A WARRIOR'S HEART - Misty M Beller - One Free Book

Welcome back, Misty. Tell us a little about yourself and your background. Sure. J I’m a wife, mom of four kids with one more on the way, and full-time writer. I was raised on the family farm in South Carolina and trained horses professionally for a few years. As much as I loved working with animals, for multiple reasons, I knew it couldn’t be a long-term career for me. I took a job in the corporate world and worked there for about 13 years. It was during that time that I began writing fiction.                       

How did you become interested in writing? I was putting together my bucket list, and realized that I really did want to write a novel. So, "Write a novel that's published" made it near the top!

I decided, it's now or never, and made the commitment to do it. So, I had a general idea that I wanted it to be a Christian western romance. But where to start? I finally decided I needed to find a good book to help me plan. I stumbled upon (a.k.a. God led me to) the best possible book to help me get started with a great plan: Plot and Structure by James Scott Bell. For all you writers out there, I can't recommend it highly enough! 

From there, I've soaked in every bit of writing instruction I can from some amazing groups and individuals. And I've spent countless hours sitting with my laptop pouring out words onto the screen.

What compelled you to write a book on this subject? I was listening to a historical podcast a few years ago that talked about the Vikings and the female warriors who would sometimes gain fame among them. As the hosts talked about the first Viking raids to North America, I started thinking… “What if one of those groups went farther west than any of us thought? What if they found the Canadian Rockies and lived there in a hidden community for centuries?” The thought took hold, and little by little, the idea for the Brides of Laurent series came to life. I eventually changed the village to be a French settlement named Laurent. The village’s primary warrior was a woman named Brielle Durand, who’d worked hard to win her place as Le Commandant, leader of the Guards and Hunters. I love Brielle’s strength and wit, but also how real her personal struggles became as I wrote her character. Add in a mountain man spy working for the United States government, and you have the secret for a romance with sparks to light up the mountain sky!

What is the main theme or point that you want readers to understand from reading your book? Are there any other themes present in the book? One of my favorite themes to write about is God’s love, and the way He guides us in His plan if we’re intentional about seeking His will in each decision. This book dives even deeper into what it’s like to fully submit to the Father, being willing to step back and fight our battles through intercessory prayer when that’s how God directs.

Are there some specific lessons you hope readers will learn and apply to their lives after reading your book? I pray this story draws readers closer to God. I pray they seek His will for their life each step of the way and aren’t afraid to be bold in their prayers and submit fully to the Lord’s leading.

What makes your book different than any other books similar to yours that are in circulation today? Aren’t there so many amazing books these days?! I’ve been loving all the great new releases this year, not to mention all the fabulous older titles. J My brand is very much adventurous historical Christian romance set in the Rocky Mountains. Readers of my stories know they’re in for an exciting story and strong characters. J The hidden village of Laurent that lives only in caves is definitely a unique to this series! They’ve been cut off from civilization for a hundred years. Can you imagine?

How does the book intertwine with God’s call on your life and how you are currently serving Him? Great question! I guess the theme about God’s love and following his leading is a consistent theme in my books because it’s been so vital in my own life. I NEVER would have dreamed God would lead me to become a full-time writer, but I’m so grateful He has! I pray daily that He would give me the story and words He wants me to me to write, and that He would use them for His work in the lives of readers. 

Do you have a favorite Scripture verse? That’s like asking which of my kids I like best. J One of my favorites is Matthew 6:33, which has been my year verse for the past couple of years: But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. (NKJV)

When you are not writing, what do you like to do? Do you have any hobbies? My four kiddos keep me busy! They currently range in age from 2 years to 14 years, with one more due in November, so they always have things going on, it seems. J

Tell us about the book.

Brielle Durand is still haunted by the massacre that killed her mother a dozen years before. Vowing to never let it happen again, she's risen to be the key defender for her people's peace-loving French settlement living in hidden caves in the Canadian Rockies. When a foreigner wanders too near to their secret home, she has no choice but to disarm and capture him. But now, what to do with this man who insists he can be trusted?

Hoping to escape past regrets, Evan MacManus ventured into the unknown, assigned to discover if the northern mountains contain an explosive mineral that might help America win the War of 1812. Despite being taken prisoner, Evan is determined to complete his mission. But when that assignment becomes at odds with his growing appreciation of the villagers and Brielle, does he follow through on his promise to his government or take a risk on where his heart is leading him? Either choice will cause harm to someone.

Brielle and Evan must reconcile the warring in their hearts to have any hope of finding peace for their peoples.

Please give us the first page of the book.

September 1814
Rocky Mountains, Rupert’s Land (Future Canada)

Another ten paces and she’d have to shoot.

Brielle Durand steadied the arrow fletching against her cheek, then pushed her body farther into the bow to draw the cord tighter.

The man in her sights rode calmly forward, his breath blowing white in the early morning air. The mount beneath him snorted, releasing its own cloud as it bobbed against the bit. The animal must sense the nearing danger.

In truth, the beast had more intelligence than its rider. As was usual in the ways of animals. Especially when compared to an Englishman like this fellow appeared to be.

Five more strides.

She narrowed her gaze, focusing on the point of aim so her arrow would hit his midsection. Should she give him warning? Perhaps the cry of a mountain lion would plant fear in his chest. She caught her breath, preparing to make the fierce scream she’d practiced so oft.

But the man spurred his horse faster, as though eager to charge through the opening in the rock. Surely he couldn’t see the sheltered courtyard just beyond. The place forbidden to outsiders—especially Englishmen.                                                                                                                                                  

As we close, is there anything else you would like to add?

First, thank you so much for sharing your readers, Lena! You’re been such a blessing to me and countless other writers.

Readers, I know this year has been hard for so many, but please know I’m praying for you! I pray that God would strengthen and protect you and your loved ones, and give you peace. Hugs and blessings to you!

Where can my readers find you on the Internet?

I love to connect with readers! One of my favorite ways is through my newsletter, and readers can get a free copy of my book, A Pony Express Romance, when they sign up for the newsletter. Here’s the link for that: https://mistymbeller.com/freebook

I can also be found at these links:

https://mistymbeller.com

http://www.twitter.com/MistyMBeller

https://www.facebook.com/MistyMBellerAuthor

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/misty-m-beller

https://www.goodreads.com/MistyMBeller

http://www.pinterest.com/MistyMBeller

https://amazon.com/author/mistymbeller

Thank you, Misty, for sharing your books with my blog readers. It gives me great pleasure every time we introduce a new reader to your books.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

http://ow.ly/DwdR50G1R98

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 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.

Abigail (VA) is the winner of Faith's Mountain Home by Misty M Beller. 

Melanie (TX) is the winner of Hidden Away Somewhere in Texas by Connie Leonard.

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.   

CHRISTMAS IN GALWAY - Elizabeth Ludwig - One Free Book

Welcome back, Elizabth. It’s good to have you on my blog again. Tell us about your salvation experience. I became a Christian after I heard the gospel preached in church one Sunday morning. My sister had been begging me to go with her, and I finally listened. This was hard for me because, as the older sibling, I didn’t want to accept that my younger sister might have some wisdom that I did not. God spoke through that pride, though, and called me to repentance and acceptance of His free gift of salvation.

I became a servant after my husband and I lost our second child. God really spoke some truth to me while we were in that valley—namely, would I be willing to follow Him no matter what the cost? I can answer that question with confidence now, and it’s a resounding YES!!

You’re planning a writing retreat where you can only have four other authors. Who would they be and why? Without a doubt, I would invite my four critique partners—Ane Mulligan, Michelle Griep, Tara Johnson, and Gina Holmes. These ladies have pushed and prodded me all along this publishing journey. I couldn’t do a bit of it without their honesty and encouragement. And thank goodness you didn’t say three authors, because I would have really been stuck!

Do you have a speaking ministry? If so, tell us about that. I’m always tempted to say no to this question, but right about that time, God sends someone my way who is looking for someone to share about coping with life’s trials, or finding faith and strength in the writing journey, or connecting with readers, or loss of a child…you name it. So, yes, I have a speaking ministry. And it’s all about being open to the people placed in my path, and sharing everything God has done for me along the way.

Very good answer. Many people don’t understand the importance of a one-on-one speaking ministry. What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you and how did you handle it? Ha! Funny question. So, years ago, I had a lady approach me at a book signing. For several minutes, she gushed over how much she loved my books. But as she started describing her favorite, a niggling question began working its way into my head. Why didn’t I remember anything she was talking about? Finally, I asked her the name of the book. Sure enough, it wasn’t one of mine! I didn’t have the heart to tell her because by this time, a small crowd had gathered to listen (she was quite excited and vocal). Instead, I just smiled and nodded and thanked her for taking time out of her day to encourage a writer. When I got home, I looked up the book and quickly realized how she’d made the mistake. The author’s name was also Ludwig, and her middle name was Elizabeth!

People are always telling me that they’d like to write a book someday. I’m sure they do to you, too. What would you tell someone who came up to you and said that? Years ago, I came across this quote from Dorothy Parker: “If you have any young friends who aspire to become writers, the second greatest favor you can do them is to present them with copies of The Elements of Style. The first greatest, of course, is to shoot them now, while they’re happy.”

LOL!

Seriously though, I always tell people that writing is the hardest, most gratifying thing I have ever done. I tell them to take time to learn the craft. I tell them there are no shortcuts. And then I tell them to never, ever give up, no matter how long it takes.

I love this answer, too. Tell us about the featured book. I am proud of every book I’ve ever written, but Christmas in Galway makes me smile because it was unexpected. Unplanned. I wrote it without a synopsis. In fact, I just sat down in front of my computer and started typing. The secrets of Elinor’s heart were as much a surprise to me as I hope they are to my readers. It was so nice to enjoy writing again—freely, wildly, and with passion.

It’s been two years since a drunk driving accident claimed the life of Elinor Walsh’s fiancé. Though she’s forged on to create a thriving design business for herself, the past still haunts her. Prompted by her friends, she finally capitulates and schedules a flight to Ireland—a trip that should have been her honeymoon. Armed with just a list her fiancé wrote and the keys to a rental car, Elinor heads to Galway, never dreaming that the people she meets there will change her life forever. Confronted with a choice—her past with an old friend or her future with a new one—will she finally be able to move beyond her grief? Or will she cut her losses, and her trip short, and miss out on the one thing she never expected?

Please give us the first page of the book. Of course! Here you go:

Panic fluttered inside Elinor Walsh’s chest as the lighted sign above her head clicked off. The clatter of unbuckling seatbelts accompanied the rustling of passengers and the clacking of overhead bins. It was too late to change her mind now. She was sixty-six hundred miles from home, and it was time to get off the plane.

Outside her window, colored lights sparkled against the dusting of snow outside the terminal. This was certainly different from Texas, where Christmas was as likely to be celebrated with glittering palms as it was evergreens.

 “Looks cold out there.” The elderly woman in the seat next to her angled her head, artfully adorned with a pair of reindeer antlers, in the direction of Elinor’s thin sweater. “I hope you packed something a little warmer.”

 “Oh, yes. There’s a coat in my bag.” Elinor tugged her backpack out from under the seat in front of her and jerked open the zipper, smiling at the woman as she wriggled a gray parka free. Nodding kindly, the woman pushed her arms into her own coat then began collecting the knitting supplies she’d busied herself with throughout the flight.

A line had begun to form in the aisle but Elinor knew it would be awhile before the cabin door opened. She slid her phone out of her purse, switched it out of airplane mode, and tapped a quick message to her friends back home. Just landed.

Libby answered almost immediately. What’s the plan?

The plan? Elinor grimaced. Thanks to her friends she didn’t have a plan, just a car reservation number.

I’ll let you know after I pick up the car, she typed back, her fingers trembling.

Her phone pinged. Good girl.

 “Miss O’Shea?” The flight attendant looked down at her expectantly. “Do you need some help with your seatbelt?” She cast a meaningful glance toward the back of the plane, at the line of passengers waiting to disembark.

 “Oh no, I can get it. I’m so sorry.”

She fumbled with the clasp, finally managed to get free, then banged her head on the overhead bin when she stood too quickly. Cheeks burning, Elinor waved aside the attendant’s murmured concern and reached for her backpack.

She’d splurged on first class—something she never did. Her money, like her time, was managed to the smallest increment. Well, except for this trip that she’d somehow managed to let her friends talk her into.

Her bag in hand, Elinor scurried up the jetway, pausing when she reached the terminal to type out another message. Keys to the apartment under the mat. Call if you need anything!

A smiley emoticon appeared, followed by the words, Send lots of pictures!

Pictures. Right. She snapped a selfie of herself sticking out her tongue and sent it back with a smile. Libby and the girls would appreciate the humor.

I’m loving the story so far. How can readers find you on the Internet? I’ve made quite a little home for myself on the Internet. Readers can find me at any of the following sites:

Website: http://elizabethludwig.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethludwig102

Blogger: http://theborrowedbook.blogspot.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ELudwig_Author

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-ludwig-6092b411/

Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/Elizabeth-Ludwig/e/B002R612S4

MeWe:  https://mewe.com/i/elizabethludwig

Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/lludwig5/

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

Thank you, Elizabeth, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. I’m eager to read it. I love stories set in Ireland.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

http://ow.ly/eyqA50FZuns

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

COMING HOME TO MERCY - Michelle De Bruin - One Free Book

Welcome Back, Michelle. What are some of the spiritual themes you like to write about? I like to write about redemption and the process of healing from grief.

What other books of yours are coming out soon? The second book in this Coming Home series is coming next summer.

If you could spend an evening with one contemporary person (not a family member of yours), who would it be and why? I’d want to spend time with our state’s governor because she is a true leader who is doing a great job.

What historical person would you like to meet (besides Jesus) and why? I’d like to have a conversation with William Wilberforce because he kindly yet tenaciously stood on principles that eventually changed the course of history.

How can you encourage authors who have been receiving only rejections from publishers? I would say to take a break and spend some time in prayer. The direction you are going obviously isn’t working, so that might mean that God has different plans for you and the rejections might be his way of leading you into new territory.

Tell us about the featured book. Coming Home to Mercy is a story about two middle-aged people who have been married in the past and lost their spouses. The heroine, Margaret, is trying to decide where her true home is. The hero, Matthew, is looking for a way to rise above the grief and pain in his life. They team up to care for a group of children and eventually choose to spend their lives together.

This book was so interesting to write because the early 20th century was a time of innovation and progress. To write this book, I researched all kinds of items from telephones, to flying machines, to Model T Fords, bandstands, and even the art of building a ship in a bottle. The attitudes of the era fascinate me. People felt the same way one hundred years ago as we feel today about new inventions and the changes they make in our lives.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Chicago

April, 1913

Margaret Millerson glanced away from the mountain of buntings on the table and sought encouragement from Julia. Bright, cheery Julia. She always had a positive word on her tongue and a happy look about her eyes and mouth. If anyone could assure Margaret she hadn’t taken on too much by providing decorations for the Library’s Charity Ball, her younger daughter could bolster her once again.

“You’ll finish in plenty of time, Mother. Look how far we’ve gotten this morning.” Julia smiled, melting away a degree of Margaret’s tension.

Margaret shifted her attention to the white rosettes piled on the drawing room sofa taking shape under Bertha Reynold’s skillful hands. The woman looked up and smiled at her friend.

“Yes.” Margaret couldn’t quite smother the note of hesitation in her voice.

“And look at all those tablecloths Isabel hemmed.” Julia gestured to another of Margaret’s close friends serving on the committee.

Isabel paused her work with the needle and thread. “Only five more left.”

“But the ball is tomorrow.” Margaret held her breath against a sigh and looked at Julia.

“Which gives us the rest of today to finish, and tomorrow morning to set up.” Julia picked up a candlestick and polished it.

“I haven’t heard from the florist. I need those flowers for centerpieces.” The idea of hosting the grand event with no flowers to provide the perfect touch of elegance stole her breath away. “How will I know they will be ready in the morning if I haven’t heard from them?”

“I’ll stop and check in there this afternoon. But, Mother, don’t worry. Everything will be just beautiful.” Julia smiled again and worked on another candlestick.

The sigh slipped out. Margaret smoothed her hair and gathered a length of blue fabric into a swag. She must put her energy into her work and not into fretting.

The grandfather clock ticked away the minutes. Sounds of traffic in the street drifted through the open window on this mild spring day. Clatters of pans and the general hum of a well-run household echoed from the back part of the house. Margaret’s breathing returned to normal. Life would somehow go on, even if her part of the charity event failed.

The telephone rang. Margaret glanced down the hall where the wooden box hung hear the kitchen door. To think of talking into a wooden box. She was still trying to grow accustomed to the new device her brother Henry had installed last winter. Most calls were for him on the subject of some business matter or another. Margaret returned her attention to the fabric in her hand. This call was probably another one for Henry, and someone would have to tell the caller that he wasn’t home.

Hurried footsteps grew closer. Ida, the housekeeper, stood in the doorway. “It’s Logan.”

The announcement stilled Margaret’s movements. She couldn’t think why her busy preacher son-in-law would call long distance on a Monday morning and ask for her, unless he delivered bad news. Surely nothing had happened to her daughter or to that precious baby the whole family anticipated.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Michelle’s website:  https://michelledebruin.com/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/MichelleDeBruinsAuthorPage/

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/MichelleDAuthor

Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/MichelleDB40/

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18522892.Michelle_De_Bruin

BookBub:  https://www.bookbub.com/profile/michelle-de-bruin

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

http://ow.ly/Uqi250FXZxb

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 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.

Susan (NC) is the winner of Hope's Highest Mountain by Misty m Beller. 

Petite (MN) is the winner of The Inn at Cranberry Cove by June Foster.

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.  

HIDDEN AWAY SOMEWHERE IN TEXAS - Connie Leonard - One Free Book

Dear Readers, this is book 4 in Connie’s Somewhere in Texas series. Each story is a stand-alone story, but they are also connected. You might want to go back and read the first 3 after you read this one. Connie’s stories are very authentic, contemporary westerns. I have loved every plot and all the characters.

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

All of my books deal with redemption. We are all flawed and need God’s mercy and grace. Even after we accept Christ as our Savior, we make mistakes, we sin, and we need forgiveness and second chances, third chances, and more.

What other books of yours are coming out soon?

I’m praying about this. The idea for the first book, Somebody Somewhere in Texas, popped into my head while sitting in Triple Cross Cowboy Church. I thought it would be a fun little book to write, and it was. I didn’t plan to write a series, but before I finished the first one, I knew Andrea needed to tell her story, so there had to be a second one, Light up My Life in Texas. Then LeAnn’s story needed to come to life, so Play Me Back Home in Texas was born. I thought I was finished with this series, but Haeley called to me. The idea for Hidden Away Somewhere in Texas germinated in my mind for over twenty-five years, during the time I thought I would write someday—someday when the kids grew up, someday after I retired. Ten years ago, we went on a mission trip to Marfa, Texas, and I knew I wanted to use that setting for a story. Sex trafficking is the greatest plague of our time, because it preys upon the most vulnerable people in our world. All these ideas came together in Hidden Away Somewhere in Texas. I think it’s my best book yet. I thought it would be the last book in this series, but Haeley, Ryanne, and Reed will be back. I usually start with an idea, the characters, which I have, and the title, which hasn’t come to me yet. I’m more of a seat-of-the-pants writer than a plotter, but this idea needs to develop a bit more before I begin writing. To answer your question, finally, I may work on editing and polishing a Bible study I wrote a few years ago before I start this next novel.

I will eagerly await that book. If you could spend an evening with one contemporary person (not a family member of yours), who would it be and why?

I think maybe Franklin Graham, Anne Graham Lotz, and the rest of their ministry family to glean from their experiences growing up with Billy Graham and their own calling into ministry. Or perhaps Gov. Mike Huckabee and his daughter Sarah Sanders to talk conservative politics.

What historical person would you like to meet (besides Jesus) and why? Billy Graham for his spiritual insights. Ronald Reagan for his political insights. Mark Twain, Samuel Clemens, for his insights into human nature, his literary mind, and his humor—I wrote my Master’s thesis on him.

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

Read, read, read! Write, write, write! Study the craft. While pursuing traditional publishing, I kept getting rejections that said, “This is good, but. . . .” Usually the “but” had more to do with the market than the story or the writing. I was even told that my writing was “too Christian for the Christian market,” which is moving more into a Christian Worldview, sometimes with no mention of God. Upon completing the Jerry Jenkins Christian Writers’ Guild Craftsman Class, Doc Hensley said, “Don’t hide your talent under a bushel.” Shortly thereafter, while attending a country music concert, God spoke to my heart. None of the performers were rich or famous, but they enjoyed using their talents, and the audience enjoyed their performance. I made the decision then to self-publish my contemporary novel, Big C, little c. I’m not rich or famous, but I enjoy writing. I’ve had positive feedback, and I even have some fans! My best advice to aspiring writers is Read, Study, Write. Pray about it every step of the way. Stay true to what God called you to do. That may require Indie publishing rather than bending to whims of the market.

And there are quite a few smaller presses now that are staying true to the Christian calling. Tell us about the featured book.

Here’s the back cover copy:

What if you had to leave everything and everyone behind, reinvent yourself, assume a new identity?

Haeley Howard lives a charmed life as a socialite, model, and assistant director of little theater. Her perfect world shatters when she witnesses a kidnapping. The FBI wants to hide her away in a safe place so she can testify against Salas, an international drug runner and sex trafficker, if they can catch him. The fashionista becomes boring, beige Holly Brown—friendless, faithless, and faceless. Hidden away on a ranch in the Texas high desert, she fears she might disappear without a trace. Reed Riley, handsome owner of the Riley Ranch, has a mysterious, secretive computer business. Will he prove to be a knight in shining armor or evil overlord?

Reed abandoned his dream to become an FBI agent after his father was killed. While running the family ranch, he works as a cybercrimes consultant. He agrees to shelter the witness on his ranch while they search for the slippery Salas. But Haeley Howard, AKA Holly Brown, proves to be more of a challenge than he imagined—strong-willed and surly, yet innocent and vulnerable. He vows to maintain professional distance, but not even the ugly makeup and tasteless clothes can hide her natural beauty. He can’t be distracted, can’t let down his guard.

If he can keep her safe, can they have a future together? Will the Feds give her another new identity, move her somewhere far away? She’s no longer Haeley Howard, but she’s not Holly Brown, either. What plans does God have for her?

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

Haeley stepped back and admired the makeup on the young girl. “One more smudge to soften the lines, and you’re perfect, Cinderella. Go out and knock ’em dead!”

“This night is sooo important to me.” Cassie hugged Haeley.

Haeley wiped her hands on the damp towel. “We may be a little theater, but every performance is important. We work hard to give the audience the best experience.”

“But tonight I’m meeting an agent.” Cassie’s large, blue eyes sparkled.

“An agent? Here instead of the agency office?”

“Gotta go!” Cassie took her place on stage before the curtain opened.

Haeley wondered what agent Cassie might be involved with, but she pushed the questions from her mind as she helped the woodland creatures and the wicked step-family move on and off the stage. During intermission, she redid Cinderella’s makeup for the ball scene. “Cassie, tell me about this agent. Which agency is he with?”

“I don’t remember, but his name is Tyrone. He thinks I have real talent and is going to help me launch my acting career.”

Haeley tried to hide her frown, but she couldn’t deny the knot forming in her stomach. “How did you contact him?”

How can readers find you on the Internet? I’m most active on Facebook: Connie Lewis Leonard, author (Be sure you go to the author page because my personal page contains political commentary).

My website is http://connielewisleonard.webs.com

You may sign up for my newsletter by sending me an email at rycon70@att.net.

All my books are listed on Amazon under my name: Connie Lewis Leonard

Thank you, Connie, for sharing your new book with my blog readers.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

http://ow.ly/UsD050FUfdv

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

FAITH'S MOUNTAIN HOME - Misty M Beller - One Free Book

Bio: Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

Raised on a farm and surrounded by family, Misty developed her love for horses, history, and adventure. These days, her husband and children provide fresh adventure every day, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

Misty’s passion is to create inspiring Christian fiction infused with the grandeur of the mountains, writing historical romance that displays God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.

Sharing her stories with readers is a dream come true for Misty. She writes from her country home in South Carolina and escapes to the mountains any chance she gets.

Welcome back, Misty. Let’s do some fun questions first. What song most closely resembles your life? Oh goodness! I’m drawing a blank on this one. J There are songs that I wish resembled my life. You might could say they resemble my heart. Songs like “Just a Closer Walk With Thee” (Patsy Cline) and “It is Well With My Soul” (that wonderful hymn by Horatio Spafford). And maybe throw in the folk song “Home on the Range” to reflect my love for the western states.

Do you have a favorite Bible verse? And why is it a favorite? That’s a tough one! One of my favorites is Matthew 6:33: But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. (NKJV) It reminds me to keep myself centered on God’s directions instead of constantly shifting to what the world says is right or okay.

What is the one thing you wish you could go back and change in your life? I was blessed to meet the Lord early (at four!) and was raised in a Christian home, so I didn’t go through a great rebellion in my teen years. But there were times I ran forward with what I wanted to do without listening to for His leading. I so wish I’d tuned myself better for his voice back then. It would have saved me lots of pain and frustration!

I understand that. I was raised in a Christian home and accepted Jesus into my heart at seven years old, but He only became Lord of my life in my 20s. What is the most important characteristic for a good friend to have? I think maybe for me it would be a caring heart. As I survey my really good friends, that seems to be a consistent trait. J

What extracurricular activities did you participate in when you were in school? Horses, horses, and horses! Oh, and piano. I was actually homeschooled, and throughout my childhood and teen years we had horses. From the time my older brother and I were old enough to do odd jobs around the house for money, the horses were ours. We saved up and bought new horses, saved for riding lessons, saved for horse shows, and eventually that was one of my first full-time jobs as an older teen: training horses, giving riding lessons, and showing horses for other owners.

I knew you loved horses, but I didn’t know that. What is your favorite movie of all times? I have to admit, I’m a Pride and Prejudice lover. J The newer one with Kiera Knightly is good because it follows the book fairly closely, but I grew up watching the BBC version with Colin Firth, and that will always be my favorite.

Tell us about why you wrote this book. This is the 3rd book in the Hearts of Montana series, and it picks up not long after the events in book 2. In book 2, Laura was kidnapped by a gang of thieves, along with the young boy she was watching at the time. Now, Laura is the heroine in book 3 (Faith’s Mountain Home). The hero in this book is actually one of the gang members, Nate, who was strongly opposed to her kidnapping and tried to free her several times.

I always love redemptive stories, and I was so excited to see how Laura and Nate would overcome the pain of the kidnapping. I love Nate’s protective heart, especially since he’s accepted the Lord now and is working to make restitution for the harm the gang did.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Late September 1867
Settler’s Fort, Montana Territory

Just a little farther.
Laura Hannon dared another step on the rock ledge that wrapped around the mountain. The flat space was just wide enough for a person to walk, as long as she stayed close to the stone mountainside on her right. The sheer drop on her left stole her midsection every time she allowed herself to look over the edge, so she kept her focus on the path in front of her. Of course, it would be impossible not to occasionally lift her gaze to take in the magnificent view of the mountain cliffs surrounding her.
This was why she’d come out here, after all. To escape into the beauty of the landscape. To remember that her problems were but a tiny dot compared to the vastness of the mountains God created. And yet, He cared about each one and loved her enough to help her through anything she might face. She paused to soak in that thought as she inhaled a deep breath of the cool, invigorating air.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I love to connect with readers! One of my favorite ways is through my newsletter, and readers can get a free copy of my book, A Pony Express Romance, when they sign up for the newsletter. Here’s the link for that: https://mistymbeller.com/freebook

I can also be found at these links:

https://mistymbeller.com

http://www.twitter.com/MistyMBeller

https://www.facebook.com/MistyMBellerAuthor

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/misty-m-beller

https://www.goodreads.com/MistyMBeller

http://www.pinterest.com/MistyMBeller

https://amazon.com/author/mistymbeller

Buy Links for Faith’s Mountain Home:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CJ6YBFP

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/faiths-mountain-home-misty-m-beller/1137151784?ean=9781493421725

https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/faith-s-mountain-home-hearts-of-montana-book-3

https://www.christianbook.com/faiths-mountain-home-ebook/misty-beller/9781493421725/pd/107269EB

https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=oGoCEAAAQBAJ

https://books.apple.com/us/book/faiths-mountain-home/id1533689540

Thank you, Misty, for allowing me to share your book with my blog readers.

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 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.

Beth (IA) is the winner of A Giant Murder by Marji Laine. 

Tina (PA) is the winner of The Yes Dare by Kathleen Y'Barbo.

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 INN AT CRANBERRY COVE - June Foster - One Free Book (Print edition if winner is from the US. Ebook if winner is not.)

Dear Readers, it gives me great pleasure to introduce you to June Foster again. This book The Inn at Cranberry Cove won the Selah Award this year. I’m very happy for June.

Welcome back, June.  Since you’re being published regularly, what new avenues will your future books take? I love to write book series. My recent romantic suspense books, The Cranberry Cove series, has proven to be popular. I love reading series, myself. I recently finished Martha Rogers' The Homeward Journey, set in the 1800's. In 2022, I plan to write a three-book series of contemporary romance stories. So far, I haven't determined the setting, but I feel sure the characters I envision will tell me where they live.

What conferences will you be attending this year? Will you be a speaker at any of them? This last June, I wanted to go to the Blue Mountain Christian Writer's Conference in North Carolina since I knew my book, The Inn at Cranberry Cove, was up for an award. Unfortunately, my husband was in the hospital, and I couldn't go. Some of my Word Weaver friends kept me informed. I will be a speaker in August at my church talking about my writing journey and my Christian faith.

If you were in charge of planning the panel discussion at a writing conference, what topic would the panel cover, and who would you ask to be on the panel, and why? Great question. I've attended many ACFW conferences but have never run into this topic. “Painting Word Pictures.” By this I mean, I'd like to learn how to better manipulate and maneuver words to create an image in the reader's mind. Before becoming a writer, I taught elementary school. In teaching sentence construction and grammar, I simplified my instruction to a level an 8- or 9-year-old would understand. Sometimes, I think I'm stuck in that same mode. I'd like to see a panel discuss various literary devices and how to use them. Perhaps each panel member could talk about how the creative writing process works for them. The very first person I would ask is someone who doesn't write fiction but is head of a ministry called OneHome—Rob Hoskins. He is a master with words. His devotionals are inspiring. https://robhoskins.onehope.net/

How important is it to you to be active in writing organizations? Very important. I need the support that writers can give each other. Only other writers understand the unique challenges of creating characters, plotting a story, and the various conventions we follow. I attend a monthly writer's meeting in a nearby town, Word Weavers International. I hope to attend the ACFW conference when we meet once again in person.

Where in the community or your church do you volunteer? Mostly at my church. My husband and I are Sunday morning greeters, and we also help once a month in the church kitchen with the mid-week supper. Since I spend most of my time writing, my hubby volunteers more than I do.

I understand that. Who are the five people who have made the most impact on your life, and how? Jesus Christ would be number one. Becoming a Christian changed my life in every way. Jesus gave me a purpose and assured me I am valuable to Him. Besides the Savior, I'd say my pastor in El Paso, Texas, Fay Lamb for her patience in helping me learn to write, my husband for the great difference Jesus made in his life, and my two daughters for becoming my best friends.

If you could write the inscription on your tombstone, what would it be? A child of God, saved by His grace.

Tell us about the featured book.    

The Inn at Cranberry Cove: After her boss fires her on unfounded grounds, twenty-nine-year-old Ashton Price leaves Denver for Cranberry Cove, Washington. She's inherited her aunt's B and B and is determined to carry on her legacy. Upon preparing for guests, she learns of a century-old tale of treasure within the inn. Many have searched for the illusive gems but to no avail. She discovers a man working on the inn's grounds, but is he the gardener Gina Price hired? Perhaps he's searching for the hidden treasure.

James Atwood, corporate executive, works in the Atwood's thriving cranberry business. Tragedy strikes, and he's numb and riddled with guilt. Befriended by Gina Price, he finds solace working evening and weekends in the fresh earth, fescue grass, and aromatic blossoms of the inn's gardens, helping to divert his mind from his dishonest cousin Robert, bent on destroying the Atwood business. He continues tending the grounds after Gina passes, and the new owner believes he's a gardener. After she calls late one night upon hearing a prowler, James races to her rescue and discovers his feelings are more than protective.

Ashton's first guests, the Claxton's, appear out of nowhere saying they've had reservations for a year though she finds no record of a deposit. She chalks the failure up to faulty accounting before she arrived. When an elusive intruder continues to make frightening midnight visits, Ashton fears for her own safety and that of the Claxtons. But then, their odd comings and goings cause Ashton to wonder. Are they really vacationing visitors from California, or do they have other motives for staying at the inn?

Can two people allow the majestic northwest and fragrant coastal air heal their wounded hearts? Will they discover the secret of The Inn at Cranberry Cove?

Please share the first page with us.

Ashton Price took the keys offered by the executor of her aunt's will.

"As her attorney, I can tell you your aunt would be grateful if she knew you were perpetuating her life's dream. If only she could be here to witness the inn filled with visitors and bustling with activity once again."

Ashton sighed. She could barely believe that Aunt Gina would leave her entire life's work, her beautiful inn to Ashton's care. "After all she did for me…" Her memory meandered to the rebellious young Ashton of fifteen, and she cringed. "I've always wanted to be in business for myself."

He returned to the mahogany desk and handed her the box with Aunt Gina's jewelry. "She gave orders that I should present this to you upon her passing. She wanted me to advise you to put her valuables into safe keeping as soon as possible. She wanted me to expressly warn you that people have not forgotten the legend and to vet your visitors carefully. Some come looking for the treasure and snoop into places they shouldn't go."

Ashton smiled. Aunt Gina had often told her stories about the rumors. Early ancestors of the inn's previous owners had a cache of precious gems hidden in the home somewhere. She'd even allowed Ashton to search on her own. But Aunt Gina had assured her that it had only been a myth.

"I understand her reasoning, and that'll be the next order of business after I get settled." Ashton slipped the key in her purse and gripped the ornate wooden container. "I appreciate your work as her lawyer and hope I can depend on you as well."

"Of course. Gina always spoke of what a blessing you were to her."

"She changed my life. I'd probably be in prison today if it hadn't been for her."

Mr. Bradford stared at her. "What do you mean?"

"I'm surprised she didn't tell you. When I was a teen, my parents planned to send me to a girls' correctional ranch."

He frowned. "I can't imagine why."

"Let's just say I was a rebel and heading for a very unpleasant life until Aunt Gina stepped in. That's why I intend to keep her legacy."

Mr. Bradford smiled. "Well, in Gina's own words, you're an outstanding, college-educated young woman now." He looked at his watch. "My next client is waiting, but I wish you the best. I hope The Inn at Cranberry Cove prospers as it did when your aunt was alive."

Ashton shook the lawyer's hand. "I'm going to give it my best though no one can take Gina Price's place."

She walked out of the office, butterflies whirling in her stomach. Life in Cranberry Cove would be nothing like it had been in the big city of Denver. Operating the inn was a challenge she'd never faced before. Even more challenging than her accounting job she'd left six weeks ago. But carrying Aunt Gina's legacy meant everything to her. If she failed, her aunt's dream would be lost forever.

Where can my readers find you on the Internet?

http://www.junefoster.com

Amazon Author page https://amzn.to/2Q6CjtN

Twitter https://twitter.com/vjifoster

https://www.facebook.com/authorjunefoster https://bit.ly/3d6mMmR

http://pinterest.com/junefoster

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5755395.June_Foster

Thank you, June, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. My copy arrived this week, and when I finish the rewrites on my next book, I plan to read it next.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

http://ow.ly/eYwE50FPPtY

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 

HOPE'S HIGHEST MOUNTAIN - Misty M Beller - One Free Book

Bio: Misty M. Beller is a USA Today bestselling author of romantic mountain stories, set on the 1800s frontier and woven with the truth of God’s love.

Raised on a farm and surrounded by family, Misty developed her love for horses, history, and adventure. These days, her husband and children provide fresh adventure every day, keeping her both grounded and crazy.

Misty’s passion is to create inspiring Christian fiction infused with the grandeur of the mountains, writing historical romance that displays God’s abundant love through the twists and turns in the lives of her characters.

Sharing her stories with readers is a dream come true for Misty. She writes from her country home in South Carolina and escapes to the mountains any chance she gets.

Welcome back, Misty. I know you speak at various conferences and meetings. What do you have coming up in 2022? Well…Covid has definitely taught me to hold plans with a loose grasp. J Also, I’m expecting a little one in November of this year (baby #5 for us!), so I’ve had to scale back my speaking through the first half of next year.

At the moment, I’m confirmed to teach at ACFW’s National Conference on September 10-11, 2021. ACFW is the largest organization for Christian fiction writers, and the conference is always a wonderful place to learn and connect with other authors. This year’s conference will be virtual again.

I’m also excited to do some author chats with libraries both online and in person during the spring.

Stay tuned for some other events that I’m not able to announce yet, but they should be so much fun! I’ve been amazed at how conference and meeting organizers have been able to shift events to keep things moving.

I’ll look forward to hearing about them. If you were planning a women’s retreat, what would be the theme for it? That’s a great question! I’m torn between the themes of “Hope” and “Hearing from God.” Both of these are woven throughout my books, and God has brought me on a continual journey to cling tighter to the hope He gives, and to listen more closely to His guiding in every situation. I have a feeling those things might ring familiar to other women, too!

Oh, yes. The older I get, the more I understand those things.Who would you want as speakers and why? Well, since we’re dreaming big here… J Many of Priscilla Shirer’s books have played an important role in deepening my faith, especially One in a Million and Discerning the Voice of God. I would love to hear her in person! Also, I have a good friend, Christy Johnson, who speaks around the country to women. Her primary topics are usually relationships and forgiveness, but she’s such a strong woman of God, and hope infuses everything she says.  

Priscilla has spoken at our church several times. She always speaks straight to my heart. Where would you hold the retreat and why? Well, I’m a mountain girl, and that’s the setting that renews me best. There’s something special about the air among the peaks, surrounded by God’s grandeur. It reminds me how big our God is, and also how amazing that He still cares so deeply about each of His creations. Including me!

Do you read print books or ebooks? Or a combination of the two? Actually, audiobooks are almost the only way I get to “read” anymore. I listen to them in the car, while I’m getting ready, and any time I can squeeze in while I’m getting things done around the house. That’s one of the reasons it’s been so important to me to have my books available as audiobooks!

Yes, audiobooks are good for times like that. Several of my books are in audio, too. That’s an interesting title. How did you come up with it? I love writing mountain stories, and this book is definitely one of those! So I knew it needed the word mountain in the title. The theme of hope is woven throughout this book, so as I was brainstorming title possibilities with one of my critique partners, the title Hope’s Highest Mountain rose to the top! I was excited that Bethany House felt that was a great title too. J

One other fun detail that readers may not notice is that the titles of all three books in the series highlight one of the words from 1 Corinthians 13:13: “And now abideth faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”

The titles of the books are:

Hope’s Highest Mountain

Love’s Mountain Quest

Faith’s Mountain Home

So what is the book about?

Ingrid Chastain readily agreed to accompany her father to deliver vaccines to a mining town in the Montana Territory. She never could have anticipated a terrible accident would leave her alone and badly injured in the wilderness. When rescue comes in the form of a mysterious mountain man who tends her injuries, she's hesitant to put her trust in this quiet man who seems to have his own wounds.
Micah Bradley left his work as a doctor after unintentionally bringing home the smallpox disease that killed his wife and daughter. But his self-imposed solitude in the wilds of Montana is broken when he finds Ingrid in desperate need of medical attention, and he's forced to face his regret and call on his doctoring skills once again.

Micah can't help but admire Ingrid's tenacious determination despite the severity of her injuries, until he learns the crate she brought contains smallpox vaccines to help quell a nearby outbreak. With Ingrid dead set on trekking through the mountains to deliver the medicine--with or without his help--he has no choice but to accompany her. As they set off through the treacherous, snow-covered Rocky Mountains against all odds, the journey ahead will change their lives more than they could have known.  

Please give us the first page of the book.

My Darling Rachel,

You were everything to me. You still are. Don’t ever forget that.

I saw a beaver today that reminded me of you. The creature paddled to the edge of the river and peered up at me through the water, just like that summer you learned to swim in the Ohio.

Your mama could barely pull you from the river to eat and sleep, you loved swimming so much. When you did come home, water dripping from your red curls, you always carried some treasure you’d gathered—smooth river rocks or a pail of tadpoles you planned to keep as pets. That was the summer you earned your nickname, sweet Ducky.

Mama didn’t care for the title at first, but the name captured your personality so well, I couldn’t help myself. Always swimming. Always smiling. My little Ducky.

I only wish I would have watched you swim more often instead of spending long days away from you and Mama. So much I missed. If I had it to do over again, I’d have kicked off my shoes and dove into the water with you. Played games to see who could reach the shore first or who could hold their breath the longest. I would have joined in any amusement you thought of, just to spend another marvelous hour with you.

I miss you every hour of every day.

Papa

****

October 1866

Montana Territory

“They say the last man who attempted this died in the doin’. Rest his soul.”

A frigid gust of wind ripped around the freight wagon. Ingrid Chastain pulled her cloak tighter around her shoulders. She tucked her chin into her collar, blocking out both the icy air and the images their driver’s morbid words conjured. This rugged cliffside might be as perilous as the old man described, but the staggering beauty of the mountains around them caused her chest to pulse, as though she was just now coming alive.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I love to connect with readers! One of my favorite ways is through my newsletter, and readers can get a free copy of my book, A Pony Express Romance, when they sign up for the newsletter. Here’s the link for that: https://mistymbeller.com/freebook

I can also be found at these links:

https://mistymbeller.com

https://www.facebook.com/MistyMBellerAuthor

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/misty-m-beller

https://www.goodreads.com/MistyMBeller

http://www.pinterest.com/MistyMBeller

https://amazon.com/author/mistymbeller

Buy Links for Hope's Highest Mountain:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NNPQF9D

https://books.apple.com/us/book/hopes-highest-mountain/id1460837604?ls=1

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hopes-highest-mountain-misty-m-beller/1130543146?ean=9781493421701

https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Misty_M_Beller_Hope_s_Highest_Mountain_Hearts_of_M?id=TmqODwAAQBAJ

https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/hope-s-highest-mountain-hearts-of-montana-book-1

https://www.christianbook.com/hopes-highest-mountain-ebook/9781493421701/pd/101370EB?event=ESRCG

https://www.booksamillion.com/p/Hopes-Highest-Mountain/Misty-M-Beller/Q487830862?id=7556925628403

http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/books/hope-s-highest-mountain/396400

https://www.audible.com/pd/Hopes-Highest-Mountain-Audiobook/1980052514?qid=1569973684

Thank you, Misty, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. You know I love all of your books.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