THROUGH THE SHADOWS - Karen Barnett - One Free Book on This Blog, Plus More

Dear Readers, I loved the first two books in Karen Barnett’s Golden Gate Chronicles series. And with book three, I was eager for my book to arrive. It’s every bit as good as the others, maybe even better. With strong characters, who pulled me into the heart of the story, they carried me past the end of the book. Characters who stayed in my mind for quite a while after I finished reading the story. The setting is the rebuilding of San Francisco after one of the major earthquakes in the early 20^th century. Since I did a lot of research on San Francisco for one of my novels, I appreciated her skill with weaving the setting into the story making it almost one of the characters. You’ll want to read this book. If you missed the first two, try to get a hold of those and read them, too.

Bio: Karen Barnett lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, two teens, and three mischievous dachshunds. When she’s not writing, Karen enjoys photography, hiking, public speaking, decorating crazy birthday cakes, and dragging her family through dusty history museums. She was honored with the 2016 Writer of the Year award from the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference and a Writer of Promise Award from Oregon Christian Writers in 2013.

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

I’m excited to see the entire Golden Gate Chronicles series complete and in the hands of readers. It’s difficult for me to say goodbye to these beloved characters, but I’m thrilled to have more books in the works.

I recently signed a contract with Waterbrook Multnomah for three novels set in the National Parks during the 1920s and 30s, the first of which releases next year. I grew up in the shadow of Mount Rainier and spent two summers working there as a park ranger, so setting novels in the parks is a bit like going home.

I can hardly wait to see this new series. I’d love to feature them on my blog as well. Tell us a little about your family.

My husband Steve and I have been married for more than twenty years, and we have two teenagers—a sixteen-year-old son and a fourteen-year-old daughter. I’d heard a lot of horror stories about raising teens, but so far it’s been my favorite stage. They’re both witty and sarcastic, and it’s been a joy to see their individual personalities and interests develop.

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

I find I pay more attention to new releases and award-winning novels now that I’m a writer. In the past, I chose reading material based on covers and back cover copy. I didn’t pay much attention to the publisher, release date, or even the author (though I had my favorites). Now, in an attempt to keep up with what’s going on in the industry, I focus on specific publishers, authors, and genres.

What are you working on right now?

I’m currently finishing the first of my National Parks book, a romantic suspense set at Mount Rainier in 1927. We don’t have an official title yet, but I’m in love with the plot and characters. I think it’s a story that readers will truly enjoy.

I’m sure we will. What outside interests do you have?

I have to confess, I’m a bit of a Netflix junkie. Outside of that, I like spending time in nature—whether in the mountains or at the ocean. I also take pride in decorating bizarre birthday cakes for my kids. I’m no Cake Boss, but it’s fun to try.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

The Golden Gate Chronicles series was inspired when I saw an American Experience documentary on the San Francisco Earthquake of 1906. I was captivated with the stories people told of those harrowing days, and the series grew from that point.

My next book is set at Mount Rainier National Park. The mountain has been a big part of my life ever since I was a child, and it’s been a joy to revisit it in story form.

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

Recently I’ve been reading the writings of the great American naturalist, John Muir. He strikes me as a fascinating character, and I think it would have been a treat to speak to him in person.

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

The further I get in my writing career, the one thing that surprises me is that I never feel like I have it “figured out.” For some reason, I use to think each novel would get easier as I learned more about the writing process. Instead—at least at this point—it feels like every book has been more difficult. Maybe my personal expectations increase with each published book.

I know that’s true of many authors, myself included. What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

God has been prodding me recently with the knowledge that I’m not writing alone. I felt very close to Him when I first started the writing process, beginning each session in prayer and carefully considering what He might want me to be sharing through my stories. As the pressure of deadlines and other demands got tighter, I found myself looking at writing as a job. That put me in a dark and anxiety-ridden place as an author, for a time. In recent months I’ve been joyfully rediscovering what it means to be writing “with God” as opposed to just “about God.”

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

The first thing I do when people ask me how to move forward in their writing is encourage them to attend a professional writing conference. You’ll have the opportunity to take classes, rub elbows with professional authors, have conversations with editors and agents, and be inspired by the tight-knit community of Christian publishing. There are wonderful Christian conferences around the country, from intimate retreats all the way up to large national conferences.

Second, I’d encourage writers to set a schedule and stick to it. It doesn’t always have to be long stretches of time. Sometimes I accomplish more when I know I only have thirty minutes, as opposed to an all-day marathon.  

Third, try not to base your self-worth on whether or not you publish. There are very few overnight successes in this business. Most authors spend many years, sometimes writing several full manuscripts, before they land a contract. If you’re “all about the contract,” you’re going to be miserable during the long wait. And you may even discover that getting that book on the shelf doesn’t magically make you feel like a successful author.

That is so true. Tell us about the featured book.

In Though the Shadows, the devastating earthquake is just two years past, but the city of San Francisco is still trying to recover. Destruction of this magnitude is not so easy to overcome-and neither are the past regrets shadowing Elizabeth King's hopeful future.

Hoping to right her wrongs, Elizabeth dedicates herself to helping girls rescued from slavery in Chinatown brothels, even if it means putting her own life at risk to sneak through the gloomy alleys and rooftops where dangers lurk.

Putting her life on the line for a worthy cause is admirable, but opening her heart is even more terrifying. So when Elizabeth meets attorney, Charles McKinley—a man who dreams of reforming San Francisco’s crooked politics—Elizabeth begins to doubt: Can she maintain her pretense and hide her past? Or will her secret jeopardize both their futures?

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

Sacramento, California

June 1908

Elizabeth King held her fingers against the ivory keys, refusing to stir as the final chord faded and silence descended on the parlor. Were God ever to speak to her, she imagined it would be in the precious instant after a last note died away and before an audience responded. The moment preserved a holy space, as if the breath of divinity hung in the air.

No voice arrived today, but there was no audience either.

She ran her fingertips along the cool surface, the black and white pattern softening as her eyes blurred with tears. God wouldn’t converse with the likes of her, anyway.

After three years of intense instruction, every note conjured Tobias’s memory— his touch. Elizabeth sprang from the stool and stalked to the window, staring out at the darkening clouds. She couldn’t let her mind travel to those memories. Before she knew it, she’d be at his door.

“Turn your back on me, and you’re finished. You’ll never perform again.”

She’d done the right thing. So why did the shame still cling, like a vine curling around her soul?

Her mother swept into the room, a cream-colored apron tied over her flowered dress. “Elizabeth— you aren’t dressed yet?”

Elizabeth pulled her gaze from the window. “Dressed?”

“Have you forgotten? Mr. McKinley is joining us for supper. I’ve been trying to get the attorney to come here from San Francisco for months.”

The man’s name sent a shiver along Elizabeth’s skin, like a discordant note in the middle of a Bach concerto. Of course, she’d forgotten— if she’d remembered, she’d have left earlier.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I love connecting with readers online!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KarenBarnettAuthor/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KarenMBarnett

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenbarnettauthor/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/karenbarnett/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/KarenBarnett

In addition to the book giveaway on this blog, Karen has another 5-Book Giveaway.

Here's the link to this giveaway: https://promosimple.com/ps/99f1

Thank you, Karen, for sharing this new book with us. I know my readers are as eager to read it as I was when it arrived.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Through the Shadows - Christianbook.com
Through the Shadows: The Golden Gate Chronicles - Book 3 - Amazon
Through the Shadows: The Golden Gate Chronicles - Book 3 - 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

BEYOND THE ASHES - Karen Barnett - One Free Book

BIO: Karen Barnett is the author of Beyond the Ashes, Out of the Ruins, and Mistaken. Named the 2013 Writer of Promise by Oregon Christian Writers, Karen lives in Albany, Oregon, with her husband, two teenagers, and three adorable dachshunds. When she’s not writing, she enjoys playing guitar, cake decorating, and binge-watching all sorts of television series on Netflix.

Dear Readers, no wonder she was named a Writer of Promise in 2013. I love her books. I know you will, too. This book is one of my favorite books of 2015.

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

Writing historical fiction is my own special way of time traveling. The thing that fascinates me most about history is not so much the big events, but day-to-day life. How did they dress, speak, and interact? I am especially enjoying writing about the early 20th century because people were facing an influx of new technologies like telephones and automobiles. In Beyond the Ashes, I look at how certain medical advancements changed the way doctors treated disease, but also had unforeseen consequences.

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

The day I became a mom. I never imagined I could love someone so completely. It’s crazy to think that both of my babies are now teenagers.

How has being published changed your life?

It’s definitely become crazier! Doing creative work under the pressure of a deadline is a lot tougher than I anticipated, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

What are you reading right now?

Lori Benton’s newest, The Wood’s Edge. She is such an eloquent, gifted writer.

What is your current work in progress?

I just recently finished the macro edits for the third book in the Golden Gate Chronicles, Through the Shadows, which releases in 2016. I’ve always wanted to write a story that digs in to the depths of what grace means in our lives. In an attempt to make up for her own failings, Elizabeth King throws herself into a life of service, walking the dark alleys of Chinatown to rescue slave girls. Will a young attorney with political aspirations be able to show her that everything about San Francisco isn’t as dark as she believes?

Sounds good. I want to feature it on this blog when it releases. What would be your dream vacation?

I’ve always wanted to tour crumbling European castles, so England, Ireland, Scotland, and Germany are high on my list.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

For this series, I chose the San Francisco earthquake as a focal point of the first book. I was inspired to write about the disaster after watching a PBS documentary that interviewed some of the last surviving witnesses to the event. In Beyond the Ashes, the city is beginning to rebuild. It fascinates me how quickly San Francisco was able to put itself back together after the destruction. Did you know they hosted a world’s fair (the Panama–Pacific International Exposition) in 1915, just nine years later?

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

My shy, introverted self wants to answer “my own family,” but that seems like cheating. I guess one person I’ve always wanted to meet is Julie Andrews. Her portrayal of Maria in The Sound of Music was very powerful to me as I was growing up. But I also know that if I met her, I’d have absolutely no clue what to say!

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I love to play my guitar, decorate crazy birthday cakes for my kids, and I’m a hopeless television addict. Streaming Netflix has been very bad for my productivity. I love to binge-watch television series—it’s so easy to say, “Oh, just one more episode!”

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

Fear has always been my biggest obstacle, and it seems to travel hand-in-hand with procrastination. I’m always sure my writing won’t be as good as I wish it to be, so that makes me want to do anything but sit down and get to work. The best thing I’ve found to dispel the negative voices is to use a playlist of songs that remind me of God’s faithfulness. Here are a few of the titles I keep handy: “Voice of Truth” (Casting Crowns), “Lord I Need You” (Matt Maher), “Only You” (David Crowder), “Word of God Speak” (MercyMe), and “Oceans” (Hillsongs).

“Voice of Truth” is one of my favorite songs. too. What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Join a critique group! Years ago, when I was first starting out, I attended one hosted by our public library. We were from various walks of life and were writing all sorts of bizarre stuff. Submitting and critiquing within that setting helped me hone my craft and focus in on what type of writing I wished to do. Later I was able to join a much more professional group where we were all writing Christian fiction. Critique groups not only help you develop your writing skills, but it gives you the opportunity to learn to take criticism gracefully.

Tell us about the featured book.

Beyond the Ashes is set in San Francisco just after the devastating 1906 earthquake. Where better to rebuild and face one’s fears than in a city rising from the ashes? Ruby Marshall, a young widow, is certain she’ll discover new purpose assisting her brother Robert with his cancer research, but she doesn’t anticipate finding new love. Dr. Gerald Larkspur dreams of filling his empty home with family, but he’d always hoped it would be a wife and children. In the aftermath of the great earthquake, the rooms are overflowing with extended family and friends left homeless by the disaster. When Robert’s widowed sister arrives, the close quarters seem close indeed. Ruby and Gerald’s fledgling romance is put at risk when Gerald develops symptoms of the very disease he’s striving to cure. Together they must ask—is it worth a second chance at love when time might be short?

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

“I refuse to attend another wedding. I’m through.” Ruby King Marshall juggled two glasses of punch in her gloved hand as she shepherded her blind cousin through the overcrowded ballroom. Each doting couple waltzing around the polished floor reminded Ruby of her loss, like a needle thrust into her heart. Widows and weddings—shouldn’t it be bad luck?

Miriam gripped Ruby’s elbow, leaning forward to be heard over the dozens of nearby conversations. “Then I’m relieved mine was last December. I’d have been sad if you’d missed it. And don’t forget Anne Marie’s next month.” A tiny smile flirted at the corner of her lips.

Ruby glanced out the ornate windows, the quiet evening beckoning. Only her cousin—and best friend—would have the audacity to make light of the situation. Newspaper stories of San Francisco’s earthquake refugees weighed on Ruby’s heart. “With everything that’s happened this year, it seems inappropriate to turn a simple wedding into a grand social occasion.”

Miriam adjusted her smoky-hued spectacles. “We’re not suffering here in Sacramento, Ruby. Besides, love is always worth celebrating. Our hurts remind us to delight in life’s joys.”

Ruby focused on the sparkling ring on Miriam’s finger to prevent her gaze from wandering to her cousin’s thickening waistline. She must be at least four months along. Ruby drew up her shoulders, pulling her elbows close to her body. What have I become?

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I enjoy connecting with other book-lovers! You can find my website at http://www.KarenBarnettBooks.com. I also hang out on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/KarenBarnettAuthor), Twitter (@KarenMBarnett), Pinterest (https://www.pinterest.com/karenbarnett/), and Goodreads (https://www.goodreads.com/KarenBarnett).

Thanks so much for having me on your blog, Lena! It’s always fun to chat about books.

It’s my pleasure to host you, Karen. When I read a book I love, I immediately want to share about it with my blog readers.

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

Beyond the Ashes - Christianbook.com
Beyond the Ashes: The Golden Gate Chronicles - Book 2 - Amazon
Beyond the Ashes: The Golden Gate Chronicles - 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 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

OUT OF THE RUINS - Karen Barnett - One Free Book, Plus More

Bio: Inspired by God's devotion to His people and her own passion for research and learning, author Karen Barnett creates historical romances that explore her characters' faith and how their experiences impact the way they view God. 

A graduate of Valparaiso University and Oregon State University, Barnett's debut novel, Mistaken, was released in 2013 and earned her the Oregon Christian Writers "Writer of Promise" award. A former park ranger, she loves getting out into God's creation. She spends her free time taking photographs, dragging her kids through dusty history museums, decorating crazy birthday cakes, and watching movies. 

Karen, her husband and their two children live in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. 

Welcome, Karen. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.
I always include aspects of myself in my heroines. I think that’s the easiest way to breathe life into the characters. Abby in Out of the Ruins is shy and socially awkward. I based the character on a younger version of myself, and it’s actually taken decades for me to gain any sort of self-confidence. Writing her scenes took me back to my youth, and it was fun to view my former insecurities from a more mature perspective.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I’m afraid if I tell you, no one will ever want to come to my house! I worked as a park ranger for a number of years, teaching kids about wildlife and nature. One day I found a deceased brown bat that would have made a perfect specimen for one of my nature programs. I dropped it in a Ziploc bag and tucked it into my freezer until I was able to talk to some taxidermists. Not surprisingly, none of them wanted to touch it. My husband refused to open the freezer until I disposed of the critter. Don’t worry—my freezer has been bat-free for many years now.

How’s that for quirky?

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I’m not sure I truly believed it until I held the first published novel in my hands, but I enjoyed writing stories even when I was a little kid.

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

My first love is historical fiction, but I like romance, women’s fiction, fantasy, sci-fi, suspense, mystery . . . pretty much anything but horror. I’m a bit of a wimp that way.

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

Music. I am constantly humming or singing. I keep the radio on in the car, play CDs while I’m doing chores, and listen to Pandora while I write. I also love making my own music—I play guitar, hammered dulcimer, mandolin, and Irish tin whistle.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

I’m careful to stay true to my historical era, often checking names against social security data from the period. I’ve also been known to steal names from family history. My current hero, Robert King, gets his name from my husband’s uncle. It always surprises me to see my character’s name show up on the caller ID.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Being a mom. It’s been the toughest and most rewarding job, ever.

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

I’d probably be a bird of some type, because I love the idea of flying high and looking down over the world. That’s probably why I always request window seats on airplanes.

What is your favorite food?

Oven-fried chicken. It’s best cold, the next day. Yum!

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

My greatest roadblock is fear. I struggle with it on a daily basis. “What will people think when they read this story? Did I get all my facts right? What if the book doesn’t sell?” I still struggle with it, but I’m quick to ask for prayer. I have a group of friends and fellow writers who will pray for me at a moment’s notice. I also remind myself of some words from Beth Moore: Satan cannot take our salvation from us, so he does everything he can to steal our effectiveness. (Paraphrased from Praying God’s Word). I don’t want fear to win and render me ineffective.

Tell us about the featured book.

Out of the Ruins: Abby Fischer doesn’t know if God will answer her prayer for her dying sister. She doesn’t know if miracles can really happen. And she certainly doesn’t know if the handsome Dr. Robert King, with his risky experimental treatment, is the one to remedy her doubts. When tragedy strikes and the mighty San Francisco earthquake shatters what is left of her heart, Abby wonders if God will hear her as she flees alone through burning streets. What will it take to show her that the One she doesn’t want to love is the One whose love will save her?

Please give us the first page of the book.

San Jose, California, August 16, 1905

“The doctor could be wrong.” Abby’s words cut through the suffocating silence in the bedroom. She placed her fingers on the sun-warmed windowsill, but it did little to thaw the chill gripping her heart.

Cecelia’s voice barely stirred the air. “He’s not.”

Abby glanced down at the novel she’d been reading, her thumb holding a place between the pages. If only she could stick her thumb on this day and prevent life from moving forward. When had time become the enemy?

She rose from the window seat and paced back to the wooden chair pulled close to her sister’s bedside. The faded rosebud quilt covered Cecelia’s body like a shroud. Abby kept her voice crisp and no-nonsense. “Papa telephoned Cousin Gerald last night. Gerald thinks there might be doctors in San Francisco who could actually do something, despite what Dr. Greene says.”

Cecelia opened her eyes, the flash of blue seeming out of place in her otherwise colorless face. Her unbound hair—once like so many strands of golden silk—now covered the white pillowcase, tangled and matted.

Abby fingered her own brown braid. She hadn’t even bothered to pin it up this morning. “I’m not giving up, and neither should you.”

Cecelia’s eyes closed again, dark circles framing their sunken depths. “I’m too tired. If God’s calling, I’m ready to go home.”

Abby thumped the novel down on the bedside table. “Stop saying that. I’m not going to let you die and leave me here alone.”

Her sister shifted under the covers, as if the very weight of the quilt caused her pain. “You’re—” she stopped for a breath, “not alone.”

The deluge of fear returned, sweeping over Abby like waves across the shore. Who would she be without Cecelia?

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I love connecting with readers! You can find me at www.KarenBarnettBooks.com or at any of these social media outlets:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KarenBarnettAuthor.com

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/KarenMBarnett

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/karenbarnett/

Thank you, Karen, for sharing this new book with us. I love historical romance novels. That's why I write them.

Don't miss the debut book, Out of the Ruins, in Karen Barnett's new series, The Golden Gate Chronicles. Set against the backdrop of early 20th century San Francisco, Out of the Ruins will remind readers that no matter who we are or what we’ve done, God is still as close to us as our next breath.

Karen is celebrating with a fun giveaway and Facebook author chat party.

  One winner will receive:

• A Kindle Fire HDX
• Out of the Ruins by Karen Barnett

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 19th. Winner will be announced at the Out of the Ruins Facebook author chat party on June 19th. Connect with Karen for an evening of fun book chat, games, and prizes. Karen will also be answering audience questions and giving an exclusive look at the next book in The Golden Gate Chronicles series!

So grab your copy of Out of the Ruins and join Karen on the evening of June 19th 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 19th!

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Out of the Ruins - Christianbook.com
Out of the Ruins: The Golden Gate Chronicles | Book 1 (Golden Gate Chronicles Series) - Amazon
Out of the Ruins: Golden Gate Chronicles | Book 1 (Golden Gate Chronicles Series) - 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