THE ESCAPE - Lisa Harris - One Free Book

Welcome back, Lisa. It’s always such a joy to feature you on my blog. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. I don’t purposely write any of myself into my stories, but that said, I think it is inevitable to a degree. J For example, sometimes I find the spiritual thread my characters wrestle with to be my own search. And I’m sure there are other instances that I don’t even see, as my mother has mentioned it a time or two!

 

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? I don’t know if this is the quirkiest, but I have this quirky thing about eating peanut butter and jelly. Please do not get any peanut butter in the jelly jar! You have to use separate utensils.

 

I’m like you. I use a table knife for the peanut butter and a spoon for the jelly. When did you first discover that you were a writer? I’ve wanted to write stories for as long as I remember. My mom talks about dictating my stories before I knew how to write. Stories and characters have always been running around in my mind.

 

Isn’t that fun? Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. I read primarily romantic suspense, historicals, medical thrillers, internationally set stories, and mysteries.

 

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? It’s hard, especially this year. I’ve spent a lot of time in praise and worship and just letting Him cover me with His peace. On the positive side, I think this year has helped us all realize what is really important in life. We’ve been forced to slow down and be appreciative of the little things.

 

How do you choose your characters’ names? I have a list of hero/heroine names I’ve used before so I make sure I don’t use them again. I jot downs names I hear that I like and then see what story they fit into. I have to have the names nailed down before I start writing, and I’m not sure how, but when it’s the right name, it just clicks!

 

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? Writing accolades are temporary, and I’ve realized over the years that I want to hold instead onto what’s eternal. I was reminded of this again over Thanksgiving. When the quarantine started and I had my kids with me, we started a thankful jar. We read through them after Thanksgiving dinner and the repeated theme was thankfulness for our family. Despite all the ups and downs, I’m so grateful for my family. We’re not perfect, but we love each other and that’s such a blessing.

 

This pandemic has made most of us realize what’s really important and Who we need to put all trust in. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? I think a cat. They just lounge around, eat, and purr. J Sounds perfect to me!

 

What is your favorite food? Probably TexMex.

 

What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? I think it would be fear. Afraid to put myself out there. Afraid of rejection and bad reviews. Putting out a story is scary. You want people to love it, but there will always be someone who doesn’t. You have to focus on putting out there what God puts on your heart as you continue to learn to write the best story you can. 

Tell us about the featured book? I’m having so much fun with this series! The Escape is book one of my new US Marshal series. Deputy US Marshals Madison James and Jonas Quinn are thrust into a high-profile case when they are called on to transport two prisoners across the country on a private plane. But when the plane experiences engine trouble en route from the Pacific Northwest to Colorado, the pilots crash-land the aircraft deep in the heart of the sprawling Salmon-Challis National Forest. 

When Madison and Jonas regain consciousness, they find both pilots and one prisoner dead—and one fugitive on the run. They'll have to negotiate the rugged and remote backcountry through Idaho, Wyoming, and Colorado while tracking a murderer who is desperate to disappear—and will do anything to stop them.

 

Please give us the first page of the book. 

There is a razor-thin edge between justice and revenge, where the two easily blur if left unchecked. Five years after her husband’s murder, Madison James was still trying to discover which side of the line she was on—though maybe it didn’t matter anymore. Nothing she did was going to bring Luke back.

Her pulse raced as she sprinted the final dozen yards of her morning run, needing the release of endorphins to pick up her mood and get her through the day. At least she had the weather on her side. After weeks of spring rains, typical for the Pacific Northwest, the sun was finally out, showing off blue skies and a stunning view of Mount Rainier in the distance. Spring had also brought with it the bright yellow blooms of the Oregon grape shrubs, planted widely throughout Seattle, along with colorful wild currants.

You couldn’t buy that kind of therapy.

Nearing the end of the trail, she slowed down and grabbed her water bottle out of her waist pack. Seconds later, her sister, Danielle, stopped beside her and leaned over, hands on her thighs, as she caught her breath.

 

How can readers find you on the Internet?

You can visit my website, www.lisaharriswrites.com or find me on facebook https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLisaHarris 

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

Lisa, I love sharing your wonderful books with my readers, and they love them, too.

Readers, here are links to the book.

The Escape Escape (US Marshals)  - Amazon paperback

The Escape (US Marshals Book 1)  - Kindle

The Escape: US Marshalls, Book 1 - Audio 

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, 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

DANGEROUS DECEPTIONS - Lisa Harris and Lynne Gentry, plus 7 other authors - One Free Copy of PORT OF ORIGIN

BIO: LISA HARRIS is a Christy Award finalist for Blood Ransom and Vendetta, Christy Award winner for Dangerous Passage, and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2011 (Blood Covenant) and 2015 (Vendetta) from Romantic Times. She has over thirty novels and novella collections in print. She and her family have spent almost two decades working as missionaries in Africa. When she's not working she loves hanging out with her family, cooking different ethnic dishes, photography, and heading into the African bush on safari. For more information about her books and life in Africa visit her website at www.lisaharriswrites.com

Welcome back, Lisa. How did your story for the collection come about?

Over a decade ago, Lynne Gentry and I decided to write a medical thriller together. Ghost Heart ended up being the first book in this series. It’s a story about transplant tourism and a mother’s love for a child that makes her willing to do anything to save her. We finally published that novel in 2017, with plans for a second in the series, and promises that it wouldn’t take another decade to write it. Interestingly enough, we’d just finished the second book, Port of Origin, a story about a virus unleashed on a medical ship, when the pandemic our world is facing today hit the headlines. Lethal Outbreak, our story in this collection is actually a prequel to Port of Origin, but can be read in any order. It delves deeper into how Aiden Ballinger and Rachel Allen—one of the main characters from Port of Origin—meet. And then sets the scene for the next book in the series, Death Triangle. When I was asked to join this romantic suspense collection, Lynne Gentry and I decided that this story would be a perfect fit and introduction to our medical thriller series.

Are these stories connected in some way? If so, how?

The stories in this box set are all romantic suspense novels, but are not connected. Most of the stories are stand alone, though may be a part of a series and is a great way to get to know some new best-selling and award-winning authors.

What are you reading right now?

I just started reading Secrets She Knew, by D.L. Woods, one of the other authors in the collection.

How many other books have you had published?

I’ve published about forty books, mainly romantic suspense and medical thrillers—my favorite genres!

 What is the hardest thing about writing a part of a collection?

Since the storylines in the books in this collection aren’t connected, we didn’t have to worry about that angle, but there is still a lot of behind the scenes work that goes on. We’ve spent a lot of time over the past few months brainstorming the cover, discussing marketing strategy (we want to make the USA Today best-seller list), writing interviews, building a website and video, formatting the stories, and the list really goes on and on. I’ve never been a part of a collection like this before, but while it has been a lot of work, I’ve loved working with these other authors.

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

Honestly, I’ve been impacted the most in ways that have nothing to do with writing. We meet monthly on Zoom, share prayer requests, pray for and encourage each other. I hadn’t expected this, and it has been such a blessing!

Please give us a peek into your story.

Lethal Outbreak:  Virus hunter Aiden Ballinger believes the source of the lethal outbreak that decimated a remote Tibetan village came from disturbing the permafrost. Desperate to rebury it before it buries the world, Aiden enlists Rachel Scott, a beautiful epidemiologist. But while Aiden and Rachel pursue the cure—and their feelings for each other—someone is hunting them. Whoever wants them dead will not stop until they are silenced.

What is the best piece of advice you received as an author?

Sit down and write. The journey is full of ups and downs, but write and learn, write some more, and never give up.

Where can my readers find more about the Dangerous Deceptions collection on the Internet?

To read more about the collection, the individual stories, and interesting insights about the authors, we have great website: https://dangerous-deceptions.com

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

Dangerous Deceptions: A Christian Romantic Suspense Boxed Set Collection

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of Point of Origin. 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, 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

POINT OF ORIGIN - Lisa Harris and Lynne Gentry - One Free Book

Dear Readers, I’ve been eagerly awaiting this second book in a series by two of my dearest friends. Their books are powerfully spiritual suspense novels about true-to-life events. I’ve known about both of these books while they were planning and writing them. Little did they know that this book would release when a world-wide pandemic was in full force, which makes this story almost prophetic. I haven’t received my copy yet, but it will go to the very top of my to-be-read pile. You won’t want to miss it.

 Welcome, Lisa and Lynne. This is your second collaboration. How did this story come about?

We’ve always been fans of Mercy Ships and have followed their work for years. One day Lynne was scrolling through her Facebook feed and saw a Mercy Ship story about a boy suffering from a disease that had morphed his body into the shape of a Z. His before and after story was amazing. Because volunteers had dared to bring medical care to a third-world country, this boy had received the gift of straight legs. While all of this good was going on, pirates were really upping their attack game on passing ships and a deadly Ebola outbreak had made its way to the States and set off global panic. The three elements collided and PORT OF ORIGIN was the result.

James and I have loved the work of Mercy Ships since the beginning. Another dear friend of mine was on one of the first two. She shared miraculous stories that God brought about for their team. How did you feel as a team because your story so closely resembles what is going on right now?

The concept of a killer virus on a medical ship was actually fleshed out in a 2009 book series proposal we were shopping. When we didn’t get the opportunity to finish the series, we set the project aside. In 2017 we released the first book in the series (Ghost Heart). That book did so well we decided to write the rest of the series. Due to life setbacks, we didn’t finish the book until December of 2019. Last year, Covid-19 wasn’t even a blip on the map. All of our research was based on a combination of the 2014 Ebola outbreak and pure speculation. Imagine our surprise when, just a month after the book was finished, we started hearing of a rogue virus causing cruise ships to port with hundreds of ill passengers. The day the military medical ship sailed into New York City’s port to rescue the dying, we thought we would cry.

One way our story differs from our current world crisis is that we believe in hope. No matter how dark any of our struggles seem, we believe God is sovereign and He is in control. Port of Origin, while eerily close to the times in which we are living, is filled with wonderful, brave people, and lots of hope.    

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

LYNNE: First, we decided we wanted our hero and heroine to each have a distinctive voice. The easiest way to achieve their separate voices was for each of us to choose which one we wanted to write. Next, it made sense for Lisa to write the scenes involving African characters since she lives there. Because of my connections to the medical world through my daughter and my husband, I did the research and writing for those scenes.

LISA: Once we decided on who was going to write which characters, it allowed us to focus on that part of the story line, and one each specific character’s backstory and personalities. Watching the story come together was really exciting.

What is the hardest thing about writing as a team?

When we began to delve into the research, we were really surprised by what we found. For example, it was sobering to discover that vast amounts of money have been made by the stripping of Africa’s natural resources, but little of that financial gain has trickled down to Africa’s impoverished population. As individual writers, Lisa and I don’t always see things the same way. But in the give and take of coming to a workable solution, we’ve both been surprised by how much we’ve grown. We’ve really come to appreciate each other’s strengths. And we’ve both come to realize that we need a really good editor because neither of us will win any awards for grammar.

What are you reading right now?

LYNNE: I always have a book going. I just finished JoJo Moyes’ Giver of the Stars. Such a fascinating and rich story set during the Depression. I love Paulette Jiles and have recently finished News of the World and The Color of Lightning.

LISA: I’ve just started James R. Hannibal’s The Gryphon Heist.

I always love to see what book the authors I interview are reading. They give me ideas about what books I want to read. How did you choose your characters’ names?

We love our character names to have meaning. We do a lot of searching through name lists and when something rings a bell, we look up the meaning. For example, our hero Josiah is a broken man. We picked this name because it means Jehovah heals. Sometimes we love to honor people we know and use part of their name. When you read our books, you’ll find them sprinkled with tributes to people we love.

Would you want to work on another book together?

We are. We’ve got two more books planned for this year. Lethal Outbreak releases in the Dangerous Deceptions box set with 7 other new books by award-winning authors on October 13. We hope to release Death Triangle, the fourth book in the series, by the end of 2020 or early 2021.

What do you want to tell us about the book?

Two fathers go to war to save their children. If the woman in the middle can’t convince them to work together, the winner of this conflict will be a deadly virus intent on destroying the world. 

Please give us the first page of the book.

Off the Coast of Cameroon, Central Africa

Since ancient times, the sea had been generous. Tuna. Sardines. Ocean prawns big as a man’s hand. But those days of plenty had vanished in the wake of the foreign trawlers whose illegal fishing practices were destroying the coastline’s natural resources. Dabir watched the moon slip behind a veil of clouds, leaving him and his brothers to navigate the vast Atlantic in an eerie shroud of darkness. From his position at the end of the boat, he could see little beyond the shadowy silhouettes of his father and his two younger brothers.

                       

He stopped rowing for a moment as he waited for the sharp tug of the nylon fishing net that would signal the night’s first catch. A wave smashed against the side of the narrow craft, reminding him of the dangers of straying too far into the open waters. He searched for the light of the trawlers that swept the sea’s floor with their ghostlike underwater lights while their wide metal jaws devoured everything in sight, but tonight there was no sign of the floodlights used to lure the fish into their nets. Which meant the deadly boats could be anywhere, trying to avoid the overworked coastal patrols searching in vain for those illegal vessels that strayed into the zone reserved for the smaller vessels. All Dabir could do was pray his father’s boat steered clear of the stealthy trawlers that prowled the darkness. And pray that they would catch enough fish to feed their family another day.

Where can our readers find you on the Internet?

Together we have a Harris/Gentry Suspense Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/harrisgentrysuspense/?ref=bookmarks

LISA: www.lisaharriswrites.com

Twitter: @heartofafrica

Facebook: AuthorLisaHarris

LYNNE: www.lynnegentry.com

https://www.facebook.com/Author-Lynne-Gentry-215337565176144/

https://www.instagram.com/lynnegentry.author/?hl=en

Thank you, Lynne and Lisa, for allowing me to help you market your books. I know my blog readers are as interested in them as I am.

Readers, here are links to the book.

Port Of Origin: A Medical Thriller (Agents Of Mercy) - Paperback
Port Of Origin: A Medical Thriller (Agents Of Mercy Book 2) - Kindle
If you missed the first book in the series and want to read both of them:
Agents Of Mercy (2 Book Series) - 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 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, 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

VANISHING POINT - Lisa Harris - One Free Book

Bio: Lisa Harris is a bestselling author, a Christy Award winner, and the winner of the Best Inspirational Suspense Novel for 2011 and 2015 from Romantic Times for her novels Blood Covenant and Vendetta. The author of more than thirty books, including Vendetta, Missing, Pursued, and the Southern Crimes series, Harris and her family have spent fourteen years living as missionaries in southern Africa. Learn more at www.lisaharriswrites.com.

Ada, Mich.—Bestselling and award-winning author Lisa Harris unveils an unforgettable story of a case that has haunted the public and law enforcement for more than a decade.

During Garrett Addison’s first week on the job as a criminal investigator for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, his team is called out to a murder scene of a young girl. She’s just one in a string of disappearances with a single thing in common—a Polaroid photo of each victim left behind at the crime scene.

The FBI is pulled into the case to help, and Garrett finds himself working with Special Agent Jordan Lambert, the woman he once loved. When yet another girl dies, Garrett blames himself and believes he doesn’t have what it takes to be an agent. What he’ll discover is that, while he may be done with the killer, the killer is not done with him—or Jordan.

Fans of the Nikki Boyd Files will thrill to finally discover what actually happened to Nikki’s sister, Sarah. New readers will become instant fans after devouring this chilling tale.

Welcome back, Lisa. Can you please tell us about your new book?

 Garrett Addison’s first case as a criminal investigator for the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is the murder of a young girl, which is quickly tied to a string of disappearances and a possible serial killer. Special Agent Jordan Lambert, a woman Garrett once loved, joins the case, but another girl is killed and they are unable to find the elusive killer. With a string of murders now spanning over a decade, the case will push those involved to their limits as they search for the truth. Readers who enjoyed the Nikki Boyd Files will be happy to see several appearances of Nikki in the book, from before she became involved in law enforcement to the final showdown and revelation of what happened to her sister, as well as her and Tyler Grant’s relationship. 

How did you come up with the plot for Vanishing Point?

After writing the Nikki Boyd series, my publisher asked that I write a fourth book that would tie up the series—in particular the story line of what happened to Nikki Boyd’s sister, Sarah, who disappeared over a decade ago. I loved the chance to spend the pages of an entire book telling her story along with the other girls who were victims of the Angel Abductor.

How did you choose the setting for your novel?

Since this book is tied closely to the Nikki Boyd Files, I kept this fourth novel set in Tennessee as well since that is where Sarah and the other girls vanished.

What was the most interesting thing you learned while doing research for your book?

In many ways it was a heartbreaking story to write. Because of this I worked hard to ensure readers are given a satisfying story that completely wraps up the series. While I normally do not like stories about serial killers—and, honestly, avoid them—this is more than just a book about the Angel Abductor. It’s about relationships, loss, and how God is still right there in the midst of tragedy.

Research on serial killers was actually very interesting. And especially the fact that most are not like Hollywood’s stereotypes.

What lesson(s) do you hope readers will take away from reading Vanishing Point?

One of the main questions asked in the novel is, where is God when tragedy strikes? It’s a question both Garrett and Jordan struggle with throughout the book. In the end, they come to the same conclusion that I pray my readers will come to. Just because God doesn’t intervene in a situation doesn’t mean he isn’t there. In fact, he is there, but he has decided not to just sweep down and fix our problems every time something goes wrong. Instead he chose to redeem us eternally by sending his Son.

What are you working on next?

I’m currently working on a brand-new stand-alone for Revell that will come out in 2018. It’s another fast-paced suspense novel that deals with hackers and a secret worth dying for.

I’m eager to feature that book, too, when it comes out. How can readers connect with you?

I really do love hearing from my readers! You can check out my books at my website, www.lisaharriswrites.com, or stop by my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLisaHarris.

Thank you, Lisa, for sharing your new book with me and my blog readers. You know how much I love your writing, and my blog readers do, too.

Readers, here are links to the book.

Vanishing Point - Christianbook.com
Vanishing Point: A Nikki Boyd Novel - Amazon paperback
Vanishing Point: A Nikki Boyd Novel - Kindle
Vanishing Point - Audiobook

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

GHOST HEART - Lisa Harris and Lynne Gentry - One Free Book

Dear Readers, I have been eagerly awaiting this day. Both Lisa and Lynne have been dear friends of mine for years. I’ve been privileged by God to help each of them along their writing journey, and both of them have an amazing writing voice. Together, they’re more powerful. I’ve known about this book for a long time, and I knew it would have to be published someday. That day is here.

Welcome, Lisa and Lynne. How did this book come about?      

LYNNE: Just over a decade ago, a newspaper article featured a picture of a terrified albino. The fear in his pale eyes caught my attention. As I read about the horrors these fragile people faced in Africa, I couldn’t believe such evil existed in the world. I contacted Lisa, who lives in Mozambique, and asked her to investigate.

LISA: Until Lynne wrote to me about the article, I’d never heard of these barbaric crimes. But after doing some further research, I discovered that the atrocities against albinos had been going on for years. Once we learned that the witch doctors targeted the pale skin and hair of this minority to make good luck charms and potions, we knew we had to tell their story.

Tell us about the book’s cover and what makes it unique.

We were looking for something that conveyed both the medical aspects of the story and its African setting. The heartbeat and the baobab tree ended up being the perfect combination as well as setting the tone we were looking for. And when you read the book, they will become even more significant.

Please explain and differentiate between what’s fact and fiction in the book.

While the actual story line is complete fiction, the things that happen in this story could happen. Albinos really are hunted for the “magic” in their skin. There really is a black market for organ parts. People really do go to third world countries for transplants when they are out of options. We took these facts, then weaved them into a medical thriller.

How much research did you have to do for this book?

There was a long list of topics we had to delve into and study: Albinism. The transplant tourism trade. Heart conditions. Pharmaceutical testing. Piloting small planes. Organ transplants/rejections. American Embassy procedures in an African country.

Neither of us were experts on any of this so we spent hours tracking down people who were. It helped tremendously that Lisa lives in Africa. Her experiences in a third-world country lend a tremendous amount of authenticity to the project.

What are some of the most interesting things you found about this subject that you weren’t able to use in the story?

While we didn’t shy away from our depiction of the gruesome treatment of albinos, we spared our readers tons of the terrible details we read on the subject. The power of superstition is strong. Only the power of truth is stronger. 

What inspired and surprised you while you were writing the book?

We believe that beneath the color of our skin we are all alike, but this belief was tested when we had to write from the POV of a terrified mother of a cursed child. What surprised us was how much she was willing to do to save her child. This realization really drove home the platitude we spouted so easily and opened our eyes to the fact that you really can’t know how another person is thinking or feeling if you’re not willing to wear their skin, so to speak.

What do you hope the reader takes away from the story?

Because while we live in a fallen world, we believe it is possible to bring light into the darkness. The journey of these characters challenged us, comforted us, and pushed us to live life more courageously. But most of all, writing this story opened our hearts to wanting to do our part to create a world that loves no matter what the color of our skin, education, financial status, or nationality. And reminded us that God's light truly does shine, even in the darkest places. We pray this story will do the same for each person who reads it.

What is the next project you’re working on?

LYNNE: I’m finishing up the last book in my Mt. Hope Southern Adventures series. This romantic comedy (Baby Shoes) wraps up (for now) the quirky life of Leona Harper. After that, I’m doing edits on a Young Adult sci-fi I can’t wait to release.

LISA: I’m currently working on two novels. A Love Inspired Suspense set in Rio and the Amazon, and a new stand-alone suspense novel for Revell. Both will be released next year.

What do you do when you have to get away from the story for a while?

LYNNE: I have several diversions – four grands under the age of four that I love spending time with. I’ve also trained a medical therapy dog that I love to take to visit the cancer wards at a major medical center.

LISA: I love hanging out with my family, cooking different ethnic dishes, photography, and heading into the African bush on safari.

That sounds like fun. Please give us the first page of the book.

Makuru, Tanzania

According to legend, their kind could never die. When they grew old, they simply vanished from this world, like smoke from the cooking fire that snakes above the spindly baobab trees and slithers away.

But not all legends are true.

Or so Jeme prayed.

Squinting through the shimmering rays of the grueling African sun, Jeme balanced the bowl of dried beans on her head and pressed through the crowded marketplace. A maze of narrow paths twisted around her, each lined with dozens of sellers who sat in cramped wooden shops displaying wares on rickety tables.

The smell of curried meat roasting on the grills mingled with the pungent odor of dried fish baking in the late afternoon heat. Jeme’s empty stomach roiled as she hurried past piles of tomatoes, peppers, oranges, and colorful bags of spices. If only she could escape the whispers competing with the buzz of the buyers and sellers. Whispers that spoke of the magical powers of albino blood spilled across the brown earth, and of potions that could bring untold wealth.

I’m very eager to read the rest of the book. I’ve only heard the half that Lynne wrote. How can readers find you on the Internet?

LYNNE: I love hearing from readers.

Website:   https://www.lynnegentry.com/

Blog:   https://www.lynnegentry.com/blog-1/

Facebook AUTHOR   https://www.facebook.com/Author-Lynne-Gentry-215337565176144/

FACEBOOK Personal https://www.facebook.com/lynne.gentry.7

Twitter   https://twitter.com/Lynne_Gentry

Pinterest   https://www.pinterest.com/lynnegentry7/?etslf=4411&eq=lynne

Instagram   https://www.instagram.com/lynnegentry.author/?hl=en

LISA:

Website: www.lisaharriswrites.com

Blog: http://myblogintheheartofafrica.blogspot.com          

Facebook Author: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLisaHarris

Twitter; https://twitter.com/heartofafrica  

Pinterest: https://za.pinterest.com/lharriswrites/

Thank you so much for letting us stop by!!

Oh, girls. I’m so blessed knowing both of you, and it’s a privilege to promote your books. I know my readers will be as eager as I am to read the book.

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

Ghost Heart: A Medical Thriller Ghost Heart: A Medical Thriller

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

DESERT SECRETS - Lisa Harris - One Free Book

Dear Readers, Lisa Harris is a dear friend of mine, who attended the critique group in my home for a number of years before her family moved to Africa to be missionaries. I love the Internet, because it allows us to stay in contact. Her writing is wonderful, and I love following their ministry and sometimes share in something they are doing. Her suspense novels really keep me turning pages.

Welcome back, Lisa. Where do you write?

There’s a spot in my dining room where I can sit at the table and feel the “air-conditioner.” Which is really just the breeze blowing through the house, but it’s also the coolest place in the house, and where I like to work in the summer.

When deciding on how to publish, what directed you to the route you took?

When I first started writing there was only one option. Mailing your manuscript to a publisher. There was no quick Google search back then, so to do this, you first you found out what publishers wanted by reading through Sally Stuart’s Market Guide or a resource from the library. Then you sent off your manuscript to the publisher—a hard copy. After that was done, you waited for weeks or months for a response in your SASE (Self Addressed Stamped Envelope so the publisher could mail back your manuscript if they rejected it). Things have definitely changed!

What kinds of things do you like to do outside of writing?

I like cooking, reading, and photography, but mostly spending time with my family whenever I can because we’re currently spread out across three countries. I’ll be spending time with my oldest for spring break and I can’t wait!

What kinds of advice would you give to someone who wants to start writing?

Remember that it takes time to learn the craft. Don’t skip over that part. Read, write, go to conferences, and write some more. Find a mentor and a group of writers who encourage you to stretch and grow as a writer. Because no matter what route you decide to take, you want your work to be the best possible.

What is your favorite book? Favorite author? Do you have an author that inspired/inspires you to write?

I have so many, I wouldn’t know where to start. J As for inspiration ... when I find that book that pulls me in, makes me forget my inner editor, and makes me wish I’d written it ... now that’s inspiration to keep writing better and better!

Where did you get the idea for Desert Secrets?

In looking for settings for my international stories, I knew that the Sahara would be perfect for a fast-paced romantic suspense. And it was. With my heroine and hero isolated, there’s no phone service or resources, which makes for a very intense race across the desert.

From idea to final revision, how long did it take to write?

From start to finish about four months. 

Are you working on anything now?

Yes! Two projects, actually, with a couple more in the wings. I’m currently finishing up another Love Inspired Suspense that is set in Amsterdam and will be out next year, along with final edits for a brand new Indie novel set in Africa that will be coming out this summer. This one is co-written with Lynne Gentry. I’m grateful to be busy writing!

Please tell us about Desert Secrets. 

 When aid worker Lexi Shannon is abducted at gunpoint in Mali, she quickly learns her kidnappers are really after her brotherand the money he's stolen. Landing at the secluded desert compound, ex-military pilot Colton Landry has a clear mission: rescue his brother, who's being held for ransom. But after discovering the kidnappers also have Lexi, there's no way he's leaving her behind. Their daring escape soon turns into a deadly chase when their plane is shot down, stranding them in the desert. Making a desperate run for the Moroccan border, Lexi and Colton must trust each other and rely on their strength and ingenuity to survive. But it may not be enough to outrun and outsmart their relentless pursuers

Please give us a peek at the first page of the book.

Lexi Shannon winced at the sharp sting of her captor’s hand across the side of her face. She blinked back the tears, then reached up to wipe away the metallic taste of blood that had pooled in the corner of her mouth.

“I’m going to ask you one last time,” the man repeated. “Where is your brother?”

She looked up at his weathered face and forced herself to catch his gaze. “I don’t know.”

He stood over her in his khaki fatigues, anger flashing in his eyes at her response. “Then we have a problem, because my boss isn’t going to like your answer. We know he was in Timbuktu with you.”

She pressed her nails into the palms of her hands, determined not to cry. “He was with me, but like I’ve already told you, he left yesterday morning, and I have no idea where he is now.”

He squatted down in front of her, his dark eyes boring through her. “Then tell me again. Everything you know about your brother’s visit.”

Lexi glanced across the makeshift compound where they’d kept her the last few hours. Past the rustic tents made of animal skins toward the endless ripples of the orange Sahara shimmering in the late afternoon sunlight. There was nothing but the sand in every direction and the raging sun above them.

Where can my readers find you on the Internet?

I love to hear from my readers! I have a website, www.lisaharriswrites.com, and a blog, http://myblogintheheartofafrica.blogspot.com .

Thanks so much for letting me stop by, Lena!!

It’s always a pleasure to visit with you here on the blog.

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

Desert Secrets - Christianbook.com
Desert Secrets (Love Inspired Suspense) - Amazon
Desert Secrets (Love Inspired Suspense) - 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 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

MISSING - Lisa Harris - One Free Book

Dear Readers, it’s always a special day when I feature Lisa Harris on my blog. I first met Lisa when she came to the critique group I host in my home, many years ago. When she first read, I recognized her gift of storytelling. However, there were a number of ways we could help her hone her craft. She was an eager learner, and I’ve watched her writing grow and mature. As is often the case, the student has far surpassed the teacher. Her Christian romantic suspense novels are some of the best on the market. Now she and her husband are missionaries in Mozambique, Africa.

Welcome back, Lisa. What kind of files takes up the most space on your computer?

I’d have to say photos. Family photos, ministry photos, animal photos. . .can you tell I love photos?

And you take some very good ones. I love seeing them. Do you have plans to ever retire from writing? Why or why not?

From publishing books? Maybe, but I’m not sure I ever will completely retire from storytelling. The stories always seem to be there, waiting to be put down on paper.

Several years ago, I read a report that they’re finding a larger percentage of alzheimer patients among writers who stop writing than in the general population. I decided then and there to never stop writing. Are you a stay at home kind of person, or do you like to be on the road a lot?

We travel a lot for our ministry, but I’m really a stay at home kind of person. I love days when I don’t have to go anywhere.

Please share a Bible verse or passage that has had the most impact on your life.

This verse sticks out for me as a reminder to not give up, but to persevere.  “. . .let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Hebrews 12:1

Do you have a favorite Bible character? Who is it and why?

I’ve always loved Esther who was called for such a time as this. I want to be used by God in whatever way He has planned for my life.

I have always been interested in Esther. I even wrote a dramatic monologue of Esther. What has been your favorite time in your life? And why?

Whenever I have all my kids home at the same time. Right now they’re spread out in three different countries which is tough for a mama. So having them all together—whenever we can—is the best time.

Do you have an ereader? If so, what kind do you use?

Yes, I just got a Kindle Fire after we had one stolen and I like it. Living overseas without any bookstores nearby it’s wonderful to be able to instantly get books I want to read!

James gave me a Kindle Fire for Christmas. I didn’t even think he’d know how to go about doing something like that, and he really didn’t. But he asked our grandson-in-law and one of our daughters to help him. Do you read mostly print books or ebooks?

I still enjoy print books, but mostly read ebooks.

They’re surely easier to carry with you when you travel. Do you like to read books in the genres you write, or do you read only other genres … and why?

I love romantic suspense, but always find myself critiquing them way too much. When I read a historical, though, for example, I can just sit back and enjoy the story. Strange, maybe, but definitely true. So a romantic suspense book that makes me forget to critique is a keeper!

Please tell us about the book we’re featuring today.

I’m so excited about Missing. It’s book two in my Nikki Boyd Files series. Most of the comments I’ve been reading say that you can read it as a stand alone without any problems, but there are some overarching themes that you’d miss without reading Vendetta, book one.

Nikki Boyd isn’t usually called in on homicides; her forte is missing persons. But when a case with two murdered and two missing pops up on a quiet suburban street, she’s ready to start the investigation and find missing homeowners Mac and Lucy Hudson. When the first clues lead her to the boat of her friend Tyler Grant—and another dead body—Nikki must untangle what ties Tyler to the Hudsons. The clues pull her into a deadly maze of counterfeit drugs and a killer who will stop at nothing to silence anyone who threatens his business—including Nikki.

I know I’ll love this one. Please give us a peek at the first page of the book.

8:25 a.m., Thursday

Nashville suburb

Nikki Boyd slid out of her white Mini Cooper as two bagged bodies were being wheeled from the one-story house nestled in one of Nashville’s nicer suburbs. Her stomach clenched. Even after eight years on the force, the emotional challenges of the job had yet to make her completely calloused. It was impossible not to personalize some of what she saw. The cases she couldn’t solve. The brokenness she couldn’t fix. But neither could she let her cases become personal. She started down the walk where half a dozen police cars and the local medical examiner had parked in front of the taped-off crime scene, allowing both uniformed and plain-clothed officers to take over the sleepy, tree-lined street. One of her teammates, Jack Spencer, stood waiting for her on the curb dressed in one of his suit jackets and white dress shirt paired with a typical blue-and-orange paisley tie.

“Morning,” she said, holding up a takeaway box from her parents’ barbeque restaurant. “I was having breakfast with my mom and Jamie when the call came in. Thought you might like a couple of my mom’s homemade cinnamon rolls to celebrate your first day back to work.”

Five weeks ago, he’d gotten shot in the middle of a hostage situation that had almost gotten both of them killed.

“You can’t imagine how happy I am to be back on the job,” Jack said. “Though next time, I’d appreciate it if you’d remind me to duck when someone starts shooting at me.”

Where can my readers find you on the Internet?

Drop by my website at www.lisaharriswrites.com to find out more about my books and life in Africa!

Thanks so much for having me, Lena!!

My pleasure and great blessing, Lisa.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Missing - Christianbook.com
Missing (The Nikki Boyd Files) - Amazon, paperback
Missing (The Nikki Boyd Files Book 2)  - Kindle
Missing - audiobook

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 not in US. (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