BENEATH THE BLACKBERRY MOON - April W Gardner - One Free Book or Ebook

April W Gardner

aprilmarieg@gmail.com

Featuring Beneath the Blackberry Moon

Kindle and Paperback: http://tinyurl.com/h6vxwuy

Welcome back, April. What writing news do you have?

I’m happy to announce that my latest historical romance, Beneath the Blackberry Moon, is FREE to subscribers! My newsletter is for new release announcements only, so your inbox won’t be flooded. Enjoy this gift from me!

INSTANTLY RECEIVE YOUR FREE COPY HERE: http://tinyurl.com/pbse7u6  

Kindle and Paperback: http://tinyurl.com/h6vxwuy

God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon?

Indeed He has! My horizon has several new books on it. Better than Fiction releases in a few weeks, and it’s also going to available for free to subscribers. You can sign up here! http://eepurl.com/bB7fvT

Tell us a little about your family.

My husband is the best the United State Air Force has to offer. Eighteen years of service and counting. Couldn’t be more proud of my airman! I also have two amazing kids (son 14 and daughter 12) whom I homeschool. Our two German Shepherds complete the family. They keep up hopping and happy!

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

Oh my goodness, yes. I read tons of nonfiction books for historical research, and I love every minute of it. I also am more critical of fiction, which isn’t necessarily a good thing...

What are you working on right now?

Right now, I’m writing the next in the Creek Country Saga called Drawn by the Frost Moon. Can’t wait to share this amazing story! It’s taken straight from the pages of history and is deeply romantic.

What outside interests do you have?

You mean there is a world away from my laptop?? LOL My outside world includes my church family and any activities my kids have going on in the youth group.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

Mainly, I dig around in history books for interesting and little-known events that happened during the early 1800s in the Southeastern U.S. and involved the Muscogee Indians. Then I base my plot around that event.

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

I wish I had known it’s a skill that takes many, many years to learn. Yes, it requires natural ability, but it’s also a learned process that requires patience and humility.

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

He’s reminded me lately just how faithful He is!

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

Start compiling an email list! I wish, wish, wish I had started fourteen years ago instead of one year ago, LOL

Don’t become a pest by annoying your friends and family. Reach outside of that circle. Find new readers.

Have fun! Don’t sweat the small stuff. J

Tell us about the featured book.

Beneath the Blackberry Moon is the story of my heart. It’s really one book under three separate titles. The first is the one I give away free to subscribers.

It is set during the Creek War of 1813-14 and is a sweeping romance that absconds with the reader, taking her to a Native American world most Americans don’t know even existed.

Here’s a little about it:

Adela McGirth has never feared her neighbors, the Creek Indians, but a suspicious encounter with a steely eyed warrior shakes her confidence. Her dread soon becomes reality, but no fort is strong enough to hold off a party of warriors who fear nothing but the loss of their ancient ways.

Big Warrior Totka Hadjo, a Red Stick bound by honor to preserve his heritage, enters his toughest battles yet—the fight for love, the invasion of fear, and the inescapable ashes of each. The war was simpler before his enemy became a beautiful face with a gentle warrior’s spirit he cannot resist.

War, captivity, hunger that will not be denied. And a blackberry moon with enough pull to endure the test of time.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Tensaw Settlements, present-day Alabama

Blackberry Moon (June) 1813

From inside the cool, shadowy wood, Totka Lawe squinted into a bright meadow. Its broad sea of undulating bromegrass lay empty. Deceptive. He tuned his senses to the cold fingers of foreboding walking up his spine. His own fingers clenched both the wooden war club tucked into his belt and the lead rope of the packhorse snuffling at his ear.

Go through, or around?

Eight other warriors deliberated beside him, but it was his sister’s husband, Nokose, who would have the final say. Grandmother Sun neared the end of her trek, bringing to a close the delegation’s first day on the return trail to their talwa, Kossati, their Upper Creek village. One more sleep in land occupied by whites, followed by another two in Creek country. Then home.

He swatted a mosquito from his ear and waited for Nokose to speak. Sweat coursed a line from his roached hair over the bare side of his head and down his neck. He shifted his weight to hide his impatience.

With each passing day, their mission grew more burdensome, their cargo more loathsome. The old wound in Totka’s leg throbbed, but he pushed beyond it and centered the load more squarely across his packhorse’s flank. The scents of horseflesh and leather failed to soothe him as he flicked glances through the trees.

This was white man’s land. For a little while longer. Soon, the Red Sticks would engage in war and then the land would be theirs once again.

At a stirring behind them, Totka stroked the sleek upper limb of his unstrung bow. No smelly, cumbersome musket for him. He peered into the murky shrubs. The darkness that descended held more than night. It seethed with intolerance and distrust so thick it could be measured in every narrowed gaze, in every unspoken word.

Totka no longer questioned whether he’d chosen the correct faction. For better or worse, he’d staked his claim with the Red Sticks. The scarlet feather tied to his hair had sealed it.

All he lacked was another battle, another feat of courage or extraordinary achievement, or another few scalps—white or red—to adorn the red pole in Kossati’s council square. Any one of those would bring his name before the council and, if the spirits wished, earn him higher rank.

The mare tossed her head and sidestepped, shoving him into a thorny bush, then swung back in the opposite direction. Feeding off his nervous handling most likely.

As he extricated himself from the shrub, the hem of his long-shirt snagged on a briar and ripped. Singing Grass, his elder sister, would have choice words for him.

“Ho, ho,” he cooed, shadowing the horse’s steps. He stroked her sweaty, quivering shoulder, but she stretched and strained against the tether. Head high, she rolled her eyes, revealing the whites, but Totka held firm.

The animal had tested his patience from sunup, and he anticipated hobbling her and brushing the day’s dust from his leggings.

Interesting. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Website: www.aprilgardner.com

Facebook: https://facebook.com/AprilGardnerBooks/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AprilWGardner

Thank you, April, for sharing this new book series with us.

Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the second book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. 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

WARRING SPIRITS - April W. Gardner - Free Book

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

I write fiction, because it’s the perfect outlet for my creative mind.

I write Christian fiction, because that’s who I am. Anything else wouldn’t glorify God.

I write historical Christian fiction, because nothing teaches us about the present better than the past.

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

The days my children were born. I’d say my wedding day, but marrying the man of my dreams was trumped by having children with him. J

How has being published changed your life?

It’s gotten busier. LOL. Way busier.

What are you reading right now?

I’m so glad you asked because I’m thoroughly enjoying the book I’m reading, which is Lady in the Mist by Laurie Alice Eakes. Historical fiction at it’s best!

Yes. I was privileged to read that book for endorsement. It’s awesome. What is your current work in progress?

I have several WIPs in various stages of development, but the most advanced is a novel I’m co-writing with Michelle Massaro. It’s been a blast working with her!

What would be your dream vacation?

A road trip across the U.S. stopping at every national park along the way.

When we were younger, James and I would have enjoyed that. I’m more into flying these days. How do you choose your settings for each book?

It must be a unique, unexplored event in history. I work my characters around the major event. That’s what you call a plot-driven novel!

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

I’d spend it with my USAF husband who I see far too little of these days. The Air Force keeps him busy at his desk “fighting the Taliban,” as he jokingly puts it. Oh, for a date night!

And we appreciate everything he does for us. What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

Does cleaning the house count? Grin. It’s what I do most while not reading and writing.

Apart from that, we enjoy visiting every national park we come across.

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

My biggest obstacle is a perfectionism. It can completely stall my writing. I overcome it by barreling ahead and telling myself I can always fix the “bad” writing later.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Don’t write for others. Write the story God has placed on your heart.

Tell us about the featured book.

Warring Spirits is book 2 in my Creek Country Saga. Here is the back cover copy:

In 1816 Georgia, escaped slaves control the land just beyond the American border in Las Floridas. Lost somewhere between white and black worlds, Milly follows hope to the only place that can offer her refuge—the place Georgians are calling Negro Fort. The first, sweet taste of freedom convinces Milly that surrender is not an option. Death would be more welcome.

Major Phillip Bailey has orders to subdue the uprising and return the runaways to their masters. Forced to fight alongside Creek warriors—the same who etched the scars into his mind and flesh—Phillip primes himself for battle.  But inside, a war already rages—return for the woman he thought lost to him or concede her to the enemy she loves; follow orders or follow his heart.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Chapter 1

Phillip knew it was a dream. He told himself again, though it did little good. The children’s shrieks grew louder. The flaming pickets roared with new life, as though fueled by his denial of their existence.

His legs churned, but he couldn’t free his mind of the constant nightmare. At least this time, he reasoned, he wasn’t awake. Small blessings.

And then, he saw her.

Adela.

Arms dangling at her sides and skirt undulating in the waves of heat, she stood across the compound. Her lips were motionless, but her voice echoed through his mind. “Phillip.”

He rushed toward the vision, and she reached for him. “Phillip, love, you must wake up.”

With a cry, he bolted upright.

The silhouette of a woman hovered over him. He stared at her, unblinking, afraid to move and frighten her away.

Sweat poured down his chest—sweat as real as the shadow seemed.

“That’s better,” she whispered. “You’ll be alright.”

He disagreed, but if he spoke, he might shatter her. He’d done it before.

Her loose hair swayed as she moved so near, he should feel her heat.

Taking in the comfort of her presence, he held his breath until his lungs burned with need. Refusing to be contained any longer, air exploded from his mouth. The sound ripped through the cabin, and in one blink, Adela vanished.

A moan built in Phillip’s throat, and he buried his head in his trembling palms. When his fingers collided with the jagged flesh on his face, he recalled again why Adela was no more to him than a mocking shadow, a figment of his deluded, half-crazed mind.

She had turned him down.

Familiar nausea haunted his gut. With a growl, he threw his damp pillow across the room. The sound of splintering glass sent him scrambling for the musket by his bed. He had the unsteady barrel aimed toward the source before he realized he’d been the cause of the commotion.

He dropped the weapon and backed away from it as though it were a copperhead. Blood pounded in his throat. He swallowed hard, terrified of his own mind.

It had been nearly two years. One more night of this and he would prove the gossip correct. He would go mad.

There had to be a better way.

“Help me.” His voice shivered, and for once, he was thankful to be alone. “Sweet Jesus, show me a better way.”

Wow! That page is really a hook. How can readers find you on the Internet?

I love to connect with readers! They can find me here:

www.aprilwgardner.com

www.channelislandsresistance.com

www.clashofthetitles.com

https://www.facebook.com/april.gardner1

https://twitter.com/#!/AprilWGardner

Thank you, April, for spending this time with us.


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


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

WOUNDED SPIRITS - April Gardner - Free Book

Special note: Tuesday, December 7, marks the official Amazon Launch of Wounded Spirits.Purchase the book that day and receive tons of free e-gifts including the first chapter of the sequel.



Welcome, April. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

I try not to put any of my major personality traits into my characters, but in Wounded Spirits, I did include several Spanish characters. I grew up as a missionary kid in Spain, so those details of the book are near to my heart.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

While I lived in England, I customarily wore bright, knee-highs with Crocs. Besides being fun, it was a survival mechanism against the cold and the arthritis in my feet. Sadly, fuzzy knee-highs don’t go over so well in Georgia.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I first discovered the love of writing in my 11th grade English class. Mr. Hicks introduced me to expository writing. Most of the class hated it, but I couldn’t get enough. In 12th, Miss Davy opened to me the world of creative writing, and that’s where I found my passion. Ten years later, I finally got the nerve up to write the novel in my heart—Wounded Spirits.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.

I read few contemporary books. There’s just something about a foreign place and time that lures me in. Historical fiction is my all time fave, but through my awesome crit group, Christian Young Adult Writers, I’ve discovered that fantasy and speculative fiction are just as thrilling.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

Keep it? I thought I’d lost it long ago!

Actually, I try not to add too much to my plate. My mom always says to pray about a new idea or venture for a week or two then if you’re still just as thrilled about it, consider taking the first steps toward it. Her wise council has saved me a time or two from jumping on impulse toward something shiny and new only to regret my decision.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

I hate choosing character names!! It’s the one thing I loathe about writing. I’m known to switch them out several times while I write a manuscript. Maybe if I had a better method, I wouldn’t be so wishy-washy about it.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

My kids. It’s not easy homeschooling, but we’ve survived four years and are better and closer for it.

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

Whenever I see a field of grass or wheat or wild flower, I’m accosted with the insane urge to roll in it, run through it, or glide over it and feel the blades brushing against my skin. If only I were a horse. Or better yet, a unicorn!

What is your favorite food?

Coffee. I know it’s not a “food”, but it’s the one thing I can put in my mouth that I absolutely must have every day. It must a sin to derive such pleasure from a drink.

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

My greatest roadblock was not joining a critique group. I didn’t think I had the time to work on other people’s writing, but now that I’m part of one (although for my children’s fiction), I sigh at all the wasted time. I could learned so much and saved myself so much hassle! And my work would have been better for it. Lesson learned. Roadblock overcome. Crit groups are essential!

Tell us about the featured book.

Wounded Spirits takes place during the little known Creek War of 1813. It’s based on the true story of a family torn apart during the massacre at Fort Mims. The romance is my invention. An assaulting Creek warrior is tasked with protecting his enemy. The task of caring for the White women brings more challenges than he bargained for, as well as a love he cannot resist.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Adela shifted her body to allow blood flow to her legs. The mossy ground had long grown hard against her tailbone, and the rough tree trunk dug into her back.

A refreshing breeze blew through the pines lining the northwestern border of her father’s land. It rustled the needles and created a comforting, familiar whistle.

A small meadow lay vacant before her. On the opposite side, the evening sun cast its last rays through the treetops. Squinting, she thought for an instant she saw the form of a man. No, it was just a bush moving with the current of the wind.

Surely, she had been waiting nigh on two hours. Her family would be worrying. Just north, civil war raged among the Creeks and threatened to involve the vulnerable Americans in the Tensaw and Bigby settlements. Her parents’ constant fear of danger was well placed.

Soon Mama would call Adela’s father in from the barn and send one of the servants looking for her. Worry was never good for Mama.

Mama’s attacks were rare these days, but Adela never knew what might set her to wheezing and coughing.

Adela’s stomach twittered and flipped. She stood then rubbed her lower back. “Please, hurry, Phillip. Please,” she murmured, not sure she could stay much longer.

Unheeding, the sun’s beams continued down the length of the trees then dissolved, leaving only their orange and purple reflection in the sky.

Not wanting to create undue stress on her parents, she gave up waiting and set out toward home. She lifted her skirt to avoid the prickly blackberry bushes and berated herself for not having thought to bring a lantern. How foolish of me!

“Adela…Adela…” Her name rode on the breeze.

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

I’d love for you to visit me at my webpage: http://www.aprilgardner.com/  or on my blog http://www.aprilwgardner.blogspot.com/ .

Thank you, April, for visiting with us
 
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. Here’s a link.

http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/