Christy Award, the ECPA Christian Book Award, and the Holt Medallion. She often travels to teach writing workshops at schools and writers' conferences, and she served as the keynote speaker at the 2008 American Christian Fiction Writers' national conference. She and her husband make their home in Florida with mastiffs. In 2001, one of her dogs was featured on Live with Regis and Kelly as the second-largest dog in America.

Welcome back, Anglea. God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon?

I don’t look at the horizon; that’s not my job. My job is simply to complete the task the Lord sets before me every day.  Some days that involves writing, sometimes it involves serving in my community, some days it involves being with my family. That’s how God moves in my life—he moves in all of it.

Tell us a little about your family.

I’m married to a youth pastor, we have two children, two mastiffs, and the Grandest Baby in all the world.

Has your writing changed your reading habits?

If so, how? Not really. I’ve always been a voracious reader, reading just about anything that strikes my fancy.

What are you working on right now?

A confidential nonfiction project. Can’t say any more than that.

What outside interests do you have?

I’m interested in everything, but at the moment am particularly keen on photography.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

Totally depends upon the plot—sometimes you have to have a certain locale for a plot development—and where I want to travel.

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

That’s an obvious answer: Jesus of Nazareth.

What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels?

I wish I’d known that a significant revolution awaited the publishing industry in 2002. 

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

That my life—not just my writing—is ministry. And that what I do is not who I am.

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

1. Stop trying to be successful, because everyone defines “success” differently.

2. Write a book you’d enjoy reading.

3. Go to a writers conference once, learn all you can, and start writing. Don’t spend all your time dreaming of work you could be doing if you didn’t spend all your time dreaming.

Tell us about the featured book.

After growing up as an only child, Amanda Lisandra wants a big family. But since she and her soldier husband can’t afford to have more children right away, Mandy decides to earn money as a gestational carrier for a childless couple. She loves being pregnant, and while carrying the child she dreams of having her own son and maybe another daughter…

Just when the nearly perfect pregnancy is about to conclude, unexpected tragedy enters Mandy’s world and leaves her reeling. Devastated by grief, she surrenders the child she was carrying and struggles to regain her emotional equilibrium.

Two years later she studies a photograph of the baby she bore and wonders if the unthinkable has happened—could she have inadvertently given away her own biological child? Over the next few months Mandy struggles to decide between the desires of her grief-stricken heart and what’s best for the little boy she has never known.

Oh, my goodness. What a dilemma. Please give us the first page of the book.

Chapter One

Marilee and I were trying to decide whether we should braid her hair or wear it in pigtails when Gideon thrust his head into the room. Spotting me behind our daughter, he gave me a look of frustrated disbelief. “Don’t you have an important appointment this morning?”

Shock flew through me as I lowered the silky brown strands in my hands. Of course, this was Monday. At nine I had a tremendously important interview with the Pinellas County school system.

I glanced at the pink clock on my four-year-old daughter’s bureau. I had only an hour to shower and dress, drive across Tampa Bay, and find the school system’s personnel office. Somewhere in the mad rush I also needed to rehearse my responses to standard interview questions, calm my nerves, and call the grocery so they’d know I’d be late.

How could I have let time slip away from me on such an important day? Good thing I had a helpful husband.

“Gideon!” I yelled toward the now-empty doorway. “Can you call Mama Isa and tell her I’ll be late this morning?”

“Just get going,” he yelled, exasperation in his voice. “Your coffee’s in the kitchen.”

I squeezed Marilee’s shoulders. “I’m sorry, sweet girl, but this morning we have to go with something quick.”

“Okay. Can I wear it like Princess Leia tomorrow?”

I frowned, trying to place the name. Was she one of the Disney princesses? “How does Princess Leia wear her hair?”

“You know.” Marilee held her hands out from her ears and spun her index fingers in circles. “She has honey buns on her ears.”

I laughed, placing the image—she was talking about the princess in Star Wars. “Sure, if you want to have honey buns over your ears, that’s what we’ll do. We aim to please.”

I pulled the long hair from the top of her head into a ponytail, looped an elastic band over it, and tied a bow around the band. Then I kissed the top of her head and took a moment to breathe in the sweet scent of her strawberry shampoo. “Love you,” I murmured.

She grinned. “Love you, too.”

I returned her smile and hurried into my bathroom.

Twenty minutes later I stood in my closet, wrapped in a towel and dripping on the carpet. What to wear? I had a nice blue skirt, but the waistband had lost its button and I had no idea where I’d put it. The black pantsuit looked expensive and professional, but sand caked my black sandals because I wore them to the beach last weekend.

“Baby girl?”

“In here.”

The closet door opened and Gideon grinned at me, a fragrant mug in his hand. “Aren’t you ever going to learn how to manage your schedule?”

I grabbed the mug and gulped a mouthful of coffee. “Maybe I like living on the edge.”

“And Mama says I have a dangerous job.” He waggled his brows at the sight of my towel. “Pity you don’t have any extra time this morning.”

“And too bad you have to get Marilee to school. So off with you, soldier, so I can get my act together.”

Chuckling, Gideon lifted his hands in surrender and stepped away from the closet. “Okay, then, I’m heading out. But you’re picking up our little bug from school today, right?”

I dropped the blouse I’d been considering. “I’m what?”

“Our daughter? You’re picking her up this afternoon because I’m leading a training exercise.”

For an instant his face went sober and dark, reminding me of the reason he’d been so busy lately. The military had to be planning something, an operation Gideon couldn’t even mention to an ordinary civilian like me.

“Sure.” My voice lowered to a somber pitch. “I’ve got it covered.”

He nodded, but a hint of uncertainty lingered in his eyes. “Mandy—”

“I’ve got it, so don’t worry.” I shooed him out the door. “Tell Marilee I’ll see her later.”

Gideon nodded and left the bedroom, his combat boots thumping on the wooden floor.

A snap of guilt stung my conscience, but I had no time for remorse. I needed a better-paying job and Pinellas County needed a middle school cafeteria manager. Rarely did any school have a mid-year opening, and this interview could be the answer to all my prayers . . .

I opened a drawer and pulled out a pair of panty hose, then hesitated. No one wore hose anymore, especially not in the Florida heat, but for this job I’d wear rubber sheathing if they expected me to. I had to look my best, I had to dress to impress, and I had to get across the Howard Frankland Bridge in record time. No one expected a lunchroom manager to look like a fashion icon, but everyone expected her to show up on time.

A brown skirt hung behind Gideon’s gun safe. Though the suede material would be hot and heavy, at least the garment had buttons and a hem. I grabbed it, then yanked a utilitarian white shirt from a hanger. Ready or not, I had to get moving.

A few minutes later, as I fastened the buttons at the sleeve, I noticed a reddish stain on the cuff, probably from Marilee’s cranberry juice. With no time to change, I rolled both sleeves up to the elbow.

I brushed my teeth and hair, swiped mascara across my lashes, and thrust my feet into a pair of worn loafers. I stepped back for one final look in the mirror, then shook my head. I looked more like an absent-minded blonde than a manager, but maybe the interviewer wouldn’t mind. I’d impress her with my professionalism.

I ran back into the bedroom, grabbed my oversized leather tote from a hook on the door, and hurried out to my car.

I can’t wait to read this one. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Type my name into Google and click “enter.”


Angela Hunt is celebrating the release of The Offering with a Nook HD Giveaway and an Author Chat Party on Facebook {6/5}.

  One winner will receive:

• A Nook HD
• The Offering by Angela Hunt 

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 4th. Winner will be announced at the "The Offering" Facebook Author Chat Party on June 5th. Connect with Angela for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Angela will also share an exclusive look at her next book and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of The Offering and join Angela on the evening of June 5th 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 5th!

Thank you, Angela, for sharing this new book and party with us.

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

The Offering: A Novel - paperback
The Offering: A Novel - 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, Linkedin, 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

CATCH A FALLING STAR - Beth K Vogt - One Free Book on This Blog, Plus Much More

Meet Beth: Beth K. Vogt is a non-fiction author and editor who said she'd never write fiction. She's the wife of an Air Force family physician (now in solo practice), though she said she'd never marry a doctor-or anyone in the military. She's a mom of four, though she said she'd never have kids. She's discovered that God's best often waits behind the doors marked "Never." Her contemporary romance novel, "Wish You Were Here", debuted in May 2012 (Howard Books), and "Catch a Falling Star" releases May 2013. An established magazine writer and former editor of Connections, the leadership magazine for MOPS International, Beth is also the Skills Coach for My Book Therapy, the writing community founded by best-selling author Susan May Warren. 

About Catch a Falling Star: 

What does a girl do when life doesn't go according to her plan? 

At 36, Kendall Haynes has seen some of her dreams come true. She's a family physician helping kids with severe allergies and asthma achieve more fulfilling lives-a childhood struggle she knows all too well. But the feeling of being "the kid never picked" looms large when romance continues to evade her and yet another one of her closest friends gets engaged. Are Kendall's dreams of having it all-a career, a husband, children-nothing more than childish wishing upon a star? Should she hold out for her elusive Plan A? Dust off Plan B? Or is it time to settle? God says he knows the plans he has for her-why can't Kendall figure them out and be content with her life?

Griffin Walker prefers flying solo-both as an Air Force pilot and in his personal life. But a wrong choice and health problems pulled him out of the cockpit. His attempts to get out of "flying a desk" are complicated by his parents' death-making Griffin the reluctant guardian of his sixteen-year-old brother, Ian. How did his life get so off course? Can God get his life back on track ... or has there been a divine plan all along?

Catch a Falling Star reminds readers that romance isn't just for twenty-somethings and that sometimes letting go of your "wish I may, wish I might" dreams is the only way to embrace everything God has waiting for you.

Welcome back, Beth. Why do you write the kind of books you do?

I posted this answer on my Author Facebook page a few weeks ago when the reason I write crystallized for me: I write books because ... life is messy. And I write stories about that. About how we make a mess of our lives ... or someone else messes up our lives ... and there is hope ... there is redemption ... It's the whole reality of "But God ... "

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

The day I married my husband, Rob – because that was the beginning of so many other wonderful things in my life: adventures as a military wife, motherhood, even the difficult times we’ve faced – God’s used all of these things to make me the woman I am today, revealing both my strengths and my weaknesses.

How has being published changed your life?

Being published strengthened my relationship with God. I’ve learned that, in God’s economy, being published isn’t about how many books I sell or if I win an award or not. He’s using everything in this journey along the writing road to conform me to His image – to make me look less like me and more like Him. That means he’s had to scrape off whatever attitudes mar his image: doubt, jealousy, fear, pride. And yes, all of those emotions have shown up this past year.

What are you reading right now?

I’m reading and re-reading a manuscript that is due to my publisher in early May – and trying to ignore some wonderful books that have arrived by Joanne Bischof and Jody Hedlund and Susan May Warren and Cynthia Ruchti.

What is your current work in progress?

I’m working on a novel called Take Another Look, which is a contemporary romance set in Colorado that involves twin brothers.

I can’t wait to read that one, too. My most recent series is about identical triplet sisters. What would be your dream vacation?

I’ve been to Venice back when my husband was in the air force and when our children were young. I would love to go back with my husband and enjoy a romantic moonlit ride in a gondola.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

I’m having fun exploring all the different corners of Colorado—I haven’t begun to exhaust the possibilities. But every time I travel some place I think, “Hhhhhm. What kind of story could I write about this location?”

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

I can’t tell you how many times I read and re-read this question. At first I thought about saying Elisabeth Elliot because I respect her so much as a writer and a woman of faith. And then I decided my answer would be my husband’s Aunt Jean. She’s my “mom in the Lord” – a true woman of faith and a prayer warrior for many, many years. Our relationship has been mostly long-distance and having an evening to sit and talk with her, uninterrupted, would be delightful. She has the treasured ability of truly listening when someone talks and her words of wisdom are laced with compassion.

When I wrote curriculum for a Christian company, I wrote a script for a video about Elizabeth Elliott. I became very interested in her life and the life of her husband. What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I’m craft-challenged, so I don’t do anything like knitting or crocheting – and I gave away my sewing machine years ago. I love to go walking and/or hiking in Colorado. I’ve also learned to shoot at a local gun range, but I really need more practice. I like to exercise and a relaxing evening at home watching classic movies – think Cary Grant and Audrey Hepburn or some of the musicals like Singing in the Rain or On the Town – is my idea of the perfect Friday night. My family loves game nights too: Bohnanza and Scotland Yard and Quelf are favorites.

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

I trip myself up more than anything else – doubting myself, focusing too much on “I can’t” rather than trusting the talent God has given me, the support system He’s given me, and believing that I can. The English writer Samuel Johnson had a great quote: “Knock the ‘t’ of the can’t.”

Thanks for the quote. I’m facing a daunting project myself right now. What advice would you give to a beginning author?

You’re going to need a lot of patience along the writing road. There’s a lot of waiting – both before you’re published and after you sign a contract. Don’t waste the waiting. Learn the craft. Hang out with other writers. Keep writing.

Tell us about the featured book.

Catch a Falling Star was inspired by a conversation I had with a friend who was in her mid-forties who has a very full, satisfying life: a wonderful career, lots of friends, hobbies – and yet, Mr. Right hasn’t shown up yet. There are lots of women in their 30s and 40s who face the same reality: Life is good in so many ways but … And everyone deals with the question: What do you do when life doesn’t go according to plan? While the book is a romance, that’s the question all the characters in Catch a Falling Star have to answer.

Sounds wonderful. Please give us the first page of the book.

What exactly was she celebrating?

The question haunted Kendall all day long. It was her birthday—she ought to be able to answer it.

She pulled into a parking space outside her favorite Mexican restaurant. Shifting into neutral, Kendall turned off the Jeep and deposited her keys into her purse, exchanging them for a tattered makeup bag and her ever-handy GorillaTorch.

Just once, she’d like to put her makeup on in front of the bathroom mirror like a normal person.

Attaching the twistable hands-free flashlight to her steering wheel so her face was illuminated in her rearview mirror, Kendall twisted her body to the left so she could trace a hint of brown eyeliner. Sheesh. Most women used a makeup mirror. Tossing the pencil into the bag lying open on the passenger seat of her Jeep, Kendall sorted through the containers of eye shadow and lip gloss, looking for her mascara. A quick peek at her phone lying on her dash told her that she had five minutes before she was officially late to her birthday dinner. Yep. Enough time for mascara and a little blush. She assessed her short brown hair—all it required was a quick comb-through with her fingers.

Her closest friends waited inside On the Border, eager to celebrate. Nineteen hours into her birthday and she wanted to label it RETURN TO SENDER. Kendall couldn’t help comparing today with her thirteenth birthday, when her mom decided to deluge her with pink frilly clothes. Pink. She looked like an overdose of cotton candy on a too-short stick. She returned all her gifts—except for the oversized stuffed pink bear her then three-year-old-sister Bekah refused to release—and pocketed the cash.

Kendall swept blush across her cheeks. It wasn’t that she didn’t have a satisfying life—an exciting life, even. It’s just that at thirty-six years old, she’d hoped for . . . more.

The buzz of her phone mocked her attempts to be on time. Why did she think she’d ever be in control of her time and be the first to arrive? She abandoned that ideal the day she entered medical school. Besides, all the other partygoers tonight were physicians like her. They’d understand when Kendall walked in late. Half made up. As usual.

She switched from blush to mascara as she turned her phone to speaker. “Dr. Haynes.”

“Kendall, it’s Mom.”

Kendall’s eyes closed as she mentally and physically sat straighter, as if her mother could see her. “Hey, Mom. How are you?”

“I’m fine. Are you having a good birthday?”

“Just finished clinic. Going to dinner with friends.”

“Oh, how nice. I’m so glad you’ve found some friends there in Colorado.”

The book came the other day. I can’t wait to read it. I’m sure my readers feel the same way. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Author Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorBethKVogt?ref=hl

Twitter: @bethvogt

Website and blog (In Others’ Words): http://www.bethvogt.com

Celebrate the release of Catch a Falling Star (Howard Books) with Beth K. Vogt by entering to win a Romantic Weekend Getaway and RSVPing for her June 4th Author Chat Party.

  One "lucky" winner will receive:

• A $200 Visa Cash Card (Perfect for a weekend stay at a hotel or B&B!)
• Catch a Falling Star and Wish You Were Here by Beth Vogt (Swoon-worthy!)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 3rd. Winner will be announced at the "Catch a Falling Star" Facebook Author Chat Party on June 4th. Connect with Beth for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Beth will also share an exclusive look at her next book and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of Catch a Falling Star and join Beth on the evening of June 4th 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 4th!

Thank you, Beth, for sharing your book and the party with us.

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

Catch a Falling Star: A Novel - paperback
Catch a Falling Star: A Novel - 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, Linkedin, 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!!!!!

Mark (OH) is the winner of The Face of the Earth by Deborah Raney. 
Val (NV) is the winner of Undeniably Yours by Becky Wade. 
Jo (AZ) is the winner of The Broken Path by Cami Checketts.
Jean K (FL) is the winner of Thorns in Eden and The Everlasting Mountains by Rita Gerlach.  

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.
If you won the ebook, just let me know what email address it should be sent to.
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.

THE IMPORTANCE OF MEMORIAL DAY - Lena Nelson Dooley - Three Free PDF File Books

My mother died when I was seven years old. After that, we went to the cemetery every Memorial Day to put a flower arrangement on my mother's grave. It was the only way we celebrated the day. You have to know that was over six decades ago, and we lived outside a small rural community in northwest Arkansas. We didn't have parades or other kinds of celebrations. And one reason for Memorial Day is to remember those you have lost ... from your family.

As time went on, Memorial Day grew in a lot of ways. I really like the deeper meanings that have been added to my family's celebration. We do remember family members who have gone on before us, but we also remember all those who laid down their lives to protect our freedoms.

It grieves my heart that there are forces at work in the United States right now that are trying to take away most of those freedoms. If we allow that to happen, we are mocking the memory of those brave men and women who lost their lives defending us.

And I like the aspect of Memorial Day where we honor those who have served in the military and are still with us. In my immediate family, I celebrate these people who served honorably:

My father: Ben Nelson, who is now deceased.
My husband: James Dooley.
My son-in-law: Eric Waldron.
My grandson: Timothy Van Zant, who currently serves.

Thank you for your service. You are often in my prayers.

Usually, our family gets together to have a cookout and fun together. But this year, my married granddaughter and her husband are moving, so James will be helping them most of the day. I'm not sure what else will happen, but in all the business of the weekend we will take the time to remember.

How will your family spend Memorial Day?

As a way to celebrate this year, I am giving away one PDF file of each of my McKenna's Daughters Series books.

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

Maggie's Journey (McKenna's Daughters)
Mary's Blessing (McKenna's Daughters)
Catherine's Pursuit (McKenna's Daughters)

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free PDF copy of one 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, Linkedin, 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

BEYOND THE VALLEY - Rita Gerlach - One Free Book

Readers, don't forget to follow the instructions at the end of the post to be included in the giveaway.

Welcome back, Rita. Tell us about Beyond the Valley, which released this February.

I loved writing all three of the novels in the Daughters of the Potomac series. But I would have to say Beyond the Valley was my favorite. The heroine, Sarah, resonates with me on so many levels. She is a wife and expectant mother, a loyal friend, a grieving widow. Her faith is shown in a way relevant to the times she lived in, not just a Sunday Christian, but a virtuous woman whose daily walk with God required ultimate trust, though her trials cause her to question. All three heroines reflect these values, Eliza, Darcy, and Sarah.

Can you share a brief synopsis of the story with us?

When Sarah Carr's husband Jamie drowns, her young life is shattered and takes a turn that she never expected. Pregnant and widowed, she reaches out to Jamie’s family for help, but they are unwilling. Instead they devise a plan to have her kidnapped through deception and taken to the Colonies to live a life of servitude.

In Virginia, Sarah is auctioned to a kindly gentleman to serve his eccentric wife. After she meets Dr. Alex Hutton, and is loaned to him to help with his orphaned nieces, hope comes alive he will find a way to free her. But when the Woodhouses go bankrupt and sell off all they own, Sarah is sent away. She faces hardships in the wilderness, and is soon surrounded by a family’s whirlwind of secrets, praying the young doctor she loves will find her again and bring her freedom.

If Beyond the Valley was made into a movie, which actors would you chose for the main characters?

You had a cyber tea party for Beyond the Valley. What is your favorite tea?

I really like lemon tea. It’s refreshing on a cold day and iced it reminds me of summer. And who doesn’t want to be reminded of summer when it’s freezing outside?

What was the most surprising thing you learned while writing Beyond the Valley?

That there were cougars in the western Maryland mountains. I could not imagine it. But while researching this fact, I found out that the Department of Natural Resources has placed some cougars back into the mountains to bring the deer population down.

What is new in publishing for you?

I just reissued three novels in the last year. The first is The Rebel’s Pledge.  Thorns in Eden and The Everlasting Mountains are a two in one collection which we featured on this blog earlier this year. All three books are historical romances with lots of adventure.

Thank you, Rita, for sharing this new book with us.

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

Beyond the Valley: Daughters of the Potomac | Book 3 - paperback
Beyond the Valley: Daughters of the Potomac #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, Linkedin, 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