COLD THREAT - Nancy Mehl - One Free Book

Bio: Nancy Mehl is the author of over fifty books, a Parable bestseller, as well as the winner of an ACFW Book of the Year Award, a Carol Award, and the Daphne du Maurier Award. She has also been a finalist for two Carol Awards and the Christy Award.  Nancy writes from her home in Missouri, where she lives with her husband, Norman, and their puggle, Watson.

With nearly 1 million copies sold, Nancy Mehl has garnered a devoted readership with her electrifying romantic suspense novels filled with treacherous circumstances. Penning the second installment in her new series, Mehl crafts another spine-tingling thriller that follows two former FBI analysts—River Ryland and Tony St. Clair—as they investigate cold cases. Perfect for fans of Terri Blackstock, Colleen Coble, and Irene Hannon, Mehl’s latest will keep reader’s hearts racing until the daring conclusion of Cold Threat, book two in the Ryland and St. Clair series.

About the book: Twenty years ago, several people were murdered in Des Moines, and the only evidence left behind was a snowman ornament hanging ominously on a tree in the victims’ front lawns.

With a suspect behind bars, the killings have come to an end—or so everyone thought. But now crimes with a similar modus operandi are happening in a small Iowa town, and a local detective believes the killer is back and ready to strike again.

With little time left on the clock before they have another murder on their hands, private investigators River Ryland and Tony St. Clair must work alongside Tony’s detective father to find evidence that will uncover an evil that has survived far too long.

As the danger mounts and the suspect closes in, it will take all they have to catch a killer—before he catches one of them.

Welcome back to my blog, Nancy. Cold Threat is book 2 in the Ryland and St. Clair series. What exactly ties the books in this series together and can they be read as standalones? River Ryland was attacked by a man nicknamed the Salt River Strangler and left for dead. Her partner, Tony St. Clair, was shot four times while trying to save her. Thanks to a stranger who witnessed the attack and called the police, River survived. Dealing with PTSD and needing to care for her ailing mother in St. Louis, she leaves the FBI. Tony goes with her, talking her into opening a detective agency where they can continue to use their expertise and training. Although they profiled the Strangler as a loner, the FBI receives confirmation that he had a partner. The Strangler’s protégé sends River a message, telling her that he intends to finish what the Strangler started. This story continues throughout the series, as does River’s spiritual and emotional journey. Each novel in the series can easily stand alone. I hope, however, that people will read all three books so they can follow River and Tony’s story to its completion. In book three, they will not only face the feelings they have for each other, but they will also finally come face-to-face with the Strangler’s twisted disciple.

The series has cold cases at its center. What led you to focus the series on this type of case? : Based on River and Tony’s past experiences as behavioral analysts with the FBI, their interests would be based on their education and talents. I decided that chasing cheating spouses or working on cases that involve fraud wouldn’t be compatible with their training. Instead, cold cases involving major crimes would be their forte. Tony’s old friend from the FBI Academy is now the police chief of St. Louis. He sends them cold cases that the department isn’t currently pursuing. This gives them a way to use their training as profilers and build their detective agency.

The two continuing characters in this series, River Ryland and Tony St. Clair, each play an important role in this novel. If you could introduce readers to this dynamic duo in three to four sentences each, what do readers need to know? River Ryland was brought up in a dysfunctional home, raised by a father who pastored a church, teaching that God is judgmental and critical. When he left his family and ran away with the church’s secretary, River turned her back on God. She joined the FBI and became a behavioral analyst, determined to bring justice to a world she believes needs it.

Tony St. Clair was raised by two parents who loved him—and each other. Through them, he met God and gave his life to Him. He joined the FBI because he wanted to follow in the steps of his police detective father. From the first moment he meets River, he can’t imagine living without her.

In this installment of the series, Tony’s father—a local detective—plays a supporting role. What is the relationship between Tony and his father like? Tony’s father is his hero. He’s watched his father risk his life for others, and Tony wants to be just like him.

How do you keep readers on their toes when plotting out a deadly mystery? I see each story as a roller coaster ride. The first hill starts the ride and needs to be exciting enough to fuel the rest of the ride. There should also be smaller hills as well as twists and turns to keep readers engaged before the final big hill that propels them to the finish.

What is your favorite thing about writing crime mysteries? Creating a story of good versus evil. I see it as a war—and I love it when good wins! 

What do you hope readers take away from reading Cold Pursuit? In Cold Pursuit, River faces her fears and her anger at God. I hope that readers will not only enjoy the story but will also relate to River and realize how much God actually loves them. I think an important spiritual theme is that it’s never too late to find your way home.

Finally, how can readers connect with you? Readers can reach me through my website: NancyMehl.com or on my blog, the Suspense Sisters: SuspenseSisters.blogspot.com. I’m also active

on Facebook.

Thank you, Nancy, for sharing this book on my blog. It sounds wonderful, and I love reading your books.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Threat-Ryland-Clair-Book-ebook/dp/B0C9RM2477/ref=sr_1_1?crid=MTDF3YZDHOEO&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ipiiSV4j1RCDBwU7t9s9AA5VcPXHIkKrVtFIMxVENq6XTjcHqUR6Igj4hA9MfQ1mENG89BLx8iB7KFM42TW_u6KAfDPB604G-df_FN0U4DW9Kd9QL4NWP8OKLt27UD6GFnX0cqtsHsyY8OFOxIU1u_o3Gu8r2QfEWhif4ap8vIOXBEAAd84tyS5XOsZ-Y9R_ZNJdRLQgSHCtGoU6Ivk7DWyJGrQB1pYRG0uSZ5KhnJel5MysZ72mxzC39Y_zRjxaUxpJYLhNbo_964r6FZ82kRI5ojbyPbFIWBFSUiaS5lU.GM_I0-gU1AQuQ-7nTl3XdfLKDci5xjsFtKdWcf9FF_o&dib_tag=se&keywords=Cold+Threat&qid=1723947833&s=books&sprefix=cold+threat%2Cstripbooks%2C91&sr=1-1

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 2 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 

COLD PURSUIT - Nancy Mehl - One Free Book

Bio: Nancy Mehl is the author of over fifty books, a Parable bestseller, as well as the winner of an ACFW Book of the Year Award, a Carol Award, and the Daphne Du Maurier Award. She has also been a finalist for two Carol Awards, and the Christy Award. Nancy writes from her home in Missouri, where she lives with her husband, Norman, and their puggle, Watson.

With strong characters at the helm, Nancy Mehl’s fans know and love her for penning electrifying romantic suspense novels filled with treacherous circumstances. Debuting an

exciting new series following two former FBI analysts as they investigate cold cases, Mehl delivers a spine-tingling thriller perfect for fans of Terri Blackstock, Colleen Coble, and Irene Hannon that will keep readers up all night with Cold Pursuit, book one in the  Ryland & St. Clair series.

Ex-FBI profiler River Ryland still suffers from PTSD after a case went horribly wrong. Needing a fresh start, River moves to St. Louis to be near her ailing mother and opens a private investigation firm with her friend and former FBI partner, Tony St. Clair.

They’re soon approached by a grieving mother who wants them to find out what happened to her teenaged son who disappeared four years ago. River knows there’s almost no hope the boy is still alive, but his mother needs closure, and River and Tony need a case, no matter how cold it might be.

But as they follow the boy’s trail, which gets more complicated at every turn, they find themselves in the path of a murderer determined to punish anyone who gets in his way.

As River and Tony race to stop him before he kills again, an even more dangerous threat emerges, stirring up the past that haunts River and putting her in the path of a man determined to put an end to her future.

Welcome back to my blog. Please tell us a little bit about your new novel, Cold Pursuit, book one in the Ryland and St. Clair series?

Nancy Mehl: River Ryland and Tony St. Clair are recovering from a run-in with the Salt River

Strangler in Arizona. River has been diagnosed with PTSD, and Tony is recuperating from

being shot while attempting to save River’s life. Not long after their encounter with the

Strangler, River’s mother calls to ask for help. She’s been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. River

and Tony make the decision to leave the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit in Virginia, and head

to St. Louis, where River’s mother lives. River moves in with her mother, and she and Tony

open a private detective agency. Tony is certain they can make a go of it, but River isn’t

convinced. They finally get a case, a mother whose only son disappeared several years ago. The

police have given up, but River and Tony decide to help the distraught mother, even though

they’re certain the boy is dead. As they begin their search for the truth, they find themselves

caught in the crosshairs of two killers who will stop at nothing until they’re dead.

What inspired the idea behind a series that would center around cold cases? Is that the connecting element between each novel in this series?

NM: I’d never written about cold cases before and wanted to try it. Yes, the cold cases not only connect the books, but thanks to a great idea from my editor, I’m setting all the stories in winter so they’re not just cold, they’re very, very cold. LOL!

Your two main protagonists River Ryland and Tony St. Clair are not just friends—they were once partners at the FBI. What kind of history do these two have?

NM: River and Tony were both part of the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit. Analysts at the BAU are usually safe since they work behind closed doors, but a call from a friend led them to the banks of the Salt River where the Strangler tried to end their lives. Now, besides their shared history, they must work together to recover from their traumatic encounter. Their experiences have bonded them in a way that most people can’t understand. In St. Louis, they are attempting to start their lives over together. They are not just friends—they are best friends.

As former FBI analysts, River and Tony have unique job experience. What kind of research was required to portray these characters and their occupations?

NM: I’m blessed to have the help of a retired FBI Behavioral Analyst. The first book she

advised me on was Mind Games. She’s helped me through two series now and will also advise

me on this one. Because of her expertise, I was able to create believable characters while

keeping abreast of proper FBI procedures. I couldn’t have written any of these books without

her.

What was the most interesting thing you learned during your research for this novel?

NM: One of my main characters has a trait called synesthesia. It’s a fascinating condition that

causes the senses to become jumbled. For example, some words may evoke aromas or colors.

My character not only has this trait, but he also suffers from schizophrenia. The two conditions

combine to make him a very disturbed individual who is triggered by his anger and the color

red. Of course, neither one of these diagnoses causes violent episodes. The character’s own

pattern of thinking has led him to become dangerous to others.

What role does faith play in this story?

NM: River was raised in a very religious family. Her parents were terribly legalistic, and it

turned her away from God. When she is about to die at the hands of the Strangler, she cries out

to Him, but after she is rescued, she once again turns her back. She deals with a lot of guilt over

her decision, and wonders if God will ever give her another chance. Tony, who is a Christian,

teaches her who God really is, and slowly but surely, she begins to see Him as Someone who

loves her unconditionally. Through His love, she is beginning to heal from her past and the

trauma she’s endured.

How is this series different from other romantic suspense novels you’ve written?

NM: This is the first novel I’ve written about retired FBI agents. Also, it’s my first book about

a private detective agency. I love learning new things, so this has been fun.

Can you share what you’re working on next?

NM: I just wrote book two in the series, COLD THREAT, and am plotting out book three,

COLD VENGEANCE. These books will continue River and Tony’s story. I hope readers will

enjoy them.

How can readers connect with you?

NM: Readers can reach me through my website, nancymehl.com; my blog, the Suspense

Sisters, at suspensesisters.blogspot.com; and on Facebook.

Thank you for sharing this new book with my blog readers and me. I love your books.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Pursuit-Ryland-Clair-Book-ebook/dp/B0BLW7L25W/ref=sr_1_10?crid=RV0YQQ1M3TR1&keywords=cold+pursuit&qid=1696017712&s=books&sprefix=Cold%2Cstripbooks%2C91&sr=1-10

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 2 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 

FREE FALL - Nancy Mehl - One Free Book

Welcome back, Nancy. Why did you become an author? I became an author after spending most of my life wondering if there was anything special God had called me to do. I wanted a chance to make a difference in the world. When I was in my 40s, I heard someone say that if you thought back to your childhood and looked at what you did naturally, it could lead you to your purpose.

When I was a kid, I read all the time. I even wrote a “book” about my brother. I began to wonder if God wanted me to write. Then came the TV show, Murder, She Wrote. The main character inspired me. For the first time, I had a vision and a clear direction. I sought the Lord about it, and He confirmed that my desire was from Him. I sat down at a computer and tried to write my first novel. By page three, I’d decided I’d really missed it. That I must have misunderstood God. But something inside told me to try one more time. I did, and the words began to flow without effort.

From that moment on, I had no problem coming up with ideas for stories. The most important goal I have when I write a book is to present characters my readers can relate to. I want them to see that with God, nothing is impossible. I love writing. I only wish I’d started earlier!  

If you weren’t an author, what would be your dream job? I’d want to run a rescue organization. I would like to help abused and neglected animals.

If you could have lived at another time in history, what would it be and why? I believe I’m where and when I’m supposed to be, so I wouldn’t change that. However, I wish our country still respected God and family the way it used to. I miss the world the way it was when I was a kid.

I so understand. What place in the United States have you not visited that you would like to? I’ve always wanted to see Alaska. My dream is to take an Alaskan cruise. I want to see whales and the northern lights.

How about a foreign country you hope to visit? There are several I’d love to visit, but I’d have to pick Israel as my first choice. England and Scotland would be next.

What lesson has the Lord taught you recently? He’s teaching me to stop being led by my feelings. As human beings, we tend to listen to our emotions and allow our past to mold us. But our spirits are perfect through Christ. The Bible teaches us that we should be led by the spirit, not the flesh (Galatians 5:16). This has been a struggle for me, but thankfully, God hasn’t given up on me. I realize that my characters also tend to have past hurts that they struggle to overcome. This is an example of a writer inserting themselves into their stories. I believe most of us do this whether we’re aware of it or not.

Tell us about the featured book? Free Fall is about women in Virginia who have gone missing. Two FBI behavioral analysts are asked to write a profile of the UNSUB (unknown subject) so that law enforcement can find his victims before it’s too late. The pair discovers that all the women look similar and that one of analysts, Alex Donovan, matches the same description. When Alex is baited and abducted by the kidnapper, her partner Logan Hart and the rest of the team must find her and the other victims before it’s too late.

Please give us the first page of the book.

The abandoned amusement park reminded Logan of an aging bride waiting for a bridegroom who never came.

From this vantage point, he and Jeff could see Alex get out of her car and walk toward the entrance of a building that looked like it was ready to collapse at any moment. Why had the FBI given its permission for this to happen? It was too dangerous. With the sun slowly slipping out of sight, the park was beginning to disappear into the dusk.

He glanced at Jeff. If his jaw were set any tighter, his teeth would crack. Jefferson Cole, unit chief of BAU4 at Quantico, wasn’t afraid of much. But he and Logan were more than afraid. They were terrified. What if this went wrong? What if Alex didn’t make it out?

They watched as she hesitated at the entrance to the dilapidated Ghost Shack, then reached into her jacket pocket and removed a small flashlight. She appeared to look up to where they’d parked. She couldn’t have known he and Jeff were there, though. This wasn’t protocol. But Logan’s feelings for Alex had forced him to be here, at this place, with her. If he’d had his way, it would be him walking into the forsaken building that had once caused its riders to shriek in fear. He could almost hear the frightened cries from years ago reverberate around them.

When he first met Alex, he could see her imperfections. A wide mouth. A long nose. High forehead. She wasn’t beauty-queen perfect. But as he got to know her, interest in other women faded away. He could see only her. In his mind, she was the most gorgeous woman he’d ever met. Was that love? He wasn’t sure. He only knew he’d never felt like this before, and a voice inside his heart whispered that he never would again.

“This is a really bad idea,” Jeff said. He sighed. “But Alex insisted she had to try to save the women if they’re still alive. So far this UNSUB’s been one step ahead of us. I just wish Alex hadn’t refused when the SWAT captain tried to get her to wear a wire. I know she was afraid the guy would find it, but . . .”

Jeff was talking about an unknown subject who had kidnapped several young women. They suspected there were more spread out across the state, although they hadn’t been able to tie him directly to their disappearances. Typically, a serial killer had a narrower comfort zone. A place where he felt safe to hunt. Of course, they couldn’t actually prove he was a killer. There weren’t any bodies . . . yet anyway. “We should have checked this place out first. Placed agents

inside.”

“I told you. There wasn’t time.” Jeff shook his head. “As much as I hate to say it, this is our first and maybe our only chance to catch him. Alex is smart and well trained. We have to believe she can handle him.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is: www.nancymehl.com . I’m also active on the Suspense Sisters: www.suspensesisters.blogspot.com

Thank you, Nancy, for sharing this new book with my blog readers and me. I have it at the top of my to-be-read pile.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=free+fall+nancy+mehl&i=stripbooks&crid=1HLOK7AJXIT7X&sprefix=Free+Fall+%2Cstripbooks%2C401&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_1_10

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 2 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: https://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/2022/06/free-fall-nancy-mehl-one-free-book.html

NIGHT FALL - Nancy Mehl - One Free Book

Welcome Back, Nancy. How did you come up with the idea for this story? The idea came from the trains that passed behind our previous house. Although they might annoy some people, I loved them. (Except when certain engineers blew their horns at two o’clock in the morning right behind our bedroom!) I think trains are mysterious and romantic. I wonder where they’re going and what the people manning them are thinking as the world rushes by. So, the idea of someone using trains to stash bodies developed in my mind…and The Train Man was born!

If you were planning a party with Christian authors of contemporary fiction, what six people would you invite and why? Oh, dear. I hate to answer this because I don’t want to leave anyone out. I guess I’d say my dil, Shaen Layle, since I know she’d want to be there and I love her so much! And maybe Tosca Lee because I absolutely adore her - I love her writing. Let’s add Patricia Bradley, Mary Alford, Mary Ellis (actually, I’d ask all of the Suspense Sisters if there was room!) and…hmmm. Maybe Angela Ruth Strong? I really like her. Oh, and Susan Sleeman? (I know, that’s seven. LOL!)

And a very good, interesting group it would be. Now let’s do that for a party for Christian authors of historical fiction, what six people would you invite and why? Kim Sawyer because I love her to pieces. Kim Woodhouse. Ditto. Jaimie Jo Wright (she’s combines the past and the present to create awesome novels!), Kathleen Y’Barbo (she wrote a series that is one of my favorites! And she’s such a lovely person), Loree Lough (love her too!), and of course, you! I met you at a writers’ convention years ago and was so impressed with you. I’d love to get to know you better.  

I’d love to get to know you better, too, because I love your books, and I love every one of the other authors you chose. 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’ve spent so much time writing that sometimes I wish I had more time off. Life seems to be rushing by. But of course, especially through a pandemic, I’m grateful to have a job that allows me to work at home. That’s a real blessing.

Tell us about the featured book. Back cover copy:

For any little boy or girl who hears the Train Man speak,
Who feels his rancid breath caress their pretty cheek,
Must close their eyes, pretend to sleep, and very softly pray,
Or else the evil Train Man may carry them away.

Finally free of her troubled upbringing, Alex Donovan is able to live out her childhood dream of working for the FBI. But soon after she becomes a member of the FBI's elite Behavioral Analysis Unit, authorities in Missouri contact them about bodies found on freight trains--all killed in the same way.

Alex never expected to be forced to confront her past in this new job, but she immediately recognizes the graffiti messages the killer is leaving on the train cars. When the BAU sends her to gather information about the messages from her aunt in Wichita, Kansas, Alex is haunted by the struggles she thought she'd left behind forever.
In a race against time to solve the case and recover a deadly virus sample the killer intends to spread, Alex must face how far she'll go--and what she's willing to risk--to put a stop to the Train Man.  

Please give us the first page of the book. (I added the complete poem at the beginning of the book and a few sentences to finish the thought on the first page.)

Do you hear the Train Man rumbling in the night?

Can you see his dreadful face grinning with delight?

If you hear his horrid wheels clicking round and round,

Cover your head and plug your ears to block the frightful sound.

For any little boy or girl who hears the Train Man speak,

Who feels his rancid breath caress their pretty cheek,

Must close their eyes, pretend to sleep, and very softly pray,

Or else the evil Train Man may carry them away.

“THE TRAIN MAN,” A NURSERY RHYME

His mother sat in the chair next to his bed, reading from The Book. He was almost twelve now, and she’d been reading it to him ever since he was a little kid.

Adam hated it. It scared him. Did everyone really come from beings in the sky? Were people really born either demons or angels? Mother said they were—and that they had no choice in the matter.

He’d begun to believe he was a demon, but he’d always been too scared to ask her. He suspected she thought he was, though, because of the way her dark eyes bored into his. It made him feel strange inside. But if he was a demon, didn’t that make her and Father demons too? Mother said demons could have only demon children, which meant demon children always had demon parents. He didn’t want to be a demon. If only he could run away. Go somewhere else. Be someone else. But that would never happen. He was trapped.

He tried to be as good as his mother wanted him to be, but it was hard. Too hard. She considered everything a temptation. Even food. That meant they never had much to eat in their house. Tired of being hungry, he’d even stolen a candy bar from the store when no one was looking. He’d stuck it in his pants pockets, and he hadn’t been caught.

But would an angel steal? Or just a demon?

You have me hooked already. How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is: www.nancymehl.com. My blog is the Suspense Sisters: www.suspensesisters.blogspot.com. And I’m very active on Facebook.

Thank you, Nancy, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. It’s at the top of my to-be-read pile of books right now.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

http://ow.ly/SurK50Gubl7

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/ 

BLIND BETRAYAL - Nancy Mehl - One Free Book

Welcome back, Nancy. Please tell us about your salvation experience.

I was baptized as a child. I thought I was saved, but when I was in my twenties, a friend gave me some books by Hal Lindsey. I loved the first two, but the third one, The Liberation of Planet Earth, was so boring. It just repeated the same message over and over. That Jesus died for our sins. That we could exchange our sin-filled lives for His new life. A life filled with His Holy Spirit. We could be a new person.

You see, when I was young the church we attended only asked that I agree that Jesus Christ was the Son of God. I had no idea about the “Great Exchange.” That I could be a new creation.

One day I was on my way to work. I remember exactly where I was. I gazed over at the book I’d tossed on the passenger seat. I told myself I just couldn’t finish it and began to recite its message over and over. My intention was to mock the book and make light of the repetitious message. And then suddenly…the light went on and I saw what salvation really was. That night when I got home from work, I got down on my knees and accepted Christ as my savior.

I love testimonies of the unique experiences people experience when they finally understand the whole story of the gospel. You’re planning a writing retreat where you can only have four other authors. Who would they be and why?

Oh, my. You know, I think I’ve have to invite my Suspense Sisters. We work together on a blog so I think we should have a retreat. They would be: Mary Ellis, Patricia Bradley, Elizabeth Goddard, Ellen Kennedy, and Roxanne Rustand. I know that’s five, but I couldn’t leave anyone out!

Although I haven’t read anything by Ellen Kennedy (and I’d love to), I love the writing of all the others and a couple of them are good friends of mine. Do you have a speaking ministry? If so, tell us about that.

No. I’ve spoken to groups several times, but I really don’t enjoy it. I’ve been told that the people attending liked my messages. Someday I may jump into it again, but I really need to get some topics prepared so I can practice ahead of time. That would help with the nervousness!

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you and how did you handle it?

I remember an incident that happened when I worked at The Salvation Army. A lady that worked there showed me a picture of her brother. He had a funny look on his face. I laughed and asked her why he looked like that. Then she told me he was mentally and physically disabled. I was so embarrassed. She was very gracious and kind and smoothed it over. But boy, I’m very careful now when people show me pictures of their family!

One time, I asked a friend I hadn’t seen for quite a while when her baby was due, and she wasn’t pregnant. I’m very careful not to do that again. People are always telling me that they’d like to write a book someday. I’m sure they do to you, too. What would you tell someone who came up to you and said that?

I tell them that writing is a craft. You have to learn it and it takes time. I also suggest they get involved in ACFW. There are so many resources available to new writers.

Yes, way more than when I started writing novels. Tell us about the featured book.

Blind Betrayal is the third book in my Defenders of Justice Series.

Deputy U.S. Marshal Casey Sloane has worked at the St. Louis Marshals office for two years and is given a routine assignment to help transport a reporter to D.C. to testify before a grand jury. Valerie, the reporter, was writing a story about an up-and-coming environmentalist who suddenly disappeared and, she later discovered, whose backers purportedly have ties to a terrorist.

When the seemingly ordinary assignment suddenly takes a shocking turn, Casey is forced to put aside her own feelings about the unexpected reappearance of a man from her past as she and two other Marshals take Valerie on the run. And as it becomes dangerously clear Valerie's testimony has even bigger implications than they knew, they'll do whatever it takes to make it out alive.

I’ve read Blind Betrayal. Please give us the first page of the book for my blog readers.

As Martin waited to be murdered, he was surprised to find that more than anything else, he felt offended. He wanted to explain to his killer that he was a good son. That he’d been a loving brother to his special needs sister. He’d always tried to be a decent man. He cared about people and had given his life to protect the environment. Somehow, he felt it should matter that on Christmas he worked at the downtown shelter and served dinner to the homeless and poor of the city. Then there was the time he stopped to help a woman who’d run her car off the road and into a tree. Martin smelled gas and pulled her out before the car caught fire. Shouldn’t that mean something now?

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is: www.nancymehl.com. I spend a lot of time on the Suspense Sisters: www.suspensesistersblogspot.com. They can also find me on Facebook.

Thank you, Nancy, for sharing this book with me and my blog readers. I’ve loved all your books I’ve read. This one was a real page-turner with so many twists and turns. They’ll want to read it, too.

Readers, here are links to the book.

Blind Betrayal - Christianbook.com
Blind Betrayal (Defenders of Justice) - Amazon paperback
Blind Betrayal (Defenders of Justice Book 3) - Kindle
Blind Betrayal: Defenders of Justice Series, Book 3 - 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

DEADLY ECHOES - Nancy Mehl - One Free Book

Dear Readers, I read this book last week. It’s another book in Nancy’s series set in a town named Sanctuary. I’ve loved all these books, and I think this one is my favorite. She writes romantic suspense novels that cross the lines between Mennonites and non-Mennonite people. The characters in this one were especially poignant. Their losses really touched my heart and are still with me. You won’t want to miss this book.

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

One theme overrides any other, and that is that God has a plan for our lives. All of us are unique and no matter what mistakes we make or what trials we endure, His plan never changes.

I like to encourage readers to see themselves as God sees them. Special, anointed, gifted, and completely and passionately loved. I believe it’s hard to become everything God has created us to be without first understanding how deeply we’re loved, forgiven, and accepted by our Father.

That is so true. What other books of yours are coming out soon?

I’m working on a cozy Amish mystery series, along with several other authors, for Guideposts. The first book in the series will release later this year. Also, the third book in my Finding Sanctuary series, Rising Darkness will be out toward the end of 2015.

I want to feature the Finding Sanctuary book on the blog. If you could spend an evening with one contemporary person (not a family member of yours), who would it be and why?

I thought a lot about this question, and to be honest, it wouldn’t be anyone famous. I would spend the evening with a friend I don’t get to see often. Several come to mind, including Laurel Johnson. It’s been many years since we’ve been together. She doesn’t travel, and I haven’t been able to drive to see her. I would love to spend an evening talking about life and writing. She’s one of the best writers I’ve ever known. I worry sometimes that we’ll never see each other again in this life.

I hope you get that opportunity soon. What historical person would you like to meet (besides Jesus) and why?

I have a deep appreciation for Joseph. He went through so much, but he never lost faith in God. His patience and faith touched me deeply. And when he could have paid back evil for evil, he chose forgiveness and love. When studying him, I had a reaction that surprised me. When it was time to go on to something else, I actually broke down and cried. I felt as if I were saying goodbye to a close friend. I desperately want to be more like him.

He is one of my favorite Bible heroes, too. How can you encourage authors who have been receiving only rejections from publishers?

I’d ask them if they’d like to see my file of rejections. It’s quite a thick file! Here’s the thing: If you believe God has called you to write – then write. Work hard to learn more and hone your skills – that’s your part. But then you must trust God to open the right door at the right time. It sounds easy, but it isn’t. Many writers give up along the way. Be stubborn. That “yes” you’re looking for could be right around the corner. The best writing advice I ever received? Never give up.

Tell us about the featured book.

Deadly Echoes is about Sarah Miller. After a youth filled with tragedy and upheaval, Sarah's life is finally settled with all echoes of the past silent at last. She happily calls Sanctuary her home and spends her days teaching at the local school.

Sarah's joy at her recent reunion with her sister, Hannah, and meeting the niece she didn't know she had is too soon interrupted when Deputy Sheriff Paul Gleason informs Sarah her sister has been killed.

As she learns more about Hannah's death, the circumstances are eerily similar to their parents' murder. Sarah enlists Paul's help in digging deeper into the murders the police are dismissing as burglaries gone wrong. Paul's concern encourages Sarah's growing feelings for him, but as their investigation peels back the layers of lies almost twenty years old, they get close to uncovering the truth one person will do anything to hide—even if that means coming after the last remaining members of the Miller family.

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

The old familiar fear returned with a vengeance, along with the musty smell of neglect and the sweet scent of sweat.

I was back in that small dusty place under the stairs. The one place in the house that escaped Mom’s rigorous weekly cleaning. It was used to store things that were only needed on special occasions. Like our old luggage and the cane Dad used when he sprained his ankle.

 

But this night, the often ignored storage area was the most important place in the entire world. Hannah’s arms tightened around me, and she whispered in my ear that I must be quiet. That I couldn’t say a word, couldn’t sneeze, even though the dust tickled my nose. The terrible noises from outside had stopped and now there was nothing except an awful silence. The only sound left was our rapid breathing. Hannah breathed in, I breathed out. Without meaning to, I began to inhale and exhale in harmony with my sister. In and out. In and out. Tears slipped down my face unbidden, but I ignored them and concentrated only on our labored breaths. It was the one thing I could control.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is located at: www.nancymehl.com.

I’m on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nancy-Mehl-Fan-Page/124075957622557

They can also find me, along with several other mystery and suspense authors, on the Suspense Sisters: http://suspensesisters.blogspot.com/

Thank you for this opportunity. You’re a blessing!

It's always a pleasure to have you visit my blog, Nancy.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Deadly Echoes - Christianbook.com
Deadly Echoes (Finding Sanctuary) - Amazon
Deadly Echoes (Finding Sanctuary Book #2) - Kindle

Christian Book Store

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

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

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

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

UNFORESEEABLE - Nancy Mehl - One Free Book

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

I find myself being stretched, something I didn’t expect, but I’m grateful for it. Besides my books for Bethany House, I will be writing cozy mystery for Guideposts. I love cozy mysteries and have written quite a few, but I usually write in first person. These books are in third person. Being able to write in both points of view makes me a stronger, more well-rounded writer. Also, I’m working with a team of editors and writers, which some authors might think is a negative, but I’m finding it fun, challenging and enjoyable. It’s great to bounce ideas off someone else. Actually reduces the stress of plotting everything yourself!

I see continued challenges ahead, but I’m excited! I’m not sure what God has planned, but I’m looking forward to finding out!

Tell us a little about your family.

I’ve been married to my wonderful husband, Norman, for forty years. I’ve known him since I was sixteen. We have an incredible son, Danny, who married the perfect woman. Her name is Shaen, and she is more my daughter than my daughter-in-law. I also have the world’s cutest, smartest grandson. (You can’t tell I’m proud of my family, can you?)

We are in the process of moving to Missouri to be near them. I can hardly wait!

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

I wrote book reviews for many years. First for online sites, and then for a large Kansas newspaper. To be honest, I’m a bit burned out when it comes to reading. I realize that’s a bad thing. Writers need to read. I’m working on it though. The challenge is trying to concentrate on the story instead of the author’s writing style. Right now, I’m reading Tosca Lee, Dani Pettrey, Ellen Kennedy, J. Mark Bertrand and Davis Bunn. I find their writing exhilarating so I’m able to stay in the story.

What are you working on right now?

I’m writing the first book in my new series for Bethany House. It’s titled Gathering Shadows. The series will be called Finding Sanctuary. I’m also outlining my book with Guideposts, preparing to write that. A third book in the Curl Up and Dye series will release in eBook form this year, and I’m also working with another author to bring back new stories from my Ivy Towers Series. All this in the middle of moving. Obviously, I will be working hard the rest of the year. (And leaning on God!)

Leaning on God is the best place to be. What outside interests do you have?

I love spending time with my family. I like to go for walks, and in my down time (when there is any) I love watching “Masterpiece Mystery” and Doctor Who. I am a real Whovian!

How do you choose your settings for each book?

Since I’ve been writing Mennonite-themed suspense, my settings have been already chosen for me. However, up to now, all of my Mennonite towns have been in Kansas. But Gathering Shadows will take place in Missouri. I’m excited about discovering more and more about the Show Me state. I do love small towns, so all my stories have been set in little rural burgs.

My dream is to live in a small town where everyone knows each other and where I can actually hear birds singing in the morning instead of cars racing down the street.

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

Well, of course my answer would be Jesus, but I don’t think that’s what you’re really asking. Besides, He’s not really historical since He’s still alive!

I would have to say Paul, the apostle. I’d like to ask him what he thinks of our world today. What he thinks we should do about the rampant sin and disregard for human life raging through the entire planet.

After Paul, I would love to talk to Joseph. I absolutely adore him for his unwavering moral stand and his faith in God’s promise to him. He’s one of my heroes!

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

I wish I’d listened to the people who told me to read what publishers publish and submit work geared to fit their needs. I would have saved myself a lot of time.

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

One lesson that repeats over and over (because I still don’t have a handle on it) is patience. I’m not naturally a patient person. And trust. Believing God loves me and isn’t mad at me. I’m working on that one too.

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

Study. Learn the craft of writing.

Join American Christian Fiction Writers. You need the support and advice.

Never, ever give up.

Tell us about the featured book.

Callie Hoffman has a good life in Kingdom, Kansas. She's engaged to Levi Housler, the new pastor of Kingdom Mennonite Church, and she spends her days working with Lizzie Housler, her friend and soon-to-be sister-in-law, at the town cafe.

When a body is discovered on the road outside Kingdom and the deceased turns out to be the victim of a serial killer, the new county sheriff begins questioning Kingdom residents. Unsettled at the prospect of a killer in Kingdom, Callie is desperate to find answers for herself, especially when her own fiancé seems to know more about the murder than he's telling.

As the town battles an entirely unforeseen danger and Callie's very life is threatened, the stakes are as high as they've ever been and the people of Kingdom must learn anew to put their trust in God alone.

Please give us the first page of the book.

“Murder and meatloaf just don’t go together,” Lizzie grumbled. “Why did the elders agree to let the new sheriff come here? To my restaurant? No one asked my permission.”

“It’s absurd to think a serial killer could possibly be hiding out in Kingdom,” I replied. “I don’t see why the sheriff needs to bother us with this.”

Lizzie chopped a large onion with a little too much gusto. “Well, your fiancé’s the one who suggested it, Callie. Maybe you need to ask him what’s behind it.”

I sat a tray of dirty dishes on the counter and sighed. “Levi says they’re bringing Sheriff Timmons here after his meeting with the elders so they can properly introduce him. After that, he plans to speak to us.” After washing my hands, I leaned against the sink and frowned at Lizzie. “Levi says the sheriff feels it’s important to warn us about these … murders.”

“Levi says. Levi says.” Lizzie shook her head. “You’re so funny. I can’t remember the last time I saw anyone so much in love.”

I pointed my finger at her. “Besides you and Noah, you mean?”

A quick smile flitted across her face and then disappeared.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is: www.nancymehl.com.

My newsletter can be found at: www.nancymehl.blogspot.com.

I’m also active on The Suspense Sisters: www.suspensesisters.blogspot.com.

I’m also easy to find on Facebook.

Thank you, Nancy, for sharing this new book with us today. Unforseeable is on the top of my to-be-read pile. I should start reading it this weekend. I can hardly wait.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Unforeseeable - Christianbook.com
Unforeseeable (Road to Kingdom) - Amazon
Unforeseeable (Road to Kingdom Book #3) - 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