ONE WRONG MOVE - Dani Pettrey - One Free Book

Bio: Dani Pettrey is the bestselling author of the Coastal Guardians, Chesapeake Valor, and Alaskan Courage series. A two-time Christy Award finalist, Dani has won the National Readers’ Choice Award, Daphne du Maurier Award, HOLT Medallion, and Christian Retailing’s Best Award for Suspense. She plots murder and mayhem from her home in the Washington, DC, metro area.

With nearly one million books sold and a Daphne Du Maurier and National Reader’s Choice Award under her belt, bestselling author Dani Pettrey has established herself among the very top names in romance and suspense. Recently closing out her blockbuster Coastal Guardians series, Pettrey trades the lush coast of North Carolina for the scenic desertscapes of the Southwest to launch a brand-new era of stories with One Wrong Move, book 1 in the Jeopardy Falls series. Featuring an intriguing locale, a new cast of characters to love, always-satisfying romance, and even higher stakes, readers will get to know Christian MacLeod—and the rest of his siblings—as they strive to outrun a family legacy of crime within the pages of Pettrey’s newest novel, One Wrong Move.

About the story: Taunting riddles. A deadly string of heists. Two broken hearts trapped in a killer’s game.

Christian MacLeod was pulled into a life of crime at a young age by his con artist parents. Now making amends for his corrupt past, he has become one of the country's foremost security experts. But when a string of Southwestern art heists targets one of the galleries Christian was in charge of securing, he is paired up with a gifted insurance investigator who has her own checkered past.

 

Andi Forester was a brilliant FBI forensic analyst until one of her colleagues destroyed her career, blaming her for mishandling evidence. She now puts those skills to work investigating insurance fraud, and this latest high-stakes case will test her abilities to the limit.

 

Drawn deep into a dangerous game with an opponent bent on revenge, Christian and Andi are in a race against the clock to catch the perpetrator, but the game is far from finished, and one wrong move could be the death of them both.

One Wrong Move is the first book in your new Jeopardy Falls series. Can you share with us what this book—and series—is about? One Wrong Move is about two people with pasts they are ashamed of. Both are trying to make it right, but the road they’re taking only leads down a dangerous path of lies, riddles, and murder. Only when they come face-to-face with their pasts are they finally able to move beyond the hurt and heartache and find healing in God and one another.  

The last time you had a new series starting was back in 2019. How do you feel about entering a new era of your storytelling with the Jeopardy Falls series? Wow! It’s crazy to think it’s been that long. I’m ecstatic to be launching my fifth series with Bethany House. It often seems like I was just meeting my editor and starting my debut series the Alaskan Courage saga. At other times, I think of all that has happened in the last decade—all the amazing booksellers, librarians, and readers I’ve met and been blessed by and the stories I’ve told. Now, launching Jeopardy Falls, I’m full of excitement and gratitude. I can’t wait for my amazingly supportive readers to get a new journey to set out on with the MacLeod family.

How many stories can readers expect in this series? There will four books in the series. One for each of the four MacLeod siblings, if the lost one decides to return home. Guess we’ll just have to wait and see J 

How does this series stand out from the other books you’ve written? I think the biggest difference is the setting. I’ve always written coastal series. I’m a beach girl and love the ocean, so I’ve always set my series by water, but this time I’ve gone a completely different direction into the desert. Jeopardy Falls is set in a fictional town in New Mexico. Why New Mexico? Because I lived there for seven wonderful years and fell in love with the Land of Enchantment, and I wanted the opportunity to share such a breathtaking place with my readers.

At the same time, what will longtime readers who enjoy your work love about these books as well? The stories are still full of romance, suspense, adventure, those twists and turns that I love weaving in, and, of course, faith. My characters, particularly Andi and Christian in One Wrong Move, are real and raw and hurting. It’s through their journey together and the unplanned paths God leads them down that they find what they’ve been looking for all along.

Each book in the series follows one of the MacLeod siblings as they strive to overcome a family legacy of crime. Without spoilers, can you give us a little background on the family and their history? The siblings were raised in Las Vegas by illusionist parents, but beneath the glitz and the charm, their parents were con men, and they forced their children to participate in many of the schemes. They just kept pushing until one day they conned the wrong guy and had to go on the lam. Being raised in cruddy motel rooms, always on the move, always committing whatever crimes they could find to keep them going, the siblings—now grown—have to live with the trauma they endured as kids. Their mother incarcerated and their dad killed in a car bombing, the four siblings struggle to find their footing. It takes time and some big mistakes of their own before they find level footing in Christ. Now, they’ve turned their lives around and have devoted themselves as private investigators to bring those pulling cons, schemes, and heists to justice. To work off some of their “red.” It’ll take some rough roads with Jesus to see and accept that they are already forgiven and can let go of that need to prove ourselves worthy.

This book takes place in the fictional town of Jeopardy Falls. What do you look forward to readers experiencing about this new locale? A brand-new experience for those who have never experienced the Southwest. There will be beautiful sunrises over the mountains, purple- and orange-hue sunsets, horses, open land and skies, and a close-knit ranching community of wonderful and often quirky neighbors.

Throughout your career, you’ve highlighted a variety of law enforcement and investigative professions in your books. What kind of research was required to write Christian and Andi’s characters accurately? I spent a lot of time researching what private investigators do, the resources available to them, and the boundaries they can’t cross. It was fascinating and a little crazy to see all they, and anyone who’s good at research, can pull up on an individual. I also read a lot on real-life heists and the insurance agents who investigated them.

What kind of reader do you envision will fall in love with Christian and Andi’s story—as well as the rest of the series? I think readers who enjoy sweet romance, fast-paced suspense, and the fun of trying to figure out whodunit and how on earth the hero and heroine are going to survive. J

Do you have a favorite character that you’re especially excited for your readers to meet? Greyson Chadwick. He’s surprisingly not one of the siblings, but he works with them. He’s a man of mysteries I still haven’t fully figured out, so I’m really excited to dive in to his story thread.

One of the main themes in One Wrong Move that both Andi and Christian must deal with is facing the past to find healing. How do you think confronting old and often painful memories or choices that we’ve made can help us move forward? I think there’s a place where we should confront past memories and past mistakes, but the key isn’t wallowing there. I come from a trauma background, so I’m not making light of the pain of anyone’s past, but rather speaking of a lesson I learned in my own life.

I had a lot to deal with and walk through, but at some point, I realized I needed to stop treading water and to swim for the shore. I feel like that’s Christian, and once he realizes he’s free to swim to shore, he will. Andi is in a different place with her past, one that keeps her in a killer’s crosshairs. How she deals with it is very different, which made the story really interesting for me to write. Seeing how God has different paths of healing for each of His children.

What do you hope readers experience when picking up One Wrong Move? I hope they feel like they’re part of Jeopardy Falls, riding in the car with Christian and Andi, seeing everything firsthand and experiencing the story as if they were there. I’ve called my stories “Armchair Adventures” since my debut novel, but it’s how I hope my readers enjoy my stories. Going along on the journey, the ups and downs, and Tilt-A-Whirl moments right from the comfort of their favorite chair with a yummy drink in hand.

How can readers connect with you? I love connecting with readers. They can email me anytime at Dani@DaniPettrey.com

Visit me on Facebook at DaniPettrey and on Instagram @AuthorDaniPettrey or drop by my website www.DaniPettrey.com and sign up for my newsletter to keep up with all the fun announcements and latest news.

Thank you, Dani, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/Wrong-Move-Jeopardy-Falls-Book-ebook/dp/B0C9S61BL3/ref=sr_1_1?crid=29VBWI1OWI141&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.kAaYVesaOwoRGHGikRI09AXOhHwKhvTSCp8DHI-Xv6XpCTyITrzMSFpwJ6rrc__5sAc4cdapFZchy03HqBH51li3JjEzFWl5sBxlat5Ye0ZxXvuvwHj_WZl2xUA7IViddVpwDZyA6kVqGDxWaGKPBSvZUThpsSNP6hCtwjHm-t0L2Q9BWQh042wxPJScTroCrwiqQf3zcZ2FTVbo6dC3917lTAnFwC2wBpyU9z5jYow.AoWe0NGcZzTVhs9HDBzmjn9g1kU-EHKvsNkaznmqWMg&dib_tag=se&keywords=one+wrong+move+dani+pettrey&qid=1729098770&sprefix=One+Wrong+Move+Dani%2Caps%2C95&sr=8-1

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

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

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 2 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

If you’re reading this on Goodreads, Feedblitz, Facebook, 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

SILENCED - Dani Pettrey - One Free Book

Readers, I’m thrilled to have Dani Pettrey back with her newest book in the Alaskan Courage series. I became hooked on this series with the first book—Submerged. So as soon as Shattered and Stranded arrived, I read each of them. When my copy of Silenced arrives, it will go to the top of my to-be-read-pile.

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

I love to write about a variety of themes including restoration, redemption, hope, forgiveness, and the fullness we find in Christ alone.

What other books of yours are coming out soon?

Reef McKenna’s book will be out in February. I’ll be revealing the title, cover and short blurb during my Book Banter on May 23rd. You can join in by visiting Bethany House’s Facebook page.

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

Narrowing it down to one person is always so hard, but I’d have to say Sue Grafton. I adore her alphabet series. I think she’s the best traditional mystery writer out there, and I’d love to sit down and chat about writing with her over a cup of coffee.

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

Jane Austen. I’m an enormous fan. She was so far ahead of her time and has penned such well-written iconic characters and touching stories.

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

Keep at it. Never give up. I was so close to giving up right before I received the call. My husband practically forced me to keep writing, and I’m so thankful he did. I truly believe God wouldn’t give you the love and desire to write if He didn’t have plans for it. That doesn’t necessarily mean traditional publication, but it’s not wasted time. He may be growing you, He may know your first readers or critique partners need to hear a message in your manuscript, He may be blessing you with writer friendships, and He may very well have publication in mind—only He knows the perfect timing. If writing is something you love, keep at it.

Tell us about the featured book.

Silenced is Jake Westin and Kayden McKenna’s story.

Jake Knew Something Was Wrong. 
But He Never Guessed How Wrong.

A relaxing day of rock climbing takes a disturbing turn when Kayden McKenna's route brings her face-to-face with a dead climber. Is it a terrible accident or something darker? When the case is handed to overburdened sheriff Landon Grainger, he turns to Jake Westin for help. With Jake's past now revealed, he's ready to use his talent for investigation again—but he could never prepare for where the mystery will take him.

Kayden's climbing expertise soon leads her and Jake to the realization that the death was no accident. And worse, it seems the killer is onto them. When strange things begin happening in Yancey, Jake is terrified that once again his world may put someone he loves in danger. But the truth is far worse than he could ever imagine.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Kayden scaled the rock face, the addictive burn spreading through her arms, her body. Man, she loved this—hanging on the edge of a seven-hundred-fifty-foot sheer cliff face, knowing one wrong grab meant death.

“You’re not going to beat me this time,” her younger sister, Piper, hollered, her voice echoing across the twenty-foot-wide crevice separating them. She’d been trying to distract Kayden all morning, but Kayden knew how to ignore her sister. The person who wasn’t as easy to ignore was Jake. He was watching from the base nearly seven hundred feet below with her older brother gage. The men had come along to “enjoy the show,” as they put it.

Unfortunately, putting Jake’s presence out of her mind was proving to be a lot harder than dismissing Piper’s taunts. Knowing his gaze was fastened to her was exhilarating.

Pushing off with her right foot, she lunged the eighteen inches to the next handhold, knowing the move had Jake holding his breath. She held hers until her fingers grasped the hold, heat searing through her.

Jake Westin—Check that . . . Jake Westin Cavanagh was so much more than she’d realized, and quite frankly, over the past month her deepening feelings for the man had frightened her a whole lot more than the vast leap ahead.

She reached the last overhang—a granite ledge butting out eight feet from the rock face. She’d have to boulder her way along the edge and then make the final leap of faith, praying she’d timed it right and used enough force to land on its leveled surface.

It was the deadliest point of the route—the one that separated the experts from the average.

Granite crunched beneath her nails as she clawed her way across the jagged rock.

The wind, growing in force, howled through the canyon below, echoing through the crevice in a high-pitched whir.

Kayden closed her eyes and stilled her mind. I can do this. She’d mastered it before. She could do it again. Her breath caught in her throat as she pushed off and lunged through the air, stretching her fingers until they burned—reaching, grasping for a safe hold. Her fingers made contact, and she wedged herself along the rock, her hands locked on the overhang’s lip.

Her feet found a stable notch. Pushing up with her legs and arms at the same time, with sheer will and determination, she lifted herself up.

Relief swarmed inside as she crested the ledge, her arms shaking . . . and then horror struck.

A man, his skull bashed in, faced her—his visible eye open and staring directly at her.

She swallowed the vibration churning in her throat, the scream fighting to tear from her lips. Every fiber of her being said Let go, push back, get away, but wrestling instinct, she maintained her hold as she balanced on the edge of the overhang.

Glancing over her shoulder, she assessed her options. Moving back down the way she’d come at this point in the strenuous climb was suicide. Her arms were burning limbs of Jell-o, and if she didn’t make a decision within seconds, they’d give out. She needed to climb onto the ledge with the man, needed to make sure he didn’t require help, verify that he was already . . .

She squeezed her eyes shut for the briefest of seconds, trying to drown out everything else and focus. Mustering what strength remained, she hefted herself fully onto the outcrop, her body brushing against the man’s. Swallowing the bile creeping up her throat, she edged around him, scooted toward the rear of the ledge, and took a quick moment to catch her breath before shifting into search-and-rescue mode. She needed to check his vitals, make certain he was beyond help. She prayed she would detect a heartbeat, but her gut said the organ had stopped long ago.

“Woo-hoo!” Piper shouted from overhead. “Beat you.”

Fighting the wave of nausea roiling through her, Kayden stretched out her index and middle finger, feeling for a pulse.

Just as she’d suspected. Nothing.

“Kayden?” Piper’s voice grew closer, nearly directly overhead.

Kayden glanced up, shielding her eyes from the sun, as Piper leaned over the top of the face, more than fifty feet above. Her infectious smile faded as her big brown eyes fixed on the crumpled form beside Kayden.

Kayden cleared her throat. “We’ve got a downed climber on the ledge.”

“Downed or—”

She swallowed. “Dead.”

“I’ll tell the guys.” Piper pulled the radio from her harness.

Kayden nodded. “I’m coming up. Have Jake call it in.”

Wow! That hook brought plenty adrenaline even to the readers. How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website: www.danipettrey.com (includes a lot of fun reader extras)

Blog: www.danipettrey.com/notes/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/danipettrey

Twitter: @DaniPettrey

Thanks so much for hosting me again, Lena! 

I love having you on my blog. Thank you for keeping me on your marketing list.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Silenced - Christianbook.com
Silenced (Alaskan Courage) - Amazon
Silenced (Alaskan Courage Book #4) - Kindle

Christian Book Store

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

STRANDED - Dani Pettrey - One Free Book

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

What a kind thing to say. I’m so grateful God has blessed me with the love of writing and that I get the gift of sharing my stories with readers for His glory. I pray I’m able to continuing telling stories for years to come. Right now, I’m working on the last book in my Alaskan Courage series and then I’ll be starting on a new series with Bethany House.

Tell us a little about your family.

My husband and I recently celebrated our twenty-first wedding anniversary. We have two daughters. Our oldest got married this year and is expecting our first grandson in February. Our “baby” is a senior in high school.

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

It’s definitely lessened the amount of time I get to read, but I still do whenever I get the chance. Whenever I meet a deadline, I enjoy a good book as my reward J

What are you working on right now?

I’ve just completed revisions on Silenced (out in May 2014), and I’m beginning the first draft of Reef McKenna’s story.

What outside interests do you have?

I love spending time outdoors—hiking, swimming, and kayaking. I really enjoy traveling, history, and spending time with my family and friends.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

All my Alaskan Courage series novels have primarily been set in Alaska. I chose the location because I wanted a setting that worked well for a wide range of adventures—mountains, sea, and everything in between. Alaska is an amazing state, full of nearly endless possibilities. I also love how rugged and untamed the Alaskan wilderness is. There is an inherent risk of danger if you aren’t properly prepared and that works really well with suspense.

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

This was a really hard question for me. I love history and there are so many historical figures I’d love to meet, but I think I’m going to pick Jane Austen. She’s my favorite author, and I would love to sit down and discuss writing over a cup of tea.

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

To listen to instinct and to trust my voice. To not be so concerned with the “rules,” but to learn what kind of stories God wanted me to tell and to enjoy writing those. I spent too many years trying to write to the rules. 

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

Dependence on Him. He’s been showing me that He’s right with me through trials and suffering, and that He brings good out of them. They are never in vain. 

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

Write regularly.

Read a lot.

Pray without ceasing.

Those are really essential. Tell us about the featured book.

When Her Friend Goes Missing,
Every Minute Counts





Darcy St. James returns to Alaska to join a journalist friend undercover on the trail of a big story. But when Darcy arrives, she finds her friend has disappeared. Troubled by the cruise ship's vague explanation, Darcy uses her cover as a travel reporter to investigate further.

The last person Gage McKenna expects to see during his summer aboard a cruise ship leading adventure excursions is Darcy. And in typical Darcy fashion, she’s digging up more trouble. He’d love to just forget her—but something won’t let him. And he can’t help but worry about her as they are heading into more remote regions of Alaska and eventually into foreign waters. Something sinister is going on, and the deeper they push, the more Gage fears they’ve only discovered the tip of the iceberg.

I’ve read the book, and it’s wonderful. Please give us the first page of the book for my readers.

Prologue

Abby’s head swam, her vision narrowing as she stumbled into her cabin. What had they slipped her and when? Nausea rumbled in her stomach, magnified by the surging waves created by the brewing storm. How could she have been so foolish?

They must have figured out who she was and that she was close to exposing them. They were trying to silence her—though if it came down to it, she preferred death to the alternative.

She lifted the receiver and dialed Darcy’s cabin.

Please be there. Darcy had said she’d wait in her room, but the phone kept ringing until it rolled over into voice mail. This wasn’t a message for voice mail. Not if they knew who she was. Not if it could lead them to Darcy. She had to find a better way, a safer way to leave a message only Darcy would understand.

She scribbled a quick note. Now ... where to put it? She grabbed the Gideon Bible from the nightstand, slipped the message inside, set the Bible on her bed, and headed for the door. Only Darcy would know Abby would have no reason to have a Bible on her bed. Turning, she spotted her purse next to the nightstand, grabbed it, and placed it atop the Bible. Never hurt to have a little added protection. Darcy would still recognize the significance.

As she walked around her bed, the ship heaved and she stumbled. She needed help. Wobbling with each step, she managed to grasp the doorknob, the metal cool inside her clammy palm. Her breath quickened. Cracking the door, she peered into the corridor, thankful to find it empty. Stepping into the hall, she moved toward the elevator.

Shadows arched around the bend halfway down the hall, where another corridor intersected it. She halted. Her breath hitched.

A man spoke, his words angry and heated. A second man responded. Her heart seized in her chest. It was them. They were coming.

This is a good hook for the reader. How can readers find you on the Internet?

I’m very active on my Facebook Page www.facebook.com/danipettrey. Readers can also find me on my website www.danipettrey.com where there are lots of Story Extras.

Thank you so much for having me! 

And thank you for sharing this new book with us, Dani. I'm addicted to your Alaskan Courage Series.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Stranded - Christianbook.com
Stranded (Alaskan Courage, Book 3) - Amazon.com
Stranded (Alaskan Courage Book #3) - Kindle

Christian Book Store

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

SHATTERED - Dani Pettrey - One Free Book on This Blog, Plus Much More

Why do you write the kind of books you do?

I write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things I love—the thrill of adventure, nail-biting suspense, the deepening of one's faith and plenty of romance.

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

They day I married my husband, and the births of both our daughters.

How has being published changed your life?

I’m much busier than I realized I’d be. There is so much more involved than simply writing books. You have line edits, galleys, marketing, publicity, and my favorite part—getting to interact and spend time with readers.

What are you reading right now?

The Survivor by DiAnn Mills.

What is your current work in progress?

I am working on line edits for Stranded—the third book in my Alaskan Courage series, which will be out this fall.

What would be your dream vacation?

I love to travel, so choosing just one place is really difficult, but I’d love to visit Alaska. My dream trip there would include seeing the Aurora Borealis, cruising along the Inside Passage, sea kayaking in Prince William Sound, bear viewing in Kodiak, hiking Denali, a flightseeing trip of Mt. McKinley, Glacier/Wildlife Cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park, and of course, being a moose fan, no trip would be complete without seeing my favorite animal.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

For my current series, I wanted a setting that worked well for adventure and suspense. Alaska is a gorgeous state full of adventurous possibilities, and there is an inherent risk of danger if you aren’t properly prepared. It seemed the perfect fit.

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

Billy Graham. I’ve never had the pleasure of hearing him speak. I think he’s an amazing example of a life of faith and I’d love to chat with him before he heads home to Heaven.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I love traveling, spending time outdoors (hiking, white-water rafting, swimming at the beach), and watching international soccer—Go Barca!     

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

Time management. Being a fairly new author, it’s been an adventure learning to juggle all the different facets—marketing, deadlines, home life, etc.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Keep writing. Keep reading. It sounds so simple, but it’s true. The more you read and write, the stronger the writer you become. If God put the love of story in your heart, keep at it. Don’t give up on your dream.

Tell us about the featured book.

Shattered is the second book in my Alaskan Courage series, and Piper McKenna couldn't be more thrilled that her prodigal brother, Reef, has returned to Yancey, Alaska, after five years. But her happiness is short-lived when Reef appears at her house covered in blood. A fellow snowboarder has been killed--but despite the evidence, Reef swears he's innocent. And Piper believes him.

Deputy Landon Grainger loves the McKennas like family, but he's also sworn to find the truth. Piper is frustrated with his need for facts over faith, but he knows those closest to you have the power to deceive you the most. With his sheriff pushing for a quick conviction, some unexpected leads complicate the investigation, and pursuing the truth may mean risking Landon's career.

With Piper waging her own search, the two head deep into Canada's rugged backcountry-and unexpected complications. Not only does their long friendship seem to be turning into something more, but this dangerous case is becoming deadlier with each step.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Piper bolted upright, sweat dampening her pj’s despite December’s chill.

What was that?

Her bleary gaze flashed to the clock—1:30—then to Aurora standing like a sentinel at her bedroom door. The husky’s white fur rippled down her back, her ears alert.

Piper shifted the tangle of snowflake flannel sheets binding her legs, listening.

There it was again. Creaks echoed along the floorboards below. Heavy steps. Not Kayden’s.

Aurora lunged at the door, pawing the battered wood frame. A low growl rumbled through the dog’s throat.

Piper got to her feet, ignoring the cold shock of the floor as she crossed the room.

She cracked her door ever so slightly and peered into the darkness.

Another creak echoed from the downstairs hall. The footsteps paused at the base of the stairs.

Aurora whimpered, nudging at the opening with her muzzle.

Piper reached down to grab Aurora’s collar but wasn’t quick enough. Aurora charged into the hallway.

Piper shot out after her, but her sister pulled her up short— with a rifle in her hand. Kayden released her grasp on Piper and raised her finger to her lips.

Great hook. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Website: www.danipettrey.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/danipettrey

Twitter: www.twitter.com/danipettrey

Dani Pettrey is celebrating the release of Shattered with a Nook HD giveaway and a Facebook Author Chat Party {3/14}. 

One winner will receive:

• A brand new Nook HD
• Submerged and Shattered by Dani Pettrey {Be caught up in this riveting series.}

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 13th. Winner will be announced at the "Shattered" Author Chat Party on 3/14. Connect with Dani for an evening of book chat, trivia, and a chance to win gift certificates, books, and other fun prizes!

So grab your copy of Shattered and join Dani on the evening of the March 14th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book - don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 14th!

Thank you, Dani, for sharing your book, and your special party news, with us today.

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

Shattered (Alaskan Courage) - paperback
Shattered (Alaskan Courage Book #2) - 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, 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

SUBMERGED - Dani Pettrey - Free Book

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

Not a lot. My characters might share some similar interests or a particular struggle I’ve had in the past, but they are very much their own :)

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I won an indoor mock rodeo competition. Instead of bulls, we rode hoppy balls. Definitely the quirkiest thing I’ve ever done.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I’ve always loved telling stories, but it wasn’t until after the birth of my youngest daughter and a serious health scare that I decided to pursue my love of writing.

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

I enjoy a wide range. In fiction, I read everything from the classics to mysteries to romantic suspense. Some of my favorite novelists include Dee Henderson, Terri Blackstock, Gina Holmes, Sue Grafton and Jane Austen. I also enjoy a great deal of non-fiction. I enjoy reading travel commentaries, history books, and Christian living titles by authors like Max Lucado and Alistair Begg.

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

I find spending time in God’s Word and in prayer each morning before I start the day to be an enormous help. I also set aside family time every evening and, of course, take a daily coffee and chocolate break—very helpful. J

How do you choose your characters’ names?

I usually pick my hero and heroine’s names when I first begin brainstorming the story. Secondary characters are a lot tougher for me, particularly last names. I often end up scrolling through the yellow pages looking for a name that fits. In my first draft, it’s not unusual for me to have characters simply named landlord or new deputy.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

I consider it more of a blessing than an accomplishment, but I would have to say homeschooling my daughters. I joyfully still have one at home, but my eldest is a freshman in college this year and it was such a tremendous blessing to be able to homeschool her since kindergarten. 

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

I would say a pelican. You can fly and you get to live at the beach. Our family often vacations at the Outer Banks in North Carolina and watching the Pelicans glide over the water at sunset is absolutely gorgeous.

What is your favorite food?

Does chocolate count?

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

I think learning not to listen to everybody’s opinion. I know that sounds weird, but bear with me. As an aspiring writer you want to learn as much as you can and you should. But you’ll find you get a lot of conflicting information. Some authors are plotters others are seat-of-the-pants writers. Neither is better than the other. It’s simply a matter of what works best for you, and you may find that is a combination of the two. I believe all writers, published or aspiring, should continue to learn, to hone their craft and to receive constructive criticism, but the key is to take what resonates with you, what makes you a better writer and disregard the rest. Just because something worked for one author doesn’t mean it has to work that way for you. I think that is the enormous blessing of writing organizations like ACFW. So many authors generously give of their time and share their knowledge. If you ask a question about character development, you’ll get a ton of varied answers. Take the lessons that make sense to you and cherish them.

Tell us about the featured book?

Submerged is the first book in my Alaskan Courage series. It’s the story of Cole McKenna and Bailey Craig.

A sabotaged plane. Two dead deep-water divers. One single clue.

Bailey Craig vowed never to set foot in Yancey, Alaska, again. She has a past, and a reputation--and Yancey's a town that doesn't forget. She's returned only to bury a loved one killed in the plane crash, but then dark evidence emerges and Bailey's own expertise becomes invaluable for the case.

Cole McKenna can face dangerous rescue dives. He can face the fear a murderer may be threatening his town. But facing the reality of Bailey's reappearance is a tougher challenge. She broke his heart... but doesn't seem to be the same girl who left Yancey ten years ago. And he's not the same guy she left behind.

Racing against the clock and a rising body count, Bailey and Cole must move beyond the hurts of their pasts to work together until the truth of what is hidden in the depths finally surfaces.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Never wager unless you control the stakes.

And she’d thought she held such a strong hand.

Agnes Grey forced her head against the rattling seat back, clenched the armrests with such force her nails broke. Perspiration soaked her brow, seeping into her eyes, but she refused to cry. She was too old to cry.

The plane was going down into the water within sight of her home. Home—warm, safe, dry. She’d never see it again.

              Her friend Henry Reid strained to look back, his white knuckles bulging on the wheel as he fought to regain control of the spiraling Cessna, but the fiery plane seemed bent on destruction. Panic flashed through his eyes. “Tighten your belts. Put your head between your knees.”

His concern was sweet, but it wouldn’t change the outcome. Their fate was set.

            They were going down—hard and fast. The other passengers’ terrified expressions said they knew it too. Innocents, every one, Agnes thought, fury on their behalf trumping her own fear. She was the only one on board who knew this catastrophe was no mechanical failure. It was him. She knew it as surely as she knew she’d seen her last sunset.

A bitter cry tore from her cracked lips. Any semblance of control on her part had been an illusion,

She’d played her hand, and he’d just called her on it.

If she hadn’t been so stinking stubborn, if she’d kept her mouth shut and given him what he wanted . . . But Momma hadn’t raised her like that. She’d done the right thing. She only wished she hadn’t brought the others down with her.

Managing to crane her neck left, she took in the sight of the loving couple’s hands clasped tight, crying as they whispered frantic words to each other.

Agnes’s stomach lurched. She’d brought them on this journey, doomed them to a watery tomb.

At least now he’d be satisfied. She’d be gone. They’d be gone. No one was left to . . .

Acid burned up her throat.

Bailey.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I’m online at my website www.danipettrey, on Facebook and on Twitter.

Thanks so much for the interview, Lena. You had very thoughtful and fun questions. Blessings, Dani 

Thank you, Dani, for sharing your new book with us.

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

Submerged (Alaskan Courage) - -paperback
Submerged (Alaskan Courage) - 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