THE CAPTAIN AND MRS. VYE - MaryAnn Diorio - One Free Book

Welcome back, MaryAnn. Tell us about your salvation experience. Oh, how I love to tell this story! Thank you for the opportunity to do so.

I received Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord at the age of 25. I had just returned from a year of living in Italy where I studied for my Master’s degree. Because of the readings required in my course of study, I returned home with questions about the existence of God. (Warning here: Be careful where you or your children get an education! :)

Up to that point, I had been a devoted member of the Catholic Church. One Sunday morning, I was feeling very depressed as I entered church. But when I left, I felt even more depressed. Something wasn’t right. The service should have encouraged me. Instead, it added more questions to my already large repertoire.

As I left church, I stood on the steps and in my heart, I cried out to God. “Lord,” I said, “is this all there is to You? If not, please show me!”

Shortly thereafter, a fellow teacher at the school where I taught, who was a Christian, invited me to a meeting of Campus Crusade for Christ. A young woman named Margo witnessed to me, but I was afraid to accept Christ because I had been taught that only Catholics go to heaven. But she was so kind and loving, and I know she prayed for me.

For two years afterward, the Lord kept sending me people to witness to me about being born again. Finally, in December 1970, as I was watching Billy Graham on TV, I accepted Jesus as my Savior and Lord. And I have never been the same.

For a full, detailed version of my testimony, your readers can visit my website at https://www.maryanndiorio.com/how-to-live-forever.

I love hearing salvation stories. You’re planning a writing retreat where you can only have four other authors. Who would they be and why? This is a very difficult question for me as so many fellow writers have helped me grow along the way. But I suppose I would choose the members of my mastermind group. We meet once a month via Zoom, yet we have never met in person. I would love to attend a retreat with them.

Do you have a speaking ministry? If so, tell us about that. Yes. I used to speak in person, but now I speak only via Zoom. My speaking ministry has been primarily to women, especially hurting women. Of course, all women have hurt at some point in their lives. That’s the reason we all need a Savior.
If I could summarize the theme of my speaking ministry, it is to help women expose the lies in their lives and replace them with the truth. As John 8: 32 states, “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

Over my 77 years of life, it is the truth of God’s Word that has sustained me and seen me through many difficult challenges. I want to share the truth of God’s Word with women so that they, too, can be set free wherever they need to be.

What is the most embarrassing thing that has happened to you and how did you handle it? I ran into a pole and said, “Excuse me!”  I handled it by laughing with those who witnessed the event and laughed as well.

People are always telling me that they’d like to write a book someday. I’m sure they do to you, too. What would you tell someone who came up to you and said that? I would say, “Then write it!”  I believe that a desire is an indication of a talent.

Tell us about the featured book. The Captain and Mrs. Vye started only as a title. One day, Holy Spirit just dropped the title into my spirit and it grabbed my attention. At that point, I had no idea at all about the story or its plot.

Then I started asking myself some questions. Who is Mrs. Vye? What is her problem? Her biggest dream? The biggest fear keeping her from achieving that dream? As a result of the answers to those questions, the story began taking shape. As I wrote it, I felt a keen sense of Holy Spirit’s presence guiding me.

There were times I had no clue where I was going. But then I prayed, and the Lord answered with a way to move forward. He always makes a way for us, doesn’t He? Glory to His Holy Name! J

Please give us the first page of the book.
Cape May, New Jersey

Monday, February 17, 1873

As she faced her husband in the lovely sitting room of their spacious home, Loretta Vye's fragile hold on joy slipped. Her stomach tensed as she clutched the gold cross around her neck, a gift from her late mother on Loretta's eighth birthday. She always grabbed hold of it when she was upset. “You're leaving again? When?”

“Tomorrow, my dear.”

“Tomorrow?” Her voice rose several decibels.

A frown darkened his angular face. “Yes, dear.” He turned away from her momentarily, clasping his hands behind his back, and then faced her again. “An urgent situation has arisen that requires I leave immediately.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?
They can find me at https://www.maryanndiorio.com

Thank you so much for this opportunity, Lena. I am most grateful to you!

It’s my pleasure to host you on my blog again.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/Captain-Mrs-Vye-Book-Wives/dp/1959699008/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1668618123&sr=1-1

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

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

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 2 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

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

FALLING FOR THE COWGIRL - Jody Hedlund - One Free Book

Bio: Jody Hedlund is the bestselling author of over 30 historical novels for both adults and teens and is the winner of numerous awards, including the Christy, Carol, and Christian Book Awards. Jody lives in Michigan with her husband, busy family, and five spoiled cats.

Welcome, Jody. Please provide a brief summary of your new novel, Falling for the Cowgirl. This book continues the McQuaid family saga as the family of five siblings struggles to survive in the high country of Colorado. Even though Ivy McQuaid is the youngest child in the McQuaid family (and the only girl), she gets her happily-ever-after in this fourth book of the series.

Readers who’ve read the previous books have already gotten a glimpse of the feisty and precocious Ivy during her younger years. But as Falling for the Cowgirl opens, Ivy is all grown up and searching for a place where she belongs and that she can finally call home.

Of course, her long lost love, Jericho Bliss, shows up on the scene and causes all kinds of mayhem for her as always. Though she’s tried to forget about the man who broke her heart, she realizes she can’t stop loving Jericho, even though he makes it clear that he has no intention of pursing anything between them.

What about the life of ranchers first captured your imagination? I lived in the high country of Colorado as a child and then for a few years while my husband was in graduate school, so Colorado has always held a special place in my heart. During a family vacation there in recent years, I visited the Fairplay area in South Park and realized it would be the perfect setting for a ranching story. Not only was it beautiful, but it was loaded with so many historical details that I’d never run out of interesting information to inspire me.

Can you tell us a little more about what and who were the inspirations behind this book? In doing research for this series, I came across a chapter in a book devoted to ranch women that had a few paragraphs about women being involved in the rodeo circuit. After reading about those women and the many challenges they faced, I knew right away that Ivy had to not only be a cowgirl but also a rodeo participant.

Since this series is set in the 1860s and early 1870s, rodeos were just developing. In those early days, they were known as cowhand competitions, and most of them didn’t allow women to participate. Ivy, being the strong woman that she is, doesn’t let anything hold her back and finds a way to join in the competitions anyway. You’ll have to read the book to find out how!

What did you enjoy most about creating a tough and independent protagonist like Ivy McQuaid? What did you find the most challenging, if anything? After growing up with four older brothers, Ivy is a typical tomboy. She’d much rather spend her days chasing cattle and wandering around the ranch than doing any of the women’s tasks at home. Not only does she buck against the constraints put on women in the cowhand competitions, but she also wants to own land and have a place of her own. Earning money for land is difficult for a woman, but convincing a man to sell her land is equally challenging.

Even though Ivy is struggling to be accepted as a woman in a man’s world, I had to make sure she didn’t come across as too masculine and abrasive. The challenge was finding ways to make her attractive as a woman, especially to the hero. She wants the hero to notice her, and so begins to take more care with her appearance. For example, I have her struggling to adjust to wearing fancy garments that are hand-me-downs from a sister-in-law.

Like many of us, your character Jericho Bliss fears putting those he loves in danger. Do you believe it is more important for us to respect such fears or overcome them? Because his mother was tortured and died at the hands of criminals, Jericho is forever scarred. Not only did his mother die, but his father turned to heavy drinking in his grief, and so Jericho lost both parents. His fear of putting Ivy into danger as a result of his job is legitimate. The criminals he’s hunting are the worst of the worst.

Even so, Jericho has to learn that when we give fear control, it keeps us from living life to the fullest. In a sense, we’re letting it kill a part of us—especially the joy and the beauty that awaits us in relationships.

Without giving away any spoilers, what makes Ivy McQuaid and Jericho Bliss such a compelling duo? They’re both strong and stubborn characters, and when they come together the sparks fly!

What sets Falling for the Cowgirl apart from your previous novels? The other books in the series are from the perspective of the McQuaid brothers. This book is about the lone sister in the family.

What do you hope readers will take away from reading this book? When Ivy experiences one loss after another, she grows increasingly despondent. In a very poignant scene near the end of the novel, Judd (the grandfatherly man who shepherds the McQuaid family) challenges her to stop building her life on a crumbling foundation and instead to find her acceptance in God’s unfailing love, in the One who will never leave or forsake her. She has to learn to take her aches to the Lord instead of trying to bear them all herself.

Jericho has a similar spiritual journey. He, too, has to come to grips with walking life empty-handed and trying to hold himself up instead of turning to the One who is beside him and waiting to lift him up every time he stumbles or falls.

This book sounds so interesting. How can readers connect with you? To stay up to date, I invite readers to join my Facebook Reader Room, where I post the most relevant book news and interact with readers. Or readers can visit my website at jodyhedlund.com.

Thank you, Jody, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. I love western historical novels.

Readers, here’s a link to the book. 

https://www.amazon.com/Falling-Cowgirl-Colorado-Cowboys-Hedlund/dp/0764236423/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1668534668&sr=1-1

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

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

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 2 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

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

WINNERS

IMPORTANT: Instructions for winners  - When you send me the email, make sure your subject line says this: Winner - (book title) - (author's name) If you don't do this, your email could get lost in my hundreds of emails per day. I WILL SEARCH FOR POST TITLES STARTING THAT WAY.

Some people don't read the instructions of how to enter. Unfortunately, they don't have a chance to win. so next time you come and leave a comment, be sure to read all the instructions if you want a chance to win.

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Click the Contact Me link at the top of the blog, and send me an Email.

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HONOR BOUND - Hallee Bridgeman - One Free Book

Bio: Hallee Bridgeman is the USA Today bestselling author of several action-packed romantic suspense books and series. An Army brat turned Floridian, Hallee finally settled with her husband in central Kentucky, where they have raised their three children. When she’s not writing, Hallee pursues her passion for cooking, coffee, campy action movies, and regular date nights with her husband. An accomplished speaker and active member of several writing organizations, Hallee can be found online at www.halleebridgeman.com.

HONOR BOUND

As a medical missionary in war-torn Africa, Cynthia Myers is trained to save lives. Captain Rick Norton, Special Forces A-Team captain, is ordered to take them if necessary. When Cynthia is forced to face her past, they have to put aside their differences in order to make it out of the jungle alive.

Welcome, Hallee. How do the books in your new Love and Honor series tie together? Each book revolves around one member of a Special Forces A-Team.

What type of research was required to accurately portray the characters in this branch of service? My husband served with the 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne) for several years and deployed with them to Afghanistan. In our military community, we have several friends who are still in Special Forces units. I was able to ask questions, glean knowledge, and confirm facts with several sources who actually served or are serving in the Special Forces.

What draws you to writing military fiction? I am an Army brat (my father was Special Forces) married to an Army brat (his father was a paratrooper). After the Gulf War, my husband got out of the military but reenlisted on September 12, 2001. He deployed to his second war within a few months of our marriage and has served in the military for almost twenty-five years. In media, it’s hard to find where the military is portrayed correctly. I wanted to write a series of books that didn’t cater to stereotype or trope but gave us a realistic view of the men and women who serve in the armed forces and their culture.

What was the inspiration behind the Love and Honor series? I love the military life and the people in it. I love strong heroes and heroines who are truly self-sacrificing, whose love for their country and families leads them to lay down their lives to protect them.

Is there a character in this series who you particularly relate to? I think out of all the characters, Bill Sanders is my favorite. I’ve always loved the tortured hero with a past that comes with baggage. It was fun to weave a sense of humor and Southern colloquialisms into his speech. My husband is very Southern and clever with his words. I think a lot of him leaked into Bill.

The theme of honor is present in each book in this series. Why did you choose to focus on this particular quality? One of the definitions of honor is “adherence to what is right.” Throughout my life, I’ve been surrounded by soldiers who have served in the US Army Special Forces. In my experience, they exude honor and respect. It was a natural trait to give focus to when I was plotting and planning this series.

Are there any lessons that you hope readers can learn from the Love and Honor series? God is love, but this is a fallen world and there are some pretty scary things going on. God has gifted some people with warrior qualities and special skills, and they’re out there every day praying for the same peace that Jesus promises us in John 16:33: “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (ESV).

What are you working on next? My husband is no longer in a Special Forces unit; he is now in a cybersecurity/cyber warfare unit. I’m plotting out a series of books that combines cyber and Special Forces and a global hunt to stop some very dangerous hackers perpetrating a devastating attack. We’re crossing paths with Israel’s Mossad, arms dealers, and deep cover agents. I’m very excited for these books.

How can readers connect with you? Readers can find all of my contact information on my website: https://www.halleebridgeman.com

Thank you, Hallee, for sharing this new series with my blog readers and me. I love suspense novels.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/Honor-Bound-Love-Hallee-Bridgeman/dp/0800740203/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1668098907&sr=1-1

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

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

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 2 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

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

ALASKAN ESCAPE - Maryann Landers - One Free Book

Welcome, Maryann. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters. My second book in the Alaskan Women of Caliber Series is based on my own story. Friends tell me they can hear me in my books in various parts of the stories. Maybe since they are all in first person, I can’t help myself :)

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done? What a great question. I’d just met my husband to be, and he commented on my planned trip to Fairbanks. He said they are all a bunch of tree-squeezing, bunny-loving poesy-sniffers up there! Well, my friend and I bought some polyester clothes at value village and took pictures of ourselves hugging a tree and brought them to Bible study that next week. He wasn’t sure what to think of me. Then he saw I was making fun and thought “oh she likes me.”

When did you first discover that you were a writer? I wrote my first novel in less than two months. When it won an award the next year, I could hardly believe it that it wasn’t just a published book but also award winning. I felt at that time an amount of confirmation that was a huge encouragement to me.

Tell us the range of the kinds of books you enjoy reading. I’m such a picky reader. I like Women’s fiction but only some subsets of the genre, I enjoy historical fiction and Biblical fiction.

How do you keep your sanity in our run, run, run world? Yup, I run. At least I try to. Exercise helps me blow off steam. However, the single most important thing to me is my relationship with the Lord. When I have consistent time spent praying and reading the Bible, it’s the most helpful part of my day.

How do you choose your characters’ names? I’ve based all my books on true stories. I take the middle name of the person or a variation of their real name.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? Raising my kids. I can hardly believe God let me be their mom. They’re all adopted and almost dropped right from the sky!

That’s wonderful. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why? Hmmm, maybe a porpoise. They are so happy and they get to dive and swim!

What is your favorite food? Thanksgiving dinner. Does that count?

Yes. I love Thanksgiving dinner, too. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it? I have two kids at home and I homeschool them and I have lots to juggle with that.

Tell us about the featured book. It inspired by the story of my friend who is an amazing lady who lived on a fishing vessel for fifteen years. The story takes place in the remote southeastern part of Alaska.

Please give us the first page of the book. Alrighty here you go.          I watched my husband crouch in place, awaiting the release of the black panther. The cat’s emerald eyes escalated the tension on the movie set. Bill pursed his lips, and I mimicked his rhythmic breathing. After twenty-three years of marriage, I was in tune with his every move and could read even the slightest twitch. As he watched the caged animal with intense focus, I was assured he was comfortable in his role.

Together, we’d committed to acting in movies using trained but otherwise wild animals like grizzlies, snakes, and panthers. I checked my watch and noted that we had one more scene, which allowed us time to arrive home and make supper for our five kids.

We’d practiced our parts with precision and repetition, and in a moment, the predator would release at the sound of the buzzer as it had countless times before.

To the right of the set, a cage contained the long body of the panther, whose black fur shimmered in the low light. His muscular legs stalked his cage. I appreciated the intelligence of the cat and how it was trained to behave as a fierce predator through the use of small fish snacks hidden from the camera. It was all part of the show, leading an audience to believe the animal was lethally bursting onto stage, savagely seeking its human prey. The appearance was all that mattered; the graceful beast was only a crew member acting its part.

C’mon, let’s finish this.

There was comfort in the knowledge that the animals were trained, but tension lingered at the end of the long day, taking its toll on my thoughts. Offstage, I crossed my legs and shifted my position on the stool. Danger lurking in every scene was supposed to be a casual happenstance. But I recalled how my heart had raced with worry a few weeks ago when a bear reverted to its natural instinct and clawed at me. That night, I’d spoken to Bill about my doubts over continuing with the acting crew. He’d used statistics to assure me I would more likely die in a car accident. His calm promisee of the expert training that was carried out on and off set temporarily calmed my nerves.

The Brazilian animal trainer assumed the director’s role during the animal scenes, and he picked up his loudspeaker. "Alright, you’re set, Bill. I’ll count it down from three." He scanned the crew of actors and stagehands, including myself, and nodded in our direction.

I closed my eyes and breathed a prayer for safety. Then I opened my eyes, setting my gaze on my man, strong and muscular from years of working on the family farm. I never voiced a fear with him nearby since I felt shielded in a cocoon when I was with him. His presence was commanding and protective even though he was a gentle giant—well over six feet tall.

In this career, we learned to juggle the instinct to flee and played along with beasts.

The fan blew the potted palm trees, creating a space similar to the Brazilian jungle the panther called home. Above the noise of the fans, the stereo speakers blared bird calls and trickling water. The Brazilian animal trainer, Bruno, called out, "three, two, and one."

The Pavlovian buzzer sounded, and the cage gate was lifted by two stagehands. Franz, a heavyset man who’d worked for decades with the crew, helped loosen the gate. As he pulled it, the panther swiped at the bars, and Franz threw the gate into the air, sending it sailing toward Bill where it clanged on the floor beside him.

In a trance-like prowl, the panther moved gracefully toward the obscured fresh-fish snack he knew was his promised prize. His piercing eyes squinted, and his nose sniffed the air.

The practiced pattern was for the feline to walk past Bill and feed on its treat beyond, where it remained.

Instead, the panther froze. Its nose twitched and eyes darted. What did it sense? Why didn’t it move forward? Turning, the panther stared menacingly at Bill.

I gasped and covered my mouth. Dear Lord, help us! I prayed.

Bruno sprang into action, running to Bill and yelling out commands in Portuguese as he drew a long knife from its scabbard.

How can readers find you on the Internet? The fun way is to google my name and then see what you can find. Or you can go to my webpage directly at https://www.mary-ann-landers.com and check out the story behind the story of what inspired me to begin writing two years ago.

Thank you, Maryann, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. I love reading stories set in Alaska.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/Alaskan-Escape-Women-Caliber-Book/dp/1737392585/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1668015726&sr=8-1

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

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

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 2 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

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

THE PREMONTION AT WITHERS FARM - Jaime Jo Wright - One Free Book

Bio: Christy and Carol Awards–winning author Jaime Jo Wright has captured audiences with her numerous thrilling and mysterious novels, including The Souls of Lost Lake (Apr. 2022), On the Cliffs of Foxglove Manor (2021), and The Haunting at Bonaventure Circus (2020). Featuring rich characterization and intricate plots with just the right amount of spookiness, Wright will have readers clinging to her every word until the very last page in her latest novel, The Premonition at Withers Farm.

About the Story: In 1910 Michigan, Perliett Van Hilton is a self-proclaimed rural healer, but local doctor George Wasziak is convinced she’s nothing but a useless quack. It doesn’t help that her mother, Meribeth, claims to be a spiritualist capable of connecting the living with their dearly departed. But when the Van Hiltons are targeted by a superstitious killer, Perliett must rely on both George and an intriguing newcomer for help.

Over a century later, Molly Wasziak is dealing with her own problems. Recovering from depression after multiple miscarriages, Molly is overwhelmed by her husband’s purchase of a turn-of-the- century farmhouse. Haunted by the disturbing shadows and sounds in the old building, she’s pulled deep into a vintage web of deceptions after uncovering the Wasziak family tree and a century-old murder case.

As Perliett fights for her life in 1910, Molly seeks renewed purpose for hers as she uncovers the records of the dead. Will their voices be heard, or will time silence their truths forever?

Welcome, Jaime. Please provide a brief summary of your new novel The Premonition at Withers Farm. Two women must wade through family trauma and a rural-farmland serial killer’s motivations to find safety for their loved ones and the truth behind the murders.

The Premonition at Withers Farm alternates between a setting in Michigan in the early 1900s and present day. What about this concept first captured your imagination? The first thing that captured my imagination was when my friend and I were reading old letters that were found in an actual chicken coop on a farm. I started envisioning how the letters may hold something much darker—like a killer’s record of their victims—and from there, the story was born.

Protagonist Perliett Van Hilton is a rural healer in the novel. What kind of research was required to learn more about those who practiced this kind of medicine? Honestly, it was super fun! There are books that abound with information of old medical practices, and some of them are beyond the mind’s imagination! I had fun doing a lot of reading and research but included only a teensy percentage of the quackery I discovered.

Can you tell us a little more about the inspiration behind this book? I have always been fascinated with the surge of spiritualism in history and the fascination with the spirit world. With literary masters like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle making it a distinguished part of their lives, I wanted to understand the history behind it—both the solved trickery and the unsolved mystery. I was able to consult with a magician, who helped open the doors to the secrets behind much of the “trade,” the illusion and the dangers of being led into a world we know little about.

Your other main character, Molly Wasziak, is working through depression after experiencing several miscarriages. What did you find the most challenging about accurately portraying her character? I’m big on drawing on personal experience, so this was one I have personally traversed through myself. The experience of miscarriage is a difficult one to navigate, often being a silent grief, as it’s commonly treated as though the mother is recovering from an ailment, not from the loss of her child. Along with that, the reality of postpartum depression is also not discussed often and was something I experienced as well. If untreated and pushed under the rug as though a “weakness of faith,” this type of depression can become not only disabling but also dangerous for one’s mental health. I wanted to portray these in a way that raises awareness while also lending credibility to the women who struggle with such things.

How do you think The Premonition at Withers Farm serves both fans of dual-time fiction and suspense fanatics? I think people will find enjoyment in reading about both the historical and current worlds, witnessing the two collide, along with being satiated by how the threads of suspense are woven through the lives and tales of the different eras. They aren’t two mysteries really, but rather one, as we see the union of the past influencing the present, and the present discovering the stories of the ancestors who came before. Because dangers don’t always die in the past; sometimes they linger and haunt the future.

What elements do you believe all great mystery/suspense novels need to have? I believe all great mystery/suspense novels need to have a strong and unpredictable tale woven through them. Personally, I love those with many layers and strings that require tying up at the end, as well as a red herring or two to send me, the reader, down a completely different path, along with the perfect twist at the end.

What do you hope readers gain from reading The Premonition at Withers Farm? The search for truth is a delicate thing, especially today when so much truth is considered relative and preferential. I hope readers can discover that truth—solid and foundational truth—does exist, is never-changing, and can be a beacon of hope in a world filled with darkness.

How can readers connect with you? Hit me up at www.jaimewrightbooks.com. All my social media links are there, plus readers can find me on the Discord app if they’re not keen on popular social media platforms. They can also touch base with me at www.madlitmentoring.com, if someone’s an aspiring writer and would like to work with me on honing their storytelling skills or deepening their dive into fiction writing in general.

Thank you, Jaime, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. I have a grand daughter who experienced two miscarriages be fore her son was born. I look forward to reading your book.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/Premonition-at-Withers-Farm/dp/0764238337/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667929537&sr=1-1

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

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

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 2 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

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

WINNERS

 IMPORTANT: Instructions for winners  - When you send me the email, make sure your subject line says this: Winner - (book title) - (author's name) If you don't do this, your email could get lost in my hundreds of emails per day. I WILL SEARCH FOR POST TITLES STARTING THAT WAY.

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A QUILT FOR CHRISTMAS - Melody Carlson - One Free Book

Bio: Award-winning author Melody Carlson has a special talent for bringing extra joy to the Christmas season. With over seven million copies sold, Carlson has charmed her way into the lives of romance readers worldwide. She now crafts another heartwarming holiday tale about giving and forgiving and sprinkles it with just the right amount of romance in A Quilt for Christmas.

About the story: Widowed and recently relocated, Vera Swanson is feeling lonely this Christmas season. After all, Christmas should be celebrated with family. But that is not an option for Vera this year—until little Fiona Albright knocks on her door. With her mother seriously ill and her father out of town, Fiona enlists Vera’s help, and when she finds out her new neighbor is a quilter, she has a special request—a Christmas quilt for Mama.

With only three weeks until Christmas, Vera realizes she needs a miracle. She quickly pulls together a ragtag group of quilters. As this diverse cast of characters work together to create a beautiful quilt, their hearts become stitched together in friendship, a struggling family is helped, and an unexpected romance blooms.

For anyone who loves quilting, romance, or a cozy Christmas tale, A Quilt for Christmas offers a perfect escape for the winter season.

Welcome, Melody. Please provide a brief summary of A Quilt for Christmas. All alone this holiday season, Vera Swanson expects a blue Christmas. But when little Fiona Albright reaches out for help, Vera is swept up into the lives of a struggling young family. While helping the ailing mother, Vera reveals to young Fiona that she’s a quilter—and Fiona begs her to “make Mama a quilt” for Christmas. Vera accepts the challenge and manages to find three other women to help, but all does not go smoothly as the four very different women attempt to create a beautiful quilt in just three weeks. Friendships are formed and an unexpected romance blossoms, as the unusual quilting club do their best to pull together. 

Young Fiona Albright has asked Vera to make a quilt for her mother. Vera pulls together a ragtag group of quilters. Can you describe this eclectic group of women? Vera has lived a relatively uncomplicated sort of life. Outspoken Eleanor is a retired career woman who, due to her own grief, has grown bitter and cynical. Tasha is young,  artistic, and free-spirited. She’s been bumped around by life and love but is still resilient. And Beverly is a jovial chatterbox, who loves to bake and indulge in goodies.

Do you have a favorite character? I like something about each character, but I probably love little Fiona best. She’s one of those old-soul children who sometimes sees more than the adults around her.

A Quilt for Christmas is much more than an uplifting novel. What underlying themes are woven together in your book? In each novel, I always try to instill a portion of grace that involves flawed characters, hurt feelings, and a need for understanding and forgiveness.

You are well known for your enjoyable romance tales. What do you love most about writing novels in this genre? I like a good love story (more than a romance novel!) because it allows me to write about a variety of themes (not only the romantic element). I can explore relationships and show various facets of personalities, and if it gets dicey, there’s always that love story thread to stitch it back together.

When did you first start writing Christmas novellas? I’ve been writing Christmas novellas for over twenty years.

What are you working on next? My 2023 Christmas novella, which is quite different. That’s all I’m saying for now. I’ve also been busily adapting some of my books into screenplays.

How can readers connect with you?  Readers can find me at MelodyCarlson.com and on Facebook @MelodyCarlsonAuthor.

Thank you, Melody, for sharing A Quilt for Christmas with my blog readers and me. I love reading Christmas stories during the season.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/Quilt-Christmas-Novella/dp/0800739345/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667492376&sr=8-1

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

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

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 2 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

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

A DAUGHTER'S COURAGE - Misty M Beller - One Free Book

Welcome back, Misty. Where do you write? I dictate my stories into an app on my phone, and I usually do it while I’m walking outside. I’ve found movement really helps my creativity. With this book though, I was actually heavily pregnant (and sick) so I wasn’t able to walk. I dictated most of it from either my bed or the couch. J

When deciding on how to publish, what directed you to the route you took? At any given time, I usually have a series releasing that I’m publishing myself and also a series being published by Bethany House Publishers. I was excited to partner with Bethany House for this Brides of Laurent series, because it’s such a fun setting! Laurent is a secret French village that’s been hidden in caves in the Canadian Rockies for over a hundred years.

What kinds of things do you like to do outside of writing? My 5 kiddos definitely keep me busy! We love to go camping, and we all love music. I was a music major in college, piano concentration. Both of my older girls play piano too, and my oldest also plays every form of guitar she can get her hands on. J Three of our kids also play soccer, so I spend a lot of time at the soccer fields!

What kinds of advice would you give to someone who wants to start writing? This is always a tough question because there are so many things that are helpful!

First, place your writing journey in God’s hands. Seek Him above everything, and He’ll lead You along the path He’s chosen to reach His very best for you!

Second, read a LOT. Read in your genre. Read writing craft books. Absorb everything you can.

Third, join a writing organization that focuses on the type of books you write. Joining ACFW (American Christian Fiction Writers) was one of the most helpful things I’ve done to grow as a writer. I’ll always be grateful to the organization, and I do my best to give back as often as I can. I’m also a member of Novelists, Inc. (for career novelists).

What is your favorite book? Favorite author? Do you have an author that inspired/inspires you to write? So hard to pick favorites! Jane Austen and her books are all favorite classics. For authors still alive, Kristen Heitzmann and Deanne Gist are definitely favorites, and both helped inspire me when I began writing.

Where did you get the idea for A Daughter’s Courage? Charlotte, the heroine in A Daughter’s Courage is the little sister of the heroine from book 1. I knew I wanted this story to be a journey away from Laurent, so Charlotte could get away from the shadow of her family and have her own adventure. My brainstorming group helped me come up with the idea for her mission to find an artisan who can repair her village’s special chalice…and the special twist at the end of the story!

From idea to final revision, how long did it take to write? I began writing A Daughter’s Courage at the beginning of July 2021 and turned in the final manuscript to my publisher (Bethany House) on October 29, 2021. It was a race to finish the book before I gave birth to our daughter Leah, and I made it with just 5 days to spare!

Are you working on anything now? Yes! I’m writing book 2 in a new series for Bethany House! The series is called Sisters of the Rockies and follows four sisters who travel west in 1837 to accomplish their father’s dying wish. They arrive in time for the trappers’ rendezvous, and boy is it different from what they imagined! Book 1, Rocky Mountain Rendezvous, will release in May 2023, and book 2 that I’m currently writing will release in November 2023. I can’t wait for you to read this series!

I’m eager to read it already. Please tell us about A Daughter’s Courage.

I’d love to!

After accidentally destroying the intricately carved chalice her people have treasured for over a hundred years, Charlotte Durand sets out in search of a skilled artisan who can repair the damage. What she expected to be a two-day trek becomes much more daunting when a treacherous snowstorm sets in.
Searching for solitude and respite from his troubling past, the last thing Damien Levette needs in the middle of a mountain blizzard is to tend to another person, but he can't leave behind the mysterious woman he found half frozen at the edge of a mountain lake.
As they battle both the elements and their distrust of each other, Charlotte and Damien must work together to survive the peril of the mountains—or it could be the downfall of them both.

Please give us a peek at the first page of the book.

September 1817
Rocky Mountains, Rupert’s Land (Future Canada)

Cooking fulfilled Charlotte Durand like little else did.

Maybe not the act of slicing meat and stirring stew over a hot fire, but the steps required to ensure each morsel she prepared would bring her family pleasure. That her food would nourish and strengthen. And, in this case, furnish the setting for a celebration.

The trading party had returned from Fort Versailles.

Laurent’s council had finally opened their solitary village to a small bit of trade with the fort located two days’ ride to the east, but only a couple men went at a time. For this journey, Erik and Monsieur Rochette had been gone five days, returning this afternoon with heaping packs of supplies.

Tonight, their table would be overflowing just like the traders’ packs, and she had so many final preparations to finish. In less than an hour, both men would sup at the Durand table to share news. Who knew what fascinating tidings they’d bring this time? So many people passed in and out of the fort’s log walls. . . . Charlotte couldn’t imagine meeting so many strangers every day.

Where can my readers find you on the Internet? I love to connect with readers! One of my favorite ways is through my newsletter, and readers can get a free copy of my book, A Pony Express Romance, when they sign up for the newsletter. Here’s the link for that: https://mistymbeller.com/freebook

I can also be found at these links:

https://mistymbeller.com/

https://amazon.com/author/mistymbeller

https://www.facebook.com/MistyMBellerAuthor

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/misty-m-beller

https://www.goodreads.com/MistyMBeller

http://www.pinterest.com/MistyMBeller

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

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

https://www.amazon.com/Daughters-Courage-Brides-Laurent/dp/076423806X/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667406856&sr=1-1 

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

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

The only notification you’ll receive is the winner post on this blog. So be sure to check back a week from Saturday to see if you won. You will have 2 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

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