A THOUSAND SHALL FALL - Andrea Boeshaar - One Free Book, Plus More

Dear Readers, Andrea has been a good friend for a number of years. We’ve written for some of the same publishers and encouraged each other in our writing lives. This is the first book in a new series for her.

Bio: Andrea Boeshaar is the cofounder of American Christian Fiction Writers and runs "The Writer's ER," a coaching service for writers. She is the author of thirty published works, including Threads of Faith, a finalist in the Inspirational Readers Choice Awards. Andrea is also the author of a popular devotional and regularly blogs on a number of sites.

Connect with Andrea: website, Twitter, Facebook

Welcome back, Andrea. 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?

A Thousand Shall Fall is one of those stories that weighed heavily on my heart. I ached to write it. It began first as a Love Finds You story (Guideposts/Summerside Press) and a contract was sent to my agent at the time and me. Unfortunately the fiction line closed without all the details of my contract being ironed out. My present agent, Mary Sue Seymour, sent my proposal to Kregel Publications. Miraculously, the managing editor there shared my vision for this book and series and soon I was signing a contract with the company for a 3-book deal. The staff at Kregel—Steve, Dennis, Dawn, Leah, Noelle, and Katherine—have all been fabulous to work with. My substantive editor, Lori, has been great, too. In addition to the Kregel staff, I received valuable feedback from authors Kimberley Woodhouse, Cindy Hickey, Christina Miller, and Tracie Peterson. Without the efforts on the part of these folks, my “book baby” may not have been born.

If you teach or speak, what’s coming up on your calendar?

Yes, I teach workshops and speak at ladies’ retreats and other conferences. Presently, I have no speaking engagements lined up—which is fine. I’m immersed in setting up book signings and online media events for my novel A Thousand Shall Fall.

If you had to completely start over in another place, where would you move, and why?

I would be in the foothills of South Carolina. My husband and I love the area. We feel inspired by the mountains—plus, I have a lot of friends between Greenville and Atlanta, Georgia. Here in Wisconsin, I get tired of the winter by January 2nd.

If you could only tell aspiring novelists one thing, what would it be?

I would advise this: Take caution when choosing to independently publish your book or sign with a small publishing company. Unless you’re willing to pay a publicist, self-promotion is difficult. You don’t want to harass folks by telling them you’ve got a book release. They may sever their ties with you on social media because they are tired of seeing your two sentence gloats about your novel! Just because you Tweet it or post it every fifteen minutes does not guarantee you’ll sell a single copy. Asking your friends to write reviews helps, of course, but to a point. Publicity, I have learned, must be very strategic and far-reaching. In addition, building a platform for yourself (a large collection of readers and “followers” takes time. Start building as a writer immediately and work up to the title of “published author.” Your publisher should be willing to invest in you and help you succeed.

Tell us about the featured book.

I believe readers of historical fiction will enjoy my novel, particularly if you enjoy the Civil War era as I do.

A Thousand Shall Fall takes place in the Shenandoah Valley in 1864. Known as the “Daughter of the Stars,” the Shenandoah Valley had been defended by such Confederate heroes as General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson, General Turner Ashby, General Stephen “Dod” Ramseur, and General Tom Rosser. But they lost the Valley to Union General Phil Sheridan and his Army of the Shenandoah by November 1864. This first book in my Shenandoah Valley Saga covers only the Battle of Winchester III (September 19, 1864). Book two will address the Battle of Cedar Creek (October 19, 1864) and the brave women who nursed soldiers wearing both blue and gray. But that’s the historical part. There’s also a compelling fictional story woven into this factual account.

In the autumn of 1864, spirited Carrie Ann Bell is searching for her runaway sister in the heart of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. Disguised as a Yankee soldier, she stumbles into a skirmish near Front Royal—and instead of her sister, she finds trouble.

Colonel Peyton Collier of the Union cavalry division arrests her for impersonating an 

Officer, but protects her from worse consequences. Soon the Southern girl finds herself drawn to the chivalrous Yankee horseman, discovering that her foe has become her ally—and more than that, someone she could love. 

But Carrie has promised to keep a dark secret, never suspecting that her silence might threaten the life of the gallant Colonel who holds her—and her heart—captive.

Please give us the first page of the book.

August 15, 1864

Ooh, that Sarah Jane!

Carrie Ann Bell stared at her youngest sister’s sloppily scratched note. How could that girl do such a scandalous thing? Running off with a lowlife peddler? Certainly, Sarah threatened to run away numerous times in the past, but who would have thought she’d actually do it? Mama would be heartbroken when she learned the news.

Heartbroken and angry. Carrie could practically hear Mama crying and blaming her for Sarah running off. Mama would say Carrie paid more attention to Papa’s newspaper than her sisters . . .

And maybe Mama was right. But her sister Margaret was eighteen and Sarah, fifteen. They weren’t that much younger than Carrie herself. And writing for the Bell Tower in Papa’s absence had been Carrie’s refuge, a place of normalcy in a world turned topsy-turvy.

Staring at Sarah’s note, Carrie debated whether to withhold this information from Mama. Maybe she’d go looking for her youngest sister and bring her home to the Wayfarers Inn—

What an oxymoron. The Wayfarers Inn was no more a home than a damp, dark cave was an elegant mansion. Still, it was a roof over her family’s head.

Carrie paced the small newspaper office, paused, and ran one, ink-stained fingertip over the smooth surface of Papa’s desk. Surely she could catch up with Arthur Sims, that no-account speculator with whom Sarah ran off. He couldn’t have traveled far in that large, rattling contraption of his. Painted in obnoxious shades of yellow and orange, it resembled a circus wagon.

Carrie’s hand shook as sudden fire flowed through her veins. She was tempted to notify the law and file kidnapping charges against the man, except the law had better things to do than go hunting for a fast-talking swindler who rode off with a starry-eyed girl.

Love it! Where can we find you on the Internet?

Readers can log on to my website at: www.AndreaBoeshaar.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Andrea.Boeshaar

Twitter: @AndreaBoeshaar

Thank you, Lena, for interviewing me on your blog!

It's my pleasure, Andrea. I always enjoy having you here.

Purchase a copy: http://bit.ly/1jbj37T

The search for her runaway sister goes awry when Carrie finds herself arrested during the Civil War for impersonating an officer in Andrea Boeshaar's A Thousand Shall Fall. Soon, though, she finds herself drawn to the handsome, gallant colonel who arrested her. Carrie Ann discovers that her foe has become her ally—and more than that, someone she could love. Will she protect someone who has been like family or be loyal to this stranger to whom she wants to offer her heart? When her world is being torn apart around her, whom should she trust?

Andrea is celebrating the release of A Thousand Shall Fall with a Kindle Fire giveaway!

 

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A copy of A Thousand Shall Fall
• A Kindle Fire HD 6

Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on December 10th. The winner will be announced December 11th on Andrea's blog.

And one reader will win a copy of the book on this blog.

Thank you, Andrea, for sharing this new book with us. I know my readers are eager to read the story.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

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

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

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

Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

THE CONVENIENT BRIDE COLLECTION - Andrea Boeshaar - One Free Book

Dear Readers, Andrea is a long-time writing friend. We started our writing careers at the same publisher. I’m extremely pleased to introduce her to you with this new novella collection.

Welcome back, Andrea. Why did you become an author?

When my three sons were young, I began gobbling up secular romances. I read one or two novels a week. I always enjoyed writing. In fact, I wrote my first “novel” when I was in 3rd grade; it was called Little Miss Mouse. Anyway, I decided to try my hand at penning a romance, and began learning all the various innuendos involved with novel writing. I even took a couple of creative writing classes at the local university. Then in 1991, I was spiritually reborn. The desire to write books that honored Jesus Christ and offered my readers hope burned deep within my soul. That’s when I began writing for the Christian market. My first book was published in 1994 by Barbour Publishing’s Heartsong Presents book club.

If you weren’t an author, what would be your dream job?

I would be an adjunct professor, teaching literature, creative writing, and history classes – in fact, I’m back in school, earning my bachelors degree and then possibly going on for a masters.

Way to go! I have most of my work done for a masters, and when I was in graduate school, I was one of the older students there. If you could have lived at another time in history, what would it be and why?

I’d bounce back and forth in my time machine between the American Revolutionary War Era (approximately 1770-1800) and the Civil War times (1850-1870) Note: Those aren’t the dates in which the wars were fought, but there were years leading up to the wars and then, of course, there were the years of adjustment and adventure afterwards. Not that I enjoy war at all—in fact, I’m the mom who wouldn’t allow her sons to play with guns! What I like most about those times in history (and, granted, I look upon them more romantically then realistically, perhaps) was the love of country, the honor and valor, the bravery and daring of both men and women alike. Of course, it would be difficult to give up my microwave oven and indoor plumbing. J

I was glad I had daughters, because I wouldn’t have let boys play with guns either. What place in the United States have you not visited that you would like to?

New Mexico. I would love to attend the Hot Air Balloon Festival there some year. Also, a church I attended years ago supported missionaries to the Navajo and Native American people have always been near and dear to my heart for a great many reasons. I would also enjoy visiting New York City so I could tour the 9-11 Museum.

How about a foreign country you hope to visit?

I would like to visit England, both the rural areas and then London.

What lesson has the Lord taught you recently?

The Lord is teaching me that often the words I speak, the actions I do, don’t always accomplish God’s will no matter how well intended they are. Sometimes I need to be still and know that God is God. He is sovereign—I am not.

God is also teaching me about overcoming pain and becoming more self-disciplined. What’s a-whole-nother blog post.

Tell us about the featured book.

The Convenient Bride Collection features 10 authors and 9 stories, all centered around marriages of convenience. The novella I wrote, One Way to the Altar, was a collaborative effort with debut author Christina Linstrot Miller.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Montana, 1902

A bath. A refreshingly cool bath. That would lift her wilted spirits after this horrid journey. Please, Lord. . .

Leah Hermaning whispered the prayer. Six days on the train in a hot, stuffy passenger car, three hours in a rickety stagecoach that bounced her like a child’s rubber ball—and now she was finally here.

In the middle of nowhere.

           

The stage pulled to a bone-jarring halt, and Leah climbed out unassisted. The driver and his helper tossed down her trunk as if it didn’t contain everything precious left to her. “Here ya go, lady.”

Such rudeness! Uncle Robert would have had something to say about that. She glanced around. Now. . .where was he?

She searched the dusty street for a sign of him or Aunt Estelle. Horses tethered to hitching rails in front of water troughs, wagons clattering by on the dirt road—she was in another world, far from the comforts of Newport, Rhode Island. But somehow she’d adapt. . .

Wouldn’t she?

Now where could her aunt and uncle be?

Amid laughter and loud voices, a half dozen men burst out of the freight office and headed toward her on the boardwalk, their clothing and faces as dirty as the language spewing from their mouths.

No, Leah was certainly not in her refined Newport neighborhood anymore.

She pressed herself up against the unfinished outer wall just in time to dodge the men. No doubt she’d blend into the background as usual, despite her lavender dress and leaf-green vest. God had given her brains, not beauty, and nothing could enhance her drab-brown hair and the plainness of her face. And those men, who looked right through her as they passed, gave testimony to that fact.

Of course, she’d expected nothing more. Twenty-six years was time enough for Leah to accept her less-than-lovely looks along with the fact that she would always be a spinster. But she was in a new place now, with a new teaching position waiting, and she’d make the best of her God-given days.

And she’d do that if Uncle Robert and Aunt Estelle showed up. . . 

           

Love that opening. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Log onto my website: www.andreaboeshaar.com

Facebook: Andrea Boeshaar Author (send a friend request)

Twitter: @AndreaBoeshaar

Thank you, Andrea, for sharing this new book with us. I can hardly wait to read it. The long novel I just finished is a marriage-of-convenience story, too.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.

The Convenient Bride Collection - Christianbook.com
The Convenient Bride Collection: 9 Romances Grow from Marriage Partnerships Formed Out of Necessity - Amazon
The Convenient Bride Collection: 9 Romances Grow from Marriage Partnerships Formed Out of Necessity - Kindle

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

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

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Google+, 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

THREADS OF LOVE - Andrea Boeshaar - One Free Book

Welcome back, Andrea. I like your new head shot. How did you come up with the idea for this story?

This is the 3rd book in my Fabric of Time series and I got the idea after doing research for a family reunion back in the 1990s. My ancestry studies whet my appetite for Norwegian/American history. Threads of Love is a result.

If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why?

Only six? Rats! Well, OK then…I’d invite Travis Thrasher, DiAnn Mills, Loree Lough, Randy Ingermanson, Candace Calvert, and Brandilyn Collins. These men and women are bright, creative, and willing to share their ideas and experiences with others. They’re also just plain FUN.

Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why?

Again, it’s hard to think of just six I’d want to invite, but here goes: Tracie Peterson, Tamera Alexander, Lena Nelson Dooley, Kim Woodhouse, Louise Gouge, and Francine Rivers. I’d invite these ladies for the same reasons I’d invite the others, adding that as a writer of historical Christian fiction I know researching a book is labor-intensive. I admire these authors for the historical tales they so expertly weave.

Thank you for including me in that group. I’d really enjoy that party. Many times, people (and other authors) think you have it made with so many books published. What is your most difficult problem with writing at this time in your career?

The most difficult is the amount of projects I’ve got going and figuring out which one is priority. 

Tell us about the featured book.

Sure. Here’s the back cover copy.

Emily Sundberg considers herself a proper young lady of the twentieth century. But a decade ago she behaved more like a tomboy. So when the neighbor’s grandson came to visit one summer when she was thirteen, they became fast friends. Emily even got her first kiss—quite by accident.

Unfortunately she thinks Jake Edgerton told all the boys what happened. Rumors circulated, and Emily caved from embarrassment and guilt. Meanwhile Jake returned home to Fallon, Montana, and she never saw or heard from him again.

Over the years Emily has worked hard to prove to her peers and the people of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, that, despite past mistakes, she is an upstanding young women, one worthy of being a schoolteacher—and possibly Andy Anderson’s wife. But even with the passing of time, Emily has never forgotten Jake and how he nearly ruined her life…

And now he’s a US deputy marshal, and he’s back in town! 

Sounds very interesting. Please give us the first page of the book.

Chapter One: Manitowoc, Wisconsin -- 1902

An explosion of shattering glass sounded from directly behind Emily Sundberg, and a thunderous weight crashed into her. The world spun, and then she fell hard and face down on

the dirty Franklin Street plank walk.

Breathe! Breathe! She struggled to inhale.

“Are you all right, ma’am?” A male voice spoke close to her ear.

“I’m terribly sorry about knocking you over.”

He helped her sit, and a moment later a rush of sweet, springtime air filled Emily’s lungs. She let out a breath of relief.

“Are you hurt?”

“I . . . I don’t know.” Emily spit dirt from her mouth. Her left cheek began to throb. Her vision swam.

He steadied her, his arm around her shoulders. “Easy there.”

She took several deep breaths.

“Allow me to help you up and over to the bench. Like I said, I’m sorry ’bout knocking you over the way I did.”

Emily wiggled her toes inside her ivory-colored boots. Nothing broken. She moved her jaw. Despite the pain around her cheekbone, she seemed all right. Her hand moved to the back of her head. Her fat braid had come out of its pinning and her hat—her hat!

She pointed to the paved street seconds before a set of buggy wheels rolled over it, grinding the lovely creation into the paved road. Not once. But twice!

Emily moaned.

“Careful, now.” The man helped her to stand. “There’re shards of glass everywhere.”

Emily thanked God she hadn’t slammed her head into the nearby hitching post.

“Hooligans!” A woman’s voice rang out amidst the strangely silent street. It sounded like Mrs. Hopper’s. “Hooligans, ever’ one of ’em!”

Definitely Mrs. Hopper’s.

The man held Emily securely by her upper arms, and Emily’s gaze fell on his walnut-colored waistcoat. “You sure you’re not hurt?

“I–I don’t think so.”

“Well, I hope you can forgive me, ma’am.”

Emily’s gaze finally reached the man’s tanned and golden whiskered face. Shaggy blond hair framed his face and blood stained the corner of his mouth. In his canvas duster and matching trousers, the stranger looked out of place for Manitowoc, Wisconsin. But odd costumes weren’t totally uncommon, given the city’s lively port.

And yet, he seemed a bit familiar too . . .

Way to leave us hanging, Andrea. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Contact me via my website: www.andreaboeshaar.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Andrea.Boeshaar

Twitter: @AndreaBoeshaar

And Google +: Andrea Kuhn Boeshaar

Thank you, Lena. It’s always a pleasure to be a guest on your blog!

And I love hosting you, Andrea.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.

Threads of Love - Christianbook.com
Threads of Love (Fabric of Time) - Amazon.com
Threads of Love (Fabric of Time) - Kindle

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

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

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Google +, Feedblitz, Facebook, 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

THREADS OF FAITH - Andrea Boeshaar - One Free Book

Welcome, Andrea. Tell us about your salvation experience.

I was saved by grace in 1991, although I had been searching for quite some time. A coworker, one of those "Jesus freaks" shared the Good News with me and I felt a tug on my heart. I'm so thankful she obeyed the Lord's prompting to share biblical truth with me. My husband and sons were born again within six months of my salvation.

You’re planning a writing retreat where you can only have four other authors. Who would they be and why?

Wow, that's a tough choice. I know so many fabulous authors!! But I think I'd make it a Ladies' Night and I'd ask Francine Rivers, Robin Lee Hatcher, Joyce Meyers, and Beth Moore. I admire these ladies' service to Christ. Each has touched my life in a significant way and I know I would learn more from them.

Do you have a speaking ministry? If so, tell us about that.

Yes! I actually teach workshops to writers groups and speak on various topics at women's groups. What's more is I'm a writing coach, although I don't advertise. I mentor writers and help them realize their goals. I have more about my coaching on my website: www.andreaboeshaar.com

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you and how did you handle it?

At the end of July, I spoke to a group at Country Memories Farm in Manitowoc, WI. I had looked over the schedule online but arrived there with no minutes to spare and didn't realize the schedule changed. I ended up talking into the other speaker's time. When I found out, I was so embarrassed; however, the other speaker was so relieved. She hates speaking and was dreading it. So God worked it all out the way He always does!

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?

I tell them, "Go ahead and write it." Then I add, "If you want a coach, look me up."  J

Tell us about the featured book.

I'm very excited about this novel. I think it's the best historical romance I have ever penned! It's called Threads of Faith and it's about a parlor maid in London named Julianna Wayland who escapes her lustful employer and falls in love with a sea captain, Daniel Sundberg, who has big plans for himself -- plans that include marrying a countess and becoming an extremely wealthy man. His plans, unfortunately, do not include Julianna, even though he feels responsible for her.

This is the second book in my series, Fabric of Time, which emphasize those threads that tie family members together through the ages -- within life's fabric of time. My first book in the series is Threads of Hope.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Certainly. I hope readers will purchase the story. Its formal release is October 16th; however, it's available on Amazon.com now.

Chapter One

June, 1877

“The young master’s come home, dearie, and he’s asking for you. Run, if ye know what’s good for ye. Run far and run fast!”

Eyes wide with fear, Julianna Wayland needed no further warning from the  plump cook waving her floured rolling pin. She had taken quite a risk in warning her. But Cook had kept an eye on her ever since Flora was turned out of the master’s home.

Bolting from the tiled kitchen, Julianna made her way through the servants’ doorway at the side of the brick mansion. Her heels clicked against the cobbled pavement as she ran down the bustling, cart-lined lane in which hawkers sold their wares. But where could she go? Certainly not to Flora’s home.

Thinking of her sister’s cramped room with its single cot above the Mariner’s Pub, dread sank like a stone inside of her. Was her fate to match her older sister’s now? Flora always said it was just a matter of time.

"You, up there, stop!”

Julianna glanced over her shoulder and saw the young master’s manservant. No doubt he’d been sent to fetch her. Well, she wasn’t about to let what happened to Flora happen to her!

She hastened past shoppers until she turned onto another street. Perspiration trickled down the side of her face and the jiggling threatened every pin in her thick hair, tucked beneath the white, floppy cap. With one hand holding it in place, she managed to look behind her again, only to see that Horace still trailed her. If he caught her, punishment would be severe—and that’s before the young master got a hold of her.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Readers are invited to visit my website: www.andreaboeshaar.com

Also, I'd love for readers to "LIKE" me on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/andrea.boeshaar

And here is a personal invitation to readers to come over and check out my blog, Everything Writerly. Please access it via my website. I'll have author interviews, like Lena does, book give-aways, and interesting insights into writers' lives.

Thank you, Lena, for hosting me today on your blog.

My pleasure, Andrea.

Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
Threads of Faith (Fabric of Time)


Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)

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

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, 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

THREADS OF HOPE - Andrea Boeshaar - Free Book

Bio:

Andrea Kuhn Boeshaar has 26 published novels, 8 published novellas, and a host of collective nonfiction under her belt. She knows the peaks and valleys of the publishing industry and loves to share her experience with other writers. She was an agent for more than 10 years, but is now writing full-time and is represented by the Steve Laube Agency.

Some of Andrea’s recent titles (2008 to present) include: Love Finds You in Miracle, Kentucky (Summerside Press); Be Still…and Let Your Nail Polish Dry (nonfiction with authors Sandie Bricker, Loree Lough, and Debby Mayne – Summerside Press); Heartland Heroes (a collection of 3 short novels, Barbour Publishing) and Seasons of Redemption series, which includes: Unwilling Warrior (Realms/Charisma House) Uncertain Heart (Realms) and Unexpected Love (Realms) Undaunted Faith (Realms). Another series, Fabric of Time, is already contracted for. The first book Threads of Hope, released in January of 2012.

Additionally, Andrea is a certified Christian life coach. She is presently taking classes to be certified in Christian counseling.

Andrea is a cofounder of ACFW. She’s taught at several of the organization’s conferences as well as the Oregon Christian Writers Conference, Write-To-Publish, and Mt. Hermon Christian Writers Conference. Presently, she serves as the vice president in the Wisconsin chapter of Romance Writers of America (WisRWA).

What are some of the spiritual themes you like to write about?

Trust is a big spiritual theme that I like to write about. So many times we can say or even feel that we trust the Lord – but what happens when the bank forecloses on your home? What happens when a child dies? Those are the times that trust is crucial because we cannot understand the whys behind the situations. I can honestly say that I am learning to trust the Lord with all my heart and not lean on my own understanding. But it’s a journey.

What other books of yours are coming out soon?

Threads of Hope released last month. It’s a historical set in Wisconsin and book one in my brand new series Fabric of Time, published with Charisma Media/Realms.

A revised and updated version of my contemporary novel, Broken Things (first published ten years ago) will soon be available in e-book format for the first time via Amazon/Kindle. I’m very excited to offer this story to my readers in time for Valentine’s Day! Here’s a blurb:

An old photograph prompts Allison Drake Littenberg to return to Chicago and mend fences with family members and friends, particularly Jack Callahan, the handsome cop she left back in 1969. Now, 30 years later, Jack is bitter from bad decisions and a nasty divorce. Even so, Allie prays that God will use her own broken past to touch his life – and the life of a dying, abused, and disheartened woman who proves to be the key to answering decades of questions.

Threads of Faith, book two in Fabric of Time, will release in October 2012 and Threads of Love, book three in that series, will be on bookshelves in May 2013.

I read Broken Things when it first came out. I know my readers will like it. If you could spend an evening with one contemporary person (not a family member of yours), who would it be and why?

Well, this may not seem like a very spiritual answer, but in the long run I think it impacts God’s kingdom. I’d like to spend an evening talking with Larry Levinson, a movie producer. He produced Janette Oke’s Love Comes Softly series, which is frequently run on the Hallmark Movie Channel. I’ve got a lot of ideas for movies based on some of my novels and I believe there is a need to continue getting Christian and Inspirational films produced. What a pleasure it would be to discuss my ideas with Mr. Levinson.

What historical person would you like to meet (besides Jesus) and why?

I can’t wait to meet John the Baptizer in Heaven. He was the voice of one, crying in the wilderness. He prepared the way of the Lord. How awesome it will be to hear about his life on earth!

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

I can tell you that even published authors receive rejection letters. I just got one from the Love Inspired line. While I am currently contracted and so grateful for that fact, it’s also true that my status could change any minute. Book lines fail. Publishers cancel contracts. Publishing companies get sold and major changes occur. None of us is really ever secure in our careers. That said, writers must persevere if they want to succeed in this business, persevere through the rejection and disappointment. I know, first hand, that it’s difficult sometimes. This is a lonely business and discouragement easily sets in. But if you trust in the Lord, delight yourself in the things of God, commit yourself to your calling, the Lord will give you the desire of your heart. That’s a promise from Psalm 37:3-5.

I love the cover. Purple is my favorite color. Tell us about the featured book.

I got the idea for Threads of Hope while researching my family’s history. Here’s a blurb from the novel:

The year is 1848, and Kristin Eikaas has traveled from Norway to Wisconsin with dreams of a new life. But when she arrives, she finds one disappointment after another. Worse, her superstitious uncle now believes that his neighbor’s Oneida Indian wife has put a curse on Kristin. Everyone knows the Sundbergs put spells on people…

Everyone except Kristin. Her run-ins with Sam Sundberg only prove that he is a good man from a Christian family. But when her uncle discovers she’s been associating with Sam, his temper flares. To escape his wrath, Kristin gratefully accepts a job as the Sundbergs’ house girl, finding solace at the family’s spinning wheel.

In the time Sam and Kristin spend together, their friendship develops into much more, and Sam prays about a match between them. But opposition threatens to derail their newfound love. Will they have the courage to stand up for what is right—even against their own families?

Please give us the first page of the book.

It looks like Norway.

The thought flittered across nineteen-year-old Kristin Eikaas’s mind as Uncle Lars’s wagon bumped along the dirt road. The docks of Green Bay, Wisconsin, were behind them and now they rode through a wooded area that looked just as enchanting as the forests she’d left in Norway. Tall pine trees and giant firs caused the sunshine to dapple on the road. Kristin breathed in the sweet, fresh air. How refreshing it felt in her lungs after being at sea for nearly three months and breathing in only salty sea air or the stale air in her dark, crowded cabin.

A clearing suddenly came into view and, a minute or so later, Kristin eyed the farm fields stretched before her. The sight caused an ache of homesickness. Her poppa had farmed…

“Your trip to America was good, ja?” Uncle Lars asked in Norwegian, giving Kristin a sideways glance.

He resembled her father so much that her heart twisted painfully with renewed grief. Except, she’d heard about Onkel—about his temper—how he had to leave Norway when he was barely of age, because, Poppa had said, trouble followed him.

But surely he’d grown past all of that. His letters held words of promise and there was little doubt that her uncle had made a new life for himself here in America.

Just as she would.

Visions of a storefront scampered across her mind’s eye—a shop in which she could sell her finely crocheted and knitted items. A shop in which she could work the spinning wheel, just as Mor had…

Uncle Lars arched a brow. “You are tired, liten niese?”

“Ja. It was a long journey.” Kristin sent him a sideways glance. “I am grateful I did not come alone. The Olstads made good traveling companions.”

Her uncle cleared his throat and lowered his voice. “But you have brought my inheritance, ja?” He arched a brow.

“Ja.” Kristin thought of the priceless possession she’d brought from Norway.

“And you would not hold out on your onkel, would you?”

Prickles of unease caused Kristin to shift in her seat. She resisted the urge to touch the tiny gold and silver cross pendent suspended from a dainty chain which hung around her neck. Her dress concealed it. She couldn’t give it up, even though it wasn’t legal for a woman to inherit anything in Norway. But the necklace had been her last gift from Mor. A gift from one’s mother wasn’t an inheritance…was it? “No, Onkel.”

She turned and peered down from her perch into the back of the wooden wagon bed. Peder Olstad smiled at her and Kristin relaxed some. Just a year older, he was the brother of Kristin’s very best friend who had remained in Norway with their mother. She and Peder had grown up together, and while he could be annoying and bad tempered at times, he was the closest thing to a brother that she had. And Sylvia—Sylvia was closer than a sister ever could be. It wouldn’t be long and she and Mrs. Olstad would come to America too. That would be a happy day!

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website: www.andreaboeshaar.com

And I’m on Facebook.

Readers can also follow me on Twitter: @AndreaBoeshaar

Thank you for coming by, Andrea. And thank you for allowing me to read the book in manuscript form. I can assure the readers that it's a very good read.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.

Threads of Hope (Fabric of Time) - paperback

Threads of Hope - Kindle

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (Comments containing links may be subject to removal by blog owner.)
Void where prohibited; the odds of winning depend on the number of entrants. Entering the giveaway is considered a confirmation of eligibility on behalf of the enterer in accord with these rules and any pertaining local/federal/international laws.
The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.
If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, 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

UNDAUNTED FAITH - Andrea Boeshaar - Free Book

Welcome, Charisma House author, Andrea. So glad to feature this book that I was privileged to read for endorsement. You're going to love it, Readers. Now, Andrea, God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon?

I just handed in the manuscript to my editors for a book called Threads of Hope. It’s book 1 in my new series called Fabric of Time.

Tell us a little about your family.

I’m married and have 3 grown sons, 1 daughter-in-law, and 4 grandchildren. I also have a fine church family.

Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how?

I’m afraid I don’t read as often as I’d like. With researching my historical novels and all the time spent writing them, I barely have time to clean my house and see the grandkids, let alone read. Still, I try to read a book every couple of months and I love to read my friends’ books. Right now I’m reading Louise Gouge’s At the Captain’s Command. Then I’ll begin Karen Witemeyer’s To Win Her Heart.

What are you working on right now?

I’m writing a short contemporary Christian romance novel and I’m hoping to get a proposal for it to my agent Steve Laube soon so he can shop it around.

What outside interests do you have?

I love to take walks. I recently underwent a total knee replacement and I’m healing up just great. I can’t wait to take regular walks outside come springtime. My husband and I also enjoy seeing our grandchildren. We make that a regular practice.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

Somehow certain areas just grab me, like the Arizona Territory in 1867. You’ll read about it in Undaunted Faith, Book 4 in my Seasons of Redemption series.

But I’m also interested in local history. Book 2 in my series takes place here in Milwaukee. Book 3 is set in Chicago and then in Milwaukee again. I love to research my hometown and my State. My next series, Fabric of Time, will take place in Wisconsin.

What is the one thing you wish you had known before you started writing novels?

I wish I would have learned more about self-editing. Sometimes I’m embarrassed to read my older works, even if they’re published. I suppose that means I’m growing as a writer – and that’s good!  J

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

God has shown Himself faithful in so many ways. He takes good care of me. One of the lessons I’m learning is that because my Heavenly Father is the King of kings and I am His child, then that makes me…a princess! So I ought to act like royalty, not in a snooty manner, but a manner in which I treat myself with respect and take care of myself. The Bible says that we should love others as ourselves. But if we don’t love and respect ourselves, we cannot love our neighbors.

So all you princesses out there – listen up! Do something wonderful for yourselves today – and then show some kindness to someone else. J

What are the three best things you can tell other authors to do to be successful?

Don’t give up.

Learn all you can about writing and hone your skills
Trust God to open the doors to your success. Then don’t be afraid to walk through them.

Tell us about the featured book.

Sure. Here is the back cover copy.

The McCabe brothers have their hands full. Trouble on the range and trouble in town. But they never expected their sweet schoolteacher, Bethany Stafford, to join in the mix of woe. When her reputation is unfairly tarnished, Pastor Luke McCabe is quick to propose marriage. But Bethany wants better than just a marriage of necessity to save her good name. Could Luke ever come to love a plain “little field mouse” like her?

 Dr. Annetta Cavanaugh has her own questions about men and their intentions. While Pastor Jake McCabe seems sincere, she still has her doubts about him. But after he accompanies her on a medical call, she sees a whole new side of him and can't help but admit her attraction to the handsome pastor.

However, there’s evil brewing in town—a lawlessness that even the sheriff cannot tamp down. Finally, it comes face-to-face with both Luke and Jake and it threatens the lives of the women they love. Are the McCabe brothers ready for the fight of their lives?

Please give us the first page of the book.

Journal entry: Monday, April 1, 1867

I, Bethany Leanne Stafford, am writing in a leather-bound journal, which my dear friend Mrs. Valerie McCabe gave me for a going-away gift. She suggested I write my memoirs of my impending journey West and about my new life as a schoolteacher in the wild Arizona Territory. Valerie said she wished she’d have kept a diary of her escape from New Orleans and a loveless marriage from which her husband Ben had rescued her.

For continuity’s sake, I shall back up from the day I left Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In September of last year, upon leaving the city, I took the train to Jericho Junction, Missouri. My traveling companions were Pastors Luke and Jacob McCabe and Gretchen Schlyterhaus, a German widow.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I invite readers to my website: www.andreaboeshaar.com

Once there, readers can find my blog and a lot of other information. They can also find me on Facebook.

Thank you, Andrea, for this lovely peek into your life and book.

Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (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 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, 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

UNCERTAIN HEART - Andrea Boeshaar - Free Book

We have Andrea Boeshaar back with the second book in her Seasons of Redemption series. I was privileged to read this book and write an endorsement for it. You're going to love it. Now, Andrea, why do you write the kind of books you do?

I love history and researching the past. Years ago I visited the Pabst Mansion, here in Milwaukee. It had been decorated for Christmas in its usual Victorian flare. It sparked my imagination and by the time I left I had an idea for a story about a captain and his children…oh, yes, and a governess. My book Uncertain Heart was a result.

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

I think when my three sons were born. They are all adults now with children of their own.

Those grandchildren are really special, too. How has being published changed your life?

It’s made me realize something Debra White Smith said: There’s a reason the word DEAD is in deadline.

Actually, I'm nearing the deadline of my first book in the McKenna's Daughters series I'm writing for Strang. I know what you mean, too. What are you reading right now?

Mostly nonfiction by Beth Moore and Laura Bush and, of course, God’s Word.

What is your current work in progress?

I’m writing book 4 in my Seasons of Redemption series. This book is about three characters readers will meet in book 2 – Bethany and Jake and Luke McCabe.

What would be your dream vacation?

I want to take an Alaskan cruise!

James and I want to, too. He spent time in Alaska while he was in the military before we met. How do you choose your settings for each book?

I think I choose areas of the United States that interest me – a great excuse to visit.

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

Laura Bush. She seems like the epitome of how a Christian wife and mother ought to behave. She’s strong-minded and yet demure. I admire her and, in fact, her book is one that I’m reading now.

I admire her, too. What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I enjoy meeting my friends for coffee or lunch and spending time with my grandchildren. I’ve got 4 to date. It’s such a blessing to be close so I can see them often.

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

I’m not a fast writer. I wish I could whip out 5,000 words a day. The most I seem to accomplish is 1,000. I also tend to get distracted. I love people. I care about souls. Tomorrow, after Bible study, I plan to visit a friend of my sons’ who is battling cancer. She’s 31 years old. We’re all praying for a miracle. And it’s those sorts of things that eat up my writing time. But God usually and somehow works it all out.

I've had to have a few 5,000 word days during this deadline period, but I like to write more leisurely, too. What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Don’t give up. And don’t give in to negative critics – which includes yourself!

Tell us about the featured book?

Uncertain Heart is book 2 in my Seasons of Redemption series. It takes place in 1866, in my hometown of Milwaukee, WI.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, June 1866

Stepping off the train, her valise in hand, Sarah McCabe eyed her surroundings. Porters hauled luggage and shouted orders to each other. Reunited families and friends hugged while well-dressed businessmen, wearing serious expressions, walked briskly along.

Mr. Brian Sinclair . . .

Sarah glanced around for the man she thought might be him.

When nobody approached her, she ambled to the front of the train station where the city was bustling as well. What with all the carriages and horse-pulled streetcars coming and going on Reed Street, Sarah had all she could do just to stay out of the way. And yet she rejoiced in the discovery that Milwaukee was not the small community she’d assumed. There was not a farm in sight, and it looked nothing like her hometown of Jericho Junction, Missouri.

Good. She breathed a sigh and let her gaze continue to wander.

Milwaukee wasn’t all that different from Chicago where she’d visited and hoped to teach music in the fall. The only difference she could see between the two cities was that Milwaukee’s main streets were cobbled, whereas most of Chicago’s were paved with wooden blocks.

Sarah squinted into the morning sunshine. She wondered which of the carriages lining the curb belonged to Mr. Sinclair. In his letter he’d stated that he would meet her train. Sarah glanced at her small
watch locket: nine thirty. Sarah’s train was on time this morning.

Had she missed him somehow?

How can readers find you on the Internet?

They can log onto my website: http://www.andreaboeshaar.com/

Andrea, thank you for the wonderful visit.
 
Readers, here's a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. New information: Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. I’m trying to get a good idea of where the people live who leave comments on my blog. (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 6 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Feedblitz, Facebook, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment. Here’s a link.

http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/