KETURAH - Lisa T Bergren - One Free Book

Dear Readers, Lisa T Bergren has been one of my favorite authors for a long time. I’ve read both her novels for adults and her young adult series. The characters always grab me and take me along on their adventures. It’s as if I’m right there in that setting with them instead of someone who is outside looking in. I know you’ll love her writing, too.

Welcome back, Lisa. As an author, I know it takes a lot of people to birth each book. Who were the people involved in the birthing of this book, and what were their contributions?

Keturah is a wounded woman. My daughter went through some trauma during her first year of college and I was really thinking about her healing journey as I wrote this novel. My parents and friends housed me during week-long writing stints. My family supported me through it all!

If you teach or speak. What’s coming up on your calendar?

I don’t teach or speak! Too busy with just writing, running my husband’s business, planning a summer wedding for my daughter and building a house!

You do have your hands full. Blessings on you. If you had to completely start over in another place, where would you move, and why?

Montana. Because it’s where my heart just sighs, “home,” every time I go. It was where I was born and spent every summer of my life ... up until about four years ago.

If you could only tell aspiring novelists one thing, what would it be?

Read obsessively in the genre you want to write; break down your favorite novel in that genre, chapter by chapter, outlining both what the author did with character growth/setbacks and plot arc.

You’ve been asked to be in charge of a celebrity cruise. Who would you ask to take part, and why? (AS in what program, singers, etc. [it doesn’t have to be writing related])

I’d probably invite all my author friends because we could talk shop and relate immediately, because we’re on the same path. And a great worship leader like Nicole Nordeman to lead us….or a team from Hillsong or Bethel.

I’d love to be included on that cruise. I love everything about it. Tell us about the featured book.

Keturah is the first in The Sugar Baron’s Daughters trilogy, and centers on the eldest, who has sworn off men and is going where no woman has gone before ... to save her father’s dying plantation. She is a headstrong, wounded woman, and finds she must find healing with her God and those who love her, before she can make much progress.

Please give us the first page of the book.

In the hopes that at least one would get through, their father had sent three copies of his last letter from the West Indies; as it happened, his daughters received all three. The first arrived nine weeks after it was posted. A servant delivered the second on a silver tray, a week after they received word their father had perished. By the time the final, rather ghoulish draft came, the girls were weeks into their grief, and it was buried in a stack of condolence letters.

“I’m only glad that Mother isn’t here to endure this,” Verity said, handing her older sister the letter in her father’s careful script. Her eyes were bloodshot, making them an eerie gold-green rather than their normal mossy-stream color. Ket knew she hadn’t been sleeping; she’d heard the floorboards creaking as Ver tiptoed downstairs each night. Their youngest sister, Selah, never left her rooms after retiring, but judging from her wan complexion and the dark circles ringing her own eyes, Ket wagered she’d spent much of her night tossing and turning.

“Here is another you ought to see,” Verity said, handing her a second letter as she shifted through the stack of words sent from well-meaning kin and acquaintances. Keturah met Ver’s concerned gaze before accepting it and glancing down. From the scrawl, she knew it was from her father’s attorney, Clement Abercrombie, the temporary manager of the entire Banning estate—both that of Hartwick Manor, here in Rivenshire, and Tabletop Plantation on Nevis.

Keturah sighed and closed her eyes. She didn’t know if she could bear to read the same words from her father a third time, describing his failing health … imploring his daughters to ever remember his fervent love for them. And yet had she not scoured the first and second, searching for variances, any scant detail that would somehow help her connect to their father? No, better to remain in realm of the head rather than the heart. To read of business, to know of the outcome of this latest sugar harvest. Certainly it had to be better than the last. They desperately needed some glad tidings…

She slid a finger under the wax seal and popped open the heavy linen paper, unfolding it. She settled back into the worn but beautifully upholstered damask chair, what had once been her mother’s favorite. But as she read, her heart sank lower and lower. No, no, no…

“Ket, what is it?” Verity asked, setting aside the rest of the letters and leaning forward. “You look positively aghast.”

Where can we find you on the Internet?

http://LisaTawnBergren.com

www.Facebook.com/LisaTawnBergren

@LisaTBergren on Twitter and Instagram

I’m really looking forward to reading this new book. It’s at the top of my to-be-read pile, and I’ll start it when I send in the book I finished writing last week after I finish a final edit this week. Thank you for sharing Keturah with us.

Readers, here are links to the book. 
Keturah - Christianbook.com
Keturah (The Sugar Baron's Daughters) - Amazon paperback
Keturah (The Sugar Baron's Daughters Book 1) - Kindle
Keturah: The Sugar Baron's Daughters, Book 1 - Audio book

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

GLITTERING PROMISES - Lisa T Bergren - One Free Book on This Blog, Plus More

Bio: Lisa T. Bergren is the award-winning author of over thirty-five books, with more than 2 million copies sold. A former publishing executive, Lisa now divides her time between writing, editing, parenting three children with her husband, Tim, and dreaming of her next trip to Italy. She lives in Colorado Springs. 

Readers, I'm thrilled to once again feature Lisa T Bergren on the blog. I love Glittering Promises. It's a fitting end to the series. You won't want to miss reading this one, and if you haven't read the first two, do that before you read Glittering Promises. 

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

I didn’t set out to be an “author.” To me, that sounded other-worldly, audacious. It took about five published books before I could call myself a “writer” and about ten before I could claim “author.” But I’m one now because one book after the next forms in my head, and to ignore it would pretty much make me crazy. So, I write. And God, in his goodness, has made a way for me to get those books out to others.

If you weren’t an author, what would be your dream job?

A travel agent. I love planning trips—even other people’s trips.

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

The 1920s. Women were beginning to find their way in a man’s world, and yet the world was still largely filled with innocence, and possibility.

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

As a Western girl, there are many places in the East I have not yet been. I want to see them ALL.

How about a foreign country you hope to visit?

Hmmm. I can’t name one—there are so many places I want to see! Chile, Peru, Argentina, Switzerland, Spain, Austria…And yet, I still want to go back and see all the places in Italy and England and France I’ve not yet been! Oh, for an unlimited travel budget…

What lesson has the Lord taught you recently?

That submission is an ever-evolving lesson. There’s always some corner I’ve not yet relinquished to his care.

Tell us about the featured book.

GLITTERING PROMISES is the finale in the Grand Tour Series, which began with GLAMOROUS ILLUSIONS and continued with GRAVE CONSEQUENCES. In it, our Grand Tourists complete their journey in Italy. For Cora, it is the end of both an inner and outer journey, seeking to find out who she really is … and who she isn’t. And the bonus? Lots of romance and adventure, as well as an arm-chair view of many sites along the way…

Please give us the first page of the book.

 “If you spot him again, shoot him on sight,” my father said. “I shall deal with the repercussions myself.”

I gently pulled off my gloves and felt Will’s grip on my elbow tighten. I looked about the room—at my younger sister, Lil; my brother, Felix; and one of our guards, Pascal, standing with Antonio and my father.

“What’s this?” Will asked, leading me closer to the others, deeper into the Venetian palazzo’s grand salon. I was thankful that the long windows were wide open, allowing the brine-laced breeze to waft through. “What’s happened?”

“Oh, Cora!” Lillian cried, rising and entering my arms. She clung to me a second and then pulled back to look at me. “It was Nathan Hawke! I’m certain I saw him across the piazza today!”

“Truly?” I asked. “Nathan? If you’re right, he’s far less clever than I thought.” I looked to my father, his words about shooting him on sight making far more sense now. Nathan Hawke was dangerous, instrumental in our kidnapping a week past, thwarted only because Will and Art had used other nefarious men to double-cross him.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Readers can find me on the Internet at: www.LisaBergren.com ; www.Facebook.com/LisaTawnBergren ; @LisaTBergren

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

Lisa T. Bergren is celebrating the release of her new book, Glittering Promises, by giving away a $200 Italian feast from Williams-Sonoma and hosting a fun Facebook party on October 29th.

 
  One winner will receive:

• A $200 Italian feast from Williams-Sonoma delivered to your door
• The three-book Grand Tour set

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 29th. Winner will be announced at the "Glittering Promises" Facebook Author Chat Party on October 29th. Connect with Lisa for an evening of book chat, European trivia, and prizes, and get an exclusive look Lisa's next book.

So grab your copies of the Grand Tour series and join Lisa on the evening of October 29th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the books, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP today by clicking JOIN at the event page. Spread the word—tell your friends about the giveaway and party via FACEBOOK or TWITTER. Hope to see you on the 29th!

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

Glittering Promises - Christianbook.com
Glittering Promises: A Novel (Grand Tour Series) - Amazon.com
Glittering Promises: A Novel (Grand Tour Series) - Kindle

Christian Book Store

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

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

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

If you’re reading this on 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

GRAVE CONSEQUENCES - Lisa T Bergren - One Free Book on This Blog, Plus Much More

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

Well, since GRAVE CONSEQUENCES is Book 2 in a three-book series, it meant we’d continue on with the characters introduced in GLAMOROUS ILLUSIONS. But I wanted to up the stakes for Cora, both internally and externally, so as her family continues the Grand Tour, she must come to terms with which man truly holds her heart, and really learn how to stand on her own two feet again, even in the face of extreme danger.

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

Robin Gunn, because she and I have travelled this adult fiction track together from the very beginning. (We were the first two authors for Palisades romances, way long ago.) And I just love her heart; you feel loved when you’re around her. Tricia Goyer, because she always amazes me with all that she’s done and is doing, and inspires me to push forward and outward. Francine Rivers, because she’s thoughtful and tender and usually working on something big internally, which she expresses so beautifully in her fiction. Bill Myers, because I’d want to pick his brain about the supernatural, angels and demons. Jim Bell because he makes me laugh and is so progressive in the arena of bringing light to a dark world. Oh, and only one left?? This is hard. I love all my fellow authors…Jenny B. Jones, because she’s so witty and makes me laugh too. I guess I need more laughter in my life. Don’t we all? And what’s a party without laughter?

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

Bodie Thoene, because hers was the first Christian historical fiction that I truly enjoyed. She inspired me to write my very first historical, THE CAPTAIN’S BRIDE. Liz Higgs, because I adore her and am fascinated by how deeply she’s delved into Scottish history and life. Julie Lessman, because she’s so kind and caring and writes so prolifically—I’d like to know what she’s up to next! Sandra Byrd, because she and I share a love for deep history. Julie Klassen and Tamera Alexander, because everyone raves about their books and I’ve been meaning to read them, and maybe having them at my party would finally get me to get them read!!

I’ve read all those authors and know several of them personally. That would be a good party, too. Many times, people (and other authors) think you have it made with so many books published. What is your most difficult problem with writing at this time in your career?

I’m intentionally slowing down in 2013-2014. I think when you write so much, so fast, that after a while, you begin to doubt that you’re writing anything new, anything fresh. It’s important to allow time for the ground to be fallow, if you want to produce your best work.

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

GRAVE CONSEQUENCES is the second in the Grand Tour Series. The Grand Tour was often taken by the well-to-do. They travelled through Europe to learn about history and art, see beautiful, famous locales, and meet important people. For Cora, the whole tour is an external journey, but it’s also an internal journey of discovery about her truest identity—as a daughter of God.

I loved book one. Please give us the first page of the book of book two.

A shiver of fear ran down my back as I looked to the busy train platform outside my window. It’s only your imagination, Cora. Silently, I counted to thirty, watching businessmen shake hands before parting. A young husband tenderly bussed his wide on the cheek as she anxiously wound a handkerchief in her hands. A man caught my eye in passing. He smiled and tipped his hat in my direction and I hurriedly glanced back to my lap. But when I lifted my eyes, the blue eyes of the dapper, blond gent inside the train car with me were locked on me again. He was clearly watching me over the top of his newspaper.

            I sighed and glanced at Nell, beside me.

            “Cora?” she asked, studying my face. “What is it?”

            “That man three rows up,” I whispered, careful not to glance his way. “Don’t look right away. Wait until I look back to the window. Then see if he isn’t studying us.”

            “All right,” she said, a bit wan. Our narrow escape from kidnappers in Paris had left us all on edge.

The book is at the top of my to-be-read pile. I can’t wait to dive into it. How can readers find you on the Internet?

www.LisaBergren.com

www.Facebook.com/LisaTawnBergren

@LisaTBergren

Celebrate the release of Grave Consequences with Lisa T. Bergren by entering to win an iPad Mini!

One "grand" winner receive:

• A brand new iPad Mini
• Grave Consequences and Glamorous Illusions will be pre-loaded onto the Mini!

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on March 23rd. Winner will be announced on March 25th at Lisa's website.

Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.

Thank you, Lisa, for joining us here today. My readers like to be included in you blog tours.

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

Grave Consequences: A Novel (Grand Tour Series) - paperback
Grave Consequences: A Novel (Grand Tour Series) - Kindle


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

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

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

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

TRIBUTARY - Lisa T Bergren - One Free Ebook

Welcome, Lisa. I've been waiting anxiously for the release of this book. What are some of the spiritual themes you like to write about?

The thing I try to work into every book I write is a message about God’s love and care. I think it’s a theme that all people need to hear repeatedly.

What other books of yours are coming out soon?

The second in the Grand Tour series, GRAVE CONSEQUENCES, is coming out Spring 2013, GOD GAVE US EASTER (a children’s book) and UPSIDE-DOWN PRAYERS (a devo) are coming out then too.

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

Jim Gaffigan, a comedian, because I like to laugh.

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

C.S. Lewis. I’d love to just sit and listen to him think aloud…

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

Keep that chin up and see if there are improvements that can be made to your manuscript. I’ve never seen a book that’s totally done—meaning, there are ALWAYS improvements and fixes we can make. So take the opportunity to go through it yet again, seeing where God is directing you. These days, self-publishing through e-books and POD printing is a great option. With traditional publishing opportunities narrowing, trying your hand at self-pub is pretty cool…just don’t invest too much. Don’t get sucked into paying a lot, because you can do it for less than $250 yourself. Some things you may want to invest in—a professional cover; editing; someone to format it for the three different kinds of ebooks. But weigh those expenses carefully.

Tell us about the featured book.

TRIBUTARY is the continuation of the River of Time, a YA time travel series about two modern girls who end up in medieval Italy (WATERFALL, CASCADE, TORRENT, BOURNE, TRIBUTARY). It’s available as it’s own e-novella or combined with BOURNE, the e-novella that preceded it, in e or in paperback later this month. In TRIBUTARY, Gabi and Marcello face an unexpected crisis, Lia is embroiled in some post-traumatic stress that holds her back in critical ways, and Lord Greco just might find himself falling in love…

Please give us the first page of the book.

She was gaining on him. She leaned hard, pulling on the reins, leaning around a giant oak to pick up his trail again. There! She glimpsed his brown, furry rump, the speck of hooves as the boar dived into the bramble, hoping to lose her.

But he would not lose her. She’d tracked him for hours, losing his trail and then picking it up again. Through two woods and a creek. All she could think of was bringing him back to the villa, tied over her gelding’s back. Cooking fat chops over the fire, Papa curing the hocks. Eating their fill, for once.

Ever since the battle, times had been terribly hard in their house. Her brothers, gone. No beau, coming around to court her. She and Papa circled each other, uneasily, neither of them sure how to proceed as family, alone. But summer was almost upon them. Hope surged. And this boar was a symbol of that new beginning.

She ignored her thirst, nagging at her for hours, and leaned forward, urging her gelding to give his last to the effort. She knew the horse was weary, desperate for drink, but they almost had him! The boar grunted and then squealed as she closed the distance between them. He had to know that his moments were short.

She pulled the brim of her father’s hunting hat low, and lifted her spear in hand, concentrating on naught but the boar, seeing it on a roasting spit this very night, her family washed, ready, eyes bright with hope…

***

~EVANGELIA~

“A rider approaches, hard,” Luca said, glancing over at me and Gabi.

“Only one?” Marcello asked. “Are you certain?”

Luca and Lord Rodolfo Greco listened, together, and then shared a long look and brief nod. Still, they edged over to me, Marcello and Gabi, slowly drawing their swords in a protective stance. We were in a clearing, the woods fading for a moment, the shock of a threat startling us all. Things between Siena and Firenze had died down. A skirmish here and there, but nothing like last year. We’d settled into the peace, like a new snow covers the ground.

As the rider drew closer, we tensed, bracing ourselves. I ran my hand over the curve of my bow, but resisted the urge to nock an arrow. It was only one rider. What harm could be coming our way? That three of Siena’s finest couldn’t handle? Not that I was really ready to shoot anyone again. Not since—

I heard the snort of a boar, then glimpsed the hunter, a bit of a man—a boy?—but still coming at a full gallop, long spear in hand, heading straight toward my sister. Did he mean to—

“Gabi!” I shouted, as the men shouted too, moving to intercept him.

But the boar emerged then, running between our horses, making Gabi’s mare rear and Luca’s shy, whipping him around in a circle.

“Aspettate!” I screamed. “Sta solamente cacciando!” Wait! He’s only hunting. No assassin—

But I was too late. Rodolfo charged, angling himself so that the hunter would hit him instead of my sister. He swung his sword, hitting the tip of the intruder’s spear, sending it flying. The hunter’s horse collided with his, faltered, then went down, while Rodolfo held his seat.

“He was hunting! Only hunting!” I yelled, as all three men dismounted and approached the slight man, swords drawn. Confusion filled their eyes. The hunter lay frightfully still.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

www.LisaBergren.com

@LisaTBergren

www.Facebook.com/RiverofTimeSeries

Thank you, Lisa, for sharing this book with us.


Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
Tributary (River of Time 3.2 Novella) - Kindle


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

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

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

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

GLAMOROUS ILLUSIONS - Lisa T Bergren - One Free Book Here and Much More

Welcome back, Lisa. Tell us about your salvation experience.

I’ve been a Christian as long as I can remember; I’ve always loved God. But I made a significant turn from a very bad path post-college, when I was bartending and a ski bum. God used a couple of Frank Peretti novels and my old Michael W. Smith albums to reach me—to remind me how far I’d wandered, and how close he wanted me to be. Face-down on that apartment’s awful shag carpet, I wept out of regret and then out of joy as he entered, and called me to a new life. I went from there to Israel and Egypt and came home, knowing I wanted to serve in the industry that had changed my life: Christian publishing and music. That was 22 years ago!

God is so good to come to us where we are and call us to Himself. You’re planning a writing retreat where you can only have four other authors. Who would they be and why?

Angela Hunt: Total craftswoman who has been after it for years.

James Scott Bell: Craftsman, and he’s funny too.

Trisha Goyer: She’s so versatile; she’s published a lot of varied books and has a good instinct for what might be hot, next.

Robin Gunn: I love her heart and would love to listen to her do devotions.

I love all four of those authors, too. I’d want to be a retreat crasher on that one. Do you have a speaking ministry? If so, tell us about that.

I speak only once or twice a year. I prefer to write than stand up in front of people. But I’m finally over the fear that made it impossible, once.

Where are the three most unique places you’ve been?

#1 Inside the Great Pyramid, Giza, Egypt: worst claustrophobic experience ever, but SO cool!

#2 Bio-luminescent Bay, Vieques, Puerto Rico: water glows with an neon-blue light when you swim at night!

#3 San Galgano, Italy: roofless abbey where some say the legend of the sword in the stone originated

People are always telling me that they’d like to write a book someday. I’m sure they do to you, too. What would you tell someone who came up to you and said that?

Start writing and keep writing; read Writer’s Digest; go to a writer’s conference; join a local critique group—and be OPEN to what everyone tells you so you can learn and get better; read obsessively in the genre you want to write in (romance, suspense, fantasy, historicals)

Tell us about the featured book.

GLAMOROUS ILLUSIONS is about Cora Diehl Kensington, a girl who is halfway through teacher college in Montana, who comes home to the farm to find everything she’s ever known has changed. It’s the beginning of a discovery story about finding true identity in our relationship with God—not the world, family, career, money, or home…and it takes place on the Grand Tour of Europe. In this book, we follow Cora and the others from Montana to England and France. In the next two books, they’ll go from France to Switzerland, Austria, and Northern Italy. Book three is all-Italy (shocker). Because I adore Italia.

I must feature books two and three on this blog. They all sound wonderful. Please give us the first page of the book.

As the locomotive reached the train station, I strained so hard to see my folks that my eyes hurt. I looked left and right, but the town was as sleepy as always. It wasn’t as if I had to search for them among throngs—I saw no one but old Clifford Miller climbing into his wagon with some effort across the street, and Susan Johnson entering her hardware store.

Likely just a bit late, I decided, making my way forward between the seats before we had fully stopped, then climbing down the steep steps to the wooden platform.

“Miss?” asked a man behind me.

I turned in surprise, holding my hand up to my old hat as I felt a pin slip, and then—embarrassed that I’d forgotten to even look for it—took my valise from the conductor’s hand. “Thank you.”

The railroad man looked beyond me to the vacant platform and street. “Someone comin’ for you, miss?”

I’m hooked. I have the book on my Kindle, and it will be the next one I read. How can readers find you on the Internet?

www.LisaBergren.com

www.Facebook.com/LisaTawnBergren

www.Facebook.com/RiverofTimeSeries

Twitter: @LisaTBergren

Win a $350 “Glam” Visa Card Prize Pack from @LisaTBegren and RSVP for 6/27 Facebook party!

What is our "true" identity? Join the conversation at Lisa Tawn Begren's Glamorous Illusions Author Chat Facebook Event Page. On the evening of 6/27 we'll gather to talk about our spiritual journey, share our stories and a few laughs.

In the meantime, celebrate with Lisa by entering her Glamorous Illusions Giveaway!

One "glamorous" winner will receive a "Glam Prize Pack":

• A $350 Visa Cash Card (Oh ... think of what you could do: treat yourself to a mani/pedi, a fabulous new dress, dinner for two, or even a two-night escape in a lovely hotel - you're only limited by your imagination!)
• Glamorous Illusions (by Lisa Tawn Begren)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends 6/26/12. Winner will be announced at Lisa's "Glamorous Illusions" Facebook Party on  6/27 {Fun begins at 5pm PDT / 8pm EDT}. Lisa will be hosting an evening of meaningful chat, fun trivia, laughter, and encouragement - bring your friends! She'll also be giving away some GREAT prizes: gift certificates, books, and a Book Club Prize Pack! (Ten copies of the book for your small group or book club and a live chat with Lisa via video or phone.)

So grab a few of your friends and your copy of Glamorous Illusions and join Lisa on the evening of June 27th for an evening of fun.

Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP TODAY and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 27th!

Thank you, Lisa, for sharing your life with us and letting us be a part of the fun.

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

Glamorous Illusions: A Novel (Grand Tour Series)

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.

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BOURNE - Lisa T Bergren - Free Book (You have a choice)

Readers, this River of Time series is a YA series, but I loved, loved. loved reading it. If you haven't read the first three books of the series, you might want to ask for one of them for your free book if you're a winner. Personally, I've been waiting anxiously for this ebook to release.

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

It’s always new and different. I have two more books to write/edit in my Grand Tour Series (book one, Glamorous Illusions, releases June 1), a couple more novellas in this River of Time Series, and a devotional. And I just agreed to an offer on a new YA dystopian series! You know me…I like to have my fingers in all sorts of honey pots.

Yea! A couple more novellas in this series! Tell us a little about your family.

I was just walking today, watching a young mom struggle to keep two toddlers in a wagon as she pulled them home, and I thought, “Wow, mine are really growing up!” This summer, the kids will turn 17, 14, and 9. And my hubby and I’ll celebrate 20 years of marriage. It’s nice to get to this stage. It’s reassuring. Settled. But with its own challenges, of course.

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

It’s hard to turn off my internal editor and just read for pleasure. I miss that.

What are you working on right now?

Book 2 in the Grand Tour Series, and that devotional.

What outside interests do you have?

Travel, hosting, discipleship training.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

I like to choose places that captivate me. Usually places I’ve been. They’re huge for me because they impact plot.

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

Winston Churchill. Because he was SO smart and witty and from what I can tell, bombastic. But I’d like to be in a corner, watching. No need for face-to-face conversation. I’d be intimidated!

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

Keep track of all your character names. 15 books in, you might unknowingly start reusing your favorites—especially with all those secondary characters! Keep a master list!

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

They’re old lessons that he keeps trying to get across to me (I’m stubborn)—take Sabbath rest. Trust. Obey. Wait on him, instead of rushing ahead.

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

Be kind to everyone you meet. Keep track of those you meet and build relationships. Work hard—get your rear-end in the chair 5x a week and write at least 1000 words!

Tell us about the featured book.

Bourne is an e-novella that follows Waterfall, Cascade, and Torrent, the three core books in the River of Time Series. (You really want to read the first 3 books first.) It picks up the story right where Torrent left off, after the epic battle, so readers can find out what’s happened to all their beloved characters. (If you haven’t dipped into the River of Time yet, it’s about two American girls who happen upon a time tunnel and find themselves in medieval Italy. It’s packed with action, romance and humor—a total “break” read with heart!)

Please give us the first page of the book.

WARNING: EDITED, BUT SOME SPOILERS AHEAD…

“M’lady! They approach!” the guard yelled down to us from the walls.

“Thank God,” I muttered, taking my first full breath in what seemed like hours. Ever since the battle had ended the night before, Sienese patrols had circulated in and out of Castello Forelli, to drop off wounded, reprovision, rest, and head out again. As the night wore on, and the Fiorentini withdrew north, the patrols were gone for longer periods of time. But Marcello, Luca, and Lord Greco hadn’t shown up at all.

Leaving me to fear the worst, of course.

“Open the gates!” the wall guard cried.

Three knights went to the massive crossbeam and slid it to one side, then opened the fifteen-foot doors. Twenty of our men on horseback arrived, but my eyes sought only one, my—

Marcello. I sighed in relief and then picked up my skirts and ran to him, waiting for him to wearily dismount and take me under one of his arms. I laughed and reached up on tiptoe to kiss him. “Oh, Marcello. Welcome home.”

“I have to say, I think I’ll grow accustomed to you welcoming me back, each time I have half a mind to chase a Fiorentini back to his side of the border.” He winced as I gave him a full hug, making me pause in concern, but then Rodolfo Greco came around three others, leading his horse…and in an awkward moment, caught the last of Marcello’s comment.

His handsome chin came up, and he stilled as if embarrassed. Not that he had any reason to be embarrassed. It was simply…awkward. The once-Fiorentini now in our castello. Marcello’s brother. My captor-savior. I think we were all confused as to how to proceed, exactly. It’d take some time to figure out.

Luca came over, right next to Lia, both of them grinning. The grizzled Captain Pezzati clasped hands with Luca and the other guys, then gave me a nod of greeting and turned toward the stables. Mom came over, and I glanced in satisfaction at the circle of them, all around me. Together. At last. Everyone here, present and accounted for.

I was relishing the sweet relief, appreciating the feel of having my husband next to me again, when I felt Marcello begin to sink. Crying out, I got a better grip on him from under one of his arms; Rodolfo Greco came under the other. I tried to ignore his sudden proximity—and the resulting weirdness. “Quickly, let’s get him inside,” I said.

We eased Marcello through the Great Hall doors and into a chair, and I knelt before him. Rodolfo took a few respectful steps away. “Marcello!” I said, anxiously scanning his face and body for injury. I noticed, then, his swollen cheek, the cut at his mouth and nose, some bruising. Nothing I hadn’t seen before, after taking on an enemy. But what worried me was the gray color of his skin, the way his eyes were hooded, half-shut. “Marcello, what ails you?”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

www.LisaBergren.com

www.facebook.com/lisatbergren

www.facebook.com/riveroftimeseries

www.twitter.com/lisatbergren

Thank you, Lisa, for dropping by.


Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
Bourne (River of Time 3.1 Novella)


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

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

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

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

TORRENT - Lisa Tawn Bergren - Free Book

I have been looking forward to this interview. I had Waterfall, book one of your series, on my Kindle. The minute I finished reading it, I immediately bought and downloaded book two, Cascade. After reading it, I got the print copy of Torrent and devoured it. Lisa, why do you write the kind of books you do?

Hmmm…Writing comes out of my imagination, my experience, my dreams, my hopes, my fears, my beliefs…So that’s a tough question. It just is. I don’t write books as an agenda, or to accomplish a specific goal—other than to lead people a little bit closer to the Source of all Love. That allows for all KINDS of different books, which I think you’d see, if you looked at all 40+ books I’ve written, all laid out across the floor.

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

Marrying my husband, Tim. Next year, I’ll celebrate twenty years with my best friend.

How has being published changed your life?

Eventually it became our main source of income—that’s pretty monumental. J But it’s also opened my eyes to dreaming big, and seeing dreams realized. It’s fun, every time.

What are you reading right now?

THE WORLD IN 2050, by Laurence Smith. It’s nonfiction, and projects what will be happening if we currently continue on demographic, geological, globalization and cultural trends. Since I’m considering writing a futuristic YA series next, it’s important for me to know what might happen, if Jesus doesn’t return! Other than that—the last book was SARAH’S KEY, an amazing novel, and a ton of general market YA novels.

What is your current work in progress?

I’m working on the final rounds with my editor of GLAMOROUS ILLUSIONS, the first book in the Grand Tour Series, which will come out June 2012. I’ll move right into #2 and #3 in that series, and perhaps will dabble in some e-publishing, continuing the River of Time Series.

If you do ebooks continuing this series, I want you back on my blog with them. What would be your dream vacation?

Anyone who knows me knows I constantly dream of Italy. I’d love to spend an entire month there…traveling from top to bottom, and an entire Summer, settled into a cozy little villa in the hills, where I could hear the bells tolling, smell the lavender and rosemary on the breeze…*sigh*

How do you choose your settings for each book?

They have to be places I love, since locations are always so integral to my stories. They really are the catalyst, in many ways. For the Homeward Trilogy (Breathe, Sing, Claim) it was Colorado, because the main character suffered from consumption, and Colorado Springs was a leader in the sanitorium biz. For the River of Time (Waterfall, Cascade, Torrent) it was Tuscany, because the heroine’s parents are Etruscan archeologists and the hero is a medieval prince of sorts…For my upcoming Grand Tour series (Glamorous Illusions et al), the books will be set in unique, iconic cities—Paris, Venice, Rome—because those are perfect locations for characters to really come of age, to discover monumental, formative things about themselves and their world.

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

Whew. Glad I’m not hanging out with a zombie. J And I assume you mean someone I haven’t met, so…Ridley Scott. And in this fantasy, he’d read my River of Time Series and decided he wanted to make them into the most amazing teen movies EVER…

I hope so!! What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

We adore travel. We have a family travel web site, www.theworldiscalling.com. So we move around and report on what we discover, hoping to encourage other families to do the same. Research trips help on this front, too…We like to hike, to entertain, and just to hang out at home and relax, cooking, eating, conversing, laughing.

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

Staying off the Internet. Twitter, Facebook, email…I overcome it by going to the library to write. I have to cut myself off from Internet access if I hope to get anything done. And I’ve never allowed myself to find out how to get on the Net at the library. So I slip my headphones on, settle in, and write like a banshee there.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Read Writer’s Digest. Go to the nearest writer’s conference. Read like crazy in the genre you want to write yourself. Then get words down on paper. Every day.

Tell us about the featured book.

The River of Time Series (beginning with Waterfall and Cascade) is about two American teens who time-travel back to medieval Italy and fight for their lives, their loves, and their future. Torrent is the third book in the series, so this is going to contain some spoilers…in this installment, the Betarrini family is reunited and now the biggest question of all is on the table: Can they all agree to remain in medieval Tuscany forever? And at what cost? Giving up modern life changes life for them all. But to leave means giving up the most important thing in Gabi’s life…love, and possibly, her father again. High romance, big action—if it’s your kind of read, dive into the River of Time, even if you’re not in the YA age group—half my readers are much older!

Please give us the first page of the book. *SPOILER ALERT* (this is P1 of Book 3!)

Torrent: P1

We’d shaken the dust from the gowns the guys had left the three of us and slipped on our “medieval disguises,” as I called them, but there wasn’t a whole lot we could do for Dad.

“Yeah, that’s not gonna work out so great,” Lia said, staring up at Dad’s T-shirt.

I looked him over, still not quite believing he was with us, alive. We’d buried him, laid flowers on his grave, and mourned him for seven—no, eight months now—and yet here he was, hands on his hips, ready to take the lead in our family again. Like we’d never been gone. Which, for him, we hadn’t been.

From his perspective, we’d grown up by a couple of years while he was at an afternoon’s dig.

Such was the nature of time travel.

His brown eyes flicked from me to Lia and back again, like he couldn’t quite believe his eyes either. In our luxurious gowns we looked more like women than teens, which had to be freaking him out all the more. He turned toward the walls of the Etruscan tomb.

“Adri, this is amazing,” he said, reaching for a flashlight in his back pocket and taking in the frescoes, inch by inch.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

www.LisaBergren.com

Facebook: Lisa Tawn Bergren and River of Time Series

Twitter: @LisaTBergren @TheWorldCalls


Thank you, Lisa, for the interesting visit.


Readers, you will want to read this series whether you're a young adult or an adult. I'm encouraging my teenage granddaughters to read it, but I loved every word.


Here are links to all three book. By using them when you order, you help support this blog. Waterfall: A Novel (River of Time Series)
Cascade: A Novel (River of Time Series)
Torrent: A Novel (River of Time Series)


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

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

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

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

Lisa T. Bergren

I've enjoyed Lisa's books for many years. This new series is a real departure for her. One I think you'll like.

Lisa, tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

What I am experiencing, learning, struggling with, battling, appreciating, loving—pretty much any verb you can think of—always ends up in my characters’ lives. I’m usually pretty heavily invested in the main character, living her feelings and experiences. Not to say that I’ve done everything they’ve done, by any means. I get to fall short and sin and adventure outward and find out the repercussions through my fiction—exploration without the real-life pain! So I’m in there, but in bits and pieces.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

Asked a man in a parking garage in Avignon, France, if he would show me how to put my rental car in reverse. (Okay, quit laughing. It was hard. There was an extra button.) I was sure I’d end up on a one-way street in this medieval city, going the wrong way, with a bunch of people yelling at me in French when I couldn’t turn around!

That does sound like a dilemma. When did you first discover that you were a writer?

When I won a poetry contest as a third-grader.

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

Spiritual memoirs, biographies, history books, fast-paced literary fiction, fast-paced mindless fiction. I used to read cereal boxes as a kid. Now every book I read has to be worth the time I put into it—so I allow myself to set aside a book I don’t like within 50 pages.

That sounds like a good plan. What other books have you written, whether published or not?

I began with contemporary romances (Refuge, Torchlight, Treasure, Chosen, Pathways, Firestorm); moved on to historical women’s fiction (Captain’s Bride, Deep Harbor, Midnight Sun); moved on to general contemporary fiction (The Bridge, Christmas Every Morning); moved on to medieval spiritual suspense (The Begotten, The Betrayed, and the upcoming The Blessed). I’ve also written children’s books (God Gave Us You, God Gave Us Two, God Gave Us Christmas and the upcoming How Big is God?), a women’s book/Bible study (What Women Want) a devotional (The Busy Mom’s Devotional), a creative prayer book called God Encounter and a couple of gift books and novellas.

I hope you'll come back for an interview when The Blessed releases. How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

I don’t, always. I wish I did. Some days are just survival days. But I’m endeavoring to have fewer of those by saying no to the extraneous and yes to the more meaningful—time with family, good friends, and God.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

A baby name book with boys and girls names from around the world, including meanings. I have to be able to pronounce them in my head and like the way they sound/feel and what it says about my character. It’s a big thing for me!

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Can I give you four?

Of course you can.

Solid marriage to my best friend; great family/kids; growing discipleship; 28 books with my name on the cover—cool, on all 4 counts!

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

Bald eagle. Strong birds no one messes with, the job perk of getting to soar over mountains, lakes and streams, and they get to eat salmon, which I might even like raw. I think. You know, if I was an eagle…

What is your favorite food?

Salmon, halibut, steak. A better question for me is what I don’t like—eggplant, zucchini, or any other jiggly veggie.

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

Getting my rear-end in the chair to just get the writing done. Only deadlines and the need for a paycheck seems to motivate me past this dilemma.


What advice would you give to an author just starting out?

Get thee to the nearest writer’s conference, subscribe to Writer’s Digest and read like crazy in the genre you wish to write.

Lisa, how can readers find you on the Internet?

www.LisaTawnBergren.com - You can sign up for a free monthly newsletter, which includes a devotional, there too!

Lisa, thank you for the wonderful interview. These books are near the top of my to-be-read pile. I can hardly wait.

Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of one of these books. We will give away one of each. There's still time to leave comments on the interviews by DiAnn Mills and Patti Hill for a chance to win a copy of each of their books.

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