Joy Massenburge and Free Books!

She’s afraid she’ll surrender the one thing she’s tried to protect all these years.

Last week I posted about Jim Miller's Christian romantic thriller, No Pit So Deep, but I posted pictures and links for the wrong book in the series. So we're going to run the updated version (below) for another week, and we'll draw for two book winners next week. Be sure to check out Jim's interview and leave your answer to his question so you don't miss out on the drawing.

And now let's meet novelist Joy Massenburge, author of the African American contemporary Christian romance, A Heart Surrendered (Harambee Press, July 2019).

Joy crafts the love stories of pastors and their kids. She was born the sixth child of a pastor. She married a football player turned pastor…they raised pastor’s kids; a son and two daughters.

During the week, she works as an assistant to Jacob George, CPA, PC. She serves as American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW East Texas Writers) chapter’s President. Her contemporary romance novel A Cry for Independence debuted February 2018.

She is also the audio voice of Beatrice “Mama B” Jackson in author Michelle Stimpson’s Mama B Book series. When she is not writing or recording, she is speaking at retreats and conferences throughout the East Texas area.

Joy resides near Tyler, Texas. You can find her curled up on her back-porch swing reading a good book with her four grandchildren, caretaking for her donkey and a dog, or filling her five-acre country home with fifty-plus people for a Blue Bell ice cream party.

What a full life you have, Joy!

Please tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

I thought I would be an actress. I attended the University of Texas in Austin on a theater scholarship.

I'm sure those acting chops help when designing your characters and when crafting your dialogue. I usually say my dialogue aloud, and being able to act out the emotion behind it is so helpful.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of A Heart Surrendered.

As the teenaged pastor’s daughter of New Hope Church, Sharonda Peterson knew finding comfort in Carl’s arms was a mistake. But how could the only night she ever felt beautiful be wrong?

When Carl leaves town to pursue an acting and singing career, Sharonda relegates herself to a life of church service—and solitude—rather than face the pain now associated with that one night.

Carl Ray Everhart has been caught up in the fast pace of fame … and female adoration. But a near-death experience has him questioning everything and vowing to set things straight … starting with the love that got away.

When Carl returns home to serve as the worship leader at New Hope, Sharonda finds that it takes every ounce of her resolve to resist his pursuits … not to mention memories that threaten to overturn the delicate balance she’s created. Can she finally surrender the one thing she’s tried all these years to protect?

What is it about Sharonda that will make your readers care about her?

Reader reviews say they related to Sharonda’s struggles with self-image and the pressure of living to satisfy other’s expectations. Sharonda also has a medical condition that threatens her ability to have children the older she gets. So many single women hear the ticking of the clock and they identified with Sharonda’s fears.

That's such a valid concern for many young women. It's one thing to trust that God might want one to marry later in life or even remain single. But when that desire for children is deeply felt, I'm sure single women face a struggle of patience and fidelity to God's will for them. 

What fictional character would you like to meet?

Marcus in Francine River’s Mark of the Lion series. I believe every woman wants to know what it was that won a man’s heart. For him to see past the heroine’s scars to the one thing that really matters, her heart. Marcus surrendered to God after having everything his world could offer. I believe this would make excellent interview material.

I haven't read that series, but one of my dear friends raved about it. I'll have to add it to my list!

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

Tamara Leigh’s Nameless. Oh, my! A delectable read. I love a good medieval romance. It’s number 3 in the series. There is never-ending action. The romance is believable. The hero and heroine are both so imperfect, the underdogs. They make you cheer for them the entire read.

What are you working on now?

Editing Bliss, book one in the Wounded Lamb Series. Karen Kingsbury’s and Gary Smalley’s Baxter family meets the Blackmoore family: A redemption story in another neighborhood.

Where else can readers find you online?

@authorjoymassenburge
Facebook
Instagram: joymassenburge
Sign up for my mailing list at my website: Joykmassenburge.com

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



You can read a sample of Joy's book HERE

Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

I married my best friend because he was a man of integrity. He knew my story and accepted that I wasn’t in love with him and the possibility I never would be. All he asked is that I respect him. We overcame many struggles, but I remember the day, a year and some months after our wedding, I knew I loved him and told him so.

What struggles do you want to see couples overcome in a romance? What struggles do you have surrendering your own heart? How can I pray with you?

Thank you, Joy, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Joy has offered to give away a free copy of her book. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to her question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that U.S. subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com.

Only United States residents are eligible for the drawing, but anyone can subscribe to the blog posts via the GDPA-compliant Feedblitz box above my list of books, at right.

Also readers, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post title.

Annoying legal disclaimer: as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases; drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, GDPA notice, and my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

James Miller and Free Books!

Two strangers caught in the crosshairs of the mob lay down their lives for each other without first counting the cost, because there is no pit so deep that He is not deeper still—a love story that will break your heart in a good way.

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the free copy of Rene Gutteridge's Christmas book, The Santa Claus Chronicles, is:

perrianne.askew@...

and the winner of the free copy of Allen Steadham's Christian Sci-Fi/Fantasy novel, Jordan's World, is:

danandlyndaedwards@...

Congratulations! I'll be in touch with you both via email, and we'll get your books right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to learn about new releases! U.S. subscribers are entered in the drawings a second time when they comment.

And now let's chat with novelist James Miller, author of the Christian Romantic Thriller, No Pit So Deep, The Cody Musket Story (Winged Publications, May 2019).

Award winning author James N. Miller has been described as a realist, comic, writer, and entrepreneur. He is a gifted speaker who has entertained thousands, and his inspirational tweets and posts have traversed the world.

He became a writer, he says, because he has things he wants to say. He is a fiction author and sometimes contributor for The Liberty Beacon worldwide media group.

Jim is a pilot with over 8000 hours in the air, a former business owner, a husband, father and grandfather. He lives in Waco, Texas with his wife Carla.

Tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

In 1984 I was asked to fly a rescue mission into Mexico for two downed missionary pilots who had crashed near Monterrey. I was temporarily detained by the Federales because the Wings for Christ Missionary Organization pilots were initially (and wrongly) purported to be drug runners.

My wife Carla, an alpha female who eventually became my inspiration for the fictional character Brandi in my novel, called everyone, it seemed, including the Governor of Texas and the American Consulate in Mexico to obtain my release and the freedom of the two pilots.

Within twenty-four hours, we were able to fly back safely across the border just in time to save the injured missionaries, both of whom survived.

Wow! That's like something from the movies, Jim! Good for both you and Carla--what a dynamic team.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of No Pit So Deep.

Think about a blend of Jason Bourne and Hallmark Channel.

Cody Musket, professional athlete and decorated US Marine, is haunted by his dark military past. Brandi Barnes, a tenacious investigative journalist and single mom, has exposed a child-trafficking ring and is wanted by the syndicate. When the cartel attempts to abduct Brandi at a public theater, Cody, a stranger, steps from the crowd and saves her, but the violent incident unlocks the malignant demons of Cody’s past.

Cody and Brandi are now forced into a dangerous game of hide-n-seek with the mob, but Brandi soon discovers deep shadows from Cody’s past which are threatening to destroy him from within. What secrets lay in the Afghan desert where his plane went down? Brandi risks her life and career to unravel a mystery to save the only man she has ever loved, while her three-year-old daughter conquers and melts Cody’s frozen heart.

Thrilling, tragic, heartwarming, funny, and inspirational. A story of honor, courageous love, and finding faith.

What is it about Cody and Brandi that will make your readers care about them?

My reviewers tell me that the chemistry between these two is the force that captivates the reader. Both bring heavy baggage into their friendship which becomes a love story. Cody, a strong but vulnerable man, has witnessed things in Afghanistan that no man should ever see. Brandi, a woman of great courage, has been a victim of violent crime. Together, they discover love and faith, and then answer a call to fight child trafficking. (Note that their individual stories were inspired by real events and people).

Yes, even though I always prefer reading fiction to reading nonfiction, I do enjoy fiction so much when it's based on actual people.

What fictional character would you like to meet?

Bruce Wayne comes to mind. He’s wealthy, brilliant, and able, yet he suffers agony that never goes away. The images of his parents gunned down when he was a child still haunt him, and he has taken upon his shoulders the weight of a suffering city plagued by evildoers. As the superhero Batman, he's fueled by anger and revenge, but he is never able to even the score. He strives to overcome his personal demons by employing self-discipline and human strength, yet he never finds love or peace.

I would tell him of the real Superhero who crashed the gates of Hell and tore down demonic strongholds, who laid down His life to pay for our wrongdoing, who rose from the dead, and will one day make all crooked ways straight. I would challenge him to bow the knee to Jesus, who promises to send His eternal Spirit to live within His followers and empower them with a peace the world cannot understand. I would say that while we must fight evil, we can know the joy of companionship with the Maker of all things, and that in union with Him, we can invade the impossible, no longer limited to our own abilities.

Zap! Kapow! Thwack! Yeah! I would love meeting Bruce Wayne!

I love that! I pictured the Christopher Nolan version of Batman while reading your answer. Bruce Wayne really is such a tragic figure. Despite the upbeat ending of the trilogy, it would be an even happier story if Wayne found the Lord.

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

This question is difficult to answer because I have been afflicted during the past year by a serious eye-allergy condition which has limited my reading. The last book I read which impacted my life greatly was Flight to Heaven by Dale Black, a true story which actually reads like a thriller. Captain Dale Black was the lone survivor of an aircraft crash at age 19. This book changed the way I think about walking with God, the afterlife, and my personal commitment as a follower of Jesus.

I forgot about your eye affliction, Jim. I'll keep you in prayer about that (and I hope readers will, as well). I know it has to be difficult for you, especially as a writer.

What are you working on now?

My next project will be to produce audiobooks for my complete Cody Musket series (4 books).

Where else can readers find you online?

Facebook
@WhoIsCodyMusket

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



You can read a sample from the book HERE

Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

Do you believe there is a pit so deep that even God cannot find you?

Thank you, Jim, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Jim has offered to give away a free copy of his book. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to his question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that U.S. subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com.

Only United States residents are eligible for the drawing, but anyone can subscribe to the blog posts via the GDPA-compliant Feedblitz box above my list of books, at right.

Remember that for only a couple more days Winged Publications is having a sale on its Christmas-themed novellas, novels, and collections. See the details HERE.

Also readers, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post title.

Annoying legal disclaimer: as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases; drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, GDPA notice, and my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

Rene Gutteridge and Free Books!

The Santa Claus Chronicles details heartwarming and humorous stories from Dan Short’s thirty-year journey of being a real-life Santa.

This week we have a Christmas bonus: we're featuring two wonderful authors and their books, along with two book giveaways! Be sure to check out our interview with author Allen Steadham, below. 

Before we chat with our first author, I want to announce that the winner of the free copy of Laura Hilton's contemporary Amish romance novel, The Amish Wedding Promise, is:

linda.pierce5124@...

Congratulations! We'll get your book right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to learn about new releases! U.S. subscribers are entered in the drawings a second time when they comment.

And now let's meet novelist Rene Gutteridge, author of the nonfiction book, The Santa Claus Chronicles (Harvest House Publishers, October 2019).

Rene Gutteridge is the author of more than 20 novels and books, in a writing career that has spanned two decades.

She is also a screenwriter. Her novel My Life as a Doormat became a popular Hallmark movie called Love’s Complicated. She works as head writer at Skit Guys Studios and is co-director of the writing conference WriterCon in Oklahoma City as well as the writing organization Write Well Sell Well.

Rene lives in Oklahoma City with her family.

Please tell us a random thing we might not know about you.

I almost went into law enforcement.

I'm sure that interest colors some of your writing, especially the suspense novels!

Please tell us a bit more about The Santa Claus Chronicles.

This book was birthed out of my complete fascination with Santa Dan. I didn’t know him personally for many years, but took my kids to see him faithfully every Christmas. And every Christmas I wondered…what is it with this guy? He’s special. He’s deep. There’s something more to him than a man who dresses up as Santa.

I got my answer many years later, when I received the surprise of my life as he walked into a writer’s conference I was teaching at. From that day on, I called him friend and had the great delight of discovering why his eyes really twinkle. You’ll find the answer in this book.

What a perfect book for the season. Why will readers enjoy your book?

Readers will enjoy this book because it’s a peek behind the curtain. It’s the life of Santa that nobody ever gets to see. And it’s incredibly fascinating. You’ll learn how real-beard Santas go through training, what they do when they encounter hostile parents at the mall, and the immense wisdom they must work under to answer some of children’s hardest and most heartfelt questions.

By the way, children aren’t the only ones who feel drawn toward Santa…you’ll get to read some beautiful stories of how Santa interacts with adults too, including one of the last living “code talkers,” who, in his final days of life, wanted to get a visit from Santa.

Sounds intriguing and heartwarming, Rene.

What facet of the writing craft comes easiest to you? What do you struggle with?

I immensely enjoy writing so that hasn’t been a struggle for me. The business of writing is harder. I have to discipline myself not to sit down to write, but rather to organize my writing world so it can be maintained and meet the standards it needs to, from social media to accounting.

Oh, I hear you. Why can't we just write, right?

What is the last book you read that moved you?

Oh, so many! I think I’d have to say Midnight in Chernobyl, by Adam Higginbotham. Reading the detailed account of the men who risked everything to save their fellow citizens was extremely moving. I was especially stricken by how they knew what they were risking—the kind of death they would succumb to—and they went in anyway. It’s an astonishing kind of bravery.

I imagine that's both a difficult and an inspiring read. I watched the first episode of Chernobyl on HBO and simply couldn't make myself watch more. Those poor people. 

What are you working on now?

I’ve just finished up a feature script on the 2013 F-5 tornado in Moore, Oklahoma. I’ve worked on it for six years and it feels great to have it finished and ready to send out.

Where else can readers find you or your writing online?

www.renegutteridge.com
Instagram: Rene_Gutteridge
Facebook: ReneGutteridgeAuthor
Twitter: @ReneGutteridge

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



Readers, while we're in the Christmas spirit, what's one of your favorite Christmas books or films, and why? If you'd like to be entered in the drawing for Rene's book, answer my question in the comments section at the bottom of this post.

Thank you, Rene, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, as I said, Rene has offered to give away a free copy of her book. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to my question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that U.S. subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. 

Only United States residents are eligible for the drawing, but anyone can subscribe to the blog posts via the GDPA-compliant Feedblitz box above my list of books, at right.

Be sure to check out our bonus post below, featuring Allen Steadham and his Inspirational Science-Fantasy novel, Jordan's World! Allen will also be giving away a copy of his book to one of my readers/subscribers! The book would make an excellent Christmas gift to your Sci-Fi/Fantasy-loving family member(s).

Remember that Winged Publications is having a sale on its Christmas-themed novellas, novels, and collections. See the details HERE.

Also readers, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post title.

Annoying legal disclaimer: as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases; drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, GDPA notice, and my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

Allen Steadham and Free Books!

Exploring the life of an ordinary young woman torn from all she's ever known, Jordan’s World shows that God reigns over the whole universe, and that consequences can span solar systems.

Our second post for this week introduces novelist Allen Steadham, author of the Christian Sci-Fi Fantasy novel, Jordan’s World (Ambassador International, July 2019).

Allen Steadham created comic books and webcomics before he started writing novels.

He has been married to his wife, Angel, since 1995 and they have two grown sons and a young daughter together. When not writing stories, Allen and his wife are singers, songwriters and musicians. They have both been in the Christian band called First Light since 1997. They live in Central Texas.

Steadham and his wife co-wrote the award-winning Christian webcomic Due East, which Steadham drew. Due East won Best Spiritual Comic and Most Profound Comic in 2008 from The Duck Webcomics. The full archive of those webcomics can presently be accessed through Steadham’s author website (below).

Steadham’s debut novel Mindfire drew inspiration from a comic series he created between 1980 and 2006 called The AR-MEN. Many characters and story elements made it into the novel. Those comics were never published but were a passion and labor of love.

Please tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

I like to take sky pictures with my iPhone and post them on Facebook and Instagram.

Your answer prompted me to check out your Facebook page. I love sky pictures, especially when the clouds provide the canvas for the sun to paint its colors! Nice shots.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Jordan's World.

Jordan Lewis and her mother are abducted and marooned on an alien world. Taken in by a friendly tribe of natives, Jordan tries her best to adapt to living on this strange planet called Algoran. She becomes a respectable huntress, but she still longs for the life she once knew on Earth. When she learns the beings who took her may be on the other side of Algoran, she sets out for answers. Joined by three of her fellow hunters, Jordan crosses dangerous terrain, facing perilous creatures and people.

Will Jordan risk death for a chance to return to Earth?

Jordan’s World is about a young woman overcoming obstacles and finding out who she is, no matter the cost. Standing still is not an option. She has to choose her way forward. Jordan is not a Christian, but God has a plan for her, whether she realizes it or not. Everything happens for a reason.

What is it about Jordan that will make your readers care about her?

Jordan has admirable qualities. She’s a survivor who’s managed to hold onto her heart, despite being uprooted from the life she’d known for the first seventeen years of her life. She’s strong but vulnerable, too. She’s becoming a young adult but resisting it at the same time. She’s still adapting to a different culture, as the world of Algoran is very different from Earth. There’s virtually no technology, the population is smaller, life is much more precious, and family is everything in the tribe she is adopted into, along with her mother.

Jordan will make the hard decisions, but she doesn’t have to like it. And she’s learning herself at the same time. What kind of woman does she want to be?

What fictional character would you like to meet?

From Jordan’s World, I think I’d like to meet Reiban, one of Jordan’s friends on Algoran. He’s a hunter married to Jordan’s best friend, Zoska (also from Algoran). Reiban is funny, sincere and generally a nice guy. His interactions with Zoska and Jordan are quite amusing and sometimes moving.

If someone else’s fictional character, I’d say Geordi LaForge from Star Trek: The Next Generation. I followed the shows, movies and even read the novels for years. LaForge seems a nice balance of serious and fun, excelling at work while trying to make the best of being a human being. And he’s a tech geek, so we’d probably relate on that level, too.

I always loved Geordi, and I thought LeVar Burton did a great job, making us connect with him even though we weren't able to look him in the eye.

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

What the Wind Knows by Amy Harmon. It’s a Historical Time Travel Romance novel that bounces between the United States in 2001 and Ireland around the 1920s. Very well written, extremely informative, nice twists and the Irish ancestry in me felt a kinship through the novel. That’s pretty rare.

I've seen that cover but hadn't read a synopsis of the book. Now I'm hooked.

What are you working on now?

I’m finishing edits on the third novel in the Jordan of Algoran series, Jordan’s Deliverance (the second Jordan novel will be released in the near future). I’ve also started the first book in a Christian steampunk trilogy.

Your books sound like they'd be great for both adults and young adults.

Where else can readers find you online?

Webpage – allensteadham.com
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Goodreads


The book can be purchased online via the following button:



A sample from the book can be read HERE

Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

What would you like to see happen in a Christian fiction novel that you’ve never seen done before?

Thank you, Allen, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Allen has offered to give away a free copy of his book. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to his question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that U.S. subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. 

Only United States residents are eligible for the drawing, but anyone can subscribe to the blog posts via the GDPA-compliant Feedblitz box above my list of books, at right.

Remember that Winged Publications is having a sale on its Christmas-themed novellas, novels, and collections. See the details HERE.

Also readers, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post title.

Annoying legal disclaimer: as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases; drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, GDPA notice, and my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

Laura Hilton and Free Books!

Could this bride's wedding disaster be a blessing in disguise?

Before we chat with today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the free copy of Lynne Tagawa's historical novel, Deadly Commitment, is:

sarahmom335@...

Congratulations! We'll get your book right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to learn about new releases! U.S. subscribers are entered in the drawings a second time when they comment.

And now let's revisit with novelist Laura Hilton, author of the contempory Amish romance novel, The Amish Wedding Promise (Forever, December 2019).

Laura V. Hilton is an award-winning, sought-after author with thirty Amish, contemporary, and historical romances. When she’s not writing, she reviews books for her blogs. Her most recent series is set in Mackinac County, Michigan, and includes Firestorm, The Amish Candymaker, and Married to a Stranger (July 2019).

Laura and her pastor-husband have five children and a hyper dog named Skye. They currently live in Arkansas. One son is in the U.S. Coast Guard. Laura homeschools her two youngest children.

When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading and visiting lighthouses and waterfalls. Her favorite season is winter, her favorite holiday is Christmas.

Please tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

I hate going to doctors.

Gosh, who doesn't?! Sometimes I put off making appointments for months. Which reminds me, I need to call my doctor...

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of The Amish Wedding Promise.

Grace Lantz always imagined her wedding day would be a blissfully happy occasion. But after a tornado swept through town, she finds herself relieved that the ceremony is delayed. After all, her groom-to-be hasn't even bothered to check on her. Instead, it's the handsome volunteer Zeke Bontrager who selflessly offers Grace his strong shoulders to lean on.

Zeke came to Hidden Springs to assist a community in need. He didn't expect to meet his soul mate. Determined to ignore his feelings, Zeke promises to help reunite kind, beautiful Grace with her groom. But after spending time together, Grace confesses that she might not want to marry her fiancé after all. Can Zeke convince her that her true love is standing right in front of her? And can she find the courage to follow her heart?

What is it about Grace that will make your readers care about her?

Grace is searching for answers to questions she’s afraid to ask.

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

Wyatt by Susan May Warren. She is just so good.

What are you working on now?

The Amish Christmas Gift, the second book in the Hidden Springs series.

Where else can readers find you online?

Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

If you are married, what went wrong at your wedding? If you aren’t, what went wrong at another wedding you attended?

Thank you, Laura, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Laura has offered to give away a free copy of her book. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to her question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that U.S. subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. 

Only United States residents are eligible for the drawing, but anyone can subscribe to the blog posts via the GDPA-compliant Feedblitz box above my list of books, at right.

Remember that Winged Publications is having a sale on its Christmas-themed novellas, novels, and collections. See the details HERE.

Also readers, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post title.

Annoying legal disclaimer: as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases; drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, GDPA notice, and my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

Lynne Tagawa and Free Books!

During a revival a young couple experience a spiritual journey as well as physical adventures as they travel to the Shenandoah Valley.

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the free copy of Kathy Harris's romantic suspense novel, Deadly Commitment, is:

gcwhiskas@...

Congratulations! I'll be in touch by email, and we'll get your book right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to learn about new releases! U.S. subscribers are entered in the drawings a second time when they comment.

And now let's revisit with novelist Lynne Tagawa, author of the historical novel (with a touch of romance), The Shenandoah Road: A Novel of the Great Awakening (Blue Rock Press, July 2018).

Lynne Tagawa is an author, editor, educator, and best of all, grandma to four. She loves to writes quality fiction with solid gospel content.

Her debut novel, A Twisted Strand, is contemporary romantic suspense, but she thinks she’s found a true home in historical fiction.

You look far too young to be a grandma four times over, Lynne, but we'll take your word for it.

Please tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

I spent a good part of my life in Hawaii. I graduated from the University of Hawaii where I met my husband. If you come to our house you have to take off your shoes in (carpet-saving) Japanese fashion.

What a beautiful place to go to college. 

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of The Shenandoah Road.

John Russell lost his wife in an Indian skirmish and desires to marry again for the sake of his little daughter. Abigail Williams is a bit reluctant on her part, but this strange man dressed in buckskin doesn’t make fun of her botany book, and they marry.

The plot is more about their spiritual growth than the romance. They read a sermon by George Whitefield together and Abigail is rocked to the core. They travel to the valley, and everything is new to Abigail, including the Scots-Irish culture.

What is it about John Russell that will make your readers care about him?

I rather fell in love with John Russell myself. He’s got his faults but he really is an intrepid hero type, a strong Christian man. He felt the loss of his first wife strongly and we open the story in the graveyard. He’s still hurting, but strives to do right.

What fictional character would you like to meet?

I would love to meet John Craig, who is a real-life person featured in my story. I had to fill in the gaps using my imagination, as I only had bits of his autobiography to go on. He was the minister to two congregations in the Shenandoah Valley from about 1740 onward. His buckskin-covered Bible and rifle sit in a local museum.

I love when authors incorporate real people into their stories.

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

Peace Like a River by Leif Enger. This Christian novel has some very sweet, unique elements, and its overall tone reminds me of To Kill a Mockingbird, which is a personal fave. Well-written!

I agree about the tone--such a lovely book.

What are you working on now?

I’m writing a sequel to Shenandoah, set a few years later, when the French and Indian War breaks out. Susanna Russell is older now, and getting restless. The other protagonists are James Paxton, a young man training for the ministry under Mr. Craig’s tutelage, and Red Hawk, a young Shawnee.

Where else can readers find you online?

The best place is to go to my website, www.lynnetagawa.com, and sign up for my monthly newsletter. That’s where you’ll hear about updates and discounts.

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



You can read a sample of the novel HERE

Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

Several places are described in my novel: Philadelphia and the Shenandoah Valley. Have you ever gone to either place and looked at the historic sites? What is your favorite?

Thank you, Lynne, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Lynne has offered to give away a free copy of her book. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to her question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that U.S. subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. 

Only United States residents are eligible for the drawing, but anyone can subscribe to the blog posts via the GDPA-compliant Feedblitz box above my list of books, at right.

Remember that Winged Publications is having a sale on its Christmas-themed novellas, novels, and collections. See the details HERE.

Also readers, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post title.

Annoying legal disclaimer: as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases; drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, GDPA notice, and my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

Kathy Harris and Free Books!

Danni Kemp fears she’s being stalked—but the truth about her fiancé is much more deadly!

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the free e-copy of Joi Copeland's romantic women's novella, Silent Knight, is:

chellegoodson@...

Congratulations! We'll get your book right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to learn about new releases! U.S. subscribers are entered in the drawings a second time when they comment.

And now let's meet novelist Kathy Harris, author of the romantic suspense novel, Deadly Commitment (New Hope Publishing/Iron Stream Media, October 2019).

Kathy Harris is an author by way of a divine detour into the Nashville entertainment business where she works as a marketing director.

For several years she freelanced entertainer biographies and wrote, as well as ghost wrote, news stories and columns for various music publications. She sold her first Christian nonfiction story in 2007. Her debut women’s fiction novel, The Road to Mercy, released in 2012. Deadly Commitment is the first book in her new romantic suspense series, The Deadly Secrets.

Kathy regularly interviews authors and entertainers on her blog, Divine Detour.

The fact that you work in the entertainment business puts a bit of pizzazz in your bio, Kathy! Very cool.

Please tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

After graduating college, I took a short-term position teaching English Literature and Poetry in a men’s minimum-security penitentiary. From that group of guys—many not much older than me at the time, I learned a lot about the consequences of past experiences. I’m hoping that I was able to teach them a bit about ‘second chances.’

What a wonderful thing to do. I would imagine you made a difference for many of those men.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Deadly Commitment.

Danielle Kemp, the manager of a trendy Italian restaurant in Nashville, is about to call it quits with her boyfriend, Rob Evans, when he proposes. The following night her life is threatened by a burglary, and she comes face-to-face with the intimidating stranger who has been hanging around her condominium.

Caleb Samuels is an undercover agent with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation assigned to investigate Robert Evans for running drugs with an international narcotics ring.

At first fearful of Caleb, after Danni learns his real identify she agrees to assist with the investigation.

Things begin to fall into place, including an unexpected romance between Danni and Caleb, until a young boy goes missing. An exchange of money at a meeting with the drug boss is arranged. Now that Danni has found a man who really loves her will she lose him—and even her own life?

Deadly Commitment drops the reader into the frightening world of illicit drugs, where ordinary lives are lost, and families are changed forever—and in a setting so commonplace that you will wonder if you or someone you love could become the next victim.

What is it about Danni that will make your readers care about her?

Even while struggling with her own problems, Danni learns that she can still be an encourager to others.

I think even that last line in your story description, that the setting is unnervingly commonplace, might also lead readers to identify with what Danni experiences--it could happen closer to us than we realize.

Imagine you’re waiting at the gate for your flight somewhere. You see someone sitting there, reading your latest release. What expression do you hope you see on his/her face?

I hope they will look captivated!

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

I’ve read mostly non-fiction lately, and one of my favorite non-fiction books is Flourish: Cultivate Creativity. Sow Beauty. Live in Color. by Staci Frenes. If you’re a creative of any sort, I highly recommend reading it!

What are you working on now?

Deadly Connection, the second book in The Deadly Secrets series.

Where else can readers find you online?

My author website is www.kathyharrisbooks.com. I blog at www.divinedetour.com. I regularly post on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



You can read a sample of the book HERE

Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

If you were leaving for a deserted island tomorrow and you could take only three books with you, what three books would you take?

Thank you, Kathy, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Kathy has offered to give away a free copy of her book. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to her question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that U.S. subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. 

Only United States residents are eligible for the drawing, but anyone can subscribe to the blog posts via the GDPA-compliant Feedblitz box above my list of books, at right.

Remember that Winged Publications is having a sale on its Christmas-themed novellas, novels, and collections. See the details HERE.

Also readers, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post title.

Annoying legal disclaimer: as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases; drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, GDPA notice, and my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

Joi Copeland and Free Books!

Ethan Knight, at the end of his rope caring for his deaf son, needs a miracle, and then he meets her.

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the free e-copy of Kimberly Rose Johnson's contemporary romance novel, Sara's Gift, is:

jthauge@...

Congratulations! We'll get your book right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to learn about new releases! U.S. subscribers are entered in the drawings a second time when they comment.

And now let's chat with novelist Joi Copeland, author of the romantic women's novella, Silent Knight (Forget Me Not Romances/Winged Publications, July 2019).

Joi Copeland is married to a wonderful man, Chris, and has three amazing boys, Garrison, Gage, and Gavin. She lives in Denver, Colorado, but within the year, hopes to be living in Galway, Ireland.

Joi’s love of writing began at a young age. She wrote short stories for several years, and in 2009, she began writing her first novel, Hope for Tomorrow.

Please tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

God called me and my family to the mission field in 2014. We are almost ready to leave the country!

To Galway! Very exciting! Many blessings with that, Joi. You'll have to keep us apprised of your progress there.

You do look like an Irish lass, by the way.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Silent Knight.

Struggling to take care of his deaf son in a town with no resources, Ethan Knight’s at the end of his rope. When his son is kicked out of preschool, he feels he’s out of options and prays for a miracle. A newcomer to Snow Globe, Montana may be his answer to prayer, or is it the possibility of an old love?



London Meriwether leaves her home after the passing of her grandmother, the woman who raised her. She falls in love with Snow Globe, Montana. Right after arriving to the small town, she comes face to face with learning what it means to truly forgive someone. 



Can Ethan help London in her quest of forgiveness? Will London be the help Ethan needs for his deaf son?

What is it about Ethan Knight that will make your readers care about him?

Ethan Knight is a caring father who loves his son and wants the best for him. He knows he can’t help his son on his own, though. Throughout the story, the reader will see just how much he adores his son. I think this really helps them connect to Ethan. (At least it made my editor swoon!) 😊

Imagine you’re waiting at the gate for your flight somewhere. You see someone sitting there, reading your latest release. What expression do you hope you see on his/her face?

I hope I’d see a face full of hope. Maybe her hand over her heart. 😊

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

I’m reading Finding Love in Eureka, California by Angela Ruth Strong. It’s from a great series, and it captures you from the beginning!

What are you working on now?

As much as I love writing, I’ve stopped for the rest of the year so I can focus on my website, marketing, and getting my newsletter built up. I miss writing so much, and I’ve only stopped for a month! So, marketing has been my priority.

Where else can readers find you online?

www.joicopeland.com
Amazon author page:
Facebook
twitter: @joicopeland4
Instagram

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



For a sample reading from the book, click  HERE

Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

What does your ideal Christmas look like?

Thank you so much for having me!

Thank you, Joi, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, Joi has offered to give away a free copy of her book. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to her question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that U.S. subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. 

Only United States residents are eligible for the drawing, but anyone can subscribe to the blog posts via the GDPA-compliant Feedblitz box above my list of books, at right.

Remember that Winged Publications is having a sale on its Christmas-themed novellas, novels, and collections. See the details HERE.

Also readers, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post title.

Annoying legal disclaimer: as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases; drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, GDPA notice, and my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

Kimberly Rose Johnson and Free Books!

A woman is left $1500 to gift anonymously at Christmas, but with little time to spare, will she be able to find a deserving recipient?

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the free e-copy of Karin Beery's contemporary romance/women's fiction book, Practically Married, is:

squiressquad@...

Congratulations! We'll get your book right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to learn about new releases! U.S. subscribers are entered in the drawings a second time when they comment.

And now let's chat with novelist Kimberly Rose Johnson, author of the contemporary romance, Sara’s Gift (Indie published, October 2019).

Award winning author Kimberly Rose Johnson married her college sweetheart and lives in the Pacific Northwest. From a young child Kimberly has been an avid reader. That love of reading fostered a creative mind and led to her passion for writing. She especially loves romance and writes contemporary romance that warms the heart and feeds the soul.



Kimberly holds a degree in Behavioral Science from Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington, and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers.



Please tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

I enjoy quiet.

I imagine we all have times we prefer that, Kimberly! I love when the house is quiet, and like a lot of people, I can't write unless it's totally quiet. I guess I'm too easily distracted.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Sara's Gift.

Christmas is the season of giving, but Sara isn’t sure she is up to the task. Playing secret angel in high school was fun, and now, years later, Sara has the opportunity to do it once more on a bigger scale. She enlists the help of Gabe, her long-time best friend, to come up with a deserving recipient. But something is off with Gabe—he’s more attentive than usual.

The Christmas season has put Gabe in a reflective mood. His evaluation of his life has left him lonely and wanting more. But can his heart have its desire? That’s up to Sara.

Can these two long-time best friends navigate their changing relationship, or will the romance Grinch steal their Christmas joy?

What is it about your lead characters that will make your readers care about them?

They are relatable. They also care about others.

Imagine you’re waiting at the gate for your flight somewhere. You see someone sitting there, reading your latest release. What expression do you hope you see on his/her face?

I hope they are smiling if it’s one of my romances and if it’s one of my mystery or suspense novels I hope to see anxiety mixed with pleasure.

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

I finished listening to an audio book yesterday by Kathy Harris called Deadly Commitment. This book gripped me with the teaser! I can’t say exactly why I liked it so much other than I liked the characters and plot. It wasn’t bogged down with extra stuff that didn’t need to be there. It was simply exceptional! I never listen to an eight hour book in three days time and I did with this one. I created excuses to be listening. My house is cleaner than normal this week.

Oh, that's funny. And I hear you. I haven't been able to go on my regular walks for the past several months, and what I especially miss is not being able to listen to audio books.

What are you working on now?

I’m writing the fourth book in my Librarian Sleuth Mystery series.

Where else can readers find you online?

The easiest place to find my social media is on my website. From there you can access links to all my social media.

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



To read a sample from the book, go HERE.

Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

Have you ever been the recipient of a good surprise? If so, what was most special about it?

Thank you, Kimberly, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your novel. Readers, Kimberly has offered to give away a free copy of her book. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to her question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that U.S. subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. 

Only United States residents are eligible for the drawing, but anyone can subscribe to the blog posts via the GDPA-compliant Feedblitz box above my list of books, at right.

Remember that Winged Publications is having a sale on its Christmas-themed novellas, novels, and collections. See the details HERE.

Also readers, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post title.

Annoying legal disclaimer: as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases; drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, GDPA notice, and my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE

Karin Beery and Free Books!

Her fiancé left her his house—and his roommate.

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the free copy of Deborah Raney's women's fiction book, Chasing Dreams, is:

grandaddya@...

Congratulations! I'll email you for your snail mail address, and we'll get your book right out to you. I encourage readers to keep commenting and/or subscribe at right (above my list of books) in order to learn about new releases! U.S. subscribers are entered in the drawings a second time when they comment.

And now let's chat with novelist Karin Beery, author of the contemporary romance/women’s fiction book, Practically Married (Guiding Light Women’s Fiction, October 2019).

Karin Beery grew up in a rural Michigan town, where she wrote her first novel in high school. Today, she writes contemporary stories with a healthy dose of romance. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s reading, editing, or teaching it.

In her free time, Karin enjoys watching University of Michigan football and action-adventure movies with her husband and fur babies.

Please tell us one random thing we might not know about you.

I love pizza, but I can’t eat it anymore (gluten sensitivity). Cauliflower crust pizza is okay, but I really miss a chewy, hand-tossed crust.

Aw, what a shame. I tried going gluten free for awhile (just to cut back on starches) and found I really enjoy cauliflower crust from pizzerias. But I've tried making them from scratch, and I've tried the frozen version. Pretty sorry, compared to--as you say--the chewy, hand-tossed crusts.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Practically Married.

It’s a modern spin on the marriage of convenience story. I wondered what it would take for two people today to decide to get married for practical reasons instead of for love. Thanks to the internet, poor communication, familial influences, and unpredictable Michigan weather, Practically Married answers that question:

Ashley Johnson moves to northern Michigan to finally meet her fiancé face-to-face, but she arrives in time to go to his funeral. With no home back in Ohio, she decides to stay in what would have been their house, except his cousin Russ lives there too, and Russ has never heard of Ashley. To complicate matters, her fiancé accidentally willed her the family farmhouse.

Eager to please everyone and desperate to disappoint no one, she proposes a marriage of convenience that could solve her and Russ’s problems, if they can get past her aunt, his sisters, and an ex-girlfriend.

What a cool premise! It takes a clever writer to pull off the miscommunication trope these days. I remember the good old days for plotting when cell phones weren't the norm. Good for you to figure out a way to make this idea work. It sounds like fun.

What is it about your lead characters that will make your readers care about them?

Ashley and Russ have both experienced tragedies, but they don’t let it stop them. That doesn’t mean their timing is always perfect or they always make the right decisions, but they manage to make it work.

Imagine you’re waiting at the gate for your flight somewhere. You see someone sitting there, reading your latest release. What expression do you hope you see on his/her face?

A smile! There’s enough drama in real life. I hope my novels offer an escape and a reason to smile.

What is the last novel you read that you would recommend?

Lady Jayne Disappears by Joanna Politano Davidson. It’s a historical romantic suspense, which is a genre I’ve never read before. She grabbed my attention early in the book and held it through the end. I’m looking forward to reading another book by her.

Yes, that's a great combination of genres. What are you working on now?

A series about three sisters. I’ve actually finished the first two books (a novel and novella) and have just started on the third. Like my other books, they’re contemporary, set in Michigan, and on the light-hearted side.

Where else can readers find you online?

I’m all over!

Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
BoobBub
Amazon author page
Goodreads

Read excerpts from the journal that inspired Ashley to agree to a practical marriage, plus get the first chapter of Practically Married: BookFunnel

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



Finally, what question would you like to ask my readers?

Do you prefer books that make you laugh or books that make you cry? Why?

Thank you, Karin, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your novel. Readers, Karin has offered to give away a free copy of her book. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to her question, above. "Please enter me" won't get you entered. Remember that U.S. subscribers are entered an additional time in each drawing. The drawing is done by email, so leave your email address, like so: trish[at]trishperry[dot]com. 

Only United States residents are eligible for the drawing, but anyone can subscribe to the blog posts via the GDPA-compliant Feedblitz box above my list of books, at right.

Remember that Winged Publications is having a sale on its Christmas-themed novellas, novels, and collections. See the details HERE.

Also readers, I'd love it if you'd connect with me on Facebook. Just click on my name at the right of today's post title.

Annoying legal disclaimer: as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases; drawings void where prohibited; open only to U.S. residents; the odds of winning depend upon the number of participants. See full disclaimer, GDPA notice, and my Disclosure of Material Connection HERE