DAWN AT EMBERWILDE - Sarah E Ladd - One Free Book

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

My faith is very important to me. I was saved as a young child. What a difference that has made in my life!

You’re planning a writing retreat where you can only have four other authors. Who would they be and why?
Hmmm … that is such a fun question! Since we are daydreaming here, I think I will pick four authors who are no longer with us: Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte, Lucy Maude Montgomery, and Louisa May Alcott. All of these women have written books that helped form my passion for stories. I would love to hear them talk about the craft of writing, the art of storytelling, and about the culture of their time. Wouldn’t that be fascinating?

Do you have a speaking ministry? If so, tell us about that.

Unfortunately I do not have a speaking ministry. I really admire writers who do!

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?

Every writer has to start somewhere. Even writers who how have written several books started with nothing more than an idea and a blank page. Step number one is to simply get started! Step number two is to keep at it. It may take a few months or a few years. But persistence is key.

Tell us about the featured book.
Here is the synopsis for my newest book, Dawn at Emberwilde:

Isabel Creston never dared to dream that love could be hers. Now, at the edge of a forest filled with dark secrets, she faces a fateful choice between love and duty.

For as long as she can remember, beautiful and free-spirited Isabel has strained against the rules and rigidity of the Fellsworth School in the rolling English countryside. No longer a student, Isabel set her sights on a steady yet unexciting role as a teacher at the school, a safe yet stifling establishment that would provide her a steady environment to care for her younger sister Lizzie, who was left in her care after her father’s death.

The unexpected arrival of a striking stranger with news of unknown relatives turns Isabel’s small, predictable world upside down, sweeping her and her young charge into a labyrinth of intrigue and hidden motives.

At her new family’s invitation, Isabel and Lizzie relocate to Emberwilde, a sprawling estate adjacent to a vast, mysterious wood rife with mysterious rumors and ominous folklore—along with whispers of something far more sinister. And perhaps even more startling, two handsome men begin pursuing Isabel, forcing her to learn the delicate dance between attraction, the intricate rules of courtship, and the hopes of her heart.

At Emberwilde, Isabel will discover that the key to unlocking the mystery of her past may also open the door to her future and security. But first she must find it—in the depths of Emberwilde Forest.

Sounds intriguing. Please give us the first page of the book.

I can do better than that! My publisher unlocked the first 3 chapters! Click here to read the first 3 chapters.

How can readers find you on the Internet?
I love to connect with readers on the Internet! You can find me on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Thank you, Sarah, for sharing this new book with us. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed reading all of your other books.

And Readers, you’ll want to check out those 3 chapters she’s offering for you to read.

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

Dawn at Emberwilde - Christianbook.com
Dawn at Emberwilde (A Treasures of Surrey Novel) - Amazon, paperback
Dawn at Emberwilde (A Treasures of Surrey Novel Book 2) - Kindle
Dawn at Emberwilde - Audible

Comments: Have you read any of Sarah's other books? If so, which was your favorite?

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

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

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

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

THE CURIOSITY KEEPER - Sarah E Ladd - One Free Book

Bio: Sarah E. Ladd received the 2011 Genesis Award in historical romance for The Heiress of Winterwood. She is a graduate of Ball State University and has more than ten years of marketing experience. Sarah lives in Indiana with her amazing husband, sweet daughter, and spunky Golden Retriever.

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

I find that I often write novels that have themes of redemption and forgiveness.

What other books of yours are coming out soon?

Right now I am working on the 2nd book in the Treasures of Surrey series, and it is called Dawn at Emberwilde. It has been a very fun project, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

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

This is a tough one to answer, because there are so many fascinating people I would love to chat with! But as a writer, I think I would like to chat with another writer. In light of the recent release of Go Set A Watchman, I think it would be interesting to have a chat with Harper Lee.

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

As a writer, and as a fan of classic literature, I know who I would pick … Jane Austen! Not only is she one of my personal favorite authors, but she lived during the time period in which I set my novels. I think it would be fascinating to hear her talk about the culture of her day and her approach to writing.

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

My advice is to not give up and to not stop writing! As hard as it is, we learn and grow by feedback. Persistence is key! Keep writing. Keep editing. Work with critique and brainstorming partners. Enter your work into writing contests. Every writer’s path to publication is different, and if you keep at it, you’ll get there!

Tell us about the featured book.
The Curiosity Keeper:
“It is not just a ruby, as you say. It is large as a quail’s egg, still untouched and unpolished. And it is rumored to either bless or curse whoever possesses it.”

Here is a synopsis of my story,

Camille Iverness can take care of herself. She’s done so since the day her mother abandoned the family and left Camille to run their shabby curiosity shop. But when a violent betrayal leaves her injured with no place to hide, Camille must allow a mysterious stranger to come to her aid.

Jonathan Gilchrist never wanted to inherit Kettering Hall. As a second son, he was content to work as the village apothecary. But when his brother’s death made him heir just as his father’s foolish decisions put the estate at risk, only the sale of a priceless possession—a ruby called the Bevoy—can save the family from ruin. But the gem has disappeared. And all trails lead to Iverness Curiosity Shop—and the beautiful shop girl who may be the answer to his many questions.

Caught at the intersection of blessings and curses, greed and deceit, these two determined souls must unite to protect what they hold dear. But when a passion that shines far brighter than any gem is ignited, they will have to decide how much they are willing to risk for their future, love, and happiness.

Please give us the first page of the book.

I can do better than that! My publisher unlocked the first 3 chapters! Click here to read the first 3 chapters.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I love to connect with readers on the Internet! You can find me on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. 

Thank you Sarah, for sharing this new book with me and my blog readers.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
The Curiosity Keeper - Christianbook.com
The Curiosity Keeper (A Treasures of Surrey Novel) - Amazon
The Curiosity Keeper (A Treasures of Surrey Novel) - Kindle

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

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

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

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

A LADY AT WILLOWGROVE HALL - Sarah E Ladd - One Free Book

Bio: Sarah E. Ladd has always loved the Regency period—the clothes, the music, the literature, and the art. A college trip to England and Scotland confirmed her interest in the time period and gave her idea of what life would’ve looked like in that era. However, it wasn’t until 2010 that she started writing seriously. Her latest release, A Lady at Willowgrove Hall is the third and final release in the Whispers on the Moors series.

Dear Readers, I haven’t received my copy of this book, but I loved the first two in the series. Her writing is fresh, and she grabbed me on the very first page.

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

I feel really blessed to be able to write and do what I love! I am currently working on a series titled Treasures of Surrey for Thomas Nelson/Harper Collins Christian Publishing. It is another Regency series, and then once this series is complete, I will be writing a stand-alone novel.

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

Without a doubt, writing has changed my reading habits! Writing has made me a much more of an observant reader–I notice things that I would never have noticed prior to writing and editing a novel.

What are you working on right now?

Right now I am working on the final edits for The Curiosity Keeper, which will release next July. It is the first of three books in the new series.

I would love to schedule the new series on my blog. What outside interests do you have?

I love spending time with family and friends, reading, gardening, and sewing/stitching.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

Regencies take place in England, so my setting is pretty much pre-determined! But I do tend to set my stories in the English countryside as opposed to a major city such as London.

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

I would have to say Jane Austen! She has always been one of my favorite authors, and I would love chat with her about her view on Regency society and the craft of writing–I think it would be fascinating.

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

I wish I had known that it is all right to not get it perfect the first time. When I first started writing, I tried to make each chapter perfect. But now, I find I am much more productive if I get all of my thoughts down and write the story and then go back and fix the details!

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

Write every day–even if it is just a couple hundred words.

Make “writer” friends! They understand the journey and can support and encourage you.

Enjoy the journey–don’t lose sight of why you love writing. It is easy to get caught up in the details–give yourself permission to just write–you can always go back and edit later!

Tell us about the featured book.
When sitting down to write each of the books in the Whispers on the Moors series, I asked myself the following question: What would a lady during the Regency NOT do? So in the very beginning of A Lady at Willowgrove Hall, the heroine, Cecily, makes a BIG mistake—one that as the power to ruin her. The novel then takes her on a journey. Initially, she does whatever she can to hide her secret and keep it from the world, but through a very specific turn of events she learns to rise above her past and eventually find peace and love.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Blacksmith’s Cottage at Aradelle Park

Detham, England, 1814

Is it always a sin to tell a lie?

Sixteen-year-old Cecily Faire rolled over to glance at Leah, who slumbered in the narrow bed they shared. A worn, wool blanket was tucked tightly under her sister’s chin, and her long, auburn braid lay limply against the pillow.

For weeks she had kept a secret from her sister. Hear dearest friend. Her closest confidante.

Cecily swallowed the emotion that welled within her.

Each little lie that she had told haunted her.

But had there been any alternative? Secrecy was imperative.

Cecily relaxed her head against her own pillow and stared at the rough, wooden beams running the length of their bedchamber and struggled to make out their uneven shape in the night’s shifting darkness. Outside their room’s only window, unremitting rain battered their family’s modest cottage, clattering against the thatched roof and disturbing the shutters.

(Barnes & Noble has a great preview of the book on their website. You can read a sample of the book here.)

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I love to connect with readers online. Here is where I can be found–I hope you all will stop and say hello!

Facebook:        www.facebook.com/SarahLaddAuthor

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

Twitter:           @SarahLaddAuthor

Goodreads:     www.goodreads.com/Sarah_Ladd

Website:          www.sarahladd.com

Thank you, Sarah, for sharing your book with us today.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
A Lady at Willowgrove Hall - Christianbook.com
A Lady at Willowgrove Hall (Whispers On The Moors) - Amazon
A Lady at Willowgrove Hall (Whispers On The Moors 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 Goodreads, Google+, Feedblitz, Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, or Amazon, please come to the blog to leave your comment if you want to be included in the drawing. Here’s a link:
Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

THE HEADMISTRESS OF ROSEMERE -Sarah E Ladd - One Free Book, Plus Much More

Bio: Sarah E. Ladd received the 2011 Genesis Award in historical romance for The Heiress of Winterwood. Her latest release is The Headmistress of Rosemere. She is a graduate of Ball State University and has more than ten years of marketing experience. Sarah lives in Indiana with her amazing husband, sweet daughter, and spunky Golden Retriever. Connect with her online! Visit her website, like her on Facebook, or follow her on Twitter.

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

I write what I love to read – Christian Regencies! I grew up reading both British literature (mostly from the Romantic era) and Christian fiction, so my stories are a combination of the two, I suppose!

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

There are two! The day I married my husband, and the day my child was born.

How has being published changed your life?

Being published is truly a dream come true for me! But beyond that, being in the publishing industry has taught be a lot about self-discipline, patience, and perseverance.

What are you reading right now?

I just downloaded Julie Klassen’s The Dancing Master to my Kindle – I can’t wait to get started on it!

I featured her on the blog with that book. You’ll love it. What is your current work in progress?

I am currently working on the 3rd book in the Whispers on the Moors series, which is titled A Lady of Willowgrove Hall. I am very excited for it – it will release in October 2014.

What would be your dream vacation?

England! I have been there once before, but it was so long ago, and it was before I started writing. I would love to go back one day!

How do you choose your settings for each book?

Regencies take place in England, so my setting is pretty much pre-determined. But I do tend to set my stories in the English countryside as opposed to a major city such as London.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I love to garden! There is nothing quite like spending time in the warm sun.

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

Sometimes I get stuck while writing a paragraph or chapter, and instead of moving forward to another part of the book, I fret over what is not working. I have really worked hard lately on setting aside those tough passages and moving to something different. I have learned that if I take a break from the section that I am having a hard time with, it is easier when I come back to it when I have a fresh perspective.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

My first piece of advice would be to write every day. Even if it is just for 15 minutes a day, write! Like every discipline, writing improves and gets stronger with practice.

Secondly, I would suggest joining a writer’s group. If you write Christian fiction, American Christian Fiction Writers is a great place to start. Get involved with other writers in your genre or in your state … the encouragement and support will be a blessing to you on your writing journey.

Tell us about the featured book.

Here is a quick overview of what the book is about:
At twenty-five, Patience Creighton is already a spinster. The busy headmistress of Rosemere always expected a dashing man to sweep her off her feet and take her away . . . but that man never came.

And since her father’s death, keeping the school running and her mother happy has been plenty to keep her occupied.

William Sterling dallied his way into financial trouble and mortal danger. When he is assaulted by his creditors’ henchmen on the road home from a tavern, he guides his horse to the doorstep of his tenant, the Rosemere School for Young Ladies. After being tended to by Patience, the wounded William rides off into the dawn—but makes a point to learn more about the lovely headmistress.

As he spends more time at Rosemere, something delicate begins to develop between William and Patience. But that will not deter William’s creditors. With little money to repay his debts, and less for the upkeep of his estate, it becomes clear that sacrificing Rosemere may be the only way to preserve his legacy. But it may also cost him his happiness.

I’ve read this book and loved it. Please give us the first page of the book for my readers.

Darbury, England, February 1816

There was no doubt in William Sterling’s mind. He was being followed.

He was an easy target—now more than ever.

He knew better than to travel at such a late hour in the moors, when midnight’s haze shrouded the moon’s gray light and the new fallen snow gave the illusion of an even terrain.

An owl’s mournful cry sliced the night’s uncomfortable silence, and with a charp click of his tongue, William urged his mount into a faster gait.

He’d avoided the main road that leads directly to Eastmore Hall’s iron gate, for it was too broad. Too exposed. He chose, instead, the cart path leading from Darbury’s town square to Wainslow Peak. For although it was narrow and masked with snow, he’d be hidden.

The thoroughbred beneath him pranced and skittered to the left, tossing his magnificent head in tenacious indignation. William regarded the horse’s caution. Perhaps the stubborn beast was wiser than he was.

For more, a preview of the first three chapters of The Headmistress of Rosemere can be found here!

How can readers find you on the Internet?           

I look forward to connecting with you here!

Facebook
Twitter

Goodreads

My Website

Don't miss Sarah Ladd's latest Regency novel, The Headmistress of Rosemere. She is celebrating the release of book two in her Whispers on the Moors series with a fun "School" Your Desk Kindle Fire Giveaway and an Author Chat Facebook Party!

Between January 17–28, visit Sarah Ladd's Facebook Page to enter to win a new giveaway each day and be entered to win a Kindle Fire grand prize. Winners will be announced at the Facebook Author Chat party on January 28th! (Don't have a Facebook account? Enter here.)

RSVP today for Sarah's The Headmistress of Rosemere Author Chat Party on Facebook. During the party Sarah will be hosting a book chat, testing your Regency trivia skills, announcing the winner of the "School" Your Desk Giveaway, and giving away books, gift certificates, and more. Oh, and she'll also be giving partygoers an exclusive look at the next book in the Whispers on the Moors series!

So grab your copy of The Headmistress of Rosemere and hope to see you on the evening of January 28th! (If you haven’t read the book, don’t let that stop you from coming!)

DON’T MISS A MOMENT OF THE FUN; RSVP TODAY. HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE 28th!

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

The Headmistress of Rosemere - Christianbook.com
The Headmistress of Rosemere (Whispers On The Moors) - Amazon
The Headmistress of Rosemere (Whispers On The Moors) - 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

THE HEIRESS OF WINTERWOOD - Sarah E Ladd - One Free Book Plus More

Bio: In addition to a lifetime of writing and exploring fiction, Sarah has more than ten years of strategic marketing and brand management experience, including five years of marketing non-fiction books and three years of marketing the musical arts. She lives in Indiana and is blessed to share her life with her amazing husband, sweet daughter, and very lovable Golden Retriever.

Welcome, Sarah. What made you choose the Regency Era to set your story in? Does the research come easy?
I have always loved British literature, especially nineteenth century British literature. I grew up reading Austen, Bronte, Keats, and Byron, so when I decided to write a novel of my own, the setting was an easy decision. And since I have always enjoyed reading about that time period, I love the research … it really fascinates me. There is always something new to learn and different treasures to discover.

Is this the first in a series, or a stand alone?
The Heiress of Winterwood is the first book in The Whispers on the Moors series. The 2nd book in the series will release in late 2013.

Do you have a favorite author from the Regency Era or story set then?
 My favorite author from that time period is definitely Jane Austen.

Which character gave you the most problems?
I don’t know if I would say he was a problem, but I was constantly tweaking Edward Littleton’s character and actions. I wanted to get him just right!

What's your favorite snack while you write?
COFFEE. If I am writing, there is a cup of coffee next to me.

Winter, spring, summer or fall?
I love the variety of seasons, so it is hard for me to pick just one. Every season has a beauty of its own.

Jewelry or not?
YES! I love jewelry.

Flip flops or sneakers?
Flip flops … especially cute ones. 

Please tell us about the story.
Darbury, England, 1814

Amelia Barrett gave her word. Keeping it could cost her everything.

Amelia Barrett, heiress to an estate nestled in the English moors, defies family expectations and promises to raise her dying friend's baby. She'll risk everything to keep her word-even to the point of proposing to the child's father-a sea captain she's never met.

When the child vanishes with little more than an ominous ransom note hinting at her whereabouts, Amelia and Graham are driven to test the boundaries of their love for this little one.

Amelia's detailed plans would normally see her through any trial, but now, desperate and shaken, she's forced to examine her soul and face her one weakness: pride.

Graham's strength and self-control have served him well and earned him much respect, but chasing perfection has kept him a prisoner of his own discipline. And away from the family he has sworn to love and protect.

Both must learn to have faith and relinquish control so they can embrace the future ahead of them. 

How can my readers find you on the Internet?
Facebook
Twitter
Goodreads
Website
Let’s connect!

Sarah Ladd is celebrating the release of The Heiress of Winterwood with a Downton Abbey Kindle Prize Pack Giveaway!

 One winner will receive:

• A brand new Kindle Fire
• Downton Abbey, seasons 1-3

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 30th. Winner will be announced on 5/2/13 {HERE}.

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

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
The Heiress of Winterwood (Whispers On The Moors) - paperback
The Heiress of Winterwood (Whispers On The Moors) - 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