PRINCE INCOGNITO - Rachelle McCalla - One Free Book

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

I have so many exciting writing projects in progress! After Prince Incognito, I have one more book in the Reclaiming the Crown series. The Missing Monarch hits shelves in September. Then, this December, my first historical debuts. A Royal Marriage is set in the same fictional kingdom of Lydia, but it takes place in the year 801, and tells the story of the Lydian King John and the daughter of Charlemagne, Gisela. It’s also the first book in my Protecting the Crown series, which features a mix of suspense and historical titles. The first suspense book in the series, Defending the Duchess, comes out in March of next year.

Tell us a little about your family.

My husband and kids keep me very busy! I have four kids, ranging in age from three to nine years old, two boys and two girls. Each of the books in the Reclaiming the Crown series is dedicated to one of them. My seven-year-old has even started reading the book dedicated to her (my nine-year-old has to wait—his book isn’t out yet!)

I’ve dedicated books to my daughters, my sons-in-law, my grandchildren. Now I have a new grandson-in-law. He’s next. Has your writing changed your reading habits? If so, how?

Since I’ve always been an avid reader, that aspect has never changed. But I find myself reading a lot of books for research, especially now that I’m starting to write historicals.

I totally understand that, since I write historicals. I’ve built quite a library of reference volumes. I like to be able to page through them when I’m writing. What are you working on right now?

I’m in the middle of the final edits of A Royal Marriage. I just finished the revised manuscript for Defending the Duchess, and I’ve finished the first chapter of the next suspense book in that series, which doesn’t have a firm title yet.

What outside interests do you have?

I love to travel, especially now that the kids are getting old enough to handle road trips. We’re taking off for Mount Rushmore in a couple of weeks (six McCallas in one van—pray for us!). We also like to go camping and hiking.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

Right now I have it pretty easy, because my books are centered around one place, the fictional kingdom of Lydia. Previous books have been set in places familiar to me. My first two Survival Instinct and Troubled Waters, are set among the Apostle Islands on Lake Superior. We lived in the tiny lakeside town of Bayfield for almost two years. And my Holyoake Heroes series is set in southwest Iowa, around the small towns where my husband grew up.

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

I’d love to hang out with Winston Churchill, because he has such a great sense of humor and also because he lived through so many tumultuous events.

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

Hmm, that’s a great question. It would have been nice to know that I was going to get published, so I could stop obsessing about how to do that.

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

This summer I’ve been learning how to be a mom to kids who are suddenly a year older than they were last year! I know a year might not seem like much, but we’re on new ground with a lot of new experiences. The oldest two set off their own firecrackers for the first time the other day. The girls went off the high dive at the pool for the first time this week. My oldest went away for six days at summer camp. They’re reading chapter books and middle grade books and playing board games with each other (sometimes without even fighting!). It’s been a great new adventure.

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

Read and pray and write all the time—and go on Lena Nelson Dooley’s blog if you can—she’s the best!

Thank you, Rachelle. Tell us about the featured book.

Prince Incognito is the third of the four books in the Reclaiming the Crown series. It follows the adventures of Alexander, the soldier prince and presumed heir of the Lydian throne. Alec is injured in the ambush on the royal motorcade, and he’s lost all memory of who he is and who is after him. He needs to keep his country and his crown safe, but first he needs to figure out who he is. Fortunately he finds a friend, Lillian Bardici, who tends his injuries and helps him. When he saves her life in return, they realize they need each other’s help if they’re going to survive.

Please give us the first page of the book.

His Royal Highness Prince Alexander of Lydia stood at attention in the palace courtyard, his back extra straight, his arms practically immobilized by the stiff sleeves of his dress uniform. The classic-cut olive-green suit was reserved for formal occasions, and Alec hadn't realized until he'd squeezed into it for this evening's state dinner just how long it had been since he'd last worn it.

About fifteen pounds of muscle ago, judging by how tight the shirt felt around his neck. He couldn't take a deep breath, and he felt a tingling sensation in his fingers every time he tried to bend his arms at the elbow. The warm weather of the June evening didn't help, though Alec was at least accustomed to heat.

His last deployment, a humanitarian mission in the deserts of North Africa, had required daily physical labor. Alec hadn't appreciated how much the work had transformed him until he'd returned home to Sardis, Lydia's capital city, the day before and found that none of his old clothes fit the same.

The limousines began to line up for the motorcade, and Alec watched his parents descend the palace steps with the rustle of sashes and silk. His father, His Majesty King Philip, waved Alec away from the head car.
"You'll be sixth in line." He pointed him farther down the queue.

"Why sixth? Who's in between us?" Though Alec didn't want to sound presumptuous, he was, after all, heir apparent to the throne of Lydia. While that didn't mean he had to ride in the front car, he certainly found it odd that he'd be placed so far down the line.

"State officials. Regional dignitaries. Guards."

"Guards?"

"Yes. Guards on motorcycles, guards in every car." King Philip motioned to a group of gun-bearing men. "You'll have one riding with you."

"A bodyguard?" Alec looked down at the young man who'd stepped forward. The kid wasn't small, but Alec was considerably larger, and he guessed, more experienced. "Father, I'm a soldier. I can take care of myself."

The king was halfway to his car, but as he looked back, he seemed to notice for the first time that his son had grown, and he deflated a little. "Fine. You can ride alone. But stay close. Stay safe." The king appeared as though he wanted to say more, but the cars and guards were waiting, and he ducked inside the limo after the queen.

Alec watched the door close after his parents, and their car rolled forward.

What was that all about? Stay close? Stay safe? Alec blinked at the abundance of men who filled the waiting vehicles and perched on their motorcycles, ready to go. Behind him, he spotted his sister Isabelle giving her bodyguard the cold shoulder as he held open the door to her waiting limousine. She'd told Alec that her request to have the guard removed had been turned down by their father.

Something strange was going on. When he'd first arrived home, Alec had assumed everything felt foreign simply because he wasn't used to it anymore. He'd acclimated to desert life, and no longer felt like he fit in with Lydia's aristocratic circles. In fact, until the announcement at tonight's dinner, when his father had promised he'd learn what his next assignment was, Alec didn't figure he'd feel as though he fit in anywhere.
But all the extra security, as well as his father's odd behavior, left Alec questioning what was going on. Sure, he was used to men with guns—but there weren't usually so many of them swarming the palace, were there? And whereas these events of state tended to be stressful for his father, today the king seemed downright jumpy.

Alec slid into his car, but he couldn't relax, in spite of the sumptuous leather seat of the limousine he was riding in. Too much about the situation bothered him.

Besides that, in a seated position, he could hardly take a breath.

His car crept forward, and Alec strained to see through the darkly tinted windows to the vehicles ahead of him. He hadn't seen any officials or dignitaries in the courtyard—no one had entered the vehicles ahead of him except for a few guards.

What was going on?

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I’m on Facebook, goodreads, and www.rachellemccalla.com

Thank you, Rachelle, for another interesting interview. My copy of the book arrived today, and I can’t wait to dive into it.


Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Prince Incognito (Love Inspired Suspense) - paperback
Prince Incognito (Love Inspired Suspense) - Kindle


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

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

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

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

Winners!!!!!

Amy Campbell (VA) is the winner of The Elite of the Weak by Precarious Yates. 
Kristie (OH) is the winner of Mistaken Identity by K Dawn Byrd.
Erin (MO)  is the winner of Love's Sacred Song from Mesu Andrews. 
Liz R (AL) is the winner of Native Son by J M Hochstetler. 
Sylvia (NC) is the winner of A Bride Opens Shop in El Dorado, California, by Keli Gwyn.

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

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

Congratulations, everyone. If you won a print book, send me your mailing address:
Click the Contact Me link at the top of the blog, and send me an Email.
If you won the ebook, just let me know what email address it should be sent.
When you contact me, please give the title of the book you won, so I won't have to look it up.

Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.

If you didn't win and you plan to order the book, please use the link provided on the individual interview. By using that link when you order, you will help support this blog.

THE PURSUIT OF LUCY BANNING - Olivia Newport - One Free Book

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

That depends on the story and what is happening in my own life. I don’t write in overt experiences, but I think most novelists leave a footprint in the shape of fears, yearnings, or spiritual lessons they are learning in their lives.

I so agree with you. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I consulted my son on this question. He looked up the definition of quirk and came up with “peculiar habit.” Then he had an immediate answer—I’m a Chicago Cubs fan. Considering that they have been chasing a World Series for over a century now, I guess my son finds that a peculiar habit!

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I remember the story I made up when I was four about a little girl looking for Jesus. I had flannel graph pieces to go with it. When she had looked everywhere else, she found in her heart. So I was off and running very young. But life happens, and what it means to be a writer went through several iterations over the years. The goal of being a novelist has come into focus in the last decade.

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

I read widely, both books by authors in the Christian market and the general market. However, I almost always choose fiction. My non-fiction reading tends to be limited to the choices of my book group. We read a non-fiction title every other month. I grumble a little, but I do it—and then am surprised by how often I’m glad I did.

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

I listen to my body. I know what it feels like when I need more movement in my day, or better food in my system, or more laughter with friends, or more sun on my skin, or more prayer in my heart—or even more chocolate in my mouth! I don’t need an Alaskan cruise. I find encouragement and bolstering in small pleasures that remind me to be grateful for the things that bring me joy.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Primary characters tend to spring up with names and back stories that are often hard to change! For other characters, I’m a fan of crawling through baby name lists and finding names that ring true to the era. Last names come from random sightings in research documents.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

That’s a tough questions! I’m one of those people who is quicker to take blame for what goes wrong than credit for what goes right. I’m most proud of learning the difference and realizing that the meaning in my life doesn’t come so much from what I do but who I am.

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

The giant antpitta is a curious creature. It’s a bird, but the sound it makes is more like a bark than a tweet. It reminds me that everyone has a unique way of carrying out what God created us to do.

What is your favorite food?

Let’s see. Fresh spinach. Red bell peppers. Avocados. Black olives. Cashews. It’s hard to rank them, so why not throw them all together into a salad and chomp in?

Sounds like a salad I’d love to eat. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

I tend to start with characters and setting. I’ve had to work at learning to plot more deeply and make sure enough interesting events are happening outside of my characters’ heads. Whenever I read or listen to a book that keeps me turning pages, I analyze why. What kind of complications made me worry? What was at risk at the turning points of the story? From every book I read, I try to find the takeaway that will make my own writing stronger.

Tell us about the featured book.

Think Downton Abbey in a Chicago setting. The Pursuit of Lucy Banning is the first book of the Avenue of Dreams story set in 1890s Chicago against the backdrop of the world’s fair. Lucy lives on the exclusive Prairie Avenue among Chicago’s rich and famous, but her compassionate heart is with the children of St. Andrew’s orphanage, and she is secretly enrolled in a university course at a time when women were not welcome at most institutions. When she discovers a maid’s secret, she goes out on a limb to help rather than scandalize. And when she meets Will, an unconventional architect, Lucy begins to imagine a life lived on her own terms. But first she has to face the secrets she has been keeping from the people who care for her.

I know I’ll love reading it. Please give us the first page of the book.

A week from Tuesday. Is that even possible?

            It wasn’t that Lucy Banning did not want to view the new art exhibit at the up-and-coming downtown Chicago gallery. She did, keenly. But could she manage it before a week from Tuesday? If the expedition required her mother’s cooperation, it would come with a price. Flora Banning would pounce on the exhibit to launch a social occasion. Floating through the gallery in her draped silk gown and overdone hat, nodding and smiling, she would scan for people who really “mattered” and expect Lucy to assist in this endeavor rather than pause to study the paintings.

            Lucy had played the dutiful daughter many times. She pointed out Mrs. Field across the crowd and bantered with the mayor. She smiled coyly at the young man who offered to fetch a refreshing drink and listened to Mrs. Pullman describe the hand-painted table service for her dinner party for forty-eight guests. This time, though, Lucy actually needed to scrutinize the paintings. Her art history professor would be expecting an analysis. Lucy must prove herself insightful and articulate, a student worthy to occupy a chair at the newly opened University of Chicago.

            Leo. …

I can hardly wait to get my copy of the book. How can readers find you on the Internet?

www.olivianewport.com

@OliviaNewport on Twitter

www.Facebook.com/OliviaNewport

Thank you, Olivia, for the interesting interview.


Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Pursuit of Lucy Banning, The: A Novel (Avenue of Dreams) -paperback
The Pursuit of Lucy Banning,A Novel (Avenue of Dreams) - Kindle


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

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

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

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

THE DOCTOR'S DEVOTION - Cheryl Wyatt - One Free Book

Bio:

Born Valentine’s Day on a Navy base, RN Cheryl Wyatt writes military romance. Her debut series earned RT Top Picks, #1 and #4 on Harlequin's Top-10-Most-Blogged-About-Books, Reviewers Choice Award and Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence final. www.CherylWyatt.com

Cheryl LOVES readers! Connect: https://www.facebook.com/CherylWyattAuthor

AVAILABLE NOW: The Doctor’s Devotion (Love Inspired). http://www.fictionfinder.com/book/detail/1937

Welcome, Cheryl. As an author, I know it takes a lot of people to birth each book. Who were the people involved in the birthing of this book, and what were their contributions?

I have my editor, Melissa Endlich, to thank for this series. She’d asked me to write a medical miniseries since I’m also a nurse. I am so glad I followed her advice because this series was enormously fun to write. I also have Missy Tippens, Janet Dean, Mary Connealy, Ruth Logan Herne, and the other gals in Seekerville to thank for their input on ideas when the series was in its planning stages. They were a great help and encouragement to me and I’m thankful. 

If you teach or speak. What’s coming up on your calendar?

I reach out to local writers via an online Facebook group where I try my best to mentor them. I don’t have appearances as of yet since other life issues have taken priority currently. I do love connecting with readers and also encouraging aspiring writers and do that almost daily at my Facebook author page which is dedicated to and focused on my readers.   https://www.facebook.com/CherylWyattAuthor

If you had to completely start over in another place, where would you move, and why?

Alaska or somewhere cold and near the ocean on the east coast. I’ve always wanted to see the outer banks. I hate the heat and humidity and I am freakishly in love with snow and winter. I’d rather have a snowflake on my finger than a diamond…that’s how crazy I am about it.

If you could only tell aspiring novelists one thing, what would it be?

Write as worship aka use your talent for God and stay teachable. I guess that’s two things. LOL! One practical, one spiritual.

You’ve been asked to be in charge of a celebrity cruise. Who would you ask to take part, and why? (AS in what program, singers, etc. [it doesn’t have to be writing related])

Oh! What a FUN question. I would definitely want to be in charge of the talent show as it would be a total hoot. I’d invite ALL of my writer friends and hope that we don’t have so many it would sink the ship. LOL!

Knowing how many writer friends you have, we might at least make it float low in the water. Tell us about the featured book.

The Doctor’s Devotion is book one in a new medical miniseries, called Eagle Point Emergency which features a former military medical combat team who come back after deployment to open a trauma center in a needy rural community.

·                     Publisher: Love Inspired (June 19, 2012)

·                     ISBN-10: 0373877544

·                     ISBN-13: 978-0373877546

Here’s the back cover blurb for The Doctor’s Devotion:

A Doctor’s Vow

When he fled Eagle Point years ago, former air force trauma surgeon Mitch Wellington left only broken dreams behind. Now he’s back with a new dream—opening a trauma center in the rural area and saving lives. He hopes to hire the quick-thinking nurse who impressed him during an emergency. But Lauren Bates lost her faith and doesn’t believe she deserves to help anyone.

Mitch knows firsthand what loss feels like. And it’ll take all his devotion to show Lauren that sometimes the best medicine is a combination of faith, community—and love.

Eagle Point Emergency:

Saving lives—and losing their hearts—in a small Illinois town.

BOOK PURCHASE LINKS:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Christianbook.com

Please give us the first page of the book.

~~~*~~~

"Change of plans, carrottop."

Suitcase in tow, Lauren Bates smiled at Grandpa Lem's voice coming through her cell phone. "What, you're picking me up in your tractor?" She exited Refuge Airport. Southern Illinois welcomed her with breezy warmth and a bouquet of bright June colors she wasn't accustomed to in Texas.

Lem chuckled. "Ought to since you haven't come to see me in five years."

Guilt whooshed in like planes on runways nearby. "I know, Grandpa. I'm sorry. What's this plan change?"

"Accompany me to the ribbon-cutting of a new trauma center Doc Wellington founded at Eagle Point? Starts in half an hour."

Anxiety knotted her gut. Not only was she weary hearing about Dr. Wellington, a medical facility was the last place she wanted to be. She sighed. "For you, Grandpa, I'll endure it."

"Good. We're in a blue Dodge Ram. See you in a few."

"We?" She maneuvered past people cluttering the sidewalk.

"Yes. Dr. Wellington's helping me pick you up."

"Why would you need help?" Lauren canvassed curbside cars and spotted a spiffy blue truck near the front.

"I don't drive on streets anymore. Only fields."

Alarm slowed her steps. "Why not?"

~~~*~~~

Also, here is an excerpt link for the entire first chapter: http://scrollsquirrel.blogspot.com/2012/06/excerpt-doctors-devotion-by-cheryl.html. 

Where can we find you on the Internet?

I hang out most regularly at my Facebook page, dedicated to readers: https://www.facebook.com/CherylWyattAuthor We have lots of fun stuff, giveaways and reader participation there, so I hope folks will drop by and “Like” the page.

Or readers can visit my website at www.cherylwyatt.com. I have a newsletter sign up box, blog, Twitter link and other stuff there. Thank you sooo much, Lena! Your interviews are always a blast.

I am so glad to have you back on my blog. And this new series sounds wonderful.

Readers, l

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

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

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

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

Http://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com

A LIFE THAT MATTERS - Kimberley Woodhouse - One Free Book

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

I love the Lord, my husband, my kids, and I love to write.

Tell us about your family.

My husband and I have been married for 20 years. We have two amazing teenagers, Josh and Kayla. Josh is a creative genius and loves to be dramatic. Kayla is the youngest published full-length novelist from a royalty paying publisher, and has a rare nerve disorder. You may recognize us from TV – we’ve been on a lot of different shows because of Kayla’s rare condition, but we are just a “normal” family. At least, according to my definition of normal. J

Have you written other nonfiction books?

Yes, I have a nonfiction out about our story entitled, Welcome Home: Our Family’s Journey to Extreme Joy. I was also a contributor to Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace.

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

Yes, Kayla and I are working on another project together, and… drumroll, please… I just signed with Bethany House to write with Tracie Peterson. All Things Hidden will release in early 2014. I also have a several other projects in the works, but you’ll have to watch Facebook and our website to keep up with all the craziness J

What kinds of hobbies and leisure activities do you enjoy?

I love to read, take photos, scrapbook, quilt, sew, bead… way too many things. But with Kayla’s issues, we spend a LOT of time inside.

Why did you write the featured book?

Barbour approached me about writing A Life That Matters – and it was an incredible privilege to work on, and challenging as well.

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

More than anything, I want the reader to take each moment at a time and live their life for the Lord. On this journey, we all have purpose, and we can make it count for Him. Each and every day. Here’s the description from Amazon:

Want to live a purpose-packed life? A Life That Matters will have you jumping into every day with renewed purpose. This self-help-style guide offers practical suggestions—from serve others to forgive, relax, prioritize, and be enthusiastic—that will revitalize the meaning of your life. The seventy entries feature inspiring quotations, applicable scriptures, and useful tips for making these insightful suggestions a part of every day. This uplifting guide also features short biographies of ten inspiring people to encourage you on your journey toward a meaningful life.  

Where on the Internet can the readers find you?

http://kimberleywoodhouse.com website

http://facebook.com/KimberleyWoodhouseAuthor  facebook

http://twitter.com/KimWoodhouse

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


Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
A Life That Matters: Inspiration and Encouragement for Living with Purpose (VALUE BOOKS) - paperback
A Life That Matters: Inspiration and Encouragement for Living with Purpose (VALUE BOOKS) - Kindle


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

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

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

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

LADY ANNE'S QUEST - Susan Page Davis - One Free Book

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

I am not sure what I’ll end up writing next year, because of all the changes in the publishing world, but for the rest of this year I’m writing mysteries. I will also continue writing historical romance—and historicals with mysteries in them.

Tell us a little about your family.

My husband and I and our two youngest (of six) children moved from Maine to Kentucky two years ago, when Jim retired. We’re now closer than before to all of our adult children but one (my mystery co-author Megan lives in England) and our eight grandchildren. We live a very low-key life. The two kids still at home are students.

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

I’ve always read a wide variety of books, both fiction and nonfiction. Now I spend more time “keeping up” with what others are writing in the genre of my works in progress, and also on nonfiction research reading.

What are you working on right now?

Today I am working on a mystery for Guideposts. This will be #26 in the Patchwork Mysteries series, of which I have written four. Several different authors are writing these books, so that Guideposts can publish one a month. It’s great fun. Right now the main character is preparing for a big event that will actually take place in the next book, so I’m coordinating her activities with Camy Tang, who will write book #27. Hint: it involves a special dress, flowers, and a cake.

What outside interests do you have?

I have long term interests in history and genealogy, as well as logic, education, animals, handcrafts, and needlework.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

Sometimes they are chosen for me by the editors, but if it’s totally up to me, I usually start with the basic plot of the story and set it wherever it will play out best.

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

I’d love to talk to Captain James Cook, the explorer. He was a brilliant man and a real hero in my opinion.

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

I had no idea about the editing process that happens after your manuscript is bought. I wish I’d had a better understanding of this and all that the book goes through before final production.

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

To wait and let Him do His work.

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

Read a lot, write every day, and network.

Tell us about the featured book, Lady Anne’s Quest.

Lady Anne believes her prayers are answered and she’s at last found her long lost uncle. Unwilling to let her meet him on her own, Dan Adams accompanies her to her uncle’s ranch. But both are convinced the man claiming to be her uncle is an impostor. They decide to continue the search for the new Earl of Stoneford.

But now the swindler is on their trail, hoping to steal Uncle David’s inheritance. Dan has his hands full trying to protect Anne, but he finds he must guard his heart just as carefully. Even though he’s good at keeping her safe, he knows he’ll never convince Anne to become a farmer’s wife in Oregon when she has her sights set on returning to her home in England. But as Anne’s quest becomes even more difficult—and dangerous—she begins to see Dan differently. Will she soon be envisioning a new life in America?

Please give us an excerpt from the book.

Anne gulped. How could this man be her uncle? Impossible.

            She sucked in a deep breath. Though he repelled her, she must use her manners and greet him warmly. He was now her closest living relative. Or was he? Could there possibly be two men named David Stone in the territory? Perhaps this was all a mistake.

            Her stomach plummeted at the thought, but she pasted on a smile.

“Hello. I’m searching for Mr. David Stone. Would you happen to know where he lives?”

He laughed, a big, noisy guffaw. “Why, sweetheart, you’re lookin’ at him.” He moved down onto the next step, and Anne backed away, into the solid bulk of Dan Adams.

“Daniel,” she gasped.

Dan touched her back only for an instant, and she took comfort from that reassuring pat. He stepped around her, between her and the stranger.

“Howdy. Are you Mr. Stone?”

“Yes, I am,” the other man said. He held out a meaty hand. “I’m this little gal’s uncle. And who might you be, mister?”

“My name is Daniel Adams.”

The man’s eyes narrowed to slits as they shook hands, as though he was trying to categorize his guest, but Dan didn’t offer more information.

Anne recovered at least a portion of her poise and moved up next to Dan. “I’m sorry, but you’re not at all what I expected.” She eyed the man. He was several inches taller than she was, but not nearly as tall as Daniel. She gazed at his fleshy face, his flinty eyes, and his slicked-back, badly barbered hair.

She longed to bring out the miniature portrait in her handbag, but an inner restraint told her not to. This man could not be the same one who posed for the portrait twenty years ago. Or could he?

“You wrote that you wanted to see me and give me some news,” the man said. “Come on in.”

Anne looked at Dan. He arched his eyebrows, seeking her opinion.

“Well, I. . .”

“Come on.” The man started up the steps again, beckoning with his beefy arm. “Millie’s got supper ready.”

Anne swallowed hard and looked to Dan again. He held out his crooked arm. She took it and walked with him up the steps and into the little house.

Her eyes took a moment to adjust to the dim interior. The house appeared to be divided into two rooms, and they had entered the kitchen. A cook stove stood to the right, with a stovepipe reaching up and bending to meet the chimney. A rough wooden table stood in the middle of the floor, and a woman came past it with her hands extended in greeting.

“So you’re little Anne.” She smiled broadly and seized both Anne’s hands. “Oh, my, what a lovely young woman you are.” She threw the man a reproachful glance. “David, you should have told me.”

He shrugged. “Didn’t know. This here’s Millie.”

Anne found it hard to rip her gaze away from him and appraise Millie. The woman’s thick auburn hair hung loose about her shoulders, and she wore lip rouge. Beyond that, the dim lighting left her in mystery, but her gathered and flounced dress looked to be of decent quality, unlike the man’s clothing.

“Is this your husband?” Millie asked.

“No,” Anne said quickly. “Dan is just a friend. He offered to ride down here with me, since I didn’t want to travel alone.” She eyed the stocky man as she spoke, hoping to shame him at least a little for not offering to go to Corvallis for her, but he only smiled and nodded.

“Well, let’s sit down, folks. You must be hungry. Millie’s been keeping a pot of stew simmering all day. We thought you might get here this afternoon.”

Millie hurried to a bank of curtained shelves on the far wall and pushed the calico curtain aside. “I only set up for three, but you’re welcome to join us, Mr. Adams.” She turned with a tin plate and a thick china mug in her hands.

“Let me help you,” Anne said.

“Oh, no, that’s all right. Sit right down.” Quickly Millie laid another place setting for Dan. “Just grab that little bench by the window, Mr. Adams.”

The four of them sat down at the table, and Millie began ladling out portions of stew. No one mentioned giving thanks for the food, which Anne found unsettling. The Stones had always been God-fearing Anglicans. She glanced at Dan, and he gritted his teeth then said, “Would you mind if I said grace?”

Their host stared blankly at him, but Millie said, “Go right ahead.”

Anne closed her eyes. She’d never heard Dan pray before, but his quiet words soothed her.

“Dear Lord, we thank you for a safe journey and for the food we are about to receive. Amen.”

“Amen,” Anne whispered. She opened her eyes. Millie stood with the ladle in her hand, watching Dan as though waiting for a cue to continue serving.

“So you had a good trip down here from Corvallis?” the man asked.

“Well enough,” Dan said.

He looked at Anne. “And did you come all the way across the country, or did you sail?”

“We came by wagon train,” she said.

“Is that right?” He shook his head. His drying hair tumbled willy-nilly down his forehead. “Rough trip. Isn’t that right, Millie?”

“It’s bad enough.” She handed him a bowl of stew. “Pass those biscuits around, David.”

The food was more palatable than Anne had dared hope, and she ate two biscuits with apple butter and a large bowl of beef stew.

“Your stew is delicious,” she said to Millie. “Thank you so much for feeding us.”

“Yes,” Dan said. “Mighty fine meal, ma’am.”

“Oh, it’s nothing.” But Millie’s smile said it was something. “What was the family news you hinted at in your letter to David, Miss Stone?”

 How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website is at www.susanpagedavis.com. I give away several books each month, for people who enter using a contest form on the left side of my home page.


Thank you, Susan, for stopping by and visiting with us today.


Readers, here are links to the book. By using one when you order, you help support this blog.
Lady Anne's Quest (Prairie Dreams) - paperback
Lady Anne's Quest (Prairie Dreams) - Kindle


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

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

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

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

JOURNEY'S EDGE - Dora Hiers - One Free Book

Bio:

After a successful auditing career, Dora left the corporate world to be a stay-at-home mom to her two sons. When her youngest son didn’t want her hanging out at school with him anymore, Dora started writing heart racing, God-gracing books. Dora belongs to the American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and the Carolina Christian Writers. Dora and her husband make their home in North Carolina. When she’s not writing, Dora enjoys reading and family gatherings. She despises traffic, technological meltdowns, and a sad ending to a book. Her books always end with happily-ever-afters.

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

Because I enjoy reading them. Stories sprinkled with grace and forgiveness, courage and faith, and always a happily-ever-after. What I like to call heart racing, God-gracing romance.

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

God has blessed me with many happy occasions, but most recently, the birth of our first grandson. What a joyous time and such a precious gift!

How has being published changed your life?

My rump logs more hours in front of my laptop and the dog gets fewer walks, but I still mop floors and mow the lawn.

God is helping me overcome my fear of public speaking. I’m not quite there yet, but my limbs don’t rattle with terror anymore and my tummy doesn’t threaten to give up my lunch. I’m growing more courageous and stepping out of my comfort zone.

What are you reading right now?

I’m in between books, debating on which to start next. Breathless by Kathryn Bain, a new author to me, or When the Smoke Clears by Lynette Eason, a favorite author of mine. Hmmm…

What is your current work in progress?

I just submitted When Truth Whispers, my first book in a new series. Next up on the agenda, research for my next book based on a recent WRP prompt: A fire. A new identity. An old girlfriend. When I saw that prompt, I knew I couldn’t let it slide.

What would be your dream vacation?

My dream destination? Wandering around the Holy Land for a few days.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

I create fictional areas based on places we enjoy vacationing.

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

My husband. He’s my best friend. Evenings are so much sweeter when he’s around to share them.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

In the summer, my hubby cranks up the smoker for family gatherings. When the temperature cools, you’ll catch me flicking the fireplace switch on and kicking back under a blanket to cheer for the Carolina Panthers and the Tampa Bay Lightning. Just about any time of the year, we’re game for a quick jaunt to the mountains. And nothing beats spending time with our grandkids! See those cuties!

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

Staring at a blank screen. Knowing I have to fill 200+ pages with words. And not just words, but an entertaining story. A heart racing, God-gracing book with a guaranteed happy-ever-after. How do I overcome it? Plant my tush in the chair and get busy.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

If you get a rejection, cry and rant, just don’t fling it in the fireplace or spill your hurt all over facebook. Stop writing for a few days, a few months even. Then, whip that rejection out and look at it again with a fresh perspective. Pick out the constructive criticism on how to make your writing stronger and dig back in. Attend writer’s conferences. Start building a platform. Blog, even if you don’t think you have anything to blog about. Leave comments on blogs that you follow. Get your name and mini-photo circulating. Build relationships, friendships, connections. Because the feeling is ever so sweet when you get that affirmative email or phone call.

Tell us about the featured book.

Why, Lena, I thought you’d never ask.

A Routine Audit? Hardly.

Red flags—including some goon who's following her—raise McKinley Frasier's suspicions that numbers don't add up at the insurance firm. When someone tries to snatch McKinley's daughter from school, she turns to police officer and ex-fiance, Renner Crossman—the cop who walked out on her a month before their wedding. But Renner's not the same guy who broke her heart ten years ago. He calls himself a "new man." She trusts the new Renner with her daughter's safety...but what about her heart?

Please give us the first page of the book.

Client Evasion 101. She could teach that course.

If she lived long enough.

Hiding her rental car between a truck and a shaggy evergreen tree, McKinley Frasier huddled against the steering wheel and fumbled to find the switch for the headlights,

determination to outsmart this creep outweighing the fear churning in her belly. For now.

Her gaze darted to the road in front of the hotel. No sign of him yet. She turned the knob one more time and the lights flickered off. Sliding a hand into her purse, she pulled out her cell phone, her palm slick against the cold plastic case.

A car slithered past, stealthy, stalking. Malcolm Brugman, this week’s client. At least she thought it was him. She’d only gotten a glimpse of his profile at the stoplight. McKinley held her breath, waiting, not moving, in case he changed directions and doubled back.

She’d bought some time. Was it enough to get checked in and out of sight? She couldn’t waste another second. She exhaled and escaped the tight confines of the car, her legs and hands shaking as she opened the trunk.

Keeping her eyes glued to the road, McKinley hoisted her suitcase and laptop case from the trunk, hand still clutching her cell phone. She pushed the

Way to leave us hanging, Dora. How can readers find you on the Internet?

Readers can connect with Dora:

Email: Dora@DoraHiers.com

Website: www.dorahiers.com

Blog:  http://www.dorahiers.blogspot.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/dorahiers
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/DoraHiers

Thank you, Dora, for another interesting interview.

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

Journey's Edge - paperback
Journey's Edge (Marshals of Journey Creek) - Kindle


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

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

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

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

PERILOUS COVE - Rich Bullock - One Free Ebook

Rich, I was thrilled when you told me your debut book was releasing as an ebook. Tell us how much of yourself you write into your characters.

No doubt frighteningly more than I realize. I consciously draw on experiences from childhood, college, vacations, marriage, raising kids, skills and talents, and careers. For example, in Perilous Cove, I used a vacation excursion we had on a whale watching boat, as well as years living near the Pacific Ocean. The result is a character with a job as a tour guide on a whale watching boat.

My mom had a strong personality, but she also liked to have fun and had some great sayings and opinions on life. She’s always in the books in some form, male or female.

And something that many women writers find interesting: my main protagonist is always female. This is a challenge, because I know very little about fashion, makeup, etc. I guess that’s why the suspense genre works for me: If I get in a fashion bind, I can always blow up something or crash a car to render what my characters are wearing inconsequential. You think I’m kidding?

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

Hey, I’m from California—quirky is normal here! But for me I think it was after I finished my first year of college in Dallas. On almost the spur of the moment, my roommate (another Californian) and I decided to take a detour on the way home. We headed north in his ’56 Ford pickup, through Colorado, Yellowstone, up into Canada and across to Victoria, then down through Washington and Oregon to California—all for about $95 each. Those were the days of really cheap gas and no cell phones. We camped out, and slept in the truck when it rained.

When I was in college and borrowed a guy’s car to get to student teaching at the high school, I wouldn’t buy the gas if it was more than $.15 per gallon. When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I’ve always been a voracious reader and, like many readers, I thought it would be cool to have my name on a book on the shelf. But it wasn’t until I was in my fifties that I began learning the craft of writing fiction. Six years later, I entered the 2009 Zondervan First Novel Contest and got a call that I made it into the semi-finals—and that they had to have the completed manuscript in a few weeks. It was only about 80% done. Yikes! When I typed The End, I think that was the moment it struck me: I had written an entire book. I made the deadline.

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

Through grade school and teen years, it was exclusively science fiction. Then I branched out to adventure (Clive Cussler-types), and then into mystery and suspense. When I began writing and those female characters cropped up, I began reading romances. I don’t read many. I mean, seriously, do all women have that much angst in their lives? *Note to romance writers: Enough with the second-guessing of whether he loves me or loves me not.

I also really enjoy YA (young adult). Those stories bring a sense of returning to what I love about story. And I guess this list wouldn’t be complete without revealing my guilty pleasure: vampire and paranormal stories. I know, I know, but how can you not want to see how the beautiful, intelligent girl falls for the bad boy bloodsucker?

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

Stay away from Facebook for a few days at a time and the whole world around me goes into balance. Amazing. I know as authors we’re required to have a “platform” and all, but the whole social media thing kind of wears me out.

Now, I’m not talking about your blog, Lena. Nope, this is the best thing ever. Really. Not kidding.

Oh, and I live on an iPhone. It tells me where to go, what to do, and who to meet. I’d be a mess without it. I capture writing ideas in Evernote, and read ebooks with Kindle, Kobo, iBooks, and Nook software readers. The iPhone is my only e-reading device.

How do you choose your characters’ names?

Names are great, aren’t they? And so important to the story. I keep a running list in Evernote on my phone and jot an entry whenever I hear a great name.

In this book, Perilous Cove, I changed Natalie’s name and another key character’s name right before I finished the book. After I’d lived with the characters for so many months, the old names just didn’t feel right.

I try to pick unusual names that are memorable, but also straightforward in pronunciation. It bugs me when I read a book and I’m not sure how to pronounce a character’s name.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

I was a Campus Life leader in Youth for Christ for many years, and I worked with high school students. One guy in particular was a hard case. And while he didn’t give his life over to God in Campus Life, he did later. He went on to become a church youth director, and now pastors a new church in Santa Cruz. He credits his time in our Campus Life club as the beginning of his faith, and he’s leading many others in their faith walk. Now that’s really cool!

Yes, it is. Things like that keep our lives going and growing. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

A fox. Great fur, small and fast, smart (at least in theory).

What is your favorite food?

But there are so many! Hmmm…as I ponder what I’ll have for lunch…I like just about anything Mexican, except I can’t stand cilantro. Tastes metallic to me, like a mouthful of tinfoil that short out the fillings in your teeth, you know? Well, maybe you don’t know if you love the stuff. But there isn’t much better than chips, salsa, and a great burrito.

And I always ask for more cilantro in my food. I love it. All our tastes are different. Differences make the world go round. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

I have a lousy memory, so hands down it was figuring out an organization method for keeping track of scene content, character traits like hair color and type of car, ages, and clues and hints. I’d get about 50,000 words into the book and I couldn’t remember what I’d written. It took me about four years to develop the methodology using a combination of MS Word, a notebook application, and an age/year chart in Excel.

I’m working on my third book, and recently purchased Scrivener and moved the manuscript into it. There is a bit of a learning curve, but I think it’s really going to work for me.

I just keep a running file about each character and open it while I’m writing if I need to check something like that. Tell us about the featured book?

The germ of Perilous Cove began when a friend’s husband collapsed from a cerebral hemorrhage. While he was incapacitated, she dug into their finances to pay the bills and found hidden bank accounts, thousands of dollars in cash in cans in the garage, a huge life insurance policy he’d taken out on her without her knowledge, and many other suspicious things that appeared to put her safety in serious question.

In Perilous Cove, Natalie’s husband dies, leaving her with grief, debt, and a nasty mother-in-law. Now someone wants Natalie dead, and all the evidence points to her husband. She flees to the only sanctuary no one knows about, her late aunt’s lighthouse keeper’s cottage in Perilous Cove, California, where she builds a new identity and life. But there is no place safe, especially not Perilous Cove.

I’m going to love reading this book. Please give us the first.

Chapter 1

He’d killed before. Once. Not that he was particularly opposed to it.

Tarz Broderick kicked the shoe of the man sprawled against the wall. The schmuck’s head came up and his eyes slowly focused. Duct tape secured his wrists and ankles. Three outside wraps with three more in-between. Inescapable.

“Nick Moreno, I presume,” Tarz said, watching the man’s eyes dart wildly as consciousness returned. Blood ran from his temple, staining the once white dress shirt.

Tarz turned to survey the small desk area and sighed. It could have been simple, easy in and out. The office should have been deserted. But that’s why they called it work, as dear ole daddy liked to say—often right before a whipping.

Tarz yanked the handles of the filing cabinet, a four-drawer, putty-colored unit of superior quality. Locked. He didn’t have time to mess with finding a key, so he hoisted his pry bar, wedged it into the drawer crack, and drove it home with his palm.

He could have come back later if he’d known someone would be in the office, but he’d rounded the corner into the L-shaped office and there Nick had been, working under the light from a single desk lamp. Oh, well.

Plus, Tarz didn’t have time to waste. He’d promised to drop by his sister’s apartment tonight. Dumb girl had gotten pregnant by a married man. She wasn’t saying who—knew her big brother too well to give up the slimeball’s name.

Tarz shrugged and worked the bar back and forth against groaning metal. Family was family. The money for tonight’s job would buy a nice baby gift for sis, plus keep him living high for a couple of months at least.

Yeah, I’ll really like this book. How can readers find you on the Internet?

My website and blog are at www.perilousfiction.com , and I also interact with readers and other writers on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PerilousFiction . By email it’s rich@perilousfiction.com .


Thank you, Rich, for dropping by to share your new book with us.


Readers, here’s a link to the book. By using it when you order, you help support this blog.
Perilous Cove (Perilous Safety Series - Book 1)


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

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

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

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