INTO THE FIRE - Irene Hannon - One Free Book

Bio: Irene Hannon is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than 60 contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. In addition to her many other honors, she is a three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of RWA’s elite Hall of Fame and has received a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. 

Irene was named “the queen of inspirational romantic suspense” by Library Journal, and with over sixty novels Hannon continues to prove that she is a master at her craft. Now she introduces readers to another blazing tale in Into the Fire, book 1 in the Undaunted Courage series. Brimming with a puzzling mystery, a budding romance, and escalating danger, Into the Fire will leave readers breathless but craving more of Hannon’s electrifying tales.

About the story: As a former smokejumper, arson investigator Bri Tucker knows her way around fires. But after a mysterious blaze takes the life of a former colleague, Bri inherits a curious puzzle from him that raises questions about several fiery deaths. Someone, however, doesn’t want her picking up where he left off in search of answers.

When she teams up with ATF Special Agent Marc Davis to solve the puzzle, the danger escalates. But will they manage to track down the person behind the mysterious deaths before their budding romance—and maybe even their lives—go up in flames?

Join Irene Hannon in her brand-new series that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping as you burn through the pages to discover the truth.

Please provide a brief summary of Into the Fire. Here’s my one-sentence elevator pitch: A fire investigator and ATF agent join forces to track down a serial arsonist who will stop at nothing—including murder—to carry out a nefarious plan. (Romance ensues as well, of course!)

What was the inspiration for your new novel? I’ve written many law-enforcement related books featuring a variety of crimes, but never anything fire-related. This story gave me an opportunity to do that. Plus, after researching the fascinating world of smokejumpers, I knew it was the perfect background for my strong and determined heroine.

Into the Fire is the first book in the Undaunted Courage series. How many books will be part of your new series and what ties the books together? There will be three books in the series. The link between the books it that they feature three foster siblings from difficult backgrounds. Each story spotlights one of the siblings, but the other two siblings do make appearances in that book.

What do readers have to look forward to in the rest of the Undaunted Courage series? Book 2 will feature Jack Tucker, a homicide detective, who must determine whether the sole witness in a murder case has lost her grip on reality or whether someone is conducting a relentless campaign to destroy her credibility . . . and perhaps her life. In book 3, the youngest sibling, Cara Tucker, takes center stage. She’s a historical anthropologist on sabbatical at a remote estate, where she’s researching a vanishing language. When she finds herself caught up in a century-old mystery and murder, however, the local sheriff must track down the killer before he or she strikes again.

Your two protagonists, Bri Tucker and Marc Davis, have very unique professions. What type of research was required to accurately portray their roles? As I always tell people, while I write fiction, the professions and agencies and law enforcement protocols I write about are real. Since I’m a stickler for accuracy, I do huge amounts of research to ensure I portray these correctly. In this case, I found plenty of material online about smokejumpers, including female smokejumpers. That was invaluable. For the arson plot element that was unique to my story, I worked with a retired fire chief/fire marshal, who reviewed the scenarios I created. Those kinds of sources help put the final polish of authenticity on my stories.

In Bri’s new role as a fire investigator, she inherits a curious puzzle from her predecessor. What type of questions does this puzzle raise for Bri? After the death of a retired colleague, Bri realizes he may have been on the brink of soliciting her help with several fires that had been ruled accidental but which continued to trouble him. But she has almost nothing to go on. What cases was he focused on? Why was he still concerned about them? Who were the victims? But when a few clues emerge that suggest his quest may have merit, Bri digs in . . . and suddenly finds herself in the crosshairs.  

What is the connection between Bri and Marc? When Bri is assigned to investigate the suspicious death of her retired colleague, she’s still relatively new to her job. Plus, it’s a death that hit close to home for the department, and her boss wants to pull out all the stops. So he decides to have the ATF get involved too. That doesn’t sit especially well with Bri, who’d prefer to work alone—but Marc ends up being an asset on both the professional and personal front! J

The setting for Into the Fire is St. Louis, Missouri. Why did you choose this location? All but one of my suspense novels are set in the St. Louis area. Since my stories tend toward psychological suspense and aren’t generally location contingent, I can set them anywhere. I use St. Louis because I’m very familiar with that setting, and writing about it requires almost no research . . . which frees me up to research everything else in the book.

What are some of the main themes covered in Into the Fire and what do you hope readers will gain from reading your book? Forgiveness, self-esteem issues, overcoming challenges, finding the courage to trust, the importance of family, perseverance. All of those are in the book. Mostly what I try to do with my novels is tell a compelling story that entertains, encourages, and uplifts.

What do you love most about writing romantic suspense novels? he high stakes, the deep dive into the minds of multiple characters, and the gradual build toward a dramatic climax. I also like watching a romance develop as two characters grapple with dangerous situations. Those sorts of conditions bring emotions to the forefront and allow the characters (and the reader) to get a clear read on their strengths and weaknesses fairly fast.

How can readers connect with you? Facebook is my favorite place to hang out with readers. I’m there every day, and I love to engage with readers. For general information about me and my books, my website is the best resource—www.irenehannon.com.

Thank you, Irene, for sharing Into the Fire with us. I’ve loved every book of yours I’ve read.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BWDRPJGP

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 

A SUMMER ON BELLEVUE AVENUE - Lorri Dudley - One Free Book

Welcome back, Lorri. Since you’re being published regularly, what new avenues will your future books take? There are still two more books to be released in my Agents of Espionage Series: Redeeming the Rake, where a vicar’s daughter saves a spy’s life, but his rogue tactics may destroy everything she values and steal her heart, and Relinquishing the Agent, about a gentleman spy on a mission to arrest a ring of resurrection men, must protect a beautiful bluestocking when women start disappearing.

After the series releases, I’m looking to pitch Wild Heart Books on an adventure-competition series resembling a Regency version of The Apprentice, The Amazing Race, and Wife Swap (but more like a life swap to keep it Christian-based). Otherwise, I’m entertaining a British deportation series where wrongfully charged heroes are transported to Australia and find redemption within a penal colony, or a Windward Island Series to match my prior Leeward Island Series. My creative juices are flowing! I love writing and am so blessed to have the opportunity. God is good.

Yes, He is. What conferences will you be attending this year? Will you be a speaker at any of them? I’m looking to attend ACFW’s conference in New Orleans and the Just Read Rendezvous conference, where readers meet writers in St. Louis. I don’t plan to speak, but I hope to either moderate or be on a panel at the Just Read Rendezvous conference as I did last year.

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? With my psychology background, I love characterization. I would hold a panel on how authors determine their character’s personality and use the traits to develop and push the plot, especially when the characteristics may be opposite their own (i.e., an introverted, detail-oriented author who writes about a flighty, extroverted heroine). Also, I’d ask them how birth order plays a role in the characters’ personalities and interactions, especially in sibling series and romantic relationships. Some authors who have done this well that I would love to interview on the panel would be Kristi Ann Hunter, Blossom Turner, Misty Beller, and Robin Patchen.

How important is it to you to be active in writing organizations? Connections are vital to being an author. We are an isolated bunch who sit alone in front of a computer. It’s essential to be part of writing organizations and critique groups. I’ve been a member of ACFW for ten years, and the people I’ve met through their conferences and the Northeast Chapter are why I’m published today. Friendships and networking have been invaluable. In the beginning, I soaked up how to improve my writing, but now I lean on my writer friends for encouragement, strategy, marketing tips, and when I get stuck in a plot hole. Writing is an “always be learning” process.            

That is so true. After 40 years in the business, I’m still learning. Where in the community or your church do you volunteer? I’ve been a greeter at church for twenty years and ran the team for five years. Even though I’m introverted, I believe my unease in new situations allowed God to instill in me a heart to want new guests to feel welcome and at ease. I tell my team you never know how long a mother has prayed for her child to walk through these church doors, and we get to be like the prodigal son’s father waiting with wide-open arms to welcome them home.

I have also been an active member and leader of small groups for over twenty years. My husband and I currently help co-lead a marriage group where we’re the advanced couple (a nice way of saying we’re comparatively old), having now been married twenty-four years. We have a passion for helping couples succeed in marriage.

Who are the five people who have made the most impact on your life, and how? 

My husband, John, has loved me through my faults, drawn me out of my shell, talked me off cliffs, and given me three wonderful boys.

My parents, who have also been my biggest cheerleaders, have taught me to work hard and be independent.

My friend and spiritual mother, Lynn Jamros, took my husband and me under her wing when we were baby Christians. She encouraged, challenged, and loved on me as a Jesus with skin on.

Pastor and Stacy Frye are my pastors, leaders, and friends. They’ve taught, inspired, and believed in me.

If you could write the inscription on your tombstone, what would it be?

Servant of Jesus

Devoted wife

Mother of Christ-following men

who carry on the charge.       

Tell us about the featured book. A Summer on Bellevue Avenue is the sixth installment of the Romance in the Gilded Age Resorts Series written by various Wild Heart Books authors. It was my first dive into America’s Gilded Age, and I loved it.

Wealthy heiress Amanda Mae Klein is set to marry the man she loves, Wesley Jansen—the only person she trusts to help ease her anxiety among the social climbers of high society. Then the daughter of a union boss falls down a flight of stairs at Wesley’s oil company’s office in the middle of the night…and the woman claims Wesley pushed her.
Seeking solace from the growing scandal, Amanda flees to the mansion-dotted seaside of Newport. Wesley follows and sets about disproving the rumors while winning back Amanda’s trust. But soon, Amanda finds not only her social status but her life at risk. As grievous events pit the two against each other, will their love find a way to survive?

Please share the first page with us.

New York, New York

June 7, 1895

A scream and tumbling sound woke Wesley Astor Jansen. He jolted upright from his desk and swiped at the paper that stuck to his cheek.

Had he dreamed the noise? Who else was here?  

He tilted his ear up and listened, but in the office of Jansen and Sons Oil and Energy Engineering, not even the janitorial staff stirred. The oil lamp on the corner of his desk burned low. He flicked open his gold pocket watch and held it near the sputtering light.

Quarter after three in the morning. He snapped the lid shut and tucked the timepiece back into his suit pocket.

His copy of the signed marriage agreement he’d struggled for the better part of an hour to read though lay scattered across his desk. He gathered the pages into a pile and turned to file them in his side drawer.

Odd. The drawer stood open. Had he left it that way?

He slid the papers into the first folder, then closed and locked the compartment. It was late. He should head home. Light sparkled off the remaining bubbles still bursting in his half-finished champagne glass. He brought the glass over to the sideboard for the staff to clear.

It had been a solitary victory celebration after obtaining Mr. Klein’s blessing to marry his daughter—a hard-won feat. Mr. Klein’s ruthless business and social dealings sought one-sided advantages, but Wesley, too, could be relentless. A financial investment closed the deal with Klein & Co. manufacturing their line of motor cars with Jansen and Sons’ unique grade of gasoline. They both signed, and the only stipulation was for Wesley’s money to be returned if Amanda declined his offer of marriage.

Paying for his bride didn’t sit well with Wesley. If Amanda discovered what her father asked of him and the dollar amount, she’d be horrified. In the end, he’d have paid even more because he loved Amanda, and a Jansen-Klein business alliance would profit them both.

Grander festivities would take place tomorrow evening after he proposed and Amanda accepted.

Wesley yawned and ran his hand down his face. He’d been having some dream.   

Where can my readers find you on the Internet?

LorriDudley.com

https://www.wildheartbooks.org/lorri-dudley.html

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/lorri-dudley

Goodreads

Amazon

Thank you for sharing A Summer on Bellevue Avenue with my blog readers and me. I’ve always loved reading your books.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=A+Summer+on+Bellevue+Avenue&i=stripbooks&crid=51GFE7IEC8SE&sprefix=a+summer+on+bellevue+avenue+%2Cstripbooks%2C100&ref=nb_sb_noss

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. 

Patty (SC) is the winner of The Legacy of Longdale Manor by Carrie Turansky.

Jeanie (TX) is the winner of The Counterfeit Betrothal by Denise Weimer.

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.  

AGAINST THE WIND - Amanda Cabot - One Free Book

Bio: Amanda Cabot is the bestselling author of After the Shadows, as well as several historical and contemporary romance series, including Mesquite Springs, Cimarron Creek Trilogy, Texas Crossroads, Texas Dreams, and Westward Winds. Her books have been finalists for the ACFW Carol Awards, the HOLT Medallion, and the Booksellers’ Best. She lives in Wyoming. With more than 350,000 copies sold she has become well known for her historical romance novels. In her newest work, Against the Wind, book 2 in the Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing series, Cabot returns readers to the Texas Hill country for a skillfully woven tale of faith, romance, and a dash of intrigue.

About the story: Doctor-in-training Louisa Vaughn has no intention of spending more than a few days in Sweetwater Crossing, but when she finds an injured man on the side of the road, she can’t abandon him. She’ll stay and serve as both the town doctor and the midwife until the man’s broken leg heals. But someone is determined to thwart her dreams of healing others.

Josh Porter is eager to step into his rightful role as head of the family business, if only he can prove himself to his grandfather. But his accident and the enforced stay in Sweetwater Crossing destroy his plans and leave him no option but to ponder different ideas. Maybe, just maybe, the right person to help make his dreams a reality is Louisa Vaughn.

As the two work together, can they fulfill their dreams while also uncovering who is behind the threats? And is there any future for them together when neither of them plans to stay in Sweetwater Crossing?

Against the Wind is the second book in the Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing series. What is the connecting element for all of the books in the series? There are two connecting elements: the relationships among the three Vaughn sisters, who are members of a blended family, and the mystery behind the man who built Finley House, their decidedly out-of-place home.

Sweetwater Crossing is set in the Texas hill country. Why did you choose this location and time period for your series? Not only have I loved the Hill Country from the first time I visited it, but judging from the fan mail I’ve received, it also appeals to readers. There’s so much history, not to mention natural beauty. As for the timeframe, I enjoy writing about the late 19th century because it’s far enough in the past to feel historical, but late enough that people had conveniences like trains and telegraphs.

What do you hope readers will gain from reading Against the Wind? Of course, I hope they’ll enjoy the romance between Louisa and Josh, but I also hope the story of forging a new path when faced with obstacles will resonate with them.

Against the Wind combines historical details with just the right touch of romance. But there is also an element of intrigue. Can you provide a hint of the danger that threatens your main protagonist, Louisa Vaughn? I don’t want to give away too much of the story, so let’s just say that after Louisa makes some decisions that don’t please everyone in town, more than one person is determined to show her the error of her ways.

Louisa Vaughn had no plans to stay in Sweetwater Crossing. What event led to her extended stay? When she finds a man lying by the side of the road suffering from dehydration and a badly broken leg, she cannot abandon him. Instead she takes him to Sweetwater Crossing and agrees to stay until she can remove the cast.

Your male protagonist, Josh Porter, is also a temporary visitor to Sweetwater Crossing. Can you provide some information on his backstory? Josh’s grandfather has challenged his two grandsons to find a way to expand their family business (what he refers to as America’s answer to Fortnum & Mason), declaring that whoever develops the best proposal will gain control of the company. Unfortunately, Josh’s plans are stolen along with his horse, leaving him with nothing. Nothing, that is, until he sees new possibilities in Sweetwater Crossing.

What do you love about writing historical novels? It’s so much fun traveling back to what most people consider to be simpler times and creating characters and situations that are decidedly not simple.

How can readers connect with you? I love hearing from readers and invite them to visit my website, www.amandacabot.com. I call it my one-stop-shopping site, because it includes information about my books, links to my social media accounts, the signup link for my monthly newsletter, contact information, and resources for writers.

Where can readers purchase a copy of Against the Wind?  It’s available at all the usual online sites and should also be available in brick and mortar bookstores.

Thank you, Amanda, for sharing Against the Wind with my blog readers and me. I always love your stories.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=against+the+wind+Amana+Cabot&i=stripbooks&crid=3DUE8PGZQ58XU&sprefix=against+the+wind+amana+cabot%2Cstripbooks%2C99&ref=nb_sb_noss

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 

RECLAIMING THE SPY - Lorri Dudley - One Free Books

Welcome back to my blog, Lorri. 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? It takes an army, and I couldn’t do it without such great people as the Wild Heart Books staff, my beta readers, and my launch team. It all starts with the Robins—my friend Robyn Hook does freelance editing and tells me if I’m on the right track and if my characters are likable. Then, my manuscript goes to Robin Patchen through Wild Heart Books, who deep dives into line edits, more feedback on the characters, and other tweaks. Meanwhile, Sarah Erredge is honing my back cover copy, coordinating with the amazing designer for the cover, and issuing galley copies. Sherri Johnson is setting up promotions, marketing, and blog tours. My beta readers and critique partners refine my writing further (big shout out to Lori, Megan, Barbara, and Tammy), and my incredible launch team spreads the word, posts reviews, and hypes the book on social media. I’m blessed to have all these people in my life. They’ve become my book family.

If you teach or speak, what’s coming up on your calendar? On November 17th, I will be at the Just Read Rendezvous in St. Louis, Missouri. It’s an excellent opportunity for readers and authors to meet and talk about our favorite subject—books! Details can be found here: https://rendezvous.justreadtours.com/2023-event/. I’d love to see you there.

If you had to completely start over in another place, where would you move, and why? I’d move to the outer banks of North Carolina. New England is beautiful and full of history, but the winters are long and brutal. Since I was five, until there were too many great-grandchildren to accommodate, my grandparents and relatives on my dad’s side rented a beach house in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. We’d stay for a week, where all the cousins would sleep in a big bunk room, and the adults would alternate making dinners. Vacationing together kept us tight as a family, and I have some of my best memories from that area—walking on the beach, jumping waves, swimming in the ocean until my skin shriveled, catching sand fiddlers, and eating lunch at the Dockside.

If you could only tell aspiring novelists one thing, what would it be? Always be learning. There is so much to the craft of writing and so many great resources out there. I have bookshelves full of craft books from plotting to editing and everything in between. Some of my favorites are Writing with Emotion, Tension, and Conflict by Cheryl St. John, Rivet Your Readers with Deep Point of View by Jill Elizabeth Nelson, The Story Equation by Susan May Warren, The 90-Day Novel by Alan Watt, and Super Structure by James Scott Bell. I also listen to podcasts on the rides to pick up my kids: Your Best Writing Life by Linda Goldfarb, Novel Marketing by Thomas Umstattd Jr., Helping Writers Become Authors by K.M. Weiland, and Fiction Writing Made Easy by Savannah Gilbo. And I’m always looking for more.

You’ve been asked to be in charge of a celebrity cruise. Who would you ask to take part, and why? (AS in what program, singers, etc. [it doesn’t have to be writing related]) I don’t think I have the patience for Hollywood celebrities. (God is still working on me in that area.) I’d love to run a cruise with inspirational women of God like Christine Caine, Lisa Bevere, Joyce Meyers, and Charlotte Gambill. Can you imagine what amazing conversations you’d have sunning on the top deck in beach chairs with those ladies or dining for full sit-down dinners? For entertainment, I’d have Kari Jobe, Rebecca St. James, Mandisa, Lauren Daigle, and Taya Smith bring the house down with some incredible worship.

I would be first in line to sign up for that cruise. Please tell us about the featured book. Reclaiming the Spy is a twist on the childhood sweetheart and Beauty and the Beast tropes. The book opens with Nicholas and Abby just married and madly in love, but Nick is pulled into the Napoleonic Wars and disappears for ten years. But Abby never gives up hope. She prays for her husband, even though he’s presumed dead. His return should be the happily ever after of fairy tales, but it becomes a nightmare when he coldly instructs her to forget she’d ever seen him. Abby refuses to let her beloved slip through her fingers again, and she’s willing to battle for his love, despite the walls he’s created to barricade his heart.

Nicholas Emerson’s time as a spy for the War Office has left physical and mental battle wounds. He can never be the charming, carefree man he once was—the man his wife deserves—but when a threat to Abby’s life returns him to their small Midland village, keeping her safe proves challenging. If only Abby would forget him and remarry, then he wouldn’t have to face the torment of all the tender, buried feelings she evokes. The consequence of his life as a spy mean he can never have her again…

Please give us the first page of the book.

Laurel House, Worcestershire, England 1807

Abigail Hartington Emerson’s new husband scooped her into his strong arms. Her petticoats flounced and her feet dangled in the air. Nicholas faltered a step and she shrieked, digging her nails into the thick wool of his overcoat. “I love you, Nicholas Emerson, but it’s bad portent to drop your new wife, especially before you cross the threshold.”

The glint in those mischievous hazel eyes revealed he was teasing her by pretending to trip. “I’m not going to let you fall. In fact, now that I’ve made you mine, my plan is to never let you out of my arms.”

She clung to his shoulders, buried her face in his neck, and breathed in his woodsy scent of newly cut cedar. The vibrations of Nick’s husky laughter tickled her nose. She lifted her head but didn’t relax her grip.

“Welcome to Laurel House, Mrs. Abigail Emerson.” Nicholas raised his gaze to the rustic two-story stone home that stretched along the bulrushes. Ivy climbed the exterior as if wrapping the house in a leafy embrace, and the primrose in full bloom burst with cheery color from each window box.

“Do you hear that?” He tilted his ear up.

Abby stilled but only heard a distant woodlark song.

“It’s the sound of our future children playing.”

“Truly?”

“I hear them as clearly as the clock tower.”

“I do hope you’re being prophetic and that I didn’t marry a man who’s as mad as a hatter.”

A crooked smile graced his lips.

His breath mingled with hers, tickling her mouth and cheeks.

“Either way, I don’t care. As long as you’re mine.” Public affection was considered improper, but on impulse she pressed her lips to his, savoring their velvety feel and his strong arms.

His mouth moved on hers with a slow, tantalizing kiss —just a taste of what the next forty or more years would hold.

The front door swung open.

Abby tore away with a gasp.

Mrs. Smith, the housekeeper, stepped aside and held the door to allow the newlyweds passage.

Heat spread through Abby’s cheeks quicker than a house fire. When was she going to learn to control her whims? She avoided the woman’s gaze as Nicholas swept her across the entranceway into the open foyer.

The setting sun spilled its golden rays through the mullioned window, illuminating the large bouquet of red roses, most likely freshly cut from his mother’s rose garden, that graced the pedestal table.

Her new home. Her grip on the lapel of his coat tightened. The reality of this momentous day sank in. She was Laurel Manor’s new mistress.

Where can we find you on the Internet?

Lorridudley.com

Amazon

BookBub

Goodreads

Wildheartbooks.org

Thank you for sharing Reclaiming the Spy with my blog readers and me.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=reclaiming+the+spy+lorri+dudley&i=stripbooks&crid=3RQP78VC9PMLK&sprefix=Reclaiming+the+Spy+%2Cstripbooks%2C102&ref=nb_sb_ss_fb_1_19

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.

Sharon (SC) is the winner of The Secrets Beneath by Kimberley Woodhouse.

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.

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A COUNTERFEIT BETROTHAL - Denise Weimer - One Free Book

Bio: Denise Weimer writes historical and contemporary romance from her home in North Georgia and also serves as a freelance editor and the Acquisitions & Editorial Liaison for Wild Heart Books. A wife and mother of two daughters, she always pauses for coffee, chocolate, and old houses.

God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon? Yes, I am so blessed to work with Misty Beller and her staff at Wild Heart Books with the release of my Scouts of the Georgia Frontier, a five-book series. I also am releasing two novellas in their Romance at the Gilded Age Resorts Series. Releases from both series populated 2023 and continue throughout 2024. Plus, my novel of Barbour’s A Day to Remember Series, When Hope Sank, about the 1865 sinking of the Sultana steamboat, comes out in May.

This year, I’ll be promoting all those novels as well as continuing as the Acquisitions & Editorial Liaison at Wild Heart Books. It’s a double blessing that I get to acquire and edit Christian historical romances from so many other talented authors! The company is growing, and God is blessing.

My agent, Linda S. Glaz, also continues to shop some of my proposals to other publishers.

I’m blessed to be one of those Wild Hearts Books authors you’re helping. Tell us a little about your family. I’m married to Wayne, an investment advisor, and we have two daughters who are currently in grad school. I’m also thankful to have my parents close by. They attend many book events with me.

Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how? My editing has changed my reading habits. Except for the occasional endorsement read, I don’t get to read a bunch for pleasure just because of the eye and brain strain that comes from lots of editing. Not to mention, it’s hard not to read a book without my mental red pen switched to “on.” But when I get the chance, I love escaping into other Christian historical romances…and occasionally, a contemporary romantic suspense novel.

What are you working on right now? Book Three of the Scouts of the Georgia Frontier, A Cherished Betrothal, just released, so I’m gearing up for spring in-person events as well as the activities mentioned above.

What outside interests do you have? I enjoy attending living history events, vintage dance, and outings to cute towns and coffee shops with my friends and the ladies in my family. I’m also part of a hiking club for Christian women. Trekking around the North Georgia mountains always brings me fresh inspiration.

How do you choose your settings for each book? Most of my books are set in Georgia, though some now are in other Southern states. I love to find little-known but fascinating historical happenings or locations and base a story around those.

I’ve been doing that with my novels, too. I love learning about events. If you could spend an evening with one historical person, who would it be and why? I never know how to answer that one since there are so many fascinating historical people. I’d have a hard time choosing between religious leaders, military leaders, brave pioneers, and the American founding fathers.

What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels? Haha! Well, when I first started writing, the publishing preference was just switching from narrative style to deep point of view. I learned as a work in process, so I could have saved some time if I had been aware of that transition earlier.

Apart from that, I think I’d go back and tell my younger author self that the best open doors would come through working with other authors. And that it will take a long time to gain traction outside my local area.

My first novel, which released in 1992, was in the narrative style, and I didn’t know any other authors. What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now? I guess my current lessons have to do with trusting God to work when we’ve done all we can in certain areas of life and may not see a change. And I’m learning how our human interpretations of Him and circumstances are so limited. He is truly so much more gracious than we know.

What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful? Study the craft, whether that comes by reading books, attending workshops, joining a writers’ group, or working with an editor or mentor. Study the agent or publishing house so that when you submit, you are certain there is a potential match and you are putting your best foot forward by offering the materials in the style and format requested. And then, trust the results and the timing to God.

Very good advice. Please tell us about the featured book. Yes! A Counterfeit Betrothal is a heart-warming homefront romance set during the War of 1812 on the Southern frontier.

At the farthest Georgia outpost this side of hostile Creek Territory, Jared Lockridge serves his country as a scout to redeem his father’s botched heritage. If he can help secure the peace against Indians allied to the British, he can bring his betrothed to the home he’s building and open his cabinetry shop. Then he comes across a burning cabin and a traumatized woman just widowed by a fatal shot.

Freed from a cruel marriage, Esther Andrews agrees to winter at the Lockridge homestead to help Jared’s pregnant sister-in-law. Lame in one foot, Esther has always known she is secondhand goods, but the gentle carpenter-turned-scout draws her heart with as much skill as he creates furniture from wood. His family’s love offers hope even as violence erupts along the frontier—and Jared’s investigation into local incidents brings danger to their doorstep. Yet how could Esther ever hope a loyal man like Jared would choose her over a fine lady?

https://www.amazon.com/Counterfeit-Betrothal-Scouts-Georgia-Frontier-ebook/dp/B0C8ZP46QD/

Please give us the first page of the book.

LATE NOVEMBER 1813

JACKSON COUNTY, GEORGIA

The unmistakable tang of smoke in the air stiffened Jared Lockridge’s spine as he urged his big red roan down the ridge that cradled the Apalachee River. Not just a little, either, as one would expect from a chimney or even a campfire. Drawing back on the reins, he scanned the treetops. There, to the north—a sooty fingerprint against the purpling twilight sky gave evidence of trouble.

He’d already steeled himself against overnighting at his brother’s nearby cabin, stuffing his growling stomach on his brother Noble’s new wife’s cornbread. The report he bore should be carried straightaway to his commander at Fort Daniel. In counties to the south, there’d been two attacks in early November by Creek Indians allied to the British. Those incidents verified Major Terrell’s intelligence from Indian Agent Benjamin Hawkins—the Red Stick Creeks had indeed been recruiting in the Upper Creek towns and could soon be pressing all the way up the Jackson Line. The line Jared was paid to scout.

Could the fire be more evidence of Creek war parties? This far north? He couldn’t ignore the possibility—or that of a settler in need of assistance.

Jared kneed his stallion toward the smoke. Within minutes, he caught sight of flames dancing between the trees. In the center of a clearing, a cabin was burning. Instinct begged him to charge up to the homestead in case anyone needed rescuing, but wisdom whispered caution.

This book just moved to the top of my to-be-read list. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Connect with Denise here:

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Thank you, Denise for sharing A Counterfeit Betrothal with my blog readers and me. I know they’ll be as eager to read it as I am.

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

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THE LEGACY OF LONGDALE MANOR - Carrie Turansky - One Free Book

Bio: Carrie Turansky is the award-winning author of twenty-one inspirational novels and novellas and a winner of the Carol Award, the International Digital Award, and the HOLT Medallion. She loves traveling to England to research her Edwardian novels, including No Journey Too Far, No Ocean Too Wide, Across the Blue, and the Edwardian Brides series. Her novels have been translated into several languages and have received starred reviews from Christianbook.com and Library Journal.

Bethany House Publishers is pleased to welcome bestselling novelist Carrie Turansky to a celebrated roster of historical fiction authors. Bringing her own flair to the Bethany House frontlist with a brand-new dual-time Edwardian romance, Turansky takes readers along as two women—a century apart—embark on a journey to healing, faith, and forgiveness in her latest release, The Legacy of Longdale Manor.

About the Story: In 2012, art historian Gwen Monroe travels to England’s Lake District to appraise the paintings and antiques of an old family friend, hoping to prove herself to her exacting grandfather. While there, Gwen and David Bradley—the owner’s handsome son—sift through Longdale Manor’s treasures for a way to save the crumbling estate.

Stumbling upon a one-hundred-year-old journal and an oddly familiar, yet intricately carved shepherd’s staff, Gwen discovers an unlikely kinship with the journal’s author along with a connection to the father she never knew.

In 1912, Charlotte Harper’s faith is shattered after her father’s death reveals a painful family secret that she can only confess to her journal. Left to fend for themselves, Charlotte and her family travel to Longdale to find refuge with a distant relative and discover more than they bargained for.

Two centuries apart, both women face betrayal and heartache, but when new love beckons, will Charlotte—and Gwen—be brave enough to open their hearts and answer its call? Full of romance, family secrets, and forgiveness, Turansky’s heartfelt latest novel will stir your faith and leave you longing for more Edwardian adventures.

Can you please tell us a little bit about your new novel, The Legacy of Longdale Manor?

Carrie Turansky: The Legacy of Longdale Manor is a dual-time novel set in England’s beautiful Lake District where two women, a century apart, are seeking healing, faith, and forgiveness. The contemporary story focuses on Gwen, a young art historian, who travels to Longdale Manor to appraise paintings for the owners who want to raise funds to save the crumbling manor house. The historical heroine, Charlotte, and her family suffer a tragedy and betrayal, and they travel to the Lake District hoping to find refuge with Charlotte’s grandfather at Longdale Manor. The two stories are tied together by an old photograph, the discovery of a hand-carved shepherd’s staff, and Charlotte’s one-hundred-year-old journal, which holds healing words for Gwen’s wounded heart.

One of your main protagonists, Gwen, must earn her grandfather’s respect after a past mistake threatens her professional reputation. Can you tell us more about Gwen’s relationship with her grandfather?

CT: Gwen’s grandfather is the no-nonsense owner of a prestigious London auction house. Gwen never knew her father, so she looks to her grandfather to fulfill that role and has had a difficult time winning his affection and approval. Gwen becomes an art and antique appraiser at his auction house, but when she makes a mistake and catalogs an original painting as a copy, he sends her off to the Lake District to avoid repercussions because of the error. She’s embarrassed and determined to do the next job well to regain his trust. They love each other, but both have a difficult time showing those feelings. 

Playing a prominent role in both timelines in the novel, what do readers need to know about Longdale Manor?

CT: Longdale is a beautiful lakeside estate overlooking Derwentwater. The old manor house is surrounded by lush hillside gardens. Built in the 1850s, it has remained in the same family for more than one hundred and fifty years. But time has taken a toll on the house and property, and our contemporary hero and his grandmother decide they must sell many of the paintings and antiques to finance their plan to turn Longdale into a luxury hotel, while retaining private areas for the family. Longdale has many unique design elements that add to its beauty and historic importance. Gwen is determined to see those features are preserved. This causes a conflict with the owner’s grandson, but eventually they come to a compromise and find ways to save much of what is unique and beautiful about Longdale.

Why did you choose to set this novel in England’s Lake District?

CT: On my last research trip to England, I visited the Lake District and fell in love with the natural beauty and the history of the area. I enjoyed visiting artist and author Beatrix Potter’s Hill Top Farm, and the poet William Wordsworth’s home, church, and school. Christians have gathered in that area for the Keswick Convention for many years, and that also inspired me to set my novel there and include the Convention in the story. I think readers will enjoy learning more about this special area in England.

One major theme that is addressed in The Legacy of Longdale Manor is the restoration of faith after betrayal—especially by a parent. How does this present itself in the book, and what advice would you give someone currently walking that same path?

CT: Charlotte discovers a painful secret about her father after his death, and she must decide if she should tell her mother and siblings or keep that information to herself. I hope her struggle to work through this heartbreaking issue will make the story more meaningful and give readers a chance to consider how they might handle a situation like this. Charlotte is helped by several characters who offer support, friendship, and practical advice. Watching the examples of others and renewing her faith also help her find acceptance and peace. In the contemporary story, Gwen has never met her father, but an old photograph of him holding a shepherd’s staff and a notation on the back makes her believe he lives in the Lake District. When she reads Charlotte’s journal, Gwen can easily relate to Charlotte’s painful secret and her struggle to forgive her father. Charlotte’s entries inspire Gwen and give her courage to reconnect with her father and forge a relationship with him. I hope readers will find that same peace and acceptance as they relate to Charlotte’s and Gwen’s stories.

You’ve written in several different genres over the course of your publishing career. What do you love about writing historical fiction compared to other genres?

CT: I enjoy stepping back in time and learning about social customs, dress, homes, family life, and inventions, and I especially love learning how Christians lived out their faith in their time. History was not one of my favorite subjects in school because we studied a list of events and then memorized a timeline for those events. When I homeschooled my children, I learned more about individuals and their unique stories, and that brought history to life for me. Reading historical fiction aloud to my five children also stirred my interest and planted a desire to write historical fiction.

Which character would you say you relate to the most—Gwen or Charlotte?

CT: I loved stepping into the shoes of both Gwen and Charlotte as I wrote this novel. But I think I’m most like Gwen. She loves art, antiques, and beautiful old manor houses. That’s true of me as well. Both my mother and grandfather were gifted painters, and they put a paintbrush in my hand when I was five years old. My desire to have a close relationship with them motivated me to pursue art and choose that as my major in college. I still enjoy drawing and painting occasionally, but now I pour my creativity into writing, gardening, decorating my home, and arranging flowers for events.

With shows like Downton Abbey on the rise, why do you think viewers/readers love to immerse themselves in England’s Edwardian era?

CT: Downton Abbey and other British period dramas have stirred up interest about life in historic England and opened the door for many of us to write novels set there. People enjoy the beauty and glamor of the Edwardian Era as well as the customs and manners. Class differences and the upstairs-downstairs element also make it an interesting time. It’s only one hundred years ago, so it feels a bit familiar but also is far enough removed to be a bit mysterious and exciting. This will be my eighth novel set in that era and I’ve enjoyed writing each one.

What lessons do you hope readers gain by picking up The Legacy of Longdale Manor?

CT: I hope readers will be swept away to England and enjoy the family drama, romance, and inspiration in the story. I also hope they will see the importance of their faith in overcoming hurt and betrayal and be willing to do their part to bring healing and forgiveness to broken family relationships. The theme of God being our loving father, who is always there for us, is also one I hope readers will take to heart. Maybe this story will even motivate some readers to travel to England’s Lake District and see that beautiful area for themselves.

Can you share what you’re working on next?

CT: I’m busy writing my next English dual-time novel set in Victorian and contemporary London. It’s based on the history of the Foundling Hospital, which was one of the first homes in England for abandoned babies. It is also inspired by the life of Josephine Butler, a woman of deep faith, who led a movement to change laws to protect women and girls. It will include the search for a missing young girl, a mystery, and romance, as well as faith and inspiration. I’m excited to share that next story with reading friends.

How can readers connect with you?

CT: I enjoy connecting with readers through my website and on Facebook (facebook.com/authorcarrieturansky) and Instagram @carrieturansky. I send out monthly newsletters with writing updates, giveaways, reading recommendations, recipes, and encouragement. I offer a free short story to all who sign up for my newsletter at http://www.carrieturansky.com.

Thank you, Carrie, for sharing The Legacy of Longdale Manor with us. I always love reading your wonderful stories.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/Legacy-Longdale-Manor-Split-Time-Historical/dp/0764241052/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8sp3rWIJhXcMaSlAlcOSsX4KnfVw_HMc-gThD8jSbBfg3KpvpQsvQRd6aA2OVfvXpjw8GZmeKn9qryAGQNnJMWCZ6MolzIEWbkXCJ9_0IrdOAhAyTwWoPY5T0xioxfDKQdv1Lf5AXROi-jm_96VNy7p9RSsLoKLfm_cVQ22q1g8wrWrrKF3fXrab-1GV2xln.2M4T15Ef7fE7FlfQ6BSNGevDz8jkJ6BjQGuiipBHp80&qid=1707867746&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, X, 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