WHEN VALLEYS BLOOM AGAIN - Pat Jeanne Davis - One Free Book

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

The study of history fascinates me, especially that of the early to mid-20^th Century. I write historical inspirational stories that reveal God’s sovereignty in times of global upheaval and during worldwide social change. I attempt to write stories about events in our past in an informative and entertaining manner while staying true to the facts of history. I strive to give my reader a story that reveals God’s overruling providence through all of life’s experiences and that with our confidence in God and submission to His will, we can be hopeful and steadfast in purpose, trusting in the promise from Him that all things work together for good. If my story does not always have a happy ending, it will have a satisfactory one that provides hope for those who commit all to Him.

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

This is a tie. The day I married my husband and the day my first child was born when I was 46 years old.

How has being published changed your life?

The work doesn’t stop with finally seeing your book published. In order to promote and market my debut novel, I needed to learn how to be a businesswoman. Also, it has been necessary to become more outgoing and to step up and engage with readers after speaking at historical societies, book signing events at churches, fairs, and at bookstores, sometimes traveling miles from my home to the area in which my novel takes place. To my surprise, I’ve enjoyed being at these events and answering question on the research for my WWII novel and about family members who served in the military during the war.

What are you reading right now?

Non-fiction writings on the history and activities of the women’s suffrage movement at the turn of the 20^th Century.

What is your current work in progress?

I’m writing a novel set in London and Philadelphia, the city in which I live, during the Progressive Era. 2020 will mark the 100^th year since women were granted the right to vote in all states throughout America. The protagonist in my work in progress is active in the suffrage movement.

Brief Synopsis of To Pursue A Passion:

Until that unforgettable day when Marcella Whitney stumbled into the slums of Philadelphia and witnessed the conditions of newly arrived immigrants, her pursuits and outlook on life resembled those of her mother and sister, both society matrons. After that experience, her priorities changed forever. But would her domineering father give his approval to her entering settlement house work and to her taking up the cause of the women’s right to vote movement? She depends on his financial support and would need his consent. Her intended in a prearranged marriage issues an ultimatum if she pursue this course. Will Cella’s commitment to improving the lives of others forever separate her from her parents and ruin any chance of marriage?

What would be your dream vacation?

To stay for 3 weeks in the south of England in a self-catering cottage and travel around.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

I select a setting that I’m either familiar with or a place I’ll be able to travel to and get a feel for the location and history behind my story.

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

Dame Vera Lynn. Whether through singing on stage for the troops or through her recordings and radio broadcasts, Vera boosts the morale of many with her uplifting songs, helping to sustain the people of Britain during those dark days of WWII. The protagonist, Abby, in my WWII novel also has a lovely voice.

What are your hobbies, besides writing and reading?

Flower gardening

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

I enjoy most the editing part of writing. The temptation to fix my story as I’m writing is always there. Resisting the urge to do this is a challenge that I’m still working on.

What advice would you give to a beginning author?

As a new writer, you may cringe when told by a more advanced writer to rework a paragraph or get rid of a sentence or scene. Carefully consider their suggestions and follow them wherever you feel you can. They only want your story to shine and you to become a better writer. I’m thankful for the numerous critiques from editors and other writers who have helped me to improve my work.

Tell us about the featured book.

When Valleys Bloom Again is an historical inspirational romance set in WWII. As war approaches in 1939 Abby Stapleton’s safety is under threat. Her father, a British diplomat, insists she go back to America until the danger passes. Abby vows to return to her home in London—but where is home? With her family facing mortal danger so far away and feeling herself isolated, she finds it hard to pray or read the Bible. Did she leave God behind in war-torn London too? Abby becomes friendly with Jim, a gardener on her uncle’s estate.

Jim can’t get Abby out of his mind. Did she have a sweetheart in England? Was it foolish to think she’d consider him? He curses his poverty and the disgrace of his father’s desertion and drunkenness haunts him. Can he learn to believe in love for a lifetime and to hope for a happy marriage?

Abby couldn’t know the war would last a long time, nor that she would fall in love with Jim—soon to be drafted by the U.S. Army—or that she’d have to confront Henri, a rejected suitor, determined by his lies to ruin her reputation and destroy her faith in God’s providence. Will she discover the true meaning of home and find happiness with Jim?

Please give us the first page of the book.

London, August 1939

Abby Stapleton slumped back in her seat, any glimmer of hope she’d harbored would soon be extinguished. A crystal chandelier jingled in the draft of an open window. She loved this room with its embossed wallpaper and rich tapestries, vibrant with memories of family. How could she leave all this?

Her father folded the newspaper with its glaring headlines, plopped it on the table and parted his lips to speak. Abby forestalled him. “I’m nineteen,” she said, her nerves rubbed raw by the endless squabbles with her parents. Speak low and slow, Abby. “I don’t w-w-want to go.” Her voice, thin and strained, echoed back from the high frescoed ceiling.

“A father can’t ignore his responsibilities,” he said, clasping her hand. “You know Hitler’s taken Austria and Czechoslovakia. Probably he’ll take Poland next.” He furrowed his brow. “And when that happens, war with Germany will be unavoidable.” His hand shook, and he sounded as though he’d aged ten years in the space of a few minutes.

Sunlight dispersed through a bay window, washing the brocaded settee on which she and her mother sat with patches of red and gold. Her mother sidled closer and stroked Abby’s arm, her face taut and pale. “Do as your father says, dear. There are sandbags and barrage balloons everywhere, and gas masks are being handed out.”

Still determined to speak her mind before it was too late, Abby shut her eyes in a silent prayer. Lord, help me to keep my temper. She released her hand from her father’s. “I sh-sh-should be able to decide for myself w-w-whether I want to leave.” Now of all times when she needed eloquence, this accursed stammer bound her up tight.

Her father leaned forward and ran his fingers through his hair as though engaged in a last-minute tussle with this dilemma. As a senior diplomat in the British Foreign Office, he was privy to the realities behind the rumors of war. If anyone foresaw the hazards facing England, he did. With a pang of regret, Abby noted how weary he looked.

Then with a quick nod of finality—“Right, it’s settled,” he said, tapping his finger on the side table. “It will be safer for you in the States.”

When Valleys Bloom Again can be purchased here:

https://www.amazon.com/Valleys-Bloom-Again-Jeanne-Davis/dp/1948888920/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=154

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/when-valleys-bloom-again-pat-jeanne-davis/1130351044?ean=9781948888929  

How can readers find you on the Internet?

Social Media:

Website:  https://www.patjeannedavis.com

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pat.j.davis.7

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

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43600391-when-valleys-bloom-again?from_search=true   

Amazon Author Page:  https://amazon.com/author/patjeannedavis 

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/pat-jeanne-davis-34290422/                   

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

BookBub:  https://www.bookbub.com/books/when-valleys-bloom-again-by-pat-jeanne-davis

Lena, I appreciate this opportunity to once again be a guest on your blog.

And I’m happy to feature you today.

Readers, leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. A print book inside the US, an ebook is the winner is outside the US. 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 4 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

HIGH DECEIT - CE Waterman - One Free Book

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

I try to separate myself from my characters, but I haven’t been completely successful. It’s a goal to write characters that can be differentiated by the way they speak, even before you know who’s talking, but I haven’t quite accomplished it.

That is hard to do, but I’m also trying to perfect this, too. What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I asked my brother if it was possible to kill someone with exhaust fumes while they were driving. There was a pause at the other end of the phone, and he said “Uh…Chris?”

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I was in my early thirties. I’ve always loved to read, and many times I would say, “This would be great if they would have just ….” Then one day I decided to try it. It’s not as easy as it looks!

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

I’m an eclectic reader, so I like most genres. I love mysteries, of course! But I also like thrillers, science fiction, fantasy, and good general fiction.

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

Not well, I’m afraid. Nobody ever said you have to be sane, did they? Is it a prerequisite for a writer? If so, I might be in trouble.

Actually, I think too much sanity will ruin a good writer. How do you choose your characters’ names?

I use the internet or a baby names book. I keep a list so I don’t use too many names with the same first initial, as that can be confusing, and I try to avoid using names of people I know. Unfortunately, I’ll be half way through the book and meet someone with the first name of my heroine!

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Getting published. It’s probably easy for some people, but it was a long process for me, with a lot of study and learning involved.

It’s hard for most people. It took me 8 years before my first book was published. If you were an animal, which one would you be, and why?

I would be a bird. I would love to fly in that beautiful blue sky and look down on the beauty of God’s creation.

What is your favorite food?

I love pasta. No wait, chocolate, or Mexican, or…

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

It scared me to think of other people reading it. I wanted them to, but sometimes it would nearly paralyze me. I ended up writing for me, and not letting what someone else might think worry me.

Tell us about the featured book.

High Deceit is about a woman whose husband has been shot in the line of duty. She then finds out he is a suspect in the murder of a young woman. Someone tries to kill him while in the hospital, and she must find out who they are before they succeed.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Cindy Carroll crept to the back entrance of the warehouse, grateful early morning darkness still covered her. The door squeaked a little, and she froze, holding her breath.

“Are you going to tell me why we had to show up here in the middle of the night?” The male voice increased as he and his friend drew closer.

“Yeah, the boss explained his whole plan to me over coffee and a pastry.”

“Funny, Lou.” The first man laughed.

Cindy released her breath and tiptoed toward the stairs. Moonlight streaming through high windows revealed broken glass and clutter waiting to scream her presence to the drug dealers outside.

On the mezzanine, she settled into deep shadows behind a rotting wooden banister. Something whispered at her shoulder. She stifled a shriek and swatted at it. A cobweb stuck to her fingers, and she wiped them on her jeans. The back door squeaked again, louder this time. A click produced a dim glow from a bulb dangling over the heads of the two men she’d slipped past in the parking lot. She backed a little and tried not to breathe as they moved into her line of sight. A large dark-haired man carried a black briefcase. His friend brushed something off his shoulder with a flick of his wrist. The hint of a cufflink...

How can readers find you on the Internet?

My blog, An Encouraging Word, can be found at www.cewaterman.com .

Facebook – www.facebook.com/chriswaterman.547

Thank you, CE, for sharing the book with me and my blog readers. I’m eager to read the rest of the story.

Readers, here are links to the book.

High Deceit - Paperback
High Deceit (Pinion Creek) - Kindle

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the book. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory 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 4 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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If you won a book and you like it, please consider giving the author the courtesy of writing a review on Goodreads, Amazon.com, Christianbooks.com, Barnes and Noble, or other Internet sites. Reviews are such a blessing to an author.

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

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

If you won an ebook or audio book, just let me know what email address it should be sent to.Remember, you have 4 weeks to claim your book.

CHRISTMAS WITH A MOUNTAIN MAN - Ellie Hall - One Free Ebook

Welcome, Ellie. How much of yourself do you write into your characters?

It’s hard to disconnect my experiences and worldview from the characters that I write, but I do my best to create original and unique protagonists (and antagonists) as much as possible. 

But there is definitely some of “me” that trickles in there … My love for dogs, for instance, my gratitude for the military and first responders, and my faith.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

This is probably the best question I’ve ever been asked in an interview. The quirkiest thing I’ve ever done is almost twenty years ago I was pregnant with my first child. My husband and I wanted to go camping, knowing we probably wouldn’t be able to do so for quite some time. We got all our gear together and set out. Forgetting that it was a holiday weekend, all the sites at our favorite campground were booked. However, to our surprise, there was a vacancy at a nearby hotel. We got a room, but my husband was disappointed we didn’t get to camp. Well, I set up the tent, in the room, fastening the ropes to the furniture and doing my best to “recreate” a camp-like atmosphere with the windows open, etc. Suffice it to say, it was memorable!

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

I started writing around 2007, but I didn’t feel like a “real” writer until I completed my first full-length manuscript, which was probably around 2011. Before that, I was dabbling and not dedicating, but that’s just my personal definition. At the end of the day, if you write, you’re a writer. 

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

I read everything from nonfiction (self-improvement types of books and personal finance for example) to young adult fantasy, contemporary, and of course, my favorite, sweet romance!

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

I’m not entirely sure that I do keep my sanity. I’ve found it really important to get clear on my daily priorities, which start with prayer, nutrition, exercise, and hydration. After that, I have a list of what I need to do that day. 

I treat writing like I would any other job. I clock in around 8 AM every morning, write at least until lunchtime. Then in the afternoon I’ll write more or do “administrative” tasks before clocking out around 3 pm. Within that timeframe, I mute all distractions—tough when working from home, but necessary. 

Another way I think about it is this: my readers will be a lot happier if I am writing and publishing rather than getting distracted by the frenetic pace of modern life. 

On top of that, of course, there’s family life! So yes, it can be tricky!

How do you choose your characters’ names? 

Carefully! It can be hard because many names have associations, but I try to be unique or give the character a name with meaning. For instance, Rocky, in Christmas with a Mountain Man has a rocky past. Frankie aka Francesca was named in honor of her grandfather (whose past plays a role in her present life) and she has 6 brothers so she can be a bit of a tomboy. 

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of? 

My proudest accomplishment is definitely my family. I had a difficult childhood and my husband and children bring me great joy (yes, even amidst the teenage years). I always think about how I want to look back on things so that helps make the best of our time together in the present.

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

Ooh! Tough call. I think I’d be a dog. I adore them! 

What is your favorite food?

Do I have to pick one? Ha ha. Okay fine ;-)  If I have to pick one main course it would probably be pizza and one dessert it would be cookies. Chocolate chip is my favorite! The bigger the better!

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

For years, I wrote whatever struck my fancy or what I thought was the best expression of my creativity. While I still do that to a degree, I realize now what I love most about stories is when they hit certain beats — in many ways, this is writing to market. For example, when the main characters have objections for getting together, turning points, and the dark moment before they get their happily ever after. When stories are successful in this, I walk away feeling satisfied so I do my best to make sure I include them in my own work.

Tell us about the featured book.

When I’m writing, every “book baby” is my favorite, but Christmas with a Mountain Man has a special place in my heart for numerous reasons. It’s the final chapter in the Hawkins Brothers Romance series (though readers have said they can stand alone). Also, there’s some major hate to love dynamic going on, which I really enjoy! Both characters experience a transformation and the backdrop is Christmas and New Year’s, which can difficult and joyful. I tried to capture that while leaving the reader with a sense of hope and a major happily ever after.  

Please give us the first page of the book.

The jingle of bells and the sound of Christmas carols came from a nearby shop as the door opened and closed. Frankie wasn’t feeling festive. In fact, she felt as green as the Grinch. She’d told herself not to let the situation get her down. But she was not feeling the comfort and joy the song playing professed.

Frankie locked the door to Mangia Bella for the last time. The restaurant had been her baby, her pride and joy, and a culinary hub. She’d lost it to a bad building owner who’d written a loophole into her lease. She wasn’t able to find a new suitable space—and she’d looked. Her patrons, employees, her family—everyone had tried to help her land a new spot, but property in New York City was at a premium and location meant everything.

She still gripped the doorknob as though unwilling to let go of her dream. Not just her dream, but her livelihood, along with everyone else who’d relied on her for employment.

Her phone chimed with an incoming call. Her heart leaped. Maybe it was good news.

“Hey, Frankie,” a male voice with a strong New York accent said after she answered. It was Mauricio, another restaurant owner. “I’m sorry, kid. I tried, but, well, you know how it is.”

“Thank you. I owe you dinner. You’ll be among the first I serve when I get back on my feet.”

“I know you will.”

They chatted another moment and hung up. Frankie had pulled favors with every other restauranteur and chef in the five boroughs—Isabella and Matteo from Il Bacio were especially generous, knowing a thing or two about loss. Frankie managed to get her former waitstaff, cooks, and bussers interviews, but she still felt like she’d let everyone down. She’d let herself down. If anything, Frankie was tenacious, but as her fingers stiffened around the cold knob on the chilly December morning, her shoulders dropped. Her drive and her passion were inside those four walls and she had to return the key.

A guy with a breakfast sandwich in one hand elbowed her aside and rattled the doorknob. “I’m here with Ace Construction. You the manager of the new restaurant movin’ in?” he asked around a mouthful.

Frankie shook her head. She was the old owner and shuffled away, feeling the weight of disappointment pressing against her.

Crossing the busy street, she climbed the stairs to the property management company. The landlord hadn’t managed the eviction himself but had hired a third party to do his dirty work.

Her parents were back in Italy and she’d begged her brothers not to tell them—not yet. They’d worked hard their entire lives and finally had some peace. She didn’t want to disappoint or, as was more likely the case, worry them. She was their bambina—their little girl and the youngest of seven. If they caught wind, they’d be on a flight back to Manhattan, fretting and threatening to break someone’s knees. Not really. They were both originally from Italy but had moved to the United States before they had children. After settling in New York, they quickly became aware of the stereotypes surrounding the Italian mafia. Her father was as gentle as they came—at least after getting to know him. Her mother was fiery—probably where Frankie got her passionate personality.

On the other hand, her brothers weren’t joking when they offered to take care of things. As if channeling her thoughts, her phone rang with the sound of a starting bell for a boxing match. She checked the message. It was one of her brothers who was a trainer at a boxing gym uptown.

Need me to throw knuckles?

Probably not the best solution, but thanks she wrote back. She hardly had the energy to lift a finger and didn’t want to have to break up any brawls.

There were six Costa brothers and that intimidation factor alone could make the landlord rethink his decision if he’d ever show his face.

Frankie had a lawyer look at the lease—something she should’ve done before she signed it. Unfortunately, it was valid. The landlord’s sneaky plan became clear as day to lease the space, wait until the business was successful, and then go in and replace it with a restaurant that he backed, hoping to edge in on her customer base.

When Frankie reached the top of the stairs in the building, she glared out the window. The new sign filled the spot that had previously said, Mangia Bella. He was so slimy, he’d even named his new restaurant Mangia Mama. Frankie couldn’t bring herself to fight. She just wanted to go somewhere quiet and lick her wounds.

Frankie entered the office and presented the key to the property management assistant, a young man wearing a bowtie—in a hipster, ironic way. He had neatly trimmed hair and deliberate movements.

“That look on your face,” he said, alarmed.

Frankie arched an eyebrow, taken aback.

The man held his hands up in surrender. “Don’t shoot the messenger. You look like you might start sending laser beams out of your eyes.”

How can readers find you on the Internet?

http://www.elliehallauthor.com

http://www.facebook.com/elliehallauthor

And subscribe to my newsletter for a free novella:

https://www.subscribepage.com/w4z2y0

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

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

Christmas with a Mountain Man (Rich & Rugged: a Hawkins Brothers Romance Book 5)

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the ebook. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory 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 4 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 GINGERBREAD MAN OF MY DREAMS - Lisa Crane - One Free Ebook

Dear Readers, here’s another Christian Romantic Comedy you won’t want to miss. Lisa writes characters that you can really love, usually with one you can really hate. This book has one of those, too. The unique storyline kept my attention to the end of the book. And I smiled at the satisfying ending. Her characters live on in my mind for a while, I love them so much. I don’t want to give any of the plot away, but you don’t want to miss this wonderful holiday read. I give it 5 stars. This book is an ebook only.

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

Someone recently asked me how I deal with writer’s block. I had to think about that because honestly, as long as I’m praying, my writing doesn’t often slow down. So right at the moment, the horizon has several ideas percolating. It’s exciting and a little exhausting. J

Tell us a little about your family.

Last month I celebrated 26 years of marriage with the love of my life, Charles. We have two children. Harley is 24 and wants to go into IT. Chloë is majoring in secondary education at the University of Mississippi, with a minor in Southern Studies. We had a really nice Thanksgiving with Chloë able to be home for a full week, and we’re looking forward to having her home again for Christmas for over a month! We also have three four-footed family members. Jingles is a 14-year-old Jack Russell terrier who thinks he’s still a puppy. Socks is a fluffy tuxedo cat who thinks he’s a doily meant to drape over the arm of the sofa. And then there’s Cash, my daughter’s chiweenie. Let’s just say it’s a good thing he’s cute.

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

 That’s a really interesting question. I write romantic comedy, and that’s still my preferred genre for reading. I will say, though, being a part of a good group of authors has changed the way I read. I see mistakes and questionable writing that I didn’t see before—and that includes in my own earlier work. Yikes.

What are you working on right now?

I’m working on two different books, and I’m trying really hard to focus on one. It’s a romance, of course, but it has a heavy element of suspense. In fact, it starts out with the heroine locked in the trunk of a car. Although I’ve written a bit of light suspense in a couple of books, this much suspense is really out of my wheelhouse, so it’s taking me a lot longer to finish this book. But I’m pretty excited about it.

What outside interests do you have?

I love crafting and creating, but I joke that my creative visions don’t always translate from my brain to my hands. Fortunately, I work for a faith-based non-profit organization, and I’m able to create a lot of printed things like postcards, T-shirts, staff gifts, and that type of thing.

How do you choose your settings for each book?

I’m a Texas girl, born and bred. I know small towns and big cities in the Lone Star state. If I don’t use an actual city or town, even my fictional towns are based on somewhere I know in the state. I’ve only written two books that aren’t set entirely in Texas.

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

Wow, that’s one of the hardest questions I’ve ever been asked. In fact, I think I answer it differently every time I’m asked. So many people have so much to offer, from wisdom and faith, to knowledge, to plain old fun. A few I can think of would include Teddy Roosevelt, C.S. Lewis, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Eleanor Roosevelt, Susan B. Anthony, the apostle Paul, Minnie Pearl … I did say it was a tough question, didn’t I?

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

Another toughie! I’ve learned so, so much from you and other authors since I first started publishing. I really can’t pick just one thing.

What new lessons is the Lord teaching you right now?

I’ve been in a season lately where I can’t get enough of His word. I realized—or maybe I should say I remembered—a few weeks ago, when I’m in the Word, and the Word is in my heart, there’s no room for the enemy. There’s just not. And that’s where I want to be all the time.

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

First, just write. So many people have a story inside them, but they don’t think they can do it. You never know if you don’t write it. Second, develop the ability to accept feedback from other authors and yes, critics (on Goodreads, Amazon, etc.). Even if the feedback is negative, it may be something you need to hear about your work. Finally, and this one really is my first piece of advice, pray. I really do pray about my writing, and so far, God has answered my prayers abundantly.

In my life, your last piece of advice is most important. Prayer. And I agree with you that God will answer your prayers and give you more than you could ever come up with on your own. Tell us about the featured book.

Since I started publishing, I’ve tried to write a short story or novella as a Christmas “gift” for my readers. I offer it for free for the length of time Kindle will allow, and $.99 after that. This particular story came from a word puzzle in which two phrases—gingerbread man and man of my dreams—were joined. I thought it was one of the funniest things I’d ever heard, and my imagination took off. The funny thing is, the title is usually the last thing I come up with when I’m writing. In this case, the whole thing was based on my wanting to use that title, The Gingerbread Man of My Dreams.

I also want your readers to note something about the heroine in this novella, Nixie Daniels. So many romances have these petite little heroines, and the hero is always gazing down at her or picking her up or protecting her. Nixie is six-foot-two. The hero, Rye Larson, is just over six feet. Nixie doesn’t believe most men will think she’s beautiful because of her height. This issue is kind of near and dear to my heart because my beautiful, brilliant, godly daughter is six-foot-two. The number of young men who have been unable to see past her height is heart-wrenching, and I specifically wanted to write a hero for her, the kind of man I pray God is shaping for her now.

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

Nixie Daniels slowed as she turned into the cul-de-sac.

Unbelievable.

Her driveway was completely blocked by a moving truck. She knew the house beside hers had sold, but she’d hoped the new people would be nice. Friendly even. But no, they were the kind of people who left their moving truck so it blocked someone else’s driveway.

She parked in the street, grabbed her things, and stomped up the drive to her front door. Juggling her laptop bag, her purse, and her lunch bag, she managed to find her keys. As she unlocked the door, she mentally grumbled about the new neighbor.

Normally, she’d be parking in her garage, and she’d be out of the frigid wind. In fact, she’d already be inside by now. Ah, well. Getting all riled up wouldn’t do any good. They’d move the truck soon enough.

She set her things down on the island in the kitchen, listening for the sound of claws clicking on the hardwood floors. Sure enough, Totino came skidding into the kitchen, managing to stop before he slid into Nixie’s legs. The slender Italian greyhound sat in response to her command, then offered a delicate paw.

Nixie shook his paw, then scrubbed her fingertips around his ears. “Who’s a handsome boy? Who’s the best dog in the world? That’s right. Totino is. Tino’s the best doggie ever.”

She opened the back door, and Totino bounded out. He ran a few laps around the perimeter of the yard, following the fence. He sniffed the air in the direction of the neighboring house, then barked, his sharp voice loud in the relative quiet of the evening.

“Shut up already!” Another voice—this one human—came from the house next door.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

I don’t have an author page on Facebook, but I’m pretty active on my personal page as Lisa Miller Crane. I frequently ask my Facebook friends and followers questions; you never know when you might get to help me name a character. I’m also on Twitter and Instagram as @happyheart1993. My email address is happyheart1993@yahoo.com, and I love to hear from readers.

Thank you, Lisa, for sharing this new book with my blog readers. I know they will love it as much as I did.

Readers, here’s a link to the book.

The Gingerbread Man of My Dreams: A romantic Christmas novella

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the ebook. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory 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 4 weeks from the posting of the winners to claim your book.

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CALL TO LOVE - Mary A Felkins - One Free Ebook

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

Some of this happens organically, some intentionally. I believe there are bits and pieces of the essence of my identity in every character.

What is the quirkiest thing you have ever done?

I went through a phase years ago when each time I filled my gas tank, I clicked the pump handle until the final cost registered a multiple of five. Don’t know why. Today I’m just thankful to have the means to fill the tank at all.

When did you first discover that you were a writer?

Following a conversation with my husband back in 2012 about our troubled financial situation—during which I said I wanted to write a book—God gave me a poignant vision of a book in His hand that represented the finished work. Soon thereafter I sought to learn and apply the craft of writing. For me, this isn’t a “one and done” career. God made His irrevocable call clear (Romans 11:29) and has continued to chisel other manuscripts out of me since that time.

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

I’ve been largely coached by award winning authors Susan May Warren and Rachel Hauck who suggest we write the kind of books we like to read. For me, I primarily enjoy contemporary romance and also a good current non-fiction on marriage and/or Christian living.

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

For stress relief, I exercise four mornings a week at the gym and spend the first part of my work day in Bible reading and prayer. It doesn’t guarantee a smooth-sailing day but moors my attitude to unchanging truth that then equips me to respond well to circumstances.

That is so true. How do you choose your characters’ names?

Ah, the fun! Once I have a good feel for the character, I choose names I believe fit their personality. Everywhere I go I’m on the hunt for the ideal name for my characters.

What is the accomplishment that you are most proud of?

Being a mom to four amazing children who cheer for me and shower grace.

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

As a mom of four children, married to the same man for 30 years, I can definitely relate to the female Emperor Penguin (though my Lone Star heart shivers at the thought of temperatures dropping below 72 degrees). She is considered among the top ten most resilient creatures and has only one partner. The female entrusts her male partner with her baby while she sacrificially treks a long journey to the sea for food.

What is your favorite food?

Peanut M-and-Ms. Coupled with a deep dish veggie pizza and Coke Zero and I could write for hours.

I didn’t used to like the peanut ones, but now I do. How our tastes change as we get older. What is the problem with writing that was your greatest roadblock, and how did you overcome it?

Not fully establishing a character’s dark moment story of their past that shapes who they are when they show up on the page. Without knowing what’s been broken inside the—the lie they believe—I can’t “fix” it.

Tell us about the featured book.

Call to Love features two crisis-driven careers that are trained to answer emergency calls but refuse to answer God’s call to love again.

What if saying yes to love means trusting the kind of man you said you’d never marry? What if pursuing a woman’s heart means restoring a painful past?

Tracy Cassidy, a fiercely independent ER nurse, must choose between her dream job or staying in her hometown to help support her mother’s faltering ministry. Even if it means risking her heart in love with the kind of man she said she’d never marry.

Why sign up to be Laurelton’s next cop widow?

Tom DeLaney, a hyper-vigilant cop and new hire from Texas, is wearied by years of failed rescue attempts to save his marriage to his ex. A free man, he moves to the foothills of North Carolina. Thing is, he hadn’t expected to fall for Tracy, his supervisor’s sister. But when his adolescent son is diagnosed with a chronic illness, he faces the risk of loving another woman with keep-out issues.

Fears related to the death of Tracy’s cop father and Tom’s inability to forgive the past threaten to sabotage any chance at love.

Please give us the first page of the book.

Tracy Cassidy’s life plan read like a doctor's script: wear lead apron over heart and manage affairs on own. If Plan A fails and pain persists then, and only then, a shout-out to God would be considered. After all, life was a vapor.

Hungry as Tracy was following a twelve-hour shift in the emergency department, the area outside Joe’s Hot Dog Shack needed to clear out stat. The command rose in her throat, but she reasoned that having to wait in line when hungry didn’t justify an irritable disposition. Mom said it marred the beauty of biblical femininity.

The hot dog stand, the likes of a tiny, roofed house, sat square in the parking lot of a small shopping strip. Cars whizzed along Highway 127, the four-lane, divided road beside it. Burning tobacco wafted from the customer ahead and tinged the air. Like those Atlantic league baseball games with her father. She pivoted toward a distant siren wail. Could be her brother Jack on patrol. Faithful to a family ritual, Tracy prayed. Keep him safe. Always safe.

Beneath summer’s sun, Tracy’s feet marinated inside her neon pink Nike’s. She slung her stethoscope behind her neck and inhaled the calming scent of Appalachian handcrafted rose and jasmine shea butter soap on her skin. A ‘just because’ gift from Mom, likely meant to dissuade Tracy’s consideration of leaving her hometown of Laurelton.

An older couple sat at one of two pine picnic tables beside the food stand. Tracy peered at them over her shoulder. A cheery yellow umbrella shaded them from the gauze of August heat. Their shoulders touched, eyes brightening like jewels. The gentleman tucked strands of graying hair behind her ears. He reached a napkin to her mouth. “Marilyn, whadya say we get married?”

The woman angled her face away then returned his smile. “Oh, Wilburn. You’ve been proposing since our wedding day sixty years ago.”

He cupped her cheek and kissed her lips. Jeremiah Clark’s classic, Trumpet Voluntary, sounded in Tracy’s head and drew her thoughts to the unquenchable power of her parents’ love. Their story could have looked the same. If it hadn’t been for Dad’s badge.

Tracy gazed across the sloping Catawba Valley foothills that rose into indigo waves of sculpted Appalachian Mountains. Artistic brushstrokes of white cloud streaked an azure blue, mid-afternoon sky. Summer would soon give way to the glory of fall with sugar maple leaves, a sheer radiance of golden yellow, amber, and ruby red. A metal street sign colored in patriotic shades and anchored in the fertile road verge along the main road boasted Laurelton as an All-America City winner.

Yanking her thoughts back to business, Tracy considered her options. “So, if Cheryl tells me I got the promotion, I’m meant to stay in Laurelton and support Mom with Safe Shores Women’s Rescue Mission. But if not, I’ve got that dream job opportunity as assistant manager at Duke Regional Medical Center in Durham.” Sure tasted sweet. And she could forever darken the images of her fallen father that mocked her pain at every corner.

Her cell phone vibrated inside the pocket of her purple scrubs and disrupted the review of her carefully planned agenda. Another text from Robbie, Tracy’s former high-school sweetheart turned gorgeous-and buff-pharmaceutical rep. They’d been dating for over eight months since he’d first called on Dr. Rainer at the hospital.

Where are you?

“Persistent man,” she muttered.

Joe cupped a hand behind his ear. “Excuse me?”

Slipping the cell back into her pocket, Tracy advanced to the open, sliding glass window only to draw back at the pungent smell of chopped onion. She flapped her hand. “It’s nothing.”

Now, review agenda. Quell hunger, return home by close of business day, and contact Joanna Graves in Human Resources at Duke Regional Medical Center. Then she’d figure a way to wrap her mind around trading the beauty of the mountains for flat, granite landscape. Which was so not the picture of an All-America City. No matter. She’d make life work.

How can readers find you on the Internet?

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

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

Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19582128.Mary_A_Felkins

BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mary-a-felkins

Twitter https://twitter.com/MaryAFelkins

Thank you, Mary, for sharing this book with my blog readers and me. I’m eager to read it.

Readers, here is a link to the book.

Call to Love

Leave a comment for a chance to win a free copy of the ebook. You must follow these instructions to be in the drawing. Please tell us where you live, at least the state or territory 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 4 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

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