Showing posts with label K Dawn Byrd. Show all posts
Showing posts with label K Dawn Byrd. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

AMAZING LOVE - K Dawn Byrd - One Free Ebook

Welcome back, Dawn. Why did you become an author?
I've always loved to read and thought it would be fun to attempt writing a book. I was hooked from the first word, and I've been unable to stop!

If you weren’t an author, what would be your dream job?
I'd be an attorney. My husband says I'd make a good one since I like to argue ((smile))

If you could have lived at another time in history, what would it be and why?
WWII- I love how our country came together for a common cause. It's not happened since and probably never will again.

What place in the United States have you not visited that you would like to?
It's not mainland U.S., but Hawaii.

How about a foreign country you hope to visit?
England. I have family there.

What lesson has the Lord taught you recently?
The Lord has taught me that it's best to choose your battles carefully.

That is so true in all areas of our lives. Tell us about the featured book.
Gabe Knight, a pastor in a small coastal town, finds his life is turned upside down when Dee Dillow arrives and hires him to remodel an estate she's inherited from her aunt. Dee dashes his plans for wedded bless when on a drunken binge, she divulges that she’s the highest paid call girl in Nevada and part owner of the ritziest brothel in the state.

Gabe falls in love with her, but can't believe he's hearing the voice of God when a still, small voice tells him to marry her. After much questioning, they marry and he is deliriously happy. Until, Dee betrays him.

Gabe soon discovers just how hard it is to have the unconditional love God calls him to have for his wife, the kind of love God has for his children. When faced with losing her, Gabe realizes what true love is, how much it hurts, and just how much God loves and is willing to sacrifice for his children.

Amazing Love is a contemporary version of the Hosea and Gomer story from the Bible.

Please give us the first page of the book.
The first page is actually my prologue.

Dee signed the letter with a flourish and then read it aloud.

Maggie:

For the longest time, I blamed myself. There must be something terribly wrong with me, something so bad that even a mother couldn't love me. After years of therapy, I've learned that it's not me, it's you, Maggie. You're not capable of loving anyone. That's a terrible thing to say about a mother, but it's true.

Even here at Carpe Diem, I've continued therapy via technology. Today was a hard day because it's my birthday. As was expected, I never heard from you. Like my therapist said, it's not my fault you didn't call. It's a choice you made, Maggie, like so many other bad choices.

I used to dwell often on the things you allowed to happen to me. You had to have known that John was visiting my room almost nightly. You chose to ignore it even though he was your husband. And then, he sold me to his wealthy friends and you stood back and allowed it to happen. Whoever had the most money. That wasn’t the life I would have chosen if given a choice. Even now, I long for a life of normalcy. A husband, a couple of children, and a picket fence is just a dream.

There are times I hate you, but I realize you have demons of your own. Something has happened to you to cause you to be so selfish and full of anger. That's why I try to overlook your hostility and lack of love toward me. You need a good therapist.

My therapist recommends that I write letters to you when I’m angry. It helps. This is letter 642. I’ve kept them all. You’ll probably never read them, but they’re not really for you. They’re for me.

Your daughter, Dee

How can readers find you on the Internet?
Twitter: @kdawnbyrd

Thank you for sharing this book with us today. I can't wait to read it.

Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog. It's only $.99 today.
Amazing Love - Kindle

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

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

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

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

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

HOTLINE GIRL - K Dawn Byrd - One Free Ebook

How did you come up with the idea for this story?
I wonder what it’s like when people fall in love online. I explored this in Hotline Girl. My hero and heroine already know each other, but don’t know each other online when she starts to counsel him. When an unpopular girl counsels the most popular guy in school online, will he accept her love when he finds out who she is?

If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why?
Michelle Sutton, Lena Nelson Dooley, James Scott Bell, Brandilyn Collins, and Donald James Parker because I’d like to brainstorm with them.

Thank you for including me. I'd love to brainstorm with you and the others. Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why?
Francine Rivers, Deanne Gist, Julie Lessman, Mary Connealy, Liz Curtis Higgs, and Melanie Dickerson because I could learn a lot from them (I’m published in WWII Christian fiction, but no other eras.)

Many times, people (and other authors) think you have it made with so many books published. What is your most difficult problem with writing at this time in your career?
I work a full-time job and in addition, am on call with my job many weekends. This leaves little time to write.

Tell us about the featured book.
Here’s the cover blurb:
When the school counselor asks Abby to work a counseling chat line, she begs her to choose someone else. When Race, Abby's three-year crush, begins using the chat line to talk about his girlfriend problems, can Abby be impartial when she really wants to tell him to dump her?
Race notices Abby after she has a complete make-over. He begins to spend more time with her and feels like a cheater because he likes the hotline girl too. How can he like two girls at once?
Abby is thrilled when Race begins spending time with her, but she's crushed when he tells the hotline girl that he likes her and wants to take her out. Is he a player? Will he even want to be with her when he finds out that she is the hotline girl and knows all his deepest secrets?

Please give us the first page of the book.
"What would you do if he asked you out?" Marge asked.

Just like Marge to bring me back down to earth when I’d been gushing about my crush and how cute he’d been in trig class. “I don't think I have to worry about that since Race has a girlfriend.”

“But, say he didn’t. Would you go?”

A slow, quiver began in the pit of my stomach. “Of course, I'd go.”

“You wouldn't be afraid?”

“I'd be nervous, but what's to be afraid of? Race is a nice guy.”

She rolled her eyes. “Puh-lease. We don’t even really know him. How can you say he’s nice?”

“He's been in school with us forever. I feel like I know him.”

“He's like all the other popular guys. He’s so shallow and self-centered.”

Frustration bubbled within me. “How can you say that? You don’t even know him. Isis brags all the time about how romantic he is. Race sends her flowers and texts her to tell her goodnight. I saw him kiss her on the cheek once too and it was so sweet. I want a guy like that.”

“Why don't you settle for a guy in your league? Someone you know.”

“What are you getting at?”

“Wouldn't you be more comfortable going out with someone you know?”

I wasn't sure what she was hinting at, so I took a chance. “Why? Do you know someone who has a crush on me?”

She grinned, showing braces that were silver and blue, our school colors. “Maybe.”

“Who? You have to tell me who!”

Marge glanced around to see if anyone was listening. “I promised I wouldn’t, so I can’t say who. Keep your eyes open. You’ll figure it out.”

“But—”

“Don’t ask. You know I’m not going to tell you.”

I closed my mouth. Marge lived by strong Christian principles and I knew that if she’d made a promise, she’d keep it. My cell phone rang, and I reluctantly hit the answer button.

My mother always called at the worst times. “Hello, Mom.”

“Abby, we need to talk.”

“About what?”

Papers shuffled, and I imagined her placing case notes in a chart and closing it. She was the school psychologist and was as calm and steady as the day was long. She’d heard it all and seen it all, and how she kept her sanity, I’d never know. One thing was for sure, the psychology field wasn’t for me. I wasn’t a touchy-feely kind of girl, unless of course, you had a newborn animal in your arms; then I was all hands.

How can readers find you on the Internet?
Facebook Christian Fiction Gathering: https://www.facebook.com/groups/christianfictiongathering/

Thank you for sharing your new book with us.

Readers, here is a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
Hotline Girl

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

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL - K Dawn Byrd - One Free Ebook


Tell us about your salvation experience.
I came to know the Lord in Bible school when I was in elementary school. I don't remember what date, which is unfortunate. I'd gone with a neighbor.

You’re planning a writing retreat where you can only have four other authors. Who would they be and why?
This is going to sound strange coming from a CBA author. Harlan Coben, Lisa Jackson, Lisa Gardner because they all write great suspense. My third choice isn't strange at all because she's a CBA author. Pepper Basham because she's so sweet and knows exactly what to say when I need it.

Do you have a speaking ministry? If so, tell us about that.
Me, speak? Are you kidding? I'd pass away in a dead faint.

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you and how did you handle it?
I was at a writing conference (not ACFW) and bit into a huge olive and gave the girl sitting next to me a bath. Good thing, we'd been hanging out for a few days and I felt like I knew her.

People are always telling me that they’d like to write a book someday. I’m sure they do to you, too. What would you tell someone who came up to you and said that?
I tell them to study and learn as much as they can about the craft before starting.

Tell us about the featured book.
Here's the blurb from my publisher:
Lauren Milton has always followed the rules, but when she meets Antony Marcos, she discovers just how much fun it is to do her own thing. When Antony, the bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks, professes his love for her, her life is complete. He's her soul mate, but when she finds that he's harboring secrets, can she forgive him? 

Antony is terrified that his secrets will destroy their relationship when Lauren finds out the truth. Does he tell the truth and face losing her or continue his activities, possibly placing her in danger? Can they make things work even though her family and friends are against him? 

Lauren has PTSD from the car accident that killed her boyfriend and her mother. Can she face her greatest fears while risking everything for the guy she loves? Can they overcome the obstacles facing them to find their happily ever after?

Please give us the first page of the book.
The taste of fear hung thick in the air, sickening me. I swallowed hard, attempting to ease the dryness in my throat. Three guys were following me, and they looked nowhere near model citizens.

I stumbled and righted myself, stealing a quick glance over my shoulder. They were gaining ground. Adrenaline fired my blood as I pushed myself to move faster
.
The deathly quiet on campus was unnerving, no student chatter, not the faintest rustle of a breeze. Class had begun, and the sidewalks were deserted. Why had I signed up for a night class?
I contemplated dodging into a thick grove of trees to my right, but if I couldn't outrun them, they'd be free to do whatever they wanted to me in the secluded grove that was too sheltered for anyone to hear my screams. Dusk was quickly approaching and a light rain began to fall, sparkling the sidewalk. The scent of damp earth rose up to meet me, taunting me that it would be glad to provide an early grave.

My heart slammed into my ribs as I wiped sweaty palms down the side of my jeans, moving as fast as I could with a heavy backpack strapped to my back. Glancing over my shoulder, I caught a glimpse of the one who appeared to be their leader. He had me in his sights, a determined look on his hardened face. I wrestled with the backpack, attempting to free myself. Let them have my laptop, my jewelry, and everything else. Just give me my freedom.

"Hey, sweet thing!" one yelled, his voice raspy.

Weak in the knees, I continued forward, hoping he'd think I hadn't heard him. I couldn't slow down to rid myself of the backpack, and it was impossible to dump while moving. It was too heavy. A shuffling noise behind me told me they were closing in.

A rough squeeze on my shoulder and a jerk backward turned me to face the head honcho. "What do you want?" I whispered, my breath freezing in my lungs.

His lips curled and his eyes narrowed to slits. "You should have listened when I told you to stop."

"I-I'm late for class." I glanced around, hoping to spot someone. Anyone.

The heat from the concrete mixed with the newly fallen rain floated upward, fogging the air and stealing what little breath I had left. Panic surged through me, and I silently cursed myself for leaving my pepper spray in the car.

A calculated grin tugged at his wide mouth. He took his time sizing me up much like a cat toying with a mouse. Snapping his fingers as if remembering something important, he said, "I've seen you around. You drive the red Beamer. The ragtop." He rubbed his chin.

Ice water flowed through my veins. He knew what I drove. Did he know where I lived?
"What's your old man do for a living anyway?"

My mind played a scene-by-scene footage of him stuffing a gag in my mouth, throwing me into the trunk of his car, and hauling me to a warehouse on the outskirts of our small Southwest Virginia town. I faced them head-on. I wouldn't tell them that my father, Quentin Milton, was the new district attorney. That knowledge was a hold-me-for-ransom death wish.

Keep them talking, Lauren. Someone has to show up eventually.
I stared him down as he grasped my chin, his hands rough and calloused and his grip strong. His hair was greasy, and he reeked of garlic and cheap cologne. My stomach tumbled, and I held my breath. Nothing he could do to me would hurt me worse that what I'd suffered the last two years.

Nothing.

How can readers find you on the Internet?
Facebook Christian Fiction Gathering: https://www.facebook.com/groups/christianfictiongathering/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/kdawnbyrd

Thank you, K Dawn, for sharing this new book with us.

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


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

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

AMAZING LOVE - K Dawn Byrd - One Free Book


Welcome back, K Dawn. What are some of the spiritual themes you like to write about?
My next release is called Amazing Love. It's the contemporary story of Hosea and Gomer from the Bible. I enjoyed writing about how much God loves us no matter what we do. Some people believe that God could never love them because they've done such terrible things. This is not true. God loves us all with an amazing unconditional love.

What other books of yours are coming out soon?
Amazing Love- November 1, 2012
The Hot Line Girl (YA romance)- June 2013
Luck of the Draw (YA romance)- December 2013

If you could spend an evening with one contemporary person (not a family member of yours), who would it be and why?
Lisa Gardner. I love reading her suspense novels and would like to spend some time with her talking about her process and soaking up any recommendations she may have for authors who write suspense.

What historical person would you like to meet (besides Jesus) and why?
Gomer from the Bible. I'd like to interview her about the consequences of her sin and how it felt when God forgave her and accepted her back into His loving arms.

How can you encourage authors who have been receiving only rejections from publishers?
My advice would be to keep writing no matter what. Write something every day. When you finally get published, you'll have several novels finished. Your publisher may want more than one!

And if they are already written, the time to publication could be shortened. Tell us about the featured book?
Gabe Knight, a pastor in a small coastal town, finds his life is turned upside down when Dee Dillow arrives and hires him to remodel an estate she's inherited from her aunt. Dee dashes his plans for wedded bless when on a drunken binge, she divulges that she's the highest paid call girl in Nevada and part-owner of the ritziest brothel in the state.

Gabe falls in love with her, but can't believe he's hearing the voice of God when a still, small voice tells him to marry her. After much questioning, they marry and he is deliriously happy. Until, Dee betrays him.

Gabe soon discovers just how hard it is to have the unconditional love God calls him to have for his wife, the kind of love God has for his children. When faced with losing her, Gabe realizes what true love is, how much it hurts, and just how much God loves and is willing to sacrifice for his children.

Please give us the first page of the book.
Prologue
Dee signed the letter with a flourish and then read it aloud.

Maggie:

For the longest time, I blamed myself. There must be something terribly wrong with me, something so bad that even a mother couldn't love me. After years of therapy, I've learned that it's not me, it's you, Maggie. You're not capable of loving anyone. That's a terrible thing to say about a mother, but it's true.

Even here at Carpe Diem, I've continued therapy via technology. Today was a hard day because it's my birthday. As was expected, I never heard from you. Like my therapist said, it's not my fault you didn't call. It's a choice you made, Maggie, like so many other bad choices.

I used to dwell often on the things you allowed to happen to me. You had to have known that John was visiting my room almost nightly. You chose to ignore it even though he was your husband. And then, he sold me to his wealthy friends and you stood back and allowed it to happen. Whoever had the most money. That wasn't the life I would have chosen if given a choice. Even now, I long for a life of normalcy. A husband, a couple of children, and a picket fence is just a dream.

There are times I hate you, but I realize you have demons of your own. Something has happened to you to cause you to be so selfish and full of anger. That's why I try to overlook your hostility and lack of love toward me. You need a good therapist.

My therapist recommends that I write letters to you when I'm angry. It helps. This is letter 642. I've kept them all. You'll probably never read them, but they're not really for you. They're for me.

Your daughter, Dee

Powerful! How can readers find you on the Internet?
My blog is www.kdawnbyrd.blogspot.com. I host the Christian Fiction Gathering site on facebook. I'm also on twitter and pinterist with the user name kdawnbyrd.  I'm in the process of changing website providers and when finished, my website will be www.kdawnbyrd.com

Thank you for sharing this new book with us.


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

Monday, June 25, 2012

MISTAKEN IDENTITY - K Dawn Byrd - One Free E-Book


Welcome back, K Dawn. Why do you write the kind of books you do?
Actually, I write a little bit of everything. I'm published in many genres and lucky enough to have a publisher who allows me to write what I want. Generally, I write whatever I'm in the mood to write. I've noticed that after writing something dark, like suspense, I find it refreshing to start something light like a young adult novel.

Besides when you came to know the Lord, what is the happiest day in your life?
The happiest day of my life was when I married my husband. We've been married 17 years and he's my best friend.

How has being published changed your life?
Being published hasn't really changed my life that much other than the fact that I'm a lot busier with marketing.

What are you reading right now?
I'm taking a break from reading right now in order to finish up my December release.

What is your current work in progress?
My current WIP is the third book in the Identity Series, as my publisher calls it. We didn't plan on it being a series, but several fans of Mistaken Identity asked for more. The third installment, which will be out in December, is called Double Identity and is about identical twins who don't know the other exists until a parent's illness brings them together. One teen is a Christian, the other a wild party girl. Sparks fly when the wild party girl falls for the Christian's boyfriend.

What would be your dream vacation?
I'm not much of a traveler. I usually vacation at Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, two times a year and love it so much that I'd like to retire there.

How do you choose your settings for each book?
I normally start with characters and then the setting falls into place as I write.

If you could spend an evening with one person who is currently alive, who would it be and why?
Lisa Jackson because I'd love to get some tips on writing suspense.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?
I used to ride a Harley, but gave it up to have more time to write. I recently bought a sewing machine and am learning to sew. It's great fun.

What is your most difficult writing obstacle, and how do you overcome it?
My most difficult writing obstacle is finding time to write. I overcome this by sticking to a schedule.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?
Write something every day.

Tell us about the featured book.
Here's the cover blurb:

Eden Morgan makes a list of six goals to accomplish in order to have the best summer ever. Getting a boyfriend, which is perhaps the most important goal, becomes complicated when she and her best friend, Lexi, fall for the same guy. Since Lexi is popular, gorgeous, and always gets her guy, Eden thinks she doesn't have a chance.

Channing Johnson is everything Eden's ever dreamed of and she can't believe he just moved in next door. When he starts showing interest in her, she's overjoyed...until she sees him out on a date with Lexi. He says Lexi talked him into it to repay her for tutoring him. Lexi says they're in love.

Eden doesn't know who to believe and is forced to choose between her best friend and the guy of her dreams. Nothing is as it seems and no matter who she chooses, someone will get hurt.

Please give us the first page of the book.
I didn't want to fail. I couldn't. This was just too important. The success of my entire sophomore year depended on that little scrap of paper. I pinned it to the bulletin board in my bedroom and took a step back. The black letters stood out prominently against a pink background: Goals for the Summer. If I completed all six of them, it would be the best summer. Ever.

1. Donate hair to Locks of Love.
2. Get rid of braces and glasses.
3. Get driver's license.
4. Talk Mom and Dad into buying me a car.
5. Get a boyfriend (maybe the most important).
6. Follow God more closely.

Maybe I should start with the easiest. Donate hair to Locks of Love. I pulled my mousey-brown hair back into a ponytail and inspected it. Scissors hadn't touched it since third grade. Mom still liked to tell the story about the fit I'd thrown at the beauty shop. Something about having to hold me down in the chair. Sheesh. Why would parents put a third grader through such trauma? Might very well have scarred me for life.

I glanced at the magazine on my dresser. It said layers were best for a heart-shaped face. It would be a big change, but I could swing it, especially if it accomplished goal number five, Get a boyfriend.

Yes, it was time for a change. If I made all six goals before the end of summer, I'd feel better, look better, and have landed the boyfriend of my dreams. At least that's what I hoped. And prayed.

A horn blared outside, and I ran to my bedroom window, peering out through the blinds. Lexi's red BMW waited in the driveway below, stereo blaring and top down. The horn sounded again, and I jumped. Stephie would be begging to go with us if Lexi woke her from her nap.

Raising the window, I yelled, "Be right down."

I snatched my beach bag off the bed and shoved my cell phone in my pocket. Rushing down a hallway custom decorated with my mom's artwork, I fought the urge to slide down the banister to the floor below like a kid. That was much too juvenile for an almost-sixteen-year-old.

Taking the steps two at a time, I landed downstairs in the foyer where Stephie waited with a sour expression on her face. "Where are you and Lexi going?"

How can readers find you on the Internet?
facebook: kdawnbyrd
Twitter: kdawnbyrd
My website is currently under construction.

Thank you for another interesting interview.

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


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

Friday, April 27, 2012

SHATTERED IDENTITY - K Dawn Byrd - Free E-Book


Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.
I try not to write any of myself into my characters, but occasionally will let them like something I do, such as a certain food or sports car.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?
Quirky? Hummm. I'm a pretty serious person and so analytical that I usually think before I act. I guess I'm kind of quirky when it comes to new hobbies. When I endeavor to learn something new, I go at it like gangbusters. I absolutely MUST know everything there is to know about a subject. Once I feel I've mastered it, I usually move on to something else. Right now, I'm into ferrets and begging my husband for one or two of the furry little critters. We're in the process of building onto the house and he said I can have one when we're done. Oh....the wait is killing me!

When did you first discover that you were a writer?
I don't think I ever discovered it and am just now beginning to feel like a writer. I guess it took getting several publications under my belt for the writing gig to feel real.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.
I enjoy reading pretty much anything, but refuse to read horror or anything that's sad. I don't like to cry. I adore young adult romance and I love romantic suspense.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?
In addition to writing, I work a full-time job. I attribute my keeping my sanity to the fact that I'm very organized by nature. It helps that I keep reminders in my Blackberry, forcing it to notify me to complete certain tasks.

How do you choose your characters’ names?
I usually find an internet website on names that were popular the year my characters were born and choose from there.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?
I'm most proud of getting a masters degree and becoming licensed as a therapist.

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?
If I were an animal, I would be a fish. They look so calm and peaceful treading water. Is a fish even an animal? Oh well!

What is your favorite food?
My favorite food? I have more than one. Chinese. Spaghetti. Anything sour...like pickles, kraut, and olives. And let's not forget the great Mexican restaurant in my small town. I visit it at least once a week.

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?
My greatest roadblock was not having patience. I want what I want and now. This industry moves slower than a snail's pace. It reminds me of the Army slogan, Hurry up and wait. I had to either overcome it or quit. I chose to overcome.

Tell us about the featured book.
Here’s the blurb:
Lexi Branson thinks she's found the guy of her dreams. So what if he's older? Her new motto is, "Love knows no boundaries or age limits." Zack Bane loves her and treats her like a princess and that's all that matters.

Lexi soon discovers that she doesn't know Zack as well as she thought. He has secrets, the kind that shatter the lives of those who love him. When faced with the truth, Lexi tries to hang onto him because she has a secret of her own.

When Lexi ends up in danger, she discovers she has no one to turn to except her ex-boyfriend, Jeremy. Can Jeremy, who is still in love with her, keep her safe from Zack? When faced with a choice will Lexi choose to stay with the guy who has become a stranger or will she choose Jeremy, the guy who loves her with all his heart?

Please give us the first page of the book.
I told myself I didn't need Eden and maybe I didn't, but I sure did miss her. When she left my life, I lost my one and only true friend. Everyone seemed so shallow, so out to fulfill their own agendas, and I missed having someone around who told me the truth no matter how much it hurt.

Paula Botts plopped down on the beach towel beside mine, the one I'd spread out for Zack. "Hey, Lexi."

I rose up on one elbow and took a swig of my soft drink. "Hey." Just one look at the ditzy blonde, and I missed level-headed Eden even more. Her blonde ponytail swung back and forth with every movement and the oversized sunglasses she wore looked ridiculous.

Paula was such a pushover, always telling me exactly what she knew I wanted to hear. Eden had been the one who kept me in line. Okay, maybe she didn't exactly keep me in line, but she sure told me what she thought and most of the time it had something to do with morals and sin. Religion wasn't my thing, and that was part of the reason I wrote her off as my BFF.

Paula popped her gum. "So, what's up?"

"I'm waiting for Zack."

She pulled her hair back into a ponytail, tying it with a snap. "Have you told your mom about him yet?"

"No."

"What are you waiting for?"

"She'll say he's too old for me."

She popped her gum again and I cringed. "Could you please not do that?"

"What?"

"Stop popping your gum. It's driving me crazy."

Paula lay down and propped her head on her hands. That's okay, Zack would tell her to get lost when he arrived. She was okay when I didn't have anyone else to hang out with and was pretty enough to draw lots of attention from the guys, so I kept her around.

She pulled off her sunglasses and squinted into the sun, an annoying habit that caused her to sneeze. "So, when are you going to tell her?"

"I'm not." I sighed, wishing I'd never told Paula Mom didn't know I was dating an older guy. Maybe I was overreacting. Maybe Mom wouldn't even care. She stayed messed up most of the time anyway. Apparently, rehab hadn't done her much good.

"You're nineteen. What's it matter if you want to date a twenty-five year old guy?"

I rolled over on my stomach, breaking eye contact and hoping to end the conversation. "Exactly."

"Guess who I saw yesterday?"

I didn't bother to answer. She'd tell me anyway. She was the kind of person who could carry on a conversation with herself.

Paula flipped over on her stomach. "That Eden girl you used to hang out with. I saw her yesterday."

"So?"

"In the pizza parlor where she works. Channing was with her. They're still together. Can you believe it?"

How can readers find you on the Internet?
 website: www.kdawnbyrd.com
young adult blog: www.zoe-mack.blogspot.com

Thank you for the interesting interview.


Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
Shattered Identity - Kindle edition


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.

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Monday, January 16, 2012

THE SECRET OF THE LOVE LETTERS - K Dawn Byrd - Free eBook

Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.
I really don't intentionally write any of myself into my characters. Occasionally, a character might enjoy something I do, such has sports cars.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?
I don't know that I would call it quirky, but I used to ride my own Harley Davidson. I've owned 3 Harleys and a Yamaha, which was my starter bike. I gave up riding to have more time to write, which is my real passion.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?
I really didn't feel like a writer until I received the proof of my first cover. When I saw my name there, it drove the idea home.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading.
I read a little bit of everything, but particularly enjoy romantic suspense and young adult romance.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?
I'm a very organized person and that helps tremendously. I'm all for anything that saves time, especially making lists. I never go shopping without a list.

How do you choose your characters’ names?
I pull up baby name websites and read through them until something jumps out at me.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?
Obtaining my masters degree and becoming licensed in my field.

If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?
If I were an animal, I'd be a giraffe. It would be nice to be tall enough to see everything that's going on. Not that I'm short. I'm about 5'7".

What is your favorite food?
Believe it or not, grilled cheese sandwiches.

I love grilled cheese sandwiches. I make mine with grated Mexican cheese mix on 7-Grain bread. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?
Finding the time to write was my greatest roadblock. I gave up some other hobbies to make time to write.

Tell us about the featured book.
Here's my cover blurb:
Zoe's cousin Emma thinks she's the recipient of some sick joke when an old boyfriend she thought dead shows up on the internet. Can Zoe solve the mystery that's causing Emma so much pain when her attraction to the town bad boy is so distracting?

When Zoe Mack moves in with her grandparents to start college, she's thrown into more mystery than she bargained for. Her cousin, Emma, is terrorized by a stalker who breaks into her house and leaves a photo-shopped image of Emma hanging from a tree. Nothing is as it seems and Emma soon learns that even the man she thinks she can trust is suspect.

Zoe can't wait to reunite with Nate, the bad boy who doesn't talk about his feelings much, but the passionate kiss he gave her last summer had to have meant something. When she arrives back in town and discovers that he's in trouble with the law, she must take matters into her own hands in order to clear his name. She has her hands full with a needy Emma, a cop who gives her the creeps, and Nate, the guy she desperately wants to call her own. Can Zoe solve the mystery, clear Nate's name, and make him fall in love with her?

Please give us the first page of the book.

Whoever thinks it's cool to live next door to the guy you love hasn't walked a mile in my shoes.

It's like entering an ice cream shop on a muggy day and craving your favorite flavor, while the frozen concoction mocks you from under the glass, just out of reach. The fact that you can look but not touch makes you want it even more.

I stepped away from my window as Nate Neitch paused by his truck and glanced up at my second story bedroom window. My pulse tripped. I held my breath as I moved out of his view and vowed that this summer would be different. This summer I'd make him fall for me. Hard. Nate Neitch, look out. I'm back, and I'm not playing games.

Be still my beating heart. How could he possibly know I was in town? I'd climbed the squeaky steps to the upper floor of my grandparents' farmhouse just after midnight, a day earlier than expected. News does travel fast in small towns.

Nate plugged something into his cell phone and opened the door of his truck as I pushed the sheer pink curtain a little further to the left to get a better view of its new paint job. I had to give it to Nate, he was handy when it came to cars.

My cell phone buzzed and I jumped, allowing the curtain to fall completely across the window.

Hey, Z-girl. You in town? Nate

A shiver of warmth surged through me at the sight of his nickname for me. I could almost hear his deep, gravelly voice, all male and totally sexy. Even after an entire school year away from him, he still made me feel like a twelve-year-old with a crush. My hands shook so badly it took me three times to get my reply right.

Yeah, I'm here. Z-girl.

I fought the urge to sign it, your Z-girl. I reminded myself that just because he'd kissed me right before I left town last year, didn't mean I owned him -- but a girl can wish. My phone buzzed his reply.

Going 2 town. Wanna go?

Those words were magic to my longing heart. I rubbed sweaty palms down the side of my jeans before texting that I'd be right there. He was practically all I'd thought about this past year, and I was finally going to see him face to face.

Would he kiss me again? Would he still want to hang out? He'd spent just about every minute of his spare time with me last summer. I'd be disappointed if there wasn't a replay this year.

I studied the cork board on the wall beside my dresser. The block letters running across the top jumped out at me. Zoe Mack & Friends. Gram had insisted we use my full name because she liked it so much. I smiled at the memory. We'd covered it in pink cloth and attached photos of myself, Nate, and my friends. Right now it was bare, awaiting the photos I'd removed when I'd left last year. Hopefully, I'd have new photos of this summer's adventures to add soon.

I took one last look in the mirror, pulled my strawberry-blond hair back into a ponytail, dotted the freckles on my nose with a little foundation, and rushed downstairs. Gram sat at an antique kitchen table, sipping a cup of steaming tea. As usual, the kitchen was immaculate. She'd cleaned up our breakfast of toast, eggs, and bacon and was reading her devotions. My grandparents were so set in their ways, I could just about set the clock by them.

I attempted to act calm, cool, and casual. "Hey, Gram. Nate just texted me. I'm going to town with him."

She pursed her lips and blew the steam away from the rim of her teacup, the sparkle in her aged blue eyes telling me she'd seen through me. When it came to matters of the heart, Gram was a pro at figuring out who had a crush on who.

How can readers find you on the Internet?
Twitter: kdawnbyrd





Thank you for spending this fun time with us, K Dawn


Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
Zoe Mack and the Secret of the Love Letters (Zoe Mack Mysteries) - 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