WORD GETS AROUND - Julie B Cosgrove - One Free Book

As an author, I know it takes a lot of people to birth each book. Who were the people involved in the birthing of this book, and what were their contributions? Of course, Marji Lane, Editor in Chief of Write Integrity Press leads the pack. Not only did she design the cover but also helped in edits, as did Sherry Crowder.

In the Wordplay Mysteries, I began naming some of the characters in town after people who have supported my writing. It is my small way to thank them for their prayers and kudos over the years.

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

Due to COVID, I have not been speaking at all. Perhaps God is closing that door. Events scheduled then canceled. I mostly speak at church women’s groups and writer groups and public gatherings continue to be discouraged, so it is not feasible, especially with a spike again due to the delta strain.

COVID has really affected my speaking, but I’ve started doing ZOOM speaking and have a larger field available. If you had to completely start over in another place, where would you move, and why? I had to completely start over so many times when my husband was alive due to his career in structural steel, and it tore my heart each time to say goodbye to new friends. I am so thankful God has allowed me to set down deep roots into Fort Worth. I don’t want to move, unless of course God tells me it’s time. One thing I do know, I am always with family in church so that is where I always headed, sometime before I even found a grocery store!

If I had the funds though, I would love to spend six months in England letting (that is what they call renting) a holiday cottage in a small village. I was blessed to spend two weeks there embedded with a family while on a mission trip.

If you could only tell aspiring novelists one thing, what would it be? Any craft has to be perfected, so toughen your skin, learn from seasoned authors, and never let your pride thwart your talent.

You’ve been asked to be in charge of a celebrity cruise. Who would you ask to take part, and why? (As in what program, singers, etc. [it doesn’t have to be writing related]) I have absolutely no desire to go on a cruise. I get motion sickness too easily. However, if I only had to plan the thing, I’d have for entertainment worship bands such as Casting Crowns, Mercy Me, and Third Day―if they’d come out of retirement. Oh, and Michael Card. He is a true minstrel. For speakers, I’d book Max Lucado and Priscilla Shirer because they speak to me personally, not only because they are fellow Texans.

I might risk constant nausea for that cruise!

I’d be the first to sign up for that cruise. I love all of those. And they have some amazing anti-motion sickness things now. You could be there with me. Tell us about the featured book. Word Gets Around is the second of six contracted books in the Wordplay Mysteries set in fictitious Scrub Oak, Texas. In the series, widowed Wanda Warner has lived there most of her life and possesses a deep sense of community. When crime begins to creep in, she organizes a neighborhood watch program. Now her nephew, Todd, is on the police force and Wanda wants his badge to shine, so she uses her community position, keen mind, and natural curiosity to help solve crimes. Each book reflects her love for word games.

In Word Gets Around, someone leaves one-word notes on the windshields of cars around town at the same time a rising star reporter goes missing. Wanda is convinced the two events are related, but can she decipher the message in time to help locate this reporter? And does she seriously want to get involved after words on Scrabble board games led her to the discovery of several murders in Book 1, Word Has It.

Please give us the first page of the book.

It had been three months since Wanda Lee Warner had dared to open the box. She’d stuffed it into the top shelf of her bedroom closet. Didn’t matter. She knew it lurked there.

Sometimes, in the middle of the night, she’d roll over in bed, stare at the closed door, and envision it, beckoning her to lift the lid and begin the mystery.

“You’re overreacting, Aunt Wanda.” Todd Martin peered at her over his mug of coffee. He sat at her kitchen table the way he always did on Thursday mornings, his day off as a patrol officer for the Scrub Oak Police Department. “It’s been weeks, no months, since the Scrabble board held clues to solving the murders at the Ferguson Mansion.”

“I know. And I used to love playing the word game with you.”

“You used to love playing it with anyone who walked through the door.” He reached for the creamer. “This stuff is awful. Another one of Priscilla’s latest and greatest blends?”

“It is. Ugandan Supreme. I think that’s what she calls it.”

“Thought so. I could smell it before I opened the door.”

“That bad, huh?” She plopped down across from him and took a sip of the new flavor featured at the Coffee Bean. She had hated to disappoint Priscilla Tucker, who ran the bistro inside the Grocery Mart. So, she’d bought a bag. Like most of the selections, it tasted too strong, too bitter, and too pungent.

The java roast assaulted her taste buds, sending a shiver through her torso. “Ugh. You’re right. This wins the prize for the nastiest one yet.”

Wanda grabbed his mug. She dumped its contents into the sink along with hers. She rinsed out the dispenser and waved goodbye to the grounds swirling down the disposal drain. Then she plopped some good old-fashioned, lighter-blend American coffee pods in the brewer. Within a few seconds she returned the mugs to the table. “There. Less of a hassle anyway.”

Todd kissed her cheek. “Thanks, Aunt Wanda. Now where is the box?”

Where can we find you on the Internet?

My website is www.juliebcosgrove.com. I have also had an inspirational blog for the past 11 years. It is www.wheredidyoufindgod.com   

I am on Facebook in three places. My personal Facebook page is https://www.facebook.com/juliebcosgrove.tx. My author page is https://www.facebook.com/juliebcosgrove.  Then I have a new one strictly for my cozy mysteries  https://www.facebook.com/mysterieswithmessage where I hope other faith-based mystery writes will start to contribute as well so Christian fictions fans who love mysteries will know where to find clean, safe, and appropriate ones.

Thank you, Julie, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. I love word puzzles.

Readers, here are links to the book.

http://ow.ly/TLuM50FGrKO

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

B.O.L.O. - A HEART'S FOREVER HOME - Lena Nelson Dooley - One free Book Giveaway

B.O.L.O. (Be On the Look Out)

Book 3 of my Love’s Road Home, A Heart’s Forever Home, will release on September 14.

It’s on preorder right now. Here’s the link: http://ow.ly/6LBe50FEJ4l

A single lawyer whose clients think he needs a wife 

A woman who needs a forever home...or a forever family...or a forever love.

Although Traesa Killdare is a grown woman now, the discovery that her adoption wasn’t finalized sends her reeling. Especially when her beloved grandmother dies and the only siblings she’s ever known exile her from the family property without a penny to her name.

Wilson Pollard works hard for the best interest of his law clients, even those who think a marriage would make him more “suitable” in his career. And when the beloved granddaughter of a recently deceased client comes to him for help, he knows he must do whatever necessary to make her situation better.

As each of their circumstances worsen, a marriage of convenience seems the only answer for both. Traesa can’t help but fall for her new husband—the man who’s given her both his home and his name. But what will it take for Wilson to realize he loves her? Will a not-so-natural disaster open his eyes and heart?

Since this book won’t be available for over a month, the giveaway on the blog today will be a free copy of any of my McKenna’s Daughters titles: Maggie’s Journey, Mary’s Blessings, or Catherine’s Pursuit.

Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win the free 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 do n't do this, your email could get lost in my hundreds of emails per day. I WILL SEARCH FOR POST TITLES STARTING THAT WAY.

Some people don't read the instructions of how to enter. Unfortunately, they don'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.

Sarah (OH) is the winner of Butterfly Cottage by Carrie Fancett Pagels. 

Lual (MT) is the winner of The Last Gasp by Chautona Havig.

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. 

BLUEBONNET BRIDE - Molly Noble Bull - One Free Book

Dear Readers, Molly is a long-time writer friend of mine. I was honored to read Bluebonnet Bride before it was published. You are going to love this story.

Welcome back, Molly. How did you come up with the idea for this story? Though I was never tested, I think I might be dyslexic. It was hard for me to learn to read and spell. Now I write novels that other people read.

My heroine in Bluebonnet Bride is Gina Hollister, a PhD with dyslexia. During my research on the topic, I discovered that many PhD’s are dyslexic. Apparently, some dyslexics never retire because they don’t know how to stop trying.

Many times, people (and other authors) think you have it made with so many books published. What is your most difficult problem with writing at this time in your career? My biggest problems are marketing, finding time to write, and keeping up with all the new trends.

Tell us about the featured book.

Blurb for Bluebonnet Bride:

Billionaire Steve Bryson doesn’t like Bible thumpers, and he thinks Dr. Gina Hollister is one.

Gina Hollister, a dyslexic with a PhD in educational psychology, is hired by widower and business tycoon, Steve Bryson, to tutor his fourteen-year-old daughter, Amanda, for the summer at his huge house near Durango, Colorado, a mansion that Gina calls a castle. An attraction soon develops between Gina and Steve, but their romance can never end in marriage because. . . .

If you like sweet Christian romances set in the beautiful mountains of Colorado and the Texas hill country, you will want to read Bluebonnet Bride. It might even make you smile.

Please give the first page of the novel.

She’d had another of those horrible flashbacks straight from her teenage years.

Gina Hollister sucked in her breath, releasing it slowly. The words you’re incredibly stupid continued to play in her mind.

Incredible. She hadn’t known the meaning of the word when she heard it for the first time. But she knew stupid—even back then.  

She stepped out of her car—stood there for a moment with her purse on the top of her ten-year-old white Buick. Why did this happen now? It was Friday morning, and she had an important meeting with the father of one of her students, a man she’d never met. Would the flashbacks ever end?

Her purse strap slid toward her, with the brown loop hanging over the window. She reached for it—one second too late. Her handbag turned upside down, landing on the concrete parking lot. She’d forgotten to zip it up, again. Everything inside spilled out with a cacophony of tinkling and jingling.

Gina counted to ten. She was a PhD, now, and an intelligent person, not an accident prone airhead. She merely had a problem with depth perception and dyslexia. Merely?

Dyslexia had colored her entire life with a black marker. She’d studied hard—for years. Would she ever be normal? Was there such a thing?

Lord, she prayed. Make me like everyone else.

Her tube of lipstick rolled beneath her car. Oh, no! Her jaw and both fists tightened simultaneously. She leaned forward and bent down, careful to keep the hem of her long white dress from brushing the pavement. Slowly, she gathered every item she’d dropped.

Except the lipstick.

It rolled beyond her reach. If she wanted it, she must kneel on her hands and knees. Her dress could become a disaster. She wanted it.

The lipstick was the last tube in existence in her favorite shade of peach. She set her handbag on the pavement beside her, folded her skirt up, and bent forward. Derriere elevated, she reached for the tube. Her fingers touched its smooth, slick surface, and gripping the lipstick, she rocked back on her heels, preparing to rise.

“What have we here?” somebody said from behind her.

She recognized the man’s voice. She’d heard it the previous night when she listened to messages left on her cell phone.

“Need any help?” he asked.

Gina’s breath froze in her throat. Steve Bryson looked down at her. She’d never seen him until that instant but knew him immediately. That low, raspy voice couldn’t belong to anyone else. Yet there was something else besides his voice that seemed familiar. What could it be?

He reached out as if to help her up. She took his hand. A tingle shot through her. Wow! Gina stood beside him. She’d expected him to be handsome. Nobody told her he was so tall, so young-looking, so electrifying. Like his daughter, Steve had thick, dark-brown hair and brown eyes. But it didn’t begin to describe him.

He would have no difficulty describing her. She probably looked like an extra on the set of a historical western movie. If the laughter she heard in his voice and saw in his eyes were an indication, he’d been watching her for a long time.

In a white, ankle length gown and matching cowboy boots, Gina was dressed as a character in a western novel, set in 1881 Texas, for the end of the school year costume party. Should she try to explain why she was wearing a costume to their first meeting? Or would a billionaire like Steve Bryson be able to comprehend a situation like hers?’

How can readers find you on the internet? BLUEBONNET BRIDE was published by Scrivenings Press on June 29, 2021. Click here to learn more. https://scrivenings.link/bluebonnetbride   

I am molly.n.bull on Facebook.

My web address is http://www.mollynoblebull.com   

To see all my books on Amazon, click http://bit.ly/mollynoblebull

Thank you, Molly, for sharing this book with my blog readers.

Readers, here is a link to the book.

http://ow.ly/USy450FBzD9

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  

THE BOUNTY HUNTER'S BRIDE - Janis Jakes - One Free ebook

Welcome, Janis. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. When I create secondary characters, I think of people I know, or people I've met, and I ask myself, "How might this person respond?" or "What might this person do?" It keeps the characters having different personalities and truer to real life.

The female protagonist is a different story. I find myself interjecting my faith into her life. I'm a strong believer in Christ Jesus and want her to be the same. She may struggle at times, but in the end, she knows God's got her.  

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? Bought a new car at an auto dealership in Texas, jumped in and kept driving. After several hours, my husband and I decided to buy a toothbrush, toothpaste, and some clothes, and continue to New Orleans, Louisiana. It was a fun, spontaneous trip with good food and great memories.

That sounds like fun. When did you first discover that you were a writer? First, I discovered that I was a reader. I loved books from an early age. Then, reading inspired me to become a writer.

My first artistic masterpiece came in the third grade. I wrote a play for all the children at the apartment complex where my family lived – assigning myself the role of writer, director, producer, and lead actor (the sheriff). So thankful there was no social media or phone recording back then!

But it was really God who put me on the path to writing and kept me there. He had several teachers encourage me in my earlier years and then when I finally got the nerve to submit a short story to a publication, it sold. That's when I first knew that writing wasn't just something I loved, but something God had His finger upon.   

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. Enjoy reading historical western and modern faith-based romances, as well as Christian fiction with a supernatural slant, e.g. This Present Darkness. Will also read non-fiction related to spiritual growth, physical wellness, and on the craft of writing. The last book I read was a biography: Getting Real by Gretchen Carlson.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? It does get crazy at times and like most people, I wear multiple hats (mom, wife, writer, friend, business owner, etc.), but I try to focus on the priorities of each day without forgetting what's on the horizon. I've learned that if I put too much focus on what's on the horizon instead of what I need to accomplish today, then I just invite stress. If I focus on the tasks for today, I invite productivity and can go to sleep at night with a sense of accomplishment.

From a spiritual perspective, I have moments throughout every day where I pause and commune with the Lord. Just thinking on Him brings a sense of peace to my surroundings and helps me remember what matters most.  

Other practical steps that have helped me keep my sanity …  pray before saying 'yes' to commitments, resist the perfectionism trap, and reevaluate my workload every six months or so and ask the Lord if anything needs to go.

How do you choose your characters’ names? Typically, the names come early and easy. I imagine the character with that name and see if it sticks. There is one name I didn't particularly like in the story, but it came and it stuck so I believe it was the right name.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? This isn't exactly an accomplishment, but the moment that makes me most proud is the moment I came back to the Lord. I'd been a prodigal for almost twenty years when I fell on my knees and told Jesus I wanted to return to Him. I'm so thankful He didn't turn up His nose or demand I quote ten scriptures or do fifty pushups or any other penance. He brought me back with a strong arm, and I've not walked away since.

I love hearing testimonies like that. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? I'd like to be a Hummingbird. They like their alone time, can zip all over the place, eat sweets all day but have very little body fat, and they're beautiful.

What is your favorite food? Salsa and chips. Okay, maybe that's not an official food (more of a snack), but I would trade food for salsa and chips any day.

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? Initially, the greatest roadblock I faced was waiting for the moment when I felt like writing.

What helped me more than anything was approximately three years I spent writing resumés for a major career site. I never once asked myself, "Do you feel like writing today?" I just wrote, and over time earned a spot as one of their top-ranked writers.

While I no longer do that work, I can say that it taught me self-discipline. I don't wait for the feeling to come. I sit. I pray. I write.

Tell us about the featured book. The Bounty Hunter's Bride is about a half-Comanche bounty hunter (Luke) on a routine capture who learns that the outlaw he's trailing is an innocent schoolteacher (Billie) who knows too much for her own good. Luke races across Texas, bent on getting Billie to safety, but equally determined to uncover the truth. The two fall in love but Luke doubts if Billie would ever be happy with a half-breed bounty hunter. It is only after justice is served and the two are reunited that Luke has his answer, once and for all.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Sweat dotted Luke’s brow, trickling down his temples in a ragged trail. If there’d been a hotter day in West Texas, he couldn’t recall when. His swollen tongue clung to the roof of his mouth. Sticky granules of sand peppered his cheeks. Not a single tree in sight and only one watering hole for miles—the perfect place to capture a criminal.

Looked like a kid off in the distance but ‚wanted dead or alive let Luke know to keep his guard up. Pistol in hand, he watched the lone figure—wondering what the kid would do next. Predicting the mind of an outlaw wasn’t easy, especially one who was likely hotheaded.

The young man rested on his knees at the water’s edge. He cupped his hands, bent to drink, and pulled off his hat. Copper hair tumbled down in a thick braid, stopping an inch or so above a slender waist.

Luke blinked.

The outlaw turned sideways, revealing curves. Confusion overtook Luke’s rational thoughts. He rubbed his eyes with his free hand. Maybe the desert heat was playing tricks on him. He looked again. Had the figure disappeared? He glanced toward the ground, rubbing his eyes once more.

I love this peek into your story. How can readers find you on the Internet?

http://www.JanisJakes.com (website)

http://www.SisterSoldiersInChrist.com (blog)

@JanisJakes (Facebook)

JanisJakes@gmail.com (Email)

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

Readers, here is a link to the book.

https://amzn.to/3iuCCZL 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 

WINNERS

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

Some people don't read the instructions of how to enter. Unfortunately, they don'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.

Wendy (NE) is the winner of Rocky Mountain Restoration by Lisa J Flickinger. 

Alison (MI) is the winner of Whitney's Vow by Susan M Baganz.

Diana (SC) is the winner of In Search of True North by Kathleen Neely.

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 LAST GASP - Chautona Havig - One Free Book

Welcome, Chautona. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. If I were smart, none, but alas… not as smart as I wish I were. All teasing aside, I think that depends upon the character. Many of my characters are absolutely nothing like me. In fact, I often am annoyed with things they think or believe that are completely different from how I think or what I believe.

On the other hand, I do find things that are a part of my personal culture showing up in my books. Movies I liked (or didn’t), books, music, and even theological conundrums appear from time to time. In The Last Gasp, none of the characters are like me at all.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? I once flew into Chicago at midnight, met up with one of my readers (whom I’d never met before) at the cell phone lot, and got into her car to drive around Chicago and get the feel for it. We spent hours driving around, walking up Michigan Avenue, touring the Drake Hotel, and so much more. We even stopped at the Super Dog place, and she demanded they reopen so I could have one of their famous “dogs.”

When did you first discover that you were a writer? I’ve always written. First in my head and then on paper. But I was twelve when I learned that I wanted to be an author. While reading A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, I ran across a teacher who told Francie that she needed to “write how it should have been.” And at that point, my life changed. I knew exactly what I wanted to do and be. Life and events were never how I thought they should be, but if I wrote the story the way I wanted it to go, life would be perfect—even if just on the page.

You sound a lot like me. I’ve always written, and I started creating novels, because I knew I could write them better than what I was reading. Then God told me to become a professional writer. Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. If it’s clean and non-blasphemous, I’ll read it. No, really. I will. Okay, there’s more to it than that. While I do enjoy books outside Christian fiction, it is my primary reading. I love women’s fiction, family sagas, chick-lit, historical, fantasy… The ones I read the least are Biblical fiction and sci-fi, but I also enjoy those. Just less often. Additionally, I love reading nonfiction on many topics.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? I tend to ignore how the world expects me to live and do my own thing. I know it sounds trite, but it’s true. In 2020, when the world shut down and people began to get cabin fever, I realized that my life hadn’t changed. I don’t use a cell phone, I don’t watch much TV, and I live in a small, remote town in California’s Mojave Desert. For reference, we’re ninety miles from Target, a mall, or my favorite fast-food place, In-N-Out.

How do you choose your characters’ names? Well, it’s a lot more difficult these days than it used to be. Names that are comfortable for my readers to read are important to me. As much as I love more creative and unique names (my parents ensured that with my name, eh?), it’s a pain to run across one in a book. The moment you have to pause and really look at and go, “How do you say that?” you’ve lost me for a bit.

So, whatever year someone was born in, if the Social Security Administration has information on names from that year, I go with the top 100 names and try to choose something in there. Occasionally, I have to go into the top 200.

Then I have to make sure what I choose is something I haven’t used. With over eighty books, that’s getting harder and harder. Finally, I have to make sure that name fits the personality of the character I’m writing. Usually, I have the name before I begin, and the reverse happens, but not always.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? In life, probably that next year I get to retire from thirty years of homeschooling! WOOT! Professionally, I’d say my ACFW Mentor of the Year award. I didn’t even know that award existed, and to discover that I actually WON… wow. It means that all the work I pour into people is helpful and appreciated.  And that just blesses my socks off.

I understand that. I was the second Mentor of the Year. It was awesome to see what some of the people who nominated me said. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? A sloth. For obvious reasons. Seriously, who wouldn’t want to hang around all day doing nothing? Sounds heavenly. Some call me the Energizer Bunny, but I consider that a curse rather than a compliment.

One of my adult granddaughters loves sloths. Family members are always finding stuffed sloths or sloths on things for her. Then earlier this year, when my husband and I were apart for 2 months when he had serious covid, my daughter bought me a cute stuffed one. What is your favorite food? We have this little hole-in-the-wall Mexican place that has been in business for like fifty years or something (okay, at least 33!!!) and they make the BEST chips and mild salsa ever.

I love mild salsa, too. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? “Shiny Syndrome.” I get distracted by all the shiny, new ideas. I want to write all the books, do all the classes, teach all the things, read all the books… I can’t say I’ve overcome it, but I have learned to pack my schedule enough that I can’t drop everything and chase the new. I’d never meet deadlines. Of course, sometimes this means I overcommit myself, but hey. I’m a work in progress, right?

Aren’t we all? Tell us about the featured book. The Last Gasp is the first book in the new Ever After Mysteries series. This multi-author series takes beloved fairy tales and sets them in the 1920s… as mysteries! I’d not planned to write a Cinderella retelling (she’s not my favorite story!), but… Well, a woman in my Bible study was trying to get a feel for what these books would be like and said, “So… Cinderella is a cigarillo girl?” The rest is literary history. Lucinda Ashton is a cigarillo and candy seller at the Taj Mahal Theater in Hollywood in 1926. Garrison Prince is Hollywood royalty attending his last premiere. When gunshots ring out, it becomes more than one person’s last premiere!

Please give us the first page of the book.

Gary Prinz stepped out of the California sunshine and into the role of Garrison Prince, rising Hollywood royalty.

An unfashionably buxom receptionist bustled toward him in miserable-looking tweed. “Oh, Mr. Prince. Everyone’s waiting! So exciting. Come, come…” A second glance at him hinted she disapproved of his trousers, rolled-up shirtsleeves, and lightweight sweater vest. “You might have worn a sport coat at least.”

Everyone’s waiting? Sport coat? What for?

A few people waved as the woman trotted down the hallway, chattering about her excitement regarding the night’s premiere. “I won’t have tickets, of course, but I just know everyone will love The Stolen Title. It’s sure to be your best work yet!”

“I hope so, Miss Fischer. I hope so.”

The way she paused, as if for dramatic effect before flinging the door open, provided a hint of warning. Mr. Walker greeted him—Werner, if anyone did any digging, but German surnames were still out of fashion in America after the Kaiser and The Great War. “Come in, come in, Garrison. Our prince has arrived… We even have Eva here to celebrate with you. No champagne, of course. Must comply with Volstead, but…”

Only because this room is full of press reporters? Why?

A sick feeling shook his belly. If the picture is already a flop…

One cheeky man with a thick Brooklyn accent asked, “How do you feel about your new contract, Mr. Prince? Are you eager to begin work on this new project of Walker’s?”

The sick feeling turned cold. “I won’t be doing that, gentlemen. I—”

“Oh, don’t be modest, Gary.” Walker turned to the men clustered around the edge of the large office. “Can’t give away our studio’s secrets, but I can assure you that Garrison Prince is at the forefront of sweeping changes here at Imperial Studios.”

Uncertainty kept him silent. His gaze traveled about the office, taking in opulence he hadn’t noticed much after being invited into Walker’s inner sanctum in recent years. Like many men in Hollywood, he’d come from New Jersey, signed on as stunt and grunt man, and only out of sheer luck hit on a good contract when someone noticed that he had a handsome face that movie goers would like.

Eva, in long, languid movements, moved to his side and looped an arm through his. “Isn’t this a scream?”

It should have been said with emphasis and enthusiasm, perhaps with a giggle at the end, but the woman’s tone always sounded utterly bored. Gary shrugged. “I don’t know—?”

“Your contract, silly. I’ve seen it—or my equivalent. It’s the best my lawyer has seen.”

“I’m happy for you,” he began.

Walker preempted him. “Come, come. No time for chit-chat. We have a premiere to attend, but first…monumental business in the form of this six-year contract! The highest-paying one we’ve ever offered!”

Gasps and murmurs accompanied the fevered scribbling of pencils on notepads.

Lord, help me. Once I do this, I’ll never work in this town again—even as a soda jerk!

Walker held out a fountain pen. “Garrison?” There may have been an implied question in there somewhere, but Gary only heard the iron-clubbed threat beneath it. Sign it.

He stepped back and out of Eva’s grasp. “I apologize, sir.” A little deference wouldn’t hurt. “As generous as I’m certain it is…” He shot a look around him and prayed for the best. “And as flattered as I am, I distinctly recall telling you that I would not be continuing in film.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I’m @ChautonaHavig in most places, but the easiest way to find me is to visit http://www.Chautona.com . I have social media links there at the top right. You can also find me at becausefictionpodcast.com where I chat about Christian fiction.

Thank you, Chautona, for sharing this book with my blog readers. I’m eager to read it and the others in the Ever After series.

Readers, here are links to the book.

https://amzn.to/3xJY2sn - Paperback

https://amzn.to/3re6kWI - 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

BUTTERFLY COTTAGE - Carrie Fancett Pagels - One Free Book

Bio: Carrie Fancett Pagels, Ph.D., is the award-winning author of over twenty Christian fiction books, including ECPA and Amazon bestsellers. Twenty-five years as a psychologist didn't cure her overactive imagination! A self-professed “history geek,” she resides with her family in the Historic Triangle of Virginia but grew up as a “Yooper.” Carrie loves to read, bake, bead, and travel – but not all at the same time! You can connect with her at www.CarrieFancettPagels.com

Welcome back, Carrie. God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon? I’m so excited about getting Butterfly Cottage out there into the world. I pray women will be blessed by its message! Alcoholism is addressed, making choices about retirement, life-threatening illnesses, and making life choices! I also have a dual timeline story, Behind Love’s Wall, in Barbour’s Doors to the Past series. That story includes a subplot about why keeping secrets can impact people well into the future. I also have a subplot with an issue near to my heart—how Lupus when not diagnosed properly can impact behavior and emotions.

Tell us a little about your family. We have a late teen son at home who is also a write. He’s a blessing to me on so many levels. My hubs is working from home. He’s an amazing engineer and a manager, but he’s such a humble guy—he’s also really funny. We have an adult daughter who works in a top-secret field, which is kind of cool, and a new SIL who is an amazing cook!

Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how? I have gotten much choosier in what I read because I don’t have as much time. I see that changing when I stop writing.

What are you working on right now? I have edits from Behind Love’s Wall to finish up. I have an audiobook of my Holt Medallion finalist The Steeplechase which will be releasing soon. And I have rights back to two Barbour novellas which will be releasing over the summer!

The only thing I had published last year was a 4-novella collection I published. Four Seasons of Love. They had all appeared in collections that were ebooks, so my readers who don’t have Kindles hadn’t read them. What outside interests do you have? I enjoy walking our dog with my son. I do some beadwork. Hubs and I watch English mysteries together!

How do you choose your settings for each book? Only on the very rare occasion have I written about any place I don’t know and love.

If you could spend an evening with one historical person, who would it be and why? Besides Jesus, of course, that would be Lucy Maude Montgomery who inspired my writing.

What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels? Every new novelist needs to understand the time commitment and have mastered their craft first.

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now? He only gives me strength enough to do what He wants me to do and I need to be content with that.

What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful? Learn your craft, write daily, ask God to show you what you specifically need to do or not do.

All very good advice. Tell us about the featured book. Although this book has a lot of serious topics in it, it is also infused with humor! Life-changing journeys begin when three generations of women unexpectedly spend a summer at the family’s Straits of Mackinac cottage.
Blurb: Three generations of women unexpectedly head out to the family’s cottage at the Straits of Mackinac for a small-town Michigan summer together. Jaycie begins an Archeology internship on Mackinac Island. Her mother, Tamara, takes a break from teaching kindergarteners. And her grandmother, Dawn, struggles with a decision to sell her successful travel agency and possibly retire.
Each has her own journey to pursue during this short respite time from normal life. One of them has a secret that will change all of their lives. Can she make this one special summer to remember or will all be devastated? Faith for family and friends will be tested, with some finally able to put the past behind them and begin anew. (Set in 2018, pre-Pandemic.)

Please give us the first page of the book. (Lena, there are three POVs in this book and each generation of the women has her own first page.)

Dawn

Chicago, Winter 2018

Are you sure you’re really ready to retire?

Dawn Charbonneau crinkled her nose at the first line of the email from the potential buyer of her travel agency. “Oh, boy.” Hadn’t she already answered that question? After all, Barb had been managing the place for the past few years—and she was well suited to buy Dawn out and assume full responsibility.

“What’s up?” Jim, her husband of almost fifty years called from his recliner.

“Aw, nothing.” She closed Barb’s email and opened the next one, a long message from her last high-profile client. “Oh, boy.”

Jim lowered the volume on his Bulls game. “What are you ‘oh boying’ about?”

Dawn hadn’t booked any travel plans for her former clients since easing toward retirement after Jim’s knee surgery—except this one. Barb hadn’t wanted to touch the high-strung woman’s travel plans but Dawn had a soft spot in her heart for this customer. “Do you remember Kay-Leigh?”

“Yup, that supermodel from Europe, right?”

“Yup.” The young woman had been with Dawn since before Kay-Leigh became famous. Separated from her husband, Kay-Leigh had Dawn book a flight from Switzerland, where she was living, to Michigan in July. “It’s my very last booking and I want to make sure things go well for this young woman. I made hotel arrangements on Mackinac Island.”

“Hard to mess that up. Hampy will take good care of her.”

Dawn cringed. “Nope. I put her at the Grand Hotel.” Their friends, the Parkers, owned a resort on the opposite side of the island. They wouldn’t be happy if they got wind of this. “Don’t say anything to Hampy about it.”

“Hampy Parker won’t hear a word from me, but why not put her up over there? More privacy.”

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

Website: www.carriefancettpagels.com

Blogs: Overcoming With God and Colonial Quills

Facebook Author Page

Facebook Personal Page

Twitter

Pinterest

goodreads

LinkedIn

Amazon author page

Bookbub

Newsletter sign up

Thank you, Carrie, for sharing this new book with us. I’m eager to read it, and I will after I meet my contracted book deadline next week.

Readers, here are links to the book.

https://amzn.to/3kdkuWG - Paperback

https://amzn.to/2VzvWBL - 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 

WINNERS

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

Some people don't read the instructions of how to enter. Unfortunately, they don'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.

Lynn (TX) is the winner of Some Kind of Hero by Hannah Alexander. (Be sure to read the author's comments.)

Sharon (SC) is the winner of Timeless World by Tina M Manka.

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. 

IN SEARCH OF TRUE NORTH - Kathleen Neely - One Free Book

Bio: Kathleen Neely is a retired elementary principal, and enjoys time with family, visiting her two grandsons, traveling, and reading.

She is the author of The Street Singer, Beauty for Ashes, The Least of These, and In Search of True North. Kathleen won second place in a short story contest through ACFW-VA for her short story “The Missing Piece” and an honorable mention for her story “The Dance”. Both were published in a Christmas anthology. Her novel, The Least of These, was awarded first place in the 2015 Fresh Voices contest through Almost an Author. She has numerous devotions published through Christian Devotions.

Kathleen continues to speak to students about writing and publication processes. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers.

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

I write the kind of books I enjoy reading. I have never liked categorizing my books into genres. Women’s Fiction. Romance. Mystery. Etc. I know that my books will find more appeal to female readers, yet I’ve had a number of men read and enjoy my stories, particularly The Least of These with a male protagonist. One man who works with the homeless and was brave enough to admit his emotions, told my friend that he fought tears as he read it. I don’t claim to write romance, but always include a romantic element. It adds a nice flavor and is true to real life. I wouldn’t say I write mystery novels but any good work of fiction holds a little mystery. So, I claim the genre of Contemporary Fiction, yet this fall I’ll have a time-slip release that spans 150 years, delving into historic.

My work can also be classified as Christian Fiction, although I don’t set out to write a novel about faith. As a Christian, my faith defines everything I do. True faith is not something that can be compartmentalized. However, I allow it to enter my story when it’s appropriate for the plot. Otherwise, it feels forced and detracts from a good work of fiction. In Beauty for Ashes readers will find a more overt Christian message because the setting is an after-school ministry for teens, and because Nathan is in great emotional turmoil which naturally leads him to scripture. Regardless of whether my story includes a message of faith, I offer good, clean reads.

Here's a little insight into the writing of my latest novel, In Search of True North. I heard a man speaking about his adopted son and applauding the birthmother who made the difficult decision. From there, Mallory’s story emerged. What if the child grew up right within her family? What if she could never speak about giving birth to him? I imagined the growing bitterness. The helpless feeling that she had lost a part of herself. Writers look for an edge. Some details to add a bit of zing to the plot. What if the biological father didn’t know? What if he were now famous?  From there, In Search of True North began to take shape.  

Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life? I think I join many people in saying that both marriage and becoming a mother stand out as joyous and memorable events. Interestingly, In Search of True North addresses both issues. While I celebrate those anniversaries with joy, Mallory mourns her decisions.

How has being published changed your life? My life was already in the throes of change. I taught school before accepting an administrative position. I then served as elementary principal in two schools from 2001 to 2015. When I retired, I began to write earnestly. I can’t say that writing changed my life. I just shifted my energy and intellectual curiosity in another direction. I don’t consider myself famous just because my name is on a book cover. I’m blessed to be able to do what I love.

I so understand that. What are you reading right now? I am reading Rachel Hauck’s novel, The Memory House. A great thought-provoking book that spans decades. You can’t go wrong with a Rachel Hauck novel.

I love her books, too. What is your current work in progress? Arms of Freedom will launch in the fall. It is completed except for final edits. The timeslip novel takes place in both a contemporary setting and in the reconstruction years following the Civil War. Annie was pushed into the limelight as a pageant child. Charlotte was hidden. Yet both protagonists in the dual timelines share many commonalities. They lived in the same house; neither had a conventional childhood; both were denied the opportunity to be a child, to have friends, and to attend school. Both rebelled as they came of age. When Charlotte’s journals come to an abrupt end, Annie knew she must investigate to learn the rest of her story, even though her own life is falling apart.

I’m excited for this to launch. I think readers will enjoy Annie and Charlotte’s stories.

What would be your dream vacation? I love historic places so I’d be happy to tour most venues with significant history. I'd love to ride a gondola in the streets of Venice and to see the incredible architecture of Notre Dame, Sydney Opera House, the Louvre, and St. Basil’s Cathedral. Yes, I know that’s a lot of countries!

How do you choose your settings for each book? The setting needs to make sense for the story. In writing The Street Singer, I chose Asheville, North Carolina because of the artsy feel of the area. The Least of These is set in Pittsburgh because of my familiarity with the city. I’ve visited a homeless shelter there and know the city well. I set Beauty for Ashes in Greenville, South Carolina. I live in the outlying area and love the quaintness of downtown Greenville. You’ll also see Greenville in Arms of Freedom which will release in the fall.

If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why? I would love to spend an evening with Francine Rivers. The Mark of the Lion trilogy remains among my favorite fiction books ever. I admire her work and would love some insight into how God guides her ideas. Perhaps we could brainstorm together as I tap into some of her creative genius.

I love her writing, too. She was the speaker at the ACRW (pre ACFW) first national conference in Denver. Our conferences were smaller then. I had several God appointments with her where we visited. What a blessing! What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading? I love people so I enjoy time with my church friends and with my sisters. We have game nights and creative dinners. Sometimes we choose an ethnic cuisine and prepare a dinner with a theme. I love to visit my grandsons, ages 4 and 6. Nine hours travel is a challenge but we try to see them every few months. I also go to the gym three times a week to keep this aging body healthy.

What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it? I write best when I am alone and undistracted. I had a few years of uninterrupted writing time and then a wonderful, terrible event occurred—my husband retired. It became difficult to carve out the time. I wanted to spend time with him and take advantage of the freedom to go places together; but I also wanted to write. I converted a spare bedroom to an office and forced myself to schedule writing time. I sometimes use a doorknob hanger that says Writing – Please don’t disturb.  My writing is a slower pace than it once was, but we’ve worked out the solution nicely.

What advice would you give to a beginning author? A wealth of resources wait for you. Mentoring authors, workshops, trade books. Connect with a local group. Join a critique group. Find what works best for your quest to improve. And as simplistic as it may sound—READ. I always write better when I’m reading a well-crafted novel. 

Tell us about the featured book. In Search of True North is a story about a mother’s love, yet it’s so much more. When 16-year-old Mallory discovered she was pregnant, her parents urged her to give the child up to her barren sister. It proved to be the hardest decision of her life. She lost more than just her son. It shattered family relationships. In Search of True North is about peeling back the layers of grief, learning to accept responsibility, and understanding that other people are fallible despite their good intentions. Healing takes a slow journey to reach the heart; twelve years in Mallory’s case.

I love that Mallory Carter is not a perfect, beautiful, too-good -to-be-true protagonist. She comes to us bitter, passive-aggressive, and insecure, always protective of the wall she built around herself. It takes a twelve-year-old boy to break through—not to mention a little help from his handsome uncle.

Please give us the first page of the book. Here is a sneak peek. Remember—this is setting the stage. The best is yet to come. 

Mallory Carter’s phone vibrated for the third time in the last hour. She stole a glance at the low buzz from the shelf under the counter where it rested. Dad—again. It must be important, but she couldn’t talk from work. She had no one to cover the register. Still, it was unusual to see a call from her dad’s cell phone. Tightness gripped her chest. Should she answer it? A customer entered, settling the decision. Her dad would have to wait. Her shift ended soon.

The high humidity brought beads of sweat to Mallory’s forehead as she called out the customary greeting. “Hello. Welcome to Cape Fear Emporium.” She tucked the phone away. She’d call him from home.

A middle-aged lady, her cropped hair sticky with sweat and clinging to her face, breathed a satisfied response. “Ahh. Air.” The relief would be short-lived. The air conditioner had difficulty cooling this space beyond seventy-six degrees.

She turned a friendly smile toward Mallory. “There’s not a hint of a breeze out there. It’s stifling. Is North Carolina always like this?”

Mallory could pick out the northerners every time. She cooled her face with an oriental folding fan as she answered. “May’s usually nice. This is unseasonably hot. Feel free to look around. It’s better than walking the boardwalk in this heat.”

Dozens of colorful T-shirts hung from a circular rack. The shelves held coffee mugs depicting the Cape Fear River, Wrightsville Beach, and the boardwalk. Seashell jewelry dangled from a rotating display. The ice cream typically drew people in, strategically located in the back of the store so they’d pass shelves filled with novelties that no one needed but most people bought.

How can readers find you on the Internet? I love to hear from readers. They can find me at:

Website – www.KathleenNeely.com  

Facebook – www.facebook.com/kathy.neely.98

Twitter - https://twitter.com/NeelyKneely3628

Instagram – www.Instagram.com/KathleenNeelyAuthor  

Thank you, Kathleen, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. I’m eager to read it when I finish the contracted book I’m writing.

Readers, here are links to the book.

https://amzn.to/3wux06G - Paperback

https://amzn.to/3ALjtv8 - 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