WHERE TREETOPS GLISTEN - Tricia Goyer, Cara Putman, Sarah Sundin - One Free Book

Welcome, dear friends, to my blog. I’m thrilled to interview you together. How did your story for the collection come about?

Cara:  I’ve always loved Bing Crosby singing White Christmas, and it was perfect that the song became an instant hit in 1942, the year of my novella. I knew I wanted the heroine to work at the local candy store/soda fountain, and Sarah found out the puzzle company had been in business since long before WWII. But I needed a reason for my hero to work there and not in the war effort. So that got my thoughts spinning to a displaced farmer who suffered an illness as a child that keeps him out of the service. But what made him leave the farm? That legal issue became the pivot the story turned on.

Sarah: This story idea flew together so quickly that it’s hard to track. A sentimental Christmas song came on the radio, and it made me cry, and I hated that it made me cry. So being a writer, I analyzed why the song had such an emotional impact. A child in need…And suddenly little Linnie Kessler is looking in the department store window, hoping to see her daddy, her daddy who was killed in the war. Instead she sees Lt. Pete Turner, a fighter pilot running on empty. When Pete takes Linnie home, he’s captivated by the child’s widowed mother—who is not happy to see Pete. Her former bully.

What are you reading right now?

Tricia: I just finished The Bridge to Haven by Francine Rivers. It reminded me how much I adore her writing so I started A Voice in the Wind. It’s been about fifteen years since I read Francine’s Mark of the Lion series and I’m enjoying it!

Cara: Currently I’m reading The Story Keeper by Lisa Wingate and In Perfect Time by Sarah Sundin…oh, and some really exciting statistics and project management textbooks.

What other books have you had published?

Sarah: This is my first novella, so it was a lot of fun! I have six novels published, all set in World War II. My most recent release is In Perfect Time.

Tricia: I’ve published a bit of everything. I have forty-five books published. Most of those are historical fiction novels, but I’ve also written many Amish novels. I’ve also written parenting and marriage books, and books for teens. So you can say a bit of everything. This fall I also have a novella releasing in the Amish collection An Amish Second Christmas.

Cara: This is my 19th book, so I’m somewhere betwixt and between Sarah and Tricia. One of those was the Complete Idiots Guide to Business Law. The rest have been novels. A mix of WWII historical romances and contemporary romantic mysteries. Readers can learn more about my books and read first chapters at www.caraputman.com.

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

Sarah: The hardest part was not “owning” all the characters. Both Abigail (Cara’s heroine) and Merry (Tricia’s heroine) appear in my story. It felt strange writing about Abigail and Merry—I wanted to capture them as Cara and Tricia had written them. We had a lot of email conversations along the lines of “What would Abigail be doing now?” “Would Pete really say that?” or “What is Merry feeling at this time?”

Cara: The coordination was a great challenge. Fortunately, Sarah is the spreadsheet queen, so she kept us on track. This is my third collection like this, and I love the collaborative aspects of working on collections.

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

Sarah: These ladies are high-energy idea generators. I’m a sloth, and I get one good story idea a year. Listening to them brainstorm taught me good lessons about letting ideas flow and change and shift directions.

Tricia: I was SO impressed by both of them. Sarah is so organized, and Cara is so fun and passionate. Honestly I’d work with them all the time if I could. It truly was a great team!

Cara: I’ve long admired Sarah and Tricia, so when I decided I wanted to explore writing a WWII Christmas collection, I knew I wanted to do it with them. I was THRILLED when they said yes. It was such fun to work together.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Sarah: Linnie’s name came attached to her—I have no idea where it came from! For Pete and Grace, I looked at names popular in the era. Pete has the strong, no-nonsense quality, and Grace has such quiet beauty—and ironically my heroine needs to learn to extend grace. Also, Grace was my grandmother’s name. She passed away in March, long after I’d finished this story, but it was fitting to dedicate this novella to her.

Tricia: I chose Meredith because I wanted to use the Christmas song, “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” I have a friend who was born on Christmas and her name is Merry, so I thought Merry could be short for Meredith. As for the other characters, I also looked for popular names from that time period. I had fun looking up Dutch names, too!

Cara: Abigail is my oldest’s name, and she wanted a book of her own. I also love the meaning of the name: Fountain of Joy. Abigail has a bit of that personality, though muted by a pain she has to overcome.

What did you want the reader to take away from your story?

Sarah: That God alone can fill the empty places in our lives.

Tricia: That God can work all things out for good and our mourning can turn to joy!

Cara: That God will lead us through the pain in our past if we’ll let Him.

Are you a member of American Christian Fiction Writers? If so, why?

Sarah: Absolutely! I tell aspiring writers that ACFW is like having a mini-conference in your email inbox every day. The courses are excellent, the loop is a great way to connect, the genre loops are fantastic for research help, and the conference is top-notch!

Tricia: Yes, although I’m not as active as I wish I could be. I highly recommend ACFW to aspiring novelists. It’s an organization filled with amazing people!

Cara: Yes! I’m published because of what I learned at ACFW and the people I’ve met at the conferences. I’ve also been very active on the boards and in other positions since 2006. I love this organization and giving back!

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

Tricia: The best advice I’ve received is to write from the highs and lows of your own life. The emotional themes I’ve written about are similar ones that I’ve experienced. This helps pack emotion into the story.

Cara: To be disciplined. Keep writing even when you don’t feel like it. If you do, you’ll have a book in a year. And be teachable. You can always learn more!

Where can my readers find you on the Internet?

Tricia Goyer

www.triciagoyer.com

Facebook www.facebook.com/authortriciagoyer

Twitter www.twitter.com/triciagoyer

Pinterest www.pinterest.com/triciagoyer

Cara Putman

www.caraputman.com

Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Sarah Sundin

www.sarahsundin.com

Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Thank you, ladies, for sharing this Christmas novella collection with us.

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

Where Treetops Glisten - Christianbook.com
Where Treetops Glisten: Three Stories of Heartwarming Courage and Christmas Romance During World War II - Amazon
Where Treetops Glisten: Three Stories of Heartwarming Courage and Christmas Romance During World War II - 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

MOMS' NIGHT OUT- Tricia Goyer - MOMS' NIGHT OUT devotional - Kerri Pomarolli - 2 Free Books, Plus More

Tricia Goyer is the award-winning author of more than forty books, drawn from her experiences as a teen mother and leading voice of hope for women in today's generation. A key note speaker at the 2013 MOPS convention, Tricia writes regularly for several popular Christian women's blogs in addition to her own. She has been married for more than twenty years and is the mother of six children. 

Moms' Night Out

Tricia Goyer

B and H Publisher Group

It's one night out, what could go wrong?!

Moms' Night Out is a novelization of the hilarious family comedy that celebrates real family life---where

everything can go wrong and still turn out all right. All Allyson and her friends want is a peaceful, grown-up evening of dinner and conversation . . . a long-needed moms' night out. But in order to enjoy high heels, adult conversation and food not served in a bag, they need their husbands to watch the kids for a few hours---what could go wrong? Chronicling one night out gone awry, three harried moms, their husbands, a sister-in-law with a misplaced baby, a tattoo parlor owner, a motorcycle gang, and a bewildered cabbie all learn to embrace the beautiful mess called parenting. This book spotlights the unfulfilled expectations and serial self-doubts many moms feel . . . then reassures us that the key is raising kids in a loving home.

Moms' Night Out is an endearing, true-to-life comedy.

Kerri Pomarolli is called Hollywood's "God Girl." She is an accomplished actress, comedian, published author, Christian speaker and veteran of television---with credits that include 29 appearances on The Tonight Show and Comedy Central.

Moms' Night Out . . .and other things I miss! Devotions to help you survive

Kerri Pomarolli

B and H Publisher Group

As a mom, couldn't you use a good laugh?

Inspired by the endearing, true-to-life movie Moms' Night Out, comedian Kerri Pomarolli has created this light, yet inspiring devotional that will definitely make you laugh, but will also help you discover that indeed you are not alone, and that God's gracious provision of love and faithfulness is at work in your life and of your loved ones. Whether you're running full-speed-ahead or disappointed that it's Monday (again), you'll find joy in these devotions where Kerri shares hilarious stories and insights on daily life. Messy homes, messy kids, lost pets, never ending casseroles, forgetful husbands, and the desire to just take a long bath . . . This world can be a funny place, and these stories are bound to prove it. Read a devotion to brighten your morning, or catch a few words to make you smile before bed. There's never a bad time for a good laugh, and as a Mom, you need a Moms' Night Out . . . and other things I miss! Devotions To Help You Survive. 

Welcome, Kerri. Tell us a little about yourself and your background.

I’m that spirited kid that didn’t get enough attention in childhood so I started putting shows on in my basement with my Fisher Price record player! I was always acting and performing and started doing it professionally at a young age. I got a BFA in Theater from the University of Michigan and then moved to L.A. to get into film and TV. I was always a talker, but I transitioned into writing when I penned my first book in my 20’s, If I’m Waiting on God Then What Am I Doing in the Christian Chatroom?

                                                                                                                                                           

How did you become interested in writing?

 I’m too old to say I began with blogging! As a comedian, I have been asked to write humorous articles for magazines and newspapers. Then, I wrote a couple of books. I love writing and people say I write like I talk. That’s why I’ve never written fiction because everything I write about actually just happened to me. I love the thought of sharing all my “issues” with the world. And before Facebook, writing was my outlet.

                                                                                                                                                       

What compelled you to write a book on this subject?

 The Moms’ Night Out devotional is connected with the movie Moms’ Night Out. I had to write a whole book in thirty days. I’m a mom, so I did it! It was crazy insane, but challenging. I wanted to write a book for the “anti-Pinterest” mom. I’m not cute. I don’t do crafts. I can’t cook well and I steal candy from my kids. I still look up ex-boyfriends on Facebook. What does God think of me? Does God still love me? Of course He does! Now, let’s laugh and learn together.

                                                                                                                                                           

What is the main theme or point that you want readers to understand from reading your book? Are there any other themes present in the book?

You are not alone. You are not more messed up than your friends. They’re just lying! You will never be perfect so stop beating yourself up. I want readers to laugh out loud at the truth of my life and feel like they are with a friend. I held nothing back. I laughed, I cried, and I ate Nutella while I wrote the book. I hope they will find some joy in the stories and some lessons from the questions we asked.                                                                                                                                                                          

Are there some specific lessons you hope readers will learn and apply to their lives after reading your book?

 We are all messed up! Let’s get real. Let’s stop trying to be our mothers, and stop trying to please our mothers and everyone else around us. I learned a lot about myself as a mom while I was writing this. I learned I’m too obsessed with others’ opinions of me and I have a severe addiction to social media. I watch TV shows that are questionable and sometimes feel guilty about it. I need to deal with some of this nonsense in my life and I need to get some more one-on-one time with God.

                                                           

What makes your book different than any other books similar to yours that are in circulation today?

 People are telling me they “wet their pants” reading my book. I think that makes it different than Jesus Calling. I have Jesus Calling and I read all the devotionals while I was on the potty. I think mine is a nice compliment to the others because sometimes you really need a huge laugh break.         

                                                                                                                                               

How does the book intertwine with God’s call on your life and how you are currently serving Him?

God told me once I was going to be His walking testimony. I have a big mouth and a fun, crazy family. If He can help me, He can help anyone. I tell stories. I do comedy. I tell others that God not only still cares about you, but He wants to help us in the journey. He knows we’re tired but he wants us to find some relief while we’re down here on earth. I’m on the road about 40 weeks a year basically telling my stories and seeing miracles along the way.                                                                                                                                                                                

Do you have a favorite Scripture verse?

 Isaiah 43:2: “When you walk through the waters you will not drown. When you walk through the fire you will not get burned. For I have redeemed you.”

When you are not writing, what do you like to do? Do you have any hobbies?       

 Facebook, Instagram, watching 80’s movies, pretending I’m going to cook and then eating out with my husband, pretending I’m going to work out.                                                                                                                                                                       

As we close, is there anything else you would like to add?

Please pray for me and my husband out here in Hollywood. We’re working as Christians out here and trying to do what God has called us to do. My heart is to be here for my kids and also make an impact in Hollywood. I just would covet your prayers for Ron and I.

Tell us about the book.

It’s called Moms’ Night Out and Other Things I Miss. It’s a devotional for anyone who has a mom or is a mom or just wants to laugh. It has short chapters with lessons and questions and Scripture at the end. The chapters are about me, my kids, my hormonal rages, my parent-teacher conferences, and feeding my kids Tic Tacs from the bottom of my purse. My message is about survival! We will prevail!

Where can my readers find you on the Internet?

 www.kerripom.com

Twitter: Kerri Pom

Instagram: KerriPom
Facebook: Kerri Pomarolli (I need friends!)

USA Today best-selling author Tricia Goyer has written the novelization to the much-anticipated movie, Moms' Night Out. Don't miss this hilarious family comedy that celebrates real family life—where everything can go wrong and still turn out all right.

And, look for the companion devotional written by comedian Kerri Pomarolli, Moms' Night Out and Other Things I Miss: Devotions To Help You Survive.

Tricia and Kerri have teamed up for the "No More Frumpy Mommy" challenge.

Motherhood can sometimes seem like survival of the fittest. Every day brings its own troubles, and by the end of the day, you’re spent. Between school, soccer practice, cleaning, laundry, cooking dinner, putting away dishes, and keeping your kids from going at each others’ throats, the last thing on your mind is getting away for an evening. If that’s you, you’re invited to take part in Tricia and Kerri's No More Frumpy Mommy challenge.

Tricia and Kerri will choose 10 winners to receive a Fandango gift card to see Moms' Night Out, as well as copies of Moms' Night Out (the book) and Moms' Night Out and Other Things I Miss.

One grand-prize winner will receive $200 to put toward her own moms' night out or her own moms' night out "ride" (getting her car detailed and cleaned).

GO HERE TO JOIN THE CHALLENGE!

Thank you, Tricia and Kerri, for sharing your books with us today. I haven't read Tricia's book yet, because when it arrived, my husband started reading it right away and isn't finished. I plan to use Kerri's devotional as soon as I finish the devotional book I'm using right now.

My daughters and granddaughters took me to see Moms' Night Out, the movie, last night for our Mother's Day celebration. The movie is the funniest movie I've seen in a long time. I'm not sure I ever laughed that much in a movie. There were serious moments that brought us to tears, too. I highly recommend this wonderful movie.

These two books are available in retailers and online in the US, Canada, and some other parts of the world.

Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of one of the books. 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 CHRISTMAS GIFT FOR ROSE - Tricia Goyer - One Free Book on This Blog, Plus Much More

Bio: USA Today best-selling author Tricia Goyer is the author of over 35 books, including the three-book Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series and Lead Your Family Like Jesus, (co-written with Ken Blanchard). She has written over 500 articles for national publications and blogs for high traffic sites like TheBetterMom.com and MomLifeToday.com. She is the host of Living Inspired, a weekly radio show. Tricia and family live in Little Rock, Arkansas. They have six children.

Welcome back, Tricia. I know you speak at various conferences and meetings. What do you have coming up?

I'm excited because I have two conferences coming up soon. First, I'm speaking at MOMcom, which is the International conference for MOPS International. I've been involved with MOPS for the last sixteen years, as an attendee-mom and a TeenMOPS leader. I haven't been to a conference in many years so I'm excited to go, to speak, to learn, and to connect! I'm also attending the Allume conference this month. It's an amazing blogging conference I spoke at last year. I loved the passion and servant-hearts behind the leaders and the attendees. I'm not speaking there this year, but I'm looking forward to going!

If you were planning a women’s retreat, what would be the theme for it?

The first word that popped into my mind was Redeemed! As followers of God we were saved from sin, but we are also given a chance—through Christ—to be the person God designed us to be. Being a Christ follower is more than just having hope in eternity. It's living out God's plan and purpose for our time on earth now!

Who would you want as speakers and why?

Hard choice! But I'd have to pick Courtney Joseph, of WomenLivingWell.org, because she has such a sweet spirit and has a passion for God's Word. And I'd pick Robin Jones Gunn because she's a dear friend and speaks straight to the heart of women. I'd also pick my producer/writer friend Amber Lia because of her work in Hollywood, working to bring Redemption stories to TV and the movies. And my daughter, Leslie Goyer. She's serving as a missionary in the Czech Republic, and her heart for sharing Christ with people from all around the world is inspiring. I'll stop there because there are 101 other women who I'm thinking of and I can't choose!

Where would you hold the retreat and why?

Somewhere relaxing, beachy, and quiet. I'd work in quiet time with God as much as gathering time, because listening to God's voice is most important.

Do you read print books or ebooks? Or a combination of the two?

I read print books, ebooks, and I listen to audio books! I just finished listening to The Wedding Dress by Rachel Hauck, and I loved it!

I love that book by Rachel. Your featured book has an interesting title. How did you come up with it?

I originally wanted The Christmas Rose first because my main character is Rose and second because of the symbolism of roses in my book, BUT as I was writing it another book came out with a similar name so we changed the title a bit.

So what is the book about?

Rose turned her back on the man she loves after he assisted the Englisch during World War II—only to discover she's an Englischer herself. Born in the midst of the hardships of The Great Depression, Rose grew up in Berlin, Ohio, in the arms of a loving Amish family. But she is overwhelmed by self-doubt when she learns that she was born Englisch and abandoned when her family moved West in search of work. Was she meant to be Amish or would she have been better off growing up with her own kind—Englischers? When the man she loves leaves her behind, Rose is certain he left for good. Yet Rose discovers sometimes our greatest gifts are the ones we fear.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Chapter One –

November 1945

Rose Yoder had hoped the last rays of evening light would fight harder against the building storm clouds, but the sky was dark as she stepped from the shelter of the barn doors with milk bucket in hand. A gentle breeze stirred particles of dust and chaff.

Somewhere in the dis­tance an automobile’s motor could be heard, chugging down the gravel road beyond the farm. Golden light glowed from the lantern hanging in the kitchen window, marking her way over the frozen snow, but the light didn’t penetrate far enough. She struggled forward, leaving earthy smells behind her, trusting her heart to find the way to the front door when her steps weren’t sure.

Was there certainty anywhere these days? No, especially not deep in Rose’s heart.

Jonathan and I should be married by now . . . maybe with a boppli on the way.

She pushed that thought from her mind and shook her head, her breath freezing in the air. That wouldn’t happen now. Not after what he’d done. Joining the military. Traveling overseas. And to think he’d had the nerve to return to their small Amish community and don his Amish garb like noth­ing had happened—like he hadn’t shamed their community, shamed her.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Lots of places!

www.TriciaGoyer.com  

www.facebook.com/authortriciagoyer

www.twitter.com/triciagoyer

www.pinterest.com/triciagoyer

I love to connect!

Tricia Goyer is celebrating the release of her first Christmas novella, A Christmas Gift for Rose, with a Christmas Gift giveaway! 

Enter to win a NEW Kindle Fire HDX for you AND one for a friend!

One grand prize winner will receive:

• A brand new Kindle Fire HDX and one to give away to a friend!
• A Christmas Gift for Rose, by Tricia Goyer for you and your friend!

Four second place winners will receive:

• A Christmas Gift for Rose Christmas pack (includes a recipe card, bookmark, a signed book plate, discussion questions, and a Gathering and Giving handout!)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on October 19th. All winners will be announced October 21st at Tricia's blog.

Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to visit Tricia's blog on the 21st to see if you won one of the great prizes! (Or better yet, subscribe to her blog and have the winner announcement delivered to your inbox!)

Thank you, Tricia for sharing your new book and giveaway with us.

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

A Christmas Gift for Rose - Christianbook.com
A Christmas Gift for Rose - Amazon.com
A Christmas Gift for Rose - 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

THE PROMISE BOX - Tricia Goyer - One Free Book on This Blog, Plus Much More

Welcome back, Tricia. I know you speak at various conferences and meetings. What do you have coming up in 2013?

I've cut out most of my speaking in 2013 … but for a very good reason. We're in the process of adopting two little ones from the Foster Care system. They are ages 5 and 2 years old. I knew it would take time for everyone to adjust so I'm staying home as much as possible. That being said, I am excited to be speaking at the International MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) convention in Kansas City!

If you were planning a women’s retreat, what would be the theme for it?

Living Inspired. That is the name of my radio show, and the theme for my life. The word “inspiration” means “Breath of God.” Our lives can be inspiring when we allow God to breathe into them. It doesn't matter what we can do. It matters what we allow Him to do through us!

Who would you want as speakers and why?

Oh, that's a hard question! A few of my friends:

Robin Jones Gunn, Courtney Joseph, Brooke McGlouthin, Stacey Thacker, Gina Smith, Kennisha Hill, Terri Lynn Underwood, Tracey Eyster, Crystal Paine … the list could go on!

Where would you hold the retreat and why?

I'd find someplace near the beach or mountains—someplace that would refresh a woman's soul.

Do you read print books or ebooks? Or a combination of the two?

Both!

That’s an interesting title. How did you come up with it?

The Promise Box is titled after the object in the book that changes everything. It's a box where a woman collected the promises that God had given to her, both Scripture promises in promises concerning her life.

So what is the book about.

Lydia Wise is a young Amish woman who returns to the small Amish community of West Kootenai, Montana, after her mother's death. It's then she discovers her mother's promise box, and she learns to trust in God's promises too … while at the same time opening her heart to an Amish bachelor.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Lydia Wyse shook rain from her red curls, wishing she could as easily shake memories of the last time she’d seen Mem’s lowered kapp and bowed head, praying for her daughter’s return. Return not only to West Kootenai, Montana, but to the Amish. Lydia was returning all right, but not in the way Mem had wished. Tomorrow was Mem’s funeral, and during the nine hours of driving—from Seattle to Montana—each minute had brought her closer to home. To heartache.

Lydia had stopped for gas in Eureka, about an hour from her parents’ house, and rain now drenched her long curls. Soaked, standing in line to pay, she spotted a few Amish women climbing from a white van and hurrying into the grocery store attached to the gas station. Seeing them, a twinge of familiarity—of longing—filled her heart, but she stuffed the emotions down.

“Are those Amish from West Kootenai?” she asked the gas station attendant who took her cash.

He shrugged. “Don’t know. Just Amish. Not really sure where they’re from.”

“Just Amish.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

www.TriciaGoyer.com

www.twitter.com/triciagoyer

www.Facebook.com/authortriciagoyer

www.pinterest.com/triciagoyer

Tricia Goyer is celebrating the release of her lastest novel, The Promise Box (Zondervan), by hosting an Amish Baking Box giveaway and connecting with readers during her June 12th Book Chat Party!

One "promising" winner will receive:

• Apron, hot mitts, and kitchen towels
• Amish baking items (rolling pin, pie plate, etc...)
• Sherry Gore's Simply Delicious Amish Cooking
• The Memory Jar and The Promise Box by Tricia Goyer 

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 11th. Winner will be announced at the "The Promise Box" Facebook Author Chat Party on June 12th. Connect with Tricia for an evening of Amish fun - book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Tricia will also share an exclusive look at the next book book in the Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors series and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.

So grab your copy of The Promise Box and join Tricia on the evening of June 12th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (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. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 12th!

Thank you, Tricia, for sharing all of this with us today.

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

The Promise Box  - Christianbooks.com
The Promise Box (Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors) - paperback
The Promise Box (Seven Brides for Seven Bachelors) - 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

BEYOND HOPE'S VALLEY - Tricia Goyer - Free Book + More

Win a Custom Amish Prize Pack from @TriciaGoyer in her Beyond Hope's Valley Giveaway! RSVP for All Things Amish Party {5/21}! Celebrate with Tricia and enter to win a custom-made Amish Wall hanging in the colors of your choice ... and much more!

One fortunate winner will receive: 

•  Custom Amish Wall Hanging {You choose the colors!} 
• An Amish Doll {Sweet.} 
• Amish-made basket {It’s picnic season!} 
• Doilies, potholder and an Amish cookbook {All items form Bird-in-Hand, PA!} 
• Three book Big Sky Amish series {Be swept away by this captivating series.} 

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on May 20th. Winner will be announced at "All Things Amish" Author Chat Facebook Party on 5/21. Tricia will be hosting an author chat (on Facebook and Live from her website) and giving away books, gift certificates and more! 

So grab your copy of Beyond Hope's Valley and join Tricia on the evening of the May 21st for a fun chat, trivia contest (How much do you know about the Amish?) and lots of giveaways. (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 and tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 21st!

Readers, in addition to this, one of you who leave a comment on this blog will 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

BY THE LIGHT OF THE SILVERY MOON - Tricia Goyer - Free Book

I am thrilled to be on this blog tour. Tricia allowed me to read this manuscript for endorsement. First, I love stories about the Titanic. Second, the story is very engaging, with undertones of the prodigal son. The characters leap off the pages and grab your heart. They won't let go until you read the last page. Even then, they'll hang around your thoughts of quite awhile.


About Tricia:

Tricia Goyer is the award winning author of thirty-two books including Beside Still Waters, Remembering You, and the mommy memoir, Blue Like Play Dough. Tricia is a regular speaker at conventions and conferences and is the host of Living Inspired. She and her family make their home in Little Rock, Arkansas where they are part of the ministry of FamilyLife.

Welcome, Tricia. Tell us a little about yourself and your background.

I'm a wife, mom of four, author, radio host, and speaker. I'm the author of 32 books, and I've written hundreds of articles. I also have a weekly radio show, Living Inspired, where I interview Christian authors, artists, and ministry leaders. I started writing as a young mom in 1994, and my first book got published in 2003. I've been writing books continually since then, and I love it. Growing up I never planned on being a writer, but I did love to read. Looking back, I can seen that God created me to share stories with others. I can't think of anything else I'd rather do.

In a lot of ways, our paths are similar. I also host a radio show, but only once a month. How did you become interested in writing?           

I was just 22-years-old and pregnant with my third baby when another young mom at church was talking about writing a novel. It intrigued me! We went to a few writing workshops together, and then the Mt. Hermon Christian Writer's Conference. I was hooked after that. I continued to attend Mt. Hermon for fourteen years, learning and growing in my craft.                                                                          

Mount Herman is one conference I’d like to go to, but haven’t made it yet. What compelled you to write a book on the subject in By the Light of the Silvery Moon?

I first got the idea for doing a more contemporary prodigal son story in 1997. Then—just last year—I was approached by an editor about coming up with an idea for the Titanic. April 15, 2012 was the 100th Anniversary—would I like to submit a novel idea for consideration? Yes, of course!

One morning I was laying in bed praying about a “Titanic idea” when the prodigal son story popped into my mind. Was it possible that the seed of the idea I had so many years prior fit on the Titanic? I dug back through my old computer files and found the original prologue. Then, in my mind's eye, the story of a younger son, an older son, a woman who cared for them both--and the loving father--played out in my mind on the decks of the grand ship.

What is the main theme or point that you want readers to understand from reading your book? Are there any other themes present in the book? 

My novel idea was rooted in the Scriptural story of the prodigal son, and I knew the story could be impacting if told in a more modern time period. I couldn't shake the image of God as reflected in the loving father who welcomes his wayward son home. The theme is, “We can never walk away from the Father's love.”                                                                                                                                           

                                                                 

Are there some specific lessons you hope readers will learn and apply to their lives after reading your book?

Yes, first of all to understand that God will always love us, even in our lowest point. We don't need to hide from Him—He's waiting there with open arms. I also hope readers will be more intrigued by the Titanic and will pick up another book about it. I feel we honor those who lost their lives by not losing their story among the faded memories of passing years.

I am featuring several Christian novels on the Titanic here on this blog. What makes your book different than any other books similar to yours that are in circulation today?

There are a TON of books on the Titanic. In fact, that was daunting to me to try to add to the many voices. BUT my novel isn't a book of facts. It's a story of love, forgiveness, and redemption. The characters have a unique story to tell—they just get to tell it amongst the drama of a sinking ship.     

     

                                                                                                                                   

How does the book intertwine with God’s call on your life and how you are currently serving Him?

What a great question! I feel God has called me to bring His truths to life in story. I've had five novels released in the last seven months—that is a lot!--but the stories He puts on my heart continue to pour out. At the same time, like Amelia in the novel—I'm called to serve my family and those in the local community. My grandmother lives with me, we've adopted one sweet little girl and hope to open our home to more orphans in the next year. Even when we have full schedules, God asks us to care for the orphans and widows, and doing so brings me great joy!

                                                                                                                                                              

Do you have a favorite Scripture verse?

Yes, Zephaniah 3:17. It shares the Father's love in a way that amazes me:

“The LORD your God is with you,
he is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
he will quiet you with his love,
he will rejoice over you with singing.”

Interesting. Just before I first remember reading that scripture verse, God had given me a vision, and that verse reinforced it. It’s one of my favorites, too. When you are not writing, what do you like to do? Do you have any hobbies?

My favorite hobbies include visiting the zoo, playing with Play Dough, and reading Goodnight Moon with my 2-year-old. I also love date nights with my hubby and traveling with my family!

As we close, is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you, Lena! You are a wonderful friend. I am blessed by you!

The feeling is mutual. 

About the book:

Amelia Gladstone's hopes are tied up in the Titanic--hopes for a reunion with her sister and an introduction to an admirer. But when she offers a spare ticket to a down-and-out young man, her fate is about to change.

Quentin Walpole is stunned when a sweet lady secures his passage to America--and even more surprised to find his wealthy father and older brother on board the ship. Suddenly Amelia finds herself caught between the attentions of two men, but who should she entrust her heart to? As the fateful night arrives, will Amelia lose everything to the icy waters?

Book Trailer

Link to buy the book:

http://www.triciagoyer.com/historicalfiction.html#ByTheLight 


Win an Flip HD Camcorder during @TriciaGoyer's Unsinkable Titanic Giveaway and RSVP for 4/10 Titanic Party!


Celebrate the release of By the Light of the Silvery Moon with Tricia by entering her giveaway and RSVPing to her Titanic party.





One "unsinkable" winner will receive:

• Flip HD video Camera (Make your own dramatic saga!)
• Titanic movies from the ages {Titanic (1953) Unsinkable Molly Brown (1964), Titanic (1997)}
• Secrets of the Titanic (Get the facts from National Geographic.)
• And the Band Played On (Music Played on the Titanic.)
• By the Light of the Silvery Moon by Tricia Goyer (Be swept away in this tale of love and courage.)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on April 9th. Winner will be announced at "Silvery Moon" Titanic Facebook Party on 4/10. Tricia will be hosting an author chat (on Facebook and Live from her website) and giving away books, gift certificates and a book club prize pack! (Ten copies of the book for your small group or book club). During the live chat Tricia will have a *special guest* join her. More details coming soon!

So grab your copy of By the Light of the Silvery Moon and join Tricia on the evening of the April 10th for a fun chat, trivia contest (How much do you know about the Titanic?) and lots of giveaways. 

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 10th!

In addition to that, some blessed reader of this blog can win a free copy of the book. Here's how.

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

CHASING MONA LISA - Tricia Goyer and Mike Yorkey - Free Book

I know that this is a collaboration. How did this story come about?

Tricia: I’ve written a handful of books set in the World War II, and I’ve always been intrigued about how the Nazis stole art. When I was in Austria I heard about the salt mines that many art pieces were hidden in. I also read a book Rescuing Da Vinci that intrigued me.  That’s why Mike and I started the book with an action scene involving a train in Paris being loaded up with priceless art that was purchased or stolen in France. I was amazed by how that happened and I knew readers would be too.

Mike: From there, it was a matter of piecing together a plausible plot that involved Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring’s desire to steal the Mona Lisa following the Allies’ liberation of Paris in August 1944. We believe we have more than succeeded, and there are a lot of unexpected surprises along the way.

Did you find it easy to work together on it?

Tricia: The best way to work together was for Mike to write the first draft and then I came in behind and edited, added bits and pieces of scenes, and offered suggestions. He usually set me free on the “romantic” parts.

Mike: That’s what worked best for us. Thank goodness for Track Changes in Word.

That was a great invention loved by many authors. How did collaborating with this team impact you?

Tricia: Mike and I collaborated on a previous World War II novel, The Swiss Courier and we both like the same type of research, although Mike comes up with the zinger plot twists.

Mike: Although Chasing Mona Lisa has several of the same characters that appeared in The Swiss Courier, Tricia and I decided to make it a stand-alone novel.

What is the hardest thing about writing as a team?

Tricia: Mike and I both have other books, other projects, and other deadlines that we do on our own, so it’s hard to coordinate our time.

Mike: There are never enough hours in the day.

What are you reading right now?

Tricia: I'm currently reading Kisses from Katie by Katie J. Davis and A Stranger's Gift (pre-release to write an endorsement) by Pulitzer Prize Winner Tom Hallman, Jr.

Mike: I just finished Killing Lincoln by Bill O’Reilly. I was surprised how good it was, but he didn’t write it. His collaborator Martin Dugard undoubtedly authored the book.

How did you choose your characters’ names?

Tricia: I can claim choose Colette! I love that name. Mike did the rest.

Mike: Believe it or not, many of the names come from Nicole’s family (she is Swiss) or friends she went to high school with outside of Zurich.

Would you want to work on another book together?

Tricia: Sure, but we need Chasing Mona Lisa to do well.

Mike: So tell all your friends. This starving artist will appreciate it.

What do you want to tell us about the book?

Tricia: The action never stops. Every chapter moves toward a cliffhanger. We don’t want anyone to catch his or her breath. Oh, yes, the research is pretty fun too!

Mike: It’s wonderful how all the plot threads . . . and there are a bunch of them . . . all come together. We haven’t had anyone guess the ending yet, so there are plot twists galore.

Sounds like a book I’ll love. I’ll have to try to guess the ending. I love it when I’m totally surprised, but that doesn’t happen too often. Please give us the first page of the book.

Here is the A Note to the Reader (but the beginning of the first chapter follows).

The world-renowned Musée du Louvre, in Paris, France, started as a fortress when construction began in 1190. In the fourteenth century, Charles V converted the fortress into a residential chateau, and from the 1660s until 1682, Louis XIV, the Sun King, transformed the Louvre into the grandest palace in Europe. Within its walls today, 35,000 irreplaceable pieces of art are exhibited, including the three most notable—the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory at Samothrace.

The Mona Lisa, or as she is called in French, La Joconde, greets visitors from behind a climate-controlled enclosure fronted by bulletproof glass. Over 500 years old, the portrait of the most famous woman in the world—Lisa del Giocondo, the wife of a Florentine silk merchant—measures only twenty-one inches wide by thirty inches tall. It is said that her eyes follow—perhaps even haunt—viewers. Her folded hands look smooth, and her smile, forever enigmatic. From the moment the Italian painter Leonardo da Vinci finished this masterpiece in 1519 a few years before his death, no portrait has elicited more scrutiny, study, and even parody in the history of art.

During World War II, the Nazis looted thousands of paintings and art works from the lands they conquered. Armed with the knowledge that their beloved treasures were in danger, the French packed up the Mona Lisa before the German Army overran Paris. She was moved from one hiding place to another, and she even hung in a little girl’s bedroom for a time. The Mona Lisa remained safe throughout the time of the Nazi occupation of France . . .

Until the Libération of Paris.

Chapter 1 (first page)

Thursday, August 20, 1942

Paris, France, during Nazi occupation

Dressed in soiled blue overalls and pushing a dented trash can, the solitary figure shuffled past two German sentries stationed at the Gare de l’Est’s archway entrance.

The brim of a felt hat covered Bernard Rousseau’s downturned eyes, averting the soldiers’ cold glare. No one will bother you if you avoid eye contact while performing a menial job. Cradling that thought, he moved past the guards into the gilded entrance arcade.

Gare de l’Est, one of six train stations in Paris and the main terminus for rail traffic to and from Germany, was moderately busy this summer afternoon. In stark contract to the pall of oppression in the streets, a festive spirit hung in the air underneath the iron trusses of the train shed where clusters of German officers—flanked by smiling wives and jubilant children—arrived on holiday. Sweating porters toted their luggage, struggling to keep up within the grand structure dominated by decorative columns.

Readers: Win an iTouch SPY Pack in the Chasing Mona Lisa Giveaway from @triciagoyer @mikeyorkey!

Chasing Mona Lisa is the continuing tale of Gabi Mueller and Eric Hofstadler (first introduced in The Swiss Courier). This time the due are on a relentless quest to save the most famous painting in the world  - the Mona Lisa. You can help Gabi and Eric with your very own spy pack when you enter The Chasing Mona Lisa Giveaway!

One passionate protector will receive:

• iTouch (The must-have device for any spy. Camera, Maps & Music.)
• Starbucks Gift Card (For all those late nights.)
• Moleskin Notebook (For those important notes.)
• Invisible Ink Pen (Don’t want anyone reading those important notes.)
• Chasing Mona Lisa by Tricia Goyer & Mike Yorkey (Great handbook and intriguing tale for any spy-in-training!)

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends at noon on January 31st. The winner will be announced at the Chasing Mona Lisa Facebook Party on 1/31. Tricia and Mike will be hosting an author chat (on Facebook and Live from Tricia's website) and giving away their books and a Book Club prize pack! (Ten copies of the book for your small group or book club AND a LIVE Author Chat for your group with Tricia and Mike.)

So grab your copy of Chasing Mona Lisa and join Tricia and Mike on the evening of the 31st for an author chat, spy training (do you know how to pick a lock?) and lots of giveaways. 

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 31st!


Thank you, Tricia and Mike, for the interesting peek into your writing partnership and your book.


Readers, you can win a copy of the book here on this blog.


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