WINNERS!!!!!

Annie (MD) is the winner of Mars...With Venus Rising by Hope Toler Dougherty.

Sonnetta (NJ) is the winner of Her One and Only by Becky Wade.

Jennifer (TN) is the winner of This Side of Heaven by Diane Dean White.

Connie (KY) is the winner of Black Mamba by Diane Theiler.

Brenda (VA) is the winner of Interview Tips by L Fentress.

If you won a book and you like it, please 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 and author of the book you won, so I won't have to look it up.

Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.

THROUGH THE SHADOWS - Karen Barnett - One Free Book on This Blog, Plus More

Dear Readers, I loved the first two books in Karen Barnett’s Golden Gate Chronicles series. And with book three, I was eager for my book to arrive. It’s every bit as good as the others, maybe even better. With strong characters, who pulled me into the heart of the story, they carried me past the end of the book. Characters who stayed in my mind for quite a while after I finished reading the story. The setting is the rebuilding of San Francisco after one of the major earthquakes in the early 20^th century. Since I did a lot of research on San Francisco for one of my novels, I appreciated her skill with weaving the setting into the story making it almost one of the characters. You’ll want to read this book. If you missed the first two, try to get a hold of those and read them, too.

Bio: Karen Barnett lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, two teens, and three mischievous dachshunds. When she’s not writing, Karen enjoys photography, hiking, public speaking, decorating crazy birthday cakes, and dragging her family through dusty history museums. She was honored with the 2016 Writer of the Year award from the Mount Hermon Christian Writers Conference and a Writer of Promise Award from Oregon Christian Writers in 2013.

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

I’m excited to see the entire Golden Gate Chronicles series complete and in the hands of readers. It’s difficult for me to say goodbye to these beloved characters, but I’m thrilled to have more books in the works.

I recently signed a contract with Waterbrook Multnomah for three novels set in the National Parks during the 1920s and 30s, the first of which releases next year. I grew up in the shadow of Mount Rainier and spent two summers working there as a park ranger, so setting novels in the parks is a bit like going home.

I can hardly wait to see this new series. I’d love to feature them on my blog as well. Tell us a little about your family.

My husband Steve and I have been married for more than twenty years, and we have two teenagers—a sixteen-year-old son and a fourteen-year-old daughter. I’d heard a lot of horror stories about raising teens, but so far it’s been my favorite stage. They’re both witty and sarcastic, and it’s been a joy to see their individual personalities and interests develop.

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

I find I pay more attention to new releases and award-winning novels now that I’m a writer. In the past, I chose reading material based on covers and back cover copy. I didn’t pay much attention to the publisher, release date, or even the author (though I had my favorites). Now, in an attempt to keep up with what’s going on in the industry, I focus on specific publishers, authors, and genres.

What are you working on right now?

I’m currently finishing the first of my National Parks book, a romantic suspense set at Mount Rainier in 1927. We don’t have an official title yet, but I’m in love with the plot and characters. I think it’s a story that readers will truly enjoy.

I’m sure we will. What outside interests do you have?

I have to confess, I’m a bit of a Netflix junkie. Outside of that, I like spending time in nature—whether in the mountains or at the ocean. I also take pride in decorating bizarre birthday cakes for my kids. I’m no Cake Boss, but it’s fun to try.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

The Golden Gate Chronicles series was inspired when I saw an American Experience documentary on the San Francisco Earthquake of 1906. I was captivated with the stories people told of those harrowing days, and the series grew from that point.

My next book is set at Mount Rainier National Park. The mountain has been a big part of my life ever since I was a child, and it’s been a joy to revisit it in story form.

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

Recently I’ve been reading the writings of the great American naturalist, John Muir. He strikes me as a fascinating character, and I think it would have been a treat to speak to him in person.

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

The further I get in my writing career, the one thing that surprises me is that I never feel like I have it “figured out.” For some reason, I use to think each novel would get easier as I learned more about the writing process. Instead—at least at this point—it feels like every book has been more difficult. Maybe my personal expectations increase with each published book.

I know that’s true of many authors, myself included. What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

God has been prodding me recently with the knowledge that I’m not writing alone. I felt very close to Him when I first started the writing process, beginning each session in prayer and carefully considering what He might want me to be sharing through my stories. As the pressure of deadlines and other demands got tighter, I found myself looking at writing as a job. That put me in a dark and anxiety-ridden place as an author, for a time. In recent months I’ve been joyfully rediscovering what it means to be writing “with God” as opposed to just “about God.”

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

The first thing I do when people ask me how to move forward in their writing is encourage them to attend a professional writing conference. You’ll have the opportunity to take classes, rub elbows with professional authors, have conversations with editors and agents, and be inspired by the tight-knit community of Christian publishing. There are wonderful Christian conferences around the country, from intimate retreats all the way up to large national conferences.

Second, I’d encourage writers to set a schedule and stick to it. It doesn’t always have to be long stretches of time. Sometimes I accomplish more when I know I only have thirty minutes, as opposed to an all-day marathon.  

Third, try not to base your self-worth on whether or not you publish. There are very few overnight successes in this business. Most authors spend many years, sometimes writing several full manuscripts, before they land a contract. If you’re “all about the contract,” you’re going to be miserable during the long wait. And you may even discover that getting that book on the shelf doesn’t magically make you feel like a successful author.

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

In Though the Shadows, the devastating earthquake is just two years past, but the city of San Francisco is still trying to recover. Destruction of this magnitude is not so easy to overcome-and neither are the past regrets shadowing Elizabeth King's hopeful future.

Hoping to right her wrongs, Elizabeth dedicates herself to helping girls rescued from slavery in Chinatown brothels, even if it means putting her own life at risk to sneak through the gloomy alleys and rooftops where dangers lurk.

Putting her life on the line for a worthy cause is admirable, but opening her heart is even more terrifying. So when Elizabeth meets attorney, Charles McKinley—a man who dreams of reforming San Francisco’s crooked politics—Elizabeth begins to doubt: Can she maintain her pretense and hide her past? Or will her secret jeopardize both their futures?

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

Sacramento, California

June 1908

Elizabeth King held her fingers against the ivory keys, refusing to stir as the final chord faded and silence descended on the parlor. Were God ever to speak to her, she imagined it would be in the precious instant after a last note died away and before an audience responded. The moment preserved a holy space, as if the breath of divinity hung in the air.

No voice arrived today, but there was no audience either.

She ran her fingertips along the cool surface, the black and white pattern softening as her eyes blurred with tears. God wouldn’t converse with the likes of her, anyway.

After three years of intense instruction, every note conjured Tobias’s memory— his touch. Elizabeth sprang from the stool and stalked to the window, staring out at the darkening clouds. She couldn’t let her mind travel to those memories. Before she knew it, she’d be at his door.

“Turn your back on me, and you’re finished. You’ll never perform again.”

She’d done the right thing. So why did the shame still cling, like a vine curling around her soul?

Her mother swept into the room, a cream-colored apron tied over her flowered dress. “Elizabeth— you aren’t dressed yet?”

Elizabeth pulled her gaze from the window. “Dressed?”

“Have you forgotten? Mr. McKinley is joining us for supper. I’ve been trying to get the attorney to come here from San Francisco for months.”

The man’s name sent a shiver along Elizabeth’s skin, like a discordant note in the middle of a Bach concerto. Of course, she’d forgotten— if she’d remembered, she’d have left earlier.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I love connecting with readers online!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KarenBarnettAuthor/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KarenMBarnett

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenbarnettauthor/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/karenbarnett/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/KarenBarnett

In addition to the book giveaway on this blog, Karen has another 5-Book Giveaway.

Here's the link to this giveaway: https://promosimple.com/ps/99f1

Thank you, Karen, for sharing this new book with us. I know my readers are as eager to read it as I was when it arrived.

Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Through the Shadows - Christianbook.com
Through the Shadows: The Golden Gate Chronicles - Book 3 - Amazon
Through the Shadows: The Golden Gate Chronicles - Book 3 - Kindle

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

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

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

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

HERE TODAY, GONE TAMALE - Rebecca Adler - One Free Book

Dear Readers, I contacted this author when I saw the titles of two of her books. They intrigued me.

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

Interesting question. I would guess I write about fifty percent of myself in my characters. I like to think that my heroine, Josie Callahan, is younger, smarter, and much braver than me. We both like to indulge in Tex-Mex even though we know better.

James and I had Tex-Mex yesterday, and we brought half of it home to eat today. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

As an out-of-work actor living in New York City, I worked the New York Toy Fair as a giant Furskin.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

My mother remembers discovering my love of writing in second grade. She thanked the teacher for casting me in our class play, and Ms. Valentine responded, “She wrote the play. The least I could do was let her star in it.”

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

As I continue to hone my mystery writing skills, I’m afraid that’s all the fiction I’m reading these days. Non-fiction reading includes my daily Bible passages and online newspapers.

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

That’s easy. Pray. I also try to be grateful no matter the situation: good, bad, and ugly. Oh, and I must admit, I’m trying to use calendars and planners more consistently.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Names are funny. They have to sound right, and they definitely have to fit the locale and the character’s personality.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

I moved to NYC right out of college to study acting in a Broadway theatre, light years from my home in a small coastal town in the South. I didn’t crumble or lose my faith. That was pretty cool.

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

Hard one. I would be a long-haired Chihuahua like the one in my book. Lenny’s feisty, but nobody minds because he’s so stinking cute.

What is your favorite food?

Easy one. Queso with spicy ground beef, guacamole, and fresh tomatoes.

I love a good queso, but I’m not fond of adding other things to it. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

Staying focused has always been my greatest roadblock. I’m under a lot of deadlines with this series, and that’s helped a great deal. I often chat with other writers during my writing time, reporting my progress on regular intervals. That accountability really makes the difference for me.

Tell us about the featured book.

Reporter turned Tex-Mex waitress Josie Callahan is about to go from serving queso to solving cases…

After losing her newspaper job in Austin and having her former fiancé unfriend her on Facebook, Josie Callahan scoops up her Chihuahua, Lenny, and slinks back to Broken Boot, Texas. Maybe working as head waitress at Milagro—her aunt and uncle’s Tex-Mex restaurant—isn’t exactly living the dream, but it is a fresh start.

And business is booming as tourists pour into Broken Boot for its famous Wild West Festival. But when a local jewelry designer is found strangled outside Milagro after a tamale-making party, Josie’s reporter instincts kick in. As suspects pile up and alibis crack faster than taco shells, Josie needs to wrap up this case tighter than her tía’s tortillas—before another victim calls for the check…

INCLUDES TEX-MEX RECIPES!

Yea. I love recipes. Please give us the first page of the book.

“Josie!” Aunt Linda’s high-pitched drawl soared like a heat-seeking missile up the wooden stairs from our restaurant below, through my quaint living room, and into my sweet but tiny bedroom.

There are three things Aunt Linda and Uncle Eddie have in common with tamales: they’re unpretentious, comforting, and fattening when consumed in excess.

“Be right there,” I bellowed.

“I’ll believe it when I see it, monkey.”

I groaned, but it was all for show. Long gone were the days of hiding beneath the warm cocoon of my quilts. I was no longer that grieving twelve-year-old orphan, yanked from the concrete glamor of Dallas and plopped into the dust bowl of the West Texas desert. Back then, Aunt Linda forced me to partake in what she knew best, the banality of folding napkins and the comfort of tamales. Now I craved the nostalgic aromas and chaotic chatter that would soothe my eviscerated heart and humiliated pride.

And it was time to boogie downstairs to set up for tonight’s festivities before the stink of self-pity started oozing from my pores. I scrunched up my nose at my reflection. “You may not be a waitress, but you can toss plates with the best of them.”

My dog, Lenny, barked from the doorway in disbelief, his bright button eyes and long, silky coat trembling with excitement.

“Little man, watch and see.” With a sigh, I smoothed the red bandana at my neck and yanked up the neckline of my peasant blouse so as not to inspire a lecture on modesty from the matriarch of our clan, Aunt Linda’s mother-in-law, Senora Mari. I tightened my ponytail and turned to my four-legged confidante. “Where is your bandana?”

“Yip.” Wagging his shaggy, miniscule tail a million times a minute, Lenny trotted to his doggie bed. The bed’s designer had gone to a lot of trouble to create a sophisticated bed for beloved canine companions, and I’m sure in her mind it was a thing of beauty. Unfortunately, it reminded me of a crunchy taco with a golden outside and a brown lumpy cushion.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website: www.AuthorRebeccaAdler.com

Facebook: Author Gina Lee Nelson/Rebecca Adler

Thank you, Rebecca, for sharing this new book with us. I love cozy mysteries, and I'm eager for my book to arrive so I can read it.

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

Here Today, Gone Tamale: A Taste of Texas Mystery - Paperback
Here Today, Gone Tamale: A Taste of Texas Mystery - Kindle

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

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

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

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

PROMISE ME - Jo Huddleston - One Free Ebook

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

No one has ever asked me this. My salvation experience remains vivid in my memory. Thank you for asking.

I was 15 years old when I was saved in a small, country church. The sermon that Sunday morning was about the parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25) who went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them brought oil with their lamps, but five failed to bring along oil for theirs. Their wait for the bridegroom lasted into the night and at midnight when the bridegroom approached, the ones without oil asked the others to give them some oil because the flame of their lamps was going out. They refused and while the five went to buy oil, those with oil went in to the wedding with the bridegroom, “and the door was shut” (v. 10). The bridegroom would not open the door to the five when they returned. They were unprepared and did not get to meet the bridegroom. I realized I was not prepared. I prayed that Jesus would not shut the door on me and asked for the forgiveness of my sins.

I, too, was saved in a small country church. You’re planning a writing retreat where you can only have four other authors. Who would they be and why?

Karen Ball, Francine Rivers, James Rubart, Cassandra King. These writers’ personalities and books have impacted my life in general as well as my writing life. It would be a privilege to sit among them and hear them speak of their philosophies and be encouraged by them.

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

As a youngster, from K-12, I changed schools 7 times. In the 10th grade, in yet another new school, I got lost in the school, ended up on a different level, and walked into the boys’ locker room. Yes, there were boys in there getting ready for P.E. I still wonder how I maintained my composure, but I calmly turned and left the area. I still remember that day, although the boys probably don’t. At least, I hope they don’t!

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

“If you want to write for publication, treat your writing as a business, not a hobby. It will take a 110% effort from you. Be prepared to accept rejection of your book, always remembering the agent, editor, or publisher will be rejecting your book, not you.”

Very good advice. Tell us about the featured book.

Promise Me is book 3 in the West Virginia Mountains series. Here’s the back cover copy:

When war calls…faith is tested

In 1960, civil discord in Vietnam fills the news. After his college graduation, Patrick Fitzgerald plans to join his daddy’s South Carolina accounting firm. But Uncle Sam may have another position in mind for Patrick—in the U.S. Army. His family’s affluence would be no match for the persuasion of the military draft.

Adriana Montagna’s papá ekes out a living as a coal miner in the mountains of West Virginia. Can a lasting relationship form with Patrick, or will his wealth become a barrier between them?

Meanwhile, the fiber of America’s unity stands on the precipice, while its youth fight a no-win battle on foreign soil. What good can a young couple hope for at such a time as this?

Please give us the first page of the book.

August 1960 - Morgantown, West Virginia

“Good night, Chet. Good night, David. And good night for NBC News.” The program signed off with the Texaco Gasoline red star logo across the screen.

In Dean Loreen Fletcher’s apartment, Patrick Fitzgerald sat closest to the television when NBC’s Huntley-Brinkley Report ended. He stepped to the floor-standing console and turned off the television. He took his time returning to sit on the sofa beside Adriana Montagna. A somber silence settled over the living room and its six occupants, interrupted only by the humming window air conditioner.

Patrick scooted to the front edge of the sofa cushion and rested his forearms on his legs. “I don’t want my first job after graduation to be in Vietnam.”

No one remarked and he continued. “The situation over there worries me. Now Washington announces we’re sending 3,500 soldiers to South Vietnam to help them fight against the communist North Vietnamese. When I graduate from college in December, I hope their mess over there has cooled down some.”

Adriana laid her hand on his back. “Patrick, hush. We don’t want to think about you going overseas.”

Buy Link for Promise Me:

http://amzn.to/1MWyAl1

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Website (Read novel first chapters here): http://www.johuddleston.com

Sign up for Jo’s mailing list: http://bit.ly/1ZFaZwG

Christian authors’ books blog: http://www.johuddleston.com

Inspirational blog: http://bit.ly/1QAPRnr

Facebook author page: http://on.fb.me/1pvJQiQ

Facebook personal page: http://on.fb.me/1Ubic69

Amazon author page: http://amzn.to/1SxafIK

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1QAPtFv

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

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

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

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

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

Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

LOVE'S HARVEST - Linda Shenton Matchett - One Free Ebook

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

Probably more than I’d like to admit. I have a lot of curiosity—I want to know how or why something happened. This is typically a trait I include in my protagonists.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?  

My husband and I left our Washington, DC, careers behind and moved to central New Hampshire to run a bed and breakfast for twelve years.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I have been writing since I was in elementary school. I filled lots of notebooks with stories. I also published a weekly “newspaper” for my family in which I made up all the news. It even included an editorial column!

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

I read a lot of books about WWII—fiction, memoir, biography—for research. For pleasure, I read historical novels, mystery, suspense, and romantic suspense. I like any book from which I learn something.

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

I try to take at least 15 minutes a day just for me—having a cup of tea, reading a few pages in a book, or sitting on the sun porch. It doesn’t sound like a lot of time, but it makes a difference.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

I write historical novels, so the names need to be tied to that particular era. There are several websites that list popular names by era or decade. I picked up a 1946 high school yearbook at a book sale, and I use that. Recently I needed a snooty sounding name for my antagonist, so I asked my FaceBook followers. They came up with Thurgood Wellington Mayfield, III.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

I was a Human Resources professional, and early in my career I took a job with a small manufacturing company. Six weeks after I joined the company, the CEO announced the company had been acquired by another and the plant was closing. I worked with the 68 people who were not going to the new company to create their resumés, teach the employees interviewing skills, and find them jobs. I was able to place all but five of the employees at the end of the six weeks. Then I set about trying to find a job for me.

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

A dog—I like the comforts of home way too much to be a wild animal.

What is your favorite food?

Dessert!

Me, too, but I don’t eat many these days and then only a tiny portion. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

I am a research-aholic. I love to dig, and dig, and dig. In my early writings I included way too much of the research material. With the help of my critique group and an excellent freelance editor, I learned how to sprinkle the information throughout the story rather than pour it on.

Me, too. And my books have become much stronger after I learned that lesson. Tell us about the featured book.

Love’s Harvest is a fictionalization of the biblical book of Ruth set from 1923 through 1946. It tells the story of Noreen Hirsch, an English woman who meets and marries a young German man who suffers ill health because of a mustard gas attack during WWI. Rosa Hirsch is Noreen’s daughter-in-law who accompanies her back to England after the women are widowed. Basil Quincey is the Boaz character who runs a large farm where Rosa becomes employed as part of Britain’s Land Army.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Volga Region, Russia, 1923

“We’ll die if we don’t leave this place. Pack only what you can carry.” Edmund Hirsch poked his bony arms into the sleeves of his wool coat that sported more holes than Swiss cheese. A paroxysm of coughing gripped his body, the result of a mustard gas attack on his German platoon nine years ago during The Great War.

After several minutes the coughing ceased, and he mopped the sweat from his forehead with a dingy, gray handkerchief. “Be ready. We set out tomorrow at first light.”

“Where will we go, Vati?” Five-year-old Conrad’s voice trembled.

“Don’t be a baby, Conrad.” Older by two minutes, Conrad’s twin brother, Manfred, finished tying his boot laces and jumped off the chair, his shoes clomping against the bare wood floor. His bright blue eyes blazed above his hollow cheeks.

“Hush, children.” Noreen stroked Conrad’s white-blond hair and met her husband’s terse look with one of her own. “You heard your father. There’s no time to waste.”

***

Noreen yanked the zipper closed on her over-stuffed canvas satchel. Always resourceful, Edmund had attached straps to the moss-green bag so she could wear it on her back. She would also carry a suitcase in each hand. The journey promised to be arduous.

Interesting. How can readers find you on the Internet?

www.lindashentonmatchett.com

http://www.facebook.com/authorlindamatchett

https://www.linkedin.com/in/authorlindamatchett

http://www.pinterest.com/lindasmatchett

Thank you, Linda, for sharing this novella with us.

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

Love's Harvest

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

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

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

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

SOMEONE LIKE YOU - Victoria Bylin - One Free Book

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

This question reminds me of something my husband once asked. He said, “Honey, I have the strangest feeling you’re writing about me.”  For the first time in our long marriage (we just hit 36 years), I wasn’t totally truthful. “Oh, no,” I replied. “This is fiction.” And it is. But to the extent my heroes are strong men who love their families, work hard and struggle to live their faith, I’m writing about the wonderful man who stole my heart when he rode up on a big red motorcycle.

All my fiction has some degree of autobiography. When I write about a character’s spiritual journey, I’ve usually walked in those shoes. I also pull extensively on places I’ve lived and the remarkable people I’ve been blessed to know. If you don’t mind an analogy (I’m addicted to them), my books are the plants that grow out of the garden of my life.

I love that. That’s how I feel, but you put it much better than I ever have. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I’m not sure how quirky this is, but I’ve been known to dance around my office before I sit down to write.

Sounds like fun. When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I started my first journal when I was in the fifth grade. Putting words on paper has always helped me to sort my thoughts, but I got serious about telling stories in 1999. I started that year with a resolution to finish a book length work of fiction—good, bad, or boring. Around Chapter 3, the story took off, and I knew I’d changed from just wanting to write to being a writer.

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

I pretty much stick to fiction with an occasional Christian living book folded into the mix. Within the fiction spectrum, I read mostly contemporaries (both romance and women’s fiction) along with some historical. Westerns, WWII, and Americana are my favorite subgenres, but a good Regency or a Downton Abbey era book is always a pleasure. Every so often I’ll ask my husband for something different and venture into a detective story. Last summer I binge-read all of Lawrence Block’s “Keller” books. Talk about a change of pace! They’re about an ordinary guy who’s really a paid assassin. Great plot twists!

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

This world is crazy, isn’t it? I can’t say I’m sane all the time, but I read Oswald Chambers’ Someone Like You almost every day. There’s a particular passage about being broken bread and outpoured wine for the sake of spreading the gospel. That’s how I view the super busy times, like right before a deadline.  I see my writing as a ministry. Sometimes it’s okay to exhaust ourselves for a good cause. But then it’s time to rest, read, rebuild, and restore. I try to find the balance over the course of weeks and months, rather than just single days.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

The best names just pop into my head, but that doesn’t always happen. In Someone Like You, “Zeke Monroe” popped into my head and it never changed. On the other hand, in the second “You” book (Together With You, April 2015), I changed the hero’s name about ten times before I settled on Ryan Tremaine. I ended up loving that deeply troubled man, but naming him was impossible!  

For secondary names, I’m a big fan of the Social Security Administration website. I’ll put in the character’s birth year, see what was popular and shop around. I also like the website called Behind The Name.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

I’m most proud of my family. My husband and I have two sons, both married to wonderful women. We’re also grandparents to twin girls. Writing-wise, I get a happy rush every time I type “The End.” Those two words mean I’ve done my job. After that, the results are up to God.

I have one strange writer quirk. I only wrote The End on my first novel. Since then I haven’t. To me, it feels like overkill. If the story is finished, I know it and the reader should, too. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

A rabbit! My husband and I have a long standing joke about that nickname. Rabbits are cute, fun, and very busy running other peoples lives J

What is your favorite food?

Right now, it’s the bite-sized Dove Dark Chocolate. Mocha latte, mint, or plain. It’s all delicious.

I have a bowl of Dove Dark Chocolate on my coffee table for the authors who meet in my home for the critique group I lead. (There’s also a smaller bowl for milk chocolate, but there are only a few who love milk chocolate best.) What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

My biggest roadblock is my own writing process. Ideas come fairly easily to me, but I have to work hard to put the best words on paper. I once told my editor that I don’t really write a book. I construct one. My first drafts are nothing but choppy phrases, weak verbs and scattered images. Turning that mess into something readable is exhausting.

I cope with my cumbersome process by writing every day and trusting God for the words. That trust looks a lot like self discipline, which I don’t enjoy at all. Also, if I walk five days a week, eat healthy food, and get enough sleep, I’m far more productive as a writer.

Tell us about the featured book.

Someone Like You is a flip-flop reunion story. Back in college, Zeke Monroe and Julia Dare were romantically involved. A minister’s son, Zeke believed his faith was strong, while Julia had no faith at all. Fast forward six years . . . Julia’s now a single mom and a brand new Christian, while Zeke is wrestling with himself and God. He’s also trying to save a historic California resort and needs Julia’s help to do it.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Zeke Monroe appreciated a good joke, and this one was on him. Grinning, he crossed the plush charcoal carpet in his office to a desk the size of an aircraft carrier. A new Han Solo action figure guarded his pencil cup, and a handwritten sign was taped to the back of his massive leather chair.

“Starship Command,” he read out loud. “Captain Zeke Monroe to the rescue.”

Chuckling, he peeled off the sign. Everyone on the Caliente Springs management team knew he appreciated a silly prank now and then, and in the eight months he’d been general manager of the historic California resort, he had come to call them all friends.

Which made the task before him daunting at best: save Caliente Springs from bankruptcy, or allow two hundred people to lose their jobs.

People like Ashley, the CS marketing director, whose daughter suffered from severe asthma.

Or Javier, a college kid who helped support his family by working as a concierge.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Website: www.victoriabylin.com

Facebook: Victoria Bylin, Author

Twitter:  @VictoriaBylin

Thank you, Victoria, for sharing this new book with us. I love the cover.

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

Someone like You - Christianbook.com
Someone Like You - Amazon
Someone Like You - Kindle

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

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

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

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

WINNERS!!!!!

Kim (NE) is the winner of the ebook The Crux of Honor by Paula Mowery.

Connie (KY) is the winner of the ebook Stuck on You by Michelle Stimpson.

Beth (IL) is the winner of Small-Town Brides by Darlene Franklin.

Linda (PA) is the winner of Land of Silence by Tessa Afshar.

Sharon (SC) is the winner of Home to Chapel Springs by Ane Mulligan.

If you won a book and you like it, please 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 and author of the book you won, so I won't have to look it up.

Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.

INTERVIEW TIPS - L Fentress - One Free Book

Dear Readers, I often have people who I’ve met at church contact me because they want to write a book. Laneshia is one of those people. I try to meet with each one. Sometimes I can’t because of my writing schedule, but I could meet with her. Most of those people aren’t anywhere ready to write a book. But when we met, she came prepared, and we were able to look at what she had and move forward quickly. There are so many people looking for jobs, and her easy-to-read book is a valuable tool to help them get a job.

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

I am very passionate about people. I find joy in helping others. I have a motto, “see the need … meet the need”!

Tell us about your family.

My father is a jazz musician, but has also had the same job for almost 40 years. My mom is a stay-at-home wife who is the best homemaker I’ve ever met. I am the oldest of three girls and the aunt of two nieces and one nephew. My family is hard-working, reliable,and very involved in ministry. I have a wonderful husband who supports my every endeavor, even the things that make him nervous, and we have an adult daughter. I am learning the tough part in raising her but letting her fly. I am grateful that we are known for good character and integrity.

Have you written other nonfiction books?

This is my first book. I never thought I would write, but what better way to reach an audience!

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

Not at this time, however I am open to whatever God would have for me to do.

What kinds of hobbies and leisure activities do you enjoy?

I love to sing. Coming from a family of musicians and marrying a musician as well helps to keep my singing hobby pretty active. I also enjoy going to new places and trying new restaurants. I am always on the prowl for a new dining experience.

Readers, her husband plays in our worship band at church. Laneshia, why did you write the featured book?

Working in human resources and recruiting over the past several years has given me the desire to reach out to those who may seem to be underprivileged in the areas of education and the career. I have talked to many individuals who were clueless in the job interview process. I wrote this book from my heart to the jobseeker, who needs to brush up on interview skills.

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

This book is designed to make you laugh at yourself and learn from the mistakes you have made. Even if you feel confident in your interview skills, you can use these tips to keep you aligned with general office etiquette.

Is there anything you’d like to tell my readers about you or your book?

Ultimately, I want you to know that my heart is for helping people. This is the sole purpose of me writing this book.

Please give us the first page or two from the book.

1 ATTITUDE

                  Interview Tip #1

When you have an interview, the moment you arrive, you are being watched.  It is always a great idea to be kind to the people who greet you at the front desk! Drop your bad attitude in the trash! YOU need the job, they already have one! #interviewtips

As a hiring manager, I have seen many good people with bad interview habits walk through my door. Interviews are perfect observation grounds for both the front desk staff and potential coworkers to study how you act in a professional office environment. From the moment you walk through the door of the building, you are being judged by front desk personnel who are often considered the “face” of the organization. If you have a bad attitude, leave it at the door. Be kind to everyone you meet in your prospective next job. You never know who may have input in the hiring decisions being made. Interviews can be a nerve-wracking process, but being prepared both physically and mentally will ease the nerves and increase the chances of you leaving the interview with a job.

Successful candidates know that anyone they interact with once they step foot inside the building can be a steppingstone or roadblock towards being considered for a position. Candidates may only think to put their best foot forward when trying to impress hiring managers, but forget about the other people that are also important facets of the organization. There was one particular occasion where a candidate I interviewed was one step away from the hiring process, but disclosed to a lower level employee that he was wearing nail polish, a forbidden item on the company dress code. The lower level employee immediately reported his findings back to the hiring managers and his offer was immediately rescinded. Lower level employees, such as receptionists and front desk personnel, can be a liaison between hiring managers and other upper level management. Receptionists can be the first interactions between candidates, and their impressions hold more weight than some candidates may think in the hiring process. At a previous job, my employer had a system in place designed to weed out undesirable candidates. Transportation representatives would deliberately interact with the potential candidates to gauge their personality and stress level. The transportation representatives kept mental notes of their interactions with candidates and reported their findings back to the hiring managers. The candidates who were rude or had dismissive attitudes were not hired and were not even allowed to continue to the next step in the hiring process.

As you can see, Readers, this is valuable information. Laneshia, where on the Internet can the readers find you?

You can find me at my website www.laneshiafentress.com or my Facebook and Instagram page which is Laneshia Fentress or my twitter handle which is @favoredfentress. 

Thank you, Laneshia, for sharing your book with us. I hope all the readers who have someone in their families looking for a job or seeking a better position will get a copy.

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

Interview Tips: Transforming the Workforce One Interview at a Time - Paperback
Interview Tips: Transforming the Workforce One Interview at a Time - Kindle

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

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

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

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

BLACK MAMBA - Diane Theiler - One Free Book

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

I write Christian suspense. I like to sit down with a good book and not have to worry about bad words or inappropriate scenes. But on the other hand, I don’t want a boring book. I like suspense and excitement. I like to think outside of the box.

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

There are too many to name just one. Marriage, the birth of my children, the birth of my grandchildren, and spending time with family to name a few.

How has being published changed your life?

Being published has given me that extra confidence. It’s made me realize I can do anything I set out to do. When I started writing, I never really thought I’d get published. I didn’t know the steps required. When Jean Kinsey and Becky Kelley came alongside and started mentoring me because they liked my writing, my life changed. I gained confidence and was excited to put forth the effort needed to get where I wanted to go.

What are you reading right now?

I just finished Mississippi Nights by D.M. Webb

I’ve featured her on the blog. What is your current work in progress?

I am now working on Unintentional Deception. A romance where Cathleen must deal with her past and come to terms with the present in order to move forward. She is torn between getting married her best friend, Simon, who is safe, or taking a chance on Adam, the man she really loves.

What would be your dream vacation?

A quiet writer’s retreat somewhere with beautiful scenery.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

When I write, my imagination takes over and I just write. Whatever flows from the pen sets the course for the story.

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

My mother. You never know how long you have. She’s been through so much. And even though she’s always come through, I know one day she will go home to be with the Lord.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

I like to paint and make crafts. Working puzzles has also always been a favorite. My daughter and I have puzzle wars, where we work the same puzzles to see who finishes first. My husband loves auctions, and I love yard sales. We both love finding treasure among someone else’s junk. 

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

Myself. Sometimes I just get lazy, but other times I’m really good at finding excuses why I don’t have time to write. I have to remind myself it’s all about priorities and remember what it is I want to accomplish and why. I then make myself get back on track. Once I get started again, off I go.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

Don’t give up. Also don’t be super sensitive when people criticize an aspect of your writing. Take their advice and learn from it. The more people correct you, the better you will get. Super sensitive people have a lot of trouble. They get their feelings hurt and have trouble moving on. As a writer you will be rejected and corrected many times. Each time should make you stronger and a better writer. Keep at it. One day you’ll realize that you’ve got it!

Tell us about the featured book.

Christene Bickley, the truth diamonds, and a deadly game of Black Mamba with its strategic moves, cause Bradley C. Whitmore to risk everything to save the woman he loves.

Determined to keep his vow to God and be the best Secret Agent he can be, Brad infiltrates a cell of traffickers and does the unthinkable in order to solve his case and save Christene. The reckless decision sends both Christene’s and his lives into chaos as they strive to outwit elite Black Mamba warriors who are determined to kill them. Overcoming one obstacle after another takes its toll when events transpire to keep Brad and Christene apart, but Brad is determined to keep them together.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Secret agent Bradley C. Whitmore pushed past the man who blocked the entrance of the Honey Jam Café. In an instant he exchanged the busyness of the street for the buzz of conversation and the clatter of dishes inside. He took in a deep breath, and cringed when his stomach growled in appreciation. The food smelled delicious. Refusing to be distracted his trained eye took in the diner’s occupants and came to rest on the one he sought. Miss Christene Bickley.

His pulsed raced at the sight of her. Tray in hand she maneuvered between the tables. Ten years of searching and here she was, a waitress in his sister’s café. What were the odds of that? Brad chuckled as he made his way to an empty table.

His smile faltered when he met his sister’s stare. Standing at the counter, her eyes widened in disbelief, and then her back stiffened. The fisted hands at her side pierced his heart. Faith hadn’t forgiven him for deserting her years ago. If only he could tell her the truth—explain what happened. But he couldn’t.

Faith held his gaze as she made her way to his table, poured him a cup of coffee, and took his order. Tucking the pen and pad in her pocket, she ran her hand through her tight blonde curls.

“Aren’t you even going to say hello?” Michael arched a brow in her direction.

Faith glared at him, turned her back, and headed for the kitchen.

A few minutes later she slid a plate in front of him. The salty scent of bacon and eggs had him salivating, and his stomach screamed for him to take the edge off his hunger. He would confront Christene after he ate. Maybe she wouldn’t be so busy then.

“Okay, out with it. What are you doing here”" Faith took silverware from her apron and placed the napkin-bound bundle on the table.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Dianetheiler.com

Ttwitter – @dianetheiler

Facebook – Diane Theiler Author

LinkedIn – Diane Theiler

dianetheiler@yahoo.com

Thank you, Diane, 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.
Black Mamba - Paperback
Black Mamba: A Story of Love and Faith - Kindle

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

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

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

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