TO FOLLOW HER HEART - Rebecca DeMarino - One Free Book

Bio: REBECCA DEMARINO inherited her love of baking and gardening from her mother; a love of horses, reading, and writing from her dad—and the wanderlust gene from both parents. Her new novel, To Follow Her Heart released last month from Revell. She is the author of A Place in His Heart and To Capture Her Heart, books one and two of The Southold Chronicles. A free prologue to The Southold Chronicles series available here: www.RebeccaDeMarino.com

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

I feel very blessed with my next project. Set in colonial times after the American Revolution, it is once again based on the lives of real people—although not my ancestors!

Tell us a little about your family.

My husband and I just celebrated our tenth anniversary! We both have grown children and eleven grandchildren with one more on the way for an even dozen :o) My father is now 93 and wrote started his first novel at age 86. He had a stroke before he finished it, but he did two years later. I had the privilege to help him write the last four chapters, him telling the story, me typing! Talk about an inspiration!

Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how?

Yes. I’ve always enjoyed fiction and my reading choices are pretty eclectic. But because I do so much historical research I mainly read nonfiction nowadays. And I love it!

What are you working on right now?

My third novel in The Southold Chronicles series released last month! And I’ve just finished a novel set in the late 1700’s, early 1800’s.

What outside interests do you have?

I enjoy gardening and baking, neither of which I’ve done a lot of lately! Travel is one of my passions too, and I’m gearing up for a bit of a book tour—starting in Hood River, Oregon, on September 2nd, followed by a week in Mowsley, England, and ending with a two-day book signing on Long Island, the setting for my series.

That sounds like a lot of fun. How do you choose your settings for each book?

My setting chose me, and I’ve loved it! My mother and I traveled to Long Island in 1999 to see the lighthouse named after our ancestor, Barnabas Horton. We learned so much about him at the historical society and library. His grave was covered with a large slab of blue slate. When we got home I wondered about his wife Mary—a young woman when she married this recent widower with two little boys. I decided to write a novel giving her a Point Of View. The setting began in Mowsley, England, and followed them to Southold, Long Island, where they were one of thirteen founding families.

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

It would have to be Mary Langton Horton. I’d ask her how much of her goals, motivations, and conflicts I got right!

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

That I’d become obsessed and somewhat of a hermit! I focus everything on my research and writing—but I love it. And at this stage in my life, with my children grown, I can devote my days, and nights if need be, to my passion!

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

That He is faithful and His love never fails. And that God defines my success.

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

I love this question. I would say write your passion(s). Be diligent in the time you have for writing—be it 30 minutes or all day. Try to turn off your internal editor and just get the story out. This one is a hard one for me! I at least try to limit my editing to a quick review of the previous day’s chapter—only minor fixes allowed. Finish your story—then go back. There are many people who start a book, far fewer finish them.

Tell us about the featured book.

In 1664, Patience Terry is devastated to learn that Captain Jeremy Horton’s ship has been shipwrecked off the coast of Barbados. There were no survivors. She had hoped that Jeremy would someday give up the sea and settle down with her in Southold, Long Island.

Unaware his memorial service is being planned, Jeremy sails aboard a British warship with secret orders to attack New Amsterdam and claim it for the British Crown. When he makes his surprise return to Southold—and to an overjoyed Patience—it’s not quite the happily-ever-after his beloved had hoped for.

Please give us the first page of the book.

July 16, 1664, Southold, Long Island

“Did you hear me?”

Patience Terry stood silent, her mind awhirl. Had she not guarded her heart against this day? Against this pain that ripped through her like a thunderbolt? She looked into Mary Horton’s teary hazel-blue eyes. The Swallow had shipwrecked off the coast of Barbados, tattered and abandoned. No survivors. Captain Jeremy Horton and his crew lost at sea. Some bodies recovered, but no survivors.

Her mouth opened, but no words came out. Her lungs ached, so bereft were they of any air, she of any hope. As her legs gave way, she fell to the pillowed bench in front of the hat display and buried her face in the folds of her blue silk skirt. Her shoulders heaved with each silent sob.

Her friend knelt and drew her into her arms. “That’s good, dear. Cry. Let the tears fall.”

Patience could no longer hold back as torrents of tears soaked her friend’s shoulder.

Mary’s gentle hands patted her back to comfort, but Patience’s temples pulsed with each new thought. Would she never be able to look up and see Jeremy’s form framed in the doorway again? Or could he lie hurt somewhere? She’d begged him at his last visit to give up the sailing, to make a home here in Southold. One she dreamt would include her.

“What if he’s not dead? What if he needs me?” She’d always prayed he would come to know he needed her in his life, but Lord, this was not how she’d envisioned it.

“You mustn’t think like that. The ship has sunk. There was such a storm. And if survivors were able to make land at all, they would have landed on the shores of Barbados. Nathaniel Sylvester brought the news himself. He’s just returned from his meetings there. ’Tis such a shock to know both of Barney’s brothers are gone. It was so difficult when Thomas died. And now Jeremy. He was more than a friend to me, he was a dear brother.” Mary’s voice trailed as Patience’s sobs began anew.

The door blew open as hurricane-strength wind and summer rain swept in with Lizzie Fanning’s arrival, nearly lifting one of her own hat creations from her silvery curls. Mary’s older sister and Patience’s business partner, Lizzie looked in control as she slid the burgundy wool from her head, gave it a good shake, and settled it on a hat stand. “Mary told me on her way over here. I’m so sorry.” She enveloped her friend in a hug, her own tears trickling from violet eyes. She looked up at Mary. “I came immediately after I got my loaves out of the oven. Zeke is on his way to your house.”

Patience didn’t try to hide her pain as the tears escaped in rivulets down her cheeks. She’d never told them in so many words of her love for Jeremy, but the two sisters had pulled her into their family long ago, and matters of the heart were understood rather than spoken.

I love your writing, Rebecca. How can readers find you on the Internet?

I would love for readers to check out my website, www.RebeccaDeMarino.com and stop in to say hello on Facebook and Twitter ~ and I can also be found on Pinterest!

Thank you, Rebecca, for sharing this new book with us. I look forward to the new series, too.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
To Follow Her Heart - Christianbook.com
To Follow Her Heart: A Novel (The Southold Chronicles) (Volume 3) - Amazon.com
To Follow Her Heart (The Southold Chronicles Book 3): A Novel: Volume 3 - Kindle

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (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 Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, 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 LOOMING STORM - Diane and David Munson - 2 Free Books

Dear Readers, Diane and David are giving a free copy of the print book, which is available to a commenter in the US, and a code for a free audible copy of the book, which is available to a commenter outside the US,

Welcome back, Diane and David. As an author, I know it takes a lot of people to birth each book. Who were the people involved in the birthing of this book, and what were their contributions? 

We call our thrillers “factional fiction” because each one is inspired by real events and our cases in the legal system that we were involved in as a Federal Prosecutor (Diane) and Federal Agent (David). In the The Looming Storm, we draw from people we worked with in the Congress, The White House, and in the Justice Department when we lived and served in Washington D.C. Our latest novel is influenced by a group of drug smugglers who once owned an island in the Florida Keys, where David as an undercover DEA agent was their guest. They remain unnamed, as they were convicted and served time in prison. Our research visit to the Florida Keys led to many themes and scenes in The Looming Storm, a merging of Washington authorities locked in a battle with culprits in the Florida Keys intent on harming our nation.

If you teach or speak. What’s coming up on your calendar?   

When we’re asked to speak at churches and/or civic groups, we often speak about the exciting and dangerous events that occurred during our careers. It’s amazing to remember the examples of God’s intervention and protection. We also do mystery dinners, where we create a scenario to share with diners. Each table receives a clue from us, which when read by the diners, leads the group to discover “who done it,” or as happens in our thrillers, who appears to “have done it.” Often it’s not the obvious culprit. Our next mystery dinner is on February 7, 2017 at North Lake Presbyterian Church, Lady Lake, Florida.

That sounds like fun. If you had to completely start over in another place, where would you move, and why?

We had a lively debate before settling on a favorite spot. In Jackson Hole, Wyoming, we could spend more time roaming the wonderful region, including Yellowstone, which we absolutely love. Could it be one of our next thrillers might be set in the West?

If you could only tell aspiring novelists one thing, what would it be?

It’s actually two things. First is to pray for God’s leading and guidance, which is the most important. Secondly, write from your heart, what you love, and what you are passionate about.

You’ve been asked to be in charge of a celebrity cruise. Who would you ask to take part, and why? (AS in what program, singers, etc. [it doesn’t have to be writing related])

This is a fun question. The program will be inspirational – helping participants to see/find where God is moving in their lives. Number one speaker we’d invite is Franklin Graham as he is doing so much through Samaritan’s Purse to help soldiers, children, and hurting people in the name of Jesus, who is our hope and the hope for all the world. Alex and Stephen Kendrick will be wonderful to hear from as they co-produced such “giant” Christian films as, Facing the Giants and War Room. Many will want to meet Ken Ham, the Christian man who built Noah’s Ark and is following a call on his life to proclaim the truth of the Bible at the Creation Museum. Also, Tony Dungy and his wife Lauren will add much about living for and standing up for Jesus. There will be an author track, with Joel Rosenberg, Robert Whitlow, Terri Blackstock, and Lena Nelson Dooley leading panels about infusing fiction with faith and story.

Music is a must. The Collingsworth Family and Charles Billingsley are favorites. So are Kristian Stanfill, Hillsong, MercyMe, Chris Tomlin, Casting Crowns, Matt Redman, Laurie Story, and Steven Curtis Chapman. Choirs from Prestonwood and Brooklyn Tabernacle will greet us when we all walk onto the ship. As we both sing in the choir at our church, it is such a blessing for us to listen to praise songs and hymns as we write. So, who wants to sign up for this cruise?

I’m honored to be included in your list, and I’d absolutely love the cruise. Tell us about the featured book.

What is our rock in the midst of every storm? In our last book, Embers of Courage, we revealed persecution of Christians in the past and in the present. As tumult continues in the world, the words to the hymn, “The Solid Rock,” kept reverberating in our minds while we plotted The Looming Storm. So did verses in Mark 4:35-41 when Jesus the Christ rebuked a terrific storm on the Sea of Galilee by telling the winds and waves, “Quiet! Be still!” The waters and winds instantly obeyed and became absolutely still. What power Jesus has!

This is the hope we convey in The Looming Storm.

Tomorrow’s headlines leap from the pages when Federal Agent Eva Montanna’s daughter Kaley travels to Eastern Europe on a class trip. Their lives are altered in the blink of an eye. The gutsy federal agent must cling tightly to her faith in God as Eva discovers a menacing threat to harm Eva, husband Scott (the press secretary for the Speaker of the House in D.C.), and their three children. To stop the threat, Eva and Griff Topping, her FBI partner, use every trick to infiltrate a band of Florida smugglers. The agents are shocked when their undercover charade exposes the full measure of the sinister plot.

Secrets are shredded in our tenth stand-alone thriller, and readers may find it surprising how we rip the veil from a labyrinth of covert criminal enterprises. We hope readers will also enjoy lighthearted moments with Eva and family as well as a hint of romance for a new character we introduce, DEA agent Brett Calloway, who is from the south and loves his Harley and his momma’s gumbo. 

Please give us the first page of the book.

Monday began with a burst of turbulence, like many workdays did for Federal Agent Eva Montanna. Her awakening to a boisterous alarm quickly morphed into a hectic struggle to pry three sleepy kids out of bed and brew coffee before Scott left for work. A moment of calm touched her life when at six a.m. she stood on tiptoe to kiss her husband’s cheek.  

      

“Sure you can’t wait for me to fix an egg with your bagel?” Eva stifled a yawn.

    

Scott shook his head, a lock of his brown curly hair falling loose. “I’m needed early on the Hill to fend off the media circus. A new Supreme Court nominee doesn’t happen every day. The Speaker wants to keep pressure on the Senate.”

He winked before stepping into the garage. Eva’s heart overflowed with love as she watched him back the car out of the garage. His job as press secretary to the Speaker of the House kept him plenty busy. So did hers as Federal Agent for Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Eva ran to change into work attire. She flipped the light on to her walk-in closet. The bulb fizzled out in a blinding flash. Not willing to search for a spare or find the ladder, she snatched navy slacks and a white blouse off the rod using her smartphone for light.

Minutes later, she was buttering toast when her youngest son ran in the kitchen.

“Mom, I banged my toe,” Dutch cried.

“Let me see.”

He held up his tiny bare foot. Blood squirted from a gash in his big toe. She rushed to the half-bath and found a bandage to stop the bleeding. Breakfast was hurried and at last, she corralled her children off to school. Eva had a few spare minutes to pull herself together. A quick flick of a brush through her wheat-colored, shoulder-length hair, and a dab of pale gloss to her lips completed her look.

Wait, were those new lines around her eyes?

Oh well. Scott still found her pretty; he’d told her so just yesterday. And life presented issues more important than wrinkles, though when she’d started pursuing criminals, Eva had youthful skin and clear periwinkle eyes. Under the harsh bathroom lights, her face revealed long days and nights of surveillance, car chases and foot chases, and scrapes and bruises from tackling guys bigger than her.

Where can my readers find you on the Internet?

Website: www.DianeAndDavidMunson.com

FaceBook: Diane and David Munson

Thank you, Diane and David, 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.
The Looming Storm - paperback
The Looming Storm - Kindle

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (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 Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, 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!!!!!

Kim (NE) is the winner of the ebook Burnin' for You by Susan May Warren.

Amanda G (NY) is the winner of Collision of the Heart by Laurie Alice Eakes.

Mary P (Aus) is the winner of the ebook Resurrection of Hope by Tamera Lynn Kraft.

Elly (IN) is the winner of More Than Meets the Eye by Deborah Heal.

Melanie (TX) is the winner of Starving Hearts by Janine Mendenhall.

If you won a book and you like it, please 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 an ebook, just let me know what email address it should be sent to.

When you contact me, please give the title and author of the book you won, so I won't have to look it up.

Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.

WINNERS FOR LAST WEEKEND

I'm so sorry. Last weekend was very busy. I totally forgot to announce the winners from the week before.

I uploaded the post in the August 21 slot. Check it out to see if you won a book.

Here is the link to that post:

http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/2016/08/winners_21.html

STARVING HEARTS - Janine Mendenhall - One Free Book on This Blog, Plus Much More

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

Believe it or not, I’ve addressed this interesting topic on very last page of Starving Hearts so bear with me if you’ve already read it. The following statement contains a paraphrase and direct quotations from that page.

Speakers often encourage authors to write what they know so in Starving Hearts, I’ve shared my heart. I see a glimpse of the doubt my heroine, Annette, experiences in my thoughts. Like my hero, Peter, I let my focus drift away from Christ, and when I try to control things, I see in myself the antagonist, Mr. Slike, and his selfishness and lack of trust in God’s Plan.

“While these issues show I periodically struggle with applying my belief in God’s sovereignty to my daily life, there is still hope because I haven’t the slightest bit of doubt about the Lord Jesus Christ and His amazing work on the cross.”

Like my main characters, “when we truly recognize our weaknesses and accept the fact that we cannot do life alone, we are closer to overcoming them through Christ, and we can begin to know and trust Him more.”

So true. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I’m not too much of a quirky person so I can’t really say, although my grown children often call me weird and my students stare at me when I make an attempt at humor.

My daughter would say I’m rather spontaneous because every once in a while I do something she doesn’t expect. I can’t even think of what that might be right now because it’s really not that big of a deal.

Ordinarily, I’m pretty normal, except for the fact that I sometimes write or study the Bible all night after a full day’s work and then get up from an hour’s sleep as if it was an entire night’s worth of rest.

I do like to dress up in period appropriate gowns, though. One night I sewed an 18th Century ball gown just so I could dress up as Elizabeth Swann, Jack Sparrow’s (pirate from Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean films), sidekick for Disney Day at school.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I wrote my first gothic romance in tenth grade, and I still have it. Back then I knew I could write, sort of. But I never actually thought of becoming and author so much as becoming an English teacher.

About ten years ago, I decided I wanted to write a book so I actually went out and started researching to figure out just how to do it because writing popular fiction for an audience is an entirely different skill than writing English papers. (See more about this below.)

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

From my English teaching education, I thoroughly enjoy Shakespeare’s plays and poetry. Various poets including Blake, Burns, Keats, Byron are interesting to me. The Bronte sisters’ Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights and Jane Austin’s works are favorites, of course. Charles Dickens’s Great Expectations is really good. I used to teach it too. I also enjoy Thomas Hardy’s work and Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest as well as many other classic novels and dramas in both English and American Literature from the 18th and 19th Centuries. John Steinbeck, Theodore Dreiser, and John Updike come to mind too.

For spiritual growth and insight from historical leaders, I enjoy various Puritan preachers including Jonathan Edwards, Owens, Boston, Watson, and others I’m just beginning to explore. Charles Spurgeon’s writings are beautiful.

More recent leaders’ writings include: Rick Warren, John Piper, Dallas Willard, Donald Whitney, and William Finley as well as William P. Farley in Hidden in the Gospel: Truths You Should Tell Yourself Every Day.

I’ve read a few of Steven James’s crime/thrillers so I could learn more about how he writes so I could understand what I learned from his Story Trumps Structure book. (There’s more about this below.)

When I read them, it was hard for me to put Frank Peretti’s This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness down.

My favorite author is Laura Frantz, though. She writes Christian historical fiction/romance as well. Other authors whose writing I’ve enjoyed are Julie Klassen, Laurie Alice Eakes, and Linore Burkard as well as Francine Rivers work in Redeeming Love.

You said range so I’ve named a few, but as many of your readers know, this is only scratching the surface, right?

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

Just barely.

My husband heard me ask this question aloud right now, and he laughed, adding “Hanging by a thread, Honey, and you can quote me on that.”

In all seriousness though, reading and meditating on Scripture with prayer keeps me sane, and it’s nearly a daily practice for me.

I said nearly because I don’t view my devotions as a duty. I do them because I love the Lord, and wanting to read what He has written in His love letter to me is the least I can do since He made such an infinitely massive sacrifice for me.

When I’m connected to Christ and praying for His wisdom and the strength to use the gifts and talents with which He has blessed me, the words as well as the loving and godly actions flow naturally.

When I’m not allowing His Spirit to live and work through me, I have trouble, which is nothing new to us believers.

Jesus described our intimate connection with Him in John 15:5 when He said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

How do you choose your characters’ names?

I research the names of real people who lived in the exact time period and towns or cities I use in my books so the names are authentic. Then I mix-and-match them to get the right sound for my readers’ sake.

Sometimes, I use biblical names, if the character has traits of the person from the Bible. I’ve even named a character after someone who really helped me with my book. In Starving Hearts, Miss Haack is an example of this. She bears my friend’s maiden name in how much she helped me.

In the future, I’m thinking of having contests or something so I can name characters using some of my readers’, or fans’, names. Doesn’t that seem fun? I thought so.

There was an online auction for medical research where I let them auction naming rights to a secondary character in my next novel. That’s how I got the name for Catherine McKenna’s companion in Catherine’s Pursuit. What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Whenever I begin to feel proud of something I’ve done, I think of 2 Corinthians 10:17-18, and I redirect that pride and any praise I receive to Christ, most especially with Starving Hearts.

In fact, when I sat down to read my book for pleasure as anyone might, I hardly recognized some parts of it and just sat in amazement over what I was able to accomplish because of His grace and work in my life.

2 Cor. 10:17-18 “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” 18 For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.

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

My husband teases me saying I’m basically a cat. Not because I’m scared of things like a “scaredy cat,” but because I’m an introvert, and I would be completely happy to be left alone to do my own thing, just like a cat.

What is your favorite food?

Mexican food is delicious, the Los Angeles, California, type—since that’s where I lived for my first thirty-eight years. I also appreciate some North Carolina Mexican food, too.

Also, and I know this isn’t very healthy. But I really like white cake with buttercream frosting! Coconut cake is my favorite, but I don’t eat it very often. It’s just so good when I do; I could easily eat two pieces.

I had only eaten Texmex before we went to California to visit my aunt. I found Mexicali very different, but tasty. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

Although I am an English teacher, I didn’t know how to write to entertain, if you will. Reading classics and writing essays does not make an artist, and that’s what these writers are.

So the hardest thing was to learn how to write stories that please an audience.

After trying various strategies, I chose to follow Christian, best-selling, crime-thriller author Steven James’s directions.

Crime, action, mystery: Perfect for a romance, right? Absolutely! Those elements, if done well, build tension, and I thought they would keep up the pace for an inspirational romance with some harsh historical realities.

Over the years, I’ve attended one of Steven James’s weekend Novel Writing Intensives. His colleague, Pam Johnson, became my free-lance editor, and I wrote, rewrote, and rewrote. I also refer to my well-used copy of Story Trumps Structure when I can’t hear him at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference where I first heard him teach in 2009, I believe.

Tell us about the featured book.

Well, the idea to write it came from a recurrent nightmare. I decided that I’d put it in a book, since the bad dream (about the slave trade) was so vivid.

Another reason I decided to write was because of my children and Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight series.

The Twilight series—wow!

When my children were in middle school, they wanted to read it, but I wouldn’t let them because I was worried about their safety.

Then they begged me to read it first.

A few days later—after finishing all four books—I let them to begin, and the race was on!

If Stephanie Meyer could do it, I—with the Lord’s help—could certainly pull it off. Surely, He would help me write a romance that connects with readers and shares the Light.

The central theme of Starving Hearts—God has a plan that gives each of us hope and a future—is spotlighted throughout the book, especially when the antagonist, Sir Steven Likebridge, arranges a triangular trade that leads everyone—including the reader—to believe all is lost.

However, since I write romance, his triumph is only short lived. A family secret comes to light forever changing the two families’ lives and freeing them from this enemy.

By the end of the story, the reader will have new insight about Jeremiah 29:11 “‘I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” She, or he, will also see a transformation in our young couple’s understanding of Faith.

They have a new perspective of their responsibilities to each other and to the people who depend on them. They also make a final promise that will please the reader because she knows Peter and Annette will end up happily ever after.

BACK COVER BLURB for Starving Hearts

Since her assault, Miss Annette Chetwynd has been plagued by nightmares and worries about an arranged marriage. But she yearns to find her anonymous rescuer. Unfortunately, her health and intellect prevent it. Both repel suitors and cause Annette to doubt God’s existence, at least until He answers her prayers in an unusual way…

Mr. Peter Adsley is joining the clergy, and he desires a godly wife by his side. After a failed attempt to obtain one, he engages in a clandestine meeting with the bewitching young woman who keeps crossing his path. But she is so unsettling.

Destined for disappointments, Peter and Annette both endure disgraceful situations. Will Peter’s faith sustain him through overwhelming setbacks? Can Annette overcome her doubts? Or will their starving hearts yield to the machinations of a mad man?

Please give us the first page of the book.

Here is something even better!

www.janinemendenhall.com/preview-starving-hearts has the first five or so chapters.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

www.janinemendenhall.com  

Pinterest—Janine Mendenhall, author

Facebook author page—Janine Mendenhall’s Author Page @Hopefuelfortoday

Facebook—Janine Mendenhall

Twitter—Janine@janinemendenhal

Gmail— janinemendenhall@gmail.com 

Will Annette's search for love and acceptance replace the loss and hurt in her heart? Find out in Janine Mendenhall's book one, Starving Hearts, of the Triangular Trade Trilogy. Since her assault, Miss Annette Chetwynd has been plagued by nightmares and worries about an arranged marriage. But she yearns to find her anonymous rescuer. Unfortunately, her health and intellect prevent it. Both repel suitors and cause Annette to doubt God’s existence, at least until He answers her prayers in an unusual way. . . .

Join in the search for love and acceptance with Janine and Starving Hearts by entering to win the Delightful Heart Gift Pack Giveaway.

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of Starving Hearts
• A bottle of essential oils
• An essential oils diffuser necklace
• A chiffon scarf
• A shoulder handbag
• A copy of Jane Austen's World

 

Enter today by clicking the icon below, but hurry! The giveaway ends on September 12. The winner will be announced September 13 on Janine's blog.

Thank you, Janine, for sharing this new book with us. I'm eager to read it, and I know my readers will be, too.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Starving Hearts - Will her search for love and acceptance replace the loss and hurt in her heart? - paperback
Starving Hearts: Will her search for love and acceptance replace the loss and hurt in her heart? - Kindle

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book on this blog. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (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 Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, 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

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE - Deborah Heal - One Free Book

Welcome back, Deborah. How did you come up with the idea for this story?

In More Than Meets the Eye, my characters visit the Anderson Mansion Museum in the town of Carlinville, which is not far from where they live. While there, they learn about many things, including the fact that just across town is the largest collection of Sears catalog houses in the world. Intrigued, they go to visit them, and decide that it would be a perfect place to “time-surf” back to when the houses were constructed in 1918. All this is exactly what happened to me, and how I decided to write about them.

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

I’m something of an introvert, but a party like this would be fun, even for me! It would be great to be able to pick everyone’s brains, because my number one goal as an author is to write fiction that glorifies God, edifies the saints, and touches the hearts of seekers. And how can I do that if my writing is poorly done?

Of course right off I’d invite you, Lena. I’m sure you’d have lots to share about your success with both historical and contemporary novels. (How many now?) I just read your delightful novella Oh, No, You Didn’t!, included in the April Fool’s Love anthology, and your historical novels are on my reading list, too. (Now that I’m between writing projects I can finally read for pleasure—and edification.)

Next, I’d invite Douglas Tanner to the party because I’m currently reading his intriguing time travel book Beyond the Void, Darkly. Readers say my method of “surfing” through time via a computer program is unique, but I really like Tanner’s, too. It’s similar in that the time traveler can only see but not impact the past.

Speaking of which, I’d also invite Karen Kingsbury. Her Brush of Wings is not a time-travel book, but it is similar to my books in that it deals with a behind-the scenes look at God’s plans for his people. Her novel is about how angels work to protect humans. I’m excited to have it on my reading list, even though I disagree with her theology. (God doesn’t have to hope things work out right on earth. There’s no question that His plans will be accomplished.)

All my books to date have a romantic plot line, but now that my Rewinding Time Series is completed, I plan to write stand-alone contemporary Christian romances. So I’d invite Rachel Hauck to the party. I was intrigued by her sample of How to Catch a Prince and plan to read the book soon. Likewise, I also invited Grace Greene after reading a preview of her novel Beach Rental.

If Dan Walsh won’t mind being the only man at the party, I’ll invite him, too. I really enjoyed his novel The Discovery and plan to read more of his books.

How much fun interaction there’d be if such great authors came to my party! I’d love to congratulate them all, and hopefully, I’d have something of value to contribute to the discussion too.

I’m sure you would. I’d really enjoy being at that party. I’ve not heard of  Douglas Tanner or Grace Greene, but I’d like to meet them. Karen Kingsbury was the speaker at the first ACRW (later became ACFW) national conference, so I met her there, and I love Rachel Hauck and Dan Walsh. I’d love to spend time with them again. Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why?

First off, I’d invite Sarah E. Ladd to the party. Why? I hate to sound crass, but since she’s currently #1 in Christian fiction with several books showing up on Amazon’s first search page, I’m hoping she’ll give me insights for that kind of financial success. And her books are worthy, too. I previewed Headmistress of Rosemere and will be reading it soon to see how she handles Christian historical fiction. I plan to write in that genre in the future, so studying her work will be instructive—which is why you get to come to this party, too, Lena!

Several of Ginny Dye’s novels also show up on Amazon’s bestseller list, and she looks really friendly in her author photo, so I hope she’ll come to the party, too. Her Bregdan Chronicles series looks interesting and gets rave reviews, so I’m putting those on my reading list.

I’d invite Dan Walsh to this party, too, because I’m assuming his historical novels are as well written and compelling as his contemporary ones are. I hope to read his The Deepest Waters soon.

I’d love it if Tosca Lee accepted an invitation. (I’ll let you know if she does.) I loved her Havah: the story of Eve. It is a creative extrapolation of the Genesis account of Adam and Eve. Ted Dekker is another world-renowned author with much to contribute to our party discussion, I’m sure.

But I’d also invite newcomer Kristi Ann Hunter. Her debut novel A Noble Masquerade is doing quite well and is on my reading list because I enjoyed the quality of Kristi’s prequel novella, which I got free (isn’t she clever?).

There, that should be a nice mix of authors. I’d probably be over in the corner chowing down on the artichoke canapes, but you may be sure I’d be listening to every word, eager to soak up everyone’s advice and pleased to hear of how God is blessing these authors with success.

And I could tell you my funny story of what happened when James took me to a Tosca Lee/Ted Dekker book signing. 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?

I love everything about my writing career—the actual writing itself, but also the pre-writing/research that goes into each book. And I actually enjoy the promotional/marketing tasks that go along with being an independent author. The problem comes in juggling it all at the same time. If I concentrate on marketing, which is essential if I’m going to gain new readers, then my writing goes by the wayside. If I keep my nose to the grindstone writing and forget to come out of my cave, then my online presence fades and sales drop. And that’s not good, because then I’d have to get a boring (real) job, instead of doing what I love to do.

Tell us about the featured book.

More Than Meets the Eye is the finale of my Rewinding Time Series. It’s Christian time travel with a unique twist—computer software that “time-surfs” through the history of old houses. They’re also squeaky clean romance, guaranteed to be flinch-free, and the kind of historical fiction I like to read—believable.

The stories are about the adventures of Merrideth Randall, a history professor at a small college who uses the software for her research. I thought of subtitling the series “The Redemption of Merrideth Randall,” because it traces her search for God and her growing understanding of God’s sovereignty over time and events. My dear young Merri (she seems like a real daughter to me) finally accepted Christ in the book previous to this one.

And now in More Than Meets the Eye the romantic plot thread also gets neatly tied up in a bow. Merrideth has been in love with her colleague, physics professor Brett Garrison, since the first book, Once Again. He loves her desperately, too, but broke things off when he realized she wasn’t actually a Christian but only someone going through the motions. They’ve remained friends throughout the series, but it’s been so difficult to pretend not to love each other.

But when Merrideth gets the courage to present the Gospel to her father and the other inmates of Joliet Correctional Center, Brett realizes she is a true-blue believer at last. He kneels on the beige tile floor of the visitor’s room and proposes to her on the spot. Won’t that be something to tell their children one day?

The story goes on to chronicle their misadventures remodeling their dream house in time for the wedding. The situation gets complicated because they are also “grandma-sitting” with a dear old lady named Josephine so she can stay in her beloved Roseberry, one of the Sears houses in Carlinville. And while they’re at her house, they take the time to “time-surf” back to when the 156-house collection was being constructed under the supervision of Elizabeth Spaulding, an astonishing thing considering it was 1918 and women didn’t even have the right to vote yet.

Of course, Merrideth and Brett get their happily ever after. Readers have been telling me how much they’re going to miss Merrideth, Brett, and all the other characters now that the series is done. But no one’s going to miss them more than I will!

Please give us the first page of the book.

 Merrideth stood on the sagging front porch of her very own house watching in satisfaction as the stuffed moose head she and Brett had carried from the hall sailed out of their hands and into the dumpster at the curb. Wiping her hands on her jeans, she grinned triumphantly at him. “There. I said that would be the first thing to go.”

“Rest in peace, Mr. Moose.” Despite the demise of the moose, Brett’s voice was cheery and his breath came out in a puffy little cloud of white steam.

Merrideth hadn’t yet decided which side of Brett Garrison she loved more, the brainy physics professor in the well-cut suits or the brawny handyman in frayed sweatshirts and carpenter pants. Today he had shown up as the latter persona, ready to work, even though she had insisted that he didn’t have to.

He opened the door for her, and she hurried into the front hall to conserve all the deliciously warm air her furnace was pumping out. She owned a furnace—what a thought! It was an ancient thing that according to Brett would need to be replaced in the near future. But today her excitement for her new house far overshadowed any worries about furnaces.

“I still can’t believe I said yes,” Merrideth said, trying to ratchet her enthusiasm down to a level more suitable to a grownup woman—a college history professor at that. “I fully intended to say no, and I would have—probably—if you and your aunt Nelda hadn’t ganged up on me yesterday. How could I say no to a dying woman?”

“We just wanted you to have your dream house.”

“It’s not so dreamy at present, is it?”

“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. And it does have good bones.”

Through the framed doorway on their left was the living room, which connected to a separate sitting room via tall oak pocket doors. The dining room and kitchen lay in the same configuration to the right. Straight ahead at the end of the hall a staircase with broken and missing balusters led to four large bedrooms and an antiquated bathroom.

The house had started out in 1829 as a dry-goods store owned by a man named James Riggins. Later it had been enlarged and converted into a graciously appointed residence. With all that history and soul, she had decided it was the perfect house for her, even though it was currently in desperate need of restoration.

I’m eager for my book to arrive. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Please visit my website to download my free eBook “The List.” That qualifies you to receive more free eBooks in the future along with other goodies. My website also has a wealth of historical background for each book of the series. [http://www.deborahheal.com]

I’m on Goodreads, [https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5371999.Deborah_Heal]

I love to interact with book lovers on my Facebook page. And you can follow me on Twitter as well. [https://www.facebook.com/DeborahHeal/]

All my books are available on Amazon in both Kindle and paperback. Some have been turned into Audio books as well. [https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00760M3OS] 

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

Comments Starter Questions: Have you read any Christian time-travel books you? If so, which is your favorite? Why would you like to read this one by Deborah?

Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (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 Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, 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

RESURRECTION OF HOPE - Tamera Lynn Kraft - One Free Ebook

Welcome back, Tamera. What kind of books do you write?

I write Christian historical fiction with a healthy dose of adventure and romance.

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

The happiest day would have to be my wedding day. My husband and I have been happily married for 37 years and have two grown children who are married and serving God. My husband isn’t only the love of my life, he’s my best friend and biggest fan.

It’s wonderful when it turns out like that. My husband is, too. How has being published changed your life?

It really hasn’t changed my life all that much except for now I can say I’m a published author. I still work hard at writing and getting published. I do have a lot more marketing to do, and now my deadlines aren’t my own goals that I set for myself. I have to stick to the editor’s deadline. One thing that surprised me was before I was published, I thought all I’d have to do is get one publishing contract, and the doors would stay open. Unfortunately, no matter what stage you are in when it comes to becoming an author, the process never gets easier – just different. Someday I might find that breakout novel that gets my name known out there, but overnight successes normally take years to accomplish. I’m sure that success would also come with its own set of challenges.

What are you reading right now?

I’m reading Every Crooked Path by Steven James. Although I write historical fiction, I’m eclectic in my reading tastes. Steven James is one of my favorite Christian suspense writers.

What is your current work in progress?

Currently I am writing the first novel of a series about Jamestown Colony brides who came from England in 1619 to marry planters in Virginia. Each novel will focus on a different bride. I’m about halfway through the first draft. I also am doing final edits for my first full length novel to be published. It’s called Alice’s Notions and is a cozy romantic spy novel set in a rural West Virginia town right after World War II. Desert Breeze is due to release it in April, 2017.

We need to feature it on this blog. What would be your dream vacation?

I love history, but I also love scenery and nature. My husband and I have enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and finding places that provide both. So far we’ve been to 40 of the 50 states. One place we haven’t been yet that I would consider a dream vacation is Yellowstone National Park. Wyoming has so many historical sites that tell the story of the Old West, and I hear Yellowstone is breathtaking. I would also knock three states off my list since it covers part of Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana. If we drive, we could also visit North Dakota on the way there. That would make it four states. Another place I am looking forward to visiting is Hawaii. When I’m there, I plan to visit Pearl Harbor. Another trip we want to make is to drive up the California coast into Oregon. We also want to go to Utah and visit Brice Canyon and the north shelf of the Grand Canyon. After these trips, we’ll only have Maine and Delaware left on our list. Then we can start a list of countries we want to visit.

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

My settings sort of choose me. I love history. Usually when I’m reading about history, I’ll find an interesting event that took place and start wondering about the stories of the people who went through that event and time period. Before you know it, I have the characters for the next novel I want to write. Because of the way I get my ideas, the setting and time period are decided before the story takes shape.

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

I would love to spend an evening with Dr. Ben Carson. He is such an inspiration. Here is a man, who was raised in poverty at a time where his race held him back, but he put his faith in Christ and it changed his life. I also love that he doesn’t back down on his principles, but he also speaks in a respectful way. Many people make excuses why they can’t get anywhere in life. Dr. Ben Carson’s life proves them wrong. I’m still bummed he’s not going to be our next president.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I already mentioned that my husband and I love to travel and see new places. I love to knit and belong to my church’s Knit Wit group. I’m also a children’s evangelist for a ministry called Revival Fire for Kids, so I enjoy doing gospel illusions, balloon animals, and puppets. One great thing about being a children’s evangelist is it allows me to travel. I love studying history. I’m also a classic movie enthusiast. By classic, I mean the glory days of Hollywood in the 30s, 40s, and 50s with actors like Humphrey Bogart, Jimmy Stewart, Cary Grant, and Clark Gable. When I was younger I took dance lessons for over 20 years. I became good at ballet (on pointe), tap, and jazz. Now that I’m older, I can’t dance like that anymore, but I enjoy dancing with my husband at weddings.

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

My most difficult writing obstacle is life. Life keeps getting in the way of my writing time. I have to be ruthless about guarding that time or it will get away from me. I also have to keep myself from getting discouraged when things I can’t avoid happen, like my mom needing surgery. If I’m not careful, I can get myself so worked up about not having time to write that I don’t write when I do have some time. We all have life issues to deal with. The key is not letting them stop us.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Don’t be in a hurry. The process of becoming a published author is sort of like watching grass grow. The average fiction writer writes seven novels before the first one is published. Don’t fret about every rejection you get. Keep working toward becoming the best writer you can be. You can do that by reading a lot of books, both fiction and writing craft books. It also is a good idea to join a writing group to fellowship and learn from other writers. I recommend ACFW. When you’re ready, also join a critique group. It helps your writing skills greatly to get feedback from other writers and to learn writing skills by critiquing others. Keep plugging along and learning. When it’s time, it will happen.

Tell us about the featured book.

Resurrection of Hope, published through Desert Breeze, is set in post-World War One rural Ohio. Here’s a blurb.

After Vivian’s fiancé dies in the Great War, she thinks her life is over. But Henry, her fiancé’s best friend, comes to the rescue offering a marriage of convenience. He claims he promised his friend he would take care of her. She grows to love him, but she knows it will never work because he never shows any love for her.

Henry adores Vivian and has pledged to take care of her, but he won’t risk their friendship by letting her know. She’s still in love with the man who died in the Great War. He won’t risk heartache by revealing his true emotions.

Resurrection of Hope is available at these online stores:

Desert Breeze Publishing: http://www.desertbreezepublishing.com/resurrection-of-hope-epub/

Amazon eBook: https://www.amazon.com/Resurrection-Hope-Tamera-Lynn-Kraft-ebook/dp/B01I8UNJGU/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1468418663&sr=8-2&keywords=resurrection+of+hope+kraft

Amazon Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/Resurrection-Hope-Tamera-Lynn-Kraft/dp/1682949427/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1468418663&sr=8-1&keywords=resurrection+of+hope+kraft

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/resurrection-of-hope-tamera-lynn-kraft/1124083556?ean=2940156767311

All Romance eBooks: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-resurrectionofhope-2071717-162.html

Please give us the first page of the book.

Palm Sunday, 1919

Tonight would be the last time Vivian Klein cleaned Mr. Adder's office. After she finished for the day, she'd take the Colt handgun she'd seen in the top drawer of his desk and finish off her miserable life.

Tomorrow morning, the owner of the Greenville Hotel would find her dead body sprawled beside the desk on his fancy wool rug. A certain satisfaction set in as a grin crossed her face. He'd have to find somebody else to clean away the blood.

First, she needed to finish her other chores. After washing dishes and changing sheets, she scrubbed the narrow linoleum floor in the second floor hallway. She tackled the scrub brush with a relish she hadn't felt before. These constant tasks taking over every moment of her existence for the last six months would soon end.

It wasn't like this had been the worst day of her life. A year ago, she received a telegram informing her James, the love of her life, had died in the Great War. She paused for a moment, leaning on her heels, the memories flooding her emotions.

"Soon, my love. I'll join you soon."

Setting aside the heartache, she wiped away a tear and got back to work.

Footsteps shuffled down the hall and stopped abruptly as the fetid scent of cigar smoke mixed with the sweet smell of lilac aftershave assaulted her senses. A prickle crept over her like ants crawling all over her skin. She dropped the scrub brush and stood to face Mr. Albert Adder. She kept her disdain at bay as she looked down at him.

The owner of the Greenville Hotel, as always, dressed in a dapper three piece suit and bowtie, stretched his neck and shoulders reminding her of a rooster trying to crow, but it didn't add one inch to his short stature. He glowered up at her over his bifocals and pointed nose, his dark eyes betraying the deviousness within. "I hope you've reconsidered my offer," he said, his characteristic smirk in place. "I only want to improve your situation."

The knot that never left Vivian's stomach tightened. "If you really want to help me, you could start by paying me a decent salary."

Adder ran his hand over his balding scalp. "I give you room and board. Nobody else came to your aide when you were left destitute. You should be grateful."

She dug her fingernails into her palms to keep from smacking his face. If he hadn't introduced her father to alcohol and gambling in the hotel's back room, she wouldn't have lost the farm. The room still operated even though prohibition had already been enacted in Ohio. "I'll never marry you."

"I know I'm a bit older than you…"

A snort escaped Vivian's lips.

"Lots of men marry younger women. Be reasonable, girl. If you agree to be my wife, you won't have to work so hard. You'll have everything you ever wanted." He touched her arm.

It took everything inside not to cringe. She tilted her chin up with the last vestige of self-respect she had. "I won't change my mind."

Mr. Adder's lips pressed together. "Fine then. If you want to be a scrub woman for the rest of your life instead of the wife of the richest man in town, so be it." He stomped down the stairs and out of sight.

She tried to pick up the scrub brush but couldn't get her trembling hand to cooperate. Please Lord, if there's another way.

It was a useless prayer. God hadn't come to the rescue when James was killed. Or when she cared for her sisters and parents as they died of influenza. Where was He when the sheriff showed up at her door and told her she had twenty-four hours to leave the only home she'd ever known?

God had deserted her. It was time to end it.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Website: http://www.tameralynnkraft.net

Word Sharpeners Blog: http://www.tameralynnkraft.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/tameralynnkraft

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/tamerakraft

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

Comment Starter Questions: Do you like to read historical novels? What time period do you like best?

Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (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 Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, 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

COLLISION OF THE HEART - Laurie Alice Eakes - One Free Book

Dear Readers, I’ve known Laurie Alice for a long time. Several years ago, she, Lisa Harris, and I wrote a three book series for Heartsong Presents that later was published in a single volume under the title Wild Prairie Roses, which is now out of print.

Welcome back, Laurie Alice. Since you’re being published regularly, what new avenues will your future books take?      

I think my books will take the same avenue of a blend of American and English-set historicals, as well as some contemporary romantic suspense. All that should change is a constant improvement in my storytelling ability.

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

I have attended two conferences this year—Romance Writers of America and The Beau Monde conference, both of which were in San Diego, California. I was a speaker at The Beau Monde conference.

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

The topic nearest and dearest to people’s hearts is what is the future of publishing in these ever-changing times where self-publishing is no longer looked down upon. People on the panel would likely include my agent, Natasha Kern, someone from Amazon Publishing, someone from Gilead Publishing—the new kids on the block—someone from one of the older publishers like Bethany for a Christian panel or Harper Collins for a secular one, and an author published in both traditional and self-publishing means and successful at both.

That should be very interesting. How important is it to you to be active in writing organizations?          

I think this is highly important. We need to connect with colleagues to keep up on trends in the industry, know what is going on with publishers, editors, and agents, and give and receive feedback on our work.

Where in the community or your church do you volunteer?     

Due to the fact that I am unable to drive and live in a city with terrible public transportation, I no longer volunteer my time in my community.

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

Other than my mother, father, and husband, finding others who have made the most impact is difficult to whittle down to just two more. The thing is, those people keep changing. The impact my life for a while and then circumstances change and the impact comes from another source. I might have to say Lee Tobin McClain, though, as she suggested I apply to the Writing Popular Fiction program at Seton Hill University, where I obtained my master’s degree. There I learned how to turn an idea into a novel publishers wanted to buy. So that leaves just one more we shall call Person at Large.

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

All that comes to mind are rather smart-alice words like: She has now joined the history she loved to study.

I like that. Tell us about the featured book.         

Collision of the Heart is a second chance at love story of two people who allow ambition and selfishness to interfere with the longings of their hearts for one another. The year is 1856 and Mia Roper is on her way back to Hillsdale, Michigan, to write an article about the women attending the second college in the country to allow women to gain an education alongside men, the same education. She left a year and a half earlier to take a job in journalism after obtaining her own degree. She thought Ayden would go with her, but he stayed behind to take a teaching position at the college. She hopes to avoid him on her visit, but the train on which she is arriving wrecks on the outskirts of town and launches her right back into Ayden’s life.

The train wreck is real. In 1856, two trains heading on opposite directions on the same track collided during a snowstorm outside Hillsdale, Michigan. Passengers were stranded in the town, and the townspeople came together to take care of them, providing food, shelter, and clothing.

This book was previous published by Love Inspired Heartsong, but I have rewritten it, adding several thousand words I had to cut for the Heartsong version, and re-edited by Amazon Publishing’s fabulous editorial team. And the cover is positively stunning.

This book is available in five formats: Kindle, Paperback, Audio CD, MP3CD, and audible.com download. The reader is Angela Dawe, who is also from Michigan and an experienced narrator.

I agree. I absolutely love the cover. Please share the first page with us.           

Hillsdale, Michigan

February 8, 1856

Near Midnight

In ten minutes, the westbound train would reach the town Euphemia Roper once vowed to never set foot in again.

Hillsdale, Michigan, was the town Euphemia—Mia to her friends—had called home longer than anywhere else in her twenty-six years and the town she had left with a broken heart. Only opportunity knocking too loudly to be ignored had drawn her back. For a week, she would research the story that would establish her as a professional lady of letters, while she avoided encounters with Ayden Benaiah Goswell.

She twisted in her train seat and rubbed frost from a patch of glass with her gloved fingers. The action accomplished little beyond making her hand damp through the knitted wool. The lights of Osseo had already dimmed beyond a veil of falling snow. The train gathered speed.

So did Euphemia’s heart.

Muscles twitching in her legs, Euphemia tucked her handbag under one arm and her writing portfolio under the other. Rustling pages, snapping locks, and a child asking if they were there yet rose like a wave before a high wind. Euphemia rose to get up the aisle and near the door before the train stopped so she could be one of the first passengers to disembark. Others preceded her, including a child barely old enough to walk. He paused to grasp the side of her seat.

“Are you lost?” Euphemia leaned toward the boy. Someone should be frantically searching for the little one.

Wow! This book sounds so interesting. Where can my readers find you on the Internet?

You can read excerpts from my books on my web site:

http://www.lauriealiceeakes.com

On my author page on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/AuthorLaurieAliceEakes/

On Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/@LaurieAEakes

And I have a Pinterest account, but am just building it.

You can also find all my books in all their versions on http://www.amazon.com

Thank you, Laurie Alice, for sharing this book with us. I know my readers are as eager to read it as I am.

Comment started questions: Have you read any of Laurie Alice's books. If so, which one is your favorite? Have you experienced a train wreck.

Readers leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (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 Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, 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