GRACE GIVEN - Beth Shriver - One Free Book

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

The reason I write is to create touching stories for Christian and non-Christian readers alike. Even if I wrote for a secular publisher there would be an inspirational undertone, it’s just who I am and what I stand for as a writer. Being a social worker I usually have the social issue in my head first and a faith point, then a takeaway that’s not been overused. Many times I wait and let the story tell me what those are and how they’ll work into each of the characters personalities.

What other books of yours are coming out soon?

Healing Grace 2013, Season of the Spirit 2014, Season of the Heart 2015, Season of the Soul 2015

If you could spend an evening with one contemporary person (not a family member of yours), who would it be and why?

To narrow it down I’ll go with writers: Author Steve Lawhead is a family friend and his wife encouraged me early on to write, and my friend Shelley Sabga, or better known as Shelley Shepherd Gray, was a great encourager to me. We knew each other long before we started writing and when she told me about her first published book she gave me the courage to write those first words.

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

As far as a historical person, I’d have to say C.S. Lewis. I loved The Great Divorce, and saw the play of the Screw Tape Letters and could see it over and over again.

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

Not to take things personally. It’s a business. It’s just really difficult to get to that frame of mind when you’re passionate about your writing dreams.

Tell us about the featured book.

Elsie can’t forgive her sister, Katie, for leaving the community with the young man she was smitten with. Feeling betrayed and hopeless she becomes a recluse, not letting go of the sadness. Gideon has held a special place in his heart for Elsie, but knew she was interested in someone else. He was one the deacons would consider when the time was right to become one of them, an honor but a great commitment as well.

When Gideon thinks it’s the right time after Katie has left, he takes the opportunity to comfort Elsie through her bitterness. One way he does this is to study the Martyr’s Mirror, with her, a book that is centuries old, describing their ancestor’s sacrifice for their faith, having been persecuted for many years. This time together grows their relationship and prepares them for what is to come.

But Gideon feels there is something more and he eventually earns her trust. Elsie tells him about the English young men who harassed both her and Katie. When the community moved to Texas, they were not welcome by some of the locals. They tell Katie and Elsie that harm will come to them if their community doesn’t go back up north where they came from.

Together they try to do what is right, and stand their ground when they are confronted by the English young men, and the relationship between Elsie and Gideon begins to grow. Gideon stays by Elsie’s side as she learns to give grace and to humble herself to accept grace as well.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Prologue

Ripples of pink clouds covered the blue Texas sky. The sun slowly dipped behind a large oak tree that was almost invisible against the fading darkness. Elsie and Katie walked down a dirt road leading to their family farm after a day at a neighbor’s quilting bee.

“I like the orange with the yellow patches.” Katie flicked her thick, amber curls away from her blue eyes.

Elsie shook her head. “Not me. I like green with the yellow.”

Katie frowned and kicked a rock down the lane ahead of them.

Elsie thought of a compromise, a frequent gesture she made on her part when dealing with her sister. “What if we do all three?”

As they chatted about the patches needed to complete their quilt, an unfamiliar rumbling noise made them pause. Elsie stopped and looked behind her as a car drove up, causing a cloud of dust to fall around them. Her kapp blew off, and the driver whistled.

The three other young men in the car heckled them and laughed. “Hey sweetie, show us more.”

“How about some leg, Amish girl,” The driver called out to her.

“Hey, ladies, stop and talk to us,” another yelled over to them. “No harm in being friendly.”

Elsie had never felt dirty like this. With each word, she felt as if they had thrown a handful of mud at her. She sucked in a breath when the car came to a halt and the driver got out. His dirty, blond hair was slicked straight up, and his blue eyes hardened as he took her in.

The passenger side door opened, and a tall, skinny young man walked around the front of the car. He looked Elsie up and down and moved toward her. She took two steps backward and then took off running. Her heart beat out of her chest, but she didn’t stop until she got to the gravel road leading to their house. Elsie bent over, puffing and holding her side. Katie was close behind, catching her breath.

Katie turned around. “They didn’t follow us, thank Gott.”

Elsie glanced around, no one saw them with those men.

“Elsie, Katie. Are you all right?” Their daed’s booming voice came from behind them. “I saw you running all the way up the drive.” His height and hefty build gave him an intimidating appearance, but his family and community knew him as a gentle man.

“Nee, we’re fine.” Katie answered before Elsie could think of what to say.

He eyed them with suspicion, but nodded. “Okay, then.” He lumbered away, but looked back once.

“Do you think he believed me?” Katie asked with concern in her voice.

“Why didn’t you tell him?” Elsie wasn’t sure what to do. She only knew that now that they hadn’t told him, it became a lie, a secret. Elsie didn’t want the burden of either.

“I don’t want to upset him or mamm. Nothing really happened, anyway.” Katie shrugged.

“It would have if we hadn’t gotten away from them. They had something bad on their minds.” Elsie frowned at her. “It was embarrassing what those boys said. What if someone thinks we invited the attention?” 

“They would know better than that,” Katie scoffed. “And they didn’t have a chance to do anything, with the way you ran off so quickly.”

But Elsie wasn’t so sure. Katie liked attention — especially when a young man smiled her way.

“Well, I guess it’s done.” Elsie tried to put it out of her mind, hoping as they walked to the house that they had made the right decision not to tell anyone. And she prayed it wouldn’t happen again. Three weeks later Katie disappeared, and Elsie’s heart was broken for more than just one reason when Jake left with her.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

www.bethshriverwriter.com

Thank you, Beth, for sharing this new book with us.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Grace Given (Touch of Grace) - paperback
Grace Given (Touch of Grace) - 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

ANNIE'S TRUTH - Beth Shriver - Free Book

I've known Beth for many years, and now we write for the same publishing company. Welcome, Beth. God has really been moving in your writing life. What do you see on the horizon?

I have been incredibly blessed with my writing. It took awhile to get here, but I don’t take one minute of it for granted. Do I still get discouraged, yes, but all I have to do is look back and see how far I’ve come and The Discourager slips away.

Tell us a little about your family.

My husband sells anti-shoplifting equipment, you know those pedestals you walk through or tags you forgot to clip off that squeal throughout the store until you turn red with embarrassment, thoseJ

My son, Cale, will be moving from College Station to Austin this coming year, majoring in art/graphic design.

My daughter, Madison, will be finishing her last year in criminal justice, hopefully!! 

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

Yes, but not in a good way. I don’t read nearly as much as I used to and I miss it. I always feel like I should be writing, but I’ve found I write better if I’m reading.

What are you working on right now?

I just finished the fourth book in the six book series, Season of the Spirit. It’s the first book in the second series. I’m so glad my editor changed the series into two, three book series. It was nice to start over with new characters and a different setting.

What outside interests do you have?

I’m a social worker by trade so I find opportunities to fulfill that part of me that I miss. My favorite organization is a place called “The SoupMobile.” I have a passion to help the homeless and enjoy going to downtown Dallas for a change of pace.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

Funny you should ask. I’ve changed the setting three times according to my experiences. I went from Virginia to Texas to Pennslyvania. Because I write about pastoral living I make the setting into a character in a roundabout way. Spending time at my grandfather’s ranch as a kid made me appreciate the country life and the land.

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

That is not a fair question…I’d say Jesus but that’s too obvious, so I’d like to have a sit down with the apostle Peter. I can relate to asking questions and messing things up, so he would probably make me feel better, or worseL. More modern day…C.S. Lewis comes to mind and Mother Teresa, talk about a social worker!

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

That what you write might surprise you. What you think is good or marketable might not be, and in turn you may find your niche in something different from what you thought you would. To be grateful for what you have and keep forging ahead. I’ve had ups and downs, but what it comes down to is that I love to write and hope I always have the opportunity to do so.

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

Humbleness, I recently went to a women’s retreat at my church and was awakened to the reason I write. Because I write Christian based stories I have the opportunity to share and encourage my faith with others.

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

Learn the trade

Connect with other writers

Write and write some more

Tell us about the featured book.

After learning the truth about who she really is, can this prodigal daughter be accepted back into the safety and security of home?

Annie Beiler seems to have it all—a loving family in a tight-knit Amish community and the affections of an attractive and respected young man. But when she learns that she was adopted after being found as an abandoned newborn, she sets out on a journey to find out who she is.

Her father is strongly against her decision to leave, as it could mean Meidung, or excommunication from the community and even her family. But Annie knows she must find “the path that has her heart.”

As Annie’s search brings her into the fast-paced world of modern life, she is confronted with all of the temptations she was warned of. Her quest for self keeps her from returning, but when she finds out the truth, she becomes so broken Annie reaches a point of no return, and has to make a choice. Can she make her way back to the order and security of her family? Or will she remain an outsider—torn between her two worlds?

Please give us the first page of the book.

Prologue

The bright moon illuminated the velvet sky. Shafts of corn swayed in the soft, warm breeze as if alive, dancing a waltz in the huge ten-acre field. The cries from a pack of coyotes erupted through the nearby hills surrounding the Shenandoah Valley.

Amos Beiler made his way through the rows of ripe corn as the pups howled an off-kilter tune along with the group. Amos followed a different cry—that of a human babe, the sobs weak and intermittent, nearly drowned out by the louder moan of the coyotes.

He used his shotgun to slash his way through the six-foot stalks in a maze of never ending rows until a small whimper close by made him stop. He turned to his right and looked down a stretch of dirt that led to his farmhouse a good mile away. He’d come to protect his livestock from the coyotes, but finding their source of interest was his new goal.

Another sputter from the next line over caught his attention. He moved quickly, not wanting to lose sight of the area where the sound came from. Cornstalks shadowed the dirt path that led him closer to the child. Now in bouts of darkness, he listened with an attentive ear to any tiny sound. A frog croaked. The wind rustled through the corn leaves. Another curt howl sounded. All made him pause, listen, and discern.

Another wail from the babe made him step quickly, running through the dark aisle of soil. Finally, he caught a glimpse of movement; something white flashed from the ground. As he neared, he saw a colorless blanket with a newborn wrapped inside. He reached down, lifting the small bundle to his chest. The urgent need for protection set him into action.

The coyotes’ song ended. They were on the hunt now, looking for the prize he’d found. They were downwind of him, sure to have his scent and that of the child.

Carrying the gun with one hand and the babe close to his shoulder, he cradled its head in his palm and hurried toward the house. He looked behind him only once, and saw motion out of the corner of his eye. The wind played tricks on him that he dared not allow to fool him. The faster he walked, the farther away the house seemed.

When Amos finally reached a window on the side of the house, he lifted the gun and banged one time, hard. He dropped to his knee and scanned the field. One, two, four pairs of yellow eyes fell upon him. He set the crying babe on the ground behind him. Then, he steadied his gun.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

BETHSHRIVERWRITER.COM

Thank you for having me, Lena! It’s always nice to work with youJ


And thank you for sharing your new book with us, Beth.


Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
Annie's Truth (Touch of Grace)


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

PEACE FOR PARENTS OF TEENS - Beth Shriver - Free Book

I'm happy to welcome my friend, Beth Shriver back to the blog. Beth, you are writing nonfiction. Do you also write fiction?


I have two fiction books published, a romantic suspense and a young adult. Another one is being contracted but I can’t give the info out just yet. :-)

What would you like for our readers to know about you personally?

I never thought I’d be an author but have been blessed in so many ways since I have been obedient to God in persevering and writing stories in His name. There are ups and downs but when you feel the Lord calling you, you know to ride out the storm until His will is done.

Tell us about your family.

I’ve been married for over 20 years and have an 18-year-old daughter in college studying criminal justice, and a 16-year-old son in high school who plays football, basketball, and runs track.

Have you written other nonfiction books?

This is my only non-fiction book, and I don’t plan to write another as I only seem to feel inclined when there is strife in my life, so I think I’ll stick to fiction and let my characters go through the grief. :-)
What other books have you written, and where can the readers of the blog find them?

My romantic suspense, A Case of the Heart, and young adult, Love at First Flight, are both available on Amazon.com.

Do you have any other books in the works right now?

My new agent is busy at work submitting my women’s fiction, Reclaiming Faith, a historical, Remnant of the Fall, and speculative, Fear of Falling. I have recently signed a contract for my Amish book, Annie's Truth, which will release in 2011.

Where on the Internet can the readers find you?

http://www.bethshriverwriter.com/

What kinds of hobbies and leisure activities do you enjoy?

I enjoy reading and writing, of course. I also like to horse back ride, hike, tennis, ride my mountain bike and if I’m really brave, golfing, because I’m not very good at it. :-)

Why did you write the featured book?

This devotional was written during a trying time I had with my teen. I originally wrote these devotionals for me, to get through that difficult time. I was encouraged to continue writing them to share with others and here it is today being published. :-)

What do you want the reader to take away from the book?

I hope these devotionals will help parents through the trials of raising their teen. I had so wished for an unconditional book of devotionals that would give me a sense of peace. I hope the words in Peace for Parents of Teens will help others in the same way it helped me in writing them.

Thank you, Beth, for this interesting interview. I wish I'd had a book like that when I was raising teens.
 
Readers, here's a link to the book. By using this link when you order, you'll help support this blog.














Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book.


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/

A CASE OF THE HEART - Beth Shriver - Free Book

We really enjoyed learning about your YA novel earlier this month. Now you're back with an adult romance. Welcome, Beth. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

In this book, A Case of the Heart, there was a lot of me in the book. I used to be a CPS worker and wanted to share some of my experiences. In my YA, Love at first Flight, There was a lot of my daughter in the character. From there all of my characters have become unique, not like me but maybe people I’d like to be.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

As far as writing goes, I read the obituaries. And for awhile I made it a daily habit which eventually led to a story I’ve been working on titled, The Funeral Hopper. It’s a fun read with very unique characters. You never know where your quirks may take you.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I didn't start writing until 2003, and I was never one of those kids who hid under the covers at night to read after bedtime, or started writing my first novel at age five! No, I began writing articles for inspirational magazines because I thought I had something to say and wanted to share with others. An author friend of mine read my articles and encouraged me to write a book. That book was, Love at First Flight, yep, my very first manuscript. Then came the memories of my social work years and, A Case of the Heart, was created, and I've written six more. For me, writing is all about life experiences on steroids. Each situation, conversation or feeling is heightened to give everyday situations a fun, new kick:)

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

I don’t have any particular genre that I like, maybe historical if I had to choose, but I like to read all types of books and see everything that’s out there. I’ve been surprised at some of the books I’ve really enjoyed that I never thought I’d like. When you see all the different genres I write in you’ll understand my tendency to jump around a lot. It’s all about the story not the category for me.

What other books have you written, whether published or not?

I have written a historical, Remnant of the Fall, women’s fiction, Reclaiming Tess, urban fantasy, Fear of Falling, and an Amish, Annie’s Truth. Presently I’m writing another YA.

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

Sanity can be a tricky thing for writers who live in another world for a good part of their day. I try and keep my quiet time each morning a priority and if I follow through with that my day seems to start out right. I’m a runner, have been for 15 years which helps relieve everyday stress. I also rely on a circle of girlfriends who are always there for me to cry to or play with. My family is very supportive as well.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Sometimes I go with someone I know, but most of the time I try and find a name that would fit the character, something unique or different. I like to research names, especially when I was writing my historical. Names in ancient times have a lot of meaning to them which I found interesting.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

What I’m most proud of is that I’m doing something I never thought I would, writing. As I mentioned previously creating a full-length story was never something I’d even thought of doing until I moved to Texas. I had a hard time with the adjustment moving from Colorado but I found comfort and a way to express myself with writing and a connection that made me feel whole again.

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

When we were in Carmel, California, I loved watching the otters play with each other in the waves and lie on their backs and eat crabs. Playing and eating are good, so I think an otter is the way to go for me.

What is your favorite food?

Sushi. Goes with the otter thing.

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

I am not an English major, teacher or experienced writer, so I had to learn from scratch. I found the process daunting because all I wanted to do was write the story in my head. But I learned how important the basics are and have grown with each manuscript I’ve written in my mechanics and basic skills as a writer.

What advice would you give to an author just starting out?

It’s hard to break into the market. It’s all about timing, finding an editor who likes your writing and perseverance.

Tell us about the featured book?

Liz, a spirited and compassionate social worker, has one of the roughest beats in Denver. Officer Alex Demas has bailed Liz out of more than one tough situation, and his attraction for her is building. When one of her clients is caught up in a drug ring, Liz and Alex must face what lies between them and snare the drug dealer before he finds her client.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Liz never liked getting to the destination before the cop, especially in this part of town. Fortunately, even though these were non-emergency after-hour calls, social workers usually had Denver PD assist them at night.

She checked the car doors to make sure they were locked, and then sank down in her seat to survey the house. She could see occasional movement in the upstairs room. A black silhouette passed by through a burnt orange curtain.

Liz scanned the area. The houses had been converted to multiple occupancy; lawns were neglected; torn shutters hung from dirty windows. Aged paint blistered and chipped off the siding. The streets were littered with old cars, some parked in driveways, others in yards.
There was a little moisture from an earlier snow, and a cold wind was picking up. It was otherwise quiet and still except for two bundled-up figures walking away from her up the street into the dark night.

She reached forward to start the car for some heat when she caught a flash of blue lights in her rearview mirror to see a black and white pulled up behind her.

An officer got out and started to walk over. She observed the confident stride, the nice physique.

Yep, it was him. She took a look in the rearview mirror to do a quick check of her appearance.
She squeezed her cheeks to add some color and opened her eyes wide, pressing lightly on her lashes to curl them back. She ran her fingers through her brown hair, twirling it into a twist and then stuck it into a clip. Liz kept thinking throughout the entire ritual of how pathetic she was.
She rolled down her window and looked into the handsome face of Alex Demas. He was one of her favorite cops and had been with Liz on some of her toughest calls.

He leaned into the window, the streetlight shimmering in his blue eyes. He ran his fingers through his dark hair as he fixed his gaze on her.

Sounds really interesting. Now, Beth, how can readers find you on the Internet?

WWW.BETHSHRIVERWRITER.COM

Beth, we enjoyed having you come back.

Readers, here's a link where you can order A Case of the Heart:

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book.

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

LOVE AT FIRST FLIGHT - Beth Shriver - Free Book

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

Looking back on those days of first loves and the possibilities that the attraction promises is the reason I write YA. And this story stirs up all those feelings in just the right way. I loved capturing Neely's youth--that age where she's just about to step into adulthood. She's a great character--and Angelo is scrumptious too!

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I read the obituaries. And for awhile I made it a daily habit which eventually led to a story I’ve been working on titled, The Funeral Hopper. It’s a fun read with very unique characters. You never know where your quirks may take you.

When did you first know that you wanted to be a writer?

I didn't start writing until 2003, and I was never one of those kids who hid under the covers at night to read after bedtime, or started writing my first novel at age five! No, I began writing articles for inspirational magazines because I thought I had something to say and wanted to share with others. An author friend of mine read my articles and encouraged me to write a book. That book was, Love at First Flight, yep, my very first manuscript. Then came the memories of my social work years and, A Case of the Heart, was created, and I've written six more. For me, writing is all about life experiences on steroids. Each situation, conversation or feeling is heightened to give everyday situations a fun, new kick:)

What other books have you written, whether published or not?

I have a romantic suspense, A Case of the Heart, coming out in June. I’ve also written a historical, Remnant of the Fall, that will be out this summer and a women’s fiction, Reclaiming Tess, will released at the end of the year. My last book, Fear of Falling, will come out in 2010. Presently I’m writing another YA.

What is the range of books you like to read?

I don’t have any particular genre that I like, maybe historical if I had to choose, but I like to read all types of books and see everything that’s out there. I’ve been surprised at some of the books I’ve really enjoyed that I never thought I’d like. When you see all the different genres I write in you’ll understand my tendency to jump around a lot. It’s all about the story not the category for me.

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

Sanity can be a tricky thing for writers who live in another world for a good part of their day. I try and keep my quiet time each morning a priority and if I follow through with that my day seems to start out right. I’m a runner, have been for 15 years which helps relieve everyday stress. I also rely on a circle of girlfriends who are always there for me to cry to or play with. My family is very supportive as well.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

What I’m most proud of is that I’m doing something I never thought I would, writing. As I mentioned previously creating a full-length story was never something I’d even thought of doing until I moved to Texas. I had a hard time with the adjustment moving from Colorado but I found comfort and a way to express myself with writing and a connection that made me feel whole again.

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

When we were in Carmel, California, I loved watching the otters play with each other in the waves and lie on their backs and eat crabs. Playing and eating are good, so I think an otter is the way to go for me.

I loved watching the otters in Carmel, too. What is your favorite food?

Sushi. Goes with the otter thingJ

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

It’s hard to break into any market. It’s all about timing, finding an editor who likes your writing, and perseverance.

What advice would you give to a beginning author who want to write the kind of books you do?

Read YAs, know teens and how they think, talk, what they would do in situations different than adults. And although each individual has preferences, teens tend to go with the trend even more than adults, so watch for the big hits and find out from teens what they liked about those books. And don’t give up. The writing industry is TOUGH!

Tell us about the featured book?

Love at First Flight is like a perfect summer vacation, full of sun, surf, and a sweet romance. Who doesn’t dream of going on a trip to an exotic location and finding love? Neely is a likable and engaging narrator, and girls will enjoy tagging along in her suitcase for this fantasy trip to Mexico, which is touched with just enough realism to make the happy ending quite satisfying.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Page One

I braced myself for the landing. I’d gotten through takeoff, but landings were worse. I didn’t have a fear of flying. It’s more a fear of puking.

The plane lost altitude. Every downward movement made my stomach lurch. My clammy hands stuck to the armrests, and my forehead perspired. Why did it take so long to land? It seemed like an endless process to drop a few hundred feet. Meanwhile, I was being tortured.

Don’t throw up! Don’t throw up! I kept this mantra until the tires hit the runway, then I took a deep breath. Yes! I’d made it without puking!

I had been so excited about going to Mexico. The picture on the brochure of a lady in a bikini, lying in a hammock between two palm trees, made it look like a tropical paradise. But whenever I get on a plane I wonder if it’s worth it. But this was my last big hurrah before leaving for college, so I planned to make the most of it.

I exhaled and looked at my sister beside me.

“I had this ready for you, Neely.” Meredith held out a puke bag.

Meredith is two years older than me and in her second year of college. We had our share of brawls growing up, but now that she’s gone most of the time, I’d hoped we might get along better.

“Very funny. Let me look out the window. Can you see anything?” I moved my head around, trying to look out.

She moved her head with mine, blocking my view. I slapped her on the knee. She yelped, and reached out to grab me.

Dad’s hand shot between us, catching her hand. “You two never change.” He shook his head.

Outside the window, palm trees blew in the wind. The Cancun airport was surrounded by a jungle.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

http://www.bethshriverwriter.com/

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

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