LOVE, STOCK, AND BARREL - Crystal L Barmes - One free book

Dear Readers, I first knew Crystal online through ACFW, even though she is a fellow Texan. When her first book, Win, Love, or Draw, released, I contacted her to feature it on this blog. I read it, loved it, and immediately scheduled her next few books. Love, Stock, and Barrel is the second book in the series. I’m reading it right now, about three-fourth through it. Her characters are unique and extremely interesting. She writes visually, I picture everything easily. I even feel the pain of the character, emotional and physical. You won’t want to miss this one. And Win, Love, or Draw is FREE on Kindle today. The link is below this interview.

Also, Crystal designs all her covers, and I love them. She has designed covers for one of my friend who is Indie publishing several of the books that the rights have returned to her from the publishers. I loved them, too. My next book release will be The Gold Digger, one of my bookd that the rights have returned to me. I just saw the cover over the weekend, and she nailed it.

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

That’s a somewhat-easy question. To put it bluntly, I’d be miserable if I didn’t. When God calls you to do something, doing anything less is a perfect recipe for misery. Oh, but it’s such a joy when you obey. J I grew up reading stories full of faith, and when I started writing, I wanted to minister to others the way those stories ministered to me.

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

Wow. Yeah, that’s not an easy question. Too many to pick from. The birth of family members. The fruition of a print book. Yeah, impossible to narrow down. J

How has being published changed your life?

All for the better. I’m busier than ever, but it’s a blessing to bless others and to be doing what I love. I’m still in the midst of juggling and finding my footing in this new phase of my life, but it’s a thrill to have the opportunity to do so.

What are you reading right now?

Well, a few things—my Bible, In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day by Mark Batterson (Nonfiction), and I’m gonna find me a day here real soon to read Misty Beller’s The Rancher Takes a Cowgirl. Honestly, I have a TBR list a mile long. J

I’m reading that book by Misty on my Kindle. I carry it in my purse and read it when I’m away from home. At home, I read print books. What is your current work in progress?

I’ve actually got two irons in the fire. I’ve paused work on Hook, Line, and Suitor, book 3 in the Marriage and Mayhem series, and I’m working on Marshal Mending, a Crystal Falls novella. It’s kinda like book 2.5 in the Marriage and Mayhem series and will be part of the Stitches Thru Time: Threads of Love novella collection. 

What would be your dream vacation?

A Road Trip across the US. One day I hope to see all 50 states. I’ve put quite a dent in that number, but no road trip is the same without great friends and/or family to share the ride with. That’s what makes it such a joy.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

Well, in general, I live in Texas; I know Texas; so I write stories set in Texas or at least with Texans in it. Big surprise, right? J So far, I’ve worked with two make-believe towns—Cater Springs and Crystal Falls. I’m enjoying the characters in each so I guess that’s why I’ve used them in a number of stories. However, Hook, Line, and Suitor will be in a new fictional, Texas town called Hook’s Valley.

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

I’m blessed to spend time with family and friends. What more could I ask for?

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I enjoy yarn crafts (ie, crocheting, knitting) and quilting, but I don’t have a lot of time for those very often. I also enjoy hiking and horseback riding, but I get to spend even less time doing that. I guess you could say another hobby of mine that is emerging is designing book covers. 

And you’re very good at it. What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?

Time management. Finding the time to do what needs doing with all the demands for my time is a real balancing act. I work at it all the time. I pray that God will help me to say “no” to what I need to say “no” to and “yes” to what I need to say “yes” to. He knows better than me.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Write from the heart. Keep learning. Keep reading. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Remember, with God, all things are possible. J

Tell us about the featured book.

I’d be glad to. J Love Stock and Barrel is book 2 in the Marriage and Mayhem collection. No worries if you haven’t read the first one. Each story can operate as a stand-alone novel.

Here’s the blurb:

Hiding from a rat of a fiancé, Dinah Lexington makes tracks for Texas and who she hopes is her late mother’s relative. She’s seeking answers but finds more than she bargains for when she gets caught in a shotgun wedding—with the rifle pointed at her.

Russell Cahill can’t believe his father is demanding he marry the feisty redhead. The sharpshooting female would only add to his troubles, but how does one argue with a gun and an attraction he’s fought to ignore?

Sparks fly. Secrets surface. Loss threatens.

Will a dream for love shatter forever, or will the pair find a marriage worth lock, stock, and barrel?

Please give us the first page of the book for my readers.

Late February 1880—New Haven, Connecticut

So this was what betrayal felt like. Dinah Lexington’s heart radiated the pain of Carl’s unfaithfulness clear to her toes and back again. Add to that the fact Pa had instigated the whole relationship and the throbbing ache increased. Weaving through the crowd celebrating her engagement, she stuffed the hurt into the farthest recesses of her heart and slammed the door behind it. She couldn’t think clearly if she dwelt on what she’d seen and heard, and now more than ever she needed to have her wits about her.

“Are you all right, dear?”

Dinah forced a smile she didn’t feel and patted the silver-haired matron’s hand. “I’ll be fine, ma’am, er, madam.” As soon as she got away from all these people. One in particular.

“Where is your young man? Mr. Eaton and I have a surprise for you.” Light from the chandelier reflected off the wealth of sapphires dangling about the woman’s neck.

“Oh, how kind. He’s busy…” Dinah searched for an appropriate word to describe Carl Richland’s present behavior. Mrs. Eaton would swoon if she told what her fiancé—correction, former fiancé—was really up to. “…entertaining. Perhaps you could share the surprise with us later. I’ve left something in my room I must fetch.” Namely, her bag and good sense.

“Of course, dear. Don’t be long.”

She didn’t plan to be.

Fisting her lavender gown, Dinah hurried up the staircase, doing her best not to run and draw attention to herself. The second-story landing of the extravagant house offered a sharp contrast to the floor below. Gone were the hordes of people and lively banter that filled the air. Gone were the lavish decorations and striking furnishings around every corner. Here, there resided none of the distractions and deceptions her father deemed necessary for his business to succeed. The stifling charade was a vivid depiction of the vanity of vanities.

No more.

Readers, see, I told you it was good. I’m sure you’re wondering what comes next. Now, Crystal, how can readers find you on the Internet?

I’m so glad you asked. J Readers can connect with me at my website or on my blog, my Amazon Author page, Goodreads, Pinterest, Google+, or on my Facebook author page.

I look forward to “seeing” y’all!

Thanks so much, Lena, for having me as a guest on your blog!

It’s my great pleasure and blessing to have you here, Crystal. I know my readers will love this book, too. 

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

Love, Stock, & Barrel (Marriage & Mayhem) (Volume 2) - Paperback
Love, Stock, & Barrel (Marriage & Mayhem) (Volume 2) - Kindle

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