WINNERS!!!

IMPORTANT: Instructions for winners  - When you send me the email, make sure your subject line says this: Winner - (book title) - (author's name) If you don't do this, your email could get lost in my hundreds of emails per day. I WILL SEARCH FOR POST TITLES STARTING THAT WAY.


Last week a large number of people didn't read the instructions of how to enter. Unfortunately, they didn't have a chance to win. so next time you come and leave a comment, be sure to read all the instructions if you want a chance to win.

Alison (MO) is the winner of Until Then  by Gail Kittleson. 

Nancy (FL) is the winner of Mandy's Song by Mary Ann Steinke-Moore.

Joan (MO) is the winner of Point of Origin by Lisa Harris and Lynne Gentry.

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. Reviews are such a blessing to an author.

Also, tell your friends about the book you won ... 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. Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.

THE CHISHOLM TRAIL BRIDE - Kathleen Y'Barbo - One Free Book

Dear Readers, I so glad my dear friend Kathleen Y’Barbo Turner is visiting my blog today. We have quite an extensive history. I was on the sidelines when Kathleen and Robert’s romance unfolded. I absolutely love her books. You will, too.

Kathleen Y’Barbo, Texas A and M Class of 1980, is a multiple Carol Award and RITA nominee and bestselling author of more than 100 books with over two million copies of her books in print in the US and abroad. A tenth-generation Texan and certified paralegal, she is a member of the Texas Bar Association Paralegal Division, Texas A and M Association of Former Student and the Texas A and M Women Former Students (Aggie Women), Texas Historical Society, Novelists Inc., and American Christian Fiction Writers. She would also be a member of the Daughters of the American Republic, Daughters of the Republic of Texas and a few others if she would just remember to fill out the paperwork that Great Aunt Mary Beth has sent her more than once.

When she’s not spinning modern day tales about her wacky Southern relatives, Kathleen inserts an ancestor or two into her historical and mystery novels as well. Recent book releases include bestselling The Pirate Bride set in 1700s New Orleans and Galveston, its sequel The Alamo Bride set in 1836 Texas, which feature a few well-placed folks from history and a family tale of adventure on the high seas and on the coast of Texas. She also writes (mostly) relative-free cozy mystery novels for Guideposts Books.

Kathleen and her hero in combat boots husband have their own surprise love story that unfolded on social media a few years back. They now make their home just north of Houston, Texas, and are the parents and in-laws of a blended family of Texans (including Hannah ’13 and Jacob ’19), Okies, and one very adorable Londoner.

Welcome back, Kathleen. What kind of files takes up the most space on your computer?

Book files, followed close behind by research files.

Do you have plans to ever retire from writing? Why or why not?

Never! I love it too much. Although if the day comes when God says stop, then I will stop. But that would be His plan, not mine.

Are you a stay at home kind of person, or do you like to be on the road a lot?

Ironically, I like both. I have a day job, so I’m on the road weekdays, even during the quarantine because our office is considered essential. During my commute, I listen to e-books, which is fabulous. I’ve “read” more books that way than any other way. And if you follow me on social media, you know that my husband and I document our road trips using #TurnerTravels. However, there’s no place like home, and I do love my time there, too.

Please share a Bible verse or passage that has had the most impact on your life.

Ephesians 3:20! Any time I am tempted to think I know what God will do in any given situation, I remember this verse. He can do so much more than I can ever think or dream of!

I like that, too. Do you have a favorite Bible character? Who is it and why?

She’s never given a name, but I very much like the Proverbs 31 woman. That gal’s got it all together!

When we celebrated our 25^th anniversary with a renewal of our vows, James used Proverbs 31 to describe me. As you might imagine, I was crying when he finished. What has been your favorite time in your life? And why?

Now! Every day I grow closer to God, so tomorrow will be even better!

Do you have an e-reader? If so, what kind do you use?

I started with a Kindle years ago and loved it. However, now I read off my iPad.

Do you read mostly print books or e-books?

Other than my Bibles, I read only e-books.

Do you like to read books in the genres you write, or do you read only other genres … and why?

I love reading historical mysteries and contemporary cozies. I’ve got one coming out in August—The Black Midnight—but I mostly write cozy mysteries now.

I’d like to feature that book when it releases. Please tell us about the books we’re featuring today.

The Chisholm Trail Bride is the third book I’ve written for the Daughters of the Mayflower series. A Series for Lovers of History, Adventure, Romance, and Ancestry, Barbour Publishing offers a series for fans of all things related to history, romance, adventure, faith, and family trees.
 

Stubborn Hearts Clash on a Cattle Drive

Eliza Gentry’s pursuit of marriage to the son of her family’s sworn enemy has cost her greatly. Furious at his daughter’s choices, her father sends her off with the cattle drive heading toward Fort Worth and the Barnhart ranch, but under the watchful eye of Wyatt Creed, a Pinkerton man he has hired to see to her safety. With danger at every turn—not the least of which to his heart—can Wyatt Creed keep his focus with Eliza Gentry around? Is the Chisholm Trail a place for falling in love or a place to die at the hands of cattle thieves?

Please give us a peek at the first page of the book.

March 1880
On the Chisholm Trail

The stars at night were big and bright. Eliza Gentry sighed. Was there any more beautiful sight? There couldn’t possibly be.

A wisp of cloud drifted lazily over a hazy fingernail of a moon while cattle lowed in the distance. Eliza lay back on the pile of quilts she’d made into the most comfortable bed in the entire encampment and stared up at those beautiful Texas stars.

Tonight they were the canopy beneath which she would sleep, and tomorrow the blazing sun would take its place. The cowboys would rise before dawn to complain about the coffee and each other, but never would they complain about riding all those miles under the big blue sky.

Much as they grumbled about other things, the men who drove cattle from the Gentry Ranch up toward the Red River lived the whole year for the spring drives. Chief among them was her father.

The fact that Mama had allowed her to go along with Papa and her brothers this year was a miracle in itself. She’d threatened to bundle Eliza off to New Orleans for the annual visit with the Gentry and LeBlanc cousins.

“The girl needs finishing,” she’d heard her mother say. “She needs the companionship of fine young ladies and the company of young gentlemen.”

Papa’s chair legs had scraped the kitchen floor at that statement, causing Eliza to gather closer into the shadows behind the kitchen door lest Papa come strolling past and find her.

“She’s got time for that,” he’d said gently.

“My mother would disagree. At twelve I already knew my place as a young lady. I had been taught how to carry myself in society and was already planning my trousseau. Meanwhile, our daughter is doing nothing of the sort.” Mama’s voice rose. “Do you know I caught her on the roof of the spring house again? When I asked her what on earth she was doing, she told me she’d only just determined that it might be possible to land in the saddle of her horse from that angle if she were to wait until the wind blew just right. Can you feature it?”

Papa’s chuckle drifted toward her. “Sounds like the work of her brothers, Pauline. Boys tease, especially their sisters.”

“I don’t find it funny at all,” her mother said. “And no, this time the culprit was that Creed boy. I know you like the elder Wyatt Creed, and I can find no fault with W.C. other than perhaps his background, but the younger Creed is trouble. You mark my words.”

Eliza’s lips twisted into a smile as she recalled the conversation and the dare that precipitated it. Mama spoke the truth when she told Papa that Wyatt Creed was involved, but what she did not know was that Eliza had never planned to try landing in that saddle.

As with every other conversation she had with Wyatt, if he thought she would do it, he’d have to do it, too. And better. Or faster.

Or whatever else it took to best her.

Sometimes he did and sometimes he didn’t. This time they would never know whether Wyatt might have landed that jump into the saddle thanks to Mama’s interruption of what would have been a perfectly good idea.

And of course that traitor Wyatt saw Mama heading for them and cut out for home before she spied him. That left Eliza on the roof with no good explanation other than the truth.

The reverend said the truth would set her free. This time the truth almost sent her into exile.

Only Papa and his insistence on taking her along with the purpose of talking sense into her kept her off the steamer that was currently heading east. For that she was eternally grateful.

Mama’s sister, Eugenie, had just given birth to a baby girl she’d named Justine. All Mama had done from the time the letter arrived until she’d left on the stage was to sew up dainty baby girl clothes for her new niece, all the while rattling on about how in no time it would be her turn to marry and have babies of her own.

As much as she loved Mama, she did not value her opinion on this subject. From what she could tell, growing up and marrying meant giving up riding alongside Papa on the trail and sleeping under the stars.

A life without that was no life at all. And babies? They cried and made messes and were a general source of disruption. She had Wyatt for that.

Thank you, Kathleen, for letting me share this new book with my blog readers. My copy arrived the other day. I’m eager to get to where I can read it. I want to know what happens next.  I’m working on getting a print copy of my latest book published on Amazon.

Where can my readers find you on the Internet?

Facebook: www.facebook.com/KathleenYBarbo

Website: www.kathleenybarbo.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kathturner/

Readers, here are links to the book.

The Chisholm Trail Bride (Daughters of the Mayflower) The Chisholm Trail Bride (Daughters of the Mayflower) The Chisholm Trail Bride (The Daughters of the Mayflower (12))

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, 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

APRIL FOOLS IN LOVE - Kimberly Brown - One Free Book

Dear Readers, I’m happy to introduce you to one of the people from the critique group that meets in my home. I have put together 4 different novella collections connected with holidays with the authors in my group. The two Brown girls, no relations, teamed up to write this book. I’m so glad Kim published it as an independent book.

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

I actually write myself quite a bit into most of my main characters and villains. Many things said and done are based on what I have seen, felt, and experienced in the past. The rest of the time I think family/friends and famous characters from other stories give small elements to some characters.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

Oh gosh, that is such a difficult question. I can be pretty weird, the first thing that pops to mind is randomly bursting into song. Which I am prone to do pretty often now. I don’t like awkward silence and I always seem to have a song in my head, and it just spills out.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I think I was about 8 years old. I didn’t have a computer, and was visiting my cousin’s and learned about this thing called “Roleplay” on chat services and these users created rooms, where you wrote as a made up character or one from a book, movie, cartoon, etc… I fell in love with it and started to do it more and more. I was honestly addicted.

I had kept detailed daily journals thanks to my grandma, but never before had passion about writing. Now I wanted to improve, and the practice helped me explore different ideas. I knew I wanted to do this the rest of my life.  

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

Every few years I seem to discover more genre’s I like. Growing up it was kids’ books, then Fantasy or Sci-Fi. Later, I fell in love with classics like To kill a Mockingbird, then I went into Horror, now I like some Poetry, Romance, and Historical pieces. Who knows next year I may branch out into even more!

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

What Sanity?

Seriously though, at times I feel like I’m a bit half there on the sanity meter. I feel you have to be. I don’t believe in a set “norm,” but the fact that I don’t try to act sane, and instead look at the world through my own eyes and seek to find its mystery, beauty, and secrets. That’s what I think keeps me grounded and able to do the daily grind.

I would say my family, friends, and dogs keep me in reality enough to face what the world throws at me, and God constantly reminds me of who He created me to be. Different and unique.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Depends on the setting, sometimes a name just pops into my head, or I want them to look a certain way and I may do a play on words to a famous actor they share similarities to.

Most of the time I use names as some sort of telltale sign for personality traits or their past. I also love adding archaic words and Easter eggs.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Currently, getting this novella published. I never thought I would actually get there. I was close to giving up so many times. At times, I can’t believe that I actually did it.

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

A Wolf.

As my online friends know I go by GuardianWolfKim. I have always loved wolves. They are powerful and beautiful. Despite the bad reputation they typically have, they are very interesting creatures. The idea of a “lone wolf” is a bit of an oxymoron, as the wolf that is alone is rarely going to survive. Wolves are pack animals; they are fiercely loyal and most importantly they are smart. They hunt with a plan, and you don’t want to have one as an enemy. However, if you are welcomed into the pack, you will never find a more loyal friend.

What is your favorite food?

Pasta. I just can’t get enough. I love it with or without sauce, but it must have cheese and plain with olive oil is the best!

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

Motivation. Honestly, I would get so mad at people trying to “help” or encourage me, but they were right. The only solution is to do it anyway. Whenever I didn’t feel like writing and did anyway…. Just wow. It would always be hard at first and sometime later it was the wee hours of the morning and work the next day was hard. It’s funny how going forward when you don’t feel you can made all the difference in the world. I realize I have to develop a habit and appetite for the things I want to devote myself to. Not just writing, but everything. Doing it even when I don’t want to, it’s just like working out. Eventually change happens.

Tell us about the featured book.

April Fools in Love is a cute tribute to classic 90’s high-school type romance seen on TV shows when I was a kid.

Lena’s Critique group had given us an option to write as part of a novella collection, but themed on April Fools. I was disappointed that it wasn’t Valentine’s day as I like Valentines, but have always hated April Fools, for personal reasons. Then a funny idea hit me “We’re a couple! April Fools.” This simple idea gave birth to the book.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Friday, February 14

A cool February breeze brushed Zeke’s ruffled hair from his face. His best friend wrapped her light jacket more securely around her arms. Sixty-eight degrees this afternoon at the seaside town of Fool’s Paradise made him think she was nuts for even bringing a coat. The quad filled with couples walking up and down the sidewalks, holding hands. Others sat on the grass sharing picnics and smooching sporadically.

Zeke laid back on the blanket and sighed, staring at the puffy clouds passing by. Being on the school lawn with Esther is the best part of free period. 

“Happy Singles Awareness Day …” The brunette sighed. “Another romantic day at Schlemiel High.” Her emerald eyes turned from the couples and back to him. “Are we the only people in the school not dating?”

He shrugged. “I don’t know. I think there are still a few people around that are single.” He bolted upright. “Don’t forget the chess club!” He grinned, searching her face for a smile.

Esther grumbled. “No, the girls in the chess club paired up with the guys.” She laid her chin on her fist. “Hey, look at that.” She gestured to a tall guy wearing a basketball jersey, and a short blonde in a dress. “I thought Tommy was with April?”

Zeke glanced across the courtyard. “I guess he and the new girl are a thing now.” Who cares?

“This is so unfair.” She huffed. “I mean, two years and not one date. You’d think I was a leopard or something.” She fell beside him.

Zeke burst out a raucous laugh. “I think you mean leper.” He dropped to his side and propped up on his elbow, laying his cheek against his fist. “There’s nothing wrong with you. These people were dating in elementary. They’ve got reputations. You know how it goes. A good boyfriend is talked up by the girls. A good girlfriend is talked up by the boys, and it makes others want to date them. We don’t have reputations, so no one wants to date us.” He gazed at the red-headed cheerleader hugging the captain of the wrestling team. “Lucinda won’t even look at me.” He heaved a sigh.

A piece of paper, carried by the wind, danced midair.

He snatched it. “A flier? ‘Can you fool us? Prove you’re the best April Fooler. Prank or fool everyone so well that your names are memorialized on the King of Fools award.’ Again?” He shook his head and crumpled the paper. Every year, the same stupid contest. He hated April Fool’s Day. It was an excuse to hurt people’s feelings, lie, and humiliate others.

Esther shot upright. “Zeke, you’re a genius! That’s it.”

“What’s it?” He rolled onto his back. “And why am I a genius?” Oh no, what crazy scheme is she cooking up now? He froze, unsure if he should move or not.

Esther chuckled. “We don’t have a reputation.” Her gaze devoured a tall and toned boy next to a voluptuous blonde.

Damien…. Our resident track star. He’s not that great. “Yeah, so?”

“Doofus.” She socked him in the arm. “I’m a woman. You’re a man … ” She held out her hands as if expecting him to know what she was thinking.

He nodded. “This is about Damien, isn’t it?” He groaned inwardly.

Esther shook her head. “Okay, I take back the genius remark.” She turned fully toward him. “I know how we can fix everything.” Her grin widened.

Zeke furrowed his brow. “Wait … fix everything, how?”

She lifted her chin. “Don’t worry. I have a plan, and we’ll launch it tonight.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is: www.GuardianWolfKim.com on there you can see links to all social media and other sources of contact for me.

I can also be emailed at GuardianWolfKim@icloud.com

Thank you, Kim, for sharing your book with my blog readers and me.

Readers, here are links to the book.

April Fools in Love: A NOVELLA - Paperback
April Fools in Love: A Novella - 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, 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

CLAIMING CANAAN - Barbara M Britton - One Free Print Book

Bio: Barbara M. Britton lives in Southeast Wisconsin and loves the snow—when it accumulates under three inches. She is published in Biblical fiction and enjoys bringing little-known Bible characters to light in her stories. Look for Barb to venture into Christian Historical fiction with Until June. Barb is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers, the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, Romance Writers of America and Wisconsin Romance Writers of America. She has a nutrition degree from Baylor University but loves to dip healthy strawberries in chocolate.

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

I was a chapel teacher to elementary students for many years. My husband gave me excellent advice. He told me not to bore people with the Bible because it is the most exciting book ever. He also encouraged me not to just teach a Bible story, but to teach why the story is in the Bible. I used that advice in my lessons, and I apply it to the Bible stories that I write. I love bringing little-known Bible stories to light.

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

I grew up in a wonderful family, but we weren’t Christian. My mom became a Christian through Bible Study Fellowship and took my sister and I to church. My father didn’t attend church with us. We prayed for my dad for years. We were ecstatic when he accepted Jesus and was baptized.

How has being published changed your life?

Once you send a story off into the world and develop a readership, readers want to know when your next book is coming out. As an author, you have to write the next book and spread the word about your existing books. You wear two hats instead of one. I am much busier on social media and with speaking engagements as a published author. It’s very important to me to stay engaged with church and ministry, so my days are fairly full.

What are you reading right now?

I am reading Daughter of Rome by Tessa Afshar. It is the book selection for the Biblical Fiction Buffs Goodreads group. Tessa brings the story of Aquila and Priscilla to fiction. She is one of my favorite authors.

Another author of biblical fiction that I love is Mesu Andrews. What is your current work in progress?

I’m tackling the life of David in-between book launches. I enjoy writing about the Old Testament and finding new-to-me saints.

What would be your dream vacation?

I’d love to discover more of our National Parks. I visited Yellowstone last summer and was amazed at the beauty and the geological variations. Huge Bison strolled by our car. We didn’t see any bears and that was fine with me. I hear Utah has scenic parks.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

The story chooses the setting. With Biblical Fiction, I’m limited to Israel and the surrounding countries. When I get an idea for a book, I am usually standing in the setting. Hearing stories on vacation gets my mind swirling with stories. I have set stories in Israel, Hawaii, Alaska, and Wisconsin.

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

Sarah Huckabee Sanders. She was a press secretary to the President, and she is the daughter of a Governor. I would ask how she manages young children and an intense job. What is it like to be under constant scrutiny? Of course, I would listen to any job secrets she was willing to share.

I highly respect both her and her father. What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I enjoy walking outside. During Wisconsin winters, I walk on a treadmill which isn’t as fun. I get a lot of praying done while I walk on the treadmill. I also like analyzing movies for plot lines.

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

Insecurity. Even though I have several books published, I still doubt my ability at times. I pray to God that He will help me to write the best story that I can. I also say to myself that I’m writing the manuscript for me and no one else.

I don’t know any Christian author who doesn’t feel insecurity in some measure. What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Early in my writing journey, I was given the advice to join professional writing organizations, get involved in the local chapters, and attend writing conferences. I have done that for twelve years. Meeting other writers helps you build a support system. A writer needs to learn how to craft a book, but you also need to learn about the publishing industry. Professional groups help with the learning curve and friendship building.

Tell us about the featured book.

I have been a Christian for decades, but I did not know the story of the daughters of Zelophehad. Five orphaned sisters asked Moses if they could inherit their deceased father’s land. Moses went to God and God said the girls were right. If a man died without a son, his daughters could inherit his land. I wrote a book about the girls’ big ask. I was going to write one book, but at the end, the sisters did not have their land. I followed the girls through the book of Joshua. Claiming Canaan shows the sisters receiving their inheritance of land.

Claiming Canaan book blurb:

When the tribal elders make marriage a requirement for claiming her land, Milcah bat Zelophehad must find a betrothed straightaway. The only problem in finding a husband is that all her suitors were slain while conquering the land of Canaan. Men avoid her in order to stay alive.

After praying to God to send her a bold suitor, a man from her father's clan plummets from a tree right on top of her. Is this God answering prayer, or a foolish antic by Eli, the war-scarred brother from one of her clan's rival families?

Will settling in Canaan sort out Milcah's troubles, or have her woes just begun?

Please give us the first page of the book.

Prologue

Six years after the battle for Ai

The camp at Gilgal, outside the fallen fortress of Jericho

Milcah bat Zelophehad stood in the noonday sun, on a hill not far from the rowed tent tops of camp. She waited with her older sisters. Her sisters waited for their husbands. She waited for Hanoch. The man who had asked her eldest sister if he could arrange a betrothal when he returned from battle. Hanoch, a brave soul, did not care that another man who had expressed an interest in marriage to her lay buried deep beneath the ground somewhere in Canaan

Battle-hardened warriors traipsed along the path toward their homes in Gilgal. Men from the tribes of Israel, the sons of Jacob, carried satchels of spoils. Some bulging. Others thin. But all contained wealth from fallen cities.

“Do you see them?” she asked her sisters, rising on tiptoe. She twisted the gold band on her finger. The ring with the ruby as solid and handsome as her Hanoch. He had sneaked the ring to her before he departed.

“Not yet,” her sister Hoglah said. “I have seen few of our tribesmen. Perhaps the men of Manasseh ventured farther north with Joshua.”

Two men passed on the trail. One fighter tugged a wide-bellied cow toward its new home. Would Hanoch bring her livestock?

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website has information about my books, www.barbarambritton.com.

I also like to connect on Twitter @BarbaraMBritton, and on Facebook, and Goodreads.

You can purchase Claiming Canaan on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Pelican Book Group, and where books are sold. Libraries can order the series too.

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, 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!!!

IMPORTANT: Instructions for winners  - When you send me the email, make sure your subject line says this: Winner - (book title) - (author's name) If you don't do this, your email could get lost in my hundreds of emails per day. I WILL SEARCH FOR POST TITLES STARTING THAT WAY.

This week a large number of people this week didn't read the instructions of how to enter. Unfortunately, they didn't have a chance to win. so next time you come and leave a comment, be sure to read all the instructions if you want a chance to win.

Betty (Canada) is the winner of Reluctant to Wed  by Anneliese Dalaba. 

Diana (SC) is the winner of The Merchant's Yield by Lorri Dudley.

Vera (NC) is the winner of One Hundred Valleys by Bonnie Leon.

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. Reviews are such a blessing to an author.

Also, tell your friends about the book you won ... 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. Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.

POINT OF ORIGIN - Lisa Harris and Lynne Gentry - One Free Book

Dear Readers, I’ve been eagerly awaiting this second book in a series by two of my dearest friends. Their books are powerfully spiritual suspense novels about true-to-life events. I’ve known about both of these books while they were planning and writing them. Little did they know that this book would release when a world-wide pandemic was in full force, which makes this story almost prophetic. I haven’t received my copy yet, but it will go to the very top of my to-be-read pile. You won’t want to miss it.

 Welcome, Lisa and Lynne. This is your second collaboration. How did this story come about?

We’ve always been fans of Mercy Ships and have followed their work for years. One day Lynne was scrolling through her Facebook feed and saw a Mercy Ship story about a boy suffering from a disease that had morphed his body into the shape of a Z. His before and after story was amazing. Because volunteers had dared to bring medical care to a third-world country, this boy had received the gift of straight legs. While all of this good was going on, pirates were really upping their attack game on passing ships and a deadly Ebola outbreak had made its way to the States and set off global panic. The three elements collided and PORT OF ORIGIN was the result.

James and I have loved the work of Mercy Ships since the beginning. Another dear friend of mine was on one of the first two. She shared miraculous stories that God brought about for their team. How did you feel as a team because your story so closely resembles what is going on right now?

The concept of a killer virus on a medical ship was actually fleshed out in a 2009 book series proposal we were shopping. When we didn’t get the opportunity to finish the series, we set the project aside. In 2017 we released the first book in the series (Ghost Heart). That book did so well we decided to write the rest of the series. Due to life setbacks, we didn’t finish the book until December of 2019. Last year, Covid-19 wasn’t even a blip on the map. All of our research was based on a combination of the 2014 Ebola outbreak and pure speculation. Imagine our surprise when, just a month after the book was finished, we started hearing of a rogue virus causing cruise ships to port with hundreds of ill passengers. The day the military medical ship sailed into New York City’s port to rescue the dying, we thought we would cry.

One way our story differs from our current world crisis is that we believe in hope. No matter how dark any of our struggles seem, we believe God is sovereign and He is in control. Port of Origin, while eerily close to the times in which we are living, is filled with wonderful, brave people, and lots of hope.    

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

LYNNE: First, we decided we wanted our hero and heroine to each have a distinctive voice. The easiest way to achieve their separate voices was for each of us to choose which one we wanted to write. Next, it made sense for Lisa to write the scenes involving African characters since she lives there. Because of my connections to the medical world through my daughter and my husband, I did the research and writing for those scenes.

LISA: Once we decided on who was going to write which characters, it allowed us to focus on that part of the story line, and one each specific character’s backstory and personalities. Watching the story come together was really exciting.

What is the hardest thing about writing as a team?

When we began to delve into the research, we were really surprised by what we found. For example, it was sobering to discover that vast amounts of money have been made by the stripping of Africa’s natural resources, but little of that financial gain has trickled down to Africa’s impoverished population. As individual writers, Lisa and I don’t always see things the same way. But in the give and take of coming to a workable solution, we’ve both been surprised by how much we’ve grown. We’ve really come to appreciate each other’s strengths. And we’ve both come to realize that we need a really good editor because neither of us will win any awards for grammar.

What are you reading right now?

LYNNE: I always have a book going. I just finished JoJo Moyes’ Giver of the Stars. Such a fascinating and rich story set during the Depression. I love Paulette Jiles and have recently finished News of the World and The Color of Lightning.

LISA: I’ve just started James R. Hannibal’s The Gryphon Heist.

I always love to see what book the authors I interview are reading. They give me ideas about what books I want to read. How did you choose your characters’ names?

We love our character names to have meaning. We do a lot of searching through name lists and when something rings a bell, we look up the meaning. For example, our hero Josiah is a broken man. We picked this name because it means Jehovah heals. Sometimes we love to honor people we know and use part of their name. When you read our books, you’ll find them sprinkled with tributes to people we love.

Would you want to work on another book together?

We are. We’ve got two more books planned for this year. Lethal Outbreak releases in the Dangerous Deceptions box set with 7 other new books by award-winning authors on October 13. We hope to release Death Triangle, the fourth book in the series, by the end of 2020 or early 2021.

What do you want to tell us about the book?

Two fathers go to war to save their children. If the woman in the middle can’t convince them to work together, the winner of this conflict will be a deadly virus intent on destroying the world. 

Please give us the first page of the book.

Off the Coast of Cameroon, Central Africa

Since ancient times, the sea had been generous. Tuna. Sardines. Ocean prawns big as a man’s hand. But those days of plenty had vanished in the wake of the foreign trawlers whose illegal fishing practices were destroying the coastline’s natural resources. Dabir watched the moon slip behind a veil of clouds, leaving him and his brothers to navigate the vast Atlantic in an eerie shroud of darkness. From his position at the end of the boat, he could see little beyond the shadowy silhouettes of his father and his two younger brothers.

                       

He stopped rowing for a moment as he waited for the sharp tug of the nylon fishing net that would signal the night’s first catch. A wave smashed against the side of the narrow craft, reminding him of the dangers of straying too far into the open waters. He searched for the light of the trawlers that swept the sea’s floor with their ghostlike underwater lights while their wide metal jaws devoured everything in sight, but tonight there was no sign of the floodlights used to lure the fish into their nets. Which meant the deadly boats could be anywhere, trying to avoid the overworked coastal patrols searching in vain for those illegal vessels that strayed into the zone reserved for the smaller vessels. All Dabir could do was pray his father’s boat steered clear of the stealthy trawlers that prowled the darkness. And pray that they would catch enough fish to feed their family another day.

Where can our readers find you on the Internet?

Together we have a Harris/Gentry Suspense Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/harrisgentrysuspense/?ref=bookmarks

LISA: www.lisaharriswrites.com

Twitter: @heartofafrica

Facebook: AuthorLisaHarris

LYNNE: www.lynnegentry.com

https://www.facebook.com/Author-Lynne-Gentry-215337565176144/

https://www.instagram.com/lynnegentry.author/?hl=en

Thank you, Lynne and Lisa, for allowing me to help you market your books. I know my blog readers are as interested in them as I am.

Readers, here are links to the book.

Port Of Origin: A Medical Thriller (Agents Of Mercy) - Paperback
Port Of Origin: A Medical Thriller (Agents Of Mercy Book 2) - Kindle
If you missed the first book in the series and want to read both of them:
Agents Of Mercy (2 Book Series) - 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.

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MANDY'S SONG - Mary Ann Steinke-Moore - One Free Ebook

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

There’s wisdom in the advice “Write what you know.” For Mandy’s Song I needed to remember high school so that I’d get her point of view right. For example, her character flaw is lack of confidence, so I borrowed from my experience as an overweight junior high kid for Mandy’s back story. Also, concerning the prophetic dreams, I adapted one I actually experienced for the story. When I was a teen I dreamed that my dad backed the car over our sheltie, Lady. That day I heard him start the car and screamed for him to stop. I hurried over, and Lady was sleeping right behind the car. In the book I used this incident to emphasize the conflict between Mandy’s dad’s concrete, facts-only view of the world, with Mandy’s broader spiritual insight. My own dad was just glad he didn’t back over Lady! Somewhere I read that another author answered the question of how much his main character was like him by saying all the characters were part of him. I believe that’s true. With the various characters authors are expressing various parts of ourselves, like actors express different aspects with different roles.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

There are many quirks to choose from, but probably the top one is buying a toy dung beetle and hiding it in various props during a civic theater musical’s dress rehearsal. I still laugh remembering the lead’s face when she opened a box, saw it, and jumped back. (Apologies to our poor stressed-out director.) (And I was in my 40’s, not a teenager at the time….)

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

In 4th grade a poem I’d written made it into the school literary publication The Edison Eagle. That gave me the confidence to tell my teacher that I wanted to be a writer when I grew up.

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

My favorites are cozy mysteries with interesting settings—British Isles, Venice, the Appalachians, Canada, Minnesota, etc. I like both historical and contemporary. As a former children’s librarian, I enjoy the full range of children’s books, from picture books through young adult. My book club has nudged me into discovering biographies and thoughtful non-mystery fiction. I like inspirational and devotional books that help with spiritual growth. Humorous books are a fun change of pace.

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

Our pets help me slow down once I’m home: nothing like a purring cat on your lap, or a snuggly guinea pig to quiet blood pressure. Walking the dog is a peaceful time to enjoy nature and fresh air. Putting on music CDs makes tasks like cleaning and dish washing more fun. Swimming laps when possible is very rhythmic and peaceful, and is a good chance to ponder my life—or not. When I don’t have to be somewhere early in the morning, journaling is a big help, whether it’s uncovering profound insights or just jotting a to-do list. Remembering to turn worry into prayer eases much tension. Singing in choirs is a joy, and the songs often run through my mind—and maybe my voice—when I’m driving somewhere.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Randomly. By feel. The name “Mandy” is undoubtedly a result of my being a teenager in the 70’s and loving Barry Manilow’s song. Mandy’s best friend, “Shelby,” has a warmth that reminds me of Southern gentleness and caring, and of a cousin’s wife by that name.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

In personal life, raising two kind daughters who are loving and helpful to those around them. Professionally, one for each career: as a librarian, directing a Ghost Story Writing Contest for 14 years, encouraging many young writers to recognize their talents; as a preschool teacher, being patient and interested enough to get some students who feared speaking to finally talk; and as a writer, sticking with revising and submitting Mandy’s Song many years until it found a publishing home and reached readers.

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

A deer, because I enjoy being in the woods, quiet but curious. They have a mysterious, other-worldly quality that J.K. Rowling expressed in the Harry Potter books.

What is your favorite food?

Chocolate, in many forms. From Nutella to choco-mint anything, from candy to mousse to cake.

I love chocolate, too. Dark chocolate. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

For me it was overcoming procrastination and discouragement. If I have a specific deadline for an editor, I can work hour after hour into the night to get it done, letting other tasks slide. But for many, many years I didn’t have an editor waiting, and it was easy to let the writing be the work that got put off. The things that helped were: attending writers’ and book conferences and finding writing friends. Friends lifted me up out of rejection despair, and rejoiced with each little victory. Critique group meetings gave me deadlines before I had an editor. Applying for scholarships and fellowships brought needed encouragement when I won them: thank you Highlights Foundation and Midwest Writers Workshop. Also, Julia Cameron’s exercises in The Artist’s Way helped me in many ways. Whether it’s grief, discouragement, fear or lack of self-confidence, obstacles have impeded me from getting the writing done. I’ve learned to be gentle with myself after a death in the family, for example. My inner artist is stunned for a while, and doesn’t have the joy needed to create. I’ve learned to be gentle when needed, but firm when needed, too. When I’m starting a project, it’s less threatening to write by hand in a notebook, then switch to typing on the computer once the ideas are flowing.

Interesting. Tell us about the featured book.

Mandy has two hopes during her senior year of high school: to develop her singing skill enough to win a lead in a musical and secure a place in a college music school; and to nudge her friendship with Erik into romance. Her self-doubt and Erik’s distrust of others cause difficulty moving forward with this dream. From childhood Mandy has had other dreams: that come true. She has to discern if her dreams are ordinary ones, symbolic ones—or prophetic. When her nightmares about Erik’s well-being worsen, she must draw on her courage, her faith, and her love for him, to help.

Please give us the first page of the book.

It’s funny how life-changing events can start with something so small. Something as insignificant as a doodle in the margin of a calculus notebook. My stomach was already swirling at the thought of the after-school Cinderella audition when I reached third-hour Calc. Erik had gotten there first and sprawled at the desk behind mine, drawing in his spiral notebook. The dark curls on his forehead and the unguarded look on his face combined to make my insides churn like a blender switched to High. After a cleansing breath and some mental coaching—Calm down, Mandy!—I made it to my desk. Erik folded his long legs so I could get into my seat. ‚Today is it, right? The big audition?‛ He did a pencil drum roll. ‚Riverwood’s very own high school musical.‛ Even with my queasy stomach, I couldn’t help laughing. I twisted to face him. ‚Yeah, it’s my dramatic moment. Will she or won’t she win a lead senior year? Tune in on Tuesday.‛ My shoulders relaxed. He was so good at breaking up tension. One of the many likeable things about him. His open notebook caught my attention. I always enjoyed checking out the aliens or birds or trees he drew in the margins.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is http://www.maryannsteinke-moore.com  

Facebook page is: Mary Ann Steinke-Moore Author

Instagram is: steinkemoore

Thank you, Mary Ann, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

Mandy's Song

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the ebook. 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, 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