Archive | Author, Author! RSS feed for this section

Spotlight on Contemporary Romance + Author Interview — Her Part to Play

4 Jul

About The Book

Book: Her Part to Play

Author: Jenny Erlingsson

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release date: June 18, 2024

Desperate for extra income after her mother’s passing, Adanne accepts a last-minute job as a makeup artist for a movie filming in her small Alabama hometown. She’s working to save her parents’ legacy and help her brother, but the money hardly seems worth having to face the actor who got her fired from her last job in Hollywood.

John Pope has made his share of mistakes over the years. But after turning his life over to God and enduring a messy breakup, he’s ready to start rebuilding his career. Imagine his surprise when the woman called in to cover for his usual makeup artist is a quiet but feisty newcomer on the set–and definitely not a fan.

Sparks of tension–and could that be attraction?–fly between them, but Adanne hates the spotlight, and John’s scheming manager has bigger plans for him than to end up with the humble makeup girl from the small-town South. Can these star-crossed lovers find their way to happiness? Or will the bright lights of Hollywood blind their eyes to what’s right in front of them?

Click here to get your copy!

About The Author

Jenny Erlingsson is an author and speaker of Nigerian descent. After 12 years working in junior high and women’s ministry, she moved with her family from Alabama to Iceland. When she’s not running after her four kids or ministering alongside her husband, she can be found writing romantic fiction and creative nonfiction to inspire deep faith in diverse settings, as well as encouraging other writers. Her other writings have been featured on (in)courage, Live Original, Velvet Ashes, and more. And in the margins, you might find her reading five books at a time with a side of Icelandic chocolate.

More from Jenny

Sometimes it can be easy to underestimate the significance of our part to play in God’s story, especially when it’s something behind-the-scenes. I wanted to portray that in the story that unfolds between my characters Adanne and John. In Her Part to Play, readers are introduced to a make-up artist who had dreams of becoming successful in her career, but she sacrificed that to take care of her dying mother and ended up getting fired in the process.

This idea actually developed while I watched behind the scenes footage of The Chosen. Like any industry, profession or product, what we see is only a small part of the process. There are details that we don’t consider when we are being swept away in a story.

On the surface, working with the actor who got her fired was not the way Adanne wanted to earn much needed income. But there’s so much beautiful redemption that can be found in hidden places and that’s what John finds as well. Every day that Adanne works on his face to get him ready for his scenes, God starts working on both of their hearts. A beautiful transformation is carried out through someone who may not have seemed valuable in the grand scheme of things, but who was a very important part of the process.

Her Part to Play gives a glimpse of that through a charming romance between two people with different roles and from different cultures, but they both have a core need to be known and loved for not just what they do, but for who they are.

Q & A with Jenny Erlingsson

Many authors say that they have always been a writer — making up stories as a child. When did you first become a writer?

According to my parents, I leaned toward writing in toddlerhood because of how consistently I scribbled on scraps of paper. Looking back, I think I first became a writer around age ten when I started making up stories about my Barbies and writing imaginative ideas down. Not only did I fill stacks of paper with novel snippets, but I also wrote songs, poetry, prose and copied impactful quotes into notebooks and journals. But the writing bug really hit me when I started reading. I wanted to write stories that impacted others in the same way.

What does a typical writing day look like? Are you structured or informal in your writing schedule?

I wish I could be more structured in my writing process! As a mom of four elementary aged kids, I find that I get the best writing done in the pockets and margins of my day. When I am working on a new project, I do my best to get a flexible outline going of main thoughts/themes. And then when I find a sliver of time, or if a scene bubbles to the surface, I write that down in whatever tool I can find. I work on my laptop, use voice text, write on paper, write on my tablet, or type into the notes app on my phone.

Can you tell us a little about what inspired your latest novel?

    I was actually inspired to write this novel after I watched some behind the scenes footage of The Chosen. I was fascinated by all the segments that gave viewers a glimpse of life on set. It’s always fun to see the personalities behind characters and I wondered what kind of friendships develop between actors and the industry professionals that make up film crews. Actors spend so many hours in hair and make-up. I wanted to explore what could happen between two people in this forced proximity scenario who were ready for something new in their lives.

    What do you want your readers to take away with them after finishing one of your novels?

    My ultimate goal is for readers to be sweetly entertained and deeply encouraged at the root level. I hope my readers leave Her Part to Play with a warm feeling that lingers with them because of the hope revealed and the sweet love story that points to the way Jesus loves and pursues us.

    Readers always want to know what is next for an author. Do you have any works in progress you can share about?

      Details are still unfolding about the next project, but I am working on a draft of another story set in my fictional town of Hope Springs, Alabama which will dive deeper into some of the other characters we meet in Her Part to Play. 

      Thank you so much for taking the time to connect with me and my debut novel, Her Part to Play!

      Blog Stops

      Back Porch Reads, June 25 (Author Interview)

      Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 26

      Where Crisis & Christ Collide, June 27 (Author Interview)

      A Modern Day Fairy Tale, June 27

      Inspired by Fiction, June 28

      Blossoms and Blessings, June 29 (Author Interview)

      Locks, Hooks and Books, June 30

      Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 1

      Vicky Sluiter, July 2 (Author Interview)

      Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, July 3

      By The Book, July 4 (Author Interview)

      Texas Book-aholic, July 5

      Blogging With Carol, July 6

      For the Love of Literature, July 7 (Author Interview)

      The Lofty Pages, July 7

      Pause for Tales, July 8

      Giveaway

      To celebrate her tour, Jenny is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card, a custom journal and copy of the book!!

      Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

      https://promosimple.com/ps/2c55e/her-part-to-play-celebration-tour-giveaway

      Tags: ,

      Spotlight on Women’s Fiction + Author Interview — Thanksgiving in Welcombe Bay

      30 Jun

      About The Book

      Book: Thanksgiving in Welcombe Bay

      Author: Kate Darroch

      Genre: Women’s Fiction

      Release date: October 29, 2023

      The story of an alcoholic former journalist, Eric, who is trying to straighten out his life and give up drinking, and Lily, a woman haunted by memories of domestic abuse, who meet and miracle in gorgeous Welcombe Bay. Both are coping with serious life problems, and neither is looking for romance. But lasting love is looking for them. Can these broken souls overcome their emotional and financial challenges, and help each other to heal through the transformative power of their love and faith?

      Click here to get your copy!

      About The Author

      Kate Darroch lives on the picturesque Devon coastline, where she combines her passion for cozy sleuths and her experiences of life as it’s lived in many countries to create compelling Travel Cozies.

      Màiri Maguire, a Scots Irish teacher from 1970s Glasgow, heroine of debut novel, “Death in Paris”, has earned Kate many international book awards, including Readers Favorite Gold Medal for Humor, consolidating her reputation as a notable author. Kate hopes her readers will enjoy Màiri’s adventures as much as she enjoys Father Brown, Sherlock Holmes, and that old, old movie, the Perils of Pauline.

      Next, Kate created Huntingdon Hart, a dry, witty, prescient, multi-millionaire, tongue-in-cheek cross between James Bond and Sherlock Holmes, who’s in love with a much older woman.

      Kate’s most recent work is the Christian Second Chance for Lasting Love series, Sweets By the Sea, a saga of Recovery and Redemption; which her readers say is even sweeter than Màiri’s adventures.

      More from Kate

      If you want incident-crammed stories that seamlessly integrate Christian values, you’re in the right place. Why is that? Because my own Christian faith is a seamless part of my life. How can you separate everyday life and faith? Don’t ask me, because I can’t.

      I wrote Màiri Maguire to make people laugh during a dark time; and I wrote Eric and Lily to give hope and understanding to the families of addicts in recovery, to shine a light on thought processes and emotions which are opaque to most of us; and which those of us with a friend or loved one in recovery would like to understand better. Because I’m a storyteller, not a counsellor, I also tried to tell you a story that would make you both laugh and cry, a story worth taking time to enjoy. I hope that you will decide to spend a little time with Eric and Lily, and that you will find the expenditure of your time to be worthwhile.

      Q& A with Kate Darroch

      Why did you choose the Women’s Fiction genre?

      I believe that the story chooses the writer, not the other way around. In November 2022, I decided to write a historical mystery. I had a strong idea, a strong plotline, clearly defined characters, and I was pretty sure the story would be a hit. I had truly gorgeous covers made for that series. And I still haven’t written the first book. I’ve written Cozy mysteries, family life, tongue-in-cheek ghost stories, traditional sleuth send-ups, a thriller, a heist, a caper, and now, with Thanksgiving in Welcombe Bay, I’ve written a Redemption & Recovery story with faith and heart. But Belle’s life in 1812 is still on the back burner. Why? Who knows? The muse goes where she listeth.

      What types of research do you pursue?

      My life has been my research. I’ve written two series for my Cozy sleuth Màiri Maguire, who is a Scots Irish school teacher living during the period of the IRA bombings in Britain, 1970 to 1975. I lived through that period myself, and twice was scant seconds away from very gory death. My sister and my best friend are school teachers. Màiri is a native Glaswegian, and I was raised in Glasgow. Her first series is a Travel Cozies series, and I have lived in every city she visits and know those cities well.

      My humorous Huntingdon Hart series is set in London, where I lived for 17 years, and he is a racecourse aficionado, as I am myself. I knew Dick Francis. Thanksgiving in Welcombe Bay is about an alcoholic journalist in early recovery in Alcoholics Anonymous, who falls in love with a Christian woman haunted by memories of domestic abuse. I worked on a newspaper in Fleet Street for 3 years; and I am no stranger to the horrors of domestic violence or active alcoholism.

      Does that mean that my stories are autobiographical? No. Every writer puts something of themselves into their work, and something too of the people whom they know, but there is very little of my personal life history in my stories. Màiri and I both enjoy sparkling mineral water, that’s about it.

      How long does it usually take to craft your books?

      I begin with an idea, which I put on paper at once. I often write a bare-bones outline and the first chapter at the same time as writing down the idea. After that, I usually write two chapters each time I sit down to write. Occasionally only one chapter, sometimes three. So in theory it might take me a month to write a story. But in practice it takes much, much, longer. After I’ve written something, I have to let it lie fallow for a while, and then the edit process begins. My edit is rigorous. I agree with Lew Hunter that your work needs 9 separate polishes before it’s ready for other eyes. So my edit will take 2 months or longer. Once I’m satisfied, I send my work to beta readers. And when they see my story that’s been polished 9times, my beta readers find a barrelful of new flaws. So typically I’m 2 weeks or more in beta. And then I have to edit all over again. On average, I’d say it takes me 4 or 5 months to craft a novel. Novellas are faster, I can usually finish a novella in 6 weeks or so. I rarely take more than a single day to write a short story; but the editing means that it’s more than a month before the story is ready for print.

        Can you tell us a little about what inspired your latest novel.

        Thanksgiving in Welcombe Bay is a Christian tale of recovery and redemption, of forgiveness and a second chance for lasting love. Two things inspired me to write this story. The first was that I received the 2022 Incipere Award for Best Christian Fiction for my debut novel, Death in Paris. I was stunned, because Death in Paris is a Cozy murder mystery in which my heroine just happens to be a cradle Catholic, in the same way that G K Chesterton’s sleuth Father Brown just happens to be a Catholic priest. But then I thought about it, and I realised that just as my own faith is an integral part of my life, my heroine’s practice of her faith is a pretty significant part of her story. So I thought, well, maybe I should try to write a Christian story – because it’s a hard world out there, a lot of terrible things happen, and we all need the hope and solace that faith brings. Thanksgiving in Welcombe Bay is the result.

        The other part of my reason for writing this particular story is that I wanted to shine a light on the disease of alcoholism in a sympathetic yet realistic way. Most stories about alcoholism are melodramatic and extremely unrealistic. Most people who love alcoholics find their attitudes and actions incomprehensible. I wanted to make a little tiny bit of a difference, bring a morsel of hope to the table. So I wrote this book. In the short time since release it has won 3 awards (including the 2023 Incipere Award for Best Christian Fiction) and was chosen by Publishers Weekly for their Love and Relationships Indie Spotlight, an accolade awarded to only a handful of books. More importantly to me, a number of readers have written to share with me how this book has impacted their lives.

        Readers always want to know what is next for an author. Do you have any works in progress you can share about?

          I’ve recently written 3 more stories in the Welcombe Bay Sweets by the Sea series, a prequel and two later books, and I shall be writing a fourth. This morning a new idea came to me, a gift from the muse. It’s a story which revolves around social mores, and it carries a little more of a message than my work usually does.

          For those who are waiting for some more of my usual fun fluffy stories, you will not be disappointed. Màiri is going time-travelling, back to the 1920s; and Hunt is going to get marooned in a most unlikely place, where he will, as usual, confound his critics by saving the day in a totally unexpected way.

          Blog Stops

          Stories By Gina, June 22 (Author Interview)

          Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, June 23

          Artistic Nobody, June 24 (Author Interview)

          Holly’s Book Corner, June 24

          Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, June 25

          Guild Master, June 26 (Author Interview)

          Texas Book-aholic, June 27

          For the Love of Literature, June 28 (Author Interview)

          Locks, Hooks and Books, June 29

          By The Book, June 30 (Author Interview)

          An Author’s Take, July 1

          Blossoms and Blessings, July 2 (Author Interview)

          Happily Managing a Household of Boys, July 3

          A Reader’s Brain, July 4 (Author Interview)

          Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, July 5 (Author Interview)

          Pause for Tales, July 5

          Giveaway

          To celebrate her tour, Kate is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and an eBook copy of the four books in the series: Cookies & Eggnog from Welcombe Bay, Thanksgiving in Welcombe Bay, Christmas in Welcombe Bay, and New Beginnings in Welcombe Bay!!

          Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

          https://promosimple.com/ps/2c06e/thanksgiving-in-welcombe-bay-celebration-tour-giveaway

          Tags: ,

          Author, Author! — Xochitl Dixon

          28 Apr

          About The Book

          Book: What Color is God’s Love?

          Author: Xochitl Dixon

          Genre: Children’s Picture Book

          Release date: March 19, 2024

          All the colors displayed in this world that God made—
          every glorious, fabulous, beautiful shade—show how good God is and will always be.But what is the color of love? Come and see! In What Color is God’s Love?, a little girl and her service dog join their diverse friends through a whirlwind of adventures. As they celebrate the spectacular spectrum of colors God designed, each color invites readers to explore their God-given emotions and becomes a reminder of God’s unchanging character. While encouraging children to acknowledge God’s constant presence with every turn of the page, What Color is God’s Love? also empowers children, with and without disabilities, to play, work, and serve God together, by simply letting the colors of His love shine through them. With each turn of the page, the focus shifts to a specific color—orange, yellow, blue, green, pink, black, white, gray, brown, red, purple. Each lyrical rhyme invites readers to engage with God
          through empowering and faith-building truth-statements that incite worship and encourage a lifestyle of loving God and neighbors.

          Click here to get your copy!

          About The Author

          Xochitl (So-Cheel) Dixon, contributing writer for Our Daily Bread and God Hears Her, is the author of Waiting for God: Trusting Daily in God’s Plan and Pace. She loves Jesus and people, as she crosses cultural, generational, and international lines with encouraging and sound biblical teaching. Celebrating diversity and inclusion, she advocates for disability awareness with her beautifully diverse family and her
          service dog, Callie. Her first children’s picture book, Different Like Me, now available in Spanish, is a 2021 ECPA Christian Book Award Children’s Book Finalist. In March 2024, Xochitl’s second picture book, What Color is God’s Love?, is releasing with WaterBrook.

          More from Xochitl

          The Heart Behind My Story

          By Xochitl Dixon

          Like most of my writing, What Color is God’s Love? began as an overflow of worship while I prayed and praised God. In 2018, my husband and I had followed God from California to Wisconsin. I’m disabled and can’t drive, so his long hours at work left me feeling isolated while I searched for a new church and new doctors. As the weather became more extreme, I grew more discouraged, frustrated, and resentful. I struggled as I wrote my first 31-day devotional for Our Daily Bread, Waiting for God: Trusting Daily in God’s Plan and Pace. I was praying for people, studying and teaching the Bible every day. So, I couldn’t figure out why I felt so out of touch with God.

          When my new puppy, Callie, licked my tears away, I looked out the window and noticed the rain had finally stopped. Rays of sunlight pierced through the dark gray clouds, shining on a white heron that had landed in the greed foliage on the creek’s bank next to our front yard. I wept tears of grateful praise. I wrote the first draft of a free verse poem celebrating God’s loving care for the details in Creation and in the lives of His people.

          As I prayed, I realized I had been spending time talking to people about God. However, as the physical, emotional, and mental effects of our transition overwhelmed me, I had stopped spending quality time withGod. As I watched the white heron take flight, God led me to Psalm 33:6-9, which became the first What Color is God’s Love? Bookend Bible verse.

          I released Waiting for God in 2019 and my first picture book, Different Like Me, in 2020. But God had me tuck that free verse poem away as He dramatically transformed me and the original manuscript over the next few years. I wanted to give young image-bearers what I never had growing up: a safe place to process emotions . . . in God’s presence. I also wanted God’s beautifully diverse image-bearers, people with and without disabilities, to see each color as a reminder of His unchanging character, unlimited power, and unwavering grace, as they experienced His unconditional love flowing for them, in them, and throughthem.

          After I signed the contract in November 2021, God began leading me to the right Bible verses to build the messages for each color I shared. Over time, I created the Breath Prayer Cards as a free download on my website, the YouVersion reading plan, and the devotional for the rest of the colors not shared in the reading plan.

          I wanted each color to be a reminder of God’s unchanging character, unlimited power, and unwavering grace as we experience His unconditional love flowing for, in, and through us. More importantly, I began praying that everyone who read What Color is God’s Love? would be inspired to open their Bibles and spend more time with God, including me.

          Q & A With Xochitl Dixon

          Many authors say that they have always been a writer — making up stories as a child. When did you first become a writer?

          I guess I am the stereotype writer then, because I was always a storyteller. I would make up stories and act them out as a child. I won my first Young Authors Award when I was in 3rd Grade with a story I wrote and illustrated, Sonny Otter and the Four Seasons.

          Was there a special someone, such as a teacher, parent, or other relative, who encouraged you to pursue writing?

          My mom nurtured a love for reading and creative writing ever since I was a kid. When I served as her caregiver in 2014, she told me that she had always dreamed that I would become a writer and said she hoped that I would use writing to encourage others the way she saw me encouraging people at the cancer care center.

          How did you choose the genres you write?

          I didn’t choose a genre. I follow God. I started out writing contemporary fiction for teens and women. However, God led me to write devotions during a Christian writers’ conference in 2011. I sold my first devotion and six short stories at that conference.

          I edited a few Bible studies for teens with an editor I met in 2010. When she moved to ODB in 2015, she recommended me for an interview. I began serving as a contributing writer for Our Daily Bread and God Hears Her. Our Daily Bread published my first 31-Day devotional, Waiting for God: Trusting Daily in God’s Plan and Pace in 2019 and my first children’s book, Different Like Me, in 2020.

          I just released my second children’s book with WaterBrook, What Color is God’s Love?, and my third children’s book, Wonderfully, Marvelously Brown, is available for pre-order now. I’ve even been able to contribute to Tyndale’s Go Bible for Kids, which releases Fall 2024. I have a new devotional being released by Our Daily Bread in 2025 and will be recording both of my ODB devotionals this summer for audio books.

          Even though my writing journey is a bit different from the traditional path, I’ve been happy following God’s plan and pace. I just want to share God’s truth and love to the ends of the earth and I don’t care how. He’s been allowing me to do this with my words in different genres ever since 2012. I’m grateful for the ministry opportunities!

          Were there any obstacles you faced in your journey to publication?

          Writing in multiple genres makes marketing and promoting a difficult balance. But God led me to this path, so I’m trusting Him to handle all the details.

          What does a typical writing day look like? Are you structured or informal in your writing schedule?

          Bible reading and praying is always a part of my writing process. I have a back injury and am considered permanently disabled, so I don’t really have a typical writing day. I work when I can work. I listen to my body and rest when I need to rest. I don’t wait to be inspired, I ask God to give me the words to write when I sit down to write and then I just allow myself to write without editing myself.

            Blog Stops

            Lots of Helpers, April 24

            Texas Book-aholic, April 25

            Vicky Sluiter, April 26 (Author Interview)

            BookZone Reviews , April 27

            By The Book, April 28 (Author Interview)

            Mary Hake, April 28

            Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, April 29

            Splashes of Joy, April 30 (Author Interview)

            Happily Managing a Household of Boys, May 1

            Beauty in the Binding, May 2 (Author Interview)

            Locks, Hooks and Books, May 3

            Sylvan Musings, May 4 (Author Interview)

            Guild Master, May 4

            Artistic Nobody, May 5

            Blossoms and Blessings, May 6 (Author Interview)

            Library Lady’s Kid Lit, May 7

            Giveaway

            To celebrate her tour, Xochitl is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card, a copy of Different Like Me, and What Color is God’s Love?!!

            Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

            https://promosimple.com/ps/2b144/what-color-is-god-s-love-celebration-tour-giveaway

            Tags: ,

            Author, Author — JW Gilbert and Mojave Rock

            21 Mar

            About The Book

            Book: Mojave Rock

            Author: JW Gilbert

            Genre: Christian Fiction – Action/Adventure

            Release Date: March, 2024

            Arcon forsook his new life of adventure in the outside world to fulfill his destiny with ArcPoint. But the return to his forest home is short-lived—he and Ranger Dan have been called to Jerusalem to meet Central Authority and discover the fate of ArcPoint. A new adventure begins, starting with a round-the-world trip by tube train—something Arcon never thought possible. With its expanded cast of extraordinary characters and a fresh romance, Mojave Rock is the conclusion to the ArcPoint trilogy about reconciliation and truth replacing fear and suspicion.

            Click here to get your copy!

            About The Author

            John Gilbert Wozniak (JW Gilbert) grew up in an Oregon farm town. He retired in 2016 as an international data center cooling expert. Around the turn of the century, he began writing as a hobby. After years of expert guidance and a lot of editing, his ArcPoint trilogy is complete. His intent is to write books that are enjoyed by all ages—biblically accurate—with a touch of adventure, romance, and humor. JW has been married to his best friend Darlene since 1980. They are both retired and enjoy the hobby of creating lapidary jewelry. He is a member of Oregon Christian Writers, Mensa, ALLi, and the Tualatin Valley Gem Club.

            More from JW

            The ArcPoint trilogy finally reaches its conclusion with Mojave Rock. I ramp up the humor and romance a little, just to make it interesting. A few of the minor characters play a larger role. We get to see how Arcon travels around the world without floating on water or flying through the air. And we get a glimpse of what this world is like with the Prince of Peace ruling the planet.

            I also move more toward science fiction with Mojave Rock. I wanted to show how mankind cleaned up our planet, after the tribulation era gave us wars, earthquakes, famines, and other forms of death and destruction. When lawlessness made all of us want to hide as ArcPoint did. As technology helped us, there were always people who used it to harm us.

            It was fun to contemplate how accident-free high-speed travel could be accomplished. How could we use it to feed the world? In fact, what would world travel be like without war zones, national borders, corrupt government officials, currency exchange, pickpockets, and terrorists? Can you imagine retail stores without shoplifters? Email without spam? Facial recognition without invasion of privacy? No frauds, scammers, or identity thieves? All of that may sound like heaven, but it’s not. That’s another time and place.

            So, how will ArcPoint react to connecting with the outside world again? They were already free of the things listed above. World peace didn’t concern them, since inner peace was a common commodity. Will they leave their oasis in the former desert? Will their community be overrun with strangers? Will Arcon and Elaina marry? It’s worth reading Mojave Rock to find out.

            Q & A with JW Gilbert

            Many authors say that they have always been a writer — making up stories as a child. When did you first become a writer?

            Officially, around the turn of the century, when I was in my forties. However, in my teens I did write a doozy of a short story for school. It was supposed to be a serious solution for the entire senior class surviving being sunk to the bottom of the ocean in a submarine. I fabricated something more like a comedy skit. Teacher said if it had a bibliography, it was an easy ‘A’.

            Was there a special someone, such as a teacher, parent, or other relative, who encouraged you to pursue writing?

            Certainly never as a career (I flunked English three times). But a number of people said I should write down miracles I’d witnessed since I’d seen quite a few. I included some of them in my first fiction book, then over 150 of them later as short stories.

            Why did you choose the action/adventure genre?

            I chose action/adventure because that’s what I liked to read, and it’s hard to find in Christian Fiction.

            Were there any obstacles you faced in your journey to publication?

            I’d say the only real obstacle has been that the action/adventure genre is not necessarily what traditional Christian publishers want to invest in. Self-publishing has worked, but there’s a steep learning curve and it can be difficult to market books that fall within an emerging genre.

            What types of research do you pursue? Books, on-site visits, etc.

            For the Bible prophecy aspect, I intentionally avoided commentary and searched the Bible only, finding over 1300 verses from 49 of its books. For earthly things—such as the Mojave Desert, climate change, GMO’s, tube trains, and horticulture—I used mostly resource books, internet articles, subject matter experts, and personal experience.

            What does a typical writing day look like? Are you structured or informal in your writing schedule?

            Very informal. Since I’m retired, I can write whenever I find the time.

            How long does it usually take to craft your books? (from outlines/first drafts to final edits)

            I’ve done a rough draft in three weeks, but usually three months. The rest takes one to two years (with help).

            Can you tell us a little about what inspired your latest novel?

            Isaiah 26:20 — Come, my people, enter into your rooms and close your doors behind you. Hide for a little while, until indignation runs its course. I thought, what if some people hid so well from tribulation, that they weren’t aware when Jesus returned?

            What do you want your readers to take away with them after finishing one of your novels?

            Hope. Based on the many Bible verses I’ve collected, Jesus is soon returning to establish His government and world peace. Can you imagine no corrupt governments and no wars? I can, now.

            Readers always want to know what is next for an author. Do you have any works in progress you can share about?

            A prequel to the ArcPoint trilogy, Mojave Lee, will be out sometime this year. I’m also working on rewriting my first two books. When I have time, I’m considering writing a sci-fi sort of story.

            Blog Stops

            Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, March 19 (Author Interview)

            Vicky Sluiter, March 20 (Author Interview)

            Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 20

            By The Book, March 21 (Author Interview)

            Texas Book-aholic, March 22

            Library Lady’s Kid Lit, March 23 (Author Interview)

            Locks, Hooks and Books, March 24

            Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 25 (Author Interview)

            Happily Managing a Household of Boys, March 26

            Artistic Nobody, March 27 (Author Interview)

            Blogging With Carol, March 28

            Guild Master, March 29 (Author Interview)

            A Reader’s Brain, March 30 (Author Interview)

            Mary Hake, March 30

            A Modern Day Fairy Tale, March 31 (Author Interview)

            The Lofty Pages, April 1

            Giveaway

            To celebrate his tour, J.W. is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a print copy of Mojave Rock!!

            Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

            https://promosimple.com/ps/2a8f3/mojave-rock-celebration-tour-giveaway

            Tags: , ,

            Spotlight + Author Interview — Last Disciple

            12 Mar

            About The Book

            Book: The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus

            Author: Kurt Brouwer

            Genre: Christian Historical Fiction

            Release Date: March 15, 2024

            He awoke jailed in squalor…

            Would he complete his final mission?

            Or would he fail to record the story only he could tell?

            The epic saga of the Last Disciple continues in this captivating Christian historical novel from Kurt Brouwer.

            After surviving imprisonment, John faces his greatest challenge–exile in the distant city of Ephesus. Struggling with grief and despair over the destruction of Jerusalem, John doubts his ability to complete the mission entrusted to him by Mary—to write the true gospel account of Christ’s life.

            But in Ephesus, John finds unexpected allies—Timothy, Priscilla, and Tychicus, who share his passion for spreading the message of God’s love.

            As John shares the good news of Jesus, he makes dangerous enemies, including the influential high priest, Alexander Cosmo, who will stop at nothing to suppress the growing Christian faith.

            Amid opposition from without and internal divisions from within the early church, John must contend with those pressuring believers to adopt Jewish law and compromise the radical teachings of Christ.

            When tragedy strikes those close to him, can John’s fragile hope be rekindled? Will he finally show the world all the signs, miracles, and events he witnessed on his journey with Jesus?

            Don’t miss this page-turning story of faith, courage, and love.

            Click here to get your copy!

            About The Author

            Kurt is a Christian and a member of a vibrant Christian church on the Big Island of Hawaii. He also loves to write. In addition to all the usual temptations writers face, Kurt has to fight off the lure of beautiful beaches, pounding surf, great weather, and lush golf courses. Can you imagine?

            Despite those temptations, he writes The Last Disciple series of Christian historical novels and he regularly writes blog posts.

            A few years ago Kurt did a study for his church on the Apostle John. That little project got him hooked on the man who started out life as a fisherman and then became the last disciple of Christ. The more Kurt learned about John, the more he wanted to know.

            If you’ve ever been obsessed by anything, you’ll understand that he couldn’t stop researching the life of John and all those around him. And the result of all that research is:

            The Last Disciple Series

            The Last Disciple is a series of Christian novels based on the Bible and Christian history. The first in the series: The Last Disciple: Crisis in Jerusalem, begins in the year 62 AD. In it, you walk with John through the streets of Jerusalem. See how he faces multiple crises and comes to understand what it is to stand alone and lean only on the Lord.

            This book, The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus is the third in the series, with two more books planned. Kurt is now writing the fourth book, The Last Disciple: Gospel of John.

            More from Kurt

            It all started one day when I learned that the Gospel of John was published fifty years after Jesus died. Fifty years! What did John do all that time? Where did he live? Why did he wait?

            But wait, there’s more. On the Cross, Jesus placed his own mother under John’s protection. How long did John take care of her? Where did they live?

            I think you can tell I got a little obsessive about this man, who outlived all the others to become the last disciple.

            In fact, that very phrase, the last disciple, came to me early one morning when I was reading about John and Peter going to Samaria in Acts 8. John lived so long that he outlived all the others and became the last disciple.

            The Youngest Disciple

            What do we know about John? He walked with Jesus when he was very young, probably a teenager or very early 20s. He and Andrew were the first disciples of Christ. Before that, they both followed John the Baptist.

            Anyone who reads the New Testament would know John as:

            • The son of Zebedee, his father, and Salome, his mother
            • Brother to the disciple James
            • A fisherman on the Sea of Galilee
            • He and his brother James were friends and even fishing buddies with Peter and his brother Andrew
            • Youngest of the 12 disciples.
            • Author of five books of the Bible:
              • The Gospel of John 80-90 AD
              • The Letters or Epistles of John 90-95 AD
              • The Book of Revelation 95-98 AD

            But after the mention in Acts 8, that’s it for John. Radio silence for nearly 50 years. Why did it take him so long to write the Gospel of John? And that is the very question I seek to answer in The Last Disciple Series.

            The Last Disciple Series

            The Last Disciple is a series of Christian novels based on the Bible and Christian history. The first in the series: The Last Disciple: Crisis in Jerusalem, begins in the year 62 AD. In it, you walk with John through the streets of Jerusalem. See how he faces multiple crises and comes to understand what it is to stand alone and lean only on the Lord.

            This book, The Last Disciple: Exile in Ephesus is the third in the series, following The Last Disciple: Escape to Antioch and The Last Disciple: Crisis in Jerusalem. 

            I’m now writing the fourth book, The Last Disciple: Gospel of John.

            Q & A with Kurt Brouwer

            Many authors say that they have always been a writer — making up stories as a child. When did you first become a writer?

            Won a creative writing contest at my first college.

            Why did you choose the historical fiction genre?

            It chose me.

            Were there any obstacles you faced in your journey to publication?

            Dozens, maybe hundreds.

            What types of research do you pursue? Books, on-site visits, etc.

            Incessant reading, thinking, Going to obscure books, websites, Ph.D theses, travelogues, the Bible.

            What does a typical writing day look like? Are you structured or informal in your writing schedule?

            Not all that structured. I just write all the time. Right now I’m writing this while watching Larry Bird ‘trash talk’ videos on You Tube.

            How long does it usually take to craft your books? (from outlines/first drafts to final edits)

            Six to eight months.

            Can you tell us a little about what inspired your latest novel?

            It all started one morning when I learned that the Gospel of John was published fifty years after Jesus died. Fifty years! What did John do all that time? Where did he live? Why did he wait? Frankly I got a little obsessive about John, the man who became the last disciple. That morning something else hit me–John outlived all the others to become the last disciple. I couldn’t stop thinking about how lonely it must have been to be the last one standing. A few years later, I began writing The Last Disciple Series of Christian historical novels about the life of John. 

            What do you want your readers to take away with them after finishing one of your novels?

            One of my readers expressed precisely what I’m trying to do on a survey on my website. The reader wrote, ‘I hunger to learn more of the Bible and the interpretation of scripture as it relates to historical significance and current application.’ That’s what I’m writing to accomplish.

            Readers always want to know what is next for an author. Do you have any works in progress you can share about?

            About one third through Book four in The Last Disciple Series

              Blog Stops

              Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 2

              Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, March 3 (Author Interview)

              Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 4

              Texas Book-aholic, March 5

              Beauty in the Binding, March 6 (Author Interview)

              Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, March 7

              She Lives To Read, March 8

              For the Love of Literature, March 9 (Author Interview)

              Exploring the written word, March 9

              Blogging With Carol, March 10

              Locks, Hooks and Books, March 11

              By The Book, March 12 (Author Interview)

              Cover Lover Book Review, March 13

              Lights in a Dark World, March 14

              Library Lady’s Kid Lit, March 15 (Author Interview)

              Mary Hake, March 15

              Giveaway

              To celebrate his tour, Kurt is giving away the grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

              Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

              https://promosimple.com/ps/2a3f6/the-last-disciple-exile-in-ephesus-celebration-tour-giveaway

              Tags: ,

              Author, Author! — The Samaritan’s Patient

              10 Mar

              About The Book

              Book: The Samaritan’s Patient

              Author: Chevron Ross

              Genre: Contemporary Fiction / Teen Christian Fiction

              Release Date: January 25, 2024

              Teenager Paige Abernathy awakens after a severe beating to find that she suffers from amnesia, and that everyone seems to hate her.

              She has only flashes of memory until the night a grieving parent attacks her in her hospital room. Paige then remembers her role as creator of an online group where members talk about ways to commit suicide.

              After recovering from the beating, Paige embarks on a journey of penance to atone for a disaster born of good intentions. Her odyssey launches her on a mission of mercy and into new danger.

              The Samaritan’s Patient is a thought-provoking novel about navigating the treacherous waters of social media.

              Click here to get your copy!

              About The Author

              Chevron Ross is a pseudonym for someone unimportant. He is not a writer, but God keeps putting ideas into his head that somehow turn into stories. If you like them, be sure to offer God a prayer of thanks.

              More from Chevron

              Behind the Scenes

              This novel might never have been born had I not seen an interview on PBS with two New York Times writers, Megan Twohey and Gabriel Dance, on December 16, 2021.

              These reporters did an extensive investigation into a website on which subscribers discussed committing suicide and shared methods for doing so. Most visitors to the site were thirty or younger. There were 1.2 million messages. At least forty-five suicides in multiple countries were linked to the site.

              At the time of this broadcast, I had just completed my second novel, The Seven-Day Resurrection, and was wondering what to do next. The PBS interview was so shocking that I could not stop thinking about it. What motive could a person have for encouraging strangers to kill themselves? What could one possibly gain from such an endeavor? And what could provoke someone to throw away the gift of life at such a youthful age?

              Each of my novels has been the result of an inspiration from God. Once He puts an idea into my head, it consumes my imagination until I cannot stop working. As you might imagine from the title, The Samaritan’s Patient is a blend of two stories: the famous parable of Jesus in the Bible, and a young person with good intentions who gets caught up in a social media nightmare.

              God did all the work on this book. He created the character of Paige Abernathy and told me how to build the novel around the circumstances of her personal life—her parents, her friends, and most of all, her Christian faith. He also created the crisis that launches her on a journey of new experiences and personal growth.

              I am amazed and grateful that God would choose someone so ordinary and unaccomplished as myself to do this work. Each novel God has written through me has been a great personal gift, and a reaffirmation that God has a plan for each of us. I pray that The Samaritan’s Patient will be as great a blessing to its readers as it has been to me.

              Q & A with Chevron Ross

              Many authors say that they have always been a writer — making up stories as a child. When did you first become a writer?

              I have never considered myself a writer, although I have some minor business writing experience. I chose the pen name Chevron Ross to make sure no one knows who I am, so that God gets all the credit for the novels He writes through me. 

              Why did you choose Christian Fiction?

              It would be more accurate to say that Christian Fiction chose me. When God put Weapons of Remorse into my head seven years ago, I knew that He wanted it to be about a Christian man struggling with his conscience as a gun rights advocate. Once I had that foundation, everything else fell into place.

              Were there any obstacles you faced in your journey to publication?

              They are the same that all novice authors face today: learning about the book business, attracting attention to one’s work, the cost of self-publishing. The biggest obstacle is constant doubt as to whether I am good enough to do what God is asking me to do.

              How long does it usually take to craft your books? (from outlines/first drafts to final edits)

              Weapons of Remorse, the first novel, took three years. No matter how many drafts I went through, it never felt quite right. The hardest part was the opening scene. It seemed so awkward. Finally, I realized that it didn’t work because I was trying to write it myself instead of letting God write through me. Once I let go, He put the words into my head. The rest of the process was editing and proofreading.

              Can you tell us a little about what inspired your latest novel?

              The Samaritan’s Patient might never have been born had I not seen a PBS interview with two New York Times writers, Megan Twohey and Gabriel Dance, on December 16, 2021. These reporters did an extensive investigation into a website on which subscribers discussed committing suicide and shared methods for doing so. Most visitors to the site were thirty or younger. There were 1.2 million messages. At least forty-five suicides in multiple countries were linked to the site.

              Blog Stops

              The Lofty Pages, March 9

              By The Book, March 10 (Author Interview)

              Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, March 11

              For the Love of Literature, March 12 (Author Interview)

              Texas Book-aholic, March 13

              Tell Tale Book Reviews, March 14 (Author Interview)

              Inspired by Fiction, March 14

              Locks, Hooks and Books, March 15

              Splashes of Joy, March 16 (Author Interview)

              Becca Hope: Book Obsessed, March 16

              Pause for Tales, March 17

              Guild Master, March 18 (Author Interview)

              Library Lady’s Kid Lit, March 19

              A Reader’s Brain, March 20 (Author Interview)

              Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, March 21

              Artistic Nobody, March 22 (Author Interview)

              Giveaway

              To celebrate his tour, Chevron is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!

              Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

              https://promosimple.com/ps/2a555/the-samaritan-s-patient-celebration-tour-giveaway

              Tags: ,

              Spotlight On Historical Romance Audiobook — Labor Of Love

              17 Feb

              About The Book

              Book: Labor of Love

              Author: Marguerite Martin Gray

              Narrated: Christa DelSorbo

              Genre: Christian Historical Romance

              Release Date: September 21, 2023

              Something sinister lurks in Pitti Palace.

              Despite having spent eight years as companion to her cousins, Ana Geovani still questions her role and place in the Medici household. This uncertainty compounds and alarms as her cousin’s marriage approaches and a marriage is arranged for Ana.

              With no say in her own future, fear and despair dulls even the splendor of the gardens she holds so dear.

              As the newest under-gardener at the palace, Marco Rossi should have everything he’s dreamed of—beautiful gardens to tend and master architects and gardeners to learn from. Yet a secret mission threatens his peace of mind, his position, and even the love of Ana. Although God is always with him, reminding him of a bigger plan, Marco feels the weight of the consequences he will face if he challenges a Medici member.

              The desires of men and women, both royal and common, create costly dilemmas and potential disasters of hearts and souls. What will it take for Marco and Ana to prevail against everything driving them apart?

              Click HERE to get your copy!

              About The Author

              Marguerite Martin Gray is the author of the Revolutionary Faith series, Gardens in Time series, and Room for Love in the Suamalie Islands series. She enjoys researching and studying history. An avid traveler and reader, she teaches French and Spanish. She currently lives in North Louisiana with her husband and rescue pets. Her two adult children and two grandsons keep her up to date and young.

              More from Marguerite

              My audio book experience.

              Do you enjoy audio books? They have become special companions since I now work at home. My first experience with audio books involved cassettes on long road trips which morphed into CDs. I would purchase the ones I knew I could listen to again or pass on to someone else. The library became a source to fulfill my burgeoning habit.

              It took me a while to consider audible books as a “reading” endeavor. But when I really thought about it, I changed my mind. As I listen, I am challenged with new and old vocabulary words where I must deduce the meaning from the context. My concentration is zeroed in on the story unless I miss some strategic details similar to straying on a page and not knowing what is going on. I have the same euphoric reaction as the plot unfolds.

              Now, I’m never without an audio book. When I was offered the opportunity to have Labor of Love presented in audio format, my heart quivered knowing what joy it could bring to readers while doing housework, caring for loved ones, or relaxing in a comfy chair. I hope you enjoy this format as much as I do.

              Happy reading!

              Q & A with Marguerite Martin Gray

              Was there a special someone, such as a teacher, parent, or other relative, who encouraged you to pursue writing?

              Labor of Love is dedicated to three people who encouraged me to be creative in my writing. Mr. Barry Lawrence was my teacher in England for a very formative year at Devonshire Park Primary School. He taught me French and a love for culture and how to journal. Mrs. Donna Underwood was my journalism teacher in high school who taught me the love of research and facts. Mr. Donnie Barmore was my senior high school year history teacher who introduced historical fiction to me. These teachers as well as my parents encouraged me in my writing endeavors.

              Why did you choose the historical romance genre?

              I had the opportunity to travel all over Europe when I lived in England with my family as a preteen. My parents presented the history of the castles, churches, and houses in interesting ways. I am fascinated with the lives of the men and women in history. I love placing characters in a historical setting and seeing what happens.

              What types of research do you pursue? Books, on-site visits, etc. 

              I collect physical books for my research when I can. For this book I bought twelve books for my library. I also research online for details that I miss in the resources I have. For my historical books, I have visited the countries, towns, palaces, and gardens in person. Labor of Love takes place in Florence. I make it a point to visit as often as possible. In the summer of 2023, I visited the palace and the gardens again in Florence. 

              How long does it usually take to craft your books? (from outlines/first drafts to final edits)

              Because my books are historical, I spend about three months researching. I am a planner so I form my outline before I start writing. For a 90,000 word manuscript, I usually write 30,000 words a month. I have an editor that edits the document before I send it to the publisher. From my research to sending it to the publisher is about seven months. Then the publisher has it for about a year which has more edits before publication. 

              Can you tell us a little about what inspired your latest novel?

              Labor of Love is the first in the Gardens in Time series. I love gardens, palaces, and Europe. I chose Florence, Italy and the formation of the Boboli Gardens in 1560. As a child I ran with my sisters through these gardens, and as an adult I walked the paths, wondering about the past citizens of the property. My imagination attached to the beauty and mysterious characters who formed the history. 

              Blog Stops

              Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 7

              Texas Book-aholic, February 8

              By the Book, February 9

              Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, February 10 (Author Interview)

              Devoted To Hope, February 10

              Exploring the Written Word, February 11

              Locks, Hooks and Books, February 12

              Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 13

              For the Love of Literature, February 14 (Author Interview)

              For Him and My Family, February 15

              Holly’s Book Corner, February 16

              By The Book, February 17 (Author Interview)

              Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 18

              Back Porch Reads, February 19

              Artistic Nobody, February 20 (Author Interview)

              Mary Hake, February 20

              Giveaway

              To celebrate her tour, Marguerite is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon gift card and an audiobook or eBook copy of the book!!

              Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

              https://promosimple.com/ps/29c50/labor-of-love-audiobook-celebration-tour-giveaway

              Tags: ,

              Spotlight On Non-Fiction + Author Interview — Refuge Of Grace

              17 Feb

              About The Book

              Book: Refuge of Grace: Finding Your Safe Place

              Author: Tracy L. Smoak

              Genre: Non-Fiction

              Release Date: September, 2023

              “This book is a life-saving manual meant for any soul who has bottomed out and can only look up for help.”
              — George Firehammer

              Need a stronger connection with God? A safe place?

              Anyone hoping for straight talk to bring Jesus close will find refreshment in Refuge of Grace. Learn from a fresh look at 22 little-told Bible passages via Tracy L. Smoak’s engaging storytelling and vivid imagery.

              These scriptures offer true comfort in your everyday struggles. From hearing Gomer’s perspective about shame to imagining Jesus arriving in a Rolls Royce for the family reunion, you will know God’s working on your behalf-right now.

              Click HERE to get your copy.

              About The Author

              A native Floridian, Tracy L. Smoak grew up riding horses and climbing citrus trees. Her passion is to encourage others in their faith journey. Smoak writes for Guideposts. Ambassador International released her debut novel, Who Brought the Dog to Church?. Bold Vision published her Bible study about encouragement titled Refuge of Grace: Finding Your Safe Place.

              She loves photography and authored two hardcover devotionals with her original nature art (Living Water to Refresh Your Soul – tranquil lake scenes; and Arranged with Love– floral landscapes).

              Smoak holds a master’s in Education and a bachelor’s in Communication. At her church home, she leads small-group Bible studies. She is an active member of Word Weavers International.

              More from Tracy

              When life knocks you down, where do you go for hope?

              We all want to be brave, but sometimes circumstances overwhelm us. Health declines, bank accounts empty, and friends disappear. No matter the disappointments, one absolute certainty we can count on is God. He will stand with us through every adversity.

              Ideas for Refuge of Grace: Finding Your Safe Place began at 3 a.m. on a January workday in 2021. I tossed and turned in bed, wondering how I could continue teaching in a public school under all the pandemic constraints. We wore masks, developed lesson plans for both in-class instruction and online modules, and juggled a revolving door of student quarantines with absences.

              Fear surrounded us on all sides.

              Others also struggled. My older son managed an emergency department in a large city and had to find ways to supply unprecedented needs. My younger son worked in the financial industry and watched markets reel. Neighbors lost jobs and income.

              How could we model resilience and move forward?

              I turned to the Bible for inspiration and studied stories about how believers overcame hardship. Six months and 22 chapters later—all the while teaching full time—this collection renewed hope and kept me going.

              My prayer is that reading these Bible promises of God’s faithfulness also will empower you.

              Q & A with Tracy L. Smoak

              Many authors say that they have always been a writer. When did you come to realize this?

              In school, I got nice feedback from teachers that I wrote well. Later, as a teacher myself, colleagues gave feedback that I had talent. But it wasn’t until I got a scholarship grant through my school district to attend the Northern Writing Project at George Mason University that I actively pursued publication. 

              Were there any obstacles you faced in your journey to publication?

                For 12 years, I tried to get a book contract. There was some interest, but starts fizzled. Told God I was tired of pursuing the dream and quit writing for nine years. The advent of this nonfiction caught me by surprise. Random ideas surfaced, but I didn’t realize there could be an actual book until 20,000 words in rough drafts grew in a three-month period. I am grateful for Bold Vision believing in a new voice and giving the opportunity to share. 

                What does a typical writing day look like? Are you structured or informal in your writing schedule?

                Early morning is my most productive time for creating. Later in the day, after the ideas have had time to marinate, I go back with an eye to edit and see where there is confusion or wordiness to revise. 

                How long does it usually take to write your books — from first outlines/ drafts to final edits?

                This book took close to three years for the full process of brainstorming to final layout.

                Please include any personal information you would like to share (family, hobbies, etc.)

                My two-year-old granddaughter calls me “Mimi.” Her parents are doing a great job introducing her to the love of reading, and she has shelves of books in her bedroom. I hope one day while she holds one of my books, long after I am gone, that she feels God closeness and understands the eternal legacy of His love.

                Blog Stops

                Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 9

                Artistic Nobody, February 10 (Author Interview)

                Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 11

                Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 12

                Fiction Book Lover, February 13 (Author Interview)

                Girls in White Dresses, February 14

                Its Mama Safe, February 15

                Beauty in the Binding, February 16 (Author Interview)

                By The Book, February 17 (Author Interview)

                Mary Hake, February 17

                Cover Lover Book Review, February 18

                A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 19 (Author Interview)

                Texas Book-aholic, February 20

                Simple Harvest Reads, February 21 (Author Interview)

                Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 21

                Locks, Hooks and Books, February 22

                Giveaway

                To celebrate her tour, Tracy is giving away the grand prize package of a paperback copy each of Who Brought the Dog to Church? and Refuge of Grace: Finding Your Safe Place!!

                Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

                https://promosimple.com/ps/29c57/refuge-of-grace-celebration-tour-giveaway

                Tags: ,

                Spotlight On Christian Living — Biblical Finances Jesus Christ: The Financial Advisor

                4 Feb

                About The Book

                Book: Biblical Finances Jesus Christ: The Financial Advisor

                Genre: Christian, Christian living, Finance, Wealth Management

                Release Date: May 3, 2023

                The objective of this book is to help readers manage their finances using biblical standards and principles. The main benefit of doing this is that our finances will be built on a sure foundation (Isaiah 33:6), which is our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and His Word. Jesus is concerned about every aspect of our lives, and the management of our finances is no exception. Throughout His Word, He gives us advice on how to get and manage the wealth He has made available to us. Therefore, it is imperative that we study the scriptures and apply them to our lives and finances. In summary, this book looks at wealth and finances from a biblical perspective.

                Click here to get your copy!

                About The Author

                Lisa Pedriel is a child of the King, who serves as an intercessor in the body of Jesus Christ. She gave her life to Him on March 25, 2017, while walking on Lily Drive in St. James, Barbados. She started off her writing journey by penning poems and love notes to the Lord. Lisa is a qualified accountant and an auditor by profession. She currently resides on her native island Saint Lucia and lives a quiet and private life.

                Q & A with Lisa Pedriel

                Many authors say that they have always been a writer. When did you come to realize this?

                I realized this after I gave my life to the Lord as I started to write poems to Him. It was a gift hidden within me but was unlocked when I chose to serve Him. 

                Were there any obstacles you faced in your journey to publication?

                No. Everything was divinely orchestrated. God granted me favor in every aspect of the process and I give Him praise for that. 

                Can you tell us a little about what inspired your book?

                A couple of years ago, I joined a youth ministry at my church and one day I was given the responsibility to speak to young people about financial literacy. In preparation for this speech, I decided to look at finances from a biblical perspective. As I continued to do my research, I realize that there was a book within me and that’s how Biblical Finances- Jesus Christ: The Financial Advisor was born. 

                What do you want your readers to take away with them after finishing Biblical Finances- Jesus Christ: The Financial Advisor.

                Sound financial principles are important, and the bible speaks about them however Jesus Christ is the true treasure. The bible says in Matthew 6:33 (NKJV) but seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. We are spiritually rich in Jesus Christ. 

                Readers always want to know what is next for an author. Do you have any works in progress you can share about?

                Yes. I am currently working on a new book called Biblical Leadership- Jesus Christ: The True Leader. This book will look at leadership from a biblical perspective. 

                Blog Stops

                Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, February 1

                Vicky Sluiter, February 2 (Author Interview)

                Locks, Hooks and Books, February 3

                By The Book, February 4 (Author Interview)

                Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 5 (Author Interview)

                Texas Book-aholic, February 5

                Simple Harvest Reads, February 6 (Author Interview)

                Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 7

                For the Love of Literature, February 8 (Author Interview)

                Because I said so – Adventures in parenting, February 9

                A Modern Day Fairy Tale, February 10 (Author Interview)

                Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 11

                Fiction Book Lover, February 12 (Author Interview)

                Beauty in the Binding, February 13 (Author Interview)

                Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, February 13

                Guild Master, February 14 (Author Interview)

                Tags: ,

                Spotlight + Author Interview — Muldoon’s Minnesota Darling

                3 Feb

                About The Book

                Book: Muldoon’s Minnesota Darling, a Novella

                Author: E.V. Sparrow

                Genre: Historical fiction

                Release Date: May 10, 2023

                A heartsore widower with hidden fears and little faith…
                The naïve daughter of a farmer guarding a repulsive secret…
                A township unaware of the hidden menace amongst them…

                Heartbroken from losing his family and his farm, Mick Muldoon is hopeful as he emigrates to America with his siblings. All he finds is despair and no work. Were America’s rumored promises of plenty all lies? Would God ever hear and answer his prayers?

                Seventeen-year-old Shauna McGann is determined to marry Mick Muldoon despite her mother’s objections. His past and his limp might repulse others, but not her. What burdens Shauna is her terrible secret – a secret she promised her friends she would keep. Now Shauna needs help and protection. Could she trust Mick, or will she lose everything by telling him?

                Will Mick finally be free of loss and find success in America? Will Shauna overcome her fears and finally feel safe?

                In this Muldoon’s Misfortunes prelude novella, author E.V. Sparrow creates a provoking tale of flickering faith and enduring hope through an emigrant’s efforts to adapt, and a young woman’s unprejudiced love.

                Click here to get your copy!

                **********

                About The Author

                E.V. Sparrow is a short story writer turned novelist. Her readers encounter God’s unexpected presence through her character’s escapades. Her own adventures she wrote about involved traveling in over twenty countries. Sparrow lived on an Israeli kibbutz, worked for the U.S. Army in Bavaria, and hopped a freight train for a weekend.

                A highlight for Sparrow is when Guideposts and Bethany House Publishers accepted four of her anthologized stories before she signed a 3-book historical fiction series contract with Celebrate Lit Publishing.

                Her father’s family’s immigration from Ireland, their letters and documents, and some family stories inspired her current historical fiction novels.

                In E.V.’s personal and church life, she ministered through prayer, worship, mission teams, and in Divorce Care and Singles. California native relocated to North Carolina, E.V. Sparrow and her husband enjoy family time with their grandchildren and exploring their new state.

                More from E.V.

                I’m writing books inspired by my father’s family because they believed in God but wrestled with their faith. Faith doesn’t come easy for every believer. We grapple with intimacy with God, but does God battle with us?

                My oldest brother shared some stories of our great-grandfather, who emigrated here after losing his wives and children in Ireland. Yes, at least two families. I wondered, how could a suffering heart and soul survive those losses? Our great-grandfather’s inner turmoil didn’t change once he resettled in America. I read letters he wrote to his son—our grandfather and sifted through family photos. Certain aspects from the timeline of great-grandfather’s life fashioned my main character, Mick Muldoon. Mick encountered God’s unexpected presence several times without recognizing it.

                Thinking through a Scripture verse, 1 Corinthians 13:13, (NIV) “And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love,” reveals what remains when all else we are accustomed to is gone. I assume hope is as powerful as faith and love. It’s a triangle of strength for us until it goes wobbly. What happens when one or two of the three stabilizers are weaker than the others? Wounded, confused, and resilient characters named Mick, Orla, and Liam Muldoon.

                Q & A with E. V. Sparrow

                Many authors say that they have always been a writer — making up stories as a child. When did you first become a writer?

                I was a storyteller from the time I could talk. Once I learned to read and write, I wrote my stories on paper with illustrations! I had a diary, then wrote essays in school, and as an adult, kept journals. Writing short stories started my writing career in 2015, before being offered a 3-book contract as a novelist.

                Was there a special someone, such as a teacher, parent, or other relative, who encouraged you to pursue writing?

                My mama was the biggest encourager for me as a child and as an adult. Her rapt attention bolstered my desire for storytelling, but she first planted the love for books in us. I have so many photos of me reading books. Next was my best friend, telling me I was a writer. She put me in her critique group, and what followed was my writing career.

                Why did you choose Historical Fiction genre?

                It chose me! I wrote a short story including an event my grandfather shared with me from his railroad foreman days in South Dakota, circa 1914. My critique partners said I’d found my lane.

                Tell us a little about what inspired your latest novel.

                My dad’s quirky family again. Celebrate Lit and I signed a 3-book contract, and as I wrote Book 1, my mentor at a writing conference said to cut a section from it and use it as a stand-alone story or book. That section was what I converted into Muldoon’s Minnesota Darling, a novella. It covers ten years of my main character’s life removed from Book 1, Muldoon’s Misfortunes.

                Readers always want to know what is next for an author. Do you have any works in progress you can share about?

                Absolutely. Book 1 of 3 will be going through edits, and Book 2 and 3 of Those Resilient Muldoons series are what I’m currently researching and writing. The era spans from 1866 through 1916 or maybe 1918—I haven’t decided until Book 3 is complete. The main characters are all related and their stories overlap in places. The Muldoon family, in Those Resilient Muldoons series, battles with all three of God’s spiritual benefits of faith, hope, and love. Like us, they have reasons for their strife with God because of the heart and soul wounds from others or from their own terrible choices. I focus on how God gets their attention and rescues them from themselves.

                Blog Stops

                Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, January 23

                Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, January 24 (Author Interview)

                Texas Book-aholic, January 25

                Bizwings Book Blog, January 26

                Sylvan Musings, January 27 (Author Interview)

                An Author’s Take, January 27

                Locks, Hooks and Books, January 28

                A Reader’s Brain, January 29 (Author Interview)

                Abba’s Prayer Warrior Princess, January 30

                Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, January 31 (Author Interview)

                Life on Chickadee Lane, February 1

                Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, February 2

                By The Book, February 3 (Author Interview)

                Happily Managing a Household of Boys, February 3

                For Him and My Family, February 4

                Library Lady’s Kid Lit, February 5 (Author Interview)

                Giveaway

                To celebrate her tour, E.V. is giving away the grand prize package of an eBook copy of Muldoon’s Minnesota Darling and an Amazon $50 gift card!!

                Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

                https://promosimple.com/ps/299bb/muldoon-s-minnesot-darling-celebration-tour-giveaway

                Tags: ,

                ← Older Entries