WHAT'S IT GOING TO BE?

What book should you read next? What words should you write next? Whether you're a reader, a writer, or both, you need look no further for ideas and pointers to help you make up your mind. You might even get your next book for free!

Sometimes I even give away my own novels. My Inspirational romances and devotionals are pictured below and are detailed on my Books page. You can always count on a trace of humor in my novels and nonfiction. Whether you're a teen or a woman mature in years, I think these stories will ring true.

Read on, and discover some of today's most appealing Inspirational novelists, their latest books, and their words of wisdom and imagination. Enjoy!

Monday, January 25, 2021

MaryLu Tyndall and Free Books!

When two worlds collide—one of a young lady in search of treasure to remove a family curse and the other of a three-hundred year ancestor pirate—lessons from the past affect the future, and both must run from those who would see them dead.

Before we meet today's author, I want to announce that the winner of the free copy of Linore Burkard's Regency romance, Miss Tavistock’s Mistake, is:

gcwhiskas@...

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 talk with MaryLu Tyndall, author of the time-slip romance, Timeless Treasure (Ransom Press, December 2020).

A Christy Award finalist and winner of two Inspirational Readers’ Choice awards, MaryLu Tyndall dreamt of tall ships and swashbuckling heroes during her childhood years on Florida’s Atlantic Coast. 

She holds a degree in Math and worked as a software engineer for fifteen years before she penned her first novel. Now, with more than twenty-five books published, she makes her home in California with her husband, six children, four grandchildren and various stray cats. 

MaryLu's hope is that readers will not only be entertained but will be brought closer to the Creator who loves them beyond measure. 

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

I love to oil paint and have several of my masterpieces around the house!

I should have had you send us a picture of one of them. It looks like you also enjoy gardening! One of the things I enjoy about California is the weather that essentially allows for year-round gardening.

Please tell us a bit more about the plot of Timeless Treasure.

Timeless Treasure is a Time-slip Romance. Part of it takes place in the past and part in the present. Yet there’s a connection between the two time periods through ancient letters, ancestors, and buried treasure.

The only thing Lexie Cain’s mother left her after her death was a folder full of ancient letters and an old coin. Determined to remove the curse of poverty and crime from her family’s past, Lexie sets off to Charleston, S.C. to find the mythical treasure of Stede Bonnet.

Professor Barret Johnson represents everything Lexie hates. Born to wealth and privilege, Barret’s family are pillars of the community, successful, educated, Christians who never suffered a day in their lives. Yet she has no choice but to allow him to help her decipher the letters.

As the couple read each letter, we are transported into the past where we follow the adventures of Stede Bonnet from his start in Barbados, through each success and failure, and his eventual connection with Blackbeard himself.

Lexie discovers a kindred spirit in her ancestor, Bonnet, and lessons learned from the past soon drift into the present. But someone is after the letters, and soon Barret and Lexie find themselves in grave danger. They must figure out the puzzle Bonnet left them and retrieve the treasure before whoever is after them gets desperate enough to end their lives.

What is it about Lexi and Stede that will make your readers care about them?

Lexie had a difficult childhood that I believe many people can relate to. Her father left her, her mother struggled to make ends meet, and at one point they were homeless. Consequently, Lexie has a huge heart for the poor and is constantly giving out of her own need to help others. She is smart, independent, but because she lived on the streets and even spent some time in Juvenile hall. She can be a bit rough around the edges.

The other lead character is the pirate Stede Bonnet, a real historical figure known as the gentleman pirate. Despite his profession, he has a good heart and good motives for his actions. Yet, for all his efforts, he keeps choosing the wrong path. His is also a love story that is sure to touch the reader’s heart.

That's one thing I love about time-slip novels--the reader is often treated to two gripping stories made even more so by their connection through time.

Speaking of time, the year 2020 was a rough one for most of us. What do you think God wants you to focus on in 2021?

Aside from bringing glory to God through my books, my mission is also to alert Christians to the soon return of Jesus and encourage them in their walk with the Lord.

Amen to that, MaryLu! It's time to be loving but bold about Him. 

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

Michelle Griep’s, The Thief of Blackfriars Lane. I love anything by Ms. Griep. Her writing is full of adventure, romance, and witty dialogue that keeps me turning pages.

What are you working on now?

I’m in the process of plotting out my next novel in my Legacy of the King’s Pirates series, which is a fan favorite series. I haven’t yet named it, but, God willing, I hope to release it in 2021. Christian pirates? You’ll have to pick up of my books in the series to find out.

I love it. Where else can readers find you online?

I’m very active on my Website/Blog which is : www.marylutyndall.com. Also:
MEWE
Twitter
Bookbub
Amazon


The book can be purchased online via the following button:



Readers, you can read a sample of the book HERE by clicking on Look Inside.

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

What is the most important thing you look for in a Christian novel?

Thank you, MaryLu, for visiting and telling us about yourself and your book. Readers, MaryLu has offered to give away a free copy of her book. To enter, click on the word "comments" below to reach the comments page, and leave your answer and your email in answer to MaryLu's above question. "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

31 comments:

Lori91301 said...

I love all genres of books to some degree. But historical romance has to be on the top of the list. It's fun to lose yourself in the historical era the book describes. Books, for me, are a happy place and getaway from day to day life. Christian books are my mainstay because I know with certainty that it won't be filled with unnecessary details of romance, murders, etc. or with foul language. The best Christian novels, in my opinion, teach me to live right without being preachy. The books apply Biblical lessons in parable-type format. I'd love to read Timeless Treasure. Thank you
lorigeorgehotmailcom

Stacey said...

I am so excited that MaryLu is on your blog today, Trish! I love her books!!! I've never read a time slip novel, though. It sounds interesting.

To answer MaryLu's question, the most important thing I look for in a Christian novel is more than just one thing. I don't read a lot of fiction anymore, so I am pretty choosy. I want solid writing, an entertaining plot that stimulates my "armchair sleuth" and to be pointed to Jesus by character, not superficial mention.

stacey_dale(at)yahoo(dot)com

Paula Shreckhise said...

The most important thing I look for in a Christian novel is to truly present the characters as having faith in Christ. A solid faith thread. Not just a world view or bringing up valid theological questions.but to follow through and present the real answers in Christ. To give hope and a conclusion.
I am a subscriber. paulamarys49ATgmailDOTcom

Evelyn Smith said...

If it's a MaryLu Tyndall, it's going to be a good read. I've loved MaryLu's books for years and introduced them to my sister, who has come to love them.
Keep up the good work, MaryLu.

Jenny Miles said...

I love MaryLu's books and am so excited she has another one out! Time-slip novels are one of my favorites. I think the most important thing I look for in a Christian novel is the theme of faith in Christ interwoven within the story. I love it when characters reflect our human nature, usually stubbornness and pride, but come to admit they need God's help most of all and need to rely on Him for what is best. Thank you for the opportunity! jennmiles1972@gmail.com.

Jenny Miles said...

jennmiles1972[at]gmail[dot]com

MaryLu Tyndall said...

Hey ladies! I love your answers! A good story is very important but for me, it has to be a story that points to Jesus and helps me grow in my walk with the Lord! Seems we are all of the same mind here. Thank you for entering!

Unknown said...

In a Christian novel I always like how the characters use scripture to fall on or use throughout the book for a challenging time in the characters life or a heart warming time. I have enjoyed all of Marylu Tyndall's books!! Marylu's books are always full of life!

pwnsteph07@gmail.com

M.A. Zeller said...

This book looks great, and I love the question! To answer, the most important thing I look for in books is the faith element. Not only does it make the characters more relatable, but often a thread within the faith element speaks to the reader.

m.a.zeller[at]gmail[dot]com

Paty Hinojosa said...

Hi! I love MaryLu Tyndall's books!
About what do I look in a Christian Novel... Most importantly, the faith inspiring message. I also prefer books with flawed characters (in some way or another), that makes it more realistic and relatable, and I love to make a journey with characters that struggle, like we all do, to give God the control of our life, among other things. I like to make a journey with a character that wants to be a better person, and how the Christian faith helps him in that regard. I love compassionate and kind characters, even if they have it a bit deep inside. I love it when a book inspires me to be a better Christian and to improve my relationship with Jesus. And I love a sweet, clean and tender romance too!
And I love stories that have a "ship" setting and pirates in it!
This is why I love MaryLu's stories, and this is a book that I haven't read and sounds intriguing!

Phyllis said...

I love Christian historical fiction. I find that I like time slip but even then love the historical thread always...maybe an escape is what I love. A CF novel should absolutely be free of bad language and overly written romantic scenes. Beyond that, I love deep characters that are realistic, going through life events but clinging to the Word to make it through. Yes I love an uplifting storyline but I believe that that part of the story can also be after the character trusted in God and learned what God wanted to teach them.

Thank you for the opportunity to win a copy of your book. My email is ptrollan7@gmail.com

Unknown said...

I look for a clean story without any sexual uendos, it should support what Christianity is in all ways.
Vickie
gehrt5@frontiernet.net

Melissa Wardwell said...

I look for authenticity in CF. If the story feels too sugary sweet or unrealistic, I will glaze through. This is why I love MLT books. Nothing is sugar-coated and everything is straight to the point with enough of each element (romance, drama, adventure) to keep me glued in my chair with her books in my hand.

MaryLu Tyndall said...

Well, I must admit that my characters are usually quite edgy and realistic. I think that's because I spent some time in the world before Jesus rescued me! Some readers have trouble liking some of my characters or relating to them. But I hope by the end of the story, they can at least understand them and see the redemptive work of our Lord. I used to read secular romances, and now I could never pick one up! God has changed my heart for sure!
Thanks everyone! I'm enjoying your comments!

swilkins said...

For Christian novels, I mainly search for biblical accuracy. If it doesn't line up with Scripture, I am not interested. I also like to find books that teach me spiritual lessons. Newsiesuzie1992@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

The most important thing for a Christian novel for me is that at some segment the novel itself points to Christ. Either the characters are Christian and have their own struggles or there is some kind of redemption. I also expect it to be very clean and nothing that would make me uncomfortable. I appreciate the very generous sample of your novel. You definitely have my attention!
perrianne (DOT) askew (AT) me (DOT) com

Jessica said...

I love that Christian books are clean. I'd love to see more flaws in the main characters. Just because they are Christian doesn't mean they are perfect. We all fall short off grace and I love see the growth or the plot twists where the character makes a choice that reflects the internal transformation. Thank you for the opportunity
Txjessy1@gnail.com

Joan A said...

I want a clean story without bad language or sex. I prefer that there be no drinking alcohol. The book is even better if it points people to Christ. I prefer books where the characters actually attend church and study their Bible! jarning67(at)hotmail(dot)com

AMH said...

The most important thing I look for in a Christian novel is a strong faith message. It doesn't have to be "preachy." But I do like to have the gospel message shared in some way- and seeing believable growth/transformation in the characters. I have found that MaryLu Tyndall does an excellent job of this.

My email- annemherron97@gmail.com

Lucy Reynolds said...

The most important thing I look for is hope, redemption, and it alines with the word of God. I would love to read this as time slip novels are my favorite.

Rowena Pike said...

I enjoy Christian historical romance novels. I enjoy the escape to another time. Christian novels do not have offensive language, or "detailed love expressions". The intrigue with a bit of action and mystery is a delight.
I have given your books to my girls as gifts and they devour them. The pirate ones are by far our favorites.
snowwahinekona@yahoo.com

Christina McBride said...

What is the most important thing you look for in a Christian novel?

The most important thing for me in Christian Fiction is for the message to be biblically sound.

Anonymous said...

I look for encouragement, faith and focus on issue. Mary's books are like no others I've read. I've reviewed several. jrs0350@yahoo.com

MrsCarroll51907 said...

I look for a strong presence of faith, not too preachy. A side of a good love story that is clean and not raunchy never hurts. ;) MaryLu always brings those to the table and then much much more in her books. Her books are either on my already read list or to be read. I can't get enough of MaryLu and her stories.
Thank you for a chance to win another great book from MaryLu.

Anonymous said...

I really enjoy a good Christian fiction book, I love the Christian message in it and I appreciate the wholesome clean read as well.

MaryLu Tyndall said...

Wow, thank you all for your kind and thoughtful comments! I enjoyed reading each one and finding out what's important to you when you read Christian Fiction. I value much the same things. I could never go back to secular books. :-) Blessings to each one of you and thank you for entering!

Trish Perry said...

MaryLu, you clearly have a strong fan base--that's so wonderful.

Like many of the readers who have commented so far, I love Christian fiction that brings about a change in a sinner's heart. The character remains imperfect, but I love when the character recognizes his/her need for a Savior (or remembers to pay attention to guidance from the Savior). We all need reminding of those needs from time to time, regardless of how much we love Jesus.

And I also love time-slip novels!

Keep the comments coming!

Caryl Kane said...

The most important thing I look for in a Christian novel is the faith thread.

Capt'n MaryLu is one of my favorite authors!

psalm103and138atgmaildotcom

Emilia M. said...

The most important thing in a Christian novel is that the simple gospel being presented without being too preachy. Also, that the characters' faith isn't perfect and that they need improvement, like they doubt too much or they don't lean on God as much as they should. I prefer it when a person has flaws that need to be fixed. It makes the character appear more relatable than someone who is always perfect every single moment. Ms. Tyndall, I read Timeless Treasure and I enjoyed it! Thank you!
emiliairis05[at]outlook[dot]com

Kimberly said...

When reading a Christian novel, I look for a solid storyline and a clearcut path pointing to Christ!

eric paul said...

I have been reading Christian-fiction to my wife every morning for about 8 years now, and then I read the Bible to her. We have been through many Christian-fiction books, stand-alone, and series. What we look for is a story, for example, a romance, without all the "sexy" details. You know what I am talking about. Unfortunately we have read some authors with this content, and we either skip over the page, or stop reading it altogether. If you could read it in front of your Mother, and not be embarrassed by what you are reading, then it's probably all well and good. :-) We love historical romance, spiritual warfare, Christmas books, and Bed & Breakfast Inn books (Grace Chapel Inn), (Mitford Series), and many other Christian authors. 99% of them are women :-) We love seeing the salvation message brought through also, woven within the story.

 

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