AN ENCORE FOR ESTELLE - Kimberly Rose Johnson - One Free Book

Welcome back, Kimberly. Why did you become an author?

I became an author because I love to write. After writing a short novel, I was encouraged by friends and family to pursue publication. It took six years of learning how to write and writing multiple stories before I was offered my first book contract in 2012, but I reached my goal.

I don't know if I've ever told you that my middle name is Rose. I was Lena Rose Nelson before I married. If you weren’t an author, what would be your dream job?

As a young person I had three things I wanted to do, be a famous singer, teach piano, and be a spy. Lol. I ended up teaching piano lessons for most of my adult life.

If you could have lived at another time in history, what would it be and why?

I wish I could leap through time and visit several time periods! Perhaps the roaring 20’s would be a good place to start. I loved the clothes and music of that time.

What place in the United States have you not visited that you would like to?

There are so many places I would like to see. I’ll start New York City at Christmas because I want to see all the window displays and Broadway shows. I’d also love to go to Main in the summer or fall because it looks so beautiful there. I’ve never been to the Grand Canyon and would enjoy seeing that as well. There are quite a few more places, but I don’t want to bore you. J

How about a foreign country you hope to visit?

Again, there are quite a few but to make it simple I’d like to pretty much see all of Europe. My husband and I are tossing around the idea of taking a river cruise there someday.

I love watching the river cruise in Europe ads. That does look like a wonderful vacation. What lesson has the Lord taught you recently?

I was stressing over my work in progress not long ago. He reminded me to trust Him, and that I will know the words to write when I need them.

Tell us about the featured book.

An Encore for Estelle is the second book in my Melodies of Love series. Each of the books in this series focuses on one form of the arts. Estelle is an actress and volunteers at the children’s theater.

A former A-list actress seeks to redeem herself in the most unlikely of places—a children’s theater. A guilt-ridden writer/director didn’t anticipate a famous actress would ever show interest in his musical, much less him. Will their pasts pull them apart or join them together?

Please give us the first page of the book.

Estelle Rogers willed her galloping heart to slow. Why had she come back to Oak Knoll, Oregon? It wasn’t like the people here had welcomed her with open arms six years ago. But that was then. Things were different now. Helen Wood had invited her for a visit over the summer, and she could never say no to the one woman who’d accepted her in spite of her flaws. Besides, she needed time away to think about her future. Estelle squared her shoulders, raised a hand, and pressed the doorbell beside the farmhouse door.

The door flung open. “You’re here!” Helen’s smile lit her eyes.

Estelle blinked. Helen looked like a young Mary Tyler Moore—she looked amazing. Could this be the same woman she’d grown close to all those years ago? Granted when she’d last seen Helen, she’d been recovering from a stroke, but a different woman stood before her now. The rosy-cheeked brunette looked fifteen years younger than her fifty-five years. “You look amazing.”

Helen blushed and waved a hand in front of her face. “Derek sent me on a spa vacation. You should try one. You’d love it.”

The mention of her one-time boyfriend didn’t affect her like it used to. Helen’s son was now happily married, and she adored his wife, Kayla. “If I didn’t know better, I’d say you’re hinting that I need a makeover.”

The older woman shrugged. “Not at all. You look lovely as usual.” She stepped back, opening the door wider. “Come in. I can’t believe you’re actually here. I was afraid you might change your mind.”

“How silly would I be to do something like that?” If Helen only knew how many times she had almost cancelled the trip. But she would never reveal that to her dear friend. 

Helen looped her arm through Estelle’s. “I prepared lunch for us in the garden.”

“I love your garden. It’s so serene. I’m glad the weather is cooperating today. I’ve noticed you’ve had a lot of rain lately.”

“We have, but summer doesn’t usually start here until July. Welcome back to Oregon.” She chuckled. “I remember how much you enjoyed my garden the last time you were here, so I’ve been praying the weather would cooperate.”

Of course she had. Helen was like that—she had no qualms about asking the Lord for a sunny day.

“You’ll be staying in the guest cottage while you’re here.”

Estelle stilled. “I thought your . . .” What does one call a man who works around the farm doing odd jobs? “handyman—”

“His name is Blake, and he moved into the barn so you could have the cottage.”

I’m eager to read the rest of the book. How can readers find you on the Internet?
You can sign up for Kimberly's newsletter via her website at: http://kimberlyrjohnson.com/index.html

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kimberlyrosejoh

Amazon Follow: https://www.amazon.com/Kimberly-Rose-Johnson/e/B00K10CR6E/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1435862403&sr=1-2-ent
Amazon buy links:

An Encore for Estelle (Melodies of Love) (Volume 2) - Paperback
An Encore for Estelle (Melodies of Love Book 2) - Kindle

Readers, 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 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

A LOVE TO TREASURE - Kimberly Rose Johnson - One Free Ebook

Bio: Kimberly writes sweet inspirational romance. She married her college sweetheart 25 years ago. Her hobbies include reading, watching chick flicks, playing the piano, long walks with her hubby and their yellow lab, drinking coffee, and eating dark chocolate. Kimberly holds a degree in Behavioral Science and is a member of ACFW.

Welcome back, Kimberly. How did you come up with the idea for this story?

This story started out as a novella idea that I pitched along with several other authors to another publisher years ago. At that time, I was yet unpublished and had the time to tinker with it when we were not offered a contract. This story has changed more times than I can remember and has grown over the years into what it is today. I honestly don’t recall the inspiration, but that’s a little of the history of how it came to be.

If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why?

Margaret Daley because she is one of my critique partners, and we’ve never met in person. The others five would be JoAnn Durgin because we have only met online, and I would love to get to know her in person, Lynette Eason because I love her books, Susan May Warren because she seems like she’d be a lot of fun, and finally Christina Berry AKA Christina Tarbochia because she is such a fun person to be around. Christina is one of the first people I met in the publishing world, and she was also one of the authors who was originally involved with the novella collection A Love To Treasure was pitched in.

Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why?

I’m not a huge historical fiction reader, but I would for sure include my other two critique partners, Miralee Ferrell and Vickie McDonough. Then I would invite Jen Turano because I like her books and have never met her, Karen Barnett because she is nice, Leslie Gould for the same reason, and finally Davalynn Spencer because she seems like she’d be a fun person.

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?

Keeping up the momentum. There is a lot of self-imposed pressure to have a book release every four to six months. My publisher is all for that, but I am tired and sometimes it’s hard to keep up with everything.

Tell us about the featured book.

A Love to Treasure is a little different from my other published books. It has a little mystery and suspense mixed into the sweet romance story. Here is the back cover blurb.

School teacher Nicole Davis is on summer break, but this vacation is unlike any other. Her beloved Grandmother’s final wish has landed Nicole smack in the middle of her favorite destination—Sunriver, Oregon, following Grams’s clues on a mysterious scavenger hunt. Unexpectedly, Nicole finds more than just a fellow sleuth in a handsome police officer, Mark Stone. But Mark must return to his job in Portland at summer’s end, and Nicole must guard her heart.

Mark is hoping for a quiet summer in Sunriver as he contemplates his future in law enforcement, but a string of burglaries draws him from his self-imposed break from detective work and thrusts him into the middle of the investigation. To complicate matters, Nicole is in jeopardy, and he knows his growing feelings for her could cloud his judgment. Will their differing career goals be the end of their summer romance—or just the beginning of forever after? 

Please give us the first page of the book.

Nicole Davis drove past a huge welcome sign to Sunriver, Oregon, and grinned. She was finally here. She loved this resort community and still couldn’t believe it would be her home for the next few months.

She bore to the right around the traffic circle. Suddenly a black car came out of nowhere. Nicole swerved and slammed on the brake, her front bumper barely missing the side of the black car. Her heart pounded as she weaved her Mini Cooper S onto the miniscule dirt shoulder a few feet from a large pine tree. She put the car in park, her breath coming in quick puffs. She looked around to make sure she hadn’t hit anything. Whew. Everything looked okay.

The crazy driver who ran her off the road drove around the circle again and pulled off the road in front of her. This couldn’t be good. She gulped as a dark-haired man wearing jeans and a dark gray T-shirt stalked toward her.

Her gut clenched. She checked her reflection in the rearview mirror and noted her wide green eyes filled with fear. Not good. She needed to appear unaffected by the incident or he’d see her vulnerability. She took a deep breath then let it out in a whoosh. After making sure no cars were coming, she stepped out of her Mini Cooper and onto the shoulder, refusing to be intimidated by the man. His height caught her by surprise. Most men were only a few inches taller than she was, but not this guy. He towered above her five-foot-nine-inch frame. And those biceps—maybe she should’ve stayed in the car. But he didn’t look dangerous, only irritated.

She offered him a tentative smile. “That was a close call.”




“No kidding. You didn’t yield.” He pointed to a yellow sign.




“Oops. Sorry.” Her face heated. Grams always said she barreled through life.

However, she generally obeyed traffic signs. “I didn’t see the sign.”

I’m eager to read the rest of the story. How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is http://kimberlyrjohnson.com/ Readers can subscribe to my newsletter there which is the best way to know when I have an upcoming release. I also love connecting with people on Facebook. I recently started a fan page. Here is the link to join the group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1566138407009549/ If you are a Twitter person, you can follow me @kimberlyrosejoh. My author page on Amazon is http://www.amazon.com/Kimberly-Rose-Johnson/e/B00K10CR6E/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1463415687&sr=8-2-ent

Thanks for hosting me! These questions were fun and made me think. J

I'm always happy to have you on the blog, Kimberly. I write under the name Lena Nelson Dooley, in case someone knew me as Lena Nelson, but my actual middle name is also Rose.

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

A Love to Treasure (Sunriver Dreams Book 1)

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

ISLAND CHRISTMAS - Kimberly Rose Johnson - One Free Book

Bio: Kimberly Rose Johnson writes sweet inspirational romance. She married her college sweetheart 25 years ago. Her hobbies include reading, watching chick flicks, playing the piano, long walks with her hubby and their yellow lab, drinking coffee, and eating way too much dark chocolate. Kimberly holds a degree in Behavioral Science and is a member of ACFW.

Island Christmas

Mountain Brook Ink

October 30, 2015

Should Rachel take a risk, or play it safe and possibly lose the man who could help fulfill her dreams? 

Welcome back, Kimberly. How would you classify the genre of your novel?

I have always thought of my writing as contemporary romance, but it actually sells better in the women’s Christian fiction genre. I’m not sure why, but it may have something to do with my covers. I’ve learned since expressing my vision for the covers to my publishers that romance readers like to see people on the covers and the first three books in this series do not have people. I’m hoping the next book will. J

Please tell us three random things we might not know about you.

--As a kid I wanted to be a secret agent when I grew up.

--When I first started writing I wrote romantic suspense, but never sold any of those manuscripts. I switched genres to contemporary romance and sold the first one I wrote.

--I changed my major three times in college. I started as an elementary Ed major, switched to piano performance, and ultimately ended up with a degree in Behavior Science with a minor in music.

I changed my major three times in college, too. I started as an English major, then changes to speech, and finally went with Drama. Please tell us a bit more about the plot of your novel.

Sous Chef Rachel Narrelli returns to Wildflower Island looking for a fresh start for herself and her young son, but discovers that life has a lot of bumps in the road even on idyllic Wildflower Island. She is grateful when new friend Chris Campbell offers support as she faces obstacles with her new job and new life. She cares for Chris but must decide if she is willing to risk her heart to a man with an uncertain future.

A self-proclaimed workaholic, Chris Campbell comes to Wildflower Island hoping to take life at a slower pace. When a new guest at the Wildflower B and B catches his eye, he is drawn to her. But how will a woman and her young son fit into his future—a future that’s uncertain at best? And most of all, how can he reconcile her lack of faith in God with his strong religious beliefs. 

What is it about your lead character that will make your readers care about her/him.

Rachel is a courageous young widowed mother who has worked hard to get where she is, but life keeps knocking her down.

All the men in Chris’s family have died young from heart attacks. Chris believes this could be his fate as well and has worked hard to stay heart healthy, but when it’s not enough he moves to Wildflower Island for a slower pace. While there he meets Rachel and her young son and suddenly he’s not content to accept his family history.

If you were the casting director for the film version of your novel, who would play your lead roles?

Chris would be played by Bradley Cooper and Rachel would be played by Alexis Bledel—I’m a huge Gilmore Girls fan and would be honored to have her play the part. J

What is something in your writing-industry experience that made you laugh or at least smile?

Several years ago at one of the summer Oregon Christian Writer’s Conferences Liz Curtis Higgs was the keynote speaker. My goodness she is funny. I think I was crying at times from laughing so hard.

I love to listen to Liz Curtis Higgs. She was one of my first online writer friends, way back in the early days of the public Internet. What is the last novel you read that you would recommend? Why do you recommend it?

I just finished reading My Brother’s Crown by Mindy Starns Clark and Leslie Gould. At first I wasn’t sure I would like it because it has two stories within the storyline, one takes place in present day the other several hundred years ago. Then I realized how important one story was to the other and how you wouldn’t have the present day story without the historical one. It was exceptionally well written and a page-turner. It’s also part of a series so there is a continuing mystery thread.

I also really liked Kept by Sally Bradley. This book is unlike most books Christian books I’ve read. It’s one of those stories you need to read to understand what I’m saying, but I couldn’t put it down.

What are you working on now?

I’m currently writing Island Hope the fourth book in the Wildflower B and B Romance Series. This book will release in April 2016. The release spread between books is farther on this one. I hope readers will subscribe to my newsletter so I can let them know when it releases. It’s easy to subscribe from my website at kimberlyrjohnson.com.

Where else can readers find you online?

My website J kimberlyrjohnson.com

I am a contributing blogger at http://www.inspyromance.com/

All my books are available on Amazon http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Kimberly+Rose+Johnson

Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

Since this is a Christmas book, what is your favorite Christmas memory?

I’ll share mine. When I was a kid my family drove to California to spend Christmas with my Grandma. We were still traveling Christmas morning and had stopped at a rest stop. In those days, seatbelts weren’t required, and my sister and I sat in the back of our Datsun pickup on beanbags. There was a boot that connected the back to the cab. Anyway, my parents stopped to give us our Christmas stockings and handed them to us through the boot. She opened our gifts in full view of anyone who cared to watch through our windshield. I’ll never forget this one woman who stood there the entire time with a big smile just watching my sister and I enjoy our Christmas morning stocking at the rest stop. J

Thank you, Kimberly, for sharing this new book with us. I enjoyed reading the first two in the series, and I'm eagerly awaiting my copy of this one. I know my readers will be eager to read this one as well.

Readers, leave a comment, answering Kimberly's question, 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

ISLAND DREAMS - Kimberly Rose Johnson - One Free Ebook

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

I don’t set out to write spiritual themes into my stories, but two keep popping up. Fear and forgiveness.

What other books of yours are coming out soon?

I had a fun anthology release in July called Love in Mistletoe Springs. Island Christmas, The final book in the Wildflower B and B Romance series releases in October.

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

Debbie Macomber because I admire her career and all that she has accomplished.

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

I would love to ask Adam and Eve a bunch of questions. Hmm, there would probably be a language barrier.

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

Continue to improve your writing and remember that God’s timing is perfect even though it’s rarely the timing we’d like. I know this from personal experience. J

Tell us about the featured book.

Island Dreams is the second book in the Wildflower B and B Romance series. It takes place on a small Island in the Puget Sound. Here is the back cover blurb. Piper Hunt arrives on Wildflower Island to develop family property into an upscale resort knowing this may be her last chance to prove her worth to her father. With grandiose ideas, she soon finds herself at odds with adjoining property owner, Chase Grayson. As she begins to appreciate the simplicity of the island, she struggles to maintain balance between her father's wishes, preserving the natural beauty of the island, and her attraction for Chase.

Chase Grayson values the peace and quiet of Wildflower Island. That serenity is threatened when Piper Hunt discloses her plans to develop an upscale resort that not only butts up to his property, but will turn the island into a busy tourist destination. In fighting her plans, he also finds himself fighting his attraction to her. If he doesn't stop her plans for the resort, his life will be altered forever. If he succeeds, it means he will never see her again. Can he live with either choice?

Please give us the first page of the book.

Sure.

PIPER HUNT HATED TO BE LATE but this time it couldn’t be helped. She rushed into the general store where the smell of coffee permeated the air. She’d give anything for a good cup right now. She hoped this place had a decent brew but was doubtful. She already missed the Starbucks in her Tacoma office building.

She stopped abruptly as her surroundings registered in her brain. “Whoa.” She’d stepped back in time at least fifty years. Her dad had warned her about Wildflower Island, but this was the kind of place one had to see to believe.

The general store looked like something out of Little House on the Prairie only somewhat modernized. She looked around the expansive space. It really wasn’t bad. On one side groceries and sundries were lined up neatly on old-fashioned wood shelves reminiscent of a simpler time in history, on the other side a small café.

She squared her shoulders and strode to the right toward the café. Now to find Chase Grayson. She looked around the room and didn’t spot anyone that could be described as six foot tall and in his early thirties. She glanced at her watch. The ferry to the island had been a little late this morning thanks to a stalled vehicle. The man was supposed to meet her here ten minutes ago. Had he given up and left? She’d sent him a text, but he hadn’t replied. Maybe he never saw it.

A guy who looked to be in his late teens stood at the café’s register. “May I help you?”

“I hope so. I’m looking for Chase Grayson. I was supposed to meet him here.”

“You missed him. He left a few minutes ago. Are you Piper?”

“Yes.”

He held out a piece of paper. “He asked me to give this to you.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

The best place to find me is my website. I have a newsletter sign up there as well as a contact button and all buttons to all my social networking sites. http://kimberlyrjohnson.com/

Here are my other site links if you’d prefer.

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

Twitter https://twitter.com/kimberlyrosejoh

Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/krose1990/

Thank you, Kimberly, for sharing this new book with us. I can't wait to read this one. I loved the first one in the series so much.

Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
Island Dreams (Wildflower B&B Romance Book 2)

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free ecopy 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

ISLAND REFUGE - Kimberly Rose Johnson - One Free Book

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

I write contemporary Christian romance because I enjoy reading them and it seems to be the genre I’m best at writing.

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

I really don’t know. One day in particular doesn’t stand out to me. I do remember being pretty excited when I got the phone call about my first writing contract.

How has being published changed your life?

I’m not the same person I used to be. I’m more open and outgoing, not nearly as shy as I used to be, and I now spend copious hours a day on the computer. When I started writing I didn’t even know how to open an email attachment!

What are you reading right now?

Lizzy and Jane by Katherine Reay.

What is your current work in progress?

Island Dreams, the second book in my Wildflower Island Romance series

What would be your dream vacation?

This changes constantly depending on my mood, but right now, I’d really like to go back to Disney World. I also think it would be fun to go to Ireland or Scotland too, but I doubt it will ever happen.

You’re young, and our God loves to fulfill dreams. How do you choose your settings for each book?

I try to choose places that I would want to visit. Wildflower Island doesn’t really exist, but it was inspired by Washington state’s Anderson Island. That island wasn’t quite big enough for me, so I embellished things and changed the name to Wildflower Island.

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

That is such a hard question! I think it be most fun to be able to visit with someone I know, but have never met. I would love to spend an evening with my critique group. I have never met two of them in person, but I suppose that’s cheating. Hmm, I am stumped. I’m really sorry, but no one comes to mind. I wouldn’t want to spend and entire evening with someone I don’t know. That would uncomfortable. So if you will let me cheat, I’d choose my critique group, Miralee Ferrell, Margaret Daley, and Vickie McDonough—I can’t choose between them.

What a great group. I love all three of them. What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I love playing the piano, talking long walks, riding my bike, watching Hallmark movies, and traveling, although I don’t get to travel often.

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

Coming up with a plot long enough to fill a book before I actually write the book. I’m not sure I’ve actually overcome this. I have a good idea of where my books begin and end, but I’m a seat of the pants writer for the rest. I sometimes get my critique partners to assist me with ideas and other times I do something not related to my book. My mind usually chews on it while I’m otherwise occupied and sooner or later I begin to realized things about my characters and their lives and I take off again.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

I’m sure you’ve all heard this before, but it’s so important. Learn the craft of writing. I also think it’s important to make friends with writers.

Tell us about the featured book.

Island Refuge takes place on a small island in the Puget Sound at a B-and-B. Here is the back cover blurb.

Five-Star-Chef Zoe Griffin walked away from her dream job. Did she make a mistake?

Her engagement off, Zoe Griffin retreats to tiny Wildflower Island in the Puget Sound. Hiding out as a cook and maid at a shabby bed-and-breakfast seems crazy for a chef who’s used to running her own five-star kitchen. And just as she starts to feel at home, her klutzy mishaps make Zoe fear her handsome new boss will fire her.

Dr. Nick Jackson is done with medicine, and owning a B-and-B is as far from doctoring as he can get. He needs help, but his only employee’s mistakes give him doubts. As Zoe lets her defenses down, Nick begins to see a competent and caring woman. One whose wounds are as deep as his own. But as they fall for each other, Nick and Zoe must learn the hardest lesson of all—to forgive. Only then can they heal the past and embrace the future ... together. 

Please give us the first page of the book.

Dr. Nick Jackson sat behind the wheel of his Range Rover with the windows lowered, waiting to board the ferry from Wildflower Island, Washington. A red convertible exited the ferry, its top down and radio blaring. The woman behind the wheel ducked her head and swerved in his direction, nearly taking off his paint. He laid on his horn, and the car skidded to a stop.

The woman bolted upright, her vivid green eyes wide. “I’m so sorry!”


“No harm done.”


“I was reaching for my directions.”


Nick glanced forward and noticed traffic maneuvering around the woman’s car. “Perhaps

I can help. I live here.” He’d only been on the island a week, but it was small so he felt safe offering assistance.

She waved a piece of paper. “No need. Again, I’m sorry for nearly hitting you. Maybe I’ll see you around. I start my new job today.” She flashed a nervous smile then eased back into the line of cars and drove off.

Her last words reverberated in his mind. What were the chances the blonde was his new cook and housekeeper at the Wildflower Bed-and-Breakfast? Nick shook his head. Very unlikely. The woman he’d hired was the executive chef of a five-star restaurant in Portland, Oregon. Surely the crazy driver wasn’t Zoe Griffin. Whoever she was, he hoped she’d be long gone by the time he returned on the ferry later tonight. Distracted drivers were a menace— attractive or not.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

http://kimberlyrjohnson.com/

https://www.facebook.com/KimberlyRoseJohnson

https://twitter.com/kimberlyrosejoh 

https://www.pinterest.com/krose1990/

Thank you for sharing this book with us. And thank you for your patience when I couldn't sit at the computer to upload the interview on time.

Readers, here is a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
Island Refuge (Wildflower B&B Romance Book 1)

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

A ROMANCE REKINDLED - Kimberly Rose Johnson - One Free Book

Bio: Kimberly Rose Johnson holds a degree in Behavioral Science from Northwest University. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, two teenage sons, and their yellow lab. She writes sweet Christian romance for Heartsong Presents and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers. She enjoys taking long walks with her husband and dog, reading, dark chocolate and time with friends.

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

Since the seventh grade when I discovered romance books, I have been addicted to reading them. I know sweet romance, so that is what I write.

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

I know I should say the day I was married, or the day my kids were born, but I think the happiest day of my life to date was the day my oldest son got his first job. He’s eighteen and has been looking for a job since last summer. I told my mom I was happier for him when he got hired than I was when I received my first book contract, and I was ecstatic about that. J Incidentally the same day he was hired, I found out my editor planned to contract two more books with me. So it was a doubly wonderful day.

                       

We don’t get many days like that. I had one when I received an offer for a book contract one morning and another that afternoon. How has being published changed your life?

I used to teach piano lessons, but this past year my husband encouraged me to write full time. Now my days are filled with writing, social networking, marketing, and all the fun stuff writers get to do. I’m a little more stressed now that I used to be, but I’m living my dream.

What are you reading right now?

I’m currently reading No one to Trust, by Lynette Eason.

Actually, I’m reading a Lynette Eason romantic suspense on my Kindle right now. I love her books. What is your current work in progress?

I’m writing a newly contracted book for Heartsong Presents. My working title is Valentine’s Day Blues. This book will release in March of next year.

I would love to schedule this book on my blog. What would be your dream vacation?

This past year I had the opportunity to go on my dream vacation. My husband and I went to Orlando Florida the first week in December and visited Disney World. It was a much needed break after the release of my Debut novel The Christmas Promise, last November.

It was the trip of a lifetime and something I’d wanted to do since I was a little girl.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

I like reading books set in small towns, so the setting for my current series in Leavenworth, Washington. Leavenworth is nestled in the Washington Cascades and is a themed Bavarian village that tourists flock to. It just so happens my husband has family there, so I was able to visit with them and it a true feel for the area. 

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

This is a tough question because choosing just one person is a challenge. J I really admire Debbie Macomber, so I think I’ll pick her. I would love to pick her brain and just visit with her. She seems like such a nice lady.

I started reading Debbie when her first Christian romance book came out in 1984, and I got to meet her the last time the American Christian Fiction Writers conference was in Denver. What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I love talking long walks with my husband and our dog every evening. It’s possibly the highlight of my day.

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

Creating conflict in my stories has been my most difficult challenge. I like everything to be smooth and happy, but that doesn’t work well in a story.

My critique partners are great at pointing this out to me and commenting when something needs more conflict.

I was like you when I started writing, but I did learn to add conflict. What advice would you give to a beginning author?

First of all only write if it’s your passion. Writers face a ton of rejection and criticism and if you’re not passionate about what you are doing, it won’t be worth the pain.

Assuming, writing is your passion then I recommend getting involved in a writers group. Attend writers’ conferences and read a few books on the craft.

Tell us about the featured book.

A Romance Rekindled is the second book in my Leavenworth, WA series, however it stands alone.  

Here is the back cover blurb.

Susan Hill Isn’t Ready To Forgive.

The small-town CPA can't forget how Blake Mitchell jilted her and left their hometown without an explanation. But when her first love returns to Leavenworth, the ruggedly handsome writer evokes conflicting emotions, especially when Susan meets the child she assumes is his daughter. 

Since his parents’ deaths six years ago, Blake’s been raising his little sister on his own. But he’s never forgotten the woman he left behind. Now, he can’t undo the past, but maybe he can change the future … if he can convince Susan to give him one more chance.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Susan Hill waved goodbye to her best friend, Keira, as she walked out the door of Keira’s candy shop. “See you.” She laughed at the silly look on her friend’s face then turned and smacked into a hard body. Oof.

Strong fingers gripped her arm and a masculine voice close to her ear held remorse. “Susan, you okay?”

She jerked free of his touch, yet her skin tingled where his fingers had held her arms. She let her breath out slowly then braced herself to look into the deep mocha eyes that still haunted her dreams. “Blake.” Why had he returned to Leavenworth? She took a step back. “Um. What are you doing here?”

“Katie wanted candy.” A corner of his mouth lifted, lighting a smile in his eyes. “You look good. I see you’re still into Goth. The purple streaks are cool.”

The young girl standing beside him couldn’t be more than eight or nine, but Susan was never good at guessing ages. A sick feeling gripped her stomach as she counted the years since she had last seen him. He wouldn’t—it’s not possible.

I can’t wait until my copy arrives. How can readers find you on the Internet?

The best place to connect with me is my website. I have links to all my social networking sites as well as a newsletter signup. http://kimberlyrjohnson.com/

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

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

A Romance Rekindled - Christianbook.com
A Romance Rekindled (Heartsong Presents) - Amazon
A Romance Rekindled (Heartsong Presents) - 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

THE CHRISTMAS PROMISE - Kimberly Rose Johnson - One Free Book

Welcome Kimberly. Rose is my middle name, too. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

I don’t set out to write myself into my characters, but there is a piece of me or aspect of my personality in each of them. For example, Keira in The Christmas Promise, is terrified of driving in winter weather. I’m not quite as bad as her (at least most of the time) but my fear inspired hers.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

Hmm, I’m not really a quirky person, but once when I was a kid a friend had this birthday party where she went to each of the guests houses and “kidnapped” us from our beds. Of course my mom was in on it.

We weren’t allowed to change from our nightclothes! Then we all went out to breakfast in our nightgowns and PJ’s.  Being a rather quiet and shy girl, I was mortified, but I eventually got into the spirit.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I enjoyed creative writing in high school but failed miserably at it in college, according to my writing professor. Fortunately, I didn’t let her opinion stop me forever from writing, and in 2006 I made the decision I was going to write. LOL I am a little impulsive, but I had a story in my head that I couldn’t stop thinking about. I’ve been writing ever since.

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

I tend to stick to Christian books because I know they are clean. As far as genre goes, I love romance and romantic suspense. That being said, I also read mysteries and thrillers if they seem to have a romantic thread. Generally I don’t enjoy a book unless there is at least a little romance in the story. I also enjoy reading Young Adult every now and then. Now here is an odd quirk—I prefer contemporary in all genre’s except YA.

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

LOL, good question! I have a wonderful husband who helps with cooking, cleaning, and running the kids where they need to be. For the most part, I’m good at organizing my time and not over-committing. I know what I can handle, and I’m careful to stick to my boundaries.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

First I figure out how old my character is, then I look up popular names for the year he/she was born. From there I have to know my character’s personality a little to know what name would suit. I always try to pick strong names.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Today I’m most proud of getting traditionally published. It was a long time coming. J

Many of us had a long learning curve before we were traditionally published, myself included. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

A dog because I’m loyal.

What is your favorite food?

My favorite meal is probably lasagna, but I can’t turn down pie, especially berry pie.

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

I tried to get published in romantic suspense for years and even made it to committee, but never made it beyond that.

My agent and a good writer friend suggested I try writing straight romance. I finally listened and wrote The Christmas Promise. I guess I overcame the obstacle of publication by changing my approach.

Copyright © 2013 by Harlequin Enterprises Limited

Cover Art used by arrangement with Harlequin Enterprises Limited

Tell us about the featured book.

The Christmas Promise takes place in Leavenworth, Washington, a quaint Bavarian village nestled in the Cascade Mountain Range. Here is the back cover blurb:

DR. PETE HARDING DOESN'T DATE SINGLE MOMS

No matter how lovely Keira Noble's smile, or how adorable her four-year-old son. He's been down that road before and knows it can lead to a broken heart. But that doesn't mean he can't help the pretty widow find a puppy to put under the Christmas tree for her son….

Pete claims he only wants to help her find the perfect gift for Cody. Yet Keira can't deny the tender feelings in his eyes whenever he looks at her. Could this handsome Scrooge have a change of heart, and create a new family for Christmas?

Please share the first page for my reader.
(This is the first two pages.)

Keira Noble peered out her apartment window at the first snow of the season, and a shiver ran through her. Snow set her on edge. Winter in the quaint Bavarian village of Leavenworth, Washington, always meant snow, but it was only the middle of October—much too early. Taking a sip of her morning coffee, she tucked her feet under her legs and snuggled deeper into the quilt. She closed her eyes, unwilling to gaze at the one thing that tortured her every winter.

“Momma.” Four-and-a-half-year-old Cody padded out from his room and climbed into her lap. He nestled his head against her chest. “What’s for breakfast?”

“How about oatmeal with blueberries?” She didn’t open the candy shop until ten on weekdays, and treasured this time with her son.

“No.”

“Really? I thought you loved blueberries.”

He shook his head. “I like gummy worms. Can I have them in my oatmeal?”

“Eww. I don’t think so.” She gave him a squeeze and stood, setting him on the chaise. “Maybe after lunch you can pick out a few gummy worms from the bin.” She smiled to herself, imagining he’d be the most popular kid in school someday with his access to candy.

She heard footsteps on the stairs that led to the alley. Right on time. Her best friend, Susan, had a way of showing up a couple of mornings a week for breakfast. She especially appreciated the visit today considering the weather. Susan knew the fear snow brought on. Just the thought of driving now… She shuddered. A rap on the door sounded and Keira flung the door open. “Morning.” She gave Susan a quick hug and stepped back.

“Brrr. It’s freezing out there.” Susan unwound her scarf, pulled off her boots and hung her coat on a hook by the door. “Where’s my little buddy?” She tiptoed over to the chaise. “Boo.”

Cody squealed and laughed. “Aunt Susan, you always do that.”

Sitting beside him, Susan wrapped an arm around Cody. “And you always laugh.” She poked his belly. “What’s for breakfast?”

“Oatmeal, but Mom said no gummy worms.”

Susan snapped her fingers. “Bummer, but I’m sure she’ll let us have brown sugar.” Susan got up and walked into the kitchen. “I have a surprise for you.”

Keira looked over her shoulder and raised a brow at her eccentric friend with the purple streaks in her long black hair. “I’m not a fan of surprises.”

“You might like this one.”

“Might?” She measured out the water and poured it into a saucepan. “I don’t like the sound of this. Spill.”

“Sorry.” Susan pulled a card from her pocket. “Be at this address tonight at six and look hot.”

“Huh?” Her friend had never told her to look hot. She turned around and took the card. “Visconti’s?” She narrowed her eyes and crossed her arms. “What’s going on? I’m not going to show up someplace unless I know why.”

“Oh, all right. But you have to hear me out without interrupting.”

“Su-san!”

“We set you up on a blind date.” The words tumbled from her lips. “Pete is great. He’s a veterinarian. Josh knows him from church and got to talking with him when he took his dog in the other day and realized the man has no social life—”

“And he immediately thought of me. I need to have a few words with your brother.”

“You’re interrupting.”

“The two of you set me up? Why don’t you go out with him?” It had to be an all-time low when her friends thought they needed to find her a man.

“He’s not my type.” Susan grinned and batted her lashes.

“Don’t try that on me, missy.” She’d date again when she was ready. “I’m not going.” Keira turned her back on Susan and measured out the oats.

“But you have to. Josh already told him you’d be there.”

“He will have to un-tell him. What kind of person agrees to a blind date at the last minute?”

“Actually Pete’s known about it for a week.” She ducked her head. “I didn’t know how to tell you, and then time got away from me and…” She shrugged. “You can’t cancel now. It’s too late.”

Her friend knew her well. Of course she would’ve canceled. Keira bit her lip. Maybe it wouldn’t hurt to meet the man. Besides it would be rude to back out at the last minute and she had always wanted to try the food at Visconti’s, one of the best Italian restaurants around. Considering how small the village was, it was crazy she’d never been there before.

But there was one problem—Cody. Who would take care of her son and what would she tell him? Since her husband was killed four years ago in a car accident, she had gone out only once. Keira didn’t want him to get confused or attached to a man who wasn’t going to stick around. Ack! She was getting ahead of herself. It was only one date.

Susan touched her arm and lowered her voice. “You need this. It doesn’t have to be anything serious, but it’s time you started getting out there again. You keep yourself holed up in this apartment or the candy shop all the time. Live a little. And don’t worry about Cody. I’ll take care of him.”

“Will you come here to watch him?”

Susan nodded. “Whatever you want.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

WWW.kimberlyrjohnson.com from there you can follow me on Twitter or Facebook, check out my blog, or send me an email.

Thanks for having me!

It’s my pleasure, Kimberly. I read Christmas books in November and December. I read yours and loved it.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
The Christmas Promise - Christianbook.com
The Christmas Promise (Heartsong Presents) -Amazon.com
The Christmas Promise (Heartsong Presents) - 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