'TIL DICE DO US PART - Julie B Cosgrove - One Free Book

Welcome back, Julie. Why did you become an author? 

Being shy, I always found it easier to express myself on paper. Perhaps being from an “attorney-laden” family trained me because we were always encouraged to build our case before presenting our arguments in family “discussions.” In high school, I was picked to take an advanced class in creative writing and several of my works won awards. But then college, marriage, and life hit. Even so, I would spend months developing plots and characters as I waited in traffic or did laundry. When God opened the door for me to make money at freelance writing, the story bug began to nibble at my mind again. Eleven years ago, a friend told me of a Christian writing group. At the time, I had no idea there were Christian fiction authors out there. The first meeting pierced my heart with a renewed desire to become one, and twelve books later—with three more under contract—God has been faithful to fulfill it.

I love to hear stories of how God has moved in an author’s life. If you weren’t an author, what would be your dream job?

Well, I have that job, too. I am a digital missionary with CRU’s The Life Project. My freelance writing and editing skills landed me on staff, and aside from editing for a few Christian authors on the side, it is my occupation.

Our websites’ articles and devotionals touched over 600,000 souls last year, which opened the door for one of our websites to become available in India, South America, and the Middle East! I am the content editor over 24 devotional writers as well and I love to see how God writes through them, and me, to meet people’s needs. We live in such an exciting time. Through the internet, we can truly fulfill Christ’s command to “go into all nations.” Our motto is, “The World is on the Internet. We help them know Jesus.” It is humbling, awe-inspiring work to be a part of bringing someone, whom I’ll probably never meet face to face on the other side of the city, state, country, or world, into the Kingdom.

If you could have lived at another time in history, what would it be and why?

My more modern, women’s lib sister always would roll her eyes and say I was too Victorian. In other words, old-fashioned, highly moral, and traditional in gender attributes. At least, in the society of that time, there were set rules of conduct. Men honored and cherished women. I personally don’t mind a door being opened for me. Or men protecting my virtue. I don’t think a woman should ever lose that, no matter her age or how many children she has had. It’s our power, privilege, and blessing.

What place in the United States have you not visited that you would like to?

I have never been to the northwest, like Oregon and Washington State. I would like to see that section of the country. But then again, leaf peeping throughout Vermont in the autumn would be awesome as well.

How about a foreign country you hope to visit?

I was blessed to go on a mission trip to England and was embedded with a family in a village for two weeks. I would love to return. Actually, my dream is to spend six months there in a holiday so I can travel, meet people, and write. As a widow with a grown son who is still single, I have few obligations, and my digital ministry allows me to write from anywhere, so I could possibly do it if my health and finances allowed. But I’d miss my cats.

What lesson has the Lord taught you recently?

I am not in control. Health issues, which has left me mostly unable to drive or leave the house much for the past eighteen months, has forced me to rely on people to help me. It has been very humbling. But it has been a huge growth period for me spiritually.

Tell us about the featured book.

Oh, I am happy to do that! ’Til Dice Do Us Part is the fourth book in the Bunco Biddies cozy mystery series.  The Bunco Biddies’ ring leader is Janie, the widow of a renowned big city detective who often bounced his cases off her brain for a fresh angle. Now her son-in-law is chief detective in the small town near her 55-plus community, Sunset Acres. As crime begins to seep in, Janie and her Bunco-playing friends start to snoop. After all, they know just about everyone.

In this book, one of them, Ethel, has a tumble while decorating for a friend’s wedding shower and ends up in the ER. She believes she overhears a crime being discussed. When people begin to go missing, including the groom-to-be from the waiting room, Janie decides something dicey is definitely going on at Mercy Memorial.

Please give us the first page of the book.

“Look out!” Janie Manson waved her arms over her head. “The ladder is wobbling.”

Ethel spun toward the direction of her friend’s shrill voice, streamer in one hand, and dispenser of cellophane tape looped over her finger. As her heel swiveled, it caught on the seventh rung.

The next two seconds dragged in slo-mo for Janie as she screamed―half a room away.

Mildred turned as she swooshed a plastic pink cover, etched with doves and bells, over the rectangular gift table. Her hands froze in mid-air.

Babs let loose a tray of white and black disposable salt and pepper shakers, which rolled across the floor like tiny nuns tumbling down a hill.  

Annie Schmidt, sporting her new Florida tan, squealed with her palms slapped to her cheeks.

Janie dashed to the ladder, arms extended…a second too late.

Ethel’s leg flipped into the air and, in a half-twist somersault which would’ve scored a 9.5 in an Olympic diving competition, landed shoulder first on the tiled surface. She plopped onto her back and became very, very still. Only the silver-gray curls on her forehead moved in the breeze generated from the ceiling fan’s soft whirs.

Everyone halted, as if afraid to breathe.

“Is she…?” Betsy Ann whimpered, fist to mouth, as the idea of wearing black in the morning and white in the afternoon in four days’ time sunk in. The Bunco Biddies had gathered to decorate the recreation hall at Sunset Acres Retirement Community for her wedding shower.

“I‘m not sure.” Janie knelt by Ethel and pressed two fingers on the carotid artery in her neck.

About that time Ethel groaned. “Ow. I see stars.” She clasped her hand to her shoulder. “Is it out of joint?”

Janie rocked back on her knees. “I’m not sure. It is kinda angled funny.”

Ethel jerked to a half-sitting position, propped with her good arm. “Don’t you dare pull on it, Janie Manson.” Her face paled as her eyes rolled into her forehead. A long moan escaped from her lips. She melted to the floor like a marshmallow off a stick over a campfire.

I shouldn’t laugh at such a serious event, but your writing is so hilarious. How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is www.juliebcosgrove.com.  There you can preview all of my novels, including my suspense and romance ones, and my non-fiction works. You can also find out more about my digital ministry and link to my blog, Where Did You Find God Today with readership in 52 countries.

I am on Facebook as juliebcosgrove.tx, and you can also review my Amazon author page.

Thank you, Julie, for sharing this new book with me and my blog readers. I’m sure they’ll be eager as I am to read it.

Readers, here are links to the book.

'Til Dice Do Us Part (Bunco Biddies)  -  Paperback
'Til Dice Do Us Part (Bunco Biddies Mystery Book 4) - 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

WHISPERING HOPE - Peggy Blann Phifer - One Free Book

BIO: Author Peggy Blann Phifer, a retired executive assistant after twenty-one years in the Electrical Wholesale Industry, lives in the ‘boonies’ of NW Wisconsin. A late bloomer, Peg didn’t start taking writing seriously until age fifty.

Her debut novel, To See the Sun, a contemporary romantic suspense, released in January 2012. A second novel, Somehow, Christmas Will Come, contemporary women’s fiction with a touch of romance and mystery, released in November 2014, revised and re-released in late 2015. A new work titled Whispering Hope, an historical romantic suspense, set during the years of Prohibition, released in early May, 2018. Her work has also appeared in numerous anthologies over the past five years.

Peg is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. When she’s not writing, Peg enjoys reading, blogging, and sharing her home with her daughter, son-in-law, and a Border Collie mix dog named Rocky.

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

I mostly write what I like to read, which is Romantic Suspense, something gripping and gritty, without the nasty graphic stuff the world seems to expect. Although I love reading political thrillers, I’d never attempt to write one.

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

I have to say the day I met my second husband. After some tumultuous years gone before, he became my rock, my best friend. He was called Home six years ago after 26 years of marriage. Too soon. I still miss him more than I can say.

How has being published changed your life?

Immeasurably. The marketing and self-promotion is hard. I’ve never been one to ‘put myself out there’ and I find that the most difficult part. Getting on blogs like yours really helps, and I’ve been fortunate there. I need more sales and reviews, of course, so there’s that. But I’m getting there.

What are you reading right now?

The Widow’s Plight by Mary Davis. Great read so far.

What is your current work in progress?

I am under contract with Forget Me Not Romances for a series of contemporary novellas called Sweetwater River – which I classify as women’s fiction.

What would be your dream vacation?

Oh, my … that’s a hard one to answer. I think, at the top of the list, would be to go to Scotland, England, and Ireland … back to my ancestor’s roots, so to speak. Next on the list would be to visit the Holy Land, to walk in the footsteps of Jesus.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

Mostly places I’m familiar with. My first two books are set in Las Vegas, where I lived for 33 years. My current release, though historical, is set in NW Wisconsin, where I now live. However, my novella series is a bit of a departure, being set in North Central Arkansas. Go figure.

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

Up until a few months ago, I would have said Billy Graham. But I think right now I’d love to spend an evening with author James Scott Bell. I love his writing, and his sense of humor. What fun that would be. I actually met him in person back in 2004 at the Colorado Christian Writers Conference in Estes Park, Colorado. He’s a delightful person.

Yes, he is, and I love his books. What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I love handcrafts of all kinds, needlepoint, and crochet, although arthritic fingers (and poor vision) have made it too difficult for me these days.

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

Procrastination! Self-discipline. My two big bugaboos. Overcoming it? Practice more BICHOK … Behind in Chair, Hands on Keyboard.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

If you’re truly bitten by the writing bug, if you feel “called” to write, don’t delay. If you’ve got a story to tell, just start writing. You have permission to write a terrible first rough draft. Just get those words down.

Tell us about the featured book.

Back cover blurb: 1930 Chicago is no place for a Wisconsin country girl.

Virginia Hopewell visits her cousin in Chicago and gets caught up in a deadly gangster shooting at a speakeasy, barely escaping with her life.  After learning of the tragic death of her father, brother, and sister-in-law, Ginny returns to Wisconsin and convinces her mother to reopen the resort her father had closed after losing everything in the stock market crash in 1929.

Ransom Blake, an agent with the Chicago Bureau of Prohibition, had been at the same speakeasy acting on a tip about the shooting. Rance is charged with finding the gangster responsible. He and his team are sent to Wisconsin where the man was reported being seen, and to investigate how illegal liquor from Canada is making its way to Chicago.

With the opening of Whispering Hope Resort, Rance registers as a guest and comes face to face with the lovely redhead he’d briefly encountered at the speakeasy during the shooting.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Virginia Hopewell’s head pounded as she pressed against the wall inside the Blue Rooster. The floor vibrated beneath her feet as bodies bounced in rhythm to the small band’s jazzy rendition of “Button Up Your Overcoat.”

Good choice. Ginny shivered as a blast of cold air accompanied another couple entering the already overcrowded Chicago speakeasy. The music and laughter all but drowned out the voice of the wraith with kohl-lined eyes and red painted lips behind the microphone.

Ginny closed her eyes as the pressure in her head increased. Why had she allowed her cousin to talk her into this? The city lifestyle was no place for a country girl.

But she knew why. One simply didn’t say “no” to Susan Duquesne. Besides, after a week in Chicago at Susan’s invitation, it had sounded like fun to spend a night out on the town before she had to head back to the dismal situation at home. So much had changed after that horrible October day last year.

She watched the young singer struggling through the last few bars, barely keeping up with the band. As the song ended, the poor thing cast fearful eyes at the scowling, burly man behind the bar. A stab of sympathy gripped Ginny. It had not been a good performance. Would the girl lose her job?

A tipsy young man with Brilliantined hair lurched into Ginny. She staggered backward as he drunkenly flung his arm over her shoulder. “Hey, doll, where ya been all my life?” He hiccupped. “Don’cha know I’m a sucker for redheads?”

Repelled by the slurred words and alcohol-laden breath, she shoved at him and twisted her body away. Unbalanced, he crashed into the wall and collapsed in a heap at her feet.

Her hands shook as she glanced around, but no one seemed to notice—or care—what happened. She stepped around the prone form and tugged the fluffy boa across the front of her borrowed dress in a futile attempt at modesty. The ridiculous mass of white feathers accomplished nothing except to make her sneeze. The low neckline of the shimmering emerald-green dress left her feeling exposed, naked ... and completely out of place.

Being jostled by dancing, smoking merrymakers, pawed by an inebriated youth who had no business being here, and abandoned by her cousin, who was nowhere to be seen, did not define Ginny’s idea of a good time. Even her blind-date escort, Sam—or was it Stan?—had disappeared. Ooh, cousin, just wait till I get my hands on you!

Intent on finding Susan, Ginny edged her way through the crowd. An abrupt silence descended. Music and laughter ceased. Her gaze flew across the room to the entrance, where a group of men in black suits and overcoats entered the speakeasy.

A thick blue haze from countless cigars and cigarettes swirled overhead like an undulating web, disturbed by the inrush of cold air from the opened door. The men moved further into the barroom, forming a circle around a short, heavyset man with a stubby cigar clenched between his teeth.

“Is that Capone?” a man murmured behind Ginny.

“Nah, Big Al is still in the pen in Penn-sylvania.” Several low, nervous chuckles acknowledged the pun.

Not amused, Ginny’s nerves tightened. If it wasn’t Al Capone, who was it?

I’m eager to read the rest. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Blog/website: http://whispersinpurple.blogspot.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/pegphifer

Twitter: www.twitter.com/pegphifer @pegphifer

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/pegphifer

Google+: http://plus.google.com/+AuthorPeggyBlannPhifer/posts

Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/pbphifer

Email: pbphifer@centurylink.net

Buy links for Whispering Hope -

Paperback: https://amzn.to/2s1OMiI

Kindle eBook: https://amzn.to/2safmqy

Thank you, Peggy, for sharing this new book with me and my readers. I know most of them will be as eager as I am to read it.

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

WINNERSS!!!

New instructions for winners in 2018 - When you send me the email, make sure your subject line says this: Winner - (book title) - (author's name) 

Jane (TX)  is the winner of the Ebook The Widow of Rose Hill by Michelle Shocklee.

Lynne (OH) is the winner of Until We Find Home by Cathy Gohlke.

Connie (KY)  is the winner of Kentucky Dreams by Marlene Morrell.

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 or audio book, 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.

LOVE IS PATIENT - Lila Diller - One Free Book

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

I write very autobiographically. The main character Morgan is based on myself. Or at least on myself about ten years ago. I also have a specific person in mind from my real life for almost every character—though I change names and exaggerate traits to keep it fiction.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

When I was a teenager, I used to eat leftover brown gravy cold, right from the gravy dish in the fridge. Don't ask me why.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I've always enjoyed writing since English journals in second grade. But when I finally called myself a writer wasn't until I finished my first novel, which was the first story I had ever finished outside of school assignments. It took me a lot of nudging from God to realize that He had given me a gift and that I could use my gift of writing for Him.

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

I most prefer contemporary Christian Romance, historical Christian Romance, especially Old West and Mail Order Bride sub-genres, with a smattering of historical fiction and science-fiction/fantasy. I will not read suspense, horror, or anything too steamy.

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

I guard my time. I say “no” to a lot of extra stuff. I work at home, I homeschool my boys, and we only have one working car, so I don't go out very often. I only go to church on Sundays and Wednesdays, grocery shopping and family time on Fridays. I plan a girls' night or attend a women's activity every two or three months. Another thing that's been very helpful is to set aside specific times every day for spending time with my loved ones. I check my emails first thing in the morning, then I make breakfast, get my boys started with their schoolwork, do any housework (I have a specific task for each day of the week, such as laundry on Tuesdays and bathrooms on Thursdays), and then my afternoons are for writing and working. Then after supper, I spend time with my kids and after they go to bed with my husband.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

I use several different processes. Sometimes I ask my readers on my FB author page on in my FB group to help name my inconsequential supporting characters. But my main characters I spend a lot of time trying to find the right name. It usually ends up being a name that I like and has some meaning to me, but I also have to make sure that it's not a name of a real person in the area.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

This is a hard question for me as I don't like focusing on my achievements because pride is so insidious. I guess I would say that I'm satisfied with my determination. I'm happy I figured out all the components on my own and self-published all three books without paying anyone to do any part of it for me. It was difficult and frustrating at times, but I pushed through it.

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

A unicorn, because they're graceful and pretty—two things I am not. :)

What is your favorite food?

Flash-fried sushi with eel sauce. Yum! And that's funny, because I was afraid to try sushi for so many years! But my husband finally talked me into trying a starter roll, a Philly roll, and I was hooked.

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

My mindset. One of my creative writing teachers made me feel incompetent and I listened to that. I also never had a clear idea of where I wanted a story to go. I began many ideas and would write a chapter or two, but I would always quit, because I couldn't write it chronologically. The reason I finished Love is Not Arrogant or Rude, the first story I ever finished outside of short-story assignments in school, was because I tried a different method. I plotted out the major events in the story visually. I made a ladder, and each rung up the ladder was a chapter that increased the tension. The climax was the top, and the resolution was the quick slide down. This helped me see where I was going. But every day I only wrote a scene that I could see in my mind pretty clearly, meaning I jumped around from chapter to chapter and did not write chronologically. It was the most freeing thing I could have done for how my brain works. This method was the first one that really worked for me. And once I saw that I had the ability to do it, I gained confidence and clarity.

Tell us about the featured book.

This third in the “Love is...” series is an inspiring, first-person, Christian romance about a tempted couple's battle to overcome their desire for physical intimacy and remain pure.

Will there be a wedding after all?

In Love is Patient, Morgan wonders if she can survive making the 1,001 wedding decisions in spite of her family's conflicting advice and opinions. Add work tensions and waiting to consummate their love, and Morgan's patience wears thin.  In order to show true agape love to their families, to each other, and to their God, they must conquer their selfish and lustful desires with true love, remaining patient, submissive, and pure. 

Will they learn to wait on the Lord? Or will they rush into an impure relationship and sully their love with guilt?

Based on the Bible’s definition of true agape love in 1 Corinthians 13, Love is Patient is the third installment of the “Love is…” series, a contemporary Christian Romance continuing Morgan’s saga.

If you like a quick and easy read, with character development and a Biblical approach, then you’ll love Lila Diller’s book. Buy Love is Patient to see if Morgan and Jason conquer annoyance, stress, and lust, as they discover true patience.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Chapter 1: Dreaming

I flipped through the pages of the bridal magazine yet again, from one dog-eared page to the next, dreaming and desiring. I imagined myself in the long, white, heavily embroidered, strapless wedding dress, complete with flowing train and fluffy veil.

I saw myself sauntering down the aisle, two flower girls in front, strewing pink and purple rose petals for my high-heeled pumps to tread, adding two girls behind me to hold my magnificent train.

I glanced again at the price, and that vision broke into a million disappointed pieces.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

www.liladiller.com

www.facebook.com/loveisseries

www.instagram.com/liladiller

www.pinterest.com/liladiller

Thank you, Lilla, for sharing this new book with me and my blog readers.

Readers, here is a link to the book.

Love is Patient (Love is... series Book 3)

  

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

LONE WITNESS - Rachel Dylan - One Free Book

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

Since I’m a lawyer, and I write about lawyers, I definitely bring myself and my experiences into all of my characters. I think like a lawyer and that makes me write like a lawyer too. Of course, I get to take creative liberties with my legal characters!

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I have been known to dress my pets up for the holidays.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I’ve been a writer since I was a child. I’ve always been a voracious reader, and I started writing stories and poems in elementary school. It wasn’t until I was a practicing attorney that I decided I wanted to write a novel.

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

My favorite genre is romantic suspense, but I also like thrillers. I also enjoy reading non-fiction.

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

I don’t think I was sane to begin with! I think the key is prioritizing and knowing when to say no. It’s impossible to meet every demand in life.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Sometimes the names clearly come to me. Other times I go on the internet and research names or even use name generators until I find one that I like.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

As far as writing accomplishments, I’m super proud of the books I’m writing for the Atlanta Justice series, and thankful to be working with a wonderful publisher.

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

I love animals and I’m an introvert by nature and independent, so I’d probably be a cat.

What is your favorite food?

It’s so hard to choose just one, but I love cheese and carbs, so pizza is always a go-to.

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

My biggest roadblock is lack of writing time. I still work full time as an attorney. I’d always love to spend more time writing, but right now my writing is confined to the weekends.

Tell us about the featured book.

Lone Witness is the second book in the Atlanta Justice series and it can be read as a series or a standalone. Here’s more:

She's the Only Witness to a Brutal Crime. Now She Can't Outrun the Target on Her Back.

Prosecutor Sophie Dawson has taken a new role at the Fulton County DA's office, and her first case involves a local bank employee who may be cheating customers. She's determined to bring justice to those who've lost their savings . . . but her life is turned upside down when she becomes the only witness to a double homicide involving a vengeful gang.

With her life at risk, friends and family convince her that she needs protection, and private security guard Cooper Knight is hired as a bodyguard. But as threats escalate, neither Cooper nor Sophie knows whom they can trust.

Unwilling to back down on either case, Sophie pursues the truth at any cost. But her bank litigation gets more complicated by the day, and the gang will stop at nothing to keep her from taking the stand. With all sides closing in, steadfast Cooper is the only man she can lean on. But drawing close may be the distraction that costs both of their lives. 

Please give us the first page of the book.

Guilty. That’s the only possible verdict. Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, Felix Sanders, the CEO of Banton Corporation, has been embezzling for five years.” Sophie Dawson took a deep breath, then continued her closing argument. She made eye contact with each of the twelve members of the jury who would decide the fate of the crooked CEO. “Throughout the past week, you’ve heard testimony not only from other employees of Banton Corporation, but from our forensic accounting experts. Those experts testified that there is no doubt that Mr. Sanders was funneling money from the accounts of Banton investors into his personal slush fund that sits in a Swiss bank account.” If she lost this case, then she deserved to be fired. The evidence against Sanders was rock solid. It was rare to have a case this bulletproof. “The defense would have you believe that every single one of these transactions was made in clerical error, but now that you’ve heard and seen all of the evidence, I submit to you that there is no way that conclusion could ever be reached. Let me remind you that we’re talking about hundreds of transactions over a five-year period. The defense’s position asks you to suspend all logic and enter a fantasyland that doesn’t exist.

Sounds interesting. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Here is where you can find me.

Website: www.racheldylan.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/racheldylanauthor

Twitter: @dylan_rachel

Thank you, Rachel, for sharing this new book with me and my readers. Right now, I’m reading Deadly Proof and loving it. I’m glad Cooper is getting his story.

Readers, here are links to the book.

Lone Witness - Christianbook.com
Lone Witness (Atlanta Justice) - Amazon paperback
Lone Witness (Atlanta Justice Book 2) - Kindle
Lone Witness - Audiobook

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

BLIND BETRAYAL - Nancy Mehl - One Free Book

Welcome back, Nancy. Please tell us about your salvation experience.

I was baptized as a child. I thought I was saved, but when I was in my twenties, a friend gave me some books by Hal Lindsey. I loved the first two, but the third one, The Liberation of Planet Earth, was so boring. It just repeated the same message over and over. That Jesus died for our sins. That we could exchange our sin-filled lives for His new life. A life filled with His Holy Spirit. We could be a new person.

You see, when I was young the church we attended only asked that I agree that Jesus Christ was the Son of God. I had no idea about the “Great Exchange.” That I could be a new creation.

One day I was on my way to work. I remember exactly where I was. I gazed over at the book I’d tossed on the passenger seat. I told myself I just couldn’t finish it and began to recite its message over and over. My intention was to mock the book and make light of the repetitious message. And then suddenly…the light went on and I saw what salvation really was. That night when I got home from work, I got down on my knees and accepted Christ as my savior.

I love testimonies of the unique experiences people experience when they finally understand the whole story of the gospel. You’re planning a writing retreat where you can only have four other authors. Who would they be and why?

Oh, my. You know, I think I’ve have to invite my Suspense Sisters. We work together on a blog so I think we should have a retreat. They would be: Mary Ellis, Patricia Bradley, Elizabeth Goddard, Ellen Kennedy, and Roxanne Rustand. I know that’s five, but I couldn’t leave anyone out!

Although I haven’t read anything by Ellen Kennedy (and I’d love to), I love the writing of all the others and a couple of them are good friends of mine. Do you have a speaking ministry? If so, tell us about that.

No. I’ve spoken to groups several times, but I really don’t enjoy it. I’ve been told that the people attending liked my messages. Someday I may jump into it again, but I really need to get some topics prepared so I can practice ahead of time. That would help with the nervousness!

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

I remember an incident that happened when I worked at The Salvation Army. A lady that worked there showed me a picture of her brother. He had a funny look on his face. I laughed and asked her why he looked like that. Then she told me he was mentally and physically disabled. I was so embarrassed. She was very gracious and kind and smoothed it over. But boy, I’m very careful now when people show me pictures of their family!

One time, I asked a friend I hadn’t seen for quite a while when her baby was due, and she wasn’t pregnant. I’m very careful not to do that again. People are always telling me that they’d like to write a book someday. I’m sure they do to you, too. What would you tell someone who came up to you and said that?

I tell them that writing is a craft. You have to learn it and it takes time. I also suggest they get involved in ACFW. There are so many resources available to new writers.

Yes, way more than when I started writing novels. Tell us about the featured book.

Blind Betrayal is the third book in my Defenders of Justice Series.

Deputy U.S. Marshal Casey Sloane has worked at the St. Louis Marshals office for two years and is given a routine assignment to help transport a reporter to D.C. to testify before a grand jury. Valerie, the reporter, was writing a story about an up-and-coming environmentalist who suddenly disappeared and, she later discovered, whose backers purportedly have ties to a terrorist.

When the seemingly ordinary assignment suddenly takes a shocking turn, Casey is forced to put aside her own feelings about the unexpected reappearance of a man from her past as she and two other Marshals take Valerie on the run. And as it becomes dangerously clear Valerie's testimony has even bigger implications than they knew, they'll do whatever it takes to make it out alive.

I’ve read Blind Betrayal. Please give us the first page of the book for my blog readers.

As Martin waited to be murdered, he was surprised to find that more than anything else, he felt offended. He wanted to explain to his killer that he was a good son. That he’d been a loving brother to his special needs sister. He’d always tried to be a decent man. He cared about people and had given his life to protect the environment. Somehow, he felt it should matter that on Christmas he worked at the downtown shelter and served dinner to the homeless and poor of the city. Then there was the time he stopped to help a woman who’d run her car off the road and into a tree. Martin smelled gas and pulled her out before the car caught fire. Shouldn’t that mean something now?

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is: www.nancymehl.com. I spend a lot of time on the Suspense Sisters: www.suspensesistersblogspot.com. They can also find me on Facebook.

Thank you, Nancy, for sharing this book with me and my blog readers. I’ve loved all your books I’ve read. This one was a real page-turner with so many twists and turns. They’ll want to read it, too.

Readers, here are links to the book.

Blind Betrayal - Christianbook.com
Blind Betrayal (Defenders of Justice) - Amazon paperback
Blind Betrayal (Defenders of Justice Book 3) - Kindle
Blind Betrayal: Defenders of Justice Series, Book 3 - Audiobook

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!!!

New instructions for winners in 2018 - When you send me the email, make sure your subject line says this: Winner - (book title) - (author's name) 


Perrainne (TX)  is the winner of Ruffling Society by Kay Moser.

Emma (PA) is the winner of Back Country Brides by Shannon McNear.

Jennifer (TX)  is the winner of To Claim Her Heart by Jodiee Wolfe.

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 or audio book, 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.

KENTUCKY DREAMS - Marlene Morrell - One Free Book

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

I write non-fiction also. I wasn’t sure I should be writing a series. I prayed for leading when I was a third of the way into the second book. The words and story tumbled out so fast and I felt good about the content. Then I know that there were three books in the Kentucky Cowboy series. I have a passion for horses like my late Mother and late hubby. Though I enjoy penning romance and that special relationship, I have always been intrigued by horses, mystery and suspense. I intend to incorporate more of the latter in future books.

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

One of my happiest days was when famed novelist, Loree Lough, assured me early on in my writing career that I would be commercially published. She said that writing can be taught but that you cannot teach the ability to make your readers care about your characters and what happens to them. She said I had that gift.

How has being published changed your life?

It is a great commitment and privilege to write for the Lord. I am daily inspired to extend my reach. I am still learning to say no to stuff, so I can focus more.

What are you reading right now?

Joyce Meyer’s The Power of Simple Prayer

What is your current work in progress?

Kentucky Derby Drama

What would be your dream vacation?

Rent a house in Palm Beach or Hawaii and invite some favorite people to join me. The 5-Star chef can whip up amazing dinners which my guests and I will enjoy.

I want to be one of your favorite people. 😊 How do you choose your settings for each book?

The characters and story dictate where it will be set, in the Kentucky Cowboy series about horse racing in Kentucky. In Love Found in Manhattan, since I lived in New York City for seven years, and loved it and the snowy winters and energy of the city, I knew I wanted to capture that for my readers. With Angel in Shining Armor, which is set in Bellingham, Washington, and Nashville; the heroine, Ayita High-Eagle, an American Indian, I chose an Indian Reservation in an area I know and because she rises to fame as a singer in Nashville, it had to be set there. So, in conclusion, though it varies, the characters sometimes chose their location.  

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

It’s a toss-up between President Donald Trump and Joel Osteen. Mr. Trump because of his remarkable determination, fearless and invincible spirit and Mr. Osteen because he has morphed “Positive Thinking” to the highest level we have ever seen. (In my opinion.) I would enjoy picking their brains.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I enjoy watching old movies, Hallmark movies, playing tennis (when I get time), swimming, and dining with friends.

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

For me it is having the discipline to stay focused and get it done quickly. God is the only one who can help me.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Read voraciously. Attend writing conferences, and get in a critique group.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Dana and Graham settled into wedded bliss...but not for long. Though she’d had many reservations about just how well daily life with Graham would work out, she was thrilled and delighted to discover that it was much better than she could have hoped for. “Good morning, darling.” Dana nuzzled close to her handsome, new hubby. It gave her an incredible high just being in close proximity to him. She gave him a peck on his cheek.

           

In seconds, Graham’s lips were on hers. Passion engulfed them as they soared to new and glorious ecstasies. When they finally came up for air, Dana bounced out of the luxurious bed, slipped on her lavender silk robe that lay strewn on a chair and hummed a tune, soon bursting forth into song. “If ever I should leave you...it wouldn’t be in winter, for seeing you in winter, I never would go...your hair soft as sunlight, your lips right as rain...”

           

Graham joined her in song as they harmonized, dancing around the room together as though they were rehearsing for a musical. He was clad in a white, terry robe while he performed the musical number, dancing with Dana.

Her spirit soared to new and glorious heights she never could have imagined. “So this love!  You want to know something...really, totally amazing?” Dana smiled, her heart was as light as a feather, as she peered into his eyes.

           

“You have to ask?”

           

“Just...checking. Well...God...I guess I would have to say...the Holy Spirit, which is the same thing... has been pouring out incredible songs of praise and worship...I mean just raining them down on me....I mean... I could be riding one of the thoroughbreds... when suddenly this supernatural...anointing falls over me and I burst into song...the music and lyrics just rain down from heaven! I mean...I can’t tell you how incredible that is!”

           

“So...I hope you’ve recorded...or remembered the words and the tune...I realize that might be a challenge when you aren’t expecting the... outpouring.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Marlene Worrall Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest. IMDB.

Thank you, Marlene, for sharing this book with me and my readers. I’m eager to read it.

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

UNTIL WE FIND HOME - Cathy Gohlke - One Free Book

Welcome back, Cathy. What are some of the spiritual themes you like to write about?

I write about characters, like us, who break the chains that bind—those chains forced upon us and the ones we forge ourselves—to triumph over adversity through faith. I also write about forgiveness—received and given. Neither come naturally to us. Both need our surrender, and Divine intervention.

What other books of yours are coming out soon?

My next novel, currently titled The Medallion, will release in June 2019. Inspired by true accounts of Poland’s darkest days and brightest heroes, The Medallion is the illuminating story of the separation and sacrifice of two couples—one Jewish and one Gentile—whose lives are ravaged by Hitler’s mad war, yet eventually redeemed through the fate of one small child.

Sounds interesting. If you could spend an evening with one contemporary person (not a family member of yours), who would it be and why?

I would love to spend an evening with the author, B J Hoff. BJ’s lyrical prose, strong characters and well drawn tales of the Irish and Irish immigrants in America have long inspired me—even before I believed I could write a book. The beautiful hearts of her main characters make me feel as if we might be kindred spirits. I just read her new release, Harp on the Willow, and thought again how very much I’d like to sit with her and share a steaming pot of tea, scones with jam and Devonshire cream, and talk story shop.

What historical person would you like to meet (besides Jesus) and why?

I’ve always said that the historical person I’d most like to meet is William Wilberforce, who championed the end of slavery in Great Britain. And I would still love to meet him, but lately I’ve come to think a lot about John Sherrill. John and his wife, Elizabeth, co-wrote The Hiding Place with Corrie ten Boom. Not only did that inspiring book (and the movie Billy Graham produced by the same title) greatly impact my life when it was first released, but Corrie’s story was a big part of my own writing of Secrets She Kept.

Beyond that, John’s story of his journey to faith in Jesus Christ while going through a frightening cancer diagnosis meant a great deal to me as I battled my own cancer. At a very low point in my chemo treatments, I realized that if John had never given his life to Christ and if he’d never survived cancer, he would not have gone on to write that amazing book. It gave me courage to continue my own fight with a surrendered heart and trust that the Lord might one day again use me to write stories that matter, stories that glorify Him and encourage others. I never contacted John while he was living to let him know how truly he had blessed my life through his faith and work. I’m sorry I did not, but look forward to doing that in the ages of eternity.

How can you encourage authors who have been receiving only rejections from publishers?

First, embrace the harsh reality that there are few publishing spots for the many manuscripts sent to publishing houses, and acknowledge that rejection of a manuscript is not personal. Those things simply mean there is more work ahead to reach one’s goal.

Second, ask yourself, and if possible, ask your agent, the publisher who rejected the manuscript (if feasible), or a mentor why they believe your manuscript was rejected. Do your best to correct any mistakes and strengthen portions of your story that you believe may have adversely affected the outcome. Make your manuscript the strongest you possibly can.

Make certain you are submitting to the right agents or publishing houses—agents or publishers that champion and publish the type of book you’ve written.

In the meantime, continue to read, read, read and write, write, write, honing your craft. Study the work of authors you admire and break down their story and yours, seeing how both are put together from the ground up.

Consider employing a professional editor to help you see what you need to do to improve your story. Be willing to edit and rewrite, and know that sometimes we simply need to set a story aside for a time and tackle a new one.

All very good advice. Tell us about the featured book.

For American Claire Stewart, joining the French Resistance sounded as romantic as the storylines she hopes will one day grace the novels she wants to write. But when she finds herself stranded on English shores, with five French Jewish children she smuggled across the channel before Nazis stormed Paris, reality feels more akin to fear.

With nowhere to go, Claire throws herself on the mercy of an estranged aunt, begging Lady Miranda Langford to take the children into her magnificent estate. Heavily weighted with grief of her own, Miranda reluctantly agrees . . . if Claire will stay to help. Though desperate to return to France and the man she loves, Claire has few options. But her tumultuous upbringing—spent in the refuge of novels with fictional friends—has ill-prepared her for the daily dramas of raising children, or for the way David Campbell, a fellow American boarder, challenges her notions of love. Nor could she foresee how the tentacles of war will invade their quiet haven, threatening all who have come to call Bluebell Wood home and risking the only family she’s ever known.

Set in England’s lush and storied Lake District in the early days of World War II, and featuring cameos from beloved literary icons Beatrix Potter and C. S. Lewis, Until We Find Home is an unforgettable portrait of life on the British home front, challenging us to remember that bravery and family come in many forms.

Sounds like a wonderful read. Please give us the first page of the book.

May 1940

Lightning crackled, splitting the night sky over Paris, illuminating letters painted on the bookstore window across the street: La Maison des Amis des Livres. Driving rain pounded the loose shutters of Shakespeare and Company, making them rattle so that Claire Stewart dropped the heavy blackout curtain into place.

“It sounds like cannon bursting, like the end of the world.” Thunder boomed again. She tugged the belt of her trench coat tighter.

“You must go,” Josephine insisted. “The lorry driver won’t wait. This is his last run to Calais. He’s running on nerves, even now. Arnaud told you—”

“Arnaud promised he’d be here. I won’t go without him. I don’t even know our British contact.”

“You know Arnaud. He’ll meet you if he can— last minute, no doubt.” Josephine Ganute—one more aspiring writer, another tumbleweed to make her home amid the burdened shelves of Sylvia Beach’s American bookstore— grunted and gently, firmly pushed Claire toward the door. “This is the last group, and the last driver willing to go. He’s insane to try. The roads must be packed with people fleeing the city.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Contact me through my website at http://cathygohlke.com and on Facebook at CathyGohlkeBooks. I’d love to meet you there!

Thank you so much, Cathy for sharing this new book with us. I’ve loved every one of the books of yours I’ve read. I’m eager to get this one. And I know my readers will be, too.

Readers, here are links to the book.

Until We Find Home - Christianbook.com (Best Price today)
Until We Find Home - Amazon Paperback
Until We Find Home - 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