WINNERS

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

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 Looking for Leroy by Melody Carlson. 

Alison (MI) is the winner of The Lady of Galway Manor by Jennifer Deibel. 

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 2 weeks to claim your book. 

THE PRINCE AND THE PRODIGAL - Jill Eileen Smith - One Free Book

Welcome back, Jill. Tell us about your salvation experience. The first time I seriously thought about death was when I rode home from the funeral home with my parents after a man my dad worked with had died. I started asking questions, and I became very worried about the future. What happened when we died? What did death even mean? The worries grew to fears and though I’m sure my parents answered my questions, I couldn’t quite grasp their explanations.

One day, to help me understand it all better, in a way my eight-year-old mind could comprehend, my big sister handed me a little booklet titled, My Heart – Christ’s Home by Robert Boyd Munger. I plopped onto my parents’ big bed and read it cover to cover. Mr. Munger’s book pierced my heart. It exposed the fact that I was a sinner and that Jesus wanted to come into my heart and cleanse every room, taking ownership of the whole house. He would make my heart clean and whole, if I would but give him the keys.

As I closed the book, my eyes shut with it and I prayed with every ounce of my being. “Dear Lord, please come into my heart.” I opened my hand and offered him the imaginary keys. “And take all the keys to every room. Clean them out and live there. I give my whole heart to you.” To the best of my child-like ability, I surrendered my life to Jesus. When my prayer ended, I felt this all-encompassing sense of peace. I tested it right away with thoughts of dying, and there was no fear! I was free from the biggest fear that plagues mankind.

I knew that Jesus would be with me from then on, wherever I went, and that one day, I would be with Him in heaven. Many years have come and gone since then. I won’t tell you that those years have all been easy because they haven’t. But this one thing I know. Christ is at home in my heart by faith because of what Jesus Christ did on the cross when he died for my sins. His death cancelled the debt I owed to God for my sin, and His resurrection gave me the power to become His child because I believe in His name. Even death can’t take that from me. And I look forward to being with Him face to face someday.

You’re planning a writing retreat where you can only have four other authors. Who would they be and why? Jill Stengl, Maureen Lang, Hannah Alexander, Deborah Raney. Why? I have brainstormed with all of them, some more recently than others and we have been able to help each other. More importantly, they pray faithfully. They love Jesus. And I am blessed to know them.

Do you have a speaking ministry? If so, tell us about that. The short answer is no, I do not have a speaking ministry. I have spoken a few times to different groups, and I did consider a speaking ministry, but I found I did not have the energy for a second career, which a true speaking ministry could become. I admire those who can both write and speak, but for now, I will stick to writing.

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? Some people who tell me this have already written the book but have not sold it. Others want to learn how and ask me questions. Still others say they will write a book one day, but that day has yet to come.

I don’t usually give too much advice unless they seem to want to hear it. Some people think they want to write, but they prefer to tell their story rather than write it down. Others, particularly those who write fiction, are usually serious about putting their thoughts down in written form. They may have written that first book or are working on it. Perhaps they’ve self-published it or are seeking an agent to go the traditional route.

In any case, if they want to know what it’s like to break into publishing, I can tell them what I know. If they want to learn how to write, I point them to ways to study the craft. If they simply say they’re going to write a book someday, I encourage them to do so. Advice isn’t usually wanted unless they directly ask for it.

Tell us about the featured book. The Prince and the Prodigal is the story of Joseph and his brother Judah.

Here is the back cover copy:

Joseph is the pampered favorite son of the patriarch Jacob. His older brothers, deeply resentful of his status in the family, take advantage of the chance to get rid of him, selling him to slave traders and deceiving their father about his fate. It seems like their troubles are over. But for Joseph and older brother Judah, they are just beginning.

While Joseph is accused of rape and imprisoned, Judah attempts to flee the memory of his complicity in the betrayal of his younger brother. After decades apart, the brothers will come face-to-face in a stunning role reversal that sees Joseph in a position of great power while Judah begs for mercy. Will forgiveness or vengeance win the day?

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is: www.jilleileensmith.com

Join my newsletter: https://madmimi.com/signups/f28a2c9636d34025a7d95532d4d8f207/join

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jilleileensmith?lang=en

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

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jill-eileen-smith

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2799806.Jill_Eileen_Smith

Thank you, Jill, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. Your biblical fiction is always awesome.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/Prince-Prodigal-Jill-Eileen-Smith-ebook/dp/B09B2NZYTB/ref=sr_1_20?crid=O8S3BGHKFE29&keywords=jill+eileen+smith+books&qid=1659024908&s=books&sprefix=Jill+Eileen+Smith%2Cstripbooks%2C361&sr=1-20

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 2 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

HEIRLOOMS - Sandra Byrd - One Free Book

Sandra Byrd is the author of more than fifty published books, including the historical novels To Die For, Mist of Midnight, and her most recent, Lady of a Thousand Treasures. She has received many awards, nominations, and accolades for her work, including the Historical Novel Society’s Editor’s Choice award, two Christy Award nominations, Library Journal Best Book selections, and inclusion on Booklist’s Top Ten Inspirational Books of the Year list. Sandra lives in Seattle with her husband and with her grown children nearby.

Welcome, Sandra. What was your inspiration for Heirlooms? I love the intersection of one generation impacting the next—positively or negatively, knowingly and not. I wanted to bring a broader understanding of the intrinsic worth of every person. I wanted to explore the secrets we keep, the love we pass down, and bring home in our money-driven world that the heirlooms we inherit from a well-lived life are the most valuable of all.

Why did you choose to explore Korean American culture in this book? My affection and respect for Korean Americans and their culture sparked when I taught in a Korean American Hagwon, an after-school prep school of sorts. I taught English, essay, and preparation for the SAT. I grew in affection and admiration for my boss, students, and their families as I knew them better and learned more about their culture. I not only came to love their delicious food, courteous manners, beautiful language, sense of humor, devotion to achievement, and customs, but the sacrifices made for the children also made a huge impression.

You use the Korean phrase for “taste of her hands.” Can you unpack that phrase for us? How does that play a role in the story? Son-mat is the Korean concept that every woman—especially mothers—flavors a dish with her own hands, the spices adhering to her hands, leading everything she touches to have a distinct, unique flavor. Can women retain the best of the traditions handed to them, especially from mothers and grandmothers, whether in the traditional understanding—cooking—or branch out to include professional, personal, and faith life? In Heirlooms, each of the four women must learn how to both keep the traditions that are meaningful and shape her own life.

What role does faith play in this novel? That God plays the long game, and if we can help ourselves stop focusing on the short game, as most of us do, and trust that He really will bring good for everything in one way or another, life will seem less fragile. That it’s okay to be angry with Him. That it’s okay to falter in your faith. That faith is best seeded and germinated in honest soil. That He faithfully answers prayers, even though it may not always be in our lifetime.

As an author, what did you particularly enjoy about writing Heirlooms? Oh, just everything! I loved exploring women’s lives through the more traditional arts such as gardening and cooking, child raising, but also through progressive and self-driven career choices. The choices we make in life overlap and zigzag across others’ lives and generations, like a beautiful spirograph, creating a design unique and beautifully our own.

I had two wonderful grandmothers, and now I am a grandmother myself. So I’m intentional about the heirlooms I’ll leave for my granddaughter and the other grands, who will follow her.

I also loved plotting so that readers would discover characters and situations from one era before the characters in the other. As a reader, I love knowing things before the characters do, as long as there are no reveals!

What was the most challenging part of this writing project? Managing the tremendous amount of research—including dozens of interviews and perhaps nearly one hundred other sources of information—involved in bringing so many times and cultures to life in an appropriate, sensitive way. Carefully weaving story threads so as not to reveal too soon.

What do you hope your readers will take away from reading Heirlooms? How might it inspire or encourage their faith? One character asks, “What are you doing today that fulfills the hopes and prayers of someone yesterday?” Each of us might consider that, and if the answer isn’t readily at hand, adjust our lives a wee bit.

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

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/Heirlooms-Sandra-Byrd-ebook/dp/B09JT3Z1J1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=10C7GXS68K2I9&keywords=Heirlooms+Sandra+Byrd&qid=1658849302&s=books&sprefix=heirlooms+sandra+byrd%2Cstripbooks%2C1686&sr=1-1

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 2 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link: Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com 

WINNERS

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

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.

Pam (OH) is the winner of Critical Alliance by Elizabeth Goddard. 

Madie (FL) is the winner of Millennial Robin Hood by Rachel Acree. 

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 2 weeks to claim your book. 

THE LADY OF GALWAY MANOR - Jennifer Deibel - One Free Book

Welcome, Jennifer. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. It really depends on the character. In my first book, A Dance in Donegal, there is a lot of me in the main character, Moira. In my subsequent books, I can’t say that I intentionally add parts of myself to the characters. If anything, I might include insights, experiences, or thoughts I’ve had a various times in my life.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? Oh goodness, I’m not entirely sure. Once, for hat contest, I strapped a Christmas tree-topper to my head with silver fabric ribbon. I won. I’m also known for going sort of over the top on school spirit week dress-up days. I can also be found dancing in public to music—much to the dismay of my children. (Don’t tell them, but that’s half the reason I do it. ;) )

When did you first discover that you were a writer? Looking back, I’ve always been a writer. I remember getting my first journal/diary in about third grade. Ever since then, I’ve been writing. The first time I remember having an inkling that I might have some skill as a writer was during a descriptive writing assignment in high school. We were asked to write directions on how to change lanes for someone who’d never driven before. While my classmates simply said, “Turn your blinker on and move over,” I was giving details step-by-step instructions including where the turn lever was and which way to move it to indicate your direction. Then, in college, a professor made a note that I should consider a career involving writing.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. Oh, there’s a wide range, and it’s getting wider. My default is historical romance, but I enjoy contemporary romance, women’s fiction, and I’ve just recently gotten into suspense/romantic suspense thanks to authors like Jaime Jo Wright, Natalie Walters, and Terri Blackstock.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? What a great question! I’ve recently starting taking a short, relaxing stroll in the evenings through our neighborhood. We have a greenbelt running throughout and just walking for leisure, enjoying God’s creation, and listening to a devotion or Scripture-based prayers has done wonders for my stress level. I come back and enjoy some stretching, and it just sets the tone for a good, restful night, which helps me start the next day more strongly.

How do you choose your characters’ names? Some might say I put as much thought into my character’s names as I do my own kids’ names! The meaning of names are hugely important to me, so I typically research was names were common in the county of Ireland where my story is set, and in the right time period. I look for names that are unique, interesting, and hold a good meaning to them, and aren’t too strangely spelled.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? Oh, goodness. Raising three children who love Jesus is something I’m immensely grateful for— but I know that is only by the grace of God.

My debut novel, A Dance in Donegal, won the Kipp Award for Historical Romance around the same time The Lady of Galway Manor hit the Parable Group’s bestseller list, where it remained for two straight weeks.

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? I used to say a dolphin, but given how much I get seasick, that would probably be a very miserable existence. So, I think I’d like to be a dog that lives on a small farm in a mountain town.

What is your favorite food? I love pizza, and I love chocolate cake. Given the choice, I’d choose the cake first every time. J

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? When I was trying to finish up The Lady of Galway Manor before the deadline, I hit a roadblock where I felt the story was done, I’d filled out as much as I could, but I was still massively short of my required wordcount. My wonderful agent encouraged me to simply take the number of words I had left I needed to write, and divide them by the number of chapters I had. It was so much easier to fill in a couple hundred words in each chapter than trying to think of several thousand words-worth of story in one chunk to add to the end.

Tell us about the featured book. The Lady of Galway Manor is my favorite story I’ve written so far, and it was so much fun to write!

In 1920, Annabeth De Lacy’s father is appointed landlord of Galway Parish in Ireland. Bored without all the trappings of the British Court, Annabeth convinces her father to arrange an apprenticeship for her with the Jennings family–descendants of the creator of the famed Claddagh Ring.

Stephen Jennings longs to do anything other than run his family’s jewelry shop. Having had his heart broken, he no longer believes in love and is weary of peddling the lies the Claddagh Ring promises.

Meanwhile, as the war for Irish independence gains strength, many locals resent the De Lacys and decide to take things into their own hands to display their displeasure. As events take a dangerous turn for Annabeth and her family, she and Stephen begin to see that perhaps the “other side” isn’t quite as barbaric and uncultured as they’d been led to believe–and that the bonds of friendship, love, and loyalty are only made stronger when put through the refiner’s fire.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Galway City, Ireland

April 16, 1920

No one ever tells the truth about love.

The stories and fables paint a glowing portrait of valiant acts and enduring romance. Love, it is said, is the most powerful force in the world.

Stephen Jennings knew better.

He watched the pair from behind the polished-glass case as they huddled together, giggling and fawning over one another. Stifling a groan, Stephen slid his hands into his pockets and leaned on the stool behind him. His fingers curled around the worn paper in his right pocket, its presence both a comfort and an annoyance.

“This one here, lad.” The gangly man gestured to the top shelf of the glass case. “We’ll take it.”

The rusty-haired lass swooned. “Oh, Charlie, do ya mean it? In earnest? Oh!” She squealed and threw her arms around her beau’s neck.

“Very good, sir.” Stephen removed the silver ring from the case and buffed it carefully with a polishing cloth. He started with the hands that encircled a heart, then moved to the crown that topped it. How many times had he recounted the tale of the Claddagh? More than he cared to tally. With any luck, the lovebirds wouldn’t ask him to regale them with the legend today. When the ring was sufficiently shined, he handed it to the gentleman.

Fingers trembling, the man took the ring. A foolish schoolboy grin spread across his face. His lass clapped incessantly, still giggling. The man glanced at Stephen out of the corner of his eye, the all-too-familiar twinkle of delight mixed with mischief gleaming in it.

Oh no. No. Not here.

The man sank to one knee. “Maggie, you know I love you.”

Maggie erupted into hysterics. Stephen gritted his teeth, jaw aching from the movement, and pasted on his best smile—though he feared it came across more as a grimace.

“You know I love you,” Charlie repeated. “And I couldn’t wait another second before askin’ ye . . . will you marry me?”

Unintelligible sounds gurgled from Maggie’s lips as she yanked him off the floor and kissed him hard, then held out a trembling hand.

“Is that . . . is that a yes?” The man’s puppy dog expression rivaled that of any begging canine in the alleys.

Good heavens, man, are ye daft? Stephen fought the urge to roll his eyes, while ignoring his own painful memory that surfaced unbidden. Not now.

“Oh, aye, Charles! Yes! Yes! A thousand times, yes!”

“I love you!” they declared in unison.

How can readers find you on the Internet? Readers can find links to my social media, sign up for my newsletter, and get information on all my books on my website at https://www.jenniferdeibel.com

Thank you, Jennifer, for sharing this book with me and my blog readers. I love books set in Ireland both historical and contemporary.

Readers, here=s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=The+Lady+of+Galway+Manor+Jennifer+Deibel&i=stripbooks&crid=1GQ7Y86YZTA9V&sprefix=the+lady+of+galway+manor+jennifer+deibel%2Cstripbooks%2C608&ref=nb_sb_noss_1 

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 2 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  

LOOKING FOR LEROY - Melody Carlson - One Free Book

Welcome back, Melody. 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? I’m not sure how to define the “birth” of a book. The concept for this story was born during a drive through Northern California’s beautiful vineyard country. Because we were in a hurry, we couldn’t stop and visit some of the lovely locations. So we planned to make a return trip in our motorhome. But life got busy and Covid hit, and travel plans were set aside. Then the book was “birthed” through a lot of online research and a vicarious visit to an imaginary vineyard, which actually provided a much welcome escape during our “social isolation.” Now I want to actually go there in person!

If you teach or speak. What’s coming up on your calendar? Again, thanks to Covid shutdowns, I don’t have anything scheduled right now. But I hope to plan a motor-home tour, visiting libraries, schools and bookstores. We’ll see what gas prices look like next fall.

If you had to completely start over in another place, where would you move, and why? That’s a tough question because I love where I live—a charming small mountain town in Oregon. But I sometimes enjoy the idea of a winter getaway in a warmer climate.

If you could only tell aspiring novelists one thing, what would it be? Finish writing your novel before editing it. Too many new novelists get trapped in editing and re-editing their work before they’re done. It’s easy to get stuck there—and then your novel never gets written.

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]) Oprah Winfrey could speak, Martha Stewart could be in charge of food and décor, and Emmylou Harris can perform. And no one would be allowed to talk politics. LOL.

Tell us about the featured book. Looking for Leroy is a lighthearted romp through Sonoma vineyard country, with two school teachers searching for a first crush and a fun summer adventure. But when they finally locate Leroy’s family vineyard, is Brynna Philips ready for what comes next?

Please give us the first page of the book.

Early June

Portland, Oregon

“Hey, if you want to believe in fairy-tale endings, go for it.” Brynna Philips paused to wave goodbye to a cluster of her third-grade students as they walked across the grassy lawn in front of the school. “All I’m saying is it’s not for me.” She forced a smile for the sake of her two younger colleagues.

The three teachers were visiting on the sunny front steps of the grade school while saying last-day-of-school goodbyes to their students. Tasha and Gwen seemed determined to convince Brynna to join their summer escapades of finding Mr. Right. But Brynna was not having it. Tasha elbowed her. “Seriously? You’ve completely given up on men and dating?”

“That’s right. But I wish you two the best of luck.” Brynna watched as little Taylor Thompson raced toward her from her mother’s parked car. Bouncing precariously in Taylor’s hands was a potted plant.

“I have something for you, Mrs. Philips!” Taylor yelled happily. Then, just a few feet away, she tripped—falling forward onto the plant.

“Oh, Taylor!” Brynna rushed over to help her. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah, but I ruined your flowers,” Taylor sobbed.

“No, no, they’re not ruined.” Brynna helped the girl to her feet, trying to repair the bruised and broken flowering plant. “It’ll be beautiful, Taylor.” She smoothed the girl’s mussed hair. “This was very thoughtful.”

“I asked Mommy to get pink flowers.” Taylor frowned down at the bruised blossoms.

“Thank you. I’m sure I’ll enjoy more pink blooms throughout the whole long summer.”

“I wish school wasn’t over.” Taylor hugged Brynna tightly. “I don’t see why we need a summer break. I’m gonna miss you so much!”

“I’ll miss you too. But I hope you get in lots of reading.” Brynna patted Taylor’s head. “You’ve become such a good reader. I want you to go to the public library a lot. Just like I used to do when I was your age.”

Taylor nodded, jumping at the sound of her mom’s car horn as she called out for Taylor to hurry up. “I gotta go, Mrs. Philips.”

Brynna thanked her again for the plant, then waved as Taylor jogged off.

“Bittersweet, isn’t it?” Tasha said quietly. “The last day of school.”

“Not for me.” Gwen laughed. “I’d like to be doing the Snoopy happy dance right now.”

“Save it,” Tasha warned. “Here comes Sergeant Bart.”

“And here I go.” Gwen winked as she made her exit.

Brynna grimaced, wishing that teachers didn’t treat Jan Barton like the plague. It wasn’t easy being vice principal. And, other than being a bit brusque sometimes, Jan did a good job.

Jan greeted them as she glanced across the school grounds. “Looks like the place is nearly cleared out.”

“Speaking of clearing out, I better go attack my room. Our last day party got a little messy.” Tasha’s smile looked nervous. “I know you say no food in the classroom, Jan, but Jessie’s mother sneaked in cupcakes and punch. What could I say?”

Jan grimly shook her head. “Well, the janitor will probably complain about ants again.”

“Sorry.” Tasha took off.

“So, what were you girls gossiping about?” Jan asked Brynna.

“Oh, nothing. They were just telling me their summer plans.”

“Anything special?”

Brynna chuckled. “They think this will be their summer of love. They’ve joined a dating app.  They actually wanted me to join it too.”

“And?”

“No thanks.” Brynna firmly shook her head.

Where can we find you on the Internet? melodycarlson.com or my facebook [Melody Carlson] author page

Thank you, Melody for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. Sounds like a fun summer read.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

 https://www.amazon.com/s?k=looking+for+leroy&i=stripbooks&crid=30E7QVSHK3OIF&sprefix=looking%2Cstripbooks%2C103&ref=nb_sb_ss_retrain-deeppltr_3_7 

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 2 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link: Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com 

WINNERS

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

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 Protected by Paula Peckham. 

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.

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MILLENNIAL ROBIN HOOD - Rachael M Acree - One Free Book

Welcome back, Rachael. Why do you write the kind of books you do? I like reading clean romances, which are sadly infrequent finds. I’m a notoriously difficult person to find books for because while I like romance I don’t like a lot of cheese. I write mostly what I’d like to find as a reader.

Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life? This is a bit of a three-way tie. They are as follows:

Seeing the Festival of Fantasy parade at Disney World in 2015.

Being the first person in my immediate family to graduate from college in 2016 (and then again with my MFA in Creative Writing in 2021)

Meeting David Tennant who played the 10th Doctor on Doctor Who. When I found out he’d be at Comic Con in 2017, I screamed so loud our neighbors came to check on us.

How has being published changed your life? Besides being able to say “I’m a published author” during get to know you things, it hasn’t really changed all that much. I haven’t gained much of a following outside of friends and family, but I know God has plans.

What are you reading right now? I just finished The Inheritance Games and The Hawthorne Legacy by Jennifer Lynn Barnes. They were well written and didn’t lose my interest like a lot of YA books have recently. In fact I started the second one at 5 after I got off work and had it finished by 10 that same day.

What is your current work in progress? I’ve just finished writing out All’s Fair in Love and Comic Con, which centers around Addie Richards, an author who embarrasses herself in front of her celebrity crush at Comic Con. She has a difficult time forgetting the events that happened, but a God moment has her becoming the scriptwriter several years down the road. She attends a read-through for the film which stars the same celebrity, and she has to figure out how to let go of the past so she can find true love. Once I’m done editing, I have plans for a sequel called Wish Upon a Dandelion.

What would be your dream vacation? A quiet cabin in a forest, maybe on a mountain side. There’s trees as far as the eye can see and they nestle up against the massive back porch. It seems calm and peaceful…maybe not vacation, can I live there instead?

How do you choose your settings for each book? I really just depends on what feels right for the characters. This one presented a bit of a challenge because the Legend was based on very real places that I couldn’t just pick up and fly to. Especially in the middle of a global pandemic. I knew there needed to be a lot of trees and New England is famous for the leaves changing colors. When I graduated in 2016, my family took a trip in the Massachusetts area, and it seemed perfect for Robin Hood.

If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?The fan girl answer is my celebrity crush. The serious answer is probably Lisa Bevere, I’ve heard her speak a few times, and she seems like a really cool person to be around.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading? I am a theater kid to the core. I love doing Shakespeare in the Park with my local community theater. I had the privilege to play Mercutio in their production of Romeo and Juliet this May, and I had an absolute blast. During quarantine, I did discover painting. I have a whole wall full of superhero logos now. I also like to make my own costumes for Comic Con, I went as Batgirl to the Dallas Comic Con last year and even made the cowl she wears. I wore it for every costumed event I had last year to make it worth all the burned fingers from working with thermoplastic. But I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it? It’s a combination of commas (anyone who has edited for me knows they’re my nemesis), writer’s block, and following God’s ideas over good ideas. I write in a different way from most people, I ask God what He wants to say as I’m writing and that doesn’t always follow the cut and dried plotting that some authors like. That is what usually leads to the worst writer’s block. While writing All’s Fair, I dealt with that a lot and so many spiritual attacks that at one point I considered never picking up my pen again. But then through prayer and worship, God started highlighting what was going on. And I kinda spiritually stomped my foot and told the enemy he was done with the sabotage.

So, long story short, I pray a lot.

What advice would you give to a beginning author? Unlike most authors, find something that you’re a fan of and write fan fiction while you’re testing your wings. It’s a great place to learn about developing a plot and character without having the pressure of world building added on too. I played in C. S. Lewis’ sandbox for a long time before I realized the story I posted was mine except for the setting and couple of characters. I still write fan fiction to relax and test out narration styles, some work and others don’t. But it is a wonderful place to start.

Also find a group of people to critique. Without the critiques of my group my writing would NOT be where it is today (thanks guys, you’re the reason Robin Hood is palatable)

Tell us about the featured book. Speaking of fan fiction, that’s how this book got its start. I was working at a library, and someone turned in a YA re-imagining of Robin Hood. I read it, fell in love with it, and though this one scene would make a great fan fic. I was evidently the only person who thought that, because I couldn’t find one ANYWHERE! So I sat down and said fine I’ll do it myself. After that I’m not really sure where the idea for the novel itself actually came from, but shortly after I started writing, it took on a life of its own.

I have loved the Legend of Robin Hood for as long as I can remember. I have early memories of watching The Adventures of Robin Hood starring Errol Flynn, Olivia de Havilland, and Basil Rathbone when it would come on TV. My dad read the legend to me. At one point, I wanted to be Maid Marion when I grew up. This story has obviously held a special place in my heart and I’m glad I got to do a modern retelling of it.

CEO by day and vigilante hero The Hood by night, Robin Locksley attempts to thwart the Nottingham, Massachusetts, mayor’s plans to gentrify the town to make way for an elite country club. When he’s forced to seek medical attention after a mission goes bad, Robin learns his ex-girlfriend, Marian, is back in town. He is forced to realize that his feelings for her never faded while he fights to keep his company, town, and friendships safe from the mayor.

I tried to stay as close to the legend as possible, with a few exceptions. I didn’t want Marian to be a wilting maiden as she is so often reduced to. She has very strong opinions, and she’s not afraid to voice them. Alan A-Dale and Friar Tuck did get a gender swap, because I needed more women to round out the story. Alan became Alaine and is still the bard of the group. Friar Tuck became Freya Tuck and still took care of all the “merry men” but as a cook and housekeeper. One thing I feel I should mention is Much the Miller’s son. He is a central part of the legend, being Robin’s squire and all, and I built the friendship between them as naturally as I could. That’s why he’s Martin “Much” Miller in this story.

Please give us the first page of the book.

CHAPTER ONE 

The Hood held out an envelope to Maria Esposito who clutched her worn work apron in her hands. The single mother of three stared at him slackjawed, as if she expected him to pull a weapon and use it against her. He pressed his lips together, now wasn’t the time to hesitate. He needed to get out of sight before the mayor’s hired guns figured out where he was. He took a step closer and shook the package. Maria backed away.

He tried not to speak during these encounters, the less people had to recognize him the better. “It’s for you, to pay the taxes.”

Maria shook her head and held the dingy white fabric like a shield. “Why, you don’t know me.”

He fought down a groan, he didn’t have time to explain about how unjust the mayor was for increasing taxes and rezoning the city. He didn’t have time to explain that he would be their guardian angel until the evil rearing its head was gone. He didn’t have time … period. He tugged at the black sleeve of his hoodie, revealing the crossed arrows tattooed on the inside of his wrist. How that had become a beacon of hope, he would never understand.

Maria’s posture relaxed, like she recognized him. More likely than not, she’d heard about the man in black with an arrow tattoo, a ring in his lip, and a black mask that had helped countless residents keep their homes. She dipped her head toward him and took the envelope from his hand. “Grazie, Signor Hood.”

“You’re welcome. Keep this quiet though, so I can keep helping.” He shoved his hands into his pockets.

“Go, before they come.” She nodded to the alleyway behind her home.

The Hood didn’t need to be told twice. He turned, ran, and vaulted over the chain-link fence around the yard.

He paused to catch his breath and peered around the corner of a house in Nottingham’s rundown neighborhood. Why did the mayor tell his cronies to patrol this far out? He had to hand it to Cyril Hawkins, the man was quick to catch on. He drew an arrow from the quiver on his back and nocked it to the string. He took aim at an old streetlamp and let go. The arrow connected, raining a shower of sparks over the street. The two black-suited men who had been strutting down the sidewalk stopped in their tracks. That was all he needed.

How can readers find you on the Internet? I love to hear from my readers! The best way to find me is through my website. https://rachaelacreeauthor.com I have links to my Facebook Author Page, my Amazon page, and my Instagram. I will say I don’t post often so if you want to follow me, your inbox won’t be flooded with notifications. But please come say hi!

Thank you, Rachael, for sharing this book with my blog readers. I loved it when you shared it with our critique group.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

 https://www.amazon.com/Millennial-Robin-Hood-Rachael-Acree-ebook/dp/B0B5FYR46T/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LFTWGQ7JP826&keywords=millennial+robin+hood&qid=1657814777&sprefix=Millennial+Robin+Hood%2Caps%2C1647&sr=8-1

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 2 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 

CRITICAL ALLIANCE - Elizabeth Goddard - One Free Book

Welcome back Elizabeth. Tell us a little about yourself and your background. I’m a 7th generation Texan, but currently make my home in Washington State with my husband. I have four adult children, and two still live with us.

How did you become interested in writing? I think I’ve always wanted to be a writer—that dream was always inside of me—but it wasn’t until I stayed home with my first child (after a career in software sales) that I started thinking about writing seriously. In 2001 I attended my first writer’s conference and never looked back.

What compelled you to write a book on this subject? Critical Alliance is part of a three-book series called Rocky Mountain Courage. Since I have a computer science degree, and cybercrime is constantly in the news, I thought it was time to tackle the topic of hacking and cybercriminals.

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?  The main theme is about going home, forgiving, and trusting God. I think I write a little of all these themes in just about every book.

Are there some specific lessons you hope readers will learn and apply to their lives after reading your book? I hope to raise awareness regarding cyber-crimes and how hackers can affect every aspect of our lives now that technology, though useful, in many ways has invaded our world.

What makes your book different from any other books similar to yours that are in circulation today? I think that all books are different from the simple fact that a different person wrote them. My story is different simply because it’s MY story to tell.     

How does the book intertwine with God’s call on your life and how you are currently serving Him? God called me to write, and my characters are Christians and are in different places in their walk with God. I write all my books from a Christian worldview, and that’s how I serve God.   

Do you have a favorite Scripture verse? My favorites change and right now, the scripture verse I think on often and I see everywhere is: To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8

When you are not writing, what do you like to do? Do you have any hobbies? Ha ha! I would love to have hobbies, but I write for two publishers, and it seems like life is always “interfering” with actual writing. I’m trying to set aside time to “smell the roses” and right now, since we live in beautiful Washington State, every weekend we enjoy hiking.

Tell us about the book. After receiving a cryptic message, Mackenzie Hanson returns to Montana to secure exposed assets, close security breaches and save lives at her father’s tech company. She crosses paths with Diplomatic Security Services special agent Alex Knight who is drawn into the mysterious circumstances that include suspicious deaths, lethal threats, and whispers of espionage. When the situation turns deadly, Alex and Mackenzie will have to work together to find the answers they need—before someone silences Mackenzie for good.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Her world was spinning out of control. Correction. Not her world—her body. But what else could Mackenzie Hanson expect while in the grip of a colossal gyrating octopus? A cephalopod built from a jumble of plastic and metal parts, and powered by a smelly, backfiring motor. All of it quickly bolted together to be ready for patrons visiting the traveling carnival.

She imagined a tentacle flying off. How safe was she, really? Her stomach grew queasy with the spinning and rocking motion.

Sky. People. Balloons. Asphalt. Sky. People. Balloons. Asphalt.

Over and over and over.

Mackenzie squeezed her eyes shut. But for the brief time she’d kept them open . . .

She might have been hallucinating. Could centrifugal force cause hallucinations?

 She thought she’d seen . . . No. It was only someone who looked like Julian.

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

I hope readers enjoy Critical Alliance. Thank you for having me!

Where can my readers find you on the Internet? On my website—ElizabethGoddard.com—readers will find links to all my social media, and please sign up for my newsletter right there on the website, to stay in the know!

Thank you, Elizabeth, for sharing this new book with my blog readers and me. I loved the first two books in the series.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=critical+alliance+elizabeth+goddard&i=stripbooks&crid=6MMCW3W4EAY3&sprefix=Critical+All%2Cstripbooks%2C460&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_1_12

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory or country if outside North America. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 2 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link: Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com 

WINNERS

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

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.

Perrianne (TX) is the winner of Sunburst by Susan May Warren. 

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 2 weeks to claim your book. 

PROTECTED - Paula Peckham - One Free Book

Welcome, Paula. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. Pretty sure little bits of me show up in all of my main characters, at least so far. I wrote a contemporary novella to be included in a Christmas anthology, and it was the easiest thing I’ve ever written because it was a story from my life. In fact, my mother texted me after her copy arrived in the mail (Texas Heirloom Ornament) and told me, “I’m reading your autobiography.” I laughed because it was almost accurate.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? Following a nudge from the Holy Spirit one night at church, I convinced my husband we needed to buy property in Rio Bravo, Mexico, where our church had done mission work for ten years, and we built a little house there in the neighborhood where we serve.

I have been on at least 10 short term mission trips to Mexico. I love the people there. When did you first discover that you were a writer? I wrote for the school newspaper when I was in high school, and I enjoyed it, but I never seriously sat down to write a book until I was in my 50s.

I started in my 40s.Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

I read everything! Stephen King’s horror, Dick Francis’ mysteries, John Grisham’s legal thrillers, Patricia Cornwell’s medical mysteries, Ray Bradbury’s science fiction, Cheryl Burman’s mystical women’s fiction, just about any romance, non-fiction about nature, biographies, cereal boxes … If it’s been published, I’ve probably tried it.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? It’s easier now that I’ve retired from teaching. When I start feeling overwhelmed with the world, I remind myself God is in control, and I don’t have to know all the answers.

How do you choose your characters’ names? Since I write Christian fiction, I often choose a name from a Bible character who exemplifies what I want my character to be like. For example, in Protected, my male main character has a best friend named Jonathan. I chose that name from the friendship between Jonathan and David.

My female main character’s name is Abigail. I chose her name because it would easily shorten to Ab, which then easily switched to “Abner” when she decided to disguise herself as a boy.

And some names come from websites that list popular names for that year. 

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?  I dropped out of college when I got married at age nineteen because we couldn’t pay our bills without both of us working. Then two babies came. I finally started back again, taking two classes a semester at night. It took me seventeen years to get my college degree, but I never gave up. I think that determination has served me well as an author too. It gets discouraging when success doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s very tempting to quit. I’ve learned the value of perseverance.

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? Ooh, that’s hard. Maybe a dolphin, because I love to swim and they’re intelligent. Maybe a mockingbird, because doesn’t everyone wonder what it would be like to fly, and they sing so beautifully. Maybe a dog because they always seem so happy, and they’re loyal and non-judgmental, both characteristics I’d love to have. Or a horse, because they’re powerful and majestic, and I’ve loved horses since I was a child and begged Santa for one every year.

What is your favorite food? No hesitation on this one! Mexican

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? Sometimes what I start with in my imagination isn’t supported by historical fact. It’s tempting to bluff my way through the parts I’m not sure about or ignore a critique partner who tells me the thing I’m writing hadn’t occurred yet. If it means switching up major parts of the story plotline, I want to resist. But I know historical accuracy is important, so I’ve always given in and rewritten what I needed to in order to maintain authenticity.

Tell us about the featured book. Protected is a western story set in Texas. Think of what you might get if you mashed together Beauty and the Beast, Mulan, and John Wayne’s movie, The Cowboys. My female MC is strong and independent. My male MC is kind and loyal. The bad guys are just creepy enough. The side characters are fun and funny. It will make you laugh and maybe even cry.

Please give us the first page of the book.  

Texas plains, late Spring, 1862

Abigail Walker stood beside the fresh grave. Fear and grief wrapped around her chest like the cinch of a saddle. She dropped a limp handful of wildflowers onto the mound of loamy black soil. Sunbeams beat down on the prairie, highlighting the ten other graves that had appeared in a somber line over the past two weeks. Three of them held pieces of her heart. Death had snatched her entire family ―her younger brother Nathan, Mama, and Papa. Stunned, she struggled to breathe.

A warm wind dried the tears from her face and teased some strawberry-blonde strands from her messy braid. Golden flashes of sunlight slipped through the tossing leaves on the trees near the creek where the children from the wagon train gathered for this final ceremony.

“Abby, do you want to say any last words?” Grady Strong’s tone held sincere kindness, but the matter-of-fact question, repeated several times already to the others standing around the grave over the past two weeks, slapped her heart.

Abby’s eyes stung as she gazed into their sun-dappled faces. A nearby mockingbird ran through its joyful repertoire in direct contrast to the grief swamping her as she stood with the remaining group of travelers heading for a new life in San Antonio, Texas. Could they finish the journey alone?

How can readers find you on the Internet?          

I have an author page on Facebook, Paula Peckham, Author. I have a website where I blog – www.paulapeckham.com. I’m on Twitter and Instagram, and occasionally I post on TikTok.

Thank you, Paula, for sharing your novel with my blog readers and me. You know I love the story.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/Protected-Paula-Peckham-ebook/dp/B09XLW7Q9K/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3G0L6HNA3A7R&keywords=Protected+Paula+Peckham&qid=1657208461&s=books&sprefix=protected+paula+peckham%2Cstripbooks%2C822&sr=1-1

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 2 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