KISSING FROGS - D A Featherling - One Free Book

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

More and more books! Seriously, I’m publishing a number of titles of books already written, and trying to write second books in two series, plus readying book one in a third series. I’m hoping to have a bit more time to do marketing in the not-too-distant future, and I have several book signings lined up over the next couple of months. I’m also doing some video blog interviews to help promote my work and a magazine article on me scheduled in early 2014. Other than that … only the Lord knows! I’m just trying to keep up with Him!

Tell us a little about your family.

I’m the next to oldest of 4 girls. My oldest sister is a published author of non-fiction books for the middle-school age—she’s published about 14 books to date. My two younger sisters are also very creative, but in different areas. I have one son, a DIL, and one grandson who is almost 9 years old and the apple of my eye. I’m blessed that I live in the same town with everyone except my older sister, but she’s only about an hour’s drive away. The sisters do shopping and lunch every couple of months or so.

That sounds like fun. My only sister has been with the Lord for several years. Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how?

I’ve always read voraciously. Obviously I don’t have as much time to do so as I once did, but I still love to read. The main thing I’ve noticed is a sharpened awareness of techniques other writers have used, how their stories are put together, and what works for me as a reader and what doesn’t. I guess I’ve gotten more analytical in what I read which does take a bit away from the reading experience. On the other hand, I’ve gotten some valuable insights as to things to do, or not to do.

What are you working on right now?

I write in multiple genres. Right now I’m about to start a two-fold project. I need to write book two in my first mystery series It’s Murder at the Office. And, I’m beginning an edit for my futuristic suspense, Time Out (book one of the Out of Time series) which I hope to have completed by February of 2014.

What outside interests do you have?

I serve on a couple of church committees, I enjoy spending time with my sisters, and of course, seeing my grandson as often as possible. I’m trying to curb my shopping tendencies, but I still enjoy looking, especially at home décor things and clothes. I’m also still involved to some degree with my home staging business which I’ve had for over 4 years. Doing some video interviews on a blog on that.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

A lot of it depends on the genre of the book, of course. Since I usually have a general idea of what the story will be about before I start, that dictates to a great degree where the book most logically should be set. Most of my romantic comedies and mysteries are set in average cities during contemporary times. The futuristic suspense, of course, is out of this world! 

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

It would have to be James Bowie. As an ultimate defender of the Alamo, his biography (fictionalized and otherwise) has always fascinated me. He had a tenaciousness and vision I’ve found admirable. And who wouldn’t want to talk to a genuine Texas hero?

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

How tough a discipline it needs to be to succeed. I thought one could just sit down, start pounding on those keys, and produce a masterpiece. I didn’t realize about re-writing, editing, more re-writing, etc. I might have not found it so tough to keep going if I’d realized just how much discipline is required. Of course, it’s well worth it in the end.

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

I’m trying to be less critical of others and also be aware of any snippets of pride that try to rise up within myself. I’m still a Work in Progress … thank goodness, His patience is limitless.

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

Read. Read. Read. Read your Bible to get the inspiration and relationship with the Lord you will need so you’ll know what you are to write. Read all types of good literature (including classics) so you know what good writing is truly like. Read widely in your genre. If you don’t know what others are doing, you won’t see trends and what readers want. I think you can also gain from watching some TV shows in your genre … as long as you don’t overdo it and waste time.

Tell us about the featured book.

Kissing Frogs is a contemporary romantic comedy—book two in the Second Time Around series. It’s based on the saying “Before you find the handsome prince, you have to kiss a lot of frogs.”

The back cover blurb reads:

Until she decides to look for a husband, Em Snider is so-o-o-o in control of her life. But her trip on the internet matchmaking highway soon shows her that she can’t control the journey.

Her first encounter is a warning. There are toads out there! A Christian internet matchmaking service provides Em a chance to discover Prince Charming, if she can survive the shocks.

Em is soon ready to quit … or will true love still come about in a way she never dreamed if she’ll quit stepping on the brakes and let God be in control?

Please give us the first page of the book.

It would be a whole lot easier if I could just pick up a tranquilizer gun and bag my quarry with a single shot. Unfortunately, that method is generally frowned upon when husband hunting.

Not that I’m desperate, but after hours and hours on the computer reviewing online dating and matchmaking services, I could get that way fast.

It’s all the fault of those ads I saw on TV yesterday. The ones touting an Internet matchmaking service. Very trendy these days.

I watched it with a bit of a sneer curling my upper lip. Romance for a lifetime. Right! This gal has indulged in enough romance—and has the scars to prove it—for this lifetime and probably another one or two as well.

Anyway, nobody wants a fifty-something, independent female for a romantic relationship. At least not anybody I know.

On the other hand …

My reverie is rudely interrupted by a sharp pain in my left ankle.

“Salem, that hurt!” I glare at my unrepentant white Persian whose main mission in life is to remind me who is in charge of this household and call me to order when I don’t follow my assigned duties.

His Royalness marches down the hall in arrogant silence toward the kitchen and his meal. I, knowing my place, walk the appropriate humble ten paces behind.

“No wonder I named you Salem.” I mutter to make sure he doesn’t hear me. “You are such a trial.” My ankle twinges in sympathy.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is: www.dafeatherling.com

Facebook Author page: www.Facebook.com/D.A.Featherling

Thank you, Dorothy, for sharing this new book with us. It sounds like a fun read.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Kissing Frogs - Paperback
Kissing Frogs (Second Time Around) - Kindle

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