A BUMP IN LIFE - Amy Ford - One Free Book

Readers, I first met Amy when I attended one of the Embrace Grace meetings where my daughter was giving her testimony about her unplanned pregnancy. My daughter wanted me there to undergird her with prayer, because she was nervous. She has been involved in this ministry for most of the five years of its existence. When Amy started thinking about writing this book, I encouraged her.

Welcome, Amy. What would you like for our readers to know about you personally?

At 19 years old, I had an unplanned pregnancy. I was completely freaked out and was so scared. I had no idea how to be a mom, and I could barely see past just telling my parents. I had convinced myself they were going to kick me out and I’d be homeless out on the streets. My boyfriend felt the same way. He was starting his 2nd year of college and knew his dad would cut him off financially and leave him out on his own. We figured we would need to drop out of school and our lives were over before it ever really began. We decided an abortion was the only way to fix our problem. We scheduled an appointment, and they did a sonogram and determined I was 6 weeks and 4 days pregnant. They started explaining the different methods of abortion and how it would all just go away. I was so emotionally distraught that day that I ended up passing out at the clinic and began hyperventilating. When I came to, I remember nurses fanning me and trying to give me some water.

A nurse helped me up and said, “You are not getting an abortion today. You can reschedule an appointment for another day but today is not your day. You are too upset.” 

That was the day that my life changed forever. We accepted this baby into our lives and moved forward with our future, hoping for the best. My parents didn’t kick me out like I thought that they would. My boyfriend’s parents didn't cut him off financially like he had convinced himself of. Our life wasn’t over. It was only beginning.

Seven and a half months later, I gave birth to a child destined for greatness. A son who has a plan and purpose for his life designed by an amazing God. I ended up marrying that cute boyfriend of mine, and we went on to have three more kids who will be world-changers. 

Reflecting back on that season of my life of having a crisis pregnancy, loneliness stands out to me the most. After I grew up in church and went to a Christian private school, my friends weren’t really sure how to hang out with me anymore. It wasn’t that they didn’t like me, it was more of just not knowing what to say. Do they congratulate me or do they offer apologies? They had no idea so they just stopped calling. Going to church with the evidence of my sin so obvious to everyone made me feel awkward as well as fellow church-goers ... so I stopped going. Shame and guilt overwhelmed me. I always felt like my pregnancy was like the elephant in the room. No one felt open and comfortable enough to talk about it but I just knew everyone was thinking about it. 

Fast forward to now. I want to make a difference and reach out to these girls who are walking out like I once did. I want to inspire churches to create a safe place for the girls to come where they won’t feel judged. I want these girls to connect and make new friends and not be lonely during their pregnancy. I want to honor their brave decision to choose LIFE and not death. Five years ago, a friend, Salina, and I started a program at Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, called Embrace Grace.

Since then it has grown within the church as well as multiplied to churches in multiple states. We have now started our own non-profit organization, Embrace Grace, formed for the purpose of inspiring the church to provide emotional, practical and spiritual support for single young girls who find themselves with an unplanned pregnancy. The primary goal of Embrace Grace is to empower churches across the nation to be a safe and non-judging place for the girls to run to when they find out they are pregnant, instead of the last because of shame and guilt. We provide curriculum for the churches as well as cover the costs to organizations that may not be able to afford the expenses involved with helping young women with crisis pregnancies.

If the church, the body of Christ, would join together to support these girls who choose life, young moms will be more open to not aborting their babies. Whether they keep their baby or place for adoption, Embrace Grace is a support system for them as they begin their journey of being a young mother or blessing another family with their baby. Emotionally and spiritually healthy mommies, parent emotionally and spiritually healthy babies. Through the Embrace Grace program, lives are saved and generations are being changed.

Tell us about your family.

My husband, Ryan is my high-school sweetheart. I have four amazing children – one in high school, middle school, elementary, and one in diapers. They are ALL spread out. Jess my son is 14, Mackenzie is 11, Landry is 7 and Judah Brave is 2. They keep me busy!

Have you written other nonfiction books?

This is my first book I have ever written.

Do you have any other books in the works right now?

I just now started writing my second book so it’s still in the early stages. I’m so excited about it – it’s about adoption.

What kinds of hobbies and leisure activities do you enjoy?

My favorite place to be to get refreshed and revived is the beach! I get so many ideas and dream so many new dreams being right next to the water. I spend a lot of time visiting sweet babies in the hospital or hanging out with young, single mommas. I love uncovering talents and dreams inside other people and helping them lay out a vision for their future. Dreaming BIG is my favorite!

Why did you write the featured book?

Nearly half of pregnancies among American women are unintended, and about four in ten of these are terminated by abortion. (Guttmacher Institute, 8-11)

These statistics are staggering. Unplanned pregnancies are at a record high. With the pro-life movement rallying with full force to save as many babies as they can, as well as some states already implementing the 24-hour law, girls are taking a little more time to really process the choice they are about to make. And because of these recent changes, more babies are being saved.

In A Bump In Life: True Stories of Hope and Courage during an Unplanned Pregnancy, I have put together some incredible and inspiring stories of brave girls, who found themselves with an unplanned pregnancy, facing a life-altering choice. These are stories of how God turned what may have been the most desperate and hopeless situation they have ever been through into a beautiful blessing, changing their lives forever.

Just like the girls themselves, each story is unique. This book is a picture of hope for all girls going through an unplanned pregnancy or even family members affected by it. From a preacher’s kid who grew up in the spotlight struggling with guilt and shame on the platform, to the girl who could never break free from drugs and found out she was pregnant in a jail cell, to the rape victim who found herself pregnant—they all end with one thing in common: HOPE. Even though they were going through the most difficult trial in their life, God’s mercy and favor was abundant as they turned their hearts to Him, trusting in their Heavenly Father. What the enemy meant for harm, God changed into blessings—from ashes to beauty.

What do you want the reader to take away from the book?

If you are going through an unplanned pregnancy, I hope this book helps you realize you are not alone. I pray that anyone going through or connected with this situation will feel encouraged and move from feelings of loneliness, shame, and worry to the far more lasting joy that is God’s redemptive blessing of a child.

Where on the Internet can the readers find you?

www.AmyFord.com

www.iEmbraceGrace.com

www.twitter.com/AmyMFord

www.facebook.com/authorAmyFord

Thank you, Amy. You have been an inspiration to me. I love to watch what the ministry is doing to help women and save babies.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
A Bump in Life - Christianbook.com
A Bump in Life: True Stories of Hope and Courage During an Unplanned Pregnancy - Amazon.com
A Bump in Life: True Stories of Hope and Courage During an Unplanned Pregnancy - 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

CHRISTMAS AT MONMOUTH in PLANTATION CHRISTMAS WEDDINGS - Lorraine Beatty - One Free Book

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

I’d had an idea several years ago about a jilted bride who ended up managing the plantation where she was supposed to have been married. When we added the wedding element to our plantation stories, it all fell into place. It worked well as novella but I still want to write a longer version at some point.

What are you reading right now?

Book 3 in Sandra Robbins Smokey Mountain Dreams series, called Beyond These Hills, and Book 3 in Diane Ashley and Aaron McCarver’s Song of the River series, called Jasmine.

What other books have you had published?

Beautiful Dreamer – Heartsong Presents  Nov 2912

Rekindled Romance – Love Inspired  April 2013

Restoring His Heart – Love Inspired   June 2013

Protecting the Widow’s Heart – Love Inspired will come out in  March 2014

The Last Angel Song – Christmas Comes to Bethlehem, Maine – Barbour Christmas Collection for 2014

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

I might be able to better answer that question after I finish the Bethlehem, Maine, story for next year’s book. Those stories will be more intertwined. This one was fairly simple since we all wrote about different estates and the stories take place in different years. My character, wedding planner Wreath Anderson, did make cameo appearances in each story so I looked those over and provided a brief sketch of her personality for the others to use.

How did collaborating with this team impact you?

The biggest impact was getting to go to Natchez for research. What fun and what a rare opportunity. Now that the book is published, we’ll be able to do all the book signings as a team. We have a signing in Natchez in December, and we’re all looking forward to it. For two of our authors, Cynthia Leavelle and Virginia Vaughan, this was their first sale to a traditional publisher. That was one of the most exciting parts.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Usually they just come to me. I keep a list of potential names, and I like to pick names that have a good feel to them for each character. I don’t worry about the meaning of a name. I think more about what suits character. In the case of Christmas at Monmouth, I knew I wanted a holiday name, but the usual ones didn’t feel right – Noel, Holly, Chris. I knew a woman once whose name was Wreath, and I’d been waiting to use it. This was the perfect story. The hero’s name I picked because it sounded strong against her softer name.

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

I hope they are reminded that the vows we take are serious. I want people to remember that a wedding is about a long-term commitment. It’s a covenant not a dress-up day where the bride plays princess. I want them to remember that our Lord is a God of second chances who will, if we let him, give us blessings that are far beyond what we think we want or deserve.

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

Christmas at Monmouth

Wreath Anderson strolled through the hall of Monmouth Plantation, her gaze resting lovingly upon the antique furniture, the curved staircase and the colorful mural wallpaper. Of all the antebellum homes in Natchez, Monmouth was her favorite. The Early 19th century Greek revival with its large portico, broad zigzag railing, and four massive square pillars across the front, epitomized the image of a southern estate. Situated on twenty-six acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, the historic property had evolved over the years into a five-star boutique hotel.

Chill winter air rushed around her ankles as she stepped outside, sending a shiver all the way up to her neck, and hastening her steps across the courtyard of the historic Inn. Winter in Natchez, Mississippi was always unpredictable. One day’s balmy spring-like weather could become a blustery sweater-and-boots day the next. Today had been a combination of both—warm in the morning and cold and windy by the afternoon.

As soon as she checked in with sales manager and event planner, Helen Fletcher, at the office, she’d head home, fix a pot of raspberry tea and snuggle up on the couch. But first she had a few wedding details to go over. Her business, The Wedding Wreath Bridal and Event Planning, was exceptionally busy this Christmas season. The next three weekends were packed full of luncheons, parties, a special benefit dinner and a small wedding at one of the historic plantations. But it was the wedding at the end of the month here at Monmouth that was churning up the past and keeping her off balance. The bride, Grace Donovan, had chosen an antebellum theme for her wedding, complete with period uniforms and hooped skirts. The same theme and the same venue as Wreath’s wedding six years ago. The wedding that never happened.

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

I am a member. I used to write the steamy books, but one day I was in my office working on one of those scenes and I thought,  if Jesus came in and asked me what I was doing, would I want him to see what I was writing? I wouldn’t have been. When I started writing again after a few years away from it, I decided to do Christian fiction. ACFW has been a valuable asset. I’ve learned so much from the other members, the resources, and mostly the yearly conference.

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

One of the first things I heard from another writer who had received a rejection letter from the editor of a prestigious literary magazine was this: Writing commercial fiction is about writing what they want. Not what you want. It took me many years to grasp what that meant, but when I did my writing journey took a huge turn for the better.

Where can my readers find you on the Internet?

www.Lorrainebeatty.com

http://lorrainebeatty.blogspot.com

https://www.facebook.com/Lorrainebeattyauthor

http://www.pinterest.com/lcbeatty/boards/

Thank you, Lorraine, for sharing your new book with us.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Plantation Christmas Weddings - Christianbook.com
PLANTATION CHRISTMAS WEDDINGS (Romancing America) _ Amazon.com
Plantation Christmas Weddings: Four-in-One Romance Collection (Romancing America) - 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

WINNERS!!!!!

Mongupp (Ont) is the winner of Purple Moon by Tessa Emily Hall.
Janet E (FL) is the winner of Heaven's Prey by Janet Sketchley.
Linda (CA) is the winner of Hear No Evil by Mary L Hamilton.
Mary P (Aus) is the winner of The Nun and the Narc by Catherine Castle.
Tonja (VA) is the winner of Honddu Vale by LeAnne Hardy.

If you won a book and you like it, consider giving the author the courtesy of writing a review on Goodreads, Amazon.com, Christianbooks.com, Barnes and Noble, or other Internet sites. 

Also, tell your friends about the book ... and this blog. Thank you.

Congratulations, everyone. If you won a print book, send me your mailing address:
Click the Contact Me link at the top of the blog, and send me an Email.

If you won an ebook, just let me know what email address it should be sent to.

When you contact me, please give the title of the book you won, so I won't have to look it up.

Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.

SPECIAL PREVIEW - NOAH

The author who was scheduled in this slot today didn't get the information to me.

Then the publicity firm that introduced us to the book and movie of Grace Unplugged contacted me yesterday with an advance movie trailer for the movie that will release in March 2014. We will be part of the publicity campaign. All that we have right now is the trailer, so I want to share it with you.

Enjoy. We'll have more information with giveaways before the scheduled release.

CLAIMING PEACE - Jo Huddleston - One Free Book

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

At family reunions I’ve listened to the older generations swap stories of their experiences before telephones and automobiles. Their stories motivated me to write about life before I was born.

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

The day my first grandchildren were born—twins!

How has being published changed your life?

I don’t have as much spare time. I’m either writing, brainstorming, or promoting, and marketing.

What are you reading right now?

Into the Whirlwind by Elizabeth Camden

I love that book. What is your current work in progress?

I’ve finished my Caney Creek Series and am promoting it now. I have ideas for another series but nothing yet is official.

What would be your dream vacation?

At a beach any place on the Gulf of Mexico, preferably the Florida panhandle or Florida western shore.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

I write Southern stories, and the south is familiar to me. I choose a place in the south that I’ve visited or met someone from that place. When I start a historical story, I have in my mind the location and date of the story. I read about both and also spend time learning the speech patterns of the locale. Learning about the way characters of the story would dress in that locale and time in history is a must to know before I start writing.

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

Condoleezza Rice. She is an intelligent lady who expresses herself well. I think she has no guile, and she means what she says. And I love her smile.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

All my hobbies were active sports: water skiing, bowling, a little golf. Those are behind me. Now I enjoy my grandchildren and sometimes crochet.

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

I write historical novels. The most difficult obstacle for me is research. If I stop writing to research something in question, I stop the flow or words I had. I’ve tried leaving a symbol where I can go back and do all the research at one time. Neither work well for me so I’ll probably continue doing one or the other all the time.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

If you’re a Christian author and you feel God has given you a story to tell, continue to write. There will be obstacles if you are writing for publication. Be patient and don’t give up.

Tell us about the featured book.

Claiming Peace is book 3 in the Caney Creek Series. It is a Southern inspirational historical romance novel.

Facing her lowest moments, Callie’s life begins to crumble.

As he’s done with others of his extended family, can Jim help her find peace?

Visit again the Callaway family and friends in 1951 who live in the Southern Appalachians of East Tennessee. Why did Callie have an appointment with a neurologist? Will she work her way through whatever lies ahead for her and her family? Does Emmajean’s attraction for the young lawyer, Terry, blossom further or die on the vine when he wants her to meet his parents? Can Caroline and Jim find happiness in their long-delayed marriage? You’ll meet some new characters as the Callaway saga continues. Follow the Callaway family throughout the Caney Creek Series—live their triumphs, sorrows, achievements, and losses.

Please give us the first page of the book.

August 1951

East Tennessee

Callie had not wanted to see her son. Not in that place. The Gateway House. Residency rehabilitation, the judge called it. Family weekend visits.

Returning home and leaving Art behind tore away jagged chunks of Callie’s heart.  Miles sped by in silence. Callie could hardly breathe past the lump of grief in her throat. How long must Art stay there? The judge said that would be up to Art. He could turn his life around anytime he chose.

Her husband, Arthur, and their daughter, Jennifer, tried to carry on a conversation that would coax Callie out of her remorse. That didn’t work. Her son remained in that place, and the car took them farther from him with each turn of the tires. Despair crouched in a corner of her heart over the recent life-threatening health diagnosis from her neurologist. A diagnosis she and Arthur had not revealed to their children.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Website: http://www.johuddleston.com/p/home.html

Blog: http://www.johuddleston.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jo.huddleston.hope

Shoutlife: http://shoutlife.com/profile_view.cfm?uid=134777

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

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Claiming Peace (Caney Creek Series) (Volume 3) - Amazon
Claiming Peace (The Caney Creek Series) - Kindle

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

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

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

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

AMAZING LOVE - K Dawn Byrd - One Free Ebook

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

I've always loved to read and thought it would be fun to attempt writing a book. I was hooked from the first word, and I've been unable to stop!

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

I'd be an attorney. My husband says I'd make a good one since I like to argue ((smile))

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

WWII- I love how our country came together for a common cause. It's not happened since and probably never will again.

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

It's not mainland U.S., but Hawaii.

How about a foreign country you hope to visit?

England. I have family there.

What lesson has the Lord taught you recently?

The Lord has taught me that it's best to choose your battles carefully.

That is so true in all areas of our lives. Tell us about the featured book.

Gabe Knight, a pastor in a small coastal town, finds his life is turned upside down when Dee Dillow arrives and hires him to remodel an estate she's inherited from her aunt. Dee dashes his plans for wedded bless when on a drunken binge, she divulges that she’s the highest paid call girl in Nevada and part owner of the ritziest brothel in the state.

Gabe falls in love with her, but can't believe he's hearing the voice of God when a still, small voice tells him to marry her. After much questioning, they marry and he is deliriously happy. Until, Dee betrays him.

Gabe soon discovers just how hard it is to have the unconditional love God calls him to have for his wife, the kind of love God has for his children. When faced with losing her, Gabe realizes what true love is, how much it hurts, and just how much God loves and is willing to sacrifice for his children.

Amazing Love is a contemporary version of the Hosea and Gomer story from the Bible.

Please give us the first page of the book.

The first page is actually my prologue.

Dee signed the letter with a flourish and then read it aloud.

Maggie:

For the longest time, I blamed myself. There must be something terribly wrong with me, something so bad that even a mother couldn't love me. After years of therapy, I've learned that it's not me, it's you, Maggie. You're not capable of loving anyone. That's a terrible thing to say about a mother, but it's true.

Even here at Carpe Diem, I've continued therapy via technology. Today was a hard day because it's my birthday. As was expected, I never heard from you. Like my therapist said, it's not my fault you didn't call. It's a choice you made, Maggie, like so many other bad choices.

I used to dwell often on the things you allowed to happen to me. You had to have known that John was visiting my room almost nightly. You chose to ignore it even though he was your husband. And then, he sold me to his wealthy friends and you stood back and allowed it to happen. Whoever had the most money. That wasn’t the life I would have chosen if given a choice. Even now, I long for a life of normalcy. A husband, a couple of children, and a picket fence is just a dream.

There are times I hate you, but I realize you have demons of your own. Something has happened to you to cause you to be so selfish and full of anger. That's why I try to overlook your hostility and lack of love toward me. You need a good therapist.

My therapist recommends that I write letters to you when I’m angry. It helps. This is letter 642. I’ve kept them all. You’ll probably never read them, but they’re not really for you. They’re for me.

Your daughter, Dee

How can readers find you on the Internet?

www.kdawnbyrd.blogspot.com

Twitter: @kdawnbyrd

Thank you for sharing this book with us today. I can't wait to read it.

Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog. It's only $.99 today.
Amazing Love - 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 CHRISTMAS PROMISE - Kimberly Rose Johnson - One Free Book

Welcome Kimberly. Rose is my middle name, too. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

I don’t set out to write myself into my characters, but there is a piece of me or aspect of my personality in each of them. For example, Keira in The Christmas Promise, is terrified of driving in winter weather. I’m not quite as bad as her (at least most of the time) but my fear inspired hers.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

Hmm, I’m not really a quirky person, but once when I was a kid a friend had this birthday party where she went to each of the guests houses and “kidnapped” us from our beds. Of course my mom was in on it.

We weren’t allowed to change from our nightclothes! Then we all went out to breakfast in our nightgowns and PJ’s.  Being a rather quiet and shy girl, I was mortified, but I eventually got into the spirit.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I enjoyed creative writing in high school but failed miserably at it in college, according to my writing professor. Fortunately, I didn’t let her opinion stop me forever from writing, and in 2006 I made the decision I was going to write. LOL I am a little impulsive, but I had a story in my head that I couldn’t stop thinking about. I’ve been writing ever since.

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

I tend to stick to Christian books because I know they are clean. As far as genre goes, I love romance and romantic suspense. That being said, I also read mysteries and thrillers if they seem to have a romantic thread. Generally I don’t enjoy a book unless there is at least a little romance in the story. I also enjoy reading Young Adult every now and then. Now here is an odd quirk—I prefer contemporary in all genre’s except YA.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

LOL, good question! I have a wonderful husband who helps with cooking, cleaning, and running the kids where they need to be. For the most part, I’m good at organizing my time and not over-committing. I know what I can handle, and I’m careful to stick to my boundaries.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

First I figure out how old my character is, then I look up popular names for the year he/she was born. From there I have to know my character’s personality a little to know what name would suit. I always try to pick strong names.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Today I’m most proud of getting traditionally published. It was a long time coming. J

Many of us had a long learning curve before we were traditionally published, myself included. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

A dog because I’m loyal.

What is your favorite food?

My favorite meal is probably lasagna, but I can’t turn down pie, especially berry pie.

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

I tried to get published in romantic suspense for years and even made it to committee, but never made it beyond that.

My agent and a good writer friend suggested I try writing straight romance. I finally listened and wrote The Christmas Promise. I guess I overcame the obstacle of publication by changing my approach.

Copyright © 2013 by Harlequin Enterprises Limited

Cover Art used by arrangement with Harlequin Enterprises Limited

Tell us about the featured book.

The Christmas Promise takes place in Leavenworth, Washington, a quaint Bavarian village nestled in the Cascade Mountain Range. Here is the back cover blurb:

DR. PETE HARDING DOESN'T DATE SINGLE MOMS

No matter how lovely Keira Noble's smile, or how adorable her four-year-old son. He's been down that road before and knows it can lead to a broken heart. But that doesn't mean he can't help the pretty widow find a puppy to put under the Christmas tree for her son….

Pete claims he only wants to help her find the perfect gift for Cody. Yet Keira can't deny the tender feelings in his eyes whenever he looks at her. Could this handsome Scrooge have a change of heart, and create a new family for Christmas?

Please share the first page for my reader.
(This is the first two pages.)

Keira Noble peered out her apartment window at the first snow of the season, and a shiver ran through her. Snow set her on edge. Winter in the quaint Bavarian village of Leavenworth, Washington, always meant snow, but it was only the middle of October—much too early. Taking a sip of her morning coffee, she tucked her feet under her legs and snuggled deeper into the quilt. She closed her eyes, unwilling to gaze at the one thing that tortured her every winter.

“Momma.” Four-and-a-half-year-old Cody padded out from his room and climbed into her lap. He nestled his head against her chest. “What’s for breakfast?”

“How about oatmeal with blueberries?” She didn’t open the candy shop until ten on weekdays, and treasured this time with her son.

“No.”

“Really? I thought you loved blueberries.”

He shook his head. “I like gummy worms. Can I have them in my oatmeal?”

“Eww. I don’t think so.” She gave him a squeeze and stood, setting him on the chaise. “Maybe after lunch you can pick out a few gummy worms from the bin.” She smiled to herself, imagining he’d be the most popular kid in school someday with his access to candy.

She heard footsteps on the stairs that led to the alley. Right on time. Her best friend, Susan, had a way of showing up a couple of mornings a week for breakfast. She especially appreciated the visit today considering the weather. Susan knew the fear snow brought on. Just the thought of driving now… She shuddered. A rap on the door sounded and Keira flung the door open. “Morning.” She gave Susan a quick hug and stepped back.

“Brrr. It’s freezing out there.” Susan unwound her scarf, pulled off her boots and hung her coat on a hook by the door. “Where’s my little buddy?” She tiptoed over to the chaise. “Boo.”

Cody squealed and laughed. “Aunt Susan, you always do that.”

Sitting beside him, Susan wrapped an arm around Cody. “And you always laugh.” She poked his belly. “What’s for breakfast?”

“Oatmeal, but Mom said no gummy worms.”

Susan snapped her fingers. “Bummer, but I’m sure she’ll let us have brown sugar.” Susan got up and walked into the kitchen. “I have a surprise for you.”

Keira looked over her shoulder and raised a brow at her eccentric friend with the purple streaks in her long black hair. “I’m not a fan of surprises.”

“You might like this one.”

“Might?” She measured out the water and poured it into a saucepan. “I don’t like the sound of this. Spill.”

“Sorry.” Susan pulled a card from her pocket. “Be at this address tonight at six and look hot.”

“Huh?” Her friend had never told her to look hot. She turned around and took the card. “Visconti’s?” She narrowed her eyes and crossed her arms. “What’s going on? I’m not going to show up someplace unless I know why.”

“Oh, all right. But you have to hear me out without interrupting.”

“Su-san!”

“We set you up on a blind date.” The words tumbled from her lips. “Pete is great. He’s a veterinarian. Josh knows him from church and got to talking with him when he took his dog in the other day and realized the man has no social life—”

“And he immediately thought of me. I need to have a few words with your brother.”

“You’re interrupting.”

“The two of you set me up? Why don’t you go out with him?” It had to be an all-time low when her friends thought they needed to find her a man.

“He’s not my type.” Susan grinned and batted her lashes.

“Don’t try that on me, missy.” She’d date again when she was ready. “I’m not going.” Keira turned her back on Susan and measured out the oats.

“But you have to. Josh already told him you’d be there.”

“He will have to un-tell him. What kind of person agrees to a blind date at the last minute?”

“Actually Pete’s known about it for a week.” She ducked her head. “I didn’t know how to tell you, and then time got away from me and…” She shrugged. “You can’t cancel now. It’s too late.”

Her friend knew her well. Of course she would’ve canceled. Keira bit her lip. Maybe it wouldn’t hurt to meet the man. Besides it would be rude to back out at the last minute and she had always wanted to try the food at Visconti’s, one of the best Italian restaurants around. Considering how small the village was, it was crazy she’d never been there before.

But there was one problem—Cody. Who would take care of her son and what would she tell him? Since her husband was killed four years ago in a car accident, she had gone out only once. Keira didn’t want him to get confused or attached to a man who wasn’t going to stick around. Ack! She was getting ahead of herself. It was only one date.

Susan touched her arm and lowered her voice. “You need this. It doesn’t have to be anything serious, but it’s time you started getting out there again. You keep yourself holed up in this apartment or the candy shop all the time. Live a little. And don’t worry about Cody. I’ll take care of him.”

“Will you come here to watch him?”

Susan nodded. “Whatever you want.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

WWW.kimberlyrjohnson.com from there you can follow me on Twitter or Facebook, check out my blog, or send me an email.

Thanks for having me!

It’s my pleasure, Kimberly. I read Christmas books in November and December. I read yours and loved it.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
The Christmas Promise - Christianbook.com
The Christmas Promise (Heartsong Presents) -Amazon.com
The Christmas Promise (Heartsong Presents) - 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.

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Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

COURTING HOLLY - Lynn A Coleman - One Free Book

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

Interesting question, Lena. I suppose the primary reason is that these are the stories that God has inspired within me. But these are also the kinds of stories that I like to read as well.

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

I have several but they revolve around the first, which was the day my husband and I married. By the end of the day I was holding and rubbing my face because I’d been smiling so much that my cheeks were hurting.

How has being published changed your life?

It’s allowed me to meet more people. I’m basically a people person, but I also have that writer’s hermit tendency that develops in me from time to time. When it does, I have to break out of the office and go out and mingle with real people, not just the ones in my creative mind.

What are you reading right now?

I just downloaded a book on Kindle last night that I haven’t started to read yet on marketing. The other book right now is an old Joseph C. Lincoln book entitled, Rugged Waters. Lincoln set his stories on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and many of his characters were taken from those he met on the Cape.

What is your current work in progress?

My current work in progress was titled Mercy. But, as you well know, your working title is not the published title. The title the publisher is leaning toward is Winning the Captain’s Heart.

What would be your dream vacation?

A year of travel. There are so many places my husband and I would love to go, both here in the United States and abroad … England, France, Italy, Scotland, Belgium, Holland, just to name a few. Hmm, perhaps a year wouldn’t be long enough. Since we’re dreaming, let’s make it two.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

Mostly they are places I have been. My current book in progress is set in St. Augustine, Florida. The location is an hour drive from my home, and I love the history in that city. Savannah was the setting for Courting Holly, and I visit Savannah as often as possible. Interesting places make interesting stories. But—if you dig far enough—you’ll find interesting stories just a house or two from your home.

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

That’s a tough one. I suppose it would be with Stana Katic. Let me explain why. Yes, she’s an actress on a popular TV show, but that is NOT why I would like to meet her. I have read and observed a lot of her comments about developing the craft of acting and how she gets into the mind of the characters she is portraying. I’d like to dig further into her crafting a character and how she balances that with her personal life and experiences. She travels, explores other civilizations and is incredibly intelligent. Our worldviews are very different, but that too intrigues me.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

Photography, genealogy, and staying informed with the lives of my grandchildren. That may not sound like a hobby to many—and perhaps it isn’t a hobby—but I do spend a lot of time cultivating and thinking about how to stay connected with my grandchildren. Staying relevant and being aware of what influences the younger generations helps me to be able to point out where the pitfalls are in some of those influences. And it helps keep me the cool grandma.

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

When I first started out in this business, I was so immersed in it I didn’t believe it would be possible to have writing obstacles. However, life changes and staying focused is perhaps the hardest part for me. At times I’ve forced myself to stay in the chair and push through, and then there are times I simply bring the laptop to another location, such as a park, the library, wherever, and start to write.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Write and Read, Read and Write. There’s nothing more helpful that reading good writing to help inspire you. And (though I don’t recommend a steady diet of this) read poorly written books as well. One, it will boost your own confidence in writing. Two, the book was published by a publisher, so someone found it worth the investment to publish this book … Why? What is working in this novel? What isn’t working? What would you do to make it better? If it has an unbelievable plot, how would you change it?

Tell us about the featured book.

Courting Holly is set in Savannah, Georgia. Holly’s mother dies in the opening chapter of the book and, while death in a family is enough to set your characters on edge, it’s the dying confession that her mother makes to her that really pulls the rug out from under Holly. The story is about Holly regaining her footing and opening herself up to the man she’s loved since they were children growing up together.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Savannah, Georgia, 1881

Holly gripped her mother’s hand. The licorice-like scent of laudanum assaulted her nostrils. “Momma…”

            “Holly, in my Bible.” Her mother’s chest rose with a great deal of effort then fell. “There’s a letter.” Another labored breath. “Explains all…” She paused. “Forgive me.” Mother’s deep green eyes darkened.

            “Momma, there is nothing to forgive.” Holly grasped her mother’s hand tighter. Her own breathing labored as she eased closer to her mother on the bed.

            “Your father…” The words were raspier.

            “He’s right here, Momma.”

            “No, real father…” Holly looked over to her father. His dark brown eyes pierced hers and his lips parted slightly. His drawn features flickered with the glow from the oil lamp.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

You can always find me on my website: www.lynncoleman.com

If you’re interested in historical tidbits from the 19th century you can follow my blog: http://historicaltidbits.blogspot.com

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lynn.coleman.10420

And Twitter: @LynnColeman

Lena, thanks for the opportunity to connect with your readers. I’ve enjoyed our times together and wouldn’t mind spending an evening together just picking your brain and talking about this writing biz together. God Bless and Love ya, Girl!

And you’ve been an important part of my development as a writer, Lynn. Maybe we can make a date at the next ACFW national conference and get in that gab fest. Thank you for visiting with us today.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Courting Holly - Christianbook.com
Courting Holly (Heartsong Presents) - Amazon.com
Courting Holly (Heartsong Presents) - 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

WINNERS!!!!

Jan Hall (TX) is the winner of Music for Your Heart by Ace Collins.
Kandra (OK) is the winner of The Pawnbroker's Ring by Justina Prima.
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Congratulations, everyone. If you won a print book, send me your mailing address:
Click the Contact Me link at the top of the blog, and send me an Email.

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When you contact me, please give the title of the book you won, so I won't have to look it up.

Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.

HONDDU VALE - LeAnne Hardy - One Free Book or Ebook

Readers, here's another author, who is new to this blog. I first met LeAnne on the night at the American Christian Fiction Writers conference when we could dress like one of the characters in our books. 

Welcome, LeAnne. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

Who was it who said, “Writing is easy; just open a vein and bleed onto the page”? I think all authors put a lot of themselves into what they write. Some of my early characters were consciously autobiographical. My family lived in Mozambique during their civil war. When I wrote The Wooden Ox, about a family kidnapped by rebels during the war, I was very much thinking, what if this had happened to us? How would I feel? How would I react? I am the mother in that book. I’m also the daughter who questions God. And part of me is the wounded little boy acting out what he has experienced. For Between Two Worlds I drew on my own feelings about moving between cultures as well as my teenaged daughters’ experiences trying to fit into my home culture in the US. The Glastonbury Grail series is told from the viewpoint a young man in the sixteenth century. My life experiences have been very different from his, but that doesn’t mean I’m not feeling his emotions as I write and wrestling with issues of guilt and God’s silence along with him.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I’m weird in so many ways. I had my babies in Latin America. I hauled them off to Africa in the middle of a war. I worked on an archeological excavation in Israel. We once swam in a river within sight of alligators. I took up figure skating in my 40s and won my first adult competition. I made a sixteenth century costume for my recent book launch (and wore it at ACFW!) Oh, yeah, and I write fiction. If that isn’t quirky, I don’t know what is.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I was in my mid 40s. I had this day-dream about a figure skater that kind of took over my mind. I actually wondered if I were going crazy until I found out that making outlines and writing character sketches were things that writers do. That original file is still password protected in my computer; I was so afraid someone would find out what I was doing. Then I got up the courage to share my outline and a few scenes with my kids. “Mom, this sounds like a real book. You should write it!” So I did. Learning to skate started out as book research before it became an addiction. But then addiction figures into the story of Crossovers too.

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

I grew up on Lewis and Tolkien and still listen to the audio book of LOTR (Lord of the Rings) once a year. That love extends to all the British fantasies and histories. I’m a huge fan of Mary Stewart’s Arthurian series, Rosemary Sutcliff’s early Britain, and Edith Pargeter’s medieval historicals as well as the Brother Cadfael mysteries she wrote as Ellis Peters. I enjoy modern thrillers and mysteries as well, as long as they don’t involve putting children at risk. I get too emotionally involved in those! I don’t do horror (other than the classics of Frankenstein and Dracula) and avoid romance unless it’s written by a friend. (Or Jane Austin. I’m sure she would have been a friend if we had lived in the same century.)

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world?

I live on a lake in the woods, and avoid the run, run, run as much as I can. When I’m stuck on a scene, I go for a tromp to let my subconscious deal with the problem. I also make it a point to focus on time alone with God first thing every morning. I bring a cup of tea back to bed, read my Bible, and pray through a list I have collected over the years. I find that if I get dressed first, my mind has moved on to what I need to do that day and I can’t get that quiet fellowship back.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

I don’t choose my characters’ names; they tell me.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Raising two lovely daughters who are great moms to my grandchildren and delightful company to me.

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

We have a set of carved napkin rings from Kenya. I’m the giraffe. I’m not tall, but I’m thin. I might have chosen the impala, but it was already taken by my daughter.

What is your favorite food?

Raw veggies. That’s why I’m thin. No credit to me. Green salads are my favorite food. I have recently discovered the joy of twenty-five-year-old balsamic vinegar. Try it on greens with a chopped pear, crumbled blue cheese, and a few toasted walnuts. Yummm.

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

“Write what you know” is everyone’s advice. The problem is that what I know is not mainstream America—where most inspirational fiction is sold. I returned from three years in South Africa doing story hours with at-risk children to learn that being previously published was not an asset. I didn’t have the sales figures the publishers were looking for. No one wanted my novel about a promising African figure skater afraid people at the rink would find out her father has HIV. Glastonbury Tor had been a finalist for a Christie award, but I couldn’t find a publisher willing to do the sequel because the first book had not sold well. It was a major agent at ACFW who encouraged me to self-publish. It has been a long learning curve, and I will not get rich from it, but I have the satisfaction of having my work available to the fans who have been asking for it.  Keeping Secrets, the story about the African figure skater, will be out December 1.

Tell us about the featured book.

Honddu Vale is the second book in the Glastonbury Grail series. In it, Colin Hay returns home from Glastonbury to reconcile with the father he blames for his mother’s death. But he finds Sir Stephen in the arms of a bewitching young woman with designs on more than a place in Sir Stephen’s bed. Belle covets the ancient olivewood drinking bowl that Colin brought with him when the abbey at Glastonbury was closed by King Henry VIII. Yet the cup, which once showed such supernatural power that some whispered it was the Holy Grail, now lies cold and empty in Colin’s hands. Were the glorious promises of God’s presence nothing more than a dream?

Please give us the first page of the book.

Chapter 1

November 1539

I came over Offa’s Dyke, that crumbling line of ancient earthworks that once marked the border between England and Wales. The valley where I had been born twisted below me, a green serpent resting between the bracken-covered slopes of the Black Mountains. A thin trail of smoke rose from the stone chimney of Cewi Glen, my father’s manor. It carried a few bright orange sparks that the rain quickly extinguished.

“Seventy times seven,” a child’s voice spoke in my memory, reminding me why I had come. Forgive, the Bible commanded. Not seven times, but seventy times seven.

“I can’t,” I whispered, though there was none to hear. I had been gone from Honddu Vale for more than a year, my hands stained with my father’s blood. He had lived, though ’twas no fault of mine. I fingered the scar his sword had left on my wrist as the old feelings of inadequacy and resentment closed over me. There was no sound on the mountaintop except the dripping of fine rain on heather and my breath entering and leaving my lungs as my chest heaved with half-forgotten emotions.

I felt frantically in the breast of my tunic for the cup wrapped in old wool. It was there. Safe. I clutched it and murmured a quiet prayer for strength. Slowly my breathing steadied, and I knew what I must do.

“God, help me,” I said and started down the hill.

***

A sliver of light slipped into the shadowed valley through a gap in the lingering clouds before the sun disappeared behind the western ridge. The man-at-arms standing guard at the gate of …

How can readers find you on the Internet?

www.leannehardy.net You can see a slideshow of the Welsh setting of Honddu Vale, information about my books, discussion guides, and more. I hope to see you there.

Thank you, LeAnne, for spending this time with us.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Honddu Vale (Glastonbury Grail) (Volume 2) - paperback
Honddu Vale (Glastonbury Grail) - Kindle

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. Winners in the US will receive a choice of a print or ebook. If the winner is from a foreign country, an ebook will be given. 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