HUSBAND HUNTING - Crystal L Barnes - A Chance to Win a Copy

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

Oh, I’ve done a lot of different ones, whatever God lays on my heart for the story. Win, Love, or Draw carried a theme of forgiveness/unforgiveness. Love, Stock, and Barrel dealt with finding and relying on God in the darkest of times. My newest release, Husband Hunting, bore a theme that even surprised me. It deals with obedience. We’re often plagued on every side by demands, even from people we know and love. It’s in those times we must remember that ultimately we only have God to answer to, and He is the One we ought to obey.

What other books of yours are coming out soon?

I’m working to finish book #3 in my Marriage and Mayhem series titled Hook, Line, and Suitor. This is Sally Hook and Curly Curtis’s story. If you’ll recall, Curly is the ranch hand in Win, Love, or Draw and the Texas Ranger in Love, Stock, and Barrel. His newest assignment will have him tied in knots. J

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

The first name that comes to mind is Janice Thompson. She’s a dear friend, a fellow writer, and a joy to be around. We recently went on a research trip to Martha’s Vineyard, and it was a wonderful time, especially during those unexpected moments when you take the road less traveled and find yourself on a dirt trail that keeps getting narrower and narrower and you’re laughing your head off because there’s no place to turn around and that’s all she wants to do. Here's a photo from our time in Martha's Vineyard:

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

Oh, that’s a hard one. I’d say either one of the disciples or Paul or Annie Oakley. Now there’s a vast range if there ever was one. J

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

My best advice would be to trust God. He can open doors no man can open, and if He shuts a door, He’s a got a better one for you farther down the road.

Very wise words. Tell us about the featured book.

When I originally wrote Husband Hunting, it was for a short-story contest that I felt like I should enter, so I threw caution to the wind and just had fun with the telling. I was delighted to have the adventure be one of the contest winners and become my very first printed story. Lengthening the tale into a novella was … a lesson in God’s amazing, all-sufficient grace. If you remember Roxie from Love, Stock, and Barrel, this is her story. You can currently find Husband Hunting as an individual novella or in the collection My Secret Love.

Here’s the blurb:

Roxie Montgomery is too wild for her own good, or so her father thinks. Determined to protect her from herself, he demands she settle down and find a husband or he’ll find one for her. However, Roxie’s lack of domestic skills make the task easier said than done.

Texas rancher, Garrett Husband has been sitting on a secret for years, but that might have to change if he wants to keep his childhood friend from marrying another man. When her choice becomes apparent, will he cave to her decision or do the unthinkable to make her hunt him instead?

Please give us the first page of the book for my readers. As you know, I read the book for endorsement and loved it. My readers will, too.

Crystal Falls, Texas—Spring 1870

The devil had met his match. Roxie Montgomery hung onto the saddle strapped around his back and wondered if he’d yank her arm from its socket before he realized she wasn’t giving up. Hooves slammed into the hard-packed dirt, the jolt nearly jarring her teeth loose. Stubborn horse. Another kick of his heels and Diablo nearly sent her crashing over his head. Around her, colors blurred, but the cheers of the ranch hands outside the corral egged her on.

Without warning, Diablo did another crow hop. Roxie’s seat left the saddle, and she catapulted through the air, conveniently flying right over the fence. She hit the ground rolling, tumbling to a stop…right at her father’s boot tips.

Lying on her back, she peered up with a smile. “Mornin’, Daddy. Lovely day, ain’t it?”

“Don’t you ‘mornin’’ me, young lady.” He yanked her upright. “How many times have I told you to stay away from that horse?”

“None today, Daddy.”

Folding his thick arms with a mighty huff, he glared at her. A vein throbbed in his neck. Seconds ticked by. The glare never lessened.

The icy silence ate at her smile until it disappeared. Perhaps she’d taken things a bit too far. “I’m sorry, Daddy.”

“Sorry’s not gonna cut it this time. Go to your room.”

“What?” Her mouth swung open, and she glanced about.

Heads ducked, and the half dozen cowboys who’d cheered her on scattered like leaves in the fall. How could Daddy embarrass her in front of everyone?

“I said. Go. To. Your. Room. Pack your things.”

“Pack?” Why’d she need to pack to fetch supplies from town?

“Murdock, you get that horse out of my sight and gather your things. I want you off my property before nightfall.”

Roxie stumbled backward. “But why? He hasn’t done nothing wrong.”

The old wrangler’s dark eyes widened, then with an accepting nod, he hobbled toward a lasso on the corral post.

Gripping her father’s chambray sleeve, she turned from the gut-wrenching sight of the old-timer’s drooping shoulders. “Daddy, please don’t—”

“Roxie.” In an unyielding tone Roxie hadn’t heard in years, if ever, Daddy stopped her. “I’m not gonna repeat myself again.”

Gulping, she released him. With an apologetic glance Mr. Murdock’s way, she headed toward the house, the pain in her shoulder from hitting the ground easily ignored due to the pain in her heart. Poor Mr. Murdock. She’d never intended for her actions to hurt anyone. If only she hadn’t been so foolhardy. Why hadn’t she listened? She knew Daddy hadn’t wanted her on that horse, but she’d been so pig-headed she’d just had to see if she could do what the others couldn’t. Now her hardheadedness had cost an old man his job. Would she never learn where to draw the line?

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Oh, I’m in lots of places. J

My website, www.crystal-barnes.com, where readers can sign up for my newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest happenings.

Facebook,

Goodreads,

Google+,

Pinterest.

I’m also a contributor to the group blog Stitches Thru Time.

Thank you, Crystal, for sharing this book with us.

Readers, here are links to the books. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Husband Hunting: A Crystal Falls Novella
My Secret Love

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

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

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 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

SIGNED, SEALED, AND DELIGHTED - Crystal L Barnes - One Free Book or Ebook

Dear Readers, when I first read Crystal Barnes’s debut novel, I told people that she is an author to watch. Her stories really grabbed my heart, and her writing is wonderful. I have to confess that I haven’t read this one yet, because my copy hasn’t arrived. The other two grabbed me and wouldn’t let go until I finished reading them. And she does her own covers, which I loved, too. So I asked her to design the cover for The Gold Digger. The cover wasn’t what I expected, but I loved it. When she told me she prayed about the cover and this was the design that came to her, I knew why.

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

Umm…books. =D

Tell us a little about your family.

Ooo, what a question. We love playing games—board games, card games, etc. My parents both came from big families so get-togethers can be a bit chaotic. And loud. Quietness is not our strong suite. Maybe that’s ’cause we grew up playing outside in the sticks where noise didn’t matter so much. J There’s always loads of laughter, though when we get together.

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

Oh my, yes! I don’t get near as much reading time as I used to, but reading is still one of my definite ways to recharge those creative juices. I also know when I get a hold of a good book because I’ll stop wanting to pick it apart and get sucked into the story. Oh, the woes of an author. J

What are you working on right now?

Recovering from a book launch. J My novella Signed, Sealed, and Delighted has the special thrill of currently being included in the Texas Historical Romance collection titled Lone Star Love alongside four other great authors. We threw a week-long Facebook party to celebrate. Loads of fun!

I’m also working on my next story Hook, Line, & Suitor (Marriage & Mayhem series, book 3). Ideas for a future series are also swimming in my brain.

What outside interests do you have?

Outside as in outdoors? Or outside as in “not in my office”? LOL. I’m looking forward to a trip this summer. We hope to spend family time horseback riding, hiking, swimming, and maybe even finding a museum or two. OH, and how could I forget fishing! We hope to do that as well.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

Well, I know Texas. I’ve lived here all my life and have been traveling all over it since I was a kiddo. So I work with what I know. Although all my places so far have been fictionalized, oft times loosely based on real places. I’ve also based some of the houses in my stories on homes that I’ve toured on some of my trips. I’ve got pictures of some of them up on my website (www.crystal-barnes.com).

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

Hmm…that’s a hard one. I talk to Jesus every day. He’s both past, present, and future. Other than Him, perhaps…hmm…I don’t know. Annie Oakley? Or maybe one of my ancestors who first came to Texas in the 1840s?

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

Oy, another hard one. Maybe…don’t rush the learning process. I know some of us have to learn the hard way, but taking the time to learn from others mistakes and successes is never a waste.

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

Trusting Him amidst the chaos. Being an author (a human), there are so many things that demand my time and focus. New things pop up often. If we listen too much to the “noise” around us, we get all jumbled up and may miss what He’s trying to tell us or teach us in that moment. I don’t want to miss anything He is saying or teaching me. I love Him and I want how I spend my time to reflect that. He knows what I need to get done and when it needs doing.

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

Pray.

Follow God’s leading.

Write to please Him. Not others. He’ll take it from there. J

Those are so true. Tell us about the featured book.

Signed, Sealed, and Delighted is an adapted version of one of the first stories I ever wrote, the first story that God really dropped into my heart and sealed my calling to write for Him. Originally released as the short story “Let's Make a Deal,” Signed, Sealed, and Delighted is more than double the length and packed with even more fun, faith, and friction than before. As I mentioned earlier, it’s currently being featured in the collection Lone Star Love with fellow authors Janice Thompson, Kathleen Y’Barbo, Vickie McDonough, and Marcia Gruver.

Here’s the blurb:

Her father's dying wish changes everything ... After years of working in the Cater Springs’ clinic, Sarah Asher never planned on marriage. However, she neglected to mention that to her pa. Determined to fulfill his dying wish, despite her well-informed fears, Sarah marries Joseph Matthews but only after a few signed and sealed promises. One in particular—he can kiss any dreams of sharing a room with her goodbye.

Joe has never had any luck with woman, and marriage doesn’t seem prone to change that. Sarah might be a handsome filly and his only ticket to inheriting the ranch promised him, but she’s pricklier than a barrel cactus and more temperamental than a Texas tornado. Keeping his distance from her should be easy. Only it isn’t. The beautiful woman attracts trouble and constantly requires saving, putting her well within arms’ reach.

Will signed promises seal their fate to a loveless marriage, or can Sarah move past her fears to find a love worth delighting in?

Please give us the first page of the book.

May 25th, 1877 – Wichita, Kansas

“Young man, this is normally when you say ‘I do.’”

Joseph Matthews shifted his focus from Sarah Asher to the silver-haired preacher who stood grinning at him. Swallowing, Joe resisted the urge to tug at his collar. He’d sealed his fate with those two words weeks ago just before digging her father’s grave, but today they threatened to crawl back down his throat and strangle him.

Allen Asher’s bloody but relieved face flashed through Joe’s mind. Shaking away the searing image, he wiped sweat from his forehead. That stampede had changed everything. That, and Allen’s dying wish. His mentor knew Joe had no luck with women. Why had he made such an outlandish request? Why did marrying Allen’s daughter have to be the only way to get the ranch he’d promised Joe, the ranch he’d put years of blood and sweat into?

“Son?” The old preacher shifted and placed a weathered hand on his Bible.

Twin lines formed between Sarah’s dark brows.

“Uh, sorry.” Joe rubbed at the tension building in his neck. “I do.”

With a tilt of her head, Sarah eyed him, then turned her attention to the preacher who was posing the same question to her.

Joe let his gaze slide the length of his soon-to-be wife. Maybe marrying Sarah might not be so bad. After all, she was a mighty handsome woman. Even bathed in trail dust. And wearing a Stetson. A smile tugged at his lips. Did she realize she still wore her hat? Doubtful. What female in her right mind got married in a cowboy hat? Then again, who would confuse Sarah for most women? If her raven locks didn’t set her apart, her mouth would the minute she opened it.

“I…” Deep green eyes wide with uncertainty sought his, then shifted back toward the preacher. “Excuse us a moment, Reverend?”

“Uh, of course.”

Joe looked at the minister in stunned astonishment a split second before Sarah grabbed his arm and tugged him down the aisle of the small, stuffy church to within a foot of the exit.

“What’s the matter?” The words hissed through his lips. “I thought this is what we’d agreed upon?”

Sarah peeked at the preacher, then answered in the same hushed volume. “There are a few things I need to make sure of first.”

“You couldn’t have mentioned that a day ago? Or maybe even an hour? The preacher’s waiting.”

“Do you want to keep your word to my father or not?”

Joe frowned. “You know I’m a man of my word. Now what’s this about?”

“First—”

“You mean there’s more than one?”

Readers, see what I mean. Doesn’t that make you want to run out and get her book right now? Crystal, how can readers find you on the Internet?

I’m so glad you asked. J Readers can connect with me at my website or on my blog, my Amazon Author page, Goodreads, Pinterest, Google+, or on my Facebook author page.

I look forward to “seeing” y’all!

Thanks so much, Lena, for having me as a guest on your blog!

It’s my great pleasure to feature you here, Crystal.

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

Signed, Sealed, and; Delighted: Prequel Novella (Marriage and; Mayhem Book 0)
Lone Star Love: Five Historical Romances Set in the Lone Star State

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the your choice of the books. 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

LOVE, STOCK, AND BARREL - Crystal L Barmes - One free book

Dear Readers, I first knew Crystal online through ACFW, even though she is a fellow Texan. When her first book, Win, Love, or Draw, released, I contacted her to feature it on this blog. I read it, loved it, and immediately scheduled her next few books. Love, Stock, and Barrel is the second book in the series. I’m reading it right now, about three-fourth through it. Her characters are unique and extremely interesting. She writes visually, I picture everything easily. I even feel the pain of the character, emotional and physical. You won’t want to miss this one. And Win, Love, or Draw is FREE on Kindle today. The link is below this interview.

Also, Crystal designs all her covers, and I love them. She has designed covers for one of my friend who is Indie publishing several of the books that the rights have returned to her from the publishers. I loved them, too. My next book release will be The Gold Digger, one of my bookd that the rights have returned to me. I just saw the cover over the weekend, and she nailed it.

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

That’s a somewhat-easy question. To put it bluntly, I’d be miserable if I didn’t. When God calls you to do something, doing anything less is a perfect recipe for misery. Oh, but it’s such a joy when you obey. J I grew up reading stories full of faith, and when I started writing, I wanted to minister to others the way those stories ministered to me.

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

Wow. Yeah, that’s not an easy question. Too many to pick from. The birth of family members. The fruition of a print book. Yeah, impossible to narrow down. J

How has being published changed your life?

All for the better. I’m busier than ever, but it’s a blessing to bless others and to be doing what I love. I’m still in the midst of juggling and finding my footing in this new phase of my life, but it’s a thrill to have the opportunity to do so.

What are you reading right now?

Well, a few things—my Bible, In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day by Mark Batterson (Nonfiction), and I’m gonna find me a day here real soon to read Misty Beller’s The Rancher Takes a Cowgirl. Honestly, I have a TBR list a mile long. J

I’m reading that book by Misty on my Kindle. I carry it in my purse and read it when I’m away from home. At home, I read print books. What is your current work in progress?

I’ve actually got two irons in the fire. I’ve paused work on Hook, Line, and Suitor, book 3 in the Marriage and Mayhem series, and I’m working on Marshal Mending, a Crystal Falls novella. It’s kinda like book 2.5 in the Marriage and Mayhem series and will be part of the Stitches Thru Time: Threads of Love novella collection. 

What would be your dream vacation?

A Road Trip across the US. One day I hope to see all 50 states. I’ve put quite a dent in that number, but no road trip is the same without great friends and/or family to share the ride with. That’s what makes it such a joy.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

Well, in general, I live in Texas; I know Texas; so I write stories set in Texas or at least with Texans in it. Big surprise, right? J So far, I’ve worked with two make-believe towns—Cater Springs and Crystal Falls. I’m enjoying the characters in each so I guess that’s why I’ve used them in a number of stories. However, Hook, Line, and Suitor will be in a new fictional, Texas town called Hook’s Valley.

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

I’m blessed to spend time with family and friends. What more could I ask for?

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I enjoy yarn crafts (ie, crocheting, knitting) and quilting, but I don’t have a lot of time for those very often. I also enjoy hiking and horseback riding, but I get to spend even less time doing that. I guess you could say another hobby of mine that is emerging is designing book covers. 

And you’re very good at it. What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?

Time management. Finding the time to do what needs doing with all the demands for my time is a real balancing act. I work at it all the time. I pray that God will help me to say “no” to what I need to say “no” to and “yes” to what I need to say “yes” to. He knows better than me.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Write from the heart. Keep learning. Keep reading. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Remember, with God, all things are possible. J

Tell us about the featured book.

I’d be glad to. J Love Stock and Barrel is book 2 in the Marriage and Mayhem collection. No worries if you haven’t read the first one. Each story can operate as a stand-alone novel.

Here’s the blurb:

Hiding from a rat of a fiancé, Dinah Lexington makes tracks for Texas and who she hopes is her late mother’s relative. She’s seeking answers but finds more than she bargains for when she gets caught in a shotgun wedding—with the rifle pointed at her.

Russell Cahill can’t believe his father is demanding he marry the feisty redhead. The sharpshooting female would only add to his troubles, but how does one argue with a gun and an attraction he’s fought to ignore?

Sparks fly. Secrets surface. Loss threatens.

Will a dream for love shatter forever, or will the pair find a marriage worth lock, stock, and barrel?

Please give us the first page of the book for my readers.

Late February 1880—New Haven, Connecticut

So this was what betrayal felt like. Dinah Lexington’s heart radiated the pain of Carl’s unfaithfulness clear to her toes and back again. Add to that the fact Pa had instigated the whole relationship and the throbbing ache increased. Weaving through the crowd celebrating her engagement, she stuffed the hurt into the farthest recesses of her heart and slammed the door behind it. She couldn’t think clearly if she dwelt on what she’d seen and heard, and now more than ever she needed to have her wits about her.

“Are you all right, dear?”

Dinah forced a smile she didn’t feel and patted the silver-haired matron’s hand. “I’ll be fine, ma’am, er, madam.” As soon as she got away from all these people. One in particular.

“Where is your young man? Mr. Eaton and I have a surprise for you.” Light from the chandelier reflected off the wealth of sapphires dangling about the woman’s neck.

“Oh, how kind. He’s busy…” Dinah searched for an appropriate word to describe Carl Richland’s present behavior. Mrs. Eaton would swoon if she told what her fiancé—correction, former fiancé—was really up to. “…entertaining. Perhaps you could share the surprise with us later. I’ve left something in my room I must fetch.” Namely, her bag and good sense.

“Of course, dear. Don’t be long.”

She didn’t plan to be.

Fisting her lavender gown, Dinah hurried up the staircase, doing her best not to run and draw attention to herself. The second-story landing of the extravagant house offered a sharp contrast to the floor below. Gone were the hordes of people and lively banter that filled the air. Gone were the lavish decorations and striking furnishings around every corner. Here, there resided none of the distractions and deceptions her father deemed necessary for his business to succeed. The stifling charade was a vivid depiction of the vanity of vanities.

No more.

Readers, see, I told you it was good. I’m sure you’re wondering what comes next. Now, Crystal, how can readers find you on the Internet?

I’m so glad you asked. J Readers can connect with me at my website or on my blog, my Amazon Author page, Goodreads, Pinterest, Google+, or on my Facebook author page.

I look forward to “seeing” y’all!

Thanks so much, Lena, for having me as a guest on your blog!

It’s my great pleasure and blessing to have you here, Crystal. I know my readers will love this book, too. 

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

Love, Stock, & Barrel (Marriage & Mayhem) (Volume 2) - Paperback
Love, Stock, & Barrel (Marriage & Mayhem) (Volume 2) - Kindle

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory. (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

WIN, LOVE, OR DRAW - Cyrstal Barnes - One Free Book (print or ebook)

Dear Readers, we have an author who hasn’t been on this blog before. I’m eager to read her book. I’ve been reading Christmas stories the last two months, and now I’m ready to get back into the other books in my to-be-read pile. This one is at the top.

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

Oh, wow. I’d say every writer includes a part of themselves in their characters whether they intend to or not. However, with Win, Love, or Draw, I knew I’d be pouring a lot of myself into Cat’s story, for her tale is very similar to mine and that of those I love.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

Quirky? When have I not been quirky? Oh, this is a hard one. Hmm … um … we might be here all day as I try to single out one thing. How about we chalk it up to becoming a writer? No one in my family (including myself) or my friends saw that one coming. Oh, the fun surprises God throws our way. J

Don’t you just love it when He does that? When did you first discover you were a writer?

Discover is such an interesting word choice. I took a creative writing class in high school just for fun, but I didn’t take the teacher’s suggestion to enter a short-story contest. Boy, now do I wish I’d listened. J heehee. However, it wasn’t until January 2011 that I started to discover what God had up His sleeve. At an evening church service, unexpectedly, my pastor had everyone pray for me that I would find a job. That very night and on through morning, an idea burned in my brain. It wouldn’t let up until I put pen to paper (or rather fingers to keyboard). Then and there, I knew God had called me to write. The rest, as they say, is history. J

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

Ooo, fun question. J I love reading my Bible. Oh, you mean fiction. Well, I just can’t get enough Christian historical romance. Set it in the west, and it’s even better. J I also enjoy Christian romantic suspense and some inspirational contemporary romance as well.

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

Sanity? What’s that? LOL. J

Truly, Christ is my Anchor. He is the one who keeps my head … in the clouds? J Looking for Him to return for His church. He’s my Everything, and He’s the One who makes life worth living.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Oh, I’ve found them in lots of places—my family tree, government censuses, cemetery listings… (Yes, I know I’m weird, but it takes all kinds. J )

Very good places to look and not at all weird to another writer. What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Choosing Jesus as my Savior. Everything else is only secondary.

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

Hmm…what kind of animal is unique, loyal, loving, enjoys both play and sleep, but fiercely determined … ? I think I just described a dog. Hmm … is there any other more exotic, exciting animal that describes? (No offense to the dog lovers out there. J )

What is your favorite food?

Anything Italian … or deer meat

I love both, but I haven’t had any venison to cook since my father went home to glory. I’d like some right now. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

I guess I’d have to say lack of self-confidence. Some days, I think we all still struggle with that. But like with any struggle, we overcome by the Word of God.

“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” ~ Philippians 4:13

What He says is truth. Anything else is a lie of the devil. Also it helps to not compare ourselves to others. (Romans 12:1-3)

Tell us about the featured book.

Win, Love, or Draw is an inspirational historical romance set in the west about a Texas horsewoman whose world erupts into chaos when her absentee husband returns home with his troubles trailing not far behind.

Here’s the blurb:

Catherine McGarrett is a strong woman. Life in Texas demands such. For five years, she has built a growing horse ranch while praying for the return of the one man who stole her heart and shattered it in a million pieces when he left.

           

Now he’s back.

Samuel McGarrett rides into Cater Springs, Texas, toting two six-shooters and too many scars. The trouble and pain from the past erupts around the couple. And not just in their marriage.

Can Sam win Catherine’s trust? Will their love survive? Or will his final draw be his last?

Please give us the first page of the book.

Tuesday, November 13, 1877—Cater Springs, Texas

Catherine McGarrett jolted to a halt on the bustling boardwalk outside Koch’s Mercantile. Tighter than a cinch strap, her focus fastened on an unexpected form farther up the dirt street. It couldn’t be … Her heart stopped, then slammed with renewed vigor against her rib cage. A chill skidded down her spine that had little to do with the crisp November breeze and everything to do with the apparition riding through the middle of town.

“Ouch! Mama, you’re hurtin’ me.”

“Huh?” Catherine dragged her gaze from the busy road filled with wagons and cowboys to the five-year-old who picked at her grip. “Oh, I’m sorry.”

She loosened her hold on his arm, all the while striving to keep sight of the fetching rider with the black duster and tan horse. The brisk wind whipped a strand of her blond hair across her cheek, but she paid it little heed as she followed the pair’s progress. Her wayward husband invaded her dreams often enough. What were the chances her mind would play tricks on her in the daylight?

“Benin, I know this might sound silly, but do you see a dark-haired man with a black Stetson riding toward the livery?”

“You mean that fella on the buckskin there?” Her son pointed at the figment of her imagination.

“Yes’m, I see ’im.”

“You do? Well. Good.” Catherine released her son, lest he feel her sudden shaking. “I’m glad to know I’m not imagining things. Let’s put our purchases in the wagon, shall we?”

Benin’s gaze bore into her while they rounded to the back of their buckboard.

Loud yapping broke the hum of ordered activity. A mangy mutt dashed across the street in pursuit of a striped cat, racing straight toward the cowboy. Harnessed horses reared. Wagon drivers shouted their displeasure and fought to keep their rigs from spilling into the street. The sandy buckskin veered around the chaos with ease. Well trained.

Her mouth went dry.

Were any of the general’s men in town? A quick scan of the various establishments and sidewalks yielded nothing, but then again, she only knew one of their faces. No, they preferred to terrorize her from the shadows. Wait. What was she thinking? The general and his cohorts wouldn’t know what Sam looked like; they’d never met him. Besides, that might not even be him. A breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding seeped from her lungs.

Benin handed her his small parcel. “Mama, do you know that man?”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I’m so glad you asked. J Readers can connect with me at my website or on my blog, my Amazon Author page, Goodreads, Pinterest, Google+, or on my Facebook author page.

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