The Perfect Blend at 99 Cents This Week!

Just in case you need something light and fun for the park, pool, or beach! Special sale for this week, at 99 cents for the ebook.

If you enjoy the novels of Debbie Macomber, you’ll love this perfect blend of tea and romance set in a small town with a big heart.

Steph Vandergrift is in need of a job. She left everything behind to elope with Middleburg attorney Rick Manfred, never imagining he would stand her up at the altar. Now, hoping just to get by until she can decide what to do next, Steph thinks she’s found the perfect position at the local tea shop.

Kendall James, one of the kindest and most eligible bachelors in the area, meets Steph and proceeds to pursue her. But by the time Steph feels able to consider dating again, her runaway fiancé returns and tries to win her back. Steph is wary, but she and Rick always seemed to blend so well. Are they truly meant to be together, or does God have something else in mind?

This purchase button will work through Sunday, August 4:



Enjoy! And be sure to take a look at the next post, about Heather Norman Smith's lovely new novel, Where I Was Planted.

Heather Norman Smith and Free Books!

What good can come from being abandoned?

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the free copy of The Outlaw's Lady and Love Thine Enemy, by Laurie Kingery and Louise Gouge, respectively, is:

linderellar@...

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 Heather Smith, author of the coming-of-age novel, Where I Was Planted (Ambassador International, July 2019).

Heather Norman Smith is an author of inspirational fiction and a devotional blogger. Her goal is to use the written word to entertain and encourage, while illuminating the redemptive love of God. She also enjoys writing songs and singing about Jesus.

Heather is proud to be a life-long North Carolinian and aims to present the beauty of the Tar Heel State in her writing. Her home is just outside Winston-Salem, NC, where she lives with her husband and their three children. She and her husband are also foster parents.

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

I play the alto saxophone, and I’ve had the same instrument since sixth grade.

My son played alto sax all through middle and high school! He's very good. That's just about my favorite instrument. Very cool that you play.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Where I Was Planted.

In the spring of 1961, ten-year-old Nate "Weenie" Dooley has a revelation—his father is not a good one. Inspired by National Geographic, his favorite thing next to the Bible storybook his mother gave him before she died, Nate plans to leave his father and their home in the Smokies to set out on adventure.

When he discovers that his father has left him first, it will take the help of a stray dog, some kind neighbors, a one-man-band, letters from a long-lost-aunt, and a new understanding of God to figure out he isn't really alone.

Will he find that Copper Creek is where he's always belonged? Or will his wanderlust keep him from ever coming back?

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

My main character is an abandoned ten-year-old boy, so right away, readers will be compelled to care. They’ll want him to be okay.

Absolutely. What a heartbreaking life he has. 

Tell us in a few words a scene in your novel and name a song or piece of music that would make good a good soundtrack to the moment.

There are a few songs and artists from the time period actually referenced in the story. There’s a moment when Nate is alone in his house listening to the radio, and the mournful sound of Patsy Cline’s voice bounces off the walls of the lonely room and lands heavy heart. In my mind the song was I Fall To Pieces.

Such a fantastic song and artist. I had a greatest hits album of hers, and I think I still know every song by heart. Great stuff.

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

I recently read a middle grade novel by a fellow Ambassador International author. The Heart Changer by Jarm Del Boccio imagines the details of the Biblical story of Naaman’s servant girl, Miriam. I enjoyed it because it contains a message that I strive to weave into all my writings—that God is still good, regardless of our circumstances.

What are you working on now?

For a very short while, I’ve put novel writing on hold to work on a devotional. I didn’t intend to start this project until much later, but it feels like what I’m supposed to be doing now.

Projects like that can be at least as edifying for you, the author, as they'll be for future readers. It's like an in-depth study of the peace and guidance God provides for us in His Word.

Where else can readers find you online?

www.heathernormansmith.com
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Goodreads

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



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

What is the number one thing about a Christian Fiction book that helps you decide to read it?

Thank you, Heather, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your novel. Readers, Heather 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: 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

Louise Gouge, Laurie Kingery, and Free Books!

Two great novels in one book: An outlaw adventure in the Old West and a Revolutionary War romance between a Patriot and a Loyalist.

Before we meet today's authors, I want to announce that the winner of the free copy of The Express Bride, by Kimberley Woodhouse, is:

marypopmom@...

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 novelists Laurie Kingery and Louise Gouge, authors of the inspirational historical romances, The Outlaw’s Lady and Love Thine Enemy, respectively (Love Inspired Historical, July 2019).

Laurie Kingery began her career as a published author in 1987 under the pen name of Laurie Grant, writing medieval and later western historical romance. When Harlequin opened up a Christian fiction line, Laurie felt her writing should reflect her faith. She wrote 15 books for Harlequin before they closed their historical line, so she was thrilled when Love Inspired decided to reissue The Outlaw’s Lady along with Louise’s fine story.

A resident of Ohio, she lives with her husband Tom, whom she met via eHarmony, and their two dogs. Between them, Laurie and her husband have five grown children and thirteen grandchildren.


Florida author Louise M. Gouge writes historical romance fiction. She received the prestigious Inspirational Readers’ Choice Award in 2005 and was a finalist four times.

A former college English and humanities professor, she and David, her husband of fifty-four years, enjoy visiting historical sites and museums. They have four grown children and nine grandchildren.

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

Louise: In 1964, I sneaked backstage at a Beatles’ concert at Red Rocks Stadium with the help of a friend who was an usher. I stood within inches of the Fab Four, but not being a screamer (never understood what all the screaming was about), I just smiled at them before they went on stage.

Louise! I lived in Littleton, Colorado at that time, and I remember when they came to Red Rocks! How cool that you were that close to such talented, iconic musicians! 

Laurie: When not writing my books, I was a 47-year veteran RN at a level one trauma center ER. Medical knowledge often came in handy in my writing.

I can imagine, Laurie! I just recently read the mainstream medical romance novel, The Queen of Hearts by Kimberly Martin, who is an ER physician. It was clear the author knew her stuff! 

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of your novels.

The Outlaw’s Lady: Rebellious rancher's daughter Tess Hennessy seeks adventure—and that's what she gets when she's abducted to chronicle the Delgado gang's exploits! Yet her kidnapper, gang member Sandoval Parrish, isn't what she expected. There's more to the mysterious outlaw than he shows—signs of gentleness and devotion that soften Tess's heart.

Sandoval has one goal: retribution for the sister Delgado ruined. He hasn't the time to fall for the stubborn, beautiful photographer whose pictures he needs as evidence. But what can Sandoval do when his plan puts Tess in danger? Torn between the drive for revenge and a newfound love, Sandoval will need his renewed faith to resolve the past…and claim his future.

Love Thine Enemy: The tropics of colonial Florida are far removed from America’s Revolution. Still, Rachel Folger’s loyalties remain with Boston’s patriots.

Handsome plantation owner Frederick Moberly’s faithfulness to the Crown is as certain as his admiration for Rachel—but for the sake of harmony, he’ll keep his sympathies hidden. After all, the war is too far distant to truly touch them…isn’t it?

A betrayal of Rachel’s trust divides the pair, leaving Frederick to question the true meaning of faith in God and in country. Inspired by Rachel to see life, liberty, and love through His eyes, Frederick must harness his faith and courage to claim the woman he loves before war tears them apart.

What a great duo!

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

Laurie: Tess Hennessey (The Outlaw's Lady) has a dream of working for famous Civil War photographer Matthew Brady. She has the necessary skills of taking great pictures and developing them suitable for framing. But after meeting handsome Sandoval Parrish, will her heart get in the way of her dream?

Louise: Stuck in the East Florida colony with her father, Rachel Folger (Love Thine Enemy) longs to return to Boston to help her fellow Patriots win their independence from England. But when she tries spying on English magistrate Frederick Moberly, she endangers her family and her heart.

Tell us in a few words a scene in your novel and name a song or piece of music that would make good a good soundtrack to the moment.

Laurie: Music for a scene in my novel: soundtrack from the Zorro movie with Antonio Banderas, or “Desperado.”

I went back and listened to some of that music while putting this together. It brought back good memories. I might have to watch Zorro again.

Louise: The only thing I can think of is music by Mozart, as apropos for the time of the American Revolution. He wrote in such a variety of styles, from stirring action to romantic melodies, so a work of his could be found to fit any scene.

He's been one of my favorite composers since I was a little girl taking piano lessons. It's fascinating to think that he was composing while our country was fighting for independence. 

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

Louise: I just read MaryLu Tyndall’s She Walks in Love, an enchanting medieval fantasy with strong faith elements. I’m always inspired by Tyndall’s stories, whether they be about pirates, mermaids, or Americans standing strong against the British in the War of 1812.

Laurie: A book I’ve read recently to recommend: I love the Victorian police murder mysteries of Anne Perry. I’m currently reading Blind Justice and can hardly put it down!

Thanks for those recommendations, ladies. They both sound great. MaryLu has such a broad-reaching talent, and I'm hooked these days on thrillers and mysteries, but I haven't yet read any of Anne Perry's.

What are you working on now?

Louise: My first novel was published by Crossway Books in 1994, but I started writing it in 1984. At the time, it was a contemporary story, but the Internet, Facebook, and Twitter have changed the world. I decided to update it, change character names, and republish it with an even stronger message of faith, forgiveness, and reconciliation.

Laurie: What I’m currently working on: unfortunately, I have had to retire from writing due to ill health, so it’s been thrilling to see some of my favorite titles reprinted.

I'm so sorry to hear that, Laurie! We'll all need to keep you in prayer. What a blessing, then, that your titled are being released anew.

Where else can readers find you online?

Louise: Website: louisemgougeauthor.blogspot.com
Facebook
Twitter: @Louisemgouge.

Laurie: Facebook.

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



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

Louise: How do you go about finding something to read? Do you read the back-cover copy? Ask friends what they’re reading? Use keywords in the Amazon search engine? Inquiring authors want to know!

Laurie: How do you select the books you read? Do you have a favorite historical era? Do you feel there are some eras that have been overdone? Eras that haven’t been done that you’d like to see?

Thank you, Louise and Laurie, for visiting and telling us about yourselves and your novels. Readers, Louise and Laurie have offered to give away a free copy of their book set. To enter, leave a comment and your email below in answer to their questions, 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: 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

Kimberley Woodhouse and Free Books!

The wilderness is a great place to hide…

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the free copy of Cowboy Groom, by Linda Ford, is:

friedmanc44@...

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 Kimberley Woodhouse, author of the historical romantic suspense novel, The Express Bride (Barbour Publishing, July 2019).

Kimberley Woodhouse is a CBA and ECPA best-selling and award-winning author of more than twenty fiction and non-fiction books which have earned her many accolades including Christian Retailing’s Top Pick and Publisher’s Weekly starred reviews.

A popular speaker and teacher, she’s shared her theme of “Joy through Trials” with more than a million people across the country at more than 2,000 events. Hundreds of national radio and television appearances have featured Kimberley, her books, and their family’s story.

Kim and her incredible husband of twenty-five-plus years have two adult children. She’s passionate about music, cooking, and loves the gift of story.

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

I had chickens when we lived in Colorado. This surprises most people who know me because I’m a bit of a clean freak. 😊 But I have used it in my next series with Tracie Peterson (The Treasures of Nome Series) to share fun chicken stories.

My dad grew up on a chicken farm. If he hadn't enlisted in WWII, I'd maybe be a chicken-farming gal myself.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of The Express Bride.

Jacqueline Rivers manages a Pony Express station in 1860 Utah territory after her father’s death. There are daily stresses placed on her in this unconventional role—and now a government official is asking her to sniff out counterfeiters.

When Elijah Johnson passes through on the stage while on an exhausting quest to find his boss’s heir, he doesn’t want to leave the beguiling station manager. In fact, he may never leave when caught in the crossfire of the territory’s criminal activities.

Can Jackie remain strong when secrets of the past and present are finally unearthed?

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

Even though Jackie – the heroine - has had a happy, simple, and satisfying life up to when we meet her in the story – everything turns upside down for her with the death of her dad and then the truth comes to light. She has to deal with questions of the past – wondering if it was all a lie. And then… she must deal with forgiveness.

Ah, yes, forgiveness. It can be difficult to come to forgiveness when the status you assumed was real and trustworthy is suddenly up-ended.  How do you forgive if you aren't even sure what is true?

Tell us in a few words a scene in your novel and name a song or piece of music that would make a good soundtrack to the moment.

Actually, the opening of the book is a prologue that takes place in 1834 – the song that I hear for that is "No Longer Slaves" by Bethel Music.

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

Sensible Shoes, by Sharon Garlough Brown – because it really makes you think. Lots of great spiritual depth in it.

"The moving story of four strangers as they embark together on a journey of spiritual formation. Youre invited to join these four women as they reluctantly arrive at a retreat center and find themselves drawn out of their separate stories of isolation and struggle and into a collective journey of spiritual practice, mutual support and personal revelation." [cover copy]

That sounds like a meaty novel. 

What are you working on now?

The second book in The Treasures of Nome Series for Bethany House (book one – Forever Hidden – releases January 2020).

Where else can readers find you online?

www.Kimberleywoodhouse.com
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



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

What would you like to see tackled in a fiction story?

Thank you, Kimberley, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your novel. Readers, Kimberley 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.

Remember, if you'd like information on additional new releases, check out Christian Book Heaven, an email newsletter for Christian book deals in whatever genres you select. You can subscribe here: ChristianBookHeaven

Annoying legal disclaimer: 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

Linda Ford and Free Books!

Their marriage is a business arrangement but will working together enable them to see beyond the painful lessons of their past?

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the free copy of Becoming Us, by Robin Jones Gunn, is subscriber:

stockert6@...

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 Linda Ford, author of the western historical romance, Cowboy Groom (Crocus Mountain Publishing, July 2019).

Linda Ford grew up devouring books and making up stories in her head, often late at night when she couldn't sleep. But she hadn't planned to write. Instead, she dreamed of running an orphanage.

In a way, that dream came true. She married, had four homemade children, adopted 10, and lived her dream. She lives on a small ranch in western Alberta, where she can see the mountains every day. She and her husband continue to enjoy their children and grandchildren.

Linda still finds a great deal of enjoyment and satisfaction in creating imaginary worlds, only now she does it on paper or rather, at the computer.

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

I have had an African Grey Parrot for about 30 years now. He will likely outlive me and have to go to one of my children or grandchildren. He talks a lot but only when he chooses to, never when we want him to show off for guests. He is a little (that’s an understatement) particular (as in neurotic) which is a well-known fact in the family. He doesn’t care for toys but loves to tear up cardboard (must be corrugated) and books, so I give him old books to shred.

Wow, he sounds like a book character himself!

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Cowboy Groom.

Stella’s fragmented childhood made her vow that her own children would know the security of putting down roots. With her husband dead, she can’t manage the farm on her own. Without help, she is in danger of losing her homestead…and her dream.

Bruce and his Aunt Mary were only supposed to be passing through Glory, Montana. Bruce owes everything to his aunt. She’s the only one who believed him when malicious rumors threatened. Her fragile health requires they stay in Glory, but without a livelihood, how can Bruce support them both?

A marriage in name only would be advantageous for both Bruce and Stella. Aunt Mary sees what they don’t and forecasts they will soon fall in love. Is it possible that living together, working together, and sharing their past in quiet evening hours will make it happen? Or will the lessons of their past keep them from seeing that they are perfect for each other?

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

Stella’s father was a wanderer who promised to settle down but never did. He disrupted her life over and over and taught her the foolishness of trusting a man and his promises. She has sacrificed everything in the hopes of providing stability for her children and yet she is about to lose it all unless she agrees to marry Bruce. He has promised to stay but she knows she can’t count on a promise like that. She’ll accept his help for now but always, in the back of her mind, she is preparing to manage on her own.

Tell us in a few words a scene in your novel and name a song or piece of music that would make a good soundtrack to the moment.

They meet when Bruce carries his injured Aunt Mary into the preacher’s house seeking help. Stella’s young son, Donny, makes an impression on Bruce. Stella is wary of a man who would insist on traveling even though his elderly aunt needs rest. Yet a marriage of convenience offers the only hope she can find. Fearful of losing her farm, she struggles to trust God through this trial.

A song that echoes the moment is "Leaning On The Everlasting Arms".

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

This is really hard.

I’ll have to go with Last Christmas in Paris by Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb. It’s not a new book (release date 2017) but I recently got my hands on it. Friends separated by WWI correspond throughout the war, so the story is told in letters. Normally, I don’t care for that and for a story that has two different time lines but this one was done so well. And has a satisfactory ending. It’s a book I have marked ‘worth reading again.’

I appreciate your thinking of a good read even when it wasn't easy--we all like to know what books others recommend. Life is too short to read bad fiction! 

What are you working on now?

My son and his wife recently moved to the Porcupine Hills in SW Alberta. A stunningly beautiful place ideal for ranching. So of course, that got my imagination fired up. I did a little research and am currently writing an historical series in that setting. It’s about four brothers who are ranching there in the 1800s. So far the series has no name, nor do the individual books. The best way to hear what I will call them is to sign up for my newsletter.

Where else can readers find you online?

I have a website www.lindaford.org. On the top left hand side are two sign up options for my newsletter (one offers you a free book). I am on Facebook

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



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

Oh goodie. I get to ask you a question. I’m curious as to what stories readers like best. In my genre—historical western romance—is there anything you really like and/or things you have seen enough of? Do you like family stories? Mail-order Brides, Marriages of convenience, adventure, travel…anything at all? Thanks so much for feedback.

Thank you Trish for allowing me to visit.

My pleasure! Thank you, Linda, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your novel. Readers, Linda 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.

Remember, if you'd like information on additional new releases, check out Christian Book Heaven, an email newsletter for Christian book deals in whatever genres you select. You can subscribe here: ChristianBookHeaven

Annoying legal disclaimer: 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

Robin Jones Gunn and Free Books!

Becoming Us is what happens when five young women gather as a group of “Haven Makers” and discover they are becoming the moms, sisters and friends they always wished for.

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the free copy of Stopped Cold, by Gail Pallotta, is:

mauback55@...

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 Robin Jones Gunn, author of the contemporary women’s fiction release, Becoming Us (WaterBrook/Multnomah, May 2019).

Robin Jones Gunn is the bestselling, Christy Award winning author of 100 books with over 5.5 million copies sold worldwide and is best known for her Christy Miller novels for teens and the Glenbrooke and Sisterchicks® series for women. Robin’s non-fiction titles include Praying for Your Future Husband, co-authored with Tricia Goyer and Victim of Grace.

The Hallmark Channel created three movies based on her Father Christmas novellas. The movies broke a network record by being their highest rated and most watched original movies in 2016, 2017 and 2018.

Robin’s love for storytelling and training writers has taken her around the world. She has served on the Board of Directors for Media Associates International and has been a keynote speaker in Africa, Brazil, Europe and Australia as well as Canada and throughout the US.

Robin and her husband have two grown and married children and live in Hawaii.

I sat in one of your classes at ACFW many years ago, Robin, and it was excellent in helping me discover the overall theme God had put on my heart for my writing. Very cool class.

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

We live on Maui and I have made the three day hike through Haleakala crater.

I had no idea you lived in Hawaii! Beautiful.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Becoming Us.

Five young women gather for a simple Christmas party and soon become unlikely best friends. Told from the viewpoint of Emily, a timid young mom going through a difficult season of life, the regular gatherings provide the much needed community she's longed for. As the women begin sharing their life stories they are endeared to each other and find ways to challenge, encourage, and help each other navigate the new season of life they now find themselves in.

When Emily is finally able to open up to Christy, Sierra, Jennalyn and Tess about the struggles that prompted the big move across country to Southern California, she begins to make changes in her heart and home. Those intentional choices soon create a haven for herself, her husband and daughter. Emily settles into the life they now have and experiences the peace that had eluded her for so many years.

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

Readers have told me they relate to the financial struggles and childbirth challenges that Emily and Trevor have been working through. Every woman knows what it’s like to be the new person who enters a group of already established friends. Emily is in the midst of those insecurities when the story begins. She choses to be brave and makes an effort to connect. As she continues to take small, courageous steps she finds that even though her circumstances haven’t changed, she has changed and that’s when the future opens up for her.

You're so right, being that newbie is tough at first. It does take a degree of bravery to sally forth in those circumstances.

Tell us in a few words a scene in your novel and name a song or piece of music that would make a good soundtrack to the moment.

Emily has been given the use of a classy convertible so she and her new friends take off wearing sunglasses and scarves and head down the coast to a special coffee shop in Laguna Beach. They call it their “Grace Kelly Day” and pretend they’re living the lifestyle of the rich and famous. Simply joys are simply the best.

"Girls Just Want to Have Fun" would make a great sing along for the five friends as they take the coastal curves under the California sun, laughing and raising their arms.

Now I'll have that song in my head for days! 

I have to read this book. My sister and I are both fairly new residents of California, and I think Laguna Beach may well be one of our first meeting points. 

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

Most of my reading lately has been yet-to-be-published novels from writers who are working on their craft. I don’t have a specific one I can recommend by title, but I can recommend taking a chance on newly published authors because I’m finding that the stories are getting better and better.

Oh, wait. I just thought of one that was recently published. The title is True: A Contemporary Retelling of Rahab, by S.E. Clancy. I recommend it because as a novella it’s a quick read that captures you on the first page. Clancy did a great job of making this familiar Biblical story feel fresh.

What are you working on now?

I’m in the midst of the rewrites on the sequel to Becoming Us. I’ve written series for many years: Christy Miller, Sierra Jensen, Katie Weldon, Glenbrooke, Sisterchicks® and now the Haven Makers series. This second book is from the first person POV of Jennalyn, one of the other women in the Haven Makers group.

Where else can readers find you online?

www.ChristyMiller.com
www.RobinGunn.com
Facebook
Instagram and Twitter @robingunn

The book can be purchased online via the following button:



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

Do you enjoy watching movies based on your favorite books? Or do you avoid some book-to-film productions because you’re afraid they’ll ruin a story you loved?

Thank you, Robin, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your novel. Readers, Robin 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.

Remember, if you'd like information on additional new releases, check out Christian Book Heaven, an email newsletter for Christian book deals in whatever genres you select. You can subscribe here: ChristianBookHeaven

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